Publication date: Available online 19 October 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Therapy
Author(s): Mohammadhossein Khorraminejad-Shirazi, Mohammad Farahmandnia, Bahareh Kardeh, Alireza Estedlal, Sina Kardeh, Ahmad Monabati
In recent years, tissue regeneration has become a promising field for developing stem cell-based transplantation therapies for human patients. Adult stem cells are affected by the same aging mechanisms that involve somatic cells. One of the mechanisms involved in cellular aging is hyperactivation of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and disruption of 5' adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Aging of stem cells results in their impaired regenerative capacity and depletion of stem cell pools in adult tissue, which results in lower efficacy of stem cell therapy. By utilizing an effective therapeutic intervention for aged stem cells, stem cell therapy can become more promising for future application. mTORC1 inhibition is a practical approach to preserve the stem cell pool. In this article, we review the dynamic interaction between sirtuin 1, AMPK, and mTORC1. We propose that using AMPK activators such as 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide, A769662, metformin, and NAD+ are practical ways to be employed for achieving more optimal results in stem cell-based transplantation therapies.
http://ift.tt/2znRtwS
Πέμπτη 19 Οκτωβρίου 2017
Ageing and Stem cell therapy: AMPK as an applicable pharmacological target for Rejuvenation of Aged Stem Cells and achieving higher efficacy in stem cell therapy
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http://ift.tt/2yBuC3C
Primary small cell carcinoma of the breast: a case report
Neuroendocrine breast cancer is a rare entity that was defined in 2003 by the World Health Organization as a separate breast cancer subtype. The diagnosis of neuroendocrine breast cancer requires the presence ...
http://ift.tt/2guzt0c
Epoetin β pegol (continuous erythropoietin receptor activator, CERA) is another choice for the treatment of anemia in myelodysplastic syndrome: a case report
In most patients, anemia is present when myelodysplastic syndrome is diagnosed. Although darbepoetin α is the first-choice supportive therapy for low-risk myelodysplastic syndrome, half of all patients develop...
http://ift.tt/2yBtA8a
Array-based sequencing of filaggrin gene for comprehensive detection of disease-associated variants
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): X. F. Colin C. Wong, Simon L.I.J. Denil, Jia Nee Foo, Huijia Chen, Angeline Su Ling Tay, Rebecca L. Haines, Mark B.Y. Tang, W. H. Irwin McLean, Aileen Sandilands, Frances J.D. Smith, E. Birgitte Lane, Jianjun Liu, John E.A. Common
Teaser
Comprehensive sequencing of FLG is a challenging endeavour. We have developed a method using array-based amplicon PCR and NGS for a robust and cost efficient method to analyze this major atopic dermatitis risk factor.http://ift.tt/2goYvKn
PLDT (planarian light/dark test): an invertebrate assay to quantify defensive responding and study anxiety-like effects
Source:Journal of Neuroscience Methods, Volume 293
Author(s): Ashenafi Mebratu Zewde, Frances Yu, Sunil Nayak, Christopher Tallarida, Allen B. Reitz, Lynn G. Kirby, Scott M. Rawls
BackgroundPlanarians, like rodents, instinctively spend more time in dark versus light environments when given a choice. This behavioral phenomenon is called negative phototaxis, which may reflect defensive responding related to an anxiety-like phenotype.New methodWe propose a planarian light/dark test, designated PLDT, to predict anxiogenic- or anxiolytic-like effects. Experimentally, we placed a planarian at the midline of a Petri dish, containing test compound or water, that was split evenly into light and dark compartments and determined time spent in the light over 10min.ResultsA clinically-approved benzodiazepine agonist (clorazepate; 10μM) increased time spent in the light whereas an inverse benzodiazepine agonist (FG-7142; 1, 10μM) produced the opposite response. Fluoxetine (1μM) or ethanol (1%), as well as the 'bath salt' cathinone S-mephedrone (300μM), enhanced time spent in the light. Planarians exposed to predator (frog) odor spent more time in the dark.Comparison with existing methodsThe light/dark box (LDB) test in rodents is used to screen putative medications for possible anxiolytic and anxiogenic effects. Our results showing that time spent in the light by planarians is enhanced by common anxiety-relieving drugs (e.g. benzodiazepine agonist, ethanol, fluoxetine) and decreased by anxiogenic substances (e.g. predator odor, benzodiazepine inverse agonist) reveal directionally similar effects in the established (LDB) and new (PLDT) assays.ConclusionOur data identify the PLDT as a cost-effective, invertebrate assay for quantifying the effects of practically any water-soluble substance on defensive responding and for studying and teaching anxiety-like responses in a living organism.
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Vértigo posicional paroxístico benigno: criterios diagnósticos. Documento de consenso del Comité para la Clasificación de los Trastornos Vestibulares de la Bárány Society
Source:Acta Otorrinolaringológica Española
Author(s): Michael von Brevern, Pierre Bertholon, Thomas Brandt, Terry Fife, Takao Imai, Daniele Nuti, David Newman-Toker
Este artículo presenta los criterios diagnósticos para el vértigo posicional paroxístico benigno (VPPB) formulados por el Comité para la Clasificación de los Trastornos Vestibulares de la Bárány Society. La clasificación refleja el estado actual del conocimiento acerca de los aspectos clínicos y los mecanismos patogénicos del VPPB e incluye tanto los síndromes bien establecidos como los emergentes. Se presupone que el conocimiento progresivo de la enfermedad conducirá a un desarrollo adicional de esta clasificación.This article presents operational diagnostic criteria for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), formulated by the Committee for Classification of Vestibular Disorders of the Bárány Society. The classification reflects current knowledge of clinical aspects and pathomechanisms of BPPV and includes both established and emerging syndromes of BPPV. It is anticipated that growing understanding of the disease will lead to further development of this classification.
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Metachronous solitary plasmacytoma
Solitary plasmacytoma is a rare disorder comprising 5%–10% of all plasma cell neoplasms. Progression to multiple myeloma is the most common pattern of relapse. Appearance of new lesions without any systemic disease is the most unusual pattern of relapse seen in <2% cases. We present a case of a 46-year-old female who presented with features of third and seventh cranial nerve palsy, diagnosed with solitary plasmacytoma, with no evidence of any systemic disease. As per standard recommendations, the patient received radiotherapy to the local site. The patient developed relapse twice, at three sites, during the follow-up period. Investigations revealed no evidence of any systemic disease. In view of repeat relapses, the patient was started on immune modulatory agent. Two and half years after the last radiotherapy, the patient is symptom free with no evidence of any new lesion.
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Acute-onset diplopia in a case of nephrotic syndrome
Description
A 12-year-old boy was evaluated in our emergency services for complaints of diplopia and mild generalised headache since past 4 days. The patient was a known case of frequently relapsing idiopathic nephrotic syndrome and was currently in remission since 5 days. He was normal and oriented on general physical and systemic examination. Urine microscopy had revealed only traces of protein on repeated evaluation, and serum albumin was 2.2 g/dL on presentation. Visual acuity was 6/6 in both eyes, and the pupillary reflexes were brisk. The ocular motility examination revealed an esotropia of 20 prism dioptres (figure 1A) along with limitation of the abduction movements in both eyes (figure 1B,C). However, right eye showed a greater limitation compared with left eye. Anterior segment of both the eyes were normal, but the fundus examination revealed bilateral severe established optic disc oedema (figure 2A,B). The...
http://ift.tt/2xTIcQP
A case of autosplenectomy associated with T-cell checkpoint inhibitor treatment
Description
A 77-year-old Caucasian man presented to the oncology service with de novo v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF), wild-type metastatic melanoma and widespread disease involving; subcutaneous fat, lymph nodes, bone and spleen with no history of autoimmunity. At diagnosis, the spleen was measured within normal limits on CT. In November 2013, he commenced treatment on a phase-III randomised double-blinded clinical trial (CA209-067) and received combination checkpoint inhibitor therapy with ipilimumab and nivolumab.
Radiological mixed response was observed after three months, with a partial response in all target lesions (RECIST V.1.1 criteria) but an increase in the size of the non-target splenic metastasis consistent with pseudoprogression. In conjunction, splenic enlargement was demonstrated (figure 1).
