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Since the 2000s, transcatheter closure has been the primary treatment for ostium secundum atrial septal defect (osASD) in children and adults. This study aims to identify factors associated with short-term adverse outcomes following this procedure in a large cohort. A prospective, single-center cohort study included 2,253 consecutive patients (median age 28 years; children: n = 865, 38.4%) who underwent transcatheter ASD closure with the Amplatzer Septal Occluder (ASO; Amplatzer™ Atrial Septal Occluder Device, Abbott, Chicago, USA) from May 1998 to December 2021. Peri-procedural data associated with major adverse events were investigated retrospectively. The mean ASD diameter, as measured by transthoracic echocardiography, was 18 mm. About 8.9% of patients had an ASD size-to-body surface area (BSA) ratio of ≥ 20 mm/m2. Deficient rims (< 5 mm) were identified in 27.9% of patients, with retroaortic rim deficiency in 22.7% and inferior rim deficiency in 0.9%. The median ASO diameter was 24 mm, with a procedural success rate of 98.2%. ASD/BSA ≥ 20 mm/m2 was associated with procedural failure, while age and weight were not. Major peri-procedural adverse events occurred in 31 patients (1.4%), with 19 device embolizations and 2 cardiac erosions. No peri-procedural deaths were reported. Multivariate analysis showed that deficiency of the inferior vena cava rim and an ASD size/BS ratio ≥ 20 mm/m2 were significantly associated with major adverse events (P = 0.002 and P = 0.035, respectively) (Fig. 1). Transcatheter osASD closure using ASO is safe and effective in a large spectrum population with low rate of peri-procedural adverse events and favorable short-term outcomes. ASD size-to-body surface area ratio (≥ 20 mm/m2) and inferior rim deficiency are key morphological risk markers for major adverse events following this procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most commom cancer in the world. If remain untreated for several years, it may be fatal. Hence, it is important to prevent and treat OSCC at an early stage. In this study the effect of aqueous and dry leaves extract of Ocimum sanctum was observed on Ca9-22 cell line, which is an OSCC cell line. For this, Ca9-22 cell line was cultured and maintained. After 24 h, the cells were treated with aqueous and dry leaves extract of Ocimum sanctum plant. Viability of the cancerous cells were studied by 3-(4, 5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and neutral red uptake (NRU) assay. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), lethal concentration 25 (LC 25), lethal concentration 50 (LC 50) and highest permissive concentration (HPC) was calculated by probit computational method. Experimentally, the MIC value was 5 mg/L, whereas the HPC was 30 mg/L of the plant extract in aqueous state. For the dry extract the MIC was 5 mg/L whereas the HPC was 35 mg/L for both MTT and NRU assays. For MTT assay LC values: 7.41 (LC 25), 14.79 (LC 50) and 26.91 mg/L (LC 75) for aqueous extract and 12.58 (LC 25), 20.89 (LC 50), 29.51 mg/L (LC 75) for dry extract. For NRU assay LC values were 10.23 (LC 25), 14.79 (LC 50) and 20.89 mg/L (LC 75) aqueous extract, and 16.59 (LC 25), 23.44 (LC 50), 30.19 mg/L (LC 75) dry extract of the plant. From the above study it was concluded that, Ocimum sanctum have anti-cancerous activity. It can further be used for therapeutic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The persistence of contaminants such as pharmaceutical products including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, hormones, and many other substances in aquatic environments has significantly increased demand for new remediation alternatives. One such alternative is adsorption using ecologically safe, abundant, and low-cost adsorbent materials such as clay minerals. Montmorillonite is one of the most researched clay minerals for this purpose as its unique physicochemical properties (i.e., cation exchange capacity, intercalation, and adsorption) facilitate the efficient removal of different contaminants, including pharmaceutical compounds. In addition, the incorporation of organic and/or inorganic compounds in modification reactions may alter the hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity of the montmorillonite surface. The production of new active sites on clay minerals improves its affinity to specific chemical species and may even provide a degree of selectivity for adsorptive processes. This review discusses the structural and experimental factors that control the mechanisms and performance of drug adsorption by natural or modified montmorillonite under simulated or real conditions. Adsorptions conducted in batch and column experiments using the clay mineral are presented, and their challenges are discussed. Research to date has demonstrated that montmorillonite-based adsorbents are versatile materials showing promise for drug adsorption. [Display omitted] • Raw and modified montmorillonites (Mt) show complementary drug-adsorption efficiency. • Experimental parameters and properties of adsorbents affect drug adsorption mechanisms. • The electric charge of drugs determines their affinity for the Mt-based adsorbent. • Mt-based materials are versatile adsorbents for drugs from an aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Seeded synthesis of zeolite Beta. [•] Synthesis of zeolite Beta nanocrystals in fluoride media. [•] Comparative study of physicochemical properties of zeolite Beta crystals synthesized in hydroxyl and fluoride media. [•] m-Xylene conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Several findings suggest that glucocorticoid hormones influence the propensity of an individual to develop cocaine abuse. These hormones activate two related transcription factors, the glucocorticoid receptor and the mineralocorticoid receptor. We have shown previously that mice carrying a mutation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene specifically in neural cells, glucocorticoid receptor knock-out in the brain, show a dramatic decrease in cocaine-induced self-administration and no behavioral sensitization to this drug, two experimental procedures considered relevant models of addiction. Here, we investigated in glucocorticoid receptor knock-out in the brain mice the consequences of this mutation at the level of the expression of neuropeptide, dopamine receptor and glutamate receptor subunit mRNAs. We quantified mRNA levels in the cortex, striatum and accumbens under basal conditions and following acute or repeated cocaine treatments. Our results show that, under basal conditions, neuropeptide (substance P, dynorphin) and dopamine receptor (D1, D2) mRNAs were decreased in glucocorticoid receptor knock-out in the brain mice in the dorsal striatum but not in the accumbens. However, cocaine-induced changes in the levels of these mRNAs were not modified in glucocorticoid receptor knock-out in the brain mice. In contrast, mutant mice showed altered response in mRNA levels of N-methyl-d-aspartate, GLUR5 and GLUR6 glutamate receptor subunits as well as of enkephalin following cocaine administration. These modifications may be associated to decrease of behavioral effects of cocaine observed in glucocorticoid receptor knock-out in the brain mice. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A theoretical and experimental investigation into the factors affecting the accuracy of beam-end connector tests showed that the flexibility of the stub beam used in the cantilever test can induce errors of up to 4% in the experimentally determined moment–rotation relationships. Appropriate correction equations are derived in this paper. The corrected moment–curvature equation was then used in an investigation into the sway behaviour of racking structures under a combination of point loads normal to the ground and with proportionally increasing side loads. The experimental tests used a mirror arrangement of two portal frames lying horizontally. During each test three cycles of loading and unloading were performed before the frame was taken to its ultimate load. Initially the bending moments on both beam-to-column joints had the same sign. The percentage of side load applied to the structure was chosen so that, due to the effect of frame geometry change, reversal of bending moments occurred in one of the joints during the test. The beam and column components of the frame were numerically modelled using stability functions. The beam–column connections were semi-rigid and the experimental moment–rotation curves were incorporated into the connection behaviour. Three different theoretical models were tested: a multi-linear model proposed by the authors and two bi-linear models produced according to the FEM and SEMA codes. The agreement between theory and experiment, for all load cases (including the unloading parts of the experimental cycles), was excellent for the multi-linear model. The FEM code model overestimated the sway deflections occurring in the rack but gave accurate predictions of joint moments and could be conservatively used in design. The SEMA code consistently underestimated the sway deflections and was unable to predict joint moment reversal. Once the theoretical model had been validated, a study was then undertaken into the behaviour of a two-bay portal frame structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The analysis of pinned-base pallet rack frames under a combination of point loads normal to the ground and with proportionally increasing side loads has been analysed theoretically. The side loads produced moment-reversal in the beam-column joints. The analysis compared the use of three different models of beam-column joint behaviour—an accurate multi-linear model with different loading and unloading stiffnesses and two bi-linear models often used in design. The results were compared with experiments and showed that the multi-linear model accurately predicted both deflections and moments. The two bi-linear models were unable to model moment-reversal correctly. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A series of inorganic–organic hybrids with a phyllosilicate-like structure were prepared using a single-step templating sol–gel procedure. The synthesis involves reaction of magnesium nitrate and aluminum acetylacetonate with octyltriethoxysilane, to give products where saponite is the inorganic parent. These hybrids were characterized by X-ray diffraction, solid-state 29Si, 13C and 27Al nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetry. The results showed that the hybrid materials exhibit lamellar structures, similar to those found in natural inorganic silicate saponite. The influence of the substitution of magnesium and silicon by aluminum was evident from 29Si and 13C NMR studies. A high degree of condensation was obtained. The hydrophobic character was evaluated by wettability measurements. These materials hold promise as sorbents for solid-phase extraction of organic pollutant molecules, due to their highly hydrophobic character. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To detail the clinical presentation of oral epithelial dysplasia in a large cohort of residents in western Europe. Descriptive statistical analysis of the data were calculated using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Oral epithelial dysplasia manifested typically as a white or mixed red and white lesion on the tongue, buccal mucosa or floor of mouth. The peak age of presentation of oral epithelial dysplasia was the 6th decade. Most clinically detected lesions had only mild oral epithelial dysplasia. Although uncommon, lesions with severe dysplasia were most likely to arise on the floor of mouth or lateral border of tongue. Oral epithelial dysplasia is likely to manifest as a solitary white patch, but it is not possible to accurately predict the likely degree of dysplasia from the clinical features of such lesions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the effects of football practice on lumbar spine, proximal femur and forearm bone mineral density (BMD) in healthy men aged 18 to 30years. Summary of facts: This study included 25 Lebanese professional football players (aged 18 to 30years). Weight and height were measured, and body mass index was calculated. BMD of the lumbar spine (L2–L4), the total hip (TH), the femoral neck (FN) and the total forearm was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). BMD values were converted to T-scores. Peak BMD was provided by the densitometer's software. In this group, mean T-scores were 0.16, 1.39, 1.37 and −1.11 for the lumbar spine, the TH, the FN and the total forearm respectively. Conclusion: This study suggests that football practice is associated with an increased BMD at the TH but a decreased BMD at the forearm in adult males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The preparation and characterization of amino hydroxyapatite/sodium tripolyphosphate/chitosan spheres are described. • Different proportions (10% to 75%) of organofunctionalized hydroxyapatite were employed. • The organofunctionalized HA samples presented high efficiency for dye removal. • Low toxicity of the prepared spheres was observed. Hybrid materials based on amino hydroxyapatite (NH 2 -HA) and chitosan (CS) were prepared by reticulation in the presence of sodium tripolyphosphate. NH 2 -HA having different weight percentages (10–75%) was used in the synthesis. The resulting solids were used for the removal of reactive violet 5R—an organic dye—from an aqueous solution. The synergy among the adsorptive properties of the precursors was assessed for the hybrid biomaterials by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, CHN elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The crosslinking mechanism was also elucidated. The effects of adsorbent dosage, time, pH, and initial dye concentration were investigated. The adsorption capacities of the resulting hybrids were proportional to the CS content in the hybrids and the surfaces were positively charged at pH 1–7. The optimal dye-removal capacity of 350 and 365 mg g-1 was achieved at pH 3 for the solids containing 10 and 25% silylated HA, respectively. Kinetic data were evaluated for the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and Elovich models. At equilibrium, various systems were adjusted to the Langmuir models. The amino groups were blocked via the reaction with acetyl chloride, which demonstrated the contribution of different active sites in the prepared hybrids toward dye removal. The Artemia salina tests demonstrated the low toxicity of the prepared hybrids irrespective of their composition. The data indicated that the prepared hybrids were capable of achieving rapid and high dye removal. Additionally, the reuse tests suggested the formation of stable-loaded-dye substrates after adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The standard design procedure for tube and fitting connections assumes that the connections are only subjected to non-cyclical loads. This paper presents the results of experimental tests and theoretical calculations of the moment-rotation capacities of three common connections – sleeve couplers, swivel couplers and right-angled couplers. The results show that under a cyclic side load, such as that occurring by wind loading, looseness affects the capacity of the connections. For all three types of coupler looseness is shown to be relatively high which will reduce the stiffness of the connection under side loads. For sleeve couplers the effects of axial load in the tubes also affects the coupler stiffness and the maximum bending capacity of the joint. This implies that the common European code BS EN 74–1 for the connection should be changed to consider the loss in stiffness and maximum side load capacity under axial loads and looseness which are ignored in the standard. The standard assumption for right-angled and swivel couplers is that the connection can be assumed to be rigid about an axis normal to the plane containing the two tubes being joined. This is shown to be incorrect as the connections are shown to have stiffnesses about this axis which is of a similar order to the stiffnesses about the other axes. • The European code BS EN 74–1 should be revised to include the effects of axial loads and the effect of looseness. • Looseness for both swivel and right-angled couplers is large and must be included in the calculations of moment-rotation curves. • The assumption that moment-rotation stiffnesses about some axes for right-angled and swivel couplers is infinite is wrong. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested a link between the presence of Candida albicans and the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The aim of the present study was to assess the presence and level of colonisation of oral yeast in patients undergoing an incisional oral mucosal biopsy in order to assess whether the amount of oral yeast present correlated with the presence and degree of oral epithelial dysplastic or neoplastic change. Two hundred and twenty-three patients who were undergoing an incisional biopsy for the diagnosis of an oral mucosal lesion were enrolled in this study. Mouth swills were obtained from each patient for the presence and amount of oral yeast present. Some of the patients (44.6%) had a histopathological diagnosis of either oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) or OSCC and the frequency of oral yeast carriage was significantly greater (P<0.001) in these patients than those without histopathologically detected dysplastic or neoplastic oral lesions. Furthermore, significantly (P<0.001) more patients with OED or OSCC had a higher number of yeast (over 1000 cfu/ml) in their oral cavity than patients without any evidence of epithelial dysplasia or neoplasia histopathologically. The degree of epithelial dysplasia present in these patients also correlated with higher amounts of yeast in the oral cavity (P=0.017). The results of the present study reveal that there is an interaction between oral carriage of yeast and oral epithelial dysplasia, however it remains unclear how yeast infection influences the development and progression of dysplasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Is to find out whether lead aprons worn by hospital personnel can be a reservoir for pathogens that can be a source of nosocomial infection spread. Materials and Methods: Studies have shown that white coats and ties are a reservoir for colonies of pathogens to grow and spread nosocomial infections; however, there has been limited research on whether lead aprons worn by hospital personnel can be a source of nosocomial infection or a source of infection to themselves.The study was conducted in a university hospital IR department. Staphloccocus aureus (Staph a), Tinea species (Tinea sp), Vancomycin resistant enterococci (VRE) and Escherichia coli (E coli) were tested. Twenty-five lead aprons worn by radiology technologists,nurses,physicians, and physician assistants were tested.Two locations with potential patient contact were sampled: outer thyroid and chest shield and two locations with self body contact: inner thyroid and chest shield. An expert microbiologist was consulted for microbe interpretation. Results: Colonies of Staph a were found on the lead aprons and thyroid shields of 21 subjects (84%); 3 of the isolates were resistant to methicillin (MRSA).Tinea species were also found on 21 lead aprons(84%).E. coli and VRE were not detected on any protective lead aprons. There was no statistically significant association with the time spent wearing protective lead between the different specialties and the presence of Staph a(Chi-Square=5.19, df=5, p-value=.393). However, there was a statistically significant association between medical staff’s time spent wearing protective lead and the presence of Tinea sp(Chi-Square=14.435, df=5, p value=.0131). For Staph a and Tinea sp there were no statistically significant differences between locations sampled on the thyroid and lead apron. Conclusion: The results showed that there were significant amounts of both Staph a and Tinea sp residing in lead aprons currently worn by interventional radiology medical staff. We propose that cleaning the lead apron once a day with an inexpensive disinfectant could drastically reduce the amount of pathogens present.This will be demonstrated in a future study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Some cyanobacteria, including Candidatus Gloeomargarita lithophora, which was isolated from Lake Alchichica (Mexico), can form intracellular carbonates. This contradicts the common paradigm that cyanobacterial calcification is always extracellular and suggests that calcification might be controlled by these cyanobacterial species. Intracellular carbonates have several peculiar characteristics: they are relatively small (between 60 and 500 nm), they are poorly crystalline, and they have Sr/Ca and Ba/Ca ratios much higher than the solution in which the cells grow. It is therefore crucial to understand whether these unique features may