A Database for Reproducible Manipulation Research: CapriDB - Capture, Print, Innovate

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Florian T. Pokorny, Yasemin Bekiroglu, Karl Pauwels, Judith Butepage, Clara Scherer, Danica Kragic
We present a novel approach and database which combines the inexpensive generation of 3D object models via monocular or RGB-D camera images with 3D printing and a state of the art object tracking algorithm. Unlike recent efforts towards the creation of 3D object databases for robotics, our approach does not require expensive and controlled 3D scanning setups and aims to enable anyone with a camera to scan, print and track complex objects for manipulation research. The proposed approach results in detailed textured mesh models whose 3D printed replicas provide close approximations of the originals. A key motivation for utilizing 3D printed objects is the ability to precisely control and vary object properties such as the size, material properties and mass distribution in the 3D printing process to obtain reproducible conditions for robotic manipulation research. We present CapriDB - an extensible database resulting from this approach containing initially 40 textured and 3D printable mesh models together with tracking features to facilitate the adoption of the proposed approach.



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An Open Data Repository and a Data Processing Software Toolset of an Equivalent Nordic Grid Model Matched to Historical Electricity Market Data

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): L. Vanfretti, S.H. Olsen, V.S. Narasimham Arava, G. Laera, A. Bidadfar, T. Rabuzin, Sigurd H. Jakobsen, J. Lavenius, M. Baudette, F.J. Gómez-López
This article presents an open data repository, the methodology to generate it and the associated data processing software developed to consolidate an hourly snapshot historical data set for the year 2015 to an equivalent Nordic power grid model (aka Nordic 44), the consolidation was achieved by matching the model's physical response w.r.t historical power flow records in the bidding regions of the Nordic grid that are available from the Nordic electricity market agent, Nord Pool.The model is made available in the form of CIM v14, Modelica and PSS/E (Siemens PTI) files. The Nordic 44 model in Modelica and PSS/E were first presented in the paper titled "iTesla Power Systems Library (iPSL): A Modelica library for phasor time-domain simulations" (L. Vanfretti, T. Rabuzin, M. Baudette, M. Murad, 2016) [1] for a single snapshot. In the digital repository being made available with the submission of this paper [2], a total of 8760 snapshots (for the year 2015) that can be used to initialize and execute dynamic simulations using tools compatible with CIM v14, the Modelica language and the proprietary PSS/E tool are provided. The Python scripts to generate the snapshots (processed data) are also available with all the data in the GitHub repository [2].This Nordic 44 equivalent model was also used in iTesla project [3] to carry out simulations within a dynamic security assessment toolset [4], and has been further enhanced during the ITEA3 OpenCPS project [5]. The raw, processed data and output models utilized within the iTesla platform [4] are also available in the repository. The CIM and Modelica snapshots of the "Nordic 44" model for the year 2015 are available in a Zenodo repository.

Graphical abstract

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Defining the Akt1 Interactome Data and Delineating Alterations in its Composition as a function of Cell Cycle Progression

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Shweta Duggal, Noor Jailkhani, Mukul Kumar Midha, Kanury V.S. Rao, Ajay Kumar
Akt1 is a multi-functional protein implicated in key cellular processes including regulation of proliferation, survival, metabolism and protein synthesis. Its functional diversity results through interactions with other proteins which change with changing context. This study was designed to capture proteins, which interact with Akt1 as the cell cycle progresses from G0 to G1S and then G2 phase. Such an insight might help us understand the role of Akt1 in cell cycle, which as of now is not well explored. Akt1 expressing HEK 293 cells were cultured in light, medium and heavy labeled SILAC media. Normal lysine and arginine were incorporated as light labels; 6Da (Da) heavier isotopes of the same amino acids were used as medium labels; while for heavy labeling the isotopes were 8 and 10Da heavier. Light labeled cells were arrested in G0 phase while medium and heavy labeled cells were arrested in G2 and G1S phases, respectively. Equal number of cells from each phase was pooled, lysed and subjected to Affinity Purification coupled to Mass Spectroscopy (AP-MS). The obtained Akt1 protein partners were observed to change as the cell cycle progressed from G0 to G1S and then to G2 phase. Additionally, SILAC labeling aided in quantitative estimation of changing association of a number of proteins which were common to two or more phases, with Akt1. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD005557.



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Dataset demonstrating the modeling of a high performance Cu(In,Ga)Se2 absorber based thin film photovoltaic cell

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Md. Asaduzzaman, Ali Newaz Bahar, Mohammad Maksudur Rahman Bhuiyan
The physical data of the semiconductor materials used in the design of a CIGS absorber based thin film photovoltaic cell have been presented in this data article. Besides, the values of the contact parameter and operating conditions of the cell have been reported. Furthermore, by conducting the simulation with data corresponding to the device structure: soda-lime glass (SLG) substrate/Mo back-contact/CIGS absorber/CdS buffer/intrinsic ZnO/Al-doped ZnO window/Al-grid front-contact, the solar cell performance parameters such as open circuit voltage (Voc), short circuit current density Jsc, fill factor (FF), efficiency (η), and collection efficiency ηc have been analyzed.



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Dataset on growth factor levels and insulin use in patients with diabetes mellitus and incident breast cancer

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Zachary A.P. Wintrob, Jeffrey P. Hammel, George K. Nimako, Dan P. Gaile, Alan Forrest, Alice C. Ceacareanu
Growth factor profiles could be influenced by the utilization of exogenous insulin. The data presented shows the relationship between pre-existing use of injectable insulin in women diagnosed with breast cancer and type 2 diabetes mellitus, the growth factor profiles at the time of breast cancer diagnosis, and subsequent cancer outcomes. A Pearson correlation analysis evaluating the relationship between growth factors stratified by of insulin use and controls is also provided.



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Data on secondary structures and ligand interactions of G-rich oligonucleotides that defy the classical formula for G4 motifs

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Maria Vlasenok, Anna Varizhuk, Dmitry Kaluzhny, Igor Smirnov, Galina Pozmogova
The data provided in this article are related to the research article "The expanding repertoire of G4 DNA structures" [1]. Secondary structures of G-rich oligonucleotides (ONs) that represent "imperfect" G-quadruplex (G4) motifs, i.e., contain truncated or interrupted G-runs, were analyzed by optical methods. Presented data on ON structures include circular dichroism (CD) spectra, thermal difference spectra (TDS) and UV -melting curves of the ONs; and rotational relaxation times (RRT) of ethidium bromide (EtBr) complexes with the ONs. TDS, CD spectra and UV-melting curves can be used to characterize the topologies and thermal stabilities of the ON structures. RRTs are roughly proportional to the hydrodynamic volumes of the complexes and thus can be used to distinguish between inter- and intramolecular ON structures. Presented data on ON interactions with small molecules include fluorescence emission spectra of the G4 sensor thioflavin T (ThT) in complexes with the ONs, and CD-melting curves of the ONs in the presence of G4-stabilizing ligands N-methylmesoporphyrin IX (NMM) and pyridostatin (PDS). These data should be useful for comparative analyses of classical G4s and "defective"G4s, such as quadruplexes with vacancies or bulges.



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Dataset of proinflammatory cytokine and cytokine receptor gene expression in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) measured using a novel GeXP multiplex, RT-PCR assay

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Ivan Kutyrev, Beth Cleveland, Timothy Leeds, Gregory D. Wiens
A GeXP multiplex, RT-PCR assay was developed and optimized that simultaneously measures expression of a suite of immune-relevant genes in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), concentrating on tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-1 ligand/receptor systems and acute phase response genes. The dataset includes expression values for drpt, il11a, il1b1, il1b2, il1b3, il1r-like-1(e3-5), il1r-like-1(e9-11), il1r1-like-a, il1r1-like-b, il1r2, saa, tnfa1, tnfa2, tnfa3, tnfrsf1a, tnfrsf1a-like-a, tnfrsf1a-like-b, tnfrsf5, and tnfrsf9. Gene expression was measured at four time-points post-challenge in both a resistant line (ARS-Fp-R) and a susceptible line (ARS-Fp-S) of rainbow trout. In addition, fish body weight, spleen index and the F. psychrophilum load are reported. These data are an extension of information presented and discussed in "Proinflammatory cytokine and cytokine receptor gene expression kinetics following challenge with Flavobacterium psychrophilum in resistant and susceptible lines of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)" [1].



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Data on genotypic distribution and linkage disequilibrium of several ANRIL polymorphisms in hemodialysis patients

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): A. Arbiol-Roca, A. Padró-Miquel, M. Hueso, E. Navarro, P. Alía-Ramos, M.T. González-Álvarez, I. Rama, J. Torras, J.M. Grinyó, J.M. Cruzado, N. Lloberas
A long non-coding RNA called ANRIL located on chromosome 9p21.3 has been identified as a novel genetic factor associated with cardiovascular disease. Investigation of several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of Noncoding Antisense RNA in the INK4 Locus (ANRIL) gene are of particular interest. This article reports data related to the research article entitled: "Association of ANRIL gene polymorphisms with major adverse cardiovascular events in hemodialysis patients" (A. Arbiol-Roca, A. Padró-Miquel, Hueso M, et al., 2016) [1]. Data presented show the genotypic distribution of four selected ANRIL SNPs: rs10757278, rs4977574, rs10757274 and rs6475606 in a cohort constituted by 284 hemodialysis patients. This article analyzes the Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium of each studied SNP, and the linkage disequilibrium between them.



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Reference datasets of tufA and UPA markers to identify algae in metabarcoding surveys

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Vanessa Rossetto Marcelino, Heroen Verbruggen
The data presented here are related to the research article "Multi-marker metabarcoding of coral skeletons reveals a rich microbiome and diverse evolutionary origins of endolithic algae" [1]. Here we provide reference datasets of the elongation factor Tu (tufA) and the Universal Plastid Amplicon (UPA) markers in a format that is ready-to-use in the QIIME pipeline [2]. In addition to sequences previously available in GenBank, we included newly discovered endolithic algae lineages using both amplicon sequencing [1] and chloroplast genome data [3, 4]. We also provide a script to convert GenBank flatfiles into reference datasets that can be used with other markers. The tufA and UPA reference datasets are made publicly available here to facilitate biodiversity assessments of microalgal communities.



