Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Helene F. Rosenberg, Elizabeth A. Jacobsen, Bruce S. Bochner, Peter F. Weller
http://ift.tt/2oRUEZB
Τετάρτη 19 Απριλίου 2017
In lasting tribute: Dr James J. Lee (1958-2017)
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Helene F. Rosenberg, Elizabeth A. Jacobsen, Bruce S. Bochner, Peter F. Weller
http://ift.tt/2oRUEZB
Mumps 2017: The role of educational institutes in preventing the spread of the disease
Source:American Journal of Infection Control
Author(s): Saba Ahmed, Iqra Aziz
http://ift.tt/2pF4SQd
Asthma and risk of coronary heart disease
Source:Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Author(s): Huai Liu, Ying Fu, Kunpeng Wang
BackgroundFew studies have investigated the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD) in patients with asthma, and their results remain inconclusive.ObjectiveTo conduct a meta-analysis to determine whether asthma increases the risk of CHD.MethodsA systematic literature search of the PubMed and Embase databases from inception to August 2016, complemented with references screening of relevant articles and reviews, was performed to identify eligible studies. Only longitudinal cohort studies were included in our meta-analysis.ResultsThe retrieval process yielded 7 studies (12 asthma cohorts) with 495,024 patients. Data pooling across the cohorts revealed that asthma was associated with an increased risk of CHD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.30–1.57; P < .001), without significant heterogeneity across the studies (I2 = 26%, P = .19). This epidemiologic association was more pronounced in female than in male patients (female: HR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.41–1.59; male: HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.16–1.47; P for interaction = .046). In addition, subgroup and sensitivity analyses supported the positive correlation between asthma and incident CHD.ConclusionAsthma is related to an increased incidence of CHD, particularly in women. Clinicians should be aware of this association when faced with a patient with asthma. Further investigations are required to examine how this excess risk should be managed in routine practice.
http://ift.tt/2piigto
Skeletal myositis as the sole feature of relapsing drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome
Source:Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Author(s): Jennifer Massey, Kishore Kumar, Karl Ng, James Yun, Suran Fernando
http://ift.tt/2pi5XNK
Proptosis and vision loss as grave complications of allergic fungal sinusitis and polyposis
Source:Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
Author(s): Shane A. Bobart, Ves Dimov, Darby Sider, Esteban Gallego
http://ift.tt/2pTU9gX
Efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies in Korea: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Abstract
Background
The efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens may depend on the country where the studies were performed because of the difference in antibiotic resistance. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of H. pylori eradication regimens in Korea where clarithromycin resistance rate is high.
Methods
We searched for all relevant randomized controlled trials published until November 2016 that investigated the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapies in Korea. A network meta-analysis was performed to calculate the direct and indirect estimates of efficacy among the eradication regimens.
Results
Forty-three studies were identified through a systematic review, of which 34 studies, published since 2005, were included in the meta-analysis. Among 21 included regimens, quinolone-containing sequential therapy for 14 days (ST-Q-14) showed the highest eradication rate (91.4% [95% confidence interval [CI], 86.9%-94.4%] in the intention-to-treat [ITT] analysis). The eradication rate of the conventional triple therapy for 7 days, standard sequential therapy for 10 days, hybrid therapy for 10-14 days, and concomitant therapy for 10-14 days was 71.1% (95% CI, 68.3%-73.7%), 76.2% (95% CI, 72.8%-79.3%), 79.4% (95% CI, 75.5%-82.8%), and 78.3% (95% CI, 75.3%-80.9%), respectively, in the ITT analysis. In the network meta-analysis, ST-Q-14 showed a better comparative efficacy than the conventional triple therapy, standard sequential therapy, hybrid therapy, and concomitant therapy. In addition, tolerability of ST-Q-14 was comparable to those regimens.
Conclusion
In Korea, ST-Q-14 showed the highest efficacy in terms of eradication and a comparable tolerability, compared to the results reported for the conventional triple therapy, standard sequential therapy, hybrid therapy, and concomitant therapy.
http://ift.tt/2phYlLd
Efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies in Korea: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Abstract
Background
The efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens may depend on the country where the studies were performed because of the difference in antibiotic resistance. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of H. pylori eradication regimens in Korea where clarithromycin resistance rate is high.
Methods
We searched for all relevant randomized controlled trials published until November 2016 that investigated the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapies in Korea. A network meta-analysis was performed to calculate the direct and indirect estimates of efficacy among the eradication regimens.
Results
Forty-three studies were identified through a systematic review, of which 34 studies, published since 2005, were included in the meta-analysis. Among 21 included regimens, quinolone-containing sequential therapy for 14 days (ST-Q-14) showed the highest eradication rate (91.4% [95% confidence interval [CI], 86.9%-94.4%] in the intention-to-treat [ITT] analysis). The eradication rate of the conventional triple therapy for 7 days, standard sequential therapy for 10 days, hybrid therapy for 10-14 days, and concomitant therapy for 10-14 days was 71.1% (95% CI, 68.3%-73.7%), 76.2% (95% CI, 72.8%-79.3%), 79.4% (95% CI, 75.5%-82.8%), and 78.3% (95% CI, 75.3%-80.9%), respectively, in the ITT analysis. In the network meta-analysis, ST-Q-14 showed a better comparative efficacy than the conventional triple therapy, standard sequential therapy, hybrid therapy, and concomitant therapy. In addition, tolerability of ST-Q-14 was comparable to those regimens.
Conclusion
In Korea, ST-Q-14 showed the highest efficacy in terms of eradication and a comparable tolerability, compared to the results reported for the conventional triple therapy, standard sequential therapy, hybrid therapy, and concomitant therapy.
http://ift.tt/2phYlLd
"Beijing Da Xue Xue Bao"[jour]; +30 new citations
30 new pubmed citations were retrieved for your search. Click on the search hyperlink below to display the complete search results:
"Beijing Da Xue Xue Bao"[jour]
These pubmed results were generated on 2017/04/19
PubMed comprises more than millions of citations for biomedical literature from MEDLINE, life science journals, and online books. Citations may include links to full-text content from PubMed Central and publisher web sites.
http://ift.tt/2op5ghy
Oral Disease and Malnutrition in the Elderly—Impact of Oral Cancer
Abstract
Purpose of Review
The purpose of this paper is to review current evidence for a concomitant relationship between oral diseases and malnutrition in the elderly. A narrative overview of current literature was undertaken to combine the context for research with critical elaboration and commentary.
Recent Findings
Oral disease is one of the most common public health issues worldwide with significant socio-economic impacts, and yet it is frequently neglected in public health policy. Epidemiologic studies show that oral disease frequently causes malnutrition in the elderly. In particular, malnutrition is associated with poor quality of life and poor efficacy of oncologic therapy in oral cancer patients.
Summary
As oral disease remains a major public health burden worldwide, it is of great importance to integrate oral health into the nutrition agenda via the Common Risk Factor Approach. As such the long-term sustainable strategy for global oral health should focus on health promotion and malnutrition prevention in the elderly.
http://ift.tt/2oNrZXf
The Influence of Periodontal Burden on Metabolic Control of Diabetes—Myth or Reality?—from a Nutritional Perspective
Abstract
Purpose of Review
The effects of periodontal treatment on the metabolic control of diabetes have been extensively studied. This report summarizes current understanding on the underlying mechanisms.
Recent Findings
All recent studies supporting the beneficial effects of periodontal treatment have common features: (1) clinically, periodontal disease in diabetics is relatively severe, (2) the subjects exhibit elevated hs-CRP level, which declines following periodontal treatment, and (3) the subjects generally do not exhibit morbid obesity. Nevertheless, the subjects with higher hs-CRP appear to develop more mature adipose tissues than the subjects with lower hs-CRP.
Summary
Inflammatory immune cells have been reported to migrate into adipose tissue, interact with adipocytes, and thereby exacerbate adipose tissue inflammation. This may be a key mechanism explaining how local periodontal inflammation influences systemic inflammation. Therefore, appropriate life style intervention is an additional requirement in addition to reducing other obvious risk factors such as smoking in the overall management of periodontal disease in subjects with diabetes.
http://ift.tt/2oRsUo1
Malnutrition and Oral Health in Children
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to review the effects of malnutrition on children's oral health.
Recent Findings
Malnutrition negatively affects the development of craniofacial structures and teeth. Nutrient deficiencies during amelogenesis and dentinogenesis lead to defective tooth structures, which tend to harbor cariogenic bacteria. The role of vitamin D in prevention of dental caries is inconclusive. Some researchers believe dental caries is not multifactorial nor transmissible because caries cannot develop without sugars. There is conflicting information in relation to the effects of malnutrition in tooth eruption and exfoliation, but its deleterious influence is clear in the integrity of the oral mucosa and salivary function.
Summary
An improper nutrition deprives the child from important nutrients for growth and development, including that of oral structures. More research is needed to elucidate the role of malnutrition in tooth development, exfoliation, and eruption.
http://ift.tt/2pF1DFA
Hypothyroidism and Hyponatremia: Rather Coincidence Than Causality
http://ift.tt/2o6htvx
Racial Disparities In Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: Have We Bridged The Gap?
Thyroid , Vol. 0, No. 0.
http://ift.tt/2op81j3
Hypothyroidism and Hyponatremia: Rather Coincidence Than Causality
http://ift.tt/2o6htvx
Racial Disparities In Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: Have We Bridged The Gap?
Thyroid , Vol. 0, No. 0.
http://ift.tt/2op81j3
Antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential of diterpenoid alkaloids from Aconitum heterophyllum
Publication date: Available online 19 April 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Hanif Ahmad, Shujaat Ahmad, Syed Adnan Ali Shah, Abdul latif, Mumtaz Ali, Farman Ali Khan, Muhammad Nawaz Tahir, Farzana Shaheen, Abdul Wadood, Manzoor Ahmad
Extensive chromatographic separations performed on the basic (pH = 8-10) chloroform soluble fraction of Aconitum heterophyllum resulted in the isolation of three new diterpenoid alkaloids, 6β-Methoxy, 9β-dihydroxylheteratisine (1), 1α,11,13β-trihydroxylhetisine (2), 6,15β-dihydroxylhetisine (3), and the known compounds iso-atisine (4), heteratisine (5), hetisinone (6), 19-epi-isoatisine (7), and atidine (8). Structures of the isolated compounds were established by means of mass and NMR spectroscopy as well as single crystal X-ray crystallography. Compounds 1–8 were screened for their antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities followed by in silico studies to find out the possible inhibitory mechanism of the tested compounds. This work is the first report demonstrating significant antioxidant and anticholinesterase potentials of diterpenoid alkaloids isolated from a natural source.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2pEM6Fy
“Nails Only” Phenotype and Partial Dominance of p.Glu170Lys Mutation in a Family with Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex
Abstract
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a heterogeneous group of rare, chronic, inherited skin disorders characterized by marked mechanical fragility of epithelial tissues, with blistering and erosions after minor trauma. We present the first report of a nails-only phenotype in two patients with epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) and a heterozygous pGlu170Lys mutation and the second reported case of EBS associated with a homozygous p.Glu170Lys mutation in the KRT5 gene. Our findings may be relevant for genetic counseling and for understanding the inheritance pattern of EBS.
http://ift.tt/2oXqHt9
Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp with Excellent Response to Isotretinoin
Abstract
An 18-year-old man presented for evaluation of a 1-year history of painful nodules on the scalp with associated hair loss. Physical examination revealed multiple confluent, fluctuant, boggy nodules on the scalp with overlying alopecic patches. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was made and the patient was successfully treated with oral isotretinoin therapy.
http://ift.tt/2pTE5Ml
Garlic Dermatitis on the Neck of an Infant Treated for Nasal Congestion
Abstract
The health benefits of garlic (Allium sativum) as a naturopathic remedy have been well documented, but topical application of garlic has been linked to allergic and irritant contact dermatitis. We present a case of severe irritant contact dermatitis due to application of a fresh garlic necklace to the neck of infant for treatment of nasal congestion.