indicate the involvement of specific biological processes. Here, in vitro abiotic syntheses were performed to synthesize Mg-, Ca-, Sr- and Ba-containing carbonates with compositions, crystallinities and sizes close to those observed in intracellularly calcifying cyanobacteria. Precipitates were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopies coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction. The size and the poor crystallinity of cyanobacterial intracellular carbonates could be mimicked under these abiotic conditions. It was shown that similarly to Mg, elements such as Sr and Ba can favor stabilization of poorly crystalline carbonates. In contrast, the differential partitioning of Sr, Ba and Ca between the solution and the solids as observed in cyanobacteria could not be mimicked in vitro . This provides keys to a better understanding of biological processes involved in the formation of intracellular carbonates by some cyanobacteria, including the involvement of membrane transporters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In addition to the known preventive effects of environmental enrichment (EE) on drug addiction, we have recently shown that EE can also have “curative” effects and eliminate addiction-related behaviors in mice and rats. In the present study, using Fos immunohistochemistry, we investigated brain regions involved in the elimination of cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP) produced by a 30-day exposure to EE. A first group of mice was conditioned to cocaine in the CPP apparatus, a second group that served as control received cocaine in a cage different from the CPP apparatus and a third control group received only saline injections. At the end of conditioning, we kept mice abstinent in the animal facility, housing them in standard environments (SE) or EE for 30 days and then we tested them for expression of CPP. SE, but not EE mice, conditioned to cocaine showed long-lasting preferences for the cocaine-paired compartment. Expression of CPP was paralleled by significant increases in the expression of Fos in the anterior cingulate cortex, the lateral caudate putamen, the shell of the nucleus accumbens, the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, the basolateral and central nuclei of amygdala, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and the ventral tegmental area. In contrast, EE mice showed levels of expression of FOS similar to control groups. These results demonstrate that EE can eliminate context-induced cocaine seeking and that this effect appears associated with a general reduction in the activation of several brain regions implicated in relapse. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: New inorganic composite materials (ICM) were prepared combining a diatomite (Kieselgühr) from Algerian origin and charcoal from pine. After pyrolysis at 850°C and chemical treatment with HCl, several techniques were used for the characterization of the obtained ICM. X-ray diffraction patterns and FT-Infrared spectroscopy showed that calcium carbonates, initially present as impurities in the natural Kieselgühr, have totally disappeared after treatment. A phase transition for diatomite was observed from quartz, dolomite and amorphous phase to cristobalite after mixture with charcoal. According to the nitrogen adsorption-desorption analysis, the surface properties of diatomite were found to be profoundly affected by the presence of charcoal. Indeed, the surface increased from 5 to 405m2/g. The obtained products also exhibit a hydrophobic characteristic, contrary to the hydrophilic nature of the initially used diatomite material. These new ICM seem to be promising materials for use as industrial adsorbents in different applications like for the wastewater and air treatment, and for solvent recuperation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dopamine transporter knock-out mice display locomotor hyperactivity due to increased extracellular striatal levels of dopamine. Hyperdopaminergic activity within this mesolimbic pathway is involved in the rewarding properties of morphine which are also increased in these mice. Due to the hyperdopaminergia, profound alterations in gene expression for dopamine receptors and neuropeptides are observed in the caudate putamen and nucleus accumbens. Here we investigated (1) the levels of μ-, δ- and κ-opioid receptors mRNAs in normal mice from gestational day 13 (G13) to adult, and (2) the adaptive changes in the expression of these receptors in mice lacking the dopamine transporter. Our results show that, in wild-type mice, μ-opioid receptor mRNA expression appears early during development (G13) with a homogeneous distribution that evolves towards a patchy distribution in adult. δ-Opioid receptor mRNA appears only at G17 and κ-opioid receptor mRNA is not observed before adulthood. The levels of δ-opioid receptor mRNA are not modified during development in knock-out mice compared to wild-type, but are increased in adult caudate putamen (+39%, P<0.05) and nucleus accumbens (+66%, P<0.05) at a time when these receptors are believed to be functional. The μ- and κ-opioid receptors mRNA levels are not modified in the adult knock-out mice. In addition, we observed no differences in any opioid receptor