Field determination of multipollutant, open area combustion source emission factors with a hexacopter unmanned aerial vehicle

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): J. Aurell, W. Mitchell, V. Chirayath, J. Jonsson, D. Tabor, B. Gullett
An emission sensor/sampler system was coupled to a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) hexacopter unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to characterize gases and particles in the plumes emitted from open burning of military ordnance. The UAV/sampler was tested at two field sites with test and sampling flights spanning over 16 h of flight time. The battery-operated UAV was remotely maneuvered into the plumes at distances from the pilot of over 600 m and at altitudes of up to 122 m above ground level. While the flight duration could be affected by sampler payload (3.2–4.6 kg) and meteorological conditions, the 57 sampling flights, ranging from 4 to 12 min, were typically terminated when the plume concentrations of CO2 were diluted to near ambient levels. Two sensor/sampler systems, termed "Kolibri," were variously configured to measure particulate matter, metals, chloride, perchlorate, volatile organic compounds, chlorinated dioxins/furans, and nitrogen-based organics for determination of emission factors. Gas sensors were selected based on their applicable concentration range, light weight, freedom from interferents, and response/recovery times. Samplers were designed, constructed, and operated based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) methods and quality control criteria. Results show agreement with published emission factors and good reproducibility (e.g., 26% relative standard deviation for PM2.5). The UAV/Kolibri represents a significant advance in multipollutant emission characterization capabilities for open area sources, safely and effectively making measurements heretofore deemed too hazardous for personnel or beyond the reach of land-based samplers.

Graphical abstract

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SCIAMACHY observed changes in the column mixing ratio of methane over the Indian region and a comparison with global scenario

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): M. Kavitha, Prabha R. Nair
The trends in the column averaged mixing ratio of methane (XCH4) over the Indian region during 2003–2009 periods were studied using the SCanning Imaging Absorption spectroMeter for Atmospheric CHartographY (SCIAMACHY) observations. Considering the sensor degradation, the trends were analyzed for 2003 to 2005 and 2006 to 2009 separately. Over India, the trend in XCH4 varied from 5.2 to 7.6 ppb per year after 2005, exhibiting a 2–4 fold increase compared to 2003–2005. While the increase over Northern parts of India is attributed to increasing CH4 emissions from rice cultivation and livestock population, those over Southern regions are due to increased oil and gas mining activities. A comparison of these trends with those over most of the hotspot regions over the globe revealed that those regions exhibited higher growth rates of XCH4 compared to Indian regions during 2006–2009. The seasonal patterns of XCH4 and near-surface CH4 at selected global network stations were also examined in detail. This analysis revealed hemispheric difference and varying seasonal patterns suggesting the inhomogeneous vertical distribution of CH4. The observed differences in the seasonal patterns of near-surface CH4 and XCH4 suggest that the surface emissions need not replicate at higher altitudes due to long-range transport, the boundary layer meteorology and lifetime of CH4 in the atmosphere.



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Multi year aerosol characterization in the tropical Andes and in adjacent Amazonia using AERONET measurements

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): Daniel Pérez-Ramírez, Marcos Andrade-Flores, Thomas F. Eck, Ariel F. Stein, Norman T. O'Neill, Hassan Lyamani, Santiago Gassó, David N. Whiteman, Igor Veselovskii, Fernando Velarde, L. Alados-Arboledas
This work focuses on the analysis of columnar aerosol properties in the complex geophysical tropical region of South America within 10–20° South and 50–70° West. The region is quite varied and encompasses a significant part of Amazonia (lowlands) as well as high mountains in the Andes (highlands,∼4000 m a.s.l.). Several AERONET stations were included to study the aerosol optical characteristics of the lowlands (Rio Branco, Ji Parana and Cuiaba in Brazil and Santa Cruz in Bolivia) and the highlands (La Paz, Bolivia) during the 2000–2014 period. Biomass-burning is by far the most important source of aerosol in the lowlands, particularly during the dry season (August–October). Multi-annual variability was investigated and showed very strong burning activity in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2010. This resulted in smoke characterized by correspondingly strong, above-average AODs (aerosol optical depths) and homogeneous single scattering albedo (SSA) across all the stations (∼0.93). For other years, however, SSA differences arise between the northern stations (Rio Branco and Ji Parana) with SSAs of ∼0.95 and the southern stations (Cuiaba and Santa Cruz) with lower SSAs of ∼0.85. Such differences are explained by the different types of vegetation burned in the two different regions. In the highlands, however, the transport of biomass burning smoke is found to be sporadic in nature. This sporadicity results in highly variable indicators of aerosol load and type (Angstrom exponent and fine mode fraction) with moderately significant increases in both. Regional dust and local pollution are the background aerosol in this highland region, whose elevation places it close to the free troposphere. Transported smoke particles were generally found to be more optical absorbing than in the lowlands: the hypothesis to explain this is the significantly higher amount of water vapor in Amazonia relative to the high mountain areas. The air-mass transport to La Paz was investigated using the HYSPLIT air-concentration five-days back trajectories. Two different patterns were clearly differentiated: westerly winds from the Pacific that clean the atmosphere and easterly winds favoring the transport of particles from Amazonia.



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Urban air pollution and health risks of parent and nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in two megacities, southwest China

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): Shaojie Zhuo, Wei Du, Guofeng Shen, Rui Wang, Xuelian Pan, Tongchao Li, Yang Han, Yungui Li, Bo Pan, Xing Peng, Hefa Cheng, Xilong Wang, Guoliang Shi, Baoshan Xing, Shu Tao
Ambient air pollution in China has a significant spatial variation due to the uneven development and different energy structures. This study characterized ambient pollution of parent and nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) through a 1-year measurement in two megacities in southwest China where regional PM2.5 levels were considerably lower than other regions. Though the annual average BaP levels in both two cities were below the national standard of 1.0 ng/m³, however, by taking other PAHs into account, PAHs pollution were serious as indicated by high BaP equivalent concentrations (BaPEQ) of 3.8 ± 2.6 and 4.4 ± 1.9 ng/m³, respectively. Risk assessment would be underestimated by nearly an order of magnitude if only using BaP in risk assessment compared to the estimation based on 26 PAHs including 16 priority and 10 non-priority isomers targeted in this study. Estimated incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) were comparable at two cities, at about 330–380 persons per one million, even though the mass concentrations were significantly different. Nitrated PAHs showed distinct temporal and site differences compared to the parent PAHs. High cancer risks due to inhalation exposure of PAHs and their polar derivatives in the low PM2.5-pollution southwest China suggest essential and effective controls on ambient PAHs pollution in the region, and controls should take potential health risks into account instead of solely mass concentration.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2vsetgh

Neural Evidence for Non-conscious Working Memory

Abstract

Recent studies have found that non-consciously perceived information can be retained for several seconds, a feat that has been attributed to non-conscious working memory processes. However, these studies have mainly relied on subjective measures of visual experience, and the neural processes responsible for non-conscious short-term retention remains unclear. Here we used continuous flash suppression to render stimuli non-conscious in a delayed match-to-sample task together with fMRI to investigate the neural correlates of non-conscious short-term (5–15 s) retention. The participants' behavioral performance was at chance level when they reported no visual experience of the sample stimulus. Critically, multivariate pattern analyses of BOLD signal during the delay phase could classify presence versus absence of sample stimuli based on signal patterns in frontal cortex, and its spatial position based on signal patterns in occipital cortex. In addition, univariate analyses revealed increased BOLD signal change in prefrontal regions during memory recognition. Thus, our findings demonstrate short-term maintenance of information presented non-consciously, defined by chance performance behaviorally. This non-consciously retained information seems to rely on persistent neural activity in frontal and occipital cortex, and may engage further cognitive control processes during memory recognition.

http://ift.tt/2vs4bwC

Transcription Factors Sp8 and Sp9 Coordinately Regulate Olfactory Bulb Interneuron Development

Abstract

Neural stem cells in the postnatal telencephalic ventricular-subventricular zone (V-SVZ) generate new interneurons, which migrate tangentially through the rostral migratory stream (RMS) into the olfactory bulb (OB). The Sp8 and Sp9 transcription factors are expressed in neuroblasts, as well as in the immature and mature interneurons in the V-SVZ–RMS–OB system. Here we show that Sp8 and Sp9 coordinately regulate OB interneuron development: although Sp9 null mutants show no major OB interneuron defect, conditional deletion of both Sp8 and Sp9 resulted in a much more severe reduction of OB interneuron number than that observed in the Sp8 conditional mutant mice, due to defects in neuronal differentiation, tangential and radial migration, and increased cell death in the V-SVZ–RMS–OB system. RNA-Seq and RNA in situ hybridization reveal that, in Sp8/Sp9 double mutant mice, but not in Sp8 or Sp9 single mutant mice, newly born neuroblasts in the V-SVZ–RMS–OB system fail to express Prokr2 and Tshz1 expression, genes with known roles in promoting OB interneuron differentiation and migration, and that are involved in human Kallmann syndrome.

http://ift.tt/2wkCrqg

Efficacy of a novel swallowing exercise program for chronic dysphagia in long-term head and neck cancer survivors

Abstract

Background

The efficacy of rehabilitative exercises for chronic dysphagia treatment in head and neck cancer survivors has not been studied extensively and is ambiguous.

Methods

A prospective clinical phase II study using an intensive strength training program was carried out in 17 head and neck cancer survivors with chronic dysphagia. Both swallow and nonswallow exercises were performed for 6-8 weeks with a newly developed tool allowing for progressive muscle overload, including chin tuck, jaw opening, and effortful swallow exercises. Outcome parameters were feasibility, compliance, and parameters for effect.

Results

Feasibility in terms of the program completion rate was 88%. Compliance with the exercises was 97%. After the training period, chin tuck, jaw opening, and anterior tongue strength had substantially improved. All but 1 patient reported to benefit from the exercises.

Conclusion

Feasibility and compliance were high. Some objective and subjective effects of progressive load on muscle strength and swallowing function could be demonstrated.

http://ift.tt/2wkjvb7

Symptom burden and patient characteristics: Association with quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy

Abstract

Background

Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) experience diminished quality of life (QOL) during and after treatment. This study examined which characteristics were associated with QOL over time.

Methods

One hundred thirty-three patients with HNC from a study of 534 oncology patients rated physical and mental QOL using the Short Form-12 5 times from the initiation of radiotherapy (RT) through the following 6 months. Linear mixed model analyses examined changes over time and associated characteristics.

Results

The QOL deteriorated during RT and gradually improved after completion. Less social support was negatively associated with both physical and mental QOL. Older age, more comorbidities, more psychological symptoms, and concomitant chemotherapy (CTX) were negatively associated with physical QOL. Male sex, less physical symptoms, surgery before RT, and concomitant chemotherapy were positively associated with mental QOL.

