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Daily KP, Badr A, Eltobgy M, Estfanous S, Whitham O, Tan MH, Carafice C, Krause K, McNamara A, Hamilton K, Houle S, Gupta S, Gupta GA, Madhu S, Fitzgerald J, Saadey AA, Laster B, Yan P, Webb A, Zhang X, Pietrzak M, Kokiko-Cochran ON, Ghoneim HE, Amer AO. DNA hypomethylation promotes the expression of CASPASE-4 which exacerbates inflammation and amyloid-β deposition in Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:29. [PMID: 38326859 PMCID: PMC10851453 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01390-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the sixth leading cause of death in the USA. It is established that neuroinflammation contributes to the synaptic loss, neuronal death, and symptomatic decline of AD patients. Accumulating evidence suggests a critical role for microglia, innate immune phagocytes of the brain. For instance, microglia release pro-inflammatory products such as IL-1β which is highly implicated in AD pathobiology. The mechanisms underlying the transition of microglia to proinflammatory promoters of AD remain largely unknown. To address this gap, we performed reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) to profile global DNA methylation changes in human AD brains compared to no disease controls. We identified differential DNA methylation of CASPASE-4 (CASP4), which when expressed promotes the generation of IL-1β and is predominantly expressed in immune cells. DNA upstream of the CASP4 transcription start site was hypomethylated in human AD brains, which was correlated with increased expression of CASP4. Furthermore, microglia from a mouse model of AD (5xFAD) express increased levels of CASP4 compared to wild-type (WT) mice. To study the role of CASP4 in AD, we developed a novel mouse model of AD lacking the mouse ortholog of CASP4 and CASP11, which is encoded by mouse Caspase-4 (5xFAD/Casp4-/-). The expression of CASP11 was associated with increased accumulation of pathologic protein aggregate amyloid-β (Aβ) and increased microglial production of IL-1β in 5xFAD mice. Utilizing RNA-sequencing, we determined that CASP11 promotes unique transcriptomic phenotypes in 5xFAD mouse brains, including alterations of neuroinflammatory and chemokine signaling pathways. Notably, in vitro, CASP11 promoted generation of IL-1β from macrophages in response to cytosolic Aβ through cleavage of downstream effector Gasdermin D (GSDMD). Therefore, here we unravel the role for CASP11 and GSDMD in the generation of IL-1β in response to Aβ and the progression of pathologic inflammation in AD. Overall, our results demonstrate that overexpression of CASP4 due to differential DNA methylation in AD microglia contributes to the progression of AD pathobiology. Thus, we identify CASP4 as a potential target for immunotherapies for the treatment and prevention of AD.
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Daily KP, Badr A, Eltobgy M, Estfanous S, Whitham O, Tan MH, Carafice C, Krause K, McNamara A, Hamilton K, Houle S, Gupta S, Gupta GA, Madhu S, Fitzgerald J, Saadey AA, Laster B, Yan P, Webb A, Zhang X, Pietrzak M, Kokiko-Cochran ON, Ghoneim HE, Amer AO. DNA hypomethylation promotes the expression of CASPASE-4 which exacerbates neuroinflammation and amyloid-β deposition in Alzheimer's disease The Ohio State University College of Medicine. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.30.555526. [PMID: 37693600 PMCID: PMC10491177 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.30.555526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the 6th leading cause of death in the US. It is established that neuroinflammation contributes to the synaptic loss, neuronal death, and symptomatic decline of AD patients. Accumulating evidence suggests a critical role for microglia, innate immune phagocytes of the brain. For instance, microglia release proinflammatory products such as IL-1β which is highly implicated in AD pathobiology. The mechanisms underlying the transition of microglia to proinflammatory promoters of AD remain largely unknown. To address this gap, we performed Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) to profile global DNA methylation changes in human AD brains compared to no disease controls. We identified differential DNA methylation of CASPASE-4 (CASP4), which when expressed, can be involved in generation of IL-1β and is predominantly expressed in immune cells. DNA upstream of the CASP4 transcription start site was hypomethylated in human AD brains, which was correlated with increased expression of CASP4. Furthermore, microglia from a mouse model of AD (5xFAD) express increased levels of CASP4 compared to wild-type (WT) mice. To study the role of CASP4 in AD, we developed a novel mouse model of AD lacking the mouse ortholog of CASP4, CASP11, which is encoded by mouse Caspase-4 (5xFAD/Casp4-/-). The expression of CASP11 was associated with increased accumulation of pathologic protein aggregate amyloid-β (Aβ) and increased microglial production of IL-1β in 5xFAD mice. Utilizing RNA sequencing, we determined that CASP11 promotes unique transcriptomic phenotypes in 5xFAD mouse brains, including alterations of neuroinflammatory and chemokine signaling pathways. Notably, in vitro, CASP11 promoted generation of IL-1β from macrophages in response to cytosolic Aβ through cleavage of downstream effector Gasdermin D (G SDMD). We describe a role for CASP11 and GSDMD in the generation of IL-1β in response to Aβ and the progression of pathologic inflammation in AD. Overall, our results demonstrate that overexpression of CASP4 due to differential methylation in AD microglia contributes to the progression of AD pathobiology, thus identifying CASP4 as a potential target for immunotherapies for the treatment of AD.
