Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 06/03/17

Σάββατο 3 Ιουνίου 2017

Decreased levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in root-canal exudates during root canal treatment

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Archives of Oral Biology, Volume 82
Author(s): Kassara Pattamapun, Sira Handagoon, Thanapat Sastraruji, James L. Gutmann, Prasit Pavasant, Suttichai Krisanaprakornkit
ObjectiveTo determine the matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) levels in root-canal exudates from teeth undergoing root-canal treatment.Material and methodsThe root-canal exudates from six teeth with normal pulp and periradicular tissues that required intentional root canal treatment for prosthodontic reasons and from twelve teeth with pulp necrosis and asymptomatic apical periodontitis (AAP) were sampled with paper points for bacterial culture and aspirated for the detection of proMMP-2 and active MMP-2 by gelatin zymography and the quantification of MMP-2 levels by ELISA.ResultsBy gelatin zymography, both proMMP-2 and active MMP-2 were detected in the first collection of root-canal exudates from teeth with pulp necrosis and AAP, but not from teeth with normal pulp, and their levels gradually decreased and disappeared at the last collection. Consistently, ELISA demonstrated a significant decrease in MMP-2 levels in the root-canal exudates of teeth with pulp necrosis and AAP following root canal procedures (p<0.05). Furthermore, the MMP-2 levels were significantly lower in the negative bacterial culture than those in the positive bacterial culture (p<0.001).ConclusionsThe levels of MMP-2 in root-canal exudates from teeth with pulp necrosis and AAP were gradually reduced during root canal procedures. Future studies are required to determine if MMP-2 levels may be used as a biomolecule for the healing of apical lesions, similar to the clinical application of MMP-8 as a biomarker.

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Ocular findings in patients with cholestatic disorders of infancy: A single-centre experience

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Arab Journal of Gastroenterology
Author(s): Hanaa El-Karaksy, Dalia Hamed, Hanan Fouad, Engy Mogahed, Heba Helmy, Fotouh Hasanain
Background and study aimsNeonatal cholestasis can be associated with ocular findings that might aid in its diagnosis, e.g., Alagille syndrome (AGS) and Niemann Pick disease (NPD). We aimed to investigate the frequency of ocular manifestations in infants with cholestasis.Patients and methodsThis cross-sectional study included cholestatic infants presenting to the Paediatric Hepatology Unit, Cairo University Paediatric Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. All infants underwent examination of lid, ocular motility, anterior and posterior segments and measurement of intraocular pressure, cycloplegic refraction, ocular ultrasonography and vision.ResultsThe study included 112 infants with various cholestasis; 73 (65.2%) were males. The median age was 2months. Diagnosis was reached in 39 cases: 14 had AGS, 14 had biliary atresia (BA), 4 had NPD, 4 had post-haemolytic cholestasis, 2 had cytomegalovirus neonatal hepatitis, and one case had hepatorenal tyrosinaemia. Thirteen cases were probably having progressive familiar intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) type 1 or 2 considering their persistent cholestasis in the presence of normal gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase; 28 were left with a diagnosis of "idiopathic neonatal hepatitis" (INH), and 32 (28.6%) had no definite diagnosis. Ophthalmologic abnormalities were found in 39 cases (34.8%). The commonest finding was unilateral/bilateral optic nerve drusen in 12 (10.7%), followed by posterior embryotoxon in 11 (9.8%). Ocular findings were observed in 64.3% patients with AGS, 50% patients with NPD, 30.8% cases with suspected PFIC type 1or 2, 28.6% infants with INH, and 14.3% patients with BA.ConclusionOphthalmologic findings are not uncommon among cholestatic infants. Ophthalmologic examination should be routinely performed, including assessment of anterior segment, fundus examination, and ocular ultrasound.

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Characterization of bacterial and fungal biofilms in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Characterization of bacterial and fungal biofilms in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):10

Authors: Foreman A, Psaltis AJ, Tan LW, Wormald PJ

PMID: 28569230 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sr2H0Z

Evaluation of olopatadine hydrochloride nasal spray, 0.6%, used in combination with an intranasal corticosteroid in seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Evaluation of olopatadine hydrochloride nasal spray, 0.6%, used in combination with an intranasal corticosteroid in seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):14

Authors: LaForce CF, Carr W, Tilles SA, Chipps BE, Storms W, Meltzer EO, Edwards M

Abstract
The combination of intranasal antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids results in superior relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) symptoms compared with monotherapy. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of olopatadine hydrochloride nasal spray, 0.6% (OLO), administered in combination with fluticasone nasal spray, 50 micrograms (FNS), relative to azelastine nasal spray, 0.1% (AZE), administered in combination with FNS in the treatment of SAR. This was a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, parallel-group comparison of OLO + FNS versus AZE + FNS administered for 14 days to patients ≥12 years of age with histories of SAR. Efficacy assessments recorded by patients in a daily diary included nasal symptom scores. Safety was evaluated based on adverse events (AEs). Pretreatment values for reflective total nasal symptoms scores (rTNSS) were similar for both treatment groups. The mean (SD) 2-week average rTNSS was 4.28 (2.63) for OLO + FNS and 4.15 (2.63) for AZE + FNS; these scores were not statistically different between treatment groups. No significant differences (p > 0.05) between OLO + FNS and AZE + FNS were observed for the average 2-week percent changes from baseline in rTNSS or in the individual nasal symptoms (nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, itchy nose, and sneezing). Compared with baseline, both groups had statistically significant improvement in rTNSS (p < 0.05). No serious AEs were reported in either group during the study period. Overall, 19 AEs were reported in the OLO + FNS group and 29 AEs were reported in the AZE + FNS group. OLO, when administered adjunctively with FNS, is effective, safe, and well-tolerated in patients with SAR.

PMID: 28569236 [PubMed]

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A comparison of intranasal corticosteroid, leukotriene receptor antagonist, and topical antihistamine in reducing symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis as assessed through the Rhinitis Severity Score.

A comparison of intranasal corticosteroid, leukotriene receptor antagonist, and topical antihistamine in reducing symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis as assessed through the Rhinitis Severity Score.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):13

Authors: Sardana N, Santos C, Lehman E, Craig T

Abstract
Rhinitis symptom complex consists of rhinorrhea, congestion, itchy mucosa, itchy eyes, and sneezing. Available medications vary in their benefit for each of these symptoms. It was the purpose of this article to compare symptom reduction with three different classes of medications. Montelukast, azelastine, and budesonide were compared to determine the effect on individual, as well as total, symptom scores using the Rhinitis Severity Score (RSS). All three medications were compared with placebo and showed efficacy in prior studies using Balaam's crossover design. The inclusion and exclusion criteria and all procedures were identical for all three studies. In analyzing the data from the RSS questionnaire, we used the procedure PROC MIXED in SAS specific for Balaam's crossover design (SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC). Although all three medications were effective compared with placebo, montelukast had the greatest effect of the three medications on reduction of ocular itching and throat and palate itching. Azelastine's effect was greater than budesonide and montelukast for reduction of rhinorrhea. Systemic medication, montelukast, as expected, provided better relief for symptoms distant from the nasal cavity, and the antihistamine, azelastine, reduced rhinorrhea, more than either montelukast or budesonide.