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Vitamin D supplementation guidelines

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Pawel Pludowski, Michael F. Holick, William B. Grant, Jerzy Konstantynowicz, Mario R. Mascarenhas, Afrozul Haq, Vladyslav Povoroznyuk, Nataliya Balatska, Ana Paula Barbosa, Tatiana Karonova, Ema Rudenka, Waldemar Misiorowski, Irina Zakharova, Alena Rudenka, Jacek Łukaszkiewicz, Ewa Marcinowska-Suchowierska, Natalia Łaszcz, Pawel Abramowicz, Harjit P. Bhattoa, Sunil J. Wimalawansa
Research carried out during the past two-decades extended the understanding of actions of vitamin D, from regulating calcium and phosphate absorption and bone metabolism to many pleiotropic actions in organs and tissues in the body. Most observational and ecological studies report association of higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations with improved outcomes for several chronic, communicable and non-communicable diseases. Consequently, numerous agencies and scientific organizations have developed recommendations for vitamin D supplementation and guidance on optimal serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The bone-centric guidelines recommend a target 25(OH)D concentration of 20ng/mL (50 nmol/L), and age-dependent daily vitamin D doses of 400-800 IU. The guidelines focused on pleiotropic effects of vitamin D recommend a target 25(OH)D concentration of 30ng/mL (75 nmol/L), and age-, body weight-, disease-status, and ethnicity dependent vitamin D doses ranging between 400-2,000 IU/day. The wise and balanced choice of the recommendations to follow depends on one's individual health outcome concerns, age, body weight, latitude of residence, dietary and cultural habits, making the regional or nationwide guidelines more applicable in clinical practice. While natural sources of vitamin D can raise 25(OH)D concentrations, relative to dietary preferences and latitude of residence, in the context of general population, these sources are regarded ineffective to maintain the year-round 25(OH)D concentrations in the range of 30–50ng/mL (75-125 nmol/L). Vitamin D self-administration related adverse effects, such as hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria are rare, and usually result from taking extremely high doses of vitamin D for a prolonged time.



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Maternal vitamin D sufficiency and reduced placental gene expression in angiogenic biomarkers related to comorbidities of pregnancy

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Elizabeth V. Schulz, Lori Cruze, Wei Wei, John Gehris, Carol L. Wagner
IntroductionMaternal circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] has been shown to optimize production of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] during pregnancy at approximately 100nmoles/L, which has pronounced effects on fetal health outcomes. Additionally, associations are noted between low maternal 25(OH)D concentrations and vascular pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia. To further elucidate the effects of vitamin D activity in pregnancy, we investigated the role of maternal 25(OH)D, the nutritional indicator of vitamin D status, in relation to placental maintenance and, specifically, expression of placental gene targets related to angiogenesis and vitamin D metabolism.MethodsA focused analysis of placental mRNA expression related to angiogenesis, pregnancy maintenance, and vitamin D metabolism was conducted in placentas from 43 subjects enrolled in a randomized controlled trial supplementing 400IU or 4400IU of vitamin D3 per day during pregnancy. Placental mRNA was isolated from biopsies within one hour of delivery, followed by quantitative PCR. We classified pregnant women with circulating concentrations of <100nmoles/L as deficient and those with ≥100nmoles/L as sufficient. The value of each gene's change in the PCR cycle threshold (ΔCT), which is a relative measure of target concentration, was compared with maternal 25(OH)D concentrations <100nmoles/L and ≥100nmoles/L based on a two-sample Wilcoxon test.ResultsSoluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene expression was significantly downregulated in the maternal subgroup with circulating 25(OH)D ≥100ng/mL compared to the subgroup <100ng/mL.DiscussionHere, we report a significant association between maternal vitamin D status and the expression of sFlt-1 and VEGF at the mRNA level. Achieving maternal circulating 25(OH)D ≥100nmoles/L suggests the impact of maternal vitamin D3 supplementation on gene transcription in the placenta, thereby potentially decreasing antiangiogenic factors that may contribute to vascular pregnancy complications.



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Prospective, open-label, rater-blinded and self-controlled pilot study of the treatment of proliferating superficial infantile hemangiomas with 0.5% topical timolol cream versus 595-nm pulsed dye laser

Abstract

Topical timolol and 595-nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) are both widely used in the treatment of superficial infantile hemangiomas (IH). However, to date, there is no reliable study comparing the therapeutic outcomes between the two treatment options. We designed the present study to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of timolol cream and PDL in the treatment of superficial proliferating IH. Twenty-one patients with superficial IH were included in the study. Each lesion was divided into two regions; one part was treated with 0.5% topical timolol cream four times daily, and the other part was treated monthly with PDL. Both treatments were continued for 2–6 months. Five independent and blinded assessors were asked to judge the results in both the topical timolol-treated and PDL-treated parts by comparing photographs taken before and after treatment. Both treatments resulted in significant clinical improvements after 3.39 sessions in the 2-month follow up. The average visual evaluation showed that PDL had significantly better results than topical timolol (6.55 ± 2.26 to 4.98 ± 2.92, P < 0.01). No patients experienced permanent side-effects during the treatment. Our short-term study revealed that PDL had better results compared with topical timolol cream application in the treatment of superficial proliferating IH. Further studies with longer follow-up time and larger sample size are required to validate our findings.

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Cutaneous phaeohyphomycosis caused by Exophiala jeanselmei in a healthy individual

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Acute edema/cutaneous distension syndrome due to POEMS syndrome

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LUMBAR syndrome: A case manifesting as cutaneous infantile hemangiomas of the lower extremity, perineum and gluteal region, and a review of published work

Abstract

We herein report a rare case of LUMBAR syndrome. A 1-month-old female infant presented with extensive segmental hemangiomas on the left lower extremity, left perineum and gluteal region with ulceration. Bilateral labia minoras were asymmetrical. Both legs were asymmetrical with left leg atrophy, and the intergluteal cleft was deviated. A dark red pustule and a sacrococcygeal dimple could be seen in the lumbosacral region. Lipomyelomeningocele, tethered cord and sacrum dysplasia were noted by magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was found to have an absent left kidney at 32 weeks of pregnancy. Eventually, we draw the diagnosis of LUMBAR syndrome. In addition, we discuss the clinical manifestation, diagnosis, treatment and pathogenesis by a review of published work.

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Epidemiology and cardiovascular comorbidities in patients with psoriasis: A Korean nationwide population-based cohort study

Abstract

There is a lack of nationwide studies examining the epidemiology and comorbidities of psoriasis vulgaris (PsV) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in Asian populations. The purpose of this study is to determine the demographics of psoriasis in Korea along with the incidence of cerebro-cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities and to compare these risks between populations with PsA and with PsV. This cohort study identified 15 484 patients with psoriasis among 855 003 subjects in the Korean National Health Insurance Database from 2002 through 2010. The cases were further classified into PsA and PsV. We used hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) from the univariate and age–sex adjusted logistic regression model to assess the risk of comorbidities in patients with PsA and PsV. The annual prevalence of psoriasis increased from 313.2 to 453.5/100 000 people from 2002 through 2010; however, the overall incidence rate for psoriasis slightly decreased (252.7–212.6/100 000 population). Of psoriatic patients, 10.8% had PsA, and after adjusting for age and sex, PsA patients had a significantly higher risk of dyslipidemia than PsV patients (adjusted HR, 1.185; 95% CI, 1.049–1.338). When stratified by age group, subjects aged 20–39 years had a higher risk of stroke and many CV risk factors. In conclusion, the prevalence of psoriasis, while within the range of previous reports, tended to increase over time. Patients with PsA had higher burdens of specific comorbid diseases than those with PsV, especially at a comparatively early age.

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Combined in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy and digital dermoscopy for follow up of patients at high risk of malignant melanoma: A prospective case series study

Abstract

Digital dermoscopy (DD) follow up is a useful strategy for monitoring patients at high risk of melanoma. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a valuable second-level examination after dermoscopy for the evaluation of difficult to diagnose lesions. The aim of this study was to assess the value of RCM in routine DD monitoring of patients at high risk of melanoma. In this prospective study, performed over 22 months, changing melanocytic lesions were detected by DD and excised. RCM imaging was performed before surgical excision of all the lesions, and histopathology used as the gold standard diagnostic test. Eighty-seven lesions, including 11 thin melanomas, were studied. Dermoscopic evaluation at follow up revealed a significant association between melanoma and asymmetry in two axes (P = 0.035). Enlargement and other changes in structure or color did not significantly differ between nevi and melanomas. Widespread pagetoid cells, non-edged papillae, irregular and dishomogeneous junctional clusters, and sheet-like structures were significantly associated with malignancy (P < 0.001). RCM allowed accurate diagnosis of melanoma in 10 of 11 cases (90.9%). The remaining case was classified as a dysplastic nevus. Forty-six lesions (52.8%) in which RCM revealed no atypia were deemed unnecessarily removed. This study was limited by sample size. In conclusion, combined DD and RCM facilitates the recognition of thin malignant melanomas and reduces unnecessary excisions.

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Infiltration of mast cells in pachydermia of pachydermoperiostosis

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Unusual location of primary hydatid cyst diagnosed on aspiration cytology

Summary

Hydatid cyst (HC) is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus. It occurs frequently in liver and lungs. Hydatid cyst of neck is extremely rare occurrence, and here, we report it with this unusual location. A 25-year-old male nonhypertensive and nondiabetic presented with slowly growing painless swelling in right side of neck for 4-5 years. The swelling measured 5 × 3 cm and was of soft to firm consistency. Fine needle aspiration cytology yielded fluid aspirate and smear showed features suggestive of HC. The intact cyst was removed surgically, and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of hydatid cyst.

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Unusual location of primary hydatid cyst diagnosed on aspiration cytology

Summary

Hydatid cyst (HC) is a parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus. It occurs frequently in liver and lungs. Hydatid cyst of neck is extremely rare occurrence, and here, we report it with this unusual location. A 25-year-old male nonhypertensive and nondiabetic presented with slowly growing painless swelling in right side of neck for 4-5 years. The swelling measured 5 × 3 cm and was of soft to firm consistency. Fine needle aspiration cytology yielded fluid aspirate and smear showed features suggestive of HC. The intact cyst was removed surgically, and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of hydatid cyst.

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Clinical efficacy and safety evaluation of a novel fractional unipolar radiofrequency device on facial tightening: A preliminary report

Summary

Background

Previous studies have shown that radiofrequency (RF) energy is safe and effective for improving skin laxity. Unlike monopolar and bipolar devices, little has been studied with the unipolar hand piece.

Objectives

We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel fractional unipolar RF device on facial tightening.

Patients and Methods

This was a retrospective, single-center study of 14 subjects with age-related facial laxity who underwent five sessions of fractional unipolar RF at an interval of 2 weeks, and then followed-up for 3 months. Standardized photos were taken at baseline and at 3-months follow-up, and were assessed by two independent dermatologists using a 4-point scale (0=no improvement, 1=mild improvement, 2=moderate improvement, 3=significant improvement). Punch biopsies (2 mm) were performed and a questionnaire was used to evaluate the patient's satisfaction and the incidence of adverse reactions.

