Objectives: In agreement with other autoimmune diseases, systemic sclerosis (SSc) is associated with a strong sex bias. However, unlike lupus, the effects of sex on disease phenotype and prognosis are poorly known. Therefore, we aimed to determine sex effects on outcomes. Method: We performed a prospective observational study using the latest 2013 data extract from the EULAR scleroderma trials and research (EUSTAR) cohort. We looked at (i) sex influence on disease characteristics at baseline and (ii) then focused on patients with at least 2 years of follow-up to estimate the effects of sex on disease progression and survival. Results: 9182 patients with SSc were available (1321 men) for the baseline analyses. In multivariate analysis, male sex was independently associated with a higher risk of diffuse cutaneous subtype (OR: 1.68, (1.45 to 1.94); p<0.001), a higher frequency of digital ulcers (OR: 1.28 (1.11 to 1.47); p<0.001) and pulmonary hypertension (OR: 3.01 (1.47 to 6.20); p<0.003). In the longitudinal analysis (n=4499), after a mean follow-up of 4.9 (+/- 2.7) years, male sex was predictive of new onset of pulmonary hypertension (HR: 2.66 (1.32 to 5.36); p=0.006) and heart failure (HR: 2.22 (1.06 to 4.63); p=0.035). 908 deaths were recorded, male sex predicted deaths of all origins (HR: 1.48 (1.19 to 1.84); p<0.001), but did not significantly account for SSc-related deaths. Conclusions: Although more common in women, SSc appears as strikingly more severe in men. Our results obtained through the largest worldwide database demonstrate a higher risk of severe cardiovascular involvement in men. These results raise the point of including sex in the management and the decision-making process.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2ai3rAb
via IFTTT
Medicine by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis,Anapafseos 5 Agios Nikolaos,Crete 72100,Greece,tel :00302841026182 & 00306932607174
Τετάρτη 3 Αυγούστου 2016
A gender gap in primary and secondary heart dysfunctions in systemic sclerosis: a EUSTAR prospective study
Differences in uptake and killing of pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria by haemocyte subpopulations of penaeid shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, (Boone)
Phagocytosis is an important function of both invertebrate and vertebrate blood cells. In this study, the phagocytic activity of haemocyte subpopulations of penaeid shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, (Boone), against pathogenic and nonpathogenic particles was investigated in vitro. The haemocytes of penaeid shrimp were firstly separated by centrifugation on a continuous density gradient of iodixanol into four fractions with five subpopulations (sub), of which sub 1 (hyalinocytes) and sub 4 (semi-granulocytes) have the main function in phagocytosis of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria as well as fluorescent polystyrene beads. It was found that these haemocyte subpopulations engulfed virulent Vibrio campbellii and Vibrio harveyi at a higher rate than nonvirulent Escherichia coli and polystyrene beads. When these bacteria were mixed with shrimp haemocyte subpopulations and incubated for 180 min, the percentage of viable intracellular V. campbellii (25.5 +/- 6.0%) recovered was significantly higher than the percentage recovered from V. harveyi (13.5 +/- 1.1%). No viable intracellular E. coli was observed in this study. In contrast to V. harveyi and E. coli, V. campbellii containing endosomes did not acidify in time. Incubation of haemocyte subpopulations with the most virulent V. campbellii strain resulted in a significant drop in haemocyte viability (41.4 +/- 6.3% in sub 1 and 30.2 +/- 15.1% in sub 4) after 180 min post-inoculation in comparison with the less virulent V. harveyi (84.1 +/- 5.6% in sub 1 and 83.4 +/- 4.1% in sub 4) and non-virulent E. coli (92.7 +/- 2.8% in sub 1 and 92.3 +/- 5.6% in sub 4) and polystyrene beads (91.9 +/- 1.6% in sub 1 and 84.4 +/- 3.4% in sub 4). These findings may be a valuable tool for monitoring shrimp health and immunological studies.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2b2Dy4s
via IFTTT
Piezophototronic Effect in Single-Atomic-Layer MoS2 for Strain-Gated Flexible Optoelectronics
Strain-gated flexible optoelectronics are reported based on monolayer MoS2. Utilizing the piezoelectric polarization created at metal-MoS2 interface to modulate the separation/transport of photogenerated carriers, the piezophototronic effect is applied to implement atomic-layer-thick phototransistor. Coupling between piezoelectricity and photogenerated carriers may enable the development of novel optoelectronics.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2ai2B6s
via IFTTT
Diversity and Activity of Bacterial Biofilm Communities Growing on Hexachlorocyclohexane
Abstract
γ-Hexachlorocyclohexane (γ-HCH) persists in the environment and is recalcitrant to microbial degradation. To determine the extent of the microbial potential for the degradation of γ-HCH the diversity of bacteria from 12 soil samples collected around insecticide- and pesticide-producing factories in Egypt were assessed and compared with biofilm communities grown on γ-HCH microcrystals. From all samples, highly diverse microbes were isolated, able to grow on γ-HCH as sole source of carbon. The same soil samples were used to inoculate γ-HCH microcrystals on a substratum in microcosms to grow biofilm communities. All soil samples formed multispecies biofilms on γ-HCH. Biofilms stained with Nile Red showed distinct cell clusters of high hydrophobicity, and it is speculated that these aggregates have a substantial role in the degradation of the hydrophobic substrate. While many Bacillus species were isolated, this group was almost absent in the different biofilm communities. The finding of cells with highly hydrophobic envelopes together with the differences in species composition between isolates and interacting microbial communities points to fundamental differences in the interaction with hydrophobic substrates of single strains and microbial communities.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aIBRKC
