| 1. |
- Cao, Yihai, et al.
(författare)
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Forty-Year Journey of Angiogenesis Translational Research
- 2011
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Ingår i: Science Translational Medicine. - : American Association for the Advancement of Science. - 1946-6234 .- 1946-6242. ; 3:114
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Forskningsöversikt (refereegranskat)abstract
- Forty years ago, Judah Folkman predicted that tumor growth is dependent on angiogenesis and that inhibiting this process might be a new strategy for cancer therapy. This hypothesis formed the foundation of a new field of research that represents an excellent example of how a groundbreaking scientific discovery can be translated to yield benefits for patients. Today, antiangiogenic drugs are used to treat human cancers and retinal vascular diseases. Here, we guide readers through 40 years of angiogenesis research and discuss challenges of antiangiogenic therapy.
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| 2. |
- Verma, Malvika, et al.
(författare)
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A gastric resident drug delivery system for prolonged gram-level dosing of tuberculosis treatment
- 2019
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Ingår i: Science Translational Medicine. - : AMER ASSOC ADVANCEMENT SCIENCE. - 1946-6234 .- 1946-6242. ; 11:483
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Multigram drug depot systems for extended drug release could transform our capacity to effectively treat patients across a myriad of diseases. For example, tuberculosis (TB) requires multimonth courses of daily multigram doses for treatment. To address the challenge of prolonged dosing for regimens requiring multigram drug dosing, we developed a gastric resident system delivered through the nasogastric route that was capable of safely encapsulating and releasing grams of antibiotics over a period of weeks. Initial preclinical safety and drug release were demonstrated in a swine model with a panel of TB antibiotics. We anticipate multiple applications in the field of infectious diseases, as well as for other indications where multigram depots could impart meaningful benefits to patients, helping maximize adherence to their medication.
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| 3. |
- Abramson, Alex, et al.
(författare)
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A luminal unfolding microneedle injector for oral delivery of macromolecules
- 2019
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Ingår i: Nature Medicine. - : NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. - 1078-8956 .- 1546-170X. ; 25:10, s. 1512-
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Insulin and other injectable biologic drugs have transformed the treatment of patients suffering from diabetes(1,2), yet patients and healthcare providers often prefer to use and prescribe less effective orally dosed medications(3-5). Compared with subcutaneously administered drugs, oral formulations create less patient discomfort(4), show greater chemical stability at high temperatures(6), and do not generate biohazardous needle waste(7). An oral dosage form for biologic medications is ideal; however, macromolecule drugs are not readily absorbed into the bloodstream through the gastrointestinal tract(8). We developed an ingestible capsule, termed the luminal unfolding microneedle injector, which allows for the oral delivery of biologic drugs by rapidly propelling dissolvable drug-loaded microneedles into intestinal tissue using a set of unfolding arms. During ex vivo human and in vivo swine studies, the device consistently delivered the microneedles to the tissue without causing complete thickness perforations. Using insulin as a model drug, we showed that, when actuated, the luminal unfolding microneedle injector provided a faster pharmacokinetic uptake profile and a systemic uptake > 10% of that of a subcutaneous injection over a 4-h sampling period. With the ability to load a multitude of microneedle formulations, the device can serve as a platform to orally deliver therapeutic doses of macromolecule drugs.
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| 4. |
- Abramson, Alex, et al.
(författare)
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An ingestible self-orienting system for oral delivery of macromolecules
- 2019
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Ingår i: Science. - : AMER ASSOC ADVANCEMENT SCIENCE. - 0036-8075 .- 1095-9203. ; 363:6427, s. 611-
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Biomacromolecules have transformed our capacity to effectively treat diseases; however, their rapid degradation and poor absorption in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract generally limit their administration to parenteral routes. An oral biologic delivery system must aid in both localization and permeation to achieve systemic drug uptake. Inspired by the leopard tortoise's ability to passively reorient, we developed an ingestible self-orienting millimeter-scale applicator (SOMA) that autonomously positions itself to engage with GI tissue. It then deploys milliposts fabricated from active pharmaceutical ingredients directly through the gastric mucosa while avoiding perforation. We conducted in vivo studies in rats and swine that support the applicator's safety and, using insulin as a model drug, demonstrated that the SOMA delivers active pharmaceutical ingredient plasma levels comparable to those achieved with subcutaneous millipost administration.
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| 5. |
- Abramson, Alex, et al.
(författare)
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Ingestible transiently anchoring electronics for microstimulation and conductive signaling
- 2020
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Ingår i: Science Advances. - : American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). - 2375-2548. ; 6:35
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Ingestible electronic devices enable noninvasive evaluation and diagnosis of pathologies in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract but generally cannot therapeutically interact with the tissue wall. Here, we report the development of an orally administered electrical stimulation device characterized in ex vivo human tissue and in in vivo swine models, which transiently anchored itself to the stomach by autonomously inserting electrically conductive, hooked probes. The probes provided stimulation to the tissue via timed electrical pulses that could be used as a treatment for gastric motility disorders. To demonstrate interaction with stomach muscle tissue, we used the electrical stimulation to induce acute muscular contractions. Pulses conductively signaled the probes' successful anchoring and detachment events to a parenterally placed device. The ability to anchor into and electrically interact with targeted GI tissues controlled by the enteric nervous system introduces opportunities to treat a multitude of associated pathologies.
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| 6. |
- Abramson, Alex, et al.