http://ift.tt/2pTDtX1
Synergistic effects of BMP-2, BMP-6 or BMP-7 with human plasma fibronectin onto hydroxyapatite coatings: a comparative study
Publication date: Available online 19 April 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Isabelle Brigaud, Rémy Agniel, Johanne Leroy Dudal, Sabrina Kellouche, Arnaud Ponche, Tahar Bouceba, Natalia Mihailescu, Mihai Sopronyi, Eric Viguier, Carmen Ristoscu, Felix Sima, Ion N. Mihailescu, Ana Claudia O. Carreira, Mari Cleide Sogayar, Olivier Gallet, Karine Anselme
Design of new osteoinductive biomaterials to reproduce an optimized physiological environment capable of recruiting stem cells and instructing their fate towards the osteoblastic lineage has become a priority in orthopedic surgery. This work aims at evaluating the bioactivity of BMP combined with human plasma fibronectin (FN/BMP) delivered in solution or coated onto titanium-hydroxyapatite (TiHA) surfaces. Herein, we focus on the comparison of in vitro osteogenic efficacy in mouse C2C12 pre-osteoblasts of three BMP members, namely: BMP-2, BMP-6 and BMP-7. In parallel, we evaluated the molecular binding strength between each BMP with FN using the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) technology. The affinity of BMPs for FN was found totally different and dependent on BMP type. Indeed, the combination of FN with BMP-2 on TiHA surfaces potentiates the burst of gene-mediated osteogenic induction, while it prolongs the osteogenic activity of BMP-6 and surprisingly annihilates the BMP-7 one. These results correlate with FN/BMP affinity for TiHA, since BMP-6 > BMP-2 > BMP-7. In addition, by analyzing the osteogenic activity in the peri-implant environment, we showed that osteoinductive paracrine effects were significantly decreased upon (FN/BMP-6), as opposed to (FN/BMP-2) coatings. Altogether, our results support the use of FN/BMP-6 to develop a biomimetic microenvironment capable to induce osteogenic activity under physiological conditions, with minimum paracrine signalization.Statement of significanceThe originality of our paper relies on the first direct comparison of the in vitro osteogenic potential of three osteogenic BMPs (BMP-2, -6 and -7) combined with native human plasma fibronectin delivered in solution or coated by laser transfer onto titanium hydroxyapatite surfaces. We confirm that BMP association with fibronectin enhances the osteogenic activity of BMP-2, -6 and -7, but with essential discrepancies, depending on the BMP member, and in agreement with the affinity of BMPs for fibronectin. Moreover, we bring elements to explain the origin of the BMP-2 medical life-threatening side-effects by analyzing in vitro paracrine effects. Finally, this work supports the alternative use of FN/BMP-6 to induce osteogenic activity under physiological conditions, with minimum side effects.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2pTHo64
A strain-mediated corrosion model for bioabsorbable metallic stents
Publication date: Available online 19 April 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): E. Galvin, D. O'Brien, C. Cummins, B.J. Mac Donald, C. Lally
This paper presents a strain-mediated phenomenological corrosion model, based on the discrete finite element modelling method which was developed for use with the ANSYS Implicit finite element code. The corrosion model was calibrated from experimental data and used to simulate the corrosion performance of a WE43 magnesium alloy stent. The model was found to be capable of predicting the experimentally observed plastic strain-mediated mass loss profile. The non-linear plastic strain model, extrapolated from the experimental data, was also found to adequately capture the corrosion-induced reduction in the radial stiffness of the stent over time. The model developed will help direct future design efforts towards the minimisation of plastic strain during device manufacture, deployment and in-service, in order to reduce corrosion rates and prolong the mechanical integrity of magnesium devices.Statement of SignificanceThe need for corrosion models that explore the interaction of strain with corrosion damage has been recognised as one of the current challenges in degradable material modelling (Gastaldi et al., 2011).A FE based plastic strain mediated phenomenological corrosion model was developed in this work and was calibrated based on the results of the corrosion experiments. It was found to be capable of predicting the experimentally observed plastic strain mediated mass loss profile and the corrosion-induced reduction in the radial stiffness of the stent over time. To the author's knowledge, the results presented here represent the first experimental calibration of a plastic strain mediated corrosion model of a corroding magnesium stent.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2pTshJY
Facile encapsulation of hydroxycamptothecin nanocrystals into zein-based nanocomplexes for active targeting drug delivery and cell imaging
Publication date: Available online 19 April 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Hongdi Wang, Wei Zhu, Yunna Huang, Zhixian Li, Yanbin Jiang, Qiuling Xie
Nano-drug delivery systems that integrate inorganic and organic or even bioactive components into a single nanoscale platform are playing a greatly important role in cancer treatment. Here, the fabrication of a versatile nanocarrier based on self-assembled structures of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-zein is reported, which displays high drug-loading efficiency for needle-shaped hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) nanocrystals. The surface modification with folate-conjugated polydopamine (PFA) renders them stable and also facilitates their selective cellular internalization and enhancement of endocytosis. The release of payloads from nanocomplexes (NCs) was shown to be limited at physiological pH (17.1 ± 2.8%) but significantly elevated at endosomal/lysosomal pH (58.4 ± 3.0%) and at enzymatic environment (81.4 ± 4.2%). Compared to free HCPT and its non-targeting equivalent, HCPT@AuNPs-Zein-PFA, exerted a superior tumor suppression capacity as well as low side effects due to their active and passive targeting delivery both in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that the NCs with well-defined core@shell nanostructures encapsulated with HCPT nanocrystals hold great promise to improve cancer therapy with a high efficiency in the clinic.Statement of significanceA novel nanocomplex encapsulated HCPT nanocrystals was designed to achieve selective cellular uptake by endocytosis, acid responsive release in the tumour microenvironment and excellent tumour suppression without toxicity. This nanocomplex with conjugation of folate was stable in the bloodstream, with minimal drug release in extracellular conditions, leading to prolonged blood circulation and high accumulation in tumour tissues. The entrapment of nanocrystal drug into nanomaterials might be capable of delivering drugs in a predictable and controllable manner.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2pTmvbd
Treatment Update of Chronic Migraine
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Although chronic migraine (CM) is a common disorder that severely impacts patient functioning and quality of life, it is usually underdiagnosed, and treatment responses often remain poor even after diagnosis. In addition, effective treatment options are limited due to the rarity of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients with CM. In the present review, we discuss updated pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and neurostimulation treatment options for CM.
Recent Findings
Pharmacological treatments include both acute and preventive measures. While acute treatment options are similar between CM and episodic migraine (EM), preventive treatment with topiramate and botulinum toxin A exhibited efficacy in more than two RCTs. In addition, several studies have revealed that behavioral interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques are associated with significant improvements in symptoms. Thus, these treatment options are recommended for patients with CM, especially for refractory cases. Neurostimulation procedures, such as occipital stimulation, supraorbital transcutaneous stimulation, non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation, and transcranial direct current stimulation, have shown promising results in the treatment of CM. However, current studies on neurostimulation suffer from small sample size, no replication, or negative results.
Summary
Although CM is less responsive to treatment compared to EM, recent advance in pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and neurostimulation treatments may provide more chance for successful treatment of CM.
http://ift.tt/2o62odt
Treatment Update of Chronic Migraine
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Although chronic migraine (CM) is a common disorder that severely impacts patient functioning and quality of life, it is usually underdiagnosed, and treatment responses often remain poor even after diagnosis. In addition, effective treatment options are limited due to the rarity of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients with CM. In the present review, we discuss updated pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and neurostimulation treatment options for CM.
Recent Findings
Pharmacological treatments include both acute and preventive measures. While acute treatment options are similar between CM and episodic migraine (EM), preventive treatment with topiramate and botulinum toxin A exhibited efficacy in more than two RCTs. In addition, several studies have revealed that behavioral interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques are associated with significant improvements in symptoms. Thus, these treatment options are recommended for patients with CM, especially for refractory cases. Neurostimulation procedures, such as occipital stimulation, supraorbital transcutaneous stimulation, non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation, and transcranial direct current stimulation, have shown promising results in the treatment of CM. However, current studies on neurostimulation suffer from small sample size, no replication, or negative results.
Summary
Although CM is less responsive to treatment compared to EM, recent advance in pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and neurostimulation treatments may provide more chance for successful treatment of CM.
http://ift.tt/2o62odt
Preventing Venous Thromboembolism in Ambulatory Cancer Patients: The ONKOTEV study
Background.
The efficacy of risk model scores to predict venous thromboembolism (VTE) in ambulatory cancer patients is under investigation, aiming to stratify on an individual risk basis the subset of the cancer population that could mostly benefit from primary thromboprophylaxis.
Materials and Methods.We prospectively assessed 843 patients with active cancers, collecting clinical and laboratory data. We screened all the patients with a duplex ultrasound (B-mode imaging and Doppler waveform analysis) of the upper and lower limbs to evaluate the right incidence of VTE (both asymptomatic and symptomatic). The efficacy of the existing Khorana risk model in preventing VTE was also explored in our population. Several risk factors associated with VTE were analyzed, leading to the construction of a risk model. The Fine and Gray model was used to account for death as a competing risk in the derivation of the new model.
Results.The risk factors significantly associated with VTE at univariate analysis and further confirmed in the multivariate analysis, after bootstrap validation, were the presence of metastatic disease, the compression of vascular/lymphatic structures by tumor, a history of previous VTE, and a Khorana score >2. Time-dependent receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed a significant improvement in the area under the curve of the new score over the Khorana model at 3 months (71.9% vs. 57.9%, p = .001), 6 months (75.4% vs. 58.6%, p < .001), and 12 months (69.8% vs. 58.3%, p = .014).
Conclusion.ONKOTEV score steps into history of cancer-related-VTE as a promising tool to drive the decision about primary prophylaxis in cancer outpatients. The validation represents the goal of the prospective ONKOTEV-2 study, endorsed and approved by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Young Investigators Program. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–8
Implications for Practice: Preventing venous thromboembolism in cancer outpatients with a risk model score will drive physicians' decision of starting thromboprophylaxis in high-risk patients.
http://ift.tt/2o5SCbp
Dosing Three-Drug Combinations That Include Targeted Anti-Cancer Agents: Analysis of 37,763 Patients
Background.
Combining targeted and cytotoxic agents has the potential to improve efficacy and attenuate resistance for metastatic cancer. Information regarding safe starting doses for clinical trials of novel three-drug combinations is lacking.
Materials and Methods.Published phase I–III adult oncology clinical trials of three-drug combinations involving a targeted agent were identified by PubMed search (January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2013). A dose percentage was calculated to compare the dose used in combination to the single agent recommended dose: (U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved/recommended phase II dose/maximum tolerated dose). The additive dose percentage was the sum of the dose percentages for each drug in the combination.
Results.A total of 37,763 subjects and 243 drug combinations were included. Only 28% of studies could give each of the three agents at 100%. For combinations involving two targeted agents and a cytotoxic agent, the lowest starting additive dose percentage was 133%, which increased to 250% if two antibodies were included. For combinations of one targeted agent and two cytotoxic agents, the lowest additive safe dose percentage was 137%. When both cytotoxic agents were held at 100%, as occurred in 56% of studies (which generally used cytotoxic doublets with known combination safety dosing), the lowest safe dose percentage was 225% (providing that a histone deacetylase inhibitor was not the targeted agent).