Conclusion

Clinicians can use knowledge on time course and associated characteristics to identify and inform patients at higher risk for diminished QOL.

http://ift.tt/2vryzY9

Efficacy of a novel swallowing exercise program for chronic dysphagia in long-term head and neck cancer survivors

Abstract

Background

The efficacy of rehabilitative exercises for chronic dysphagia treatment in head and neck cancer survivors has not been studied extensively and is ambiguous.

Methods

A prospective clinical phase II study using an intensive strength training program was carried out in 17 head and neck cancer survivors with chronic dysphagia. Both swallow and nonswallow exercises were performed for 6-8 weeks with a newly developed tool allowing for progressive muscle overload, including chin tuck, jaw opening, and effortful swallow exercises. Outcome parameters were feasibility, compliance, and parameters for effect.

Results

Feasibility in terms of the program completion rate was 88%. Compliance with the exercises was 97%. After the training period, chin tuck, jaw opening, and anterior tongue strength had substantially improved. All but 1 patient reported to benefit from the exercises.

Conclusion

Feasibility and compliance were high. Some objective and subjective effects of progressive load on muscle strength and swallowing function could be demonstrated.

http://ift.tt/2wkjvb7

Symptom burden and patient characteristics: Association with quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy

Abstract

Background

Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) experience diminished quality of life (QOL) during and after treatment. This study examined which characteristics were associated with QOL over time.

Methods

One hundred thirty-three patients with HNC from a study of 534 oncology patients rated physical and mental QOL using the Short Form-12 5 times from the initiation of radiotherapy (RT) through the following 6 months. Linear mixed model analyses examined changes over time and associated characteristics.

Results

The QOL deteriorated during RT and gradually improved after completion. Less social support was negatively associated with both physical and mental QOL. Older age, more comorbidities, more psychological symptoms, and concomitant chemotherapy (CTX) were negatively associated with physical QOL. Male sex, less physical symptoms, surgery before RT, and concomitant chemotherapy were positively associated with mental QOL.

Conclusion

Clinicians can use knowledge on time course and associated characteristics to identify and inform patients at higher risk for diminished QOL.

http://ift.tt/2vryzY9

The Mediator Complex: At the Nexus of RNA Polymerase II Transcription

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Trends in Cell Biology
Author(s): Célia Jeronimo, François Robert
Mediator is an essential, large, multisubunit, transcriptional co-activator highly conserved across eukaryotes. Mediator interacts with gene-specific transcription factors at enhancers as well as with the RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription machinery bound at promoters. It also interacts with several other factors involved in various aspects of transcription, chromatin regulation, and mRNA processing. Hence, Mediator is at the nexus of RNAPII transcription, regulating its many steps and connecting transcription with co-transcriptional events. To achieve this flexible role, Mediator, which is divided into several functional modules, reorganizes its conformation and composition while making transient contacts with other components. Here, we review the mechanisms of action of Mediator and propose a unifying model for its function.



http://ift.tt/2hmViy7

College student with actigraphy performed during final examinations

JH is a 21-year-old college student reporting excessive daytime sleepiness. Her weekday bedtime is 1:30 AM with a rise time of 8:30-9 AM. Weekend bedtime is 1-2 AM with a rise time of 10-11 AM. Her Epworth Sleepiness Scale is 12/24. She denies hypnagogic hallucinations, sleep paralysis, cataplexy, and signs of other sleep disorders. She was not taking any medications.

http://ift.tt/2hmuxtW

Sleep Phenotypes in Infants and Toddlers with Neurogenetic Syndromes

Although sleep problems are well characterized in pre-school and school-age children with neurogenetic syndromes, little is known regarding the early emergence of these problems in infancy and toddlerhood. To inform syndrome-specific profiles and targets for intervention, we contrasted parent-reported sleep problems in infants and toddlers with Angelman Syndrome (AS), Williams Syndrome (WS), and Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) to patterns observed among same-aged typically developing (TD) controls.

http://ift.tt/2f7MX0F

Reduced P300 amplitude during a visuospatial attention task in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder

Idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (IRBD) patients are prone to cognitive deficits, which include attention, executive, and visuospatial dysfunctions. Even patients with normal cognition may exhibit subclinical electrophysiological dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate visuospatial attention processing in IRBD patients with normal cognition and to compare their findings with those of age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

http://ift.tt/2hmA2sH

Correlation Between the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test in Patients With Narcolepsy Participating in Two Clinical Trials of Sodium Oxybate

In evaluating pathologic sleepiness, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) assesses subjective sleep propensity; the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) is an objective measure of the ability to stay awake. This analysis evaluated the strength of the correlation between ESS and MWT with regard to absolute values in scores.

http://ift.tt/2f7MV93

Relapse insomnia increases greater risk of anxiety and depression: evidence from a population-based 4-year cohort study

We investigated the longitudinal impacts of insomnia on the subsequent developments of anxiety and depression during a 4-year follow-up. We further categorized individuals with insomnia into different insomnia subgroups to examine whether the risk of anxiety and depression varies by subtype.

http://ift.tt/2hmujmA

A preliminary examination of gut microbiota, sleep, and cognitive flexibility in healthy older adults

Inadequate sleep increases risk for age-related cognitive decline and recent work suggests a possible role of the gut microbiota in this phenomenon. Partial sleep deprivation alters the human gut microbiome and composition of the gut microbiome is associated with cognitive flexibility in animal models. Given these findings, we examined the possible relationship among the gut microbiome, sleep quality, and cognitive flexibility in a sample of healthy older adults.

http://ift.tt/2vhsZqH

A comparison of the tongue-in-groove and columellar strut in creating and maintaining tip projection and rotation: a randomized single blind trial

Abstract

Background

Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging esthetic operations. The ability to achieve precise and predictable changes in the shape and position of the nasal tip is still among the demanding areas of rhinoplasty. Tongue in groove (TIG) and columellar strut are two of the many techniques to ensure an adequate nasal tip projection and rotation; however, there is little evidence to support long-term efficacy of these techniques.

Methods

In a clinical trial, 80 cases who were rhinoplasty candidates were studied prospectively. They were randomly divided into two groups according to the use of columellar strut and TIG. The outcome measures were gaining and maintaining tip projection and rotation in the long term. Standardized photographs before and 6 and 12 months after the surgery were the measurements to compare the results between the two groups, which were evaluated for nasolabial angle and projection. Also, the patients' satisfaction with beauty and nasal obstruction were assessed using the VAS (Visual Analogue Scale).

Results

Forty patients were operated using the columellar strut technique while the TIG method was used in 40 cases. Preoperatively, tip rotation, tip projection, and other characteristics were not significantly different between the two groups. Postoperatively, the patients' esthetic satisfaction was significantly greater in the TIG group 6 and 12 months after the surgery (P value = 0.001). The rest of the evaluated variables did not have any significant differences between the two groups.

Conclusions

It seems that both columellar strut and tongue in groove methods are effective techniques in maintaining tip projection and/or rotation in rhinoplasty. Using the tongue in groove technique in qualified hands may give significantly better esthetic satisfaction to patients than the columellar strut technique.

Level of evidence: Level I, therapeutic study.

http://ift.tt/2wkm8tH

CONTENTS 1

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Materials Today, Volume 20, Issue 5





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CONTENTS 2

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Materials Today, Volume 20, Issue 5





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Cytological and histological changes in the urothelium produced by electromotive drug administration (EMDA) and by the combination of intravescical hyperthermia and chemotherapy (thermochemotherapy)

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Francesco Pierconti, Patrizia Straccia, Sacco Emilio, Pier Francesco Bassi, Ivana De Pascalis, Rita C. Marques, Metka Volavsek, Luigi M. Larocca, Antonio Lopez-Beltran
The treatment of non muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) encompasses a range of different procedures. Electromotive drug administration (EMDA) and chemo-hyperthermia (C-HT; Synergo) represent a minimally-invasive methods of intravesical instillation of therapeutic agents as mitomycin C (MMC). We selected patients with high grade NMIBC, BCG non responder, treated with EMDA/MMC and C-HT/MMC and we also examined the morphological changes in urine cytology samples.During the period from 2012 to 2014, 110 patients with high grade NMIBC, BCG refractory were selected. All cases examined were classified according to The Paris System Classification as negative for high urothelial carcinoma (NHGUC) or atypical urothelial cells (AUC) with a mean of follow-up of 15 months and the cytological diagnosis were confirmed by histological biopsies.In particular 50 patients were treated with EMDA/MMC and 60 patients underwent to C-HT/MMC. The morphological changes were evaluated in urine samples processed by Thin Prep method.In the 50 patients treated with EMDA/MMC, 35 samples were classified as NHGUC and 15 cases were classified as AUC, while in the 60 patients treated with C-HT/MMC, 43 samples were NHGUC and 17 cases were classified AUC.The increase of cellularity and nuclear size with the alteration of nuclear/cytoplasmatic ratio (N/C) were common in patients treated with EMDA/MMC and C-HT/MMC without clinical and histological evidence of recurrence of neoplasia. The hyperchromasia and irregular nuclear chromatin were rarely observed. The irregular nuclear membrane rarely identified in urine cytology after EMDA/MMC treatment, is a feature present in patients C-HT/MMC treated.