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Wei J, Patil A, Collings CK, Alfajaro MM, Liang Y, Cai WL, Strine MS, Filler RB, DeWeirdt PC, Hanna RE, Menasche BL, Ökten A, Peña-Hernández MA, Klein J, McNamara A, Rosales R, McGovern BL, Luis Rodriguez M, García-Sastre A, White KM, Qin Y, Doench JG, Yan Q, Iwasaki A, Zwaka TP, Qi J, Kadoch C, Wilen CB. Pharmacological disruption of mSWI/SNF complex activity restricts SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nat Genet 2023; 55:471-483. [PMID: 36894709 PMCID: PMC10011139 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01307-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Identification of host determinants of coronavirus infection informs mechanisms of viral pathogenesis and can provide new drug targets. Here we demonstrate that mammalian SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable (mSWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complexes, specifically canonical BRG1/BRM-associated factor (cBAF) complexes, promote severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and represent host-directed therapeutic targets. The catalytic activity of SMARCA4 is required for mSWI/SNF-driven chromatin accessibility at the ACE2 locus, ACE2 expression and virus susceptibility. The transcription factors HNF1A/B interact with and recruit mSWI/SNF complexes to ACE2 enhancers, which contain high HNF1A motif density. Notably, small-molecule mSWI/SNF ATPase inhibitors or degraders abrogate angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression and confer resistance to SARS-CoV-2 variants and a remdesivir-resistant virus in three cell lines and three primary human cell types, including airway epithelial cells, by up to 5 logs. These data highlight the role of mSWI/SNF complex activities in conferring SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and identify a potential class of broad-acting antivirals to combat emerging coronaviruses and drug-resistant variants.
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McNamara A, Roebke K, Danthi P. Cell Killing by Reovirus: Mechanisms and Consequences. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2023; 442:133-153. [PMID: 32986138 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Infection of host cells by mammalian reovirus in culture or in tissues of infected animals results in cell death. Cell death of infected neurons and myocytes contributes to the pathogenesis of reovirus-induced encephalitis and myocarditis in a newborn mouse model. Thus, reovirus-induced cell death has been used to investigate the basis of viral disease. Depending on the cell type, infection of host cells by reovirus results in one of two forms of cell death-apoptosis and necroptosis. In addition to the obvious differences in how these two forms of cell death are executed, the mechanisms by which reovirus infection initiates and transduces signals that lead to each of these types of cell death are distinct. In this review, we discuss how apoptosis and necroptosis are triggered by events at different stages of infection. We also describe how innate immune recognition of reovirus genomic material and type I interferon signaling pathways connect with the core components of the apoptosis and necroptosis machinery. The impact of different cell death mediators on viral pathogenesis and the potential of reovirus as an oncolytic vector are also outlined.
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Fenemore J, Boerckel W, Rigney M, McNamara A, Gaspar B, Mayans J, Hennink M, Fox J, Pretorius L, Daniels M, Winstone S, Thakrar R. P2.08-05 Lung Cancer Patients’ Willingness to Attend a Screening Appointment or Lung Health Check: Insights from a Global Patient Experience Survey. J Thorac Oncol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2022.07.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Fenemore J, Boerckel W, Rigney M, McNamara A, Gaspar B, Mayans J, Hennink M, Fox J, Pretorius L, Daniels M, Winstone S, Thakrar R. P2.08-06 Patient Involvement in Decision-Making around Their Treatment and Care: Findings from a Global Patient Experience Survey. J Thorac Oncol 2022. [PMCID: PMC9452035 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2022.07.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Peng L, Fang Z, Renauer PA, McNamara A, Park JJ, Lin Q, Zhou X, Dong MB, Zhu B, Zhao H, Wilen CB, Chen S. Multiplexed LNP-mRNA vaccination against pathogenic coronavirus species. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111160. [PMID: 35921835 PMCID: PMC9294034 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Although COVID-19 vaccines have been developed, multiple pathogenic coronavirus species exist, urging on development of multispecies coronavirus vaccines. Here we develop prototype lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-mRNA vaccine candidates against SARS-CoV-2 Delta, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV, and we test how multiplexing LNP-mRNAs can induce effective immune responses in animal models. Triplex and duplex LNP-mRNA vaccinations induce antigen-specific antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV. Single-cell RNA sequencing profiles the global systemic immune repertoires and respective transcriptome signatures of vaccinated animals, revealing a systemic increase in activated B cells and differential gene expression across major adaptive immune cells. Sequential vaccination shows potent antibody responses against all three species, significantly stronger than simultaneous vaccination in mixture. These data demonstrate the feasibility, antibody responses, and single-cell immune profiles of multispecies coronavirus vaccination. The direct comparison between simultaneous and sequential vaccination offers insights into optimization of vaccination schedules to provide broad and potent antibody immunity against three major pathogenic coronavirus species.
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Shin JJ, Par-Young J, Unlu S, McNamara A, Park HJ, Shin MS, Gee RJ, Doyle H, Afinogenova Y, Zidan E, Kwah J, Russo A, Mamula M, Hsu FI, Catanzaro J, Racke M, Bucala R, Wilen C, Kang I. Defining Clinical and Immunological Predictors of Poor Immune Responses to COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines in Patients with Primary Antibody Deficiency. J Clin Immunol 2022; 42:1137-1150. [PMID: 35713752 PMCID: PMC9203263 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-022-01296-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Immune responses to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines in primary antibody deficiencies (PADs) are largely unknown. We investigated antibody and CD4+ T-cell responses specific for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S) before and after vaccination and associations between vaccine response and patients' clinical and immunological characteristics in PADs. The PAD cohort consisted of common variable immune deficiency (CVID) and other PADs, not meeting the criteria for CVID diagnosis (oPADs). Anti-S IgG, IgA, and IgG subclasses 1 and 3 increased after vaccination and correlated with neutralization activity in HCs and patients with oPADs. However, 42% of CVID patients developed such responses after the 2nd dose. A similar pattern was also observed with S-specific CD4+ T-cells as determined by OX40 and 4-1BB expression. Patients with poor anti-S IgG response had significantly lower levels of baseline IgG, IgA, CD19+ B-cells, switched memory B-cells, naïve CD8+ T-cells, and a higher frequency of EM CD8+ T-cells and autoimmunity compared to patients with adequate anti-S IgG responses. Patients with oPADs can develop humoral and cellular immune responses to vaccines similar to HCs. However, a subset of CVID patients exhibit impairment in developing such responses, which can be predicted by the baseline immune profile and history of autoimmunity.