(författare)
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Oral delivery of systemic monoclonal antibodies, peptides and small molecules using gastric auto-injectors
- 2021
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Ingår i: Nature Biotechnology. - : Springer Nature. - 1087-0156 .- 1546-1696. ; 40:1, s. 103-109
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Oral administration provides a simple and non-invasive approach for drug delivery. However, due to poor absorption and swift enzymatic degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, a wide range of molecules must be parenterally injected to attain required doses and pharmacokinetics. Here we present an orally dosed liquid auto-injector capable of delivering up to 4-mg doses of a bioavailable drug with the rapid pharmacokinetics of an injection, reaching an absolute bioavailability of up to 80% and a maximum plasma drug concentration within 30 min after dosing. This approach improves dosing efficiencies and pharmacokinetics an order of magnitude over our previously designed injector capsules and up to two orders of magnitude over clinically available and preclinical chemical permeation enhancement technologies. We administered the capsules to swine for delivery of clinically relevant doses of four commonly injected medications, including adalimumab, a GLP-1 analog, recombinant human insulin and epinephrine. These multi-day dosing experiments and oral administration in awake animal models support the translational potential of the system.
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| 7. |
- Barth, Henrik, et al.
(författare)
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A new model for in vitro testing of vitreous substitute candidates
- 2014
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Ingår i: Graefe's Archives for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology. - Hedidelberg, Germany : Springer. - 0721-832X .- 1435-702X. ; 252:10, s. 1581-1592
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Purpose: To describe a new model for in vitro assessment of novel vitreous substitute candidates.Methods: The biological impact of three vitreous substitute candidates was explored in a retinal explant culture model; a polyalkylimide hydrogel (Bio-Alcamid (R)), a two component hydrogel of 20 wt.% poly (ethylene glycol) in phosphate buffered saline (PEG) and a cross-linked sodium hyaluronic acid hydrogel (Healaflow (R)). The gels where applied to explanted adult rat retinas and then kept in culture for 2, 5 and 10 days. Gel-exposed explants were compared with explants incubated under standard tissue culture conditions. Cryosections of the specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemical markers (GFAP, Vimentin, Neurofilament 160, PKC, Rhodopsin) and TUNEL.Results: Explants kept under standard conditions as well as PEG-exposed explants displayed disruption of retinal layers with moderate pyknosis of all neurons. They also displayed moderate labeling of apoptotic cells. Bio-Alcamid (R)-exposed explants displayed severe thinning and disruption of retinal layers with massive cell death. Healaflow (R)-treated explants displayed normal retinal lamination with significantly better preservation of retinal neurons compared with control specimens, and almost no signs of apoptosis. Retinas exposed to Healaflow (R) and retinas kept under standard conditions showed variable labeling of GFAP with generally low expression and some areas of upregulation. PEG-exposed retinas showed increased GFAP labeling and Bio-Alcamid (R)-exposed retinas showed sparse labeling of GFAP.Conclusions: Research into novel vitreous substitutes has important implications for both medical and surgical vitreoretinal disease. The in vitro model presented here provides a method of biocompatibility testing prior to more costly and cumbersome in vivo experiments. The explant culture system imposes reactions within the retina including disruption of layers, cell death and gliosis, and the progression of these reactions can be used for comparison of vitreous substitute candidates. Bio-Alcamid (R) had strong adverse effects on the retina which is consistent with results of prior in vivo trials. PEG gel elicits reactions similar to the control retinas whereas Healaflow (R) shows protection from culture-induced trauma indicating favorable biocompatibility.
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| 8. |
- Belyazid, Salim, et al.
(författare)
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A Sustainability Assessment of the Urban Rehabilitation Project of the Medina of Fez, Morocco
- 2003
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Ingår i: Proceedings of the 21st International Conference of the System Dynamics Society. - 9780967291482
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- The old city of Fez, Morocco, classified as Heritage of Humankind by the UNESCO, is subject to an integrated rehabilitation plan running over 15 years. The plan aims at restoring and preserving the economy, cultural value, and social heritage of the old city. The study follows a system dynamics approach to describe and analyze the rehabilitation plan in order to identify the strengths and defects of the plan. This study shows that while the plan is giving relatively satisfying results over the short and medium terms, it is unlikely to attain long term sustainability.
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| 9. |
- Biurrun, Idoia, et al.
(författare)
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Benchmarking plant diversity of Palaearctic grasslands and other open habitats
- 2021
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Ingår i: Journal of Vegetation Science. - Oxford : John Wiley & Sons. - 1100-9233 .- 1654-1103. ; 32:4
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Journal of Vegetation Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Association for Vegetation Science.Aims: Understanding fine-grain diversity patterns across large spatial extents is fundamental for macroecological research and biodiversity conservation. Using the GrassPlot database, we provide benchmarks of fine-grain richness values of Palaearctic open habitats for vascular plants, bryophytes, lichens and complete vegetation (i.e., the sum of the former three groups). Location: Palaearctic biogeographic realm. Methods: We used 126,524 plots of eight standard grain sizes from the GrassPlot database: 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, 100 and 1,000 m2 and calculated the mean richness and standard deviations, as well as maximum, minimum, median, and first and third quartiles for each combination of grain size, taxonomic group, biome, region, vegetation type and phytosociological class. Results: Patterns of plant diversity in vegetation types and biomes differ across grain sizes and taxonomic groups. Overall, secondary (mostly semi-natural) grasslands and natural grasslands are the richest vegetation type. The open-access file ”GrassPlot Diversity Benchmarks” and the web tool “GrassPlot Diversity Explorer” are now available online (https://edgg.org/databases/GrasslandDiversityExplorer) and provide more insights into species richness patterns in the Palaearctic open habitats. Conclusions: The GrassPlot Diversity Benchmarks provide high-quality data on species richness in open habitat types across the Palaearctic. These benchmark data can be used in vegetation ecology, macroecology, biodiversity conservation and data quality checking. While the amount of data in the underlying GrassPlot database and their spatial coverage are smaller than in other extensive vegetation-plot databases, species recordings in GrassPlot are on average more complete, making it a valuable complementary data source in macroecology. © 2021 The Authors.