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Thyroid Transcription Factor-1 promotes lymph node metastasis by inducing lymphangiogenesis in ovarian carcinoma

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Minhua Li, Weiping Zheng, Jianguo Wei, Chuanling Hou, Ye Yang, Liping Sun, Cheng Wang
Aims and backgroundThyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) expression is widely considered a specific marker for lung and thyroid carcinomas and plays an important role in angiogenesis in lung cancer. However, it can occasionally be expressed in other malignancies, including ovarian carcinomas, and the mechanism of TTF-1 in lymphatic metastasis of ovarian carcinomas is still unclear. This study aimed to define the TTF-1 expression and lymph vessel density (LVD) in ovarian carcinomas and look for their correlations with clinicopathological features.MethodsWe examined the incidence of thyroid transcription factor 1 expression (clone SPT24) and lymph vessel density (LVD) quantified through D2-40 by immunohistochemistry from 110 primary ovarian carcinomas and 40 benign ovarian tumor as controls in Chinese patients.ResultsThyroid transcription factor 1 was detected in 28 primary ovarian carcinomas(25.5%), which was significantly higher than its expression in benign ovarian tumor. TTF-1 expression was correlated with tumor FIGO stage,T stage and lymphatic metastasis. Moreover, LVD was associated with tumor FIGO stage,TNM stage. Furthermore, the LVD counts in group of TTF-1 positive expression were higher than in group of TTF-1 negative expression.ConclusionsThese findings indicated the occasional expression of TTF-1 immunoreactivity of ovarian carcinomas should be considered in the evaluation of neoplasms of unknown primary origin and TTF-1 might be involved in lymph node metastasis of ovarian carcinomas in the presence of lymphangiogenesis.



http://ift.tt/2vrPVUR

Exploration of the pathways and interaction network involved in bladder cancer cell line with knockdown of Opa interacting protein 5

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Xuefeng He, Xiang Ding, Duangai Wen, Jianquan Hou, Jigen Ping, Jun He
ObjectivesIn our previous study, we displayed that knockdown of Opa interacting protein 5 (OIP5) inhibited cell growth, disturbed cell cycle and increased cell apoptosis in bladder cancer (BC) cell line. Our present study aimed to explore the underlying pathways and interaction network involved in the roles of OIP5 in BC.MethodsMicroarray analysis was conducted to obtain mRNA expression profiling of OIP5 knockdown (shOIP5) and control (shCtrl) BC cell lines. Bioinformatics analyses were performed including differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) identification, protein-protein interaction network construction, biological functions of prediction and ingenuity pathways analysis (IPA). Western Blotting (WB) was subjected to validate the protein expression levels of candidate DEGs in shOIP5 BC cell line.ResultsRespective 255 up- and 184 down-regulated DEGs were identified in shOIP5 group compared with shCtrl group. In the PPI network, CAND1 and MYC had the highest connectivity with DEGs. 439 DEGs were significantly enriched in inflammatory response, regulation of cell proliferation, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and bladder cancer. In the disease and function enrichment, DEGs were obviously involved in cellular movement, cellular growth and proliferation, cancer, inflammatory response, cell death and survival. In the OIP5 regulatory network, CDH2, IRS1, IRAK3, ID1, TNF, IL6, ITGA6, MYC and SOD2 interacted with OIP5. The WB validation results were compatible with our bioinformatics analyses.ConclusionsOIP5 interaction network might function as an oncogene in BC progression based on aberrant inflammatory responses. Our study might provide valuable information for investigation of tumorigenesis mechanism in BC.



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Evaluation of expression of genes CADM1, TWIST1 and CDH1 by immunohistochemestry in melanocytic lesions

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Karina Munhoz de Paula Alves Coelho, Jaqueline Stall, Hercílio Fronza Júnior, Rodrigo Blasius, Paulo Henrique Condeixa de França
AimMalignant melanoma is an aggressive disease and its incidence is increasing worldwide. Genetic predisposition and exposure to environmental factors, especially sunlight, are risk factors. Histopathologic distinction between nevi and melanomas can be difficult. It is anticipated that the evaluation of the immunohistochemical expression of some genes could contribute to the differential diagnosis of questionable histologically lesions. The objective of this study was to investigate wether the evaluation of the immunohistochemical expression of genes CADM1, TWIST1 and CDH1 (E-cadherin), that take part in mechanisms of cell adhesion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, contributes to the differential diagnosis of melanocytic lesions difficult to diagnose.Materials and methodsRetrospective cross-sectional study based on immunohistochemistry analysis of samples of 30 dysplastic compound melanocytic nevi, 30 melanomas less than 1.0mm thick and 30 melanomas more than 1.0mm thick, diagnosed between 2013 and 2016. A score was used to evaluate color intensity and percentage of cells stained.ResultThere were significant reductions in the expression of the genes CADM1 and CDH1 in melanomas (below and above 1.00mm of thickness) and in melanomas more than 1.0mm thick, respectively, compared to dysplastic compund melanocytic nevi. There was also lower expression of the genes CADM1 and CDH1 in melanomas greater than 1.0mm thick compared to melanomas less than 1.0mm. The gene TWIST1 showed no significant difference in expression between groups.ConclusionThese findings allow us to conclude that the immunohistochemical expression of CADM1 has the potential to contribute as an auxiliary tool to the differential diagnosis between nevi and melanomas.



http://ift.tt/2vrJiSu

Optical Loupes: A Useful Tool for the Oncall Otorhinolaryngologist—Our Experience

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and utility of loupes for ENT on-calls. We conducted a 2 month prospective clinical study using loupes during on-calls. We examined patients twice, with and without loupes and compared visibility and diagnostic ease. We used the loupes in a total of 71 patients for a variety of ENT emergencies. We found that visibility and diagnostic ease was improved in all cases. During procedures we found that improved visibility led to better instrument placement and more satisfactory outcomes. Loupes have been previously used intra-operatively with good results. The obstacles to wider usage are reportedly the expense and learning curve required. We have acquired some cheap loupes and have found evidence that earlier usage eases the transition. We have found that they are a useful addition to the on-call ENT armoury as they facilitate superior visibility and improved instrument placement.

http://ift.tt/2vrssD4

Optical Loupes: A Useful Tool for the Oncall Otorhinolaryngologist—Our Experience

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and utility of loupes for ENT on-calls. We conducted a 2 month prospective clinical study using loupes during on-calls. We examined patients twice, with and without loupes and compared visibility and diagnostic ease. We used the loupes in a total of 71 patients for a variety of ENT emergencies. We found that visibility and diagnostic ease was improved in all cases. During procedures we found that improved visibility led to better instrument placement and more satisfactory outcomes. Loupes have been previously used intra-operatively with good results. The obstacles to wider usage are reportedly the expense and learning curve required. We have acquired some cheap loupes and have found evidence that earlier usage eases the transition. We have found that they are a useful addition to the on-call ENT armoury as they facilitate superior visibility and improved instrument placement.

http://ift.tt/2vrssD4

Botulinum Toxin Injections Into the Lateral Cricoarytenoid Muscles for Vocal Process Granuloma

Contact granulomas are benign, exophytic inflammatory lesions of the larynx that typically arise on or near the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilage. The most common management options include voice therapy and antireflux pharmacotherapy, intralesional steroid injections, botulinum toxin injections, and surgical excision. In-office Botox injection into the lateral cricoarytenoid (LCA) muscle can be effective even for recurrent granulomas.

http://ift.tt/2w4i01F

Optical Loupes: A Useful Tool for the Oncall Otorhinolaryngologist—Our Experience

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and utility of loupes for ENT on-calls. We conducted a 2 month prospective clinical study using loupes during on-calls. We examined patients twice, with and without loupes and compared visibility and diagnostic ease. We used the loupes in a total of 71 patients for a variety of ENT emergencies. We found that visibility and diagnostic ease was improved in all cases. During procedures we found that improved visibility led to better instrument placement and more satisfactory outcomes. Loupes have been previously used intra-operatively with good results. The obstacles to wider usage are reportedly the expense and learning curve required. We have acquired some cheap loupes and have found evidence that earlier usage eases the transition. We have found that they are a useful addition to the on-call ENT armoury as they facilitate superior visibility and improved instrument placement.

http://ift.tt/2vrssD4

Optical Loupes: A Useful Tool for the Oncall Otorhinolaryngologist—Our Experience

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and utility of loupes for ENT on-calls. We conducted a 2 month prospective clinical study using loupes during on-calls. We examined patients twice, with and without loupes and compared visibility and diagnostic ease. We used the loupes in a total of 71 patients for a variety of ENT emergencies. We found that visibility and diagnostic ease was improved in all cases. During procedures we found that improved visibility led to better instrument placement and more satisfactory outcomes. Loupes have been previously used intra-operatively with good results. The obstacles to wider usage are reportedly the expense and learning curve required. We have acquired some cheap loupes and have found evidence that earlier usage eases the transition. We have found that they are a useful addition to the on-call ENT armoury as they facilitate superior visibility and improved instrument placement.

http://ift.tt/2vrssD4

The impact of onabotulinumtoxinA on severe headache days: PREEMPT 56-week pooled analysis

OnabotulinumtoxinA has been shown to reduce headache-days among patients with chronic migraine (CM). The objective of this analysis was to determine whether onabotulinumtoxinA has an impact on headache-day sev...

http://ift.tt/2f6aQWm

Evaluation of the budding and depth of invasion (BD) model in oral tongue cancer biopsies

Abstract

It is of great clinical importance to identify simple prognostic markers from preoperative biopsies that could guide treatment planning. Here, we compared tumor budding (B), depth of invasion (D), and the combined scores (i.e., budding and depth of invasion (BD) histopathologic model) in preoperative biopsies and the corresponding postoperative specimens of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC). Tumor budding and depth of invasion were evaluated in the pre- and postoperative samples from 100 patients treated for OTSCC. Sensitivity and specificity statistics were used. Our results showed statistically significant (P < 0.001) relationship between pre- and postoperative BD scores. There was an agreement between the pre- and postoperative BD model scores in 83 cases (83%) with 57.1% sensitivity (95% CI 39.4 to 73.7%) and 96.9% specificity (95% CI 89.3 to 99.6%). Our findings suggest that the BD model, analyzed from representative biopsies, could be used for the treatment planning of OTSCC.

http://ift.tt/2wk12v9

Desensitization to a whole egg by rush oral immunotherapy improves the quality of life of guardians: A multicenter, randomized, parallel-group, delayed-start design study

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Allergology International
Author(s): Naoka Itoh-Nagato, Yuzaburo Inoue, Mizuho Nagao, Takao Fujisawa, Naoki Shimojo, Tsutomu Iwata
BackgroundPatients with food allergies and their families have a significantly reduced health-related quality of life (QOL).MethodsWe performed a multicenter, randomized, parallel-group, delayed-start design study to clarify the efficacy and safety of rush oral immunotherapy (rOIT) and its impact on the participants' daily life and their guardians (UMIN000003943).Forty-five participants were randomly divided into an early-start group and a late-start group. The early-start group received rOIT for 3 months, while the late-start group continued the egg elimination diet (control). In the next stage, both groups received OIT until all participants had finished 12 months of maintenance OIT.ResultsThe ratio of the participants in whom an increase of the TD was achieved in the first stage was significantly higher in the early-start group (87.0%), than in the late-start group (22.7%). The QOL of the guardians in the early-start group significantly improved after the first stage (65.2%), in comparison to the late-start group (31.8%). During 12 months of rOIT, the serum ovomucoid-specific IgE levels, the percentage of CD203c⁺ basophils upon stimulation with egg white, and the wheal size to egg white were decreased, while the serum ovomucoid-specific IgG4 levels were increased. However, approximately 80% of the participants in the early-start group showed an allergic reaction during the first stage of the study, whereas none of the patients in the late-start group experienced an allergic reaction.ConclusionsrOIT induced desensitization to egg and thus improved the QOL of guardians; however, the participants experienced frequent allergic reactions due to the treatment.