Results

Fourteen subjects with mild to moderate age-related facial laxity were included in the study. The mean age of the subjects was 49.7 years (range 32-80). 35.7% of the subjects showed significant improvement, 50% moderate improvement, and 14.3% slight improvement of facial laxity in their follow-up photos. About 85.7% of the patients replied that they were either greatly satisfied or satisfied with the results at 3-months follow-up. Skin biopsies revealed an increase in collagen in the dermis. None of the subjects experienced any serious adverse events during or after the procedure.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that fractional Unipolar RF can be safely performed on the face and is effective in skin tightening. It has a great advantage over other forms of RF by being entirely painless.

http://ift.tt/2lFkJIv

Clinical efficacy and safety evaluation of a novel fractional unipolar radiofrequency device on facial tightening: A preliminary report

Summary

Background

Previous studies have shown that radiofrequency (RF) energy is safe and effective for improving skin laxity. Unlike monopolar and bipolar devices, little has been studied with the unipolar hand piece.

Objectives

We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel fractional unipolar RF device on facial tightening.

Patients and Methods

This was a retrospective, single-center study of 14 subjects with age-related facial laxity who underwent five sessions of fractional unipolar RF at an interval of 2 weeks, and then followed-up for 3 months. Standardized photos were taken at baseline and at 3-months follow-up, and were assessed by two independent dermatologists using a 4-point scale (0=no improvement, 1=mild improvement, 2=moderate improvement, 3=significant improvement). Punch biopsies (2 mm) were performed and a questionnaire was used to evaluate the patient's satisfaction and the incidence of adverse reactions.

Results

Fourteen subjects with mild to moderate age-related facial laxity were included in the study. The mean age of the subjects was 49.7 years (range 32-80). 35.7% of the subjects showed significant improvement, 50% moderate improvement, and 14.3% slight improvement of facial laxity in their follow-up photos. About 85.7% of the patients replied that they were either greatly satisfied or satisfied with the results at 3-months follow-up. Skin biopsies revealed an increase in collagen in the dermis. None of the subjects experienced any serious adverse events during or after the procedure.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that fractional Unipolar RF can be safely performed on the face and is effective in skin tightening. It has a great advantage over other forms of RF by being entirely painless.

http://ift.tt/2lFkJIv

The role of histological presentation in erythroderma

Abstract

Background

Erythroderma is a serious medical condition characterized by inflamed red skin involving over 90% of the body. It can be the common presentation of different diseases, therefore clinical diagnosis can be problematic. Controversial data are reported regarding the diagnostic value of histological examination in erythroderma subjects.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed, investigating histological skin specimens of patients with a clinical diagnosis of erythroderma admitted to the Department of Dermatology of State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, from 2001 to 2014. Histopathology examination was performed in each case by a pathologist with a special interest in the skin disease who was blind to any clinical information as well as to final diagnosis.

Results

Blinded histopathology examination alone was able to give the correct diagnosis in 61% (n = 50/82) of cases when compared to final diagnosis. A diagnosis of psoriasis was made in 23.2% (n = 19/82) of subjects, spongiotic dermatitis/eczema in 20.7% (n = 17/82), mycosis fungoides in 8.5% (n = 7/82), and drug eruption in 8.5%; histological diagnosis was inconclusive or not matching the final diagnosis when available in the remaining 39.1% of cases (n = 32/82).

Conclusion

Erythroderma remains a condition difficult to study and treat. We showed that a correct judgment about its cause can be based on objective histopathological criteria in up to 60% of cases. More studies are needed to try to find out further histological and/or immunohistochemical markers that could help the clinician with the erythroderma etiology diagnostic process.

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Dermatologic concerns communicated through Twitter

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Endobronchial brachytherapy for metastasis from extrapulmonary malignancies as an effective treatment for palliation of symptoms

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): E. Donovan, E. Timotin, T. Farrell, B. Donde, S. Puksa, R. Sur
PurposeEndobronchial metastasis (EBM) originating from primary cancers outside the lung is rare. External beam radiotherapy is often attempted for control of symptoms with variable effectiveness and retreatment is challenging if symptoms recur. There is limited documentation of high-dose-rate brachytherapy for EBM in the literature.Methods and MaterialsA prospective database was created from 2006 to 2015. Patients with EBM who received high-dose-rate brachytherapy were included. Cough, dyspnea, chest pain, and hemoptysis were assessed and graded (0-4) at the time of initial consult and in followup. Symptom-free survival and re-expansion were assessed.ResultsThirty-five patients with EBM were identified. Most patients received three fractions of 700 cGy, and 17 patients had prior external beam radiotherapy. Median symptom-free and overall survival were 67 and 117 days. After brachytherapy, improvement in cough was documented in 75.0%, hemoptysis in 76.4%, dyspnea in 60.0% for a median of 3-6 months. Of the 22 patients who had subsequent chest imaging, re-expansion was documented in 32%. There were no significant toxicities reported.ConclusionsBrachytherapy appears effective in achieving durable symptom control of cough hemoptysis, and dyspnea in patients with EBM and should be considered routinely for palliation where available. Further studies are required to better characterize expected symptom improvement, lung re-expansion rates, and efficacy in comparison with other local treatments.



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[Systemic reaction after performing a food prick-to-prick test. A case report].

[Systemic reaction after performing a food prick-to-prick test. A case report].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):126-129

Authors: Hernández-Moreno KE, Diez LS

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Skin prick test is the most widely used test for the diagnosis of IgE-mediated conditions. Commercial extracts are used for its performance, but in the case of fruits and vegetables it is preferable using fresh food. Although both tests possess a good safety profile, hypersensitivity reactions have been recorded.
CLINICAL CASE: Forty-seven-year old woman with a history of persistent allergic rhinitis, sensitized to the pollen of grasses, olive and salsola; she was referred to an allergology department due to anaphylaxis triggered by the consumption of avocado, cantaloupe, carrots and watermelon. Minutes after skin prick test with standardized extract and skin prick with fresh foods, she developed dyspnea, pruritus, erythema, dizziness and sibilance; she was administered 0.5 mg of intramuscular adrenalin and 4 salbutamol inhalations and placed in the Trendelemburg position. Dyspnea persisted, and vital signs monitoring showed heart and respiratory rates increase and, hence, salbutamol was applied again, together with 2 L/min of oxygen delivered by nasal cannula, intravenous fluids and 100 mg intravenous hydrocortisone; improvement was observed at 40 minutes. The patient was hospitalized for 48 hours.
CONCLUSIONS: Although skin tests are safe, the risk of hypersensitivity and anaphylactic reactions should not be ruled out, especially in susceptible patients.

PMID: 28188719 [PubMed - in process]

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[Hematopoietic stem cells transplant in patients with common variable immunodeficiency. Is a therapeutic option?]

[Hematopoietic stem cells transplant in patients with common variable immunodeficiency. Is a therapeutic option?]

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):121-125

Authors: Cambray-Gutiérrez JC, Herrera-Sánchez DA, López-Pérez P, Chávez-García A, Yamazaki-Nakashimada MA

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Patients with common variable immunodeficiency show higher incidence of sinopulmonary and gastrointestinal infections, as well as lymphoproliferative and autoimmune diseases. The treatment of choice is replacement therapy with human gamma-globulin. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a non-conventional therapeutic modality.
CASE REPORT: Twenty-six-year old woman with no family or hereditary history of primary immune deficiencies or consanguinity, with repeated episodes of otitis, sinusitis, gastroenteritis and bronchitis since childhood. At adolescence, she was diagnosed with common variable immunodeficiency; she was prescribed intravenous gamma-globulin, broad-spectrum antimicrobials and macrolides. At 22 years of age, she underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation owing to continued severe infections. At 4 months, post-transplantation she was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and ovarian insufficiency. During the following 3 years, she had no infections, but at 25 years of age she had immune thrombocytopenic purpura diagnosed, which persists together with Raynaud's disease and upper respiratory tract persistent infections. At the moment of this report she is being treated with intravenous gamma-globulin and receiving prophylaxis with clarithromycin, without steroids or danazol.
CONCLUSIONS: Given the high rate of morbidity and mortality associated and immune reconstitution failure, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation should be carefully evaluated in patients with treatment-unresponsive infections or lymphoproliferative disorders.

PMID: 28188718 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lA1tQZ

[Measurement in epidemiology: prevalence, incidence, risk, impact measures].

[Measurement in epidemiology: prevalence, incidence, risk, impact measures].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(4):109-120

Authors: Fajardo-Gutiérrez A

Abstract
Measurement is essential in epidemiology, and this is why detailed knowledge of the different measures that are estimated in this discipline is necessary, since information interpretation and, most importantly, the decisions made in the care of patients depend on it. This article describes the three main groups of measures in epidemiology: frequency, association and potential impact; examples and instructions for their calculation are also provided. Incidence and prevalence are the most significant frequency measures, and can be obtained when both morbidity and mortality of diseases are studied. In descriptive epidemiology these measures are fundamental and involve studying how the disease is distributed in the population, in particular, the incidence according to the individual, place and time. The measures of association that are used in analytical epidemiology, such as prevalence ratio, odds ratio and relative risk, are also detailed. In addition, attributable risk, population and etiological fractions of exposed subjects and measures of potential impact are addressed. In general, it is important to consider that the relevance of calculating the frequency, association and potential impact measures depends on the study design.

PMID: 28188717 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lFhh0K

[Immunological alterations in common variable immunodeficiency].

[Immunological alterations in common variable immunodeficiency].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(4):87-108

Authors: Berrón-Ruiz L

Abstract
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the largest group of symptomatic primary immune deficiencies; it is characterized by hypogammaglobulinemia, poor response to vaccines and increased susceptibility to infections. Cellular phenotypes and abnormalities have been described both in adaptive and innate immune response. Several classifications of common variable immunodeficiency are based on defects found on T and B cells, which have been correlated with clinical manifestations. In recent years, significant progress has been made in elucidating the genetic mechanisms that result in a IDCV phenotype. Massive sequencing technologies have favored the description of mutations in several genes, but only in 2 % to 10 % of patients. These monogenetic defects are: ICOS, TNFRSF13B (TACI), TNFRS13C (BAFFR), TNRFSF12 (TWEAK), CD19, CD81, CR2 (CD21), MS4A1 (CD20), (CD27), LRBA, CTLA4, PRKCD, PLCG2, NFKB1, NFKB2, PIK3CD, PIK3R, VAV1, RAC1, BLK, IKZF1 (IKAROS) and IRF2BP2. These findings have provided a possible explanation for the pathogenesis of IDCV, since these molecules play an important role in the co-operation between B and T cells in the germinal center, as well as in intrinsic signaling pathways of both.

PMID: 28188716 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lA0LmQ

[Multiple sclerosis: current immunological aspects].

[Multiple sclerosis: current immunological aspects].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(4):76-86

Authors: Cuevas-García C

Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is the most common inflammatory, chronic and degenerative condition of the central nervous system, and represents the first cause of disability in young adults. In Mexico, 11 to 20 out of every 100 000 people suffer from this disease. The causes of multiple sclerosis remain unknown, but several theories have been proposed: the interaction of environmental factors, viral infectious factors and genetic and immune susceptibility of each individual patient, which induce an autoimmune response and promote neuronal/axonal degeneration. In this review, the immune reaction main components and neurodegeneration present in multiple sclerosis are analyzed, as well as the inflammatory cascade associated with demyelination. Available treatments' main purpose is to modulate aspects related to the adaptive immune response (B and T cells). The therapeutic challenge will be antigen-specific immune-tolerance induction, for example, with the use of tolerance protocols with peptides or DNA or nanoparticles vaccines. Future therapies should aim to control innate components (microglia, macrophages, astrocytes) and to promote remyelination. To optimize the treatment, a combined therapeutic approach targeting the control of inflammatory and neurodegenerative components of the disease and monitoring of biomarkers will be necessary.

