A multiphysics-based artificial neural networks model for atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a medical condition involving the hardening and/or thickening of arteries' walls. Mathematical multi-physics models have been developed to predict the development of atherosclerosis under different conditions. However, these models are typically computationally expensive. In this study, we used machine learning techniques, particularly artificial neural networks (ANN), to enhance the computational efficiency of these models. A database of multi-physics Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations was created and used for training and validating an ANN model. The model is capable of quick and accurate prediction of atherosclerosis development. A remarkable computational gain is obtained using the ANN model compared to the original FEM simulations.

Evaluation of in vivo lithium chloride effects as a GSK3-β inhibitor on human adipose derived stem cells differentiation into oligodendrocytes and re-myelination in an animal model of multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

The application of neuroprotective agents in combination with stem cells is considered a potential effective treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS). Therefore, the effects of lithium chloride as a neuroprotective agent and a GSK3-β inhibitor were evaluated in combination with human adipose derived stem cells on re-myelination, oligodendrocyte differentiation, and functional recovery.

METHODS

After inducing a mouse model of MS and proving it by the hanging wire test, the mice were randomly assigned to five experimental groups: Cup, Sham, Li, hADSC, and Li + hADSC. Additionally, a control group with normal feeding was considered. Finally, toluidine blue staining was carried out to estimate the level of myelination. Furthermore, immunofluorescent staining was used to evaluate the mean of OLIG2 and MOG positive cells. The mRNA levels of β-Catenin, myelin and oligodendrocyte specific genes were determined via the Real-Time PCR.

RESULTS

The results of the hanging wire test and toluidine blue staining showed a significant increase in myelin density and improvements in motor function in groups, which received lithium and stem cells, particularly in the Li + hADSC group compared with the untreated groups (P < 0.01). Moreover, immunostaining results indicated that the mean percentages of MOG and OLIG2 positive cells were significantly higher in the Li + hADSC group than in the other groups (P < 0.01). Finally, gene expression studies indicated that the use of lithium could increase the expression of β-Catenin, myelin and oligodendrocyte specific genes.

CONCLUSION

The use of Lithium Chloride can increase stem cells differentiation into oligodendrocytes and improve re-myelination in MS.

Investigation of the Effect of PEG Detoxification on Diphtheria Vaccine

Immunization has been considered a successful global health program that saves many persons' lives each year. The vaccines reduce the risk of getting the disease by building immunity in the body. Therefore, the constant availability of essential vaccines is an important factor in community health. One of the most important vaccines is the diphtheria vaccine, which is usually used as Multivalent diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) combination vaccines. The production of this vaccine takes about 45 days, from the initial bacterial culture to the end of toxin production. However, the production of this vaccine can be optimized in case the production stages are carried out under normal conditions. In this study, a significant amount of impurities was removed after washing with phosphate buffer saline, and the toxin was then purified by Sephadex G-50. In this method, the toxin was concentrated to be stored in a smaller space (this removes the concerns for the provision of a suitable space). Another problem with the diphtheria vaccine is that it is reversible after detoxification of the toxin using formaldehyde. For this reason, it is suggested to use MPEG for detoxification, which will produce more stable covalent bonds between PEG and the first type of amine groups in the toxin chain. Tests were performed to evaluate factors, such as in vivo cytotoxicity, lack of edemas formation, the neutralizing activity of serum from guinea pigs immunized with the diphtheria toxoid inactivated with MPEG, and the immunogenic activity of the purified and modified toxin. Comparison of this PEG detoxification toxoid with the standard toxoid produced in Razi Vaccine and Serum Institution, Karaj, Iran, showed that washing with PBS and purification with Sephadex G-50 was an efficient method. The stability and reversibility of the toxoid approved by MPEG were acceptable. Therefore, the results of animal tests showed that the obtained product was stable and caused no wound or necrosis in the tested animals.

Evaluation Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables Loaded in Poly (lactic-co-glycolic) Acid/Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables-Fibrin Nanoparticles Scaffold (New Delivery System) is an Effective Factor for Tissue Engineering

Background:

Growth factors and chemical stimulants have key role in cartilage tissue engineering, but these agents have unfavorable effects on cells. Avocado soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) has chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, fibrin2nanoparticles (FNP)/ASU, as a new delivery system, with stem cells applied for cartilage tissue engineering in poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) scaffold.

Materials and Methods:

FNP/ASU prepared by freeze milling and freeze drying. NFP/ASU was characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS). PLGA-NFP/ASU scaffold was fabricated and assessed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) were seeded on scaffold and induced for chondrogenesis. After 14 days, cell viability and gene/protein expression evaluated.

Results:

The results of DLS and SEM indicated that nanoparticles had high quality. The expression of type II collagen and SOX9 and aggrecan (ACAN) genes in differentiated cells in the presence of ASU was significantly increased compared with the control group (P and lt; 0.01), on the other hand, type I collagen expression was significantly decreased and western blot confirmed it.

Conclusions:

This study indicated FNP/ASU loaded in PLGA scaffold has excellent effect on chondrogenic differentiation of hADSCs and tissue engineering.

In vitro evaluation of the pogostone effects on the expression of PTEN and DACT1 tumor suppressor genes, cell cycle, and apoptosis in ovarian cancer cell line

Background and purpose:

Ovarian cancer is one of the most dangerous cancers among women. Pogostone has anticancer effects and is rich in polyphenol compounds. In the present study, we investigated the effects of pogostone on ovarian cancer cell lines (OVCAR-3).

Experimental approach:

OVCAR-3 cells were treated with pogostone at IC₅₀(90 μg/mL) for 24 and 48 h. Cell viability and apoptotic rate in the cells were measured using MTT assay and flow cytometry. Real-time PCR was used to determine the expression of genes involved in the cell cycle and apoptosis. The expression of caspase-3 (CASP3) protein was evaluated by the CASP3 assay.

