Transition to law school and law student well-being : The importance of professional legal identity

The empirically established decline in law student well-being during the first year of law school is a red-flagged imprimatur for first year curriculum change. This article suggests that by engaging law students with the concept of a positive professional identity, student engagement and intrinsic motivation will increase because they are working towards a career goal that has meaning and purpose. Law school is a time of professional transformation and the legal academy can take steps to ensure that this transformation is inculcated with positive messages. Literature from the fields of law and psychology is analysed in this article, to explain how a positive conception of the legal profession (and a student’s future role within it) can increase a student’s psychological well-being – at law school and beyond.

Development of an ultra-thin fibroin membrane for RPE cell transplantation

Purpose: One of the challenges associated with cell-based therapies for repairing the retina is the development of suitable materials on which to grow and transplant retinal cells. Using the ARPE-19 cell line, we have previously demonstrated the feasibility of growing RPE-derived cells on membranes prepared from the silk protein fibroin. The present study was aimed at developing a porous, ultra-thin fibroin membrane that might better support development of apical-basal polarity in culture, and to extend this work to primary cultures of human RPE cells. Methods: Ultra-thin fibroin membranes were prepared using a highly polished casting table coated with Topas® (a cyclic olefin copolymer) and a 1:0.03 aqueous solution of fibroin and PEO (Mv 900 000 g/mol). Following drying, the membranes were water annealed to make them water-stable, washed in water to remove PEO, sterilised by treatment with 95% ethanol, and washed extensively in saline. Primary cultures containing human RPE cells were established from donor posterior eye cups and maintained in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and antibiotics. First passage cultures were seeded onto fibroin membranes pre-coated with vitronectin and grown for 6 weeks in medium supplemented with 1% serum. Comparative cultures were established on porous 1.0 µm pore PET membrane (Millipore) and using ARPE-19 cells. Results: The fibroin membranes displayed an average thickness of 3 µm and contained numerous dimples/pore-like structures of up to 3-5 µm in diameter. The primary cultures predominantly contained pigmented epithelial cells, but mesenchymal cells (presumed fibroblasts) were also often present. Passaged cultures appeared to attach equally well to either fibroin or PET membranes. Over time cells on either material adopted a more cobblestoned morphology. Conclusions: Progress has been made towards developing a porous ultra-thin fibroin membrane that supports cultivation of RPE cells. Further studies are required to determine the degree of membrane permeability and RPE polarity.

Mesenchymal stem cells and nano-structured surfaces

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent multipotent stromal cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types, including osteoblasts (bone cells), chondrocytes (cartilage cells), and adipocytes (fat cells). Their multi-potency provides a great promise as a cell source for tissue engineering and cell-based therapy for many diseases, particularly bone diseases and bone formation. To be able to direct and modulate the differentiation of MSCs into the desired cell types in situ in the tissue, nanotechnology is introduced and used to facilitate or promote cell growth and differentiation. These nano-materials can provide a fine structure and tuneable surface in nanoscales to help the cell adhesion and promote the cell growth and differentiation of MSCs. This could be a dominant direction in future for stem cells based therapy or tissue engineering for various diseases. Therefore, the isolation, manipulation, and differentiation of MSCs are very important steps to make meaningful use of MSCs for disease treatments. In this chapter, we have described a method of isolating MSC from human bone marrow, and how to culture and differentiate them in vitro. We have also provided research methods on how to use MSCs in an in vitro model and how to observe MSC biological response on the surface of nano-scaled materials.

Encapsulation of transition metal species into zeolites and molecular sieves as redox catalysts: Part I-preparation and characterisation of nanosized TiO2, CdO and ZnO semiconductor particles anchored in NaY zeolite

In this paper, we report the preparation and characterisation of nanometer-sized TiO2, CdO, and ZnO semiconductor particles trapped in zeolite NaY. Preparation of these particles was carried out via the traditional ion exchange method and subsequent calcination procedure. It was found that the smaller cations, i.e., Cd2+ and Zn2+ could be readily introduced into the SI′ and SII′ sites located in the sodalite cages, through ion exchange; while this is not the case for the larger Ti species, i.e., Ti monomer [TiO]2+ or dimer [Ti2O3]2+ which were predominantly dispersed on the external surface of zeolite NaY. The subsequent calcination procedure promoted these Ti species to migrate into the internal surface of the supercages. These semiconductor particles confined in NaY zeolite host exhibited a significant blue shift in the UV-VIS absorption spectra, in contrast to the respective bulk semiconductor materials, due to the quantum size effect (QSE). The particle sizes calculated from the UV-VIS optical absorption spectra using the effective mass approximation model are in good agreement with the atomic absorption data.

