Σφακιανάκης Αλέξανδρος
ΩτοΡινοΛαρυγγολόγος
Αναπαύσεως 5 Άγιος Νικόλαος
Κρήτη 72100
00302841026182
00306932607174
alsfakia@gmail.com

Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

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Παρασκευή 1 Ιανουαρίου 2016

Effect of submental sensitive transcutaneous electrical stimulation on virtual lesions of the oropharyngeal cortex.

Effect of submental sensitive transcutaneous electrical stimulation on virtual lesions of the oropharyngeal cortex.

Ann Phys Rehabil Med. 2015 Dec 21;

Authors: Cugy E, Leroi AM, Kerouac-Laplante J, Dehail P, Joseph PA, Gerardin E, Marie JP, Verin É

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of submental sensitive transcutaneous electrical stimulation (SSTES) on pharyngeal cortical representation after the creation of an oropharyngeal cortical virtual lesion in healthy subjects.
METHODS: Motor-evoked potential amplitude of the mylohyoid muscles was measured with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the oropharyngeal cortex was mapped by cartography, and videofluoroscopic parameters of swallowing function were measured before and after SSTES (at the end of SSTES [0min] and at 30 and 60min), after the creation of a cortical virtual lesion (repetitive TMS, 1Hz, 20min on the dominant swallowing hemisphere).
RESULTS: Nine subjects completed the study. After 20min of SSTES, motor-evoked potential amplitude increased (P<0.05), as did swallow reaction time after repetitive TMS, as seen on videofluoroscopy, which was reversed after electrical stimulation. On cortical mapping, the number of points with a cortical response increased in the dominant lesioned hemisphere (P<0.05), remaining constant at 60min (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: SSTES may be effective for producing cortical plasticity for mylohyoid muscles and reverses oropharyngeal cortical inhibition in healthy subjects. It could be a simple non-invasive way to treat post-stroke dysphagia.

PMID: 26717886 [PubMed – as supplied by publisher]

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A Modified Method Combining Z-Epicanthoplasty and Blepharoplasty to Develop Out-Fold Type Double Eyelids

Abstract

Background

The epicanthus can weaken the effect of blepharoplasty, which makes it difficult to form the out-fold type double eyelids preferred by Asian women. The integration of blepharoplasty and Z-epicanthoplasty has become increasingly popular. Although many techniques have been introduced to remove the epicanthus during blepharoplasty, there are still some surgical complications.

Method

This study aimed to evaluate the practicability and effectiveness of combining Z-epicanthoplasty and blepharoplasty. Removing a slice of skin from the upper eyelid to the inner canthus makes the epicanthus crease along the vertical axis of Z-plasty. The up-outward triangular flap points to the lower eyelid margin instead of the inner canthus. By cutting off the fibrous tissue and orbicularis oculi muscle, the tension that causes epicanthus is completely released; therefore, the inner canthus ligament anchor is unnecessary and avoids damage to the inner canthus.

Result

From January 2008 to June 2014, this modified surgical method was carried out on 1108 patients. One hundred and twelve patients were evaluated at a follow-up visit ranging from 6 to 72 months. In 2 cases, the double-eyelid fold developed into an in-fold type, while, in 110 cases, it developed into an out-fold type. The outlines of the upper eyelids were natural and symmetric, and the inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle were fully exposed with no visible scar.

Conclusion

This modified method is simple in design and practice. The inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle can be fully exposed, giving a natural, smooth, Westernized, appealing look. This technique is suitable for all types of epicanthus in Asian women.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.

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Occurrence of Breast Mucinous Carcinoma After Autologous Fat Grating for Breast Augmentation

Abstract

Autologous fat grafting is commonly performed in reconstructive breast surgery as well as in aesthetic breast augmentation surgery. Nevertheless, little is known about the interaction between fat grafts and cancer. A 36-year-old patient had undergone bilateral breast augmentation with autologous fat grafting. Two months after surgery, she perceived two small palpable indurations in the right breast. Nine months after the procedure, the lumps grew bigger and lumpectomy was performed. Histologic examination of the specimens showed mucinous carcinoma of the breast. This case raises once again the question about the possible links between breast cancer and fat grafts. The level of evidence is level V.

No Level assigned

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.

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Clinical efficacy of computed tomography-guided iodine-125 seed implantation therapy in patients with advanced spinal metastatic tumors.

Clinical efficacy of computed tomography-guided iodine-125 seed implantation therapy in patients with advanced spinal metastatic tumors.

Onco Targets Ther. 2016;9:7-12

Authors: Zhang L, Lu J, Wang Z, Cheng Y, Teng G, Chen K

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the safety and clinical efficacy of computed tomography (CT)-guided radioactive iodine-125 ((125)I) seed implantation treatment in patients with spinal metastatic tumors.
METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 20 cases of spinal metastatic tumors, including nine men and eleven women aged 50-79 years (mean age: 61.1 years). We used treatment planning system (TPS) to construct three-dimensional images of the spinal metastatic tumors and to determine what number and dose rate distribution to use for the (125)I seeds. The matched peripheral dose of the (125)I seed implantation was 90-130 Gy. Twenty-four spinal metastatic tumors were treated by CT-guided radioactive (125)I seed implantation. A median of 19 (range: 4-43) (125)I seeds were implanted.
RESULTS: Twenty cases were followed for a median of 15.3 months (range: 7-32 months). The rate of pain relief was 95%. The median control time for all of the patients was 12.5 months. The 3-, 6-, and 12-month cumulative local control rates were 100%, 95%, and 60%, respectively. The median survival time for all of the patients was 16 months. The cumulative 6- and 12-month survival rates were 100% and 78.81%, respectively. No major complications were observed. No (125)I seeds were lost or migrated to other tissues or organs.
CONCLUSION: CT-guided radioactive (125)I seed implantation is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive method for the treatment of patients with spinal metastatic tumors. It is a possible alternative therapy for the treatment of spinal metastases.

PMID: 26719712 [PubMed]



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Localization techniques for guided surgical excision of non-palpable breast lesions.

Localization techniques for guided surgical excision of non-palpable breast lesions.

Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015 Dec 31;12:CD009206

Authors: Chan BK, Wiseberg-Firtell JA, Jois RH, Jensen K, Audisio RA

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of death amongst women in Europe. Amongst five invasive cancers per 1000 women detected in screening, 2.7 were < 15 mm in diameter; and others reported that over one third of excised breast lesions were clinically occult. The challenge is to accurately locate small non-palpable lesions intraoperatively for optimal therapeutic outcome. A secondary important goal is to remove the smallest amount possible of healthy glandular tissue for optimal cosmesis. Currently the most widely adopted approach (80% in one survey) in guided breast-conserving surgery for excising non-palpable breast lesions is wire-guided localization (WGL). With the clinical setting shifting towards earlier non-palpable breast lesions being detected through screening, we investigated whether the current standard in assisting surgical excision of these lesions, WGL, yields the best therapeutic outcome for women with breast cancer.
OBJECTIVES: To assess the therapeutic outcomes of any new form of guided surgical intervention for non-palpable breast lesions against wire-guided localization, the current gold standard.
SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Breast Cancer Group's (CBCG) Specialized Register, MEDLINE (via PubMed), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) search portal from the earliest available date up to 30 March 2015. We also handsearched recent conference proceedings and sought information from experts in the field.
SELECTION CRITERIA: Two review authors, BC and RJ, independently screened by title and abstract the studies we had identified through the search strategy; when this was inconclusive, they examined the full-text article for inclusion. We resolved any discrepancies regarding eligibility by discussion with a third review author, RA.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Three review authors, BC, JW, and RJ, independently extracted data using a standardized data sheet. We performed all analyses using Review Manager (RevMan) or the R meta package, and in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We reported results via a graphical assessment using forest plots showing the study estimates. We considered and discussed additional subgroup and sensitivity analyses.
MAIN RESULTS: We identified 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that met the inclusion criteria of this Cochrane review and included eight trials in the meta-analyses. Six RCTs compared radioguided occult lesion localization (ROLL) versus WGL, and two RCTs compared radioactive iodine ((125)I) seed localization (RSL) versus WGL. Of the three remaining trials, one RCT compared cryo-assisted techniques (CAL) versus WGL, one compared intraoperative ultrasound-guided lumpectomy (IOUS) versus WGL, and one compared modified ROLL technique in combination with methylene dye (RCML) versus WGL. Of the trials we included in the meta-analysis, there were a total of 1273 participants with non-palpable breast lesions (627 participants (WGL); 443 participants (ROLL); and 203 participants (RSL)). The participant population varied considerably between included trials, which included participants with both non-palpable benign and malignant lesions, and varied in defining clear margins. The included trials did not report any long-term outcomes.In general, the outcomes of WGL, ROLL and RSL were comparable.ROLL demonstrated favourable results in successful localization (risk ratio (RR) 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.16 to 2.28; 869 participants; six trials), positive excision margins (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.29; 517 participants; five trials), and re-operation rates (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.21 to 1.23; 583 participants; four trials) versus WGL, but none were statistically significant. WGL was significantly superior to RSL in successfully localizing non-palpable lesions (RR 3.85, 95% CI 1.21 to 12.19; 402 participants; two trials). However, for successful excision, ROLL and RSL have comparable outcomes versus WGL (ROLL versus WGL: RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.01; 871 participants; six trials; RSL versus WGL: RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.01; 402 participants; two trials). These findings were similar in that RSL demonstrated favourable results over WGL in positive tumour margins (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.06; 366 participants; two trials), and re-operation rates (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.32; 305 participants; one trial) but neither reached statistical significance. In contrast, WGL had fewer postoperative complications to both ROLL (RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.98; 642 participants; four trials) and RSL (RR 1.51, 95% CI 0.75 to 3.03; 305 participants; one trial), although this was also not statistically significant.The overall quality of evidence was good. The main risk of bias amongst included studies consisted of incomplete data sets, selective reporting, and allocation concealment. Interpretation and applicability of this meta-analysis was hindered by the mixed indication of diagnostic versus therapeutic purposes when undertaking WGL, ROLL, or RSL, leading to a high level of mixed pathology in numerous trials. Other limitations include underpowered studies, lack of data in standardized format for meta-analysis, lack of complete data amongst the trials, and absence of long-term data.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Owing to a lack of trials in certain localization techniques, we could only draw conclusions about ROLL and RSL versus WGL. There is no clear evidence to support one guided technique for surgically excising a non-palpable breast lesion over another. Results from this Cochrane review support the continued use of WGL as a safe and tested technique that allows for flexibility in selected cases when faced with extensive microcalcification. ROLL and RSL could be offered to patients as a comparable replacement for WGL as they are equally reliable. Other techniques such as IOUS, RCML, and CAL are of academic interest, but recommendation for routine use in the clinical environment and oncological outcomes require further validation. The results of this Cochrane review also stress the need for more fully powered RCTs to evaluate the best technique according to the comprehensive criteria described, with a more consistent and standardized approach in outcome reporting.

PMID: 26718728 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Sudden cardiac arrest as a presentation of Brugada syndrome unmasked by thyroid storm.

Sudden cardiac arrest as a presentation of Brugada syndrome unmasked by thyroid storm.

BMJ Case Rep. 2015;2015

Authors: Korte AK, Derde L, van Wijk J, Tjan DH

Abstract
An 18-year-old man suffered a sudden cardiac arrest with ventricular fibrillation and was successfully resuscitated. He had neither a medical nor family history of cardiac disease/sudden death, but was known to have Graves' disease, for which he was treated with radioactive iodine. Recently, block-and-replacement therapy had been discontinued to evaluate thyroid functioning. On admission, thyroid hormone levels were markedly elevated, suggesting thyroid storm due to residual Graves' disease. The patient was treated with propylthiouracil, hydrocortisone and Lugol solution. ECG showed repolarisation patterns suggestive of an underlying type 1 Brugada syndrome (BS). These findings were confirmed by an additional ajmaline test. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator was implanted to prevent future arrhythmias. The patient underwent total thyroidectomy 9 months later and recovered completely. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a sudden cardiac arrest as a presentation of BS unmasked by thyroid storm.

PMID: 26718704 [PubMed - in process]



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Occurrence of Breast Mucinous Carcinoma After Autologous Fat Grating for Breast Augmentation

Abstract

Autologous fat grafting is commonly performed in reconstructive breast surgery as well as in aesthetic breast augmentation surgery. Nevertheless, little is known about the interaction between fat grafts and cancer. A 36-year-old patient had undergone bilateral breast augmentation with autologous fat grafting. Two months after surgery, she perceived two small palpable indurations in the right breast. Nine months after the procedure, the lumps grew bigger and lumpectomy was performed. Histologic examination of the specimens showed mucinous carcinoma of the breast. This case raises once again the question about the possible links between breast cancer and fat grafts. The level of evidence is level V.

No Level assigned

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.

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Effect of submental sensitive transcutaneous electrical stimulation on virtual lesions of the oropharyngeal cortex.

Effect of submental sensitive transcutaneous electrical stimulation on virtual lesions of the oropharyngeal cortex.

Ann Phys Rehabil Med. 2015 Dec 21;

Authors: Cugy E, Leroi AM, Kerouac-Laplante J, Dehail P, Joseph PA, Gerardin E, Marie JP, Verin É

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of submental sensitive transcutaneous electrical stimulation (SSTES) on pharyngeal cortical representation after the creation of an oropharyngeal cortical virtual lesion in healthy subjects.
METHODS: Motor-evoked potential amplitude of the mylohyoid muscles was measured with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the oropharyngeal cortex was mapped by cartography, and videofluoroscopic parameters of swallowing function were measured before and after SSTES (at the end of SSTES [0min] and at 30 and 60min), after the creation of a cortical virtual lesion (repetitive TMS, 1Hz, 20min on the dominant swallowing hemisphere).
RESULTS: Nine subjects completed the study. After 20min of SSTES, motor-evoked potential amplitude increased (P<0.05), as did swallow reaction time after repetitive TMS, as seen on videofluoroscopy, which was reversed after electrical stimulation. On cortical mapping, the number of points with a cortical response increased in the dominant lesioned hemisphere (P<0.05), remaining constant at 60min (P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: SSTES may be effective for producing cortical plasticity for mylohyoid muscles and reverses oropharyngeal cortical inhibition in healthy subjects. It could be a simple non-invasive way to treat post-stroke dysphagia.

PMID: 26717886 [PubMed – as supplied by publisher]

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A Modified Method Combining Z-Epicanthoplasty and Blepharoplasty to Develop Out-Fold Type Double Eyelids

Abstract

Background

The epicanthus can weaken the effect of blepharoplasty, which makes it difficult to form the out-fold type double eyelids preferred by Asian women. The integration of blepharoplasty and Z-epicanthoplasty has become increasingly popular. Although many techniques have been introduced to remove the epicanthus during blepharoplasty, there are still some surgical complications.

Method

This study aimed to evaluate the practicability and effectiveness of combining Z-epicanthoplasty and blepharoplasty. Removing a slice of skin from the upper eyelid to the inner canthus makes the epicanthus crease along the vertical axis of Z-plasty. The up-outward triangular flap points to the lower eyelid margin instead of the inner canthus. By cutting off the fibrous tissue and orbicularis oculi muscle, the tension that causes epicanthus is completely released; therefore, the inner canthus ligament anchor is unnecessary and avoids damage to the inner canthus.

Result

From January 2008 to June 2014, this modified surgical method was carried out on 1108 patients. One hundred and twelve patients were evaluated at a follow-up visit ranging from 6 to 72 months. In 2 cases, the double-eyelid fold developed into an in-fold type, while, in 110 cases, it developed into an out-fold type. The outlines of the upper eyelids were natural and symmetric, and the inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle were fully exposed with no visible scar.

Conclusion

This modified method is simple in design and practice. The inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle can be fully exposed, giving a natural, smooth, Westernized, appealing look. This technique is suitable for all types of epicanthus in Asian women.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.