via IFTTT
A Review and Evaluation of the Impacts of Climate Change on Geogenic Arsenic in Groundwater from Fractured Bedrock Aquifers
Abstract
Climate change is expected to affect the groundwater quality by altering recharge, water table elevation, groundwater flow, and land use. In fractured bedrock aquifers, the quality of groundwater is a sensitive issue, particularly in areas affected by geogenic arsenic contamination. Understanding how climate change will affect the geochemistry of naturally occurring arsenic in groundwater is crucial to ensure sustainable use of this resource, particularly as a source of drinking water. This paper presents a review of the potential impacts of climate change on arsenic concentration in bedrock aquifers and identifies issues that remain unresolved. During intense and prolonged low flow, the decline in the water table is expected to increase the oxidation of arsenic-bearing sulfides in the unsaturated zone. In addition, reduced groundwater flow may increase the occurrence of geochemically evolved arsenic-rich groundwater and enhance arsenic mobilization by reductive dissolution and alkali desorption. In contrast, the occurrence of extreme recharge events is expected to further decrease arsenic concentrations because of the greater dilution by oxygenated, low-pH water. In some cases, arsenic mobilization could be indirectly induced by climate change through changes in land use, particularly those causing increased groundwater withdrawals and pollution. The overall impact of climate change on dissolved arsenic will vary greatly according to the bedrock aquifer properties that influence the sensitivity of the groundwater system to climate change. To date, the scarcity of data related to the temporal variability of arsenic in fractured bedrock groundwater is a major obstacle in evaluating the future evolution of the resource quality.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2auzApj
via IFTTT
To Your Health: NLM update: President Obama on ACA's impact
Listen to the To Your Health: NLM update on President Obama on ACA's impact. The transcript is also available.
The U.S. Affordable Care Act resulted in a decline in Americans without health insurance as well as debt reductions, less growth in health costs, and other benefits, suggests an article written by U.S. President Barack Obama, recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association...
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2autmpB
via IFTTT
Oxidative stress in two tropical species after exposure to diesel oil
Abstract
Recent offshore petroleum exploration has increased the risks of oil spills worldwide. We investigated biomarker responses to diesel oil exposure in two tropical and subtropical species, the clam Anomalocardia flexuosa and the polychaete Laeonereis culveri. Animals were exposed to oil-spiked sediment at two different concentrations (0.5 L and 1.0 L m−2). Activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx); glutathione transferase (GST); and lipid peroxides (LPO) were assessed in bivalve digestive glands and polychaete whole-body homogenates at 36 and 60 h of exposure. Significant variation in enzymatic antioxidant activity depended on the sampling time after exposure. No similar response patterns, either increases or decreases, were detected for the two target species, and biomarker responses were species-specific. L. culveri showed clearer patterns in its antioxidant response and should be prioritized over other species in biomonitoring studies involving oil exposure. Understanding the temporal variability of these biomarkers is a necessary action before implementing them as indicators measures in oil contamination biomonitoring programs. Our results provide a better understanding of biomarker responses in subtropical species, evidencing their potential use as sentinels of oil contamination.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNKHYZ
via IFTTT
Drugs of environmental concern modify Solea senegalensis physiology and biochemistry in a temperature-dependent manner
Abstract
The alerted presence in recent decades of pharmaceuticals has become an issue of environmental concern, and most of the mechanisms of biotransformation and biochemical and physiological responses to them in fish are still unknown, as well as the influence of water temperature in their ability to cope with them. This study aims to detect the main effects of two of the most widespread drugs on a set of physiological and biochemical markers in Solea senegalensis. Sole juveniles acclimatized at 15 and 20 °C were administered an intraperitoneal injection of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen (IB; 10 mg/kg) and the anti-convulsant drug carbamazepine (CBZ; 1 mg/kg). Two days after the injection, liver, muscle and plasma were sampled. Liver enzymatic activities of 15 °C acclimated fish were more responsive to pharmaceuticals than those acclimated at 20 °C, especially for CYP450-related activities (7-ethoxyresorufin (EROD), 7-methoxyresorufin (MROD), 3-cyano-7-ethoxycoumarin (CECOD) and 7-benzyloxy-4-[trifluoromethyl]-coumarin-O-debenzyloxylase (BFCOD)) and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UDPGT). Cytosolic anti-oxidant enzyme activities and glutathione S-transferase (GST) did not show a clear effect of temperature. Glucose and transferase activities in plasma were not affected by the treatments, while ammonium, osmolality and lactate were affected by both pharmaceuticals. Plasma triglycerides were affected in a temperature-dependent manner, and creatinine was only responsive to CBZ injection. HSP70 levels in muscle were only affected by CBZ injection. Some of the physiological identified responses to IB and CBZ are proposed as endpoints in further chronic studies.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBvQ0s
via IFTTT
