scholarly journals Antiviral Filtering Capacity of GO-Coated Textiles

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (16) ◽  
pp. 7501
Author(s):  
Federica Valentini ◽  
Mara Cirone ◽  
Michela Relucenti ◽  
Roberta Santarelli ◽  
Aurelia Gaeta ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Graphene Oxide ◽  
Graphene Nanosheets ◽  
Human Herpesvirus ◽  
Electrochemical Exfoliation ◽  
Dose Dependent Fashion ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Virus Interaction ◽  
University Of Rome ◽  
The University ◽  
Dose Dependent

Background. New antiviral textiles for the protection and prevention of life-threatening viral diseases are needed. Graphene oxide derivatives are versatile substances that can be combined with fabrics by different green electrochemistry methods. Methods In this study, graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were combined with textile samples to study GO antiviral potential. GO synthesized in the Chemistry laboratories at the University of Rome Tor Vergata (Italy) and characterized with TEM/EDX, XRD, TGA, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR, was applied at three different concentrations to linen textiles with the hot-dip and dry method to obtain filters. The GO-treated textiles were tested to prevent infection of a human glioblastoma cell line (U373) with human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A). Green electrochemical exfoliation of graphite into the oxidized graphene nanosheets provides a final GO-based product suitable for a virus interaction, mainly depending on the double layer of nanosheets, their corresponding nanometric sizes, and Z-potential value. Results Since GO-treated filters were able to prevent infection of cells in a dose-dependent fashion, our results suggest that GO may exert antiviral properties that can be exploited for medical devices and general use fabrics.

Plasminogen Interactions with Immobilized Fibrinogen

1989 ◽  
Vol 62 (04) ◽  
pp. 1078-1082 ◽  
Author(s):  
Burt Adelman ◽  
Patricia Ouynn
Keyword(s):  
Immunosorbent Assay ◽  
Aminocaproic Acid ◽  
Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay ◽  
Binding Regions ◽  
Dose Dependent Fashion ◽  
Epsilon Aminocaproic Acid ◽  
Dose Dependent

SummaryThis report describes the binding of plasminogen to fibrinogen adsorbed onto polystyrene wells. Binding was determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Both glu- and lys-plasminogen bound to immobilized fibrinogen in a dose-dependent fashion. However, more lys- than glu-plasminogen bound when equal concentrations of either were added to immobilized fibrinogen. Plasminogen binding was inhibited by epsilon aminocaproic acid indicating that binding was mediated via lysine-binding regions of plasminogen. Soluble fibrinogen added in excess of immobilized fibrinogen did not compete for plasminogen binding but fibrinogen fragments produced by plasmin digestion of fibrinogen did. Treatment of immobilized fibrinogen with thrombin caused a small but significant (p <0.01) increase in plasminogen binding. These studies demonstrate that immobilized fibrinogen binds both glu- and lys-plasminogen and that binding is mediated via lysine-binding regions. These interactions may facilitate plasminogen binding to fibrinogen adsorbed on to surfaces and to cells such as platelets which bind fibrinogen.

Soluble Thrombomodulin Purified from Human Urine Exhibits a Potent Anticoagulant Effect In Vitro and In Vivo

1995 ◽  
Vol 73 (05) ◽  
pp. 805-811 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yasuo Takahashi ◽  
Yoshitaka Hosaka ◽  
Hiromi Niina ◽  
Katsuaki Nagasawa ◽  
Masaaki Naotsuka ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Human Urine ◽  
Specific Activity ◽  
Anticoagulant Activity ◽  
Rabbit Lung ◽  
Soluble Thrombomodulin ◽  
Molecular Weights ◽  
Dose Dependent Fashion ◽  
Dose Dependent

SummaryWe examined the anticoagulant activity of two major molecules of soluble thrombomodulin purified from human urine. The apparent molecular weights of these urinary thrombomodulins (UTMs) were 72,000 and 79,000, respectively. Both UTMs showed more potent cofactor activity for protein C activation [specific activity >5,000 thrombomodulin units (TMU)/mg] than human placental thrombomodulin (2,180 TMU/mg) and rabbit lung thrombomodulin (1,980 TMU/mg). The UTMs prolonged thrombin-induced fibrinogen clotting time (>1 TMU/ml), APTT (>5 TMU/ml), TT (>5 TMU/ml) and PT (>40 TMU/ml) in a dose-dependent fashion. These effects appeared in the concentration range of soluble thrombomodulins present in human plasma and urine. In the rat DIC model induced by thromboplastin, administration of UTMs by infusion (300-3,000 TMU/kg) restored the hematological abnormalities derived from DIC in a dose-dependent fashion. These results demonstrate that UTMs exhibit potent anticoagulant and antithrombotic activities, and could play a physiologically important role in microcirculation.

