Source:Materials Today
Author(s): Cordelia Sealy
http://ift.tt/2ejXa85
Πέμπτη 20 Οκτωβρίου 2016
Graphene oxide slips through the body
Source:Materials Today
Author(s): Cordelia Sealy
http://ift.tt/2ejXa85
Inconceivable Hypokalemia: A Case Report of Acute Severe Barium Chloride Poisoning
Barium is a heavy divalent alkaline earth metal that has been known as a muscle poison. Barium can cause human toxicity, which may lead to significant hypokalemia and have serious consequences. This paper reports a case of unprecedented barium intoxication in which the patient, who suffered from depression, swallowed at least 3.0 g barium chloride to commit suicide. On admission, the patient presented with nausea, vomiting, stomach burning feeling, dizziness, and weakness. Emergency biochemical testing showed that the patient was suffering from severe hypokalemia (K+ 1.7 mmol/L). His electrocardiogram (ECG) prompted atrioventricular blocking, ventricular tachycardia, prolongation of PR interval, ST segment depression with U waves, and T wave inversion. Intravenous potassium supplements were given immediately to correct hypokalemia and regular monitoring of vital signs and fluid balance was arranged. After all-out rescue of our hospital personnel, the condition of the patient is currently stable and he is gradually recovering. This case exemplifies the weaknesses of the management of toxic substances and the lack of mental health education for young people. We hope to get more attention for the supervision of toxic substances and the healthy development of young people.
http://ift.tt/2dpZESR
A Rare Case of an Irreducible Patella Dislocation
Reports of irreducible patellar dislocations are exceedingly sparse throughout the literature. Obvious radiographic or physical exam findings including fracture or inversion of the patella are often present to explain the block to reduction. Not described previously in the literature is the instance of an irreducible patella dislocation in the setting of innocuous appearing injury imaging. We present a case of a healthy thirty-two-year-old female who sustained an irreducible lateral patella dislocation while participating in a dance aerobics class. Closed means of reduction were unsuccessful, necessitating open reduction. Intraoperative findings suggest incarceration of a nondisplaced fracture and a chondral defect as the block to reduction. Following open reduction, the patient has had no further episodes of pain or instability related to the patella at one-year follow-up. Irreducible patellar dislocations are exceedingly rare injuries, where associated osseous or chondral lesions may necessitate open reduction despite innocuous appearing initial imaging. A high index of suspicion to proceed with open reduction may limit repeated attempts at closed reduction and further injury.
http://ift.tt/2e3YGtg
Adalimumab Induced or Provoked MS in Patient with Autoimmune Uveitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Anti-tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNF-α) agents have been widely used in the field of autoimmune diseases and have proved decisive efficacy and relative safety. Data concerning their adverse effects has been lately describing central nervous system (CNS) demyelination process at escalating basis. Case Presentation. A 23-year-old male with autoimmune uveitis and a family history of multiple sclerosis (MS) developed two neurological attacks, after Adalimumab infusion, simultaneously with several cerebral lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Hence the diagnosis of Adalimumab induced MS was suspected. Conclusion. This case is reported to tell physicians to be cautious when using anti-TNF-α in patients with family history of MS and to reconsider the risk of MS in patients with autoimmune diseases.
http://ift.tt/2dq0DCp
Bowel Ischemia from Heat Stroke: A Rare Presentation of an Uncommon Complication
A healthy 27-year-old female presented to the hospital after she collapsed an hour into her first marathon run on a hot humid day. On presentation, she was hyperthermic, encephalopathic, tachycardic, and hypotensive. On admission, she was found to have lactic acidosis, rhabdomyolysis, and acute kidney injury and was treated with cold normal saline and cooling blankets. She subsequently started having abdominal pain and bloody bowel movements. Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed ascending colon thickening. Furthermore, her lab findings showed transaminitis and elevated coagulation parameters. Due to the acute hypotensive state from the heat stroke, patient had developed bowel ischemia, ischemic hepatitis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation, all of which are uncommon complications of heat stroke. She was managed aggressively with intravenous fluid hydration with resolution of her symptoms over the course of 4 days. In addition to the uncommon complications, early presentation of this bowel ischemia despite adequate hydration in such a healthy individual is another unique aspect of the case.
http://ift.tt/2e3YVoi
Mitochondrial Disorder Aggravated by Metoprolol
Beta-adrenergic blocking agents or beta-blockers are a class of medications used to treat cardiac arrhythmias and systemic hypertension. In therapeutic dosages, they have known adverse outcomes that can include muscular fatigue and cramping, dizziness, and dyspnea. In patients with mitochondrial disease, these effects can be amplified. Previous case reports have been published in the adult population; however, their impact in pediatric patients has not been reported. We describe a pediatric patient with a mitochondrial disorder who developed respiratory distress after metoprolol was prescribed for hypertension. As the patient improved with discontinuation of medication and no alternative etiology was found for symptoms, we surmise that administration of metoprolol aggravated his mitochondrial dysfunction, thus worsening underlying chest wall weakness.
http://ift.tt/2e9gzZf
Treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea with the fractionation of high-fluence, long-pulsed 595-nm pulsed dye laser
Summary
Various lasers have been used for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) that does not respond to systemic or topical therapy. The pulsed dye lasers (PDLs) are an effective option for ETR, and the purpuragenic fluence proved to be superior until now. Given that purpura and subsequent possible postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are occasionally unbearable in some patients, and several studies using the low nonpurpuragenic fluence were reported. To deliver the sufficient high fluence of a PDL without generating purpura, we designed the fractionation of high fluence using five passes and longer pulse duration (6 milliseconds) of a PDL in succession. A total of eight patients with ETR were enrolled in this study; all patients were treated with PDL 10 times at 2-week intervals. Erythema and telangiectasia scores, as well as improvement, were assessed by two physicians using the digital photographs. Moderate-to-marked improvement was achieved in most of the patients, and erythema and telangiectasia scores were significantly decreased. Purpura and PIH were not reported in all patients. The fractionation of high-fluence, long-pulsed 595 nm PDL is a very safe and effective treatment for ETR.
http://ift.tt/2elC73Z
Comparison of the therapeutic efficacy and safety of combined oral tranexamic acid and topical hydroquinone 4% treatment vs. topical hydroquinone 4% alone in melasma: a parallel-group, assessor- and analyst-blinded, randomized controlled trial with a short-term follow-up
Summary
Background
Melasma's high prevalence and profound psychological impact on patients necessitate efficacious, economical, and safe therapeutic interventions. Adjunctive therapies such as tranexamic acid (TA) can enhance the therapeutic effect of standard treatments like hydroquinone 4% cream (HQ).
