Phase II Study of Radiation Therapy and Vismodegib for Advanced Head/Neck Basal Cell Carcinoma

Conditions:   Locally Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma;   Skin Cancer;   Cutaneous Malignancy
Interventions:   Drug: Vismodegib;   Radiation: Radiation therapy
Sponsors:   Sue Yom;   Genentech, Inc.
Recruiting - verified November 2016

http://ift.tt/2f8KTRm

Erlotinib Hydrochloride in Reducing Duodenal Polyp Burden in Patients With Familial Adenomatous Polyposis at Risk of Developing Colon Cancer

Conditions:   Attenuated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis;   Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Interventions:   Drug: Erlotinib Hydrochloride;   Other: Laboratory Biomarker Analysis
Sponsor:   National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Not yet recruiting - verified November 2016

http://ift.tt/2f8LOkB

Durvalumab, an Anti-PD-L1 Antibody, and Chemoradiation Before Surgery for Esophageal Cancer

Conditions:   Esophageal Adenocarcinoma;   Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma
Interventions:   Biological: durvalumab;   Drug: carboplatin AUC 2/paclitaxel;   Radiation: External beam radiation;   Procedure: esophagogastrectomy
Sponsors:   Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center;   AstraZeneca
Recruiting - verified November 2016

http://ift.tt/2extqWn

Exercise Prior to Oesophagectomy

Conditions:   Postoperative Complications (Cardiopulmonary);   Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma
Interventions:   Behavioral: Pre-operative Exercise Programme (my-PEP);   Behavioral: Home Exercise Programme (HEP)
Sponsor:   University of East Anglia
Recruiting - verified November 2016

http://ift.tt/2f8KbDB

Phase III Study of Vinflunine Plus Methotrexate Versus Methotrexate Alone in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

Condition:   Recurrent or Metastatic Head and Neck Carcinoma
Interventions:   Drug: vinflunine;   Drug: Methotrexate
Sponsor:   Pierre Fabre Medicament
Recruiting - verified November 2016

http://ift.tt/2exrc9m

Phase II Study of Radiation Therapy and Vismodegib for Advanced Head/Neck Basal Cell Carcinoma

Conditions:   Locally Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma;   Skin Cancer;   Cutaneous Malignancy
Interventions:   Drug: Vismodegib;   Radiation: Radiation therapy
Sponsors:   Sue Yom;   Genentech, Inc.
Recruiting - verified November 2016

http://ift.tt/2f8KTRm

Benign lymphoepithelial cyst of unusual location: A case report

Volume 1, Issue 1, December 2016, Page 110-112
.


http://ift.tt/2fqHHDo

Valedictory.

Valedictory.

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2016 Nov;69(11):1461-1463

Authors: Freshwater MF

PMID: 27837789 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2fyv3jF

Obituary for Mr. Felix Freshwater.

Obituary for Mr. Felix Freshwater.

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2016 Nov;69(11):1459-1460

Authors: Hart A, Perks G

PMID: 27837788 [PubMed - in process]

http://ift.tt/2fR1uNe

The Buried Bumper Syndrome: External Bumper Extraction after Radial Mini Incisions and Replacement through an Adjacent Tract

Although considered as a safe method to provide long-term nutritional support, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) may be complicated by a buried bumper syndrome (BBS), a life-threatening condition. Removal of the PEG tube with its buried bumper and reinsertion of a new PEG tube is often necessary. Since its description in 1988, less than 50 cases of BBS managed by external extraction of the buried bumper have been reported. We report a case of buried bumper that was removed by external traction without the need for endoscopic or laparoscopic treatment but with the need of two radial millimeter skin incisions after abdominal CT study and finally immediate PEG replacement but through an adjacent site.

http://ift.tt/2fRCUJZ

A comparison study of macrocyclic hosts functionalized reduced graphene oxide for electrochemical recognition of tadalafil

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Hui Zhao, Long Yang, Yucong Li, Xin Ran, Hanzhang Ye, Genfu Zhao, Yanqiong Zhang, Feng Liu, Can-Peng Li
The present work described the comparison of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and p-sulfonated calix[6]arene (SCX6) functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO) for recognition of tadalafil. In this study, tadalafil and two macrocycles (β-CD and SCX6) were selected as the guest and host molecules, respectively. The inclusion complexes of β-CD/tadalafil and SCX6/tadalafil were studied by UV spectroscopy and molecular simulation calculations, proving the higher supermolecular recognition capability of SCX6 than β-CD towards tadalafil. The β-CD@RGO and SCX6@RGO composites were prepared by a wet-chemical route. The obtained composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, thermogravimetric analysis, atomic force microscopy, and zeta potential. The SCX6@RGO showed a higher electrochemical response than β-CD@RGO, which was caused by the higher recognition capability of SCX6 than β-CD. By combining the merits of SCX6 and the RGO, a sensitive electrochemical sensing platform was developed based on the SCX6@RGO nanohybrids. A linear response range of 0.1–50 μM and 50–1000 μM for tadalafil with a low detection limit of 0.045 μM (S/N=3) was obtained by using this method. The constructed sensing platform was successfully used to determine tadalafil in herbal sexual health products and spiked human serum samples, suggesting its promising analytical applications for the trace level determination of tadalafil.



http://ift.tt/2eSKK3r

High-selectivity electrochemical non-enzymatic sensors based on graphene/Pd nanocomposites functionalized with designated ionic liquids

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Chueh-Han Wang, Cheng-Hsien Yang, Jeng-Kuei Chang
Nano-sized Pd particles are uniformly dispersed on graphene nanosheets (GNSs) using a supercritical-fluid-assisted deposition technique to increase the electrochemical sensing properties. The incorporation of different kinds of ionic liquid (IL) can increase the electrode sensing current toward different analytes. Butylmethylpyrrolidinium–bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (BMP–TFSI) IL is beneficial for glucose detection, whereas the electrode with butylmethylpyrrolidinium–dicyanamide (BMP–DCA) IL shows high sensitivity toward ascorbic acid (AA). The selective detection of glucose or AA from their mixture is for the first time demonstrated using a non-enzymatic electrode with the aid of an IL. Angle-resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses indicate that GNSs can create an aligned cation/anion orientation in the adsorbed IL film, with the anions preferentially occupying the topmost surface. As a result, the electrode sensitivity and selectivity are mainly determined by the IL constituent anions.



http://ift.tt/2g9YXOt

Recent advances in 2D bioelectronics

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Adeniyi Olugbenga Osikoya, Ashutosh Tiwari




http://ift.tt/2eSRBKg

Synergistic effect of pyrroloquinoline quinone and graphene nano-interface for facile fabrication of sensitive NADH biosensor

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Shanying Han, Tianyu Du, Hui Jiang, Xuemei Wang
A self-assembly composite of graphene-pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) was fabricated and modified on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for sensitive detection of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH). Chitosan (CTS) was applied to disperse graphene to form a stable robust film on GCE. A synergistic effect between PQQ and graphene was observed during the electrocatalytic oxidation of NADH, with about 260mV reduction in the oxidation potential and 2.5-fold increase in the oxidation current compared with those on the bare GCE. The electrochemical sensors based on the modified electrodes allowed the detection of NADH with a good linear dependence from 0.32 to 220µM with a high sensitivity of 0.421µAµM⁻¹cm⁻² and a low detection limit of 0.16µM (S/N=3). It could also eliminate the interference of electroactive substances like ascorbic acid (AA), uric acid, and dopamine and its derivatives. The outstanding performances of graphene-PQQ/CTS composite capable of improving the electrical conductivity and accelerating the electron transport suggested its promising applications for design of different graphene based composites used in electrochemical sensing and energy fields.



http://ift.tt/2g9XqIh

2-Dimensional graphene as a route for emergence of additional dimension nanomaterials

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Santanu Patra, Ekta Roy, Ashutosh Tiwari, Rashmi Madhuri, Prashant K. Sharma
Dimension has a different and impactful significance in the field of innovation, research and technologies. Starting from one-dimension, now, we all are moving towards 3-D visuals and try to do the things in this dimension. However, we still have some very innovative and widely applicable nanomaterials, which have tremendous potential in the form of 2-D only i.e. graphene. In this review, we have tried to incorporate the reported pathways used so far for modification of 2-D graphene sheets to make is three-dimensional. The modified graphene been applied in many fields like supercapacitors, sensors, catalysis, energy storage devices and many more. In addition, we have also incorporated the conversion of 2-D graphene to their various other dimensions like zero-, one- or three-dimensional nanostructures.