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| 10. |
- Caffarel-Salvador, Ester, et al.
(författare)
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A microneedle platform for buccal macromolecule delivery
- 2021
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Ingår i: Science Advances. - : American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). - 2375-2548. ; 7:4
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Alternative means for drug delivery are needed to facilitate drug adherence and administration. Microneedles (MNs) have been previously investigated transdermally for drug delivery. To date, drug loading into MNs has been limited by drug solubility in the polymeric blend. We designed a highly drug-loaded MN patch to deliver macromolecules and applied it to the buccal area, which allows for faster delivery than the skin. We successfully delivered 1-mg payloads of human insulin and human growth hormone to the buccal cavity of swine within 30 s. In addition, we conducted a trial in 100 healthy volunteers to assess potential discomfort associated with MNs when applied in the oral cavity, identifying the hard palate as the preferred application site. We envisage that MN patches applied on buccal surfaces could increase medication adherence and facilitate the painless delivery of biologics and other drugs to many, especially for the pediatric and elderly populations.
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| 11. |
- Clark, Douglas S., et al.
(författare)
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Klaus Mosbach Tribute
- 2015
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Ingår i: Biotechnology and Bioengineering. - : Wiley. - 1097-0290 .- 0006-3592. ; 112:4, s. 645-647
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Tidskriftsartikel (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)
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| 12. |
- Czeszumski, Artur, et al.
(författare)
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#EEGManyLabs: Investigating the Replicability of Influential EEG Experiments
- 2024
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Annan publikation (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- There is growing awareness across the neuroscience community that the replicability of findings on the relationship between brain activity and cognitive phenomena can be improved by conducting studies with high statistical power that adhere to well-defined and standardized analysis pipelines. Inspired by efforts from the psychological sciences, and with the desire to examine some of the foundational findings using electroencephalography (EEG), we have launched #EEGManyLabs, a large-scale international collaborative replication effort. Since its discovery in the early 20th century, EEG has had a profound influence on our understanding of human cognition, but there is limited evidence on the replicability of some of the most highly cited discoveries. After a systematic search and selection process, we have identified 27 of the most influential and continually cited studies in the field. We plan to directly test the replicability of key findings from 20 of these studies in teams of at least three independent laboratories. The design and protocol of each replication effort will be submitted as a Registered Report and peer-reviewed prior to data collection. Prediction markets, open to all EEG researchers, will be used as a forecasting tool to examine which findings the community expects to replicate. This project will update our confidence in some of the most influential EEG findings and generate a large open access database that can be used to inform future research practices. Finally, through this international effort, we hope to create a cultural shift towards inclusive, high-powered multi-laboratory collaborations.
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| 13. |
- Dengler, Juergen, et al.
(författare)
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GrassPlot - a database of multi-scale plant diversity in Palaearctic grasslands
- 2018
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Ingår i: Phytocoenologia. - : Schweizerbart. - 0340-269X. ; 48:3, s. 331-347
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- GrassPlot is a collaborative vegetation-plot database organised by the Eurasian Dry Grassland Group (EDGG) and listed in the Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases (GIVD ID EU-00-003). GrassPlot collects plot records (releves) from grasslands and other open habitats of the Palaearctic biogeographic realm. It focuses on precisely delimited plots of eight standard grain sizes (0.0001; 0.001;... 1,000 m(2)) and on nested-plot series with at least four different grain sizes. The usage of GrassPlot is regulated through Bylaws that intend to balance the interests of data contributors and data users. The current version (v. 1.00) contains data for approximately 170,000 plots of different sizes and 2,800 nested-plot series. The key components are richness data and metadata. However, most included datasets also encompass compositional data. About 14,000 plots have near-complete records of terricolous bryophytes and lichens in addition to vascular plants. At present, GrassPlot contains data from 36 countries throughout the Palaearctic, spread across elevational gradients and major grassland types. GrassPlot with its multi-scale and multi-taxon focus complements the larger international vegetationplot databases, such as the European Vegetation Archive (EVA) and the global database " sPlot". Its main aim is to facilitate studies on the scale-and taxon-dependency of biodiversity patterns and drivers along macroecological gradients. GrassPlot is a dynamic database and will expand through new data collection coordinated by the elected Governing Board. We invite researchers with suitable data to join GrassPlot. Researchers with project ideas addressable with GrassPlot data are welcome to submit proposals to the Governing Board.
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| 14. |
- Fogel, Nina Ya. 1938, et al.