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Fang Z, Peng L, Filler R, Suzuki K, McNamara A, Lin Q, Renauer PA, Yang L, Menasche B, Sanchez A, Ren P, Xiong Q, Strine M, Clark P, Lin C, Ko AI, Grubaugh ND, Wilen CB, Chen S. Omicron-specific mRNA vaccination alone and as a heterologous booster against SARS-CoV-2. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3250. [PMID: 35668119 PMCID: PMC9169595 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30878-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 recently swept the globe and showed high level of immune evasion. Here, we generate an Omicron-specific lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA vaccine candidate, and test its activity in animals, both alone and as a heterologous booster to WT mRNA vaccine. Our Omicron-specific LNP-mRNA vaccine elicits strong antibody response in vaccination-naïve mice. Mice that received two-dose WT LNP-mRNA show a > 40-fold reduction in neutralization potency against Omicron than WT two weeks post boost, which further reduce to background level after 3 months. The WT or Omicron LNP-mRNA booster increases the waning antibody response of WT LNP-mRNA vaccinated mice against Omicron by 40 fold at two weeks post injection. Interestingly, the heterologous Omicron booster elicits neutralizing titers 10-20 fold higher than the homologous WT booster against Omicron variant, with comparable titers against Delta variant. All three types of vaccination, including Omicron alone, WT booster and Omicron booster, elicit broad binding antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 WA-1, Beta, Delta variants and SARS-CoV. These data provide direct assessments of an Omicron-specific mRNA vaccination in vivo, both alone and as a heterologous booster to WT mRNA vaccine.
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Fang Z, Peng L, Filler R, Suzuki K, McNamara A, Lin Q, Renauer PA, Yang L, Menasche B, Sanchez A, Ren P, Xiong Q, Strine M, Clark P, Lin C, Ko AI, Grubaugh ND, Wilen CB, Chen S. Omicron-specific mRNA vaccination alone and as a heterologous booster against SARS-CoV-2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.02.14.480449. [PMID: 35194606 PMCID: PMC8863141 DOI: 10.1101/2022.02.14.480449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The Omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has high transmissibility and recently swept the globe. Due to the extensive number of mutations, this variant has high level of immune evasion, which drastically reduced the efficacy of existing antibodies and vaccines. Thus, it is important to test an Omicron-specific vaccine, evaluate its immune response against Omicron and other variants, and compare its immunogenicity as boosters with existing vaccine designed against the reference wildtype virus (WT). Here, we generated an Omicron-specific lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA vaccine candidate, and tested its activity in animals, both alone and as a heterologous booster to existing WT mRNA vaccine. Our Omicron-specific LNP-mRNA vaccine elicited strong and specific antibody response in vaccination-naive mice. Mice that received two-dose WT LNP-mRNA, the one mimicking the commonly used Pfizer/Moderna mRNA vaccine, showed a >40-fold reduction in neutralization potency against Omicron variant than that against WT two weeks post second dose, which further reduced to background level >3 months post second dose. As a booster shot for two-dose WT mRNA vaccinated mice, a single dose of either a homologous booster with WT LNP-mRNA or a heterologous booster with Omicron LNP-mRNA restored the waning antibody response against Omicron, with over 40-fold increase at two weeks post injection as compared to right before booster. Interestingly, the heterologous Omicron LNP-mRNA booster elicited neutralizing titers 10-20 fold higher than the homologous WT booster against the Omicron variant, with comparable titers against the Delta variant. All three types of vaccination, including Omicron mRNA alone, WT mRNA homologous booster, and Omicron heterologous booster, elicited broad binding antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 WA-1, Beta, and Delta variants, as well as other Betacoronavirus species such as SARS-CoV, but not Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). These data provided direct proof-of-concept assessments of an Omicron-specific mRNA vaccination in vivo, both alone and as a heterologous booster to the existing widely-used WT mRNA vaccine form.