PMID: 28188715 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lFbyrI

[High prevalence of food sensitization among adults with allergic diseases who live in the Guadalajara metropolitan area].

[High prevalence of food sensitization among adults with allergic diseases who live in the Guadalajara metropolitan area].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):66-75

Authors: Bedolla-Barajas M, Torres-Álvarez NE, Contreras-González U, Hernández-Colín D, Bedolla-Pulido TI, Robles-Figueroa M, Morales-Romero J

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of food sensitization in adults shows differences owing to geographic, regional and cultural circumstances.
OBJECTIVE: To identify the prevalence and factors associated with food sensitization in adults with allergic diseases.
METHODS: Cross-sectional study, where medical records of adult patients with any allergic disease and who tested positive to airborne allergens on at least one skin test were reviewed. Age, sex, underlying allergic disease and skin test result were recorded. Statistical analyses included food sensitization prevalence with the corresponding 95 % confidence intervals (CI), as well as a multivariate analysis to determine associated factors.
RESULTS: We included 258 patients with a mean of 36 years of age; 75 % were of the female sex. The most common underlying condition was allergic rhinitis (59 %). The prevalence of food sensitization was 37 % (95 % CI, 31.5-43.3) and it did not vary significantly according to sex or allergic disease in question. The most sensitizing food was soybeans (44.8 %), and associated factors were sensitization to cat dander (OR = 1.8; 95 % CI, 1.03-3.2) and 5 or more positive skin tests (OR = 4.3, 95 % CI 2.3-8.1).
CONCLUSION: The prevalence of food sensitization in people with allergic disease was 40 %. Further studies are required to determine its prevalence in the general population.

PMID: 28188714 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lA4mB0

[Safety of subcutaneous immunotherapy with tyrosine-adsorbed house dust mite extracts in patients with allergic disease].

[Safety of subcutaneous immunotherapy with tyrosine-adsorbed house dust mite extracts in patients with allergic disease].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):52-65

Authors: Molina-Sáenz MM, Villa-Arango AM, Cardona-Villa R

Abstract
BACKGROUND: In spite of allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT) multiple benefits, its use is restricted in some countries owing to concerns about severe adverse reactions.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate systemic adverse reactions in patients with atopic dermatitis, allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis who received subcutaneous immunotherapy with tyrosine-adsorbed Dermatophagoides and Glycyphagoides dust mites extracts.
METHODS: Retrospective study of the 2010-2015-period that included 773 patients diagnosed with IgE-mediated diseases, where the safety of allergen-specific immunotherapy was described according to the World Organization of Allergy subcutaneous immunotherapy-induced systemic reactions classification system.
RESULTS: 79.7 % of patients had rhinitis, 54.9 % asthma, 34.5 % conjunctivitis and 16.4 % atopic dermatitis. Out of 12,546 tyrosine-adsorbed extract doses, 45 systemic reactions were recorded: 12 were grade 1 (30 %), 27 grade 2 (67.5 %) and 1 was grade 3 (2.5 %); the reaction rate was 0.35 per 100 administered injections, for an incidence rate of 5.8 %. No fatal reactions occurred.
CONCLUSION: The frequency of systemic reactions with subcutaneous immunotherapy with Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Blomia tropicalis tyrosine-adsorbed extracts was similar to that reported with other extracts.

PMID: 28188713 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lF8trB

[Viable allergenic fungi in a documentary deposit of the National Archive of Cuba].

[Viable allergenic fungi in a documentary deposit of the National Archive of Cuba].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):40-51

Authors: Molina-Veloso A, Borrego-Alonso SF

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Intense and persistent exposure to indoor-air biological agents has been associated with the appearance of allergic diseases. Archives and libraries Indoor environments in tropical countries are an important reservoir of fungal propagules.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the degree of air pollution with allergenic fungi in a repository of frequently-manipulated documents.
METHODS: Air sampling was performed by two methods: active (biocollector) and passive (sedimentation plate). Fungi were taxonomically identified, and spores were measured to determine their penetrability in the human respiratory tract, and its impact on episodes of allergy.
RESULTS: In terms of concentration and diversity, the local environment behaved as a fungal propagule reservoir, which showed that there is significant health risk for the staff that manipulates the documents. Some spores were shown to be able to reach the lower respiratory tract when inhaled, which increases their allergenic and pathogenic potential. Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium and Alternaria, which are referred to as highly allergenic fungi, were prevalent.
CONCLUSION: Aerobiological studies are a valuable tool for the treatment of patients with allergy to fungi and other disorders they produce.

PMID: 28188712 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lzWn7b

[Clinical symptoms in IgA deficiency].

[Clinical symptoms in IgA deficiency].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):34-39

Authors: De Oliveira-Serra FA, Mosca T, Santos de Menezes MD, Carvalho-Neves Forte W

Abstract
BACKGROUND: IgA deficiency is the most common primary immunodeficiency. Early diagnosis and clinical follow-up may improve the quality of life of patients with IgA deficiency. To this end, IgA deficiency should be further studied and better understood on its clinical manifestations.
OBJECTIVE: To determine IgA deficiency clinical manifestations.
METHODS: Cross-sectional, retrospective, exploratory study, where the medical records of 39 patients with IgA deficiency were analyzed.
RESULTS: Among the analyzed cases, 10 patients were diagnosed with total IgA deficiency and 29 patients with partial IgA deficiency. Partial and total IgA deficiency main clinical manifestations were allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic asthma. In total IgA deficiency, in addition to allergic diseases, a statistically significant number (p < 0.05) of cases of infection-related rhinosinusitis, tonsillitis and conjunctivitis were also observed.
CONCLUSION: This study showed that the main clinical manifestations in IgA deficiency were allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic asthma. In addition, patients with total IgA deficiency showed a significant increase in infection-related rhinosinusitis, tonsillitis and conjunctivitis, when compared with patients with partial IgA deficiency.

PMID: 28188711 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lFqNkr

[Prevalence of sensitization to inhalant allergens in the immunology department from Hospital de Especialidades Pediátricas María, Honduras, 2016].

[Prevalence of sensitization to inhalant allergens in the immunology department from Hospital de Especialidades Pediátricas María, Honduras, 2016].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):24-33

Authors: Gonzales-González VA, Díaz-Flores AM, Fernández-Zelaya KZ, Rivera-Reyes MF

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Allergic diseases are a public health problem; estimates indicate that between 30% and 40% of the world population is affected by some allergy. Knowing the prevalence of allergen sensitization allows for adequate diagnoses and treatments to be offered. In Honduras there are no studies available in pediatric patients.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to identify the most common types of sensitization in children and their correlation with the most common allergic diseases in patients on immunotherapy at the Maria Hospital of Pediatric Specialties.
METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective study in which medical records and databases of patients on allergic immunotherapy at the Maria Hospital of Pediatric Specialties were reviewed between January 2015 and June 2016.
RESULTS: 215 children on immunotherapy were assessed; ages ranged from 3 to 18 years, with a mean of 10.8 years. Aeroallergen-positive epicutaneous tests were identified in 73.02%. The most common aeroallergens were Dermatophagoides farinae and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus mix (96.74%), American cockroach 37.21%, and Aspergillus fumigatus and Homodenderum cladosporioides (16.28%).
CONCLUSION: House dust mites and American cockroach were the most common causes of sensitization in patients on immunotherapy.

PMID: 28188710 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lzLRNg

[Knowledge and attitudes about aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease among Ecuadorian physicians].

[Knowledge and attitudes about aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease among Ecuadorian physicians].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):13-23

Authors: Calderón JC, Dávila F, Mantilla R, Chérrez A, Calero E, Cabrera D, Chérrez-Ojeda I

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is an asthma phenotype that involves high costs and significant burden for health systems.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the level of knowledge and attitudes towards AERD among Ecuadorian physicians.
METHODS: Descriptive, observational study. A questionnaire about knowledge on the disease and attitude towards it (confidence in the treatment and importance of AERD, measured with a Likert scale) was developed. The answers about knowledge were dichotomized into right and wrong; attitude was rated as high or low. Means and percentages were obtained; the answers of doctors with or without specialty were compared using the chi-square test.
RESULTS: One-hundred eighteen physicians participated. The age was 41.3 ± 11.7 years; 48.3 % were specialists. Less than 50% answered correctly the questions about knowledge. Specialist physicians obtained more correct answers regarding first symptoms, prevalence and leukotriene overproduction (67.9 %, 46.3% and 90.7 %), when compared with general practitioners (45.0 %, 25% and 74.6 %) (p < 0.05). More than 70 % of physicians indicated high confidence in the identification of patients with AERD. There were no significant differences in attitudes (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSION: Medical education programs should be developed in order to improve the level of knowledge about AERD.

PMID: 28188709 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lFo5eB

[Skin reactivity frequency to aeroallergens in patients with clinical symptoms of allergic disease].

[Skin reactivity frequency to aeroallergens in patients with clinical symptoms of allergic disease].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):7-12

Authors: Rojas-Méndez IC, Arana-Muñoz O, López-García AI, Rivero-Yeverino D, Caballero-López CG, Papaqui-Tapia S, Camero-Martínez H, Vázquez-Rojas E

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Allergic diseases diagnosis must be based on adequate allergological anamnesis and an immunological sensitization test; the most sensitive and specific is the skin prick test.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency of skin reactivity to aeroallergens, by age groups, in patients of the Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology of the Hospital Universitario de Puebla, in Mexico.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted that included patients aged 2 to 64 years with symptoms suggestive of allergic disease, in which skin prick tests with aeroallergens were performed; the diagnostic criteria were those of international guidelines. Frequencies, percentages and dispersion measures were calculated.
RESULTS: Of 173 patients, 63 % were females. Mean age was 22.3 years. The frequency of skin reactivity for Quercus sp. was 12.72 %, for Periplaneta americana, 9.83 %, for Dermatophagoides farinae, 9.25 %, for Cynodon dactylon, 8.09 %, for Blatella germanica, 8.09 %, for Holcus halepensis, 6.94 %, for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, 6.36 %, for Schinus molle, 5.78 %, for Fraxinus uhdei, 5.20 %, for Lolium perenne, 5.20 %, for Ambrosia eliator, 5.20 % and for Artemisa tridentata, 4.62 %.
CONCLUSION: Although Dermatophagoides are the most frequently reported aeroallergens, the most common aeroallergen in this study was pollen, probably owing to geographical and environmental factors, although this was not observed in the analysis by age groups.