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Cordyceps Sinensis: Anti-fibrotic and inflammatory effects of a cultured polysaccharide extract

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre
Author(s): Danfei Huang, Soma Meran, Shao-Ping Nie, Adam Midgley, Junqiao Wang, Steve W. Cui, Mingyong Xie, Glyn O. Phillips, Aled O. Phillips
It has been suggested that the traditional Chinese herbal preparation Cordyceps Sinensis (CS) may have a beneficial effect in renal disease. To satisfy increasing demand, CS derivatives have been produced by aseptic mycelia cultivation. We have demonstrated antifibrotic activity of cultured CS previously. The aim of this study was to examine bioactivity of a polysaccharide isolated from cultured CS with a complicated monosaccharide composition, mainly consisting of Gal, Glc and Man.This polysaccharide antagonised the effect of TGF-β1 in stimulating the expression of collagen in the HK2 renal cell line. This was associated with down regulation of the TGF-β receptor Alk5. In addition the polysaccharide antagonised IL-1β stimulated sICAM-1 dependent adherence of monocytes to a monolayer of HK2 cell. This was associated with increased expression of the primary receptor for hyaluronan CD44, and was abrogated by removal of the cell surface hyaluronan pericellular coat.In summary we describe both anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory activity in a polysaccharide isolated from cultured CS.

Graphical abstract

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Biology and management of Avena fatua and Avena ludoviciana : two noxious weed species of agro-ecosystems

Abstract

Avena fatua and Avena ludoviciana are closely related grass weed species infesting a large number of crops around the world. These species are widely distributed in diverse agro-ecosystems from temperate to sub-tropical regions due to their unique seed traits, successful germination ecology, high competitive ability, and allelopathic potential. A. fatua is more widespread, adaptable, and problematic than A. ludoviciana. Both these species infest major winter and spring crops, including wheat, oat, barley, canola, maize, alfalfa, and sunflower, causing up to 70% yield losses depending on crop species and weed density. Chemical control has been challenged by large-scale herbicide resistance evolution in these weed species. A. fatua is the most widespread herbicide-resistant weed in the world, infesting about 5 million hectares in 13 countries. The use of alternative herbicides with different modes of action has proved effective. Several cultural practices, including diverse crop rotations, cover crops, improved crop competition (using competitive cultivars, high seed rates, narrow row spacing, altered crop geometry), and allelopathic suppression, have shown promise for controlling A. fatua and A. ludoviciana. The integrated use of these cultural methods can reduce the herbicide dose required, and lower dependency on herbicides to control these grasses. Moreover, integrated management may successfully control herbicide-resistant populations of these weed species. The use of integrated approaches based on the knowledge of biology and ecology of A. fatua and A. ludoviciana may help to manage them sustainably in the future.

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Is myometrial inflammation a cause or a consequence of term human labour?

Myometrial inflammation is thought to have a pivotal role in the onset of term and some forms of preterm labour. This is based on the comparison of samples taken from women undergoing term elective CS prior to the onset of labour with those taken from women in established labour. Consequently, it is not clear whether myometrial inflammation is a cause or a consequence of labour. Our objective is to test the hypothesis that myometrial inflammation is a consequence of the onset of labour. To test this hypothesis we have obtained myometrial samples from women at various stages of pregnancy and spontaneous labour and studied the activation of the AP-1 (c-Jun) and NFB (p65) systems, cytokine mRNA expression and protein levels and inflammatory cell infiltration and activation. We found that the activation of p65 declined from preterm to term not in labour samples and thereafter increased in early and established labour. Cytokine mRNA expression and protein levels increased in established labour only. Using flow cytometry of myometrial tissue, we found that the number of neutrophils did increase with the onset of labour, but on tissue section, these were seen to be intravascular and not infiltrating into the myometrium. These data suggest that myometrial inflammation is a consequence rather than a cause of term labour.

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Anti-inflammatory effects of exercise training in adipose tissue do not require FGF21

Exercise enhances insulin sensitivity; it also improves adipocyte metabolism and reduces adipose tissue inflammation through poorly-defined mechanisms. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a pleiotropic hormone-like protein whose insulin-sensitizing properties are predominantly mediated via receptor signaling in adipose tissue (AT). Recently, FGF21 has also been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties. Meanwhile, an association between exercise and increased circulating FGF21 levels has been reported in some, but not all studies. Thus, the role that FGF21 plays in mediating the positive metabolic effects of exercise in AT are unclear. In this study, FGF21 knock-out (KO) mice were used to directly assess the role of FGF21 in mediating the metabolic and anti-inflammatory effects of exercise on white AT (WAT) and brown AT (BAT). Male FGF21KO and wild-type mice were provided running wheels or remained sedentary for 8 weeks (n=9-15/group) and compared for adiposity, insulin sensitivity (i.e., HOMA-IR, Adipo-IR), and AT inflammation and metabolic function (e.g., mitochondrial enzyme activity, subunit content). Adiposity and Adipo-IR were increased in FGF21KO mice and decreased by EX. The BAT of FGF21KO animals had reduced mitochondrial content and decreased relative mass, both normalized by EX. WAT and BAT inflammation was elevated in FGF21KO mice, reduced in both genotypes by EX. EX increased WAT Pgc1alpha gene expression, citrate synthase activity, COX I content, and total AMPK content in WT but not FGF21KO mice. Collectively, these findings reveal a previously unappreciated anti-inflammatory role for FGF21 in WAT and BAT, but do not support that FGF21 is necessary for EX-mediated anti-inflammatory effects.

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Lead-free (Ba,Ca)(Ti,Zr)O3 ceramics within the polymorphic phase region exhibiting large, fatigue-free piezoelectric strains

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Nopsiri Chaiyo, David P. Cann, Naratip Vittayakorn
Lead-free xBaZrO3-(0.85-x)BaTiO3-0.15CaTiO3; x=0.00–0.20 (xBZ) ceramics were prepared successfully using the conventional solid-state reaction method. Unipolar electric-field-induced strains of the composition x=0.125 in the polymorphic phase region (PPR) composition show an extraordinarily high normalized piezoelectric coefficient (d33^⁎) of 2244pm/V with relatively low hysteresis at a low electric field of 5kV/cm, which is higher than that of most reported lead-free ceramics. The PPR composition also exhibits excellent fatigue resistance to bipolar electric cycling with negligible loss of electric-field-induced strain after 10⁶cycles. A two-phase mixture model featuring short-range ordering, which is dispersed in the long-range ferroelectric phase, is proposed to explain the outstanding piezoelectric properties. The reversible electric-field-induced phase transition between the two states is responsible for the large normalized piezoelectric coefficient and fatigue resistance. Under repeated electric cycling, the domains become more dynamic, and the change in domain configuration becomes easier due to decreased energy requirement upon polarization reversal. Furthermore, the ceramic shows single crystal-like behavior characterized by a nearly vertical slope in the polarization hysteresis data, which correlates to the electric field induced transformation from a multi-domain state to a single-domain state. This environmentally benign lead-free ceramic, with outstanding properties, has great potential use for highly responsive and reliable actuators.

Graphical abstract

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Manufacturing of FeCoCrNiCux medium-entropy alloy coating using laser cladding technology

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Yangchuan Cai, Yao Chen, Zhen Luo, Feng Gao, Lun Li
In the present research, FeCoCrNiCux medium-entropy alloy coatings were manufactured on Cr12MoV die steel by laser cladding technology. Due to the dilution effect of the substrate, the actual mixed entropy value of the coatings was found to be less than the theoretical value, indicating a typical medium-entropy alloy. The addition of Cu element was found to increase the Gibbs free energy of the cladding layers. Moreover, the difference in atomic radius between the Cu element and the other four elements is large. Thus, the Cu element segregates easily at the grain boundaries. The micro-hardness of the cladding layers was lower for the simple face-centered cubic structure, about 250HV. Owing to the low hardness value, the wear mechanism of the cladding layers consisted of adhesive wear, abrasive wear, and oxidative wear. The Cu element segregated in the grain boundaries to form the Cu-rich solid solution. The large potential difference between the metal matrix and the Cu-rich solid solution deteriorated the corrosion resistance of the cladding layers. Furthermore, it was found that the addition of Cu element could lead to the formation of large oxides, thereby reducing the high-temperature oxidation resistances of the cladding layers. The surface layer of the oxidation film consisted of mainly Fe oxides while the internal layer consisted of Cr oxides.

Graphical abstract

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Enhanced strength and ductility of bulk CoCrFeMnNi high entropy alloy having fully recrystallized ultrafine-grained structure

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): S.J. Sun, Y.Z. Tian, H.R. Lin, X.G. Dong, Y.H. Wang, Z.J. Zhang, Z.F. Zhang
A high efficient magnetic levitation melting technique was reported for fabricating bulk equiatomic CoCrFeMnNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) ingot with a diameter of 110mm. The bulk ingot can be either forged or rolled. In particular, fully recrystallized ultrafine-grained (UFG) HEA with a minimum grain size of 503±181nm was successfully obtained through a simple cold rolling and annealing process. The tensile properties of the HEA were studied by changing the grain size from the UFG regime to the coarse-grained regime. The UFG HEA exhibited a good balance of strength and ductility due to the low stacking fault energy. The linear Hall-Petch relationship was well fitted when the grain sizes range from 503nm to 88.9μm.

Graphical abstract

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Duplex stainless steel fabricated by selective laser melting - Microstructural and mechanical properties

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Florian Hengsbach, Peter Koppa, Kristina Duschik, Martin Joachim Holzweissig, Madison Burns, Jens Nellesen, Wolfgang Tillmann, Thomas Tröster, Kay-Peter Hoyer, Mirko Schaper
In the scope of the present study, microstructural and mechanical characterizations of duplex stainless steel UNS S31803 processed by selective laser melting (SLM) are conducted. The findings shed light on the phase arrangement evolving in the as-built condition and in several heat-treated conditions. In the as-built condition, austenite formation is almost suppressed due to process-related high cooling rates. Therefore, several heat treatments ranging from 900°C to 1200°C for 5min each were performed in order to adjust to the desired austenitic-ferritic microstructure. Results generated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveal a high dislocation density induced during SLM fabrication, such that a recrystallized microstructure prevails after the heat treatment. Tensile tests display the severe impact of the heat treatment on the resulting mechanical response. The nearly complete ferritic as-built specimens obtain a higher ultimate tensile strength and a reduced elongation at fracture compared to the heat-treated specimens.