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Zhang Q, Cascio E, Yang Q, Gerweck L, Huang P, McNamara A, Gottschalk B, Flanz J, Schuemann J. The Role of Oxygen in the Skin-Sparing Effect of Flash Proton Irradiation. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.07.821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ramos-Méndez J, LaVerne JA, Domínguez-Kondo N, Milligan J, Štěpán V, Stefanová K, Perrot Y, Villagrasa C, Shin WG, Incerti S, McNamara A, Paganetti H, Perl J, Schuemann J, Faddegon B. TOPAS-nBio validation for simulating water radiolysis and DNA damage under low-LET irradiation. Phys Med Biol 2021; 66. [PMID: 34412044 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ac1f39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The chemical stage of the Monte Carlo track-structure simulation code Geant4-DNA has been revised and validated. The root-mean-square (RMS) empirical parameter that dictates the displacement of water molecules after an ionization and excitation event in Geant4-DNA has been shortened to better fit experimental data. The pre-defined dissociation channels and branching ratios were not modified, but the reaction rate coefficients for simulating the chemical stage of water radiolysis were updated. The evaluation of Geant4-DNA was accomplished with TOPAS-nBio. For that, we compared predicted time-dependentGvalues in pure liquid water for·OH, e-aq, and H2with published experimental data. For H2O2and H·, simulation of added scavengers at different concentrations resulted in better agreement with measurements. In addition, DNA geometry information was integrated with chemistry simulation in TOPAS-nBio to realize reactions between radiolytic chemical species and DNA. This was used in the estimation of the yield of single-strand breaks (SSB) induced by137Csγ-ray radiolysis of supercoiled pUC18 plasmids dissolved in aerated solutions containing DMSO. The efficiency of SSB induction by reaction between radiolytic species and DNA used in the simulation was chosen to provide the best agreement with published measurements. An RMS displacement of 1.24 nm provided agreement with measured data within experimental uncertainties for time-dependentGvalues and under the presence of scavengers. SSB efficiencies of 24% and 0.5% for·OH and H·, respectively, led to an overall agreement of TOPAS-nBio results within experimental uncertainties. The efficiencies obtained agreed with values obtained with published non-homogeneous kinetic model and step-by-step Monte Carlo simulations but disagreed by 12% with published direct measurements. Improvement of the spatial resolution of the DNA damage model might mitigate such disagreement. In conclusion, with these improvements, Geant4-DNA/TOPAS-nBio provides a fast, accurate, and user-friendly tool for simulating DNA damage under low linear energy transfer irradiation.
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Bittner EP, Ashman H, van Barneveld RJ, McNamara A, Thomson N, Hearn AH, Dunshea FR. Qualitative assessment of value in Australian pork across cultures. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an21011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Ramos-Méndez J, Domínguez-Kondo N, Schuemann J, McNamara A, Moreno-Barbosa E, Faddegon B. LET-Dependent Intertrack Yields in Proton Irradiation at Ultra-High Dose Rates Relevant for FLASH Therapy. Radiat Res 2020; 194:351-362. [PMID: 32857855 PMCID: PMC7644138 DOI: 10.1667/rade-20-00084.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
FLASH radiotherapy delivers a high dose (≥10 Gy) at a high rate (≥40 Gy/s). In this way, particles are delivered in pulses as short as a few nanoseconds. At that rate, intertrack reactions between chemical species produced within the same pulse may affect the heterogeneous chemistry stage of water radiolysis. This stochastic process suits the capabilities of the Monte Carlo method, which can model intertrack effects to aid in radiobiology research, including the design and interpretation of experiments. In this work, the TOPAS-nBio Monte Carlo track-structure code was expanded to allow simulations of intertrack effects in the chemical stage of water radiolysis. Simulation of the behavior of radiolytic yields over a long period of time (up to 50 s) was verified by simulating radiolysis in a Fricke dosimeter irradiated by 60Co γ rays. In addition, LET-dependent G values of protons delivered in single squared pulses of widths, 1 ns, 1 µs and 10 µs, were obtained and compared to simulations using no intertrack considerations. The Fricke simulation for the calculated G value of Fe3+ ion at 50 s was within 0.4% of the accepted value from ICRU Report 34. For LET-dependent G values at the end of the chemical stage, intertrack effects were significant at LET values below 2 keV/µm. Above 2 keV/µm the reaction kinetics remained limited locally within each track and thus, effects of intertrack reactions remained low. Therefore, when track structure simulations are used to investigate the biological damage of FLASH irradiation, these intertrack reactions should be considered. The TOPAS-nBio framework with the expansion to intertrack chemistry simulation provides a useful tool to assist in this task.
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Drury A, de Zeeuw N, Flannery D, McNamara A, Nolan A, O’Brien C, O’Connor K, Payne S, Brady AM. Engaging cancer survivors, healthcare providers and advocates in the development of a colorectal cancer survivorship information resource: A participatory action research study. Ann Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdz277.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Mullins A, Grulke T, Jagadeesan S, McNamara A, Roberts S, Salcher K. Evaluation of Safety and Cost-Effectiveness of Lab Ordering Practices for Patients on Parenteral Nutrition. J Acad Nutr Diet 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2019.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Rigney M, McNamara A, Fox J, Manuel G, Winstone S. P1.02-11 Lung Cancer Symptom Awareness: Findings from a Global Consumer Survey. J Thorac Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2018.08.681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Peterson J, Budlong H, Tisthammer B, Paine T, McNamara A, Simonson D. Ensuring continuity of care for patients transitioning from intravenous to subcutaneous therapy at a health system owned specialty pharmacy. J Drug Assess 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/21556660.2018.1521080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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McNamara A, Budlong H, Peterson J, Tisthammer B. Specialty pharmacy patient and provider engagement improveshepatitis C outcomes. J Drug Assess 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/21556660.2018.1521094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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Ramos-Méndez J, Perl J, Schuemann J, McNamara A, Paganetti H, Faddegon B. Monte Carlo simulation of chemistry following radiolysis with TOPAS-nBio. Phys Med Biol 2018; 63:105014. [PMID: 29697057 PMCID: PMC6027650 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/aac04c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Simulation of water radiolysis and the subsequent chemistry provides important information on the effect of ionizing radiation on biological material. The Geant4 Monte Carlo toolkit has added chemical processes via the Geant4-DNA project. The TOPAS tool simplifies the modeling of complex radiotherapy applications with Geant4 without requiring advanced computational skills, extending the pool of users. Thus, a new extension to TOPAS, TOPAS-nBio, is under development to facilitate the configuration of track-structure simulations as well as water radiolysis simulations with Geant4-DNA for radiobiological studies. In this work, radiolysis simulations were implemented in TOPAS-nBio. Users may now easily add chemical species and their reactions, and set parameters including branching ratios, dissociation schemes, diffusion coefficients, and reaction rates. In addition, parameters for the chemical stage were re-evaluated and updated from those used by default in Geant4-DNA to improve the accuracy of chemical yields. Simulation results of time-dependent and LET-dependent primary yields Gx (chemical species per 100 eV deposited) produced at neutral pH and 25 °C by short track-segments of charged particles were compared to published measurements. The LET range was 0.05-230 keV µm-1. The calculated Gx values for electrons satisfied the material balance equation within 0.3%, similar for protons albeit with long calculation time. A smaller geometry was used to speed up proton and alpha simulations, with an acceptable difference in the balance equation of 1.3%. Available experimental data of time-dependent G-values for [Formula: see text] agreed with simulated results within 7% ± 8% over the entire time range; for [Formula: see text] over the full time range within 3% ± 4%; for H2O2 from 49% ± 7% at earliest stages and 3% ± 12% at saturation. For the LET-dependent Gx, the mean ratios to the experimental data were 1.11 ± 0.98, 1.21 ± 1.11, 1.05 ± 0.52, 1.23 ± 0.59 and 1.49 ± 0.63 (1 standard deviation) for [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], H2, H2O2 and [Formula: see text], respectively. In conclusion, radiolysis and subsequent chemistry with Geant4-DNA has been successfully incorporated in TOPAS-nBio. Results are in reasonable agreement with published measured and simulated data.