mRNA level in dopamine transporter knock-out mice during prenatal ontogeny compared to wild-type.Our results constitute a detailed neuroanatomical description of opioid receptor mRNA expression from the time of their appearance during prenatal development until adulthood. Furthermore, we show here that chronic constitutive hyperdopaminergia only affects δ-opioid receptor mRNA levels in adult. Even if the propensity of knock-out mice to show increased rewarding properties to morphine seems to be mainly due to the substantial and further increase in hyperdopaminergic activity following drug treatment, the involvement of increased δ-opioid receptor mRNA levels in this behavior remains to be elucidated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The origin of the diverse organic compounds present in carbonaceous chondrites (CC) remains uncertain. We aim at investigating the role that hydrothermal alteration may have had on the molecular evolution of organic matter (OM). In particular, within CC matrices, OM is intimately embedded within phyllosilicates down to the nanometer scale, which raises the question of the influence of phyllosilicates on OM transformation during hydrothermal alteration on parent bodies. We conducted hydrothermal experiments at 150 °C and alkaline pH, using a well-known molecule present in processed interstellar ice analogues, the hexamethylenetetramine (HMT), in the presence of Al- and Fe-rich smectites. Experimental products were characterized by gas chromatography mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and synchrotron-based X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy. Within 31 days, the HMT + smectites + H 2 O system leads to (1) the formation of a diverse suite of soluble organic compounds, yet less abundant and less complex than in the absence of smectite, (2) carbon-rich smectite residues (3.8 wt.% and 2.6 wt.% of carbon for the Al- and Fe-rich smectite residues, respectively). In addition, the abundance and molecular composition of the final organic compounds depend on the nature of the phyllosilicate (Al vs. Fe-smectite). Various and complex interaction mechanisms could occur between OM and smectite. Physisorption, chemisorption and intercalation processes have likely entrapped a significant portion of the organic compounds, thereby altering their chemical evolution. The present work demonstrates that the presence and the nature of phyllosilicates influences the reaction pathways of organic compounds during hydrothermal alteration and that the presence of organic compounds may impact the mineral assemblage. This could have had significant importance for the co-evolution of OM and mineral phases in primitive bodies during hydrothermal alteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Synthetic sodium silicates are widely applied in environmental remediation for the adsorption of organic and inorganic pollutants. In this work, sodium magadiite (Na-mag) and the H+, K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ exchanged forms were evaluated for their ability to remove ranitidine from aqueous solution. Na-mag was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis using silicon oxide and sodium hydroxide. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, near and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (NIR and FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, energy dispersive spectrometry and transmission electronic microscopy. The nature of the interlayer cation influenced the amount of ranitidine adsorbed from aqueous solution at pH 6.0 and 298 K. The adsorption mechanism was based on both cationic exchange between the interlayer cations of magadiite and ranitidine and hydrogen bonding between the ranitidine neutral molecules and silanol groups of the mineral. The data highlight the good performance of the sodium and potassium forms of magadiite for ranitidine removal. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Exchanged magadiites reacted with ranitidine. • Ranitinide intercalated in the magadiites. • Hydration of the magadiites was important factor in their reactivity. • Sodium and potassium forms presented higher drug removal. • Magadiites behaved as good adsorbent for ranitidine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: It has been difficult to establish reliable indices of exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) appropriate for a variety of avian species because of a vast array of reproductive strategies. Data from mammals, reptiles and fish provide insight on likely mechanisms of action for EDCs. However, many of the effects of EDCs are weaker than the actions of the native hormones, making it difficult to assess adverse effects in domestic and wild birds. It is clear that differential sensitivity to EDCs exists across species, due to the timing and mode of exposure, compound toxicity and age of the individual. Our studies on EDCs are conducted in the quail model system, with focus on reproductive endocrine, neuroendocrine and behavioral responses. Studies have included EDC exposure, either by egg injection or via diet. Results from egg injection studies showed the following: (1) estradiol administered by embryonic day 12 demasculinized male sexual behavior, altered hypothalamic