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A Modified Method Combining Z-Epicanthoplasty and Blepharoplasty to Develop Out-Fold Type Double Eyelids

Abstract

Background

The epicanthus can weaken the effect of blepharoplasty, which makes it difficult to form the out-fold type double eyelids preferred by Asian women. The integration of blepharoplasty and Z-epicanthoplasty has become increasingly popular. Although many techniques have been introduced to remove the epicanthus during blepharoplasty, there are still some surgical complications.

Method

This study aimed to evaluate the practicability and effectiveness of combining Z-epicanthoplasty and blepharoplasty. Removing a slice of skin from the upper eyelid to the inner canthus makes the epicanthus crease along the vertical axis of Z-plasty. The up-outward triangular flap points to the lower eyelid margin instead of the inner canthus. By cutting off the fibrous tissue and orbicularis oculi muscle, the tension that causes epicanthus is completely released; therefore, the inner canthus ligament anchor is unnecessary and avoids damage to the inner canthus.

Result

From January 2008 to June 2014, this modified surgical method was carried out on 1108 patients. One hundred and twelve patients were evaluated at a follow-up visit ranging from 6 to 72 months. In 2 cases, the double-eyelid fold developed into an in-fold type, while, in 110 cases, it developed into an out-fold type. The outlines of the upper eyelids were natural and symmetric, and the inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle were fully exposed with no visible scar.

Conclusion

This modified method is simple in design and practice. The inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle can be fully exposed, giving a natural, smooth, Westernized, appealing look. This technique is suitable for all types of epicanthus in Asian women.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.



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Sub-chronic administration of methanolic whole fruit extract of lagenaria breviflora (Benth.) roberty induces mild toxicity in rats

Olubukola Sinbad Olorunnisola, Anthony Jide Afolayan, Adewale Adetutu

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):516-521

Background: The effect of the methanolic whole fruit extract from Lagenaria breviflora on vital organs and antioxidant enzymes was investigated in this study. Materials and Methods: L. breviflora (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/b.w.t./day/rat) was fed orally with the cannula to male albino rats for 28 days. At the end of the treatment, the rats were sacrificed and the effect of the extract on histology of the liver, heart, lipid peroxidation, tissue and serum antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase) activities, glutathione, myocardial marker enzymes (creatine kinase [CK], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], alanine transaminase [ALT], and aspartate transaminase [AST]) in serum, and heart homogenate were assessed. Results: The extract demonstrated mild organ doses dependent (500 and 1000 mg/kg) pathological alterations in the architectural section of the liver and heart. At 250 mg/kg/b.w.t., the extract caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the level of thiobarbituric reacting acids substance and antioxidant enzyme activities, but causes (P < 0.05) decrease in serum and tissue antioxidant capacity at 500 and 1000 mg/kg/b.w.t., respectively. Also on these two doses, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in serum activity of CK, LDH, ALT, and AST and concomitantly decrease (P < 0.05) in heart homogenate were also observed. Conclusion: The results suggested that the Fruit of L. breviflora may contain phytotoxic Substances(s) which may be hepatotoxic, cardiotoxic or able to induce oxidative stress at high concentration. Hence, the consumption of the plant should be taken with caution.

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Chemometrics-based approach in analysis of Arnicae flos

Dimitrina Zh Zheleva-Dimitrova, Vessela Balabanova, Reneta Gevrenova, Irini Doichinova, Antonina Vitkova

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):538-544

Introduction: Arnica montana flowers have a long history as herbal medicines for external use on injuries and rheumatic complaints. Objective: To investigate Arnicae flos of cultivated accessions from Bulgaria, Poland, Germany, Finland, and Pharmacy store for phenolic derivatives and sesquiterpene lactones (STLs). Materials and Methods: Samples of Arnica from nine origins were prepared by ultrasound-assisted extraction with 80% methanol for phenolic compounds analysis. Subsequent reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation of the analytes was performed using gradient elution and ultraviolet detection at 280 and 310 nm (phenolic acids), and 360 nm (flavonoids). Total STLs were determined in chloroform extracts by solid-phase extraction-HPLC at 225 nm. The HPLC generated chromatographic data were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering (HC). Results: The highest total amount of phenolic acids was found in the sample from Botanical Garden at Joensuu University, Finland (2.36 mg/g dw). Astragalin, isoquercitrin, and isorhamnetin 3-glucoside were the main flavonol glycosides being present up to 3.37 mg/g (astragalin). Three well-defined clusters were distinguished by PCA and HC. Cluster C1 comprised of the German and Finnish accessions characterized by the highest content of flavonols. Cluster C2 included the Bulgarian and Polish samples presenting a low content of flavonoids. Cluster C3 consisted only of one sample from a pharmacy store. Conclusion: A validated HPLC method for simultaneous determination of phenolic acids, flavonoid glycosides, and aglycones in A. montana flowers was developed. The PCA loading plot showed that quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin can be used to distinguish different Arnica accessions.

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Occurrence of Breast Mucinous Carcinoma After Autologous Fat Grating for Breast Augmentation

Abstract

Autologous fat grafting is commonly performed in reconstructive breast surgery as well as in aesthetic breast augmentation surgery. Nevertheless, little is known about the interaction between fat grafts and cancer. A 36-year-old patient had undergone bilateral breast augmentation with autologous fat grafting. Two months after surgery, she perceived two small palpable indurations in the right breast. Nine months after the procedure, the lumps grew bigger and lumpectomy was performed. Histologic examination of the specimens showed mucinous carcinoma of the breast. This case raises once again the question about the possible links between breast cancer and fat grafts. The level of evidence is level V.

No Level assigned

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.



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A Modified Method Combining Z-Epicanthoplasty and Blepharoplasty to Develop Out-Fold Type Double Eyelids

Abstract

Background

The epicanthus can weaken the effect of blepharoplasty, which makes it difficult to form the out-fold type double eyelids preferred by Asian women. The integration of blepharoplasty and Z-epicanthoplasty has become increasingly popular. Although many techniques have been introduced to remove the epicanthus during blepharoplasty, there are still some surgical complications.

Method

This study aimed to evaluate the practicability and effectiveness of combining Z-epicanthoplasty and blepharoplasty. Removing a slice of skin from the upper eyelid to the inner canthus makes the epicanthus crease along the vertical axis of Z-plasty. The up-outward triangular flap points to the lower eyelid margin instead of the inner canthus. By cutting off the fibrous tissue and orbicularis oculi muscle, the tension that causes epicanthus is completely released; therefore, the inner canthus ligament anchor is unnecessary and avoids damage to the inner canthus.

Result

From January 2008 to June 2014, this modified surgical method was carried out on 1108 patients. One hundred and twelve patients were evaluated at a follow-up visit ranging from 6 to 72 months. In 2 cases, the double-eyelid fold developed into an in-fold type, while, in 110 cases, it developed into an out-fold type. The outlines of the upper eyelids were natural and symmetric, and the inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle were fully exposed with no visible scar.

Conclusion

This modified method is simple in design and practice. The inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle can be fully exposed, giving a natural, smooth, Westernized, appealing look. This technique is suitable for all types of epicanthus in Asian women.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://ift.tt/18t7xNj.