Objective
To conduct an assessor- and analyst-blinded, parallel, superiority, randomized controlled trial to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of oral TA plus HQ vs. HQ alone in melasma treatment.
Materials and Methods
A total of 100 eligible patients with symmetric facial melasma were assigned to the intervention (250 mg thrice daily oral TA plus HQ 4% cream nightly) or the control group (HQ 4% cream only). Following 3 months of treatment, MASI (melasma area and severity index) score reduction was calculated as the primary outcome measure. After a 3-month follow-up, relapse was also assessed.
Results
A total of 88 patients completed the study. At the end of the 6-month period, the overall mean of the MASI score in the intervention group was 1.8 points lower than in the controls (95% confidence interval, 0.36–3.24, P = 0.015) but the relapse rate was not significantly different (30% vs. 26% in the treatment vs. control group, respectively). Side effect occurrence was also similar, but treatment satisfaction was higher in the intervention group than the controls, with 82.2% vs. 34.95 of patients reporting moderate-to-complete satisfaction, respectively (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Oral TA can enhance the efficacy of hydroquinone 4% cream in melasma treatment, but the high incidence of relapse suggests that treatment effects may be temporary, warranting more investigation.
http://ift.tt/2elFtUK
Treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea with the fractionation of high-fluence, long-pulsed 595-nm pulsed dye laser
Summary
Various lasers have been used for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) that does not respond to systemic or topical therapy. The pulsed dye lasers (PDLs) are an effective option for ETR, and the purpuragenic fluence proved to be superior until now. Given that purpura and subsequent possible postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are occasionally unbearable in some patients, and several studies using the low nonpurpuragenic fluence were reported. To deliver the sufficient high fluence of a PDL without generating purpura, we designed the fractionation of high fluence using five passes and longer pulse duration (6 milliseconds) of a PDL in succession. A total of eight patients with ETR were enrolled in this study; all patients were treated with PDL 10 times at 2-week intervals. Erythema and telangiectasia scores, as well as improvement, were assessed by two physicians using the digital photographs. Moderate-to-marked improvement was achieved in most of the patients, and erythema and telangiectasia scores were significantly decreased. Purpura and PIH were not reported in all patients. The fractionation of high-fluence, long-pulsed 595 nm PDL is a very safe and effective treatment for ETR.
http://ift.tt/2elC73Z
Comparison of the therapeutic efficacy and safety of combined oral tranexamic acid and topical hydroquinone 4% treatment vs. topical hydroquinone 4% alone in melasma: a parallel-group, assessor- and analyst-blinded, randomized controlled trial with a short-term follow-up
Summary
Background
Melasma's high prevalence and profound psychological impact on patients necessitate efficacious, economical, and safe therapeutic interventions. Adjunctive therapies such as tranexamic acid (TA) can enhance the therapeutic effect of standard treatments like hydroquinone 4% cream (HQ).
Objective
To conduct an assessor- and analyst-blinded, parallel, superiority, randomized controlled trial to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of oral TA plus HQ vs. HQ alone in melasma treatment.
Materials and Methods
A total of 100 eligible patients with symmetric facial melasma were assigned to the intervention (250 mg thrice daily oral TA plus HQ 4% cream nightly) or the control group (HQ 4% cream only). Following 3 months of treatment, MASI (melasma area and severity index) score reduction was calculated as the primary outcome measure. After a 3-month follow-up, relapse was also assessed.
Results
A total of 88 patients completed the study. At the end of the 6-month period, the overall mean of the MASI score in the intervention group was 1.8 points lower than in the controls (95% confidence interval, 0.36–3.24, P = 0.015) but the relapse rate was not significantly different (30% vs. 26% in the treatment vs. control group, respectively). Side effect occurrence was also similar, but treatment satisfaction was higher in the intervention group than the controls, with 82.2% vs. 34.95 of patients reporting moderate-to-complete satisfaction, respectively (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Oral TA can enhance the efficacy of hydroquinone 4% cream in melasma treatment, but the high incidence of relapse suggests that treatment effects may be temporary, warranting more investigation.
http://ift.tt/2elFtUK
Short-term associations of fine particulate matter components and emergency hospital admissions among a privately insured population in Greater Houston
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Suyang Liu, Cecilia M. Ganduglia, Xiao Li, George L. Delclos, Luisa Franzini, Kai Zhang
A number of time-series studies have associated PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm) mass and components with various health outcomes. No studies have yet examined the associations between PM2.5 components and hospital admissions among a privately insured population. We estimated the short-term associations between exposure to PM2.5 mass and components and emergency hospital admissions for all-cause and cause-specific diseases in Greater Houston, Texas, during 2008–2013 using Blue Cross Blue Shield Texas claims data. A total of 90,085 emergency hospital admissions were included in this study, with an average of 34 ± 10 admissions per day. We selected 20 PM2.5 components from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Chemical Speciation Network site located in Houston, and then applied Poisson regression models to assess the short-term effects of PM2.5 mass and species on emergency hospital admissions. Effects were estimated without adjustment for other airborne pollutants. PM2.5 mass was not statistically significantly associated with increased all-cause emergency hospital admissions and selected cause-specific admissions. For selected PM2.5 species, we found interquartile range increases in arsenic (0.001 μg/m3) and copper (0.017 μg/m3) were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with increased admissions for stroke, (5.98% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.73, 11.50%]) and pneumonia (4.07% [95% CI: 0.37, 7.90%]), respectively. Seasonal analysis showed weak variation among PM2.5 mass and components, except that nickel significantly increased all-cause emergency hospital admissions (2.16% [95% CI: 0.21, 4.14%]) during the warm season. Our findings suggest that hospital admissions in the privately insured population are slightly affected by ambient fine particulate matter air pollution.