Graphical abstract

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Analyses of a Mutant Foxp3 Allele Reveal BATF as a Critical Transcription Factor in the Differentiation and Accumulation of Tissue Regulatory T Cells

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Immunity
Author(s): Norihito Hayatsu, Takahisa Miyao, Masashi Tachibana, Ryuichi Murakami, Akihiko Kimura, Takako Kato, Eiryo Kawakami, Takaho A. Endo, Ruka Setoguchi, Hiroshi Watarai, Takeshi Nishikawa, Takuwa Yasuda, Hisahiro Yoshida, Shohei Hori
Foxp3 controls the development and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells, but it remains elusive how Foxp3 functions in vivo. Here, we established mouse models harboring three unique missense Foxp3 mutations that were identified in patients with the autoimmune disease IPEX. The I363V and R397W mutations were loss-of-function mutations, causing multi-organ inflammation by globally compromising Treg cell physiology. By contrast, the A384T mutation induced a distinctive tissue-restricted inflammation by specifically impairing the ability of Treg cells to compete with pathogenic T cells in certain non-lymphoid tissues. Mechanistically, repressed BATF expression contributed to these A384T effects. At the molecular level, the A384T mutation altered Foxp3 interactions with its specific target genes including Batf by broadening its DNA-binding specificity. Our findings identify BATF as a critical regulator of tissue Treg cells and suggest that sequence-specific perturbations of Foxp3-DNA interactions can influence specific facets of Treg cell physiology and the immunopathologies they regulate.

Graphical abstract

Teaser

Hayatsu et al. report that an IPEX-associated Foxp3 mutation has expanded DNA recognition specificity and impairs tissue Treg cell fitness by repressing Batf. Their findings identify BATF as a critical regulator of tissue Treg cells and suggest that polymorphisms that impact Foxp3-DNA interactions may contribute to susceptibility to autoimmune disease.


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An antigen-specific semi-therapeutic treatment with local delivery of tolerogenic factors through a dual-sized microparticle system blocks experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 143
Author(s): Jonathan J. Cho, Joshua M. Stewart, Theodore T. Drashansky, Maigan A. Brusko, Ashley N. Zuniga, Kyle J. Lorentsen, Benjamin G. Keselowsky, Dorina Avram
Antigen-specific treatments are highly desirable for autoimmune diseases in contrast to treatments which induce systemic immunosuppression. A novel antigen-specific therapy has been developed which, when administered semi-therapeutically, is highly efficacious in the treatment of the mouse model for multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The treatment uses dual-sized, polymeric microparticles (dMPs) loaded with specific antigen and tolerizing factors for intra- and extra-cellular delivery, designed to recruit and modulate dendritic cells toward a tolerogenic phenotype without systemic release. This approach demonstrated robust efficacy and provided complete protection against disease. Therapeutic efficacy required encapsulation of the factors in controlled-release microparticles and was antigen-specific. Disease blocking was associated with a reduction of infiltrating CD4⁺ T cells, inflammatory cytokine-producing pathogenic CD4⁺ T cells, and activated macrophages and microglia in the central nervous system. Furthermore, CD4⁺ T cells isolated from dMP-treated mice were anergic in response to disease-specific, antigen-loaded splenocytes. Additionally, the frequency of CD86^hiMHCII^hi dendritic cells in draining lymph nodes of EAE mice treated with Ag-specific dMPs was reduced. Our findings highlight the efficacy of microparticle-based drug delivery platform to mediate antigen-specific tolerance, and suggest that such a multi-factor combinatorial approach can act to block autoimmunity.



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Non-proinflammatory and responsive nanoplatforms for targeted treatment of atherosclerosis

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 143
Author(s): Yin Dou, Yue Chen, Xiangjun Zhang, Xiaoqiu Xu, Yidan Chen, Jiawei Guo, Dinglin Zhang, Ruibing Wang, Xiaohui Li, Jianxiang Zhang
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of many fatal cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Whereas nanomedicines are promising for targeted therapy of atherosclerosis, great challenges remain in development of effective, safe, and translational nanotherapies for its treatment. Herein we hypothesize that non-proinflammatory nanomaterials sensitive to low pH or high reactive oxygen species (ROS) may serve as effective platforms for triggerable delivery of anti-atherosclerotic therapeutics in cellular and tissue microenvironments of inflammation. To demonstrate this hypothesis, an acid-labile material of acetalated β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) (Ac-bCD) and a ROS-sensitive β-CD material (Ox-bCD) were separately synthesized by chemical modification of β-CD, which were formed into responsive nanoparticles (NPs). Ac-bCD NP was rapidly hydrolyzed in mildly acidic buffers, while hydrolysis of Ox-bCD NP was selectively accelerated by H2O2. Using an anti-atherosclerotic drug rapamycin (RAP), we found stimuli-responsive release of therapeutic molecules from Ac-bCD and Ox-bCD nanotherapies. Compared with non-responsive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)-based NP, Ac-bCD and Ox-bCD NPs showed negligible inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo. By endocytosis in cells and intracellularly releasing cargo molecules in macrophages, responsive nanotherapies effectively inhibited macrophage proliferation and suppressed foam cell formation. After intraperitoneal (i.p.) delivery in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE^−/−) mice, fluorescence imaging showed accumulation of NPs in atherosclerotic plaques. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that the lymphatic translocation mediated by neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages may contribute to atherosclerosis targeting of i.p. administered NPs, in addition to targeting via the leaky blood vessels. Correspondingly, i.p. treatment with different nanotherapies afforded desirable efficacies. Particularly, both pH and ROS-responsive nanomedicines more remarkably delayed progression of atherosclerosis and significantly enhanced stability of atheromatous lesions, in comparison to non-responsive PLGA nanotherapy. Furthermore, responsive nanovehicles displayed good safety performance after long-term administration in mice. Consequently, for the first time our findings demonstrated the therapeutic advantages of nanomedicines responsive to mildly acidic or abnormally high ROS microenvironments for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Graphical abstract

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Advance Directives, Hospitalization, and Survival Among Advanced Cancer Patients with Delirium Presenting to the Emergency Department: A Prospective Study

AbstractBackground.To improve the management of advanced cancer patients with delirium in an emergency department (ED) setting, we compared outcomes between patients with delirium positively diagnosed by both the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) and Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS), or group A (n = 22); by the MDAS only, or group B (n = 22); and by neither CAM nor MDAS, or group C (n = 199).Materials and Methods.In an oncologic ED, we assessed 243 randomly selected advanced cancer patients for delirium using the CAM and the MDAS and for presence of advance directives. Outcomes extracted from patients' medical records included hospital and intensive care unit admission rate and overall survival (OS).Results.Hospitalization rates were 82%, 77%, and 49% for groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = .0013). Intensive care unit rates were 18%, 14%, and 2% for groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = .0004). Percentages with advance directives were 52%, 27%, and 43% for groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = .2247). Median OS was 1.23 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.46–3.55) for group A, 4.70 months (95% CI 0.89–7.85) for group B, and 10.45 months (95% CI 7.46–14.82) for group C. Overall survival did not differ significantly between groups A and B (p = .6392), but OS in group C exceeded those of the other groups (p < .0001 each).Conclusion.Delirium assessed by either CAM or MDAS was associated with worse survival and more hospitalization in patients with advanced cancer in an oncologic ED. Many advanced cancer patients with delirium in ED lack advance directives. Delirium should be assessed regularly and should trigger discussion of goals of care and advance directives.Implications for Practice.Delirium is a devastating condition among advanced cancer patients. Early diagnosis in the emergency department (ED) should improve management of this life‐threatening condition. However, delirium is frequently missed by ED clinicians, and the outcome of patients with delirium is unknown. This study finds that delirium assessed by the Confusion Assessment Method or the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale is associated with poor survival and more hospitalization among advanced cancer patients visiting the ED of a major cancer center, many of whom lack advance directives. Therefore, delirium in ED patients with cancer should trigger discussion about advance directives.

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A Phase II Study with Lead‐In Safety Cohort of 5‐Fluorouracil, Oxaliplatin, and Lapatinib in Combination with Radiation Therapy as Neoadjuvant Treatment for Patients with Localized HER2‐Positive Esophagogastric Adenocarcinomas

AbstractLessons Learned. Neoadjuvant 5‐fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and lapatinib in combination with radiation therapy is safe for neoadjuvant treatment for patients with localized human epidermal growth receptor 2‐positive esophagogastric adenocarcinoma.Evaluation of this drug combination in a larger patient pool would allow for more accurate analysis of its efficacy.Background.The optimal design of neoadjuvant chemoradiation for the treatment of localized esophagogastric cancers is the subject of much debate. In this nonrandomized trial, we evaluated neoadjuvant 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), oxaliplatin, and lapatinib in combination with radiation therapy as neoadjuvant treatment for patients with localized human epidermal growth receptor 2 (HER2)‐positive esophagogastric adenocarcinomas.Methods.Patients received neoadjuvant 5‐FU (225 mg/m2 continuous intravenous infusion, days 1–42), oxaliplatin (85 mg/m2 intravenously [IV], days 1, 15, and 29), and lapatinib (six patients, 1,000 mg p.o., days 1–42; six patients, 750 mg p.o., days 1–42) plus radiation (1.8 Gy/day Monday through Friday for 50.4 Gy total). Following restaging, eligible patients underwent definitive resection, and pathologic response to neoadjuvant therapy was assessed. Planned enrollment was 42 patients. The primary endpoint was the pathologic complete response (pCR) rate.Results.Twelve patients (median age 64 years; 67% male) received a median of 5.6 weeks of treatment (range: 1.1–8.4). The pCR rate was 8%; four of the 12 patients underwent tumor resection and one patient had a pCR, with pathologic partial response in the remaining three. The most common lapatinib‐related adverse events included (all grades) nausea (67%) and diarrhea (58%), although these were all grade 1 or 2. Enrollment was halted due to low accrual.Conclusion.The treatment regimen was determined to be safe. The study was terminated early due to low accrual.

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Comparative efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for the acute treatment of adult outpatients with anorexia nervosa: study protocol for the systematic review and network meta-analysis of individual data

Abstract

Background

Outpatient treatment studies of anorexia nervosa (AN) are notoriously hard to conduct given the ambivalence of the patient group and high drop-out rates. It is therefore not surprising that previous meta-analyses of pharmacological and psychological treatments for outpatient treatment of adult AN have proved to be inconclusive. Network meta-analysis (NMA) has the potential to overcome the limitations of pairwise meta-analysis, as this approach can compare multiple treatments using both direct comparisons of interventions within randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and indirect comparisons across trials based on a common comparator. To date there is no published example of this approach with eating disorders and the current study provides a protocol which will use NMA to advance knowledge about what outpatient therapy works best for which patients with AN by conducting both direct and indirect comparisons of different treatments and the moderating variables.