Long-Term Results on the Efficacy of Argon Plasma Coagulation for Patients with Chronic Radiation Proctitis after Conventionally Fractionated, Dose-Escalated Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer
Publication date: Available online 1 August 2016
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Joseph Weiner, David Schwartz, Manuel Martinez, Joseph Safdieh, Ayse Aytaman, David Schreiber
PurposeTo assess the efficacy and outcomes of argon plasma coagulation in the management of chronic radiation proctitis after conventionally fractionated, dose-escalated radiation therapy (≥7560cGy).Methods and Materials.We retrospectively reviewed the charts on all patients treated with external beam radiation therapy (minimum dose 7560cGy) for histologically confirmed prostate cancer at our institution from 2003 to 2011. Five hundred patients met these criteria and of these 35 patients (7.0%) developed radiation proctitis necessitating intervention with APC. Indications for APC treatment were either the need for blood transfusions due to proctitis-related anemia or refractory bleeding despite medical management.ResultsThe median follow up from the completion of radiation treatment was 78months (range 19–129) and the median follow up from the most recent APC treatment was 56months (range 3–112). Fifteen men (42.9%) needed blood transfusions due to proctitis related anemia. For 19 patients (54.3%), bleeding was controlled after one or two treatments. Eventual bleeding control was obtained in 30 patients (85.7%). The median number of sessions per patient was 2 (range 1–13). Post-APC ulceration was noted in 8 cases (22.9%). Two patients (5.7%) developed colovesicular fistulas, with one patient dying from this complication. Short interval between treatments (≤35days) was associated with an increased risk of ulcer or fistula formation.ConclusionsAPC is an effective treatment for patients with medically refractive radiation proctitis after dose-escalated radiotherapy, frequently controlling bleeding after only one or two sessions. However, rectal ulceration is a common complication, along with a small risk of life-threatening toxicity.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNK3uB
via IFTTT
Online Patient Information from Radiation Oncology Departments is too Complex for the General Population
Publication date: Available online 1 August 2016
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Stephen A. Rosenberg, David M. Francis, Craig R. Hullet, Zachary S. Morris, Jeffrey V. Brower, Bethany M. Anderson, Kristin A. Bradley, Michael Bassetti, Randall J. Kimple
PurposeNearly two-thirds of cancer patients seek information about their diagnosis online. We assessed the readability of online patient education materials found on academic radiation oncology department websites to determine whether they adhered to guidelines suggesting that information be presented at a 6th grade reading level.Materials/Methods.The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) website was utilized to identify all academic radiation oncology departments in the United States. One-third of these department websites were selected for analysis using a random number generator. Both general information on radiation therapy and specific information regarding various radiation modalities were collected. To test the hypothesis that the readability of these online educational materials was written at the recommended grade level, a panel of ten common readability tests was employed. A composite grade level of readability was constructed using the eight readability measures that provide a single grade level output.ResultsA mean of 5605 words (range 2058–12,837) from thirty department websites was collected. Using the composite grade level score, the overall mean readability level was determined to be 13.36 (12.83–13.89), corresponding to a collegiate reading level. This was significantly higher than the target 6th grade reading level (middle school, t (29)=27.41, p<0.001).ConclusionsOnline patient educational materials from academic radiation oncology websites are significantly more complex than recommended by the NIH and the Department of Health and Human Services. To improve patients' comprehension of radiotherapy and its role in their treatment our analysis suggests that the language used in online patient information should be simplified to communicate the information at a more appropriate level.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBv2ZG
via IFTTT
The calpain inhibitor calpeptin suppresses pancreatic cancer by disrupting cancer-stromal interactions in a mouse xenograft model
Abstract
Desmoplasia contributes to the aggressive behavior of pancreatic cancer. However, recent clinical trials testing several anti-fibrotic agents on pancreatic cancer have not shown clear efficacy. Therefore, further investigation of desmoplasia-targeting anti-fibrotic agents by another mechanism is needed. Calpeptin, an inhibitor of calpains, suppressed fibroblast function and inhibited fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of calpeptin on pancreatic cancer. We investigated whether calpeptin inhibited tumor progression using a mouse xenograft model. We performed quantitative RT-PCR to evaluate the expression of calpain-1 and calpain-2 mRNA in pancreatic cancer cells (PCC) and pancreatic stellate cells (PSC). We also performed functional assays, including proliferation, migration, and invasion, to evaluate the inhibitory effects of calpeptin on PCCs and PSCs. Quantitative RT-PCR demonstrated that PCCs and PSCs expressed calpain-2 mRNA. Calpeptin reduced tumor volume (P = 0.0473) and tumor weight (P = 0.0471) and inhibited the tumor desmoplastic reaction (P < 0.001) in xenograft tumors in nude mice. Calpeptin also inhibited the biologic functions of PCCs and PSCs including proliferation (P = 0.017), migration (P = 0.027), and invasion (P = 0.035) in vitro. Furthermore, calpeptin reduced the migration of PCCs and PSCs by disrupting the cancer-stromal interaction (P = 0.0002). Our findings indicate that calpeptin is a promising antitumor agent for pancreatic cancer, due to not only its suppressive effect on PCCs and PSC but also its disruption of the cancer-stromal interaction.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aQ0LdR