http://ift.tt/2ejCPA6
Seasonal variation of the O3–CO correlation derived from remote sensing measurements over western Japan
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Hirofumi Ohyama, Shuji Kawakami, Osamu Uchino, Tetsu Sakai, Isamu Morino, Tomohiro Nagai, Kei Shiomi, Masanori Sakashita, Taiga Akaho, Hiroshi Okumura, Kohei Arai
We used a lower tropospheric ozone column (LTOC) and column-averaged dry-air mole fraction of carbon monoxide (XCO) data observed in the area around Saga, which is located in western Japan and is close to the Asian continent, with an aim to investigate whether these data can characterize the seasonal variation of the photochemical ozone (O3) formation in the northeast Asian Pacific rim region. The LTOC data after April 2009 were retrieved from thermal infrared spectra measured by the Thermal and Near Infrared Sensor for Carbon Observation-Fourier Transform Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS) onboard the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT). The XCO data after July 2011 were obtained from ground-based high-resolution FTS measurements at Saga. The retrieved LTOCs were validated with those derived from a differential absorption lidar for O3 at Saga. The LTOCs showed a distinct seasonal variation that reached a maximum in late spring (May or June) and a local minimum in winter. In addition to the general seasonal pattern, we observed pronounced minimums in July or August. The XCO concentrations showed a maximum in spring and a minimum in summer. These seasonal patterns are consistent with those observed from mountainous sites in Japan. The origins of the air masses reaching Saga were characterized for each season according to backward trajectories, and the factors causing the temporal variations of the LTOCs and the XCO were identified based on the transport paths of the air masses. The enhancement of the LTOC relative to the XCO (ΔO3/ΔCO ratio) reveals significant positive correlations in the spring and summer seasons with slopes of 0.21 and 0.45 ppb/ppb, respectively. The effects of stratospheric air intrusion on the observed ΔO3/ΔCO ratio in spring were investigated using meteorological data (backward trajectory and potential vorticity) and column-averaged hydrogen fluoride data derived from the ground-based FTS measurements. It was found that there was little contribution of the stratospheric intrusion. This suggests that the positive correlations of the ΔO3/ΔCO ratio are likely to be a result of photochemical O3 production in the troposphere.
http://ift.tt/2dQGRMK
Parameterization of gaseous dry deposition in atmospheric chemistry models: Sensitivity to aerodynamic resistance formulations under statically stable conditions
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Kenjiro Toyota, Ashu P. Dastoor, Andrei Ryzhkov
Turbulence controls the vertical transfer of momentum, heat and trace constituents in the atmospheric boundary layer. In the lowest 10% of this layer lies the surface boundary layer (SBL) where the vertical fluxes of transferred quantities have been successfully parameterized using the Monin-Obukhov similarity theory in weather forecast, climate and atmospheric chemistry models. However, there is a large degree of empiricism in the stability-correction parameterizations used to formulate eddy diffusivity and aerodynamic resistance particularly under strongly stable ambient conditions. Although the influence of uncertainties in stability-correction parameterizations on eddy diffusivity is actively studied in boundary-layer meteorological modeling, its impact on dry deposition in atmospheric chemistry modeling is not well characterized. In this study, we address this gap by providing the mathematical basis for the relationship between the formulations of vertical surface flux used in meteorological and atmospheric chemistry modeling communities, and by examining the sensitivity of the modeled dry deposition velocities in statically stable SBL to the choice of stability-correction parameterizations used in three operational and/or research environmental models (GEM/GEM-MACH, ECMWF IFS and CMAQ-MM5). Aerodynamic resistances (ra) calculated by the three sets of parameterizations are notably different from each other and are also different from those calculated by a "z-less" scaling formulation under strongly stable conditions (the bulk Richardson number > 0.2). Furthermore, we show that many atmospheric chemistry models calculate ra using formulations which are inconsistent with the derivation of micro-meteorological parameters. Finally, practical implications of the differences in stability-correction algorithms are discussed for the computations of dry deposition velocities of SO2, O3 and reactive bromine compounds for specific cases of stable SBL.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2dQDGEG
Multiscale predictions of aviation-attributable PM2.5 for U.S. airports modeled using CMAQ with plume-in-grid and an aircraft-specific 1-D emission model
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): M.C. Woody, H.-W. Wong, J.J. West, S. Arunachalam
Aviation activities represent an important and unique mode of transportation, but also impact air quality. In this study, we aim to quantify the impact of aircraft on air quality, focusing on aviation-attributable PM2.5 at scales ranging from local (a few kilometers) to continental (spanning hundreds of kilometers) using the Community Multiscale Air Quality-Advanced Plume Treatment (CMAQ-APT) model. In our CMAQ-APT simulations, a plume scale treatment is applied to aircraft emissions from 99 major U.S. airports over the contiguous U.S. in January and July 2005. In addition to the plume scale treatment, we account for the formation of non-traditional secondary organic aerosols (NTSOA) from the oxidation of semivolatile and intermediate volatility organic compounds (S/IVOCs) emitted from aircraft, and utilize alternative emission estimates from the Aerosol Dynamics Simulation Code (ADSC). ADSC is a 1-D plume scale model that estimates engine specific PM and S/IVOC emissions at ambient conditions, accounting for relative humidity and temperature. We estimated monthly and contiguous U.S. average aviation-attributable PM2.5 to be 2.7 ng m−3 in January and 2.6 ng m−3 in July using CMAQ-APT with ADSC emissions. This represents an increase of 40% and 12% in January and July, respectively, over impacts using traditional modeling approaches (traditional emissions without APT). The maximum fine scale (subgrid scale) hourly impacts at a major airport were 133.6 μg m−3 in January and 165.4 μg m−3 in July, considerably higher than the maximum grid-based impacts at the airport of 4.3 μg m−3 in January and 0.5 μg m−3 in July.