Conclusion.These findings serve as a safe starting point for dosing novel three-drug combinations involving a targeted agent in clinical trials and practice. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–9
Implications for Practice.Targeted and cytotoxic drug combinations can improve efficacy and overcome resistance. More knowledge of safe starting doses would facilitate use of combinations in clinical trials and practice. Analysis of 37,763 subjects (243 combinations) showed three drugs could be safely administered, but less than 30% of combinations could include all three drugs at full dose. Dose reductions to 45% of the dose of each single agent may be required. Combinations involving two antibodies required fewer dose reductions, and the use of established cytotoxic doublets made initial dose assignment easier.
http://ift.tt/2op06Ca
Kaposi Sarcoma Inflammatory Cytokine Syndrome (KICS): A Rare but Potentially Treatable Condition
Kaposi sarcoma inflammatory cytokine syndrome (KICS) is a newly-described condition affecting individuals who are HIV-positive and are infected with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). This is a syndrome that in some ways mimics severe sepsis with associated acute respiratory distress syndrome, possibly requiring a ventilator and vasopressor support. However, unlike severe sepsis, antibiotics provide no benefit. Management of KICS has not been fully elucidated because of its high mortality rate. However, the syndrome has been successfully treated in some cases with immunomodulatory therapy. It is crucial for oncologists to be able to recognize this syndrome and to institute the appropriate therapy. The Oncologist 2017;22:1–3
http://ift.tt/2ooNUl4
FDA Approval Summary: Atezolizumab for the Treatment of Patients with Progressive Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma after Platinum-Containing Chemotherapy
Until recently in the United States, no products were approved for second-line treatment of advanced urothelial carcinoma. On May 18, 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved atezolizumab for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma whose disease progressed during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy. Atezolizumab is a programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) blocking antibody and represents the first approved product directed against PD-L1. This accelerated approval was based on results of a single-arm trial in 310 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma who had disease progression after prior platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients received atezolizumab 1,200 mg intravenously every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Key efficacy measures were objective response rate (ORR), as assessed by Independent Review per RECIST 1.1, and duration of response (DoR). With a median follow-up of 14.4 months, confirmed ORR was 14.8% (95% CI: 11.1, 19.3) in all treated patients. Median DoR was not reached and response durations ranged from 2.1+ to 13.8+ months. Of the 46 responders, 37 patients had an ongoing response for ≥ 6 months. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue, decreased appetite, nausea, urinary tract infection, pyrexia, and constipation. Infection and immune-related adverse events also occurred, including pneumonitis, hepatitis, colitis, endocrine disorders, and rashes. Overall, the benefit-risk assessment was favorable to support accelerated approval. The observed clinical benefits need to be verified in confirmatory trial(s). The Oncologist 2017;22:1–8
Implications for Practice: This accelerated approval of atezolizumab for second-line use in advanced urothelial carcinoma provides patients with an effective, novel treatment option for the management of their disease. This represents the first immunotherapy approved in this disease setting.
http://ift.tt/2o5OtnS
Caught in the cROSsfire: GSH Controls T Cell Metabolic Reprogramming
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Ramon I. Klein Geltink, David O'Sullivan, Erika L. Pearce
T cell activation and proliferation critical for protective immunity depend on appropriate rewiring of cellular metabolism. In this issue of Immunity, Mak et al. (2017) show that the antioxidant gluthathione (GSH) controls reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent engagement of metabolic signaling pathways that lead to protective T cell responses.
Teaser
T cell activation and proliferation critical for protective immunity depend on appropriate rewiring of cellular metabolism. In this issue of Immunity, Mak et al. (2017) show that the antioxidant gluthathione (GSH) controls reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent engagement of metabolic signaling pathways that lead to protective T cell responses.http://ift.tt/2phMrAX
The Dynamic Cytokine Niche
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Frank P. Assen, Michael Sixt
Immune cells communicate using cytokine signals, but the quantitative rules of this communication aren't clear. In this issue of Immunity, Oyler-Yaniv et al. (2017) suggest that the distribution of a cytokine within a lymphatic organ is primarily governed by the local density of cells consuming it.
Teaser
Immune cells communicate using cytokine signals, but the quantitative rules of this communication aren't clear. Oyler-Yaniv et al. (2017) suggest that the distribution of a cytokine within a lymphatic organ is primarily governed by the local density of cells consuming it.http://ift.tt/2pTj3gW
The Birds, the Bees, and Innate Immunity
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Glen N. Barber
The cytoplasm is usually a DNA-free zone, but during fertilization, sperm DNA enters oocyte cytoplasm and could potentially trigger a response. Abe et al. (2017) identify NLRP14 as a germ-cell-specific negative regulator of DNA sensing that may be of particular importance during fertilization.
Teaser
The cytoplasm is usually a DNA-free zone, but during fertilization, sperm DNA enters oocyte cytoplasm and could potentially trigger a response. Abe et al. (2017) identify NLRP14 as a germ-cell-specific negative regulator of DNA sensing that may be of particular importance during fertilization.http://ift.tt/2phO9CA
Cell-Intrinsic Defense at the Epithelial Border Wall: Salmonella Pays the Price
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Sky W. Brubaker, Denise M. Monack
Within the gut, Salmonella-infected enterocytes are expelled into the lumen, limiting pathogen replication. In this issue of Immunity, Rauch et al. (2017) expand our understanding of this cell-intrinsic response by characterizing the genetic determinants that control the expulsion and death of epithelial cells.
Teaser
Within the gut, Salmonella-infected enterocytes are expelled into the lumen, limiting pathogen replication. In this issue of Immunity, Rauch et al. (2017) expand our understanding of this cell-intrinsic response by characterizing the genetic determinants that control the expulsion and death of epithelial cells.http://ift.tt/2pTxRMz
Hunting Down the HIV-1 Reservoir: A Starring Role for Antibodies?
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Hugo Mouquet
The persistence of viruses "hidden" in a reservoir of latently infected CD4+ T cells under antiretroviral therapy is the major obstacle to an HIV-1 cure. Recently published in Nature, two seminal studies from Descours et al. (2017) and Nishimura et al. (2017) bring hope for tracking and possibly eradicating the HIV-1 reservoir.
Teaser
The persistence of viruses "hidden" in a reservoir of latently infected CD4 T cells under antiretroviral therapy is the major obstacle inhibiting an HIV-1 cure. Recently published in Nature, two seminal studies from Descours et al. (2017) and Nishimura et al. (2017) bring hope for tracking and possibly eradicating the HIV-1 reservoir.http://ift.tt/2pTmdB5
Treating Flu with Skin of Frog
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): James E. Crowe
Glands in frog skin secrete substances that possess broad antimicrobial function. Holthausen et al. mined this soup of natural products and discovered a peptide that destroys diverse human influenza strains (Holthausen et al., 2017). This study points the way to the discovery of novel anti-influenza molecules targeting conserved elements on influenza surface proteins.
Teaser
Glands in frog skin secrete substances that possess broad antimicrobial function. Holthausen et al. mined this soup of natural products and discovered a peptide that destroys diverse human influenza strains (Holthausen et al., 2017). This study points the way to the discovery of novel anti-influenza molecules targeting conserved elements on influenza surface proteins.http://ift.tt/2phKkNC
Two Strings in One Bow: PD-1 Negatively Regulates via Co-receptor CD28 on T Cells
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Janna Krueger, Christopher E. Rudd
The identity of PD-1 dependency on other receptors and signaling has been unclear. In a recent issue of Science, Hui et al. (2017) and Kamphorst et al. (2017) now show that CD28 expression is a target of PD-1-associated phosphatases and is needed for T cell expansion in anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.
Teaser
The identity of PD-1 dependency on other receptors and signaling has been unclear. In a recent issue of Science, Hui et al. (2017) and Kamphorst et al. (2017) now show that CD28 expression is a target of PD-1-associated phosphatases and is needed for T cell expansion in anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.http://ift.tt/2pTtu43
Regionalized Development and Maintenance of the Intestinal Adaptive Immune Landscape
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): William W. Agace, Kathy D. McCoy
The intestinal immune system has the daunting task of protecting us from pathogenic insults while limiting inflammatory responses against the resident commensal microbiota and providing tolerance to food antigens. This role is particularly impressive when one considers the vast mucosal surface and changing landscape that the intestinal immune system must monitor. In this review, we highlight regional differences in the development and composition of the adaptive immune landscape of the intestine and the impact of local intrinsic and environmental factors that shape this process. To conclude, we review the evidence for a critical window of opportunity for early-life exposures that affect immune development and alter disease susceptibility later in life.
Teaser
Agace and McCoy discuss regional differences in the development and composition of the adaptive immune landscape of the intestine and the impact of local intrinsic and environmental factors that shape this process, including evidence for a critical window of opportunity for early-life exposures that affect immune development and alter disease susceptibility later in life.http://ift.tt/2phP2uX
Lung Homeostasis: Influence of Age, Microbes, and the Immune System
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Clare M. Lloyd, Benjamin J. Marsland
Pulmonary immune homeostasis is maintained by a network of tissue-resident cells that continually monitor the external environment, and in health, instruct tolerance to innocuous inhaled particles while ensuring that efficient and rapid immune responses can be mounted against invading pathogens. Here we review the multiple pathways that underlie effective lung immunity in health, and discuss how these may be affected by external environmental factors and contribute to chronic inflammation during disease. In this context, we examine the current understanding of the impact of the microbiota in immune development and function and in the setting of the threshold for immune responses that maintains the balance between tolerance and chronic inflammation in the lung. We propose that host interactions with microbes are critical for establishing the immune landscape of the lungs.
Teaser
Lloyd and Marsland review the multiple pathways that underlie effective lung immunity in health and discuss the impact of the microbiota in lung immune development and function, including the setting of the threshold for immune responses that maintains the balance between tolerance and chronic inflammation in the lung.http://ift.tt/2pTnEiW
Homeostatic Immunity and the Microbiota
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Yasmine Belkaid, Oliver J. Harrison
The microbiota plays a fundamental role in the induction, education, and function of the host immune system. In return, the host immune system has evolved multiple means by which to maintain its symbiotic relationship with the microbiota. The maintenance of this dialogue allows the induction of protective responses to pathogens and the utilization of regulatory pathways involved in the sustained tolerance to innocuous antigens. The ability of microbes to set the immunological tone of tissues, both locally and systemically, requires tonic sensing of microbes and complex feedback loops between innate and adaptive components of the immune system. Here we review the dominant cellular mediators of these interactions and discuss emerging themes associated with our current understanding of the homeostatic immunological dialogue between the host and its microbiota.
Teaser
The microbiota plays a fundamental role in the induction, education, and function of the host immune system, and in turn, the host immune system maintains this symbiotic relationship via diverse mechanisms. Belkaid and Harrison (2017) review the dominant cellular mediators of these interactions and discuss emerging themes in the homeostatic immunological dialogue between the host and its microbiota.http://ift.tt/2phNf8W
An Amphibian Host Defense Peptide Is Virucidal for Human H1 Hemagglutinin-Bearing Influenza Viruses
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): David J. Holthausen, Song Hee Lee, Vineeth TV Kumar, Nicole M. Bouvier, Florian Krammer, Ali H. Ellebedy, Jens Wrammert, Anice C. Lowen, Sanil George, Madhavan Radhakrishna Pillai, Joshy Jacob
Although vaccines confer protection against influenza A viruses, antiviral treatment becomes the first line of defense during pandemics because there is insufficient time to produce vaccines. Current antiviral drugs are susceptible to drug resistance, and developing new antivirals is essential. We studied host defense peptides from the skin of the South Indian frog and demonstrated that one of these, which we named "urumin," is virucidal for H1 hemagglutinin-bearing human influenza A viruses. This peptide specifically targeted the conserved stalk region of H1 hemagglutinin and was effective against drug-resistant H1 influenza viruses. Using electron microscopy, we showed that this peptide physically destroyed influenza virions. It also protected naive mice from lethal influenza infection. Urumin represents a unique class of anti-influenza virucide that specifically targets the hemagglutinin stalk region, similar to targeting of antibodies induced by universal influenza vaccines. Urumin therefore has the potential to contribute to first-line anti-viral treatments during influenza outbreaks.
Teaser
Antiviral treatment is the first line of defense during influenza A pandemics. Holthausen et al. identify a host defense peptide (urumin) from frogs that is virucidal for H1 hemagglutinin (HA)-bearing human influenza A viruses. Urumin targets the conserved stalk region of hemagglutinin and protects naive mice from lethal influenza infection.http://ift.tt/2phOKnX
Germ-Cell-Specific Inflammasome Component NLRP14 Negatively Regulates Cytosolic Nucleic Acid Sensing to Promote Fertilization
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Takayuki Abe, Albert Lee, Ramaswami Sitharam, Jordan Kesner, Raul Rabadan, Sagi D. Shapira
Cytosolic sensing of nucleic acids initiates tightly regulated programs to limit infection. Oocyte fertilization represents a scenario wherein inappropriate responses to exogenous yet non-pathogen-derived nucleic acids would have negative consequences. We hypothesized that germ cells express negative regulators of nucleic acid sensing (NAS) in steady state and applied an integrated data-mining and functional genomics approach to identify a rheostat of DNA and RNA sensing—the inflammasome component NLRP14. We demonstrated that NLRP14 interacted physically with the nucleic acid sensing pathway and targeted TBK1 (TANK binding kinase 1) for ubiquitination and degradation. We further mapped domains in NLRP14 and TBK1 that mediated the inhibitory function. Finally, we identified a human nonsense germline variant associated with male sterility that results in loss of NLRP14 function and hyper-responsiveness to nucleic acids. The discovery points to a mechanism of nucleic acid sensing regulation that may be of particular importance in fertilization.
