Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 01/20/17

Παρασκευή 20 Ιανουαρίου 2017

Editorial overview: Developmental neuroscience 2017

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology
Author(s): Paola Arlotta, Pierre Vanderhaeghen

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Anti-Fibrotic Effects of Chronic Treatment with the Selective FXR Agonist Obeticholic Acid in the Bleomycin-Induced Rat Model of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Paolo Comeglio, Sandra Filippi, Erica Sarchielli, Annamaria Morelli, Ilaria Cellai, Francesca Corcetto, Chiara Corno, Elena Maneschi, Alessandro Pini, Luciano Adorini, Gabriella Barbara Vannelli, Mario Maggi, Linda Vignozzi
Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) activation by obeticholic acid (OCA) has been demonstrated to inhibit inflammation and fibrosis development in liver, kidney and intestine in multiple disease models. FXR activation has also been demonstrated to suppress the inflammatory response and to promote lung repair after lung injury. This study investigated the protective effects of OCA treatment (3 or 10mg/kg/day) on inflammation, tissue remodeling and fibrosis in the bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis rat model. Effects of OCA treatment on morphological and molecular alterations of the lung, as well as remodeling of the alveoli and the right ventricle were also evaluated. Lung function was assessed by measuring airway resistance to inflation.In the acute phase (7 days), bleomycin promoted an initial thickening and fibrosis of the lung interstitium, with upregulation of genes related to epithelial proliferation, tissue remodeling and hypoxia. At 28 days, an evident increase in the deposition of collagen in the lungs was observed. This excessive deposition was accompanied by an upregulation of transcripts related to the extracellular matrix (TGFβ1, SNAI1 and SNAI2), indicating lung fibrosis. Administration of OCA protected against bleomycin-induced lung damage by suppressing molecular mechanisms related to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation and collagen deposition, with a dose-dependent reduction of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-6, as well as TGF-β1 and SNAI1 expression. Pirfenidone, a recently approved treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), significantly counteracted bleomycin-induced pro-fibrotic genes expression, but did not exert significant effects on IL-1β and IL-6. OCA treatment in bleomycin-challenged rats also improved pulmonary function, by effectively normalizing airway resistance to inflation and lung stiffness in vivo. Results with OCA were similar, or even superior, to those obtained with pirfenidone.In conclusion, our results suggest an important protective effect of OCA against bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis by blunting critical mediators in the pathogenesis of IPF.

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Individual Placement and Support in Spinal Cord Injury: A Longitudinal Observational Study of Employment Outcomes

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Lisa Ottomanelli, Lance L. Goetz, Scott D. Barnett, Eni Njoh, Thomas M. Dixon, Sally Ann Holmes, James LePage, Doug Ota, Sunil Sabharwal, Kevin T. White
ObjectiveTo determine the effects of a 24-month program of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) supported employment (SE) on employment outcomes for veterans with spinal cord injury (SCI).DesignLongitudinal, observational multi-site study of a single arm, non-randomized cohort.SettingSCI centers in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) (n=7).ParticipantsVeterans with SCI (n=213) enrolled during an episode of either inpatient hospital care (24.4%) or outpatient care (75.6%). More than half the sample (59.2%) had a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI).Intervention(s)IPS SE for 24 months.Main Outcome Measure(s)Competitive employment (CE).ResultsOver the 24-month period, 92 of the entire sample of 213 IPS participants obtained competitive jobs for an overall employment rate of 43.2%. For the subsample of participants without TBI enrolled as outpatients (n=69), 36 obtained competitive jobs for an overall employment rate of 52.2%. Overall, employed participants averaged 38.2 ± 29.7 weeks of employment, with an average time to first employment of 348.3 ± 220.0 days. Nearly 25% of 1^st jobs occurred within 4 to 6 months of beginning the program. Similar employment characteristics were observed in the subsample without TBI histories enrolled as outpatients.Conclusion(s): Almost half of the veterans with SCI participating in the 24-month IPS program as part of their ongoing SCI care achieved CE, consistent with their expressed preferences at the start of the study. Among a sub-sample of veterans without any TBI history enrolled as outpatients, employment rates exceeded 50%. Time to first employment was highly variable, but quite long in many instances. These findings support offering continued IPS services as part of ongoing SCI care to achieve positive employment outcomes.

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Longitudinal Investigation of Rehospitalization Patterns in Spinal Cord and Traumatic Brain Injury among Medicare Beneficiaries

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Christopher R. Pretz, James E. Graham, Addie Middleton, Amol M. Karmarkar, Kenneth J. Ottenbacher
ObjectiveTo model 12-month rehospitalization risk among Medicare beneficiaries receiving inpatient rehabilitation for SCI or TBI and to create two (SCI- and TBI-specific) interactive tools enabling users to generate monthly projected probabilities for rehospitalization based on an individual patient's clinical profile at discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.DesignSecondary data analysis.SettingMore than 1,100 inpatient rehabilitation facilities across the US.ParticipantsMedicare beneficiaries receiving inpatient rehabilitation for SCI or TBI.Main Outcome MeasureMonthly rehospitalization (yes/no) based on Medicare claims.ResultsResults are summarized through computer-generated interactive tools, which plot individual level trajectories of rehospitalization probabilities over time. Factors associated with the probability of rehospitalization over time are also provided, with different combinations of these factors generating different individual level trajectories. Four case studies are presented to demonstrate the variability in individual risk trajectories. Monthly rehospitalization probabilities for the individual high-risk TBI and SCI cases declined from 33-15% and 41-18%, respectively, over time, whereas the probabilities for the individual low-risk cases were much lower and stable over time: 5-2% and 6-2%, respectively.ConclusionRehospitalization is an undesirable and multifaceted health outcome. Classifying patients into meaningful risk strata at different stages of their recovery is a positive step forward in anticipating and managing their unique healthcare needs over time.

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Complications of Spinal Cord Injury Over the First Year After Discharge from Inpatient Rehabilitation

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Michael D. Stillman, Jason Barber, Steve Burns, Steve Williams, Jeanne M. Hoffman
ObjectivesTo describe the prevalence and cumulative incidence (CI) of secondary complications of spinal cord injury (SCI) in the first year after discharge from inpatient rehabilitation (IR). To evaluate potential associations between risk of complications and socio-demographic and injury-specific factors.DesignSecondary analysis of data collected for a single-site, single-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing telephone follow up to usual care.SettingTwo inpatient rehabilitation units comprising the Northwest Regional SCI System in Seattle, Washington.ParticipantsAdults ages 18 or over (n=169) within one year of discharge from IR following SCI.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresSelf-report of 10 secondary complications of SCI.ResultsParticipants experienced a mean of 4.7 complications over 12 months. The most frequently reported complications were urinary tract infection (UTI), autonomic dysreflexia (AD), and pressure ulcers with CIs of 62%, 43%, and 41%, respectively. Bone and soft tissue injuries (CI 35%) and bowel problems including "impaction or severe constipation" (CI 33%) were also common. Cumulative incidences of AD, decubitus ulcers, UTI, and problems with bladder were greater in participants with higher level and more complete injuries, and some recurrent complications were common. Age at injury and impairment level significantly affected rates of complications, and subjects developed an average of 2.33 distinct complications during the study period.ConclusionsPeople with SCI are at high-risk for a number of secondary complications over the first year after discharge from IR. While these data offer some insight into who with SCI is at highest risk for first time and recurrent complications, further study is needed to refine this understanding and to develop effective educational and prevention strategies.

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Predatory Open Access in Rehabilitation

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Andrea Manca, Gianluca Martinez, Lucia Cugusi, Daniele Dragone, Giuseppe Mercuro, Franca Deriu
Increasingly scholars and researchers are being solicited by predatory "open access" journals seeking manuscript submissions and abusing the author-pays model by charging authors with publishing fees without any or proper peer review. Such questionable editorial practices are threatening the reputation and credibility of scholarly publishing. To date no investigation has been conducted on this phenomenon in the field of rehabilitation. The present study attempts to identify specific predatory journals operating in this field, to quantify the phenomenon and its geographical distribution. Beall's list has been used to this end which, although not perfect, is a comprehensive and up-to-date report of predatory publishers. Of the 1,113 publishers on the list, 59 journals were identified, for a total of 5,610 published articles. The median number of articles published by each journal was 21 and the median amount of the article processing charges was 499 USD. Only 1 out of 59 journals was included in the Directory of Open Access Journals while 7 (12%) were indexed by PubMed. Most of the publishers were based in India (36%) followed by the USA (25%) and Pakistan (5%) and 25% were without a verifiable address.The data indicate that the threat of predatory publishing in rehabilitation is real. Physiatrists, physiotherapists, researchers and academics operating in this field are advised to use the tools available so as to recognize predatory practices before considering publishing in open-access journals.