http://ift.tt/2ejCLjQ
Spatial distribution and temporal variation of aerosol optical depth in the Sichuan basin, China, the recent ten years
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Xinyu Liu, Quanliang Chen, Huizheng Che, Renjian Zhang, Ke Gui, Huan Zhang, Tianliang Zhao
The applicability of the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) aerosol optical depth (AOD) product was verified using CE-318 sun photometric data for the Sichuan area. The results show that MODIS_3K AOD agrees well with the AOD derived from the CE-318 sun photometer, with a high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.91). And we used the MODIS AOD product analyzed the spatial distribution and temporal variation of the annual, seasonal and monthly distribution of AOD in the Sichuan area over the last ten years (2006–2015). In the Sichuan area, the mean change of AOD over the 10-year period showed a significant decreasing trend, reaching its maximum in 2010 and its minimum in 2015. Considering only the first five years, the lowest value was reached in 2008 and the overall trend was a standard symmetrical "V" type. Over the later five years, the annual average AOD value showed an overall decreasing trend. The monthly averaged AOD indicated a "double peaks" fluctuation trend; the two peaks appeared in March and August, and AOD changes were relatively small between September and January. Overall, the average value of AOD reached its highest values in spring, and its lowest values in autumn. In the city of Chengdu, the monthly and seasonal changes in the trend were essentially the same as those of the whole Sichuan area; However, the Chengdu AOD monthly and seasonal average change rate was higher than that of Sichuan as a whole. This shows that Chengdu is still the main contributor to the enhanced AOD value for the entire Sichuan region. The spatial distribution of AOD values indicates an "east high, west low" situation across the Sichuan area and Chengdu is one of three cities with the highest AOD values. However, the spatial variation of AOD trend value indicated an "east low, west high" the spatial distribution across the Sichuan region, opposite to the spatial distribution. Moreover, in the past 10 years, the overall AOD changes in Sichuan showed a downward trend, especially in Chengdu, suggesting that environmental remediation measures have achieved initial improvements. But, average AOD of some parts of western Sichuan is increasing, indicating that other regions in Sichuan should strengthen their management and remediation of haze weather.
http://ift.tt/2dQEQ32
Characterising the influence of atmospheric mixing state on Urban Heat Island Intensity using Radon-222
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Scott D. Chambers, Agnieszka Podstawczyńska, Alastair G. Williams, Włodzimierz Pawlak
Characterisation of the effects of varying atmospheric mixing states (stability) in urban climate studies has historically been hampered by problems associated with the complexity of the urban environment, representativity of measurement techniques, and the logistical and financial burdens of maintaining multiple long-term comprehensive measurement sites. These shortcomings, together with a lack of a consistent measurement approach, have limited our ability to understand the physical processes contributing to the urban heat island effect. In this study, we analyse 4 years of continuous hourly near-surface meteorological and atmospheric radon data from an urban–rural site pair in central Poland. A recently-developed radon-based stability classification technique, previously developed for urban pollution characterisation, is employed to characterise the Urban Heat Island Intensity (UHII) and other climatic factors over the full diurnal cycle by season and atmospheric mixing state. By characterising the UHII over a range of atmospheric mixing states in a statistically robust way, this technique provides an effective tool for assessing the efficacy of mitigation measures for urban climate effects in a consistent way over timescales of years to decades. The consistency of approach, ease of application, and unprecedented clarity of findings, provide a strong argument for atmospheric radon observations to be included as part of the 'standard measurement suite' for urban climate monitoring networks for non-coastal cities.
http://ift.tt/2ejA0i9
Impact of urban land use on the bacterial phyllosphere of ivy (Hedera sp.)
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Wenke Smets, Karen Wuyts, Eline Oerlemans, Sander Wuyts, Siegfried Denys, Roeland Samson, Sarah Lebeer
The surface of the aerial parts of the plant, also termed the phyllosphere, is a selective habitat for microbes. The bacterial composition of the phyllosphere depends on host plant species, leaf characteristics, season, climate, and geographic location of the host plant. In this study, we investigated the effect of an urban environment on the bacterial composition of phyllosphere communities. We performed a passive biomonitoring experiment in which leaves were sampled from ivy (Hedera sp.), a common evergreen climber species, in urban and non-urban locations. Exposure to traffic-generated particulate matter was estimated using leaf biomagnetic analyses. The bacterial community composition was determined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq. The phyllosphere microbial communities of ivy differed greatly between urban and non-urban locations, as we observed a shift in several of the dominant taxa: Beijerinckia and Methylocystaceae were most abundant in the non-urban phyllosphere, whereas Hymenobacter and Sphingomonadaceae were dominating the urban ivy phyllosphere. The richness, diversity and composition of the communities showed greater variability in the urban than in the non-urban locations, where traffic-generated PM was lower. Interestingly, the relative abundances of eight of the ten most dominant taxa correlated well with leaf magnetism, be it positive or negative. The results of this study indicate that an urban environment can greatly affect the local phyllosphere community composition. Although other urban-related factors cannot be ruled out, the relative abundance of most of the dominant taxa was significantly correlated with exposure to traffic-generated PM.
http://ift.tt/2dQEp92
Disentangling the contribution of Saharan dust and marine aerosol to PM10 levels in the Central Mediterranean
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Mark M. Scerri, Konrad Kandler, Stephan Weinbruch
The Għarb rural background station located on the northernmost island in the Maltese archipelago has been used to gather PM10 data since 2008. 224 samples from a monitoring campaign carried out from March 2012 to May 2013, were characterized for various metals and ions by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and ion chromatography. This speciation data was used in conjunction with the positive matrix factorization (PMF) model in order to determine the contribution of Saharan dust and marine aerosol to PM10 levels at the receptor. PMF managed to isolate two different crustal source contributions: a local crustal component and a trans-boundary component of North African origin. Marine aerosol, secondary nitrate/aged aerosol, and ammonium sulphate were other source contributions, which were isolated by the model. The trans-boundary crustal component (Saharan aerosol) and the marine aerosol are considered to be of natural origin and their joint contribution to PM10 levels at the site was estimated to be 39%. This value is in the upper part of the range derived from previous studies, for natural contributions to PM10 in Europe (0.5%–58%).