Methods

Searches of electronic data bases will be supplemented with manual searches for published, unpublished and ongoing RCTs in international registries, and clinical trials registries of regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical companies. Two reviewers will independently extract the data and where possible we will access individual data in order to examine moderators of treatment. Two primary outcomes will be selected: changes to body mass index and changes to global eating disorder psychopathology. The secondary outcome is the total number of patients who, at 12-month post-randomization, attained over the previous 28 day period: (i) BMI > 18.5, and (ii) global eating disorder psychopathology to within 1 SD of community norms. We will also provide a statistical evaluation of consistency, the agreement between direct and indirect evidence.

Results

Descriptive statistics across all eligible trials will be provided along with a network diagram, where the size of the nodes will reflect the amount of evidence accumulated for each treatment. We will use a contribution matrix that describes the percentage contribution of each direct meta-analysis to the entire body of evidence.

Discussion

Findings will make a major contribution to the literature by summarising individual data across rapidly accumulating outpatient trials of AN using state of the art NMA methodology.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42017064429

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Daphnoretin modulates differentiation and maturation of human dendritic cells through down-regulation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase

Publication date: October 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 51
Author(s): Chien-An Chen, Chien-Kuo Liu, Ming-Ling Hsu, Chih-Wen Chi, Chun-Chuan Ko, Jian-Syun Chen, Cheng-Ta Lai, Hen-Hong Chang, Tzung-Yan Lee, Yuen-Liang Lai, Yu-Jen Chen
Daphnoretin, an active constituent of Wikstroemia indica C.A. Meys, has been shown possessing anti-cancer activity. In this study, we examined the effect of daphnoretin on differentiation and maturation of human myeloid dendritic cells (DCs). After treatment with daphnoretin (0, 1.1, 3.3, 10 and 30μM) to initiate monocytes, the recovery rate of DCs was reduced in a dose-dependent manner. The mature DCs differentiated in the presence of daphnoretin had fewer and shorter dendrites. Daphnoretin modulated DCs differentiation and maturation in terms of lower expression of CD1a, CD40, CD83, DC-SIGN, and HLA-DR. Daphnoretin inhibited the allostimulatory activity of DCs on proliferation of naive CD4⁺CD45⁺RA⁺ T cell. On the mitogen-activated protein kinase, daphnoretin down-regulated the lipopolysaccharide-augmented expression of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (pJNK), but not p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Activation of JNK by anisomycin reversed the effect of daphnoretin on daphnoretin-inhibited pJNK expression and dendrite formation of DCs. In disease model related to maturation of DCs, daphnoretin suppressed the acute rejection of skin allografts in mice. Our results suggest that daphnoretin modulated differentiation and maturation of DCs toward a state of atypical maturation with impaired allostimulatory function and this effect may go through down-regulation of phosphorylated JNK.



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Inside front cover

Publication date: September 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 50





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Naturally occurring immunomodulators with antitumor activity: An insight on their mechanisms of action

Publication date: September 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 50
Author(s): Shimaa Ibrahim Abdelmonym Mohamed, Ibrahim Jantan, Md. Areeful Haque
Natural products with immunomodulatory activity are widely used in treatment of many diseases including autoimmune diseases, inflammatory disorders in addition to cancer. They gained a great interest in the last decades as therapeutic agents since they provide inexpensive and less toxic products than the synthetic chemotherapeutic agents. Immunomodulators are the agents that have the ability to boost or suppress the host defense response that can be used as a prophylaxis as well as in combination with other therapeutic modalities. The anticancer activity of these immunomodulators is due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and induction of apoptosis, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-metastasis effect. These natural immunomodulators such as genistein, curcumin, and resveratrol can be used as prophylaxis against the initiation of cancer besides the inhibition of tumor growth and proliferation. Whereas, immunostimulants can elicit and activate humoral and cell-mediated immune responses against the tumor that facilitate the recognition and destruction of the already existing tumor. This review represents the recent studies on various natural immunomodulators with antitumor effects. We have focused on the relationship between their anticancer activity and immunomodulatory mechanisms. The mechanisms of action of various immunomodulators such as polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids, organosulfur compounds, capsaicin, vinca alkaloids, bromelain, betulinic acid and zerumbone, the affected cancerous cell lines in addition to the targeted molecules and transcriptional pathways have been review and critically analyzed.

Graphical abstract

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Characterization and evaluation of nanoencapsulated diethylcarbamazine in model of acute hepatic inflammation

Publication date: September 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 50
Author(s): Gabriel Barros Rodrigues, Elquio Eleamen Oliveira, Francisco Jaime Bezerra Mendonça Junior, Laise Aline Martins dos Santos, Wilma Helena de Oliveira, Maria Eduarda Rocha de França, Deniele Bezerra Lós, Brennda Martins Gabínio, Fábia Cristiane Melo Leite de Lira, Christina Alves Peixoto
Previous studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) is a potent anti-inflammatory drug. The aim of the present study was to characterize the nanoencapsulation of DEC and to evaluate its effectiveness in a model of inflammation for the first time. C57BL/6 mice were divided into six groups: 1) Control; 2) Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4); 3) DEC 25mg/kg+CCl4; 4) DEC 50mg/kg+CCl4; 5) DEC-NANO 05mg/kg+CCl4 and 6) DEC-NANO 12.5mg/kg+CCl4. Liver fragments were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, and processed for Western blot, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. Serum was also collected for biochemical measurements. Carbon tetrachloride induced hepatic injury, observed through increased inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, PGE2, COX-2 and iNOS), changes in liver morphology, and increased serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, TGO and TGP, LDL, as well as reduced HDL levels. Nanoparticles containing DEC were characterized by diameter, polydispersity index and zeta potential. Treatment with 12.5 nanoencapsulated DEC exhibited a superior anti-inflammatory action to the DEC traditional dose (50mg/kg) used in murine assays, restoring liver morphology, improving serological parameters and reducing the expression of inflammatory markers. The present formulation of nanoencapsulated DEC is therefore a potential therapeutic tool for the treatment of inflammatory hepatic disorders, permitting the use of smaller doses and reducing treatment time, while maintaining high efficacy.



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Reevaluating the Sensory Account of Visual Working Memory Storage

Publication date: Available online 31 July 2017
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences
Author(s): Yaoda Xu
Recent human fMRI pattern-decoding studies have highlighted the involvement of sensory areas in visual working memory (VWM) tasks and argue for a sensory account of VWM storage. In this review, evidence is examined from human behavior, fMRI decoding, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies, as well as from monkey neurophysiology studies. Contrary to the prevalent view, the available evidence provides little support for the sensory account of VWM storage. Instead, when the ability to resist distraction and the existence of top-down feedback are taken into account, VWM-related activities in sensory areas seem to reflect feedback signals indicative of VWM storage elsewhere in the brain. Collectively, the evidence shows that prefrontal and parietal regions, rather than sensory areas, play more significant roles in VWM storage.



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Retropharyngeal abscess as a result of hyaluronic acid injection pharyngoplasty: A first of its kind

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:American Journal of Otolaryngology
Author(s): Joseph Capo, Samuel N. Helman, Lianne M. DeSerres




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Histopathology of tympanic membranes from patients with ventilation tubes

Publication date: Available online 31 July 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Mehmet Faruk Oktay, Hasan Deniz Tansuker, Hisaki Fukushima, Michael M. Paparella, Patricia A. Schachern, Sebahattin Cureoglu
ObjectiveTo evaluate the histopathologic changes in tympanic membranes (TMs) with ventilation tubes (VTs).MethodsIn this retrospective human temporal bone study our overall study group included 4 subgroups of TMs from deceased donors as follows: 24 with a history of VT insertion for chronic otitis media with effusion (COME-VT); 5 with a history of VT insertion for Meniere's disease (MD-VT); 33 without a history of VT insertion for chronic otitis media with effusion (COME); and 14 without a history of VT insertion for Meniere's disease (MD). We classified the extent of migration of the outer keratinized squamous epithelium onto the inner surface of TM perforations and noted the presence and location of tympanosclerosis, of atrophy, of perforation, and/or of cholesteatoma formation.ResultsTympanosclerosis occurred in 14/24 TMs in the COME-VT subgroup; 2/5, MD-VT; 7/33, COME; and 0/14, MD. The VT insertion site was mostly in the anteroinferior (63%) quadrant of the TM; tympanosclerosis occurred more frequently in the posteroinferior (42%) and posterosuperior (33%) quadrants. We found no significant correlation between the location of tympanosclerosis and the VT insertion site (P>0.05). Atrophy occurred in 7/24 TMs in the COME-VT subgroup; 3/5, MD-VT; 8/33, COME; and 2/14, MD. We found no significant correlation between the location of atrophy and the VT insertion site; however, atrophy was located mostly in the anteroinferior quadrant (one of the most common VT insertion sites) of the TM. Regarding the ingrowth of keratinized epithelium, the mucocutanous junction was detected at any point at the inner surface of the TM in 50% of the specimens. We observed intratympanic cholesteatoma formation in 2/24 TMs in the COME-VT subgroup.ConclusionTM changes due to VT insertion are more common than previously realized. Meticulous otomicroscopic evaluation of the TM is necessary during tympanomastoidectomies in order to prevent the intratympanic inclusion pearls and squamous epithelial ingrowth to prevent any further cholesteatoma formation.



