Medicine by Alexandros G. Sfakianakis

Publication date: Available online 23 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Zahra Naderi, Javad Azizian
This paper presents the preparation of hydrogel with magnetic properties derived from carboxymethyl chitosan for controlled drug release performance. The magnetic Fe3O4 and MnFe2O4 nanoparticles with crosslinked Carboxymethyl Chitosan hydrogel were prepared by using epichlorohydrin as the cross-linker. The structure characterization performed by FT-IR. The XRD analysis was applied for evaluation of crystalline phase of MnFe2O4 and Fe3O4 in the hydrogels. The crystallite size of Fe3O4/CMCS and MnFe2O4/CMCS was calculated to be 30.12, and 44.51 nm, respectively. The presence of MnFe2O4 and Fe3O4 in the hydrogels can reason a rough surface morphology which that confirmed by SEM images. The Max. Saturation magnetization value as obtained from hysteresis loop is 105 and 75 Am²/kg for Fe3O4/CMCS and MnFe2O4/CMCS hydrogel, respectively. The Fe3O4 and MnFe2O4 on Carboxymethyl Chitosan hydrogels indicated a pH-sensitive for swelling behavior process. The equal amount of Fe3O4 and MnFe2O4 on hydrogels have high swelling at pH 6.4. The swelling capacity decreased from 214 to 172% and 144–114% at pH 6.4 with attendance of high amount of MnFe2O4 and Fe3O4 on hydrogels compared to other samples, respectively. Drug loading and release performances were investigated by curcumin as a model drug. The maximum curcumin release was obtained 25.1–51.52% at pH = 6.4. The drug releases system demonstrates the high ratio of Fe3O4 and MnFe2O4 containing Carboxymethyl Chitosan sample has a great efficiency in curcumin release. The effect of applied magnetic field on drug release for Fe3O4/CMCS was highest compared to MnFe2O4/CMCS. The results demonstrated that the Fe3O4 and MnFe2O4 nanocomposites hydrogel can be applied for novel drug delivery systems.

Topical Application of Photofrin® for Photodynamic Diagnosis of Malignant Cutaneous Neoplasms

Publication date: Available online 23 June 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Yu-Te Lin, Yen-Chang Hsiao, Yu-Fan Chiang, Cheng-Jen Chang
ObjectivesThe prognosis of patients suffering from malignant cutaneous neoplasms can be improved by early diagnosis. Exact demarcation of tumor margins could contribute to optimum results in surgical excision and reconstruction. The purpose of our study is to evaluate Photofrin^® with a new diagnostic procedure, photodynamic diagnosis (PDD), for the detection of Bowen's disease (squamous cell carcinoma in situ), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).Materials and methodsSixty patients with cutaneous neoplasms received 2.5mg/mL Photofrin^® solution topically. After a period of three hours, the patients underwent fluorescence illumination (λex = 370-450 nm). Guided by their visible fluorescence, lesions were biopsied at four suspicious sites on each patient. All specimens were analyzed and measured by a pathologist. A quantitative analysis of the fluorescence contrast between the neoplasms and healthy tissue was performed using the RGB Mode (Red, Blue, Green) and GS (Gray Scale). Statistical analysis was performed by means of the ANOVA test for multiple comparisons.ResultsOf the 60 patients (20 Bowen's disease, 20 squamous cell carcinoma, and 20 basal cell carcinoma), malignant neoplasms could be clearly distinguished from adjacent healthy tissue under fluorescence illumination (P<0.0001). The sensitivity of the malignant neoplasms could be evaluated using the RGB and GS modes combined and shown in image results of 92.74%. The specificity of the malignant neoplasms evaluated using the RGB and GS modes combined showed 95.77%.ConclusionLight-induced fluorescence detection using topical Photofrin^® provides a sensitive, non-invasive technique for the early identification of malignant cutaneous neoplasms.

Potentially toxic elements in fly ash dependently of applied technology of hard coal combustion

Abstract

Coal combustion is one of the most significant anthropogenic sources of thallium in the environment. This study presents the results of determination of thallium and some toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, Zn, and Cu) concentration in fly ash produced in the coal combustion in conventional furnaces (pulverized coal furnace and grate furnace), in a fluidized-bed furnace with circulation bed, and in a home furnace. The high content of thallium was determined in ash produced in the grate furnace (on average 10.7 mg/kg) and fluidized-bed furnace with circulation bed (6.6 mg/kg). The average content of Tl in the fly ash of the pulverized coal furnace and in the home furnace is 1.7 and 2.4 mg/kg, respectively. There was a strong relationship between the occurrence of Tl and As, Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn in ash from grate and pulverized coal furnace.

Σάββατο 23 Ιουνίου 2018

LBA-002Overall survival results from a phase III trial of trifluridine/tipiracil versus placebo in patients with metastatic gastric cancer refractory to standard therapies (TAGS)

Background: Trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI), an orally administered combination agent approved for patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer, demonstrated promising clinical activity in a refractory gastric cancer Japanese Phase II trial. Therefore, we initiated the TAGS study (NCT02500043) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of FTD/TPI in patients with heavily pretreated metastatic gastric cancer (mGC).

LBA-004Efficacy and safety results from IMblaze370, a randomised Phase III study comparing atezolizumab+cobimetinib and atezolizumab monotherapy vs regorafenib in chemotherapy-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer

Background: Patients with chemotherapy-refractory microsatellite stable (MSS) metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) are a population with limited treatment options and relatively short survival. Atezolizumab (an anti–PD-L1 mAb) inhibits the binding of PD-L1 to its receptors PD-1 and B7.1, leading to the re-invigoration of tumour-specific T-cell immunity. Cobimetinib inhibits MEK1/MEK2 in the MAPK pathway, and blocking the MAPK pathway has been shown to favourably alter the tumour, tumour microenvironment and T-cell responses to promote anti-tumour immune activity. We hypothesized that combining atezolizumab with cobimetinib may allow better immune recognition and generate greater anti-tumour effects than either agent alone in MSS/microsatellite instability-low (MSI-L) metastatic CRC. Here we report the primary analysis results from IMblaze370 (NCT02788279), a global, multi-centre, open-label, randomised Phase III trial comparing atezolizumab+cobimetinib and atezolizumab monotherapy with standard-of-care regorafenib in patients with previously treated, unresectable locally advanced or metastatic CRC.

LBA-001Ramucirumab as second-line treatment in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) following first-line sorafenib: Pooled efficacy and safety across two global randomized Phase 3 studies (REACH-2 and REACH)

Background: Ramucirumab (RAM), a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody, inhibits ligand activation of VEGFR2. REACH and REACH-2 were two global, randomized, double-blind, placebo (PBO)-controlled multicenter, phase 3 studies of RAM vs PBO in patients with HCC after prior sorafenib. REACH-2 was designed to confirm the ramucirumab treatment benefit for patients with baseline AFP ≥400 ng/mL first observed in the prespecified subgroup of patients in REACH with AFP ≥400 ng/mL. The primary endpoint of REACH-2 was met demonstrating an improved overall survival (OS) compared to PBO, a result consistent with that in patients with AFP ≥400 ng/mL in REACH. Pooled analyses of patients from REACH-2 and REACH with baseline AFP ≥400 ng/mL was performed.

LBA-003Withdrawn

LBA-005KEYNOTE-061: Phase 3 study of pembrolizumab vs paclitaxel for previously treated advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer

Background: Pembrolizumab showed promising antitumor activity and a manageable safety profile in patients with pretreated G/GEJ cancer in KEYNOTE-012 and KEYNOTE-059. KEYNOTE-061 (NCT02370498) was a global, open-label phase 3 study of pembrolizumab vs paclitaxel for previously treated advanced G/GEJ adenocarcinoma that progressed after first-line chemotherapy containing platinum and fluoropyrimidine.

Author Index

Abada, Paolo LBA-001

P-200Risk factors of colorectal cancer in Linxian, China: A nutrition intervention trial with 30 years follow-up

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. Epidemiological and experimental studies have shown that some dietary factors and vitamins/minerals are associated with the risk of CRC. The Nutrition Intervention Trial (NIT) tested whether daily multivitamin/mineral supplements could reduce the incidence and mortality rate of esophageal/gastric cardia cancer. The current study evaluated the CRC risk factors at the NIT population.

P-233Trifluridine/tipiracil vs regorafenib as salvage-line treatment in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: A multicenter retrospective study

Introduction: Trifluridine/tipiracil (TAS-102) and Regorafenib (REG) have shown promising activity in patients with heavily pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of TAS-102 and REG alone in patients with mCRC refractory to standard chemotherapies.

P-267The prognostic impact of sidedness in RAS wild-type colorectal cancer

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease and sidedness [right colon (RC) vs. left colon (LC)] reflects different clinical, biological and molecular behaviors, which could have a significant prognostic impact. This study tried to evaluate the impact of sidedness on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in RAS wild-type (RAS-WT) CRC patients treated with anti-EGFR antibodies in first line palliative chemotherapy.

PD-008Molecular characterization of immune microenvironment in colorectal cancers with microsatellite instability by digital RNA counting

Introduction: Alterations in the mismatch repair (MMR) mechanism in colorectal cancers (CRCs) lead to high levels of microsatellite instability (MSI-h) causing considerable endogenous immune anti-tumor response, counterbalanced by immune inhibitory signals. We evaluated the mRNA immune-profile of a series of MSI-h CRCs to identify new potential targets for future CRC immunotherapy trials by combining an extensive gene expression analysis and the clinicopathological characteristics such as presence of metastases, staging, genotype and primary tumor sidedness.

P-300Predictive value of circulating tumor-derived DNA (ctDNA) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CT-RT): Preliminary results

Introduction: In patients with LARC, neoadjuvant CT-RT followed by curative surgery is the standard of care. Risk-adopted treatment is based on MRI-predicting local T and N stage, radial margins and vascular involvement while no molecular predictive markers are available. In the present prospective study, we investigated the predictive role of serum ctDNA in patients with LARC.

P-217ABCG2 and TOP-1 as predictive biomarkers and targets for therapy in colon cancer

Introduction: There is a need for new and innovative solutions in the medical treatment of colon cancer since many of these patients eventually develop resistance to currently used drugs leading to untreatable cancer disease and death of the patients. We have by using our DEN50-R cell line based screening platform (isogenic pairs of drug sensitive and drug resistant human cancer cell lines), followed by testing in the PETACC-3 prospective randomized clinical study, identified ABCG2 and TOP1 mRNA expression as significant predictive biomarkers for irinotecan (a topoisomerase 1 inhibitor) resistance in the adjuvant treatment of colon cancer. Moreover, we have identified a new drug (SCO-101) that reverses irinotecan resistance in preclinical experiments (the DEN50-R platform). Here we present the clinical data with the biomarkers and data on SCO-101 including the clinical development plans for the drug.

P-251The prognostic ad predictive value of primary tumor sidedness in the mCRC pts

Introduction: The prognostic and predictive value of primary tumor sidedness in the pts with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) is well known today. Right-sided primary was associated with high mutational burden, microsatellite instability, worse prognosis, more BRAF mutation rates and poor anti-EGFR response. We aimed to investigate the effects of tumor sidedness on survival, RAS-RAF mutation rates and responses to biologic agents in the pts with mCRC.

P-284Characteristics of colorectal cancer in the elderly patients about 60 cases

Introduction: Older people constitute a heterogeneous population, according to World Health Organization, the elderly person is defined as any individual with a chronological age equal to or higher than 60 years. In most cases, colorectal carcinoma is a disease of the elderly. Occurs mostly in the elderly people of more than 65 years and it poses public health problem. For several years geriatric evaluation has shown multiple benefits and we are witnessing a significant improvement in the oncological management of these patients.

P-316Is there any association of dose received by pelvic bone marrow in preoperative radiotherapy in rectal cancer with hematological toxicity of subsequent oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy?

Introduction: Preoperative radio(chemo)therapy in rectal cancer may irreversibly damage pelvic bone marrow (PBM) and impair the tolerance of subsequent chemotherapy. The aim of the study was to assess the association between irradiated volume of PBM and the tolerance of subsequent FOLFOX-4 chemotherapy in rectal cancer.

WITHDRAWN

O-001Efficacy of TAS-120, an irreversible fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitor, in cholangiocarcinoma patients with FGFR pathway alterations who were previously treated with chemotherapy and other FGFR inhibitors

Introduction: TAS-120, an oral and highly selective, irreversible FGFR1-4 tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has demonstrated inhibition of cancer cell growth in human xenografts of tumors bearing FGFR aberrations. TAS-120 inhibited mutant and wild-type FGFR2 with similar IC50 (wild-type FGFR2, 0.9 nM; V5651, 1-3 nM; N550H, 3.6 nM; E566G, 2.4 nM) and has shown efficacy in cell lines with acquired resistance to FGFR inhibitors. In this Phase I study in patients with advanced solid tumors, TAS-120 was evaluated at 8-24 mg once daily (QD). 20 mg QD was determined as the maximum tolerated dose/recommended Phase II dose, while 24 mg QD had dose-limiting toxicity. Here we report results from cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) patients enrolled in this Phase I study.

P-191Combined analysis of KRAS, NRAS, BRAF mutations and mismatch repair deficiency testing in Indian patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma: A single centre experience

Introduction: Molecular evaluation of KRAS, NRAS and BRAF mutation has become an important part in colorectal carcinoma evaluation as their alterations determine the therapeutic response to anti-EGFR therapy and prognosis. MMR deficiency is important for identification of Lynch syndrome families and it has now become an important biomarker of response to immunotherapy in metastatic CRC. The aim of this study is to investigate the distribution of these mutations by tumor localization and to determine the prevalence of MMR deficiency in metastatic colorectal cancer.

P-208Autophagy (A) related proteins evaluation represents an independent survival factor of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients (pts)

Introduction: A holds a bimodal role during carcinogenesis. Before tumorigenesis, A promotes normal cells survival and suppress carcinogenesis, while after cancer development A induces cancer cells survival. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of A related proteins in the survival of CRC pts.

P-225The role of maintenance therapy in the first line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer

Introduction: The first line of chemotherapy is decisive in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Choosing the right one allows you to increase PFS and improve long-term results. Surgical treatment and maintenance therapy (MT) increase PFS and OS, as they can be prescribed at any stage of treatment.

Restaurant oil and grease management in Hong Kong

Abstract

Oil and grease (O&G) in wastewater can be considered as two parts or proportion contained in emulsion which exceeded O&G standard. Most of oil becomes emulsified with water when they pass through grease trap and discharged in the effluents. Thus, it may indicate that either treatment of grease traps or standards for O&G content stipulated in technical memorandum of Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO) do not reflect the actual situation. Existing grease traps should be upgraded to meet the requirements of WPCO. Alternative technologies need to be developed to tackle this unsolved problem. Good management and practices are also important to ensure proper collection and waste recycling rather than just disposing effluent into drains. Collected O&G content can be recycled as valuable products such as biofuel, flotation agent, or other derivatives. This approach not only protects the environment by improving water quality, it also encourages large flow restaurant operators to recycle oil and grease content towards cleaner production.

Characterization of As-polluted soils by laboratory X-ray-based techniques coupled with sequential extractions and electron microscopy: the case of Crocette gold mine in the Monte Rosa mining district (Italy)

Abstract

Arsenic concentration and distribution were studied by combining laboratory X-ray-based techniques (wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF), micro X-ray fluorescence (μXRF), and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD)), field emission scanning electron microscopy equipped with microanalysis (FE-SEM-EDX), and sequential extraction procedure (SEP) coupled to total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) analysis. This approach was applied to three contaminated soils and one mine tailing collected near the gold extraction plant at the Crocette gold mine (Macugnaga, VB) in the Monte Rosa mining district (Piedmont, Italy). Arsenic (As) concentration, measured with WDXRF, ranged from 145 to 40,200 mg/kg. XRPD analysis evidenced the presence of jarosite and the absence of any As-bearing mineral, suggesting a high weathering grade and strong oxidative conditions. However, small domains of Fe arsenate were identified by combining μXRF with FE-SEM-EDX. SEP results revealed that As was mainly associated to amorphous Fe oxides/hydroxides or hydroxysulfates (50–80%) and the combination of XRPD and FE-SEM-EDX suggested that this phase could be attributed to schwertmannite. On the basis of the reported results, As is scarcely mobile, even if a consistent As fraction (1–3 g As/kg of soil) is still potentially mobilizable. In general, the proposed combination of laboratory X-ray techniques could be successfully employed to unravel environmental issues related to metal(loid) pollution in soil and sediments.

Topical Application of Photofrin® for Photodynamic Diagnosis of Malignant Cutaneous Neoplasms

The prognosis of patients suffering from malignant cutaneous neoplasms can be improved by early diagnosis. Exact demarcation of tumor margins could contribute to optimum results in surgical excision and reconstruction. The purpose of our study is to evaluate Photofrin® with a new diagnostic procedure, photodynamic diagnosis (PDD), for the detection of Bowen's disease (squamous cell carcinoma in situ), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Clindamycin anaphylaxis confirmed by in vivo and in vitro testing

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): Didier G. Ebo, Christel Mertens, Marissa Braes, Isabel Mennes, Chris H. Bridts, Vito Sabato

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole induces acute pancreatitis associated with drug-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): Minyoung Jung, Jihyun Kim, Ji Young Lee, Minji Kim, Seung-Hyun Kim, Kangmo Ahn

Control of the incorporation and release of guest molecules by photodimerization in liposomes

Publication date: Available online 23 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Ryo Shimokawa, Masafumi Ueda, Kouta Sugikawa, Atsushi Ikeda
In a drug-delivery system using liposomes, the use of guest molecules bearing hydrophilic moieties results in some leakage from lipid membranes. We suppressed the leakage of coumarins (used as model guest molecules in a drug-delivery system) from lipid membranes by photodimerization at 365 nm. The reason for this phenomenon could be ascribed to an increase in the hydrophobicity of the dimers of the coumarins. The formation of the dimers was detected by ¹H NMR, UV–vis absorption, and mass spectra and the leakage percentages of the coumarins were determined by ¹H NMR spectra based on the peak intensities. In contrast, when the dimer reverted to a monomer by ultraviolet (254 nm) irradiation, the resulting monomer was released from liposomes.

Graphical abstract

Detecting urine metabolites related to training performance in swimming athletes by means of Raman spectroscopy and principal component analysis

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Letícia Parada Moreira, Landulfo Silveira, Marcos Tadeu Tavares Pacheco, Alexandre Galvão da Silva, Debora Dias Ferraretto Moura Rocco
Raman spectroscopy (RS) is a vibrational technique that is suitable for performing biochemical analyses in human tissues and fluids. This work has investigated the identification of biochemical markers due to physical performance in the urine of swimming athletes. This was achieved by means of the Raman features that were found before and after the swimming training compared to the sedentary control subjects. These particular biochemical marker identifications refer to and infer the physiological status of individuals. The urine samples (single stream) were collected before and after the training (velocity, middle distance and distance) of professional swimmers, as well as from sedentary subjects (control). The urine samples were submitted to RS (830 nm excitation, 350 mW, 400–1800 cm⁻¹ spectral range, 2 cm⁻¹ resolution) and the spectra after the training were compared to the spectra before training, and subsequently, to the control subjects. The principal component analysis (PCA) was employed in order to identify the biochemicals that were responsible for the spectral differences. The Raman features of the urine samples after training showed peaks that were related to common urine metabolites, such as urea and creatinine. PCA analysis also revealed Raman features that were attributed to other metabolites, such as creatine, ketone bodies, phosphate and nitrogenous compounds in the swimmers after training. RS was a rapid and reliable technique for the evaluation of urine metabolites that were related to the physical performance of high-level swimmers, which then allowed for an accurate assessment and a control of their physiological efficiencies.

Graphical abstract

Identification of differentially expressed proteins in Ostrinia furnacalis adults after exposure to ultraviolet A

Abstract

Ultraviolet A (UVA), the major component of solar UV irradiation, is an important environmental factor inducing damage to insects including cell death, photoreceptor damage, and oxidative stress. In order to improve understanding of the adaptation mechanisms of insect after UVA exposure, a comparative proteomic analysis was carried out to reveal differential protein expression in Ostrinia furnacalis. Three-day-old adults were treated with UVA for 1 h. Total proteins of control and UVA-treated insects were examined using two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE). 2-DE analysis demonstrated that 19 proteins were increased and 18 proteins were decreased significantly in O. furnacalis after UVA exposure, respectively. Thirty differentially expressed proteins were successfully identified by mass spectrometry. The identified proteins were involved in diverse biological processes, such as signal transduction, transport processing, cellular stress, metabolisms, and cytoskeleton organization. Our results reveal that the response patterns of O. furnacalis to UVA irradiation are complex and provide novel insights into the adaptation response to UVA irradiation stress.

Evolution in the dark: unifying our understanding of eye loss

Abstract

The evolution of eye loss in subterranean, deep sea and nocturnal habitats has fascinated biologists since Darwin wrestled with it in On the Origin of Species. This phenomenon appears consistently throughout the animal kingdom, in groups as diverse as crustaceans, salamanders, gastropods, spiders and the well-known Mexican cave fish, but the nature, extent and evolutionary processes behind eye loss remain elusive. With the advantage of new imaging, molecular, and developmental tools, eye loss has once again become the subject of intense research focus. To advance our understanding of eye loss as a taxonomically widespread and repeated evolutionary trajectory, we organized a cross-disciplinary group of researchers working on the historic question, 'how does eye loss evolve in the dark?'. The resulting set of papers showcase new progress made in understanding eye loss from the diverse fields of molecular biology, phylogenetics, development, comparative anatomy, paleontology, ecology and behaviour in a wide range of study organisms and habitats. Through the integration of these approaches, methods and results, common themes begin to emerge across the field. For the first time, we hope researchers can exploit this new synthesis to identify the broader challenges and key evolutionary questions surrounding eye evolution and so-called regressive evolution and collectively work to address them in future research.

Dim light at night: physiological effects and ecological consequences for infectious disease

Abstract

Light pollution has emerged as a pervasive component of land development over the past century. Several detrimental impacts of this anthropogenic influence have been identified in night shift workers, laboratory rodents, and a plethora of wildlife species. Circadian, or daily, patterns are interrupted by the presence of light at night and have the capacity to alter rhythmic physiological or behavioral characteristics. Indeed, biorhythm disruption can lead to metabolic, reproductive, and immunological dysfunction depending on the intensity, timing, duration and wavelength of light exposure. Light pollution, in many forms and by many pathways, is thus apt to affect the nature of host-pathogen interactions. However, no research has yet investigated this possibility. The goal of this manuscript is to outline how dim light at night (dLAN), a relevant and common form of light pollution, may affect disease dynamics by interrupting circadian rhythms and regulation of immune responses as well as opportunities for host-parasite interactions and subsequent transmission risk including spillover into humans. We close by proposing some promising interventions including alternative lighting methods or vector control efforts.

Science in the Public Eye: Leveraging Partnerships—An Introduction

Abstract

With stories of struggle and dramatic breakthroughs, science has incredible potential to interest the public. However, as the rhetoric of outrage surrounds controversies over science policy there is an urgent need for credible, trusted voices that frame science issues in a way that resonates with a diverse public. A network of informal educators, park rangers, museum docents and designers, and zoo and aquarium interpreters are prepared to do so during millions of visits a year; just where science stories are most meaningfully told—in the places where members of the public are open to learning. Scientific researchers can benefit from partnerships with these intermediaries who are accorded status for their trustworthiness and good will, who have expertise in translating the science using language, metaphors, encounters, and experiences that are appropriate for non-experts. In this volume, we describe and probe examples wherein scientists work productively with informal educators and designers, artists, staff of federal agencies, citizen scientists, and volunteers who bring science into the public eye.

Risques de conjonctivite avec le dupilumab (Dupixent®)

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie
Author(s): J.-L. Schmutz

Degradation of nitrobenzene wastewater in an acidic environment by Ti(IV)/H 2 O 2 /O 3 in a rotating packed bed

Abstract

The rotating packed bed (RPB) as a continuous flow reactor performs very well in degradation of nitrobenzene wastewater. In this study, acidic nitrobenzene wastewater was degraded using ozone (O₃) combined with hydrogen peroxide and titanium ions (Ti(IV)/H₂O₂/O₃) or using only H₂O₂/O₃ in a RPB. The degradation efficiency of nitrobenzene by Ti(IV)/H₂O₂/O₃ is roughly 16.84% higher than that by H₂O₂/O₃, and it reaches as high as 94.64% in 30 min at a H₂O₂/O₃ molar ratio of 0.48. It is also found that the degradation efficiency of nitrobenzene is significantly affected by the high gravity factor, H₂O₂/O₃ molar ratio, and Ti(IV) concentration, and it reaches a maximum at a high gravity factor of 40, a Ti(IV) concentration of 0.50 mmol/L, a pH of 4.0, a H₂O₂/O₃ molar ratio of 0.48, a liquid flow rate of 120 L/h, and an initial nitrobenzene concentration of 1.22 mmol/L. Both direct ozonation and indirect ozonation are involved in the reaction of O₃ with organic pollutants. The indirect ozonation due to the addition of different amounts of tert-butanol (·OH scavenger) in the system accounts for 84.31% of the degradation efficiency of nitrobenzene, indicating that the nitrobenzene is dominantly oxidized by ·OH generated in the RPB-Ti(IV)/H₂O₂/O₃ process. Furthermore, the possible oxidative degradation mechanisms are also proposed to better understand the role of RPB in the removal of pollutants.

Graphical abstract

ᅟ

Identification of Genomic and Molecular Traits that Present Therapeutic Vulnerability to HGF-targeted therapy in Glioblastoma

Abstract

Background

Cancer is a complex disease with profound genomic alterations and extensive heterogeneity. Recent studies on a large-scale genomics have shed lights on the impact of core oncogenic pathways which are frequently dysregulated in a wide spectrum of cancer types. Aberrant activation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling axis has been associated with promoting various oncogenic programs during tumor initiation, progression, and treatment resistance. As a result, HGF-targeted therapy has emerged as an attractive therapeutic approach. However, recent clinical trials involving HGF-targeted therapies have demonstrated rather disappointing results. Thus, an alternative, in-depth assessment of new patient stratification is necessary to shift the current clinical course.

Methods

To address such challenges, we have evaluated therapeutic efficacy of YYB-101, a HGF neutralizing antibody, in a series of primary glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we performed genome and transcriptome analysis to determine genetic and molecular traits that exhibit vulnerability to HGF-mediated therapy.

Results

We have identified differentially expressed genes, including MET, KDR, and SOX3 which are associated with tumor invasiveness, malignancy, and unfavorable prognosis in glioblastoma patients. We also demonstrated HGF-MET signaling axis as a key molecular determinant in GSC invasion and also discovered that a significant association in HGF expression existed between mesenchymal phenotype and immune cell recruitment.

Conclusions

Up-regulation of MET and mesenchymal cellular state are essential in generating HGF-mediated therapeutic responses. Our results provide an important framework for evaluating HGF-targeted therapy in future clinical settings.

Selenium in Graves Hyperthyroidism and Orbitopathy

Purpose: To review the in vitro and in vivo studies supporting a role of selenium for the treatment of mild Graves orbitopathy. Methods: Review of the current literature on the role of selenium in the management of Graves orbitopathy. Results: Graves orbitopathy (GO) is a disfiguring and disabling disorder usually observed in patients with Graves hyperthyroidism, and more rarely in patients with hypothyroid autoimmune thyroiditis or in the absence of overt thyroid dysfunction. Noninvasive treatments include intravenous glucocorticoids and orbital radiotherapy and are generally offered to patients with moderately severe GO. In contrast, patients with mild GO are generally treated only with local measures. Thus, the benefits of intravenous glucocorticoids in mild GO are limited and do not justify the risks that the treatment carries. However, a medical treatment for mild GO is heavily wanted, as a relevant proportion of patients have a significant decrease in their quality of life, and GO can progress into more severe forms. Because of the role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of GO, an antioxidant approach has been proposed and the antioxidant agent selenium has been shown to be effective for GO. Conclusion: Studies have shown that a 6-month course of sodium selenite can improve the course of mild GO and prevent deterioration when compared with placebo. Accepted for publication March 19, 2018. Claudio Marcocci received research grants from IBSA Italia and is consultant/speaker for Abogen Pharma and SHIRE. All other authors have no conflicts of interest. Address correspondence and reprint requests to Claudio Marcocci, M.D., Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Unit II, University of Pisa and University Hospital of Pisa, Via Paradisa 2, 56124, Pisa, Italy. E-mail: claudio.marcocci@med.unipi.it © 2018 by The American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Inc., All rights reserved.

Παρασκευή 22 Ιουνίου 2018

Strategy for esophageal non-epithelial tumors based on a retrospective analysis of a single facility

Abstract

Background

Although most esophageal non-epithelial tumors are benign tumors, such as leiomyomas, they also include gastrointestinal tumors (GISTs); thus, a histopathological diagnosis is indispensable to determine the optimal treatment strategy. However, no consensus has been reached as to the diagnostic methods and treatments for esophageal non-epithelial tumors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of the diagnostic methods and treatments for esophageal non-epithelial tumors in our hospital.

Methods

All 28 cases of esophageal non-epithelial tumors at Kobe University Hospital from 2008 to 2016 were analyzed retrospectively with respect to the diagnostic methods, histopathological diagnosis, and treatments.

Results

Three diagnostic methods, endoscopic ultrasonography-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), endoscopic incisional biopsy, and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD)/endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), were performed in our hospital. All GIST cases could be correctly diagnosed by EUS-FNA. Tumors less than approximately 20 mm in diameter and located in the superficial layer are good indications for ESD/EMR, which both play roles in diagnosis and treatment. The final diagnoses by these methods consisted of the following: 13 leiomyomas, 5 GISTs, 3 schwannomas, 2 liposarcomas, 3 cysts, 1 reactive lymphoid hyperplasia, and 1 granulosa cell tumor. Fifteen cases underwent surgery. Enucleation or partial resection was performed for leiomyomas, schwannomas and liposarcomas, while esophagectomy was performed for GISTs. Thus, sufficient management of non-epithelial tumors is achieved.

Conclusions

Improved endoscopic procedures, including EUS-FNA and ESD/EMR, enabled the appropriate diagnosis and treatment of esophageal non-epithelial tumors.

Photoelectrocatalytic degradation of atrazine by boron-fluorine co-doped TiO 2 nanotube arrays

Abstract

Atrazine, one of the most widespread herbicides in the world, is considered as an environmental estrogen and has potential carcinogenicity. In this study, atrazine was degraded on boron-fluorine co-doped TiO₂ nanotube arrays (B, F-TiO₂ NTAs), which had similar morphology with the pristine TiO₂ NTAs. The structure and morphology of TiO₂ nanotube samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). It showed that the decoration of fluorine and boron made both the absorption in the visible region enhanced and the band edge absorption shifted. The efficiency of atrazine degradation by B, F-TiO₂ NTAs through photoelectrocatalysis was investigated by current, solution pH, and electrolyte concentration, respectively. The atrazine removal rate reached 76% through photoelectrocatalytic reaction by B, F-TiO₂ NTAs, which was 46% higher than that under the photocatalysis process. Moreover, the maximum degradation rate was achieved at pH of 6 in 0.01 M of Na₂SO₄ electrolyte solution under a current of 0.02 A and visible light for 2 h in the presence of B, F-TiO₂ NTAs. These results showed that B, F-TiO₂ NTAs exhibit remarkable photoelectrocatalytic activity in degradation of atrazine.

Effectivity–ecosphere–economics in nZEB retrofit procedures

Abstract

Sustainable development has by now become an element deeply integrated in the everyday design. It has many shades and may be found under many names. We speak about resiliency in design and procurement of passive, ecologic, plus energy, or nZEB buildings. Nevertheless, if we look closely, we may distinguish certain characteristic ideas. First, sustainable development of societies and urbanization processes should be consistent on a deeper level than presently, and be included within design processes, organization, and planning, as well as modernization and redevelopment procedures of existing urban tissue. Secondly, urbanization should be perceived holistically, as an interaction and harmonious development of both natural and manmade environments, with solutions based on the best technical and technological standards available. Lastly, described ideas are achievable only, if we include continuous cooperation between urban planners, architects, specialist consultants, as well as energy-efficient interdisciplinary solutions to achieve high standard energy measures. One of the thresholds is economic feasibility; the other is health and well-being of the users which should always be discussed as a priority. This paper—outside a brief theoretical approach to initial procedures in design management—will dwell on transformation and modernization of an existing building belonging to the Warsaw University of Technology, one of the oldest universities in Poland, its founding dating back to the beginning of the twentieth century. In 2015, a Nordic Finance Mechanism grant dedicated to the nZEB technology transfer from Norway to Poland was awarded to a group of researchers from Warsaw University of Technology and NTNU Trondheim. The main aim of the project is implementation of nZEB knowledge in Poland, as well as preparation of two integrated concept designs for public (University) buildings as exemplary case studies which could act as the benchmarks for other public buildings.

Comparative efficacy of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection during early and static stage of pathological scarring

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.

Personal observations of Achenbach syndrome

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

Evolution of Kaposi sarcoma in the past 30 years in a tertiary hospital of the European Mediterranean basin

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

How useful are geochemical and mineralogical indicators in assessing trace metal contamination and bioavailability in a post-restoration Mediterranean lagoon?

Abstract

Tunis's Lake North (LNT), located on the Mediterranean Sea, and Tunisia's most important lagoon due to its economic value and its strategic position within the city, has recently undergone a vast sanitation project. To study the lagoon's level of metal pollution, three sediment cores were taken and the sediments were analyzed for trace and major elements, acid volatile sulfides (AVS), total organic carbon (TOC), and minerals. Results showed that TOC concentrations (0.2–3.1%) decreased following the lagoon's restoration. In addition, in comparison to historical data, concentrations of Cu (16–69.5 μg g⁻¹), Zn (60.6–191.4 μg g⁻¹), and Pb (13–100.9 μg g⁻1) also decreased. Enrichment factor calculation with respect to the crust and local background showed that the sediment had long been contaminated by human pollution and especially by Pb, Zn, and Cu. The AVS to simultaneously extracted metal (SEM) ratio revealed values generally less than 1 indicating no sediment toxicity risks. Statistics revealed a detrital origin for certain metals and a diagenetic origin for FeS₂ and carbonate minerals.

Ground‐ and Excited‐State Acidity of Analogs of Red Wine Pyranoanthocyanins,

Photochemistry and Photobiology, EarlyView.

Development of homologous enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to quantify two forms of vitellogenin in guppy ( Poecilia reticulata )

Abstract

Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) is a promising model organism in toxicological studies, and vitellogenin (Vtg) is a commonly used biomarker for environmental estrogens. Although an ELISA for guppy Vtg has been developed previously, we found that guppy had two forms of Vtgs. In this study, two Vtgs were characterized and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for each Vtg were developed. Two Vtgs purified from 17β-estradiol (E₂)-exposed guppy were characterized as phospholipoglycoproteins with molecular weights of ~ 520 and ~ 480 kDa, respectively. In SDS-PAGE, one purified Vtg appeared as three major bands of ~ 210, ~ 126, and ~ 102 kDa, and the other revealed a clear band of ~ 68 kDa. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry analysis showed that they were VtgAb and VtgC. Using purified Vtgs and their corresponding antibodies, two sandwich ELISAs with working ranges of 7.8~1000 and 15.6~500 ng/mL were developed. Precision tests showed that intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variations of both ELISAs were below 10%. Parallelism between Vtg standard curves and serial dilutions of whole body homogenate from E₂-exposed guppy confirmed that two ELISAs could quantify guppy Vtgs. Furthermore, two ELISAs were used to measure Vtg inductions in liver, caudal fin and whole body of male guppy exposed to 17a-ethinylestradiol to validate their use for detecting estrogenic effects of exogenous chemicals. These homologous Vtg ELISAs will promote the use of guppy as a model organism to study estrogenic chemicals.

Degradation kinetics of chlorpyrifos and diazinon in volcanic and non-volcanic soils: influence of cyclodextrins

Abstract

The intensive use of insecticides such as chlorpyrifos (CPF) and diazinon (DZN) in the agricultural activities worldwide has produced contamination of soils and/or transport to non-target areas including their distribution to surface and groundwaters. Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been proposed as an alternative in remediation technologies based on the separation of contaminants from soils because they could allow a higher bioavailability for their degradation with a low environmental impact. In this work, the degradation pattern of CPF and DZN and the formation and dissipation of the major degradation products 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP) and 2-isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol (IMPH) was established in four agricultural volcanic and non-volcanic soils belonging to Andisol, Ultisol, and Mollisol orders. Both pesticides were highly adsorbed in these soils, consequently, with a greater probability of contaminating them. In contrast, the adsorption of their two main metabolites was low or null; therefore, they are potential groundwater contaminants. The degradation processes were studied in the natural and amended soils with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and methyl-β-cyclodextrin (Mβ-CD) for CPF and DZN, respectively. A slow degradation of CPF and DZN was obtained for volcanic soils with observable residues until the end of the incubation time (150–180 days). In Mollisols, the higher degradation rate of CPF was favored by the neutral to basic pH, and for DZN it was related to the lower adsorption and higher bioavailability. The amendment of soils with CDs produced slower degradation rates which led to a greater concentration of the compounds at the end of the incubation time. This effect was more pronounced for DZN. The exception was the Andisol, with no significant changes for both compounds regarding the unamended soil. No residues of TCP were observed for this soil in both conditions during the whole incubation time; nevertheless, the accumulation of TCP was significant in the Ultisol and Mollisols, but the concentrations were lower for the amended soils. The accumulation of IMPH was important in Mollisol amended soils; however, their residues were observed in the volcanic soils during the whole incubation period in the natural and amended soils. An important enhancement of the microbial activity occurred in the system β-CD/CPF in Mollisols, without a more effective degradation of the insecticide. The opposite effect was observed in the system Mβ-CD/DZN mainly in the oxidative activity in all soils. The higher degradation of DZN and IMPH in natural Mollisols was related to the higher hydrolytic and oxidative activities. The stability of the inclusion complexes formed could play an important role for explaining the results obtained with the amendments.