PMID: 28569235 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sreBYR

House-dust mite nasal provocation: A diagnostic tool in perennial rhinitis.

House-dust mite nasal provocation: A diagnostic tool in perennial rhinitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):12

Authors: Chusakul S, Phannaso C, Sangsarsri S, Aeumjaturapat S, Snidvongs K

Abstract
BACKGROUND: In perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR), the skin-prick test (SPT) is a good diagnostic tool to identify the specific allergens. A nasal provocation test (NPT) is used to identify allergens and to confirm the diagnosis. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal cutoff values of symptom and peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) changes after dust-mite NPT for predicting PAR. We also studied the relationship of the changes of symptoms in NPT and the wheal size of SPT.
METHODS: One hundred five patients with perennial rhinitis underwent the NPT to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and the SPT. The NPT was assessed by changes in symptoms and PNIF. The optimal cutoff values of the symptoms score and PNIF changes after the NPT for predicting the SPT were determined using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The relationship of the wheal sizes of SPT and the changes from the NPT were analyzed.
RESULTS: Forty-eight patients had a positive SPT to D. pteronyssinus, of whom 33 patients had a positive NPT by increases of the symptom score. Twenty patients had a positive NPT by decreases of PNIF. The area under the ROC curve was 0.85 for symptom score changes and it was 0.612 for PNIF changes. There was a significant correlation between the wheal size of the SPT and symptom changes in the NPT.
CONCLUSION: Nasal provocation is a valuable test to confirm the diagnosis of D. pteronyssinus allergy, especially when the wheal from the SPT is small. The symptom change after the house-dust mite NPT is better than the PNIF change for predicting the PAR.

PMID: 28569234 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srHPa6

Balloon catheter sinuplasty in young children.

Balloon catheter sinuplasty in young children.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):11

Authors: Ramadan HH, McLaughlin K, Josephson G, Rimell F, Bent J, Parikh SR

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Balloon catheter sinuplasty (BCS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) was found to be successful in adults. The safety and feasibility of BCS in children has been recently established. The purpose of this study was to study the outcome of this technology in CRS in children.
METHODS: A prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized evaluation was performed on patients with CRS. Thirty-two children between the ages of 2 and 11 years were enrolled. Safety was assessed by rate of adverse events. Effectiveness was assessed using the Sino-Nasal (SN)-5 quality-of-life questionnaire for children with CRS at 52 weeks follow-up.
RESULTS: Thirty-two children were enrolled of which 24 completed their 52 weeks follow-up. No adverse events were reported because of the procedure. SN-5 score improved from a mean of 4.9 at baseline to a mean of 2.95 at 52 weeks (p < 0.0001). Twelve (50%) children had a significant improvement of their SN-5 (>-1.5), 7 (29%) had moderate improvement (>-1.0 and <-1.5), 2 (8%) had mild improvement (>-0.5 and <-1.0), 1 (4%) remained the same, and 2 (8%) had worsening scores.
CONCLUSION: Balloon catheter dilation of the sinus ostia in children was safe and a significant number showed improvement of their SN-5 at 1 year follow-up. Additional studies comparing balloon sinuplasty to other modalities of treatment in children are needed to determine its efficacy in the treatment of CRS in children.

PMID: 28569233 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srr4M2

Nasal polyp cell populations and fungal-specific peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation in allergic fungal sinusitis.

Nasal polyp cell populations and fungal-specific peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation in allergic fungal sinusitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):9

Authors: Pant H, Beroukas D, Kette FE, Smith WB, Wormald PJ, Macardle PJ

PMID: 28569229 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srkyF8

Contemporary assessment of the disease burden of sinusitis.

Contemporary assessment of the disease burden of sinusitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):8

Authors: Bhattacharyya N

PMID: 28569228 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srnlOo

Efficacy and safety of azelastine 0.15% nasal spray and azelastine 0.10% nasal spray in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Efficacy and safety of azelastine 0.15% nasal spray and azelastine 0.10% nasal spray in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):7

Authors: Shah S, Berger W, Lumry W, La Force C, Wheeler W, Sacks H

PMID: 28569227 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sruDBW

The status of asthma control in the U.S. adult population.

The status of asthma control in the U.S. adult population.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):6

Authors: Fuhlbrigge A, Reed ML, Stempel DA, Ortega HO, Fanning K, Stanford RH

PMID: 28569226 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srC104

Mometasone furoate improves nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adolescents.

Mometasone furoate improves nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adolescents.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):5

Authors: Anolik R, Pearlman D, Teper A, Gates D

PMID: 28569225 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srqDBi

A call for papers.

A call for papers.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):1

Authors:

PMID: 28569224 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sriL2U

Influenza vaccination in patients with suspected egg allergy.

Influenza vaccination in patients with suspected egg allergy.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):1-4

Authors: Settipane RA

Abstract
Egg allergy is not necessarily a contraindication to influenza vaccination. For patients with suspected egg allergy, if the clinician determines benefits to outweigh risks, cautionary measures are available that can enhance safe vaccine administration. Batch to batch variability of egg content in extant influenza vaccines necessitates an informed and cautious approach to vaccination of an egg allergic individual. Although patients with egg allergy are likely to develop egg tolerance by late childhood, tolerance to ingestion of "baked egg" products may not predict tolerance to "native egg" proteins present in the influenza vaccine. Even in cases where the skin test to the vaccine is positive, vaccination may still be cautiously administered, if necessary, in a graded dose protocol.

PMID: 28569223 [PubMed]

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Impact of comorbidity on survival by tumour location: Breast, colorectal and lung cancer (2000–2014)

Publication date: August 2017
Source:Cancer Epidemiology, Volume 49
Author(s): Oleguer Parés-Badell, Marta Banqué, Francesc Macià, Xavier Castells, Maria Sala
BackgroundTo assess the impact of comorbidity, measured by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), on survival in breast, colorectal and lung cancer.MethodsWe identified 3455 breast cancer, 3336 colorectal cancer and 2654 lung cancer patients through the Hospital del Mar cancer registry. The prevalence of comorbidities according to the CCI was calculated. Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test were used to compare survival curves for each cancer location. Cox regression was used to calculate survival hazard ratios and 1-, 3- and 5-year mortality rate ratios adjusted by age, sex, CCI, place of first consultation, stage, treatment and period of diagnosis.ResultsThe overall unadjusted 5-year follow-up survival proportion was 82.6% for breast cancer, 55.7% for colorectal cancer, and 16.3% for lung cancer. Overall survival was associated with CCI≥3 in breast cancer (HR: 2.33 95%CI: 1.76–3.08), colorectal cancer (HR: 1.39; 95%CI: 1.13–1.70) and lung cancer (HR: 1.22; 95%CI: 1.06–1.40). In breast cancer, the higher the CCI, the higher the adjusted mortality rate ratio and differences were greater in 5-year than in 1-year follow-up survival.ConclusionsComorbidity is a significant predictor of overall survival in cancer patients; however, it has a stronger impact on survival in breast cancer than in colorectal and lung cancer.