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Sub-chronic administration of methanolic whole fruit extract of lagenaria breviflora (Benth.) roberty induces mild toxicity in rats

Olubukola Sinbad Olorunnisola, Anthony Jide Afolayan, Adewale Adetutu

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):516-521

Background: The effect of the methanolic whole fruit extract from Lagenaria breviflora on vital organs and antioxidant enzymes was investigated in this study. Materials and Methods: L. breviflora (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/b.w.t./day/rat) was fed orally with the cannula to male albino rats for 28 days. At the end of the treatment, the rats were sacrificed and the effect of the extract on histology of the liver, heart, lipid peroxidation, tissue and serum antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase) activities, glutathione, myocardial marker enzymes (creatine kinase [CK], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], alanine transaminase [ALT], and aspartate transaminase [AST]) in serum, and heart homogenate were assessed. Results: The extract demonstrated mild organ doses dependent (500 and 1000 mg/kg) pathological alterations in the architectural section of the liver and heart. At 250 mg/kg/b.w.t., the extract caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the level of thiobarbituric reacting acids substance and antioxidant enzyme activities, but causes (P < 0.05) decrease in serum and tissue antioxidant capacity at 500 and 1000 mg/kg/b.w.t., respectively. Also on these two doses, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in serum activity of CK, LDH, ALT, and AST and concomitantly decrease (P < 0.05) in heart homogenate were also observed. Conclusion: The results suggested that the Fruit of L. breviflora may contain phytotoxic Substances(s) which may be hepatotoxic, cardiotoxic or able to induce oxidative stress at high concentration. Hence, the consumption of the plant should be taken with caution.

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Chemometrics-based approach in analysis of Arnicae flos

Dimitrina Zh Zheleva-Dimitrova, Vessela Balabanova, Reneta Gevrenova, Irini Doichinova, Antonina Vitkova

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):538-544

Introduction: Arnica montana flowers have a long history as herbal medicines for external use on injuries and rheumatic complaints. Objective: To investigate Arnicae flos of cultivated accessions from Bulgaria, Poland, Germany, Finland, and Pharmacy store for phenolic derivatives and sesquiterpene lactones (STLs). Materials and Methods: Samples of Arnica from nine origins were prepared by ultrasound-assisted extraction with 80% methanol for phenolic compounds analysis. Subsequent reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation of the analytes was performed using gradient elution and ultraviolet detection at 280 and 310 nm (phenolic acids), and 360 nm (flavonoids). Total STLs were determined in chloroform extracts by solid-phase extraction-HPLC at 225 nm. The HPLC generated chromatographic data were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering (HC). Results: The highest total amount of phenolic acids was found in the sample from Botanical Garden at Joensuu University, Finland (2.36 mg/g dw). Astragalin, isoquercitrin, and isorhamnetin 3-glucoside were the main flavonol glycosides being present up to 3.37 mg/g (astragalin). Three well-defined clusters were distinguished by PCA and HC. Cluster C1 comprised of the German and Finnish accessions characterized by the highest content of flavonols. Cluster C2 included the Bulgarian and Polish samples presenting a low content of flavonoids. Cluster C3 consisted only of one sample from a pharmacy store. Conclusion: A validated HPLC method for simultaneous determination of phenolic acids, flavonoid glycosides, and aglycones in A. montana flowers was developed. The PCA loading plot showed that quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin can be used to distinguish different Arnica accessions.

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Anticancer activity of chloroform extract and sub-fractions of nepeta deflersiana on human breast and lung cancer cells: an in vitro cytotoxicity assessment

Mai M Al-Oqail, Ebtesam S Al-Sheddi, Maqsood A Siddiqui, Javed Musarrat, Abdulaziz A Al-Khedhairy, Nida N Farshori

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):598-605

Background: Cancer is one of the major causes of death worldwide. The plant-derived natural products have received considerable attention in recent years due to their diverse pharmacological properties including anticancer effects. Nepeta deflersiana (ND) is used in the folk medicine as antiseptic, carminative, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and for treating rheumatic disorders. However, the anticancer activity of ND chloroform extract has not been explored so far. Objectives: The present study was aimed to investigate the anticancer activities of chloroform Nepeta deflersiana extract and various sub-fractions (ND-1-ND-15) of ND against human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and human lung cancer cells (A-549). Materials and Methods: The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and neutral red uptake assays, and cellular morphological alterations using phase contrast light microscope were studied. Cells were exposed with 10-1000 mg/ml of sub-fractions of ND for 24 h. Results: Results showed that selected sub-fractions of the chloroform extract significantly reduced the cell viability of MCF-7 and A-549 cells, and altered the cellular morphology in a concentration-dependent manner. Among the sub-fractions, ND-10 fraction showed relatively higher cytotoxicity compared to other fractions whereas, ND-1 did not cause any cytotoxicity even at higher concentrations. The A-549 cells were found to be more sensitive to growth inhibition by all the extracts as compared to the MCF-7 cells. Conclusion: The present study provides preliminary screening of anticancer activities of chloroform extract and sub-fractions of ND, which can be further used for the development of a potential therapeutic anticancer agent.

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In vitro cytotoxic activities and molecular mechanisms of angelica shikokiana extract and its isolated compounds

Amira Mira, Kuniyoshi Shimizu

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):564-569

Background: Angelica shikokiana is a Japanese medicinal herb that is included among food and drug preparations protecting against cancer; however, there is no previous report about the cytotoxicity of A. shikokiana or its bioactive compounds. Objective: This study was designed to investigate the cytotoxic activities of A. shikokiana methanol extract (AME) and its isolated compounds and to identify the molecular mechanisms of the cytotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxicity and selectivity was investigated by measuring the IC 50 values on five cancer cell lines; human hepatocellular carcinoma, rhabdomyosarcoma (RD), colorectal carcinoma, human epithelioma and human breast adenocarcinoma and one normal cell line; human lung fibroblasts. The effects on tubulin polymerization and histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8), were examined to determine the mechanism of cytotoxicity. Docking study was designed to examine the binding affinity to the target molecules. Results: Methanol extract and some of its isolated coumarins and flavonoids showed potent, selective cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. AME and all isolated compounds inhibited tubulin polymerization. Angelicin and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside were the most active compounds. Phenolic compounds and furanocoumarins showed binding affinity to colchicine binding site rather than the vinblastine binding site of tubulin microtubules. On the other side, quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, chlorogenic acid, and methyl chlorogenate exhibited the strongest activity against HDAC8 and the highest affinity to trichostatin A binding site. Conclusion: These findings provide the first scientific evidence of the cytotoxicity of AME through inhibition of tubulin polymerization and HDAC8 activity through its coumarin and flavonoid content.

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Phytochemical analysis on quantification and the inhibitory effects on inflammatory responses from the fruit of xanthii fructus

Sae-Rom Yoo, Chang-Seob Seo, Na-Ri Lee, Hyeun-Kyoo Shin, Soo-Jin Jeong

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):585-591

Objective: Xanthii fructus (Compositae) is a traditional herbal medicine used for treating headache, toothache, pruritus, empyema, and rhinitis. In this study of the quality control of X. fructus, we performed simultaneous analysis of nine marker compounds: Protocatechuic acid (1), chlorogenic acid (2), caffeic acid (3), 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (4), ferulic acid (5), 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (6), 1,3-dicaffeoylquinic acid (7), 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid (8), and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (9). Materials and Methods: Nine components were separated using reversed-phase SunFire™ C 18 analytical column and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. We examined the biological effects of the nine marker compounds by determining their anti-inflammatory activities in the murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. Results: Among the nine marker compounds, eight significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) production. 1, 3, 5 had significant inhibitory effects on LPS-induced prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) production in RAW 264.7 cells. None of the tested marker compounds had a significant effect on interleukin-6 production in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Our data demonstrated that each marker compound from X. fructus exerts anti-inflammatory activity by targeting different inflammation-related pathways such as the TNF-a or PGE 2 pathway. Conclusion: Further experiments using in vitro and in vivo models are needed to identify the mechanisms responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties of each marker compound.