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Lichen myxedematosus: suggestions on the newly proposed diagnostic criteria

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Total Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of Leucetta Alkaloids

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Panduka B. Koswatta, Sabha Kasiri, Jayanta Das, Arunoday Bhan, Heather M. Lima, Beatriz Garcia-Barboza, Nicole N. Khatibi, Muhammed Yousufuddin, Subhrangsu S. Mandal, Carl J. Lovely
The total synthesis of a number of representative natural products isolated from Leucetta and Clathrina sponges containing a polysubstituted 2-aminoimidazole are described. These syntheses take advantage of the site specific metallation reactions of 4,5-diiodoimidazoles resulting in the syntheses of three different classes of Leucetta derived natural products. The cytotoxicities of these natural products, along with several precursors in MCF7 cells were determined through an MTT growth assay. For comparative purposes a series of naphthimidazole-containing family members are included.

Graphical abstract

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Visual analytics dashboard to explore the relationship of unscheduled treatment interruptions and variations in airway management for children undergoing external beam radiation therapy

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Pandora Chua, Christine Hill-Kayser, Luis M. Ahumada, Ali Jalal, Allan F. Simpao, Arul M. Lingappan, Abbas Jawad, Mohamed A. Rehman, Jorge A. Gálvez

http://ift.tt/2jXPpER

What are appropriate physics manuscripts for submission to the Practical Radiation Oncology journal?

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Todd Pawlicki, James Chow, Sonja Dieterich, Geoffrey Hugo

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Real time intraoperative evaluation of implant quality and dose correction during prostate brachytherapy consistently improves target coverage using a novel image fusion and optimization program

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Michael J. Zelefsky, Gilad N. Cohen, Amandeep S. Taggar, Marisa Kollmeier, Sean McBride, Gig Mageras, Marco Zaider
PurposeTo describe the process and outcome of performing postimplantation dosimetric assessment and intraoperative dose correction during prostate brachytherapy using a novel image fusion–based treatment-planning program.Materials and MethodsTwenty-six consecutive patients underwent intraoperative real-time corrections of their dose distributions at the end of their permanent seed interstitial procedures. After intraoperatively planned seeds were implanted and while the patient remained in the lithotomy position, a cone-beam computed tomography scan was obtained to assess adequacy of the prescription dose coverage. The implanted seed positions were automatically segmented from the cone-beam images, fused onto a new set of acquired ultrasound images, and re-imported into the planning system and re-contoured. Dose distributions were re-calculated based upon actual implanted seed coordinates and re-contoured ultrasound images and reviewed. If any dose deficiencies within the prostate target were identified, additional needles and seeds were added. Once an implant was deemed acceptable, the procedure was completed and anesthesia was reversed.ResultsWhen the intraoperative ultrasound–based quality assurance assessment was performed after seed placement, the median V100 was 93% [range, 74% to 98%]. Prior to seed correction, 23% (6/26) of cases were noted to have V100<90%. Based on this intraoperative assessment and re-planning, additional seeds based on the re-plan were placed into dose-deficient regions within the target to improve target dose distributions. Post-correction, the median V100 was 97% [range, 93% to 99%]. Following intraoperative dose corrections, all implants achieved V100>90%.ConclusionsIn these patients, postimplantation evaluation during the actual prostate seed implant procedure was successfully applied to determine the need for additional seeds to correct dose deficiencies prior to anesthesia reversal. When applied, this approach should significantly reduce intraoperative errors and chances for suboptimal dose delivery during prostate brachytherapy.

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Irinotecan-induced radiation-recall myositis in a patient with metastatic breast cancer: a case report

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Nitin Prabhakar, Uma Goyal, Victor Gonzalez

http://ift.tt/2j54uq3

“Acute and late toxicity in high-risk prostate cancer patients treated with androgen suppression and hypofractionated pelvic radiotherapy”

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Sergio Faria, Russel Ruo, Fabio Cury, Marie Duclos, Luis Souhami
PurposeTo report acute and late toxicity rates in patients with high-risk prostate cancer treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and moderate hypofractionated radiotherapy (HypoRT) to the prostate and nodal areas.Material and MethodsPatients with localized, high-risk prostate cancer were treated with a HypoRT regimen of 60Gy in 20 fractions (4weeks) to the prostate volume while the nodal areas received 44Gy in the same 20 fractions delivered with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with a simultaneous integrated boost technique. ADT started 2–3months before HypoRT and was given to all patients. Acute and late toxicity was prospectively assessed and graded according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.Results105 patients treated between September/2010 and November/2013 were reviewed. Median follow up is 41months with 97% of patients followed for more than 26months. Median ADT duration was 18months. Acute grade 2 or higher gastrointestinal (GI) or genitourinary (GU) toxicity was seen in 18 (17%) and 19 (17%) patients respectively, with only 1 and 3 patients experiencing either a GI or GU acute grade 3 toxicity. The worst grade 2 or higher late GI and GU toxicity was seen in 7 (7%) and 8 (8%) patients, respectively. There was no grade 4 or 5 toxicity. At the last follow-up, the rate of grade=2 GI and GU toxicity was 5% and 3%, respectively with no residual grade≥3 toxicity. The 48-month actuarial progression free survival is 82%.ConclusionADT with moderate HypoRT delivered with IMRT and an integrated simultaneous boost to the prostate (60Gy) and pelvic nodes (44Gy) in 20 fractions is feasible and well tolerated. This approach shortens treatment duration, is convenient to patients and the health system and its results support a randomized trial.SummaryWe report toxicity results of moderate hypofractionated radiotherapy delivered to the prostate (60Gy in 20 fractions) and pelvic nodal (44Gy in 20 fractions) volumes in patients with high-risk prostate cancer treated concurrently with androgen deprivation therapy. Toxicity was prospectively assessed. After a median follow up of 41months, this regimen proved to be feasible and well-tolerated.

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Long-term usability and bio-integration of polyimide-based intra-neural stimulating electrodes

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 122
Author(s): S. Wurth, M. Capogrosso, S. Raspopovic, J. Gandar, G. Federici, N. Kinany, A. Cutrone, A. Piersigilli, N. Pavlova, R. Guiet, G. Taverni, J. Rigosa, P. Shkorbatova, X. Navarro, Q. Barraud, G. Courtine, S. Micera
Stimulation of peripheral nerves has transiently restored lost sensation and has the potential to alleviate motor deficits. However, incomplete characterization of the long-term usability and bio-integration of intra-neural implants has restricted their use for clinical applications. Here, we conducted a longitudinal assessment of the selectivity, stability, functionality, and biocompatibility of polyimide-based intra-neural implants that were inserted in the sciatic nerve of twenty-three healthy adult rats for up to six months. We found that the stimulation threshold and impedance of the electrodes increased moderately during the first four weeks after implantation, and then remained stable over the following five months. The time course of these adaptations correlated with the progressive development of a fibrotic capsule around the implants. The selectivity of the electrodes enabled the preferential recruitment of extensor and flexor muscles of the ankle. Despite the foreign body reaction, this selectivity remained stable over time. These functional properties supported the development of control algorithms that modulated the forces produced by ankle extensor and flexor muscles with high precision. The comprehensive characterization of the implant encapsulation revealed hyper-cellularity, increased microvascular density, Wallerian degeneration, and infiltration of macrophages within the endoneurial space early after implantation. Over time, the amount of macrophages markedly decreased, and a layer of multinucleated giant cells surrounded by a capsule of fibrotic tissue developed around the implant, causing an enlargement of the diameter of the nerve. However, the density of nerve fibers above and below the inserted implant remained unaffected. Upon removal of the implant, we did not detect alteration of skilled leg movements and only observed mild tissue reaction. Our study characterized the interplay between the development of foreign body responses and changes in the electrical properties of actively used intra-neural electrodes, highlighting functional stability of polyimide-based implants over more than six months. These results are essential for refining and validating these implants and open a realistic pathway for long-term clinical applications in humans.