neurotransmitters and reduced hen day production and fertility in a dose dependent fashion, (2) methoxychlor (MXC) or vinclozolin impaired male sexual behavior in adult quail and (3) DDE exposure impaired reproductive and immune related end points. Two-generation studies were conducted on Japanese and northern bobwhite quail with dietary methoxychlor (MXC) exposure (0, 5 and 10ppm) beginning in adults (P1), continuing in their offspring (F1), with F2 offspring raised on control diet. MXC exposure impaired male sexual behavior, hypothalamic catecholamines and plasma steroid hormones. Moreover, MXC exposure had reproductive consequences observable at both the lower and higher doses of MXC in F1 and F2 generations. These data demonstrate that embryonic EDC exposure interferes with sexual differentiation of neural systems that direct reproduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Identification of extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) associated with tumor cell metastasis may generate targets for future therapy against pancreatic cancer metastases. We hypothesized that comparison of ECM-associated gene expression in primary and metastatic pancreatic tumors would identify ECM proteins associated with pancreatic metastasis. Study design: A clinically relevant model of pancreatic cancer was used to generate RNA from primary and metastatic tumors; it was evaluated by microarray analysis with subsequent cluster analysis. Target genes (Cyr61 and integrins αv and β3) identified by microarray analysis were confirmed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry analysis. Results: Peritoneal metastases at sites distant from the primary tumor were present in all animals bearing orthotopic tumors. High-density microarray comparison of gene expression in metastases versus primary pancreatic tumors identified a greater than twofold increase in the expression of Cyr61, a secreted matricellular protein that binds to integrins. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction confirmed the microarray results, and immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated increased Cyr61 protein and persistent αvβ3 expression in peritioneal metastases. Additionally, immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased collocalization of Cyr61 and αv in metastases relative to primary tumor. Conclusions: The ECM protein Cyr61 shows increased expression in metastatic lesions in a clinically relevant model of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Protein analysis confirms the microarray results and collocalization of Cyr61, and αv suggests that interaction between Cyr61 and αvβ3 promotes formation of peritoneal metastases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Clinical and recent imaging reports demonstrate the involvement of various cerebral prefrontal areas in the processing of pain. This has received further confirmation from animal experimentation showing an alteration of the threshold of acute nociceptive reflexes by various manipulations in the orbito-frontal cortical areas. The present study investigates the possible involvement of this area in the modulation of neuropathic manifestations in awake rats. Several groups of rats were subjected to mononeuropathy following the spared nerve injury model, known to produce evident tactile and cold allodynia and heat hyperalgesia. The activity of the ventrolateral orbital areas was selectively blocked by using either chronic or acute injection of lidocaine, electrolytic lesion, or chemical lesion with kainic acid or 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). The effects of these manipulations were compared with those following lesion of the somatic sensorimotor cortical areas. Local injection of lidocaine resulted in a reversible depression of all neuropathic manifestations while electrolytic or chemical lesions elicited transient attenuation affecting mainly the heat hyperalgesia and to a lesser extent the cold allodynia. The magnitude of the observed effects with the different procedures used can be ranked as follows: 6-OHDA

Chronic dysregulation of dopamine homeostasis has been shown to induce behavioural impairment in dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice arising from the dysfunction of the mesolimbic and hypothalamo-infundibular system. Here, we assessed whether there are also any motor consequences of a chronic and constitutive hyperdopaminergia in the nigrostriatal system in dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice. For this, we analysed motor performances using tests assessing balance, coordinated motor skills (rotarod, pole test), stride lengths and locomotor activity. Dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice were markedly hyperactive in the open field with central compartment avoidance, as previously shown. However, sensorimotor integration was also found to be altered in dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice which displayed a reduced fore- and hind-limb mean stride length, impaired motor coordination on the pole test and reduced rearings in the open field. Moreover, dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice showed a slower task acquisition on the rotarod. Six-week-old dopamine transporter knockout