via IFTTT
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Bee Venom in BV2 Microglial Cells: Mediation of MyD88-Dependent NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Bee venom has long been used as a traditional folk medicine in Korea. It has been reportedly used for the treatment of arthritis, cancer, and inflammation. Although its anti-inflammatory activity in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated inflammatory cells has been reported, the exact mechanism of its anti-inflammatory action has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of bee venom in BV2 microglial cells. We first investigated whether NO production in LPS-activated BV2 cells was inhibited by bee venom, and further iNOS mRNA and protein expressions were determined. The mRNA and protein levels of proinflammatory cytokines were examined using semiquantitative RT-PCR and immunoblotting, respectively. Moreover, modulation of the transcription factor NF-κB by bee venom was also investigated using a luciferase assay. LPS-induced NO production in BV2 microglial cells was significantly inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner upon pretreatment with bee venom. Bee venom markedly reduced the mRNA expression of COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and suppressed LPS-induced activation of MyD88 and IRAK1 and phosphorylation of TAK1. Moreover, NF-κB translocation by IKKα/β phosphorylation and subsequent IκB-α degradation were also attenuated. Thus, collectively, these results indicate that bee venom exerts its anti-inflammatory activity via the IRAK1/TAK1/NF-κB signaling pathway.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aIzK9F
via IFTTT
Joint and tendon involvement predict disease progression in systemic sclerosis: a EUSTAR prospective study
Objective: To determine whether joint synovitis and tendon friction rubs (TFRs) can predict the progression of systemic sclerosis (SSc) over time. Patients and methods: We performed a prospective cohort study that included 1301 patients with SSc from the EUSTAR database with disease duration <= 3 years at inclusion and with a follow-up of at least 2 years. Presence or absence at clinical examination of synovitis and TFRs was extracted at baseline. Outcomes were skin, cardiovascular, renal and lung progression. Overall disease progression was defined according to the occurrence of at least one organ progression. Results: Joint synovitis (HR: 1.26, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.59) and TFRs (HR: 1.32, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.70) were independently predictive of overall disease progression, as were also the diffuse cutaneous subset (HR: 1.30, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.61) and positive antitopoisomerase-I antibodies (HR: 1.25, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.53). Regarding skin progression, joint synovitis (HR: 1.67, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.64) and TFRs (HR: 1.69, 95% CI 1.02 to 2.77) were also independently predictive of worsening of the modified Rodnan skin score. For cardiovascular progression, joint synovitis was predictive of the occurrence of new digital ulcer(s) (HR: 1.45, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.96) and decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (HR: 2.20, 95% CI 1.06 to 4.57); TFRs were confirmed to be an independent predictor of scleroderma renal crisis (HR: 2.33, 95% CI 1.03 to 6.19). Conclusions: Joint synovitis and TFRs are independent predictive factors for disease progression in patients with early SSc. These easily detected clinical markers may be useful for the risk stratification of patients with SSc.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2auzFt6
via IFTTT
Changes in the Interstitial Cells of Cajal and Immunity in Chronic Psychological Stress Rats and Therapeutic Effects of Acupuncture at the Zusanli Point (ST36)
Now, chronic psychological stress (CPS) related diseases are increasing. Many CPS patients have gastrointestinal complaints, immune suppression, and immune imbalance. Increasing evidence is indicating that acupuncture (AP) at the Zusanli point (ST36) can alleviate functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID), immune suppression, and immune imbalance. However, few studies have investigated the potential mechanisms. In this study, CPS rat models were established, and electroacupuncture (EA) at ST36 was done for CPS rats. Daily food intake, weight, intestinal sensitivity, the morphology of interstitial cell of Cajal (ICC) in the small intestine, and serum indexes were measured. The study found that, in CPS rats, EA at ST36 could improve food intake, weight, visceral hypersensitivity, and immunity; in CPS rats, in small intestine, the morphology of ICCs was abnormal and the number was decreased, which may be part causes of gastrointestinal motility dysfunction. EA at ST36 showed useful therapeutic effects. The mechanisms may be partially related to its repairing effects on ICCs damages; in CPS rats, there were immune suppression and immune imbalance, which may be part causes of visceral hypersensitivity. EA at ST36 showed useful therapeutic effects. The mechanisms may be partially related to its regulation on immunity.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2asEQGd
via IFTTT
Amikacin Sulfate Injection USP 500 mg/2 mL (250 mg/mL) and 1 Gram/4 mL (250 mg/mL) Vials by Teva: Recall - Glass Particulate Matter
Audience: Pharmacy, Nursing [Posted 08/03/2016] ISSUE: Teva Pharmaceuticals announced a voluntary recall of seven lots of Amikacin Sulfate Injection USP, 500 mg/2mL (250 mg/mL) and 1 gram/4mL (250 mg/mL) vials due to the potential for the presence...