http://ift.tt/2ejE9mf
Seasonal fate and gas/particle partitioning of semi-volatile organic compounds in indoor and outdoor air
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Elodie Moreau-Guigon, Fabrice Alliot, Johnny Gaspéri, Martine Blanchard, Marie-Jeanne Teil, Corinne Mandin, Marc Chevreuil
Fifty-eight semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) were investigated simultaneously in three indoor (apartment, nursery and office building) and one outdoor environment in the centre of Paris (France). All of these compounds except tetrabromobisphenol A were quantified in the gaseous and particulate phases in all three environments, and at a frequency of 100% for the predominant compounds of each SVOC class. Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) were the most abundant group (di-iso-butyl phthalate: 29–661 ng m−3, diethyl phthalate: 15–542 ng m−3), followed by 4-nonylphenol (1.4–81 ng m−3), parabens (methylparaben: 0.03–2.5 ng m−3), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) (0.002–0.26 ng m−3) and pentachlorobenzene (PeCB) (0.001–0.23 ng m−3). Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (as ∑8PAHs) ranged from 0.17 to 5.40 ng m−3, polychlorinated biphenyls (as ∑7PCBi) from 0.06 to 4.70 ng.m3 and polybromodiphenyl ethers (as ∑8PBDEs) from 0.002 to 0.40 ng m−3. For most pollutants, significantly higher concentrations were observed in the nursery compared to the apartment and office. Overall, the indoor air concentrations were up to ten times higher than outdoor air concentrations. Seasonal variations were observed for PAEs, PCBs and PAHs. SVOCs were predominantly identified in the gaseous phase (>90%), except for some high-molecular-weight PAEs, PAHs and PCBs.
http://ift.tt/2dQD5TD
Calibrating R-LINE model results with observational data to develop annual mobile source air pollutant fields at fine spatial resolution: Application in Atlanta
Publication date: December 2016
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 147
Author(s): Xinxin Zhai, Armistead G. Russell, Poornima Sampath, James A. Mulholland, Byeong-Uk Kim, Yunhee Kim, David D'Onofrio
The Research LINE-source (R-LINE) dispersion model for near-surface releases is a dispersion model developed to estimate the impacts of line sources, such as automobiles, on primary air pollutant levels. In a multiyear application in Atlanta, R-LINE simulations overestimated concentrations and spatial gradients compared to measurements. In this study we present a computationally efficient procedure for calculating annual average spatial fields and develop an approach for calibrating R-LINE concentrations with observational data. Simulated hourly concentrations of PM2.5, CO and NOx from mobile sources at 250 m resolution in the 20-county Atlanta area based on average diurnal emission profiles and meteorological categories were used to estimate annual averages. Compared to mobile source PM2.5 impacts estimated by chemical mass balance with gas constraints (CMB-GC), a source apportionment model based on PM2.5 speciation measurements, R-LINE estimates of traffic-generated PM2.5 impacts were found to be higher by a factor of 1.8 on average across all sites. Compared to observations of daily 1 h maximum CO and NOx, R-LINE estimates were higher by factors of 1.3 and 4.2 on average, respectively. Annual averages estimated by R-LINE were calibrated by regression with observations from 2002 to 2011 at multiple sites for daily 1 h maximum CO and NOx and with measurement-based mobile source impacts estimated by CMB-GC for PM2.5. The calibration reduced normalized mean bias (NMB) from 29% to 0.3% for PM2.5, from 22% to −1% for CO, and from 303% to 49% for NOx. Cross-validation analysis (withholding sites one at a time) leads to NMB of 13%, 1%, and 69% for PM2.5, CO, and NOx, respectively. The observation-calibrated R-LINE annual average spatial fields were compared with pollutant fields from observation-blended, 12 km resolution Community Multi-scale Air Quality (CMAQ) model fields for CO and NOx, with Pearson correlation R2 values of 0.55 for CO and 0.54 for NOx found. The calibrated fields of PM2.5 were compared with 4 km resolution mobile source impact fields obtained from an indicator method using the observation-CMAQ fields, with an R2 value of 0.53 found. The method developed provides high-resolution annual average spatial fields in a computationally efficient manner with low bias. The method is being applied in air quality planning efforts and the pollutant concentration fields are being used in long-term, fine spatial scale health studies.
http://ift.tt/2ejHbXN
Are fingernails are a key to unlocking the puzzle of mammalian limb regeneration?
Abstract
Some mammalian digit tips, including those of mice and human children, can regenerate following amputation, whereas mammalian limb regeneration does not occur. One major difference between the digit tip and the rest of the limb is the presence of the nail, which is necessary for this type of regeneration. This couples well with the finding that canonical Wnt signaling and Lgr6, an agonist of Wnt signaling that marks nail stem cells, are necessary for digit tip regeneration. This viewpoint essay discusses the role of the nail in digit tip regeneration, and explores whether nail stem cells and their presumptive niche can be solely accountable for why regeneration is possible in the digit tip, but not the rest of the limb.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2dpDj7U
TLR4-induced B7-H1 on keratinocytes negatively regulates CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells responses in oral lichen planus
Abstract
Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T-cell-mediated autoimmune mucocutaneous disease affected by the interactions among the keratinocytes, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells. B7-H1 induced by Toll-like receptors (TLRs), can suppress T cell immune reaction, thereby resulting in immune tolerance. However, the role of TLRs-mediated B7-H1 on keratinocytes in the immune response of OLP is still unknown. The present study showed that TLR4 could induce time-coursed B7-H1 expression on oral keratinocytes, and blocking NF-κB or PI3K/mTOR pathway down-regulated B7-H1 transcriptional expression. Moreover, TLR4-stimulated oral keratinocytes inhibited the proliferation of OLP CD4+ T cells and OLP CD8+ T cells, and simultaneously prompted their apoptosis. Blockade of keratinocytes-associated B7-H1 restored the declined proliferation of OLP CD4+ T cells and OLP CD8+ T cells, and prevented their increased apoptosis. Therefore, TLR4-upregulated B7-H1 on keratinocytes could decelerate immune responses of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells in OLP.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2e3xlra
Hypercalcaemia-induced kidney injury caused by the vitamin D analogue calcitriol for psoriasis: a note of caution when prescribing topical treatment
Summary
A 55-year-old man with severe plaque psoriasis presented with a 2-week history of feeling generally unwell with lethargy and thirst. His symptoms had developed 6 weeks after commencement of the topical vitamin D3 analogue calcitriol. Investigations revealed hypercalcaemia and acute-on-chronic kidney injury, probably directly induced by systemic absorption of vitamin D3 following extensive topical use. Topical calcitriol had been started as a steroid-sparing agent to reduce the patient's liberal potent corticosteroid usage during anti-tumour necrosis factor-alfa therapy. Topical vitamin D analogues are commonly prescribed in dermatological and general practice, with hypercalcaemia being a rare but potentially serious adverse effect. This case serves to outline key factors that may predispose to hypercalcaemia, such as disease extent, quantity of drug applied, comorbidities and concurrent medications, and it highlights the importance of considering these factors when prescribing topical therapies.