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In vivo imaging of β-galactosidase stimulated activity in hepatocellular carcinoma using ligand-targeted fluorescent probe

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 122
Author(s): Eun-Joong Kim, Rajesh Kumar, Amit Sharma, Byungkwon Yoon, Hyun Min Kim, Hyunseung Lee, Kwan Soo Hong, Jong Seung Kim
Development of targeted, selective, and noninvasive fluorescent probes for in vivo visualization of tumor-associated overexpressed enzymes are highly anticipated for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Herein, we developed a noninvasive fluorescent probe (DCDHF-βgal) for the sensitive detection, and in vivo visualization of β-galactosidase in hepatocyte HepG2 cells and its xenograft model. As a model system for in vivo targeted imaging, DCDHF-βgal possessing galactose unit selectively target hepatocyte and monitor the β-galactosidase activity with deep tissue penetration, and low background interference. DCDHF-βgal was activated by intracellular β-galactosidases as the driving force for the release of NIR fluorophore, thereby exhibiting ratiometric optical response. Initial fluorescence emission measured at 615 nm was changed to fluorescence at 665 nm upon activation of DCDHF-βgal with β-galactosidase. Ratiometric fluorescence detection of β-galactosidase was also observed in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and tumor xenograft. The noninvasive in vivo optical imaging facilitated by targeted and enzyme-activated imaging agent would be useful in various biomedical and diagnostic applications.

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Tuning physical properties and BMP-2 release rates of injectable hydrogel systems for an optimal bone regeneration effect

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 122
Author(s): Bo-Bae Seo, Jeong-Tae Koh, Soo-Chang Song
For a substance to be used as a drug delivery carrier and tissue inducible material for a target disease, its drug release rate and physical properties should be optimized to facilitate the healing process. We developed multi-tunable hydrogel systems with various physical properties and release behaviors to determine the optimal conditions for bone regeneration. Five injectable poly(phosphazene) hydrogels were developed with different types and amounts of anionic side-chains. The five polymer hydrogels showed considerably different in vitro and in vivo performances for sol-gel phase transition, dissolution/degradation, water uptake, and pore size. Furthermore, bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) was loaded into the polymer hydrogels by forming nano-sized ionic-complexes with each polymer. The five types of nanocomplex hydrogels showed completely different BMP-2 release rates. By administering each nanocomplex hydrogel to mouse calvarial, we identified the most adapted nanocomplex hydrogel system for effective bone regeneration. The BMP-2 release rate was the most important factor in effective bone regeneration. Finally, the bone regeneration effect of the optimized hydrogel system was investigated in a critical-sized calvarial defect model.

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Tailoring polymeric hybrid micelles with lymph node targeting ability to improve the potency of cancer vaccines

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 122
Author(s): Qin Zeng, Hanmei Li, Hao Jiang, Jiao Yu, Ying Wang, Huan Ke, Tao Gong, Zhirong Zhang, Xun Sun
It has been widely accepted that lymph nodes (LNs) are critical targets of cancer vaccines and particles sized between 10 and 100 nm with a neutral or negative surface charge are preferred for lymphatic transfer after subcutaneous or intradermal injection. However their limited uptake by antigen presenting cells (APCs) and inadequate retention within LNs undoubtedly restrains their strength on activating T cell immunity. Here, we address this issue by tailoring the physicochemical properties of polymeric hybrid micelles (HMs), which are self-assembled from two amphiphilic diblock copolymers, poly-(ethylene glycol) phosphorethanolamine (PEG-PE) and polyethylenimine-stearic acid conjugate (PSA) via hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. We successfully encapsulate melanoma antigen peptide Trp2 and Toll-like receptor-9 (TLR-9) agonist CpG ODN into HMs with a size of sub-30 nm. Their surface characteristics which are found closely related to their in vivo kinetics can be modulated by simply adjusting the molar ratio of PEG-PE and PSA. Our results demonstrated the optimized HMs with an equal mol of PEG-PE and PSA can potently target proximal LNs where their cargos are efficiently internalized by DCs. Furthermore, HMs mediated Trp2/CpG delivery system greatly expands antigen specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and offers a strong anti-tumor effect in a lung metastatic melanoma model.

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Editorial board

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 121

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ASCIA News

Thunderstorm asthma epidemic

Dec 9, 2016: The recent thunderstorm asthma epidemic in Melbourne and its tragic consequences highlight the need for more research, education and awareness in this area. Thunderstorm asthma is thought to be triggered by thunderstorms that have rapid changes in wind, temperature and humidity, which cause pollen grains to absorb moist...
ASCIA highlights from 2016 and plans for 2017

Nov 28, 2016: As the end of 2016 approaches it is timely to reflect on the significant development, achievements and collaborations of ASCIA over the past year, and plans for 2017. Thank you to ASCIA members and supporters for your greatly appreciated contributions throughout 2016. We look forward to continuing to work wi...
Allergy and Immunology Foundation of Australasia (AIFA) Research Grants

Nov 16, 2016: AIFA has provided $100,000 in research grants to support 6 projects over the past 3 years. This funding includes two $10,000 grants announced this month, one supporting research into Jack Jumper Ant immunotherapy and the second that will improve development of a drug for allergy. For information about these grants go ...
AusPollen Apps for people with allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and allergic asthma

Nov 8, 2016: Local AusPollen Apps provide information on daily levels of pollen in the air and are currently available for Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney at http://ift.tt/2iVezlV downloading the free App for iTunes or Google Play, and through Twitter or Facebook. Completion of a short (~5 minute) online questio...
National Allergy Strategy - KABAM survey

Nov 3, 2016: THANK YOU to all who participated in the National Allergy Strategy survey for teens and young adults (KABAM survey). The response has been overwhelming and we look forward to reviewing the information to ensure we develop suitable resources for 12-24 year olds with severe allergy. Stay tuned for updates on resource devel...
ASCIA 2016 Conference Report

Sep 21, 2016: The ASCIA 2016 conference provided more than 600 delegates with a unique opportunity to hear from 6 international experts and more than 30 local experts on a wide range of areas in allergy and clinical immunology. The conference also included 79 posters, 48 poster presentations and 16 clinical grand rounds presentations...
AIFA seed funding leads to NHMRC grant

Aug 23, 2016: We are proud to announce that the AusPollen project has been awarded $626,442 in the latest round of NHMRC Partnership Project grants with a further $653,129 in partner organisation in kind and cash support. AusPollen, the Australian Pollen Allergen Partnership, will build, implement and evaluate the first standardised ...
Updated ASCIA Action Plans for Anaphylaxis and Allergic Reactions

Aug 10, 2016: ASCIA has released updated Action Plans for Anaphylaxis and Allergic Reactions on its website: http://ift.tt/1yS3Z48 The main changes are an increased emphasis of key messages, inclusion of images to show how to position a person with anaphylaxi...
ASCIA releases guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention

May 18, 2016: ASCIA Guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention and information on how to introduce solid foods to infants have been released on the ASCIA website: http://ift.tt/2jILsWY These guidelines provide parents and health professionals with advice and recommendations relevant to...
Federal Government announces funding of $500k for National Allergy Strategy implementation

May 16, 2016: It is with great pleasure that we confirm that the federal government's funding of $500k for National Allergy Strategy implementation was announced at the launch of Food Allergy Week in Sydney on 16 May 2016, by the Minister for Health, the Hon Sussan Ley MP. The National Allergy Strategy was launched in...
Changes to adrenaline autoinjector labels

Apr 19 2016: In Australia, adrenaline is the approved name of the ingredient in autoinjector devices used for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Currently, the only available autoinjector to treat anaphylaxis in Australia and New Zealand is supplied under the brand name EpiPen®. In some countries, including the USA, adrenaline i...