Figure 1
Subsequent restaging coronal abdominopelvic CT demonstrating an increased splenic length of 11.8 cm.
After seven months of immunotherapy, he achieved a complete radiological response to treatment with an...
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Non-infectious aortitis in an immunosuppressed renal transplant recipient with IgA nephropathy
A 54-year-old woman presented with atypical chest pain, fever and malaise. She was immunosuppressed with three agents following a living-donor kidney transplant 1 year previously. Her native kidney failure was secondary to biopsy-demonstrated crescentic IgA nephropathy, with systemic involvement. A CT pulmonary angiogram revealed an inflammatory cuff of soft tissue around the descending thoracic aorta suggesting aortitis. Inflammatory markers were elevated. Given her immunosuppression, the patient was screened extensively for infective causes and was empirically commenced on intravenous meropenem. After 72 hours of no clinical or serological response to antibiotic therapy, negative microbiological investigations and worsening inflammation on serial imaging, she was commenced on high-dose methylprednisolone for presumed inflammatory aortitis. Symptoms and inflammatory markers rapidly normalisedand the patient was discharged home on oral prednisolone. A clinical diagnosis of IgA-related aortitis was made. Imaging 3 months later showed complete resolution of the aortitis.
http://ift.tt/2xUfVtK
Learning from errors: unnecessary intensive care unit admissions
An elderly man was transferred to our emergency department with reported ventricular tachycardia requiring intravenous amiodarone and intensive care unit admission. Device interrogation, the following day, revealed only frequent premature ventricular contractions and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia in a patient with a known history of these conditions. The patient underwent unnecessary invasive monitoring after being emergently transferred to our facility and admitted to the intensive care unit. Fortunately, our patient did not suffer any unwarranted side effects from intravenous amiodarone. This case reports on some negative consequences of inappropriate intensive care unit admissions and how they could have been avoided.
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A case of tuberculous gumma: there is more to it than meets the eye
We present a case of a young girl who presented with multiple cutaneous abscesses over 2 years at different sites. She had no constitutional symptoms or history of tuberculosis. On investigation, she was found to have rifampicin-sensitive tuberculosis presenting as tubercular gumma, a rare form of cutaneous tuberculosis which occurs due to haematogenous spread of the bacilli. She had disseminated disease involving the spinal column with associated psoas abscess. A thorough evaluation was done for immune-deficiency workup but was all negative. She was given antitubercular therapy and showed a good response to therapy at a follow-up of 1 month.
http://ift.tt/2xTMYOh
Giant meningioma in skull radiograph
Description
A 35-year-old woman presented to peripheral hospital with loss of consciousness, urine incontinence and behavioural changes. The family noticed her impulsiveness and irritability 2 months prior to her presentation to the emergency department. No history of fever, vomiting, trauma or seizures. She was transferred to our hospital and on arrival, she was confused, with normal cranial nerve examination and equally reactive pupils. She had marked weakness in right upper and lower limbs. Because intracranial lesion was suspected, a lateral skull X-ray and a CT scan were done which revealed a large left frontal extra-axial calcified lesion with enlarged meningeal artery grooves (see figure 1 for the X-ray and figure 2 for the sagittal MRI). The patient underwent craniotomy and total removal of the meningioma with total weight of 347 g with pathological feature of psammomatous meningioma, WHO grade 1 (figure 3).1 She tolerated...
http://ift.tt/2l3mmEq
Community-acquired Pseudomonas aeruginosa meningitis
Gram-negative bacilli such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa are a rare cause of meningitis. Patients developing P. aeruginosa meningitis most commonly have a history of neurosurgical procedures. We report a patient who presented with community-acquired chronic meningitis secondary to P. aeruginosa, related to surgery for otosclerosis 5 years previously.
http://ift.tt/2xSduaR
Result of Health Illiteracy and Cultural Stigma: Fourniers Gangrene, a Urological Emergency
A 63-year-old Caucasian man presents to his regional hospital 8 days postinsertion of beads in his urethra, causing Fournier's gangrene of the penis and delayed surgical management of his gangrene. The reasons for his delay are cultural stigma associated with sexual practices and health illiteracy.
http://ift.tt/2l3mkwi
Anaesthesia and orphan disease: airway and anaesthetic management in Huntingtons disease
We present a case that highlights the issues surrounding the delivery of a safe general anaesthetic to a patient with Huntington's disease (HD) and bulbar dysfunction. In the case of a 46-year-old patient undergoing laparoscopic percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion, we discuss the rationale behind our chosen method and anaesthetic agents as well as airway issues specific to HD. In a patient whose condition would not allow for an awake fibreoptic intubation, we opted for a modified rapid sequence induction. Special considerations were made with regard to muscle relaxation given the complications associated with inadequate paralysis and reversal in patients with HD. The technique we describe may also apply to other patient categories, such as patients with movement disorders, bulbar dysfunction and dementia.
http://ift.tt/2xTJcV2
Rare presentation of an old bug
We highlight a rare presentation of Legionella infection in a 77-year-old woman with a clinical diagnosis of giant cell arteritis 2 months prior to presentation. She was started on 60 mg prednisone that was tapered to 10 mg after 4 weeks following her diagnosis. She presented with a 1-month progressive dyspnoea in the absence of any other symptoms. Her exposure history was significant only for a recent trip to Florida where she stayed at a hotel. Initial laboratory workup was significant for hyponatraemia (127 mmol/L). Workup including bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and induced sputum for gram stain, acid fast stain and bacterial culture were negative for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and other opportunistic infectious agents. However, BAL was positive for Legionella pneumophila via PCR that was confirmed by a positive urinary Legionella antigen. The patient received treatment with levofloxacin that led to full resolution of her symptoms.
http://ift.tt/2l1em6Z
Management challenges of late presentation Dacron patch infection after carotid endarterectomy
An 83-year-old man presented 4 years after right carotid endarterectomy (CEA) with an infection of his prosthetic Dacron patch. Initial scans (CT angiogram and whole body labelled white cell scan) were clear with no infection or collection noted. Systemically, the patient presented well with no recorded fevers. With an occluded left internal carotid artery and severely stenosed vertebral arteries, surgery presented a high risk of major stroke due to the lack collateral supply and this was discussed extensively. The patient subsequently declined surgical management, and he was monitored closely on an outpatient basis. He presented again a year later with ongoing haemoserous ooze from the CEA site. Subsequently a two-stage procedure was performed, where initially a stent was inserted, followed by patch excision and debridement. A muscle flap was then mobilised over the opening. This new approach to carotid patch infections should gain traction over time as a safer alternative for high-risk patients.
http://ift.tt/2xSf5xr
Unusual cause of saddle nose
Description
A 53-year-old female presented with a 2-week history of shortness of breath, cough and fever. Over the past 6 months, she reported painful tongue ulcers and pain in her nose, accompanied with nasal crusting and yellowish discharge. She had a history of pulmonary coccidioidomycosis, diagnosed 10 years ago, and she was treated with antifungal regimen. Physical examination revealed rhonchi bilaterally, multiple shallow ulcerative lesions on her tongue and a saddle nose deformity (figure 1A). CT of the chest demonstrated extensive ground-glass opacities with areas of nodular consolidation. Given her symptoms and history of coccidioidomycosis, nasal cavity biopsy was performed that revealed focal ulceration, non-specific inflammation with many cocci spherules, confirmed by Grocott's methenamine silver stain (figure 1B). Cultures from the lesions and the sputum grew Coccidioides immitis. Treatment with fluconazole 400 mg daily was initiated, and after several days her symptoms improved.
http://ift.tt/2l1SA3e
Gentamicin-vancomycin-colistin local antibiotherapy in a cement spacer in a 54-year-old haemophilic patient with relapsing plurimicrobial severe prosthetic joint infection
Description
A 54-year-old patient with haemophilia and hepatitis C virus infection experienced acute left prosthetic joint infection due to Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus following unipolar exchange in September 2015. As the outcome was not favourable with bloody discharge despite haemophilic factor substitution, a new local debridement was performed in May 2016 and multidrug-resistant Enterobacter asburiae (only susceptible to imipenem, colistin, amikacin and fosfomycin) and Corynebacterium striatum (only susceptible to vancomycin, rifampin and linezolid) grew in cultures. As explantation was considered too risky due to the potential bleeding, systemic intravenous treatment was proposed with imipenem (3 g/day), vancomycin (2.5 g/day) and fosfomycin (12 g/day). After 3 months of therapy, the bloody discharge persisted. One month after discontinuation of antibiotics, the patient presented a large 'bourgeon charnu' with impressive bloody discharge (figure 1A). X-ray revealed trochanter osteolysis, without prosthesis loosening (figure 1B). Prosthesis explantation was performed, and a...