http://ift.tt/2dpE6pD
Urticarial exanthema due to hepatitis B in a pregnant woman, mimicking a polymorphic eruption of pregnancy
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in pregnant women is very rare in western countries, thus, cutaneous manifestation of HBV infection may be confused with a dermatosis specific of pregnancy. We report a 39-year-old woman who presented in her 20th week of pregnancy with a pruritic rash, which consisted of generalized erythematous plaques, some of them with a purple centre. Serology testing showed acute HBV infection, and a biopsy revealed a superficial and interstitial perivascular inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes and eosinophils. A diagnosis of exanthema due to acute hepatitis B infection was established. The patient delivered a clinically healthy boy, who was given the first dose of the HBV vaccine and intravenous specific immunoglobulin, followed by the second dose 2 months later, and did not get infected with HBV. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing HBV exanthema in a pregnant woman, which led to early action for the newborn, avoiding vertical transmission and its high prevalence of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
http://ift.tt/2e3xPh2
Hypercalcaemia-induced kidney injury caused by the vitamin D analogue calcitriol for psoriasis: a note of caution when prescribing topical treatment
Summary
A 55-year-old man with severe plaque psoriasis presented with a 2-week history of feeling generally unwell with lethargy and thirst. His symptoms had developed 6 weeks after commencement of the topical vitamin D3 analogue calcitriol. Investigations revealed hypercalcaemia and acute-on-chronic kidney injury, probably directly induced by systemic absorption of vitamin D3 following extensive topical use. Topical calcitriol had been started as a steroid-sparing agent to reduce the patient's liberal potent corticosteroid usage during anti-tumour necrosis factor-alfa therapy. Topical vitamin D analogues are commonly prescribed in dermatological and general practice, with hypercalcaemia being a rare but potentially serious adverse effect. This case serves to outline key factors that may predispose to hypercalcaemia, such as disease extent, quantity of drug applied, comorbidities and concurrent medications, and it highlights the importance of considering these factors when prescribing topical therapies.
http://ift.tt/2dpE6pD
Urticarial exanthema due to hepatitis B in a pregnant woman, mimicking a polymorphic eruption of pregnancy
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in pregnant women is very rare in western countries, thus, cutaneous manifestation of HBV infection may be confused with a dermatosis specific of pregnancy. We report a 39-year-old woman who presented in her 20th week of pregnancy with a pruritic rash, which consisted of generalized erythematous plaques, some of them with a purple centre. Serology testing showed acute HBV infection, and a biopsy revealed a superficial and interstitial perivascular inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes and eosinophils. A diagnosis of exanthema due to acute hepatitis B infection was established. The patient delivered a clinically healthy boy, who was given the first dose of the HBV vaccine and intravenous specific immunoglobulin, followed by the second dose 2 months later, and did not get infected with HBV. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing HBV exanthema in a pregnant woman, which led to early action for the newborn, avoiding vertical transmission and its high prevalence of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
http://ift.tt/2e3xPh2
Self-preserving personal care products
Abstract
Objective
As questions on the safety of some popular preservatives are on the rise, there is a growing interest in developing 'Self Preserving' personal care products. Use of Multi-functional ingredients / actives with antimicrobial properties has been explored as replacements for conventional preservatives. This paper explores the use of combinations of multi-functional actives (MFA) and other cosmetic ingredients in various personal care formulations, to deliver microbiologically safe self-preserving products. Products studied in this paper include face wash, gel based leave-on skin care product and face mask.
Methods
Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of several cosmetic ingredients was determined to identify Multi-functional actives with antimicrobial activity. Personal care formulations made with multi-functional actives and other cosmetic ingredients were studied for preservative efficacy by challenging the product with 6 multiple cycles of microbial challenge.
Results
Formulations with combinations of multi-functional actives with antioxidant (AO) and chelators (CHL) were found to work synergistically and were highly efficacious in controlling multiple microbial challenges as observed in the Preservative Efficacy Test (PET) studies. The effective combinations were able to withstand up to 6 multiple microbial challenges without product degradation. The preservative efficacy profile was similar to control formula containing preservatives.
Conclusion
Self-preserving personal care / cosmetic products can be developed which are as efficacious as preserved products by a prudent selection of multi-functional actives, antioxidants, and chelators as a part of the formulation.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2ewqqGs
The value of direct audiology access for magnetic resonance imaging: an audit of 40 cases
Abstract
Audiologists can provide an effective and safe service through direct referral for magnetic resonance imaging screening in selected cases
Direct audiology referral for magnetic resonance imaging reduces need for new ENT clinic appointments as well as reducing the inconvenience of repeated visits to hospital for patients
Our experiences following the change of practice audit support the adoption of a more stream-lined audiology-led service
Good practice areas that were highlighted should be emphasised: good two-way communication between audiology and ENT leads and the value of educational feedback from radiology
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2ejt70p
Immunohistochemical Studies and FDG Uptake on PET in Pharyngeal Cancer for Predicting Radiotherapy-based Treatment Outcomes
Abstract
Objectives
This study correlated immunohistochemical studies with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) and identified prognostic factors for radiotherapy (RT)-based treatment outcomes in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx and hypopharynx.
Methods
Genomic data from pretreatment biopsy specimens (Glut1, CAIX, VEGF, HIF-1α, EGFR, Ki-67, Bcl-2, CLAUDIN-4, YAP-1, c-Met, and p16) of 76 patients were analyzed using tissue microarrays. FDG uptake was evaluated using the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG).
Results
The overexpression of Glut1 positively associated with increased values of the SUVmax, MTV, and TLG, whereas VEGF and HIF-1α expression with the MTV and TLG, respectively. A VEGF immunoreactive score (IRS) >2 (P = .001, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.94) and an MTV defined by an SUV of 2.5 (MTV2.5) >14.5 mL (P = .004, HR = 3.31) were prognostic factors for low cause-specific survival, whereas a VEGF IRS >2 (P = .02, HR = 2.83) for low primary-relapse free survival.
Conclusion
The overexpression of Glut1, VEGF, and HIF-1α associated with increased FDG uptake. For patients with pharyngeal cancer requiring RT, the treatment outcome can be stratified by VEGF and MTV2.5.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2dQxqN6
The value of direct audiology access for magnetic resonance imaging: an audit of 40 cases
Abstract
Audiologists can provide an effective and safe service through direct referral for magnetic resonance imaging screening in selected cases
Direct audiology referral for magnetic resonance imaging reduces need for new ENT clinic appointments as well as reducing the inconvenience of repeated visits to hospital for patients
Our experiences following the change of practice audit support the adoption of a more stream-lined audiology-led service
Good practice areas that were highlighted should be emphasised: good two-way communication between audiology and ENT leads and the value of educational feedback from radiology
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2ejt70p
Immunohistochemical Studies and FDG Uptake on PET in Pharyngeal Cancer for Predicting Radiotherapy-based Treatment Outcomes
Abstract
Objectives
This study correlated immunohistochemical studies with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) and identified prognostic factors for radiotherapy (RT)-based treatment outcomes in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx and hypopharynx.
Methods
Genomic data from pretreatment biopsy specimens (Glut1, CAIX, VEGF, HIF-1α, EGFR, Ki-67, Bcl-2, CLAUDIN-4, YAP-1, c-Met, and p16) of 76 patients were analyzed using tissue microarrays. FDG uptake was evaluated using the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG).
Results
The overexpression of Glut1 positively associated with increased values of the SUVmax, MTV, and TLG, whereas VEGF and HIF-1α expression with the MTV and TLG, respectively. A VEGF immunoreactive score (IRS) >2 (P = .001, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.94) and an MTV defined by an SUV of 2.5 (MTV2.5) >14.5 mL (P = .004, HR = 3.31) were prognostic factors for low cause-specific survival, whereas a VEGF IRS >2 (P = .02, HR = 2.83) for low primary-relapse free survival.
Conclusion
The overexpression of Glut1, VEGF, and HIF-1α associated with increased FDG uptake. For patients with pharyngeal cancer requiring RT, the treatment outcome can be stratified by VEGF and MTV2.5.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2dQxqN6
A novel computer algorithm for modeling and treating mandibular fractures: A pilot study
Objectives/Hypothesis
To describe a novel computer algorithm that can model mandibular fracture repair. To evaluate the algorithm as a tool to model mandibular fracture reduction and hardware selection.
Study Design
Retrospective pilot study combined with cross-sectional survey.
Methods
A computer algorithm utilizing Aquarius Net (TeraRecon, Inc, Foster City, CA) and Adobe Photoshop CS6 (Adobe Systems, Inc, San Jose, CA) was developed to model mandibular fracture repair. Ten different fracture patterns were selected from nine patients who had already undergone mandibular fracture repair. The preoperative computed tomography (CT) images were processed with the computer algorithm to create virtual images that matched the actual postoperative three-dimensional CT images. A survey comparing the true postoperative image with the virtual postoperative images was created and administered to otolaryngology resident and attending physicians. They were asked to rate on a scale from 0 to 10 (0 = completely different; 10 = identical) the similarity between the two images in terms of the fracture reduction and fixation hardware.
Results
Ten mandible fracture cases were analyzed and processed. There were 15 survey respondents. The mean score for overall similarity between the images was 8.41 ± 0.91; the mean score for similarity of fracture reduction was 8.61 ± 0.98; and the mean score for hardware appearance was 8.27 ± 0.97. There were no significant differences between attending and resident responses. There were no significant differences based on fracture location.
Conclusion
This computer algorithm can accurately model mandibular fracture repair. Images created by the algorithm are highly similar to true postoperative images. The algorithm can potentially assist a surgeon planning mandibular fracture repair.
Level of Evidence
Level IV. Laryngoscope, 2016
http://ift.tt/2dpw2VC
A novel computer algorithm for modeling and treating mandibular fractures: A pilot study
Objectives/Hypothesis
To describe a novel computer algorithm that can model mandibular fracture repair. To evaluate the algorithm as a tool to model mandibular fracture reduction and hardware selection.
Study Design
Retrospective pilot study combined with cross-sectional survey.
Methods
A computer algorithm utilizing Aquarius Net (TeraRecon, Inc, Foster City, CA) and Adobe Photoshop CS6 (Adobe Systems, Inc, San Jose, CA) was developed to model mandibular fracture repair. Ten different fracture patterns were selected from nine patients who had already undergone mandibular fracture repair. The preoperative computed tomography (CT) images were processed with the computer algorithm to create virtual images that matched the actual postoperative three-dimensional CT images. A survey comparing the true postoperative image with the virtual postoperative images was created and administered to otolaryngology resident and attending physicians. They were asked to rate on a scale from 0 to 10 (0 = completely different; 10 = identical) the similarity between the two images in terms of the fracture reduction and fixation hardware.
Results
Ten mandible fracture cases were analyzed and processed. There were 15 survey respondents. The mean score for overall similarity between the images was 8.41 ± 0.91; the mean score for similarity of fracture reduction was 8.61 ± 0.98; and the mean score for hardware appearance was 8.27 ± 0.97. There were no significant differences between attending and resident responses. There were no significant differences based on fracture location.
Conclusion
This computer algorithm can accurately model mandibular fracture repair. Images created by the algorithm are highly similar to true postoperative images. The algorithm can potentially assist a surgeon planning mandibular fracture repair.
Level of Evidence
Level IV. Laryngoscope, 2016
http://ift.tt/2dpw2VC
Interacting effects of obesity, race, ethnicity and sex on the incidence and control of adult-onset asthma
To improve care and control for patients with adult-onset asthma, a better understanding of determinants of their risk and outcomes is important. We investigated how associations between asthma, asthma control...
http://ift.tt/2dQosQi
Genetic and epigenetic studies of atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by the complex interaction of genetic, immune and environmental factors. There have many recent discoveries involving the genetic and epigenetic ...
http://ift.tt/2ejkyCV
Clinical validation of controlled exposure to birch pollen in the Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU)
The Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU) in Kingston, Ontario, Canada is a controlled allergen challenge facility (CACF) that has been previously clinically validated for the use of ragweed and grass pollen in cl...
http://ift.tt/2ei7dt9
Cells redox environment modulates BRCA1 expression and DNA homologous recombination repair
Publication date: Available online 19 October 2016
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): Aaron Wilson, Vasily A. Yakovlev
Cancer development and progression have been linked to oxidative stress, a condition characterized by unbalanced increase in ROS and RNS production. The main endogenous initiators of the redox imbalance in cancer cells are defective mitochondria, elevated NOX activity, and uncoupled NOS3. Traditionally, most attention has been paid to direct oxidative damage to DNA by certain ROS. However, increase in oxidative DNA lesions does not always lead to malignancy. Hence, additional ROS-dependent, pro-carcinogenic mechanisms must be important. Our recent study demonstrated that Tyr nitration of PP2A stimulates its activity and leads to downregulation of BRCA1 expression. This provides a mechanism for chromosomal instability essential for tumor progression. In the present work, we demonstrated that inhibition of ROS production by generating mitochondrial-electron-transport-deficient cell lines (ρ° cells) or by inhibition of NOX activity with a selective peptide inhibitor significantly reduced PP2A Tyr nitration and its activity in different cancer cell lines. As a result of the decreased PP2A activity, BRCA1 expression was restored along with a significantly enhanced level of DNA HRR. We used TCGA database to analyze the correlation between expressions of the NOX regulatory subunits, NOS isoforms, and BRCA1 in the 3 cancer research studies: breast invasive carcinoma, ovarian cystadenocarcinoma, and lung adenocarcinoma. TCGA database analysis demonstrated that the high expression levels of most of the NOX regulatory subunits responsible for stimulation of NOX1-NOX4 were associated with significant downregulation of BRCA1 expression.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2e3oZA7
Air pollution, epigenetics, and asthma
Exposure to traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) has been implicated in asthma development, persistence, and exacerbation. This exposure is highly significant as large segments of the global population resides...
http://ift.tt/2dQpifF
Styrene enhances the noise induced oxidative stress in the cochlea and affects differently mechanosensory and supporting cells
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): A.R. Fetoni, R. Rolesi, F. Paciello, S.L.M. Eramo, C. Grassi, D. Troiani, G. Paludetti
Experimental and human investigations have raised the level of concern about the potential ototoxicity of organic solvents and their interaction with noise. The main objective of this study was to characterize the effects of the combined noise and styrene exposure on hearing focusing on the mechanism of damage on the sensorineural cells and supporting cells of the organ of Corti and neurons of the ganglion of Corti. The impact of single and combined exposures on hearing was evaluated by auditory functional testing and histological analyses of cochlear specimens. The mechanism of damage was studied by analyzing superoxide anion and lipid peroxidation expression and by computational analyses of immunofluorescence data to evaluate and compare the oxidative stress pattern in outer hair cells versus the supporting epithelial cells of the organ of Corti. The oxidative stress hypothesis was further analyzed by evaluating the protective effect of a Coenzyme Q10 analogue, the water soluble Qter, molecule known to have protective antioxidant properties against noise induced hearing loss and by the analysis of the expression of the endogenous defense enzymes.This study provides evidence of a reciprocal noise-styrene synergism based on a redox imbalance mechanism affecting, although with a different intensity of damage, the outer hair cell (OHC) sensory epithelium. Moreover, these two damaging agents address preferentially different cochlear targets: noise mainly the sensory epithelium, styrene the supporting epithelial cells. Namely, the increase pattern of lipid peroxidation in the organ of Corti matched the cell damage distribution, involving predominantly OHC layer in noise exposed cochleae and both OHC and Deiters' cell layers in the styrene or combined exposed cochleae. The antioxidant treatment reduced the lipid peroxidation increase, potentiated the endogenous antioxidant defense system at OHC level in both exposures but it failed to ameliorate the oxidative imbalance and cell death of Deiters' cells in the styrene and combined exposures. Current antioxidant therapeutic approaches to preventing sensory loss focus on hair cells alone. It remains to be seen whether targeting supporting cells, in addition to hair cells, might be an effective approach to protecting exposed subjects.
http://ift.tt/2e3polS
Interacting effects of obesity, race, ethnicity and sex on the incidence and control of adult-onset asthma
To improve care and control for patients with adult-onset asthma, a better understanding of determinants of their risk and outcomes is important. We investigated how associations between asthma, asthma control...
http://ift.tt/2dQosQi
Genetic and epigenetic studies of atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by the complex interaction of genetic, immune and environmental factors. There have many recent discoveries involving the genetic and epigenetic ...
http://ift.tt/2ejkyCV
Clinical validation of controlled exposure to birch pollen in the Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU)
The Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU) in Kingston, Ontario, Canada is a controlled allergen challenge facility (CACF) that has been previously clinically validated for the use of ragweed and grass pollen in cl...
http://ift.tt/2ei7dt9
Air pollution, epigenetics, and asthma
Exposure to traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) has been implicated in asthma development, persistence, and exacerbation. This exposure is highly significant as large segments of the global population resides...
http://ift.tt/2dQpifF
Zinc deficiency presenting as diarrhea and diffuse erythroderma
Source:Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Author(s): Rachel Aviv, Jennifer Toh, Rachel Eisenberg, Sarika Khanna, Sunit P. Jariwala
http://ift.tt/2ewcHQ0
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