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ASCIA News

Thunderstorm asthma epidemic

Dec 9, 2016: The recent thunderstorm asthma epidemic in Melbourne and its tragic consequences highlight the need for more research, education and awareness in this area. Thunderstorm asthma is thought to be triggered by thunderstorms that have rapid changes in wind, temperature and humidity, which cause pollen grains to absorb moist...
ASCIA highlights from 2016 and plans for 2017

Nov 28, 2016: As the end of 2016 approaches it is timely to reflect on the significant development, achievements and collaborations of ASCIA over the past year, and plans for 2017. Thank you to ASCIA members and supporters for your greatly appreciated contributions throughout 2016. We look forward to continuing to work wi...
Allergy and Immunology Foundation of Australasia (AIFA) Research Grants

Nov 16, 2016: AIFA has provided $100,000 in research grants to support 6 projects over the past 3 years. This funding includes two $10,000 grants announced this month, one supporting research into Jack Jumper Ant immunotherapy and the second that will improve development of a drug for allergy. For information about these grants go ...
AusPollen Apps for people with allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and allergic asthma

Nov 8, 2016: Local AusPollen Apps provide information on daily levels of pollen in the air and are currently available for Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney at http://ift.tt/2iVezlV downloading the free App for iTunes or Google Play, and through Twitter or Facebook. Completion of a short (~5 minute) online questio...
National Allergy Strategy - KABAM survey

Nov 3, 2016: THANK YOU to all who participated in the National Allergy Strategy survey for teens and young adults (KABAM survey). The response has been overwhelming and we look forward to reviewing the information to ensure we develop suitable resources for 12-24 year olds with severe allergy. Stay tuned for updates on resource devel...
ASCIA 2016 Conference Report

Sep 21, 2016: The ASCIA 2016 conference provided more than 600 delegates with a unique opportunity to hear from 6 international experts and more than 30 local experts on a wide range of areas in allergy and clinical immunology. The conference also included 79 posters, 48 poster presentations and 16 clinical grand rounds presentations...
AIFA seed funding leads to NHMRC grant

Aug 23, 2016: We are proud to announce that the AusPollen project has been awarded $626,442 in the latest round of NHMRC Partnership Project grants with a further $653,129 in partner organisation in kind and cash support. AusPollen, the Australian Pollen Allergen Partnership, will build, implement and evaluate the first standardised ...
Updated ASCIA Action Plans for Anaphylaxis and Allergic Reactions

Aug 10, 2016: ASCIA has released updated Action Plans for Anaphylaxis and Allergic Reactions on its website: http://ift.tt/1yS3Z48 The main changes are an increased emphasis of key messages, inclusion of images to show how to position a person with anaphylaxi...
ASCIA releases guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention

May 18, 2016: ASCIA Guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention and information on how to introduce solid foods to infants have been released on the ASCIA website: http://ift.tt/2jILsWY These guidelines provide parents and health professionals with advice and recommendations relevant to...
Federal Government announces funding of $500k for National Allergy Strategy implementation

May 16, 2016: It is with great pleasure that we confirm that the federal government's funding of $500k for National Allergy Strategy implementation was announced at the launch of Food Allergy Week in Sydney on 16 May 2016, by the Minister for Health, the Hon Sussan Ley MP. The National Allergy Strategy was launched in...
Changes to adrenaline autoinjector labels

Apr 19 2016: In Australia, adrenaline is the approved name of the ingredient in autoinjector devices used for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Currently, the only available autoinjector to treat anaphylaxis in Australia and New Zealand is supplied under the brand name EpiPen®. In some countries, including the USA, adrenaline i...

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ASCIA is a WAO member society

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Transoral surgery vs intensity-modulated radiotherapy for early supraglottic cancer: a systematic review.

Purpose of review: To provide clinicians with a critical review of outcomes for endolaryngeal surgery and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for early-stage supraglottic cancer. Recent findings: A total of 971 potential articles were reviewed, with inclusion of 14 studies comparing IMRT with transoral surgery. One study analyzed IMRT, one transoral robotic surgery, and the remaining were transoral laser microsurgery studies. A weighted average and 95% confidence interval of all surgery patients showed a local control of 90.36 +/- 1.14% (n = 118) for T1 lesions, 83.09 +/- 1.36% (n = 232) for T2 lesions, and 86.38 +/- 0.82% (n = 429) overall. The one study examining IMRT outcomes reported a local control of 70 +/- 10.07% and overall survival of 63% over 5 years for T2 lesions (n = 78), with no reported T1 data or secondary outcomes. Summary: Endolaryngeal surgery as definitive therapy for T1 and T2 supraglottic cancer has excellent local control. Although endolaryngeal surgery performed better than IMRT, the data are limited, and a definitive comparison with surgery cannot be made. Additional studies are required. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Adenoid cystic carcinoma evaluation and management: progress with optimism!

Purpose of review: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) when diagnosed presents several diagnostic and treatment challenges. The standard treatment of surgery and postoperative radiotherapy has remained the standard of care for the past 3 decades. The purpose of this review is to update what's been reported and what's new since the last review in 2004. Recent findings: As accurate a histological diagnosis and staging of disease should be achieved prior to commencing any treatment. Patients' prognosis, in the long term, is determined by the finding of any solid tumour component in the examined excised specimen. The continued treatment of patients with ACC by surgery and postoperative radiotherapy has not changed in the long-term tumour-free outcome of patients. The majority of patients die because of loco-regional failure and/or distant metastases. Optimism is being generated by the findings at the molecular and genetic level of ACC giving hope that nonsurgical treatment can be complemented by novel treatments that will improve patients' disease cure and improved long-term survival. Summary: The histological grading determined by optical methods has not advanced our selection of treatment and new recent research findings on molecular and genetic factors give new hopes to changing the ACC classification, determining differing treatments and thus influencing an improved and prolonged tumour-free survival for more patients. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2jInTNV

Swallowing after transoral surgery for oropharyngeal cancer: comparison with primary chemoradiotherapy outcomes.

Purpose of review: Survival equipoise is recognized between the contemporary surgical and oncological approaches to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treatment. Primary transoral surgery (TOS) options have emerged that utilize either laser or robotic techniques. Our review presents an overview of the evidence available for swallowing outcomes following TOS approaches and compares these with outcomes following primary oncological management. Recent findings: Meta-analysis of swallow outcomes following TOS or (chemo)radiotherapy is not possible given the heterogeneity of the available data. There are suggestions of less swallowing impairment following primary TOS, but the favourable selection of patients to these case series must be considered. Summary: Minimizing swallowing impairment following oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treatment, while ensuring oncological efficacy, should be a priority for head and neck healthcare providers. Primary TOS may offer an advantage to patients, but only through a team approach that considers how adjuvant oncological therapy could be tailored to individuals. High-quality clinical trials are in progress that will inform future practice. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2iUG0MR

Different branching patterns of the spinal accessory nerve: impact on neck dissection technique and postoperative shoulder function.

Purpose of review: Despite nerve-sparing surgery, postoperative shoulder morbidity remains high and significantly impacts patient's quality of life. This review will focus on recent findings of anatomical nuances of the cranial nerve XI (CN XI) along its course in the neck and possible reasons for postoperative morbidity. Recent findings: The most recent studies identified three different branching patterns of the CN XI in the neck. In type 1 (66%), the branch for trapezius muscle exits at the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (mSCM). In type 2 (22%), the branch for trapezius muscle takes off from the common trunk of the CN XI before it enters the mSCM. In type 3 (12%), the motor branch for trapezius muscle exits behind posterior border of mSCM but takes a more medial course to form macroganglia with cervical nerves. Cervical nerves may also contribute to innervation of the trapezius muscle in up to 39% of the cases, but the clinical importance of those connections is not known. Summary: If these anatomical patterns are not recognized and if cervical nerves are resected during neck dissection, shoulder morbidity remains high. The role of cervical nerves in innervation of the trapezius muscle is still controversial and unpredictable. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2jIl0gn

Transoral surgery vs intensity-modulated radiotherapy for early supraglottic cancer: a systematic review.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma evaluation and management: progress with optimism!

Swallowing after transoral surgery for oropharyngeal cancer: comparison with primary chemoradiotherapy outcomes.

Different branching patterns of the spinal accessory nerve: impact on neck dissection technique and postoperative shoulder function.