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McNamara A. 97: Barriers to early detection of lung cancer in Ireland. Lung Cancer 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/s0169-5002(17)30147-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Grassberger C, Dinkelborg P, McNamara A, Schuemann J, McMahon S, Willers H, Paganetti H, Wang M. Digital Holographic Microscopy for Nanoscale Dose Calculation and Assessing Gold Nanoparticle Uptake in Live Cells. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2016.06.426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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McMahon S, McNamara A, Schuemann J, Prise K, Paganetti H. WE-H-BRA-07: Mechanistic Modelling of the Relative Biological Effectiveness of Heavy Charged Particles. Med Phys 2016. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4957998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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McNamara A, Underwood T, Wo J, Paganetti H. SU-F-T-132: Variable RBE Models Predict Possible Underestimation of Vaginal Dose for Anal Cancer Patients Treated Using Single-Field Proton Treatments. Med Phys 2016. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4956268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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McNamara A, Perl J, Piersimoni P, Ramos-Mendez J, Faddegon B, Held K, Paganetti H, Schuemann J. WE-H-BRA-04: Biological Geometries for the Monte Carlo Simulation Toolkit TOPASNBio. Med Phys 2016. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4957995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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McNamara A. 102 Lung cancer in Ireland 2010–2015 – are we making progress? Lung Cancer 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0169-5002(16)30119-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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McNamara A, McMahon S, Lin Y, Paganetti H, Kuncic Z, Schuemann J. TU-F-CAMPUS-T-04: Using Gold Nanoparticles to Target Mitochondria in Radiation Therapy. Med Phys 2015. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4925819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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McNamara A, Schuemann J, Paganetti H. SU-F-BRD-13: A Phenomenological Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) Model for Proton Therapy Based On All Published in Vitro Cell Survival Data. Med Phys 2015. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4925192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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McNamara A, Deegan A. 107: Lung cancer – You can avoid it, get it, survive it; an evaluation of the Irish Cancer Society's annual lung cancer awareness campaign from 2011 to 2013. Lung Cancer 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s0169-5002(15)50102-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Yao Y, Moon KS, McNamara A, Wong CP. Water Vapor Treatment for Decreasing the Adhesion between Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes and the Growth Substrate. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1002/cvde.201304319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Pulido-Rios MT, McNamara A, Obedencio GP, Ji Y, Jaw-Tsai S, Martin WJ, Hegde SS. In Vivo Pharmacological Characterization of TD-4208, a Novel Lung-Selective Inhaled Muscarinic Antagonist with Sustained Bronchoprotective Effect in Experimental Animal Models. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2013; 346:241-50. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.113.203554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Garvey P, McKeown P, Kelly P, Cormican M, Anderson W, Flack A, Barron S, De Lappe N, Buckley J, Cosgrove C, Molloy D, O' Connor J, O' Sullivan P, Matthews J, Ward M, Breslin A, O' Sullivan MB, Kelleher K, McNamara A, Foley-Nolan C, Pelly H, Cloak F. Investigation and management of an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium DT8 associated with duck eggs, Ireland 2009 to 2011. Euro Surveill 2013; 18:20454. [PMID: 23611032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella Typhimurium DT8 was a very rare cause of human illness in Ireland between 2000 and 2008, with only four human isolates from three patients being identified. Over a 19-month period between August 2009 and February 2011, 34 confirmed cases and one probable case of Salmonella Typhimurium DT8 were detected, all of which had an MLVA pattern 2-10-NA-12-212 or a closely related pattern. The epidemiological investigations strongly supported a linkbetween illness and exposure to duck eggs. Moreover, S. Typhimurium with an MLVA pattern indistinguishable (or closely related) to the isolates from human cases, was identified in 22 commercial and backyard duck flocks, twelve of which were linked with known human cases. A range of control measures were taken at farm level, and advice was provided to consumers on the hygienic handling and cooking of duck eggs. Although no definitive link was established with a concurrent duck egg-related outbreak of S. Typhimurium DT8 in the United Kingdom, it seems likely that the two events were related. It may be appropriate for other countries with a tradition of consuming duck eggs to consider the need for measures to reduce the risk of similar outbreaks.