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aulmVM
via IFTTT
A protocol for a systematic review of non-randomised evaluations of strategies to improve participant recruitment to randomised controlled trials
Randomised controlled trials guard against selection bias and therefore offer the fairest way of evaluating healthcare interventions such as medicinal products, devices and services. Recruitment to trials can ...
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNIjSf
via IFTTT
The effect of door-to-balloon delay in primary percutaneous coronary intervention on clinical outcomes of STEMI: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a medical emergency in which sudden occlusion of coronary artery(ies) results in ischemia and necrosis of the cardiac tissues. Reperfusion therapies that aim at reopening t...
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBtZsM
via IFTTT
Checklist to operationalize measurement characteristics of patient-reported outcome measures
The purpose of this study was to advance a checklist of evaluative criteria designed to assess patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures' developmental measurement properties and applicability, which can be used...
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNIqNH
via IFTTT
The relationship between rapid naming and word spelling in English
Stainthorp, R; Powell, D; Stuart, M; (2013) The relationship between rapid naming and word spelling in English. Journal of Research in Reading , 36 (4) pp. 371-388. 10.1111/jrir.12002 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBu4wr
via IFTTT
Analysing socioeconomic diversity and scaling effects on residential electricity load profiles in the context of low carbon technology uptake
McKenna, R; Hofmann, L; Merkel, E; Fichtner, W; Strachan, N; (2016) Analysing socioeconomic diversity and scaling effects on residential electricity load profiles in the context of low carbon technology uptake. Energy Policy , 97 pp. 13-26. 10.1016/j.enpol.2016.06.042 . (In press).
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNIv3R
via IFTTT
Studying the effect of Zn-substitution on the magnetic and hyperthermic properties of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles
Mameli, V; Musinu, A; Ardu, A; Ennas, G; Peddis, D; Niznansky, D; Sangregorio, C; Mameli, V; Musinu, A; Ardu, A; Ennas, G; Peddis, D; Niznansky, D; Sangregorio, C; Innocenti, C; Thanh, NTK; Cannas, C; - view fewer (2016) Studying the effect of Zn-substitution on the magnetic and hyperthermic properties of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles. Nanoscale , 8 (19) pp. 10124-10137. 10.1039/C6NR01303A . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNIxsD
via IFTTT
Correlation between Cu ion migration behaviour and deNO x activity in Cu-SSZ-13 for the standard NH 3 -SCR reaction
Beale, AM; Lezcano-Gonzalez, I; Slawinksi, WA; Wragg, DS; (2016) Correlation between Cu ion migration behaviour and deNO x activity in Cu-SSZ-13 for the standard NH 3 -SCR reaction. Chemical Communications , 52 (36) pp. 6170-6173. 10.1039/C6CC00513F . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBtXRz
via IFTTT
Deficits in Orthographic Knowledge in Children Poor at Rapid Automatized Naming (RAN) Tasks?
Powell, D; Stainthorp, R; Stuart, M; (2014) Deficits in Orthographic Knowledge in Children Poor at Rapid Automatized Naming (RAN) Tasks? Scientific Studies of Reading , 18 (3) pp. 192-207. 10.1080/10888438.2013.862249 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBtWwL
via IFTTT
Visual dysfunction in Parkinson's disease
Weil, RS; Schrag, AE; Warren, JD; Crutch, SJ; Lees, AJ; Morris, HR; (2016) Visual dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. Brain 10.1093/brain/aww175 . (In press). Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNIqNx
via IFTTT
Differences in disease phenotype and severity in SLE across age groups
Ambrose, N; Morgan, TA; Galloway, J; Ionnoau, Y; Beresford, MW; Isenberg, DA; (2016) Differences in disease phenotype and severity in SLE across age groups. Lupus 10.1177/0961203316644333 . (In press). Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBuhQc
via IFTTT
Ageing and intellectual disabilities: A study into clinical psychologists' experiences of meeting the needs of ageing people with intellectual disabilities.