(författare)
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Interfacial superconductivity in semiconducting monochalcogenide superlattices
- 2002
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Ingår i: Physical Review B - Condensed Matter and Materials Physics. - 2469-9950 .- 2469-9969. ; 66:17, s. 174513(11pp.)-
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Superconducting and structural properties of superconducting semiconducting multilayers are investigated. These layered systems are obtained by epitaxial growth of the isomorphic monochalcogenides of Pb, Sn, and rare-earth elements on a KCl substrate. Some of these compounds are narrow-gap semiconductors (PbTe, PbS, PbSe, SnTe). Layered structures containing one or two narrow-gap semiconductors have a metallic type of conductivity and a transition to a superconducting state at temperatures in the range of 2.56 K. Structures containing only wide-gap semiconductors (YbS, EuS, EuSe) do not demonstrate such properties. All superconducting layered systems are type-II superconductors. The critical magnetic fields and the resistive behavior in the mixed state reveal features characteristic of other layered superconductors. However, data obtained in magnetic fields testify that the period of the superstructure corresponds to half of that obtained from x-ray-diffractometry investigations. This is evidence that the superconducting layers in these samples are confined to the interfaces between two semiconductors. Electron microscopy studies reveal that in the case of epitaxial growth the interfaces contain regular grids of misfit dislocations covering all the interface area. These samples appear to undergo a superconducting transition if they have a metallic type of conductivity in the normal state. Samples with island-type dislocation grids only reveal partial superconducting transitions. The correlations between the appearance of superconductivity and the presence of dislocations, which have been found experimentally, lead to the conclusion that the normal metallic conductivity as well as the superconductivity are induced by the elastic deformation fields created by the misfit dislocation grids. A theoretical model is proposed for the description of the narrow-gap semiconductor metallization, which is due to a band inversion effect and the appearance of electron- or hole-type inversion layers near the interfaces. For different combinations of the semiconductors, such inversion layers in the superlattices can have different shapes and topology. In particular, they can form multiply connected periodic nets having a repetition period coinciding with that of the dislocation grids. Numerical estimates show that such a scenario for the appearance of superconductivity is quite likely. It is shown that the new type of metallic and superconducting nanoscale two-dimensional structures with unusual properties may be obtained from monochalcogenide semiconductors.
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| 15. |
- Ghosh, Fredrik, et al.
(författare)
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Selective Removal of Photoreceptor Cells In Vivo Using the Biodegradable Elastomer Poly(Glycerol Sebacate)
- 2009
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Ingår i: Tissue Engineering. Part A. - 1937-335X. ; 17:13-14, s. 1675-1682
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Retinal transplantation experiments have advanced considerably during recent years, but remaining diseased photoreceptor cells in the host retina physically obstruct the development of graft-host neuronal contacts which are required for vision. We here report selective removal of photoreceptors using the biodegradable elastomer poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS). A 1x3 mm PGS membrane was implanted in the subretinal space of normal rabbit eyes, and morphologic specimens were examined with hematoxylin and eosin staining and a panel of immunohistochemical markers. Seven days postoperatively, a patent separation of the neuroretina and retinal pigment epithelium was found as well as loss of several rows of photoreceptors in combination with massive TUNEL staining for apoptosis in the outer nuclear layer. After 28 days, the neuroretina was reattached, the PGS membrane had degraded, and photoreceptors were absent in the implantation area. Activated Müller cells were found in the entire retina in 7-day specimens, and in the implantation area after 28 days. AII amacrine and rod bipolar cell morphology was not affected, except for disrupted dendritic branching which was present in rod bipolar cells in 28-day specimens. We conclude that retinal detachment induced by the biodegradable PGS membrane creates a permissive environment in which graft-host neuronal connections may be facilitated in future retinal transplantation experiments.
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| 16. |
- Haq, Rizwan, et al.
(författare)
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BCL2A1 is a lineage-specific antiapoptotic melanoma oncogene that confers resistance to BRAF inhibition
- 2013
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Ingår i: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. - : Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. - 1091-6490 .- 0027-8424. ; 110:11, s. 4321-4326
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Although targeting oncogenic mutations in the BRAF serine/threonine kinase with small molecule inhibitors can lead to significant clinical responses in melanoma, it fails to eradicate tumors in nearly all patients. Successful therapy will be aided by identification of intrinsic mechanisms that protect tumor cells from death. Here, we used a bioinformatics approach to identify drug-able, "driver" oncogenes restricted to tumor versus normal tissues. Applying this method to 88 short-term melanoma cell cultures, we show that the antiapoptotic BCL2 family member BCL2A1 is recurrently amplified in similar to 30% of melanomas and is necessary for melanoma growth. BCL2A1 overexpression also promotes melanomagenesis of BRAF-immortalized melanocytes. We find that high-level expression of BCL2A1 is restricted to melanoma due to direct transcriptional control by the melanoma oncogene MITF. Although BRAF inhibitors lead to cell cycle arrest and modest apoptosis, we find that apoptosis is significantly enhanced by suppression of BCL2A1 in melanomas with BCL2A1 or MITF amplification. Moreover, we find that BCL2A1 expression is associated with poorer clinical responses to BRAF pathway inhibitors in melanoma patients. Cotreatment of melanomas with BRAF inhibitors and obatoclax, an inhibitor of BCL2A1 and other BCL2 family members, overcomes intrinsic resistance to BRAF inhibitors in BCL2A1-amplified cells in vitro and in vivo. These studies identify MITF-BCL2A1 as a lineage-specific oncogenic pathway in melanoma and underscore its role for improved response to BRAF-directed therapy.
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| 17. |
- Holmes, Thomas P., et al.
(författare)
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Fundamental Economic Irreversibilities Influence Policies for Enhancing International Forest Phytosanitary Security
- 2017
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Ingår i: Current Forestry Reports. - Cham : Springer. - 2198-6436. ; 3:3, s. 244-254
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- National and international efforts to manage forest biosecurity create tension between opposing sources of ecological and economic irreversibility. Phytosanitary policies designed to protect national borders from biological invasions incur sunk costs deriving from economic and political irreversibilities that incentivizes wait-and-see decision-making. However, the potential for irreversible ecological and economic damages resulting from failed phytosanitary policies argues for precautionary measures, creating sunk benefits while increasing the risk of over-investment in phytosanitary security. Here, we describe the inherent tension between these sources of irreversibility in economic terms, relate these forces to type I and type II errors, and use this framework to review national and international efforts to protect forests from biological invasions. Available historical evidence suggests that wait-and-see phytosanitary decision-making has dominated the adoption of precautionary measures in most regions and that willingness to under-regulate may sometimes be orders of magnitude greater than willingness to over-regulate. Reducing scientific uncertainty about threats to biosecurity may help mitigate the tendency to under-regulate, and phytosanitary security measures with relatively modest sunk costs could help protect forests as scientific learning advances. A fuller accounting of the costs associated with type II errors, particularly regarding the suite of non-market ecosystem services at risk, would help decision-makers better understand the trade-offs between the sunk costs of policies and long-term economic losses to stakeholders.