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Garvey P, McKeown P, Kelly P, Cormican M, Anderson W, Flack A, Barron S, De Lappe N, Buckley J, Cosgrove C, Molloy D, O’Connor J, O’Sullivan P, Matthews J, Ward M, Breslin A, O’Sullivan MB, Kelleher K, McNamara A, Foley-Nolan C, Pelly H, Cloak F, Outbreak control team C. Investigation and management of an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium DT8 associated with duck eggs, Ireland 2009 to 2011. Euro Surveill 2013. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.18.16.20454-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
>Salmonella Typhimurium DT8 was a very rare cause of human illness in Ireland between 2000 and 2008, with only four human isolates from three patients being identified. Over a 19-month period between August 2009 and February 2011, 34 confirmed cases and one probable case of Salmonella Typhimurium DT8 were detected, all of which had an MLVA pattern 2-10-NA-12-212 or a closely related pattern. The epidemiological investigations strongly supported a link between illness and exposure to duck eggs. Moreover, S. Typhimurium with an MLVA pattern indistinguishable (or closely related) to the isolates from human cases, was identified in 22 commercial and backyard duck flocks, twelve of which were linked with known human cases. A range of control measures were taken at farm level, and advice was provided to consumers on the hygienic handling and cooking of duck eggs. Although no definitive link was established with a concurrent duck egg-related outbreak of S. Typhimurium DT8 in the United Kingdom, it seems likely that the two events were related. It may be appropriate for other countries with a tradition of consuming duck eggs to consider the need for measures to reduce the risk of similar outbreaks.
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McNamara A, Gunter K. The influence of participation in Better Bones and Balance™ on skeletal health: evaluation of a community-based exercise program to reduce fall and fracture risk. Osteoporos Int 2012; 23:1813-22. [PMID: 22037971 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-011-1816-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Older women participating in Better Bones and Balance™ (BBB) had similar bone mass at the hip compared to a sample of low active/sedentary controls. However, both groups had higher than expected hip BMD, despite higher risk for osteoporosis among BBB participants. INTRODUCTION BBB is a community-based fall and fracture risk reduction program shown to reduce bone loss at the hip in older women under controlled laboratory conditions. Whether bone benefits are derived from BBB as delivered in the community setting is unknown. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between community-based BBB participation and parameters of skeletal health in postmenopausal women. METHODS Women were recruited from BBB classes (n=69) and compared to low active/sedentary controls (n=46); total sample aged 69 + 7.7 years. Bone mineral density (BMD) of the hip and spine was measured using DXA; hip bone structure [cross-sectional area, cross-sectional moment of inertia] at the narrow neck and intertrochanter were derived using hip structural analysis software. Diet, physical activity, and health history were assessed by questionnaires. Group differences in bone outcomes were determined using ANCOVA controlling for age and body mass. RESULTS While controls were heavier and exhibited greater total body BMD compared to BBB participants (p<0.05), there were no differences between groups in hip or spine BMD or bone structural outcomes (p>0.05) despite BBB participants reporting more frequent prior diagnoses of or risk factors for osteoporosis compared to controls. Both controls and BBB participants had higher than average T-scores at the hip (p<0.05) when compared to an age-matched cohort from NHANES. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that participation in BBB may not result in direct benefits to bone. However long-term participation may be associated with other positive outcomes.
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Blake S, Vial P, Holloway L, McNamara A, Greer P, Kuncic Z. SU-E-I-109: Sensitivity Analysis of an Electronic Portal Imaging Device Monte Carlo Model to Variations in Optical Transport Parameters. Med Phys 2012; 39:3650. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4734826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Vial P, Deshpande S, Blake S, McNamara A, Holloway L, Greer P, Kuncic Z. TH-C-BRA-11: First Experiments of a Prototype Device for Simultaneous Imaging and Dose Verification in Radiotherapy. Med Phys 2012. [DOI: 10.1118/1.4736327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Cullen G, Martin J, O'Donnell J, Boland M, Canny M, Keane E, McNamara A, O'Hora A, Fitzgerald M, Jackson S, Igoe D, O'Flanagan D. Surveillance of the first 205 confirmed hospitalised cases of pandemic H1N1 influenza in Ireland, 28 April - 3 October 2009. Euro Surveill 2009; 14:19389. [PMID: 19941779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
From 28 April 2009 to 3 October 2009, 205 cases of confirmed pandemic H1N1 influenza were hospitalised in Ireland. Detailed case-based epidemiological information was gathered on all hospitalised cases. Age-specific hospitalisation rates were highest in the age group of 15 to 19 year-olds and lowest in those aged 65 years and over. Nineteen hospitalised cases (9%) were admitted to intensive care units (ICU) where the median length of stay was 24 days. Four hospitalised cases (2%) died. Fifty-one percent of hospitalised cases and 42% of ICU cases were not in a recognised risk group. Asthma was the most common risk factor among cases; however, people with haemoglobinopathies and immunosuppression were the most over-represented groups.