McGuire, E.; (2006) Ageing and intellectual disabilities: A study into clinical psychologists' experiences of meeting the needs of ageing people with intellectual disabilities. Doctoral thesis, University of London. Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNIAEC
via IFTTT
Intra-Operative Assessment of Sentinel Lymph Nodes in Breast Cancer
Banerjee, SM; El-Sheikh, S; Keshtgar, MRS; (2014) Intra-Operative Assessment of Sentinel Lymph Nodes in Breast Cancer. Archives of Breast Cancer , 1 (2) pp. 44-52. 10.19187/abc.20141244-52 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBtxuw
via IFTTT
Experimental Validation of Antidiabetic Potential of Cayratia trifolia (L.) Domin: An Indigenous Medicinal Plant
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to evaluate antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of Cayratia trifolia root extract against streptozotocin induced diabetes in experimental rats to scientifically validate its use against diabetes in some parts of India. Ethanolic extract, showing the highest activity in in vitro experiments, was prepared in saline and administered orally to streptozotocin induced albino Wistar diabetic rats for 21 days. Biochemical parameters liver and muscles glycogen and in vivo antioxidant activity in normal, diabetic control, standard (metformin) and treated animals were determined and compared. Attempt was made to isolate, purify and characterize one of the major secondary metabolites in extract by range of chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Treatment of streptozotocin induced diabetic rats with ethanolic root extract (500 mg/kg) caused significant (P < 0.01) reduction in blood glucose (312–178 mg/dL), increase in body weight (181–219 g) and serum insulin (1.28–2.26 IU/dL). It also maintained lipid profile and tests of liver and kidney functions within normal range as compared to diabetic control rats and almost at par with standard drug metformin. The oxidative stress induced decline in glutathione and catalase in liver and kidney tissues showed recovery nearly to normal level as a function of treatment. The GC–MS profile of the extract showed relatively high concentration of β-sitosterol which was characterized by different spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques. The result scientifically and comprehensively validate the reported use of roots of this indigenous plant against diabetes. A strong antioxidant activity of the ethanolic root extract suitably compliments the antidiabetic effect.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aIv8Am
via IFTTT
The C-terminal domain of Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin as a vaccine candidate against bovine necrohemorrhagic enteritis
Bovine necrohemorrhagic enteritis is caused by Clostridium perfringens and leads to sudden death. Alpha toxin, together with perfringolysin O, has been identified as the principal toxin involved in the pathogenesis. We assessed the potential of alpha toxin as a vaccine antigen. Using an intestinal loop model in calves, we investigated the protection afforded by antisera raised against native alpha toxin or its non-toxic C-terminal fragment against C. perfringens-induced intestinal necrosis. Immunization of calves with either of the vaccine preparations induced a strong antibody response. The resulting antisera were able to neutralize the alpha toxin activity and the C. perfringens-induced endothelial cytotoxicity in vitro. The antisera raised against the native toxin had a stronger neutralizing activity than those against the C-terminal fragment. However, antibodies against alpha toxin alone were not sufficient to completely neutralize the C. perfringens-induced necrosis in the intestinal loop model. The development of a multivalent vaccine combining the C-terminal fragment of alpha toxin with other C. perfringens virulence factors might be necessary for complete protection against bovine necrohemorrhagic enteritis.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2auunxR
via IFTTT
Variation in hemolytic activity of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae strains from pigs
Brachyspira hyodysenteriae is the primary cause of swine dysentery, which is responsible for major economic losses to the pig industry worldwide. The hemolytic activity of 10 B. hyodysenteriae strains isolated from stools of pigs with mild to mucohemorrhagic diarrhea was compared and seven hemolysis associated genes were sequenced. Hemolysis induced by these strains varied from strong to near absent. One weakly hemolytic B. hyodysenteriae strain showed sequence changes in five hemolysis associated genes (tlyA, tlyB, hemolysin III, hemolysin activation protein and hemolysin III channel protein) resulting in amino acid substitutions. The occurrence of weakly hemolytic strains identifiable as B. hyodysenteriae should be taken into account in swine dysentery diagnostics. The presence of these strains may affect herd dysentery status, with great impact on a farms trading opportunities.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aIuSkW
via IFTTT
The pruritus- and TH2-associated cytokine IL-31 promotes growth of sensory nerves
Publication date: August 2016
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Micha Feld, Richard Garcia, Jörg Buddenkotte, Shintaro Katayama, Katherine Lewis, Gareth Muirhead, Peter Hevezi, Kristin Plesser, Holger Schrumpf, Kaarel Krjutskov, Olga Sergeeva, Hans Werner Müller, Sophia Tsoka, Juha Kere, Stacey R. Dillon, Martin Steinhoff, Bernhard Homey