http://ift.tt/2xTezPN
Primary hepatic hemangioendothelioma in a patient with Budd-Chiari syndrome
A 36-year-old woman was diagnosed with compensated cirrhosis of liver secondary to Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) and had undergone stenting of a thrombosed left hepatic vein. Eight months later, she presented with jaundice and right upper quadrant pain. CT revealed multiple focal lesions in the liver, which on biopsy proved to be hepatic hemangioendothelioma (HHE). Her liver disease and ascites progressively increased. Four months later, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed an advanced stage of HHE with infiltration of the common bile duct and vascular invasion with a blocked stent, with metastasis to the spleen and dorsolumbar vertebrae. We believe this is the first reported case of an HHE developing in the background of BCS.
http://ift.tt/2l3mbsK
Amyands hernia detected incidentally in two patients
The appendix is rarely present inside the inguinal hernia sac. The risk of appendicitis increases in these patients since the blood supply to the appendix can be impaired. The condition is frequently asymptomatic, and even if symptomatic it gives rise to non-specific symptoms. There is no specific laboratory finding. Diagnosis is frequently made with radiological imaging. We report two cases diagnosed as Amyand's hernia with CT.
http://ift.tt/2xTJdby
Re-correction osteotomy with osteophyte graft for correction loss with non-union after high tibial osteotomy
A 68-year-old man with right knee varus osteoarthritis was treated by lateral closed-wedge high tibial osteotomy. A correction loss with non-union occurred 6 months after surgery and a re-correction osteotomy was performed. Removing the proximal screws of the lateral plate, a medial opening-wedge re-osteotomy was performed. Arthroscopically harvested osteophytes were used to fill the gap after opening. An additional medial locking plate was installed on the medial side. Finally, the proximal lateral screws were reinserted and locked again. Mature trabecular continuity was obtained in the gap by 6 months, and there was no varus deformity 4 years after re-correction. Re-correction osteotomy could be a viable treatment when lateral compartment osteoarthritis has not progressed and good range of motion still exists. Osteophyte grafting may be an effective option not only to avoid iliac bone grafting but also to promote bone healing in re-osteotomy.
http://ift.tt/2l3m6oW
Honeycomb and necklace signs in liver abscesses secondary to melioidosis
Melioidosis is endemic in Southeast Asia and tropical Australia with varying clinical features from benign skin lesions to fatal septicaemia. Imaging plays an important role in evaluation of the melioid liver abscesses. A 45-year-old man with underlying diabetes presented with fever and lethargy for 2 weeks and abdominal pain for 2 days. His liver was enlarged on examination. Blood investigations revealed mild leucocytosis and raised liver enzymes. Ultrasound showed multiple multiloculated hypoechoic lesions throughout the liver and spleen. CT of abdomen confirmed that some liver lesions were made up of asymmetric locules of varying sizes (honeycomb sign), while others had hypodense centre with small symmetric peripheral locules in radial fashion (necklace sign). Blood culture was positive for Burkholderia pseudomallei. He was subsequently treated with ceftazidime for a month followed by oral trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole for 3 months. Follow-up CT of abdomen a month after diagnosis and treatment showed resolving hepatic and splenic lesions.
http://ift.tt/2xV0v8e
Vancomycin-associated drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome: masquerading under the guise of sepsis
A patient presented with what appeared to be severe urosepsis. After admission and antibiotic administration, a newly developed rash and subsequent facial swelling appeared to be a reaction to penicillin class antibiotics. However, despite changing class of therapy with continued antimicrobial coverage, end organ damage continued, the rash worsened and facial oedema developed. Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms was ultimately diagnosed and was consistent with clinical and histopathological findings, as well as meeting all criteria for scoring systems. The patient was started on intravenous methylprednisolone 125 mg per 8 hours with rapid improvement of rash, swelling and end organ damage. Initial challenge to decrease dose failed, but the patient was ultimately able to be discharged on an extended taper.
http://ift.tt/2l3Hw5u
Memory of World War II with loud atypical friction rub due to pulmonary asbestosis
Description
An 87-year-old healthy woman was admitted to our hospital with progressive dyspnoea on effort since the preceding 6 months. She had a history of total gastrectomy, performed 5 years earlier. She was a non-smoker and worked as a business manager.
She did not abuse drugs. During World War II, when she was 15 years old, she worked for a year in a factory manufacturing the brake pads of fighter planes using copious amounts of asbestos. Physical examination revealed the presence of a 'hard and high-pitched knocking sound during the early inspiratory phase', in the right middle to lower lung fields, anteriorly (online ).
A chest radiograph showed massive calcifications in both lungs, including at the level of the diaphragm (figure 1A). Thoracic CT confirmed that these calcifications corresponded to the deposition of massive pleural plaques (figure 1B, C), especially in the visceral pleura (figure...
http://ift.tt/2xSSnFw
Nano-scale precipitation and phase growth in Mg-Gd binary alloy: An atomic-scale investigation using HAADF-STEM
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): Jingxu Kent Zheng, Ruichun Luo, Xiaoqin Zeng, Bin Chen
In the present study, nanoscale precipitation and phase growth in Mg-15Gd(wt%) binary alloy are comprehensively studied by atomic-resolution high angle annular dark field - scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). Various nanoscale precipitate structures, including βH, β′, βT′, βM and β′′-like structure, assembled by the "basic unit" as building block, are observed, reconstructed and discussed in detail. In the early stage of precipitation, the precipitate growth basically follows y (nm)=1.53x−2.68 (nm) and protrusions start to grow when the size of a precipitate reaches a threshold value. Long-range diffusion of Gd solute preferentially proceeds along <101¯0>Mg directions and protrusions are formed. A large number of fine β′ precipitates exist and act as the key strengthening structures. The formation of precipitate-free zones in the over-age condition is attributed to the intertwining of precipitates.
Graphical abstract
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Oxidation–nitridation-induced recrystallization in a near-α titanium alloy
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): Tomonori Kitashima, Toru Hara, Yang Yang, Yuka Hara
The oxidation resistance of titanium alloys is an important property for high-temperature applications. Here, the oxidation–nitridation-induced recrystallization at the oxide–metal interface of a near-α titanium alloy substrate was analyzed using electron-backscatter diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy after oxidation tests at 750°C for 500h in air. Oxidation–nitridation-induced recrystallization was promoted by the enrichment of nitrogen at the interface, and grains comprising Ti2N and Ti3AlN grew from the interface with the inhomogeneous distribution of nitrogen.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2l2e9QV
Evaluation of novel temperature-stable viscoelastic polyurea foams as helmet liner materials
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): B.J. Ramirez, V. Gupta
Viscoelastic polyurea foams with densities of 98, 170, and 230kg/m3 were manufactured and integrated into helmet shells and tested using the NOCSAE and FMVSS 218 standards for football and motorcycle helmets, respectively. For football helmet testing, a Riddell Revolution helmet shell was used. The helmets with a foam liner thickness of 28mm were dropped using a NOCSAE medium headform (4.9kg) from heights ranging from 0.305 to 1.524m. All impact tests were done on the crown of the helmet and dropped on a 12.7mm modular elastomer programmer pad. Use of PU98 foam resulted in a reduction of 22% in peak g's and 25% in Severity Index and Head Injury Criteria values when compared to helmets with the original VN600 foams under ambient conditions. These tests were repeated under varying temperatures along with a reduced liner thickness of 22.2mm. In these tests, PU98 foam reduced the peak g's by 18% at 23°C, 26% at −15°C, and 20% at 50°C when compared to VN600 helmets. The FMVSS motorcycle helmet tests demonstrated the success of using an additional layer of polyurea foam liner on top of the existing expanded polystyrene liner in reducing the peak g's by 17%.