Interactions between undifferentiated and osteogenically differentiated mesenchymal stromal cells during osteogenesis

The body of work presented in this dissertation has demonstrated that the interactions between donor cells and host cells are critical for bone repair and regeneration. The donor cells secrete VEGF which activates the downstream PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, ultimately leading to host cell recruitment and robust bone regeneration. The findings from this dissertation may provide a scientific rationale for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in the treatment and management of bone defects.

Transition to palliative care for people living with metastatic melanoma : preliminary findings from a grounded theory study

Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. Five-year survival rates for patients with metastatic melanoma are less than 10%, with a median survival of 6 to 9 months. Despite a number of clinical trials for metastatic melanoma, the treatment options for patients are limited. Palliation is often the main goal of treatment. This constructivist grounded theory study is seeking to examine how people with metastatic melanoma negotiate the transition to palliative care. The method of sampling is purposive and data have been generated through semi-structured interviews with those with metastatic melanoma and partners. Open, focused and theoretical coding of data from 13 interviews conducted to date has produced analytical concepts that reflect how the transition is negotiated. These concepts depict ways in which individuals interact with a fragmented health care system and how meanings are constructed around the rapid progression of the disease and uncertain treatment decisions. The preliminary findings reported upon here are being further explored with a larger sample. The findings to date highlight the need for improved coordination of services for those living with metastatic melanoma, and improved support for individuals dealing with uncertainty.

Evaluation of canine bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells after long-term cryopreservation

Autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSCs)-based therapies show great potential in regenerative medicine. However, long-term storage and preservation of BMSCs for clinical use is still a great clinical challenge. The present study aimed to analyze the effect of long-term cryopreservation on the regenerative ability of BMSCs. After cryopreservation of BMSCs from beagle dogs for three years, cell viability, and quantitative analysis of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, surface adherence, and mineralized nodule formation were analyzed. BMSCs in cell-scaffold complex were then implanted into nude mice. There was no significant difference in cell viability and ALP activity between osteogenic differentiation and non-osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, and BMSCs in cell-scaffold complex retained osteogenic differentiation ability in vivo. These results indicate that long-term cryopreserved BMSCs maintain their have capacity to contribute to regeneration.

Phase II trial of Oxaliplatin and 5-Fluorouracil/Leucovorin combination in epithelial ovarian carcinoma relapsing within 2 years of platinum-based therapy

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of Oxaliplatin and 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)/Leucovorin (LV) combination in ovarian cancer relapsing within 2 years of prior platinum-based chemotherapy in a phase II trial. Methods Eligible patients had at least one prior platinum-based chemotherapy regimen, elevated CA-125 ≥ 60 IU/l, radiological evidence of disease progression and adequate hepatic, renal and bone marrow function. Patients with raised CA-125 levels alone as marker of disease relapse were not eligible. Oxaliplatin (85 mg/m 2) was given on day 1, and 5-Fluorouracil (370 mg/m 2) and Leucovorin (30 mg) was given on days 1 and 8 of a 14-day cycle. Results Twenty-seven patients were enrolled. The median age was 57 years (range 42-74 years). The median platinum-free interval (PFI) was 5 months (range 0-17 months) with only 30% of patients being platinum sensitive (PFI > 6 months). Six patients (22%) had two prior regimens of chemotherapy. A total of 191 cycles were administered (median 7; range 2-12). All patients were evaluable for toxicity. The following grade 3/4 toxicities were noted: anemia 4%; neutropenia 15%; thrombocytopenia 11%; neurotoxicity 8%; lethargy 4%; diarrhea 4%; hypokalemia 11%; hypomagnesemia 11%. Among 27 enrolled patients, 20 patients were evaluable for response by WHO criteria and 25 patients were evaluable by Rustin's CA-125 criteria. The overall response rate (RR) by WHO criteria was 30% (95% CI: 15- 52) [three complete responses (CRs) and three partial responses (PRs)]. The CA-125 response rate was 56% (95% CI: 37-73). Significantly, a 25% (95% CI: 9-53) radiological and a 50% (95% CI: 28-72) CA-125 response rate were noted in platinum resistant patients (PFI < 6 months). The median response duration was 4 months (range 3-12) and the median overall survival was 10 months. Conclusion Oxaliplatin and 5-Fluorouracil/ Leucovorin combination has a good safety profile and is active in platinum-pretreated advanced epithelial ovarian cancer. © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Australian screen producer in transition