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| 18. |
- Huth, Cornelia, et al.
(författare)
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IL6 gene promoter polymorphisms and type 2 diabetes - Joint analysis of individual participants' data from 21 studies
- 2006
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Ingår i: DIABETES. - : American Diabetes Association. - 0012-1797 .- 1939-327X. ; 55:10, s. 2915-2921
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Several lines of evidence indicate a causal role of the cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 in the development of type 2 diabetes in humans. Two common polymorphisms in the promoter of the IL-6 encoding gene IL6, −174G>C (rs1800795) and −573G>C (rs1800796), have been investigated for association with type 2 diabetes in numerous studies but with results that have been largely equivocal. To clarify the relationship between the two IL6 variants and type 2 diabetes, we analyzed individual data on >20,000 participants from 21 published and unpublished studies. Collected data represent eight different countries, making this the largest association analysis for type 2 diabetes reported to date. The GC and CC genotypes of IL6 −174G>C were associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 0.91, P = 0.037), corresponding to a risk modification of nearly 9%. No evidence for association was found between IL6 −573G>C and type 2 diabetes. The observed association of the IL6 −174 C-allele with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes provides further evidence for the hypothesis that immune mediators are causally related to type 2 diabetes; however, because the association is borderline significant, additional data are still needed to confirm this finding.
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| 19. |
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| 20. |
- Kisa, Phyllis, et al.
(författare)
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Unifying Children's Surgery and Anesthesia Stakeholders Across Institutions and Clinical Disciplines : Challenges and Solutions from Uganda
- 2019
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Ingår i: World Journal of Surgery. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0364-2313 .- 1432-2323. ; 43:6, s. 1435-1449
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- BackgroundThere is a significant unmet need for children's surgical care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Multidisciplinary collaboration is required to advance the surgical and anesthesia care of children's surgical conditions such as congenital conditions, cancer and injuries. Nonetheless, there are limited examples of this process from LMICs. We describe the development and 3-year outcomes following a 2015 stakeholders' meeting in Uganda to catalyze multidisciplinary and multi-institutional collaboration.MethodsThe stakeholders' meeting was a daylong conference held in Kampala with local, regional and international collaborators in attendance. Multiple clinical specialties including surgical subspecialists, pediatric anesthesia, perioperative nursing, pediatric oncology and neonatology were represented. Key thematic areas including infrastructure, training and workforce retention, service delivery, and research and advocacy were addressed, and short-term objectives were agreed upon. We reported the 3-year outcomes following the meeting by thematic area.ResultsThe Pediatric Surgical Foundation was developed following the meeting to formalize coordination between institutions. Through international collaborations, operating room capacity has increased. A pediatric general surgery fellowship has expanded at Mulago and Mbarara hospitals supplemented by an international fellowship in multiple disciplines. Coordinated outreach camps have continued to assist with training and service delivery in rural regional hospitals.ConclusionCollaborations between disciplines, both within LMICs and with international partners, are required to advance children's surgery. The unification of stakeholders across clinical disciplines and institutional partnerships can facilitate increased children's surgical capacity. Such a process may prove useful in other LMICs with a wide range of children's surgery stakeholders.
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| 21. |
- Nadvornik, Milan, et al.
(författare)
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Syntheses, X-ray, MSn, NMR and CD structure determination of nickel(II) complexes of Schiff bases of (S)-N-(2-benzoylphenyl)-1-benzylpyrrolidine-2-carboxamide and aromatic α-amino acids
- 2008
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Ingår i: Polyhedron. - : Elsevier BV. - 0277-5387. ; 27:17, s. 3477-3483
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- A preparative procedure for the synthesis of an important chiral synthon of side-chain protected tyrosine was developed and optimised for the minimisation of nickel salts waste. While preparing a similar side-chain protected tryptophan synthon, an unexpected low stability was found of the Boc-protective group of the tryptophan aromatic nitrogen during purification on silica gel. X-ray crystal structure determination, tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and NMR were applied for the elucidation of the structures of the prepared complexes and by-products. Stereochemistry of products of α-methylation of the complexes was assessed using a model tyrosine-derived compound.
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| 22. |
- Popkov, Alexander, et al.
(författare)
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Development of metallocomplex amino acids synthons for the asymmetric preparation of α-amino acids by stereoselective introduction of a side chain. Evaluation of the model asymmetric preparation of alanine and β-13C monolabelled α-aminoisobutyric acid
- 2010
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Ingår i: Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0236-5731 .- 1588-2780. ; 285:3, s. 621-626
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In this communication the evaluation of eleven new metallocomplex alanine synthons bearing C2-symmetric benzyl groups with electron-donating and electron-withdrawing substituents is described. α-Methylated glycine synthons (alanine complexes) were evaluated alongside alanine synthons in order to obtain a deeper understanding of the relationship between their structures and stereochemistry of monoalkylated products and to choose several candidates for their further tests for stereospecific preparation of 6-[18F]FDOPA. Glycine-derived analogues of the complexes 3–5 are the best candidates for the development of a 6-[18F]FDOPA preparation procedure. In the model epimerisation reaction they demonstrated the best performance, much better compared to the previously described compound 2. Complexes 3, 5 and 8 are the best in asymmetric preparation of β-13C monolabelled α-aminoisobutyric acid. They have to be tested in the preparation of α-methyl amino acids like 6-[18F]-α-methylDOPA and 2-[18F]-α-methyltyrosine.