Synthesis of high crystalline syndiotactic 1,2-polybutadienes and study on their reinforcing effect on cis-1,4 polybutadiene

Publication date: 24 February 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 111
Author(s): Weijing Pan, Huafeng Chen, Jingshan Mu, Wei Li, Feng Jiang, Gengsheng Weng, Yanming Hu, Dirong Gong, Xuequan Zhang
A novel compound diethyl acetylphosphonate has been explored as efficient additive in iron based catalyst for stereo-polymerization of 1,3-butadiene to afford high crystalline 1,2-syndiotactic polybutadiene. Excellent 1,2 selectivity in range of 91.0–98.4% with controllable crystallinity has been achieved at high catalytic efficiency in wide ranges of cocatalyst and additive feeding as well as at large temperature scope. As reinforcing agent, two crystalline polymers differing in crystallinity 4.4% and 51.9% are blended and co-cured with cis-1,4 polybutadiene (PB) with 10 wt-%, providing samples PB1 and PB2, respectively. SEM from the sample fracturesurface shows the s-PBD particles are intimately mixed and homogeneously dispersed in PB matrix due to the strong interfacial interaction. The analysis of the mechanical properties of sample PB2 finds the tensile strength of increases by one-fold and the elongation at break increases by two-fold when head to head comparison to those of the CB filled PB, while the shear modulus G′ and loss factor (tan δ) are as good as those charged with CB. These results highlight the role of s-PBD as reinforcing agent of PB rubber, yielding high performance rubber materials with improved mechanical properties.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2jITsHH

Design and synthesis of polyaniline-grafted reduced graphene oxide via azobenzene pendants for high-performance supercapacitors

Publication date: 10 February 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 110
Author(s): Umashankar Male, Jeevan Kumar Reddy Modigunta, Do Sung Huh
To increase the pseudo-capacitance and cycle stability of polyaniline (PANI), PANI was covalently attached to reduced graphene oxide (rGO) via azobenzene (Azo) units. The rGO-Azo composite was first synthesized and subsequently used for the in situ chemical polymerization of aniline to form PANI-rGO-Azo composites. The Azo units on rGO functioned as spacers to prevent the agglomeration of rGO and increase the solubility of rGO to assist in the in situ polymerization of aniline to form PANI-rGO-Azo composite. The Azo units act as linkers for the covalent attachment of PANI chains to graphene, thereby enhance the overall performance of the composite materials. The electrochemical properties of the composites were evaluated by fabricating symmetric two-electrode cell configuration and also compared with three electrode system. The charge transfer resistance of PANI is reduced from 6.6 Ω to 2.9 Ω, by grafting PANI onto rGO-Azo. The specific capacitance of PANI-rGO-Azo (328 F g^-1) is higher than that of PANI (270 F g^-1) and rGO-Azo (114 F g^-1). The electrochemical performance of PANI was enhanced by grafting of PANI onto rGO-Azo.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2jIQe75

Process induced alignment of gold nano-rods (GNRs) in thermoplastic polymer composites with tailored optical properties

Publication date: 10 February 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 110
Author(s): Devon A. Boyne, Alice M. Savage, Mark H. Griep, Frederick L. Beyer, Joshua A. Orlicki
Manipulation of the electronic and optical properties of plasmonic nanomaterials offers unique and exciting opportunities for several fields including opto-electronics, bio-medical engineering and photovoltaics. In particular, gold nanorods (GNR) represent a class of plasmonic nanomaterials that provide tunable optical properties from the visible to the near infrared regime. Herein, we have developed a highly effective method to prepare polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) doped with GNR additives utilizing extrusion and injection molding. A key outcome is that the process is amenable to scalable manufacturing and can produce highly reproducible PNCs with excellent optical properties. The resultant PNCs display good particle dispersion, minimal aggregation and a high retention of the optical properties as confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The nano-additives are incorporated into different thermoplastics to demonstrate the versatility of this method for different matrices and to demonstrate stability over the extrusion processing temperature range (235–335 °C). Furthermore, the tractability of this method is demonstrated by incorporating GNRs with different morphologies (aspect ratio, stabilizing layer, etc.). Finally, partial flow-induced alignment is demonstrated, the degree of which is modulated by the length and monodispersity of the GNR nano-additive. Ultimately, we report an optimized methodology to produce high quality GNR-PNCs with tailorable optical properties that can be adapted for scalable manufacturing.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2jIWb3Z

Amphiphilic silsesquioxane nanoparticles by hydrolytic condensation of Y-shaped triethoxysilanes having hydroxyl and fluoroalkyl groups: Synthesis, self-assembly, and surface properties

Publication date: 10 February 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 110
Author(s): Ryo Koizumi, Tetsuya Kimura, Kazuhiro Nakabayashi, Hideharu Mori
Two Y-shaped molecules combining two dissimilar (hydrophilic and hydrophobic) units with a reactive triethoxysilane moiety were synthesized by Michael addition reaction of (aminopropyl)triethoxysilane with 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), followed by the addition of 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl acrylate (TFEA) or 1H,1H,5H-octafluoropentyl acrylate (OFPA). Hydrolytic condensations of the Y-shaped triethoxysilane precursors proceeded as homogeneous systems in acetone in presence of the acidic catalyst to afford amphiphilic silsesquioxane nanoparticles (SQ-NPs) having hydroxyl and fluoroalkyl groups (HEA/TFEA-SQ and HEA/OFPA-SQ). Scanning force microscope (SFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) measurements indicated the formation of nanoparticles (average particle diameter is about 2.0 nm) with reasonable molecular weights and low dispersities (Mn = 5100-5400, Mw/Mn = 1.22–1.36) without aggregation. Characteristic assembled structures and surface properties of the amphiphilic SQ-NPs in different solvents were also evaluated. Flexible self-standing films were obtained from the amphiphilic SQ-NPs without any additional compounds, which are due to intermolecular hydrogen bondings.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2jIRoiZ

Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract protects human foreskin melanocytes from oxidative stress in vitro and potentiates hair follicle pigmentation ex vivo

Abstract

Objective

To examine the ability of an extract from traditional Chinese medicine, Polygonum multiflorum Radix, to protect melanocyte viability from oxidative stress, a key mechanism in the initiation and progression of hair greying.

Methods

To assess the antioxidant capacity of Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract, primary human foreskin melanocytes were treated with a commercially available Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract added to culture medium and exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), using intracellular reactive oxygen species concentrations and glutathione/protein ratios as endpoints. To improve solubility for cosmetic uses, a new Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract was derived. As hair graying is the consequence of melanocyte disappearance in an oxidative stress environment, we checked if the anti-oxidant capacity of the new Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract could preserve melanocyte viability in response to H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress, and preserve pigmentation within ex vivo human hair follicles.

Results

In vitro treatment of primary human foreskin melanocytes with traditional available Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract resulted in decreased intracellular ROS accumulation in response to H₂O₂ exposure with a concomitant preservation of glutathione to protein ratio, consistent with a protective response against H₂O₂ exposure and demonstrating the promise of this extract for protecting melanocytes against oxidative stress. Melanocytes treated with the improved Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract exhibited attenuated H₂O₂-induced cell death, demonstrating a clear cytoprotective effect. Treatment of ex vivo human hair follicles with the improved Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract resulted in a higher level of melanin compared to vehicle-treated controls, demonstrating an ex vivo protective effect on hair pigmentation.

Conclusion

Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract protects in vitro primary human foreskin melanocytes from the deleterious effects of H₂O₂-exposure and improves pigmentation within ex vivo human hair follicles, demonstrating the utility of Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract as a potential active ingredient for the protection of melanocytes against premature death. This data provides in vitro mechanistic evidence consistent with existing in vivo studies for the use of Polygonum multiflorum Radix extract as a strategy for the prevention of oxidative-stress induced hair greying, in line with traditional Polygonum multiflorum Radix uses.

http://ift.tt/2jIOaf3

Neural Representations of Belief Concepts: A Representational Similarity Approach to Social Semantics

The present experiment identified neural regions that represent a class of concepts that are independent of perceptual or sensory attributes. During functional magnetic resonance imaging scanning, participants viewed names of social groups (e.g. Atheists, Evangelicals, and Economists) and performed a one-back similarity judgment according to 1 of 2 dimensions of belief attributes: political orientation (Liberal to Conservative) or spiritualism (Spiritualist to Materialist). By generalizing across a wide variety of social groups that possess these beliefs, these attribute concepts did not coincide with any specific sensory quality, allowing us to target conceptual, rather than perceptual, representations. Multi-voxel pattern searchlight analysis was used to identify regions in which activation patterns distinguished the 2 ends of both dimensions: Conservative from Liberal social groups when participants focused on the political orientation dimension, and spiritual from Materialist groups when participants focused on the spiritualism dimension. A cluster in right precuneus exhibited such a pattern, indicating that it carries information about belief-attribute concepts and forms part of semantic memory—perhaps a component particularly concerned with psychological traits. This region did not overlap with the theory of mind network, which engaged nearby, but distinct, parts of precuneus. These findings have implications for the neural organization of conceptual knowledge, especially the understanding of social groups.

http://ift.tt/2iLPkaB

Local inflammation exacerbates cutaneous manifestations in a murine autoimmune pemphigus model