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Deciding where to attend: Large-scale network mechanisms underlying attention and intention revealed by graph-theoretic analysis

Publication date: 15 August 2017
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 157
Author(s): Yuelu Liu, Xiangfei Hong, Jesse J. Bengson, Todd A. Kelley, Mingzhou Ding, George R. Mangun
The neural mechanisms by which intentions are transformed into actions remain poorly understood. We investigated the network mechanisms underlying spontaneous voluntary decisions about where to focus visual-spatial attention (willed attention). Graph-theoretic analysis of two independent datasets revealed that regions activated during willed attention form a set of functionally-distinct networks corresponding to the frontoparietal network, the cingulo-opercular network, and the dorsal attention network. Contrasting willed attention with instructed attention (where attention is directed by external cues), we observed that the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex was allied with the dorsal attention network in instructed attention, but shifted connectivity during willed attention to interact with the cingulo-opercular network, which then mediated communications between the frontoparietal network and the dorsal attention network. Behaviorally, greater connectivity in network hubs, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, and the inferior parietal lobule, was associated with faster reaction times. These results, shown to be consistent across the two independent datasets, uncover the dynamic organization of functionally-distinct networks engaged to support intentional acts.

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Angle-Ply Biomaterial Scaffold for Annulus Fibrosus Repair Replicates Native Tissue Mechanical Properties, Restores Spinal Kinematics, and Supports Cell Viability

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Ryan Borem, Allison Madeline, Joshua Walters, Henry Mayo, Sanjitpal Gill, Jeremy Mercuri
Annulus fibrosus (AF) damage commonly occurs due to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration/herniation. The dynamic mechanical role of the AF is essential for proper IVD function and thus it is imperative that biomaterials developed to repair the AF withstand the mechanical rigors of the native tissue. Furthermore, these biomaterials must resist accelerated degradation within the proteolytic environment of degenerate IVDs while supporting integration with host tissue. We have previously reported a novel approach for developing collagen-based, multi-laminate AF repair patches (AFRPs) that mimic the angle-ply architecture and basic tensile properties of the human AF. Herein, we further evaluate AFRPs for their: tensile fatigue and impact burst strength, IVD attachment strength, and contribution to functional spinal unit (FSU) kinematics following IVD repair. Additionally, AFRP resistance to collagenase degradation and cytocompatibility were assessed following chemical crosslinking. In summary, AFRPs demonstrated enhanced durability at high applied stress amplitudes compared to human AF and withstood radially-directed biaxial stresses commonly borne by the native tissue prior to failure/detachment from IVDs. Moreover, FSUs repaired with AFRPs and nucleus pulposus (NP) surrogates had their axial kinematic parameters restored to intact levels. Finally, carbodiimide crosslinked AFRPs resisted accelerated collagenase digestion without detrimentally effecting AFRP tensile properties or cytocompatibility. Taken together, AFRPs demonstrate the mechanical robustness and enzymatic stability required for implantation into the damaged/degenerate IVD while supporting AF cell infiltration and viability.Statement of significanceThe quality of life for millions of individuals globally is detrimentally impacted by IVD degeneration and herniation. These pathologies often result in the structural demise of IVD tissue, particularly the annulus fibrosus (AF). Biomaterials developed for AF repair have yet to demonstrate the mechanical strength and durability required for utilization in the spine. Herein,we demonstrate the development of an angle-ply AF repair patch (AFRP) that can resist the application of physiologically relevant stresses without failure and which contributes to the restoration of functional spinal unit axial kinematics following repair. Furthermore, we show that this biomaterial can resist accelerated degradation in a simulated degenerate environment and supports AF cell viability.

Graphical abstract

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EVENTS

Publication date: Available online 2 June 2017
Source:Materials Today

http://ift.tt/2qNTva1

Prediction of synergistic anti-cancer drug combinations based on drug target network and drug induced gene expression profiles

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Artificial Intelligence in Medicine
Author(s): Xiangyi Li, Yingjie Xu, Hui Cui, Tao Huang, Disong Wang, Baofeng Lian, Wei Li, Guangrong Qin, Lanming Chen, Lu Xie
ObjectiveSynergistic drug combinations are promising therapies for cancer treatment. However, effective prediction of synergistic drug combinations is quite challenging as mechanisms of drug synergism are still unclear. Various features such as drug response, and target networks may contribute to prediction of synergistic drug combinations. In this study, we aimed to construct a computational model to predict synergistic drug combinations.MethodsWe designed drug physicochemical features and network features, including drug chemical structure similarity, target distance in protein–protein network and targeted pathway similarity. At the same time, we designed fifteen pharmacogenomics features using drug treated gene expression profiles based on the background of cancer-related biology network. Based on these eighteen features, we built a prediction model for Synergistic Drug combination using Random forest algorithm (SyDRa).ResultsOur model achieved a quite good performance with AUC value of 0.89 and Out-of-bag estimate error rate of 0.15 in training dataset. Using the random anti-cancer drug combinations which have transcriptional profile data in the Connectivity Map dataset as the testing dataset, we identified 28 potentially synergistic drug combinations, three out of which had been reported to be effective drug combinations by literatures.ConclusionsWe studied eighteen features for drug combinations and built a computational model using random forest algorithm. The model was evaluated using an independent test dataset. Our model provides an efficient strategy to identify potentially synergistic drug combinations for cancer and may help reduce the search space for high-throughput synergistic drug combinations screening.

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Evaluation of olopatadine hydrochloride nasal spray, 0.6%, used in combination with an intranasal corticosteroid in seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Evaluation of olopatadine hydrochloride nasal spray, 0.6%, used in combination with an intranasal corticosteroid in seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):14

Authors: LaForce CF, Carr W, Tilles SA, Chipps BE, Storms W, Meltzer EO, Edwards M

PMID: 28569236 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srr5Q7

A comparison of intranasal corticosteroid, leukotriene receptor antagonist, and topical antihistamine in reducing symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis as assessed through the Rhinitis Severity Score.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):13

Authors: Sardana N, Santos C, Lehman E, Craig T

PMID: 28569235 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sreBYR

House-dust mite nasal provocation: A diagnostic tool in perennial rhinitis.

