Deciphering signaling pathway interplay via miRNAs in malignant pleural mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly invasive form of lung cancer that adversely affects the pleural and other linings of the lungs. MPM is a very aggressive tumor that often has an advanced stage at diagnosis and a bad prognosis (between 7 and 12 months). When people who have been exposed to asbestos experience pleural effusion and pain that is not explained, MPM should be suspected. After being diagnosed, most MPM patients have a one- to four-year life expectancy. The life expectancy is approximately six months without treatment. Despite the plethora of current molecular investigations, a definitive universal molecular signature has yet to be discovered as the causative factor for the pathogenesis of MPM. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to play a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. The association between the expression of these short, non-coding RNAs and several neoplasms, including MPM, has been observed. Although the incidence of MPM is very low, there has been a significant increase in research focused on miRNAs in the past few years. In addition, miRNAs have been found to have a role in various regulatory signaling pathways associated with MPM, such as the Notch signaling network, Wnt/β-catenin, mutation of KRAS, JAK/STAT signaling circuit, protein kinase B (AKT), and Hedgehog signaling pathway. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the existing understanding of the roles of miRNAs in the underlying mechanisms of pathogenic symptoms in MPM, highlighting their potential as viable targets for therapeutic interventions.

Melodic maestros: Unraveling the role of miRNAs in the diagnosis, progression, and drug resistance of malignant pleural mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a highly lethal form of pleural cancer characterized by a scarcity of effective therapeutic interventions, resulting in unfavorable prognoses for afflicted individuals. Besides, many patients experience substantial consequences from being diagnosed in advanced stages. The available diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic options for MPM are restricted in scope. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a subset of small, noncoding RNA molecules that exert significant regulatory influence over several cellular processes within cell biology. A wide range of miRNAs have atypical expression patterns in cancer, serving specific functions as either tumor suppressors or oncomiRs. This review aims to collate, epitomize, and analyze the latest scholarly investigations on miRNAs that are believed to be implicated in the dysregulation leading to MPM. miRNAs are also discussed concerning their potential clinical usefulness as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for MPM. The future holds promising prospects for enhancing diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic modalities for MPM, with miRNAs emerging as a potential trigger for such advancements.

miRNAs orchestration of salivary gland cancer- Particular emphasis on diagnosis, progression, and drug resistance

Cancer of the salivary glands is one of the five major types of head and neck cancer. Due to radioresistance and a strong propensity for metastasis, the survival rate for nonresectable malignant tumors is dismal. Hence, more research is needed on salivary cancer's pathophysiology, particularly at the molecular level. The microRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of noncoding RNA that controls as many as 30% of all genes that code for proteins at the posttranscriptional level. Signature miRNA expression profiles have been established in several cancer types, suggesting a role for miRNAs in the incidence and progression of human malignancies. Salivary cancer tissues were shown to have significantly aberrant levels of miRNAs compared to normal salivary gland tissues, supporting the hypothesis that miRNAs play a crucial role in the carcinogenesis of salivary gland cancer (SGC). Besides, several SGC research articles reported potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the miRNA-based treatment of this malignancy. In this review, we will explore the regulatory impact of miRNAs on the processes underlying the molecular pathology of SGC and provide an up-to-date summary of the literature on miRNAs that impacted this malignancy. We will eventually share information about their possible use as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers in SGC.

The potential role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of salivary gland cancer - A Focus on signaling pathways interplay

Salivary gland cancer (SGC) is immensely heterogeneous, both in terms of its physical manifestation and its aggressiveness. Developing a novel diagnostic and prognostic detection method based on the noninvasive profiling of microribonucleic acids (miRs) could be a goal for the clinical management of these specific malignancies, sparing the patients' valuable time. miRs are promising candidates as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets or factors that can advance the therapy of SGC due to their ability to posttranscriptionally regulate the expression of various genes involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, cell cycle, apoptosis, invasion, and angiogenesis. Depending on their biological function, many miRs may contribute to the development of SGC. Therefore, this article serves as an accelerated study guide for SGC and the biogenesis of miRs. Here, we shall list the miRs whose function in SGC pathogenesis has recently been determined with an emphasis on their potential applications as therapeutic targets. We will also offer a synopsis of the current state of knowledge about oncogenic and tumor suppressor miRs in relation to SGC.

Use of the flavonoid taxifolin for sperm cryopreservation from the threatened Bermeya goat breed

Taxifolin is a plant flavonoid effective as an antioxidant. This study aimed to assess the effect of adding taxifolin to the semen extender during the cooling period before freezing on the overall post-thawing sperm variables of Bermeya goats. In the first experiment, a dose-response experiment was performed with four experimental groups: Control, 10, 50, and 100 μg/ml of taxifolin using semen from 8 Bermeya males. In the second experiment, semen from 7 Bermeya bucks was collected and extended at 20 °C using a Tris-citric acid-glucose medium supplemented with different concentrations of taxifolin and glutathione (GSH): control, 5 μM taxifolin, 1 mM GSH, and both antioxidants. In both experiments, two straws per buck were thawed in a water bath (37 °C, 30 s), pooled, and incubated at 38 °C. Motility (CASA) was assessed at 0, 2, and 5 h, and sperm physiology was assessed at 0 and 5 h by flow cytometry (viability, intact acrosome membrane, mitochondria membrane potential, capacitation, intracellular reactive oxygen species -ROS-, mitochondrial superoxide, and chromatin status). In experiment 2, an artificial insemination trial (AI) was included with 29 goats for testing the taxifolin 5-μM treatment on fertility. Data were analyzed with the R statistical environment using linear mixed-effects models. In experiment 1 and compared to the control, T10 increased progressive motility (P < 0.001) but taxifolin decreased total and progressive motility at higher concentrations (P < 0.001), both post-thawing and after the incubation. Viability decreased post-thawing in the three concentrations (P < 0.001). Cytoplasmic ROS decreased at 0 and 5 h at T10 (P = 0.049), and all doses decreased mitochondrial superoxide post-thawing (P = 0.024). In experiment 2, 5 μM taxifolin or 1 mM GSH (alone or combined) increased total and progressive motility vs. the control (P < 0.01), and taxifolin increased kinematic parameters such as VCL, ALH, and DNC (P < 0.05). Viability was not affected by taxifolin in this experiment. Both antioxidants did not significantly affect other sperm physiology parameters. The incubation significantly affected all the parameters (P < 0.004), overall decreasing sperm quality. Fertility after artificial insemination with doses supplemented with 5 μM taxifolin was 76.9% (10/13), not significantly different from the control group (69.2%, 9/13). In conclusion, taxifolin showed a lack of toxicity in the low micromolar range and could benefit goat semen cryopreservation.

miRNAs as potential game-changers in melanoma: A comprehensive review

Melanoma is the sixth most frequent malignancy. It represents 1.7% of all cancer cases worldwide. Many risk factors are associated with melanoma including ultraviolet radiation skin phenotype, Pigmented Nevi, Pesticides, and genetic and epigenetic factors. Of the main epigenetic factors affecting melanoma are microribonucleic acids (miRNAs). They are short nucleic acid chains that have the potential to prevent the expression of a number of target genes. They could target a number of genes related to melanoma initiation, stemness, angiogenesis, apoptosis, proliferation, and potential resistance to treatment. Additionally, they can control several melanoma signaling pathways, including P53, WNT/-catenin, JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis, TGF- β, and EGFR. MiRNAs also play a role in the resistance of melanoma to essential treatment regimens. The stability and abundance of miRNAs might be important factors enhancing the use of miRNAs as markers of prognosis, diagnosis, stemness, survival, and metastasis in melanoma patients.

Root Coverage Predictability in the Treatment of Gingival Recessions on Mandibular Anterior Teeth

INTRODUCTION

Mandibular anterior teeth are most frequently affected by gingival recession. However, data regarding mucogingival treatment aimed at root coverage in this specific location are limited.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the scientific literature and to use the meta-analytic approach to address the following focused question: "What is the effectiveness of different surgical approaches on clinical and patient-related outcomes in the treatment of buccal gingival recessions on mandibular anterior teeth?"

METHODS

Studies were located by searching 3 electronic databases (Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane databases) and cross-referencing. Randomized and nonrandomized studies including at least 1 arm involving the use of pedicle flaps and/or free soft tissue grafts in the treatment of gingival recessions (recession type [RT] 1 and RT2) located on the buccal aspects of mandibular centrals, laterals and canines, were included in the analysis. Primary outcome was mean root coverage (mRC), expressed in percentage, based on a 3- to 12-mo follow-up observation. A Bayesian single-arm network meta-analysis was performed to identify a treatment hierarchy of the different surgical techniques.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies, with a total of 23 arms, were included in the quantitative analysis. The greatest mRC is associated with laterally positioned flap (LPF) + connective tissue graft (CTG) (91.2%) and tunnel (TUN) + CTG (89.4%), whereas LPF alone, coronally advanced flap (CAF) + CTG, and free gingival graft (FGG) showed lower mRC (79.1%, 78.9%, and 68.5% respectively). TUN + CTG provides significantly greater mRC compared to CAF+CTG. No difference among the procedures could be observed in terms of keratinized tissue width gain.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment hierarchy generated by an arm-based network meta-analysis model suggested that tunnel and laterally positioned flap, both in combination with connective tissue graft, may provide the greatest mean root coverage in the treatment of mandibular anterior recessions.

KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER STATEMENT

The results of the present systematic review can be used by clinicians when deciding which approach to adopt when treating buccal gingival recessions on mandibular anterior teeth. In particular, procedures based on a laterally positioned flap or a tunneling technique, both in combination with connective tissue graft, seem to be the most predictable therapeutic decision.

Role of Vitamin D Supplements in Prevention of Hungry Bone Syndrome after Successful Parathyroidectomy for Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

We postulated that the preoperative correction of vitamin D levels can significantly reduce the incidence of hunger bone syndrome among patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism.

METHODS

We performed a prospective, randomized, open-label study on 102 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and coexisting vitamin D deficiency who were scheduled to undergo parathyroidectomy. Patients were divided into the following two groups: group I which included 52 patients who did not receive preoperative vitamin D supplementation; and group II which included 50 patients who received cholecalciferol 1000-2000 IU daily or 50000 IU weekly until they achieve vitamin D levels >20 ng/mL (group IIa = 25 patients) or vitamin D levels >30 ng/mL (group IIb = 25 patients).

RESULTS

The incidence of hunger bone syndrome in group IIb was lower than group I and group IIa (8% versus 16% versus 23%, respectively); however, this difference did not reach the level of statistical significance (p = 0.22). Patients with hunger bone syndrome were significantly younger and had higher serum phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, magnesium, and bone mineral density at baseline than patients without hunger bone syndrome. On the other hand, patients with hunger bone syndrome had significantly lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D at baseline than patients without hunger bone syndrome (p = 0.001). The ROC curve showed that the baseline level of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was not an independent discriminator of hunger bone syndrome (area under curve = 0.21 (95% CI: 0.06-0.34); p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative course of vitamin D supplements has no preventive role on the postoperative incidence of hunger bone syndrome among patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and coexisting vitamin D deficiency undergoing parathyroidectomy.

In-vitro anticancer activity against Caco-2 cell line of colloidal nano silver synthesized using aqueous extract of Eucalyptus Camaldulensis leaves

In the current study, we investigated the anticancer potential against human colon cells (Caco-2) of colloidal nanosilver (CN-Ag) produced in Syria using bioactive compounds in the aqueous extract of Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaves (AEECL). The formation of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy analysis with surface plasmon peak at 449 nm and their average size was found to be 12, 10, 23 nm by SEM, DLS and NTA respectively. This small size has confirmed the effective role of AEECL as capping agent. Further morphological characterization was done by EDS showed the presence of metallic silver. Zeta potential value (-23 mV) indicated the repulsion among the particles and stability of the formulation nanosilver. The anticancer effect of synthesized CN-Ag against Caco-2 has been tested. The cytotoxicity assay showed a dose-dependent and a time-dependent effect of CN-Ag. The high cytotoxicity of CN-Ag at low concentration (5μ/mL) open new prospects for the development of novel therapeutic approaches against human colon cancer Caco-2.

A-78 What You Said is NOT What You Did

Objective

To determine if individuals referred for Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) differential diagnosis, who do and do not fail performance validity tests (PVTs) present themselves differently on self-report measures of executive functioning (Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function; BRIEF) and ADHD (Conner’s Adult ADHD Rating Scales; CAARS).

Method

A convenience sample of 83 adults referred to an outpatient neuropsychology private practice for neuropsychological assessment for ADHD was collected. MANOVA was performed comparing individuals who passed PVTs (Word Memory Test or WAIS-IV Reliable Digit Span) to individuals who failed PVTs on the Behavioral Regulation Index and Metacognitive Index of the BREIF and Inattention/Memory Problems, Hyperactivity/Restlessness, Impulsivity/Emotional Lability, Problems with Self-Concept, DSM-IV Inattentive Symptoms, DSM-IV Hyperactive-Impulsive Symptoms of the CAARS.

Results

All statistical comparisons were non-significant at the p = < .05.

Conclusions

Individuals who fail PVTs are indistinguishable from individuals who pass PVTs on the BRIEF and the CAARS. This is consistent with past research suggesting that validity of self-report cannot be inferred from performance validity testing (Van Dyke, Millis, Axelrod, & Hanks, 2013; Bush, et al., 2005). Also, this data highlights the importance of self-report measures containing their own validated measures of symptom validity.

Investigation hybrid MCNP/Angle model for calculating the absolute full-energy peak efficiency of HPGe detector

The absolute full energy peak efficiency values have been obtained by Monte Carlo MCNP5 code and semi-empirical ANGLE3 calibration software for a coaxial HPGe detector. The two calibration methods were combined to build a hybrid MCNP5/ANGLE3 model. The hybrid model can give efficiency calibrations values for various gamma-ray source shapes and geometries and then generate efficiency calibrations for new geometries instantly without needing new standards. The model has been checked experimentally and theoretically and then approved to cover the various gamma detection measurements.

Necroptosis inhibition as a therapy for Niemann-Pick disease, type C1: Inhibition of RIP kinases and combination therapy with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin

Niemann-Pick disease, type C1 (NPC1) is an inborn error of metabolism that results in endolysosomal accumulation of unesterified cholesterol. Clinically, NPC1 manifests as cholestatic liver disease in the newborn or as a progressive neurogenerative condition characterized by cerebellar ataxia and cognitive decline. Currently there are no FDA approved therapies for NPC1. Thus, understanding the pathological processes that contribute to neurodegeneration will be important in both developing and testing potential therapeutic interventions. Neuroinflammation and necroptosis contribute to the NPC1 pathological cascade. Receptor Interacting Protein Kinase 1 and 3 (RIPK1 and RIPK3), are protein kinases that play a central role in mediating neuronal necroptosis. Our prior work suggested that pharmacological inhibition of RIPK1 had a significant but modest beneficial effect; however, the inhibitors used in that study had suboptimal pharmacokinetic properties. In this work we evaluated both pharmacological and genetic inhibition of RIPK1 kinase activity. Lifespan in both Npc1^-/- mice treated with GSK'547, a RIPK1 inhibitor with better pharmacokinetic properties, and Npc1^-/-:Ripk1^kd/kd double mutant mice was significantly increased. In both cases the increase in lifespan was modest, suggesting that the therapeutic potential of RIPK1 inhibition, as a monotherapy, is limited. We thus investigated the potential of combining RIPK1 inhibition with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) therapy HPβCD has been shown to slow neurological disease progression in NPC1 mice, cats and patients. HPβCD appeared to have an additive positive effect on the pathology and survival of Npc1^-/-:Ripk1^kd/kd mice. RIPK1 and RIPK3 are both critical components of the necrosome, thus we were surprised to observe no increase survival in Npc1^-/-;Ripk3^-/- mice compared to Npc1^-/- mice. These data suggest that although necroptosis is occurring in NPC1, the observed effects of RIPK1 inhibition may be related to its RIPK3-independent role in neuroinflammation and cytokine production.

Early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease using infrared spectroscopy of isolated blood samples followed by multivariate analyses

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, particularly in the elderly. The disease is characterized by cognitive decline that typically starts with insidious memory loss and progresses relentlessly to produce global impairment of all higher cortical functions. Due to better living conditions and health facilities in developed countries, which result in higher overall life spans, these countries report upward trends of AD among their populations. There are, however, no specific diagnostic tests for AD and clinical diagnosis is especially difficult in the earliest stages of the disease. Early diagnosis of AD is frequently subjective and is determined by physicians (generally neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists) depending on their experience. Diagnosing AD requires both medical history and mental status testing. Having trouble with memory does not mean you have AD. AD has no current cure, but treatments for symptoms are available and research continues. In this study, we investigated the potential of infrared microscopy to differentiate between AD patients and controls, using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of isolated blood components. FTIR is known as a quick, safe, and minimally invasive method to investigate biological samples. For this goal, we measured infrared spectra from white blood cells (WBCs) and plasma taken from AD patients and controls, with the consent of the patients or their guardians. Applying multivariate analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) followed by linear discriminant analysis (LDA), it was possible to differentiate among the different types of mild, moderate, and severe AD, and the controls, with 85% accuracy when using the WBC spectra and about 77% when using the plasma spectra. When only the moderate and severe stages were included, an 83% accuracy was obtained using the WBC spectra and about 89% when using the plasma spectra.

Differentiation of mixed soil-borne fungi in the genus level using infrared spectroscopy and multivariate analysis

Early detection of soil-borne pathogens, which have a negative effect on almost all agricultural crops, is crucial for effective targeting with the most suitable antifungal agents and thus preventing and/or reducing their severity. They are responsible for severe diseases in various plants, leading in many cases to substantial economic losses. In this study, infrared (IR) spectroscopic method, which is known as sensitive, accurate and rapid, was used to discriminate between different fungi in a mixture was evaluated. Mixed and pure samples of Colletotrichum, Verticillium, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium genera were measured using IR microscopy. Our spectral results showed that the best differentiation between pure and mixed fungi was obtained in the 675-1800 cm^-1 wavenumber region. Principal components analysis (PCA), followed by linear discriminant analysis (LDA) as a linear classifier, was performed on the spectra of the measured classes. Our results showed that it is possible to differentiate between mixed-calculated categories of phytopathogens with high success rates (~100%) when the mixing percentage range is narrow (40-60) in the genus level; when the mixing percentage range is wide (10-90), the success rate exceeded 85%. Also, in the measured mixed categories of phytopathogens it is possible to differentiate between the different categories with ~100% success rate.

Effect of non-alcoholic liver disease on recurrence rate and liver regeneration after liver resection for colorectal liver metastases

BACKGROUND

Resection of metastases is the only potential cure for patients with liver metastasis from colorectal cancer (crc-lm). But despite an improved overall 5-year survival, the recurrence rate is still as high as 60%. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (nafld) can decrease the liver's capacity to regenerate after resection and might also affect cancer recurrence, potentially by elevating transforming growth factor β, levels of specific metalloproteinases, and oxidative stress. The objective of the present work was to determine the effect of the histologic features of nafld on cancer recurrence and liver regeneration.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis considered 60 patients who underwent an R0 hepatectomy for crc-lm. Volumetric analysis of the liver was calculated using axial view, portovenous phase, 2.5 mm thickness, multiphasic computed tomography images taken before and after surgery. The histologic features of nafld (steatosis, inflammation, and ballooning) were scored using the nafld activity score, and the degree of fibrosis was determined.

RESULTS

The hepatic recurrence rate was 38.33%. Median overall survival duration was 56 months. Median disease-free survival duration was 14 months, and median hepatic disease-free survival duration was 56 months. Multivariate analysis revealed significant correlations of hepatic disease-free survival with hepatocyte ballooning (p = 0.0009), lesion diameter (p = 0.014), and synchronous disease (p = 0.006). Univariate and multivariate analyses did not reveal any correlation with degree of steatosis or recurrence rate.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals an important potential negative effect of hepatocyte ballooning on hepatic disease-free survival.

Exploring Portal Vein Hemodynamic Velocities as a Promising, Attractive Horizon for Small-for-Size Syndrome Prediction After Living-Donor Liver Transplantation: An Egyptian Center Study

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation is the only definite treatment for patients with irreversible liver failure. This explored the impact of portal vein hemodynamic velocities on graft functions to determine the mean portal vein velocities that may increase small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) risk.

METHODS

The study was conducted with 123 cirrhotic patients who underwent living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) at Kasr Alainy Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. Patients were submitted to full history, examination, pre-transplantation labs, and imaging. Intra-operative Doppler studies were performed after graft reperfusion. Post-operative (PO) Doppler was performed once a day over the first 2 weeks. Complete graft functions were obtained daily for patients.

RESULTS

PVV (portal vein velocities) declined gradually but significantly after LT (intra-operative), and PO PVV were significantly higher in the SFSS group. The best cut-off values for prediction of SFSS with the use of intra-operative (before, during, and after) post-anastomotic PVV were 55.5, 106, and 126.5 cm/s, respectively, and, for PO before and after anastomotic PVV, 48.6 and 71.1 cm/s, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between PO mean PVV and mean alanine transferase, total bilirubin, and international normalized ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

PVV is a significant hemodynamic factor that influences graft functions. SFSS, which has a negative impact after LDLT, could be predicted by cut-off values for PVV, and therefore preventive measures such as splenectomy may be considered for its prevention.

Combined sorafenib and yttrium-90 radioembolization for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In this pilot study, we assessed the safety and tolerability of combining sorafenib with ⁹⁰Y radioembolization for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (hcc).

METHODS

The study, conducted prospectively during 2009-2012, included eligible patients with unresectable hcc and a life expectancy of at least 12 weeks. Each patient received sorafenib (400 mg twice daily) for 6-8 weeks before ⁹⁰Y treatment. Safety and tolerability were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 40 patients enrolled, 29 completed treatment (combined therapy). In the initial cohort, the most common cause of hcc was hepatitis C (32.5%), and most patients were staged Child A (82.5%). The 29 patients who completed the study had similar baseline characteristics. Grades 1 and 2 toxicities accounted for 77.8% of all adverse events reported. The most common toxicities reported were fatigue (19.0%), alteration in liver function (7.9%), and diarrhea (6.3%). There were 12 grade 3 and 2 grade 4 toxicity events reported. One patient died of liver failure within 30 days after treatment. During the study, the sorafenib dose was reduced in 6 patients (20.7%), and sorafenib had to be interrupted in 4 patients (13.8%) and discontinued in 4 patients (13.8%). The disease control rate was 72.4% per the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, and tumour necrosis was observed in 82.8% of patients. Overall survival in patients undergoing combined therapy was 12.4 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary results demonstrate the safety and tolerability of combining ⁹⁰Y radioembolization and sorafenib for advanced hcc. A larger prospective study is needed to determine the extent of the survival benefit.

NORE1A induction by membrane-bound CD40L (mCD40L) contributes to CD40L-induced cell death and G1 growth arrest in p21-mediated mechanism

Membrane-bound CD40L (mCD40L) but not soluble CD40L (sCD40L) has been implicated in direct cell death induction and apoptosis in CD40-expressing carcinomas. In this study, we show that mCD40L but not sCD40L induces NORE1A/Rassf5 expression in an NFκB-dependant mechanism. NORE1A expression appeared to contribute to mCD40L-induced cell death and enhance cell transition from G1 to S phase of the cell cycle in a p21-dependent mechanism. The upregulation of p21 protein was attributed to NORE1A expression, since NORE1A inhibition resulted in p21 downregulation. p21 upregulation was concomitant with lower p53 expression in the cytoplasmic fraction with no detectable increase at the nuclear p53 level. Moreover, mCD40L-induced cell death mediated by NORE1A expression appeared to be independent of mCD40L-induced cell death mediated by sustained JNK activation since NORE1A inhibition did not affect JNK phosphorylation and vice versa. The presented data allow better understanding of the mechanism by which mCD40L induces cell death which could be exploited in the clinical development of CD40-targeted anti-cancer therapies.

Establishing a clinic-based pancreatic cancer and periampullary tumour research registry in Quebec

BACKGROUND

Enrolling patients in studies of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (pdac) is challenging because of the high fatality of the disease. We hypothesized that a prospective clinic-based study with rapid ascertainment would result in high participation rates. Using that strategy, we established the Quebec Pancreas Cancer Study (qpcs) to investigate the genetics and causes of pdac and other periampullary tumours (pats) that are also rare and underrepresented in research studies.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with pdac or pat were introduced to the study at their initial clinical encounter, with a strategy to enrol participants within 2 weeks of diagnosis. Patient self-referrals and referrals of unaffected individuals with an increased risk of pdac were also accepted. Family histories, epidemiologic and clinical data, and biospecimens were collected. Additional relatives were enrolled in families at increased genetic risk.

RESULTS

The first 346 completed referrals led to 306 probands being enrolled, including 190 probands affected with pdac, who represent the population focus of the qpcs. Participation rates were 88.4% for all referrals and 89.2% for pdac referrals. Family history, epidemiologic and clinical data, and biospecimens were ascertained from 91.9%, 54.6%, and 97.5% respectively of patients with pdac. Although demographics and trends in risk factors in our patients were consistent with published statistics for patients with pdac, the qpcs is enriched for families with French-Canadian ancestry (37.4%), a population with recurrent germ-line mutations in hereditary diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Using rapid ascertainment, a pdac and pat research registry with high participation rates can be established. The qpcs is a valuable research resource and its enrichment with patients of French-Canadian ancestry provides a unique opportunity for studies of heredity in these diseases.

Assignment of Colletotrichum coccodes isolates into vegetative compatibility groups using infrared spectroscopy: a step towards practical application

FTIR spectroscopy may provide a specific, rapid, and inexpensive method for the successful classification of Colletotrichum coccodes isolates into vegetative compatibility groups.

(18)F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography could have a prognostic role in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

We set out to evaluate the prognostic value of (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography (pet) in patients with advanced (non-transplant-eligible) hepatocellular carcinoma (hcc) and to evaluate the correlation between standardized uptake values (suvs) and survival outcomes.

METHODS

We identified patients with hcc who, from 2005 to 2013, underwent pet imaging before any treatment. This retrospective study from our hcc database obtained complete follow-up data for the 63 identified patients.

RESULTS

Of the 63 patients, 10 underwent surgical resection, and 59 underwent locoregional therapy. In this cohort, 28 patients were pet-positive (defined as any lesion with a suv ≥ 4.0) before any therapy was given, and 35 patients were pet negative (all lesions with a suv < 4.0). On survival analysis, median survival was greater for the pet-negative than for the pet-positive patients: 29 months (range: 16.3-41.1 months) versus 12 months (range: 4.0-22.1 months) respectively, p = 0.0241. The pet-positive patients more often had large tumours (≥5 cm), poor differentiation, and extrahepatic disease, reflecting more aggressive tumours. On multivariate analysis, only pet positivity was associated with poor survival (p = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with pet-positive patients, pet-negative patients with hcc experienced longer survival. Imaging by pet can be of value in early prognostication for patients with hcc, especially patients receiving locoregional therapy for whom pathologic tumour differentiation is rarely available. This potential role for pet requires further validation in a prospective study.

Detection and identification of cancerous murine fibroblasts, transformed by murine sarcoma virus in culture, using Raman spectroscopy and advanced statistical methods

BACKGROUND

Cancer is one of the leading worldwide causes of death. It may be induced by a variety of factors, including carcinogens, radiation, genetic factors, or DNA and RNA viruses. The early detection of cancer is critical for its successful therapy, which can result in complete recovery from some types of cancer.

METHODS

Raman spectroscopy has been widely used in medicine and biology. It is a noninvasive, nondestructive, and water-insensitive technique that can detect changes in cells and tissues that are caused by different disorders, such as cancer. In this study, Raman spectroscopy was used for the identification and characterization of murine fibroblast cell lines (NIH/3T3) and malignant fibroblast cells transformed by murine sarcoma virus (NIH-MuSV) cells.

RESULTS

Using principal component analysis and LDA it was possible to differentiate between the NIH/3T3 and NIH-MuSV cells with an 80-85% success rate based on their Raman shift spectra.

CONCLUSIONS

The best results for differentiation were achieved from spectra that were obtained from the rich membrane sites.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Because of its homogeneity and complete control of most factors affecting its growth, cell culture is a preferred model for the detection and identification of specific biomarkers related to cancer transformation or other cellular modifications.

Utilizing FTIR-ATR spectroscopy for classification and relative spectral similarity evaluation of different Colletotrichum coccodes isolates

Colletotrichum coccodes (C. coccodes) is a pathogenic fungus which causes anthracnose on tomatoes and black dot disease in potatoes. It is important to differentiate among these isolates and to detect the origin of newly discovered isolates, in order to treat the disease in its early stages. However, distinguishing between isolates using common biological methods is time-consuming, and not always available. We used Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR)-Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) spectroscopy and advanced mathematical and statistical methods to distinguish between different isolates of C. coccodes. To our knowledge, this is the first time that FTIR-ATR spectroscopy was used, combined with multivariate analysis, to classify such a large number of 15 isolates belonging to the same species. We obtained a success rate of approximately 90% which was achieved using the region 800-1775 cm(-1). In addition we succeeded in determining the relative spectral similarity between different fungal isolates by developing a new algorithm. This method could be an important potential diagnostic tool in agricultural research, since it may outline the extent of the biological similarity between fungal isolates. Based on the PCA calculations, we grouped the fifteen isolates included in this study into four different degrees of similarity.

Methodological challenges in evaluating performance, impact and ranking of IWRM strategies in the Jordan Valley

The philosophy of integrated water resource management (IWRM), as formulated in several international summits, yielded numerous interpretations and extensions over the last decade but always focused on the overall objective of maximizing the welfare and livelihood of the people concerned. One of the major constraints of this concept is the gap between the well-defined philosophy and the fuzzy definition of operational and testable indicators for the achievement of its goals. This leads to difficulties in the evaluation of potential contributions from technological and managerial improvements. The experience of the multi-lateral IWRM research initiative SMART in the lower Jordan Valley shows that the evaluation and ranking of alternative IWRM strategies and their elements relies simultaneously on the identification of local goals and their interfaces with the superordinate national water sector policies. The documentation of the, still ongoing, development process of suitable assessment procedures describes their methodological embedding and conclusions drawn for the heterogeneous situation of water-related settings in this transboundary watershed.

Advanced statistical techniques applied to comprehensive FTIR spectra on human colonic tissues

PURPOSE

Colon cancer is a major public health problem due to its high disease rate and death toll worldwide. The use of FTIR microscopy in the field of cancer diagnosis has become attractive over the past 20 years. In the present study, the authors investigated the potential of FTIR microscopy to define spectral changes among normal, polyp, and cancer human colonic biopsied tissues.

METHODS

A large database of FTIR microscopic spectra was compiled from 230 human colonic biopsies. The database was divided into five subgroups: Normal, cancerous tissues, and three stages of benign colonic polyps, namely, mild, moderate, and severe polyps, which are precursors of carcinoma. All biopsied tissue sections were classified concurrently by an expert pathologist. The authors applied the principal components analysis (PCA) model to reduce the dimension of the original data size to 13 principal components.

RESULTS

While PCA analysis shows only partial success in distinguishing among cancer, polyp, and the normal tissues, multivariate analysis (e.g., LDA) shows a promising distinction even within the polyp subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Good classification accuracy among normal, polyp, and cancer groups was achieved with a success rate of approximately 85%. These results strongly support the potential of developing FTIR microscopy as a simple, reagent-free tool for early detection of colon cancer and, in particular, for discriminating among the benign premalignant colonic polyps having increasing degrees of dysplasia severity (mild, moderate, and severe).