Teaser
Cytosolic sensing of nucleic acids limits infection, but fertilization represents a scenario when responses to exogenous, non-pathogen-derived nucleic acids would be detrimental. Abe et al. identify NLRP14 as an evolutionarily conserved immunological rheostat that safeguards against such responses, which may have been a prerequisite for the evolution of sexual reproduction.http://ift.tt/2o5HPxS
Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling in Regulatory T Cells Controls T Helper-17 Cells and Tissue-Specific Immune Responses
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Joanne E. Konkel, Dunfang Zhang, Peter Zanvit, Cheryl Chia, Tamsin Zangarle-Murray, Wenwen Jin, Songlin Wang, WanJun Chen
Regulatory T cells (Treg cells) perform suppressive functions in disparate tissue environments and against many inflammatory insults, yet the tissue-enriched factor(s) that influence Treg cell phenotype and function remain largely unknown. We have shown a vital role for transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signals in safe-guarding specific Treg cell functions. TGF-β signals were dispensable for steady-state Treg cell homeostasis and for Treg cell suppression of T cell proliferation and T helper-1 (Th1) cell differentiation. However, Treg cells require TGF-β signals to appropriately dampen Th17 cells and regulate responses in the gastrointestinal tract. TGF-β signaling maintains CD103 expression, promotes expression of the colon-specific trafficking molecule GPR15, and inhibits expression of GPR174, a receptor for lysophosphatidylserine, on Treg cells, collectively supporting the accumulation and retention of Treg cells in the colon and control of colitogenic responses. Thus, we reveal an unrecognized function for TGF-β signaling as an upstream factor controlling Treg cell activity in specific tissue environments.
Teaser
The role of TGF-β in supporting differentiated Treg cells remains unaddressed. Konkel et al. demonstrate vital roles for TGF-β signals in reinforcing specific Treg cell functions. TGF-β signals limit Treg suppression of Th1-responses but are key for Treg cell function in the colon, revealing unrecognized roles for TGF-β in controlling Treg cell activity in specific tissues.http://ift.tt/2o5JaVb
Glutathione Primes T Cell Metabolism for Inflammation
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Tak W. Mak, Melanie Grusdat, Gordon S. Duncan, Catherine Dostert, Yannic Nonnenmacher, Maureen Cox, Carole Binsfeld, Zhenyue Hao, Anne Brüstle, Momoe Itsumi, Christian Jäger, Ying Chen, Olaf Pinkenburg, Bärbel Camara, Markus Ollert, Carsten Bindslev-Jensen, Vasilis Vasiliou, Chiara Gorrini, Philipp A. Lang, Michael Lohoff, Isaac S. Harris, Karsten Hiller, Dirk Brenner
Activated T cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which trigger the antioxidative glutathione (GSH) response necessary to buffer rising ROS and prevent cellular damage. We report that GSH is essential for T cell effector functions through its regulation of metabolic activity. Conditional gene targeting of the catalytic subunit of glutamate cysteine ligase (Gclc) blocked GSH production specifically in murine T cells. Gclc-deficient T cells initially underwent normal activation but could not meet their increased energy and biosynthetic requirements. GSH deficiency compromised the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin-1 (mTOR) and expression of NFAT and Myc transcription factors, abrogating the energy utilization and Myc-dependent metabolic reprogramming that allows activated T cells to switch to glycolysis and glutaminolysis. In vivo, T-cell-specific ablation of murine Gclc prevented autoimmune disease but blocked antiviral defense. The antioxidative GSH pathway thus plays an unexpected role in metabolic integration and reprogramming during inflammatory T cell responses.
Graphical abstract
Teaser
Upon activation, T cells adapt their metabolism to meet their increased bioenergetic and biosynthetic needs. Activated T cells produce ROS, which trigger the antioxidative GSH response to prevent cellular damage. Mak et al. report that the GSH pathway plays an unexpected role in metabolic integration during inflammatory T cell responses.http://ift.tt/2pEIBPE
A Broadly Neutralizing Antibody Targets the Dynamic HIV Envelope Trimer Apex via a Long, Rigidified, and Anionic β-Hairpin Structure
Publication date: 18 April 2017
Source:Immunity, Volume 46, Issue 4
Author(s): Jeong Hyun Lee, Raiees Andrabi, Ching-Yao Su, Anila Yasmeen, Jean-Philippe Julien, Leopold Kong, Nicholas C. Wu, Ryan McBride, Devin Sok, Matthias Pauthner, Christopher A. Cottrell, Travis Nieusma, Claudia Blattner, James C. Paulson, Per Johan Klasse, Ian A. Wilson, Dennis R. Burton, Andrew B. Ward
Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) to HIV delineate vaccine targets and are prophylactic and therapeutic agents. Some of the most potent bnAbs target a quaternary epitope at the apex of the surface HIV envelope (Env) trimer. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we solved the atomic structure of an apex bnAb, PGT145, in complex with Env. We showed that the long anionic HCDR3 of PGT145 penetrated between glycans at the trimer 3-fold axis, to contact peptide residues from all three Env protomers, and thus explains its highly trimer-specific nature. Somatic hypermutation in the other CDRs of PGT145 were crucially involved in stabilizing the structure of the HCDR3, similar to bovine antibodies, to aid in recognition of a cluster of conserved basic residues hypothesized to facilitate trimer disassembly during viral entry. Overall, the findings exemplify the creative solutions that the human immune system can evolve to recognize a conserved motif buried under a canopy of glycans.
Teaser
Broadly neutralizing antibodies of the PGT145-family target the HIV-1 Env trimer apex via a long β-hairpin HCDR3, but the molecular basis of recognition is unknown. Using cryoEM, Lee et al. (2017) reveal how PGT145 binds its quaternary epitope and the importance of HCDR2 evolution despite its lack of contacts with Env.http://ift.tt/2pEt2aF
Sporadic Insulinoma as a Rare Cause of Recurrent Hypoglycemia in Children
Insulinoma is a rare pancreatic tumor in children and adolescents. As a result of insulin hypersecretion, signs and symptoms are more commonly consequences of the pathophysiologic responses to hypoglycemia. According to rarity of this tumor in children and nonspecificity of clinical presentations, diagnosis of insulinoma in this group of patients is usually delayed. Early diagnosis is very important for preventing neurologic damage. In this case report, we present the case of a 10-year-old boy with signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and final diagnosis of insulinoma.
http://ift.tt/2oXhr8o
Laudatio.
Laudatio.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):148-149
Authors:
PMID: 28420019 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pEnhwk
Transmeatale Attikotomie zur Behandlung von Cholesteatomen in Erwachsenen.
Transmeatale Attikotomie zur Behandlung von Cholesteatomen in Erwachsenen.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):144-145
Authors:
PMID: 28420017 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pEuBrF
[Harvesting Grafts for Reconstruction of the Tympanic Membrane].
[Harvesting Grafts for Reconstruction of the Tympanic Membrane].
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):150
Authors: Thomas JP, Siedhoff A, Wrobel C, Dombrowski T, Dazert S
PMID: 28420020 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2oR98ZY
[Severe Bleeding from the Middle Ear Cavity after Myringotomy: Review Based on a Case Report].
[Severe Bleeding from the Middle Ear Cavity after Myringotomy: Review Based on a Case Report].
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):155-159
Authors: Hofmann VM, Niehues SM, Albers AE, Pudszuhn A
Abstract
Report of a rare case of severe bleeding from the middle ear cavity after myringotomy. On the basis of the case report, the procedure for such bleeding is discussed in the context of the literature. A 6-year-old boy received a revision myringotomy in an ambulant setting. During the procedure a severe bleeding occurred. The external auditory canal was adequately packed. The patient was extubated and transferred to the clinic as an emergency. Computer tomography of the temporal bone showed the anatomical variant of a dehiscent high jugular bulb, which had been injured. Because no rebleeding occurred, the packing of the ear canal was removed and an explorative tympanoscopy was performed on the third postoperative day. When the tympanomeatal flap was lifted, the defect in the jugular bulb was found. The lesion was covered with Tutopatch(®) pads and fibrin glue and the auditory canal was packed again. After removal of the packing three weeks postoperatively a properly healed situs was found. No further measures were taken. The injury of a dehiscent jugular bulb in the course of ear surgeries leads to a massive hemorrhage. The case describes the diagnostic and therapeutic procedure for this relatively rare but severe complication.
PMID: 28420022 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pB64Ru
[A Blocked Frontal Sinus with Orbital Swelling].
[A Blocked Frontal Sinus with Orbital Swelling].
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):180-182
Authors: Ledderose GJ, Schulze-Koops H, Link V
PMID: 28420023 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2oR9pMk
Chirurgie der inneren Nase.
Chirurgie der inneren Nase.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):201-204
Authors: Kastenbauer ER
PMID: 28420027 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2oRcFHH
Fragen für die Facharztprüfung.
Fragen für die Facharztprüfung.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):199-200
Authors:
PMID: 28420026 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pEx4SZ
Aktuelle Entwicklung der molekular zielgerichteten Therapie von Kopf-Hals-Karzinomen.
Aktuelle Entwicklung der molekular zielgerichteten Therapie von Kopf-Hals-Karzinomen.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):185-198
Authors: Strieth S
PMID: 28420025 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2oR9rUs
[From the Expert's Office: Resection of Thyroid Tissue Instead of Zenker's Diverticulum - A Medical Malpractice].
[From the Expert's Office: Resection of Thyroid Tissue Instead of Zenker's Diverticulum - A Medical Malpractice].
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):183-184
Authors: Ellies M, Stapel A
PMID: 28420024 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pE9Ht2
Der Septumschlitten zum Einbringen von Spreader Grafts bei der Rhinoplastik.
Der Septumschlitten zum Einbringen von Spreader Grafts bei der Rhinoplastik.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):151-154
Authors: Benedict M, FA f. HNO / Plastische Operationen
PMID: 28420021 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pEuBIb
Narrow-Band-Endoskopie spürt frühe Laryngopharyngeal-Karzinome am besten auf.
Narrow-Band-Endoskopie spürt frühe Laryngopharyngeal-Karzinome am besten auf.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):145-146
Authors:
PMID: 28420018 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2oRhArZ
Speicheldrüsenkarzinom: Kein Vorteil durch Chemoradiotherapie.
Speicheldrüsenkarzinom: Kein Vorteil durch Chemoradiotherapie.
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):143-144
Authors:
PMID: 28420016 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2oR3neT
[Editor's Comment].
[Editor's Comment].