Findings/Results:

Treatment of OVCAR-3 cells with pogostone increased the expression levels of phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) and Dapper antagonist of catenin-1 (DACT1) tumor suppressor genes, as well as the apoptotic genes CASPs3, 8, and 9. Moreover, the ratio of the expressed BCL2 associated X (BAX)/BCl2 genes, as pro- and anti-apoptotic genes, was increased. The expression levels of the genes related to the cell cycle progression including cyclin D1 (CCND1) and cyclin- dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) were inhibited. The data obtained from flow cytometry indicated that pogostone induced cell apoptosis in 24 and 48 pogostone groups. The CASP3 colorimetric assay revealed that pogostone increased the expression of CASP3 protein in the treated groups.

Conclusion and implication:

Pogostone, by inducing the expression of PTEN and DACT1 tumor suppressor genes and regulation of downstream genes may decrease cell proliferation and increase the rate of apoptosis in OVCAR-3.

Neurogenic induction of human dental pulp derived stem cells by hanging drop technique, basic fibroblast growth factor, and SHH factors

BACKGROUND

The progressive destruction of nerve cells in nervous system will induce neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, cell-based therapies have attracted the attention of researchers in the treatment of these abnormal conditions. Thus, the aim of this study was to provide a simple and efficient way to differentiate human dental pulp stem cells into neural cell-like to achieve a homogeneous population of these cells for transplantation in neurodegenerative diseases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this basic research, human dental pulp stem cells were isolated and characterized by immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry techniques. In the following, the cells were cultured using hanging drop as three-dimensional (3D) and tissue culture plate as 2D techniques. Subsequently, cultured cells were differentiated into neuron cell-like in the presence of FGF and Sonic hedgehog (SHH) factors. Finally, the percentage of cells expressing Neu N and β tubulin III markers was determined using immunocytochemistry technique. Finally, all data were analyzed using the SPSS software.

RESULTS

Flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry results indicated that human dental pulp-derived stem cells were CD90, CD106-positive, but were negative for CD34, CD45 markers (P ≤ 0.001). In addition, the mean percentage of β tubulin positive cells in different groups did not differ significantly from each other (P ≥ 0.05). Nevertheless, the mean percentage of Neu N-positive cells was significantly higher in differentiated cells with embryoid bodies' source, especially in the presence of SHH than other groups (P ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that due to the wide range of SHH functions and the facilitation of intercellular connections in the hanging droop method, it is recommended that the use of hanging drop method and SHH factor can be effective in increasing the efficiency of cell differentiation.

RET Protein Expression in Colorectal Cancer; An Immunohistochemical Assessment

Background:

RET (rearranged during transfection) is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase and a receptor for the GDNF-family ligands. It plays the role of a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer. Therefore, it is expected that RET gene becomes downregulated in colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we evaluated immuno-histochemical expression of RET in CRC and assessed its correlation with some of the clinicopathological features to study the prognostic value in CRC.

Materials and Methods:

In total, 60 cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) from the patients who underwent surgical gastroenterology operations were randomly selected. The samples included one tumor-rich section per case and one adjacent tumor-free section as the normal control for that case. Then, immunohistochemistry (ICH) was performed for RET on all the samples and the expression of RET was analyzed. Furthermore, the correlation of RET with clinicopathological features including age, gender, location of the tumor, grade, and stage was evaluated.

Results:

The expression of RET caused significant downregulation in cancer samples compared to the normal control ones (P = 0.002). This downregulation increased in correlation to both grade and metastasis to lymph nodes (P = 0.03 & 0.02 respectively). However, no correlation was found between the expression of RET and gender as well as location of the tumor.

Conclusion:

RET may be considered as a protein marker in CRC detection and prognosis.

Releasing and structural/mechanical properties of nano-particle/Punica granatum (Pomegranate) in poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid/fibrin as nano-composite scaffold

The effect of poly(lactic‑co‑glycolic acid) (PLGA) on structure, degradation, drug release and mechanical properties of fibrin/pomegranate(F/POM)-based drug‑eluting scaffolds have been studied comprehensively.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

Nanoparticle-fibrin is prepared from thrombin and fibrinogen dissolved in NaOH and HCl. Then pomegranate powder is added to it. Nanoparticles/pom are provided by freeze drying and freeze milling. The 3-D scaffold of poly(lactide-co‑glycolic acid) (PLGA) was prepared via salt‑leaching solvent/casting leaching method and impregnated with nanofibrin-pom. Structural and chemical component of the scaffolds were evaluated by transmission and scanning electron microscopy and furrier transmission infrared spectroscopy, respectively. Moreover, the scaffolds were characterized from the degradation rate and drug releasing rate points of view of human Adipose Derive Stem Cells (hADSCs). Cytotoxicity effects of the scaffold were evaluated on hADSCs via MTT assay.

RESULTS

The results showed that the size of nanoparticles was about 100 nm. The scaffold had a slow degradation rate and it caused a sustained release pattern of pom. MTT assay indicated that nanoparticles had no cytotoxicity and fibrin-pom nanoparticles increased compressive strength of PLGA/scaffolds dramatically and also caused a proper compressive modulus.

CONCLUSIONS

By adding F/POM nanoparticle to PLGA and fabricating a three‑dimensional nanocomposite scaffold (PLGA/F/POM nanoparticle), special physical and mechanical properties also suitable for drug release and cell behavior were achieved, which makes it suitable for cartilage tissue engineering applications (Tab. 1, Fig. 7, Ref. 53) Keywords: hybrid composites, drug delivery, carrier, nanoparticles, scaffold.

Myricetin Apoptotic Effects on T47D Breast Cancer Cells is a P53-Independent Approach

Objective:

Using nutraceuticals in cancer therapy is a strategy contributing with other approaches to promote apoptosis in cancer cells. Myricetin is a polyphenol flavonoid that forms main ingredients of various type of foods and beverages. The inducing properties of myricetin in apoptosis is reported by several investigations. The present study aimed to assess apoptotic effects of myricetin on T47D breast cancer cells and to evaluate part of the mechanisms of action.

Materials and Methods:

T47D breast cancer cells were assigned into five groups: control (cells in normal condition), myricetin (cells treated with myricetin IC50 concentration) in two different incubation times (24, 48 and 72 hours). MTT assay, annexin v assay, flow cytometry, caspase-3 assay and Real-time PCR were used to evaluate apoptosis in breast cancer cells.