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Zhang Y, Wang F, Tompkins KC, McNamara A, Jain AV, Moore BB, Toews GB, Huffnagle GB, Olszewski MA. Robust Th1 and Th17 immunity supports pulmonary clearance but cannot prevent systemic dissemination of highly virulent Cryptococcus neoformans H99. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2009; 175:2489-500. [PMID: 19893050 DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2009.090530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study dissected the role of a Th2 bias in pathogenesis of Cryptococcus neoformans H99 infection by comparing inhalational H99 infections in wild-type BALB/c and IL-4/IL-13 double knockout mice. H99-infected wild-type mice showed all major hallmarks of Th2 but not Th1/Th17 immunity in the lungs and lung-associated lymph nodes. In contrast, the IL-4/13(-/-) mice developed robust hallmarks of Th1 and Th17 but not Th2 polarization. The IL-4/IL-13 deletion prevented pulmonary eosinophilia, goblet cell metaplasia in the airways and resulted in elevated serum IgE, and a switch from alternative to classical activation of macrophages. The development of a robust Th1/Th17 response and classical activation of macrophages resulted in significant containment of H99 in the lungs of IL-4/13(-/-) mice compared with unopposed growth of H99 in the lungs of wild-type mice. However, IL-4/13(-/-) mice showed only 1-week longer survival compared with wild-type mice. The comparison of brain and spleen cryptococcal loads at weeks 2, 3, and 4 postinfection revealed that the systemic dissemination in IL-4/13(-/-) mice occurred with an approximate 1-week delay but subsequently progressed with similar rate as in the wild-type mice. Furthermore, wild-type and IL-4/13(-/-) mice developed equivalently severe meningitis/encephalitis at the time of death. These data indicate that the Th2 immune bias is a crucial mechanism for pulmonary virulence of H99, whereas other mechanisms are largely responsible for its central nervous system tropism and systemic dissemination.
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Cullen G, Martin J, O’Donnell J, Boland M, Canny M, Keane E, McNamara A, O’Hora A, Fitzgerald M, Jackson S, Igoe D, O’Flanagan D. Surveillance of the first 205 confirmed hospitalised cases of pandemic H1N1 influenza in Ireland, 28 April – 3 October 2009. Euro Surveill 2009. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.14.44.19389-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
From 28 April 2009 to 3 October 2009, 205 cases of confirmed pandemic H1N1 influenza were hospitalised in Ireland. Detailed case-based epidemiological information was gathered on all hospitalised cases. Age-specific hospitalisation rates were highest in the age group of 15 to 19 year-olds and lowest in those aged 65 years and over. Nineteen hospitalised cases (9%) were admitted to intensive care units (ICU) where the median length of stay was 24 days. Four hospitalised cases (2%) died. Fifty-one percent of hospitalised cases and 42% of ICU cases were not in a recognised risk group. Asthma was the most common risk factor among cases; however, people with haemoglobinopathies and immunosuppression were the most over-represented groups.
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Schwindack C, Siminotto E, Meyer M, McNamara A, Marshall I, Wardlaw JM, Whittle IR. Real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-fMRI) in patients with brain tumours: preliminary findings using motor and language paradigms. Br J Neurosurg 2009; 19:25-32. [PMID: 16147579 DOI: 10.1080/02688690500089621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Functional MRI (fMRI) shows areas of the brain that are active during a task, but the standard approach (offline analysis after the imaging has finished) precludes tailoring of the imaging to the individual patient, e.g. for assessing normal function around an individual lesion. The aims of the study were to explore the technical feasibility of acquiring functional images in real-time (rt-fMRI), develop the necessary software interfaces and protocols for image acquisition, and to compare images of functional activation acquired in real-time with the standard offline statistical parametric method in patients with solitary brain tumours. Patients with a solitary supratentorial lesion were studied. The rt-fMRI paradigms were sequential finger opposition, ankle movement and language function (correct recognition of grammatically violated sentences). Datasets were analysed using AFNI software (National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA) for the real-time analysis and SPM99 (Functional Imaging Laboratory, University College, London, UK) for the offline analysis. From 11 patients, useful data were obtained in nine. The finger tapping task produced most consistent activation between real-time and offline analysis with good anatomic localization to the primary motor cortex contralateral to the tapping finger. Ankle movement produced weaker activation and correlation with real-time analysis. For the language task the offline analysis provided reproducible activation patterns, but the real-time method showed no activation at the chosen threshold of p = 0.001. Tumourous areas of brain did not show any activation with either method of analysis during any task. rt-fMRI is feasible and could be a valuable functional evaluation tool in the planning of surgery for tumours in motor regions of the brain. Further paradigm development is required for evaluation of language, and possibly other more complex executive functions.
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McNamara A, Sterr A. Connectivity in the mesolimbic reward system is modulated by personality and reward bias. Neuroimage 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1053-8119(09)70821-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Blangero A, Menz MM, McNamara A, Binkofski F. Parietal modules for reaching. Neuropsychologia 2008; 47:1500-7. [PMID: 19109986 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2008.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2008] [Revised: 11/15/2008] [Accepted: 11/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Optic ataxia (OA) is classically defined as a deficit of visually guided movements that follows lesions of the posterior part of the posterior parietal cortex (PPC). Since the formalisation of the double stream of visual information processing [Milner, A. D., & Goodale, M. A. (1995). The visual brain in action. Oxford: Oxford University Press] and the use of OA as an argument in favour of the involvement of the posterior parietal cortex (dorsal stream) in visually guided movements, many studies have looked at the visuomotor deficits of these patients. In parallel, the development of neuroimaging methods have led to increasing information about the role of the posterior parietal cortex in visually guided actions. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences in the results that emerged from these two complementary viewpoints by combining a meta-analysis of neuroimaging data on reaching with lesion studies from OA patients and results of our own fMRI study on reaching in the ipsi- and contra-lateral visual field. We identified four bilateral parietal foci from the meta-analysis and found that the more posterior foci showed greater lateralisation for contralateral visual stimulation than more anterior ones Additionally, the more anterior foci showed greater lateralisation for the use of the contralateral hand than the more posterior ones. Therefore, we can demonstrate that they are organised along a postero-anterior gradient of visual-to-somatic information integration. Furthermore, from the combination of imaging and lesion data it can be inferred that a lesion of the three most posterior foci responsible for the target-hand integration could explain the hand and field effect revealed in OA reaching behaviour.