scholarly journals Antifungal activity of dendritic cell lysosomal proteins against Cryptococcus neoformans

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Benjamin N. Nelson ◽  
Savannah G. Beakley ◽  
Sierra Posey ◽  
Brittney Conn ◽  
Emma Maritz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Antifungal Activity ◽  
Cryptococcus Neoformans ◽  
Mammalian Cells ◽  
Cysteine Proteases ◽  
Dependent Manner ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen ◽  
Dose Dependent ◽  
Lysosomal Proteins

AbstractCryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening disease among immune compromised individuals that is caused by the opportunistic fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Previous studies have shown that the fungus is phagocytosed by dendritic cells (DCs) and trafficked to the lysosome where it is killed by both oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms. While certain molecules from the lysosome are known to kill or inhibit the growth of C. neoformans, the lysosome is an organelle containing many different proteins and enzymes that are designed to degrade phagocytosed material. We hypothesized that multiple lysosomal components, including cysteine proteases and antimicrobial peptides, could inhibit the growth of C. neoformans. Our study identified the contents of the DC lysosome and examined the anti-cryptococcal properties of different proteins found within the lysosome. Results showed several DC lysosomal proteins affected the growth of C. neoformans in vitro. The proteins that killed or inhibited the fungus did so in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the concentration of protein needed for cryptococcal inhibition was found to be non-cytotoxic to mammalian cells. These data show that many DC lysosomal proteins have antifungal activity and have potential as immune-based therapeutics.

scholarly journals IMMU-09. CONCURRENT DEXAMETHASONE LIMITS THE CLINICAL BENEFIT OF IMMUNE CHECKPOINT BLOCKADE IN GLIOBLASTOMA

2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. ii106-ii106
Author(s):  
Bryan Iorgulescu ◽  
Prafulla Gokhale ◽  
Maria Speranza ◽  
Benjamin Eschle ◽  
Michael Poitras ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Prognostic Factors ◽  
Immune Checkpoint ◽  
Nk Cell ◽  
Immune Checkpoint Blockade ◽  
Checkpoint Blockade ◽  
Innate Immune Responses ◽  
Dose Dependent Fashion ◽  
Dexamethasone Therapy ◽  
Clinical Correlate ◽  
Dose Dependent

Abstract BACKGROUND Dexamethasone, a uniquely potent corticosteroid, is frequently administered to brain tumor patients to decrease tumor-associated edema, but limited data exist describing how dexamethasone affects the immune system systemically and intratumorally in glioblastoma patients – particularly in the context of immunotherapy. METHODS We evaluated the dose-dependent effects of dexamethasone when administered with anti-PD-1 and/or radiotherapy in immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice with syngeneic GL261 or CT-2A glioblastoma tumors, including analyses of intracranial tumors, draining lymph nodes, and spleen. Clinically, the effect of dexamethasone on survival was additionally evaluated in 181 consecutive IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients treated with anti-PD-(L)1, with adjustment for relevant prognostic factors. RESULTS Despite the inherent responsiveness of GL261 to immune checkpoint blockade, concurrent dexamethasone administration with anti-PD-1 therapy decreased survival in a dose-dependent fashion and decreased survival following anti-PD-1 plus radiotherapy in both GL261 and immunoresistant CT-2A models. Dexamethasone quantitatively decreased T lymphocytes by reducing the proliferation while increasing apoptosis. Dexamethasone also decreased lymphocyte functional capacity. Myeloid and NK cell populations were also generally reduced. Thus, dexamethasone negatively affects both the adaptive and innate immune responses. As a clinical correlate, a retrospective analysis of 181 consecutive IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients treated with PD-(L)1 blockade revealed worse survival among those on baseline dexamethasone. Upon multivariable adjustment with relevant prognostic factors, baseline dexamethasone use – regardless of dose – was the strongest predictor of poor survival (reference no dexamethasone; &lt; 2mg HR 2.28, 95%CI=1.41–3.68, p=0.001; ≥2mg HR 1.97, 95%CI=1.27–3.07, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Our preclinical and clinical data indicate that concurrent dexamethasone therapy may be detrimental to immunotherapeutic approaches for glioblastoma patients. Our preclinical analyses also suggest that dexamethasone’s detrimental effects are dose-dependent, suggesting that the lowest possible dose should be used for patients when dexamethasone use is unavoidable. Careful evaluation of dexamethasone use is warranted for neuro-oncology patients undergoing immunotherapy clinical trials.