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Alpha-amylase inhibition and antioxidant activity of marine green algae and its possible role in diabetes management

PS Unnikrishnan, K Suthindhiran, MA Jayasri

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):511-515

Aim: In the continuing search for safe and efficient antidiabetic drug, marine algae become important source which provide several compounds of immense therapeutic potential. Alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, and antioxidant compounds are known to manage diabetes and have received much attention recently. In the present study, four green algae (Chaetomorpha aerea, Enteromorpha intestinalis, Chlorodesmis, and Cladophora rupestris) were chosen to evaluate alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase inhibitory, and antioxidant activity in vitro. Materials and Methods: The phytochemical constituents of all the extracts were qualitatively determined. Antidiabetic activity was evaluated by inhibitory potential of extracts against alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase by spectrophotometric assays. Antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), and nitric oxide scavenging assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was carried out to determine the major compound responsible for its antidiabetic action. Results: Among the various extracts screened, chloroform extract of C. aerea (IC 50 − 408.9 mg/ml) and methanol extract of Chlorodesmis (IC 50 − 147.6 mg/ml) showed effective inhibition against alpha-amylase. The extracts were also evaluated for alpha-glucosidase inhibition, and no observed activity was found. Methanol extract of C. rupestris showed notable free radical scavenging activity (IC 50 – 666.3 mg/ml), followed by H 2 O 2 (34%) and nitric oxide (49%). Further, chemical profiling by GC-MS revealed the presence of major bioactive compounds. Phenol, 2,4-bis (1,1-dimethylethyl) and z, z-6,28-heptatriactontadien-2-one were predominantly found in the methanol extract of C. rupestris and chloroform extract of C. aerea. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that the selected algae exhibit notable alpha-amylase inhibition and antioxidant activity. Therefore, characterization of active compounds and its in vivo assays will be noteworthy.

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Preliminary study on liver function changes after trisectionectomy with versus without prior portal vein embolization

Abstract

Purpose

Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is the major risk factor for mortality after hepatectomy. Preoperative planning of the future liver remnant volume reduces PHLF rates; however, future liver remnant function (FLR-F) might have an even stronger predictive value. In this preliminary study, we used a new method to calculate FLR-F by the LiMAx test and computer tomography-assisted volumetric-analysis to visualize liver function changes after portal vein embolization (PVE) before extended hepatectomy.

Methods

The subjects included patients undergoing extended right hepatectomy either directly (NO-PVE group) or after PVE (PVE group). Computed tomography (CT) scan and liver function tests (LiMAx) were done before PVE and preoperatively. FLR-F was calculated and correlated with the postoperative liver function.

Results

There were 12 patients in the NO-PVE group and 19 patients in the PVE group. FLR-F and postoperative liver function correlated significantly in both groups (p = 0.036, p = 0.011), although postoperative liver function was slightly overestimated, at 32 and 45 µg/kg/min, in the NO-PVE and PVE groups, respectively. LiMAx value did not change after PVE.

Conclusions

Volume–function analysis using LiMAx and CT scan enables us to reliably predict early postoperative liver function. Global enzymatic liver function measured by the LiMAx test did not change after PVE, confirming that liver function distribution in the liver stays constant after PVE. An overestimation of FLR-F is needed to compensate for the intraoperative liver injury that occurs in patients undergoing extended hepatectomy.

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Cucumis melo ssp. Agrestis var. Agrestis Ameliorates High Fat Diet Induced Dyslipidemia in Syrian Golden Hamsters and Inhibits Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Kripa Shankar, Sumit K Singh, Durgesh Kumar, Salil Varshney, Abhishek Gupta, Sujith Rajan, Ankita Srivastava, Muheeb Beg, Anurag Kumar Srivastava, Sanjeev Kanojiya, Dipak K Mishra, Anil N Gaikwad

Pharmacognosy Magazine 2015 11(44):501-510

Background: Cucumis melo ssp. agrestis var. agrestis (CMA) is a wild variety of C. melo. This study aimed to explore anti-dyslipidemic and anti-adipogenic potential of CMA. Materials and Methods: For initial anti-dyslipidemic and antihyperglycemic potential of CMA fruit extract (CMFE), male Syrian golden hamsters were fed a chow or high-fat diet with or without CMFE (100 mg/kg). Further, we did fractionation of this CMFE into two fractions namely; CMA water fraction (CMWF) and CMA hexane fraction (CMHF). Phytochemical screening was done with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry LC- (MS)/MS and direct analysis in real time-MS to detect active compounds in the fractions. Further, high-fat diet fed dyslipidemic hamsters were treated with CMWF and CMHF at 50 mg/kg for 7 days. Results: Oral administration of CMFE and both fractions (CMWF and CMHF) reduced the total cholesterol, triglycerides, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low‐density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in high fat diet-fed dyslipidemic hamsters. CMHF also modulated expression of genes involved in lipogenesis, lipid metabolism, and reverse cholesterol transport. Standard biochemical diagnostic tests suggested that neither of fractions causes any toxicity to hamster liver or kidneys. CMFE and CMHF also decreased oil-red-O accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Conclusion: Based on these results, it is concluded that CMA possesses anti-dyslipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic activity along with the anti-adipogenic activity.

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Efficacy of cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials in evaluation of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo of posterior semicircular canal.

Efficacy of cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials in evaluation of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo of posterior semicircular canal.

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2015 Dec 30;

Authors: Singh NK, Apeksha K

Abstract
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) constitutes a major proportion of the population with peripheral vestibulopathies. Although the freely floating otoconia within the semicircular canals is responsible for the symptoms of BPPV, the source of the otoconia debris is mainly believed to be the otolith organs. Therefore, the pathology in either or both the otolith organs appears a logical proposition. Cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMP and oVEMP), being the tests for functional integrity of the otolith organs, appear promising for investigating otolith involvement in BPPV. While recent evidences are suggestive of equivocal findings for cVEMP, there are only a few studies on oVEMP. Additionally, both these potentials have never been explored in the same set of individuals with BPPV. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the functional integrity of the otolith organs through cVEMP and oVEMP in individuals with posterior canal BPPV. Thirty-one individuals with unilateral posterior canal BPPV and 31 age- and gender-matched healthy controls underwent 500 Hz tone-burst-evoked cVEMP and oVEMP. The results demonstrated no significant group difference on any of the cVEMP parameters (p > 0.05). A similar trend was noticed for the latency-related parameters of oVEMP. However, the peak-to-peak amplitude was significantly smaller in the affected ears of individuals with BPPV than their unaffected ears and the ears of healthy controls (p < 0.05). The BPPV group showed significantly higher inter-aural amplitude difference ratio than the healthy controls (p < 0.05). Further, the sensitivity and specificity of oVEMP were also found to be far superior to those of cVEMP. Thus, the outcome of the present study revealed involvement of utricle rather than saccule in posterior canal BPPV, and therefore, oVEMP appears to be better suited to clinical investigation than cVEMP in individuals with posterior canal BPPV.

PMID: 26718546 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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GSE47880 Array-based determination of DNA methylation in children born small for gestational age

Contributors : Ole Ammerpohl ; Julia Kolarova
Series Type : Methylation profiling by array
Organism : Homo sapiens

Genome wide DNA methylation profiling of peripheral blood samples obtained from normal controls and children born SGA. Illumina's HumanMethylation450 BeadChip was used to obtain DNA methylation profiles across approximately 450.000 CpGs.

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GSE36205 Identification of Magnaporthe oryzae elicited small RNAs and expression profiles in resistant and susceptible rice cultivars

Contributor : Zhang Jingxin
Series Type : Non-coding RNA profiling by high throughput sequencing
Organism : Oryza sativa Indica Group

To identify blast pathogen elicited miRNAs, four sRNA libraries were constructed: 8749036, A library, susceptible rice cultivar Zhonger-Ruanzhan; 12157795, B library, mock-treated blast resistant line H4; 9937360, C library, blast-treated susceptible rice cultivar Zhonger-Ruanzhan; and 11138187 clean reads, D library, blast-treated blast resistant line H4. The Short Oligonucleotide Analysis Package (SOAP; Beijing Genomics Institute) matched 85.46% (A, 7476714), 79.35% (B, 9647324), 77.70% (C, 7721715) and 76.10% (D, 8476386) sRNA reads to the genome. After removing other RNA categories matched to NCBI Genbank, Rfam database, known rice miRNA precursor, repeat associated RNA and siRNA, the remaining reads: 1681359(A); 3829741(B); 3182403(C); and 3970132(D), were used for further novel miRNA prediction. Since some miRNAs were tissue-specific, time-specific or stress-induced, only 291, 210, 164 and 220 registered miRNAs were identified in libraries A, B, C and D respectively. Thirty-one (A, 9385 reads), 399(B, 41024 read), 351(C, 36622 reads) and 333(D, 38064 reads) unique sRNAs were projected to be candidate miRNAs.

