Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 04/02/17

Κυριακή 2 Απριλίου 2017

Minimally invasive wire-guided balloon catheter puncture for voice prosthesis insertion

Abstract

Background

Tracheoesophageal puncture is an effective and reliable method for voice restoration after total laryngectomy that may be performed as a primary or secondary procedure.

Methods

We describe our technique for secondary tracheoesophageal puncture using a wire-guided balloon catheter in an office setting. A 72-year-old patient with a total laryngectomy performed 2 years ago was selected for wire-guided balloon catheter puncture and voice prosthesis insertion.

Results

Successful tracheoesophageal puncture placement was achieved without complications and the patient tolerated the procedure well. The voice result was satisfactory and immediate.

Conclusion

We conclude that balloon catheter tracheoesophageal puncture can be a simple and safe option for secondary voice prosthesis insertion in total laryngectomy for selected patients. It can be performed in an office setting using only local anesthetic for secondary puncture.

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Sinonasal adenoid cystic carcinoma: Treatment outcomes and association with human papillomavirus

Abstract

Background

The purpose of this study was to review long-term outcomes of sinonasal adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) and to clarify its association with human papillomavirus (HPV).

Methods

The medical records of 23 patients with sinonasal ACC treated with primary surgical resection between 1998 and 2013 were reviewed. Tissue specimens were available for 17 patients. The p16 testing was performed using immunohistochemistry (IHC), and HPV infection was determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with primers targeting the E6/E7 region.

Results

Two of the 17 samples showed strong and diffuse p16 staining, whereas the remaining 15 cases showed p16-positivity isolated to the luminal cells. Only one of the p16-positive cases was positive for HPV. The 5-year local failure, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were 51%, 52%, and 62%, respectively.

Conclusion

Local failures are common with advanced sinonasal ACC, and the association of HPV with true sinonasal ACC is low.

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Reviewing the genetic alterations in high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: A search for prognostic markers and therapeutic targets

Abstract

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is second only in incidence to basal cell carcinoma (BCC), effecting up to 500 000 people in the United States annually. Metastasis to regional lymph nodes occurs in approximately 5% of cases and imparts significant morbidity. Standard treatment in this group involves a combination of surgery and adjuvant radiation. Currently, there are no clinically useful biomarkers of metastatic potential in primary cutaneous SCC and histological predictors can be unreliable. The high level of mutational burden in normal UV-exposed skin has hampered the search for novel drivers of invasive disease, and indeed metastatic potential. This review outlines the clinical problems in high-risk and metastatic cutaneous SCCs, reviews the known genetic events and molecular mechanisms in high-risk primary cutaneous SCC and metastasis, and identifies avenues for further investigation and potential therapy.

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Effectiveness of incorporating cetuximab into docetaxel/cisplatin/fluorouracil induction chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy for inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity: A phase II study

Abstract

Background

Inoperable oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a highly invasive disease associated with the extensive destruction of locoregional tissues and a dismal prognosis. Management strategies for these patients are limited.

Methods

This study was a single arm, prospective, open-label phase II trial. A regimen consisting of cetuximab-docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil (C-TPF) followed by bio-chemoradiotherapy (bio-CRT) with cisplatin and cetuximab was administered to patients who responded to induction chemotherapy. The objective response rate to C-TPF was the primary endpoint.

Results

Forty-three patients were enrolled in this study. The objective response rate of C-TPF was 88.4%; 88.9% (32/36) of the responders completed the full bio-CRT course, and the objective response rate of bio-CRT was 64.7%. The most common grade 3/4 adverse events for induction chemotherapy were leucopenia (32.6%) and febrile neutropenia (14.0%). The 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 43% and 68%, respectively.

Conclusion

C-TPF is an effective and tolerable induction chemotherapy regimen for inoperable oral cavity SCC.

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Ultra–low-dose radiotherapy for definitive management of ocular adnexal B-cell lymphoma

ABSTRACT

Background

The purpose of this study was to report the response to and toxicity of ultra–low-dose radiotherapy (RT) for B-cell ocular adnexal lymphoma (OAL).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients with indolent B-cell and mantle cell OAL treated with 4 Gy to the orbit(s) in two 2-Gy fractions. Disease response was assessed clinically and/or radiographically at 2 to 4-month intervals after RT. Data collected included rates of overall response, complete response (CR), partial response (PR), and treatment-related toxic effects.

Results

Twenty-two patients (median age, 65 years) had the following histologic subtypes: mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT; 14 patients; 64%); follicular lymphoma (5 patients; 23%); mantle cell lymphoma (MCL; 2 patients; 9%); and unclassifiable (1 patient, 4%). The overall response rate was 100%; 19 patients (86%) had a CR and 3 patients (14%) had a PR. The only acute toxic effect was grade 1 dry eye syndrome in 1 patient.

Conclusion

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Systematic review of mammary analog secretory carcinoma of salivary glands at 7 years after description

ABSTRACT

Background

Mammary analog secretory carcinoma of the salivary glands (MASC_SG) is a newly introduced malignant tumor of the salivary glands. For decades, it has been confused with acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) of the salivary glands.

Methods

All reported cases of MASC_SG were surveyed from 2010 until January 2017. The collected data was compiled and computationally processed to describe the clinical parameters of MASC_SG. Its epidemiology was also mapped. Moreover, inaccurate data was highlighted.

Results

Clinically implicating, this article tackles simply the several clinical findings of MASC_SG so that our contemporary nosology, at 7 years after description, can be updated. The cytogenetic, histologic, and immunohistochemical details are also defined.

Conclusion

The available data about MASC_SG is sufficient enough to diagnose it with no need to investigate the ETV6-NTRK3 translocation. Although high-grade malignancy and distant metastases were rarely reported, a rapt attention should be paid both to the nature of this tumor and to the indicated close follow-up of such cases, especially when necrosis, increased mitotic activity, and other classic caveats are conspicuous. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2017

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Management of unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury after thyroid surgery: A review

Abstract

Background

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) damage because of thyroid and parathyroid surgery has been recognized for over a century. Injury rates have been slowly decreasing in this period while effective treatment strategies have been increasing.

Methods

Recent literature was evaluated on the topics of anatomy, pathophysiology, avoidance, and conservative and surgical treatment of RLN injury. Data for this literature review were identified by PubMed and references from relevant articles using the search terms "thyroid," "laryngeal nerve," and "injury." Only articles published in English between 1990 and 2015 were included.

Results

Advances in technique and equipment have made injury less likely. The evidence and role for neuromonitoring is discussed. Treatment strategies may include speech therapy, vocal cord augmentation using injection, laryngeal framework surgery techniques (including laryngoplasty and arytenoid adduction), and reinnervation.

Conclusion

Injury rates in specialist centers are very low. Good to excellent results may be obtained in most cases.

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Minocycline reduces mechanical allodynia and depressive-like behaviour in type-1 diabetes mellitus in the rat

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Diana Amorim, Sónia Puga, Rui Bragança, António Braga, Antti Pertovaara, Armando Almeida, Filipa Pinto-Ribeiro
A common and devastating complication of diabetes mellitus is painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) that can be accompanied by emotional disorders such as depression. A few studies have suggested that minocycline that inhibits microglia may attenuate pain hypersensitivity in PDN. Moreover, a recent study reported that minocycline has an acute antidepressive-like effect in diabetic animals. Here we studied whether (i) prolonged minocycline treatment suppresses pain behaviour in PDN, (ii) the minocycline effect varies with submodality of pain, and (iii) the suppression of pain behaviour by prolonged minocycline treatment is associated with antidepressive-like effect. The experiments were performed in streptozotocin-induced rat model of type-1 diabetes. Pain behaviour was evoked by innocuous (monofilaments) and noxious (paw pressure) mechanical stimulation, innocuous cold (acetone drops) and noxious heat (radiant heat). Depression-like behaviour was assessed using forced swimming test. Minocycline treatment (daily 80mg/kg per os) of three-week duration started four weeks after induction of diabetes. Diabetes induced mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, cold allodynia, heat hypoalgesia, and depression-like behaviour. Minocycline treatment significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia and depression-like behaviour, while it failed to produce significant changes in mechanical hyperalgesia, cold allodynia or heat hypoalgesia. The results indicate that prolonged per oral treatment with minocycline has a sustained mechanical antiallodynic and antidepressive-like effect in PDN. These results support the proposal that minocycline might provide a treatment option for attenuating sensory and comorbid emotional symptoms in chronic PDN.

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Re-examining the factors affecting choice in the light–dark preference test in zebrafish

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Amanda Facciol, Steven Tran, Robert Gerlai
The light–dark preference test has been extensively used to screen anxiolytic drugs and investigate mechanisms of anxiety with rodents. Recently, this task has been adapted to zebrafish, but a number of inconsistent findings have emerged. For example, some found zebrafish to avoid and others to prefer dark. Given the translational relevance of the zebrafish, its utility in high throughput drug screens, and that anxiety still represents a large unmet medical need, there is an urgent need to resolve these inconsistencies. We propose these inconsistencies are due to lack of distinction between two separate factors: background shade and level of illumination. Here, we systematically manipulated background shade (black vs. white) while keeping the illumination level constant (uniformly illuminated). We also manipulated the level of illumination (illuminated vs. not illuminated) while keeping the background constant (either uniformly black or white). We examined the time-course of numerous behavioural responses under these conditions, and found zebrafish to exhibit a significant preference for the black side of the tank within the first 3min of the test when the illumination level was constant. We found this response, along with other anxiety-like behaviours, to diminish over time. In contrast, we found zebrafish did not exhibit a preference for the unilluminated (dark) side of the tank when the background shade was kept constant. Our results demonstrate a dissociation between illumination level and background shade, shown by a preference for black to white, but not for dark to light, confirming the importance of differentiating these two distinct factors.

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Not in one metric: Neuroticism modulates different resting state metrics within distinctive brain regions

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Claudio Gentili, Ioana Alina Cristea, Emiliano Ricciardi, Nicola Vanello, Cristian Popita, Daniel David, Pietro Pietrini
IntroductionNeuroticism is a complex personality trait encompassing diverse aspects. Notably, high levels of neuroticism are related to the onset of psychiatric conditions, including anxiety and mood disorders. Personality traits are stable individual features; therefore, they can be expected to be associated with stable neurobiological features, including the Brain Resting State (RS) activity as measured by fMRI. Several metrics have been used to describe RS properties, yielding rather inconsistent results. This inconsistency could be due to the fact that different metrics portray different RS signal properties and that these properties may be differently affected by neuroticism. To explore the distinct effects of neuroticism, we assessed several distinct metrics portraying different RS properties within the same population.MethodNeuroticism was measured in 31 healthy subjects using the Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire; RS was acquired by high-resolution fMRI. Using linear regression, we examined the modulatory effects of neuroticism on RS activity, as quantified by the Amplitude of low frequency fluctuations (ALFF, fALFF), regional homogeneity (REHO), Hurst Exponent (H), global connectivity (GC) and amygdalae functional connectivity.ResultsNeuroticism modulated the different metrics across a wide network of brain regions, including emotional regulatory, default mode and visual networks. Except for some similarities in key brain regions for emotional expression and regulation, neuroticism affected different metrics in different ways.DiscussionMetrics more related to the measurement of regional intrinsic brain activity (fALFF, ALFF and REHO), or that provide a parsimonious index of integrated and segregated brain activity (HE), were more broadly modulated in regions related to emotions and their regulation. Metrics related to connectivity were modulated across a wider network of areas. Overall, these results show that neuroticism affects distinct aspects of brain resting state activity. More in general, these findings indicate that a multiparametric approach may be required to obtain a more detailed characterization of the neural underpinnings of a given psychological trait.

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Differential effects of social and novelty enrichment on individual differences in impulsivity and behavioral flexibility

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Maya Zhe Wang, Andrew T. Marshall, Kimberly Kirkpatrick
Early life experience profoundly impacts behavior and cognitive functions in rats. The present study investigated how the presence of conspecifics and/or novel objects, could independently influence individual differences in impulsivity and behavioral flexibility. Twenty-four rats were reared in an isolated condition, an isolated condition with a novel object, a pair-housed social condition, or a pair-housed social condition with a novel object. The rats were then tested on an impulsive choice task, a behavioral flexibility task, and an impulsive action task. Novelty enrichment produced an overall increase in impulsive choice, while social enrichment decreased impulsive choice in the absence of novelty enrichment and also produced an overall increase in impulsive action. In the behavioral flexibility task, social enrichment increased regressive errors, whereas both social and novelty enrichment reduced never-reinforced errors. Individual differences analyses indicated a significant relationship between performance in the behavioral flexibility and impulsive action tasks, which may reflect a common psychological correlate of action inhibition. Moreover, there was a relationship between delay sensitivity in the impulsive choice task and performance on the DRL and behavioral flexibility tasks, suggesting a dual role for timing and inhibitory processes in driving the interrelationship between these tasks. Overall, these results indicate that social and novelty enrichment produce distinct effects on impulsivity and adaptability, suggesting the need to parse out the different elements of enrichment in future studies. Further research is warranted to better understand how individual differences in sensitivity to enrichment affect individuals' interactions with and the resulting consequences of the rearing environment.

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A novel dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist alleviates cognitive decline by re-sensitizing insulin signaling in the Alzheimer icv. STZ rat model

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Lijuan Shi, Zhihua Zhang, Lin Li, Christian Hölscher
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, accompanied by memory loss and cognitive impairments, and there is no effective treatment for it at present. Since type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has been identified as a risk factor for AD, the incretins glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), promising antidiabetic agents for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, have been tested in models of neurodegenerative disease including AD and achieved good results. Here we show for the first time the potential neuroprotective effect of a novel dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist (DA-JC4) in the icv. streptozotocin (STZ)-induced AD rat model. Treatment with DA-JC4 (10nmol/kg ip.) once-daily for 14days after STZ intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration significantly prevented spatial learning deficits in a Y- maze test and Morris water maze tests, and decreased phosphorylated tau levels in the rat cerebral cortex and hippocampus. DA-JC4 also alleviated the chronic inflammation response in the brain (GFAP-positive astrocytes, IBA1-positive microglia). Apoptosis was reduced as shown in the reduced ratio of pro-apoptotic BAX to anti- apoptotic Bcl-2 levels. Importantly, insulin signaling was re-sensitized as evidenced by a reduction of phospho-IRS1^Ser1101 levels and phospho-Akt^Ser473 up-regulation. In conclusion, the novel dual agonist DA-JC4 shows promise as a novel treatment for sporadic AD, and reactivating insulin signaling pathways may be a key mechanism that prevents disease progression in AD.

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Participation of dorsal periaqueductal gray 5-HT1A receptors in the panicolytic-like effect of the κ-opioid receptor antagonist Nor-BNI

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Jhonatan Christian Maraschin, Camila Biesdorf Almeida, Marcel Pereira Rangel, Camila Marroni Roncon, Caio César Sestile, Hélio Zangrossi, Frederico Guilherme Graeff, Elisabeth Aparecida Audi
Panic patients may have abnormalities in serotonergic and opioidergic neurotransmission. The dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG) plays an important role in organizing proximal defense, related to panic attacks. The 5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1A-R) is involved in regulating escape behavior that is organized in the dPAG. Activation of κ-opioid receptor (KOR) in this region causes anxiogenic effects. In this study, we investigated the involvement of KOR in regulating escape behavior, using systemic and intra-dPAG injection of the KOR antagonist Nor-BNI. As panic models, we used the elevated T-maze (ETM) and the dPAG electrical stimulation test (EST). We also evaluated whether activation of the 5-HT1A-R or the μ-opioid receptor (MOR) in the dPAG contributes to the Nor-BNI effects. The results showed that systemic administration of Nor-BNI, either subcutaneously (2.0 and 4.0mg/kg) or intraperitoneally (2.0mg/kg), impaired escape in the EST, indicating a panicolytic-like effect. Intra-dPAG injection of this antagonist (6.8nmol) caused the same effect in the EST and in the ETM. Association of ineffective doses of Nor-BNI and the 5-HT1A-R agonist 8-OH-DPAT caused panicolytic-like effect in these two tests. Previous administration of the 5-HT1A-R antagonist WAY-100635, but not of the MOR antagonist CTOP, blocked the panicolytic-like effect of Nor-BNI. These results indicate that KOR enhances proximal defense in the dPAG through 5-HT1A-R modulation, independently of MOR. Because former results indicate that the 5-HT1A-R is involved in the antipanic action of antidepressants, KOR antagonists may be useful as adjunctive or alternative drug treatment of panic disorder.

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Sex differences in the strategies of spatial learning in prenatally-exposed rats treated with various drugs in adulthood

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Eva Macúchová, Kateryna Nohejlová, Mária Ševčíková, Ivana Hrebíčková, Romana Šlamberová
In the present study we investigated the sex differences in the effect of adult long-term drug treatment on cognitive functions of Wistar rats, which were prenatally exposed to MA (5mg/kg) or saline. Cognitive functions were tested as an ability of spatial learning in the Morris Water Maze (MWM), which consisted of three types of tests: "Place Navigation Test"; "Probe Test", and "Memory Recall Test". Adult animals were injected daily, after completion of the last trial, either with saline or cocaine (COC; 5mg/kg), MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine; 5mg/kg), morphine (MOR; 5mg/kg), or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC; 2mg/kg). Results revealed worsened MWM performance in female rats after drug treatment in adulthood. Not only were traditionally investigated parameters affected by drug treatment (latency of platform acquisition, search strategy, distance traveled), but also strategies used by animals (thigmotaxis, scanning). Analyses of search strategies observed in the Place Navigation Test, as well as in the Memory Recall Test, demonstrated variations in the percentage of time spent in thigmotaxis and scanning in females after treatment with COC, MDMA, MOR, and THC. Although we did not see a sensitizing effect of prenatal MA, in some cases the effect of drug treatment in adulthood differed depending on the prenatal drug exposure. The data presented in this study demonstrates that exposure to drugs with various mechanisms of action alters spatial abilities of female rats in the MWM. Alterations in the effect of adult drug treatment with reference to prenatal drug exposure were also found in the present study.

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Administration of riluzole into the basolateral amygdala has an anxiolytic-like effect and enhances recognition memory in the rat

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Azusa Sugiyama, Akiyoshi Saitoh, Misa Yamada, Jun-Ichiro Oka, Mitsuhiko Yamada
It is widely thought that inactivation of the glutamatergic system impairs recognition memory in rodents. However, we previously demonstrated that systemic administration of riluzole, which blocks the glutamatergic system, enhances recognition memory in the rat novel object recognition (NOR) test. The mechanisms underlying this paradoxical effect of riluzole on recognition memory remain unclear. In the present study, adult male Wistar rats were bilaterally cannulated in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) to examine the effects of intra-BLA administration of riluzole. We also compared the effects of riluzole with those of d-cycloserine, a partial agonist at the glycine binding site on the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. The BLA plays a critical role not only in recognition memory, but also in the regulation of anxiety. In the present study, intra-BLA administration of riluzole or d-cycloserine enhanced recognition memory in the NOR test. It was previously suggested that recognition memory can be strongly affected by the state of anxiety in rodents. Interestingly, intra-BLA administration of riluzole, but not d-cycloserine, produced a potent anxiolytic-like effect in the elevated plus-maze test. Thus, the enhancement of recognition memory by riluzole might be an indirect effect resulting from the anxiolytic-like action of the intra-BLA administration of the drug, and may not be directly related to inhibition of the glutamatergic system. Further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying the memory enhancing effect of riluzole.

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Coordinated movement is influenced by prenatal light experience in bobwhite quail chicks (Colinus virginianus)

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Starlie C. Belnap, Robert Lickliter
Sensory-motor development begins early during embryogenesis and is influenced by sensory experience. Little is known about the prenatal factors that influence the development of motor coordination. Here we investigated whether and to what extent prenatal light experience can influence the development of motor coordination in bobwhite quail hatchlings. Quail embryos were incubated under four light conditions: no light (dark), 2h of total light (2HR), 6h of total light (6HR), and diffused sunlight (controls). Hatchlings were video recording walking down a runway at three developmental ages (12, 24, and 48h). Videos were assessed for forward locomotion, a measurement of motor coordination, falls, a measurement of motor instability, and motivation to complete the task. We anticipated a linear decline of coordination with a reduction in prenatal light experience and improved coordination with age. Furthermore, as motor coordination becomes more laborious we anticipated motivation to complete the task would decline. However, our findings revealed hatchlings did not uniformly improve with age as expected, nor did the reduction of light result in a linear reduction in motor coordination. Instead, we found a more complex relationship with 6HR and 2HR hatchlings showing distinct patterns of stability and instability. Similarly, we found a reduction in motivation within the 6HR light condition. It appears that prenatal light exposure influences the development of postnatal motor coordination and we discuss these finding in light of neurodevelopmental processes influenced by light experience.

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Eveningness among late adolescent males predicts neural reactivity to reward and alcohol dependence two years later

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Brant P. Hasler, Melynda D. Casement, Stephanie L. Sitnick, Daniel S. Shaw, Erika E. Forbes
Eveningness, a preference for later sleep-wake timing, is linked to altered reward function, which may explain a consistent association with substance abuse. Notably, the extant literature rests largely on cross-sectional data, yet both eveningness and reward function show developmental changes. We examined whether circadian preference during late adolescence predicted the neural response to reward two years later. A sample of 93 males reported circadian preference and completed a monetary reward fMRI paradigm at ages 20 and 22. Primary analyses examined longitudinal paths from circadian preference to medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and ventral striatal (VS) reward responses. We also explored whether reward responses mediated longitudinal associations between circadian preference and alcohol dependence, frequency of alcohol use, and/or frequency of cannabis use. Age 20 eveningness was positively associated with age 22 mPFC and VS responses to win, but not associated with age 22 reactivity to reward anticipation. Age 20 eveningness was indirectly related to age 22 alcohol dependence via age 22 mPFC response to win. Our findings provide novel evidence that altered reward-related brain function could underlie associations between eveningness and alcohol use problems. Eveningness may be an under-recognized but modifiable risk factor for reward-related problems such as mood and substance use disorders.

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Sex differences in the acute locomotor response to methamphetamine in BALB/c mice

Publication date: 1 June 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research SreeTestContent1, Volume 327
Author(s): Odochi Ohia-Nwoko, Colin N. Haile, Therese A. Kosten
Women use methamphetamine more frequently than men and are more vulnerable to its negative psychological effects. Rodent models have been an essential tool for evaluating the sex-dependent effects of psychostimulants; however, evidence of sex differences in the behavioral responses to methamphetamine in mice is lacking. In the present study, we investigated acute methamphetamine-induced (1mg/kg and 4mg/kg) locomotor activation in female and male BALB/c mice. We also evaluated whether basal locomotor activity was associated with the methamphetamine-induced locomotor response. The results indicated that female BALB/c mice displayed enhanced methamphetamine-induced locomotor activity compared to males, while basal locomotor activity was positively correlated with methamphetamine-induced activity in males, but not females. This study is the first to show sex-dependent locomotor effects of methamphetamine in BALB/c mice. Our observations emphasize the importance of considering sex when assessing behavioral responses to methamphetamine.

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Minimally invasive wire-guided balloon catheter puncture for voice prosthesis insertion

Abstract

Background

Tracheoesophageal puncture is an effective and reliable method for voice restoration after total laryngectomy that may be performed as a primary or secondary procedure.

Methods

Results

Successful tracheoesophageal puncture placement was achieved without complications and the patient tolerated the procedure well. The voice result was satisfactory and immediate.

Conclusion

http://ift.tt/2ozz77v

Sinonasal adenoid cystic carcinoma: Treatment outcomes and association with human papillomavirus

Abstract

Background

The purpose of this study was to review long-term outcomes of sinonasal adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) and to clarify its association with human papillomavirus (HPV).

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Local failures are common with advanced sinonasal ACC, and the association of HPV with true sinonasal ACC is low.

http://ift.tt/2nQytEw

Reviewing the genetic alterations in high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: A search for prognostic markers and therapeutic targets

Abstract

http://ift.tt/2ozCZWf

Effectiveness of incorporating cetuximab into docetaxel/cisplatin/fluorouracil induction chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy for inoperable squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity: A phase II study

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

C-TPF is an effective and tolerable induction chemotherapy regimen for inoperable oral cavity SCC.

http://ift.tt/2nQAPTM

Ultra–low-dose radiotherapy for definitive management of ocular adnexal B-cell lymphoma

ABSTRACT

Background

The purpose of this study was to report the response to and toxicity of ultra–low-dose radiotherapy (RT) for B-cell ocular adnexal lymphoma (OAL).

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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Systematic review of mammary analog secretory carcinoma of salivary glands at 7 years after description

ABSTRACT

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

http://ift.tt/2nQElxu

Management of unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury after thyroid surgery: A review

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Injury rates in specialist centers are very low. Good to excellent results may be obtained in most cases.

http://ift.tt/2ozCkEa

Intravoxel incoherent motion magnetic resonance imaging in head and neck cancer: A systematic review of the diagnostic and prognostic value

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Oral Oncology, Volume 68
Author(s): Daniel P. Noij, Roland M. Martens, J. Tim Marcus, Remco de Bree, C. René Leemans, Jonas A. Castelijns, Marcus C. de Jong, Pim de Graaf
Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging is increasingly applied in the assessment of head and neck cancer (HNC). Our purpose was to determine the diagnostic and prognostic performance of IVIM in HNC by performing a critical review of the literature. Pubmed and EMBASE were searched until May 2016. Study and patients characteristics, imaging protocol and diagnostic or prognostic outcomes were extracted by 2 independent reviewers. The studied IVIM parameters were diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D∗), and perfusion fraction (f). We included 10 diagnostic studies, 5 prognostic studies and 2 studies assessing both. Studies were very heterogeneous in terms of applied b-values, imaging protocols, outcome measurements and reference standards; therefore we did not perform a meta-analysis. The most commonly used sequence was "spin-echo planar imaging". A median of 10.5 b-values (range, 3–17) were used. All but three studies included at least 4 b-values below b=200s/mm². By combining IVIM-parameters squamous cell carcinomas, lymphomas, malignant salivary gland tumors, Warthin's tumors and pleomorphic adenomas could be differentiated with a sensitivity of 85–87% and specificity of 80–100%. Low pre-treatment D or f and an increase in D during treatment were associated with a favorable response to treatment. D∗ appeared to be the parameter with the lowest prognostic value. Future research should focus on finding the optimal IVIM protocol, using uniformly accepted study methods and larger patient populations.

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Investigating a case of possible field cancerization in oral squamous cell carcinoma by the use of next-generation sequencing

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Oral Oncology, Volume 68
Author(s): Siavosh Tabatabaeifar, Martin J. Larsen, Stine R. Larsen, Torben A. Kruse, Mads Thomassen, Jens A. Sørensen
ObjectivesLocal recurrence and the development of second primary tumors (SPT) are important factors that can influence the survival rate of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. We investigate the concept of field cancerization which proposes that normal tissue adjacent to the primary tumor harbor pre-neoplastic alterations that can lead to the development of local recurrence and SPTs.Materials and methodsTo examine the concept of field cancerization, we applied whole-exome and targeted ultra-deep sequencing on 5 freshly frozen samples from a stage III OSCC patient from three tumor sites, lymph node metastasis and blood. Lastly, we sequenced one formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded recurrence biopsy that was collected approximately a year and half later located in the same area as before.ResultsSequencing identified 126 somatic mutations. We identified 24 mutations in the recurrence biopsy and 14 mutations are shared by the primary tumor.ConclusionThe low number of shared mutations indicates that either these mutations represent a very early clone in the primary tumor's evolution, or that these mutations represent a pre-neoplastic field, in which the primary tumor and recurrence are derived from. In both instances, the clinical recurrence is of a monoclonal origin which suggests either field cancerization by migration of mutated cells in the adjacent mucosa, or that the recurrence developed out of remaining tumor tissue.

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Genetic screens: CRISPR-based mapping of genetic interactions

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RNA: Translated circular RNAs

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Genetic variation: Linear INSIGHTs into non-coding DNA

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A Study of Clinicopathological Profile of Patients of Hoarseness of Voice Presenting to Tertiary Care hospital

Abstract

Hoarseness is subjective term used to describe abnormal voice quality which may occur due to many causes because it is just a symptom. Proper knowledge and clinicopathological profile is important to treat the underlying pathology. This prospective study was carried out in 100 patients presented in Department of ENT, Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal from April 2013 to September 2014 with complaint of hoarseness of voice for more than 15 days. Objective of this study is to study incidence, duration and sex predilection for hoarseness of voice. Also to study different etiological and predisposing factors for hoarseness of voice. After taking detailed history of the patient, complete examination of ear, nose and throat has been carried out. Indirect laryngoscopy, direct laryngoscopy, FOFE is done. Any suspicious tissue is sent for histopathological evaluation. X-ray soft tissue neck and if required CT SCAN larynx is done. Out of 100 patients maximum were from 50 to 70 years age group. 89% were males while only 11% were females. Labourers (37%) and farmers (32%) were the major groups affected. Smoking habit found in 60% of patients and tobacco chewing in 33% of patients and both, also having. Most common cause for hoarseness was found out to be laryngeal neoplasms of which supraglottic growth being commonest (37%) in our study. Hoarseness of voice may be present due to various underlying pathologies. So proper diagnosis, through detailed history, clinical examination and investigations is warranted to find out the cause and starting treatment.

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A Study of Clinicopathological Profile of Patients of Hoarseness of Voice Presenting to Tertiary Care hospital

Abstract

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Issue Information - Table of Contents

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Bead-based flow-cytometry for semi-quantitative analysis of complex membrane vesicle populations released by bacteria and host-cells

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Charlotte Volgers, Birke J. Benedikter, Gert E. Grauls, Paul H.M. Savelkoul, Frank R.M. Stassen
During infection, the release of nano-sized membrane vesicle is a process which is common both for bacteria and host cells. Host cell-derived membrane vesicles can be involved in innate and adaptive immunity whereas bacterial membrane vesicles can contribute to bacterial pathogenicity. To study the contribution of both membrane vesicle populations during infection is highly complicated as most vesicles fall within a similar size range of 30–300nm. Specialized techniques for purification are required and often no single technique complies on its own. Moreover, techniques for vesicle quantification are either complicated to use or do not distinguish between host cell-derived and bacterial membrane vesicle subpopulations. Here we demonstrate a bead-based platform that allows a semi-quantitatively analysis by flow-cytometry of bacterial and host-cell derived membrane vesicles. We show this method can be used to study heterogeneous and complex vesicle populations composed of bacterial and host-cell membrane vesicles. The easy accessible design of the protocol makes it also highly suitable for screening procedures to assess how intrinsic and environmental factors affect vesicle release.

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Corrigendum to “Leydig progenitor cells in fetal testis” [Mol. Cell. Endocrinol. 445 (2017) 55–64]

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Volume 447
Author(s): Yuichi Shima, Ken-ichirou Morohashi

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Palliative systemic therapy for recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma − how far have we achieved?

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
Author(s): Victor Lee, Dora Kwong, To-Wai Leung, Ka-On Lam, Chi-Chung Tong, Anne Lee
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is endemic in Southern China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, North Africa and Alaska. About 30% of NPC patients develop recurrence or metastasis despite initial radical treatment. Palliative chemotherapy is the first-line treatment for inoperable recurrence or distant metastatic disease. However the standard first-line chemotherapeutic regimen is yet to be established until recently gemcitabine and cisplatin has been proven superior to traditional regimen with 5-FU and cisplatin shown in a phase III randomized-controlled trial. Further palliative systemic treatment options including other chemotherapeutic regimens, targeted therapy and more recently immunotherapy have gradually evolved. We provided a comprehensive review on different traditional chemotherapeutic regimens and highlighted the latest chemotherapeutic treatments as well as the latest development of targeted therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors and other immunotherapeutic options in this setting.

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Palliative systemic therapy for recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma − how far have we achieved?

Subtyping Social Anxiety in Youth

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Journal of Anxiety Disorders
Author(s): A. Kodal, I. Bjelland, R. Gjestad, G.J. Wergeland, O.E. Havik, E.R. Heiervang, K. Fjermestad
Few empirical studies have examined subtypes of social anxiety disorder (SAD) in youth, and limited consensus resides on the nature of potential subtypes. Identifying subtypes, based on both fear and avoidance patterns, can help improve assessment and treatment of SAD.Subtypes of fear and avoidance were examined in a sample comprising 131 youth (age 8–15 years) diagnosed with SAD using the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for children and parents (ADIS-C/P). Exploratory factor analysis of fear responses revealed three factors, defining fear subtypes linked to: (1) performance, (2) observation, and (3) interaction situations, respectively. Exploratory factor analysis of avoidance responses showed these were best represented by one avoidance factor. Few youth qualified exclusively for either of the fear subtypes, thus calling into question the clinical utility of these subtypes. Nevertheless, the findings indicate distinct contributions of fear and avoidance in SAD presentation. This finding might help clinicians target and improve treatment of the disorder.

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Zuckerkandl’s tubercle and its relationship to the recurrent laryngeal nerve: A cadaveric dissection and meta-analysis

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Brandon Michael Henry, Beatrice Sanna, Jens Vikse, Matthew J. Graves, Alexandru Spulber, Cecylia Witkowski, Iwona M. Tomaszewska, R. Shane Tubbs, Krzysztof A. Tomaszewski
ObjectiveZuckerkandl's tubercle (ZT), when present, is an anatomical landmark by which surrounding structures such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) can be identified intraoperatively. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and anatomical characteristics of Zuckerkandl's tubercle by combining cadaveric dissection with a meta-analysis.MethodsThrough October 2016, an extensive search of PubMed, CNKI, ScienceDirect, EMBASE, BIOSIS, SciELO, and Web of Science was completed. Extracted data, along with the findings from our cadaveric dissections, were pooled into a meta-analysis to assess the prevalence and size of ZT and its relationship to the RLN.ResultsThe pooled prevalence estimate of a ZT was 70.2% in the general population, 65.0% of which were considered Grade 0 tubercles (<1.0cm) and 35.0% Grade 1 (≥1.0cm). The RLN ran posteromedially to the ZT in 82.7% of cases, laterally to it in 8.7%, and on top of it in 8.6% of hemilarynges.ConclusionRLN palsy is a common postoperative complication and cause for litigation following neck surgery. The ZT is a common component of the thyroid gland and with proper knowledge, surgeons can use it to reliably and quickly identify the RLN during operative procedures.

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Local and global processing in block design tasks in children with dyslexia or nonverbal learning disability

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 64
Author(s): Ramona Cardillo, Irene C. Mammarella, Ricardo Basso Garcia, Cesare Cornoldi
Visuo-constructive and perceptual abilities have been poorly investigated in children with learning disabilities. The present study focused on local or global visuospatial processing in children with nonverbal learning disability (NLD) and dyslexia compared with typically-developing (TD) controls. Participants were presented with a modified block design task (BDT), in both a typical visuo-constructive version that involves reconstructing figures from blocks, and a perceptual version in which respondents must rapidly match unfragmented figures with a corresponding fragmented target figure. The figures used in the tasks were devised by manipulating two variables: the perceptual cohesiveness and the task uncertainty, stimulating global or local processes.Our results confirmed that children with NLD had more problems with the visuo-constructive version of the task, whereas those with dyslexia showed only a slight difficulty with the visuo-constructive version, but were in greater difficulty with the perceptual version, especially in terms of response times. These findings are interpreted in relation to the slower visual processing speed of children with dyslexia, and to the visuo-constructive problems and difficulty in using flexibly-experienced global vs local processes of children with NLD. The clinical and educational implications of these findings are discussed.

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Assessing the effects of rural livelihood transition on non-point source pollution: a coupled ABM–IECM model

Abstract

Water pollution caused by anthropogenic activities and driven by changes in rural livelihood strategies in an agricultural system has received increasing attention in recent decades. To simulate the effects of rural household livelihood transition on non-point source (NPS) pollution, a model combining an agent-based model (ABM) and an improved export coefficient model (IECM) was developed. The ABM was adopted to simulate the dynamic process of household livelihood transition, and the IECM was employed to estimate the effects of household livelihood transition on NPS pollution. The coupled model was tested in a small catchment in the Dongting Lake region, China. The simulated results reveal that the transition of household livelihood strategies occurred with the changes in the prices of rice, pig, and labor. Thus, the cropping system, land-use intensity, resident population, and number of pigs changed in the small catchment from 2000 to 2014. As a result of these changes, the total nitrogen load discharged into the river initially increased from 6841.0 kg in 2000 to 8446.3 kg in 2004 and then decreased to 6063.9 kg in 2014. Results also suggest that rural living, livestock, paddy field, and precipitation alternately became the main causes of NPS pollution in the small catchment, and the midstream region of the small catchment was the primary area for NPS pollution from 2000 to 2014. Despite some limitations, the coupled model provides an innovative way to simulate the effects of rural household livelihood transition on NPS pollution with the change of socioeconomic factors, and thereby identify the key factors influencing water pollution to provide valuable suggestions on how agricultural environmental risks can be reduced through the regulation of the behaviors of farming households in the future.

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Mechanistic study of lead desorption during the leaching process of ion-absorbed rare earths: pH effect and the column experiment

Abstract

High concentrations of ammonium sulfate, often used in the in situ mining process, can result in a decrease of pH in the environment and dissolution of rare earth metals. Ammonium sulfate can also cause desorption of toxic heavy metals, leading to environmental and human health implications. In this study, the desorption behavior and fraction changes of lead in the ion-absorbed rare earth ore were studied using batch desorption experiments and column leaching tests. Results from batch desorption experiments showed that the desorption process of lead included fast and slow stages and followed an Elovich model well. The desorption rate and the proportion of lead content in the solution to the total lead in the soil were observed to increase with a decrease in the initial pH of the ammonium sulfate solution. The lead in soil included an acid-extractable fraction, reducible fraction, oxidizable fraction, and a residual fraction, with the predominant fractions being the reducible and acid-extractable fractions. Ninety-six percent of the extractable fraction in soil was desorbed into solution at pH = 3.0, and the content of the reducible fraction was observed to initially increase (when pH >4.0) and then decrease (when pH <4.0) with a decrease in pH. Column leaching tests indicated that the content of lead in the different fractions of soil followed the trend of reducible fraction > oxidizable fraction > acid-extractable fraction > residual fraction after the simulating leaching mining process. The change in pH was also found to have a larger influence on the acid-extractable and reducible fractions than the other two fractions. The proportion of the extractable fraction being leached was ca. 86%, and the reducible fraction was enriched along the migration direction of the leaching liquid. These results suggest that certain lead fractions may desorb again and contaminate the environment via acid rain, which provides significant information for environmental assessment and remediation after mining process.

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Protein-gold nanoparticle interactions and their possible impact on biomedical applications

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Jingying Liu, Qiang Peng
In the past few years, concerns of protein-gold nanoparticles (AuNP) interaction have been continuously growing in numerous potential biomedical applications. Despite the advances in tunable size, shape and excellent biocompatibility, unpredictable adverse effects related with protein corona (PC) have critically affected physiological to therapeutic responses. The complexity and uncontrollability of AuNP-PC formation limited the clinical applications of AuNP, e.g. AuNP-based drug delivery systems or imaging agent. Thus, even intensive attempts have been made for in vitro characterizations of PC around AuNP, the extrapolation of these data into in vivo PC responses still lags far behind. However, with accumulated knowledge of corona formation and the unique properties of AuNP, we are now encouraged to move forward to seeking positive exploitations. Herein, we summarize recent researches on interaction of protein and AuNP, aiming at provide a comprehensive understanding of such interaction associated with subsequent biomedical impacts. Importantly, the emerging trends in exploiting of potential applications and opportunities based on protein-AuNP interaction were discussed as well.Statement of SignificanceGold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have shown great potentials in biomedical areas. However, its practical use is highly limited by protein corona, formed as a result of protein-AuNP interaction. This protein corona surrounding AuNPs is a new identity and the real substance that the organs and cells firstly encounter, and finally makes the behavior of AuNPs in vivo uncontrollable and unpredictable. Therefore, comprehensively understanding such interaction is of great significance for predicting the in vivo fate of AuNPs and for designing advanced AuNPs systems. In this review, we would provide a detailed description of protein-AuNP interaction and launch an interesting discussion on how to use such interaction for smart and controlled AuNPs delivery, which would be a topic of widespread interest.

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Combined chemical and structural signals of biomaterials synergistically activate cell-cell communications for improving tissue regeneration

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Yachen Xu, Jinliang Peng, Xin Dong, Yuhong Xu, Haiyan Li, Jiang Chang
Biomaterials are only used as carriers of cells in the conventional tissue engineering. Considering the multi-cell environment and active cell-biomaterial interactions in tissue regeneration process, in this study, structural signals of aligned electrospun nanofibers and chemical signals of bioglass (BG) ionic products in cell culture medium are simultaneously applied to activate fibroblast-endothelial co-cultured cells in order to obtain an improved skin tissue engineering construct. Results demonstrate that the combined biomaterial signals synergistically activate fibroblast-endothelial co-culture skin tissue engineering constructs through promotion of paracrine effects and stimulation of gap junctional communication between cells, which results in enhanced vascularization and extracellular matrix protein synthesis in the constructs. Structural signals of aligned electrospun nanofibers play an important role in stimulating both of paracrine and gap junctional communication while chemical signals of BG ionic products mainly enhance paracrine effects. In vivo experiments reveal that the activated skin tissue engineering constructs significantly enhance wound healing as compared to control. This study indicates the advantages of synergistic effects between different bioactive signals of biomaterials can be taken to activate communication between different types of cells for obtaining tissue engineering constructs with improved functions.Statement of SignificanceTissue engineering can regenerate or replace tissue or organs through combining cells, biomaterials and growth factors. Normally, for repairing a specific tissue, only one type of cells, one kind of biomaterials, and specific growth factors are used to support cell growth. In this study, we proposed a novel tissue engineering approach by simply using co-cultured cells and combined biomaterial signals. Using a skin tissue engineering model, we successfully proved that the combined biomaterial signals such as surface nanostructures and bioactive ions could synergistically stimulate the cell-cell communication in co-culture system through paracrine effects and gap junction activation, and regulated expression of growth factors and extracellular matrix proteins, resulting in an activated tissue engineering constructs that significantly enhanced skin regeneration.

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Cell type-specific regulatory effects of glucocorticoids on cutaneous TLR2 expression and signalling

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Qi Su, Anja Pfalzgraff, Günther Weindl
Glucocorticoids (GCs) induce Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 expression and synergistically upregulate TLR2 with pro-inflammatory cytokines or bacteria. These paradoxical effects have drawn attention to the inflammatory initiating or promoting effects of GCs, as GC treatment can provoke inflammatory skin diseases. Here, we aimed to investigate the regulatory effects of GCs in human skin cells of different epidermal and dermal layers. We found that Dex induced TLR2 expression mainly in undifferentiated and less in calcium-induced differentiated keratinocytes but not in HaCaT cells or fibroblasts, however, Dex reduced TLR1/6 expression. Stimulation with Dex under inflammatory conditions further increased TLR2 but not TLR1 or TLR6 levels in keratinocytes. Increased ligand-induced interaction of TLR2 with MyD88 and expression of the adaptor protein TRAF6 indicated enhanced TLR2 signalling, whereas TLR2/1 or TLR2/6 signalling was not increased in Dex-pretreated keratinocytes. GC-increased TLR2 expression was negatively regulated by JNK MAPK signalling when stimulated with Propionibacterium acnes. Our results provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of glucocorticoid-mediated expression and function of TLR2 in human skin cells and the understanding of the mechanisms of corticosteroid side effects.

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Frontmatter

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: i-iv

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Pediatric endocrinology is pediatrics is public health

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 371-374

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Total body fat, abdominal fat, body fat distribution and surrogate markers for health related to adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (FABP4) in children

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 375-382

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Vitamin D supplementation, the metabolic syndrome and oxidative stress in obese children

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 383-388

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Vitamin D status in Egyptian children with type 1 diabetes and the role of vitamin D replacement in glycemic control

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 389-394

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Cross-sectional analysis of universal vitamin D supplementation in former East Germany during the first year of life

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 395-404

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Ethnicity and incidence of congenital hypothyroidism in the capital of Macedonia

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 405-409

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Changes of thyroid hormonal status in patients receiving ketogenic diet due to intractable epilepsy

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 411-416

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Leptin and adiponectin levels in discordant dichorionic twins at 72 hours of age-associations with anthropometric parameters and insulin resistance

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 417-426

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Analysis of growth hormone receptor gene expression in tall and short stature children

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 427-430

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Clinical features of girls with short stature among inv (9), Turner (45, X) and control individuals

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 431-436

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Hereditary vitamin D-resistant rickets in Lebanese patients: the p.R391S and p.H397P variants have different phenotypes

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 437-444

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Associations between obesity, adverse behavioral patterns and cardiovascular risk factors among adolescent inhabitants of a Greek island

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 445-454

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Increase of body mass index (BMI) from 1.5 to 3 years of age augments the degree of insulin resistance corresponding to BMI at 12 years of age

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 455-457

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The variable clinical phenotype of three patients with hepatic glycogen synthase deficiency

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 459-462

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Molecular defects identified by whole exome sequencing in a child with atypical mucopolysaccharidosis IIIB

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 463-469

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Clinical presentation and treatment response to diazoxide in two siblings with congenital hyperinsulinism as a result of a novel compound heterozygous ABCC8 missense mutation

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 471-474

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Cushing’s syndrome in infancy due to ectopic ACTH secretion by a sacro-coccygeal teratoma

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 475-478

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Growth-hormone deficiency in mitochondrial disorders

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 479-481

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Response to Growth hormone deficiency in mitochondrial disorders

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 483-484

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Could Brugada Syndrome complicate anesthesia?

We read with great interest the article with title "Near miss in a patient with undiagnosed Brugada syndrome: a case report and literature review" [1]. We would like to thank the author for reporting this case, as up to date, safe anesthesia in patients with Brugada Syndrome (BrS) remains controversial. We completely agree that adequate preoperative evaluation is extremely important, especially when history of adverse events during previous anesthesia has been identified. Furthermore, it is not clear in this case which arrhythmia occurred prior to the resuscitation, since a figure is not available for the readers.

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Objective Measurement of Clinical Competency in Surgical Education Using Electrodermal Activity

Publication date: Available online 1 April 2017
Source:Journal of Surgical Education
Author(s): Jacob A. Quick, Alex D. Bukoski, Jennifer Doty, Bethany J. Bennett, Megan Crane, Stephen L. Barnes
ObjectiveWithin the realm of surgical education, there is a need for objective means to determine surgical competence and resident readiness to operate independently. We propose a novel, objective method of assessing resident confidence and clinical competence based on measurement of electrodermal activity (EDA) during live surgical procedures. We hypothesized that with progressive training, EDA responses to the stress of performing surgery would exhibit decline, elucidating an objective correlate of clinical competence.DesignEDA was measured using galvanic skin response sensors worn by residents performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy on sequential live human patients over an 8-month period. Baseline, phasic (peak) and tonic EDA responses were measured as a fractional change from baseline.SettingUniversity of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, an academic tertiary care facility.ParticipantsFourteen categorical general surgery residents and 5 faculty surgeons were voluntarily enrolled and participated through completion.ResultsTonic fractional change (FCTONIC) was highest in PGY3 residents compared with postgraduate year (PGY) 1 and 2 residents (7.199 vs. 2.100, p = 0.004, 95% CI: 8.58-1.61 and PGY4 and 5 residents (7.199 vs. 2.079, p = 0.002, 95% CI: 8.38-0.29). Phasic fractional change in EDA (FCPHASIC) exhibited a progressive decline across resident training levels, with PGY1 and 2 residents having the highest response, and faculty displaying the lowest FCPHASIC responses. Statistical differences were seen between FCPHASIC faculty and PGY4 and 5 (3.596 vs. 6.180, p = 0.004, 95% CI: 0.80-4.36), PGY4 and 5, and PGY3 (6.180 vs. 15.998, p = 0.003, 95% CI: 3.33-16.3), as well as among all residents and faculty (13.057 vs. 3.596, p = 0.004, 95% CI: 15.8-3.1).ConclusionPhasic EDA changes decrease with increasing clinical competence. For those participants with the lowest and highest levels of competence, tonic EDA changes are minimal. Tonic EDA changes follow an inverse-U shape with differing levels of clinical competence.

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Palliative systemic therapy for recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma − how far have we achieved?

Selective scene perception deficits in a case of topographical disorientation

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Jessica Robin, Matthew X. Lowe, Sara Pishdadian, Josée Rivest, Jonathan S. Cant, Morris Moscovitch
Topographical disorientation (TD) is a neuropsychological condition characterized by an inability to find one's way, even in familiar environments. One common contributing cause of TD is landmark agnosia, a visual recognition impairment specific to scenes and landmarks. Although many cases of TD with landmark agnosia have been documented, little is known about the perceptual mechanisms which lead to selective deficits in recognizing scenes. In the present study, we test LH, a man who exhibits TD and landmark agnosia, on measures of scene perception that require selectively attending to either the configural or surface properties of a scene. Compared to healthy controls, LH demonstrates perceptual impairments when attending to the configuration of a scene, but not when attending to its surface properties, such as the pattern of the walls or whether the ground is sand or grass. In contrast, when focussing on objects instead of scenes, LH demonstrates intact perception of both geometric and surface properties. This study demonstrates that in a case of TD and landmark agnosia, the perceptual impairments are selective to the layout of scenes, providing insight into the mechanism of landmark agnosia and scene-selective perceptual processes.

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Solidification of floating organic droplet in dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction as a green analytical tool

Publication date: 1 August 2017
Source:Talanta, Volume 170
Author(s): Fotouh R. Mansour, Neil D. Danielson
Dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) is a special type of microextraction in which a mixture of two solvents (an extracting solvent and a disperser) is injected into the sample. The extraction solvent is then dispersed as fine droplets in the cloudy sample through manual or mechanical agitation. Hence, the sample is centrifuged to break the formed emulsion and the extracting solvent is manually separated. The organic solvents commonly used in DLLME are halogenated hydrocarbons that are highly toxic. These solvents are heavier than water, so they sink to the bottom of the centrifugation tube which makes the separation step difficult. By using solvents of low density, the organic extractant floats on the sample surface. If the selected solvent such as undecanol has a freezing point in the range 10–25°C, the floating droplet can be solidified using a simple ice-bath, and then transferred out of the sample matrix; this step is known as solidification of floating organic droplet (SFOD). Coupling DLLME to SFOD combines the advantages of both approaches together. The DLLME-SFOD process is controlled by the same variables of conventional liquid-liquid extraction. The organic solvents used as extractants in DLLME-SFOD must be immiscible with water, of lower density, low volatility, high partition coefficient and low melting and freezing points. The extraction efficiency of DLLME-SFOD is affected by types and volumes of organic extractant and disperser, salt addition, pH, temperature, stirring rate and extraction time. This review discusses the principle, optimization variables, advantages and disadvantages and some selected applications of DLLME-SFOD in water, food and biomedical analysis.

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Determination of Escherichia coli in urine using a low-cost foil-based microfluidic device

Publication date: 1 August 2017
Source:Talanta, Volume 170
Author(s): Tereza Mašková, Lenka Hárendarčíková, Jan Petr
We developed a simple low-cost cultivation-based microfluidic device from office-laminator foil and Parafilm for the determination of specific microorganisms in water samples. The main goal was to obtain a device that would be portable and cheap compared to common laboratory techniques testing microorganisms. This device needs only 10µL of a sample and can be easily used in terrain by a non-specialist. Moreover, we dealt with some technical aspects of the device fabrication such as low-cost lamination techniques and the use of different cultivation media.

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High selective potentiometric sensor for determination of nanomolar con-centration of Cu(II) using a polymeric electrode modified by a graphene/7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane nanoparticles

Publication date: 1 August 2017
Source:Talanta, Volume 170
Author(s): Magdalena Pięk, Katarzyna Fendrych, Joanna Smajdor, Robert Piech, Beata Paczosa-Bator
In this paper we present several possibilities for modification of the all-solid-state copper(II)-selective electrodes in order to obtain high stability and selectivity potentiometric sensor signal. The copper(II)-selective electrodes were modified in a simple way by introducing solid contact layer based on graphene or graphene oxide, 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane or its copper salt. Each of electrodes shown a Nernstian response, wide linear range of Cu²⁺ concentration and a low detection limit. Nevertheless, some differences between the groups of electrodes have been noticed and resulted from application of intermediate layers of various compositions. The electrode modified with graphene and 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane nanocomposite exhibited the best potential reproducibility and detection limit. Moreover, prepared sensors were characterized by an improved selectivity for copper(II) in relation to non-modified electrodes. The developed electrodes were successfully used for the Cu²⁺ determination in different samples and results were comparable with those obtained using voltammetry.

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Waste derivitized blue luminescent carbon quantum dots for selenite sensing in water

Publication date: 1 August 2017
Source:Talanta, Volume 170
Author(s): Pooja Devi, Gurvinder Kaur, Anupma Thakur, Navneet Kaur, Anita Grewal, Praveen Kumar
Herein, we report an environmental friendly, facile, and completely green synthetic method for producing carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from whey, a major dairy waste. The as-prepared monodispersed diameter CQDs exhibit blue luminescence with noteworthy quantum yield (~11.4%) and excitation dependent emission behaviour. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis reveals the presence of aromatized carbon peaks, leading to polymerized CQDs diameter architecture during whey pyrolysis. The X-ray and selected area electron diffraction patterns confirm their amorphous nature. Further, we demonstrate, these CQDs as an effective sensor probe for selective selenite monitoring in water upon functionalization with appropriate ligand. The functionalized GCQDs probe is shown to detect selenite with high sensitivity in 10–1000ppb detection range. Further it is selective for selenite over other relevant ions (such as Cu²⁺, As³⁺, As⁵⁺, Pb²⁺, Ni²⁺, Se⁶⁺, Cl^-, Br^-, NO3⁻, NO2⁻ and F⁻) and displays a sub-ppb detection limit at 1.1% relative standard deviation.

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Antibacterial activity of medicinal plants from The Physicians of Myddvai, a 13th century Welsh medical manuscript

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Charles Stephen Wagner, Jillian De Gezelle, Maureen Robertson, Keith Robertson, Mickey Wilson, Slavko Komarnytsky
Ethnopharmacological relevanceAntimicrobial drug resistance is a growing threat to global public health. Historical records and herbal texts relating to traditional Celtic medicine indicate an extensive pharmacopeia of plants for treating infections likely caused by microbes. However, a major barrier for successful integration of these remedies into mainstream practice is the current lack of accurate interpretation and scientific validation.Materials and methodsWe investigated the flora of the Isle of Arran, Scotland, via in situ targeted screening of 83 out of 138 plants identified in Meddygion Myddvai (a 13^th century Welsh manuscript) to treat conditions related to microbial infections, and an additional 18 plants from modern ethnobotanical knowledge on the island (Scottish School of Herbal Medicine). In a follow-up proof-of-concept study, bioassay-guided fractionation was performed to identify bioactive constituents from two high scoring hits that inhibited Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) bacterial growth.Results67 historical plants (80.7%) and 14 modern plants (77.8%) were found to have detectable levels of antimicrobial activity when tested using Mobile Discovery kits, with human saliva as a source of bacteria for screening. Sabinene, a natural bicyclic monoterpene from juniper "berries" (Juniperus communis L.) and alliin, a natural sulfoxide from garlic cloves (Allium sativum L.), were isolated and confirmed as primary antibacterial leads.ConclusionUsing historical medical sources such as those associated with traditional Celtic medicine to guide rigorous, evidence-based scientific investigation, provides additional leads for new and alternative bioactive molecules for combating bacterial diseases.

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The assessment of the chronic hepatotoxicity induced by Polygoni Multiflori Radix in rats: A pilot study by using untargeted metabolomics method

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Xin-Hua Xia, Yuan-Yuan Yuan, Mei Liu
Polygoni Multiflori Radix is the dried root of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb officially recorded in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia as HeShouWu (HSW) in Chinese pinyin. The processed HSW are commonly used in TCM to treat liver disease and Chinese Pharmacopoeia has described the actions of it to tonify liver-kidney, replenish essence and blood, blacken beard and hair, strengthen sinew and bone, and resolve turbidity and lower lipid hence making it use not only as a herbal medicine in TCM but also as supplementary food in health care.Aim of the studyConcerns about the hepatotoxicity in association with Polygoni Multiflori Radix and its processed products have been reported in some countries. In the present study, we aim to investigate the potential hepatotoxicity of HSW in rats with oral administration of 95% ethanol-extracts of Polygoni Multiflori Radix by using metabolomics method.Materials and methodsHere, male rats with 150–180g body weight were received vehicle control or Polygoni Multiflori Radix extracts (HSW-Ex) orally at 19.2 (low dose), 192 (medium dose), or 1920mg/kg/day (high dose), respectively, for 28 consecutive days. Signs of HSW-induced toxicity were monitored by traditional toxicity assessments (e.g., clinical pathology and histopathology). Metabolomics investigation of serum was performed to identify potential endogenous metabolites which may be relevant to liver injury.ResultsRats received High and Medium dose of HSW-Ex showed greater sign of liver injury with increased levels of ASP, ALT, and AST, as well as reduced SOD activity when compared to vehicle control. In contrast, there are no significant changes relevant to liver injury observed in rats by receiving the low dose of HSW-Ex. Metabolomics analyses have identified ten potential endogenous metabolites varied significantly among the treatment groups with varying doses of HSW-Ex, of which might be related to liver injury.ConclusionOur data has further suggested that liver damage resulting from HSW-Ex consumption is dosage dependent in rats. It is possible that disruption in amino acid and energy metabolism might lead to subsequent oxidative damage in the liver of rats. Because the clinic practice often use low dose in a short time, therefore HSW usage in TCM still keep safe currently, but we present a warning to the clinical doctors and make them has some concern about high dose of HSW usage in a long term that has potential danger to damage liver.

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Hydroethanolic extract from Echinodorus scaber Rataj leaves inhibits inflammation in ovalbumin-induced allergic asthma

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 203
Author(s): Suellen Iara Guirra Rosa, Fabrício Rios-Santos, Sikiru Olaitan Balogun, Danielle Ayr Tavares de Almeida, Amilcar Sabino Damazo, Thais Campos Dias da Cruz, Eduarda Pavan, Robson dos Santos Barbosa, Tarso da Costa Alvim, Ilsamar Mendes Soares, Sérgio Donizeti Ascêncio, Antonio Macho, Domingos Tabajara de Oliveira Martins
Ethnopharmacological relevanceEchinodorus scaber, Alismataceae, is popularly known in Brazil as "chapéu-de-couro". The plant leaves are used by the population as decoction, infusion, or maceration in bottled spirits, to treat inflammatory respiratory diseases.Aim of the studyTo investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of the hydroethanolic extract of leaves of Echinodorus scaber (HEEs) in allergic asthma. A phytochemical analysis of the extract was performed as well.Materials and methodsThe leaves of Echinodorus scaber were prepared by maceration in 75% ethanol. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was carried out using basic classical methods, and the secondary metabolites detected in HEEs were analyzed and confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of HEEs was evaluated in Swiss male albino mice sensitized and challenged by OVA. The HEEs (1, 5 and 30mg/kg, p.o.) was administered to mice twice a day, 1h before the challenge, from days 19 through 24. The mechanism of action of HEEs was studied by evaluating the levels of TH2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and IgE production in blood plasma. Histopathological changes triggered by OVA-sensitization/challenge in the lung tissue were also investigated.ResultsHEEs reduced total leukocyte, eosinophil, neutrophil, and mononuclear cell counts at all doses tested, with maximum effect at 30mg/kg (73.9%, 75.9%, 75.5%, and 65.2% reduction, p<0.001, respectively). Increases in TH2 cytokine secretion (IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13) and in IgE levels were also attenuated by HEEs. Preliminary phytochemical screening seems to indicated the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and alkaloids. HPLC analyses evidenced the presence of phenolic compounds, such as gallic acid, rutin and vitexin.ConclusionOur findings provided pharmacological preclinical evidence for the popular use of the leaves of Echinodorus scaber in allergic inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory effect was dependent on the decrease in migratory inflammatory cells, and both TH2 cytokines and IgE levels. It is suggested that vitexin, gallic acid and rutin, known anti-inflammatory compounds, may participate in the anti-asthamtic effect of the HEEs, by acting jointly along with other components present in the extract.

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The Association of Neuromuscular Attributes with Performance-based Mobility among Community-dwelling Older Adults with Symptomatic Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Catherine T. Schmidt, Rachel E. Ward, Pradeep Suri, Dan K. Kiely, Ni Pensheng, Dennis E. Anderson, Jonathan F. Bean
ObjectiveTo identify differences in health factors, neuromuscular attributes and performance-based mobility among community-dwelling older adults with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis (SLSS); and to determine which neuromuscular attributes are associated with performance-based measures of mobility. We hypothesized that: (1) community-dwelling older adults with SLSS would have poorer health, greater neuromuscular impairment and worse mobility; and (2) greater impairment in trunk extensor muscle endurance, leg strength, leg speed and knee flexion range of motion (ROM) would be associated with performance-based mobility. Design: Cross-sectional; secondary data analysis of a cohort studySettingoutpatient rehabilitation centerParticipantsCommunity-dwelling adults > 65 years with self-reported mobility limitations and SLSSInterventionsN/AMain Outcome MeasuresShort Physical Performance Battery Score, Habitual Gait Speed, and Chair Stand TestResultsSLSS was classified using self-reported symptoms of neurogenic claudication and imaging. Among 430 community-dwelling older adults 54(13%) met criteria for SLSS. Compared to participants without SLSS, those with SLSS had more comorbidities, higher BMI, greater pain and less balance confidence. Participants with SLSS had greater impairment in trunk extensor muscle endurance, leg strength, leg strength asymmetry, knee flexion range of motion (ROM), knee extension ROM, and ankle ROM compared to participants without SLSS. Five neuromuscular attributes were associated with performance-based mobility among participants with SLSS: trunk extensor muscle endurance, leg strength, leg strength asymmetry, knee flexion ROM, and knee extension ROM asymmetry.ConclusionsCommunity-dwelling older adults with self-reported mobility limitations with SLSS exhibit poorer health characteristics, greater neuromuscular impairment and worse mobility when compared to those without SLSS. Poorer trunk extensor muscle endurance, leg strength, leg strength asymmetry, knee flexion ROM, and knee extension ROM asymmetry were associated with performance-based mobility among participants with SLSS.

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Effect of natural and semi-synthetic cadinanes from Heterotheca inuloides on NF-κB, Nrf2 and STAT3 signaling pathways and evaluation of their in vitro cytotoxicity in human cancer cell lines

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Verónica Egas, Estrella Millán, Juan A. Collado, Teresa Ramírez-Apan, Carlos A. Méndez-Cuesta, Eduardo Muñoz, Guillermo Delgado
The effects of ten natural cadinane sesquiterpenoids isolated from Heterotheca inuloides on the pathways of the NF-κB, Nrf2 and STAT3 transcription factors were studied for the first time. The main constituent in this species, 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (1), showed anti-NF-κB activity and activated the antioxidant Nrf2 pathway, which may explain the properties reported for the traditional use of the plant. In addition to the main metabolite, a structurally similar compound, 7-hydroxy-cadalene (2), also displayed anti-NF-κB activity. Thus, both natural compounds were used as templates for the preparation of a novel semi-synthetic derivative set, including esters and carbamates, which were evaluated for their potential in vitro antiproliferative activities against six human cancer cell lines. Carbamate derivatives 32 and 33 were found to exhibit potent activity against human colorectal adenocarcinoma and showed important selectivity in cancer cells. Among ester derivatives, compound 13 was determined to be a more potent NF-κB inhibitor and Nrf2 activator than its parent, 7-hydroxy-3,4-dihydrocadalene (1). Furthermore, this compound decreases levels of phospho-IκBα, a protein complex involved in the NF-κB activation pathway. Molecular simulations suggest that all active compounds interact with the activation loop of the IKKβ subunit in the IKK complex, which is the responsible of IκBα phosphorylation. Thus, we identified two natural, and one semi-synthetic, NF-κB and Nrf2 modulators and two new promising cytotoxic compounds.

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Editorial board

Publication date: 1 May 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 25, Issue 9

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Erratum to “Synthesis, biological evaluation, and physicochemical property assessment of 4-substituted 2-phenylaminoquinazolines as Mer tyrosine kinase inhibitors” [Bioorg. Med. Chem. 24 (2016) 3083–3092]

Publication date: 1 May 2017
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 25, Issue 9
Author(s): Sheng-Biao Wang, Mu-Tian Cui, Xiao-Feng Wang, Emika Ohkoshi, Masuo Goto, De-Xuan Yang, Linna Li, Shoujun Yuan, Susan L. Morris-Natschke, Kuo-Hsiung Lee, Lan Xie

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Computational Refinement of Spectroscopic FRET Measurements

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Data in Brief
Author(s): Alexander Kyrychenko, Mykola V. Rodnin, Chiranjib Ghatak, Alexey S. Ladokhin
This article supplies raw data related to a research article entitled "Joint refinement of FRET measurements using spectroscopic and computational tools" (A. Kyrychenko, M. V.Rodnin, C. Ghatak, A. S. Ladokhin, 2017) [1], in which we demonstrate the use of molecular dynamics simulations to estimate FRET orientational factors in a benchmark donor-linker-acceptor system of enhanced cyan (ECFP) and enhanced yellow (EYFP) fluorescent proteins. This can improve the recalculation of donor-acceptor distance information from single-molecule FRET measurements.

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Child Abuse – A Painful Reality behind Closed Doors

"Children are similar to wet cement. Whatsoever falls on them makes an impression." – Dr Hiam Gannot Childhood is the most significant phase of a person's life. It is the stage where a child can freely engage ...

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Patch testing in patients with recurrent vesicular hand eczema

Publication date: Available online 2 April 2017
Source:Allergology International
Author(s): Risa Tamagawa-Mineoka, Naomi Nakamura, Sachiko Ueda, Koji Masuda, Norito Katoh

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Identifying Potential Child Abuse through Oral Examination

Limited reports of oropharyngeal trauma exist in the literature even though this type of injury is extremely common in pediatric populations. There are no widely agreed upon diagnostic and management tools for such injuries in abuse cases, emphasizing the importance of reporting rare cases of orofacial trauma. This case report of a soft palate laceration demonstrates an instance of initially unrecognized potential child abuse. We aim to clarify understanding of such injuries. Furthermore, the report highlights the need for recognition of oral signs of child abuse in order to promote early detection, reporting, and appropriate management.

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Multi-targeted protection of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice by tannic acid

Publication date: June 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 47
Author(s): Jianping Zhang, Qiongtao Song, Xue Han, Yuanyuan Zhang, Ying Zhang, Xuan Zhang, Xi Chu, Fenghua Zhang, Li Chu
Tannic acid (TA) is the polyphenol that has beneficial health effects against oxidative stress. However, the hepatoprotective effects of TA are still relatively unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of TA on an acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity model, which was established by administration of 400mg/kg of APAP. The levels of alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), dendothelin-1 (ET-1), nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the APAP-induced hepatotoxicity mice were significantly increased (up to ~200%), while their levels were reduced by pretreatment with TA (25 and 50mg/kg) (P<0.05). The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the APAP-induced hepatotoxicity mice were significantly reduced (lower to ~65%), while their activities were increased by pretreatment with TA (25 and 50mg/kg) (P<0.05). In addition, pretreatment with oral TA (25 and 50mg/kg) for 3days before the APAP administration dose-dependently ameliorated changes in hepatic histopathology, suppressed overexpression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), c-fos, c-jun, NF-κB (p65) and caspase-3 (all P<0.05), downregulated bax and upregulated bcl-2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) (all P<0.05) in the liver. These results indicate that TA exhibits significant hepatoprotective effects against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity and suggest that the hepatoprotective mechanisms of TA may be related to anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis.

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Injured Brains and Adaptive Networks: The Benefits and Costs of Hyperconnectivity

Publication date: Available online 1 April 2017
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences
Author(s): Frank G. Hillary, Jordan H. Grafman
A common finding in human functional brain-imaging studies is that damage to neural systems paradoxically results in enhanced functional connectivity between network regions, a phenomenon commonly referred to as 'hyperconnectivity'. Here, we describe the various ways that hyperconnectivity operates to benefit a neural network following injury while simultaneously negotiating the trade-off between metabolic cost and communication efficiency. Hyperconnectivity may be optimally expressed by increasing connections through the most central and metabolically efficient regions (i.e., hubs). While adaptive in the short term, we propose that chronic hyperconnectivity may leave network hubs vulnerable to secondary pathological processes over the life span due to chronically elevated metabolic stress. We conclude by offering novel, testable hypotheses for advancing our understanding of the role of hyperconnectivity in systems-level brain plasticity in neurological disorders.

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Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

Η λίστα ιστολογίων μου

Κυριακή 2 Απριλίου 2017

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