Linkage of [Ca2+]i in single isolated D cells to somatostatin secretion induced by cholecystokinin

1996 ◽  
Vol 270 (6) ◽  
pp. G897-G901 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. DelValle ◽  
J. Wakasugi ◽  
H. Takeda ◽  
T. Yamada
Keyword(s):  
Channel Blocker ◽  
Gastric Fundus ◽  
Initial Transient ◽  
Somatostatin Secretion ◽  
Phospholipid Signaling ◽  
Dose Dependent Fashion ◽  
Direct Linkage ◽  
D Cells ◽  
Transient Elevation ◽  
Dose Dependent

The Ca2+/inositol phospholipid signaling cascade has been implicated in the mechanism by which cholecystokinin (CCK) stimulates gastric somatostatin release, but a direct linkage between intracellular events in gastric D cells and somatostatin secretion has not been established. To address this problem we developed a method for correlating somatostatin release with the measurement of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in isolated D cells. Resting [Ca2+]i in single D cells was 100 +/- 5.7 nM (means +/- SE, n = 41), and CCK induced a rise in [Ca2+]i in a dose-dependent fashion, producing a maximal stimulatory effect (243 +/- 15% of control, n = 12) at a peptide concentration of 2 x 10(-8) M. The CCK-mediated increase in [Ca2+]i was biphasic, with a rapid, initial transient elevation followed by a sustained plateau. The rise in [Ca2+]i was accompanied by a concomitant increase in release of somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI). Removal of extracellular Ca2+ had no effect on the initial transient elevation in [Ca2+]i induced by CCK but abolished both the sustained plateau in [Ca2+]i and the release of SLI. The selective CCK antagonist L-364, 718 (10(-7) M) inhibited the effects of CCK on both [Ca2+]i and SLI release. The nonspecific Ca2+ channel blocker NiCl2 (10(-3) M) and the L-type Ca2+ channel blocker nifedipine inhibited the sustained rise in [Ca2+]i and the release of SLI but left the initial transient increase in [Ca2+]i unaltered. These results indicate that CCK-stimulated release of SLI from D cells in the gastric fundus is linked to influx of extracellular Ca2+ via L-type Ca2+ channels.

scholarly journals Enamel interproximal reduction during treatment with clear aligners: digital planning versus OrthoCAD analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Giuseppina Laganà ◽  
Arianna Malara ◽  
Roberta Lione ◽  
Carlotta Danesi ◽  
Simonetta Meuli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Treatment Plan ◽  
End Of Treatment ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The Difference ◽  
Dependent Sample ◽  
University Of Rome ◽  
The University ◽  
Enamel Reduction ◽  
Lower Arch

Abstract Background The aim of the study was to compare the amount of interproximal enamel reduction (IPR) provided on ClinCheck software with the amount of IPR carried out by the orthodontist during treatment with clear aligners. Methods 30 subjects (14 males, 16 females; mean age of 24.53 ± 13.41 years) randomly recruited from the Invisalign account of the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Rome “Tor Vergata” from November 2018 to October 2019, were collected according to the following inclusion criteria: mild to moderate dento-alveolar discrepancy (1.5–6.5 mm); Class I canine and molar relationship; full permanent dentition (excluding third molars); both arches treated only using Comprehensive Package by Invisalign system; treatment plan including IPR. Pre- (T0) and post-treatment (T1) digital models (.stl files), created from an iTero scan, were collected from all selected patients. The OrthoCAD digital software was used to measure tooth mesiodistal width in upper and lower arches before (T0) and at the end of treatment (T1) before any refinement. The widest mesio-distal diameter was measured for each tooth excluding molars by “Diagnostic” OrthoCAD tool. The total amount of IPR performed during treatment was obtained comparing the sum of mesio-distal widths of all measured teeth at T0 and T1. Significant T1–T0 differences were tested with dependent sample t-test (P < 0.05). Results In the upper arch, IPR was digitally planned on average for 0.62 mm while in the lower arch was on average for 1.92 mm. As for the amount of enamel actually removed after IPR performing, it was on average 0.62 mm in the maxillary arch. In the mandibular arch, the mean of IPR carried out was 1.93 mm. The difference between planned IPR and performed IPR is described: this difference was on average 0.00 mm in the upper arch and 0.01 in the lower arch. Conclusions The amount of enamel removed in vivo corresponded with the amount of IPR planned by the Orthodontist using ClinCheck software.