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Tmj total reconstruction with stock and custom made devices. Indications and results in a 14 year experience

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) reconstruction with alloplastic implants is a reliable, safe and effective treatment option for selected debilitating pathologies of the TMJ. This study retrospectively analyzes our 12-year experience in total alloplastic reconstruction of the TMJ using stock and custom Biomet prostheses. Indications, results and rationale for the choice of stock and custom-made devices are discussed.

http://ift.tt/2uTLpwV

Vitiligo: Mechanistic Insights Lead to Novel Treatments

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease of the skin characterized by patchy depigmentation. Current treatments are moderately effective at reversing disease by suppressing autoimmune inflammation in the skin and promoting the regeneration of melanocytes. Recent basic and translational research studies have significantly improved our understanding of disease pathogenesis, which is now leading to emerging treatment strategies based on targeted therapy. Here we discuss important clinical characteristics of vitiligo, current therapies, their limitations, advances in understanding disease pathogenesis, emerging targeted treatments, and strategies to optimize clinical trials to efficiently and effectively test these new treatments.

http://ift.tt/2u2dD9G

Expansion of cytotoxic CD56bright NK cells during T cell deficiency after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

We describe a compensatory expansion of activated cytotoxic CD56bright NK cells during T-cell deficiency after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This mimics the situation in severe inborn T-cell deficiencies and unmasks the functional and phenotypic versatility of NK cells.

http://ift.tt/2uhXbxC

Expansion of cytotoxic CD56bright NK cells during T cell deficiency after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Gertjan Lugthart, Marieke Goedhart, Merle M. van Leeuwen, Janine E. Melsen, Cornelia M. Jol-van der Zijde, Carly Vervat, Monique M. van Ostaijen-ten Dam, Anja M. Jansen-Hoogendijk, Maarten J.D. van Tol, Arjan C. Lankester, Marco W. Schilham

Teaser

We describe a compensatory expansion of activated cytotoxic CD56^bright NK cells during T-cell deficiency after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This mimics the situation in severe inborn T-cell deficiencies and unmasks the functional and phenotypic versatility of NK cells.


http://ift.tt/2uXgazk

Vitiligo: Mechanistic Insights Lead to Novel Treatments

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Michael L. Frisoli, John E. Harris
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease of the skin characterized by patchy depigmentation. Current treatments are moderately effective at reversing disease by suppressing autoimmune inflammation in the skin and promoting the regeneration of melanocytes. Recent basic and translational research studies have significantly improved our understanding of disease pathogenesis, which is now leading to emerging treatment strategies based on targeted therapy. Here we discuss important clinical characteristics of vitiligo, current therapies, their limitations, advances in understanding disease pathogenesis, emerging targeted treatments, and strategies to optimize clinical trials to efficiently and effectively test these new treatments.



http://ift.tt/2uWHVrK

Retropharyngeal abscess as a result of hyaluronic acid injection pharyngoplasty: A first of its kind

Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) results when the soft palate fails to occlude the communication between the nasopharynx and the oropharynx during speech, resulting in hypernasal speech resonance. VPI may result from shortening of the soft palate or functional limitations of the soft palate, or the posterior or lateral pharyngeal wall musculature. Surgical procedures have traditionally been aimed at lengthening the soft palate, dynamically tightening the velopharynx, or statically reducing the size of the velopharynx with autologous tissue transfer.

http://ift.tt/2vr7wMm

Retropharyngeal abscess as a result of hyaluronic acid injection pharyngoplasty: A first of its kind

Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) results when the soft palate fails to occlude the communication between the nasopharynx and the oropharynx during speech, resulting in hypernasal speech resonance. VPI may result from shortening of the soft palate or functional limitations of the soft palate, or the posterior or lateral pharyngeal wall musculature. Surgical procedures have traditionally been aimed at lengthening the soft palate, dynamically tightening the velopharynx, or statically reducing the size of the velopharynx with autologous tissue transfer.

http://ift.tt/2vr7wMm

Increasing positive attitudes toward individuals with disabilities through community service learning

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 69
Author(s): Janelle E. Lawson, Rebecca A. Cruz, Gregory A. Knollman
Providing equal-status contact between those with and without disabilities can improve attitudes and reduce discrimination toward individuals with disabilities. This study investigated community service learning as a means by which to provide college students with equal-status contact with individuals with disabilities and increase their positive attitudes toward those with disabilities. A total of 166 college students in one university in the United States enrolled in an Introduction to Disability course received content on disability in society and participated in community service involving 20h of direct contact with individuals with disabilities.Findings indicated that college students who had prior contact with individuals with disabilities had more positive attitudes toward individuals with disabilities than college students who did not have prior contact at the start of the course. For the college students who did not have any prior contact, their attitudes toward individuals with disabilities became significantly more positive at the end of the community service learning course. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.



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Increased malignancy incidence in IgE deficient patients not due to concomitant Common Variable Immunodeficiency

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) deficiency (<2.5 kU/L) has unclear clinical significance. Very little is known about the clinical characteristics of IgE deficiency in patients with Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID).

http://ift.tt/2tXetRj

Hypogammaglobulinemia E in 216 adults with IgG subclass deficiency and respiratory tract infections

Hypogammaglobulinemia E has been reported in 0.8% to 3.0% of adults unselected for disease associations.1,2 In persons with subnormal serum immunoglobulin (Ig) E, the prevalence of frequent or severe respiratory tract infections,3,4 other subnormal immunoglobulin isotypes,3,5 and autoimmune conditions3,4 was significantly greater than that in control subjects.3–5 To learn more, we performed a retrospective study to determine clinical and laboratory associations of hypogammaglobulinemia E (serum IgE <1 IU/L [<2.4 μg/L]) and IgE levels at diagnosis in 216 index adult patients with IgG subclass deficiency (IgGSD).

http://ift.tt/2vlviJ8

Zika virus infection as a trigger of atopic dermatitis

Zika virus (ZIKV), a single-strand RNA virus from the Flaviviridae family, has been a major worldwide public health problem primarily because of its association with congenital defects and Guillain-Barré syndrome. The ZIKV infection was first identified in Uganda in 1947. Since the description of the endemic transmission in South and Central America in 2015, travel-associated cases have been reported in every state of the United States, except for Alaska, with locally acquired cases reported in Texas and Florida.

http://ift.tt/2vlBgtr

Increased malignancy incidence in IgE deficient patients not due to concomitant Common Variable Immunodeficiency

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) deficiency (<2.5 kU/L) has unclear clinical significance. Very little is known about the clinical characteristics of IgE deficiency in patients with Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID).

http://ift.tt/2tXetRj

Bronchial thermoplasty induces immunomodulation with a significant increase in pulmonary CD4+25+ regulatory T cells

Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a method of treating airways and randomized prospective trials have shown positive clinical effects of BT in patients with severe asthma.1 The mechanisms underlying BT airway treatment are not completely understood. Animal and human studies have shown that BT decreases airway smooth muscle mass and contraction.2 Because airway smooth muscle is a source of many proinflammatory factors and mediators, another result of BT could be the attenuation of airway inflammation.

http://ift.tt/2tXx7rV

Zika virus infection as a trigger of atopic dermatitis

Zika virus (ZIKV), a single-strand RNA virus from the Flaviviridae family, has been a major worldwide public health problem primarily because of its association with congenital defects and Guillain-Barré syndrome. The ZIKV infection was first identified in Uganda in 1947. Since the description of the endemic transmission in South and Central America in 2015, travel-associated cases have been reported in every state of the United States, except for Alaska, with locally acquired cases reported in Texas and Florida.

http://ift.tt/2vlBgtr

Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality: Fourth Edition Incorporating the First Addendum.

This fourth edition incorporating the first addendum, of the World Health Organization's Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality builds on over 50 years of guidance by WHO on drinking-water quality, which has formed an authoritative basis for the setting of national regulations and standards for water safety in support of public health.

http://ift.tt/2u1Q3K9

Interventions to Prevent Age-Related Cognitive Decline, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Clinical Alzheimer’s-Type Dementia [Internet].

This review assessed evidence for interventions aimed at preventing or delaying the onset of age-related cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or clinical Alzheimer's-type dementia (CATD).

http://ift.tt/2uhMuLe

The black rock series supported SCR catalyst for NO x removal

Abstract

Black rock series (BRS) is of great potential for their plenty of valued oxides which include vanadium, iron, alumina and silica oxides, etc. BRS was used for directly preparing of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst by modifying its surface texture with SiO₂-TiO₂ sols and regulating its catalytic active constituents with V₂O₅ and MoO₃. Consequently, 90% NO removal ratio was obtained within 300–400 °C over the BRS-based catalyst. The structure and properties of the BRS-based catalyst were characterized by the techniques of N₂ adsorption–desorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), H₂-temperature programmed reduction (H₂-TPR), and NH₃-temperature programmed desorption (NH₃-TPD). The results revealed that the BRS-based catalyst possesses favorable properties for NO_x removal, including highly dispersed active components, abundant surface-adsorbed oxygen O_α, well redox property, and numerous Brønsted acid sites. Particularly, the BRS-based catalyst exhibited considerable anti-poisoning performance compared with commercial TiO₂-based catalyst. The former catalyst shows a NO conversion surpassing 80% from 300 to 400 °C for potassium poisoning, and a durability of SO₂ and H₂O exceeding 85% at temperatures from 300 to 450 °C.

http://ift.tt/2u1Sa0L

PRP Popular for Alopecia Despite Lack of Robust Evidence

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is the 'hot' therapy for alopecia, but data supporting its effectiveness are limited. Researchers are now developing a 'new view' of hair loss.
Medscape Medical News

http://ift.tt/2f1Zq65

Determinants of Implementation of Isolation Precautions Against Infections by Multidrug-Resistant Microorganisms: A Hospital-Based, Multicenter, Observational Study.

Related Articles

Determinants of Implementation of Isolation Precautions Against Infections by Multidrug-Resistant Microorganisms: A Hospital-Based, Multicenter, Observational Study.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2017 Jul 31;:1-8

Authors: Bénet T, Girard R, Gerbier-Colomban S, Dananché C, Hodille E, Dauwalder O, Vanhems P

Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to ascertain the factors associated with lack of isolation precautions (IP) in patients infected or colonized by third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (3GCR-E) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in hospital settings. DESIGN Prospective surveillance and audit of practices. SETTING The study included 4 university hospitals in Lyon, France. PARTICIPANTS All patients hospitalized between April and June in 2013 and 2015 were included. Case patients had ≥1 clinical sample positive for MRSA and/or 3GCR-E. METHODS Factors associated with the lack of IP implementation were identified using multivariate logistic regression. The incidence of MDRO infections was expressed per 10,000 patient days. RESULTS Overall, 57,222 patients accounting for 192,234 patient days of hospitalization were included, and 635 (1.1%) MDRO cases were identified. MRSA incidence was 2.5 per 10,000 patient days (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 2.1-3.0) and 3GCR-E incidence was 10.1 per 10,000 patient days (95% CI, 9.2-11.0), with no crude difference between 2013 and 2015 (P=.15 and P=.11, respectively). Among 3GCR-E, the main species were Escherichia coli (43.8%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (31.0%). Isolation precautions were implemented in 78.5% of cases. Lack of IP implementation was independently associated with patient age, year, specialty, hospital, colonization compared with infection, and lack of medical prescription for IPs (adjusted odds ratio, 17.4; 95% CI, 8.5-35.8; P<.001). CONCLUSIONS MRSA and 3GCR-E infections and/or colonizations are frequent in healthcare settings, and IPs are implemented in most cases. When IPs are lacking, the main factor is the absence of medical prescription for IPs, underscoring the need for alerts to physicians by the microbiological laboratory and/or the infection control team. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;1-8.