wild type mice having the same femur size as adult dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice ruled out a possible size-effect bias. Whilst there was no significant difference in the striatal volume, we found a slight but significant reduction in neuronal density in the striatum but not in the nucleus accumbens of dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice. There was a reduced binding in the striatum and nucleus accumbens of dopamine1 receptors ([3H]SCH 23390) and dopamine2 receptors ([3H]YM-09151-2). There was no significant difference in the number of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra between dopamine transporter knockout mutant mice and dopamine transporter knockout wild type mice. These results suggest an impaired functioning of the nigrostriatal system in dopamine transporter knockout mutant hyperdopaminergic mice, as illustrated by motor and sensorimotor integration deficits, despite their apparent hyperactivity. These dysfunctions may arise from combined striatal cell loss and/or functional changes of dopaminergic neurotransmission. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The search for the most ancient traces of life on Earth has always been fraught with controversies because of the inevitable degradation undergone by fossilized biomolecules. Laboratory experiments may provide unique clues to achieve a better mechanistic understanding of the key processes involving (biogenic or abiotic) organic carbon during a geological history. The Earth atmosphere has changed over geological times, from a CO 2 -rich atmosphere during the Hadean and Archean to the O 2 -rich atmosphere of the present day, with a direct impact on the nature of the gas phase trapped within the sediment porosity. Yet, the influence of the nature of this gas phase on fossilization processes has almost never been investigated. Here, we conducted a series of fossilization experiments using an emblematic biomolecule (i.e. RNA) and clay minerals at 200 °C for 7 days in closed systems in equilibrium with two different gas phases (e.g. CO 2 versus N 2 /O 2). The multiscale characterization of experimental residues using a suite of advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques showed that the final organo-mineral assemblages strongly depend on the nature of the gas phase. In addition to the nature of the mineral phases, results showed that the nature of the gas phase impacts the chemistry of the residual N-rich organic compounds trapped within the interlayer spaces of Mg-smectites (e.g. mainly aliphatic-rich under CO 2 vs dominated by heterocycles under N 2 /O 2). Altogether, the present study demonstrates the necessity to take into account the nature of the gas phase composition when experimentally simulating fossilization processes aiming at better constraining which biosignatures may be preserved in ancient rocks. Finally, the experimental results reported here may serve to identify the potential biosignatures that should be searched for on other planetary bodies. • The composition of the gas phase impacts fossilization processes. • Organic compounds are mainly fixed within the interlayer space of the Mg-smectites. • Heterogeneous organo-mineral assemblage could potentially be a biosignature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organoclays have been applied as efficient adsorbents for pharmaceutical pollutants from aqueous solution. In this work, dodecylpyridinium chloride (C 12 pyCl) and hexadecylpyridinium chloride (C 16 pyCl) cationic surfactants were used for the preparation of organobentonites destined for diclofenac sodium (DFNa) adsorption, an anionic drug widely detected in wastewater. The organofunctionalization of the clay samples was performed under microwave irradiation at 50 °C for 5 min with surfactant amounts of 100% and 200% in relation to the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the pristine bentonite. The amount of incorporated ammonium salts based on CHN elemental analysis was higher for all samples prepared with 200% of the CEC. The basal spacings of the organoclays ranged from 1.54 to 2.13 nm, indicating the entrance of organic cations into the interlayer spacing of the clay samples, and the spacing depended on the size of the alkyl organic chain. The hydrophobic character of the organobentonites was verified by thermogravimetry and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The adsorption isotherms showed that the drug capacity adsorption was influenced by the amount of surfactant incorporated into the bentonite, the packing density and the arrangement of the surfactants in the interlayer spacing. Zeta potential measurements of the organobentonites and FTIR analysis after drug adsorption suggested that electrostatic and nonelectrostatic interactions contributed to the mechanism of adsorption. Image 1 • Organobentonites were prepared through reactions with two alkylpyridinium salts. • Organophilic bentonites were obtained by microwave heating at 50 °C for 5 min. • The potential of the organobentonites for diclofenac adsorption was evaluated. • Electrostatic and nonelectrostatic interactions were responsible for drug uptake. • A considerable drug adsorption capacity was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]