House-dust mite nasal provocation: A diagnostic tool in perennial rhinitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):12

Authors: Chusakul S, Phannaso C, Sangsarsri S, Aeumjaturapat S, Snidvongs K

PMID: 28569234 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srHPa6

Balloon catheter sinuplasty in young children.

Balloon catheter sinuplasty in young children.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Apr 01;1(2):11

Authors: Ramadan HH, McLaughlin K, Josephson G, Rimell F, Bent J, Parikh SR

PMID: 28569233 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srr4M2

Characterization of bacterial and fungal biofilms in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Characterization of bacterial and fungal biofilms in chronic rhinosinusitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):10

Authors: Foreman A, Psaltis AJ, Tan LW, Wormald PJ

PMID: 28569230 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sr2H0Z

Nasal polyp cell populations and fungal-specific peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation in allergic fungal sinusitis.

Nasal polyp cell populations and fungal-specific peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation in allergic fungal sinusitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):9

Authors: Pant H, Beroukas D, Kette FE, Smith WB, Wormald PJ, Macardle PJ

PMID: 28569229 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srkyF8

Contemporary assessment of the disease burden of sinusitis.

Contemporary assessment of the disease burden of sinusitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):8

Authors: Bhattacharyya N

PMID: 28569228 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srnlOo

Efficacy and safety of azelastine 0.15% nasal spray and azelastine 0.10% nasal spray in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Efficacy and safety of azelastine 0.15% nasal spray and azelastine 0.10% nasal spray in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):7

Authors: Shah S, Berger W, Lumry W, La Force C, Wheeler W, Sacks H

PMID: 28569227 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sruDBW

The status of asthma control in the U.S. adult population.

The status of asthma control in the U.S. adult population.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):6

Authors: Fuhlbrigge A, Reed ML, Stempel DA, Ortega HO, Fanning K, Stanford RH

PMID: 28569226 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srC104

Mometasone furoate improves nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adolescents.

Mometasone furoate improves nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adolescents.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):5

Authors: Anolik R, Pearlman D, Teper A, Gates D

PMID: 28569225 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2srqDBi

A call for papers.

A call for papers.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):1

Authors:

PMID: 28569224 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sriL2U

Influenza vaccination in patients with suspected egg allergy.

Influenza vaccination in patients with suspected egg allergy.

Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2010 Jan 01;1(1):1-4

Authors: Settipane RA

PMID: 28569223 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sriigW

Magnetic signature, geochemistry, and oral bioaccessibility of “technogenic” metals in contaminated industrial soils from Sindos Industrial Area, Northern Greece

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the contamination level of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) in industrial soils and how this relates to environmental magnetism. Moreover, emphasis was given to the determination of the potential mobile fractions of typically "technogenic" metals. Therefore, magnetic and geochemical parameters were determined in topsoils (0–20 cm) collected around a chemical industry in Sindos Industrial Area, Thessaloniki, Greece. Soil samples were presented significantly enriched in "technogenic" metals such Cd, Pb, and Zn, while cases of severe soil contamination were observed in sampling sites north-west of the industrial unit. Contents of Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Mo, Sb, Sn, and Zn in soils and pollution load index (PLI) were highly correlated with mass specific magnetic susceptibility (χ _lf). Similarly, enrichment factor (EF) and geoaccumulation index (I _geo) for "technogenic" Pb and Zn exhibited high positive correlation factors with χ _lf. Principal component analysis (PCA) classified PHEs along with the magnetic variable (χ _lf) into a common group indicating anthropogenic influence. The water extractable concentrations were substantially low, while the descending order of UBM (Unified BARGE Method) extractable concentrations in the gastric phase was Zn > Pb > As > Cd, yet Cd showed the highest bioaccessibility (almost 95%).

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Investigating the relationship between lead speciation and bioaccessibility of mining impacted soils and dusts

Abstract

Lead (Pb) bioaccessibility measurements have been the subject of much research in recent years, given the desire to develop a cost-effective and reliable alternative method to estimate its bioavailability from soils and dusts. This study investigates the relationship between Pb bioaccessibility estimated using the Relative Bioavailability Leaching Procedure (RBALP) and solid phase speciation of Pb using mining impacted soils and associated dusts. Solid phase speciation was conducted prior to and after RBALP extractions. The average Pb concentrations were 59, 67, and 385 mg/kg for top soil, sub-soil, and house dust samples, respectively. Lead bioaccessibility in selected top soils and dusts ranged from 16.7 to 57.3% and 8.9 to 98.1%, respectively. Solid phase speciation of Pb in <250 μm residues prior to and after RBALP extraction revealed 83% decrease in Pb bound to carbonate fraction after RBALP extraction. This accounts for 69% of RBALP-extractable Pb. Besides contribution from carbonate bound Pb, 76.6 and 53.2% of Pb bound to Mn oxyhydroxides and amorphous Fe and Al oxyhydroxides contributed to bioaccessible Pb, respectively. However, Pb bound to Mn oxyhydroxides and amorphous Fe and Al oxyhydroxides account for only 13.8 and 20.0% of total RBALP-extractable Pb, respectively. Both non-specifically bound and easily exchangeable fractions and strongly bound inner-sphere complexes were also part of bioaccessible Pb. The present study demonstrates that bioaccessible Pb is released from both soil solution phase Pb as well as that from all soil solid phase with the most contribution being from Pb bound to carbonate mineral phase.

http://ift.tt/2rEMV4u

Experimental study on the stability of the ClHgSO 3 − in desulfurization wastewater

Abstract

Wet flue gas desulfurization technologies have received much concern for their superior performance on co-controlling the acid gases and mercury. However, high concentrations of mercury-containing desulfurization wastewater, which discharge from wet flue gas desulfurization system regularly, have received researchers' attention since it might generate the risk of secondary pollution. In this paper, the species of mercuric complexes in the desulfurization wastewater was investigated. It speculated that ClHgSO₃⁻ might determine the residual rate of Hg²⁺ in the desulfurization wastewater. Besides, the stability of ClHgSO₃⁻ on the condition of various wastewater features was also evaluated. The experiment revealed that the high temperature and high pH level promoted the decomposition of ClHgSO₃⁻. SO₃²⁻ could restrain the decomposition of ClHgSO₃⁻ gently; the Hg²⁺ residual rate was determined by the new mercury complexes which compounded by Hg²⁺ and SO₃²⁻. The decrease of SO₄²⁻ and increase of Ca²⁺ concentrations could also stimulate the stability of ClHgSO₃⁻ in wastewater. Cu²⁺ and Fe²⁺ disturbed the stability of complexes for their catalysis and reduction activities. The study proposed that the ClHgSO₃⁻ probably decomposes and releases Hg⁰ in two pathways. Furthermore, changes of the water's features could disturb the balance of Hg²⁺–Cl⁻–SO₃²⁻ systems, which might stimulate the decomposition of ClHgSO₃.

http://ift.tt/2sCx03Y

Retrospective Evaluation of Thromboembolism Risk in Ovarian Cancer Patients Treated with Bevacizumab

Abstract

Background

Bevacizumab is used in addition to standard, platinum-based chemotherapy to treat advanced-stage ovarian cancer patients. Thrombosis is a well-documented adverse effect of bevacizumab.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify predictive parameters for thromboembolic events in ovarian cancer patients and to explain how bevacizumab increases the risk of these events.