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Sachiko Ono, Gyohei Egawa, Akihiko Kitoh, Teruki Dainichi, Atsushi Otsuka, Saeko Nakajima, Tetsuya Honda, Kenji Kabashima

Teaser

Capsule summary: Local inflammation enhances autoantibody deposition in the skin and exacerbates murine pemphigus manifestations as a representative of autoantibody-mediated disorders, therefore prevention of excessive external stimulants might be important for the disease management.

http://ift.tt/2jXkoAU

In vivo near-infrared imaging and phototherapy of tumors using a cathepsin B-activated fluorescent probe

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 122
Author(s): Xiaoqiang Chen, Dayoung Lee, Sungsook Yu, Gyoungmi Kim, Songyi Lee, Yejin Cho, Haengdueng Jeong, Ki Taek Nam, Juyoung Yoon
The development of multifunctional reagents for simultaneous specific near-infrared (NIR) imaging and phototherapy of tumors is of great significance. This work describes the design of a cathepsin B-activated fluorescent probe (CyA-P-CyB) and its applications as an NIR imaging probe for tumor cells and as a phototherapy reagent for tumors. In vitro experiments demonstrated that CyA-P-CyB was activated via the cleavage of a peptide linker by cathepsin B in tumor cells to produce fluorescence in the NIR region based on a FRET mechanism. MTT assays showed that the phototoxicity of CyA-P-CyB toward cells depended on the activity of cathepsin B, and the probe exhibited specific phototoxicity toward tumor cells. CyA-P-CyB was also successfully applied to the in vivo imaging and phototherapy of tumors. Histological analysis indicated that CyA-P-CyB had no cytotoxic effects on seven mouse tissues (lung, liver, heart, kidney, pancreas, spleen and brain) after the CyA-P-CyB treatment and laser irradiation.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2iLIHoQ

Allergen-dependent oxidant formation requires purinoceptor activation of ADAM 10 and prothrombin

Publication date: Available online 19 January 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Jie Chen, Jihui Zhang, Theresa Tachie-Menson, Neha Shukla, David R. Garrod, Clive Robinson

http://ift.tt/2jJA7Xm

Long-term usability and bio-integration of polyimide-based intra-neural stimulating electrodes

Notch signaling in T cells is essential for allergic airway inflammation, but expression of Notch ligands Jagged1 and Jagged2 on dendritic cells is dispensable

Publication date: Available online 19 January 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Irma Tindemans, Melanie Lukkes, Marjolein J.W. de Bruijn, Bobby W.S. Li, Menno van Nimwegen, Derk Amsen, Alex KleinJan, Rudi W. Hendriks
BackgroundAllergic asthma is characterized by a T helper 2 (Th2) response induced by dendritic cells (DCs) that present inhaled allergen. Although the mechanisms by which they instruct Th2 differentiation are still poorly understood, expression of the Notch ligand Jagged on DCs has been implicated in this process.ObjectiveTo establish whether Notch signaling, induced by DCs, is critical for house-dust mite (HDM) driven allergic airway inflammation (AAI) in vivo.MethodsThe induction of Notch ligand expression on DC subsets by HDM was quantified by qRT-PCR. We used a HDM-driven asthma mouse model to compare the capacity of Jagged1 and Jagged2 single and double-deficient DCs to induce AAI. In addition, we studied AAI in mice with a T cell-specific deletion of RBPJκ, a downstream effector of Notch signaling.ResultsHDM exposure promoted the expression of Jagged1, but not Jagged2, on DCs. In agreement with published findings, in vitro differentiated and HDM-pulsed Jagged1 and Jagged2 double-deficient DCs lacked the capacity to induce AAI. However, following in vivo intranasal sensitization and challenges with HDM, DC-specific Jagged1, Jagged2 single or double-deficient mice developed an eosinophilic airway inflammation and Th2 cell activation phenotype that was not different from that in control littermates. In contrast, RBPJκ-deficient mice failed to develop AAI and airway hyperreactivity.ConclusionOur results show that the Notch signaling pathway in T cells is crucial for the induction of Th2-mediated AAI in a HDM-driven asthma model, but that expression of Jagged1 or Jagged2 on DCs is not required.Clinical ImplicationsThe Notch signaling pathway in T cells is critical for development of house-dust mite driven allergic airway inflammation in mice, indicating it could be a potential therapeutic target in asthma.

Teaser

Although Notch signaling in T cells is critical for development of T helper2 cell-driven house-dust mite mediated allergic airway inflammation in mice, expression of the Notch ligands Jagged1 and Jagged2 on dendritic cells is dispensable.

http://ift.tt/2jJCAAS

In vivo imaging of β-galactosidase stimulated activity in hepatocellular carcinoma using ligand-targeted fluorescent probe

Cysteinyl leukotriene E4 activates human ILC2s and enhances the effect of prostaglandin D2 and epithelial cytokines

Publication date: Available online 20 January 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Maryam Salimi, Linda Stöger, Wei Liu, Simei Go, Ian Pavord, Paul Klenerman, Graham Ogg, Luzheng Xue
BackgroundGroup 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are a potential innate source of type-2 cytokines in the pathogenesis of allergic conditions. Epithelial cytokines (IL-33, IL-25 and TSLP) and mast cell mediators (PGD2) are critical activators of ILC2s. Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs) including leukotriene C4 (LTC4), D4 and E4 are metabolites of arachidonic acid and mediate inflammatory responses. Their role in human ILC2s is still poorly understood.ObjectivesWe sought to determine the role of cysLTs and their relationship with other ILC2 stimulators in the activation of human ILC2s.MethodsFor ex vivo studies, fresh blood from patients with atopic dermatitis and healthy controls was analyzed with flow cytometry. For in vitro studies, ILC2s were isolated and cultured. The effects of cysLTs, PGD2, IL-33, IL-25, TSLP, IL-2 alone or in combination on ILC2s were defined using chemotaxis, apoptosis, ELISA, luminex, qPCR and flow cytometric assays. The effect of endogenous cysLTs was assessed using human mast cell supernatants.ResultsHuman ILC2s expressed the leukotriene receptor, CysLT1, and this was increased in atopic individuals. CysLTs, particularly LTE4, induced migration, reduced apoptosis and promoted cytokine productions in human ILC2s in vitro. LTE4 enhanced the effect of PGD2, IL-25, IL-33 and TSLP resulting in increased production of type-2 and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. The effect of LTE4 was inhibited by montelukast, a CysLT1 antagonist. Interestingly, addition of IL-2 to LTE4 and epithelial cytokines significantly amplified the activation of ILC2s and upregulated expression of the receptors for IL-33 and IL-25.ConclusionCysLTs, particularly LTE4, are important contributors to the triggering of human ILC2s in inflammatory responses, particularly when combined with other ILC2 activators.

Teaser

The investigation on the role of cysLTs in human ILC2s leads to improved understanding of the mechanism of ILC2 activation. In environments where multiple activators of ILC2s occur simultaneously, these studies help to identify potential therapeutic strategies for allergic disorders.

http://ift.tt/2jXpygA

Tuning physical properties and BMP-2 release rates of injectable hydrogel systems for an optimal bone regeneration effect

Niacin intake and incident adult-onset atopic dermatitis in women

Publication date: Available online 19 January 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Aaron M. Drucker, Wen-Qing Li, Min Kyung Park, Tricia Li, Abrar A. Qureshi, Eunyoung Cho

Teaser

Supplemental nicotinamide, a derivative of niacin, has been reported to decrease transepidermal water loss. However, in this analysis including 67,643 women from the Nurses' Health Study 2, niacin intake was not protective for atopic dermatitis.

http://ift.tt/2jJC5a6

JAK1 gain-of-function causes an autosomal dominant immune dysregulatory and hypereosinophilic syndrome

Publication date: Available online 19 January 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Kate L. Del Bel, Robert J. Ragotte, Aabida Saferali, Susan Lee, Suzanne M. Vercauteren, Sara A. Mostafavi, Richard A. Schreiber, Julie S. Prendiville, Min S. Phang, Jess Halperin, Nicholas Au, John M. Dean, Emily Jewels, Anne K. Junker, Paul C. Rogers, Michael Seear, Margaret L. McKinnon, Stuart E. Turvey

Teaser

Germline JAK1 gain-of-function mutations cause autosomal dominant immune dysregulation and hypereosinophilia with eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, massive hepatosplenomegaly and severe atopic dermatitis that can be successfully treated with ruxolitinib, an oral JAK1/2 inhibitor.