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| 23. |
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| 24. |
- Popkov, Alexander, et al.
(författare)
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New Chiral Synthons of 13C- or 15N-labelled α-amino acids
- 2006
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Ingår i: Isotopes - 9th International Symposium. ; 9, s. 206-
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Konferensbidrag (övrigt vetenskapligt/konstnärligt)abstract
- Easily available chiral synthons of α-amino acids selectively labelled with 13C or 15N could significantly simplify preparation of enantiomerically pure selectively isotopically substituted α-amino acids for NMR and MS studies of biological systems. Based on previously described preparation of labelled synthons of nucleophilic and electrophilic glycine, different approaches to labelled quaternary α-amino acids were evaluated. In the case of α-(13C)methyl α-amino acids, two alternatives exists:1. preparation of an alanine synthon by introduction of the α-(13C)methyl group into a glycine synthon followed by anattachment of a side chain;2. usage of α-amino acids synthons carrying a side chain and introduction of the α-(13C)methyl group.The second approach was found to be better suited for the preparative applications. An optimisation was done in orderto increase yields and decrease release of by-products to waste water.
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| 25. |
- Pritchard, Christopher D., et al.
(författare)
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Evaluation of viscoelastic poly(ethylene glycol) sols as vitreous substitutes in an experimental vitrectomy model in rabbits
- 2011
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Ingår i: Acta Biomaterialia. - Oxon, United Kingdom : Elsevier. - 1742-7061 .- 1878-7568. ; 7:3, s. 936-943
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The aim of this study was to employ an experimental protocol for in vivo evaluation of sols of 5 wt.% poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) in phosphate-buffered saline as artificial vitreous substitutes. A 20 gauge pars plana vitrectomy and posterior vitreous detachment were performed in the right eye of eight pigmented rabbits. Approximately 1 ml of the viscoelastic PEG sols was then injected into the vitreous space of six eyes. PEG with an average molecular weight of 300,000 and 400,000 g mol(-1) was used in two and four eyes, respectively. Two eyes received balanced salt solution and served as controls. Full-field electroretinography was carried out and intra-ocular pressure (IOP, palpation) measured pre- and post-operatively at regular intervals up to 41 days. The rabbits were killed and the eyes examined by retinal photography, gross macroscopic examination and histology. The viscoelastic sols were successfully injected and remained translucent throughout the post-operative period, with some inferior formation of precipitates. None of the eyes displayed IOP elevation post-operatively, but in three of the PEG sol injected eyes transient hypotony was noted. One eye sustained retinal detachment during surgery and another two in the post-operative period. ERG recordings confirmed preservation of retinal function in three out of four eyes injected with 400,000 g mol(-1) PEG. Histological examination revealed up-regulation of glial acidic fibrillary protein in Müller cells in PEG sol injected eyes, but normal overall morphology in eyes with attached retinas. The viscosity of the sol was not retained throughout the post-operative period, indicating the demand for polymer cross-linking to increase residence time. The results provide promising preliminary results on the use of PEG hydrogels as a vitreous substitute.
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| 26. |
- Pritchard, Christopher D., et al.
(författare)
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Retinal transplantation using surface modified poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) membranes
- 2010
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Ingår i: Biomaterials. - : Elsevier BV. - 1878-5905 .- 0142-9612. ; 31:31, s. 7978-7984
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In retinal transplantation experiments it is hypothesized that remaining diseased photoreceptor cells in the host retina and inner retinal cells in transplants physically obstruct the development of graft-host neuronal contacts which are required for vision. Recently, we developed methods for the isolation of donor photoreceptor layers in vitro, and the selective removal of host photoreceptors in vivo using biodegradable elastomeric membranes composed of poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) (PGS). We also coated PGS membranes with electrospun nanofibers, composed of laminin and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL), to promote attachment of embryonic retinal explants, allowing the resulting composites to be handled surgically as a single entity. Here, we report subretinal transplantation of these composites into adult porcine eyes. In hematoxylin and eosin stained sections of composite explants after 5-7 days in vitro, excellent fusion of retinas and biomaterial membranes was noted, with the immature retinal components showing laminated as well as folded and rosetted areas. The composite grafts could be transplanted in all cases and, 3 months after surgery, eyes displayed clear media, attached retinas and the grafts located subretinally. Histological examination revealed that the biomaterial membrane had degraded without any signs of inflammation. Transplanted retinas displayed areas of rosettes as well as normal lamination. In most cases inner retinal layers were present in the grafts. Laminated areas displayed well-developed photoreceptors adjacent to an intact host retinal pigment epithelium and degeneration of the host outer nuclear layer (ONL) was often observed together with occasional fusion of graft and host inner layers. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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| 27. |
- Pritchard, Christopher D., et al.