PMID: 28188708 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lzXTGg

[The Jerusalem Chapter: A new paradigm in the care of allergic children and adolescents in Latin-American schools].

[The Jerusalem Chapter: A new paradigm in the care of allergic children and adolescents in Latin-American schools].

Rev Alerg Mex. 2017 Jan-Mar;64(1):3-6

Authors: Solé D, Urrutia-Pereira M, Sisul-Alvariza JC, Jares EJ, Sánchez-Borges M, Ansotegui IJ, Cruz ÁA, Chong-Neto HJ, Rosario N, González-Díaz SN, Badellino H, Valentín-Rostán M, Gómez RM, Teijeiro Á, Ensina LF, Cocco R, Saccardo-Sarni R

PMID: 28188707 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2lFi4i8

Structural Insights of SmKDAC8 Inhibitors: Targeting Schistosoma Epigenetics Through a Combined Structure-Based 3D QSAR, in vitro and Synthesis Strategy

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Flavio Ballante, D. Rajasekhar Reddy, Nancy J. Zhou, Garland R. Marshall
A predictive structure-based 3D QSAR (COMBINEr 2.0) model of the Schistosoma mansoni lysine deacetylase 8 enzyme (SmKDAC8) was developed, validated and used to perform virtual screening (VS) of the NCI Diversity Set V database (1593 compounds). Three external datasets (with congeneric structures to those experimentally resolved in complexes by X-ray and previously reported as SmKDAC8 inhibitors) were employed to compose and validate the most predictive model. Two series characterized by 104 benzodiazepine derivatives (BZDs) and 60 simplified largazole analogs (SLA), recently reported by our group as human KDAC inhibitors, were tested for their inhibition potency against SmKDAC8 to probe the predictive capability of the quantitative models against compounds with diverse structures. The SmKDAC8 biochemical results confirmed: 1) the benzodiazepine moiety as a valuable scaffold to further investigate when pursuing SmKDAC8 inhibition; 2) the predictive capability of the COMBINEr 2.0 model towards non-congeneric series of compounds, highlighting the most influencing ligand-protein interactions and refining the structure-activity relationships. From the VS investigations, the first 40 top-ranked compounds were obtained and biologically tested for their inhibition potency against SmKDAC8 and hKDACs 1, 3, 6 and 8. Among them, a non-hydroxamic acid benzothiadiazine dioxide derivative (code NSC163639), showed interesting activity and selectivity against SmKDAC8. To further elucidate the structure-activity relationships of NSC163639, two analogs (herein reported as compounds 3 and 4) were synthesized and biologically evaluated. Results suggest the benzothiadiazine dioxide moiety as a promising scaffold to be used in a next step to derive selective SmKDAC8 inhibitors.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2lFufvc

Green synthesis of novel spiro-indenoquinoxaline derivatives and their cholinesterases inhibition activity

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Ammar Maryamabadi, Alireza Hasaninejad, Najmeh Nowrouzi, Gholamhossein Mohebbi
A convenient synthesis of substituted spiroindenoquinoxalines at mild and green conditions was developed. Multicomponent reaction of substituted phenylene diamines, ninhydrin, malononitrile and N,N'-substituted-2-nitroethene-1,1-diamines produced the target compounds. Twelve new spiroindenoquinoxalines were obtained, and their ability in inhibition of acetyl and butyrylcholinesterases were investigated both in-vitro and in-silico. All compounds showed moderate level activity against both acetyl and butyrylcholinesterases.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2lFnGsE

20Q: Clinical Education and Precepting - Training the Next Generation of Audiologists

1. Is there one specific thing that is critical to ensuring high quality clinical training of students? Well this may sound a little too simple, but communication is fundamental to student training and to a successful student-preceptor experience. Our field relies upon effective communication but miscommunication or inadequate communication related to student training can really change the dynamic of a clinical experience. Students and preceptors must develop a strong communication system at the beginning of their time together to ensure that expectations and goals of the experience are similar, realistic and achievable. Students should learn that to accomplish their goals during a clinical rotation, it is essential for them to develop clear, respectful and ongoing dialogue with their preceptors. This can be challenging for students, particularly when working with multiple preceptors in a given setting. As supportive preceptors, it's our responsibility to develop a positive, clear and effective message for our students and to encourage them to communicate their thoughts and needs.

http://ift.tt/2kBfaLb

Investigating adverse events following immunisation with pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine using electronic General Practice data

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): L. Trinh, K. Macartney, P. McIntyre, C. Chiu, A. Dey, R. Menzies
BackgroundIn early 2011, following an increased number of reports of severe vaccine-related injection site reactions, Australian authorities recommended against administering repeat doses of the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (23vPPV) in otherwise healthy adults. The aim of this study was to assess a source of electronic medical record data from primary care providers (General Practitioners, GPs), for validity and ability to retrospectively detect this adverse event signal.MethodsThe General Practice Research Network (GPRN) holds data routinely collected from a representative sample of Australian GPs. Data were extracted on persons 18years or older who had received at least one dose of 23vPPV or influenza vaccine (as comparator) between January 2002 and June 2012. Increases above background levels were assessed using 95% confidence intervals of reaction rates, calculated from the Poisson distribution of counts.ResultsThere was an average of 253 practices and 532 GPs contributing data per year. Over the study period there were 95,760 recorded 23vPPV administrations and 823 reactions, of which 233 were local. For influenza vaccine the numbers were 683,829 doses, 3001 and 387 respectively. Patterns of vaccinations and reactions were consistent with known safety profiles. There were 3 local reactions following 23vPPV in early 2011 (235/100,000 doses, 95% CI 49–717), which was not significantly different to the historical average (260, 225–298). We estimate that this system could have detected a 3-fold increase over background levels.ConclusionsUsing GP consultation data, we were unable to confirm an increase in local reactions detected by passive surveillance, suggesting that this apparent signal was artefactual. GP consultation data captures large numbers of vaccine recipients and medically attended adverse reactions at low cost. If available in a timely manner and expanded, this system has significant potential for use in validation of apparent signals from passive surveillance.



http://ift.tt/2lzYhoe

Effects of melatonin in rats in the initial third stage of pregnancy exposed to sub-lethal doses of herbicides

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Acta Histochemica
Author(s): Lécio Leone de Almeida, Álvaro Aguiar Coelho Teixeira, Anísio Francisco Soares, Franklin Magliano da Cunha, Valdemiro Amaro da Silva, Leucio Duarte Vieira Filho, Valéria Wanderley-Teixeira
Exposure to the herbicides Paraquat (PQ) and Roundup^® may cause cell lesions due to an increase in oxidative stress levels in different biological systems, even in the reproductive system.ObjectiveEvaluate the possible changes in reproductive parameters and hepatic, as well as its prevention by simultaneous application of melatonin.MethodsThirty-five female rats at the age of 3 months were divided into seven groups: three groups exposed to sub-lethal doses of the herbicides PQ (50mg/kg) and Roundup^® (500mg/kg) (n=5, G2, G3 and G4); three groups exposed to herbicides and simultaneous treatment with 10mg/kg of Melatonin (n=5, G5, G6 and G7) and control group (n=5, G1) from the first to the seventh day of pregnancy. On the seventh day of pregnancy, the rats were anesthetized and euthanized, followed by laparotomy to remove their reproductive tissues and liver. Body and ovary weights were taken and the number of implantation sites, corpora lutea, preimplantation losses, implantation rates were counted and histopathology of the implantation sites, morphometry of the surface and glandular epithelia of endometrium and hepatic oxidative stress were undertaken.ResultsThe present study shows the decrease in body and ovary weight, decrease in the number of implantation sites, implantation rate, in the total number of corpora lutea and increase of preimplantation percentages were observed when compared to the G1: Fig. 1 and Table 1, (p>0.001 ANOVA/Tukey). The histopathological analysis of the implantation sites showed a disorder of the cytotrophoblast and cell degeneration within the blastocyst cavity in Fig. 4. Morphometry revealed a reduction in surface and glandular epithelia and in the diameter of the endometrial glands (Table 2; p>0.05 ANOVA/Tukey), whereas in liver, serum levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were found to be significantly elevated (Fig. 2; p>0.001; p>0.05 ANOVA/Tukey), and serum level of reduced glutathione (GSH) was significantly lower (Fig. 3; p>0.001 ANOVA/Tukey). However, treatments with melatonin exhibited improvements in reproductive parameters, as well as reduced lesions in the implantation sites (Fig. 4.) and in serum levels TBARS (Fig. 2; p>0.001 ANOVA/Tukey), serum levels GSH (Fig. 3; p>0.001; p>0.05 ANOVA/Tukey).ConclusionsThese results reveal that melatonin is a protective agent against experimentally induced maternal/embryo toxicity with herbicides and favoring normalization of reproductive parameters and hepatic.



http://ift.tt/2l5zl7A

Acute Vision Loss Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

A 41-year-old female with a history of uterine cancer and Celiac and Raynaud's Disease presented to our institution with frequent migraines and nasal congestion. She underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and experienced acute unilateral vision loss postoperatively. Rapid recognition of the etiology and effective treatment are paramount given the permanent and irreversible vision loss that can result. Arterial vasospasm following FESS is rare. Patients with autoimmune diseases have perhaps an increased risk for vasospasm secondary to an increased vasoreactive profile. We present the first documented case of nitroglycerin sublingual therapy to successfully treat ophthalmic artery vasospasm following FESS. Nitroglycerin sublingual therapy is a promising treatment for ophthalmic vasospasm secondary to its ability to cross the blood-ocular barrier, its rapid onset of action, and its ability to promote relaxation of vascular smooth muscle.

http://ift.tt/2l5wFqt

Technique: Barcoding the nucleus

http://ift.tt/2lA3mx9

The evolution of tumour phylogenetics: principles and practice

The use of phylogenetics in cancer genomics is increasing owing to a growing appreciation of the importance of evolutionary theory to cancer progression. The authors provide guidance on the design and analysis of tumour phylogeny studies by surveying the range of phylogenetic methods and tools available to the cancer researcher and discussing their key applications and the unsolved problems in the field.

http://ift.tt/2lFcWe5

Three-dimensional growth of human endothelial cells in an automated cell culture experiment container during the SpaceX CRS-8 ISS space mission – The SPHEROIDS project