http://ift.tt/2eSRa2y

Interactions between avidin and graphene for development of a biosensing platform

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Isaac Macwan, Md Daud Hossain Khan, Ashish Aphale, Shrishti Singh, Juan Liu, Manju Hingorani, Prabir Patra
Fundamental understanding of interactions at the interface of biological molecules, such as proteins, and nanomaterials is crucial for developing various biocompatible hybrid materials and biosensing platforms. Biosensors comprising of graphene-based conductive nanomaterials offer the advantage of higher sensitivity and reliable diagnosis mainly due to their superior specific surface area and ballistic conductivity. Furthermore, conductive nanocomposite structures that immobilize proteins can synergize the properties of both transducers and molecular recognition elements improving the performance of the biosensing device. Here we report for the first time, using a combined molecular dynamics simulations and experimental approach, the interactions between avidin and graphene for the development of a sensing platform that can be used for the detection of biological macromolecules such as mismatch repair proteins through biotinylated DNA substrates. We find that the interactive forces between avidin and graphene are mainly hydrophobic, along with some van der Waals, electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions. Notably, the structure and function of the avidin molecule are largely preserved after its adsorption on the graphene surface. The MD results agree well with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis of avidin immobilized on a graphenated polypyrrole (G-PPy) conductive nanocomposite confirming the adsorption of avidin on graphene nanoplatelets as observed from the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).



http://ift.tt/2ga1uYU

Synthesis of graphene and related two-dimensional materials for bioelectronics devices

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Tao Zhang, Jilun Liu, Cheng Wang, Xuanye Leng, Yao Xiao, Lei Fu
In recent years, graphene and related two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as exotic materials in nearly every fields of fundamental science and applied engineering. The latest progress has shown that these 2D materials could have a profound impact on bioelectronics devices. For the construction of these bioelectronics devices, these 2D materials were generally synthesized by the processes of exfoliation and chemical vapor deposition. In particular, the macrostructures of these 2D materials have also been realized by these two processes, which have shown great potentials in the self-supported and special-purpose biosensors. Due to the high specific surface area, subtle electron properties, abundant surface atoms of these 2D materials, the as-constructed bioelectronics devices have exhibited enhanced performance in the sensing of small biomolecules, heavy metals, pH, protein and DNA. The aim of this review article is to provide a comprehensive scientific progress in the synthesis of 2D materials for the construction of five typical bioelectronics devices (electrochemical biosensors, FET-based biosensors, piezoelectric devices, electrochemiluminescence devices and supercapacitors) and to overview the present status and future perspective of the applications of these bioelectronics devices based on 2D materials.



http://ift.tt/2eSNhuq

Enhanced photoelectrochemical biosensing performances for graphene (2D) – Titanium dioxide nanowire (1D) heterojunction polymer conductive nanosponges

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): N. Muthuchamy, K-P. Lee, A-I Gopalan
In this work, an efficient photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing platform has been designed and developed based on graphene (G) through modifying it into an electroconductive polymer nanosponge (EPNS) and with the incorporation of titanium dioxide nanowires (TiO2 NW) (designated as TiO2 (G) NW@EPNS). Functioning as an efficient immobilization matrix for immobilization of the enzyme Cytochrome C (Cyt C), TiO2 (G) NW@EPNS delivers features for an efficient PEC biosensor, such as fast kinetics of direct electron transfer (DET) to the electrode and effective separation of photogenerated holes and electrons. TiO2 (G) NW@EPNS exhibited DET to the electrode with a highly heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant of 6.29±0.002s⁻¹. The existence of TiO2, G and EPNS in conjunction facilitates DET between the electrode surface and the protein. The fabricated PEC nitrite ion (NO2−) biosensor showed superior analytical performances such as wide linear range (0.5–9000µM), lowest detection limit (0.225mM) and excellent specificity for NO2− in the presence other interferences at a very low bias potential (−0.11V). This study opens up the feasibility of fabricating a PEC biosensor for any analyte using a matrix comprising of G and a photoactive material and EPNS, because these components synergistically contribute to effective immobilization of on enzyme, DET to the electrode and simple read-out under the light.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2g9XO9P

Graphene-like 2D nanomaterial-based biointerfaces for biosensing applications

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Chengzhou Zhu, Dan Du, Yuehe Lin
Due to their unique structures and multifunctionalities, two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have aroused increasing interest in the construction of the novel biointerfaces for biosensing applications. Efforts in constructing novel biointerfaces led to exploit the more versatile and tunable graphene-like 2D nanomaterials (e.g. graphitic carbon nitride, boron nitride, transition metal dichalcogenides, and transition metal oxides) with various structural and compositional characteristics. This review highlights recent efforts in the design of graphene-like 2D nanomaterials and their derived biointerfaces and exploitation of their research on fluorescent sensors and a series of electrochemical sensors, including amperometric, electrochemiluminescence, photoelectrochemical and field-effect transistor sensors. Finally, we discuss some critical challenges and future perspectives in this field.



http://ift.tt/2g9YnQQ

A novel sandwiched electrochemiluminescence immunosensor for the detection of carcinoembryonic antigen based on carbon quantum dots and signal amplification

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Nian-Lu Li, Li-Ping Jia, Rong-Na Ma, Wen-Li Jia, Yi-Yang Lu, Sha-Shan Shi, Huai-Sheng Wang
In this study, a novel sandwiched electrochemiluminescence (ECL) immunosensor for the detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was developed. The nanocomposite of polydopamine and Ag nanoparticles (PDA-AgNPs) was prepared by the redox reaction between Ag⁺ and dopamine. This nanocomposite not only provided an effective matrix for the immobilization of primary antibody (Ab1) but also enhanced the conductivity of the electrode. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were immobilized on the poly(ethylenimine) functionalized graphene oxide (PEI-GO) through amido-bond. Then Au nanoparticles were decorated on the CQDs modified PEI-GO matrix, and the resulted complex AuNPs/CQDs-PEI-GO was introduced to link secondary antibody (Ab2). The CQDs can be connected to the electrode surface through the combination of CEA with Ab1 and Ab2, and then the amplified electrochemiluminescence signal of CQDs was obtained with the synergistic effect of AgNPs, polydopamine, AuNPs and PEI-GO. Under the optimal conditions, the ECL intensity was proportional to the logarithm value of CEA concentration in the linear range from 5pgmL⁻¹ to 500ngmL⁻¹ with a detection limit of 1.67pgmL⁻¹ for CEA detection. The immunosensor was applied for the CEA detection in real samples with satisfactory results. The proposed ECL immunosensor showed good performance with high sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, stability and will be potential in clinical detection.



http://ift.tt/2eSU5Il

Two-dimensional MoS2: A promising building block for biosensors

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Xiaorong Gan, Huimin Zhao, Xie Quan
Recently, two-dimensional (2D) layered nanomaterials have trigged intensive interest due to the intriguing physicochemical properties that stem from a quantum size effect connected with their ultra-thin structure. In particular, 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), as an emerging class of stable inorganic graphene analogs with intrinsic finite bandgap, would possibly complement or even surpass graphene in electronics and optoelectronics fields. In this review, we first discuss the historical development of ultrathin 2D nanomaterials. Then, we are concerned with 2D MoS2 including its structure–property relationships, synthesis methods, characterization for the layer thickness, and biosensor applications over the past five years. Thereinto, we are highlighting recent advances in 2D MoS2-based biosensors, especially emphasize the preparation of sensing elements, roles of 2D MoS2, and assay strategies. Finally, on the basis of the current achievements on 2D MoS2 and other ultrathin layered nanomaterials, perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the exploration of 2D MoS2-based biosensors are put forward.



http://ift.tt/2eSILvZ

Editorial Board

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1





http://ift.tt/2g9SfrZ

Fabrication technologies and sensing applications of graphene-based composite films: Advances and challenges

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Xiaoqing Yu, Wensi Zhang, Panpan Zhang, Zhiqiang Su
Graphene (G)-based composite materials have been widely explored for the sensing applications ascribing to their atom-thick two-dimensional conjugated structures, high conductivity, large specific surface areas and controlled modification. With the enormous advantages of film structure, G-based composite films (GCFs), prepared by combining G with different functional nanomaterials (noble metals, metal compounds, carbon materials, polymer materials, etc.), show unique optical, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and catalytic properties. Therefore, great quantities of sensors with high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability have been created in recent years. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in the fabrication technologies of GCFs and their specific sensing applications. In addition, the relationship between the properties of GCFs and sensing performance is concentrated on. Finally, the personal perspectives and key challenges of GCFs are mentioned in the hope to shed a light on their potential future research directions.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2eSR9M2