(författare)
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The use of surface modified poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) in retinal transplantation
- 2010
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Ingår i: Biomaterials. - : Elsevier BV. - 1878-5905 .- 0142-9612. ; 31:8, s. 2153-2162
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Retinal transplantation experiments have advanced considerably during recent years, but remaining diseased photoreceptor cells in the host retina and inner retinal cells in the transplant physically obstruct the development of graft-host neuronal contacts which are required for vision. Recently, we developed methods for the isolation of donor photoreceptor layers in vitro, and the selective removal of host photoreceptors in vivo using biodegradable elastomeric membranes composed of poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) (PGS). Here, we report the surface modification of PGS membranes to promote the attachment of photoreceptor layers, allowing the resulting composite to be handled surgically as a single entity. PGS membranes were chemically modified with peptides containing an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) extracellular matrix ligand sequence. PGS membranes were also coated with electrospun nanofiber meshes, containing laminin and poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL). Following in vitro co-culture of biomaterial membranes with isolated embryonic retinal tissue, composites were tested for surgical handling and examined with hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical markers. Electrospun nanofibers composed of laminin and PCL promoted sufficient cell adhesion for simultaneous transplantation of isolated photoreceptor layers and PGS membranes. Composites developed large populations of recoverin and rhodopsin labeled photoreceptors. Furthermore, ganglion cells, rod bipolar cells and All amacrine cells were absent in co-cultured retinas as observed by neurofilament, PKC and parvalbumin labeling respectively. These results facilitate retinal transplantation experiments in which a composite graft composed of a biodegradable membrane adhered to an immature retina dominated by photoreceptor cells may be delivered in a single surgery, with the possibility of improving graft-host neuronal connections. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
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| 28. |
- Sheikhi, Shahram, et al.
(författare)
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Blended Laboratories for Joining Technology
- 2023
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Ingår i: Proceedings of the International CDIO Conference. - 2002-1593. ; , s. 166-178
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Laboratory training is an essential part of most Engineering Education programs and amplified by the Covid-19 crisis, educational institutions are increasingly exploring blended and online laboratories as an alternative or complement to pure on-side learning environments. In this paper, we report on the (re-) design, implementation and evaluation of a blended laboratory concept in joining technology. The laboratory consists of three interlinked pillars and builds conceptually on the flipped classroom approach. We evaluate student learning and satisfaction as well as teacher experiences in the new learning design based on student evaluations and performance data as well as teacher reflections. The results show that the new laboratory improved the average grade of students by 12% compared to the traditional set-up, which we attribute to the increase in active learning. Students also report high satisfaction with the new format and appreciate the flexibility and accessibility of the online learning materials. Qualitative analysis indicates, however, that successful participation in the flipped format is coupled to high degree of self-regulated learning skills. Further, teachers partly had difficulties to ensure active participation in the synchronous online sessions. Despite these issues, we conclude that the presented flipped laboratory concept is an excellent format to combine the advantages of online learning with the hands-on experience of physical laboratory work. By utilizing the benefits of online learning, this format reduces the time students spend passively listening to lectures and more than doubles the time spent on active learning and practice.
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| 29. |
- Snyder, Joel S., et al.
(författare)
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#EEGManyLabs: Investigating the replicability of influential EEG experiments
- 2021
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Ingår i: Cortex. - : Elsevier. - 1973-8102 .- 0010-9452. ; 144, s. 213-229
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- There is growing awareness across the neuroscience community that the replicability of findings about the relationship between brain activity and cognitive phenomena can be improved by conducting studies with high statistical power that adhere to well-defined and standardised analysis pipelines. Inspired by recent efforts from the psychological sciences, and with the desire to examine some of the foundational findings using electroencephalog-raphy (EEG), we have launched #EEGManyLabs, a large-scale international collaborative replication effort. Since its discovery in the early 20th century, EEG has had a profound in-fluence on our understanding of human cognition, but there is limited evidence on the replicability of some of the most highly cited discoveries. After a systematic search and se-lection process, we have identified 27 of the most influential and continually cited studies in the field. We plan to directly test the replicability of key findings from 20 of these studies in teams of at least three independent laboratories. The design and protocol of each replication effort will be submitted as a Registered Report and peer-reviewed prior to data collection. Prediction markets, open to all EEG researchers, will be used as a forecasting tool to examine which findings the community expects to replicate. This project will update our confidence in some of the most influential EEG findings and generate a large open access database that can be used to inform future research practices. Finally, through this international effort, we hope to create a cultural shift towards inclusive, high-powered multi-laboratory collaborations. (c) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
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| 30. |
- Stöhr, Christian, 1977, et al.
(författare)
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Online and Blended Labs for Practical Mechanical Engineering
- 2023
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Ingår i: Proceedings of the 19th International CDIO Conference. - 9788230361863 ; , s. 805-819
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- Lab training is a key element in most engineering education programs in preparation for engineering profession tasks. Universities worldwide are exploring new possibilities and different forms to arrange online and blended labs as an alternative to pure campus training. This study compares online and blended lab setups in four cases of engineering education at European technical universities. The results show that online and blended labs can achieve similar learning outcomes, with blended labs being particularly effective in combining online learning with hands-on elements. Students reported high levels of satisfaction and teachers noted the benefits of online learning environments, but common challenges included ensuring student engagement, increased self-regulation requirements, and the high effort needed to design online or blended environments. The study provides course design guidelines and discusses implications for future research and implementation in universities worldwide.
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| 31. |
- Taylor, Linnéa, et al.