Graphical abstract
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High temperature fatigue characteristics of P/M and hot-forged W-Re and TZM for X-ray target of CT scanner
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): Mohd Azhar Harimon, Yukio Miyashita, Yuichi Otsuka, Yoshiharu Mutoh, Shinichi Yamamoto
The fatigue strengths at 1000°C of layered W-Re/TZM, bulk W-Re and bulk TZM for x-ray target materials were successfully evaluated under load-controlled four-point bending by introducing a fatigue failure criterion as two-times increase of initial compliance. The obtained fatigue strengths at 1000°C for layered W-Re/TZM and bulk W-Re were similar and 280MPa and 290MPa at 106cycles, respectively, while that of bulk TZM was 200MPa. During fatigue loading at 1000°C, dominant fatigue damage would be multiple intergranular crack nucleation and propagation, which would induce the increase of compliance. The reasonability of the fatigue failure criterion was confirmed by the fatigue process observations and the results of room temperature fatigue tests of the specimens tested at 1000°C up to the cycles corresponding to the fatigue failure criterion.
Graphical abstract
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Morphological evolution and internal strain mapping of pomelo peel using X-ray computed tomography and digital volume correlation
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): B. Wang, B. Pan, G. Lubineau
Cellular microstructures within natural materials enlighten and promote the development of novel materials and structures in the industrial and engineering fields. Characterization of the microstructures and mechanical properties of these natural materials can help to understand the morphology-related mechanical properties and guide the structural optimization in industrial design. Among these natural cellular materials, pomelo peels, having a foam-like hierarchical microstructure, represent an ideal model for developing materials with high energy absorption efficiency. In this work, by combining X-ray tomographic imaging technique and digital volume correlation (DVC), in-situ stepwise uniaxial compression tests were performed to quantify the internal morphological evolution and kinematic responses of pomelo peel samples during compression. Via these experiments, the varying microstructure features and thus diverse resistance to compression from endocarp to exocarp are examined, and the evolution of both bundles bending and large strain domain from endocarp to mesocarp are explored. Based on the experimental results, the microstructure-related mechanical properties of pomelo peels in response to compressive loading that demonstrates nearly linear morphology-mechanics relationship were revealed.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2l3CGoQ
Controllable hierarchical micro/nano patterns on biomaterial surfaces fabricated by ultrasonic nanocrystalline surface modification
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): Yuan Liang, Haifeng Qin, Nitin Mehra, Jiahua Zhu, Zhengnan Yang, Gary L. Doll, Chang Ye, Yalin Dong
In this work, we have shown that Ultrasonic Nanocrystal Surface Modification (UNSM) cannot only improve the mechanical properties of Ti-based biomaterials but also produce surface texture with hierarchical micro/nanoscale patterns due to its high controllability. After UNSM-treatment the surface texture of Ti-based biomaterial consists of a major microscale structure with widths ranging from 4μm to 200μm, and an embedded nanoscale structure with widths as small as 120nm. With a customized cylinder tip, the average surface roughness (Ra) can be reduced to 0.03μm, comparable to the superfinishing surface. The embedded nanoscale structure originates from the formation of the pile-up, which is determined by the elastic-plastic property of materials. Such hierarchical patterns enable new functions for the treated surface. It is demonstrated that light dispersion and the alteration of wettability can be achieved by controlling surface patterns using UNSM. The capacity of improving mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and hydrophobicity simultaneously, in conjunction with its low-cost and easy-to-operate features, makes it a promising surface engineering technique for biomaterial treatment.
Graphical abstract
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Anisotropic Ti-6Al-4V gyroid scaffolds manufactured by electron beam melting (EBM) for bone implant applications
Publication date: 5 January 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 137
Author(s): Arash Ataee, Yuncang Li, Darren Fraser, Guangsheng Song, Cuie Wen
Ti-6Al-4V gyroid scaffolds with high porosities in the range of 82–85% and three different unit cell sizes 2, 2.5 and 3mm were manufactured by electron beam melting (EBM) for bone implant applications. The microstructure, mechanical properties and failure mode of the scaffolds with different sample orientations were evaluated. The as-built struts showed orthogonally orientated martensite α′ needles in columnar grains along the building direction with an average hardness of 3.89GPa and the elastic modulus and yield strength of scaffolds ranged from 637 to 1084MPa and from 13.1 to 19.2MPa, respectively. The elastic modulus and yield strength along the build direction and perpendicular to building direction varied by ~70% and 49%, respectively, depending on the amount of structural anisotropy and unit cell size. The ratio of elastic modulus anisotropy in orthogonal directions was comparable to those of trabecular bone and could be in favor of bone implant applications. Furthermore, as-built scaffolds showed a mixed mode of ductile and brittle behavior under compression, and the dominant failure mode was by forming orthogonal crush bonds at the peak loads with an angle of ~45° with compression axis.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2yuv5VL
Clinicopathologic implications of CD8 + /Foxp3 + ratio and miR-574-3p/PD-L1 axis in spinal chordoma patients
Abstract
Currently, little is known about the interactions between microRNAs (miRNAs) and the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway in chordoma, and data discussing the role of the immune milieu in chordoma prognosis are limited. We aimed to analyze the relationship between PD-L1, miR-574-3p, microenvironmental tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and clinicopathological features of spinal chordoma patients. PD-L1 expression and TILs (including Foxp3+, CD8+, PD-1+ and PD-L1+) were assessed by immunohistochemistry in tumor specimens of 54 spinal chordoma patients. MiRNAs microarray and bioinformatical analysis were used to identify miRNAs potentially regulating PD-L1 expression, which were further validated by quantitative RT-PCR. miR-574-3p was identified to potentially regulate PD-L1 expression in chordoma, which inversely correlated with PD-L1. Positive PD-L1 expression on tumor cells was associated with advanced stages (P = 0.041) and TILs infiltration (P = 0.005), whereas decreased miR-574-3p level correlated with higher muscle invasion (P = 0.012), more severe tumor necrosis (P = 0.022) and poor patient survival. Importantly, a patient subgroup with PD-L1+/miR-574-3plow chordoma phenotype was significantly associated with worse local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) (P = 0.026). PD-1+ TILs density was associated with surrounding muscle invasion (P = 0.014), and independently portended poor LRFS (P = 0.040), while PD-L1+ TILs showed tendencies of less aggressive clinical outcomes. Multivariate analysis of OS only found CD8+/Foxp3+ ratio to be independent prognostic factor (P = 0.022). These findings may be useful to stratify patients into prognostic groups and provide a rationale for the use of checkpoint blockade therapy, possibly by administering miR-574-3p mimics, in spinal chordoma.
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Automated MicroSPECT/MicroCT Image Analysis of the Mouse Thyroid Gland
Thyroid , Vol. 0, No. 0.
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Role of Krüppel-Like Factor 4 in the Maintenance of Chemoresistance of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
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Automated MicroSPECT/MicroCT Image Analysis of the Mouse Thyroid Gland
Thyroid , Vol. 0, No. 0.
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Role of Krüppel-Like Factor 4 in the Maintenance of Chemoresistance of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
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Perceptions of eating disorder diagnoses and body image issues in four male cases in Singapore
Abstract
Background
Despite the increasing number of patients presenting for treatment, little is still known about male eating disorders cases. The current study presents four male eating disorder cases presented to our specialized treatment facility in Singapore.
Case presentation
Cases 1, 2 and 3 are homosexual males in their twenties and thirties who presented with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Case 4 is a heterosexual male in his twenties diagnosed with binge eating disorder. All four cases expressed body image dissatisfaction, fat phobia and fear of weight gain. Additionally, all of them sought treatment because of comorbid psychiatric conditions or parental wishes. Premorbid obesity and homosexual orientation may be potential risk factors for males in developing eating disorders.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that more exploration needs to be done for males diagnosed with eating disorders, particularly in the Asian society. A deeper understanding into factors associated with symptom presentation and treatment-seeking behaviors would greatly assist in informing the direction and focus of treatment in the region.