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 124
Author(s): Jessica Pietsch, Samuel Gass, Stefano Nebuloni, David Echegoyen, Stefan Riwaldt, Christin Baake, Johann Bauer, Thomas J. Corydon, Marcel Egli, Manfred Infanger, Daniela Grimm
Human endothelial cells (ECs) were sent to the International Space Station (ISS) to determine the impact of microgravity on the formation of three-dimensional structures. For this project, an automatic experiment unit (EU) was designed allowing cell culture in space. In order to enable a safe cell culture, cell nourishment and fixation after a pre-programmed timeframe, the materials used for construction of the EUs were tested in regard to their biocompatibility. These tests revealed a high biocompatibility for all parts of the EUs, which were in contact with the cells or the medium used. Most importantly, we found polyether ether ketones for surrounding the incubation chamber, which kept cellular viability above 80% and allowed the cells to adhere as long as they were exposed to normal gravity. After assembling the EU the ECs were cultured therein, where they showed good cell viability at least for 14 days. In addition, the functionality of the automatic medium exchange, and fixation procedures were confirmed. Two days before launch, the ECs were cultured in the EUs, which were afterwards mounted on the SpaceX CRS-8 rocket. 5 and 12 days after launch the cells were fixed. Subsequent analyses revealed a scaffold-free formation of spheroids in space.



http://ift.tt/2lGxu6H

Killing colon cancer cells through PCD pathways by a novel hyaluronic acid-modified shell-core nanoparticle loaded with RIP3 in combination with chloroquine

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 124
Author(s): Xueyan Hou, Chengli Yang, Lijing Zhang, Tingting Hu, Dan Sun, Hua Cao, Fan Yang, Gang Guo, Changyang Gong, Xiaoning Zhang, Aiping Tong, Rui Li, Yu Zheng
Due to extensive apoptosis defects and multidrug resistance, there is great interest regarding non-apoptotic programmed cell death (PCD) pathways, such as lysosomal-mediated programmed cell death (LM-PCD), necroptosis and autophagy. Because there is an intricate effector network among these PCD pathways, it is expected that they may act synergistically in cancer therapy. In this study, chloroquine (CQ) was found to significantly upregulate receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3) expression, and RIP3 were involved in CQ-related autophagy. Overexpressed-eGFP-RIP3 co-localized with the selective autophagy receptor p62. mRIP3 overexpression in combination with CQ markedly increased the inhibition rate relative to that observed in the CQ-treatment group. Several experiments, including Hoechst staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation, the high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) release assay, Annexin V/PI staining and immunoblotting of proteins included in PCD pathways, verified that mRIP3 overexpression in combination with CQ induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) and necroptosis of cancer cells, leading to cancer cell death. For tumor-targeted delivery, hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified, lipid-coated PLGA nanoparticles loaded with mRIP3-pDNA were prepared and characterized using a particle sizer, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and TEM. The nanoparticles exhibited ideal biocompatibility and good tumor-targeting efficiency, and the tumor inhibition rate of HA-Lip-PEI-mRIP3-PLGA-NPs + CQ was 80.2% in the CT26 mouse model. In this study, we attempted to treat tumors by inducing several alternative PCD pathways to shed light on the combination therapy of alternative PCD inducers.



http://ift.tt/2l5DB76

Acute Vision Loss Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

A 41-year-old female with a history of uterine cancer and Celiac and Raynaud's Disease presented to our institution with frequent migraines and nasal congestion. She underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and experienced acute unilateral vision loss postoperatively. Rapid recognition of the etiology and effective treatment are paramount given the permanent and irreversible vision loss that can result. Arterial vasospasm following FESS is rare. Patients with autoimmune diseases have perhaps an increased risk for vasospasm secondary to an increased vasoreactive profile. We present the first documented case of nitroglycerin sublingual therapy to successfully treat ophthalmic artery vasospasm following FESS. Nitroglycerin sublingual therapy is a promising treatment for ophthalmic vasospasm secondary to its ability to cross the blood-ocular barrier, its rapid onset of action, and its ability to promote relaxation of vascular smooth muscle.

http://ift.tt/2l5wFqt

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Screening, Risk Modification and Physical Therapy to Prevent Falls among the Elderly Recently Discharged from the Emergency Department to the Community: the Steps to Avoid Falls in the Elderly Study

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): David B. Matchar, Pamela W. Duncan, Christopher T.C. Lien, Marcus Eng Hock Ong, Mina Lee, Fei Gao, Rita Sim, Kirsten Eom
ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of a multifactorial, tailored program of physical therapy to reduce the occurrence of falls among a heterogeneous group of high-risk elderly Singaporeans recently discharged from the Emergency Department (ED).DesignRandomized controlled trial.SettingCommunities in Central and East regions in Singapore.Participants354 adults aged at least 65 years who were seen at ED for a fall or fall-related injuries and discharged home.InterventionsThe intervention primarily consisted of a tailored program of physical therapy focused on progressive training in strength, balance, and gait for a period of three months. Participants in the intervention group also received screening and follow up for vision, polypharmacy, and environmental hazards. Participants in the control group received usual care prescribed by a physician and educational materials on falls prevention.Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome measure was experiencing at least one fall during the nine-month study period (a three-month active intervention phase and a six-month maintenance phase). Secondary outcome measures were the occurrence of at least one injurious fall during the study period and a change in the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score. Participants were assessed both after three and nine months.ResultsDuring the nine-month study period, 37.9% of the control group and 30.5% of the intervention group fell at least once, which was not statistically significantly different (odds ratio 0.72 [0.46, 1.12], p=0.146). The intervention group had statistically significantly fewer individuals with injurious falls (odds ratio 0.56 [0.32, 0.98], p=0.041) and less deterioration in physical performance, reflected by a mean difference of 0.6 in SPPB scores (p=0.029). Multivariate analyses indicated a strong interaction effect between the intervention and the presence of two or more major comorbidities; after accounting for this effect, the intervention program reduced the number of people experiencing at least one fall (odds ratio 0.34 [0.17 – 0.67], p=0.002).ConclusionWe observed that, in this heterogeneous population, the proportion of participants experiencing at least one fall during the study period was not statistically significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group. Secondary analyses strongly suggest that individuals with two or more major comorbidities do not benefit from a tailored physical therapy program; however, individuals with less comorbidity may substantially benefit.



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Clinicians’ and researchers’ perspectives on manual wheelchair data loggers

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): François Routhier, Josiane Lettre, William C. Miller, Jaimie F. Borisoff, Kate Keetch, Ian M. Mitchell
Recent studies have employed data loggers to record a wide range of, sometimes differing, objective outcomes associated with the use of manual wheelchairs. To identify which outcomes are broadly perceived to be the most important to measure when objectively documenting manual wheelchair use, a cross-sectional survey was conducted with groups of researchers and clinicians in the field of wheeled mobility. We also surveyed the challenges these groups experienced when using data loggers. The survey was informed by a previous scoping review of the scientific and gray literature. Seventy-four people, with various academic and professional backgrounds, completed the survey: 57 researchers (77.0%) and 17 clinicians (23.0%). Regarding the importance they attributed to commonly measured outcomes, the most highly rated outcome identified by both groups was "distance traveled." There were significant differences between the groups' perspectives in rating and ranking the importance of "pressure-relief activities", "seat pressure" and "acceleration." In terms of challenges or barriers associated with the use of data loggers for monitoring manual wheelchair use, it appears that researchers and clinicians have relatively similar needs and preferences. However, only clinicians reported that the time they wanted to, or could, allocate to review recorded information was a potential hardship. Our hope is that these results will help further development and increase the functionality and applicability of data loggers for manual wheelchairs in research and clinical contexts.



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Contents

Publication date: March–April 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging, Volume 42





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FROM PERIODONTAL MECHANORECEPTORS TO CHEWING MOTOR CONTROL: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Publication date: Available online 13 February 2017
Source:Archives of Oral Biology
Author(s): Piancino Maria Grazia, Isola Gaetano, Cannavale Rosangela, Cutroneo Giuseppina, Vermiglio Giovanna, Bracco Pietro, Anastasi Giuseppe Pio
PurposeThis critical review summarizes the current knowledge of the structural and functional characteristics of periodontal mechanoreceptors, and understands their role in the signal pathways and functional motor control.MethodA systematic review of the literature was conducted. Original articles were searched through Pubmed, Cochrane Central database and Embase until january 2016.Result1466 articles were identified through database searching and screened by reviewing the abstracts. 160 full-text were assessed for eligibility, and after 109 exclusion, 51 articles were included in the review process. Studies selected by the review process were mainly divided in studies on animal and studies on humans. Morphological, histological, molecular and electrophysiological studies investigating the periodontal mechanoreceptors in animals and in humans were included, evaluated and described.ConclusionOur knowledge of the periodontal mechanoreceptors, let us conclude that they are very refined neural receptors, deeply involved in the activation and coordination of the masticatory muscles during function. Strictly linked to the rigid structure of the teeth, they determine all the functional physiological and pathological processes of the stomatognathic system. The knowledge of their complex features is fundamental for all dental professionists. Further investigations are of utmost importance for guiding the technological advances in the respect of the neural control in the dental field.



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Evaluation of single and stack membraneless enzymatic fuel cells based on ethanol in simulated body fluids

Publication date: 15 June 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 92
Author(s): J. Galindo-de-la-Rosa, N. Arjona, A. Moreno-Zuria, E. Ortiz-Ortega, M. Guerra-Balcázar, J. Ledesma-García, L.G. Arriaga
The purpose of this work is to evaluate single and double-cell membraneless microfluidic fuel cells (MMFCs) that operate in the presence of simulated body fluids SBF, human serum and blood enriched with ethanol as fuels. The study was performed using the alcohol dehydrogenase enzyme immobilised by covalent binding through an array composed of carbon Toray paper as support and a layer of poly(methylene blue)/tetrabutylammonium bromide/Nafion and glutaraldehyde (3D bioanode electrode). The single MMFC was tested in a hybrid microfluidic fuel cell using Pt/C as the cathode. A cell voltage of 1.035V and power density of 3.154mWcm⁻² were observed, which is the highest performance reported to date. The stability and durability were tested through chronoamperometry and polarisation/performance curves obtained at different days, which demonstrated a slow decrease in the power density on day 10 (14%) and day 20 (26%). Additionally, the cell was tested for ethanol oxidation in simulated body fluid (SBF) with ionic composition similar to human blood plasma. Those tests resulted in 0.93V of cell voltage and a power density close to 1.237mWcm⁻². The double cell MMFC (Stack) was tested using serum and human blood enriched with ethanol. The stack operated with blood in a serial connection showed an excellent cell performance (0.716mWcm⁻²), demonstrating the feasibility of employing human blood as energy source.