(författare)
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Seeing through the interface : Poly(ε-Caprolactone) surface modification of poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) membranes in adult porcine retinal explants
- 2017
-
Ingår i: Journal of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. - : Hindawi Limited. - 1932-6254. ; 11:8, s. 2349-2358
-
Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The purpose of this study was to investigate the adhesion properties and tissue reactions in an in vitro model of nanofabricated membranes emulating the vitreous cortex. Electrospinning was performed for either 5, 10 or 15 min to create various thicknesses of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) fibre mats on a poly(glycerol-co-sebacic acid) (PGS) surface. These were fused with adult porcine retinal explants, with the fibre side facing the inner retina, and cultured for 5 days. Adherence was assessed by macroscopic inspection, and morphological and immunohistochemical analysis was performed using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and markers for photoreceptors and Müller glia (recoverin, NeuN, vimentin and GFAP). TUNEL labelling was performed to assess apoptosis. Five minute specimens displayed poor adherence with an overall structure, apoptosis and photoreceptor and ganglion cell morphology comparable to that of the culture controls, whereas 10 min specimens showed improved neuronal survival; 15 min composite explants adhered only at focal points, were thin and showed extensive degenerative damage. The physical composition of nanofibre meshes is important for adhesion to the inner retina and has a significant impact on neuronal and glial survival in vitro. The results bearing on research involving retinal transplantation are discussed.
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| 32. |
- van Assema, Danielle M. E., et al.
(författare)
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Blood-brain barrier P-glycoprotein function in Alzheimer's disease
- 2012
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Ingår i: Brain. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0006-8950 .- 1460-2156. ; 135, s. 181-189
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- A major pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease is accumulation of amyloid-beta in senile plaques in the brain. Evidence is accumulating that decreased clearance of amyloid-beta from the brain may lead to these elevated amyloid-beta levels. One of the clearance pathways of amyloid-beta is transport across the blood-brain barrier via efflux transporters. P-glycoprotein, an efflux pump highly expressed at the endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier, has been shown to transport amyloid-beta. P-glycoprotein function can be assessed in vivo using (R)-[C-11]verapamil and positron emission tomography. The aim of this study was to assess blood-brain barrier P-glycoprotein function in patients with Alzheimer's disease compared with age-matched healthy controls using (R)-[C-11]verapamil and positron emission tomography. In 13 patients with Alzheimer's disease (age 65 +/- 7 years, Mini-Mental State Examination 23 +/- 3), global (R)-[C-11]verapamil binding potential values were increased significantly (P = 0.001) compared with 14 healthy controls (aged 62 +/- 4 years, Mini-Mental State Examination 30 +/- 1). Global (R)-[C-11]verapamil binding potential values were 2.18 +/- 0.25 for patients with Alzheimer's disease and 1.77 +/- 0.41 for healthy controls. In patients with Alzheimer's disease, higher (R)-[C-11]verapamil binding potential values were found for frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital cortices, and posterior and anterior cingulate. No significant differences between groups were found for medial temporal lobe and cerebellum. These data show altered kinetics of (R)-[C-11]verapamil in Alzheimer's disease, similar to alterations seen in studies where P-glycoprotein is blocked by a pharmacological agent. As such, these data indicate that P-glycoprotein function is decreased in patients with Alzheimer's disease. This is the first direct evidence that the P-glycoprotein transporter at the blood-brain barrier is compromised in sporadic Alzheimer's disease and suggests that decreased P-glycoprotein function may be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.
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| 33. |
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| 34. |
- Yang, Yunlong, et al.
(författare)
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The PDGF-BB-SOX7 axis-modulated IL-33 in pericytes and stromal cells promotes metastasis through tumour-associated macrophages
- 2016
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Ingår i: Nature Communications. - : NATURE PUBLISHING GROUP. - 2041-1723. ; 7:11385
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Signalling molecules and pathways that mediate crosstalk between various tumour cellular compartments in cancer metastasis remain largely unknown. We report a mechanism of the interaction between perivascular cells and tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in promoting metastasis through the IL-33-ST2-dependent pathway in xenograft mouse models of cancer. IL-33 is the highest upregulated gene through activation of SOX7 transcription factor in PDGF-BB-stimulated pericytes. Gain-and loss-of-function experiments validate that IL-33 promotes metastasis through recruitment of TAMs. Pharmacological inhibition of the IL-33-ST2 signalling by a soluble ST2 significantly inhibits TAMs and metastasis. Genetic deletion of host IL-33 in mice also blocks PDGF-BB-induced TAM recruitment and metastasis. These findings shed light on the role of tumour stroma in promoting metastasis and have therapeutic implications for cancer therapy.
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| 35. |
- Zamora, Juan Carlos, et al.
(författare)
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Considerations and consequences of allowing DNA sequence data as types of fungal taxa
- 2018
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Ingår i: IMA Fungus. - : INT MYCOLOGICAL ASSOC. - 2210-6340 .- 2210-6359. ; 9:1, s. 167-185
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Nomenclatural type definitions are one of the most important concepts in biological nomenclature. Being physical objects that can be re-studied by other researchers, types permanently link taxonomy (an artificial agreement to classify biological diversity) with nomenclature (an artificial agreement to name biological diversity). Two proposals to amend the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN), allowing DNA sequences alone (of any region and extent) to serve as types of taxon names for voucherless fungi (mainly putative taxa from environmental DNA sequences), have been submitted to be voted on at the 11th International Mycological Congress (Puerto Rico, July 2018). We consider various genetic processes affecting the distribution of alleles among taxa and find that alleles may not consistently and uniquely represent the species within which they are contained. Should the proposals be accepted, the meaning of nomenclatural types would change in a fundamental way from physical objects as sources of data to the data themselves. Such changes are conducive to irreproducible science, the potential typification on artefactual data, and massive creation of names with low information content, ultimately causing nomenclatural instability and unnecessary work for future researchers that would stall future explorations of fungal diversity. We conclude that the acceptance of DNA sequences alone as types of names of taxa, under the terms used in the current proposals, is unnecessary and would not solve the problem of naming putative taxa known only from DNA sequences in a scientifically defensible way. As an alternative, we highlight the use of formulas for naming putative taxa (candidate taxa) that do not require any modification of the ICN.
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