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Review of "Setting Performance Standards for Technical and Nontechnical Competence in General Surgery" by Szasz P, Bonrath EM, Louridas M, Fesco AB, Howe B, Fehr A, Ott M, Mack LA, Harris KA, Grantcharov TP in Ann Surg 266: 1-7, 2017 and "Beyond 'Measure Twice': New Performance Standards in Surgery" by Yule S in Ann Surg 266:8-9, 2017.
13-93B3 Bioactive Glass: a New Scaffold for Transplantation of Stem Cell-Derived Chondrocytes.
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Hemodynamic Changes in Paramedian Forehead Flap.
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The Etiology of Neuronal Development in Craniosynostosis: A Working Hypothesis.
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Hydatid Cyst of the Parotid Gland: A Rare Location.
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Outcomes of Titanium Mesh Cranioplasty in Pediatric Patients.
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Virtual Reality Model of the Three-Dimensional Anatomy of the Cavernous Sinus Based on a Cadaveric Image and Dissection.
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Skull Base Neuroendoscopic Training Model Using a Fibrous Injectable Tumor Polymer and the Nico Myriad.
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A Modification to the Nasal Septal Chain Suture Which Improves Its Application.
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Metopism: a Study of the Persistent Metopic Suture.
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Distribution of Elastic Fibers in the Lacrimal Sac and Nasolacrimal Duct of Japanese Cadavers.
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Spontaneous Rupture of Lacrimal Gland Pleomorphic Adenoma: Pivotal Role in Masquerading Orbital Cellulitis.
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Statin Use and Breast Cancer Prognosis in Black and White Women
Abstract
Studies show decreased risk of breast cancer recurrence and improved survival with statin use, but data on racial disparities regarding breast cancer prognosis and statin use are lacking. Our objective was to investigate if racial disparities in breast cancer prognosis can be partially explained by differences in pre-diagnosis statin use. Patients were identified from a prospective, multicenter study examining the effects of metabolic factors on breast cancer prognosis in Black and White women. Statin use, prognosis (as measured by Nottingham Prognostic Index), anthropometric, tumor, and socio-demographic characteristics were examined. Five hundred eighty-seven women (487 White, 100 Black) with newly diagnosed primary invasive breast cancer were recruited. Obesity was more prevalent in Black women than White women (47 vs 19%, p < 0.01); both groups had similar low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (113 ± 41 vs 113 ± 36 mg/dl, p = 0.90). More Black women used statins than White women (18 vs 11%, p = 0.06). Black women had a worse prognosis in an adjusted model than White women (OR 2.13 95% CI 1.23–3.67). Statin use was not associated with prognosis in unadjusted (OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.53–2.0) and adjusted models (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.56–2.31). In women with newly diagnosed breast cancer, Black women were more likely to be treated with statins than White women, contrary to previous studies. Black women had worse prognosis than White women, but this difference was not explained by differences in pre-diagnosis statin use. Our study suggests that differences in pre-diagnosis statin use do not contribute to racial disparities in breast cancer prognosis.
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First Clinical Consensus and National Recommendations on Tracheostomized Children of the Brazilian Academy of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology (ABOPe) and Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP),
Resumo Introdução: A traqueostomia é um procedimento que pode ser feito em qualquer faixa etária, inclusive em crianças abaixo de um ano. Infelizmente no Brasil existe uma enorme dificuldade dos profissionais de saúde em lidar com esta condição e uma falta de padronização dos cuidados. Objetivo: Este consenso clínico realizado pela Academia Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia Pediátrica (ABOPe) e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria (SBP) tem como objetivo gerar recomendações nacionais sobre os cuidados e condutas diante das crianças traqueostomizadas. Método: Foram selecionados um grupo de especialistas com experiência em traqueostomia na infância (otorrinolaringologistas, pediatras intensivistas, endoscopistas, pneumopediatras) que tivessem comprovada atuação prática no assunto, e que também contemplassem as diversas regiões do Brasil, de acordo com os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados: Os resultados gerados neste documento foram obtidos a partir da concordância da maioria dos participantes em relação as indicações, tipo de cânula, técnicas cirúrgicas, cuidados e orientações gerais e decanulação. Conclusão: Estas diretrizes poderão servir como norteadoras para os mais diversos profissionais de saúde em todo país que lidam com as dificuldades das crianças traqueostomizadas.
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Impact of cartilage graft size on success of tympanoplasty
Resumo Introdução: Na última década, tem havido um interesse crescente no uso de enxertos de cartilagem como opção para o reparo de perfurações primárias de membrana timpânica. As principais vantagens da cartilagem são a sua rigidez e o metabolismo braditrófico, o que a torna particularmente adequada para condições difíceis, tais como perfurações subtotais, otite adesiva e reoperações. Objetivo: Analisar o impacto de diferentes tamanhos de perfuração, portanto diferentes tamanhos de cartilagem, sobre o desfecho anatômico e funcional da timpanoplastia. Método: Através deste estudo prospectivo, não controlado, não randomizado, 50 pacientes foram submetidos a timpanoplastia de cartilagem tipo 1 (20 mulheres e 30 homens), com idade média de 19,3 ± 9,8 anos. De acordo com o tamanho da perfuração, os pacientes foram subdivididos em três grupos, Grupo I com perfuração > 50% da área da membrana timpânica, Grupo II com perfuração de 25%-50% da área da membrana timpânica, Grupo III com perfuração ≤ 25% da membrana timpânica. Todos apresentavam Audiometria tonal pura pré e pós-operatório - gap Aéreo-Ósseo para frequências testadas (0,5, 1, 2, 4 kHz). Todos os pacientes foram acompanhados por pelo menos 12 meses após a cirurgia. Resultados: A taxa de sucesso anatômico entre todos os pacientes foi de 92%, todos os grupos apresentaram melhoria estatisticamente significante entre pré e pós-operatório nos três grupos, não houve correlação significante entre o tamanho do enxerto de cartilagem e observou-se algum grau de melhoria do gap nos 3 grupos. Conclusão: O tamanho do enxerto de cartilagem não tem impacto sobre o grau de melhoria da audição ou na taxa de sucesso anatômico após timpanoplastia.
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Encoding of speech sounds at auditory brainstem level in good and poor hearing aid performers
Abstract Introduction: Hearing aids are prescribed to alleviate loss of audibility. It has been reported that about 31% of hearing aid users reject their own hearing aid because of annoyance towards background noise. The reason for dissatisfaction can be located anywhere from the hearing aid microphone till the integrity of neurons along the auditory pathway. Objectives: To measure spectra from the output of hearing aid at the ear canal level and frequency following response recorded at the auditory brainstem from individuals with hearing impairment. Methods: A total of sixty participants having moderate sensorineural hearing impairment with age range from 15 to 65 years were involved. Each participant was classified as either Good or Poor Hearing aid Performers based on acceptable noise level measure. Stimuli /da/ and /si/ were presented through loudspeaker at 65 dB SPL. At the ear canal, the spectra were measured in the unaided and aided conditions. At auditory brainstem, frequency following response were recorded to the same stimuli from the participants. Results: Spectrum measured in each condition at ear canal was same in good hearing aid performers and poor hearing aid performers. At brainstem level, better F0 encoding; F0 and F1 energies were significantly higher in good hearing aid performers than in poor hearing aid performers. Though the hearing aid spectra were almost same between good hearing aid performers and poor hearing aid performers, subtle physiological variations exist at the auditory brainstem. Conclusion: The result of the present study suggests that neural encoding of speech sound at the brainstem level might be mediated distinctly in good hearing aid performers from that of poor hearing aid performers. Thus, it can be inferred that subtle physiological changes are evident at the auditory brainstem in a person who is willing to accept noise from those who are not willing to accept noise.
Resumo Introdução: Os aparelhos auditivos são prescritos para aliviar a perda de audibilidade. Tem sido relatado que 31% dos usuários rejeitam seu aparelho auditivo devido ao desconforto com o ruído de fundo. A razão para a insatisfação pode estar situada em qualquer local desde o microfone do aparelho auditivo até a integridade de neurônios ao longo da via auditiva. Objetivos: Medir espectros desde a saída do aparelho auditivo no nível do meato acústico externo e frequência de resposta (FFR) registrada no tronco encefálico de indivíduos com deficiência auditiva. Método: Foram selecionados 60 participantes com deficiência auditiva neurossensorial moderada, de 15 a 65 anos. Cada participante foi classificado como usuário bom ou mau de prótese auditiva (GHP ou PHP) com base na medida de nível de ruído aceitável (ANL). Estímulos/da/e/si/foram apresentados em alto-falante a 65 dB SPL. No meato acústico externo, os espectros foram medidos nas condições sem aparelho e com aparelho. No tronco encefálico auditivo, FFR foram registradas para os mesmos estímulos dos participantes. Resultados: Os espectros medidos em cada condição no meato acústico externo foram os mesmos em GHP e PHP. No nível do tronco cerebral, melhor codificação F0; energias de F0 e F1 foram significativamente maiores em GHP do que em PHP. Embora os espectros do aparelho auditivo fossem quase os mesmos entre GHP e PHP, existem variações fisiológicas sutis no tronco encefálico auditivo. Conclusão: O resultado do presente estudo sugere que a codificação neural do som da fala no nível do tronco encefálico pode ser mediada distintamente em GHP em comparação com PHP. Assim, pode-se inferir que mudanças fisiológicas sutis são evidentes no tronco encefálico em uma pessoa que está disposta a aceitar o ruído em comparação com aqueles que não estão dispostos a aceitar o ruído.
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Profile and prevalence of hearing complaints in the elderly
Abstract Introduction: Hearing is essential for the processing of acoustic information and the understanding of speech signals. Hearing loss may be associated with cognitive decline, depression and reduced functionality. Objective: To analyze the prevalence of hearing complaints in elderly individuals from Rio Grande do Sul and describe the profile of the study participants with and without hearing complaints. Methods: 7315 elderly individuals interviewed in their homes, in 59 cities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, participated in the study. Inclusion criteria were age 60 years or older and answering the question on auditory self-perception. For statistical purposes, the chi-square test and logistic regression were performed to assess the correlations between variables. Results: 139 elderly individuals who did not answer the question on auditory self-perception and 9 who self-reported hearing loss were excluded, totaling 7167 elderly participants. Hearing loss complaint rate was 28% (2011) among the elderly, showing differences between genders, ethnicity, income, and social participation. The mean age of the elderly without hearing complaints was 69.44 (±6.91) and among those with complaint, 72.8 (±7.75) years. Elderly individuals without hearing complaints had 5.10 (±3.78) years of formal education compared to 4.48 (±3.49) years among those who had complaints. Multiple logistic regression observed that protective factors for hearing complaints were: higher level of schooling, contributing to the family income and having received health care in the last six months. Risk factors for hearing complaints were: older age, male gender, experiencing difficulty in leaving home and carrying out social activities. Conclusions: Among the elderly population of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the prevalence of hearing complaints reached 28%. The complaint is more often present in elderly men who did not participate in the generation of family income, who did not receive health care, performed social and community activities, had a lower level of schooling and were older.
Resumo Introdução: A audição é essencial para o processamento de eventos acústicos e emissão e compreensão dos sinais de fala. A perda auditiva pode estar associada ao declínio cognitivo, à depressão e à redução da funcionalidade. Objetivo: Analisar a prevalência de queixa auditiva em idosos do Rio Grande do Sul e descrever o perfil dos participantes com e sem queixa auditiva. Método: Participaram do estudo 7.315 idosos entrevistados em suas residências, em 59 cidades gaúchas. Os critérios de inclusão adotados foram ter 60 anos ou mais e terem respondido à questão sobre autopercepção auditiva. Para fins estatísticos foi realizado o teste Qui-quadrado e regressão logística para avaliar as correlações entre as variáveis. Resultados: Foram excluídos 139 idosos sem resposta à autopercepção auditiva e nove por autorreferirem surdez (7.167 participantes). A frequência de queixa de perda auditiva foi de 28% (2011) dos idosos, apresentou diferença entre gêneros, etnia, renda, participação social. A média de idade dos idosos sem queixa auditiva foi de 69,44 (± 6,91) e com queixa 72,8 (± 7,75) anos. Os idosos sem queixa auditiva apresentaram 5,10 (± 3,78) anos de estudo comparados com 4,48 (± 3,49) anos dos com queixa. A regressão logística múltipla observou que foram fatores protetores para a queixa auditiva maior escolaridade, contribuir na renda familiar e ter recebido atendimento de saúde nos últimos seis meses. Fatores de risco para a queixa auditiva foram idade mais avançada, sexo masculino, apresentar dificuldade de sair de casa e realizar atividades sociais. Conclusões Na população idosa do Rio Grande do Sul a prevalência de queixa auditiva atingiu 28%. A queixa está mais presente em idosos homens, sem participação na renda familiar, não receberam atendimento de saúde, tinham atividade social e comunitária, com menor escolaridade e maior idade.
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Preoperative vestibular assessment protocol of cochlear implant surgery: an analytical descriptive study
Resumo Introdução: Os implantes cocleares (IC) são indiscutivelmente um método eficaz de recuperação da função auditiva de pacientes surdos. Objetivo: Descrever o protocolo de avaliação vestibular pré-operatória em sujeitos que serão submetidos ao IC. Método: Nosso protocolo institucional prevê o diagnóstico vestibular por meio de seis testes simples: testes de Romberg e Fukuda, nistagmo espontâneo, Head Impulse Test, Head Shaking Nistagmus, prova calórica. Resultados: Foram avaliados 21 pacientes com média de 42,75 ± 14,38 anos. Apenas 28% da amostra apresentaram todos os testes normais. A presença de informação vestibular assimétrica foi documentada pela prova calórica em 32% da amostra e o nistagmo espontâneo mostrou-se pista importante para seu diagnóstico. A arreflexia vestibular bilateral foi diagnosticada em quatro sujeitos; arreflexia unilateral em três e hiporreflexia bilateral em dois. O Head Impulse Test mostrou-se indicador significante (p = 0,0001) para diagnosticar arreflexia da orelha testada. O teste de Romberg sensibilizado em almofada foi capaz de diagnosticar os comprometimentos severos da função vestibular (p = 0,003). Conclusão: Os seis testes clínicos foram capazes de identificar a presença ou não de função vestibular e assimetria da função entre as orelhas de um mesmo indivíduo.
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Treatment of large persistent tracheoesophageal peristomal fistulas using silicon rings
Resumo Introdução: Fístulas traqueoesofágicas persistentes podem ser resolvidas através da redução do tamanho da fístula ou substituição da prótese; no entanto, mesmo com técnicas conservadoras, o pertuito em torno da fístula pode continuar em pacientes com laringectomia total. Além disso, várias técnicas têm sido desenvolvidas para superar esse problema, inclusive injeções ao redor da fístula, fechamento da fístula com retalhos locais, retalhos miofasciais ou retalhos livres e fechamento da fístula com um botão septal de silicone. Objetivo: Apresentar os resultados da aplicação de anel de silicone para expansão da prótese vocal em pacientes com grandes fístulas periprotéticas persistentes. Método: Prótese vocal foi colocada em 42 pacientes após laringectomia total, e fístula foi detectada ao redor da prótese em 18 desses 42 pacientes. Quatro pacientes obtiveram melhora com métodos conservadores. Oito dos 18 pacientes que não obtiveram sucesso com métodos conservadores foram tratados usando sutura primária e quatro pacientes foram tratados com retalhos locais. Um anel de silicone foi aplicado inicialmente nos dois pacientes restantes e, também, aplicado a dois pacientes que tiveram recorrência após a técnica de sutura e a dois pacientes que tiveram recorrência após a utilização de retalho local. No total, seis pacientes receberam anéis de silicone em decorrência da fístula traqueoesofágica secundária. Os pacientes haviam sido tratados com provox-1 inicialmente e posteriormente com provox-2. No momento da detecção da fístula em torno do estoma, seis pacientes haviam recebido provox-2. Resultados: A fístula foi tratada com sucesso em seis pacientes. Além disso, após o tratamento a fala foi mantida de forma eficaz. Não houve problema de adaptação. O tempo de troca da prótese expandida com os anéis de silicone não foi diferente do tempo que se leva para a colocação da prótese normal. O anel de silicone combinado com a prótese vocal foi usado 26 vezes em pacientes na época da troca de prótese e não houve recorrência da fístula durante os 29 ± 6 meses de acompanhamento. Conclusão: Os resultados sugerem que em casos de grandes fístulas peri-prostéticas persistentes, anéis expandidos de silicone e prótese vocal modificada são eficazes tanto para o fechamento da fístula como para a manutenção da fala do paciente.
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The effect of melatonin and vitamin C treatment on the experimentally induced tympanosclerosis: study in rats
Abstract Introduction: The ethiopathogenesis of tympanosclerosis has not been completely under- stood yet. Recent studies have shown that free oxygen radicals are important in the formation of tympanosclerosis. Melatonin and Vitamin C are known to be a powerful antioxidant, interacts directly with Reactive Oxygen Species and controls free radical-mediated tissue damage. Objective: To demonstrate the possible preventative effects of melatonin and Vitamin C on tympanosclerosis in rats by using histopathology and determination of total antioxidant status total antioxidant status. Methods: Standard myringotomy and standard injury were performed in the middle ear of 24 rats. The animals were divided into three groups: Group 1 received melatonin, Group 2 received vitamin C, and Group 3 received saline solution. Results: The mean values of total antioxidant status were similar in the all study groups before the treatment period. The mean values of total antioxidant status were significantly higher in the melatonin and vitamin C groups compared to control group but vitamin C with melatonin groups were similar after the treatment period (p < 0.001). Minimum and maximum wall thicknesses were lower in the melatonin and vitamin C groups compared to the control group but the differences were insignificant. Conclusion: Melatonin increases total antioxidant status level and might have some effect on tympanosclerosis that develops after myringotomy.
Resumo Introdução: A etiopatogênese da timpanoesclerose (TE) não foi ainda totalmente esclarecida. Estudos recentes têm demonstrado que os radicais livres de oxigênio são importantes na formação de TE. Melatonina e vitamina C são conhecidas por serem poderosos antioxidantes, interagir diretamente com espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS) e controlar danos em tecidos mediados por radicais livres. Objetivo: Demonstrar os possíveis efeitos preventivos da melatonina e da vitamina C na TE em ratos com histopatologia e determinação da capacidade antioxidante total (CAT). Método: Miringotomias padronizadas foram feitas na orelha média de 24 ratos. Os animais foram divididos em três grupos: o Grupo 1 recebeu melatonina, o Grupo 2 vitamina C e o grupo 3 solução salina. Resultados: Os valores médios de CAT foram semelhantes em todos os grupos de estudo antes do período de tratamento. Os valores médios de CAT foram significativamente maiores nos grupos que receberam melatonina e vitamina C em comparação com o grupo de controle, mas os grupos vitamina C e melatonina foram semelhantes após o período de tratamento (p < 0,001). As espessuras mínimas e máximas de parede foram menores nos grupos melatonina e vitamina C, em comparação com o grupo controle, mas as diferenças não foram significativas. Conclusão: A melatonina aumenta os níveis de CAT e pode ter algum efeito sobre a TE que se desenvolve após a miringotomia.
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Efficacy of syringe-irrigation topical therapy and the influence of the middle turbinate in sinus penetration of solutions
Resumo Introdução: Terapias tópicas são a melhor opção de tratamento pós-operatório da rinossinusite crônica, principalmente com alto volume e pressão, como os squeeze bottles. Porém, não são opções disponíveis na realidade brasileira, na qual frequentemente são usados seringas para a irrigação. Objetivo: Averiguar a eficácia da terapia tópica nasossinusal com seringa e a influência da concha média nesse processo. Método: Estudo de intervenção em modelos de treinamento (S.I.M.O.N.T.). Após dissecção padronizada, três intervenções foram feitas (spray nasal 4 puffs, seringa de 60 mL e squeeze bottle de 240 mL) com a concha média normal e suturada. Foram capturadas imagens de cada seio após as intervenções, totalizando 144 imagens. As imagens foram classificadas por 10 avaliadores de acordo com a quantidade de volume residual de zero a 3, sendo zero e 1 considerados penetração ruim e 2 e 3, penetração boa. As 1.440 avaliações foram utilizadas neste estudo. Resultados: Considerando todas as situações de concha média, a quantidade de penetrações boas foi de 8,1% para spray; 68,3% para seringa e 78,3% para squeeze (p < 0,0001). Considerando todos os tipos de intervenção, a concha média normal obteve 48,2% de penetrações boas e a concha média suturada, 55% (p = 0,01). Considerando apenas concha média suturada, não houve diferença entre as intervenções seringa e squeeze (76,3% vs. 80,4%; p = 0,27). Conclusão: A terapia tópica de irrigação com seringa de 60 mL foi mais eficaz do que com spray nasal. O status da concha média mostrou-se fundamental e influenciou a terapia tópica. A irrigação com seringa foi tão eficaz quanto a com squeeze bottle quando a concha média foi suturada ao septo nasal.
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Evaluation of aesthetic and functional outcomes in rhinoplasty surgery: a prospective study
Resumo Introdução: A avaliação do desfecho de cirurgia medido pela satisfação ou qualidade de vida do paciente é muito importante, especialmente em cirurgia plástica. Existe um interesse crescente na autoavaliação de desfechos nesta especialidade cirúrgica. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a satisfação do paciente em relação à aparência e função do nariz com o uso de um questionário validado, antes e depois da cirurgia de rinoplastia. Método: Estudo prospectivo realizado em um centro terciário. Todas as cirurgias de rinoplastia feitas em adultos entre fevereiro de 2013 e agosto de 2014 foram incluídas. Muitos pacientes foram submetidos à cirurgia nasal adicional, como septoplastia ou turbinoplastia. Os procedimentos cirúrgicos e as características dos pacientes também foram registrados. Resultados: Entre 113 pacientes, 107 completaram os questionários e o período de acompanhamento. A análise da avaliação do desfecho de rinoplastia (ADR) no pré-operatório e pós-operatório mostrou uma melhoria significativa após 3 e 6 meses em questões funcionais e estéticas (p < 0,01). No pré-operatório, os pacientes ansiosos e inseguros apresentaram um escore pior (p < 0,05). A diferença na melhoria dos escores não foi significativa quando os grupos foram divididos com base em outros procedimentos nasais, cirurgia primária ou revisão e abordagem aberta versus fechada. Conclusão: Verificou-se que pacientes com menor grau de alfabetização estavam mais satisfeitos com o procedimento. A cirurgia de rinoplastia melhorou significativamente a qualidade de vida do paciente quanto à função e ao aspecto do nariz.
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Medical adherence to intranasal corticosteroids in adult patients
Abstract Introduction: The adherence to medical treatment in allergic rhinitis is poorly evaluated in clinical practice. Objectives: To evaluate adherence to intranasal corticosteroids in the treatment of allergic rhinitis patients. Methods: This prospective study was conducted on adult patients who were admitted to the outpatient clinic of the otolaryngology department tertiary hospital. Patients diagnosed with moderate to severe persistent AR and who had not used any nasal sprays were enrolled in the study. The patients were provided with mometasone furoate nasal sprays. On the 30th day, all participants filled out a questionnaire regarding the factors that may have influenced their adherence to the treatment. Afterwards, each patient filled out the Turkish-language-validated Morisky Medical Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) form. Each factor that may have affected adherence to the prescribed medication was evaluated according to the MMAS-8 score and all variables were analyzed statistically. Results: Fifty-nine adult patients with a mean age of 32.5 years (range 21-52 years) were included in the study. The mean overall MMAS-8 score was 3.64. Two factors were significantly related to low adherence: number of dependent children (p = 0.001) and benefit from the medication (p = 0.001). In addition, patients with higher education levels seemed to be more adherent than the rest of the group. Conclusion: Clinicians must keep in mind the factors related to non-adherence in order to achieve better treatment outcomes. Therefore, based on our results, patients must be informed that medications should be taken properly regardless of the benefit, and the treatment should be scheduled with respect to daily activities, particularly for patients caring for more than two children.