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GSE20217 Transcriptional analysis of quorum sensing null strain in Yersinia pestis CO92 at 30°C

Contributors : Minion Chris ; Yu Jing
Series Type : Expression profiling by array
Organism : Yersinia pestis

Yersinia pestis is the etiology of plague that is able to sense cell density by quorum sensing. The function of quorum sensing in Y.pestis is not clear. Here, the process of quorum sensing was investigated by comparing transcript profiles when three quorum sensing synthase genes are knocked out. Two strains, ∆pgm (pigmentation-negative) mutant R88 as treatment and 3XQS mutant with mutation (∆pgm, ∆ypeIR, ∆yspIR, and ∆luxS) R115 as control are used in this analysis.

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GSE44593 Molecular Evidence for a Dimensional Basis of Depression

Contributor : Etienne Sibille
Series Type : Expression profiling by array
Organism : Homo sapiens

Here we identified a set of genes with frequent expression changes in the postmortem brain of MDD subjectsand show that this gene set is genetically related to brain and organ illnesses frequently associated with MDD. Specifically, we performed a meta-analysis of eight gene array studies in three corticolimbic brain regions and identified ~450 genes frequentlyderegulated in MDD (n=103 subjects, 50.5%MDD). These "MetaA-MDD" genes includepreviously-implicated neuroplasticity- and stress-related genes (CRH, BDNF, VGF), encompass multiple synaptic and signaling pathways, and suggests complex changes in cell structure and function. MetaA-MDD genes display low connectivity andhubnessin coexpression networks andare evenly distributed throughout the genome. However, MetaA-MDD genesare significantly over-represented in gene sets identified by the genome-wide association studies for brain disorders and organ diseases sharing clinical co-morbidity with MDD (e.g., cardiovascular, metabolic syndrome), but not for other diseases or body functions. Together, this study describes a robustmolecular characterization of altered brain function in MDD, and provides evidence for a shared genetic structure linking MDD andrelated illnesses, together biologically defining abroader dimensional definition ofa depressive-like syndrome.

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GSE30329 Global gene expression analysis of Yersinia pestis Ysp AHL quorum sensing at 30°C

Contributors : Chris Minion ; Jing Yu
Series Type : Expression profiling by array
Organism : Yersinia pestis ; Yersinia pestis CO92

Quorum sensing is a cell to cell communication process that involves chemical signaling. Yersinia pestis, the agent of plague, has two functional AHL quorum sensing systems Ysp and Ype. For several reasons, it was not clear what effect AHL pathways have on virulence gene expression and survival in the two different hosts, flea and human. To investigate to what effect Ysp AHL quorum sensing has on gene expression, we conducted microarray studies comparing Yersinia pestis CO92 (∆pgm) to a single AHL mutant strain (∆pgm ΔyspI) at 30°C.

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GSE66264 Myelodysplastic syndrome: NUP98-HoxD13 (NHD13) expression effect on hematopoietic stem cells

Contributors : Andrew A Guirguis ; David R Powell ; David J Curtis
Series Type : Expression profiling by high throughput sequencing
Organism : Mus musculus

Analysis of Lin-c-Kit+Sca-1- haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) expressing the Nup98-HoxD13 (NHD13) fusion gene. NHD13 induces myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) in mice. Results provide insight into the molecular basis of the myelodysplastic phenotype

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GSE47356 A Patient-derived In Vitro – In Vivo Preclinical Model of Renal Cell Carcinoma

Contributors : Matthias Saar ; Hongjuan Zhao ; Alan E Thong ; Alexandre Ingels ; Maija P Valta ; Sarah R Young ; Rosalie Nolley ; Jennifer Santos ; Donna M Peehl
Series Type : Expression profiling by array
Organism : Homo sapiens

Purpose: Authentic preclinical models of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are lacking. We aimed to establish and characterize primary RCC cultures and demonstrate the feasibility of evaluating drug responses in vitro and in vivo.
Materials and Methods: Previously published methodology, with minor modifications, was used to establish, cryopreserve, and serially passage RCC cells from nephrectomy and tumorgraft specimens. Cells were characterized for immuno- and molecular phenotype by immunochemistry, DNA sequencing and gene expression profiling. Tumorigenic potential was evaluated by implanting cells under the renal capsule of immunocompromised mice. The ability to monitor xenograft growth by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was investigated. Responses to a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) and an mTOR inhibitor were measured.
Results: Primary cultures were successfully established from 11 clear cell and 1 chromophobe RCC, cryopreserved and serially passaged. Retention of immuno- and molecular phenotypes was demonstrated. Cultured cells formed xenografts in mice that could be measured by MRI. Patient-specific responses to drugs were observed in vitro and response to an TKI was confirmed in vivo.
Conclusions: Our study is the first to show the derivation of primary cultures from RCC tumorgrafts, and to demonstrate the ability of primary RCC cultures to generate xenografts in mice. Our results suggest the feasibility of establishing large, well-annotated banks of RCC primary cultures for high-throughput drug screening in vitro and validation in vivo, providing a versatile platform together with xenografts and patient-derived precision-cut tissue slice tumorgrafts we developed previously for precilinical studies of RCC.

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GSE43263 Sleeping Beauty Expression data from mouse

Contributor : Jean-Paul Thiery
Series Type : Expression profiling by array
Organism : Mus musculus

We extracted RNA of 39 mouse tissue of various genotypes and performed expression microarrays. Subsequently a screen was conducted using the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon to identify breast cancer candidate genes.

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GSE30341 Transcriptional analysis of ypeIR mutation in Yersinia pestis at 37°C

Contributors : Chris Minion ; Jing Yu
Series Type : Expression profiling by array
Organism : Yersinia pestis

The etiologic agent of bubonic plague, Yersinia pestis, senses cell density-dependent chemical signals to synchronize transcription between cells of the population in a process named quorum sensing. Though the closely related enteric pathogen Y. pseudotuberculosis uses quorum sensing system to regulate motility, the role of YpeIR quorum sensing in Y. pestis has been unclear. YpeIR is one of the AHL quorum sensing system in Y. pestis. In this study we performed transcriptional profiling experiments to identify Y. pestis YpeIR quorum sensing regulated functions at 37°C.

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Rapidly Growing Lateral Neck Mass.

Rapidly Growing Lateral Neck Mass.

JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2015 Dec 17;:1-3

Authors: Pitts KD, Spruill L, Day TA

PMID: 26720325 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Long-term Results of Endoscopically Assisted Pediatric Cholesteatoma Surgery

Objective

Routine endoscopic examination during primary surgery decreased the rate of residual cholesteatoma to 18% in our early experience. Based on this, we stopped performing routine second-look surgery in children who were endoscopically free of cholesteatoma at the end of primary surgery. We sought to investigate if second-look procedures after endoscopic-assisted surgery could safely be performed only in children at a high risk of residual disease (extensive inflammation, spontaneously ruptured or fragmented cholesteatoma, residual disease intentionally left).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary pediatric otolaryngology practice.

Subjects and Methods

Children aged 1 to 16 years who were treated for cholesteatoma over 15-year period by a single surgeon. Extent of disease and endoscopic findings were compared with rates of residual disease. Time to diagnosis of residual disease and prognostic factors were analyzed.

Results

Forty-two children underwent endoscopically assisted middle ear surgery for cholesteatoma. Of 42 children, 7 (17%) had additional disease found by endoscopy that was missed by microscopy alone. Twelve children at high risk had second looks; 5 (42%) had residual disease. Of 30 children, 2 (7%) presented with macroscopically evident residual cholesteatoma after no planned second look on office follow-up and subsequently underwent reoperation and were cured.