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Weyer M, Albarrak A, McNamara A, Laires M. Readers' perspective. The financial market crisis will slow down provider purchases of health I.T during 2009. HEALTH DATA MANAGEMENT 2008; 16:8. [PMID: 19140542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
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Ertelt D, McNamara A, Dettmers C, Hamzei F, Buccino G, Binkofski F. Bewegungsbeobachtung reaktiviert das sensomotorische Netzwerk bei der Erholung nach Schlaganfall. AKTUELLE NEUROLOGIE 2006. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-953477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Ertelt D, Buccino G, Dettmers C, McNamara A, Binkofski F. The role of action observation in rehabilitation of motor deficits. AKTUELLE NEUROLOGIE 2005. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-919486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Ragert P, McNamara A, Dinse H, Büchel C, Tegenthoff M, Binkofski F. Learning a novel movement requires functional connectivity changes within primary motor cortex (M1). AKTUELLE NEUROLOGIE 2005. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-919570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Beggan E, Whyte D, FitzGerald R, de Freitas J, McNamara A, Callinan S, Kelleher K. Human brucellosis in the Mid-West 2002-3. IRISH MEDICAL JOURNAL 2005; 98:278-80. [PMID: 16300109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Human brucellosis remains a serious public health issue in Ireland. Clinical notifications in the Mid-Western Area (HSE-MWA) underestimate the burden of illness and attendant morbidity in the region. The diagnosis of acute and chronic human brucellosis depends on the clinical evidence and the results from laboratory serological testing or culture on rare occasion. This study examined the clinical evidence behind locally defined serological "positives" in the HSE-MWA from 2002 to 2003. Ninety cases were detected in 2002 and 31 in 2003. While sampling bias is likely to be present, aspects of brucellosis in Ireland were confirmed. Middle-aged males were most commonly affected. The majority of cases were linked to farming or veterinary practice. Symptoms such as sweats, fever and weight loss were commonly associated with acute brucellosis infection while malaise was common in acute and chronic brucellosis. A clear definition of what is notifiable is needed. Surveillance systems must appreciate the importance of both clinical and laboratory evidence to classify confirmed or probable brucellosis as paired sera were not common. Public health authorities must follow-up the clinical aspects for accurate national statistics. General practitioners in the Mid-West appear to be vigilant regarding brucellosis in their patients. Regional zoonoses committees are useful in monitoring disease prevalence in human and animal populations without compromising confidentiality.
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Raptopoulos V, McNamara A. Improved pelvicalyceal visualization with multidetector computed tomography urography; comparison with helical computed tomography. Eur Radiol 2005; 15:1834-40. [PMID: 15761715 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-005-2699-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2004] [Revised: 01/10/2005] [Accepted: 01/18/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to compare the quality of pelvicalyceal visualization on computed tomography (CT) urography using a small intravenous contrast material dose, hydration, and high-resolution multidetector CT (MDCT) with that of conventional helical CT. The test (MDCT) group (49 consecutive patients, 98 kidneys) was scanned 5 min following an intravenous bolus of 30 ml of iodinated contrast material. The control (helical CT) group (50 consecutive patients, 95 kidneys) was scanned 5 min following injection of 120-150 ml of intravenous contrast material. Enhancement and quality of calyceal detail were measured using a five-scale grading system (1 for no detail, 5 for cupped calyces). Calyceal attenuation was substantial in both groups (more than 220 Hounsfield units, HU) but less in the test group compared with the control group (mean 475 and 920 HU, respectively), p<0.0001. In the test group, the calyceal attenuation was less than 500 HU in the majority of cases (65/98 kidneys), while the opposite was true for the control group, where calyceal attenuation was more than 750 HU in 50/95 kidneys (p<0.001). The quality of calyceal detail was 3.4/5 in the test group compared with 1.8/5 in the control group (p<0.0001). The combination of hydration, low-contrast dose, and the high image resolution achieved with MDCT significantly improves calyceal visualization in CT urography.
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Gerlai R, McNamara A, Choi-Lundberg DL, Armanini M, Ross J, Powell-Braxton L, Phillips HS. Impaired water maze learning performance without altered dopaminergic function in mice heterozygous for the GDNF mutation. Eur J Neurosci 2001; 14:1153-63. [PMID: 11683907 DOI: 10.1046/j.0953-816x.2001.01724.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Exogenous glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) exhibits potent survival-promoting effects on dopaminergic neurons of the nigrostriatal pathway that is implicated in Parkinson's disease and also protects neurons in forebrain ischemia of animal models. However, a role for endogenous GDNF in brain function has not been established. Although mice homozygous for a targeted deletion of the GDNF gene have been generated, these mice die within hours of birth because of deficits in kidney morphogenesis, and, thus, the effect of the absence of GDNF on brain function could not be studied. Herein, we sought to determine whether adult mice, heterozygous for a GDNF mutation on two different genetic backgrounds, demonstrate alterations in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system or in cognitive function. While both neurochemical and behavioural measures suggested that reduction of GDNF gene expression in the mutant mice does not alter the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system, it led to a significant and selective impairment of performance in the spatial version of the Morris water maze. A standard panel of blood chemistry tests and basic pathological analyses did not reveal alterations in the mutants that could account for the observed performance deficit. These results suggest that endogenous GDNF may not be critical for the development and functioning of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system but it plays an important role in cognitive abilities.
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