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The majority of patients with metastatic melanoma are not represented in pivotal phase III immunotherapy trials

Publication date: March 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 74
Author(s): Marco Donia, Marie Louise Kimper-Karl, Katrine Lundby Høyer, Lars Bastholt, Henrik Schmidt, Inge Marie Svane
BackgroundRecent randomised phase III trials have led to the approval of several immune checkpoint inhibitors for unresectable or metastatic melanoma (MM). These trials all employed strict patient selection criteria, and it is currently unknown how large proportion of 'real-world' patients diagnosed with MM is not represented in these trials.Patients and methodsThe Danish MM Database contains data on the entire, unselected population of MM within a nationwide geographical area. A total of 276 unselected cases of MM (ocular melanoma excluded), referred for first oncological evaluation in 2014, were included in the analysis. Seven pre-defined eligibility criteria, all used to select patients for enrolment in five recent randomised phase III immunotherapy trials, were analysed.ResultsFifty-five percent of the total population with MM did not meet one or more eligibility criteria ('not eligible' group) at first evaluation. PS ≥ 2 or active/untreated known brain metastases accounted alone for 74% of non-eligibility cases. Median overall survival in the 'not eligible' group was 5.43 months versus 18.3 months for the eligible (p < 0.0001, hazard ratio (HR) 2.44), reflected by significantly worse baseline prognostic features. However, patients treated with immunotherapy had similar survival outcomes regardless of eligibility.ConclusionOver half of the patients evaluated for systemic treatment of MM are not represented in phase III registration immunotherapy trials. The data reveal a huge knowledge gap regarding the usefulness of new immunotherapies in the 'real-world' patient population, and urge additional testing of known regimens in selected poor prognosis cohorts.



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Critical evaluation of strategies for single and simultaneous determinations of As, Bi, Sb and Se by hydride generation inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Talanta, Volume 167
Author(s): Maja Welna, Anna Szymczycha-Madeja, Pawel Pohl
A systematic study of hydride generation (HG) of As, Bi, Sb and Se from solutions containing As(III), As(V), Bi(III), Sb(III), Sb(V), Se(IV) and Se(VI) was presented. Hydrides were generated in a gas-liquid phase separation system using a continuous flow vapor generation accessory (VGA) by mixing acidified aqueous sample, HCl and sodium borohydride reductant (NaBH4) solutions on-line. For detection, a simultaneous axially viewed inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES) was applied. Effects of the HCl concentration (related to sample and additional acid solutions) and type of the pre-reducing agents used for reduction of As(V), Sb(V) and Se(VI) into As(III), Sb(III) and Se(IV) on the analytical responses of As, Bi, Sb and Se were studied and discussed. Two compromised HG reaction conditions for simultaneous measurements of As+Bi+Sb (CC1) or As+Sb+Se (CC2) were established. It was found that choice of the pre-reductant prior to formation of the hydrides is critical in obtaining the dependable results of the analysis. Accordingly, for a As(III)+As(V)+Bi(III)+Sb(III)+Sb(V) mixture and using CC1, thiourea/thiourea–ascorbic acid interfered in Bi determination and hence, total As+Sb could be measured. If L-cysteine/L-cysteine–ascorbic acid were used, measurements of total Bi+Sb was possible in these HG reaction conditions. For a As(III)+As(V)+Sb(III)+Sb(V)+Se(IV)+Se(VI) mixture and using CC2, thiourea/thiourea–ascorbic acid and L-cysteine/L-cysteine–ascorbic acid influenced HG of Se but ensured total As+Sb determination. In contrast, heating a sample solution with HCl, although did not pre-reduce As(V) and Sb(V), assured quantitative reduction of Se(VI) to Se(IV). Finally, considering all favorable pre-reducing and HG conditions, methodologies for reliable determination of total As, Bi, Sb and Se by HG-ICP-OES were proposed. Strategies for single-, two- and three-element measurements were evaluated and validated, obtaining the detection limits (DLs) below 0.1ngg⁻¹ and precision typically in the range of 1.4–3.9% RSD.

Graphical abstract

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Structured evaluation and need-based restructuring of the cranio-maxillofacial surgery module within surgical clerkship

Evaluations are important for teaching courses and contribute to educational quality assurance. CMF surgery provides a module in the skills-lab week in preparation for surgical clerkship. Even though the CMF module receives positive evaluations, the students report deviating content. Subsequently, exams skills were often not mastered correctly. The aim of this study is to gather the contents taught within the course and to revise the module accordingly.

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Retrospective Evaluation of Three Different Joint Surgeries for Internal Derangements of the Temporomandibular Joint

To compare the outcomes achieved with eminectomy, discectomy alone, and discectomy with an abdominal dermis fat graft (D+ADFG) in the treatment of internal derangements (IDs) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and to briefly discuss the failed cases in which a second operation was needed.

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Surgical Rehabilitation for Anophthalmic Sockets Devoid of Orbital Implant

To determine the necessity of rehabilitative surgical procedures for no implant anophthalmic sockets, and predictive factors of corrective operations after secondary orbital implantation.

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Comparison of functional outcomes and patient-reported satisfaction between titanium and absorbable plates and screws for fixation of mandibular fractures: a one-year prospective study

The aim of this study is to compare the 1-year functional outcomes and patient-reported satisfaction in treating mandibular fractures between resorbable and titanium fixation devices.

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Preliminary research on DNA methylation changes during murine palatogenesis induced by TCDD

2,3,7,8-tetrachlrodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) has been shown to induce cleft palate through growth factor and receptor expression changes during palatogenesis. DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification that can regulate gene expressions and may be involved in TCDD-induced cleft palate. In this study, we investigated the effects of TCDD on the global and CpG DNA methylation status and the expression levels of DNA methyltransferases(Dnmts) in palate tissue of fetal mice. Pregnant C57BL/6J mice were administered with corn oil or TCDD 28μg/kg at gestation day 10.5(GD10.5), and sacrificed at GD13.5,14.5,15.5.Fetal palates were collected for molecular analysis.

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Radiation-free 3D head shape and volume evaluation after endoscopically assisted strip craniectomy followed by helmet therapy for trigonocephaly

Radiation-free 3D post-operative sequential follow-up in craniosynostosis is hindered by the lack of consistent markers restricting evaluation to subjective comparison. However, using the computed cranial focal point (CCFP), it is possible to perform correct sequential image superposition and objective evaluation. We used this technique for mean volume and shape change evaluation of the head utilizing 3D photos after endoscopically assisted trigonocephaly surgery.

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Perioral soft tissue change after isolated mandibular surgery for asymmetry patients

This study was intended to determine whether isolated mandibular surgery for the correction of asymmetry could also change perioral soft tissue asymmetry.

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Treatment Outcome in Orthognathic Surgery - a prospective comparison of accuracy in computer assisted two and three-dimensional prediction techniques

The main objective of the present study was to assess the accuracy of two- and three-dimensional prediction techniques in orthognathic surgery. It was also a test of the very planning sequence. The scientific question was how well does the software support the surgeon in his way to find the perfect correction of the facial appearance while normalizing the occlusion?Thirty patients with a class III occlusion were included in this prospective study. Surgical planning with both techniques were undertaken for all patients.

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The Current Preferred Female Lip Ratio

Perception of beauty is influenced by the individual's demographic background and characteristics. However, objective measurements and ratios remain the foundation for aesthetic evaluations. This study aimed to elucidate if there exists a universally applicable ideal upper to lower lip ratio.

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Resolution of neurosensory deficit after mandibular orthognathic surgery: A prospective longitudinal study

Neurosensory deficit (NSD) after orthognathic surgery is common as reported in the literature1-7. Trigeminal nerve branches can be traumatized during orthognathic procedures and manifest as sensory impairment of the lips, facial skin, teeth and gingiva of the affected area postoperatively8, 9. Mandibular orthognathic procedures are particularly risky in causing NSD when compared to maxillary procedures10,11. Inferior alveolar nerve could be exposed in certain mandibular procedures like sagittal split ramus osteotomy, and nerve injury by traction or compression could be unavoidable.

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Radiological changes with magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography after irradiating minipig mandibles: The role of T2-SPIR mixed signal intensities in the detection of osteoradionecrosis

Radiotherapy in the head and neck can induce several radiologically detectable changes in bone, osteoradionecrosis (ORN) among them. The purpose is to investigate radiological changes in mandibular bone after irradiation with various doses with and without surgery and to determine imaging characteristics of radiotherapy and ORN in an animal model.

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Bone regeneration enhancement by ultra-violet (UV) treatment for uHA/PLLA absorbable mesh

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of bone regeneration enhancement by ultra-violet (UV) treatment of an unsintered hydroxyapatite (u-HA)/poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) mesh in rabbitnasal bone.

http://ift.tt/2l9seuz

The roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and autophagy in the survival and death of leukemia cells

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
Author(s): Yong-Feng Chen, Hao Liu, Xin-Jing Luo, Zhiqiang Zhao, Zhen-You Zou, Jing Li, Xiao-Jing Lin, Yong Liang
As a clonal disease of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), the etiology and pathogenesis of leukemia is not fully understood. Recent studies suggest that cellular homeostasis plays an essential role in maintaining the function of HSCs because dysregulation of cellular homeostasis is one of the major factors underlying the malignant transformation of HSCs. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and autophagy, key factors regulating cellular homeostasis, are commonly observed in the human body. Autophagy can be induced by ROS through a variety of signaling pathways, and conversely inhibits ROS-induced damage to cells and tissues. ROS and autophagy coordinate to maintain cellular homeostasis. Previous studies have demonstrated that both of ROS and autophagy play important roles in the development of leukemia and are closely involved in drug resistance in leukemia. Interference with cellular homeostasis by promoting programmed leukemia cell death via ROS and autophagy has been verified to be an efficient technique in the treatment of leukemia. However, the critical roles of ROS and autophagy in the development of leukemia are largely unknown. In this review, we summarize the roles of ROS and autophagy in the pathogenesis of leukemia, which may allow the identification of novel targets and drugs for the treatment of leukemia based on the regulation of HSCs homeostasis through ROS and autophagy.



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Validation of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale for Children and Adolescents using Rasch analysis

A validated measure of daytime sleepiness for adolescents is needed to better explore emerging relationships between sleepiness and the mental and physical health of adolescents. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is a widely used scale for daytime sleepiness in adults but contains references to alcohol and driving. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale for Children and Adolescents (ESS-CHAD) has been proposed as the official modified version of the ESS for children and adolescents. This study describes the psychometric analysis of the ESS-CHAD as a measure of daytime sleepiness for adolescents.

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Infant night sleep trajectory from age 3 to 24 months: Evidence from the Singapore GUSTO study

Longitudinal studies on night sleep trajectories throughout infancy are sparse. Moreover, most studies have examined samples in Caucasian individuals, although cultural differences in sleep habits have been described. To expand on the current literature, we aimed to determine night sleep trajectories in an Asian population from age 3 to 24 months.

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Restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movements after lacunar stroke

Although anatomical and physiological considerations suggest a possible causality between subcortical brain areas lesions and emergence of sleep-related movement disorders, few data are available regarding the association between restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movements (RLS/PLM) and lacunar stroke [1]. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and the lesion topography of new-onset RLS/PLM in patients with lacunar stroke. In addition, we tried to add some details about the characterization of sleep-related movement disorders in relation to the site and side of the ischemic lesion.