Conclusions

Selective second-look surgery in high-risk children did not adversely affect outcome as compared with the low-risk group. Cholesteatoma was identified endoscopically in 7 of 42 (17%) children thought to be microscopically free of disease at initial surgery. The endoscope may aid in visualization of difficult middle ear recesses when used to complement microscopy. Further investigation with multicenter data is needed.

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Oral l -thyroxine liquid versus tablet in patients with hypothyroidism without malabsorption: a prospective study

Abstract

No consistent data are present in literature about the effectiveness of levothyroxine (l-T4) liquid formulation in patients without malabsorption. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of l-T4 liquid formulation, with l-T4 tablets, in hypothyroid patients without malabsorption or drug interference. One hundred and fifty two patients were recruited. Patients were switched from the l-T4 therapy in tablets, to liquid l-T4 at the same dosage, 30 min before breakfast. Serum thyrotropic hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were re-evaluated after 1–3 months (first control) and 5–7 months (second control) from the switch. TSH values significantly declined with respect to the basal value after the switch to liquid l-T4 both at the first control (P < 0.05) and at the second control (P < 0.01); FT4 and FT3 levels were not significantly changed. We show that liquid l-T4 is more effective than l-T4 tablet in controlling TSH levels in hypothyroid patients without malabsorption, gastric disorders, or drug interference.

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Simultaneous Assessment of Speech Identification and Spatial Discrimination: A Potential Testing Approach for Bilateral Cochlear Implant Users?

With increasing numbers of children and adults receiving bilateral cochlear implants, there is an urgent need for assessment tools that enable testing of binaural hearing abilities. Current test batteries are either limited in scope or are of an impractical duration for routine testing. Here, we report a behavioral test that enables combined testing of speech identification and spatial discrimination in noise. In this task, multitalker babble was presented from all speakers, and pairs of speech tokens were sequentially presented from two adjacent speakers. Listeners were required to identify both words from a closed set of four possibilities and to determine whether the second token was presented to the left or right of the first. In Experiment 1, normal-hearing adult listeners were tested at 15° intervals throughout the frontal hemifield. Listeners showed highest spatial discrimination performance in and around the frontal midline, with a decline at more eccentric locations. In contrast, speech identification abilities were least accurate near the midline and showed an improvement in performance at more lateral locations. In Experiment 2, normal-hearing listeners were assessed using a restricted range of speaker locations designed to match those found in clinical testing environments. Here, speakers were separated by 15° around the midline and 30° at more lateral locations. This resulted in a similar pattern of behavioral results as in Experiment 1. We conclude, this test offers the potential to assess both spatial discrimination and the ability to use spatial information for unmasking in clinical populations.

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Advancing Binaural Cochlear Implant Technology

This special issue contains a collection of 13 papers highlighting the collaborative research and engineering project entitled Advancing Binaural Cochlear Implant Technology—ABCIT—as well as research spin-offs from the project. In this introductory editorial, a brief history of the project is provided, alongside an overview of the studies.

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Reducing Current Spread by Use of a Novel Pulse Shape for Electrical Stimulation of the Auditory Nerve

Improving the electrode-neuron interface to reduce current spread between individual electrodes has been identified as one of the main objectives in the search for future improvements in cochlear-implant performance. Here, we address this problem by presenting a novel stimulation strategy that takes account of the biophysical properties of the auditory neurons (spiral ganglion neurons, SGNs) stimulated in electrical hearing. This new strategy employs a ramped pulse shape, where the maximum amplitude is achieved through a linear slope in the injected current. We present the theoretical framework that supports this new strategy and that suggests it will improve the modulation of SGNs' activity by exploiting their sensitivity to the rising slope of current pulses. The theoretical consequence of this sensitivity to the slope is a reduction in the spread of excitation within the cochlea and, consequently, an increase in the neural dynamic range. To explore the impact of the novel stimulation method on neural activity, we performed in vitro recordings of SGNs in culture. We show that the stimulus efficacy required to evoke action potentials in SGNs falls as the stimulus slope decreases. This work lays the foundation for a novel, and more biomimetic, stimulation strategy with considerable potential for implementation in cochlear-implant technology.

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Sparse Nonnegative Matrix Factorization Strategy for Cochlear Implants

Current cochlear implant (CI) strategies carry speech information via the waveform envelope in frequency subbands. CIs require efficient speech processing to maximize information transfer to the brain, especially in background noise, where the speech envelope is not robust to noise interference. In such conditions, the envelope, after decomposition into frequency bands, may be enhanced by sparse transformations, such as nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF). Here, a novel CI processing algorithm is described, which works by applying NMF to the envelope matrix (envelopogram) of 22 frequency channels in order to improve performance in noisy environments. It is evaluated for speech in eight-talker babble noise. The critical sparsity constraint parameter was first tuned using objective measures and then evaluated with subjective speech perception experiments for both normal hearing and CI subjects. Results from vocoder simulations with 10 normal hearing subjects showed that the algorithm significantly enhances speech intelligibility with the selected sparsity constraints. Results from eight CI subjects showed no significant overall improvement compared with the standard advanced combination encoder algorithm, but a trend toward improvement of word identification of about 10 percentage points at +15 dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was observed in the eight CI subjects. Additionally, a considerable reduction of the spread of speech perception performance from 40% to 93% for advanced combination encoder to 80% to 100% for the suggested NMF coding strategy was observed.

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A Binaural Steering Beamformer System for Enhancing a Moving Speech Source

In many daily life communication situations, several sound sources are simultaneously active. While normal-hearing listeners can easily distinguish the target sound source from interfering sound sources—as long as target and interferers are spatially or spectrally separated—and concentrate on the target, hearing-impaired listeners and cochlear implant users have difficulties in making such a distinction. In this article, we propose a binaural approach composed of a spatial filter controlled by a direction-of-arrival estimator to track and enhance a moving target sound. This approach was implemented on a real-time signal processing platform enabling experiments with test subjects in situ. To evaluate the proposed method, a data set of sound signals with a single moving sound source in an anechoic diffuse noise environment was generated using virtual acoustics. The proposed steering method was compared with a fixed (nonsteering) method that enhances sound from the frontal direction in an objective evaluation and subjective experiments using this database. In both cases, the obtained results indicated a significant improvement in speech intelligibility and quality compared with the unprocessed signal. Furthermore, the proposed method outperformed the nonsteering method.

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Sensitivity to Envelope Interaural Time Differences at High Modulation Rates

Sensitivity to interaural time differences (ITDs) conveyed in the temporal fine structure of low-frequency tones and the modulated envelopes of high-frequency sounds are considered comparable, particularly for envelopes shaped to transmit similar fidelity of temporal information normally present for low-frequency sounds. Nevertheless, discrimination performance for envelope modulation rates above a few hundred Hertz is reported to be poor—to the point of discrimination thresholds being unattainable—compared with the much higher (>1,000 Hz) limit for low-frequency ITD sensitivity, suggesting the presence of a low-pass filter in the envelope domain. Further, performance for identical modulation rates appears to decline with increasing carrier frequency, supporting the view that the low-pass characteristics observed for envelope ITD processing is carrier-frequency dependent. Here, we assessed listeners' sensitivity to ITDs conveyed in pure tones and in the modulated envelopes of high-frequency tones. ITD discrimination for the modulated high-frequency tones was measured as a function of both modulation rate and carrier frequency. Some well-trained listeners appear able to discriminate ITDs extremely well, even at modulation rates well beyond 500 Hz, for 4-kHz carriers. For one listener, thresholds were even obtained for a modulation rate of 800 Hz. The highest modulation rate for which thresholds could be obtained declined with increasing carrier frequency for all listeners. At 10 kHz, the highest modulation rate at which thresholds could be obtained was 600 Hz. The upper limit of sensitivity to ITDs conveyed in the envelope of high-frequency modulated sounds appears to be higher than previously considered.

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A Comparison of Two Objective Measures of Binaural Processing: The Interaural Phase Modulation Following Response and the Binaural Interaction Component

There has been continued interest in clinical objective measures of binaural processing. One commonly proposed measure is the binaural interaction component (BIC), which is obtained typically by recording auditory brainstem responses (ABRs)—the BIC reflects the difference between the binaural ABR and the sum of the monaural ABRs (i.e., binaural – (left + right)). We have recently developed an alternative, direct measure of sensitivity to interaural time differences, namely, a following response to modulations in interaural phase difference (the interaural phase modulation following response; IPM-FR). To obtain this measure, an ongoing diotically amplitude-modulated signal is presented, and the interaural phase difference of the carrier is switched periodically at minima in the modulation cycle. Such periodic modulations to interaural phase difference can evoke a steady state following response. BIC and IPM-FR measurements were compared from 10 normal-hearing subjects using a 16-channel electroencephalographic system. Both ABRs and IPM-FRs were observed most clearly from similar electrode locations—differential recordings taken from electrodes near the ear (e.g., mastoid) in reference to a vertex electrode (Cz). Although all subjects displayed clear ABRs, the BIC was not reliably observed. In contrast, the IPM-FR typically elicited a robust and significant response. In addition, the IPM-FR measure required a considerably shorter recording session. As the IPM-FR magnitude varied with interaural phase difference modulation depth, it could potentially serve as a correlate of perceptual salience. Overall, the IPM-FR appears a more suitable clinical measure than the BIC.

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A Binaural CI Research Platform for Oticon Medical SP/XP Implants Enabling ITD/ILD and Variable Rate Processing

We present the first portable, binaural, real-time research platform compatible with Oticon Medical SP and XP generation cochlear implants. The platform consists of (a) a pair of behind-the-ear devices, each containing front and rear calibrated microphones, (b) a four-channel USB analog-to-digital converter, (c) real-time PC-based sound processing software called the Master Hearing Aid, and (d) USB-connected hardware and output coils capable of driving two implants simultaneously. The platform is capable of processing signals from the four microphones simultaneously and producing synchronized binaural cochlear implant outputs that drive two (bilaterally implanted) SP or XP implants. Both audio signal preprocessing algorithms (such as binaural beamforming) and novel binaural stimulation strategies (within the implant limitations) can be programmed by researchers. When the whole research platform is combined with Oticon Medical SP implants, interaural electrode timing can be controlled on individual electrodes to within ±1 µs and interaural electrode energy differences can be controlled to within ±2%. Hence, this new platform is particularly well suited to performing experiments related to interaural time differences in combination with interaural level differences in real-time. The platform also supports instantaneously variable stimulation rates and thereby enables investigations such as the effect of changing the stimulation rate on pitch perception. Because the processing can be changed on the fly, researchers can use this platform to study perceptual changes resulting from different processing strategies acutely.

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Bayesian-based integration of multisensory naturalistic perithreshold stimuli.

Bayesian-based integration of multisensory naturalistic perithreshold stimuli.

Neuropsychologia. 2015 Dec 21;

Authors: Regenbogen C, Johansson E, Andersson P, Olsson MJ, Lundström JN

Abstract
Most studies exploring multisensory integration have used clearly perceivable stimuli. According to the principle of inverse effectiveness, the added neural and behavioral benefit of integrating clear stimuli is reduced in comparison to stimuli with degraded and less salient unisensory information. Traditionally, speed and accuracy measures have been analyzed separately with few studies merging these to gain an understanding of speed-accuracy trade-offs in multisensory integration. In two separate experiments, we assessed multisensory integration of naturalistic audio-visual objects consisting of individually-tailored perithreshold dynamic visual and auditory stimuli, presented within a multiple-choice task, using a Bayesian Hierarchical Drift Diffusion Model that combines response time and accuracy. For both experiments, unisensory stimuli were degraded to reach a 75% identification accuracy level for all individuals and stimuli to promote multisensory binding. In Experiment 1, we subsequently presented uni- and their respective bimodal stimuli followed by a 5-alternative-forced-choice task. In Experiment 2, we controlled for low-level integration and attentional differences. Both experiments demonstrated significant superadditive multisensory integration of bimodal perithreshold dynamic information. We present evidence that the use of degraded sensory stimuli may provide a link between previous findings of inverse effectiveness on a single neuron level to the level of overt behavior. We further suggest that a combined measure of accuracy and reaction time may be a more valid and holistic approach of studying multisensory integration and propose the application of drift diffusion models for studying behavioral correlates as well as brain-behavior relationships of multisensory integration.

PMID: 26719235 [PubMed – as supplied by publisher]

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upper respiratory tract infection; +30 new citations

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upper respiratory tract infection

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PubMed comprises more than 24 million 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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Superadditive opercular activation to food flavor is mediated by enhanced temporal and limbic coupling.

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Superadditive opercular activation to food flavor is mediated by enhanced temporal and limbic coupling.

Hum Brain Mapp. 2015 May;36(5):1662-76

Authors: Seubert J, Ohla K, Yokomukai Y, Kellermann T, Lundström JN

Abstract
Food perception is characterized by a transition from initially separate sensations of the olfactory and gustatory properties of the object toward their combined sensory experience during consumption. The holistic flavor experience, which occurs as the smell and taste merge, extends beyond the mere addition of the two chemosensory modalities, being usually perceived as more object-like, intense and rewarding. To explore the cortical mechanisms which give rise to olfactory-gustatory binding during natural food consumption, brain activation during consumption of a pleasant familiar beverage was contrasted with presentation of its taste and orthonasal smell alone. Convergent activation to all presentation modes was observed in executive and chemosensory association areas. Flavor, but not orthonasal smell or taste alone, stimulated the frontal operculum, supporting previous accounts of its central role in the formation of the flavor percept. A functional dissociation was observed in the insula: the anterior portion was characterized by sensory convergence, while mid-dorsal sections activated exclusively to the combined flavor stimulus. psycho-physiological interaction analyses demonstrated increased neural coupling between the frontal operculum and the anterior insula during flavor presentation. Connectivity was also increased with the lateral entorhinal cortex, a relay to memory networks and central node for contextual modulation of olfactory processing. These findings suggest a central role of the insular cortex in the transition from mere detection of chemosensory convergence to a superadditive flavor representation. The increased connections between the frontal operculum and medial temporal memory structures during combined olfactory-gustatory stimulation point to a potential mechanism underlying the acquisition and modification of flavor preferences.

PMID: 25545699 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]

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Superadditive opercular activation to food flavor is mediated by enhanced temporal and limbic coupling.

http:--media.wiley.com-assets-7315-19-Wi Related Articles

Superadditive opercular activation to food flavor is mediated by enhanced temporal and limbic coupling.

Hum Brain Mapp. 2015 May;36(5):1662-76

Authors: Seubert J, Ohla K, Yokomukai Y, Kellermann T, Lundström JN

Abstract
Food perception is characterized by a transition from initially separate sensations of the olfactory and gustatory properties of the object toward their combined sensory experience during consumption. The holistic flavor experience, which occurs as the smell and taste merge, extends beyond the mere addition of the two chemosensory modalities, being usually perceived as more object-like, intense and rewarding. To explore the cortical mechanisms which give rise to olfactory-gustatory binding during natural food consumption, brain activation during consumption of a pleasant familiar beverage was contrasted with presentation of its taste and orthonasal smell alone. Convergent activation to all presentation modes was observed in executive and chemosensory association areas. Flavor, but not orthonasal smell or taste alone, stimulated the frontal operculum, supporting previous accounts of its central role in the formation of the flavor percept. A functional dissociation was observed in the insula: the anterior portion was characterized by sensory convergence, while mid-dorsal sections activated exclusively to the combined flavor stimulus. psycho-physiological interaction analyses demonstrated increased neural coupling between the frontal operculum and the anterior insula during flavor presentation. Connectivity was also increased with the lateral entorhinal cortex, a relay to memory networks and central node for contextual modulation of olfactory processing. These findings suggest a central role of the insular cortex in the transition from mere detection of chemosensory convergence to a superadditive flavor representation. The increased connections between the frontal operculum and medial temporal memory structures during combined olfactory-gustatory stimulation point to a potential mechanism underlying the acquisition and modification of flavor preferences.

PMID: 25545699 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]

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