Results:

The expression rate of apoptotic genes caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, the ratio of BAX /Bcl-2 as well as the expression of P53, BRCA1, GADD45 genes were increased significantly after treatment of T47D breast cancer cells with myricetin. Annexin v assay confirmed significant expression of annexin as were displyed by flow cytometry.

Conclusion:

Myricetin enhances apoptosis in T47D breast cancer cells by evoking both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. myricetin may practices its apoptotic properties on T47D cells through inducing BRCA1- GADD45 pathway.

Myricetin Exerts its Apoptotic Effects on MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells through Evoking the BRCA1-GADD45 Pathway

OBJECTIVE

Myricetin is a polyphenol flavonoid with nutraceutical values which is abundantly found as the main ingredient of various foods and beverages. It has been reported that the function of myricetin is to trigger apoptosis in several types of cancers. The present study intended to investigate the apoptotic effects of myricetin on MCF-7 breast cancer cells and to assess its possible mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MCF-7 breast cancer cells were assigned to four groups: Control (cells in normal condition); myricetin (cells treated with the IC50 dosage of myricetin) in three different incubation times (24, 48, and 72 h). The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, annexin V assay, flow cytometry, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and caspase-3 assay were used to estimate the apoptosis function of myricetin in breast cancer.

RESULTS

The expression levels of apoptosis-related genes caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and the BAX /Bcl-2 ratio as well as the expression of p53, BRCA1, GADD45 genes were significantly increased following the treatment of MCF-7 breast cancer cells with myricetin. The annexin V assay demonstrated the significant expression of annexin which was also detected by flow cytometry.

CONCLUSION

Myricetin efficiently induces apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells by evoking both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. Myricetin may exert its apoptotic effects on MCF-7 cells by inducing the BRCA1- GADD45 pathway.
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Evaluating the Radiosensitization Effect of Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles on Human Breast Adenocarcinoma Cell Line and Fibroblast

Background:

Nanohydroxyapatite (nHAP) exhibit anti-proliferative effects on various cancer cells. However, to date, there are only a few studies on the radiosensitization effect of nHAP. The present study aimed to investigate the possible enhancement of the radiosensitization effect of nHAP on human breast adenocarcinoma cancer (MCF-7) and fibroblast.

Methods:

nHAP was extracted from fish scales using the thermal alkaline method and characterized at Babol University of Medical Sciences (Babol, Iran) in 2017. The anti-proliferative and the radiosensitization effects of nHAP were investigated by 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT), clonogenic assay, and apoptosis assay. MCF-7 cells and fibroblasts were incubated with different concentrations of nHAP and at different periods. The MTT solution was added and the absorbance was measured at 570 nm. The MCF-7 cells were exposed to 0, 1.5, 3.5, and 5 Gy X-ray irradiation and incubated for 10-14 days. The data were compared using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the post hoc tests (Tukey’s method).

Results:

The results showed that nHAP significantly inhibited the growth of MCF-7 cells compared with controls (P<0.001), but the difference was not statistically significant for fibroblasts (P=0.686 at 400 µg/mL at 72 hours). After 48 hours, the proliferation of MCF-7 cells and fibroblasts was inhibited by about 81% and 34% at 400 µg/mL concentration, respectively. The radiosensitization enhancement factor for MCF-7 cells and fibroblasts at a dose of 3.5 Gy and 100 μg/mL concentration were 1.87 and 1.3, respectively.

Conclusion:

nHAP can be considered as a breast cancer radiosensitization agent with limited damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.

Ionic liquid based distributed touch sensor using electrical impedance tomography

Inspired by the human skin sensory mechanism, there are growing interests in creating a sense of touch in robotics. This work describes a new impedance based design to create an artificial tactile sensing skin. It has demonstrated that the electrical impedance tomography imaging technique allows for detecting the pressure distribution in a large area by a distributed touch sensor. The sensor is fabricated by filling a circular shaped phantom with liquid conductor and covering with an elastic shell on the top. The proposed sensor can detect the pressure applied to the elastic top using electrical impedance tomography imaging method. The sensor can therefore operate as a touch sensor mimicking a piezo-impedance operation in a simple fashion. The new sensor can differentiate between various force levels and their locations and thus produces a distribution of pressure. Such a simple sensor can function as a large area skin, enabling smarter human-machine interactions in emerging augmented reality and robotic applications.

Patient-reported psychosocial distress in adolescents and young adults with germ cell tumours

PURPOSE

Germ cell tumours are the most common cancer of male adolescents and young adults (AYA, age 18-39). Men in this age group have been healthy much of their lives, and a diagnosis of cancer can cause significant psychosocial distress. We therefore sought to examine the psychosocial needs of patients with germ cell tumour and determine whether needs vary based on age (AYA vs non-AYA). We hypothesized that AYA experience more anxiety and distress in emotional, practical and physical domains.

METHODS

We evaluated the responses of all patients referred to British Columbia (BC) Cancer who completed a pre-consultation health assessment form. This is a validated screening questionnaire for distress, subclinical/clinical symptoms of depression and anxiety and includes the Canadian Problem Checklist domains of emotional, informational, practical, spiritual, social/family and physical concerns.

RESULTS

Data were collected for 349 patients (2011-2015). Patient population was predominantly AYA (n = 227) with median age 33 (range 18-83). The top 3 AYA concerns were financial, work/school, frustration and anger. AYA patients more commonly scored positive for symptoms of subclinical/clinical anxiety than non-AYA (39.4% vs. 27.9%, p = 0.028). Those AYA patients with subclinical/clinical anxiety symptoms experienced more fears and worries, concerns regarding work/school, lack of understanding of their disease, finances and frustration and anger.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate that AYA with testicular cancer have unique needs and experience more self-reported anxiety symptoms with emotional, informational and practical concerns. This is valuable information to stakeholders for allocation of resources to address cancer survivorship amongst these patients.

Anti-proliferative and anti-apoptotic effects of grape seed extract on chemo-resistant OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cells

Background and purpose:

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest cancer in women. The main challenge in the inhibition of ovarian cancer cells is chemo-resistance. Seeking to overcome this issue, several strategies have been suggested, including the administration of natural products. Grape seed extract (GSE) is a good source of polyphenols and its anticancer effects have been reported by many studies. In this study we aimed to evaluate the effects of GSE on OVCAR-3, a chemo-resistant ovarian cancer line.