Laryngorhinootologie. 2017 Mar;96(3):141
Authors: Guntinas-Lichius O
PMID: 28420015 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2pEi7k3
Ultrasonographic assessment of normal prostate volume and splenic length among Urhobo ethnic group in Delta State of Nigeria
Abimbola Oladuni Ebeye, John Chukwuma Oyem, Banjo Emmanuel Iweariulor, Stanley Chukwuemeka Ubah
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):101-104
Introduction: Utrasonographic imaging has been demonstrated as the fastest and safest modality in the evaluation of localized diseases in the spleen and prostate gland. Aim: This study was aimed at assessing the splenic length and prostate volume dimensions of the Urhobos with the use of ultrasound. Materials and Methods: 317 healthy Urhobo subjects aged between 18 - 60 years at the radiology department of Central Hospital Warri and Capitol Hill Hospital Oleh, Delta state were used for this study. Splenic length and prostate volume were ascertained using a Sonoace 1500 ultrasound machine according to standard radiologic technique. Data obtained were subjected to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20) and were analysed using Pearson's correlation at a probability of 0.01 % (99% confidence limit). Results: It showed a higher splenic length in males compared to females and also recorded an increase in prostate volume with increasing age. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated no gender differences in splenic length dimensions and has also revealed a positive correlation between age and prostate volume in the Urhobos.
http://ift.tt/2oReIv6
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):101-104
Introduction: Utrasonographic imaging has been demonstrated as the fastest and safest modality in the evaluation of localized diseases in the spleen and prostate gland. Aim: This study was aimed at assessing the splenic length and prostate volume dimensions of the Urhobos with the use of ultrasound. Materials and Methods: 317 healthy Urhobo subjects aged between 18 - 60 years at the radiology department of Central Hospital Warri and Capitol Hill Hospital Oleh, Delta state were used for this study. Splenic length and prostate volume were ascertained using a Sonoace 1500 ultrasound machine according to standard radiologic technique. Data obtained were subjected to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 20) and were analysed using Pearson's correlation at a probability of 0.01 % (99% confidence limit). Results: It showed a higher splenic length in males compared to females and also recorded an increase in prostate volume with increasing age. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated no gender differences in splenic length dimensions and has also revealed a positive correlation between age and prostate volume in the Urhobos.
http://ift.tt/2oReIv6
Estimation of total muscle mass from simple anthropometric measurements for adults of Igbo ethnic group of South East Nigeria
Esomonu G Ugochukwu
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):111-117
Introduction: Skeletal muscle mass represents about 30%–40% of the total body weight, and total body skeletal muscle mass plays a significant role in both health and disease states such as maintaining and changing posture, protein synthesis, and metabolism. This study is aimed at deriving predictive equations for estimating total muscle mass from simple anthropometric measurements such as body mass index, mid-arm circumference (MAC), and triceps skinfolds (TSF) for the Igbo ethnic group of South East Nigeria. Materials and Method: Anthropometric measurements of body weight, height, MAC, and skinfold measurement were carried out on 3000 adults of the age range of 18–40. They comprised 1500 each of males and females. A prediction equation for the measurement of muscle mass was derived using the measured anthropometric parameters which include the MAC and TSF. Result: The prediction equation obtained for muscle mass (kg) using MAC alone irrespective of age and gender for the Igbo ethnic group was (0.6731× MAC + [−5.407]). Conclusion: The result of this study is relevant to medical practitioners in the evaluation and detection of depletion of muscle mass that has occurred either physiologically or pathologically in adults; it will also prove useful in the field of medical anthropology, nutrition, and sports anatomy.
http://ift.tt/2oR8GuE
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):111-117
Introduction: Skeletal muscle mass represents about 30%–40% of the total body weight, and total body skeletal muscle mass plays a significant role in both health and disease states such as maintaining and changing posture, protein synthesis, and metabolism. This study is aimed at deriving predictive equations for estimating total muscle mass from simple anthropometric measurements such as body mass index, mid-arm circumference (MAC), and triceps skinfolds (TSF) for the Igbo ethnic group of South East Nigeria. Materials and Method: Anthropometric measurements of body weight, height, MAC, and skinfold measurement were carried out on 3000 adults of the age range of 18–40. They comprised 1500 each of males and females. A prediction equation for the measurement of muscle mass was derived using the measured anthropometric parameters which include the MAC and TSF. Result: The prediction equation obtained for muscle mass (kg) using MAC alone irrespective of age and gender for the Igbo ethnic group was (0.6731× MAC + [−5.407]). Conclusion: The result of this study is relevant to medical practitioners in the evaluation and detection of depletion of muscle mass that has occurred either physiologically or pathologically in adults; it will also prove useful in the field of medical anthropology, nutrition, and sports anatomy.
http://ift.tt/2oR8GuE
Study of the cranial (cephalic) and facial (prosopic) indexes of Ukwuani indigenes in Nigeria
Ugochukwuka Ojieh, Mamerhi Enaohwo, Abimbola Ebeye
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):71-74
Background: It is noted that the head and face shapes of humans from different ethnic groups vary markedly. The cause of these variations has been attributed to several environmental factors. Measurements of these indexes become a necessity to prove that individuals from a particular ethnic group have similar head and face forms. Aim: The present study was aimed at measuring the cephalic and prosopic indexes of Ukwuani indigenes of Delta State. Materials and Method: A total of 315 subjects (165 males and 150 females) were selected by simple random sampling and were measured for their cranial and facial lengths and breath and the respective indexess were calculated. Results: Males had a mean prosopic index of 99.15 whereas females had a marginally lower mean prosopic index of 94.54, both belonged to the hyperleptoprosopic facial group and observed differences between both genders were statistically not significant (P = 0.25) The mean cranial index in males and females was 80.21 and 79.04, respectively, both belonged to the mesocephalic cranial group and observed differences between both genders were statistically significant (P = 0.01). Conclusion: There was no statistically significant gender difference with regards to prosopic index but with regards to cephalic index the observed gender difference was statistically significant.
http://ift.tt/2o5JyU0
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):71-74
Background: It is noted that the head and face shapes of humans from different ethnic groups vary markedly. The cause of these variations has been attributed to several environmental factors. Measurements of these indexes become a necessity to prove that individuals from a particular ethnic group have similar head and face forms. Aim: The present study was aimed at measuring the cephalic and prosopic indexes of Ukwuani indigenes of Delta State. Materials and Method: A total of 315 subjects (165 males and 150 females) were selected by simple random sampling and were measured for their cranial and facial lengths and breath and the respective indexess were calculated. Results: Males had a mean prosopic index of 99.15 whereas females had a marginally lower mean prosopic index of 94.54, both belonged to the hyperleptoprosopic facial group and observed differences between both genders were statistically not significant (P = 0.25) The mean cranial index in males and females was 80.21 and 79.04, respectively, both belonged to the mesocephalic cranial group and observed differences between both genders were statistically significant (P = 0.01). Conclusion: There was no statistically significant gender difference with regards to prosopic index but with regards to cephalic index the observed gender difference was statistically significant.
http://ift.tt/2o5JyU0
Regenerative effects of aqueous extract of Adansonia digitata fruit pulp on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced oxidative damages in testes of male Wistar rats
Oyetunji Adeoye Oyewopo, Ade Steven Alabi, Aminu Imam, Gabriel Godson Akunna
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):65-70
Introduction: Adansonia digitata (AD) is a multipurpose tree species widely used for food and non-food products and medicine. Every part of the baobab tree is reported to be useful. However, exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) (including vapor) had been reported to be injurious to human health. Aim: The present study investigated the effects of AD fruit pulp extracts on CCl4-induced testicular toxicity. Materials and Method: Twenty (20) adult male albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D) with five rats in each group. Group A received distilled water, group B received a single oral dose of CCl4(2.5 mL/kg) for two days, group C received 500 mg/kg body weight aqueous extract of Adansonia, and group D received 2.5 mL/kg of CCl4for two days followed by 500 mg/kg body weight Adansonia aqueous extracts for 14 days. The animals were autopsied 3 weeks after CCl4and AD extracts injection. Results: Result showed that CCl4induced oxidative damage in testes and decreased the hormonal level of testosterone (TT). AD extracts normalized the testicular damages caused by CCl4. Pretreatment with AD ameliorated the testicular content of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Similarly, AD treatment attenuated the CCl4-induced increase in hormonal level. In conclusion, AD ameliorated and protected the testes against CCl4-induced oxidative damages and deranged sperm characteristics in adult Wistar rats.
http://ift.tt/2oRarrQ
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):65-70
Introduction: Adansonia digitata (AD) is a multipurpose tree species widely used for food and non-food products and medicine. Every part of the baobab tree is reported to be useful. However, exposure to high concentrations of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) (including vapor) had been reported to be injurious to human health. Aim: The present study investigated the effects of AD fruit pulp extracts on CCl4-induced testicular toxicity. Materials and Method: Twenty (20) adult male albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D) with five rats in each group. Group A received distilled water, group B received a single oral dose of CCl4(2.5 mL/kg) for two days, group C received 500 mg/kg body weight aqueous extract of Adansonia, and group D received 2.5 mL/kg of CCl4for two days followed by 500 mg/kg body weight Adansonia aqueous extracts for 14 days. The animals were autopsied 3 weeks after CCl4and AD extracts injection. Results: Result showed that CCl4induced oxidative damage in testes and decreased the hormonal level of testosterone (TT). AD extracts normalized the testicular damages caused by CCl4. Pretreatment with AD ameliorated the testicular content of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Similarly, AD treatment attenuated the CCl4-induced increase in hormonal level. In conclusion, AD ameliorated and protected the testes against CCl4-induced oxidative damages and deranged sperm characteristics in adult Wistar rats.
http://ift.tt/2oRarrQ
Prevalence of simian, Suwon, and Sydney creases in acquired idiopathic blindness in some selected schools for the blind in Nigeria
John Nwolim Paul, EA Osunwoke, CW Paul
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):75-78
Background: The study of palmar flexion creases such as simian, Suwon, and Sydney creases is important since they have strong medical implications. Aim: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of simian, Suwon, and Sydney creases in acquired idiopathic blindness. Materials and Methods: A total of 72 (36 blind and 36 nonblind) participants were recruited for the study that comprised 22 blind male and 14 blind female participants, 18 male and 18 female nonblind participants. The sampling technique used was convenience purposive sampling. Fingerprints and toeprints were obtained using print. Results: The prevalence of palmar creases in blind and nonblind male and female participants showed that the blind participants had 0% prevalence of simian crease, 3.8% prevalence of Suwon, and 0.6% prevalence of Sydney crease, whereas the nonblind participants have 0% prevalence of the creases. In the female blind participants, there was 0% prevalence of simian crease, 1.2% prevalence of Suwon, and 0.6% prevalence of Sydney crease, whereas the nonblind participants have 0% prevalence of the creases. The total prevalence of palmar creases of the blind and nonblind participants was shown, and the simian crease had 0.0% prevalence in the blind and in the nonblind participants. Suwon crease had 2.8% prevalence in the blind and 0.8% in the nonblind participants. Sydney crease had 0.6% prevalence in the blind, but 0.0% prevalence in the nonblind participants. Comparison of the prevalence of the Suwon and Sydney creases in the blind and nonblind was shown to be statistically nonsignificant (P > 0.05), whereas it was significant for simian crease on comparison with the blind and nonblind (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The study has shown that there is no significant difference in the prevalence of Suwon and Sydney crease (P < 0.05), whereas there is a significant difference in the simian crease between the blind and nonblind compared. This study has provided information on the prevalence of palmar creases in people with idiopathic blindness and the nonblind people in Nigeria and by extension the Sub-Saharan Africa.
http://ift.tt/2o5Jwv3
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):75-78
Background: The study of palmar flexion creases such as simian, Suwon, and Sydney creases is important since they have strong medical implications. Aim: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of simian, Suwon, and Sydney creases in acquired idiopathic blindness. Materials and Methods: A total of 72 (36 blind and 36 nonblind) participants were recruited for the study that comprised 22 blind male and 14 blind female participants, 18 male and 18 female nonblind participants. The sampling technique used was convenience purposive sampling. Fingerprints and toeprints were obtained using print. Results: The prevalence of palmar creases in blind and nonblind male and female participants showed that the blind participants had 0% prevalence of simian crease, 3.8% prevalence of Suwon, and 0.6% prevalence of Sydney crease, whereas the nonblind participants have 0% prevalence of the creases. In the female blind participants, there was 0% prevalence of simian crease, 1.2% prevalence of Suwon, and 0.6% prevalence of Sydney crease, whereas the nonblind participants have 0% prevalence of the creases. The total prevalence of palmar creases of the blind and nonblind participants was shown, and the simian crease had 0.0% prevalence in the blind and in the nonblind participants. Suwon crease had 2.8% prevalence in the blind and 0.8% in the nonblind participants. Sydney crease had 0.6% prevalence in the blind, but 0.0% prevalence in the nonblind participants. Comparison of the prevalence of the Suwon and Sydney creases in the blind and nonblind was shown to be statistically nonsignificant (P > 0.05), whereas it was significant for simian crease on comparison with the blind and nonblind (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The study has shown that there is no significant difference in the prevalence of Suwon and Sydney crease (P < 0.05), whereas there is a significant difference in the simian crease between the blind and nonblind compared. This study has provided information on the prevalence of palmar creases in people with idiopathic blindness and the nonblind people in Nigeria and by extension the Sub-Saharan Africa.