Patients and Methods

Fifty-seven FIGO stage III ovarian cancer patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery and chemotherapy were identified and included in this retrospective study. Twenty-six patients were treated with carboplatin and paclitaxel (CP) only (control group), and 31 patients received CP with bevacizumab (study group). The two groups were compared with regard to thrombosis risk factors and laboratory parameters (total leukocytes, platelet count, hemoglobin, APTT, prothrombin time, INR, fibrinogen levels, D-dimer concentration) before treatment, after each course of chemotherapy, and during thromboembolic events.

Results

Only patients in the group receiving bevacizumab experienced venous thromboembolism (VTE) (p=0.03, χ² test). VTE occurred on average at the 13th cycle of chemotherapy. Patients who experienced VTE had increased BMI before chemotherapy as compared to patients with no thromboembolic event (27.2 vs. 23.3, p=0.005, Mann-Whitney test). D-dimer concentration before treatment was also elevated more in patients affected by VTE (3132.5) than in the non-VTE group (956.43) (p=0.0007, Mann-Whitney test). During the first four administrations of chemotherapy in patients with future VTE, there was a reduction in D-dimer concentration and an extension of APTT. A D-Dimer level higher than 485 ng/mL prior to first chemotherapy indicates for a risk of VTE with 94% sensitivity and 36% specificity.

Conclusions

An elevated D-dimer level and high BMI before chemotherapy are risk factors for VTE in ovarian cancer patients receiving bevacizumab. Bevacizumab possibly increases the risk for VTE.

http://ift.tt/2qOrxL0

Deletion of one allele of Mthfd1 (methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1) impairs learning in mice

Publication date: 14 August 2017
Source:Behavioural Brain Research, Volume 332
Author(s): Eneda Pjetri, Steven H. Zeisel
The MTHFD1 gene encodes for methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1, an enzyme that has an important role in folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism. In people, a single nucleotide polymorphism of this gene (1958G>A; rs2236225) is associated with increased risk for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, neural tube and other birth defects. Mice homozygous for a loss of Mthfd1 via a gene-trap mutation are not viable, and heterozygotes, though they appear healthy, have metabolic imbalances in the folate- and choline-mediated 1-carbon metabolic pathways. In this study, we evaluated cognitive function in Mthfd1^gt/+ male and female mice using a behavioral battery composed of eight different tests. We found that these mice display impaired cue-conditioned learning, while other behaviors remain intact.

http://ift.tt/2sCPDot

Inverse identification of the frequency-dependent mechanical parameters of viscoelastic materials based on the measured FRFs

Publication date: 1 January 2018
Source:Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing, Volume 98
Author(s): Wei Sun, Zhuo Wang, Xianfei Yan, Mingwei Zhu
The mechanical parameters of viscoelastic materials, such as storage modulus and loss factor, have frequency-dependent characteristic and the combination of different polymers usually exhibits various mechanical characteristics, which make the identification of the mechanical parameters of viscoelastic materials become a routine and challenging task. In this study, based on the measured resonance frequencies and frequency response functions (FRFs) of a viscoelastic damping plate, an inverse approach was developed to identify the aforementioned parameters with frequency-dependent characteristic. An analysis model was established with both the viscoelastic material damping and the remaining equivalent viscous damping considered. A response surface method was provided to achieve the matching calculation, which can identify the storage modulus and loss factor simultaneously. A cantilever plate attached with ZN_1 viscoelastic material was chosen to demonstrate the proposed method and the measured and the predicted FRFs were compared with the purpose of assessing the rationality of identification results. The results show that the loss factor of viscoelastic materials would be overestimated if only the material damping was included in the analysis model.

http://ift.tt/2qMcJZw

Variability in iron, zinc and phytic acid content in a worldwide collection of commercial durum wheat cultivars and the effect of reduced irrigation on these traits

Publication date: 15 December 2017
Source:Food Chemistry, Volume 237
Author(s): Ana María Magallanes-López, Nayeli Hernandez-Espinosa, Govindan Velu, Gabriel Posadas-Romano, Virginia María Guadalupe Ordoñez-Villegas, José Crossa, Karim Ammar, Carlos Guzmán
Diets very rich in cereals have been associated with micronutrient malnutrition, and the biofortification of them, has been proposed as one of the best approaches to alleviate the problem. Durum wheat is one of the main sources of calories and protein in many developing countries. In this study, 46 durum varieties grown under full and reduced irrigation, were analyzed for micronutrients and phytate content to determine the potential bioavailability of the micronutrients. The variation was 25.7–40.5mg/kg for iron and of 24.8–48.8mg/kg for zinc. For phytate determination (0.462–0.952 %), a modified methodology was validated in order to reduce testing costs while speeding up testing time. Variation was detected for phytate:iron and zinc molar ratios (12.1–29.6 and 16.9–23.6, respectively). The results could be useful to generate varieties with appropriate levels of phytate and micronutrients, which can lead to the development of varieties rich in micronutrients to overcome malnutrition.

http://ift.tt/2qMutDQ

N2O adsorption and decomposition over ZnO(0001) doped graphene: Density functional theory calculations

Publication date: 31 October 2017
Source:Applied Surface Science, Volume 420
Author(s): Reza Gholizadeh, Yang-Xin Yu, Yujun Wang
The main objective of this study is density functional theory investigations on adsorption and decomposition of N2O on ZnO(0001)-G nanocomposite. The adsorption and decomposition of small molecules on the magnetic oxides containing transition metals are relatively rare due to the modeling difficulties using current density functional approximations. A molecular modeling of the reaction mechanism was studied in this work through ab initio modeling of the catalytic adsorption and decomposition of N2O on ZnO(0001)-G. DFT was used to study the molecular mechanism of conceivable elementary steps of the decomposition of N2O over the most stable (0001) surface. Three reactions including the N2O bond cleavage, the oxygen atom transfer, forming a surface peroxy group O2²⁻ were studied. The horse-like (NNO), parallel (NNO) and lying-atop-011 (ONN) with all three atoms of the N2O molecule interacting with the surface have been found as more stable adsorption forms, which have adsorption energies of −0.27, −0.23 and −0.23eV, respectively. The activation energies of the N2O decomposition through mentioned reactions were found to be 2.73, 0.48 and 0.63eV, respectively. The obtained results reveal that ZnO(0001)-G is not only an efficient but also a green catalyst in comparison with others such as Mn-G.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2qMvkog

Multielemental analysis of 18 essential and toxic elements in amniotic fluid samples by ICP-MS: Full procedure validation and estimation of measurement uncertainty

Publication date: 1 November 2017
Source:Talanta, Volume 174
Author(s): B. Markiewicz, A. Sajnóg, W. Lorenc, A. Hanć, I. Komorowicz, J. Suliburska, R. Kocyłowski, D. Barałkiewicz
Amniotic fluid is the substantial factor in the development of an embryo and fetus due to the fact that water and solutes contained in it penetrate the fetal membranes in an hydrostatic and osmotic way as well as being swallowed by the fetus. Elemental composition of amniotic fluid influences the growth and health of the fetus, therefore, an analysis of amniotic fluid is important because the results would indicate abnormal levels of minerals or toxic elements. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) is often used for determination of trace and ultra-trace level elements in a wide range of matrices including biological samples because of its unique analytical capabilities. In the case of trace and ultra-trace level analysis detailed characteristics of analytical procedure as well as properties of the analytical result are particularly important. The purpose of this study was to develop a new analytical procedure for multielemental analysis of 18 elements (Al, As, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sr, U, V and Zn) in amniotic fluid samples using ICP-MS. Dynamic reaction cell (DRC) with two reaction gases, ammonia and oxygen, was involved in the experiment to eliminate spectral interferences. Detailed validation was conducted using 3 certified reference mterials (CRMs) and real amniotic fluid samples collected from patients. Repeatability for all analyzed analytes was found to range from 0.70% to 8.0% and for intermediate precision results varied from 1.3% to 15%. Trueness expressed as recovery ranged from 80% to 125%. Traceability was assured through the analyses of CRMs. Uncertainty of the results was also evaluated using single-laboratory validation approach. The obtained expanded uncertainty (U) results for CRMs, expressed as a percentage of the concentration of an analyte, were found to be between 8.3% for V and 45% for Cd. Standard uncertainty of the precision was found to have a greater influence on the combined standard uncertainty than on trueness factor.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2qM200U

Pilot scale high solids anaerobic digestion of steam autoclaved municipal solid waste (MSW) pulp

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Renewable Energy, Volume 113
Author(s): Kevin M. Holtman, David V. Bozzi, Diana Franqui-Villanueva, Richard D. Offeman, William J. Orts
Steam autoclaving is an efficient method for the separation and near complete recovery of organics from MSW. The material produced by the autoclave contains a high concentration of solubilized food waste absorbed onto a lignocellulosic matrix. Reported here is the operation of a 1500 gal (5677 L) high solids anaerobic digester to digest this feedstock. Total solids (TS) reductions were high, 56%, and volatile solids (VS) and biodegradable volatile solids (BVS) reductions were 63 and 79%, respectively. Gas yields were also high, producing 248 L CH4/kg VS fed or 393 L CH4/kg VS destroyed at a methane content of 60%. Unique design elements such as hydraulic conveyance of material, in situ classification, and in-place buffering to maintain pH stability were tested and confirmed. The digestate passed all criteria for land application of biosolids in the US, but exceeded the EU limits for Cu, Ni, and Zn.

http://ift.tt/2s5PhKA

Temperature characterization of an optical-chemical tunable-peak sensor using CdSe/ZnS quantum-dots applied on anodized-aluminum for surface temperature measurement

Publication date: November 2017
Source:Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, Volume 251
Author(s): Steven Claucherty, Hirotaka Sakaue
We have developed a CdSe/ZnS quantum-dot (QD) based anodized-aluminum temperature-sensitive paint (AA-TSP) as a global temperature sensor. Compared to a conventional TSP, which uses a polymer as a supporting matrix, the AA-TSP can provide a narrow full width half maximum (FWHM) that provides a potential to create a multi-color TSP. By using anodized-aluminum as a supporting matrix, the resultant AA-TSP extends the temperature detection range, which is limited by a conventional supporting matrix of a polymer. The temperature calibration shows that a resultant AA-TSP can detect the temperature from 100 to 315K. Six different QDs, whose luminescent peaks are at 481, 518, 543, 555, 587 and 615nm, were chosen for temperature characterization as AA-TSPs, dissolved in toluene. The temperature sensitivity of the resultant AA-TSP ranges from −0.7 to −1.5%/K. With increasing QD diameter, and therefore increasing peak luminescent wavelength, the temperature sensitivity of the AA-TSP increases.

http://ift.tt/2s5Hw7t

Brain networks activated to form object recognition memory

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Brain Research Bulletin
Author(s): Toshiyuki Tanimizu, Kyohei Kono, Satoshi Kida
Object recognition memory allows discrimination of familiar and novel objects. Previous studies have shown the importance of several brain regions for object recognition memories; however, the mechanisms underlying the consolidation of object recognition (OR) memory at the anatomic level remain unknown. Here, we analyzed the brain network for the generation of OR memory in mice by measuring the expression of the immediate-early gene c-fos. We found that c-fos expression was induced in the hippocampus (CA1 and CA3 regions), insular cortex (IC), perirhinal cortex (PRh), and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) when OR memory was generated, suggesting that gene expression in these brain regions contributes to the formation of OR memory. Consistently, inhibition of protein synthesis in the mPFC blocked the formation of long-term OR memory. Importantly, network analyses suggested that the hippocampus, IC, PRh and mPFC show increased connectivity with other brain regions when OR memory is formed. Thus, we suggest that a brain network composed of the hippocampus, IC, PRh, and mPFC is required for the generation of OR memory by connecting with other brain regions.

http://ift.tt/2rop1K8

Characterization of aromatase expression in the spinal cord of an animal model of familial ALS

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Brain Research Bulletin
Author(s): Can Sun, Yuanyuan Liu, Yaling Liu, Mei Zhao, Jingxu Zhai, Pengli Hao, Ying Wang, Yingxiao Ji
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease involving motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem and spinal cord. ALS leads to progressive, aggravated muscle weakness and paralysis. Although the precise pathogenesis remains unknown, several studies have shown that estrogens exert neuroprotective effects during the course of the disease. Aromatase is the key enzyme in estrogen synthesis. In the present study, we used immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and western blotting to observe the characteristics of aromatase expression in the spinal cords of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1)-G93A transgenic mice. Under normal and nearly normal (pre-symptomatic stage) conditions, the motor neurons in the spinal anterior horn expressed aromatase. After disease onset, astrocytes began to express aromatase. The total level of aromatase expression decreased with disease progression. These findings may provide the basis for the pathogenesis of ALS through glial aromatization during the progression of this disease.

http://ift.tt/2qSVRze

The processing of semantic relatedness in the brain: Evidence from associative and categorical false recognition effects following transcranial direct current stimulation of the left anterior temporal lobe

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Emiliano Díez, Carlos J. Gómez-Ariza, Antonio M. Díez-Álamo, María A. Alonso, Angel Fernandez
A dominant view of the role of the anterior temporal lobe (ATL) in semantic memory is that it serves as an integration hub, specialized in the processing of semantic relatedness by way of mechanisms that bind together information from different brain areas to form coherent amodal representations of concepts. Two recent experiments, using brain stimulation techniques along with the Deese–Roediger–McDermott (DRM) paradigm, have found a consistent false memory reduction effect following stimulation of the ATL, pointing to the importance of the ATL in semantic/conceptual processing. To more precisely identify the specific process being involved, we conducted a DRM experiment in which transcranial direct current stimulation (anode/cathode/sham) was applied over the participants' left ATL during the study of lists of words that were associatively related to their non-presented critical words (e.g., rotten, worm, red, tree, liqueur, unripe, cake, food, eden, peel, for the critical item apple) or categorically related (e.g., pear, banana, peach, orange, cantaloupe, watermelon, strawberry, cherry, kiwi, plum, for the same critical item apple). The results showed that correct recognition was not affected by stimulation. However, an interaction between stimulation condition and type of relation for false memories was found, explained by a significant false recognition reduction effect in the anodal condition for associative lists that was not observed for categorical lists. Results are congruent with previous findings and, more importantly, they help to clarify the nature and locus of false memory reduction effects, suggesting a differential role of the left ATL, and providing critical evidence for understanding the creation of semantic relatedness-based memory illusions.

http://ift.tt/2rRExQh

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration and social behaviour: dissociation between the knowledge of its consequences and its conceptual meaning

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Roland Zahn, Sophie Green, Helen Beaumont, Alistair Burns, Jorge Moll, Diana Caine, Alexander Gerhard, Paul Hoffman, Benjamin Shaw, Jordan Grafman, Matthew A. Lambon Ralph
Inappropriate social behaviour is an early symptom of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) in both behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and semantic dementia (SD) subtypes. Knowledge of social behaviour is essential for appropriate social conduct. The superior anterior temporal lobe (ATL) has been identified as one key neural component for the conceptual knowledge of social behaviour, but it is unknown whether this is dissociable from knowledge of the consequences of social behaviour. Here, we used a newly-developed test of knowledge about long-term and short-term consequences of social behaviour to investigate its impairment in patients with FTLD relative to a previously-developed test of social conceptual knowledge. We included 19 healthy elderly control participants and 19 consecutive patients with features of bvFTD or SD and defined dissociations as performance differences between tasks for each patient (Bonferroni-corrected p<.05). Knowledge of long-term consequences was selectively impaired relative to short-term consequences in five patients and the reverse dissociation occurred in one patient. Six patients showed a selective impairment of social concepts relative to long-term consequences with the reverse dissociation occurring in one patient. These results corroborate the hypothesis that knowledge of long-term consequences of social behaviour is dissociable from knowledge of short-term consequences, as well as of social conceptual knowledge. Confirming our hypothesis, we found that patients with more marked grey matter volume loss in frontopolar relative to right superior ATL regions of interest exhibited poorer knowledge of the long-term consequences of social behaviour relative to the knowledge of its conceptual meaning and vice versa (n=15). These findings support the hypothesis that frontopolar and ATL regions represent distinct aspects of social knowledge. This suggests that rather than being unable to suppress urges to behave inappropriately, FTLD patients often lose the knowledge of what appropriate social behaviour is and can therefore not be expected to behave accordingly.

http://ift.tt/2srk8Pa

Transcranial magnetic stimulation to visual cortex induces suboptimal introspection

Publication date: Available online 2 June 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Megan A.K. Peters, Jeremy Fesi, Namema Amendi, Jeffrey D. Knotts, Hakwan Lau, Tony Ro
Blindsight patients with damage to the visual cortex can discriminate objects but report no conscious visual experience. This provides an intriguing opportunity to allow the study of subjective awareness in isolation from objective performance capacity. However, blindsight is rare, so one promising way to induce the effect in neurologically intact observers is to apply transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to the visual cortex. Here, we used a recently-developed criterion-free method to conclusively rule out an important alternative interpretation of TMS-induced performance without awareness: that TMS-induced blindsight may be just due to conservative reporting biases for conscious perception. Critically, using this criterion-free paradigm we have previously shown that introspective judgments were optimal even under visual masking. However, here under TMS, observers were suboptimal, as if they were metacognitively blind to the visual disturbances caused by TMS. We argue that metacognitive judgments depend on observers' internal statistical models of their own perceptual systems, and introspective suboptimality arises when external perturbations abruptly make those models invalid -- a phenomenon that may also be happening in actual blindsight.

http://ift.tt/2sr3MGb

Normal aging and Parkinson’s Disease are associated with the functional decline of distinct frontal-striatal circuits

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Aleksandra Gruszka, Adam Hampshire, Roger A. Barker, Adrian M. Owen
AbstractImpaired ability to shift attention between stimuli (i.e. shifting attentional 'set') is a well-established part of the dysexecutive syndrome in PD, nevertheless cognitive and neural bases of this deficit remain unclear. In this study, an fMRI-optimised variant of a classic paradigm for assessing attentional control (Hampshire and Owen 2006) was used to contrast activity in dissociable executive circuits in early-stage PD patients and controls. The results demonstrated that the neural basis of the executive performance impairments in PD is accompanied by hypoactivation within the striatum, anterior cingulate cortex (vACC), and inferior frontal sulcus (IFS) regions. By contrast, in aging it is associated with hypoactivation of the anterior insula/inferior frontal operculum (AI/FO) and the pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA). Between group behavioural differences were also observed; whereas normally aging individuals exhibited routine-problem solving deficits, PD patients demonstrated more global task learning deficits. These findings concur with recent research demonstrating model-based reinforcement learning deficits in PD and provides evidence that the AI/FO and IFS circuits are differentially impacted by PD and normal aging.

http://ift.tt/2srcWCo

The neural monitoring of visceral inputs, rather than attention, accounts for first-person perspective in conscious vision