Experimental approach:

OVCAR-3 cells were treated with GSE (71 μg/mL) for 24 and 48 h. Cell viability and cell apoptosis were measured by MTT and flow cytometry. The real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of genes involved in the cell cycle (PTEN, DACT1, AKT, MTOR, GSK3B, C-MYC, CCND1, and CDK4) and apoptosis (BAX, BCl2, CASP3, 8 and 9). The expression of CASP3 protein was evaluated by the CASP3 assay.

Findings / Results:

The results showed that treatment of OVCAR-3 cells with GSE, increased the expression level of PTEN and DACT1 tumor suppressor genes, as well as apoptotic genes, CASP3, 8, and 9 (P < 0.001). Also, the induction of tumor suppressor genes expression was associated with an increase in the expression of BAX/BCL2 gene ratio as pro- and anti-apoptotic genes. The expression of the genes involved in the cell cycle, CCND1 and CDK4, was inhibited (P < 0.001). The results indicated that GSE induced cell apoptosis in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.001). Also, the GSE treatment resulted in the CASP3 protein expression (P < 0.001).

Conclusion and implications:

According to the results of this study, GSE may exert anti-tumorigenic effects on chemo-resistant OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cells which might be mediated by the expression of tumor suppressor genes that interact with cell signaling pathways, cell cycle, and cell apoptosis. Hence, the consumption of GSE extract during chemotherapy may overcome part of chemo-resistance in ovarian cancer.

Astaxanthin Reduces Demyelination and Oligodendrocytes Death in A Rat Model of Multiple Sclerosis

Objective

Astaxanthin (AST) is a carotenoid with anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. It has also been reported that AST exerts protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases and reduces oxidative stress-induced the central nervous system (CNS) injury. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective potential of AST in inhibiting demyelination and oligodendrocyte death in a rat model of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, forty Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four experimental groups: control group (with normal feeding), cuprizone (CPZ group) that daily received 0.6% CPZ for 4 weeks, sham group that daily received 0.6% CPZ plus dimethyl sulfoxid (DMSO) for 4 weeks, and AST group that daily received 0.6% CPZ and after 12 hours were treated with AST (3 mg/kg), for 4 weeks. Muscle strength was evaluated by the behavioral basket test at the end of every week for 4 weeks. Luxol Fast Blue (LFB) staining was utilized for the identification of myelination and demyelination. Myelin density was evaluated by the ImageJ software. The expression of A2B5 (oligodendrocyte precursor protein) and myelin oligodendrocyte protein (MOG) were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and the expression of myelin basic protein (MBP), MOG, and platelet-derived growth factor-alpha (PDGFR-α) genes was examined by the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique.

Results

The administration of AST reduced the oligodendrocyte damage and myelin sheath disruption in a rat model of MS. The basket behavioral test showed the improvement of muscle strength in the AST group compared with CPZ and sham groups. Besides, the results of real-time PCR and IHC indicated the beneficial effects of AST in declining demyelination and oligodendrocyte death in a rat model of MS.

Conclusion

AST reduces damages to the myelin sheath and oligodendrocyte death in a rat model of MS.

The Effects of Fibrin-icariin Nanoparticle Loaded in Poly (lactic-co-glycolic) Acid Scaffold as a Localized Delivery System on Chondrogenesis of Human Adipose-derived Stem Cells

Background:

Nowadays, cartilage tissue engineering is the best candidate for regeneration of cartilage defects. This study evaluates the effect of fibrin/icariin (ICA) nanoparticles (F/I NPs) on chondrogenesis of stem cells.

Materials and Methods:

F/I NPs were characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering DLS. Poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-F/I NP scaffold was fabricated and assessed by scanning electron microscope. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) were seeded on scaffold and induced for chondrogenesis. After 14 days, cell viability and gene expression were analyzed by the 3-(4, 5- dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. MTT assay and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results:

The size and surface charge of F/I NP were about 28–30 nm and − 17, respectively. The average of pore size of PLGA and PLGA–fibrin/ICA was 230 and 340 μm, respectively. Cell viability of differentiated cells in P/F group was higher than others significantly (P ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, quantitative RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that ICA upregulated cartilaginous-specific gene expression. Furthermore, the results of the expression of type I collagen revealed that ICA downregulated this gene significantly (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

The results indicated that F/I NP could be a potential factor for chondrogenesis of stem cells and downregulation of fibrocartilage marker.

Assessment of Immuno-Histochemical Expression of MBD1 in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma and Its Correlations with Prognostic Factors

BACKGROUND

MBD1, the largest member of methyl binding domain family, has the most downregulated mRNA expression and upregulated methylation levels in advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we evaluated the immune-histochemical expression of MBD1 in CRC and assessed its correlation with clinicopathological features to study its prognostic value in CRC.

METHODS

A total of 60 samples of CRC, from patients who underwent surgical gastroenterology operations, were randomly selected. The samples included one tumor-rich section per case and one adjacent tumor-free section as a normal control for that case. Then, immunohistochemistry (ICH) was performed for MBD1 protein on all samples and the expression of MBD1 was analyzed in cancerous and normal samples. In the next step, the correlation between MBD1 and clinicopathological features including age, sex, location of the tumor, grade, and stage were evaluated.

RESULTS

The expression of MBD1 protein had a significant downregulation in cancerous samples compared with normal control samples. This downregulation increased corresponding to both grade and stage of cancer. However, no correlation was seen between the expression of MBD1 and sex, age and location of the tumor.

CONCLUSION

MBD1 protein may be considered as a protein marker in the detection of CRC and its progression.

Quantification of Melittin in Iranian Honey Bee (Apis mellifera meda) Venom by Liquid Chromatography-electrospray Ionization-ion Trap Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-ESI-IT-MS/MS)

The current research aimed to quantify melittin (MEL) in Iranian honey bee (Apis mellifera meda) venom. To this end, a liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-IT-MS/MS) approach was employed. Melittin is the main toxic peptide of honey bee venom with various biological and pharmacological activities. It was extracted with pure water from the bee venom samples. The analyses were performed on XBridge BEH300 C4 column using a gradient method with the mobile phase consisting of ultrapure water and acetonitrile (containing 0.1% formic acid). Signals of the melittin were recorded with the selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode, which is a quantitative approach capable of quantifying analyte peptides with high sensitivity and. The mass spectrum of MEL was obtained in the positive ion mode and the quantification analysis was performed using precursor to product ion transition of m/z 570.2/669.9. This method demonstrated good linearity (R2˃0.997) in the range of 1-100 &amp;micro;g mL-1, with a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 1.0 &amp;micro;g mL-1. The content of MEL in Iranian honey bee venom accounts for 43&amp;ndash;55% of total dry weight. This method can be used to evaluate the quality and authenticity of bee venom samples for different therapeutic applications of MEL.

Phenol adsorption on high microporous activated carbons prepared from oily sludge: equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic studies

The purpose of this study was the preparation, characterization and application of high-performance activated carbons (ACs) derived from oily sludge through chemical activation by KOH. The produced ACs were characterized using iodine number, N₂ adsorption-desorption, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The activated carbon prepared under optimum conditions showed a predominantly microporous structure with a BET surface area of 2263 m² g⁻¹, a total pore volume of 1.37 cm³ g⁻¹ and a micro pore volume of 1.004 cm³ g⁻¹. The kinetics and equilibrium adsorption data of phenol fitted well to the pseudo second order model (R² = 0.99) and Freundlich isotherm (R² = 0.99), respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity based on the Langmuir model (434 mg g⁻¹) with a relatively fast adsorption rate (equilibrium time of 30 min) was achieved under an optimum pH value of 6.0. Thermodynamic parameters were negative and showed that adsorption of phenol onto the activated carbon was feasible, spontaneous and exothermic. Desorption of phenol from the adsorbent using 0.1 M NaOH was about 87.8% in the first adsorption/desorption cycle and did not decrease significantly after three cycles. Overall, the synthesized activated carbon from oily sludge could be a promising adsorbent for the removal of phenol from polluted water.

Effect of crude oil-induced water repellency on transport of Escherichia coli and bromide through repacked and physically-weathered soil columns

Knowledge of the transport and fate of pathogenic Escherichia coli, especially in the areas contaminated with crude oil, is required to assess contamination of shallow groundwater resources. The present study aims to investigate the effect of crude oil-mediated water repellency on the movement of nalidixic acid-resistant Escherichia coli strain (E. coli NAR) and bromide (Br) as an inert tracer in two soil types. The soils were contaminated at three levels of 0, 0.5 and 1% w/w of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) using crude oil. Steady-state saturated flow in the soil columns was controlled using a tension infiltrometer. Leaching experiments were conducted through the columns of repacked (un-weathered) and physically-weathered clay loam (CL) and sandy loam (SL) soils. The columns leachate was sampled at specific times for 4 pore volumes. The shape of breakthrough curves for the E. coli NAR and Br depended on soil texture and structure and the TPHs level. Preferential flow in the crude oil-mediated water-repellent soils facilitated the transport of contaminants especially E. coli NAR. Filtration coefficient and relative adsorption index of bacteria were greatest in the repacked CL soils and were lowest in the weathered SL soils. Discontinuity of soil pores and lower flow velocity resulted in greater filtration of E. coli NAR in the repacked CL soil than other treatments. Physical weathering induced the formation of aggregates which reduced soil particle surfaces available for retention of water-repellent oil and contaminants. Movement of both bacteria and Br tracer in the weathered SL soil with 1% TPHs was higher than other treatments. This finding was attributed to low specific surface area, continuity of the pores and water repellency-mediated preferential pathways in the weathered SL soil columns. Our findings implied that shallow groundwater resources could be very sensitive to microbial contamination particularly in the oil-mediated water-repellent soils.

Estrogen Receptor Beta (ERβ) May Act as Mediator in Apoptotic Induction of Grape Seed Extract (GSE)

BACKGROUND

Grape seed extract is a complex mixture of polyphenols. Its anti-tumor effects have been reported by several studies. Estrogen receptors (ERs) are commonly considered as important markers for breast cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate the apoptotic effects of GSE on MCF7 breast cancer cells and assessed the expression of ERβ during treatment of cells with GSE.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of GSE in MCF7 breast cancer cells were calculated by treating cells with serial dilution of GSE for 48 hours and cell viability evaluated using MTT assay. Then cells assigned to three groups: control (no treatment), DMSO (cells treated with 0.05% of DMSO) and GSE group (cells treated with of GSE for 48 hours). The apoptosis assay was performed by detecting Annexin V protein by flow cytometry. The gene expression of ERβ and caspase-3 was evaluated by Real-Time PCR.

RESULTS

Cells in GSE group treated with GSE IC50 concentration for 48 hours. Annexin V staining assay, represented early apoptosis detected by flow cytometry analysis showed significantly higher expression (p<0.01) than control and DMSO groups. Moreover, results of Real-Time PCR showed a significant expression in ERβ and caspase-3 genes in GSE group compared to control and DMSO groups (Fold change = 2.3 and 3.5, respectively).

CONCLUSION

GSE may induce apoptosis in MCF7 human breast cancer cells by activation of ERβ gene.

The impact of AlterG training on balance and structure of vestibulospinal tract in cerebral palsy children

We aimed to investigate the effects of an antigravity treadmill (AlterG) on the balance and structure of the vestibulospinal tract. The AlterG can reduce the weightbearing of patients and hence can facilitate their locomotion. Three children with cerebral palsy (CP) received AlterG training three days per week for eight weeks with each session lasting 45 minutes. The balance of children was evaluated using the Berg balance test and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. The diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) method was employed to quantify changes of the structure of the vestibulospinal tract. Evaluations were performed before and after the 8-week training. DTI metrics including fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD) and axial diffusivity (AD) were measured to evaluate the vestibulospinal tract structure. The results showed that the mean FA of the vestibulospinal tract increased and other metrics decreased for all subjects. Our findings indicated that the balance and structure of the vestibulospinal tract were improved up to 30% for all children following the 8-week AlterG training. This indicates that the balance improvement of the CP children following the AlterG training was accompanied with persistent neuroplasticity in their brain. The clinical implication is that the AlterG training has a potential to be used as an effective therapeutic tool for the treatment of balance impairment in CP children.