http://ift.tt/2o5Jwv3
Comparative assessment on the prevalence of cusp of Carabelli among three different populations in India
Gayathri Ramesh, Ramesh Nagarajappa, Shitalkumar Sagari, Gundareddy Nagendrareddy Suma
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):79-83
Background: The characteristics of a tooth can differ among races and species and can constantly alter due to natural selection and the genetic changes. Therefore, the study of the morphological properties of the dental structures could aid in phylogenic and genetic studies including gathering information about intra- and inter-species variations. Objectives: To assess and compare the prevalence of cusp of Carabelli among three different Indian (Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka) populations. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 casts (50% each of males and females) were evaluated for the presence or absence of Carabelli trait among the study population according to the scale of Dahlberg's (1963) scale. Casts of participants having maxillary first permanent molars bilaterally without gross damage to morphology by caries, attrition, or any other trauma were included in the study. Chi-square test with a significance level of P< 0.05 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The overall prevalence of Carabelli cusps was 57% (61% in males and 53% in females). The various groups showed a prevalence of 58.7%, 50%, and 61.7% in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka population, respectively. The differences in the observations between groups and also gender were statistically insignificant (P > 0.05). The small vertical ridge and groove form were observed most commonly (31%), and small pit with minor grooves diverging from a depression form was the least prevalent (1.5%). Conclusions: The findings on the maxillary first permanent molar demonstrate that there was no significant difference in the prevalence of Carabelli cusps among the study populations.
http://ift.tt/2o5TfSb
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):79-83
Background: The characteristics of a tooth can differ among races and species and can constantly alter due to natural selection and the genetic changes. Therefore, the study of the morphological properties of the dental structures could aid in phylogenic and genetic studies including gathering information about intra- and inter-species variations. Objectives: To assess and compare the prevalence of cusp of Carabelli among three different Indian (Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka) populations. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 casts (50% each of males and females) were evaluated for the presence or absence of Carabelli trait among the study population according to the scale of Dahlberg's (1963) scale. Casts of participants having maxillary first permanent molars bilaterally without gross damage to morphology by caries, attrition, or any other trauma were included in the study. Chi-square test with a significance level of P< 0.05 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The overall prevalence of Carabelli cusps was 57% (61% in males and 53% in females). The various groups showed a prevalence of 58.7%, 50%, and 61.7% in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka population, respectively. The differences in the observations between groups and also gender were statistically insignificant (P > 0.05). The small vertical ridge and groove form were observed most commonly (31%), and small pit with minor grooves diverging from a depression form was the least prevalent (1.5%). Conclusions: The findings on the maxillary first permanent molar demonstrate that there was no significant difference in the prevalence of Carabelli cusps among the study populations.
http://ift.tt/2o5TfSb
The study of nutritional status and academic performance of primary school children in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Florence Opoola, Samuel Sunday Adebisi, Augustine Oseloka Ibegbu
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):96-100
Aim: The present study was carried out to assess the relationship between nutritional status and academic performance of primary school children in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: School children from primary 3 to 6 were enrolled for the study and they were selected from three randomly selected primary schools within Zaria in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 759 pupils made up of 385 girls and 374 boys were assessed. Ethical clearance was obtained from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, and self-administered questionnaires were completed by the parents or guardians of the children. Body anthropometrics such as height, weight, and mid-upper arm circumference were measured using a stadiometer and a measuring tape from which the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The nutritional status of the children was determined using the Centre for Disease Control standard for BMI percentile, while the academic performance of the children was determined by finding the mean of five subjects taken during term examination. Results: The results of the present study showed that overweight children performed better academically when compared to the other children with a mean academic score of 66.19 ± 17.00; underweight was observed to be more prevalent among the males than the females, while on the other hand, overweight was more prominent in females than males. Conclusion: The present study showed that a high percentage of the population has healthy weight, while only a small proportion was obese. This could be a result of imbalance in the food intake of the population, and from the results, it was observed that the total number of children who were overweight performed better academically than the others, which could mean that the children who were well fed and well nourished tend to do better academically than those who are not.
http://ift.tt/2oQZ5UB
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):96-100
Aim: The present study was carried out to assess the relationship between nutritional status and academic performance of primary school children in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: School children from primary 3 to 6 were enrolled for the study and they were selected from three randomly selected primary schools within Zaria in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 759 pupils made up of 385 girls and 374 boys were assessed. Ethical clearance was obtained from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, and self-administered questionnaires were completed by the parents or guardians of the children. Body anthropometrics such as height, weight, and mid-upper arm circumference were measured using a stadiometer and a measuring tape from which the body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The nutritional status of the children was determined using the Centre for Disease Control standard for BMI percentile, while the academic performance of the children was determined by finding the mean of five subjects taken during term examination. Results: The results of the present study showed that overweight children performed better academically when compared to the other children with a mean academic score of 66.19 ± 17.00; underweight was observed to be more prevalent among the males than the females, while on the other hand, overweight was more prominent in females than males. Conclusion: The present study showed that a high percentage of the population has healthy weight, while only a small proportion was obese. This could be a result of imbalance in the food intake of the population, and from the results, it was observed that the total number of children who were overweight performed better academically than the others, which could mean that the children who were well fed and well nourished tend to do better academically than those who are not.
http://ift.tt/2oQZ5UB
Murine's lateral frontal cortical histomorphology and its behavior after caffeine administration
Moses Bassey Ekong, Eno-Obong Henrietta Akpan, Agnes Akudo Nwakanma
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):84-89
Introduction: Caffeine is a Psychostimulant consumed as natural components in chocolates, coffees and teas, and as added components to soda, energy drinks, and some drugs. It has been reported to impair the brain in several ways that might lead to activity breakdown. Aim: The present study therefore investigated the potency of caffeine on the neurobehavior and histomorphology of the frontal cortex of a murine model. Materials and Methods: Thirty albino mice were divided into five groups (n = 6), administered intraperitoneally 0.2 ml distilled water, 25, 30, 40 and 60 mg/kg body weight (bw) of caffeine, respectively for 14 days, while the bws were measured prior and after the experiment. On day 15, the dark and light field behavioral test was carried out and the animals were sacrificed by, perfusion method, and the frontal cortices excised from whole brains and routinely processed for histological studies. Results: The mice gained bw in the 25 and 30 mg/kg bw caffeine groups, but lost weight in the 40 and 60 mg/kg bw caffeine groups. No difference was observed in the entire light and dark field test parameters, while histological studies showed significant (P < 0.05) hyperplasia of the frontal cortical cells in the caffeine test groups, all compared with the control and among the test groups. Conclusion: Consumption of the given low dose of caffeine, caused gain in weight while high dose of caffeine caused bw loss, but did not affect the dark and light field behavioral parameters, but stimulated frontal cortical cell hyperplasia possibly as a protective measure.
http://ift.tt/2o5Gwz2
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):84-89
Introduction: Caffeine is a Psychostimulant consumed as natural components in chocolates, coffees and teas, and as added components to soda, energy drinks, and some drugs. It has been reported to impair the brain in several ways that might lead to activity breakdown. Aim: The present study therefore investigated the potency of caffeine on the neurobehavior and histomorphology of the frontal cortex of a murine model. Materials and Methods: Thirty albino mice were divided into five groups (n = 6), administered intraperitoneally 0.2 ml distilled water, 25, 30, 40 and 60 mg/kg body weight (bw) of caffeine, respectively for 14 days, while the bws were measured prior and after the experiment. On day 15, the dark and light field behavioral test was carried out and the animals were sacrificed by, perfusion method, and the frontal cortices excised from whole brains and routinely processed for histological studies. Results: The mice gained bw in the 25 and 30 mg/kg bw caffeine groups, but lost weight in the 40 and 60 mg/kg bw caffeine groups. No difference was observed in the entire light and dark field test parameters, while histological studies showed significant (P < 0.05) hyperplasia of the frontal cortical cells in the caffeine test groups, all compared with the control and among the test groups. Conclusion: Consumption of the given low dose of caffeine, caused gain in weight while high dose of caffeine caused bw loss, but did not affect the dark and light field behavioral parameters, but stimulated frontal cortical cell hyperplasia possibly as a protective measure.
http://ift.tt/2o5Gwz2
Sex differences in facial asymmetry indices among Hausa ethnic group of Nigeria
Lawan Hassan Adamu, Samuel Adeniyi Ojo, Barnabas Danborno, Samuel Sunday Adebisi, Magaji Garba Taura
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):105-110
Background: Evaluation of facial symmetry in a given population may help in understanding the level of environmental stress exposed by the population. Within the same population, males and females may respond differently to environmental stressors, which can be manifested as deviation from perfect symmetry. Objectives: The study seeks to investigate the sex differences in three asymmetry indices and to also determine the side dominance and type of asymmetry in facial features among Hausas of Kano state, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out on Hausas of Kano state. A total of 283 individuals comprising 147 males and 136 females of age range 18–25 years were selected using simple random sampling technique. Photometric methods were used to capture the face. Three indices, signed asymmetry (SA), absolute asymmetry (AA), and composite asymmetry (CA), were used to assess asymmetry in facial dimensions. Independent sample t-test was used to test for sex differences in the variables, and one sample t-test was used to determine fluctuating asymmetry. Results: The result showed that females tend to have statistically significant mean value only in orbital width. For zygon to gnathion facial distance, the statistically significant higher mean was observed in males. For the three indices asymmetry, no significant sexual dimorphism in SA index was observed. However, males tend to have leftward SA in orbital width and zygon to gnathion distance. In AA and CA, a significant sexual dimorphism was noticed only in zygon to gnathion distance. Females had higher mean value in AA than the males; however, CA tended to be higher in male population. The facial variables exhibited fluctuating type of asymmetry. Conclusion: There are sex differences in AA and CA indices. Left warded type of SA was exhibited in male of Hausa origin. The facial asymmetry in Hausa ethnic group of Kano is more of fluctuating type of asymmetry.
http://ift.tt/2oRml52
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):105-110
Background: Evaluation of facial symmetry in a given population may help in understanding the level of environmental stress exposed by the population. Within the same population, males and females may respond differently to environmental stressors, which can be manifested as deviation from perfect symmetry. Objectives: The study seeks to investigate the sex differences in three asymmetry indices and to also determine the side dominance and type of asymmetry in facial features among Hausas of Kano state, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out on Hausas of Kano state. A total of 283 individuals comprising 147 males and 136 females of age range 18–25 years were selected using simple random sampling technique. Photometric methods were used to capture the face. Three indices, signed asymmetry (SA), absolute asymmetry (AA), and composite asymmetry (CA), were used to assess asymmetry in facial dimensions. Independent sample t-test was used to test for sex differences in the variables, and one sample t-test was used to determine fluctuating asymmetry. Results: The result showed that females tend to have statistically significant mean value only in orbital width. For zygon to gnathion facial distance, the statistically significant higher mean was observed in males. For the three indices asymmetry, no significant sexual dimorphism in SA index was observed. However, males tend to have leftward SA in orbital width and zygon to gnathion distance. In AA and CA, a significant sexual dimorphism was noticed only in zygon to gnathion distance. Females had higher mean value in AA than the males; however, CA tended to be higher in male population. The facial variables exhibited fluctuating type of asymmetry. Conclusion: There are sex differences in AA and CA indices. Left warded type of SA was exhibited in male of Hausa origin. The facial asymmetry in Hausa ethnic group of Kano is more of fluctuating type of asymmetry.
http://ift.tt/2oRml52
Sexual dimorphism in hand grip strength and hand dimensions among Hausas
Kabiru B Umar, Barnabas Danborno, Kolawale V Olorunshola, Lawan H Adamu
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):90-95
Background: Handgrip strength (HGS) is an anthropometric variable that is affected by a number of factors including age, gender, and body size. Aim: This study was designed to determine the gender differences in HGS and hand dimensions of secondary schools students in Kano metropolis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out on Hausas of Kano Metropolitan. Seven hundred and ten (340 males and 370 females) participated in the study. The hand dimensions were measured using digital vernier caliper. The HGS of right and left hands were measured using a standard adjustable digital hand grip dynamometer at sitting position. Descriptive statistics (mean ± standard deviation) was used to express the data. Independent sample t-test was used to find differences. Statistical significance was declared at P< 0.05. Data were analyzed using SPSS (IMB, Corporation, NY, USA) version 20. Results: A significant difference was observed among 17–18 and 19–20 age groups in the right-handed female participants with no such differences in the left-handed female participants. For 17–18 aged groups, the significant difference exists between the sexes in HGS and hand dimensions. In 19–20 age groups, similar pattern of significant difference was noticed in HGS and hand dimensions. Conclusion: It was concluded that function of HGS is the function of good hand dimension and body variable and vice versa. Age provided to be a factor that may influence the grip strength and hand dimension among Hausas.
http://ift.tt/2o5DGKd
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):90-95
Background: Handgrip strength (HGS) is an anthropometric variable that is affected by a number of factors including age, gender, and body size. Aim: This study was designed to determine the gender differences in HGS and hand dimensions of secondary schools students in Kano metropolis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out on Hausas of Kano Metropolitan. Seven hundred and ten (340 males and 370 females) participated in the study. The hand dimensions were measured using digital vernier caliper. The HGS of right and left hands were measured using a standard adjustable digital hand grip dynamometer at sitting position. Descriptive statistics (mean ± standard deviation) was used to express the data. Independent sample t-test was used to find differences. Statistical significance was declared at P< 0.05. Data were analyzed using SPSS (IMB, Corporation, NY, USA) version 20. Results: A significant difference was observed among 17–18 and 19–20 age groups in the right-handed female participants with no such differences in the left-handed female participants. For 17–18 aged groups, the significant difference exists between the sexes in HGS and hand dimensions. In 19–20 age groups, similar pattern of significant difference was noticed in HGS and hand dimensions. Conclusion: It was concluded that function of HGS is the function of good hand dimension and body variable and vice versa. Age provided to be a factor that may influence the grip strength and hand dimension among Hausas.
http://ift.tt/2o5DGKd
Dermatoglyphic patterns of myocardial patients in Southern Nigerian population
Emeka A Osunwoke, A N. E Nene
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):118-120
Introduction: Dermatoglyphics has been well established as a diagnostic aid in a number of diseases having hereditary basis. The aim of this study is to determine if dermatoglyphic patterns can be used to identify myocardial patients in Southern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total number of 130 patients comprising 85 patients with hypertension (44 males and 41 females) 45 patients with diabetes (21 males and 24 females) were recruited for this study. All patients were selected from the general outpatient departments of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital. The parameters studied were the A-B ridge count and ATD and DAT angles on the palms. Results: Results revealed that for patients with hypertension, the mean A-B ridge counts, ATD angle, and DAT angle of the left hand in males were 25.92 ± 0.52, 43.56 ± 0.81°, and 63.89 ± 1.00°, respectively, while in females, they were 25.12 ± 0.49, 39.82 ± 0.91°, and 61.20 ± 1.06°, respectively. In the right hand, the mean A-B ridge count, ATD angle, and DAT angle were 26.39 ± 0.56, 42.13 ± 0.96°, and 62.06 ± 0.89°, respectively, in males while the females had 24.29 ± 0.51, 39.85 ± 0.62°, and 64.32 ± 0.81°, respectively. The mean A-B ridge count, ATD angle, and DAT angle of the left hand in male diabetics were 26.75 ± 0.76, 41.81 ± 1.21°, and 62.69 ± 1.15°, respectively, while in female diabetics, they were 25.43 ± 0.90, 42.74 ± 1.27°, and 61.64 ± 1.42°, respectively. There was no significant difference observed in all three parameters. The mean value for A-B ridge count, ATD angle, and DAT angle in the right hand of male diabetics was 26.63 ± 0.64, 41.88 ± 1.30°, and 62.19 ± 0.89°, respectively, while in female diabetics, it was 24.71 ± 0.99, 42.00 ± 1.13°, and 60.79 ± 1.16°, respectively. There was no significant difference observed in both sexes. Conclusion: The results obtained from this study would serve as an important aid in early diagnosis and etiology of myocardial disease.
http://ift.tt/2oR8HPe
Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):118-120
Introduction: Dermatoglyphics has been well established as a diagnostic aid in a number of diseases having hereditary basis. The aim of this study is to determine if dermatoglyphic patterns can be used to identify myocardial patients in Southern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total number of 130 patients comprising 85 patients with hypertension (44 males and 41 females) 45 patients with diabetes (21 males and 24 females) were recruited for this study. All patients were selected from the general outpatient departments of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital and Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital. The parameters studied were the A-B ridge count and ATD and DAT angles on the palms. Results: Results revealed that for patients with hypertension, the mean A-B ridge counts, ATD angle, and DAT angle of the left hand in males were 25.92 ± 0.52, 43.56 ± 0.81°, and 63.89 ± 1.00°, respectively, while in females, they were 25.12 ± 0.49, 39.82 ± 0.91°, and 61.20 ± 1.06°, respectively. In the right hand, the mean A-B ridge count, ATD angle, and DAT angle were 26.39 ± 0.56, 42.13 ± 0.96°, and 62.06 ± 0.89°, respectively, in males while the females had 24.29 ± 0.51, 39.85 ± 0.62°, and 64.32 ± 0.81°, respectively. The mean A-B ridge count, ATD angle, and DAT angle of the left hand in male diabetics were 26.75 ± 0.76, 41.81 ± 1.21°, and 62.69 ± 1.15°, respectively, while in female diabetics, they were 25.43 ± 0.90, 42.74 ± 1.27°, and 61.64 ± 1.42°, respectively. There was no significant difference observed in all three parameters. The mean value for A-B ridge count, ATD angle, and DAT angle in the right hand of male diabetics was 26.63 ± 0.64, 41.88 ± 1.30°, and 62.19 ± 0.89°, respectively, while in female diabetics, it was 24.71 ± 0.99, 42.00 ± 1.13°, and 60.79 ± 1.16°, respectively. There was no significant difference observed in both sexes. Conclusion: The results obtained from this study would serve as an important aid in early diagnosis and etiology of myocardial disease.
http://ift.tt/2oR8HPe
Acoustic Analysis of Indian Teachers’ Voice: Pre and Post Teaching Circumstances
Abstract
Compared to people employed in other occupations, teachers are more likely to report having voice problems. They are more likely to perceive that their voice problems limit their current job performance and also adversely affect their future career options. The current study examines the acoustic parameters that are sensitive to vocal loading in pre and post teaching circumstances and adds to the existing literature. Voice samples were recorded from 30 primary school teachers, 15 females and 15 males in the age range of 28–35 years (mean age 29.3 years), with teaching experience of 10–12 years. Mean pitch, minimum pitch, maximum pitch, number of voice breaks, jitter local, shimmer local and mean harmonic to noise ratio were estimated using PRAAT software before and after a typical teaching day. Significant difference was seen when number of voice breaks was compared in pre and post teaching conditions in both males (p = 0.02) and females (p = 0.02) in the conversation task. Moreover, significant differences in mean pitch was observed in the task of slogan repetition (p = 0.03), but only in males. These parameter can be used as indicators of vocal fatigue among teachers and can be used in objective determination of at risk population.
http://ift.tt/2oMEkLu
Nanoemulsion-based electrolyte triggered in situ gel for ocular delivery of acetazolamide
Publication date: Available online 19 April 2017
Source:European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Author(s): Nadia Morsi, Magdy Ibrahim, Hanan Refai, Heba El Sorogy
In the present work the antiglaucoma drug, acetazolamide, was formulated as an ion induced nanoemulsion-based in situ gel for ocular delivery aiming a sustained drug release and an improved therapeutic efficacy. Different acetazolamide loaded nanoemulsion formulations were prepared using peanut oil, tween 80 and/or cremophor EL as surfactant in addition to transcutol P or propylene glycol as cosurfactant. Based on physicochemical characterization, the nanoemulsion formulation containing mixed surfactants and transcutol P was selected to be incorporated into ion induced in situ gelling systems composed of gellan gum alone and in combination with xanthan gum, HPMC or carbopol. The nanoemulsion based in situ gels showed a significantly sustained drug release in comparison to the nanoemulsion. Gellan/xanthan and gellan/HPMC possessed good stability at all studied temperatures, but gellan/carbopol showed partial drug precipitation upon storage and was therefore excluded from the study. Gellan/xanthan and gellan/HPMC showed higher therapeutic efficacy and more prolonged intraocular pressure lowering effect relative to that of commercial eye drops and oral tablet. Gellan/xanthan showed superiority over gellan/HPMC in all studied parameters and is thus considered as a promising mucoadhesive nanoemulsion-based ion induced in situ gelling formula for topical administration of acetazolamide.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2pEnZGZ
Acoustic Analysis of Indian Teachers’ Voice: Pre and Post Teaching Circumstances
Abstract
Compared to people employed in other occupations, teachers are more likely to report having voice problems. They are more likely to perceive that their voice problems limit their current job performance and also adversely affect their future career options. The current study examines the acoustic parameters that are sensitive to vocal loading in pre and post teaching circumstances and adds to the existing literature. Voice samples were recorded from 30 primary school teachers, 15 females and 15 males in the age range of 28–35 years (mean age 29.3 years), with teaching experience of 10–12 years. Mean pitch, minimum pitch, maximum pitch, number of voice breaks, jitter local, shimmer local and mean harmonic to noise ratio were estimated using PRAAT software before and after a typical teaching day. Significant difference was seen when number of voice breaks was compared in pre and post teaching conditions in both males (p = 0.02) and females (p = 0.02) in the conversation task. Moreover, significant differences in mean pitch was observed in the task of slogan repetition (p = 0.03), but only in males. These parameter can be used as indicators of vocal fatigue among teachers and can be used in objective determination of at risk population.
http://ift.tt/2oMEkLu
News in Thyroid Research and Care: A Q&A with the American Thyroid Association
A leading worldwide organization dedicated to the advancement, understanding, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of thyroid disorders, the American Thyroid Association president-elect, Dr. Charles Emerson, spoke with WomensHealth.com. Read the Interview
The post News in Thyroid Research and Care: A Q&A with the American Thyroid Association appeared first on American Thyroid Association.
http://ift.tt/2o5lkZP
News in Thyroid Research and Care: A Q&A with the American Thyroid Association
A leading worldwide organization dedicated to the advancement, understanding, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of thyroid disorders, the American Thyroid Association president-elect, Dr. Charles Emerson, spoke with WomensHealth.com. Read the Interview
The post News in Thyroid Research and Care: A Q&A with the American Thyroid Association appeared first on American Thyroid Association.
http://ift.tt/2o5lkZP
Mid-life extra-haematopoetic manifestations of Diamond–Blackfan anaemia
Summary
Diamond–Blackfan anaemia (DBA) is a rare cause of bone marrow failure. The incidence of malignancy and endocrine complications are increased in DBA, relative to other inherited bone marrow failure syndromes. We describe an adult woman with DBA who developed osteoporosis and avascular necrosis (AVN) of both distal femora. Such endocrine complications are not uncommon in DBA, but under-appreciated, especially in adulthood. Further, rectal adenocarcinoma was diagnosed at age 32 years, requiring hemi-colectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy. Elevated cancer risk may warrant disease-specific screening guidelines. Genetic predictors of extra-haematopoetic complications in DBA are yet to be established.
Learning points:Endocrine complications are common in DBA.
Clinical vigilance is required in managing bone health of DBA patients treated with glucocorticoids.
There is currently no reliable way to predict which patients will develop complications of therapy or premature malignancy related to DBA.