PMID: 28758615 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2w3Ubqn

Reflector-guided breast tumor localization versus wire localization for lumpectomies: A comparison of surgical outcomes

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Sejal N. Patel, Victoria L. Mango, Priya Jadeja, Lauren Friedlander, Elise Desperito, Ralph Wynn, Sheldon Feldman, Richard Ha
PurposeTo compare surgical outcomes of SAVI SCOUT reflector localization (SSL) versus wire localization (WL) for breast tumors.MethodsRetrospective review of 42 SSL cases and 42 WL cases. WL patients were consecutively matched for clinical-pathologic features. Final surgical outcome measures were tumor specimen volume, margin status, and re-excision rates.ResultsNo significant differences were present in median specimen volumes (SSL-15.2cm³ vs. WL-16.3cm³), positive margin rate (SSL-9.5% vs. WL-7.1%), close margin rate (SSL-7.1% vs. WL-11.9%) or re-excision rate (SSL-7.1% vs. WL-9.5%).ConclusionSSL is an acceptable alternative to WL with no significant differences in surgical outcomes.



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Screening performance for callosal agenesis in prenatal life. Single center study

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Hubert Huras, Magdalena Nowak, Izabela Herman-Sucharska, Malgorzata Radon-Pokracka, Agnieszka Nocun, Marcin Wiechec
Objectives1) To analyze screening performance of second trimester scan for ACC, 2) to evaluate the agreement between ultrasound and MRI and 3) to compare prenatal and postnatal diagnosis.MethodsIt was a prospective observational study. All patients with fetuses suspected of ACC were referred to prenatal MRI (pMRI).ResultsOne subject was not confirmed by pMRI with the diagnosis of ACC. This case demonstrated partial ACC in neonatal MRI (nMRI).ConclusionSensitivity of second trimester scan for callosal agenesis of 73% and specificity of 99%. Prenatal MRI and US has similar amount of misdiagnoses.



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Vaginal tumor–vesical fistula detected by dynamic fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography: A case report

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Naoya Ishibashi, Toshiya Maebayashi, Takuya Aizawa, Masakuni Sakaguchi, Yasuo Amano
Preoperative fistulas are rare in patients with bladder mucosa-invading gynecological tumors. This is the first reported case of a vesico–vaginal fistula identified using 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-d-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT) in a patient with vaginal cancer. A 61-year-old woman with vaginal cancer underwent ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT for assessment of the mass and lymph nodes. Assessment was difficult because overlap of FDG uptake occurred on ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT images obtained 60min after FDG injection. However, dynamic ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT clearly indicated the presence of a vaginal tumor–vesical fistula. This case illustrates the usefulness of dynamic ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT imaging when assessing a vesico–vaginal fistula.



http://ift.tt/2vgn3OP

Pt-decorated zinc oxide nanorod arrays with graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets for highly efficient dual-functional gas sensing

Publication date: 5 November 2018
Source:Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 341
Author(s): Hailin Tian, Huiqing Fan, Jiangwei Ma, Zhiyong Liu, Longtao Ma, Shenhui Lei, Jiawen Fang, Changbai Long
In this work, well-aligned ZnO nanorods were grown on the substrate of exfoliated g-C3N4 nanosheets via a microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis, and then Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures were obtained after the deposition of Pt nanoparticles. The growth of vertically ordered ZnO nanorods was occurred on g-C3N4 nanosheets through the bonding interaction between Zn and N atoms, which was confirmed by XPS, FT-IR data and molecular orbital theory. The Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures sensor exhibited the remarkable sensitivity, selectivity, and fast response/recovery time for air pollutants of ethanol and NO2. The application of Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures could be used as a dual-functional gas sensor through the controlled working temperature. Besides, the Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures sensor could be applied to the repeating detection of ethanol and NO2 in the natural environment. The synergistic effect and improved the separation of electron-hole pairs in Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures had been verified for the gas sensing mechanism. Additionally, Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures revealed the excellent charge carriers transport properties in electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), such as the longer electron lifetime (τn), higher electron diffusion coefficient (Dn) and bigger effective diffusion length (Ln), which also played an important role for Pt/ZnO/g-C3N4 nanostructures with striking gas sensing activities.

Graphical abstract

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Perpendicular magnetic anisotropy in ZnMnS ultra-thin films caused by structural cleavage

Publication date: 1 December 2017
Source:Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, Volume 443
Author(s): N. Ouarab, A. Haroun
Half tetragonal ZnMnS crystal based on three single layers of Zn, S and Mn was investigated by including spin–orbit coupling in full potential linearized augmented plane waves method. We show that the magnetic anisotropy exhibits a strong dependence with structural cleavage, which induces an out-of plane magnetic easy axis. The perpendicular magnetic anisotropy was calculated to be 1890.9µeV. The anti-ferromagnetic behavior is displayed between Mn atoms having a magnetic moment of ±3.57μB with c(2×2) magnetic configuration. The results indicate that ZnMnS compound has interesting optical and magnetic properties for spintronics applications.



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Anticancer Agents; +345 new citations

345 new pubmed citations were retrieved for your search. Click on the search hyperlink below to display the complete search results:

Anticancer Agents

These pubmed results were generated on 2017/08/01

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.

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Arthroconidia in Lung Tissue: An Unusual Histopathological Finding in Pulmonary Coccidioidomycosis

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:Human Pathology
Author(s): Thea Brennan-Krohn, Edward Yoon, Michiya Nishino, James E. Kirby, Stefan Riedel
Coccidioides immitis/posadsii presents in mycelial form with branching hyphae and arthroconidia when cultured in the laboratory. On histopathology, the presence of endospore-containing spherules is considered diagnostic of coccidioidomycosis. Here we report an unusual case of coccidioidomycosis with hyphae and arthroconidia in pulmonary tissue sections. A 49-year-old male patient with intermittently treated pulmonary coccidioidomycosis sought treatment for residual pulmonary complaints. A cavity in the left upper lobe was seen on CT scan. Due to minimal improvement of symptoms despite treatment with fluconazole, a left upper lobectomy was ultimately performed. Coccidioides mimmitis/posadasii was identified by culture and DNA-probe from the lobectomy specimen. The histopathology showed a fibro-cavitary lesion, with arthroconidia and hyphal structures, but no typical endospore-forming spherules. While uncommon, C. immitis/posadasii may present with hyphae and arthroconidia on histopathology. Pathologists should be aware of this unusual presentations; culture remains the most reliable method for definitive diagnosis.



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Bilateral pheochromocytoma with ganglioneuroma component associated with multiple neuroendocrine neoplasia type 2A: a case report

Composite pheochromocytoma/paragangliomas are very rare tumors composed of ordinary pheochromocytoma paragangliomas associated with neurogenic tumors. Several hereditary susceptibility disorders are known to b...

http://ift.tt/2uSbZpY

Impedance cardiography in healthy children and children with congenital heart disease: Improving stroke volume assessment

Publication date: Available online 1 August 2017
Source:International Journal of Psychophysiology
Author(s): Ineke Nederend, Arend D.J. ten Harkel, Nico A. Blom, Gary G. Berntson, Eco J.C. de Geus
IntroductionStroke volume (SV) and cardiac output are important measures in the clinical evaluation of cardiac patients and are also frequently used in research applications. This study was aimed to improve SV scoring derived from spot-electrode based impedance cardiography (ICG) in a pediatric population of healthy volunteers and patients with a corrected congenital heart defect.Methods128 healthy volunteers and 66 patients participated. First, scoring methods for ambiguous ICG signals were optimized to improve agreement of B- and X-points with aortic valve opening/closure in simultaneously recorded transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). Building on the improved scoring of B- and X-points, the Kubicek equation for SV estimation was optimized by testing the agreement with the simultaneously recorded SV by TTE. Both steps were initially done in a subset of the sample of healthy children and then validated in the remaining subset of healthy children and in a sample of patients.ResultsSV assessment by ICG in healthy children strongly improved (intra class correlation increased from 0.26 to 0.72) after replacing baseline thorax impedance (Z0) in the Kubicek equation by an equation (7.337–6.208∗dZ/dtmax), where dZ/dtmax is the amplitude of the ICG signal at the C-point. Reliable SV assessment remained more difficult in patients compared to healthy controls.ConclusionsAfter proper adjustment of the Kubicek equation, SV assessed by the use of spot-electrode based ICG is comparable to that obtained from TTE. This approach is highly feasible in a pediatric population and can be used in an ambulatory setting.



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Executive Functions Impact the Relation Between Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia and Frequency of Stuttering in Young Children Who Do and Do Not Stutter

Purpose

This study sought to determine whether respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and executive functions are associated with stuttered speech disfluencies of young children who do (CWS) and do not stutter (CWNS).

Method

Thirty-six young CWS and 36 CWNS were exposed to neutral, negative, and positive emotion-inducing video clips, followed by their participation in speaking tasks. During the neutral video, we measured baseline RSA, a physiological index of emotion regulation, and during video viewing and speaking, we measured RSA change from baseline, a physiological index of regulatory responses during challenge. Participants' caregivers completed the Children's Behavior Questionnaire from which a composite score of the inhibitory control and attentional focusing subscales served to index executive functioning.

Results

For both CWS and CWNS, greater decrease of RSA during both video viewing and speaking was associated with more stuttering. During speaking, CWS with lower executive functioning exhibited a negative association between RSA change and stuttering; conversely, CWNS with higher executive functioning exhibited a negative association between RSA change and stuttering.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that decreased RSA during video viewing and speaking is associated with increased stuttering and young CWS differ from CWNS in terms of how their executive functions moderate the relation between RSA change and stuttered disfluencies.

http://ift.tt/2uSDhMU

Noise Equally Degrades Central Auditory Processing in 2- and 4-Year-Old Children

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate developmental and noise-induced changes in central auditory processing indexed by event-related potentials in typically developing children.

Method

P1, N2, and N4 responses as well as mismatch negativities (MMNs) were recorded for standard syllables and consonants, frequency, intensity, vowel, and vowel duration changes in silent and noisy conditions in the same 14 children at the ages of 2 and 4 years.

Results

The P1 and N2 latencies decreased and the N2, N4, and MMN amplitudes increased with development of the children. The amplitude changes were strongest at frontal electrodes. At both ages, background noise decreased the P1 amplitude, increased the N2 amplitude, and shortened the N4 latency. The noise-induced amplitude changes of P1, N2, and N4 were strongest frontally. Furthermore, background noise degraded the MMN. At both ages, MMN was significantly elicited only by the consonant change, and at the age of 4 years, also by the vowel duration change during noise.

Conclusions

Developmental changes indexing maturation of central auditory processing were found from every response studied. Noise degraded sound encoding and echoic memory and impaired auditory discrimination at both ages. The older children were as vulnerable to the impact of noise as the younger children.

Supplemental materials

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