Capacitively Coupled Electrical Impedance Tomography for Brain Imaging

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is considered as a potential candidate for brain stroke imaging due to its compactness and potential use in bedside and emergency settings. The electrode-skin contact impedance and low conductivity of skull pose some practical challenges to the EIT head imaging. This paper studies the application of capacitively coupled electrical impedance tomography (CCEIT) in brain imaging for the first time. CCEIT is a new contactless EIT technique which uses voltage excitation without direct contact with the skin, as oppose to directly injecting the current to the skin in EIT. Because the safety issue of a new technique should be strictly treated, simulation work based on a simplified head model was carried out to investigate the safety aspects of CCEIT. By comparing with the standard EIT excited by a typical safe current level used in brain imaging, the safe excitation reference of CCEIT is obtained. This is done by comparing the maximum level of internal electrical field (internal current density) of EIT and that of CCEIT. Simulation results provide useful knowledge of excitation signal level of CCEIT and also show a critical comparison with traditional EIT. Practical experiments were carried out with a 12-electrode CCEIT phantom, saline, and carrot samples. Experimental results show the feasibility and potential of CCEIT for stroke imaging. In this paper, the anomaly diameter resolution is 10 mm (1/18 of the phantom diameter), which indicates that small-volume stroke could be detected. This is achieved by a low excitation voltage of 1 V, showing the possibility of even better performance when higher but yet safe level of excitation voltages is used.

Induction of miR-31 causes increased sensitivity to 5-FU and decreased migration and cell invasion in gastric adenocarcinoma

Drug resistance is the main obstacle in the treatment of gastric cancer, the third most common cause of cancer-related death in the world. Due to their small size, easy entrance to cells and multiple targets, microRNAs (miRs) are considered novel and attractive targets. In the current study, parental MKN-45, MKN-45-control vector, and MKN-45-miR-31 populations were compared in terms of cell cycle transitions, migration, cell invasion, and proliferation. In addition, downstream targets of miR-31, including E2F6, and SMUG1 were examined using Real-time RT-PCR and western blotting. MKN-45-miR-31 showed an increased sensitivity to 5-FU, decreased migration and cell invasion compared to the control groups (p = 0.0001, p = 0.01 and p = 0.01, respectively). There was a significant increase in the percentage of cells in G1/pre-G1 phase in MKN-45-miR-31 relative to the control groups (p = 0.001). Induction of miR-31 expression in MKN-45 caused a significant reduction of E2F6 and SMUG1 genes. Our findings indicated that induction of miR-31 expression could increase drug sensitivity, and diminish tumor cell migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells. Therefore, miR-31 can be considered as a potential target molecule in the targeted therapy of gastric cancer (Fig. 2, Ref. 43). Keywords: gastric cancer, miR-31, drug resistance, E2F6, SMUG1.

Inhibition of breast tumor growth and abnormal angiogenesis in mice treated with endothelial cells and their progenitor mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow

Incorporation of endothelial cells or their progenitor cells into newly sprouting blood vessels can contribute to tissue vascularization after ischemic injury. However, the interaction of the stem cells-derived endothelial cells with angiogenesis within tumors is not well understood. The aim of this study was to examine the efficiency of endothelial-like cells derived from MSCs in controlling breast tumor growth associated with abnormal angiogenesis. For this purpose, Balb/c mouse model of breast carcinoma was developed and subjected to intra tumor (I.T)/intra venous (I.V) therapy with undifferentiated MSCs or endothelial cells derived from them. The homing of the stem cells was approved by measuring different markers as well as tracing green fluorescence protein (GFP)-labeled MSCs in the tumors. Tumor growth was measured following cell therapy using a digital caliper. At the end of treatment period (30 days) the angiogenesis markers; VEGFR2 expression as well as micro-vessel density (MVD) using CD31 were estimated in tumor tissues. Stem cell transplantation to mice bearing breast tumors resulted in tumor growth suppression in all experimental groups. The endothelial markers; CD31 and VEGFR2 were down regulated following I.T delivery of the endothelial cells. Accordingly, angiogenesis was suppressed following I.T administration of endothelial cells which was associated with increased focal necrosis in the tumors. In conclusion, data show that endothelial cells directly injected into tumors is more efficient compared to undifferentiated MSCs in controlling tumor-associated angiogenesis and tumor growth.

BIO (6-bromoindirubin-3'-oxime) GSK3 inhibitor induces dopaminergic differentiation of human immortalized RenVm cells

Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most neurodegenerative disorders which can lead to severe neural disability and neurological defects. Cell-based therapy using fully differentiated cells is a new method for the treatment of this abnormal condition. In the present study, we investigated the effects of 6-bromoindirubin-3'-oxime (BIO) on dopaminergic differentiation of human immortalized RenVm cells in order to obtain a set of fully differentiated cells for transplantation in Parkinson's disease. To this end, the immortalized RenVm cells were induced to dopaminergic differentiation using a neuro basal medium supplemented with N2 and different concentrations (75, 150, 300, 600, and 1200 nM) of BIO for 4, 8, and 12 days. The efficiency of dopaminergic differentiation was determined using immunocytochemistry for tyrosine hydroxylase expressions. In addition, the expression of a β-catenin marker was measured using the western blot technique. The results of immunocytochemistry revealed that the mean percentage of Tuj1- and TH-positive sells in 150- and 300-nM-BIO-treated groups was significantly increased compared to that of other groups (p ≤ 0.01). In addition, the expression of the β-catenin marker was higher in these groups as compared with that of other groups. Overall, BIO through its effect on the Wnt-Frizzled signaling pathway can promote dopaminergic differentiation of RenVm cells in a dose-dependent manner.