Resumo Introdução: A adesão ao tratamento clínico de rinite alérgica é mal avaliada na prática clínica. Objetivos: Avaliar a adesão aos corticosteroides intranasais no tratamento de pacientes com rinite alérgica. Método: Este estudo prospectivo foi realizado com pacientes adultos admitidos no ambulatório do setor de otorrinolaringologia de um hospital terciário. Os pacientes diagnosticados com rinite alérgica moderada a persistente grave que não haviam ainda usado spray nasal foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes receberam sprays nasais de furoato de mometasona. No 30° dia, todos preencheram um questionário sobre os fatores que podem ter influenciado a sua adesão ao tratamento. Depois disso, cada paciente preencheu o formulário da Escala de Adesão Clínica Morisky validado para a língua turca (MMAS-8). Cada fator que pode ter afetado a adesão à medicação prescrita foi avaliado de acordo com o escore de MMAS-8 e todas as variáveis foram analisadas estatisticamente. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 59 pacientes adultos com média de 32,5 anos (variação de 21-52). O escore total médio de MMAS-8 foi de 3,64. Dois fatores foram significantemente relacionados com a baixa adesão: número de dependentes infantis (p = 0,001) e benefício da medicação (p = 0,001). Além disso, os pacientes com níveis de ensino mais elevados pareceram ser mais adesistas do que o restante do grupo. Conclusão: Os médicos devem estar cientes dos fatores relacionados à falta de adesão, a fim de alcançar melhores resultados do tratamento. Portanto, com base em nossos resultados, os pacientes devem ser informados de que os medicamentos devem ser usados adequadamente independentemente do benefício, e o tratamento deve ser programado com relação às atividades diárias, especialmente para os pacientes que cuidam de mais de dois filhos.
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An often neglected area in crooked nose: middle turbinate pneumatization
Resumo Introdução: O nariz torto ou o nariz com desvio é um nariz com um desvio da posição vertical reta da face. A pneumatização extensa da concha média, também chamada de concha bolhosa ou concha média bolhosa (CMB), é conhecida por ser um dos possíveis fatores etiológicos da obstrução nasal, sinusite recorrente e cefaleia. Não há estudo relativo a uma associação entre CMB e nariz torto. Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre o nariz torto e a presença de CMB. Método: Foram analisados retrospectivamente 199 pacientes que se submeteram a septorrinoplastia aberta. Achados pré-operatórios paranasais à tomografia computadorizada (TC), fotodocumentação pré-operatória e exame rinoscópico anterior foram registrados. Dos 199 pacientes, observou-se que 169 atendiam aos critérios e foram incluídos no estudo. As TC foram examinadas para observar a presença de CMB, hipertrofia de conchas inferiores e desvio de septo (DS). Os DS e narizes tortos foram então classificados. Resultados: Dos 169 pacientes, 94 (56%) apresentavam uma deformidade de nariz e 75 (44%) apresentavam nariz reto. Enquanto 49 (52%) pacientes com nariz torto tinham CMB extensa, 20 pacientes com nariz reto (26,6%) tinham CMB. Uma relação estatisticamente significativa foi encontrada entre a presença de nariz torto e CMB, independentemente do lado da doença (p = 0,011). Conclusão: Este estudo revelou uma relação entre o nariz torto e CMB.
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Does stapes surgery improve tinnitus in patients with otosclerosis?
Abstract Introduction: Otosclerosis (OS) is the primary disease of the human temporal bone characterized by conductive hearing loss and tinnitus. The exact pathogenesis of tinnitus in otosclerosis patients is not known and factors affecting the tinnitus outcome in otosclerosis patients are still controversial. Objectives: To find the effect of stapedotomy on tinnitus for otosclerosis patients. Methods: Fifty-six otosclerosis patients with preoperative tinnitus were enrolled to the study. Pure tone average Air-Bone Gap values, preoperative tinnitus pitch, Air-Bone Gap closure at tinnitus frequencies were evaluated for their effect on the postoperative outcome. Results: Low pitch tinnitus had more favorable outcome compared to high pitch tinnitus (p = 0.002). Postoperative average pure tone thresholds Air-Bone Gap values were not related to the postoperative tinnitus (p = 0.213). There was no statistically significant difference between postoperative Air-Bone Gap closure at tinnitus frequency and improvement of high pitch tinnitus (p = 0.427). There was a statistically significant difference between Air-Bone Gap improvement in tinnitus frequency and low pitch tinnitus recovery (p = 0.026). Conclusion: Low pitch tinnitus is more likely to be resolved after stapedotomy for patients with otosclerosis. High pitch tinnitus may not resolve even after closure of the Air-Bone Gap at tinnitus frequencies.
Resumo Introdução: Otosclerose (OS) é a principal doença do osso temporal humano caracterizada por perda auditiva condutiva e zumbido. A patogenia exata do zumbido em pacientes com otosclerose não é conhecida e fatores que afetam o desfecho de zumbido em pacientes com otosclerose ainda são controversos. Objetivos: Encontrar o efeito da estapedotomia sobre o zumbido em pacientes com otosclerose. Método: Foram incluídos no estudo 56 pacientes com otosclerose com zumbido pré-operatório. Os valores médios tonais do gap aero-ósseo, o tom de zumbido no pré-operatório, o fechamento do gap nas frequências dos zumbidos foram avaliados quanto ao seu efeito sobre o desfecho pós-operatório. Resultados: O zumbido em tom grave teve desfecho mais favorável em comparação com o zumbido agudo (p = 0,002). Os valores médios dos gaps pós-operatórios não foram relacionados com o zumbido pós-operatório (p = 0,213). Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre o fechamento pós-operatório do gap na frequência do zumbido e melhoria do zumbido de tom agudo (p = 0,427). Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre a melhoria no gap nas frequências do zumbido e recuperação do zumbido de tom mais grave (p = 0,026). Conclusão: O zumbido de tom mais grave parece ser mais bem resolvido depois de estapedotomia em pacientes com otosclerose. O zumbido de tom agudo pode não desaparecer, mesmo após o fechamento do gap nas frequências do zumbido.
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Hearing handicap in patients with chronic kidney disease: a study of the different classifications of the degree of hearing loss
Resumo Introdução: A associação entre perda auditiva e doença renal crônica e hemodiálise tem sido bem documentada. Porém, a classificação usada para o grau da perda pode subestimar o real diagnóstico devido a características específicas em relação às frequências auditivas mais acometidas. Além disso, correlações da perda auditiva e do tempo de hemodiálise com o handicap auditivo permanecem desconhecidas nessa população. Objetivo: Comparar os resultados das classificações de Lloyd e Kaplan e do Bureau Internacional d'Audiophonologie em pacientes com doença renal crônica e correlacionar as médias calculadas por suas fórmulas com o tempo de hemodiálise e com o handicap auditivo. Método: Estudo analítico, observacional e transversal com 80 pacientes em hemodiálise. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a timpanometria, logoaudiometria, audiometria tonal limiar e os pacientes com perda auditiva foram entrevistados através do Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults. A classificação dos casos foi feita de acordo com o grau da perda. Foram verificadas as correlações das médias tonais com o tempo de hemodiálise e com as pontuações totais do Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults e seus domínios. Resultados: Em 48 pacientes que responderam ao Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults, 86 orelhas (53,75%) apresentaram perda auditiva em pelo menos uma das médias tonais. A classificação do Bureau Internacional d'Audiophonologie identificou maior número de casos (n = 52) que apresentavam algum grau de deficiência do que a classificação de Lloyd e Kaplan (n = 16). No grupo com tempo de hemodiálise a partir de dois anos, houve correlação fraca, mas estatisticamente significante, da média da classificação do Bureau Internacional d'Audiophonologie com o tempo de hemodiálise (r = 0,363). Houve correlações moderadas das médias da classificação do Bureau Internacional d'Audiophonologie (r = 0,510) e tritonal 2 (r = 0,470) com pontuações totais do Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults e com seu domínio social. Conclusão: A classificação do Bureau Internacional d'Audiophonologie mostra-se mais adequada do que a de Lloyd e Kaplan nessa população, sua média apresentou correlações com perdas auditivas em pacientes com tempo de hemodiálise ≥ 2 anos e manteve níveis moderados de correlação com a pontuação total do Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults e seu domínio social (r = 0,557 e r = 0,512).
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