http://ift.tt/2jXwzOq

Tailoring polymeric hybrid micelles with lymph node targeting ability to improve the potency of cancer vaccines

Intergroup language attitudes and their sources: The case of Tehrani and Jonoub-Shahri Tehrani

The current study was aimed at investigating the language attitudes of Tehrani speakers (N = 188) toward an ingroup (Tehrani) and outgroup (JS Tehrani) variety. In doing so, a questionnaire of 10 scales was utilized. The 10 scales were later factor-analyzed into status, solidarity, and ethnic pride. Statistical analyses (i.e. ANOVA and Tukey) revealed that, firstly, each variety was rated differently across the 3 scales, and, on all three individual clusters, the two ingroup and outgroup varieties were judged differently. Whereas Tehrani was evaluated more favorably on status and ethnic pride scales, JS Tehrani was rated more positively on solidarity. The results were finally explained in light of the participants' interview responses and sociocultural context of Tehran. The results of the present study might be useful in illustrating the under-explored area of language attitudes in Iran.

http://ift.tt/2kbWJjQ

Introducción a la sociolingüística hispánica Manuel Díaz-Campos (2014), Malden and Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell Pp332 ISBN 978-0-470-65802-4

http://ift.tt/2jhzpwU

Effect-for-cause inferencing in the evaluation of loudness among Toba Batak people

The paper presents evidence for an effect-for-cause inferencing process underlying the general style of using loud speech voice among Toba Batak speakers (Indonesia). A subjective reaction test was conducted to find out their perception towards the use of loud voice in three relational settings having different combinations of bipolarity: 1) vertical social distance and horizontal social distance; 2) vertical social distance only; and 3) horizontal social distance only. The results showed that in contexts where horizontal social distance remains, the absence of vertical distance significantly weakens the perception of impoliteness and unacceptability towards the use of loud voice. This indicates that Toba Bataks assume a pseudo social proximity when they are speaking to people with whom they have no horizontal social closeness. This method of inferencing is consistent with an effect-for-cause relational structure, being metonymic in nature.

http://ift.tt/2kbT4lR

Languages in East Africa: Policies, practices and perspectives

The study provides an account of the prevailing linguistic situation in the three traditional countries of the East African Community (Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda), since they have more or less the same colonial and postcolonial history as well as being territorially coterminous with each other – a landmark phenomenon that has a bearing on the dynamics of the postcolonial linguistic landscape in these countries. The study examines the circumstances that underlie the triglossic linguistic situation in these countries, i.e. a situation where there are three languages with distinct but complementary functions (namely English, Kiswahili and languages of intra-ethnic communication). While some of the dimensions of the linguistic situation are similar in the three countries, others are different. Entangled in the quagmire of vacillating decisions on language policies, East Africa has had to grapple with the question of language choice for some time. The study examines the language policies that promote or relegate, at varying degrees, the languages of the three countries. Generally, while Kenya and Uganda are making considerable strides in promoting languages other than English and Kiswahili, Tanzania, on the other hand, has stuck to its guns in relation to stifling the development of such languages.

http://ift.tt/2jhIllV

(No) English interference on U.S. Southwest Spanish? A look at variable subject expression in Phoenix Spanish-English bilinguals

Subject pronoun expression (SPE) is one of the most studied variables in Spanish sociolinguistics, in the production of both monolingual and bilingual speakers. In the case of U.S. Spanish-English bilinguals, some studies suggest that the almost categorical use of English overt subject personal pronouns (SPPs) boosts the SPP rate in the Spanish of these speakers, whereas some other studies do not support such claim. Aiming to shed light on this subject, the present analysis of SPE in Phoenix is a variationist contribution to the literature on bilingual SPE in the U.S. Although the factors favoring SPP occurrence in the Spanish of Phoenix coincide for the most part with those attested across Spanish varieties, compared to other U.S.-bilingual Spanish varieties accounted for, it shows the lowest rate of overt SPPs: 17.8%, even lower than monolingual Mexican varieties. In addition, Spanish-dominant speakers in Phoenix favor overt SPPs, whereas English-dominant bilinguals disfavor them. When separate regression analyses were run for each proficiency group, it was found that both share virtually the same constraints contributing to the presence of the overt variant. These results do not support the contact claim. Since the Phoenix bilinguals pattern with other U.S. Southwest communities with regard to the aforementioned trends, it is suggested that proximity to the border may neutralize the SPE English effect in the Spanish of these communities, in contrast to communities that lack such regional traits, like New York and Florida.

http://ift.tt/2jhUBTl

Plurilingual corpora and polylanguaging, where corpus linguistics meets contact linguistics

Language contact and multilingualism issues are addressed by such diverse research traditions that we consider corpora and data exchange as good ways to make these traditions speak to one another. In this paper, we describe a methodology for detailed analysis of heterogeneous corpora which can be used to take into account both sychronic phenomena (linguistic variation and instances of polylanguaging or code switching) and diachronic phenomena. We point out the epistemological questions that arise in the analysis of plurilingual data and discuss the choices made with respect to the current norms and standards followed in corpus linguistics with a view to providing multi-factoral explanations in the field of language contact and multilingualism. We rely here on the methodology developed in the research project CLAPOTY.

http://ift.tt/2kc4nui

Brokering communication in sacred spaces: Bilingual youth interpreters in religious settings

Although research on 'language brokering' has grown steadily over the past two decades, the specific characteristics and challenges of this type of interpretation work have yet to be fully explored. The present analysis examines the specific practices involved when bilingual youth interpret in religious services. Although underexplored in the language-brokering scholarship, religious services present a novel and revalatory context for the examination of non-professional interpretation practices. Framed through a discourse-analytic lens, this analysis explores how two youths demonstrate problem-solving skills and linguistic expertise in the interpretation process. I argue that the problem-solving activity in which the youth are participating is multifaceted and collaborative, and that the youth themselves must necessarily exercise great skill to solve each problem. I then position this analysis within the broader scholarship on language brokering and demonstrate how these practices expand our knowledge regarding the linguistic abilities of bilingual youth.

http://ift.tt/2j4Kgwx

A Grammar of Bhadarwahi, Amitabh Vikram Dwivedi (2013) Munich: Lincom Europa ISBN 9783862884353

http://ift.tt/2jXripY

The semiotics of clown and clowning: Rituals of Rituals of transgression and the theory of laughter. Paul Buissac (2015) London and New York: Bloomsbury p218 ISBN 978-1-4725-3278-7

http://ift.tt/2j4yZMu

The linguistic landscape of the Mediterranean: French and Italian coastal cities, Robert Blackwood and Stefania Tufi (2015) Houndmills, Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan Pp246 ISBN 978-0-230-29098-3

http://ift.tt/2jXrci6

Cytokine Polymorphisms are Associated with Daytime Napping in Adults Living with HIV

Daytime napping longer than one hour has been associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality. Associations between cytokine polymorphisms and daytime napping in chronic illnesses such as HIV, however, have not been well described. The purpose of this study was to examine cytokine polymorphisms associated with long daytime napping in adults living with HIV.

http://ift.tt/2j4Hp6N

What can we learn from eye movements distribution during sleep?