Nanofibrous Poly(ε-Caprolactone)/Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)/Chitosan Hybrid Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering using Mesenchymal Stem Cells

In the present study, based on a biomimetic approach, novel 3D nanofibrous hybrid scaffolds consisting of poly(ε-caprolactone), polyvinyl alcohol), and chitosan were developed via a multi-jet electrospinning method. The influence of chemical, physical, and structural properties of the scaffolds on the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into osteoblasts, and the proliferation of the differentiated cells were investigated. Osteogenically induced cultures revealed that cells were well-attached, penetrated into the construct and were uniformly distributed. The expression of early and late phenotypic markers of osteoblastic differentiation was upregulated in the constructs cultured in osteogenic medium.

Functional Hepatocyte-Like Cells Derived from Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells on a Novel 3-Dimensional Biocompatible Nanofibrous Scaffold

Aim

To supporting growth and functional differentiation of adult stem cells into hepatocytes in a well-controlled manner, we performed differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) to hepatocytes-like cells on a constructed 3-dimensional (3D) nanofibrous biocompatible scaffold.

Methods

After characterization of the hBMSCs isolated from human bone marrow, the performance of the cells seeded and their proliferation on the scaffold was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Different approaches such as immunocytochemistry, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and biochemical assays were used to estimate the ability of hBMSC-derived cells to express hepatocyte-specific markers.

Results

Scanning electron micrographs and MTT analysis revealed the cells were able to expand and remained biologically and metabolically active for 21 days. Immunocytochemical analysis of albumin and α-fetoprotein showing the accumulation of these markers in differentiated cells was confirmed by RT-PCR. Additional markers such as cytochrome P450 3A4, cytokeratin-18, and cytokeratin-19 detected by RT-PCR showed progressive expression during 3 weeks of differentiation on 3D scaffold. The hepatocyte-like cells displayed several characteristics of metabolic functions as judged by production of albumin, urea, transferrin, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), and serum oxaloacetate aminotransferase (SGOT). Levels of above-mentioned markers, except SGOT in differentiated cells on scaffold, were found to be significantly greater than in the 2D culture system (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Overall data suggest that the engineered nanofibrous scaffold is a conductive matrix for functional hBMSC-derived hepatocyte-like cells and is promising for maintenance of hepatocytes suitable for implantation.

Efficient Production of Hepatocyte-like Cells from Human-induced Pluripotent Stem Cells by Optimizing Growth Factors

BACKGROUND

Generating hepatocytes with complete liver functions is still a challenge and developing more functional hepatocytes is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To compare various differentiation factors and protocols and introducing a preferable protocol to differentiate human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs).

METHODS

After 3 days of the endoderm differentiation of hiPSCs, the cells were incubated with 5 hepatocyte differentiation culture media, protocols (P), for 14 days-P1: hepatocyte growth factor and fibroblast growth factor-4 (FGF-4) for the first week and oncostatin-M and dexamethasone for the second week; P2: similar to P1 but FGF4 was used in both the first and second weeks; P3: similar to P1 but FGF-4 was not used; P4: similar to P1 but FGF-4 and dexamethasone were not used; and P5: similar to P1 but FGF-4 and oncostatin-M were not used. After 17 days, characterization was done by qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence and ELISA.

RESULTS

The mRNA expression levels of hepatocyte markers (albumin, cytokeratin-18, tyrosine aminotransferase, hepatocyte nuclear factor-4α, cytochrome-P450 7A1) increased significantly (p<0.05) in the differentiated cells by 5 different protocols. Furthermore, significant protein expression and secretion of albumin were detected in the differentiated cells by 5 different protocols. In P3, the differentiated cells had the highest exhibit of hepatocyte characteristics and in P4 they had the lowest. Moreover, in P1 and P2 similar results were observed.

CONCLUSION

Since P3 gave us the best results among all protocols, we recommend it as an efficient protocol to differentiate the functional HLCs from hiPSCs, which can improve cell therapies.

The effect of fibrinogen concentrate on perioperative bleeding in transurethral resection of the prostate: a double-blind placebo-controlled and randomized study

Essentials Perioperative bleeding during prostate surgery is still a common morbidity. Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications contribute to the risk of hemorrhage and prolonged hospital stay. Multiple pharmacological agents have been proposed, but none of them have been widely accepted. It is crucial to find a safe and effective modality to reduce hemorrhage.

SUMMARY

Background Hemorrhage during transurethral resection of the prostate (TUR-P) has always been a concern. Several studies have shown preoperative administration of fibrinogen concentrate to have promising results in reducing hemorrhage in cardiac surgery. Objectives To investigate the hemostatic effect of fibrinogen concentrate administration on reducing the amount of bleeding during TUR-P in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Methods Sixty men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, who were chosen to undergo TUR-P, entered this prospective randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups: treatment (n = 31) and placebo (n = 29). They received an infusion of 2 g of fibrinogen concentrate (treatment group) or normal saline (placebo group) before surgery. Data regarding the amount of bleeding, the operation and complications were recorded and analyzed. Results No difference was observed in bleeding between the fibrinogen and placebo groups during (521 mL versus 557 mL, respectively) and after (291 mL versus 341 mL, respectively) surgery. This lack of difference was also seen in operation time (43 min versus 42 min), irrigating fluid volume used during (17 L versus 19 L) and after (29 L versus 28 L) surgery, and resected adenoma volume (19 g versus 19 g). The mean blood pressure was also similar in both groups as a confounding factor for the amount of bleeding. Conclusion Preoperative administration of fibrinogen concentrate had no significant influence on intraoperative and postoperative bleeding in TUR-P surgery.

Lithium Chloride can Induce Differentiation of Human Immortalized RenVm Cells into Dopaminergic Neurons

BACKGROUND

Stem cell-based therapy is a novel strategy for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The transplantation of fully differentiated cells instead of stem cells in order to decrease serious adverse complications of stem cell therapy is a new idea. In this study, the effect of lithium chloride on dopaminergic differentiation of human immortalized RenVm cells was investigated in order to access a population of fully differentiated cells for transplantation in Parkinson disease.

METHODS

The immortalized RenVm cells were induced to dopaminergic differentiation using a neurobasal medium supplemented with N2 and different concentrations (1, 3, 6 mM) of Lithium Chloride (LiCl) for 4, 8 and 12 days. The efficiency of dopaminergic differentiation was evaluated using immunocytochemistry and western blot techniques for tyrosine hydroxylase and β-catenin marker expression.