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High strength Mg-Zn-Y alloys reinforced synergistically by Mg12ZnY phase and Mg3Zn3Y2 particle

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 703
Author(s): J. Zhu, X.H. Chen, L. Wang, W.Y. Wang, Z.K. Liu, J.X. Liu, X.D. Hui
Eight Mg100-x-yZnxYy (at.%, x = 2–7.2, y = 4–7) alloys with atomic ratios of Y/Zn = 0.75–2 were designed and prepared by rapidly solidified powder metallurgy technology. The atomized powders with the Y/Zn atomic ratios larger than 1 contain α-Mg dendrite and network-like X-Mg12ZnY compound, but those with the Y/Zn atomic ratios of 1 and 0.75 have W-Mg3Zn3Y2 particle besides the above two phases. After hot extrusion, network-like Mg12ZnY phase was changed into acicular and plate-like shape. These as-extruded alloys exhibit excellent mechanical properties at room and elevated temperature. Especially, the ultimate tensile strength of as-extruded Mg86Zn7Y7 alloy reaches up to 541 MPa at room temperature and 297 MPa at 250 °C. HRTEM study reveals that Mg12ZnY phase is composed of 18R LPSO structures. These sub-micrometer Mg3Zn3Y2 particles bring about dispersion strengthening to Mg12ZnY phases, resulting in a synergistic strengthening of Mg12ZnY phase and Mg3Zn3Y2 particle in the alloy which has the Y/Zn atomic ratio equal to or larger than 1. Therefore, the excellent mechanical properties of Mg86Zn7Y7 alloy are attributed to the second phase strengthening of LPSO phase and synergistic strengthening of Mg12ZnY phase and Mg3Zn3Y2 particle.



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One step self-heating synthesis and their excellent anticorrosion performance of zinc phosphate/benzotriazole composite pigments

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Dyes and Pigments, Volume 141
Author(s): Min Miao, Xiao-Yu Yuan, Xiao-Gang Wang, Yi Lu, Jin-Ku Liu
Zinc phosphate/benzotriazole (ZPB) corrosion pigments were synthesized by one step self-heating method. The ZPB pigments showed visible anticorrosion performance by enhancing the corrosion resistance of the epoxy coating effectively through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy test. The impedance activity of ZPB pigments was increased by 1275.5% and 196.5% compared to pure zinc phosphate (ZP) and benzotriazole (BTA) pigments, respectively. The super effect of anticorrosion mostly contributed to the one step self-heating method, which improved the stability of the pigments and reinforced the combination of pigments and epoxy coating by the plank martensite structure of ZPB pigment. This method could transfer the heat released during the synthesis of ZP to the dissolving of BTA by directly co-precipitation, realizing the heat of self-sufficient in one step. Moreover, ZPB pigments achieved complementary anticorrosion effect, for making up the loopholes of the single anticorrosion and achieving superior property in the initial of anticorrosion process. It is instructive for the synthesis and development of the anticorrosive pigment in the future.

Graphical abstract

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Antimicrobial property, cytocompatibility and corrosion resistance of Zn-doped ZrO2/TiO2 coatings on Ti6Al4V implants

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Materials Science and Engineering: C, Volume 75
Author(s): Ruoyun Wang, Xiaojing He, Yuee Gao, Xiangyu Zhang, Xiaohong Yao, Bin Tang
Zn-doped ZrO2/TiO2 porous coatings (Zn-ZrO2/TiO2) were prepared on the surface of titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) by a hybrid approach of magnetron sputtering and micro-arc oxidation (MAO). The microstructures, phase constituents and elemental states of the coating were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results demonstrate that the Zn-ZrO2/TiO2 coatings are porous and its thickness is approximately 13μm. The major phases in the oxidation coating are tetragonal ZrO2 (t-ZrO2), cubic ZrO2 (c-ZrO2) and rutile TiO2. XPS result reveals that Zn exists as ZnO in the Zn-ZrO2/TiO2 coatings. The biological experiments indicate that Zn-ZrO2/TiO2 coatings exhibit not only excellent antibacterial property against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), but also favorable cytocompatibility. In addition, the corrosion resistance of the coating is also appreciably improved in the simulated body fluids (SBF), which can ensure better biocompatibility in body fluids.



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Strengthening effect of nano and micro-sized precipitates in the hot-extruded Mg-5Sn-3Zn alloys with Ca addition

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 703
Author(s): L.L. Chang, H. Tang, J. Guo
In this study, enhancement of mechanical properties of Mg-5Sn-3Zn alloy was achieved by alloying with Ca, and the strengthening response due to coarse CaMgSn, nano and micro-sized Mg2Sn precipitates in hot-extruded Mg-5Sn-3Zn based alloys was reported. As the content of Ca increases, the amount of Mg2Sn and CaMgSn precipitates in Mg-5Sn-3Zn based alloys increases while the average particle size of those precipitates decreases. Mg2Sn phases in both micrometer and nanometer scale are observed in Mg-5Sn-3Zn alloys with and without Ca. Besides micro-sized and nano-sized Mg2Sn, coarse precipitates of CaMgSn are observed in Mg-5Sn-3Zn with Ca addition. By alloying with Ca, grains are refined and fiber {0002} texture in hot-extruded Mg-5Sn-3Zn based alloys is weakened. The Mg-5Sn-3Sn-1Ca alloys show the largest YS of 118 MPa, UTS of 275 MPa and elongation of 21.9%. Improvement in combined strength and ductility of Mg-5Sn-3Sn-1Ca alloys is attributed to less coarse CaMgSn precipitates, more and finer nano-sized Mg2Sn precipitates, and a weak {0002} fiber texture.



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Erratum to ‘Cytoreductive surgery for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in the new age of immunotherapy’ [Oral Oncol. 61 (2016) 166–176]

The publisher regrets that R. Bryan Bell's forename appeared incorrectly in the original article. It appears correctly above.

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High toll-like receptor (TLR) 9 expression is associated with better prognosis in surgically treated pancreatic cancer patients

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest malignancies in the world. Inflammatory response and tumor environment are thought to play a major role in its pathogenesis. Knowledge on TLR expression and impact on patient survival in pancreatic cancer is limited. The study's aim was to clarify the role of different TLRs in pancreatic cancer. TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 expression was investigated in 65 surgically resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma specimens by immunohistochemistry. The association between TLR expression, clinical parameters, and local inflammatory response to the tumor was assessed using chi-square test. Relation between patient survival and TLR expression was calculated with multivariable Cox regression, adjusted for age, sex, and tumor stage. We found TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9 to be expressed in pancreatic cancer. There was no association between TLR expression and tumor stage, tumor size, lymph node metastasis, or tumor necrosis. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, high cytoplasmic TLR9 expression was associated with longer patient survival, and multivariate analysis identified low TLR9 expression as an independent risk factor for cancer-specific death (HR 3.090, 95% CI 1.673–5.706). The results suggest that high TLR9 expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma indicates improved prognosis. The prognostic effect of TLR9 might be associated with bacterial exposure, but this needs further evidence.

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What worries parents of a child with Autism? Evidence from a biomarker for chronic stress

Publication date: Available online 12 February 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities
Author(s): Vicki Bitsika, Christopher F. Sharpley, Nicholas M. Andronicos, Linda L. Agnew
BackgroundPrevious studies have reported correlations between various aspects of the behaviour and symptomatology of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their parents' self-reports of stress via standardised scales.AimsTo extend that literature, a physiological index of parental chronic stress was used instead of their self-reports—dysregulation of the Diurnal Rhythm (DR) of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis.MethodsA sample of 149 parents of a child with ASD provided salivary cortisol at the predicted time of daily maximum cortisol concentration and at a time of daily lower concentration. Adherence to the predicted DR was assessed via a dichotomous (present/not-present) as well as a continuous measure, and MANOVA and linear regression were used to detect significant associations between ASD-related variables in their children and parents' DR.ResultsIdentified only a single significant correlate of DR dysregulation in both statistical procedures—Self-Injurious Behaviour (SIB) exhibited by their child and observed by the parents.Conclusions and ImplicationsThese findings extend previous data using self-report indices of parental stress and should be included in parent-support settings to alert parents to the long-term health effects of the stress they experience in regard to their child's SIB.



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B cell activating factor (BAFF) selects IL-10−B cells over IL-10+B cells during inflammatory responses

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 85
Author(s): Ning Ma, Yu Zhang, Qilin Liu, Zhiding Wang, Xiaoling Liu, Gaizhi Zhu, Dandan Yu, Gencheng Han, Guojiang Chen, Chunmei Hou, Tianxiao Wang, Yuanfang Ma, Beifen Shen, Yan Li, He Xiao, Renxi Wang
B cell activating factor (BAFF) regulates B cell maturation, survival, function, and plays a critical pathogenic role in autoimmune diseases. It remains unclear how BAFF affects IL-10⁻B cells versus regulatory B cells (Bregs) in inflammatory responses. In this study, we found that IL-10-expressing Bregs decreased in lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice and experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice. On blockade of the effects of BAFF with TACI-IgG, IL-10⁺ Bregs were upregulated in MRL/lpr and EAE mice. In addition, BAFF expanded IL-10⁺B cells over IL-10⁻B cells under noninflammatory conditions in vitro, whereas it expanded IL-10⁻B cells over IL-10⁺B cells during inflammatory responses, such as stimulation with autoantigen and LPS. Finally, the selection of IL-10⁻B cells over IL-10⁺B cells by BAFF was dependent on BAFF receptors (BAFFR, TACI, and BCMA) that were upregulated by inflammatory responses. This study suggests that BAFF selects IL-10⁻B cells over IL-10⁺ regulatory B cells via BAFF receptors in inflammatory responses.



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B cell activating factor (BAFF) selects IL-10−B cells over IL-10+B cells during inflammatory responses

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 85
Author(s): Ning Ma, Yu Zhang, Qilin Liu, Zhiding Wang, Xiaoling Liu, Gaizhi Zhu, Dandan Yu, Gencheng Han, Guojiang Chen, Chunmei Hou, Tianxiao Wang, Yuanfang Ma, Beifen Shen, Yan Li, He Xiao, Renxi Wang
B cell activating factor (BAFF) regulates B cell maturation, survival, function, and plays a critical pathogenic role in autoimmune diseases. It remains unclear how BAFF affects IL-10⁻B cells versus regulatory B cells (Bregs) in inflammatory responses. In this study, we found that IL-10-expressing Bregs decreased in lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice and experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice. On blockade of the effects of BAFF with TACI-IgG, IL-10⁺ Bregs were upregulated in MRL/lpr and EAE mice. In addition, BAFF expanded IL-10⁺B cells over IL-10⁻B cells under noninflammatory conditions in vitro, whereas it expanded IL-10⁻B cells over IL-10⁺B cells during inflammatory responses, such as stimulation with autoantigen and LPS. Finally, the selection of IL-10⁻B cells over IL-10⁺B cells by BAFF was dependent on BAFF receptors (BAFFR, TACI, and BCMA) that were upregulated by inflammatory responses. This study suggests that BAFF selects IL-10⁻B cells over IL-10⁺ regulatory B cells via BAFF receptors in inflammatory responses.



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