BackgroundPruritus is a cardinal symptom of atopic dermatitis, and an increased cutaneous sensory network is thought to contribute to pruritus. Although the immune cell–IL-31–neuron axis has been implicated in severe pruritus during atopic skin inflammation, IL-31's neuropoietic potential remains elusive.ObjectiveWe sought to analyze the IL-31–related transcriptome in sensory neurons and to investigate whether IL-31 promotes sensory nerve fiber outgrowth.MethodsIn vitro primary sensory neuron culture systems were subjected to whole-transcriptome sequencing, ingenuity pathway analysis, immunofluorescence, and nerve elongation, as well as branching assays after IL-31 stimulation. In vivo we investigated the cutaneous sensory neuronal network in wild-type, Il31-transgenic, and IL-31 pump–equipped mice.ResultsTransgenic Il31 overexpression and subcutaneously delivered IL-31 induced an increase in the cutaneous nerve fiber density in lesional skin in vivo. Transcriptional profiling of IL-31–activated dorsal root ganglia neurons revealed enrichment for genes promoting nervous system development and neuronal outgrowth and negatively regulating cell death. Moreover, the growth cones of primary small-diameter dorsal root ganglia neurons showed abundant IL-31 receptor α expression. Indeed, IL-31 selectively promoted nerve fiber extension only in small-diameter neurons. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 phosphorylation mediated IL-31–induced neuronal outgrowth, and pharmacologic inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 completely abolished this effect. In contrast, transient receptor potential cation channel vanilloid subtype 1 channels were dispensable for IL-31–induced neuronal sprouting.ConclusionsThe pruritus- and TH2-associated novel cytokine IL-31 induces a distinct transcriptional program in sensory neurons, leading to nerve elongation and branching both in vitro and in vivo. This finding might help us understand the clinical observation that patients with atopic dermatitis experience increased sensitivity to minimal stimuli inducing sustained itch.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/23kneR4
via IFTTT
Brief Overview of This Month's JACI
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBolqr
via IFTTT
Table of Contents
Publication date: August 2016
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNCDaD
via IFTTT
Editorial Board
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBobiR
via IFTTT
Information for Readers
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNCHrb
via IFTTT
News & Notes
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBo0nA
via IFTTT
CME Activities Calendar
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBoc6b
via IFTTT
News Beyond Our Pages
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Marc E. Rothenberg, Jean Bousquet
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNCUdY
via IFTTT
Multidisciplinary interventions in the management of atopic dermatitis
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Jennifer S. LeBovidge, Wendy Elverson, Karol G. Timmons, Elena B. Hawryluk, Corinna Rea, Margaret Lee, Lynda C. Schneider
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common pediatric skin disease. AD has a significant effect on patient and family quality of life caused by intense pruritus, sleep disruption, dietary and nutritional concerns, and psychological stress associated with the disease and its management. Multidisciplinary approaches to AD care have been developed in appreciation of the complex interplay among biological, psychological, behavioral, and dietary factors that affect disease control and the wide range of knowledge, skills, and support that patients and families require to effectively manage and cope with this condition. Common components of multidisciplinary treatment approaches include medical evaluation and management by an AD specialist, education and nursing care, psychological and behavioral support, and nutritional assessment and guidance. Models of care include both clinical programs and structured educational groups provided as adjuncts to standard clinical care. Available evidence suggests beneficial effects of multidisciplinary interventions in improving disease severity and quality of life, particularly for patients with moderate-to-severe disease. Additional research is needed to identify the best candidates for the various multidisciplinary approaches and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of these programs.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBoE4H
via IFTTT
Multidisciplinary interventions in the management of atopic dermatitis
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNCEvv
via IFTTT
Cellular and molecular immunologic mechanisms in patients with atopic dermatitis
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Thomas Werfel, Jean-Pierre Allam, Tilo Biedermann, Kilian Eyerich, Stefanie Gilles, Emma Guttman-Yassky, Wolfram Hoetzenecker, Edward Knol, Hans-Uwe Simon, Andreas Wollenberg, Thomas Bieber, Roger Lauener, Peter Schmid-Grendelmeier, Claudia Traidl-Hoffmann, Cezmi A. Akdis
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex skin disease frequently associated with other diseases of the atopic diathesis. Recent evidence supports the concept that AD can also recognize other comorbidities, such as chronic inflammatory bowel or cardiovascular diseases. These comorbidities might result from chronic cutaneous inflammation or from a common, yet-to-be-defined immunologic background leading to immune deviations. The activation of immune cells and their migration to the skin play an essential role in the pathogenesis of AD. In patients with AD, an underlying immune deviation might result in higher susceptibility of the skin to environmental factors. There is a high unmet medical need to define immunologic endotypes of AD because it has significant implications on upcoming stratification of the phenotype of AD and the resulting targeted therapies in the development of precision medicine. This review article emphasizes studies on environmental factors affecting AD development and novel biological agents used in the treatment of AD. Best evidence of the clinical efficacy of novel immunologic approaches using biological agents in patients with AD is available for the anti–IL-4 receptor α-chain antibody dupilumab, but a number of studies are currently ongoing with other specific antagonists to immune system players. These targeted molecules can be expressed on or drive the cellular players infiltrating the skin (eg, T lymphocytes, dendritic cells, or eosinophils). Such approaches can have immunomodulatory and thereby beneficial clinical effects on the overall skin condition, as well as on the underlying immune deviation that might play a role in comorbidities. An effect of these immunologic treatments on pruritus and the disturbed microbiome in patients with AD has other potential consequences for treatment.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aBocmJ
via IFTTT
A work group report on ultrafine particles (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology): Why ambient ultrafine and engineered nanoparticles should receive special attention for possible adverse health outcomes in human subjects
Publication date: August 2016
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Ning Li, Steve Georas, Neil Alexis, Patricia Fritz, Tian Xia, Marc A. Williams, Elliott Horner, Andre Nel
Ultrafine particles (UFPs) are airborne particulates of less than 100 nm in aerodynamic diameter. Examples of UFPs are diesel exhaust particles, products of cooking, heating, and wood burning in indoor environments, and, more recently, products generated through the use of nanotechnology. Studies have shown that ambient UFPs have detrimental effects on both the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, including a higher incidence of atherosclerosis and exacerbation rate of asthma. UFPs have been found to alter in vitro and in vivo responses of the immune system to allergens and can also play a role in allergen sensitization. The inflammatory properties of UFPs can be mediated by a number of different mechanisms, including the ability to produce reactive oxygen species, leading to the generation of proinflammatory cytokines and airway inflammation. In addition, because of their small size, UFPs also have unique distribution characteristics in the respiratory tree and circulation and might be able to alter cellular function in ways that circumvent normal signaling pathways. Additionally, UFPs can penetrate intracellularly and potentially cause DNA damage. The recent advances in nanotechnology, although opening up new opportunities for the advancement of technology and medicine, could also lead to unforeseen adverse health effects in exposed human subjects. Further research is needed to clarify the safety of nanoscale particles, as well as the elucidation of the possible beneficial use of these particulates to treat disease.
Graphical abstract
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MUtPOb
via IFTTT
Advances in asthma 2015: Across the lifespan
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Andrew H. Liu, William C. Anderson, Cullen M. Dutmer, Daniel A. Searing, Stanley J. Szefler
In 2015, progress in understanding asthma ranged from insights to asthma inception, exacerbations, and severity to advancements that will improve disease management throughout the lifespan. 2015's insights to asthma inception included how the intestinal microbiome affects asthma expression with the identification of specific gastrointestinal bacterial taxa in early infancy associated with less asthma risk, possibly by promoting regulatory immune development at a critical early age. The relevance of epigenetic mechanisms in regulating asthma-related gene expression was strengthened. Predicting and preventing exacerbations throughout life might help to reduce progressive lung function decrease and disease severity in adulthood. Although allergy has long been linked to asthma exacerbations, a mechanism through which IgE impairs rhinovirus immunity and underlies asthma exacerbations was demonstrated and improved by anti-IgE therapy (omalizumab). Other key molecular pathways underlying asthma exacerbations, such as cadherin-related family member 3 (CDHR3) and orosomucoid like 3 (ORMDL3), were elucidated. New anti–IL-5 therapeutics, mepolizumab and reslizumab, were US Food and Drug Administration approved for the treatment of patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. In a clinical trial the novel therapeutic inhaled GATA3 mRNA-specific DNAzyme attenuated early- and late-phase allergic responses to inhaled allergen. These current findings are significant steps toward addressing unmet needs in asthma prevention, severity modification, disparities, and lifespan outcomes.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2aNDus0
via IFTTT
Statewide prevalence of school children at risk of anaphylaxis and rate of adrenaline autoinjector activation in Victorian government schools, Australia
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Volume 138, Issue 2
Author(s): Paxton Loke, Jennifer Koplin, Cara Beck, Michael Field, Shyamali C. Dharmage, Mimi L.K. Tang, Katrina J. Allen
BackgroundThe prevalence of school students at risk of anaphylaxis in Victoria is unknown and has not been previously studied. Similarly, rates of adrenaline autoinjector usage in the school environment have yet to be determined given increasing prescription rates.ObjectivesWe sought to determine time trends in prevalence of school children at risk of anaphylaxis across all year levels and the annual usage rate of adrenaline autoinjectors in the school setting relative to the number of students at risk of anaphylaxis.MethodsStatewide surveys from more than 1,500 government schools including more than 550,000 students were used and prevalence rates (%) with 95% CIs were calculated.ResultsThe overall prevalence of students at risk of anaphylaxis has increased 41% from 0.98% (95% CI, 0.95-1.01) in 2009 to 1.38% (95% CI, 1.35-1.41) in 2014. There was a significant drop in reporting of anaphylaxis risk with transition from the final year of primary school to the first year of secondary school, suggesting a change in parental reporting of anaphylaxis risk among secondary school students. The number of adrenaline autoinjectors activated per 1000 students at risk of anaphylaxis ranged from 6 to 8 per year, with consistently higher activation use in secondary school students than in primary school students.ConclusionsStatewide prevalence of anaphylaxis risk has increased in children attending Victorian government schools. However, adrenaline autoinjector activation has remained fairly stable despite known increase in the rates of prescription.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1Vmhrtj
via IFTTT