Enhancing anti-EGFRvIII CAR T cell therapy against glioblastoma with a paracrine SIRPγ-derived CD47 blocker.

A significant challenge for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy against glioblastoma (GBM) is its immunosuppressive microenvironment, which is densely populated by protumoral glioma-associated microglia and macrophages (GAMs). Myeloid immune checkpoint therapy targeting the CD47-signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) axis induces GAM phagocytic function, but CD47 blockade monotherapy is associated with toxicity and low bioavailability in solid tumors. In this work, we engineer a CAR T cell against epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII), constitutively secreting a signal regulatory protein gamma-related protein (SGRP) with high affinity to CD47.

Targeting the Siglec-sialic acid axis promotes antitumor immune responses in preclinical models of glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive form of primary brain tumor, for which effective therapies are urgently needed. Cancer cells are capable of evading clearance by phagocytes such as microglia- and monocyte-derived cells through engaging tolerogenic programs. Here, we found that high expression of sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin 9 (Siglec-9) correlates with reduced survival in patients with GBM.

[Introduction of an Ultrasound Course Based on Peer-Tutoring - An Update on the Blended Learning Basic Course Sonography].

Introduction of an Ultrasound Course Based on Peer-Tutoring - An Update on the Blended Learning Basic Course Sonography Following the introduction of the new Swiss learning objectives catalogue 'PROFILES', the ability to carry out simple ultrasound examinations has become mandatory for undergraduates. Thanks to a collaboration between the Bern Institute of Primary Health Care and the 'Young Sonographers' SGUM section, the SGUM's classic-format basic abdomen teaching module has been changed into a 'blended learning' teaching format with 'peer tutoring'. It is particularly intended for students and junior doctors.

Violent behaviour among Turkish high school students and correlates of physical fighting.

Background: The purpose of this study was to provide data about the prevalence of violent behaviour among high school students living in Istanbul and to determine the correlates of physical fighting.

Method: This study involved the completion of a modified version of 'Health Behaviour in School Age Children (HBSC) 1997/1998' survey questionnaire by 4153 grade 9-11 students. Chi square tests and forward stepwise multiple logistic regression models were used for statistical analyses.