The role of the screen producer is ramifying. Not only are there numerous producer categories, but the screen producer function is also found on a continuum across film, television, advertising, corporate video, and the burgeoning digital media sector. In recent years, fundamental changes to distribution and consumption practices and technologies should have had a correlate impact on screen production practices and on the role of existing screen producers. At the same time, new and recent producers are learning and practicing their craft in a field that has already been transformed by digitisation and media convergence. Our analysis of the work, experience and outlook of screen producers in this chapter is based on data collected in the Australian Screen Producer Survey (ASPS), a nation-wide survey conducted by the ARC Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries and Innovation, the media marketing firm Bergent Research, and the Centre for Screen Business at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School (AFTRS) in 2008/09 and 2011. We analyse the results to better understand the practice of screen production in a period of industry transition, and to recognise the persistence of established production cultures that serve to distinguish different industry sectors.

Sex hormone regulation of innate immunity in the female reproductive tract : the role of epithelial cells in balancing reproductive potential with protection against sexually transmitted pathogens

The immune system in the female reproductive tract (FRT) does not mount an attack against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STI) with a single endogenously produced microbicide or with a single arm of the immune system. Instead, the body deploys dozens of innate antimicrobials to the secretions of the female reproductive tract. Working together, these antimicrobials along with mucosal antibodies attack many different viral, bacterial and fungal targets. Within the FRT, the unique challenges of protection against sexually transmitted pathogens coupled with the need to sustain the development of an allogeneic fetus have evolved in such a way that sex hormones precisely regulate immune function to accomplish both tasks. The studies presented in this review demonstrate that estradiol and progesterone secreted during the menstrual cycle act both directly and indirectly on epithelial cells and other immune cells in the reproductive tract to modify immune function in a way that is unique to specific sites throughout the FRT. As presented in this review, studies from our laboratory and others demonstrate that the innate immune response is under hormonal control, varies with the stage of the menstrual cycle, and as such is suppressed at mid-cycle to optimize conditions for successful fertilization and pregnancy. In doing so, a window of STI vulnerability is created during which potential pathogens including HIV enter the reproductive tract to infect host targets.

Managing the transition : the role of optimism and self-efficacy for first-year Australian university students

Students making the transition from high school to university often encounter many stressors and new experiences. Many students adjust successfully to university; however, some students do not, often resulting in attrition from the university and mental health issues. The primary aim of the current study was to examine the effects that optimism, self-efficacy, depression, and anxiety have on an individual's life stress and adaptation to university. Eighty-four first-year, full-time students from the Queensland University of Technology (60 female, 24 male) who had entered university straight from high school completed the study. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing their levels of optimism, self-efficacy, depression, anxiety, perceived level of life stress and adaptation to university. In line with predictions, results showed that optimism, depression, and anxiety each had a significant relationship with students’ perceived level of stress. Furthermore, self-efficacy and depression had a significant relationship with adaptation to university. We conclude that students with high levels of optimism and low levels of depression and anxiety will adapt better when making the transition from high school to university. In addition, students with high levels of self-efficacy and low levels of depression will experience less life stress in their commencement year of university. The implications of this study are outlined.

Toward biomimetic materials in bone regeneration : functional behavior of mesenchymal stem cells on a broad spectrum of extracellular matrix components

Bone defect treatments can be augmented by mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) based therapies. MSC interaction with the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the surrounding tissue regulates their functional behavior. Understanding of these specific regulatory mechanisms is essential for the therapeutic stimulation of MSC in vivo. However, these interactions are presently only partially understood. This study examined in parallel, for the first time, the effects on the functional behavior of MSCs of 13 ECM components from bone, cartilage and hematoma compared to a control protein, and hence draws conclusions for rational biomaterial design. ECM components specifically modulated MSC adhesion, migration, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation, for example, fibronectin facilitated migration, adhesion, and proliferation, but not osteogenic differentiation, whereas fibrinogen enhanced adhesion and proliferation, but not migration. Subsequently, the integrin expression pattern of MSCs was determined and related to the cell behavior on specific ECM components. Finally, on this basis, peptide sequences are reported for the potential stimulation of MSC functions. Based on the results of this study, ECM component coatings could be designed to specifically guide cell functions.