Decoration of reduced graphene oxide with rhodium nanoparticles for the design of a sensitive electrochemical enzyme biosensor for 17β-estradiol

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Eloy Povedano, Fernando H. Cincotto, Concepción Parrado, Paula Díez, Alfredo Sánchez, Thiago C. Canevari, Sergio A.S. Machado, José M. Pingarrón, Reynaldo Villalonga
A novel nanocomposite material consisting of reduced graphene oxide/Rh nanoparticles was prepared by a one-pot reaction process. The strategy involved the simultaneous reduction of RhCl3 and graphene oxide with NaBH4 and the in situ deposition of the metal nanoparticles on the 2D carbon nanomaterial planar sheets. Glassy carbon electrode coated with this nanocomposite was employed as nanostructured support for the cross-linking of the enzyme laccase with glutaraldehyde to construct a voltammperometric biosensor for 17β-estradiol in the 0.9–11 pM range. The biosensor showed excellent analytical performance with high sensitivity of 25.7AµM⁻¹cm⁻¹, a very low detection limit of 0.54pM and high selectivity. The biosensor was applied to the rapid and successful determination of the hormone in spiked synthetic and real human urine samples.



http://ift.tt/2eSN9em

Recent advance in fabricating monolithic 3D porous graphene and their applications in biosensing and biofuel cells

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Hua-Jun Qiu, Yongxin Guan, Pan Luo, Yu Wang
Graphene shows great potential in biosensing and bioelectronics. To facilitate graphene's applications and enhance its performance, recently, three-dimensional (3D) graphene-based materials especially free-standing porous graphene with tunable pore size and void space, have attracted increasing attention for bio-related applications owing to their special features. 3D graphene usually shows the following merits such as an interconnected porous network, a high electronic conductivity, a large active surface area, good chemical/thermal stability and can be more easily handled compared with dispersed graphene sheets. With modified surface properties, graphene can also be bio-friendly. These properties make 3D graphene a perfect candidate as high-performance electrode materials in bioelectronics devices. In this review, we discuss recent advance in fabricating monolithic 3D graphene and their applications in biosensing and biofuel cells.



http://ift.tt/2g9VHCL

An electrochemical sensor for detection of neurotransmitter-acetylcholine using metal nanoparticles, 2D material and conducting polymer modified electrode

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Nidhi Chauhan, Sheetal Chawla, C.S. Pundir, Utkarsh Jain
An essential biological sensor for acetylcholine (ACh) detection is constructed by immobilizing enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and choline oxidase (ChO), on the surface of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3NPs), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite modified fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO). The qualitative and quantitative measurements of nanocomposites properties were accomplished by scanning electron microscope (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). This prepared biological sensor delineated a wide linear range of 4.0nM to 800μM with a response time less than 4s and detection limit (based on S/N ratio) of 4.0nM. The sensor showed perfect sensitivity, excessive selectivity and stability for longer period of time during storage. Besides its very high-sensitivity, the biosensor has displayed a low detection limit which is reported for the first time in comparison to previously reported ACh sensors. By fabricating Fe2O3NPs/rGO/PEDOT modified FTO electrode for determining ACh level in serum samples, the applicability of biosensor has increased immensely as the detection of the level neurotransmitter is first priority for patients suffering from memory loss or Alzheimer's disease (AD).



http://ift.tt/2eSU4nL

Fluorescent biosensors enabled by graphene and graphene oxide

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Huan Zhang, Honglu Zhang, Ali Aldalbahi, Xiaolei Zuo, Chunhai Fan, Xianqiang Mi
During the past few years, graphene and graphene oxide (GO) have attracted numerous attentions for the potential applications in various fields from energy technology, biosensing to biomedical diagnosis and therapy due to their various functionalization, high volume surface ratio, unique physical and electrical properties. Among which, graphene and graphene oxide based fluorescent biosensors enabled by their fluorescence-quenching properties have attracted great interests. The fluorescence of fluorophore or dye labeled on probes (such as molecular beacon, aptamer, DNAzymes and so on) was quenched after adsorbed on to the surface of graphene. While in the present of the targets, due to the strong interactions between probes and targets, the probes were detached from the surface of graphene, generating dramatic fluorescence, which could be used as signals for detection of the targets. This strategy was simple and economy, together with great programmable abilities of probes; we could realize detection of different kinds of species. In this review, we first briefly introduced the history of graphene and graphene oxide, and then summarized the fluorescent biosensors enabled by graphene and GO, with a detailed account of the design mechanism and comparison with other nanomaterials (e.g. carbon nanotubes and gold nanoparticles). Following that, different sensing platforms for detection of DNAs, ions, biomolecules and pathogens or cells as well as the cytotoxicity issue of graphene and GO based in vivo biosensing were further discussed. We hope that this review would do some help to researchers who are interested in graphene related biosening research work.



http://ift.tt/29Z0KAd

Graphitic carbon nitride nanodots: As reductant for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles and its biothiols biosensing application

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Qiujun Lu, Haiyan Wang, Yalan Liu, Yuxin Hou, Haitao Li, Youyu Zhang
The graphitic carbon nitride nanodots (g-C3N4-dots) were synthesized by a simple electrochemical "tailoring" process from bulk graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) under alkaline solution for the first time. Compared with the bulk g-C3N4, the novel g-C3N4-dots not only exhibit enhanced fluorescence and excellent dispersion stability in water but also show the reducibility for the reduction of Ag⁺ to AgNPs at 60°C. The biothiols can bound with Ag⁺ through formation of biothiol-Ag⁺ complex to consume the Ag⁺ and act as capping agent to prevent the growth of AgNPs, which cause the decrease of the absorption peak of the AgNPs. Therefore, an optical sensor was developed for the detection of biothiols based on the change of the plasmon resonance absorption peak of the AgNPs. The proposed method exhibits excellent sensitivity and selectivity to biothiols with low detection limit for cysteine (Cys), homocysteine (Hcy), and glutathione (GSH) with 11.5, 16.1, and 15.5nM, respectively. This method also has been successfully applied for the detection of biothiols in human serum with satisfactory results.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2eSR8HY

Graphene-based screen-printed electrochemical (bio)sensors and their applications: Efforts and criticisms

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Stefano Cinti, Fabiana Arduini
K.S. Novoselov in his Nobel lecture (December 8, 2010), described graphene as "more than just a flat crystal" and summarized the best possible impression of graphene with (i) it is the first example of 2D atomic crystals, (ii) it demonstrated unique electronic properties, thanks to charge carriers which mimic massless relativistic particles, and (iii) it has promise for a number of applications. The fascinating and unusual properties of this 2D material were indeed recently investigated and exploited in several disciplines including physics, medicine, and chemistry, indicating the extremely versatile and polyedric aspect of this nanomaterial.The utilization of nanomaterials, printed technology, and microfluidics in electroanalysis has resulted in a period that can be called the "Electroanalysis Renaissance" (Escarpa, 2012) in which graphene is without any doubt a forefront nanomaterial. The rise in affordable fabrication processes, along with the great dispersing attitude in a plenty of matrices, have made graphene powerful in large-scale production of electrochemical platforms. Herein, we overview the employment of graphene to customize and/or fabricate printable based (bio)sensors over the past 5 years, including several modification approaches such as drop casting, screen- and inkjet-printing, different strategies of graphene-based sensing, and applications as well. The objective of this review is to provide a critical perspective related to advantages and disadvantages of using graphene in biosensing tools, based on screen-printed sensors.



http://ift.tt/2eSIgSA

Multifunctional graphene micro-islands: Rapid, low-temperature plasma-enabled synthesis and facile integration for bioengineering and genosensing applications

Publication date: 15 March 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 89, Part 1
Author(s): Shafique Pineda, Fabricio Frizera Borghi, Dong Han Seo, Samuel Yick, Malcolm Lawn, Timothy van der Laan, Zhao Jun Han, Kostya Ken Ostrikov
Here, we present a rapid, low-temperature (200°C) plasma-enabled synthesis of graphene micro-islands (GMs). Morphological analyses of GMs by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) feature a uniform and open-networked array of aggregated graphene sheets. Structural and surface chemical characterizations by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) support the presence of thin graphitic edges and reactive oxygen functional groups. We demonstrate that these inherent properties of GMs enable its multifunctional capabilities as a bioactive interface. GMs exhibit a biocompatibility of 80% cell viability with primary fibroblast lung cells after 5 days. Further, GMs were assembled into an impedimetric genosensor, and its performance was characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). A dynamic sensing range of 1pM to 1nM is reported, and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 2.03×10⁻¹³M is deduced, with selectivity to single-RNA-base mismatched sequences. The versatile nature of GMs may be explored to enable multi-faceted bioactive platforms for next-generation personalized healthcare technologies.



http://ift.tt/2g9Y2xM

Patterns of stroke between university hospitals and non-university hospitals in mainland China: a prospective multicenter hospital-based registry study.