In the article, "Novel method for evaluation of eye movements in patients with narcolepsy" published in the current Sleep Medicine volume [1], the Danish group lead by Professor Jennum developed an automatic method to identify periods of eye movements (EMs) in sleep from the electro-oculographic signals conventionally recorded during nocturnal polysomnography. The authors addressed the EMs distribution in the different sleep stages, as well as across nocturnal sleep cycles in patients with narcolepsy and controls.

http://ift.tt/2jXiVuB

Sleep duration is associated with survival in advanced cancer patients

Sleep problems have been linked to increased risk of mortality in the general population. Limited evidence suggests similar relationships among people diagnosed with cancer. The aims of the present study were to investigate the type and rates of sleep problems in advanced cancer patients and examine whether sleep problems are associated with survival.

http://ift.tt/2jXlFrE

Underutilization of the MSLT in Sleepy Patients with a Short Onset REM Period (SOREMP) in the Sleep Clinic

/Background: A nocturnal sleep onset REM period (defined as REM onset latency < 15 minutes; SOREMP) occurs rarely and research has shown that the phenomenon is specific for type 1 and 2 narcolepsy. However, little is known about the meaningfulness of the phenotype in general sleep clinic patients because those that exhibit the phenomenon often present with few traditional narcolepsy symptoms. As such, this study aimed to (1) evaluate the rate of eventual MSLT testing for those with a SOREMP on routine PSG when the phenomenon occurred in the absence of potential explanatory factors and (2) quantify the stability of the SOREMP phenotype.

http://ift.tt/2j4vZzS

The Th2 gene cluster unraveled: Role of RHS6

Abstract

Although the transcription factors that regulate T helper (Th) type 2 cytokine production (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) are possible novel therapeutic targets, we lack a detailed understanding of the mechanisms that regulate the transcription of these cytokines. In this issue of Allergy, Hwang et al. studied the role of a specific DNA region (a cis-acting element called Rad50 hypersensitive site 6) RHS6, in the development of allergic airway inflammation. RHS6 is found in the Th2 cytokine "locus control region" but its role in activation of the IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 genes was unknown. The authors here showed that RHS6 recruited the transcription factors GATA3, SATB1, and IRF4, each of which are involved in transcription of all three Th2 cytokine genes. Indeed genetic deficiency in RHS6 inhibited expression of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 and reduced allergic airway inflammation in a murine model of ovalbumin-induced sensitization. Deletion of RHS6 also inhibited formation of the transcription factor complex of GATA3, SATB1, and IRF4 that reduced the transcription of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. This study suggests that RHS6 is critical for the development of allergic airway inflammation and that the GATA3, SATB1, IRF4 and RHS6 complex maybe a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of asthma.

http://ift.tt/2iLFbe5

Whatsapp: Improvement tool for surgical team communication

We read the article by Sidhoum et al. entitled "WhatsApp: Improvement tool for surgical team communication" with interest and commend them for highlighting strategies to improve communication within the surgical team.1

http://ift.tt/2kc1WIc

The Th2 gene cluster unraveled: Role of RHS6

Abstract

http://ift.tt/2iLFbe5

Cysteinyl leukotriene E4 activates human ILC2s and enhances the effect of prostaglandin D2 and epithelial cytokines

Local inflammation exacerbates cutaneous manifestations in a murine autoimmune pemphigus model

MYSM1 deficiency - genotoxic stress-associated bone marrow failure and developmental aberrations

MYSM1-deficiency causes a rare bone marrow failure syndrome

http://ift.tt/2ka5gzI

Damaging heterozygous mutations in NFKB1 lead to diverse immunological phenotypes

In addition to antibody deficiency, mutations in NFKB1 may lead to excessive inflammatory response and manifest as Behcet's disease, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease, or severe autoinflammatory postoperative complications.

http://ift.tt/2j4rDc2

Re: Re: Patients experience of temporary tracheostomy after microvascular reconstruction for cancer of the head and neck

Coyle et al1 raise an important issue in their letter in response to our recent paper.2 It is essential to include patient-reported outcomes (PRO) when decisions are made. This supports informed consent in situations when various options are to be considered. When there is a balance of risks, it is essential to explain them in terms that the patient and carer understand, and PRO should also shape protocols of care. Unfortunately, in the two papers published in 2012 and 2013 by Coyle et al1,3 there are no such PRO data.

http://ift.tt/2kbV4KR

Implementation of an oral and maxillofacial surgery trauma team in a major trauma centre

In 2010, King's College Hospital in London was designated as a major trauma centre. To deal with the increasing number of patients, an integrated oral and maxillofacial team of the week was established in 2012 to provide a consultant-led, emergency service dedicated to acute care, and it was anticipated that this would reduce the duration of stay by 0.3 bed-days. To assess the effect of the new system, we compared the duration of stay between 1 October and 31 January 2011-2012 with the same period in 2012-2013.

http://ift.tt/2jhzn8f

Intranasal Fluticasone Associated with Delayed Tympanostomy Tube Placement in Children with Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Pediatric patient caregivers may prefer to avoid a surgical intervention and request a medical management option for eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). However, there are limited published data evaluating the efficacy of intranasal fluticasone in the medical management of ETD as an alternative to tympanostomy tube placement. The objectives of this study were to: 1) determine if intranasal fluticasone (INF) prevented tympanostomy tube placement in children with ETD, and 2) describe differences in patient response to INF related to cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) and Down syndrome.

http://ift.tt/2jyu2uk

Isolated tracheoesophageal fistula versus esophageal atresia – early morbidity and short-term outcome. A single institution series

We compared the postnatal course, morbidity and early results after repair for cases of isolated or "pure" TEF with those for cases of esophageal atresia (EA) with distal tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF).

http://ift.tt/2jJjmv3

Urine cysteinyl leukotriene levels in children with sleep disordered breathing before and after adenotonsillectomy

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common problem in children and is associated with increased cardiovascular, neurobehavioral and somatic growth consequences. Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) play a major role with local and systemic relations to the pathophysiology of OSA. The level of CysLTs in urine, blood, exhaled breath and adenotonsillar tissue of OSA children are increased. However it remains unclear whether inflammatory marker levels are alleviated after adenotonsillectomy. Therefore, we compare the urine leukotriene E4 (uLTE4) levels in children before and after adenotonsillectomy and evaluate clinical outcomes on resolution of OSA.

http://ift.tt/2jyJ5UD

Symptom burden and dysphagia associated with osteoradionecrosis in long-term oropharynx cancer survivors: A cohort analysis

The annual estimated incidence of oropharynx cancer is approximately 130,300 cases per year worldwide with an estimated 15,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States [1,2]. Over the last few decades, the incidence of oropharynx cancer has been increasing dramatically in developed countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden [3]. This rise in the incidence of oropharynx cancer is attributed to human papillomavirus (HPV).

http://ift.tt/2iLxDYK

Validation of the ICON-S staging for HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma using a pre-defined treatment policy

Since the recognition of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) associated oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) (HPV+OPC) as a distinct entity, clinicians have long observed the limitations of the current 7th edition (7th Ed) American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC)/Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) TNM staging ability to reflect survival outcomes in this group of patients. This is not surprising, as the staging system was developed to account for outcomes of patients with traditional smoking-related mucosal head and neck cancer (HNC), whose demographics, risk factors, carcinogenesis and response to therapy differ to HPV+OPC [1–5].

http://ift.tt/2k9VRrM

Bedeutung von Krebsregistern für die Versorgungsforschung

Zusammenfassung

Hintergrund

Die Routineversorgung bei Krebs unterscheidet sich vom klar strukturierten Setting randomisierter Studien, denn sie schließt alle Patienten ein, auch diejenigen mit multiplen Komorbiditäten. Deshalb können die Ergebnisse klinischer Studien nicht immer direkt auf die alltägliche Versorgung übertragen werden. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist, die Daten klinischer Krebsregister zur Klärung von Fragen zur Behandlungsqualität und zur Versorgungsforschung zu nutzen.

Methoden

Daten zur Ergebnisqualität wurden von 31 klinischen Krebsregistern aus 11 Bundesländern zusammengeführt und auf der 6. bundesweiten onkologischen Qualitätskonferenz in Berlin vorgestellt. Die Implementierung sowie der Überlebensvorteil auf der Grundlage operativer Vorgehensweisen, v. a. laparoskopischer vs. offen chirurgischer Verfahren, wurden untersucht. Ebenso wurde das Ergebnis der Gabe adjuvanter Chemotherapie beim Kolokarzinom im Stadium II auf der Basis bevölkerungsbezogener Register aufgezeigt.

Ergebnisse

Die bundesweite Analyse ergab ein signifikant besseres Überleben bei minimalinvasiver operativer Therapie in den Stadien I–III. Dies entspricht den Daten anderer Register, aber nicht den Ergebnissen randomisierter Studien. In einer weiteren Analyse zeigte sich ein signifikanter Benefit für Patienten mit Kolonkarzinom im Stadium II T 4, die eine adjuvante Chemotherapie erhielten. Das beste Überleben konnte im Stadium III erreicht werden, wenn die notwendige adjuvante Chemotherapie innerhalb von 19–44 Tagen erfolgte.

Resümee

Registerdaten können für die Darstellung der Behandlungsqualität und für Versorgungsforschung genutzt werden. In Zukunft sollten mehr registerbasierte Studien durchgeführt werden, um die Ergebnisse der realen Versorgung darzustellen.

http://ift.tt/2j3fT9y

Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

Η λίστα ιστολογίων μου

Παρασκευή 20 Ιανουαρίου 2017

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Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου