Κυριακή 28 Μαΐου 2017
Deficiency of filaggrin regulates endogenous cysteine protease activity, leading to impaired skin barrier function
Summary
Background
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disorder, characterized by skin barrier defects and enhanced allergen priming. Null mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) are strongly associated with moderate to severe AD, but the pathways linking barrier dysfunction and cutaneous inflammation are still largely unknown.
Aim
To assess alteration of endogenous cysteine protease activity in FLG-deficient keratinocytes, and to determine whether the alteration in cysteine protease activity affects epidermal barrier function and associated gene and protein expression.
Methods
We established a stable FLG knockdown cell line, and reconstructed epidermal equivalents in vitro. Barrier function of the reconstructed epidermis, the barrier-associated genes and proteins, and the activity of endogenous cysteine proteases were tested. Inhibitors of cysteine proteases were used to further evaluate the role of endogenous cysteine proteases in epidermal barrier function.
Results
FLG knockdown induced impaired epidermal barrier function. Microarray, western blotting and fluorescence staining showed reduced expression of K10, ZO-1, E-cadherin, claudin-1 and occludin in FLG knockdown keratinocytes. Compared with cysteine protease activity in control cells, protease activity was dramatically enhanced in FLG knockdown keratinocytes. Furthermore, administration of cysteine protease inhibitors significantly recovered expression of K10 and tight junction proteins, and the barrier defect induced by FLG deficiency.
Conclusions
This is the first observation of elevated endogenous cysteine protease activity in FLG-deficient keratinocytes, which may play an important role in impaired barrier function in AD skin. Modulation of cysteine protease activity might be a novel therapeutic approach for AD treatment.
http://ift.tt/2rbsPNj
Skin involvement as the first symptom of rapidly progressive ALK-positive systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Summary
Systemic anaplastic large cell lymphomas (sALCLs) comprise a heterogeneous group of relatively rare T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas that are characterized by CD30 expression. Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive ALCL is a type of sALCL that commonly involves lymph nodes and extranodal sites. Skin involvement usually presents as tumours, nodules and ulcers. We describe an unusual case of ALK-positive ALCL in an 11-year-old Chinese boy, who initially presented with skin eruption with rapid progression and poor prognosis. This case emphasizes the value of clinical factors to predict the prognosis of ALK-positive sALCL, and we recommend close collaboration between dermatologists, pathologists and haematologists/oncologists to assure the correct diagnosis and treatment.
http://ift.tt/2qqTokh
Preclinical pilot study monitoring topical drug penetration and dermal bioavailability of a peptidase inhibitor from different galenic formulations into pig dermis, using cutaneous microdialysis
Summary
Background
Cutaneous microdialysis (CM) is an ex vivo technique that allows study of tissue chemistry, including bioavailability of actual tissue concentration of unbound drug in the interstitial fluid of the body.
Aim
To test the penetration and dermal bioavailability of galenic formulations of the small-molecule IP10.C8, a dual-protease inhibitor of the dipeptidyl peptidase and aminopeptidase families.
Methods
Using CM, we tested the penetration and dermal bioavailability of IP10.C8 into the dermis and subcutis of pigs, and determined the tissue concentration of IP10.C8 enzymatically, using an enzyme activity assay (substrate Gly-Pro-pNA) and high performance liquid chromatography.
Results
Dermal bioavailability was enhanced by using microemulsion or the addition of the penetration enhancer oleic acid to a hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) gel formulation. Dermal bioavailability was also enhanced when galenic formulations were prepared with higher pH (7.5 vs. 6.5) or higher drug concentration (5% vs. 1%) in HEC gel.
Conclusion
It seems possible, using CM for topical skin penetration testing in anaesthetized domestic pigs, to test the bioavailability of newly designed drugs. However, the experimental time is limited due to the anaesthesia, and is dependent on drug recovery. Validation of this technique for routine use is challenging, and more experiments are needed to validate this preclinical set-up.
http://ift.tt/2qr8eHJ
Systematic review of the diagnosis of scabies in therapeutic trials
Summary
Human scabies (infestation with the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis) causes a significant disease burden worldwide, yet there are no agreed diagnostic guidelines. We aimed to determine whether a consistent approach to diagnosing scabies has been used for published scabies therapeutic trials. The data sources used were the MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases, from 1946 to 29 August 2013. Eligible studies were trials of therapeutic interventions against scabies in human subjects, published in English, enrolling patients with scabies, and using various therapeutic interventions. Language was a limitation of this study as some relevant trials published in languages other than English may have been excluded. Each study was reviewed by two independent authors, who assessed the clinical examination and testing approaches used for scabies diagnosis in the included studies. We found that of 71 included trials, 40 (56%) specified which clinical findings were used for diagnosis, which were predominantly rash, rash distribution, pruritus and mite burrows. Parasitological testing was used in 63% of trials (n = 45) and was used more frequently in clinic-based than in field studies. Nearly one-quarter of trials (24%, n = 17) did not define the diagnostic method used. Overall, the diagnostic approaches were poorly described, prohibiting accurate comparison of existing studies. This review further supports the need for consensus diagnostic guidelines for scabies.
http://ift.tt/2qqStAm
Deficiency of filaggrin regulates endogenous cysteine protease activity, leading to impaired skin barrier function
Summary
Background
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disorder, characterized by skin barrier defects and enhanced allergen priming. Null mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) are strongly associated with moderate to severe AD, but the pathways linking barrier dysfunction and cutaneous inflammation are still largely unknown.
Aim
To assess alteration of endogenous cysteine protease activity in FLG-deficient keratinocytes, and to determine whether the alteration in cysteine protease activity affects epidermal barrier function and associated gene and protein expression.
Methods
We established a stable FLG knockdown cell line, and reconstructed epidermal equivalents in vitro. Barrier function of the reconstructed epidermis, the barrier-associated genes and proteins, and the activity of endogenous cysteine proteases were tested. Inhibitors of cysteine proteases were used to further evaluate the role of endogenous cysteine proteases in epidermal barrier function.
Results
FLG knockdown induced impaired epidermal barrier function. Microarray, western blotting and fluorescence staining showed reduced expression of K10, ZO-1, E-cadherin, claudin-1 and occludin in FLG knockdown keratinocytes. Compared with cysteine protease activity in control cells, protease activity was dramatically enhanced in FLG knockdown keratinocytes. Furthermore, administration of cysteine protease inhibitors significantly recovered expression of K10 and tight junction proteins, and the barrier defect induced by FLG deficiency.
Conclusions
This is the first observation of elevated endogenous cysteine protease activity in FLG-deficient keratinocytes, which may play an important role in impaired barrier function in AD skin. Modulation of cysteine protease activity might be a novel therapeutic approach for AD treatment.
http://ift.tt/2rbsPNj
Skin involvement as the first symptom of rapidly progressive ALK-positive systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Summary
Systemic anaplastic large cell lymphomas (sALCLs) comprise a heterogeneous group of relatively rare T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas that are characterized by CD30 expression. Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive ALCL is a type of sALCL that commonly involves lymph nodes and extranodal sites. Skin involvement usually presents as tumours, nodules and ulcers. We describe an unusual case of ALK-positive ALCL in an 11-year-old Chinese boy, who initially presented with skin eruption with rapid progression and poor prognosis. This case emphasizes the value of clinical factors to predict the prognosis of ALK-positive sALCL, and we recommend close collaboration between dermatologists, pathologists and haematologists/oncologists to assure the correct diagnosis and treatment.
http://ift.tt/2qqTokh
Preclinical pilot study monitoring topical drug penetration and dermal bioavailability of a peptidase inhibitor from different galenic formulations into pig dermis, using cutaneous microdialysis
Summary
Background
Cutaneous microdialysis (CM) is an ex vivo technique that allows study of tissue chemistry, including bioavailability of actual tissue concentration of unbound drug in the interstitial fluid of the body.
Aim
To test the penetration and dermal bioavailability of galenic formulations of the small-molecule IP10.C8, a dual-protease inhibitor of the dipeptidyl peptidase and aminopeptidase families.
Methods
Using CM, we tested the penetration and dermal bioavailability of IP10.C8 into the dermis and subcutis of pigs, and determined the tissue concentration of IP10.C8 enzymatically, using an enzyme activity assay (substrate Gly-Pro-pNA) and high performance liquid chromatography.
Results
Dermal bioavailability was enhanced by using microemulsion or the addition of the penetration enhancer oleic acid to a hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) gel formulation. Dermal bioavailability was also enhanced when galenic formulations were prepared with higher pH (7.5 vs. 6.5) or higher drug concentration (5% vs. 1%) in HEC gel.
Conclusion
It seems possible, using CM for topical skin penetration testing in anaesthetized domestic pigs, to test the bioavailability of newly designed drugs. However, the experimental time is limited due to the anaesthesia, and is dependent on drug recovery. Validation of this technique for routine use is challenging, and more experiments are needed to validate this preclinical set-up.
http://ift.tt/2qr8eHJ
Systematic review of the diagnosis of scabies in therapeutic trials
Summary
Human scabies (infestation with the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis) causes a significant disease burden worldwide, yet there are no agreed diagnostic guidelines. We aimed to determine whether a consistent approach to diagnosing scabies has been used for published scabies therapeutic trials. The data sources used were the MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases, from 1946 to 29 August 2013. Eligible studies were trials of therapeutic interventions against scabies in human subjects, published in English, enrolling patients with scabies, and using various therapeutic interventions. Language was a limitation of this study as some relevant trials published in languages other than English may have been excluded. Each study was reviewed by two independent authors, who assessed the clinical examination and testing approaches used for scabies diagnosis in the included studies. We found that of 71 included trials, 40 (56%) specified which clinical findings were used for diagnosis, which were predominantly rash, rash distribution, pruritus and mite burrows. Parasitological testing was used in 63% of trials (n = 45) and was used more frequently in clinic-based than in field studies. Nearly one-quarter of trials (24%, n = 17) did not define the diagnostic method used. Overall, the diagnostic approaches were poorly described, prohibiting accurate comparison of existing studies. This review further supports the need for consensus diagnostic guidelines for scabies.
http://ift.tt/2qqStAm
Osteolytic lesions: osteitis fibrosa cystica in the setting of severe primary hyperparathyroidism
A 58-year-old female patient presented with several weeks history of significant bilateral knee pain. Initial knee radiographs demonstrated lucencies of the bony cortex while extensive osteolytic lesions on a routine chest radiograph were suggestive of multiple myeloma or bony metastases. Biochemical investigation revealed primary hyperparathyroidism with renal insufficiency. A parathyroid adenoma was demonstrated on a neck ultrasound and sestamibi scan and subsequently confirmed by histology. We illustrate a case of primary hyperparathyroidism with osteitis fibrosa cystica and brown tumours which were initially mistaken for malignant disease.
http://ift.tt/2reh5f4
Streptococcus bovis prosthetic valve endocarditis associated with silent colonic carcinoma
A 75-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a 3-month history of fever. Of note, she had a bioprosthetic mitral valve replacement 1 year prior to admission. Streptococcus bovis was isolated from three sets of blood cultures. An echocardiogram showed a flickering mass attached to the bioprosthesis. Her blood culture became sterile by the fourth day of ceftriaxone therapy. In spite of the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms, screening colonoscopy revealed an invasive colonic adenocarcinoma. The association linking S. bovis endocarditis and colonic tumours is well recognised. However, despite early reports of this association by Klein et al in 1979, a large number of practising physicians remain unaware of this phenomenon. This lack of awareness results in lost opportunities for early diagnosis and, consequently, improved outcome in such patients. Our report emphasises this association in an area with a low incidence of S. bovis endocarditis.
http://ift.tt/2schtYC
Ichthyosis linearis circumflexa with bamboo hair: challenges in the diagnosis and management
A 15-year-old boy had persistent and refractory erythroderma since early childhood. His parents noticed polycyclic skin lesions and hair fragility around the age of 5 years. He was treated by a local untrained practitioner for more than 3 years without any significant improvement, and he developed weight gain, thinning of skin, muscle weakness and growth retardation. He was evaluated in 2015 and found to have iatrogenic Cushing's disease with severe skeletal complications and pituitary-adrenal-gonadal suppression, which persisted despite gradual withdrawal of steroids.
http://ift.tt/2reqdA5
A rare case of bilateral lens dislocations
Description
A 39-year-old man presented to our hospital following transfer from a rural site with an acute right eye anterior lens dislocation following a traumatic blow to the head. He had been hit 7 days prior and had suffered gradual vision loss in the right eye since then. Visual acuity was counting fingers at 1 m in his right eye and perception of light in his left eye. He had an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 50 mm Hg in his right eye on arrival. He had a CT head non-contrast performed. The axial (figure 1) and sagittal (figures 2 and 3) slices demonstrated a right eye anterior lens dislocation and a left eye posterior lens dislocation. The left eye had been injured 3 years prior and the patient had not sought treatment for it at the time. On examination, the left eye was found to...
http://ift.tt/2scqikX
Title Page/Sections Editors
Publication date: July 2017
Source:Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1860, Issue 7
http://ift.tt/2rMVzi1
Sometimes pain originating from a non-odontogenic pathologic condition is mistaken as endodontic illness, leading to misdiagnosis.
http://otorhinolaryngology-crete.blogspot.com/2017/05/adenoid-cystic-carcinoma-of-maxillary.html
Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182
6948891480
Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) has been associated with atherosclerosis and increased risk of ischemic stroke.
http://otorhinolaryngology-crete.blogspot.com/2017/05/subclinical-hypothyroidism-and-risk-of.html
Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182
6948891480
The global state of psoriasis disease epidemiology: a workshop report
Summary
The International Psoriasis Council, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to innovation across the full spectrum of psoriasis, led a symposium to discuss the current state of psoriasis epidemiology and to introduce the vision and development of a Global Psoriasis Atlas. The symposium was held on 9 September 2015 at the 45th annual meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Collectively, these presentations highlighted challenges associated with assessing psoriasis epidemiology and emphasized the urgent need for an authoritative resource to clarify psoriasis disease burden on a global scale.
http://ift.tt/2rMNtWL
The global state of psoriasis disease epidemiology: a workshop report
Summary
The International Psoriasis Council, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to innovation across the full spectrum of psoriasis, led a symposium to discuss the current state of psoriasis epidemiology and to introduce the vision and development of a Global Psoriasis Atlas. The symposium was held on 9 September 2015 at the 45th annual meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Collectively, these presentations highlighted challenges associated with assessing psoriasis epidemiology and emphasized the urgent need for an authoritative resource to clarify psoriasis disease burden on a global scale.
http://ift.tt/2rMNtWL
Atenolol Versus Propranolol for Treatment of Infantile Hemangiomas During the Proliferative Phase: A Retrospective Noninferiority Study
Abstract
Background/Objectives
The nonselective beta-blocker propranolol is the current criterion standard for treatment of infantile hemangiomas (IHs) and the first therapy that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved for the condition, but concern about adverse effects, such as bronchospasm, hypoglycemia, and sleep disturbances, has sparked interest in the use of alternative agents such as the selective β1 antagonist atenolol. Our aim was to compare the efficacy and adverse effect profiles of atenolol with those of propranolol in the treatment of IHs in a retrospective noninferiority trial.
Methods
Twenty-seven children with IHs treated with atenolol according to the Cleveland Clinic foundation's standardized clinical assessment and management plan (SCAMP) met inclusion criteria and were compared with a matched group of 53 children with IHs treated with propranolol. Three reviewers assessed response to therapy using a modified version of the previously validated Hemangioma Activity Score (HAS).
Results
The mean change in HAS was −2.94 ± 1.20 for patients treated with atenolol and −2.96 ± 1.42 for those treated with propranolol. There was no statistically significant difference in pre- and posttreatment modified HAS scores between the two groups (p = 0.60). There was no significant difference in the overall rate of adverse effects (p = 0.10), although 11% of patients treated with propranolol experienced reactive airway symptoms, whereas this was not seen in any of the patients treated with atenolol.
Conclusion
Our study supports previous findings that atenolol is at least as effective as propranolol for treatment of IHs and poses less risk of bronchospasm. Our SCAMP proposes guidelines for dosing and monitoring parameters.
http://ift.tt/2rdxHDC
The Growing Toolbox for Protein Synthesis Studies
Publication date: Available online 28 May 2017
Source:Trends in Biochemical Sciences
Author(s): Shintaro Iwasaki, Nicholas T. Ingolia
Protein synthesis stands at the last stage of the central dogma of molecular biology, providing a final regulatory layer for gene expression. Reacting to environmental cues and internal signals, the translation machinery can quickly tune the translatome from a pre-existing pool of RNAs, before the transcriptome changes. Although the translation reaction itself has been known since the 1950s, the quantitative or even qualitative measurement of its efficacy in cells has posed experimental and analytic hurdles. In this review, we outline the array of state-of-the-art methods that have emerged to tackle the hidden aspects of translational control.
http://ift.tt/2rdl8Ii
Close Encounters – Probing Proximal Proteins in Live or Fixed Cells
Publication date: Available online 28 May 2017
Source:Trends in Biochemical Sciences
Author(s): Peter Lönn, Ulf Landegren
The well-oiled machinery of the cellular proteome operates via variable expression, modifications, and interactions of proteins, relaying genomic and transcriptomic information to coordinate cellular functions. In recent years, a number of techniques have emerged that serve to identify sets of proteins acting in close proximity in the course of orchestrating cellular activities. These proximity-dependent assays, including BiFC, BioID, APEX, FRET, and isPLA, have opened up new avenues to examine protein interactions in live or fixed cells. We review herein the current status of proximity-dependent in situ techniques. We compare the advantages and limitations of the methods, underlining recent progress and the growing importance of these techniques in basic research, and we discuss their potential as tools for drug development and diagnostics.
http://ift.tt/2sbkKHx
The effect of the essential oils of lavender and rosemary on the human short-term memory
Publication date: Available online 27 May 2017
Source:Alexandria Journal of Medicine
Author(s): O.V. Filiptsova, L.V. Gazzavi-Rogozina, I.A. Timoshyna, O.I. Naboka, Ye.V. Dyomina, A.V. Ochkur
The research results of the effect of essential oils on the human short-term image and numerical memory have been described. The study involved 79 secondary school students (34 boys and 45 girls) aged 13 to 17years, residents of the Ukrainian metropolis. Participants were divided into three groups: the control group, "Lavender" group, in which the lavender essential oil was sprayed, and "Rosemary" group, in which the rosemary essential oil was sprayed. The statistically significant differences in productivity of the short-term memory of the participants of different groups have been found. Therefore, the essential oils of rosemary and lavender have significantly increased the image memory compared to the control. Inhalation of the rosemary essential oil increased the memorization of numbers, and inhalation of the lavender essential oil weakened this process.
http://ift.tt/2rvrbci
Computer-assisted orthognathic surgery: evaluation of mandible registration accuracy and report of the first clinical cases of navigated sagittal split ramus osteotomy
Intraoperative navigation is a helpful tool in complex anatomical regions or procedures. The mobility of the mandible in relation to the skull base limits the use of navigation tools on the lower jaw if the reference device is installed on the forehead. A new workflow that allows navigation-assisted sagittal split osteotomy in orthognathic surgery using a separate non-invasive mandibular registration technique has been developed. An evaluation of accuracy in different anatomical regions and with different registration techniques was performed on skull models and skulls with movable mandibles.
http://ift.tt/2qsXcxy
Efficient ZnO1-xSx composites from the Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6 precursor for the H2 production by photocatalysis
Publication date: December 2017
Source:Renewable Energy, Volume 113
Author(s): Octavio Aguilar-Martínez, Agileo Hernández-Gordillo, Raúl Pérez-Hernández, Próspero Acevedo-Peña, Alma Arrieta-Castañeda, Ricardo Gómez, Francisco Tzompantzi
ZnO1-xSx (x = 0.2, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0) composites were prepared from the hydrozincite precursor (Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6) as Zn source by sulfidation during the solvothermal treatment using thiourea as sulfur source at different molar ratio. The sulfurized composites were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TGA, SEM-EDS, N2 physisorption, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and photoluminescence. Additionally, photocatalysts were deposited onto ITO coated supports to perform their photoelectrochemical characterization. The sulfurized samples were composed of cubic-ZnO and cubic-ZnS with proportions close to the theoretical ones, given a ZnO1-xSx heterostructures. Mesoporous composites with large specific surface area (up to 207 m2 g−1) were obtained. All the obtained composites were evaluated in the production of H2 from a MetOH-water solution and UV light. The photocatalytic stability of the best composite was also evaluated for five reaction cycles. The photocatalytic properties of the ZnO1-xSx composite is explained as a function of the generation capacity of electron-hole pairs when the photocalyst is illuminated jointly with the charge transfer resistance of photocatalysts in a methanol-water solution.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2raxOh2
The International Neuropeptide society pages
Publication date: July 2017
Source:Peptides, Volume 93
http://ift.tt/2qsMtmF
Gayle & Richard Olson prize pages
Publication date: July 2017
Source:Peptides, Volume 93
http://ift.tt/2rM7ZGI
Hidroalcoholic extract from Nerium oleander L. (Apocynaceae) elicits arrhythmogenic activity
Publication date: Available online 28 May 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Author(s): Ana Flávia Machado Botelho, Artur Santos-Miranda, Humberto Cavalcante Joca, Cláudio Roberto Scabelo Mattoso, Maira Souza de Oliveira, Felipe Pierezan, Jader Santos Cruz, Benito Soto-Blanco, Marília Martins Melo
Ethnopharmacological relevanceNerium oleander L. (OLE) has been used medicinally and is reported to possess a wide range of pharmacological activities. OLE effects are caused by different cardiac glycosides (CG), primarily oleandrin, found within the plant. CG can potentially impair sodium-potassium ATPase (NKA) pump activity and cause positive inotropic effects on the heart.Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to investigate the potential arrhythmogenic effects of hydroalcoholic extracts from N. oleander (OLE).Materials and methodsOLE hydroalcoholic extracts were obtained from N. oleander leaves and analyzed by HPLC. In vivo experiments with guinea pigs consisted if oral administration of water, 150mg/kg and 300mg/kg OLE extract. Clinical signs and ECG analysis were evaluated. Sample tissues from the heart were processed for histopathological and ultra-structural analysis. Autonomic effects were assessed through pharmacological blockade and ECG monitoring. In vitro experiments were conducted with isolated ventricular myocytes from adult mice. The effects of OLE extract on cardiac excitability, Na+/K+ pump current and global Ca2+ transients were evaluated.ResultsOur results demonstrated that OLE hydroalcoholic extract elicited severe cardiac arrhythmias that can lead to death with minimal tissue damage. In vitro experiments suggest that OLE causes electromechanical disturbances in the heart due to inhibition of Na+/K+ pump, mitochondrial swelling, and modulation of the sarco(endo)plasmic Ca2+ ATPase without interfering with the autonomic nervous system. Thus, arrhythmias and electrical conduction disturbances promoted by OLE are mainly associated with impaired cardiomyocyte dysfunction, rather than anatomical tissue remodeling and/or autonomic modulation.ConclusionOur data revealed the potential cardiotoxicity and positive inotropic effect of OLE and its important role in modulation of electrophysiology in cardiomyocytes.
Graphical abstract
http://ift.tt/2s4e7Yx
Physical Mechanical characterization of cosmetic formulations and correlation between instrumental measurements and sensorial properties
Abstract
Objective
The correct choice of raw materials in the development of cosmetic formulations is essential for obtaining stable and pleasant skin care products. Therefore, rheological, texture and sensory analyses are important to understand the behavior and stability of the formulations. In this context, the aim of the present study was to develop cosmetic formulations containing or not (vehicle) UV filters and chicory root extract, to evaluate their stability as well as to characterize their physical and texture properties and correlate them with the sensory attributes.
Methods
Four formulations containing organic UV filters and chicory extract, each alone or in combination, were developed and evaluated for 180 days with a cone and plate rheometer, a texture analyzer and consumer's sensorial analysis. Thus, the data obtained were correlated in order to observe the different influences.
Results
The developed formulations remained stable after 180 days regarding macroscopic aspects, organoleptic characteristics and pH values. The addition of the UV filters alone and in combination with the active substance resulted in significant increases in rheology, viscosity and consistency. The formulation with the active ingredient showed significant decreases in the texture parameters after 180 days, mainly due to its polysaccharide Inulin. All formulations obtained high scores in sensorial parameters. A strong correlation was mainly found between spreadability and work of shear, and between the texture parameters.
Conclusion
The raw materials strongly influenced the physical, texture and sensorial parameters. Finally, the UV filters showed a greater influence on the results of the formulations than the chicory root extract. In conclusion, the association of the mentioned methods allows the correct choice of ingredients and their combinations.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2qwKX1X
Echinacea purpurea-derived alkylamides exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects and alleviate clinical symptoms of atopic eczema
Publication date: Available online 27 May 2017
Source:Journal of Dermatological Science
Author(s): Attila Oláh, Judit Szabó-Papp, Michael Soeberdt, Ulrich Knie, Stephan Dähnhardt-Pfeiffer, Christoph Abels, Tamás Bíró
BackgroundAtopic eczema (AE) is a chronic inflammatory and pruritic skin disease. There is still an unmet need for topical anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic substances exhibiting an excellent safety profile. The endocannabinoid system is known to regulate various aspects of cutaneous barrier and immune functions, thus targeting it may be a valid approach for alleviating the symptoms of AE.ObjectiveTo assess the putative efficacy of Echinacea purpurea-derived alkylamides (Ec. extract) activating cannabinoid (CB)-2 receptors in exerting anti-inflammatory effects and alleviating symptoms of AE.MethodsIn vitro anti-inflammatory efficiency was investigated by monitoring the effects of Ec. extract on poly-(I:C)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (Q-PCR) and release (ELISA) of HaCaT keratinocytes. Irritancy and sensitization potential (assessed by Human Repeat Insult Patch Test; Clinical trial 1); clinical efficiency in alleviating symptoms of AE (Clinical trial 2) as well as effects on human skin structure and lipid content (Clinical trial 3 followed by transmission electron microscopy and HPTLC) were investigated in randomized double blind clinical trials.ResultsEc. extract significantly reduced mRNA expression as well as release of poly-(I:C)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) in keratinocytes. Thus, not surprisingly, the well-tolerated (Clinical trial 1) Ec. extract-based cream reduced local SCORAD statistically significantly, not only compared to baseline, but also compared to the comparator (Clinical trial 2). Of great importance, besides the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects, administration of the Ec. extract-based cream also resulted in significantly higher levels of overall epidermal lipids, ceramide EOS (ω-esterified fatty acid+sphingosine sphingoid base), and cholesterol at Day 15 compared to baseline as well as significantly greater numbers of intercellular lipid lamellae in the intercellular space (Clinical trial 3).ConclusionThe investigated Ec. extract shows great potential in alleviating cutaneous symptoms of AE, and by exerting remarkable anti-inflammatory actions and restoring the epidermal lipid barrier, it will be very likely a well-tolerated, powerful novel ingredient for the adjuvant therapy of AE.
http://ift.tt/2qwM3el
Oral lichenoid dysplasia and exophytic oral verrucous hyperplasia: Mythical entities of oral pathology
Source:Oral Oncology
Author(s): A. Thirumal Raj
http://ift.tt/2rcfFla
Editorial Board/Aims & Scope
Source:Oral Oncology, Volume 69
http://ift.tt/2saALxl
In Memoriam – Crispian Scully 1945–2017
Source:Oral Oncology, Volume 69
Author(s): Jatin P. Shah
http://ift.tt/2rcfA0Q
If a butterfly flaps its wings in the Amazon, do we form an Inflammasome?
Publication date: June 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 86
Author(s): Ashley Mansell
http://ift.tt/2rMc91o
Editorial Board/ Publication Information
Publication date: June 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 86
http://ift.tt/2qsuEnG
If a butterfly flaps its wings in the Amazon, do we form an Inflammasome?
Publication date: June 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 86
Author(s): Ashley Mansell
http://ift.tt/2rMc91o
Editorial Board/ Publication Information
Publication date: June 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 86
http://ift.tt/2qsuEnG
Autofluorescence spectroscopy for nerve-sparing laser surgery of the head and neck—the influence of laser-tissue interaction
Abstract
The use of remote optical feedback systems represents a promising approach for minimally invasive, nerve-sparing laser surgery. Autofluorescence properties can be exploited for a fast, robust identification of nervous tissue. With regard to the crucial step towards clinical application, the impact of laser ablation on optical properties in the vicinity of structures of the head and neck has not been investigated up to now. We acquired 24,298 autofluorescence spectra from 135 tissue samples (nine ex vivo tissue types from 15 bisected pig heads) both before and after ER:YAG laser ablation. Sensitivities, specificities, and area under curve(AUC) values for each tissue pair as well as the confusion matrix were statistically calculated for pre-ablation and post-ablation autofluorescence spectra using principal component analysis (PCA), quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA), and receiver operating characteristics (ROC). The confusion matrix indicated a highly successful tissue discrimination rate before laser exposure, with an average classification error of 5.2%. The clinically relevant tissue pairs nerve/cancellous bone and nerve/salivary gland yielded an AUC of 100% each. After laser ablation, tissue discrimination was feasible with an average classification accuracy of 92.1% (average classification error 7.9%). The identification of nerve versus cancellous bone and salivary gland performed very well with an AUC of 100 and 99%, respectively. Nerve-sparing laser surgery in the area of the head and neck by means of an autofluorescence-based feedback system is feasible even after ER-YAG laser-tissue interactions. These results represent a crucial step for the development of a clinically applicable feedback tool for laser surgery interventions in the oral and maxillofacial region.
http://ift.tt/2r9TLPr
Mesenchymal stromal cell and osteoblast responses to oxidized titanium surfaces pre-treated with λ = 808 nm GaAlAs diode laser or chlorhexidine: in vitro study
Abstract
Preservation of implant biocompatibility following peri-implantitis treatments is a crucial issue in odontostomatological practice, being closely linked to implant re-osseointegration. Our aim was to assess the responses of osteoblast-like Saos2 cells and adult human bone marrow-mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to oxidized titanium surfaces (TiUnite®, TiU) pre-treated with a 808 ± 10 nm GaAlAs diode laser operating in non-contact mode, in continuous (2 W, 400 J/cm2; CW) or pulsed (20 kHz, 7 μs, 0.44 W, 88 J/cm2; PW) wave, previously demonstrated to have a strong bactericidal effect and proposed as optional treatment for peri-implantitis. The biocompatibility of TiU surfaces pre-treated with chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) was also evaluated. In particular, in order to mimic the in vivo approach, TiU surfaces were pre-treated with CHX (0.2%, 5 min); CHX and rinse; and CHX, rinse and air drying. In some experiments, the cells were cultured on untreated TiU before being exposed to CHX. Cell viability (MTS assay), proliferation (EdU incorporation assay; Ki67 confocal immunofluorescence analysis), adhesion (morphological analysis of actin cytoskeleton organization), and osteogenic differentiation (osteopontin confocal immunofluorescence analysis; mineralized bone-like nodule formation) analyses were performed. CHX resulted cytotoxic in all experimental conditions. Diode laser irradiation preserved TiU surface biocompatibility. Notably, laser treatment appeared even to improve the known osteoconductive properties of TiU surfaces. Within the limitations of an in vitro experimentation, this study contributes to provide additional experimental basis to support the potential use of 808 ± 10 nm GaAlAs diode laser at the indicated irradiation setting, in the treatment of peri-implantitis and to discourage the use of CHX.
http://ift.tt/2s8dVGW
Supine posture affects cortical plasticity in elderly but not young women during a word learning-recognition task
Source:Biological Psychology
Author(s): Chiara Spironelli, Alessandro Angrilli
The present research investigated the hypothesis that elderly and horizontal body position contribute to impair learning capacity. To this aim, 30 young (mean age: 23.2 years) and 20 elderly women (mean age: 82.8 years) were split in two equal groups, one assigned to the Seated Position (SP), and the other to the horizontal Bed Rest position (hBR). In the Learning Phase, participants were shown 60 words randomly distributed, and in the subsequent Recognition Phase they had to recognize them mixed with a sample of 60 new words. Behavioral analyses showed age-group effects, with young women exhibiting faster response times and higher accuracy rates than elderly women, but no interaction of body position with age group was found. Analysis of the RP component (250–270ms) revealed greater negativity in the left Occipital gyrus/Cuneus of both sitting age-groups, but significantly left-lateralized RP in left Lingual gyrus only in young bedridden women. Elderly hBR women showed a lack of left RP lateralization, the main generator being located in the right Cuneus. Young participants had the typical old/new effect (450–800ms) in different portions of left Frontal gyri/Uncus, whereas elderly women showed no differences in stimulus processing and its location. EEG alpha activity analyzed during a 3min resting state, soon after the recognition task, revealed greater alpha amplitude (i.e., cortical inhibition) in posterior sites of hBR elderly women, a result in line with their inhibited posterior RP. In elderly women the left asymmetry of RP was positively correlated with both greater accuracy and faster responses, thus pointing to a dysfunctional role, rather than a compensatory shift, of the observed right RP asymmetry in this group. This finding may have important clinical implications, with particular regard to the long-term side-effects of forced Bed Rest on elderly patients.
http://ift.tt/2s3Jlim
Working hard for oneself or others: Effects of oxytocin on reward motivation in social anxiety disorder
Source:Biological Psychology
Author(s): Angela Fang, Michael T. Treadway, Stefan G. Hofmann
There is some evidence to suggest that oxytocin promotes social behavior, especially for disorders characterized by social dysfunction, such as social anxiety disorder (SAD). The goal of this study was to examine the effect of oxytocin on reward motivation in SAD. We tested whether oxytocin promotes prosocial, or antisocial, self-directed decisions, and whether its effects depended on social anxiety severity and attachment. Fifty-two males with SAD received 24 international units of oxytocin or placebo, and completed a reward motivation task that measured willingness to work for self vs. other monetary rewards. Although there was no main drug effect, social anxiety severity moderated the effect of oxytocin. Less socially anxious individuals who received oxytocin worked harder for other vs. own rewards, compared to high socially anxious individuals. Attachment did not moderate this effect. Among people with SAD, oxytocin enhances prosocial behaviors in individuals with relatively lower levels of social anxiety.National Institutes of Health ClinicalTrials.gov Registry #NCT01856530.http://ift.tt/2s3Izlu.
http://ift.tt/2rur2Wl
Behavioral and electrophysiological correlates of cognitive control in ex-obese adults
Source:Biological Psychology
Author(s): Vincenza Tarantino, Vincenzo Vindigni, Franco Bassetto, Chiara Pavan, Antonino Vallesi
Impaired cognitive control functions have been documented in obesity. It remains unclear whether these functions normalize after weight reduction. We compared ex-obese individuals, who successfully underwent substantial weight loss after bariatric surgery, to normal weight participants on measures of resistance to interference, cognitive flexibility and response inhibition, obtained from the completion of two Stroop tasks, a Switching task and a Go/NoGo task, respectively. To elucidate the underlying brain mechanisms, event-related potentials (ERPs) in the latter two tasks were examined. As compared to controls, patients were more susceptible to the predominant but task-irrelevant stimulus dimension (i.e., they showed a larger verbal Stroop effect), and were slower in responding on trials requiring a task-set change rather than a task-set repetition (i.e., they showed a larger switch cost). The ERP correlates revealed altered anticipatory control mechanisms (switch positivity) and an exaggerated conflict monitoring response (N2). The results suggest that cognitive control is critical even in ex-obese individuals and should be monitored to promote weight loss maintenance.
http://ift.tt/2ruxs8c
Efforts to monitor Global progress on individual and community demand for immunization: Development of definitions and indicators for the Global Vaccine Action Plan Strategic Objective 2
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Benjamin Hickler, Noni E. MacDonald, Kamel Senouci, Holly B. Schuh
The Second Strategic Objective of the Global Vaccine Action Plan, "individuals and communities understand the value of vaccines and demand immunization as both their right and responsibility", differs from the other five in that it does not focus on supply-side aspects of immunization programs but rather on public demand for vaccines and immunization services. This commentary summarizes the work (literature review, consultations with experts, and with potential users) and findings of the UNICEF/World Health Organization Strategic Objective 2 informal Working Group on Vaccine Demand, which developed a definition for demand and indicators related to Strategic Objective 2. Demand for vaccines and vaccination is a complex concept that is not external to supply systems but rather encompasses the interaction between human behaviors and system structure and dynamics.
http://ift.tt/2safoML
Peritoneal B-1b and B-2 B-cells confer long-term protection from pneumococcal serotype 3 infection after vaccination with Prevnar-13 and are defective in sickle cell disease mice
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Christina Cotte, Steven M. Szczepanek
Long-term immunity after inoculation with the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevnar-13) is impaired in sickle cell disease (SCD) mice. We sought to determine which B-cell subsets are defective in SCD mice after vaccination with Prevnar-13, yet confer long-term immunity in wild-type (WT) mice. We vaccinated WT and SCD mice three times at three week intervals with Prevnar-13. Fourteen weeks later, 5∗104 cells of isolated peritoneal B-1a, B-1b, and B-2 cells were harvested and intraperitoneally transferred to Rag −/− recipients. A week later recipients were intraperitoneally challenged with 103CFU of Streptococcus pneumoniae (serotype 3). Recipient mice that received either B-1b or B-2 B-cells from WT mice survived challenge, whereas mice that received B-1a cells died. Recipient mice that received B-1a, B-1b, or B-2 cells from SCD mice died after challenge. Both B-1b and B-2 cells appear to confer long-term immunity after Prevnar-13 vaccination, yet neither subset functions properly in SCD mice.
http://ift.tt/2rbT3Bf
Reverse spillover of avian viral vaccine strains from domesticated poultry to wild birds
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): M.A. Rohaim, R.F. El Naggar, A.M. Helal, H.A. Hussein, Muhammad Munir
Transmission of viruses from the commercial poultry to wild birds is an emerging paradigm of livestock–wildlife interface. Here, we report the identification and isolation of vaccine strains of avian paramyxovirus serotype 1 (APMV1) and avian coronaviruses (ACoV) from different wild bird species across eight Egyptian governorates between January 2014 and December 2015. Surveillance of avian respiratory viruses in free-ranging wild birds (n=297) identified three species that harboured or excreted APMV1 and ACoVs. Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of recovered viruses revealed a close association with the most widely utilized vaccine strains in the country. These results highlight the potential spillover of vaccine-viruses probably due to extensive use of live-attenuated vaccines in the commercial poultry, and close interaction between domesticated and wild bird populations. Further exploring the full spectrum of vaccine-derived viral vaccine strains in wild birds might help to assess the emergence of future wild-birds origin viruses.
http://ift.tt/2sa93kx
Lost workdays and healthcare use before and after hospital visits due to rotavirus and other gastroenteritis among young children in Norway
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Christina H. Edwards, Terese Bekkevold, Elmira Flem
BackgroundCost-effectiveness of rotavirus vaccination is affected by assumptions used in health economic evaluations. To inform such evaluations, we assessed healthcare use before and after hospitalisations due to rotavirus and other acute gastroenteritis (AGE) among children <5years of age in Norway and estimated daycare and work absenteeism.MethodsWe conducted post-discharge interviews with caregivers of 282 children hospitalised with AGE at two hospitals in Norway during April 2014–February 2017. We collected data on healthcare use and absenteeism from daycare and work. We examined healthcare seeking and absenteeism patterns for RV-specific and other gastroenteritis.ResultsCaregivers of 485 (37%) of 1 298 hospitalised children were invited to participate, and 282 (58%) completed the questionnaire. Among these, 106 (38%) were rotavirus-positive, 119 (42%) were rotavirus-negative, and for 57 (20%) children no rotavirus testing was performed. Overall, 97% of children had been in contact with a healthcare provider before hospital admission and 28% had contacted a healthcare provider after discharge. Children that attended daycare were absent from daycare for a mean of 6.3days (median 5days). Caregivers of these children reported work absenteeism in 74% of cases. The mean duration of work absenteeism among caregivers was 5.9days (median 5days) both for RV-positive and RV-negative cases.ConclusionIn Norway, work absenteeism and healthcare use before and after hospitalisation due to rotavirus and non-rotavirus gastroenteritis are considerable and impose an economic burden on the healthcare system and society.
http://ift.tt/2rc9yNx
Retinoic acid pre-treatment down regulates V. cholerae outer membrane vesicles induced acute inflammation and enhances mucosal immunity
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Ritam Sinha, Debaki Ranjan Howlader, Atri Ta, Soma Mitra, Santasabuj Das, Hemanta Koley
Bacterial outer membrane vesicles have been extensively investigated and considered as a next generation vaccine. Recently, we have demonstrated that the cholera pentavalent outer membrane vesicles (CPMVs) immunogen induced adaptive immunity and had a strong protective efficacy against the circulating V. cholerae strains in a mouse model. In this present study, we are mainly focusing on reducing outer membrane vesicle (OMV) -mediated toxicity without altering its antigenic property. Therefore, we have selected All-trans Retinoic Acid (ATRA), active metabolites of vitamin A, which have both anti-inflammatory and mucosal adjuvant properties. Pre-treatment of ATRA significantly reduced CPMVs induced TLR2 mediated pro-inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we also found ATRA pre-treatment significantly induced mucosal immune response and protective efficacy after two doses of oral immunization with CPMVs (75µg). This study can help to reduce OMV based vaccine toxicity and induce better protective immunity where children and men suffered from malnutrition mainly in developing countries.
http://ift.tt/2sa40jO
Editorial Board/Aims and Scope
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
http://ift.tt/2rbCZiP
Reduced schedules of 4CMenB vaccine in infants and catch-up series in children: Immunogenicity and safety results from a randomised open-label phase 3b trial
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Federico Martinón-Torres, Marco Aurelio P. Safadi, Alfonso Carmona Martinez, Pilar Infante Marquez, Juan Carlos Tejedor Torres, Lily Yin Weckx, Edson Duarte Moreira, Ilhem Mensi, Marco Calabresi, Daniela Toneatto
BackgroundThis study evaluated the immunogenicity and safety of a licensed meningococcal serogroup B vaccine (4CMenB) administered alone according to reduced schedules in infants or catch-up series in children.MethodsIn this open-label, multicentre, phase 3b study (NCT01339923), infants randomised 1:1:1 received 4CMenB: 2+1 doses at 3½–5–11months or 6–8–11months of age, 3+1 doses at ages 2½–3½–5–11months. Children aged 2–10years received 2 catch-up doses administered 2months apart. Immune responses were measured by hSBA assays against 4 strains specific for vaccine components fHbp, NadA, PorA and NHBA. Sufficiency of immune responses was defined in groups with 2+1 doses schedules as a lower limit ≥70% for the 97.5% confidence interval of the percentage of infants with hSBA titres ≥4, 1month post-dose 2 for fHbp, NadA, PorA. Adverse events were collected for 7days post-vaccination; serious adverse events (SAEs) throughout the study.Results754 infants and 404 children were enrolled. Post-primary vaccination, 98–100% of infants across all groups developed hSBA titres ≥4 for fHbp, NadA, PorA, and 48–77% for NHBA. Sufficiency of immune responses in infants receiving 2+1 schedules was demonstrated for fHbp, NadA, PorA after 2 doses of 4CMenB, as pre-specified criteria were met. Following receipt of 2 catch-up doses, 95–99% of children developed hSBA titres ≥4 for 4CMenB components. Similar safety profiles were observed across groups. A total of 45 SAEs were reported, 3 of which were related to vaccination.ConclusionReduced infant schedules and catch-up series in children were immunogenic and safe, having the potential to widen 4CMenB vaccine coverage.FundingGlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA.
http://ift.tt/2sa8OGb
Exploring evidence for behavioral risk compensation among participants in an HIV vaccine clinical trial
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Julia E. Painter, Ralph J. DiClemente, Lauren Jimenez, Theron Stuart, Jessica M. Sales, Mark J. Mulligan
BackgroundHIV vaccine trial participants may engage in behavioral risk compensation due to a false sense of protection. We conducted an ancillary study of an HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) vaccine efficacy trial to explore risk compensation among trial participants compared to persons who were willing to participate but ineligible based on previous exposure to the Ad5 virus (Ad5+) across three timepoints.MethodsParticipants were drawn from the Atlanta, GA site of the HVTN 505 vaccine trial. From 2011–2013, all persons who met prescreening criteria for the clinical trial and presented for Ad5 antibody testing were invited to participate in the ancillary study. Data were collected from vaccine trial participants (n=51) and Ad5+ participants (n=60) via online surveys across three timepoints: baseline, T2 (after trial participants received 2/4 injections) and T3 (after trial participants received 4/4 injections). Data analyses assessed demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral differences at baseline and changes at each timepoint.ResultsAt baseline, Ad5+ participants were less likely to have some college education (p=0.024) or health insurance (p=0.008), and were more likely to want to participate in the vaccine trial "to feel safer having unprotected sex" (p=0.005). Among vaccine trial participants, unprotected anal sex with a casual partner (p=0.05), HIV transmission worry (p=0.033), and perceived chance of getting HIV (p=0.027), decreased across timepoints.ConclusionsStudy findings suggest that persons with previous exposure to Ad5 may be systematically different from their Ad5-negative peers. Unprotected anal sex with a casual partner significantly decreased among HIV vaccine trial participants, as did HIV worry and perceived chance of getting HIV. Findings did not support evidence of risk compensation among HIV vaccine trial participants compared to Ad5+ participants.
http://ift.tt/2rbIHBq
Lot-to-lot consistency, safety and immunogenicity of 3 lots of Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine: results from a phase III randomized, multicenter study in infants
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Nicola P. Klein, Remon Abu-Elyazeed, Matthew Cornish, Michael L. Leonardi, Leonard B. Weiner, Peter E. Silas, Stanley E. Grogg, Meera Varman, Robert W. Frenck, Brigitte Cheuvart, Yaela Baine, Jacqueline M. Miller, Maarten Leyssen, Narcisa Mesaros, Sumita Roy-Ghanta
BackgroundVaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is included in routine pediatric immunization schedule in the United States. Previous vaccine shortages have created the need for additional options for Hib vaccination.MethodsThis phase III, randomized, multi-centered study (NCT01000974) evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of a monovalent tetanus toxoid-conjugate Hib vaccine (Hib-TT) compared to a monovalent (Hib-TT control) and a combination Hib-TT vaccine. We hierarchically assessed lot-to-lot consistency of 3 Hib-TT lots and non-inferiority of Hib-TT to Hib-TT control. We co-administered routine pediatric vaccines with Hib-TT vaccines at 2, 4, 6months (primary vaccination) and 15–18months of age (booster vaccination). We recorded adverse events (AEs) for 4 (solicited) and 31days (unsolicited) post-vaccination and serious AEs (SAEs) throughout the study.ResultsOf 4009 enrolled children, 3086 completed booster phase. Lot-to-lot consistency was not demonstrated. The study met statistical criteria for non-inferiority of Hib-TT to Hib-TT control in terms of immune responses to Hib and co-administered vaccines' antigens, but not in terms of participants achieving post-primary vaccination anti-PRP levels ≥1µg/mL. Because of the hierarchical nature of the objectives, non-inferiority could not be established. In all groups, 92.5–96.7% and 99.6–100% of participants achieved anti-PRP levels ≥0.15µg/mL, while 78.3–89.8% and 97.9–99.1% had anti-PRP levels ≥1µg/mL, post-primary and post-booster vaccination, respectively. Immune responses to co-administered vaccines and reported incidence of AEs were comparable among groups. We recorded SAEs for 107/2963 (3.6%), 24/520 (4.6%), and 21/520 (4.0%) children post-primary vaccination, and 29/2337 (1.2%), 4/435 (0.9%), and 2/400 (0.5%) children post-booster vaccination with Hib-TT, Hib-TT control and combination Hib-TT vaccine, respectively; 6/5330 (0.1%) SAEs in the Hib-TT groups were considered vaccine-related.ConclusionHib-TT induced seroprotective antibody concentrations in the majority of participants and was well-tolerated when co-administered with routine pediatric vaccines according to a 3+1 schedule.
http://ift.tt/2sad2gH
Live attenuated tetravalent (G1-G4) bovine-human reassortant rotavirus vaccine (BRV-TV): Randomized, controlled phase III study in Indian infants
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Tarun Saluja, Sonali Palkar, Puneet Misra, Madhu Gupta, Potula Venugopal, Ashwani Kumar Sood, Ravi Mandyam Dhati, Avinash Shetty, Sangappa Malappa Dhaded, Sharad Agarkhedkar, Amlan Choudhury, Ramesh Kumar, Sundaram Balasubramanian, Sudhir Babji, Lopa Adhikary, Martin Dupuy, Sangeet Mohan Chadha, Forum Desai, Darshna Kukian, Badri Narayan Patnaik, Mandeep Singh Dhingra
BackgroundRotavirus remains the leading cause of diarrhoea among children <5years. We assessed immunogenic non-inferiority of a tetravalent bovine-human reassortant rotavirus vaccine (BRV-TV) over the licensed human-bovine pentavalent rotavirus vaccine RV5.MethodsPhase III single-blind study (parents blinded) in healthy infants randomized (1:1) to receive three doses of BRV-TV or RV5 at 6–8, 10–12, and 14–16weeks of age. All concomitantly received a licensed diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine (DTwP-HepB-Hib) and oral polio vaccine (OPV). Immunogenic non-inferiority was evaluated in terms of the inter-group difference in anti-rotavirus serum IgA seroresponse (primary endpoint), and seroprotection/seroresponse rates to DTwP-HepB-Hib and OPV vaccines. Seroresponse was defined as a ≥4-fold increase in titers from baseline to D28 post-dose 3. Non-inferiority was declared if the difference between groups (based on the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval [CI]) was above −10%. Each subject was evaluated for solicited adverse events 7days and unsolicited & serious adverse events 28days following each dose of vaccination.ResultsOf 1195 infants screened, 1182 were randomized (590 to BRV-TV; 592 to RV5). Non-inferiority for rotavirus serum IgA seroresponse was not established: BRV-TV, 47.1% (95%CI: 42.8; 51.5) versus RV5, 61.2% (95%CI: 56.8; 65.5); difference between groups, −14.08% (95%CI: −20.4; −7.98). Serum IgA geometric mean concentrations at D28 post-dose 3 were 28.4 and 50.1U/ml in BRV-TV and RV5 groups, respectively. For all DTwP-HepB-Hib and OPV antigens, seroprotection/seroresponse was elicited in both groups and the −10% non-inferiority criterion between groups was met. There were 16 serious adverse events, 10 in BRV-TV group and 6 in RV5 group; none were classified as vaccine related. Both groups had similar vaccine safety profiles.ConclusionBRV-TV was immunogenic but did not meet immunogenic non-inferiority criteria to RV5 when administered concomitantly with routine pediatric antigens in infants.
http://ift.tt/2rc6NvT
Specific humoral and cellular immune responses in cancer patients undergoing chronic immunization with a VEGF-based therapeutic vaccine
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Yanelys Morera, Javier Sánchez, Mónica Bequet-Romero, Katty-Hind Selman-Housein, Ana de la Torre, Francisco Hernández-Bernal, Yenima Martín, Acralys Garabito, Jesús Piñero, Cimara Bermúdez, Josué de la Torre, Marta Ayala, Jorge V. Gavilondo
CIGB-247 is a cancer therapeutic vaccine, based on recombinant modified human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as antigen, in combination with the adjuvant VSSP, a bacterially-derived adjuvant. The vaccine have demonstrated efficacy in several murine malignancy models. These studies supported the rationale for a phase I clinical trial where safety, tolerance, and immunogenicity of CIGB-247 was studied in patients with advanced solid tumors at three antigen dose level. Surviving individuals of this clinical trial were eligible to receive off-trial voluntary re-immunizations. The present work is focus in the immunological follow up of these patients after approximately three years of immunizations, without additional oncological treatments. Long term vaccination was feasible and safe. Our results indicated that after sustained vaccination most of the patients conserved their seroconversion status. The specific anti-VEGF IgG titer diminished, but in all the cases keeps values up from the pre-vaccination levels. Continued vaccination was also important to produce a gradual shift in the anti-VEGF IgG response from IgG1 to Ig4. Outstanding, our results indicated that long-term off-trial vaccination could be associated with the maintaining of one reserve of antibodies able to interfere with the VEGF/Receptor interaction and the production of IFNγ secretion in CD8+ cells. The results derived from the study of this series of patients suggest that long term therapeutic vaccination is a feasible strategy, and highlight the importance of continuing the clinical development program of this novel cancer therapeutic vaccine candidate. We also highlight the future clinical applications of CIGB-247 in cancer and explain knowledge gaps that future studies may address.Registration number and name of trial registry: RPCEC00000102. Cuban Public Clinical Trial Registry (WHO accepted Primary Registry). Available from: http://ift.tt/2r3hdMe.
http://ift.tt/2sahbkV
Inactivated polio vaccines from three different manufacturers have equivalent safety and immunogenicity when given as 1 or 2 additional doses after bivalent OPV: Results from a randomized controlled trial in Latin America
Publication date: 16 June 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Eduardo Lopez-Medina, Mario Melgar, James T. Gaensbauer, Ananda S. Bandyopadhyay, Bhavesh R. Borate, William C. Weldon, Ricardo Rüttimann, Joel Ward, Ralf Clemens, Edwin J. Asturias
BackgroundSince April 2016 inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) has been the only routine source of polio type 2 protection worldwide. With IPV supply constraints, data on comparability of immunogenicity and safety will be important to optimally utilize available supplies from different manufacturers.MethodsIn this multicenter phase IV study, 900 Latin American infants randomly assigned to six study groups received three doses of bOPV at 6, 10 and 14weeks and either one IPV dose at 14weeks (groups SP-1, GSK-1 and BBio-1) or two IPV doses at 14 and 36weeks (groups SP-2, GSK-2 and BBio-2) from three different manufacturers. Children were challenged with mOPV2 at either 18 (one IPV dose) or 40weeks (two IPV doses) and stools were collected weekly for 4weeks to assess viral shedding. Serum neutralizing antibodies were measured at various time points pre and post vaccination. Serious adverse events and important medical events (SAE and IME) were monitored for 6months after last study vaccine.ResultsAt week 18, 4weeks after one dose of IPV, overall type 2 seroconversion rates were 80.4%, 80.4% and 73.3% for SP-1, GSK-1 and BBio-1 groups, respectively; and 92.6%, 96.8% and 88.0% in those who were seronegative before IPV administration. At 40weeks, 4weeks after a second IPV dose, type 2 seroconversion rates were ≥99% for any of the three manufacturers. There were no significant differences in fecal shedding index endpoint (SIE) after one or two IPV doses (SP: 2.3 [95% CI: 2.1–2.6]); GSK: 2.2 [1.7–2.5]; BBio 1.8 [1.5–2.3]. All vaccines appeared safe, with no vaccine-related SAE or IME.ConclusionCurrent WHO prequalified IPV vaccines are safe and induce similar humoral and intestinal immunity after one or two doses.The parent study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01831050.
http://ift.tt/2rbIGxm
Quality, immunogenicity and stability of meningococcal serogroup ACWY-CRM197, DT and TT glycoconjugate vaccines
Publication date: 16 June 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): Nicola J. Beresford, Angela Martino, Ian M. Feavers, Michael J. Corbel, Xilian Bai, Ray Borrow, Barbara Bolgiano
A physicochemical and immunological study of the stability of three different meningococcal (Men) ACWY conjugate vaccines was performed to evaluate any patterns of serogroup oligo- or polysaccharide-specific or carrier protein-specific stability that would affect immunogenicity. Critical quality and stability-indicating characteristics were measured, with the study supporting the suitability of both HPLC-SEC and HPAEC-PAD methods to detect changes following inappropriate vaccine storage. All three final products, ACWY-CRM197, -DT and -TT conjugate vaccines had expected quality indicator values and similar immunogenicity in a mouse model (anti-PS IgG and rSBA) when stored at +2–8°C. When stored at ≥+37°C, all conjugated carrier proteins and serogroup saccharides were affected. Direct correlations were observed between the depolymerization of the MenA saccharide as evidenced by a size-reduction in the MenA conjugates (CRM197, DT and TT) and their immunogenicity. MenA was the most labile serogroup, followed by MenC; then MenW and Y, which were similar. At high temperatures, the conjugated carrier proteins were prone to unfolding and/or aggregation. The anti-MenC IgG responses of the multivalent conjugate vaccines in mice were equivalent to those observed in monovalent MenC conjugate vaccines, and were independent of the carrier protein. For any newly developing MenACWY saccharide-protein conjugate vaccines, a key recommendation would be to consider the lyophilization of final product to prevent deleterious degradation that would affect immunogenicity.
http://ift.tt/2sahrjQ
Seropersistence of TBE virus antibodies 10 years after first booster vaccination and response to a second booster vaccination with FSME-IMMUN 0.5mL in adults
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 28
Author(s): R. Konior, J. Brzostek, E.M. Poellabauer, Q. Jiang, L. Harper, W. Erber
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral disease that can have a severe acute clinical course and considerable long-term morbidity. As there is no causal treatment currently available for TBE, vaccination is the only way to combat the disease in endemic areas. The studies presented here were conducted to obtain prospective long-term TBE serum antibody persistence data of subjects up to 10years after the first booster with FSME-IMMUN.This report presents the results of 2 follow-up studies in the same study population of 315 healthy adults. Blood was drawn to assess the seropersistence of TBE virus antibodies yearly, from 2–5 and 7–10years after the first booster vaccination with FSME-IMMUN administered during a previous study. The timing of the second booster vaccination was dependent on the level of serum TBE antibodies observed during yearly follow-up serology observations.The current follow up showed that adult recipients were 84.9% seropositive 10years after a 3 dose primary series and the first booster vaccination of FSME-IMMUN. Seropositivity rates were even higher (88.6%) in subjects below 50years of age.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00503529.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01582698.
http://ift.tt/2rbIEWg
Trends in Surgical Research in Head and Neck Cancer.
| Related Articles |
Trends in Surgical Research in Head and Neck Cancer.
Curr Treat Options Oncol. 2017 Jun;18(6):38
Authors: Tolstonog G, Simon C
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT: The task of surgical research is to improve the efficacy of available surgical therapeutic modalities, develop new ones, and balance this well with favorable functional outcome. Therefore, surgical research is composed of a translational and a clinical component. In translational surgical research, animal models are used to better understand the biology of head and neck cancers, but even more importantly, the biology of changes to the disease and the microenvironment created by surgical interventions. Animal models additionally allow for the development of image-guided surgery systems, novel strategies of intraoperative adjuvant treatment, and patient "avatars" to test innovative anticancer drug combinations. In clinical surgical research, surgical techniques are validated in clinical trials for effectiveness of tumor control and improvement of functional recovery of the patient. In conclusion, surgical research for head and neck cancer is an active field spanning across the entire breadth of basic and clinical science devoted to a better understanding of what surgery does to the disease and to the patient.
PMID: 28550447 [PubMed - in process]
http://ift.tt/2r14WJz
Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on neuroplasticity in corticomotor pathways of the tongue muscles
Abstract
To investigate effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on neuroplasticity in corticomotor pathways related to tongue muscles evoked by a training task using the Tongue Drive System (TDS). Using a cross-over design, 13 healthy participants completed two sessions of tDCS while performing 30 min of TDS training. Sessions were spaced at least 2 weeks apart and participants randomly received anodal and sham tDCS stimulation in the first session and the other condition in the second session. Single and paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to elicit motor evoked potentials (MEPs) of the tongue at three time-points; before, immediately after and 30 min after training. Participant-based reports of fun, pain, fatigue and motivation, level of difficulty and effort were evaluated on numerical rating scales. There was no consistent significant effect of anodal and sham stimulation on single or paired pulse stimulation MEP amplitude immediately or 30 min after TDS training. Irrespective of tDCS type, training with TDS induced cortical plasticity in terms of increased MEP amplitudes for higher stimulus intensities after 30 min compared with before and immediately after training. Participant-based reports revealed no significant difference between tDCS conditions for level of fun, fatigue, motivation, difficulty and level of effort but a significant increase in pain in the anodal condition, although pain level was low for both conditions. In conclusion, tongue MEP amplitudes appear to be sensitive to training with the tongue using TDS; however anodal tDCS does not have an impact on training-evoked neuroplasticity of tongue corticomotor pathways.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
http://ift.tt/2rusGaM
Evaluation of pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow.
| Related Articles |
Evaluation of pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May 06;:
Authors: Sofia OB, Castro Neto NP, Katsutani FS, Mitre EI, Dolci JE
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Nasal obstruction is a frequent complaint in otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinics, and nasal valve incompetence is the cause in most cases. Scientific publications describing surgical techniques on the upper and lower lateral cartilages to improve the nasal valve are also quite frequent. Relatively few authors currently describe surgical procedures in the piriform aperture for nasal valve augmentation. We describe the surgical technique called pyriform plasty and evaluate its effectiveness subjectively through the NOSE questionnaire and objectively through the rhinomanometry evaluation.
OBJECTIVE: To compare pre- and post-pyriform plasty nasal airflow variations using rhinomanometry and the NOSE questionnaire.
METHODS: Eight patients submitted to pyriform surgery were studied. These patients were screened in the otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic among those who complained of nasal obstruction, and who had a positive response to Cottle maneuver. They answered the NOSE questionnaire and were submitted to preoperative rhinomanometry. After 90 days, they were reassessed through the NOSE questionnaire and the postoperative rhinomanometry. The results of these two parameters were compared pre- and postoperatively.
RESULTS: Regarding the subjective measure, the NOSE questionnaire, seven patients reported improvement, of which two reported marked improvement, and one patient reported an unchanged obstructive condition. Regarding the rhinomanometry assessment, of 96 comparative measurements between the preoperative and postoperative periods, we obtained 68 measurements with an increase in nasal airflow in the postoperative period, 26 negative results, and two cases that remained unaltered between the preoperative and postoperative periods.
CONCLUSION: When analyzing the results obtained in this study, we can conclude that the piriform plasty surgical procedure resulted in nasal airflow improvement in most of the obtained measurements.
PMID: 28549875 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2s3AahM
Hearing in Noise Test, HINT-Brazil, in normal-hearing children.
| Related Articles |
Hearing in Noise Test, HINT-Brazil, in normal-hearing children.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May 09;:
Authors: Novelli CVL, Carvalho NG, Colella Santos MF
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The auditory processing is related to certain skills such as speech recognition in noise. The HINT-Brazil test allows the measurement of the Speech/Noise ratio however there are no studies in the national literature that establish parameters for the child population.
OBJECTIVE: To analyze the performance of normal-hearing subjects aged 8-10 years old in tasks for speech recognition in noise using HINT test.
METHODS: Sixty schoolchildren were evaluated. They were between 8 and 10 years of age, of both genders, and had no auditory and school complaints, with results ranking within normality for the Basic Audiological Assessment and the Dichotic Digits Test. HINT-Brazil test was applied with headphones, with the Speech/Noise ratio in conditions of frontal noise, noise to the right, and noise to the left being investigated. The software calculated the Composite Noise, which corresponds to the weighted mean of the tested conditions.
RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the ears, nor between the genders. There was a statistically significant difference for age ranges of 8 and 10 years, in situations with noise, and for Composite Noise. The age group of 10 years showed better performance than the age group of 8; the age group of 9 years did not show statistically significant difference regarding the other age ranges. We suggest the values of mean and standard deviation of the Speech/Noise ratio, considering the age ranges of: 8 years - Frontal Noise: -2.09 (±1.09); Right Noise: -7.64 (±1.72); Left Noise: -7.53 (±2.80); Composite Noise: -4.86 (±1.31); 9 years - Frontal Noise: -2.82 (±0.74); Right Noise: -8.49 (±2.24); Left Noise: -8.41 (±1.75); Composite Noise: -5.63 (±1.02); 10 years - Frontal Noise: -3.01 (±0.95); Right Noise: -9.47 (±1.43); Left Noise: -9.16 (±1.65); Composite Noise: -6.16 (±0.91).
CONCLUSION: HINT-Brazil test is a simple and fast test, and is not difficult to performed with normal-hearing children. The results confirm that it is an efficient test to be used with the age range evaluated.
PMID: 28549874 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2s3CVzD
Comparison of the recovery rate of otomycosis using betadine and clotrimazole topical treatment.
| Related Articles |
Comparison of the recovery rate of otomycosis using betadine and clotrimazole topical treatment.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May 06;:
Authors: Mofatteh MR, Naseripour Yazdi Z, Yousefi M, Namaei MH
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Otomycosis is a common diseases that can be associated with many complications including involvement of the inner ear and mortality in rare cases. Management of otomycosis can be challenging, and requires a close follow-up. Treatment options for otomycosis include local debridement, local and systemic antifungal agents and utilization of topical antiseptics.
OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to compare the recovery rate of otomycosis using two therapeutic methods; topical betadine (Povidone-iodine) and clotrimazole.
METHODS: In this single-blind clinical trial, 204 patients with otomycosis were selected using a non-probability convenient sampling method and were randomly assigned to two treatment groups of topical betadine and clotrimazole (102 patients in each group). Response to treatment was assessed at 4, 10 and 20 days after treatment. Data were analyzed using the independent t-test, Chi-Square and Fisher exact test in SPSS v.18 software, at a significance level of p<0.05.
RESULTS: The results showed that out of 204 patients with otomycosis, fungi type isolated included Aspergillus in 151 cases (74%), and Candida albicans in 53 patients (26%). On the fourth day after treatment, 13 patients (13.1%) in the group treated with betadine and 10 patients (9.8%) in the group treated with clotrimazole showed a good clinical response to treatment (p=0.75). A good response to treatment was reported for 44 (43.1%) and 47 patients (46.1%) on the tenth day after the treatment (p=0.85); and 70 (68.6%) and 68 patients (67.6%) on the twentieth day after treatment (p=0.46) in the groups treated with betadine and clotrimazole, respectively. The response to treatment was thus not significantly different in the two groups.
CONCLUSION: In the present study the efficacy of betadine and clotrimazole was the same for the treatment of otomycosis. The result of this study supports the use of betadine as an effective antifungal in otomycosis treatment, helping to avoid the emergence of resistant organisms.
PMID: 28549873 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2s3vVTk
Facial thread lifting with suture suspension.
| Related Articles |
Facial thread lifting with suture suspension.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May 09;:
Authors: Tavares JP, Oliveira CACP, Torres RP, Bahmad Junior F
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The increased interest in minimally-invasive treatments, such as the thread lifting, with lower risk of complications, minimum length of time away from work and effectiveness in correcting ptosis and aging characteristics has led many specialists to adopt this technique, but many doubts about its safety and effectiveness still limit its overall use.
OBJECTIVE: To analyze data published in the literature on the durability of results, their effectiveness, safety, and risk of serious adverse events associated with procedures using several types of threading sutures.
METHODS: Literature review using the key words "thread lift", "barbed suture", "suture suspension" and "APTOS". Due to the scarcity of literature, recent reports of facial lifting using threads were also selected, complemented with bibliographical references.
RESULT: The first outcomes of facial lifting with barbed sutures remain inconclusive. Adverse events may occur, although they are mostly minor, self-limiting, and short-lived. The data on the maximum effect of the correction, the durability of results, and the consequences of the long-term suture stay are yet to be clarified.
CONCLUSION: Interest in thread lifting is currently high, but this review suggests that it should not yet be adopted as an alternative to rhytidectomy.
PMID: 28549872 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2s3E760
Fulminant hemangiopericytoma of the larynx - a case report and a review of the literature.
| Related Articles |
Fulminant hemangiopericytoma of the larynx - a case report and a review of the literature.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May 09;:
Authors: Nikiforova L, Sapundzhiev N, Kolova P, Boyadzhiev G, Bradley P
PMID: 28549871 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2r1qNRl
Fulminant hemangiopericytoma of the larynx - a case report and a review of the literature.
| Related Articles |
Fulminant hemangiopericytoma of the larynx - a case report and a review of the literature.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 May 09;:
Authors: Nikiforova L, Sapundzhiev N, Kolova P, Boyadzhiev G, Bradley P
PMID: 28549871 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2r1qNRl
Multiparametric Assessment of Voice Quality and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Microlaryngeal Surgery-Correlation Between Subjective and Objective Methods.
| Related Articles |
Multiparametric Assessment of Voice Quality and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Microlaryngeal Surgery-Correlation Between Subjective and Objective Methods.
J Voice. 2017 May 23;:
Authors: Rzepakowska A, Sielska-Badurek E, Osuch-Wójcikiewicz E, Niemczyk K
Abstract
The aim of the study was to estimate voice defect and the quality of life deterioration in patients with different laryngeal pathologies qualified for microsurgery treatment. The results of videolaryngostroboscopy (VLS), perception, aerodynamics, acoustics, Dysphonia Severity Index, Voice Handicap Index (VHI), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Brief Version before microsurgery were analyzed. There were 151 patients enrolled in the study. There were 86 patients in group 1 (benign lesions), 34 in group 2 (premalignant conditions), and 31 in group 3 (malignant neoplasms). Significant differences were found in the mean values of VLS between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.001), maximum phonation time between group 1 and group 2 (P = 0.001), and between group 2 and group 3 (P = 0.04), men's fundamental frequency between group 1 and group 2 (P = 0.03), and between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.01), and shimmer between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.01). The correlation between the methods was analyzed, and there was a strong to moderate correlation between VLS and perception (r = 0.57-0.73) in group 1 and group 2. The jitter and shimmer correlated moderately with perception in group 1: grade of hoarseness (G) (r = 0.52 and r = 0.57, respectively), breathiness (B) (r = 0.58), and asthenia (A) (r = 0.57 and r = 0.53, respectively). In group 3, the strongest correlation was observed between maximum phonation time and phonation quotient and G (r = 0.52; 0.58), B (r = 0.54; 0.55), and strain (S) (r = 0.63; 0.72). The VHI results and life quality outcomes were not significantly different between the groups. The VHI did not correlate with any voice measure method.
PMID: 28549624 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2s9RukC
Molecular characterization of human adenoviruses in urban wastewaters using next generation and Sanger sequencing.
Molecular characterization of human adenoviruses in urban wastewaters using next generation and Sanger sequencing.
Water Res. 2017 May 19;121:240-247
Authors: Iaconelli M, Valdazo-González B, Equestre M, Ciccaglione AR, Marcantonio C, Della Libera S, La Rosa G
Abstract
Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are of major public health importance and are associated with a variety of clinical manifestations, including gastroenteritis, respiratory, ocular and urinary tract infections. To study the occurrence, prevalence and diversity of HAdV species and types circulating in Italy, we conducted a large-scale molecular-epidemiological investigation, a yearlong monitoring of 22 wastewater treatment plants, covering 10 Italian regions, representative of northern, central, and southern Italy. A total of 141 raw sewage samples were collected from January to December 2013, and processed to detect and characterize by phylogenetic analysis a fragment of the hexon coding region of HAdVs. Nested PCR results showed the presence of HAdVs in 85 out of 141 samples (60% of samples). Fifty-nine samples were characterized by conventional Sanger sequencing as belonging to four HAdV species and four types: A (type 12, 5 samples), B (type 3, 8 samples), C (type 5, 1 sample) and F (type 41, 45 samples). The remaining 26 samples could not be characterized because of uninterpretable (mixed) electropherograms suggesting the presence of multiple species and/or types. Pools of characterized and uncharacterized PCR amplicons were further analyzed by next-generation sequencing (NGS). NGS results revealed a marked HAdV diversity with 16 additional types detected beyond the four types found by Sanger sequencing. Overall, 19 types were identified, belonging to HAdV species A-F: types 12 and 31 (species A), type 3 (species B), types 1, 2, and 5 (species C), types 9, 17, 24, 26, 37, 38, 42, 44, 48, and 70 (species D), type 4 (species E), and types 40 and 41(species F). An untypeable HAdV was also detected, showing similar percentages of identity with more than one prototype (types 15, 30, 56, and 59). Our findings documented the circulation of a wide variety of species and types in raw sewage, potentially able to affect other surface water environments and hence human health. Next-generation sequencing proved to be an effective strategy for HAdV genotyping in wastewater samples. It was able to detect a wide range of "less prevalent" types unidentified by conventional Sanger sequencing, confirming that studies based on conventional technologies may grossly underestimate the existence of some, possibly less common, types. Knowledge of the distribution of HAdV species and types would improve our understanding of waterborne HAdV-related health risks.
PMID: 28550812 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2r1ihBQ
Myocardial overexpression of TIMP3 following myocardial infarction exerts beneficial effects through promoting angiogenesis and suppressing early proteolysis.
| Related Articles |
Myocardial overexpression of TIMP3 following myocardial infarction exerts beneficial effects through promoting angiogenesis and suppressing early proteolysis.
Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol. 2017 May 26;:ajpheart.00108.2017
Authors: Takawale A, Zhang P, Azad A, Wang W, Wang X, Murray AG, Kassiri Z
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) results in loss of cardiomyocytes, adverse extracellular matrix (ECM) and structural remodeling, left ventricular (LV) dilation and dysfunction. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the main regulators of ECM turnover. TIMPs also have MMP-independent functions. TIMP3 levels are reduced in the heart within 24 hours of MI in mice. We investigated if overexpression of TIMP3 post-MI limits adverse remodeling, LV dilation and dysfunction. MI was induced by LAD ligation in 10-12 weeks old male C57BL/6J mice, and adenoviral constructs expressing human TIMP3 (Ad-hTIMP3) or no TIMP (Ad-Null) were injected in the peri-infarct zone (5.4x10(7) pfu/heart, 5 injections/heart). Cardiac function assessed by echocardiography showed improved LV physiology and reduced LV dilation following TIMP3 overexpression compared to Ad-Null-MI group. Post-MI adverse remodeling was attenuated in Ad-TIMP3-MI group as assessed by greater cardiomyocyte density, less infarct expansion and ECM disruption). TIMP3 overexpression blunted the early rise in proteolytic activities post-MI. A higher density of coronary arteries, and a greater number of proliferating endothelial cells were detected in the infarct and peri-infarct regions in Ad-TIMP3-MI compared to Ad-null-MI group. In vitro 3D angiogenesis assay confirmed that rTIMP3 promotes angiogenesis in human endothelial cells, although biphasically and in a dose-dependent manner. Intriguingly, overexpression of Ad-hTIMP3 at 10-fold higher concentration had no beneficial effects, consistent with anti-angiogenic effects of TIMP3 at higher doses. In conclusion, optimal overexpression of TIMP3 can be a promising therapeutic approach to limit adverse post-MI remodeling by dually inhibiting early proteolysis and promoting angiogenesis.
PMID: 28550172 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2rtYgVO
Multiparametric Assessment of Voice Quality and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Microlaryngeal Surgery-Correlation Between Subjective and Objective Methods.
| Related Articles |
Multiparametric Assessment of Voice Quality and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Microlaryngeal Surgery-Correlation Between Subjective and Objective Methods.
J Voice. 2017 May 23;:
Authors: Rzepakowska A, Sielska-Badurek E, Osuch-Wójcikiewicz E, Niemczyk K
Abstract
The aim of the study was to estimate voice defect and the quality of life deterioration in patients with different laryngeal pathologies qualified for microsurgery treatment. The results of videolaryngostroboscopy (VLS), perception, aerodynamics, acoustics, Dysphonia Severity Index, Voice Handicap Index (VHI), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Brief Version before microsurgery were analyzed. There were 151 patients enrolled in the study. There were 86 patients in group 1 (benign lesions), 34 in group 2 (premalignant conditions), and 31 in group 3 (malignant neoplasms). Significant differences were found in the mean values of VLS between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.001), maximum phonation time between group 1 and group 2 (P = 0.001), and between group 2 and group 3 (P = 0.04), men's fundamental frequency between group 1 and group 2 (P = 0.03), and between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.01), and shimmer between group 1 and group 3 (P = 0.01). The correlation between the methods was analyzed, and there was a strong to moderate correlation between VLS and perception (r = 0.57-0.73) in group 1 and group 2. The jitter and shimmer correlated moderately with perception in group 1: grade of hoarseness (G) (r = 0.52 and r = 0.57, respectively), breathiness (B) (r = 0.58), and asthenia (A) (r = 0.57 and r = 0.53, respectively). In group 3, the strongest correlation was observed between maximum phonation time and phonation quotient and G (r = 0.52; 0.58), B (r = 0.54; 0.55), and strain (S) (r = 0.63; 0.72). The VHI results and life quality outcomes were not significantly different between the groups. The VHI did not correlate with any voice measure method.
PMID: 28549624 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2s9RukC
Editors, Issue sections
Publication date: February 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Immunology, Volume 44
http://ift.tt/2r1tMZT
Editorial Overview: Sense and react: how the innate immune system detects threats and generates protective responses
Source:Current Opinion in Immunology, Volume 44
Author(s): Marco Colonna
http://ift.tt/2qvUmag
Contents, Cover details
Publication date: February 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Immunology, Volume 44
http://ift.tt/2r1tOkt
A qualitative study of immigrant women on long-term sick leave and their experience of dignity.
| Related Articles |
A qualitative study of immigrant women on long-term sick leave and their experience of dignity.
Disabil Rehabil. 2017 May 26;:1-8
Authors: Nortvedt L, Kumar BN, Lohne V
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore if and how immigrant women suffering from chronic pain experience and maintain their dignity, during rehabilitation.
METHODS: The study was designed as a field study, with participant observation and in-depth interviews. Participant observations were carried out during a rehabilitation course for 14 immigrant women on an outpatient clinic at a rehabilitation hospital in southern Norway. In-depth interviews were performed after the rehabilitation period. Hermeneutic analysis was applied to interpret the data.
RESULTS: Findings show that the immigrant women experienced dignity by being seen, respected and believed by family-members, healthcare personnel and other patients at the outpatient clinic. Moreover, they maintained their dignity through a sense of their own value, integrity, religious faith and hope for the future.
CONCLUSIONS: The immigrant women maintained and protected their dignity by finding strength, pride, and self-worth in their religion and through their family-members' affection. Taking responsibility for themselves and others and experiencing fellowship and equality with other women, they enhanced their dignity during their rehabilitation process. The caring attitudes and behavior of some healthcare personnel promoted patient dignity. They also gained hope and dignity by experiencing goodness, cultural competence, and sensitivity from healthcare personnel. Implications for rehabilitation This study shows that the family role is more important for the immigrant women than the role as an employee, although financial independence and being able to help relatives financially also were central. Fellowship and equality with other patients, together with a rehabilitation program, which is facilitated for different language levels, were understood as important factors for an effective recovery. Enough time to get to know the patients and cultural competence seems to be central components for the health care personnel to give efficient help to immigrants in rehabilitation. Immigrants from low/middle-income countries appear to apply their religiousness as a resource in their lives to a greater extent than native Norwegians do, and should be taken into consideration when planning and implementing rehabilitation programs for immigrants.
PMID: 28549409 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2qrvOA2
Perceived social support as a moderator between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being among people with physical disabilities in Israel.
| Related Articles |
Perceived social support as a moderator between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being among people with physical disabilities in Israel.
Disabil Rehabil. 2017 May 26;:1-9
Authors: Itzick M, Kagan M, Tal-Katz P
Abstract
PURPOSE: Perceived social support has gained importance as a significant preventive factor of depressive symptoms and as helpful for rebuilding feelings of self-worth and subjective well-being among people with physical disabilities. The current study examined whether perceived social support moderates the association between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being among people with physical disabilities in Israel.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected by means of structured questionnaires among a convenience sample of 433 people with physical disabilities in Israel and hierarchical multiple regression was performed.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The findings reveal that perceived social support has a moderating role in the association between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being among people with physical disabilities, such that those with low and moderate levels of perceived social support showed a negative association between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being, while those with high levels of perceived social support showed no association between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being. Findings are discussed in light of the social model of disability, and practical implications are suggested. Implications for Rehabilitation A negative association was found between perceived discrimination and subjective well-being among people with physical disabilities with low and moderate levels of perceived social support. Professionals working with people with physical disabilities must acknowledge the importance of social support for people with physical disabilities and for their families. Professionals working with people with physical disabilities should take a proactive approach to locating disabled people who do not receive or do not have adequate social support and offer them assistance. Professionals working with people with physical disabilities should engage in wide social activities aimed at providing resources and opportunities to service beneficiaries. Society bears the collective responsibility to act in order to reduce the social problem of discrimination against people with disabilities, as well as to raise public awareness of this issue.
PMID: 28549403 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2qrOCyY
Correction to: Richard et al., Timed mobility: description of measurement, performance, and dimensionality among older adults.
| Related Articles |
Correction to: Richard et al., Timed mobility: description of measurement, performance, and dimensionality among older adults.
Disabil Rehabil. 2017 May 26;:1
Authors:
PMID: 28549388 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2qrQnMF
Lymph Node Retrieval is Inferior in the Modified Merendino Resection for Early Barrett's Carcinoma: A Matched-Pair Comparison with Ivor Lewis Resection.
| Related Articles |
Lymph Node Retrieval is Inferior in the Modified Merendino Resection for Early Barrett's Carcinoma: A Matched-Pair Comparison with Ivor Lewis Resection.
World J Surg. 2017 May 26;:
Authors: Haist T, Mann M, von Sochaczewski CO, Pauthner M, Fisseler-Eckhoff A, Lorenz D
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY: A matched-pair comparison between the modified Merendino resection (MER) and Ivor Lewis resection (ILR) for early Barrett's carcinoma.
BACKGROUND: Early adenocarcinoma of the esophagus (eACE) with positive risk factors for lymph node metastasis (LNM) needs surgery for cure. MER appeared to be an alternative to ILR.
METHODS: Between July 2000 and July 2012, 156 patients with high-grade dysplasia or eACE received ILR, whereas in 30 cases MER was performed in a tertiary care center for GI Surgery. A matched-pair analysis was performed on the basis of sex, age, BMI, ASA classification and tumor stage. Thirty patients were assigned to each group. The data were analyzed regarding perioperative aspects (e.g., operating time, hospital stay, complications, number of lymph nodes) and survival analysis.
RESULTS: The mean operating time was 301.7 min for ILR, compared to 255.4 min for MER (p = 0.044). The hospital stay following ILR was significantly longer than for MER (22.4 days ILR vs. 16.4 days MER, p = 0.023). There was no statistically significant difference regarding complications between the two groups (p = 0.463). The number of resected lymph nodes was significantly lower in the MER group (median 21) compared to the ILR group, where a median of 31 lymph nodes could be removed (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in overall (p = 0.145) or tumor-specific survival (p = 0.353).
CONCLUSIONS: Lymph node retrieval is significantly inferior in the MER. Postoperative complication rates were comparable between the two operating techniques, although the operation time for ILR took longer and these patients required a longer hospital stay. MER should not be applied in cases with high risk of LNM.
PMID: 28550435 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
http://ift.tt/2r9u3Zn
Εγγραφή σε:
Αναρτήσεις (Atom)