Patterns of stroke between university hospitals and non-university hospitals in mainland China: a prospective multicenter hospital-based registry study.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Wang D, Liu J, Liu M, Lu C, Brainin M, Zhang J

Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: In China, stroke has risen to the first commonest cause of death. Currently published data on stroke mainly come from university hospitals, and less from community hospitals, especially lacking information on stroke focusing on the differences between university hospitals and non-university hospitals. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the patterns and the differences of acute stroke between university hospitals and non-university hospitals in China.
METHODS: The survey was conducted in 281 hospitals in China: 62 in the west, 85 in the middle and 134 in the eastern regions. The participating hospitals were sorted into university hospitals (n=93) and non-university hospitals (n=118). We prospectively registered patients with acute stroke within 7 days of symptom onset between April 1 and May 20 of 2006.The diagnosis of stroke was defined by WHO criteria and the pathological types of stroke were determined by clinical and CT/MRI findings. The demographic data, pathological types of stroke, outcomes (death or dependency) at discharge (or 30 days if not discharged) were collected. Dependency was defined as Modified Rankin Score > 2. Basic characteristics, pathological types of stroke and functional outcomes were compared between university hospitals and non-university hospitals.
RESULTS: We enrolled 5273 patients (3135 males; mean age, 65±12years) from the 281 participating hospitals in China, of which ischemic stroke accounted for 70.8% (3733), intracranial hemorrhage for 25.7% (1357) and subarachnoid hemorrhage for 3.5% (183). 3555 patients (67.4%) were from non-university hospitals (n=118), and 1718 patients (32.6%) came from university hospitals (n=93). There were no significant differences between university hospitals and non-university hospitals in terms of age, sex, pathological types of stroke, and history of stroke (all p>0.05). Patients from non-university hospitals had significantly less stroke severity (mRS) on admission (3.1±1.4 Vs 3.2±1.3; p=0.005) than those from university hospitals. After adjustment for age, sex, and mRS on admission, patients with intracranial hemorrhage from non-university hospitals had significantly lower proportion of disability (40.8% Vs 47.1%; p=0.005) and death/disability (49.9% Vs 57.1%; p=0.008) at discharge than those from university hospitals, while there were no significant differences on disability or death/disability of patients with ischemic stroke or subarachnoid hemorrhage between non-university hospitals and university hospitals.
CONCLUSION: This survey comparing stroke patients treated in university and non-university hospitals in China showed that both cohorts were largely comparable including most demographic features, such as age and gender, history of stroke and stroke subtypes. It may be concluded that patient cohorts treated on stroke units in university as well as non-university hospitals are quite similar and stroke units in both types of institutions are also comparable in terms of work load and most patient outcomes.

PMID: 27838433 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fPsetN

Patients with long-term control of systemic disease are a favorable prognostic group for treatment of brain metastases with SRS alone.

Patients with long-term control of systemic disease are a favorable prognostic group for treatment of brain metastases with SRS alone.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Ebner DK, Gorovets D, Rava P, Cielo D, Kinsella TJ, DiPetrillo TA, Hepel JT

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) alone is an attractive option for treatment of brain metastases that avoids whole brain irradiation (WBRT)-associated morbidity, but is limited by regional CNS failures and short survival in some patients. We evaluated a subgroup of patients with controlled systemic disease that may represent a favorable patient population for SRS alone.
METHODS: All patients with brain metastases treated with SRS without WBRT at our institution between 2004 and 2014 were grouped into two cohorts, those with controlled systemic disease for ≥1yr (CSD) prior to presentation with brain metastases and those without (USD). Rates of local and regional CNS failure, and overall survival were assessed with chi-square and Student's t tests. Cox regression analysis was performed to evaluate independent predictors of regional control and overall survival.
RESULTS: A total of 294 patients underwent SRS to 697 lesions, of which 65 patients had CSD. Median follow-up was 9.7 mos. There was no difference in local control between the two cohorts (p=0.795). Regional CNS control was significantly better for patients with CSD, 68% vs. 48% (p=0.001). Overall survival at 1 and 5 years for CSD were 65% and 13%, with USD yielding 41% and 7% (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that USD (relative CSD) independently predicts regional failure (HR1.75; p=0.008) and shorter overall survival (HR1.55; p=0.007).
CONCLUSIONS: Patients presenting with brain metastases after ≥1 year of primary and systemic disease control represent a particularly favorable cohort, with lower regional CNS failure and prolonged survival, for an approach of SRS alone.

PMID: 27838432 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2eX7XVe

Factors Associated with Patient-Initiated Telephone Calls After Spine Surgery.

Factors Associated with Patient-Initiated Telephone Calls After Spine Surgery.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Reid R, Puvanesarajah V, Kandil A, Yildirim B, Shimer AL, Singla A, Shen FH, Hassanzadeh H

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Telephone calls play a significant role in the follow-up care of postoperative patients. However, further data is needed to identify the determinants of patient-initiated telephone calls following surgery as these factors may also highlight potential areas of improvement in patient satisfaction and during the hospital discharge process. Thus, the goal of this study is to determine the number of postoperative patient telephone calls within 14 days following surgery and establish the factors associated with patient-initiated calls as well as reasons for calling.
METHODS: A retrospective chart review of all spine surgeries performed at our institution from January 1, 2014 through January 2, 2015 was completed. Patient demographics, perioperative and operative variables, and telephone encounter data were collected. The primary outcome was a patient-initiated telephone call within 14 days after surgery. Secondary outcomes included reporting and analyzing the reasons for patient phone calls, analyzing which procedures were associated with the most telephone calls, and conducting a multivariate analysis to determine independent risk factors for patient calls.
RESULTS: Of the 488 patients who underwent surgical procedures, 222 patients (45.7%) made a telephone call within 14 days after surgery. 61 patients (27.48%) called regarding pain control. 54 patients (23.87%) called with bathing/dressing/wound questions. Other common categories include: other (21.17%), medication problems (15.77%), weight bearing status/activity restrictions (5.14%), fever (3.15%), bowel management (1.35%), work notes (1.35%), and anticoagulation questions (0.45%). Factors associated with a telephone call within 14 days postoperatively included increased BMI (p=0.031), lower number of comorbidities (p=0.043), telephone call within two weeks prior to surgery (p=0.027), American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score of 2 (p=0.036), discharge disposition to home (p=0.003), and elective procedure (p=0.006). Multivariate analysis revealed that fusion procedures (OR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.05 - 4.45, p = 0.037) and ASA score of 3-4 (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.31 - 0.96, p = 0.036) were independently associated with increased and decreased propensity, respectively, towards making a phone call within two weeks.
CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative patient-initiated telephone calls within 14 days following spine surgery are very common, occurring after almost half of all procedures. By evaluating such determinants, patient care can be improved by better addressing patient needs during and prior to discharge to prevent potential unnecessary postoperative calls and improve patient satisfaction.

PMID: 27838431 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2f8eb2e

Targeting of the subthalamic nucleus for deep brain stimulation: a survey among Parkinson's disease specialists.

Targeting of the subthalamic nucleus for deep brain stimulation: a survey among Parkinson's disease specialists.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Hamel W, Köppen JA, Alesch F, Antonini A, Barcia JA, Bergman H, Chabardes S, Contarino MF, Cornu P, Demmel W, Deuschl G, Fasano A, Kühn AA, Limousin P, McIntyre CC, Mehdorn HM, Pilleri M, Pollak P, Rodríguez-Oroz MC, Rumià J, Samuel M, Timmermann L, Valldeoriola F, Vesper J, Visser-Vandewalle V, Volkmann J, Lozano AM

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) within or adjacent to the subthalamic nucleus (STN) currently represents the most common stereotactic procedure performed for Parkinson's disease. Better STN imaging is often regarded as a requirement for improving stereotactic targeting. But, remarkably enough, it is unclear whether there is a consensus about the optimal target.
OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: To obtain an expert opinion on the site regarded optimal for 'STN stimulation', movement disorder specialists were asked to indicate their preferred position for an active contact on hardcopies of the Schaltenbrand and Wahren atlas depicting the STN in all three planes. This represented an idealized setting and it mimicked optimal imaging for direct target definition in a perfectly delineated STN.
RESULTS: The suggested targets were heterogeneous, although some clustering was observed in the dorsolateral STN and subthalamic area. In particular, in the anterior-posterior direction the intended targets differed to a great extent. Most of the indicated targets are thought to also result in concomitant stimulation of structures adjacent to the STN, including the zona incerta, Fields of Forel, and/or the internal capsule.
CONCLUSIONS: This survey illustrates that most sites regarded as optimal for 'STN stimulation' are close to each other, but there appears to be no uniform perception of the optimal anatomical target, possibly influencing surgical results. The anatomical sweet zone for STN stimulation needs further specification since this information is likely to make MRI-based target definition less variable when applied to individual patients.

PMID: 27838430 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fMwR8U

Quality of life changes following concurrent septoplasty and/or inferior turbinoplasty during endoscopic pituitary surgery.

Quality of life changes following concurrent septoplasty and/or inferior turbinoplasty during endoscopic pituitary surgery.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Lee DD, Peris-Celda M, Butrymowicz A, Kenning T, Pinheiro-Neto CD

Abstract
OBJECTIVES/ HYPOTHESIS: Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (EETS) is a widely accepted technique for sellar tumors. Common findings during pre-operative assessment include septal deviations and turbinate hypertrophy. This study aims to evaluate quality of life changes following a concurrent septoplasty and/or inferior turbinoplasty during EETS.
STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database including all patients receiving ETTS at our institution from 2014-2016.
METHODS: Patients were divided into a septoplasty / inferior turbinoplasty group (SIG) and a no septoplasty / inferior turbinoplasty group (NSIG). Quality of life outcome measures were evaluated using the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22). Mean pre-operative scores were compared to 1 and 3 month post-operative scores within each cohort. The SNOT-22 was also reorganized into five distinct subdomains. Average subdomain scores were calculated and preoperative, 1 and 3 month subdomain scores were compared within each cohort. A paired t-student test was utilized. P values were considered statistically significant if they measured less than 0.05.
RESULTS: All 24 patients met inclusion criteria by completing pre and post-operative SNOT-22 surveys. In the SIG, pre-operative and 3 month post-operative scores showed a clinically significant difference (p=0.047). The SIG specifically showed a significant difference in the psychiatric and sleep SNOT-22 subdomains when comparing pre-operative to 3 month post-operative scores (p=0.03, p=0.01).
CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent a concurrent septoplasty and/or turbinoplasty in association with EETS had a significantly improved quality of life compared to preoperative assessment, specifically with psychological and sleep symptoms.

PMID: 27838428 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fQPeft

Surgical Resection of Insular Gliomas and the Role of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Diffusion Tensor Imaging Tractography - Single Surgeon Experience.

Surgical Resection of Insular Gliomas and the Role of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Diffusion Tensor Imaging Tractography - Single Surgeon Experience.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Panigrahi M, Chandrasekhar YB, Vooturi S, Ram GA, Rammohan VS

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: In gliomas located in proximity to eloquent areas, near total resection and subsequent radiotherapy is often preferred to avoid post-operative neurological complications. Pre-operative functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)tractography provide new insights into surgeries of insular gliomas. The current study reports our experience of surgical management of insular gliomasand the role of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and Diffuse Tensor Imaging (DTI) tractography in planning the resection.
METHODS: We retrospectively compared the clinical and outcome variables of 61 patients who underwent surgical resection of insular gliomas. The study population was divided into two groups based on the utilization of fMRI and DTI tractographyin planning the resection.
RESULTS: The average age of the study population was44.1 ± 12.6 years with 21 (34.4 %) of them women. Nearly two thirds 40 (65.6%) patients had WHO Grade II tumours and 16 (26.2%) had Grade IV tumours. The most common tumour was glioblastoma, observed in 16 (26.2%) patients. In 10 (16.4%) patients, fMRI and DTI tractography were utilized.The overall mortality in the study population was 15 (24.6%). None of the patients where fMRI and DTI were utilized for planning the surgery died (29.4% vs 0.0%; p=0.05) and all of them had normal functioning (70.5 % vs 100.0%; p=0.05) at three months follow up.
CONCLUSION: Surgical resection of insular gliomas remains a challenge to the neurosurgeon and demands good knowledge of the anatomical landmarks. Use fMRI and DTI tractography may help achieve good outcome.

PMID: 27838429 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fPs85h

The effective surgical management of competitive venous outflow restriction after radiosurgery for cerebral AVMs: Report of 2 cases.

The effective surgical management of competitive venous outflow restriction after radiosurgery for cerebral AVMs: Report of 2 cases.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Fennell VS, Martirosyan NL, Atwal GS, Kalani MY, Spetzler RF, Lemole GM, Dumont T

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Intracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are complex pathologies. For patients who do not present with hemorrhage, treatment strategies are often predicated on reducing the risk of hemorrhage and minimizing morbidity. Outcomes vary according to the efficacy of treatment selected. Radiosurgical treatment of certain AVMs can result in incomplete obliteration and may also have only a minimal effect on the presenting non-hemorrhagic symptoms.
CASE DESCRIPTIONS: We present 2 cases of patients with AVMs who were initially treated with radiosurgery. Both patients' primary clinical symptoms were headaches, which persisted after radiosurgical treatment but abated after subsequent microsurgical resection with or without endovascular embolization.
CONCLUSION: Venous outflow obstruction is likely a sizable contributive factor in occipital AVMs among patients who present with headaches and symptoms of intracranial hypertension. Because these high-flow lesions may be suboptimally responsive to stereotactic radiosurgery, microsurgical resection, with or without adjunctive endovascular embolization, should be considered as an initial and definitive treatment strategy. Optimal outcomes may be achieved in patients with a visual deficit an anatomically correlated to their AVMs.

PMID: 27838427 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fqu0od

5-aminolaevulinic acid-induced fluorescence in primary central nervous system lymphoma.

5-aminolaevulinic acid-induced fluorescence in primary central nervous system lymphoma.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Evers G, Kamp M, Warneke N, Berdel WE, Sabel M, Stummer W, Ewelt C

Abstract
Diagnosis of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is usually confirmed by brain biopsy and subsequent neuropathological work-up.5-aminolevulinic acid-induced fluorescence (5-ALA) has been established for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in glioma treatment during the last few years and is discussed for use in other cranial tumors. Its role in diagnosis and treatment of PCNSL is still elusive. This retrospective study includes clinical, MRI, pathological and surgical data of selected 11 patients with PCNSL at two University hospitals within the last 4 years undergoing surgical treatment for resection because of imminent mass effect and/or suspected cerebral glioma. Patients received 5-ALA for fluorescence guided resection preoperatively. The 11 subjects aged 59 to 81 years and postsurgical pathological work-up revealed malignant B-cell lymphoma with morphological features of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). 8 out of these 11 patients with PCNSL showed a clear fluorescence induced by 5-ALA. After surgical resection, patients were treated by combination chemotherapy regimens. In glioma patients the use of 5-ALA is known to be associated with increased extent of resection and survival benefit. Our data and retrospective analysis of a larger patient cohort suggest that the use of 5-ALA in PCNSL patients should be included in a surgical approach, if this is reconsidered for selected patients within a clinical study. In addition, even photodynamic therapy in combination with 5-ALA might be studied.

PMID: 27838426 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2ewXLV6

1.5 Tesla field intraoperative MRI improves extent of resection and survival in glioblastoma removal.

1.5 Tesla field intraoperative MRI improves extent of resection and survival in glioblastoma removal.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Marongiu A, Familiari P, D'Andrea G, Pesce A, Frati A, Raco A

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Gross total resection (GTR) of glioblastoma may be achieved with the aid of intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (Io-MRI), which detects residual tumor during surgery, with the aim of maximizing resection, thus reducing the risk of recurrence. Moreover, intraoperative fiber tracking and neuronavigated electrophysiological cortical and subcortical mapping may help prevent postoperative deficits.
METHODS: 114 patients underwent surgical removal of newly diagnosed supratentorial glioblastoma between January 2009 and January 2013: 78 (group A) were operated on with the aid of Io-MRI and 36 without (group B). The protocol included preoperative and intraoperative MRI with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in all the cases that presented eloquent areas of involvement. The Extent of Resection (EOR) was compared in the two groups 24-72 hours after surgery.
RESULTS: The first Io-MRI detected a GTR in 31 patients (39.7%) and a residual tumor in 47 patients (60.3%) belonging to group A. Twenty-one patients had residual tumor within eloquent areas: Io-MRI with fibre tracking permitted further resection, achieving GTR in 12 patients. GTR was radiologically detected in the remaining 26 patients (33.3% of group A) who had residual tumor in non-eloquent areas after one or two further resection extensions. Io-MRI enhanced both EOR and 6 moths PFS: the overall GTR for group A amounted to 88.5% (69 patients), while for group B was 44% (16 patients). Six-month-Progression Free Survival (6-PFS) accounted for 73% (57 patients) of group A and 38.9% (14 patients) for group B respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: Our experience suggests that Io-MRI may lead to EOR optimization and associated 6-PFS improvement.

PMID: 27838425 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2eX61wf

Radiation-induced sarcomas of the central nervous system: an exhaustive review of the literature.

Radiation-induced sarcomas of the central nervous system: an exhaustive review of the literature.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Yamanaka R, Hayano A

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Radiation-induced sarcomas (RISs) of the central nervous system are an uncommon late risk of irradiation. We conducted a systematic review of individual patient data to characterize RISs.
METHODS: We conducted a systemic search of the PubMed databases and compiled a comprehensive literature review. Student's t-tests were used to evaluate differences between variables. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate survival. Statistical significance was assessed by using a log-rank test.
RESULTS: We analyzed 180 cases of RISs, including 59 osteosarcomas, 50 fibrosarcomas, and 16 malignant fibrous histiocytomas. The average age of onset for primary lesions was 28.8 ± 17.9 years, and the average dose of radiation delivered to the primary lesion was 51.4 ± 18.6 Gy. The latency period between radiotherapy and the onset of sarcomas was 12.4 ± 8.6 years. The median overall survival time for all sarcoma patients was 11 months, with a 5-year survival rate of 14.3%. The median survival in patients who received chemotherapy was 18 months, with a 2-year survival rate of 39.4%, while patients who did not receive chemotherapy had a median survival of 5 months and a 2-year survival rate of 13.7% (p < 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS: The risk of secondary sarcomas in patients treated with cranial radiotherapy warrants longer follow-up periods beyond the standard timeframe typically designated for determining the risk of primary tumor relapse. Moreover, chemotherapy should be considered a potential treatment option for RISs.

PMID: 27838424 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fPpEDN

Clinical features and prognostic factors of children and adolescent patients with clival chordomas.

Clinical features and prognostic factors of children and adolescent patients with clival chordomas.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Zhai Y, Bai J, Gao H, Wang S, Li M, Gui S, Li C, Zhang Y

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Chordomas in children and adolescents are extremely uncommon, and minimal published information is available. Therefore, our aim was to research clinical features and prognostic factors associated with clival chordomas in younger patients.
METHODS: The study included 25 patients (10 males and 15 females). The average follow-up was 42.95 months (range: 2 to 108 months). Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Pearson correlation was used to perform correlation analysis. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression levels of Ki67, cytokeratin 8, platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β), and Brachyury.
RESULTS: The average age (± SD) of patients was 14.44 (3.44) years. Total resection (TR) and non-total resection (NTR) was achieved in 5 cases and 20 cases, respectively. The average OS of patients with a Karnofsky performance score (KPS) ≥90 or those in the TR group was significantly longer compared with that of patients with KPS<90 group (p=0.041) or those in the NTR group (p=0.0497). Patients with lower Ki67 expression levels had longer OS (p=0.0207). The PFS of patients with lower CK8 expression levels was significantly longer compared with those with higher levels (p=0.008). The expression levels of PDGFR-β was significantly correlated with those of Brachyury (p=0.016).
CONCLUSION: In children and adolescent patients with clival chordomas, higher pre-operative KPS, total resection, and lower levels of Ki67 and CK8 expression were favorable prognostic factors. PDGFR-β might play a role in tumorigenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of clival chordomas.

PMID: 27838423 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fqpsOw

A tumoural angiogenic gateway blocker, Benzophenone-1B represses the HIF-1α nuclear translocation and its target gene activation against neoplastic progression.

A tumoural angiogenic gateway blocker, Benzophenone-1B represses the HIF-1α nuclear translocation and its target gene activation against neoplastic progression.

Biochem Pharmacol. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Thirusangu P, Vigneshwaran V, Lakshmi Ranganatha V, Vijay Avin BR, Ara Khanum S, Mahmood R, Jayashree K, Prabhakar BT

Abstract
Hypoxia is an important module in all solid tumours to promote angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Stabilization and subsequent nuclear localization of HIF-1α subunits results in the activation of tumour promoting target genes such as VEGF, MMPs, Flt-1, Ang-1 etc which plays a pivotal role in adaptation of tumour cells to hypoxia. Increased HIF-α and its nuclear translocation have been correlated with pronounced angiogenesis, aggressive tumour growth and poor patient prognosis leading to current interest in HIF-1α as an anticancer drug target. Benzophenone-1B ([4-(1H-benzimidazol-2-ylmethoxy)-3,5-dimethylphenyl]-(4-methoxyphenyl) methanone, or BP-1B) is a new antineoplastic agent with potential angiopreventive effects. Current investigation reports the cellular biochemical modulation underlying BP-1B cytotoxic/antiangiogenic effects. Experimental evidences postulate that BP-1B exhibits the tumour specific cytotoxic actions against various cancer types with prolonged action. Moreover BP-1B efficiently counteracts endothelial cell capillary formation in in-vitro, in-vivo non-tumour and tumour angiogenic systems. Molecular signaling studies reveal that BP-1B arrests nuclear translocation of HIF-1α devoid of p42/44 pathway under CoCl2 induced hypoxic conditions in various cancer cells thereby leading to abrogated HIF-1α dependent activation of VEGF-A, Flt-1, MMP-2, MMP -9 and Ang-1 angiogenic factors resulting in retarded cell migration and invasions. The in-vitro results were reproducible in the reliable in-vivo solid tumour model. Taken together, we conclude that BP-1B impairs angiogenesis by blocking nuclear localization of HIF-1α which can be translated into a potent HIF-1α inhibitor.

PMID: 27838496 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2eXa4sh

Ethics is the best professional policy.

Ethics is the best professional policy.

Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Oct 27;:

Authors: Balbani AP

PMID: 27838248 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2f8wHYC

The effectiveness of combined tonsillectomy and anterior palatoplasty in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

The effectiveness of combined tonsillectomy and anterior palatoplasty in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Nov 12;

Authors: Adzreil B, Wong EH, Saraiza AB, Raman R, Amin J

Abstract
The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is increasing due to a rising rate of obesity. Multiple surgical techniques used to address obstruction at the palatal level have been associated with significant morbidities. Few studies have reported good outcomes of anterior palatoplasty (AP) in mild-to-moderate OSA. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of combining tonsillectomy and anterior palatoplasty in the treatment of snoring and OSA. All patients with snoring and OSA treated with tonsillectomy and anterior palatoplasty were analyzed. The primary outcome was reduction of the apnoea hypopnoea index (AHI) with surgical success criteria; reduction of AHI by ≥50% and AHI ≤10. The secondary outcomes measured were patients' Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and snoring visual analogue scale (VAS) scores. Thirty one patients completed the study, where 19% had mild, 42% moderate, and 39% had severe OSA. The mean surgical success rate was 45% at 3 months and 32% at 1-year post-operatively. There was a significant reduction of ESS and VAS at 3 months and 1-year post-operatively (p < 0.05). Combination of tonsillectomy and anterior palatoplasty could be considered as a treatment option for snoring and OSA in selected groups of patients (mild-to-moderate OSA with mainly retropalatal obstruction). The surgical success was found to reduce with time, and BMI optimization should be emphasized as part of post-operative care.

PMID: 27838741 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fqFt71

Computed tomography findings of the bony portion of the Eustachian tube with or without patulous Eustachian tube patients.

Computed tomography findings of the bony portion of the Eustachian tube with or without patulous Eustachian tube patients.

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Nov 12;

Authors: Ikeda R, Kikuchi T, Oshima H, Miyazaki H, Hidaka H, Kawase T, Katori Y, Kobayashi T

Abstract
To investigate the bony segment of the Eustachian tube (ET) using sitting 3D-computed tomography (CT) scans in Patulous Eustachian tube (PET) patients. A retrospective survey of medical records in Sen-En Hospital identified 43 patients and 43 ears with PET and 30 patients and 30 ears with sensorineural hearing loss or vertigo patients as the control. Diagnosis of PET was based on the Proposal on PET Diagnosis Criteria announced by the Otological Society of Japan in 2012. Patients were examined by cone beam CT (Accuitomo; Morita, Kyoto, Japan) in the sitting position. The heights and widths at the tympanic orifice, the middle portion, and isthmus were measured. The lumen of the bony portion was divided into three shapes: peritubal cells (PTC) poor type, PTC good with prominence type, and PTC good without prominence type. In PET patients and the control group, the PTC poor type was identified in nine (21%) and seven ears (23%), PTC good with prominence type was identified in 14 (33%) and seven ears (23%), and PTC good without prominence type was identified in 19 (45%) and 16 ears (53%), respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups. At the tympanic orifice portion, the average height of the ET lumen was 5.99 ± 1.29 and 6.04 ± 1.41 mm, and the average width of the ET lumen was 2.81 ± 0.82 and 2.78 ± 0.57 mm in the PET and control groups, respectively. The PTC good with prominence type had a significantly smaller width in the tympanic orifice portion than the other types in each group (p < 0.05). The width of the ET lumen in the tympanic orifice averaged 2.87 ± 0.38 and 3.10 ± 0.45 mm in the PTC poor type, 2.23 ± 0.70 and 2.22 ± 0.48 mm in the PTC good with prominence type, and 3.21 ± 0.87 and 2.90 ± 0.50 mm in the PTC good without prominence type in the PET and control groups, respectively. The shape of the bony portion of the ET in PET patients is almost identical to that of controls. Thus, the bony portion has no influence on the pathology of patulous Eustachian tube syndrome. The PTC good with prominence type has a significantly smaller tympanic orifice portion width than the other types. Preoperative evaluation of the bony portion of the ET could provide useful information for ET surgeons.

PMID: 27838740 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fyfIzj

Influenza virus infections in patients with malignancies -- characteristics and outcome of the season 2014/15. A survey conducted by the Infectious Diseases Working Party (AGIHO) of the German Society of Haematology and Medical Oncology (DGHO).

Influenza virus infections in patients with malignancies -- characteristics and outcome of the season 2014/15. A survey conducted by the Infectious Diseases Working Party (AGIHO) of the German Society of Haematology and Medical Oncology (DGHO).

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2016 Nov 12;

Authors: Hermann B, Lehners N, Brodhun M, Boden K, Hochhaus A, Kochanek M, Meckel K, Mayer K, Rachow T, Rieger C, Schalk E, Weber T, Schmeier-Jürchott A, Schlattmann P, Teschner D, von Lilienfeld-Toal M

Abstract
Influenza virus infections (IVI) may pose a vital threat to immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from malignancies, but specific data on epidemiology and outcome in these patients are scarce. In this study, we collected data on patients with active cancer or with a history of cancer, presenting with documented IVI in eight centres in Germany. Two hundred and three patients were identified, suffering from haematological malignancies or solid tumours; 109 (54 %) patients had active malignant disease. Influenza A was detected in 155 (77 %) and Influenza B in 46 (23 %) of patients (genera not determined in two patients). Clinical symptoms were consistent with upper respiratory tract infection in 55/203 (27 %), influenza-like illness in 82/203 (40 %), and pneumonia in 67/203 (33 %). Anti-viral treatment with oseltamivir was received by 116/195 (59 %). Superinfections occurred in 37/203 (18 %), and admission on an intensive care unit was required in 26/203 (13 %). Seventeen patients (9 %) died. Independent risk factors for death were delayed diagnosis of IVI and bacterial or fungal superinfection, but not underlying malignancy or ongoing immunosuppression. In conclusion, patients with IVI show high rates of pneumonia and mortality. Early and rapid diagnosis is essential. The high rate of pneumonia and superinfections should be taken into account when managing IVI in these patients.

PMID: 27838792 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2fRF6kD

Upper Respiratory Tract Tuberculosis.

Upper Respiratory Tract Tuberculosis.

Microbiol Spectr. 2016 Nov;4(6):

Authors: Jindal SK, Jindal A, Agarwal R

Abstract
Upper respiratory tract involvement in cases of tuberculosis (TB) of the head and neck continues to be described in the most recent reports from several different regions, including some from developed countries. Laryngeal TB is the most common of all forms of upper respiratory tract TB (URT-TB). Pulmonary lesions in URT-TB are present in about 20% of adults and about 50 to 60% of children. Systemic manifestations are uncommon. URT-TB is especially seen in patients with a variety of risk factors, such as the presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, diabetes, smoking, alcoholism, drug abuse, malignancies, and use of immunosuppressive drugs. Nodules or ulcerative lesions are seen on morphological examination. Endoscopic examination is required for mucosal lesions. Diagnosis of TB is suspected on an epidemiological basis in high-prevalence countries or from the failure of a patient to respond to routine treatment. Smear and/or histopathological examinations help in establishing the final etiological diagnosis. Treatment includes standard anti-TB chemotherapy for at least 6 months with four primary drugs during the initial intensive phase of 2 months and two or three primary drugs during the remaining maintenance phase of 4 months. Treatment is modified on the basis of culture and sensitivity reports in cases of suspected drug resistance. Surgical intervention may be required for some patients with abscess formation and progressive disease unresponsive to medical therapy. Airway obstruction, although rare, even in fulminant cases may require tracheostomy for relief.

PMID: 27837744 [PubMed - in process]

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Clinical features and prognostic factors of children and adolescent patients with clival chordomas.

Clinical features and prognostic factors of children and adolescent patients with clival chordomas.

World Neurosurg. 2016 Nov 9;:

Authors: Zhai Y, Bai J, Gao H, Wang S, Li M, Gui S, Li C, Zhang Y

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Chordomas in children and adolescents are extremely uncommon, and minimal published information is available. Therefore, our aim was to research clinical features and prognostic factors associated with clival chordomas in younger patients.
METHODS: The study included 25 patients (10 males and 15 females). The average follow-up was 42.95 months (range: 2 to 108 months). Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Pearson correlation was used to perform correlation analysis. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression levels of Ki67, cytokeratin 8, platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β), and Brachyury.
RESULTS: The average age (± SD) of patients was 14.44 (3.44) years. Total resection (TR) and non-total resection (NTR) was achieved in 5 cases and 20 cases, respectively. The average OS of patients with a Karnofsky performance score (KPS) ≥90 or those in the TR group was significantly longer compared with that of patients with KPS<90 group (p=0.041) or those in the NTR group (p=0.0497). Patients with lower Ki67 expression levels had longer OS (p=0.0207). The PFS of patients with lower CK8 expression levels was significantly longer compared with those with higher levels (p=0.008). The expression levels of PDGFR-β was significantly correlated with those of Brachyury (p=0.016).
CONCLUSION: In children and adolescent patients with clival chordomas, higher pre-operative KPS, total resection, and lower levels of Ki67 and CK8 expression were favorable prognostic factors. PDGFR-β might play a role in tumorigenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of clival chordomas.

PMID: 27838423 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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cIMPACT-NOW (the Consortium to Inform Molecular and Practical Approaches to CNS Tumor Taxonomy): A new initiative in advancing nervous system tumor classification

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Microglia show altered morphology and reduced arborisation in human brain during aging and Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

Changes in microglia function are involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) for which ageing is the major risk factor. We evaluated microglial cell process morphologies and their grey matter coverage (arborized area) during ageing and in the presence and absence of AD pathology in autopsied human neocortex. Microglial cell processes were reduced in length, showed less branching and reduced arborized area with aging (case range 52-98 yrs). This occurred during normal ageing and without microglia dystrophy or changes in cell density. There was a larger reduction in process length and arborized area in AD compared to aged-matched control microglia. In AD cases, on average, 49-64% of microglia had discontinuous and/or punctate Iba1 labelled processes instead of continuous Iba1 distribution. Up to 16% of aged-matched control microglia displayed discontinuous or punctate features. There was no change in the density of microglial cell bodies in grey matter during ageing or AD. This demonstrates that human microglia show progressive cell process retraction without cell loss during ageing. Additional changes in microglia occur with AD including Iba1 protein puncta and discontinuity. We suggest that reduced microglial arborized area may be an aging-related correlate of AD in humans. These variations in microglial cells during ageing and in AD could reflect changes in neural-glial interactions which are emerging as key to mechanisms involved in ageing and neurodegenerative disease. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Effect of interim cement application on bond strength between resin cements and dentin: Immediate and delayed dentin sealing

Publication date: Available online 12 November 2016
Source:The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
Author(s): Vinícius C. Brigagão, Luis F.D. Barreto, Kellem A.S. Gonçalves, Marina Amaral, Rafael P. Vitti, Ana C.C. Neves, Laís R. Silva-Concílio
Statement of problemDespite the advances in materials and techniques, adhesion to dentin is challenging because of the complex composition of dentin's mineral, organic, and fluid phases.PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the bond strength of 2 different resin cements (conventional and self-adhesive) with or without previous dentin sealing and the effect of interim cement.Material and methodsForty-five molars were embedded into acrylic resin blocks and a flat dentin surface was exposed. Twenty teeth (n=5 per group) were treated with the conventional resin cement associated with etch-and-rinse or self-etch adhesive approaches, applied before (immediate dentin sealing) or after (delayed dentin sealing) the application/removal of interim cement. Another 25 teeth (n=5, per group) were treated with self-adhesive resin cement with (self-etch mode [immediate dentin sealing or delayed dentin sealing]) or without adhesive application. Furthermore, in the self-adhesive resin cement group, the application of polyacrylic acid for dentin etching before cementation was evaluated. Composite resin blocks were cemented onto flat, treated dentin surfaces, and the assemblies were sectioned into bar-shaped specimens for microtensile bond strength testing. The data were subjected to 1-way ANOVA followed by the post-hoc Tukey test (α=.05). The failure patterns were classified as cohesive, adhesive, or mixed.ResultsThe application of adhesive before interim cement (immediate dental sealing) promoted the highest values of bond strength for both resin cements (P<.001). For self-adhesive resin cement, polyacrylic acid-enhanced bond strength after the application of interim cement.ConclusionsThe application of dental adhesive immediately after tooth preparation (immediate dentin sealing) and before the use of an interim cement promoted the highest values of bond strength to dentin with the resin cements tested.



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Blocking Wnt Secretion Reduces Growth of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines Mostly Independent of β-Catenin Signaling

Publication date: December 2016
Source:Neoplasia, Volume 18, Issue 12
Author(s): Wenhui Wang, Lei Xu, Pengyu Liu, Kiran Jairam, Yuebang Yin, Kan Chen, Dave Sprengers, Maikel P. Peppelenbosch, Qiuwei Pan, Ron Smits
Aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays a key role in the onset and development of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), with about half of them acquiring mutations in either CTNNB1 or AXIN1. However, it remains unclear whether these mutations impose sufficient β-catenin signaling or require upstream Wnt ligand activation for sustaining optimal growth, as previously suggested for colorectal cancers. Using a panel of nine HCC cell lines, we show that siRNA-mediated knockdown of β-catenin impairs growth of all these lines. Blocking Wnt secretion, by either treatment with the IWP12 porcupine inhibitor or knockdown of WLS, reduces growth of most of the lines. Unexpectedly, interfering with Wnt secretion does not clearly affect the level of β-catenin signaling in the majority of lines, suggesting that other mechanisms underlie the growth-suppressive effect. However, IWP12 treatment did not induce autophagy or endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which may have resulted from the accumulation of Wnt ligands within the ER. Similar results were observed for colorectal cancer cell lines used for comparison in various assays. These results suggest that most colorectal and liver cancers with mutations in components of the β-catenin degradation complex do not strongly rely on extracellular Wnt ligand exposure to support optimal growth. In addition, our results also suggest that blocking Wnt secretion may aid in tumor suppression through alternative routes currently unappreciated.



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A Rare Tumor in the Cervical Sympathetic Trunk: Ganglioneuroblastoma

Ganglioneuroblastoma is a rare tumor with moderate malignancy, which is composed of mature ganglion cells and seen in sympathetic ganglia and adrenal medulla. The diagnosis is possible after cytological and immunohistochemical studies following a needle biopsy or surgical excision. There is no consensus regarding the need for chemo- or radiotherapy after surgery. In this case report, clinical behavior and diagnosis and treatment of the rare tumor cervical ganglioneuroblastoma were discussed.

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A Rare Tumor in the Cervical Sympathetic Trunk: Ganglioneuroblastoma

Ganglioneuroblastoma is a rare tumor with moderate malignancy, which is composed of mature ganglion cells and seen in sympathetic ganglia and adrenal medulla. The diagnosis is possible after cytological and immunohistochemical studies following a needle biopsy or surgical excision. There is no consensus regarding the need for chemo- or radiotherapy after surgery. In this case report, clinical behavior and diagnosis and treatment of the rare tumor cervical ganglioneuroblastoma were discussed.

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Combined Acute Haemolytic and Secondary Angle Closure Glaucoma following Spontaneous Intraocular Haemorrhages in a Patient on Warfarin

Background: To report the first described case of combined haemolytic and acute angle closure glaucoma secondary to spontaneous intraocular haemorrhages in a patient on excessive anticoagulation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reported in the literature presenting with raised intraocular pressure due to both mechanisms. Case Description: A 90-year-old woman presented with acute pain and reduction in vision in the left eye. Her intraocular pressure (IOP) was 55 mm Hg. There were red tinted blood cells in the anterior chamber giving it a reddish hue. The patient was known to have advanced wet macular degeneration. She was taking oral warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Her international normalised ratio (INR) was 7.7. B-scan ultrasound of posterior segment showed vitreous and suprachoroidal haemorrhages. An ultrabiomicroscopic examination confirmed open angles. A diagnosis of haemolytic glaucoma secondary to intraocular haemorrhages was made. The IOP was controlled medically. Warfarin was withdrawn and oral vitamin K therapy was initiated leading to a rapid INR reduction. Three days later, her anterior chamber became progressively shallower causing a secondary acute angle closure which was managed medically. After 2 months, the left IOP was well-controlled without any medications and the eye was not inflamed. Her vision in that eye remained perception of light. Conclusion: Patients with suprachoroidal haemorrhages should be closely monitored as they might subsequently develop acute angle closure despite an initially open angle and well-controlled INR and IOP. Excessive anticoagulation needs to be prevented to minimise the risk of sight-threatening complications.
Case Rep Ophthalmol 2016;7:233–238

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MagPy: A Python toolbox for controlling Magstim transcranial magnetic stimulators

Publication date: Available online 13 November 2016
Source:Journal of Neuroscience Methods
Author(s): Nicolas A. McNair
BackgroundTo date, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies manipulating stimulation parameters have largely used blocked paradigms. However, altering these parameters on a trial‐by‐trial basis in Magstim stimulators is complicated by the need to send regular (1Hz) commands to the stimulator. Additionally, effecting such control interferes with the ability to send TMS pulses or simultaneously present stimuli with high‐temporal precision.New methodThis manuscript presents the MagPy toolbox, a Python software package that provides full control over Magstim stimulators via the serial port. It is able to maintain this control with no impact on concurrent processing, such as stimulus delivery. In addition, a specially‐designed "QuickFire" serial cable is specified that allows MagPy to trigger TMS pulses with very low‐latency.ResultsIn a series of experimental simulations, MagPy was able to maintain uninterrupted remote control over the connected Magstim stimulator across all testing sessions. In addition, having MagPy enabled had no effect on stimulus timing − all stimuli were presented for precisely the duration specified. Finally, using the QuickFire cable, MagPy was able to elicit TMS pulses with sub‐millisecond latencies.Comparison with Existing methodsThe MagPy toolbox allows for experiments that require manipulating stimulation parameters from trial to trial. Furthermore, it can achieve this in contexts that require tight control over timing, such as those seeking to combine TMS with fMRI or EEG.ConclusionsTogether, the MagPy toolbox and QuickFire serial cable provide an effective means for controlling Magstim stimulators during experiments while ensuring high‐precision timing.



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