RESULTS

Our results indicated that LiCl can promote dopaminergic differentiation of RenVm cells in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that LiCl is able to facilitate dopaminergic differentiation of cultured cells by affecting Wnt-frizzled signaling pathway.

Modifying the mechanical properties of silk nanofiber scaffold by knitted orientation for regenerative medicine applications

Tissue reconstruction is among the increasing applications of polymer nanofibers. Fibrous scaffolds (mats) can be easily produced using the electrospinning method with structure and biomechanical properties similar to those of a cellular matrix. Electrospinning is widely used in the production of nanofibers and the GAP-method electrospinning is one of the means of producing fully aligned nanofibers. In this research, using the GAP-method, knitted fibrous scaffolds were made of silk fibroin, which is a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer. To extract fibroin from cocoons, the sodium chloride solution as well as dialysis and freeze-drying techniques were employed. The molecular weight of the extracted fibroin was measured with the SDS-Page electrophoresis technique. Moreover, the pure fibroin structure was examined using the ATR-FTIR method, and the viscosity of the solution used for electrospinning was measured with the Brookfield rotational viscometer. The scaffolds were prepared through electrospinning of the silk fibroin in pure formic acid solution. The following three structures were electrospun: 1) a random structure; 2) a knitted structure with an interstitial angle of 60 degrees; 3) a knitted structure with an interstitial angle of 90 degrees. Morphology of the resulting fibers was studied with a SEM (scanning electron microscope). Fibroin scaffolds are degradable in water. Therefore, they were fixated through immersion in methanol to be prepared for assays. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds were also studied using a tensile strength test device. The effect of methanol on the strength properties of the samples was also assessed. The hydrophilic potential of the samples was measured via a contact angle test. To increase the hydrophilicity of the scaffold surfaces, the cold oxygen plasma technique was employed. Finally, the biocompatibility and cell adhesion of the resulting scaffolds were examined through a HEK 293 cell culture, and the results were analyzed through the MTT, DAPI staining, and SEM imaging techniques. Results revealed that the oriented knitted structure contributed to the increase in Young&apos;s modulus and the maximum strength of scaffolds as compared to the random samples. Moreover, this structure can also be a suitable alternative to the typical chemical means of increasing strength.

Multiphase permittivity imaging using absolute value electrical capacitance tomography data and a level set algorithm

Multiphase flow imaging is a very challenging and critical topic in industrial process tomography. In this article, simulation and experimental results of reconstructing the permittivity profile of multiphase material from data collected in electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) are presented. A multiphase narrowband level set algorithm is developed to reconstruct the interfaces between three- or four-phase permittivity values. The level set algorithm is capable of imaging multiphase permittivity by using one set of ECT measurement data, so-called absolute value ECT reconstruction, and this is tested with high-contrast and low-contrast multiphase data. Simulation and experimental results showed the superiority of this algorithm over classical pixel-based image reconstruction methods. The multiphase level set algorithm and absolute ECT reconstruction are presented for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, in this paper and critically evaluated. This article is part of the themed issue 'Supersensing through industrial process tomography'.

EIT image reconstruction based on a hybrid FE-EFG forward method and the complete-electrode model

This paper presents the application of the hybrid finite element-element free Galerkin (FE-EFG) method for the forward and inverse problems of electrical impedance tomography (EIT). The proposed method is based on the complete electrode model. Finite element (FE) and element-free Galerkin (EFG) methods are accurate numerical techniques. However, the FE technique has meshing task problems and the EFG method is computationally expensive. In this paper, the hybrid FE-EFG method is applied to take both advantages of FE and EFG methods, the complete electrode model of the forward problem is solved, and an iterative regularized Gauss-Newton method is adopted to solve the inverse problem. The proposed method is applied to compute Jacobian in the inverse problem. Utilizing 2D circular homogenous models, the numerical results are validated with analytical and experimental results and the performance of the hybrid FE-EFG method compared with the FE method is illustrated. Results of image reconstruction are presented for a human chest experimental phantom.

Oct4 transcription factor in conjunction with valproic acid accelerates myelin repair in demyelinated optic chiasm in mice

Multiple sclerosis is a demyelinating disease with severe neurological symptoms due to blockage of signal conduction in affected axons. Spontaneous remyelination via endogenous progenitors is limited and eventually fails. Recent reports showed that forced expression of some transcription factors within the brain converted somatic cells to neural progenitors and neuroblasts. Here, we report the effect of valproic acid (VPA) along with forced expression of Oct4 transcription factor on lysolecithin (LPC)-induced experimental demyelination. Mice were gavaged with VPA for one week, and then inducible Oct4 expressing lentiviral particles were injected into the lateral ventricle. After one-week induction of Oct4, LPC was injected into the optic chiasm. Functional remyelination was assessed by visual-evoked potential (VEP) recording. Myelination level was studied using FluoroMyelin staining and immunohistofluorescent (IHF) against proteolipid protein (PLP). IHF was also performed to detect Oct4 and SSEA1 as pluripotency markers and Olig2, Sox10, CNPase and PDGFRα as oligodendrocyte lineage markers. One week after injection of Oct4 expressing vector, pluripotency markers SSEA1 and Oct4 were detected in the rims of the 3rd ventricle. LPC injection caused extensive demyelination and significantly delayed the latency of VEP wave. Animals pre-treated with VPA+Oct4 expressing vector, showed faster recovery in the VEP latency and enhanced myelination. Immunostaining against oligodendrocyte lineage markers showed an increased number of Sox10+ and myelinating cells. Moreover, transdifferentiation of some Oct4-transfected cells (GFP+ cells) to Olig2+ and CNPase+ cells was confirmed by immunostaining. One-week administration of VPA followed by one-week forced expression of Oct4 enhanced myelination by converting transduced cells to myelinating oligodendrocytes. This finding seems promising for enhancing myelin repair within the adult brains.

Iron-activated carbon nanocomposite: synthesis, characterization and application for lead removal from aqueous solution

An iron-activated carbon nanocomposite synthesized by a facile, low temperature technique was successfully tested for Pb(ii) removal from aqueous solutions.