scholarly journals 415 Improving Preoperative Computed Tomography Staging for Men with Suspected Testicular Cancer

2021 ◽  
Vol 108 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
S A Stanley ◽  
C T Berridge ◽  
T R L Griffiths
Keyword(s):  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Testicular Cancer ◽  
Median Time ◽  
University Hospitals ◽  
Treatment Pathway ◽  
Pathway Data ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Neo Adjuvant Chemotherapy ◽  
The University ◽  
Urology Clinic

Abstract Introduction Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy may be considered for suspected testicular malignancy if widespread life-threatening metastases are identified on computed tomography (CT) imaging. Staging preoperatively enables this and may prevent delays in ongoing oncological care. This project aimed to increase the proportion of staging scans performed preoperatively in the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS trust. Method All referrals between 01/01/2016 and 31/12/2018 to the urology multidisciplinary team for suspected testicular cancer were reviewed. Exclusion criteria were applied prior to collecting treatment pathway data for each patient. Based on initial audit findings, clinicians were advised to request staging CT scans at the first urology clinic appointment. Re-audit was between 01/01/2019 and 31/12/2019. Results Initial audit included 95 patients and re-audit included 23 patients. The proportion of preoperative scans increased from 28.4% to 82.6% following intervention. Median time from first ultrasound to CT was reduced from 44 days to 17 days without affecting median time to orchidectomy (27 to 23 days) or oncology appointment (61 days). Conclusions Requesting a staging CT scan as part of the first clinic assessment improved the proportion of preoperative scans without affecting time to surgery or oncology appointment.

Research program on electric propulsion at the University of Rome

1970 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. FANCHIOTTI ◽  
S. FANTO ◽  
V. NASO ◽  
F. PIPERNO ◽  
G. SIMONI ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Research Program ◽  
Electric Propulsion ◽  
University Of Rome ◽  
The University

11-Dehydrocorticosterone, a glucocorticoid metabolite, inhibits aldosterone action in toad bladder

1991 ◽  
Vol 261 (5) ◽  
pp. F873-F879 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. S. Brem ◽  
K. L. Matheson ◽  
J. L. Barnes ◽  
D. J. Morris
Keyword(s):  
Sodium Transport ◽  
Cell Layer ◽  
Short Circuit ◽  
Short Circuit Current ◽  
Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase ◽  
Toad Bladder ◽  
Compound A ◽  
Dose Dependent Fashion ◽  
Epithelial Cell Layer ◽  
Dose Dependent

The enzyme 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11 beta-OHSD) metabolizes glucocorticoid hormones and diminishes their ability to induce sodium transport. In these studies, we determined the location of this enzyme in toad bladder and assessed the biological role for its 11-dehydro end product. Employing a polyclonal antibody directed toward 11 beta-OHSD and immunofluorescence techniques, we located the enzyme in the epithelial cell layer of the toad bladder. Although corticosterone (10(-7) M) can partially suppress aldosterone (10(-7) M)-stimulated short-circuit current (SCC), a clear excess of corticosterone (10(-6) M) did not inhibit the aldosterone-induced induced (10(-8) M) rise in SCC (n = 6). The 11-dehydro product of corticosterone, 11-dehydrocorticosterone (compound A) added to the serosal bath suppressed aldosterone (10(-8) M) peak SCC (360 min) in a dose-dependent fashion reaching 46 +/- 5% of control values at 10(-5) M (n = 6; P less than 0.001). Compound A (10(-5) M) in the mucosal bath also was capable of partially inhibiting the peak aldosterone rise in SCC to 63 +/- 7% of control values with aldosterone at 10(-8) M (n = 6; P less than 0.01) and to 64 +/- 10% of control values with aldosterone at 10(-7) M (n = 9; P less than 0.01). Compound A alone at 10(-5) M did not have any effect on SCC. Isolated toad bladders were not able to transform compound A (at 10(-8) and 10(-5) M) back to corticosterone. Thus the 11-dehydro end product of 11 beta-OHSD (compound A) may play a biologic role by regulating a component of mineralocorticoid-induced sodium transport.

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