Complaints of bone or joint pain should prompt screening with targeted magnetic resonance imaging. Osteoporosis screening should be performed routinely.
http://ift.tt/2pTwTzA
How fat will it make me? Estimation of weight gain in anorexia nervosa
Source:Appetite, Volume 114
Author(s): Gabriella Milos, Volker Baur, Sonja Schumacher, Cornelia Kuenzli, Ulrich Schnyder, Christoph Mueller-Pfeiffer, Chantal Martin-Soelch
This study investigates the subjective estimation of weight gain in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) when being confronted with food cues both in a general (self-unrelated) and in an intent-to-eat (self-related) condition. Looking at the presentation of different snack pictures with different nutrition values (high-low calories), AN patients (N = 24) and age-matched healthy women (N = 27) estimated the weight gain when they imagined eating the presented portions of snack pictures once a day in addition to the normal daily nutrition in the following two conditions: 1) a general condition without specific additional instruction, 2) an intent-to-eat condition, in which they were instructed to imagine that they would eat the snack themselves.Compared to healthy women, patients with AN estimated a higher weight gain only in the intent-to-eat condition, i.e. when they imagined eating the snacks themselves, but not in the general, not self-related condition. In the patient group, mean estimations of weight gain were associated with the "drive for thinness". This study suggests cognitive abnormalities related to the effects of food intake on the weight gain in AN, and that these cognitive anomalies could be related to the fear of gaining weight, one central symptom of AN. It appears that the self-reflective disturbed cognition, rather than the general cognition, could be the main driver underlying anorexia and that the overestimation of the energetic content of food is related to the drive for thinness.
http://ift.tt/2pErobQ
Mid-life extra-haematopoetic manifestations of Diamond–Blackfan anaemia
Summary
Diamond–Blackfan anaemia (DBA) is a rare cause of bone marrow failure. The incidence of malignancy and endocrine complications are increased in DBA, relative to other inherited bone marrow failure syndromes. We describe an adult woman with DBA who developed osteoporosis and avascular necrosis (AVN) of both distal femora. Such endocrine complications are not uncommon in DBA, but under-appreciated, especially in adulthood. Further, rectal adenocarcinoma was diagnosed at age 32 years, requiring hemi-colectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy. Elevated cancer risk may warrant disease-specific screening guidelines. Genetic predictors of extra-haematopoetic complications in DBA are yet to be established.
Learning points:Endocrine complications are common in DBA.
Clinical vigilance is required in managing bone health of DBA patients treated with glucocorticoids.
There is currently no reliable way to predict which patients will develop complications of therapy or premature malignancy related to DBA.
Complaints of bone or joint pain should prompt screening with targeted magnetic resonance imaging. Osteoporosis screening should be performed routinely.
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Correction: Impact of self-reported symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma on sleep disordered breathing and sleep disturbances in the elderly with polysomnography study
by Sae-Hoon Kim, Ha-Kyeong Won, Sung-Do Moon, Byung-Keun Kim, Yoon-Seok Chang, Ki-Woong Kim, In-Young Yoon
http://ift.tt/2pCS9KO
Correction: Impact of self-reported symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma on sleep disordered breathing and sleep disturbances in the elderly with polysomnography study
by Sae-Hoon Kim, Ha-Kyeong Won, Sung-Do Moon, Byung-Keun Kim, Yoon-Seok Chang, Ki-Woong Kim, In-Young Yoon
http://ift.tt/2pCS9KO
Artifact in Pediatric Oculomotor Findings during Videonystagmography: A Retrospective Analysis.
Artifact in Pediatric Oculomotor Findings during Videonystagmography: A Retrospective Analysis.
J Am Acad Audiol. 2017 Apr;28(4):314-324
Authors: Doettl SM, Plyler PN, McCaslin DL
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Accurate measurement of oculomotor function using videonystagmography (VNG) is imperative for diagnosis and management of patients with reported dizziness. The oculomotor evaluation during VNG utilizes video-oculography providing valuable information regarding the central structures and pathways that control eye movements. Artifact may have an effect on the overall validity and reliability of VNG oculomotor tracings and can result from patient and/or recording errors. It is postulated that artifact could occur more frequently in the pediatric population due to both patient and equipment factors.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the occurrence and impact of artifact on saccades, smooth pursuit, and optokinetic (OPK) testing in normal pediatric and adult subjects using commercially available clinical VNG equipment and standard clinical protocols for oculomotor testing.
RESEARCH DESIGN: The present study utilized a retrospective analysis of a repeated measures design.
STUDY SAMPLE: Oculomotor results from a total of 62 participants were analyzed. Portions of these data have been presented in a previous research study. Group 1 consisted of twenty-nine 4- to 6-yr-olds with an average age of 4.86 (SD = 0.88) yr. Group 2 consisted of thirty-three 22- to 44-yr-olds with an average age of 25.2 (SD = 5.34) yr.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Raw oculomotor recordings were analyzed "offline" by a single masked, trained investigator. Each tracing was evaluated for instances of artifact including eye blinks, eye closure, eyes moving in opposite direction of the target, eye tracking software problems, and overall poor morphology. The number of instances of artifact were noted and recorded for each participant in both groups. Individual eye movements not affected by artifact were included for final analysis. Artifact rejection techniques were also compared.
RESULTS: The results indicated increased artifact for the pediatric group for saccade and smooth pursuit testing. Additionally, a significant decrease in instances of artifact was noted with an increase in age in months for both saccade and smooth pursuit findings. OPK results did not indicate any significant difference in instances of artifact between the pediatric and adult groups or any decrease in instances of artifact with increasing age in the pediatric group. Artifact rejection technique did not have a significant effect on oculomotor measures for either age group.
CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric patients exhibit increased instances of artifact during VNG oculomotor testing, specifically during saccade and smooth pursuit testing, at least for the 4- to 6-yr-old population. A general age effect was also noted in this age group, with decreased artifact noted with increasing age. Artifact rejection technique was not a significant factor suggesting standard compared based strategies may be sufficient for use in the pediatric population. Additional study into the effect of artifact on oculomotor results for infants to age 3 yr and ages 7- to 18-yr-old, in the disordered population, and with additional equipment manufacturers is needed to confirm these results and further describe the impact of artifact on oculomotor findings in the pediatric population.
PMID: 28418326 [PubMed - in process]
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Phoneme Error Pattern by Heritage Speakers of Spanish on an English Word Recognition Test.
Phoneme Error Pattern by Heritage Speakers of Spanish on an English Word Recognition Test.
J Am Acad Audiol. 2017 Apr;28(4):352-365
Authors: Shi LF
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Heritage speakers acquire their native language from home use in their early childhood. As the native language is typically a minority language in the society, these individuals receive their formal education in the majority language and eventually develop greater competency with the majority than their native language. To date, there have not been specific research attempts to understand word recognition by heritage speakers. It is not clear if and to what degree we may infer from evidence based on bilingual listeners in general.
PURPOSE: This preliminary study investigated how heritage speakers of Spanish perform on an English word recognition test and analyzed their phoneme errors.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A prospective, cross-sectional, observational design was employed.
STUDY SAMPLE: Twelve normal-hearing adult Spanish heritage speakers (four men, eight women, 20-38 yr old) participated in the study. Their language background was obtained through the Language Experience and Proficiency Questionnaire. Nine English monolingual listeners (three men, six women, 20-41 yr old) were also included for comparison purposes.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Listeners were presented with 200 Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6 words in quiet. They repeated each word orally and in writing. Their responses were scored by word, word-initial consonant, vowel, and word-final consonant. Performance was compared between groups with Student's t test or analysis of variance. Group-specific error patterns were primarily descriptive, but intergroup comparisons were made using 95% or 99% confidence intervals for proportional data.
RESULTS: The two groups of listeners yielded comparable scores when their responses were examined by word, vowel, and final consonant. However, heritage speakers of Spanish misidentified significantly more word-initial consonants and had significantly more difficulty with initial /p, b, h/ than their monolingual peers. The two groups yielded similar patterns for vowel and word-final consonants, but heritage speakers made significantly fewer errors with /e/ and more errors with word-final /p, k/.
CONCLUSIONS: Data reported in the present study lead to a twofold conclusion. On the one hand, normal-hearing heritage speakers of Spanish may misidentify English phonemes in patterns different from those of English monolingual listeners. Not all phoneme errors can be readily understood by comparing Spanish and English phonology, suggesting that Spanish heritage speakers differ in performance from other Spanish-English bilingual listeners. On the other hand, the absolute number of errors and the error pattern of most phonemes were comparable between English monolingual listeners and Spanish heritage speakers, suggesting that audiologists may assess word recognition in quiet in the same way for these two groups of listeners, if diagnosis is based on words, not phonemes.
PMID: 28418329 [PubMed - in process]
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Auditory and Cognitive Factors Associated with Speech-in-Noise Complaints following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.
Auditory and Cognitive Factors Associated with Speech-in-Noise Complaints following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.
J Am Acad Audiol. 2017 Apr;28(4):325-339
Authors: Hoover EC, Souza PE, Gallun FJ
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Auditory complaints following mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) are common, but few studies have addressed the role of auditory temporal processing in speech recognition complaints.
PURPOSE: In this study, deficits understanding speech in a background of speech noise following MTBI were evaluated with the goal of comparing the relative contributions of auditory and nonauditory factors.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A matched-groups design was used in which a group of listeners with a history of MTBI were compared to a group matched in age and pure-tone thresholds, as well as a control group of young listeners with normal hearing (YNH).
STUDY SAMPLE: Of the 33 listeners who participated in the study, 13 were included in the MTBI group (mean age = 46.7 yr), 11 in the Matched group (mean age = 49 yr), and 9 in the YNH group (mean age = 20.8 yr).
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Speech-in-noise deficits were evaluated using subjective measures as well as monaural word (Words-in-Noise test) and sentence (Quick Speech-in-Noise test) tasks, and a binaural spatial release task. Performance on these measures was compared to psychophysical tasks that evaluate monaural and binaural temporal fine-structure tasks and spectral resolution. Cognitive measures of attention, processing speed, and working memory were evaluated as possible causes of differences between MTBI and Matched groups that might contribute to speech-in-noise perception deficits.
RESULTS: A high proportion of listeners in the MTBI group reported difficulty understanding speech in noise (84%) compared to the Matched group (9.1%), and listeners who reported difficulty were more likely to have abnormal results on objective measures of speech in noise. No significant group differences were found between the MTBI and Matched listeners on any of the measures reported, but the number of abnormal tests differed across groups. Regression analysis revealed that a combination of auditory and auditory processing factors contributed to monaural speech-in-noise scores, but the benefit of spatial separation was related to a combination of working memory and peripheral auditory factors across all listeners in the study.
CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study are consistent with previous findings that a subset of listeners with MTBI has objective auditory deficits. Speech-in-noise performance was related to a combination of auditory and nonauditory factors, confirming the important role of audiology in MTBI rehabilitation. Further research is needed to evaluate the prevalence and causal relationship of auditory deficits following MTBI.
PMID: 28418327 [PubMed - in process]
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Variation in Music Player Listening Level as a Function of Campus Location.
Variation in Music Player Listening Level as a Function of Campus Location.
J Am Acad Audiol. 2017 Apr;28(4):295-313
Authors: Park Y, Guercio D, Ledon V, Le Prell CG
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There has been significant discussion in the literature regarding music player use by adolescents and young adults, including whether device use is driving an increase in hearing loss in these populations. While many studies report relatively safe preferred listening levels, some studies with college student participants have reported listening habits that may put individuals at risk for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) if those listening habits continue over the long term.
PURPOSE: The goal of the current investigation was to extend listening level data collection sites from urban city settings studied by others to a more rural campus setting.
RESEARCH DESIGN: This was a prospective study.
STUDY SAMPLE: Participants were 138 students on the University of Florida campus (94 males, 44 females), 18 years or older (mean = 21 years; range: 18-33 years).
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: In this investigation, the current output level (listening level) was measured from personal listening devices used by students as they passed by a recruiting table located in one of three areas of the University of Florida campus. One location was in an open-air campus square; the other two locations were outside the campus recreation building ("gym") and outside the undergraduate library, with participants recruited as they exited the gym or library buildings. After providing written informed consent, participants completed a survey that included questions about demographics and typical listening habits (hours per day, days per week). The output level on their device was then measured using a "Jolene" mannequin.
RESULTS: Average listening levels for participants at the three locations were as follows: gym: 85.9 ± 1.4 dBA; campus square: 83.3 ± 2.0 dBA; library: 76.9 ± 1.3 dBA. After adjusting to free-field equivalent level, average listening levels were gym: 79.7 ± 1.4 dBA; campus square: 76.9 ± 2.1 dBA; library: 70.4 ± 1.4 dBA. There were no statistically significant differences between male and female listeners, and there were no reliable differences as a function of race. After accounting for daily and weekly use patterns, 5% were deemed at risk based on the criteria put forward by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and 9% were deemed at risk based on the guidance provided by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
CONCLUSIONS: Some 5-10% of the participants were deemed at risk; this finding is consistent with other studies using similar methods. It is possible that the same listeners would have selected different listening levels in other noise backgrounds, however. This unknown variable makes it difficult to estimate risk with a single listening level measurement.
PMID: 28418325 [PubMed - in process]
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