Paper-based electrochemical sensor for on-site detection of the sulphur mustard

Abstract

Herein, we report a novel paper-based electrochemical sensor for on-site detection of sulphur mustards. This sensor was conceived combining office paper-based electrochemical sensor with choline oxidase enzyme to deliver a sustainable sensing tool. The mustard agent detection relies on the evaluation of inhibition degree of choline oxidase, which is reversibly inhibited by sulphur mustards, by measuring the enzymatic by-product H₂O₂ in chronoamperometric mode. A nanocomposite constituted of Prussian Blue nanoparticles and Carbon Black was used as working electrode modifier to improve the electroanalytical performances. This bioassay was successfully applied for the measurement of a sulphur mustard, Yprite, obtaining a detection limit in the millimolar range (LOD = 0.9 mM). The developed sensor, combined with a portable and easy-to-use instrumentation, can be applied for a fast and cost-effective detection of sulphur mustards.

Letter to the editor: Evaluation of anatomical and round breast implant aesthetics and preferences in Dutch young lay and plastic surgeon cohort

We had the great pleasure of reading the interesting article entitled "Evaluation of anatomical and round breast implant aesthetics and preferences in Dutch young lay and plastic surgeon cohort" by van der Lei et al.1 We would like to congratulate the authors on their thorough work investigating the aesthetic results and preferences of anatomical and round breast implant.

Abnormal brain white matter in patients with right trigeminal neuralgia: a diffusion tensor imaging study

Idiopathic or classical trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic painful condition characterized by intermittent pain attacks. Enough evidence demonstrates classical TN is related to neurovascular compression (N...

Aggravation of mild axillary hidradenitis suppurativa by microwave ablation: results of a randomized intra-patient controlled trial

Mobility and natural attenuation of metals and arsenic in acidic waters of the drainage system of Timok River from Bor copper mines (Serbia) to Danube River

Abstract

Bor, Krivelj, and Bela Rivers belong to the watershed of Timok River, which is a tributary of transboundary Danube River. These rivers receive metal-rich acidic wastewater from metallurgical facilities and acid mine drainage (AMD) from mine wastes around Bor copper mines. The aim of this study was to determine the mobility and natural attenuation of metals and arsenic in rivers from Bor copper mines to Danube River during the year 2015. The results showed that metallurgical facilities had the largest impact on Bor River by discharging about 400 t of Cu per year through highly acidic wastewater (pH = 2.6). The highest measured concentrations of Cu in river water and sediments were 40 mg L⁻¹ and 1.6%, respectively. Dissolution of calcite from limestone bedrock and a high concentration of bicarbonate ions in natural river water (about 250 mg L⁻¹) enhanced the neutralization of acidic river water and subsequent chemical precipitation of metals and arsenic. Decreases in the concentrations of Al, Fe, Cu, As, and Pb in river water were mainly due to precipitation on the river bed. On the other hand, dilution played an important role in the decreases in concentrations of Mn, Ni, Zn, and Cd. Chemically precipitated materials and flotation tailings containing Fe-rich minerals (fayalite, magnetite, and pyrite) were transported toward Danube River during the periods of high discharge. This study showed that processes of natural attenuation in catchments with limestone bedrock play an important role in reducing concentrations of metals and arsenic in AMD-bearing river water.

Reconsidering the Inverse Gambler’s Fallacy Charge Against the Fine-Tuning Argument for the Multiverse

Abstract

Does the claimed fine-tuning of the constants of nature for life give reason to think that there are many other universes in which the constants have different values (a "multiverse")? Or does the inference from fine-tuning to a multiverse commit what Hacking calls the inverse gambler's fallacy? The present paper considers two fine-tuning problems that seem promising to consider because they are in many respects analogous to the problem of the fine-tuned constants. Reasoning that parallels the inference from fine-tuning to a multiverse seems prima facie adequate in these problems. However, it turns out that in both cases there are independent empirical reasons to believe the hypotheses that are analogous to the multiverse hypothesis. In the absence of such evidence, it would be coherent to raise the inverse gambler's fallacy charge against the inference from fine-tuning to these multiverse-type hypotheses. In response to this finding, I suggest taking the possibility seriously that established standards of rationality may not allow us to decide whether the inference from fine-tuning to a multiverse is fallacious or not. The paper concludes by sceptically assessing the prospects for obtaining independent empirical evidence for concrete multiverse theories.

Eccema de contacto por extracto de pimienta negra como tratamiento de vitíligo

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): E. García-Zamora, E. Gómez de la Fuente, R. Miñano-Medrano, M. Gutiérrez-Pascual, J.L. López-Estebaranz

Goals and Motivations of Families Pursuing Oral Immunotherapy for Food Allergy

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): Joan H. Dunlop, Corinne A. Keet

Development and validation of personalised prediction to estimate future risk of severe exacerbations and uncontrolled asthma in patients with asthma, using clinical parameters and early treatment response

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): Suzanne Boer, Jacob K. Sont, Rik JB. Loijmans, Jiska B. Snoeck-Stroband, Gerben ter Riet, Tjard RJ. Schermer, Willem JJ. Assendelft, Persijn J. Honkoop
BackgroundCurrent level of asthma control can be easily assessed by validated instruments, but it's currently difficult to assess individuals' level of future risk.ObjectiveDevelop, and validate, a risk prediction score for level of future risk, including patient characteristics and information on early treatment response.MethodsWe used data of 304 adult asthmatics from a 12-month primary care RCT with three-monthly assessments. With logistic regression we modelled the association between level of future risk and patient characteristics including early treatment response. Future risk was defined as ACQ ≥ 1.5 at 12 months or the experience of at least one exacerbation during the final six months. We developed a risk prediction score based on the regression coefficients.ResultsPerformance of the risk prediction score improved taking into account data on early treatment response (AUROC 0.84) compared to a model containing only baseline characteristics (AUROC = 0.78). The score includes six easy to obtain predictors; sex, ACQ-score and exacerbations in the previous year at baseline and at 1st follow-up ACQ, smoking status and exacerbations in the previous three months (indicating early treatment response). External validation yielded an AUROC of 0.77. The risk prediction score classified patients into three risk groups, low (absolute risk 11.7%),  intermediate (47.0%) and high level of risk (72.7%).ConclusionWe developed and externally validated a risk prediction score, quantifying both level of current asthma control and the guideline-defined future risk. Patients' individual risk can now be estimated in an easy way, as proposed but not specified, by asthma management guidelines.

Differential expression of alarmins: Interleukin-33 as a candidate marker for early diagnosis of TEN

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): Akimasa Adachi, Mayumi Komine, Hidetoshi Tsuda, Saeko Nakajima, Kenji Kabashima, Mamitaro Ohtsuki

Hereditary Angioedema, Clinical Presentation and Socio-Economic Cost of 200 French Patients

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Author(s): Nicolas Javaud, Laurence Bouillet, Hasina Rabetrano, Alexandre Bitoun, David Launay, Frederic Lapostolle, Paul-Georges Reuter, Ludovic Martin, Eric Vicaut, Olivier Fain, Frederic Adnet, Isabelle Durand-zaleski, Bernard Floccard, Anne Gompel, Alain Sobel, Isabelle Boccon-Gibod, Brigitte Coppere, Gisele Kanny

Biogenic synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Agrewia optiva and Prunus persica phyto species: Characterization, antibacterial and antioxidant activity

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Azar Ullah Mirza, Abdul Kareem, Shahab A.A. Nami, Mohd Shoeb Khan, Sumbul Rehman, Shahnawaz Ahmad Bhat, Abdulrahman Mohammad, Nahid Nishat
A phytoextract mediated synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Agrewia optiva (Dhaman or Biul) and Prunus persica (Peach) leaf extract as capping and stabilizing agent without using hazardous toxic chemicals via biogenic route has been studied. The biogenic method of synthesis is convenient, rapid, cost effective and ecofriendly. The green synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering measurements. The antibacterial study was determined by agar well diffusion method to measure the efficiency of both phyto species extract and its mediated iron oxide nanoparticles against five gram positive bacterial stains such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Streptococcus pyrogenes (S. pyrogenes), Corynebacterium diphtheriae (C. diphtheriae) and Corynebacterium xerosis (C. xerosis) and three gram negative bacterial stains such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneuomoniae (K. pneuomoniae) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). The antibiotic Ciprofloxacin and Gentamicin have been used as reference standard drugs for gram positive and gram negative bacterial stains, respectively. The antioxidant activity of the phyto extracts was also done using by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical assay employing l-ascorbic acid as a standard.

Graphical abstract

Rubus idaeus L. (red raspberry) blocks UVB-induced MMP production and promotes type I procollagen synthesis via inhibition of MAPK/AP-1, NF-κβ and stimulation of TGF-β/Smad, Nrf2 in normal human dermal fibroblasts

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Wei Gao, Yushuai Wang, Eunson Hwang, Pei Lin, Jahyun Bae, Seul A. Seo, Zhengfei Yan, Tae-Hoo Yi
Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes photo-oxidation, which in turn results in the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and loss of collagen. Rubus idaeus L. (RI), also called red raspberry, is an important cash crop that contains abundant antioxidant compounds. Sanguiin H-6 and lambertianin C are the major ingredients presented in the extracts. Here, we studied the protective effect of RI on UVB-induced photoaging in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). We found that RI notably reduced UVB-induced MMPs secretion and pro-inflammatory mediators production, and significantly suppressed UVB-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor-κβ, as well as activator protein 1. Additionally, treatment of NHDFs with the ERK inhibitor (PD98059) and JNK inhibitor (SP600125) resulted in the reduction of UVB-induced MMP-1 and IL-6 expressions, which demonstrated that the inhibition of MMP-1 and IL-6 by RI is associated with the MAPK pathway. Furthermore, we also found that RI accelerated procollagen type I synthesis by activating the transforming growth factor-β/Smad pathway and enhanced the expression of cytoprotective antioxidants such as heme oxygenase-1 and NHD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 by promoting nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 nuclear transfer. Overall, these findings demonstrated that RI was potentially effective in preventing UVB induced skin photoaging.

Graphical abstract

Photosensitization of Chinese hamster V79 cells to photoactivated alpha-terthienyl involving membrane damage and oxidative stress

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): Shaorong Luan, Solange Muhayimana, Jiuyong Xu, Xianfei Zhang, Ciying Xiao, Qingchun Huang
Photosensitization of V79 Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts was tested to investigate if the cells can fit the photoactive effect of alpha-terthienyl for safety application. Using 15-min photoirradiation of a black light (320–400 nm, 40 W), alpha-terthienyl was significantly photoactivated and caused V79 cells to be shrinkage, detachment and necrosis. The photoactivated alpha-terthienyl played a concentration-dependent stress to decrease cell survival and to induce cell death with median inhibitory concentration (IC50) as 4.78 μg/ml. Cell viability in MTT assays also fell down to 10.58% of the control in the treatment of 10.0 μg/ml photoactivated alpha-terthienyl. As the irradiation time prolonged and the concentration of photoactivated alpha-terthienyl increased, cell death increased significantly, the intracellular level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the content of extracellular malondialdehyde were gradually increased. The changes of peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in V79 cells were positively responsive to the oxidative stress caused by photoactivated alpha-terthienyl. Moreover, using non-photosensitizing condition, the increased cell death and oxidative stress in the treatment of alpha-terthienyl at >7.0 μg/ml were also observed. The results showed the maladjustment response of V79 cells with membrane damage and cell death, clearly demonstrating the photosensitization of animal cells to the photoactivated cytotoxic effect of alpha-terthienyl.

Zn-doped SiO2 nanoparticles preparation and characterization under the effect of various solvents: Antibacterial, antifungal and photocatlytic performance evaluation

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, Volume 185
Author(s): Muhammad Arshad, Abdul Qayyum, Ghulam Abbas Shar, Gul Afshan Soomro, Arif Nazir, Bushra Munir, Munawar Iqbal
The biological profiling (antibacterial and antifungal) and photocatalytic activity (PCA) was evaluated of newly synthesized Zinc-doped SiO2 nanoparticles (Zn-d-SiO2 NPs) under the effect of different solvents (n-hexane, acetonitrile, isoamyl alchol). Antibacterial potential against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, and antifungal activities against Candida parapsilosis and Aspergilus niger were investigated by the Disc diffusion method. The advanced techniques including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermo-gravimeteric Analysis (TGA), Atomic forced microscopy (AFM) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) were used for the characterization of Zn-d-SiO2 NPs. FT-IR characterization confirmed the presence of metal bond SiO2, while XRD showed the hexagonal structure with 7.93 nm average particle size of Zn-d-SiO2 NPs. SEM and TEM analysis revealed the variation in morphology of NPs prepared in different solvents. The Zn-d-SiO2 NPs prepared in the presence of acetonitrile showed highest antibacterial activities (6% and 4.5%) followed by isoamyl alchol (3% and 2.4%) and n-hexane (2%and 1%) against B. subtilis and E. coli, respectively. The antifungal activities were recorded in following order; n-hexane (0.34% and 0.43%) < isoamyl alchol (0.27% and 0.19%) < acetonitrle (0.21% and 0.17%) against C. parapsilosis and A. niger, respectively. The PCA of Zn-d-SiO2 NPs was evaluated by degrading Crystal Violet (CV) dye under solar light irradiation and up to 85.5% dye degradation was achived for 120 min irradiation. Results revealed that the solvents have a significant effect on physicochemical properties and Zinc-doped SiO2 NPs showed promising PCA and antimicrobial activities.

Graphical abstract

Photocatalytic decomposition effect of erbium doped cerium oxide nanostructures driven by visible light irradiation: Investigation of cytotoxicity, antibacterial growth inhibition using catalyst

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): C. Maria Magdalane, K. Kaviyarasu, A. Raja, M.V. Arularasu, Genene T. Mola, Abdulgalim B. Isaev, Naif Abdullah Al-Dhabi, Mariadhas Valan Arasu, B. Jeyaraj, J. Kennedy, M. Maaza
Cerium (IV) oxide (CeO2) is the most accessible noble rare earth metal oxide for the excitation of the excitons by light-harvesting performance. The present work is focused on Erbium doped ceria nanoparticles that were beneficially obtained by hydrothermal method from cerium nitrate and Erbium nitrate as precursors for decomposition of Rhodamine-B (RhB) dye in the polluted waste water removed from the industries. Dye removal efficiency of the catalyst was found to be nearly ~94%. The structural phases, functional groups and the transitions are identified with the help of various techniques. XRD pattern determines the development of cubic phase with the particle size is 20 nm. Highly crystalline nature of as-synthesized nanomaterials with an average diameter of 35 nm was investigated by HRSEM. The crystalline size, shape and textural morphology, of the Erbium doped ceria nanostructures were analysed by HRTEM. Our results suggest, that the concentration of OH– ion determines the lattice constants and oxygen vacancy in the nanostructures which stimulate the probability of photocatalytic decomposition effect of organic pollutants, due to synergistic approach. In this context, both unhydrolyzed things and their swiftly drip from deceased or scratched cells with conceded membranes, even when the cells embrace some are outstanding attention. Although, the loss of viable cells also depends on epithelial cell dynamically conceal of numerous molar matrix.

Graphical abstract

Corrigendum to ‘Immunomodulatory effect of new quinolone derivative against cisplatin/gamma radiation-induced renal and brain toxicity in mice’ [J. Photochem. Photobiol. B Biol., 184 (2018) 54–60]

Publication date: August 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, Volume 185
Author(s): Asmaa I. Nabeel, Fatma S.M. Moawed, Heba Hassan

Metabolic scaling of stress hormones in vertebrates

Abstract

Glucocorticoids are stress hormones that can strongly influence physiology, behavior and an organism's ability to cope with environmental change. Despite their importance, and the wealth of studies that have sought to understand how and why glucocorticoid (GC) concentrations vary within species, we do not have a clear understanding of how circulating glucocorticoid levels vary within and across the major vertebrate clades. New research has proposed that much interspecific variation in GC concentrations can be explained by variation in metabolism and body mass. Specifically, GC concentrations should vary proportionally with mass-specific metabolic rates and, given known scaling relationships between body mass and metabolic rate, GC concentrations should scale to the -1/4 power of body mass and to the power of 1 with mass-specific metabolic rate. Here, we use HormoneBase, the newly compiled database that includes data plasma GC concentrations from free-living and unmanipulated vertebrates, to evaluate this hypothesis. Specifically, we explored the relationships between body mass or mass-specific metabolic rate and either baseline or stress-induced GC (cortisol or corticosterone) concentrations in tetrapods. Our phylogenetically-informed models suggest that, whereas the relationship between GC concentrations and body mass across tetrapods and among mammals is close to -1/4 power, this relationship does not exist in amphibians, reptiles and birds. Moreover, with the exception of a positive association between stress-induced GC concentrations and mass-specific metabolic rate in birds, we found little evidence that GC concentrations are linked to metabolic rate, although the number of species sampled was quite limited for amphibians and somewhat so for reptiles and mammals. Nevertheless, these results stand in contrast to the generally accepted association between the two and suggests that our observed positive association between body mass and GC concentrations may not be due to the well-established link between mass and metabolism. Large-scale comparative approaches can come with drawbacks, such as pooling and pairing observations from separate sources. However, these broad analyses provide an important counterbalance to the vast majority of studies examining variation in GC concentrations at the population or species level, and can be a powerful approach to testing both long-standing and new questions in biology.

Blank Canvas: The Case for Descriptive Taxonomy

Synopsis

Describing species is fundamental to understanding the biosphere and the origins of biodiversity. Without descriptions, we miss many of the most improbable, interesting and informative aspects of species, higher taxa and evolutionary history. Further, descriptive taxonomy opens a treasure trove of nature-inspired solutions for creating a sustainable future.

The Comparative Biology of Mitochondrial Function and the Rate of Aging

Abstract

The mitochondrial hypothesis of aging evolved from the rate-of-living theory. That theory posited that the rate of aging was largely determined by the rate of energy expenditure. The mechanistic link between energy expenditure and aging was hypothesized to be oxidative stress. As both energy expenditure and reactive oxygen species (ROS) centered on the mitochondria that organelle became a central focus of aging research. Until about the turn of the 21^st century available evidence largely supported the efficiency of mitochondrial function as a key contributor to aging. However as methods for investigating mitochondrial oxidant production and tissue level oxidative damage improved, evidentiary support for the theory weakened. Recently, direct disruption of mitochondrial function has been shown not to shorten life or health as expected, but in many cases in multiple laboratory species disrupted mitochondrial function has lengthened life, sometimes without apparent tradeoffs. Does this mean that mitochondrial function plays no role in aging as had been posited for many years? One key consideration is that experiments under laboratory conditions can be misleading about physiological processes that occur in the uncertain conditions of nature. Before we discard the mitochondrial hypothesis of aging, more field experiments targeted at that hypothesis need to be performed. Fortunately, emerging technology is making such experiment more possible than ever before.

Sun protection behavior and knowledge of patients attending laser clinic to prevent adverse events of laser: A cross‐sectional, single‐center, tertiary care study

Photodermatology, Photoimmunology &Photomedicine, EarlyView.

Spontaneous hair regrowth in eight patients with severe alopecia areata

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

The trapezius perforator flap: Versatility for locoregional reconstruction

Publication date: Available online 22 June 2018
Source:Annales de Chirurgie Plastique Esthétique
Author(s): P. Frobert, F. Bekara, N. Bertheuil, E. Delay, C. Herlin, B. Chaput
Only a few surgical choices are available for cervical and thoracic spine coverage. The trapezius perforator flap is relatively unknown and only a few authors have published on this subject. In this article, we report on four clinical cases where a trapezius perforator flap was used either as a propeller flap, as a tunnelized island flap, or as a supercharged flap for cervical spine, thoracic spine and anterior cervical defects. Harvesting this flap is quite simple and enables high quality reconstruction with low donor-site morbidity in complex situations.

High‐risk human papillomavirus in a child with digital pigmented Bowen's disease: Case report and dermoscopic findings

Pediatric Dermatology, EarlyView.

Proportionate growth of congenital nevi: Blow a balloon to explain

Pediatric Dermatology, EarlyView.

Πέμπτη 21 Ιουνίου 2018

Characterization of mechanisms and processes controlling groundwater salinization in coastal semi-arid area using hydrochemical and isotopic investigations (Essaouira basin, Morocco)

Abstract

The aquifer system of Essaouira basin is recognized as one of the most important aquifers in Morocco. The purpose of this study is to highlight the origin and the mechanisms responsible for the salinization of this aquifer system, thus based on the two hydrogeochemical and isotopic approaches. The results indicate that the central and downstream parts are dominated by the facies Cl-Ca-Mg and SO₄-Ca-Mg with the dominance of the first facies, while the facies Cl-Ca-Mg, SO₄-Ca-Mg, and HCO₃-Ca-Mg dominate the upstream part with the dominance of the list facies. Hydrochemical approach shows that the groundwater mineralization in the study area is controlled by (i) the ion exchange phenomenon, under the marine intrusion and (ii) the dissolution of carbonate minerals (calcite, dolomite, and aragonite) and evaporate minerals (halite, gypsum, and anhydrite). High levels of NO₃ would come from domestic pollutants, including livestock waste during water withdrawal. The isotopic method shows (i) aquifers recharge in the study area is provided by Atlantic precipitation without significant evaporation, (ii) the presence of recent water (after nuclear tests) and other (before nuclear tests), and (iii) various recharge altitudes from 300 to 1150 m asl. However, this investigation provides a foundation for effective groundwater management and effective mitigation of aquifer impacts.

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Abstract

Abstract

Παρασκευή 22 Ιουνίου 2018

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract

Πέμπτη 21 Ιουνίου 2018

Abstract