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): Catherine Tallon-Baudry, Florence Campana, Hyeong-Dong Park, Mariana Babo-Rebelo
Why should a scientist whose aim is to unravel the neural mechanisms of perception consider brain-body interactions seriously? Brain-body interactions have traditionally been associated with emotion, effort, or stress, but not with the "cold" processes of perception and attention. Here, we review recent experimental evidence suggesting a different picture: the neural monitoring of bodily state, and in particular the neural monitoring of the heart, affects visual perception. The impact of spontaneous fluctuations of neural responses to heartbeats on visual detection is as large as the impact of explicit manipulations of spatial attention in perceptual tasks. However, we propose that the neural monitoring of visceral inputs plays a specific role in conscious perception, distinct from the role of attention. The neural monitoring of organs such as the heart or the gut would generate a subject-centered reference frame, from which the first-person perspective inherent to conscious perception can develop. In this view, conscious perception results from the integration of visual content with first-person perspective.

http://ift.tt/2rREqEu

Memory Representations, Tree Structures, and Parameter Polysemy: Comment on Cooper, Greve, and Henson (2017)

Publication date: Available online 2 June 2017
Source:Cortex
Author(s): David Kellen, Henrik Singmann
Cooper, Greve, and Henson (2017) discussed the use of different approaches for measuring item and source memory, and how choices among these can affect the comparison between different groups (e.g., younger versus older adults). The authors argue that the tree structure adopted in the specification of item- and source-memory retrieval in multinomial processing tree models implies a theoretical commitment to the way memories are represented. According to the authors, this commitment can affect the conclusions that are taken from the results and produce different model fits in experimental designs involving confidence-rating judgments. Reported model fits suggest that an alternative tree structure provides a superior account of the data. The present comment argues that the particular tree structure used does not enforce any commitment to a particular structure, as long as the trees are well defined in the sense that parameters are monosemic across the entire structure of the model. The different fit results reported by CGH are due to their reliance on tree structures that do not ensure that all parameters are monosemic.

http://ift.tt/2rRGI6g

Axillary Reconstruction for Hidradenitis Suppurativa with an Inner-Arm Transposition Flap Creating a Brachioplasty Effect.

Axillary Reconstruction for Hidradenitis Suppurativa with an Inner-Arm Transposition Flap Creating a Brachioplasty Effect.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):228-233

Authors: Ching DL, Mughal M, Papas A, Soldin M

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that can affect any area with apocrine sweat glands and has the potential to involve multiple sites concurrently. Commonly affected sites include the axilla, groin, perineum and perianal areas. In this study we performed a literature review on the surgical methods for HS and describe an innovative technique for reconstructing axilla HS using an inner-arm transposition flap.
METHODS: We reviewed all cases (5 cases from 4 patients) of transposition flap reconstruction performed by the senior author at a single London tertiary hospital from 2008-2013. Patient related outcome measures were collected using the Derriford appearance scale (DAS 24) and a study specific questionnaire.
RESULTS: All patients were satisfied with their final result. One out of five cases had a complication but did not result in flap failure. There is no disease recurrence to date. DAS 24 scores collected demonstrated acceptable postoperative distress that did not deviate far from the norm tables while study specific questionnaire reveal desirable outcomes.
CONCLUSIONS: We have managed to achieve our aim through the use of the innovative inner-arm transposition flap. Our study hopes to provide an additional technique for axillary reconstruction. This technique offers the effective concealment of scars with the benefit of tightening of the arm tissue producing 'brachioplasty like' effects. All things considered it would be reasonable to conclude the innovative flap technique is a reliable, effective, and simple method that results in multiple benefits.

PMID: 28573098 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qNMbeh

Vascular Augmentation in Renal Transplantation: Supercharging and Turbocharging.

Vascular Augmentation in Renal Transplantation: Supercharging and Turbocharging.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):238-242

Authors: Jeong EC, Hwang SH, Eo SR

Abstract
The most common anatomic variant seen in donor kidneys for renal transplantation is the presence of multiple renal arteries, which can cause an increased risk of complications. Accessory renal arteries should be anastomosed to the proper source arteries to improve renal perfusion via the appropriate vascular reconstruction techniques. In microsurgery, 2 kinds of vascular augmentation methods, known as 'supercharging' and 'turbocharging,' have been introduced to ensure vascular perfusion in the transferred flap. Supercharging uses a distant source of the vessels, while turbocharging uses vascular sources within the same flap territory. These technical concepts can also be applied in renal transplantation, and in this report, we describe 2 patients who underwent procedures using supercharging and turbocharging. In one case, the ipsilateral deep inferior epigastric artery was transposed to the accessory renal artery (supercharging), and in the other case, the accessory renal artery was anastomosed to the corresponding main renal artery with a vascular graft (turbocharging). The transplanted kidneys showed good perfusion and proper function. No cases of renal failure, hypertension, rejection, or urologic complications were observed. These microsurgical techniques can be safely utilized for renal transplantation with donor kidneys that have multiple arteries with a lower complication rate and better outcome.

PMID: 28573100 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2rxaPgj

Long-Term Follow-Up Study of Young Adults Treated for Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip, Alveolus, and Palate by a Treatment Protocol Including Two-Stage Palatoplasty: Speech Outcomes.

Long-Term Follow-Up Study of Young Adults Treated for Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip, Alveolus, and Palate by a Treatment Protocol Including Two-Stage Palatoplasty: Speech Outcomes.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):202-209

Authors: Kappen IFPM, Bittermann D, Janssen L, Bittermann GKP, Boonacker C, Haverkamp S, de Wilde H, Van Der Heul M, Specken TF, Koole R, Kon M, Breugem CC, Mink van der Molen AB

Abstract
BACKGROUND: No consensus exists on the optimal treatment protocol for orofacial clefts or the optimal timing of cleft palate closure. This study investigated factors influencing speech outcomes after two-stage palate repair in adults with a non-syndromal complete unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP).
METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of adult patients with a UCLP who underwent two-stage palate closure and were treated at our tertiary cleft centre. Patients ≥17 years of age were invited for a final speech assessment. Their medical history was obtained from their medical files, and speech outcomes were assessed by a speech pathologist during the follow-up consultation.
RESULTS: Forty-eight patients were included in the analysis, with a mean age of 21 years (standard deviation, 3.4 years). Their mean age at the time of hard and soft palate closure was 3 years and 8.0 months, respectively. In 40% of the patients, a pharyngoplasty was performed. On a 5-point intelligibility scale, 84.4% received a score of 1 or 2; meaning that their speech was intelligible. We observed a significant correlation between intelligibility scores and the incidence of articulation errors (P<0.001). In total, 36% showed mild to moderate hypernasality during the speech assessment, and 11%-17% of the patients exhibited increased nasalance scores, assessed through nasometry.
CONCLUSIONS: The present study describes long-term speech outcomes after two-stage palatoplasty with hard palate closure at a mean age of 3 years old. We observed moderate long-term intelligibility scores, a relatively high incidence of persistent hypernasality, and a high pharyngoplasty incidence.

PMID: 28573094 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2rmCNx7

Mucoperiosteal Flap Necrosis after Primary Palatoplasty in Patients with Cleft Palate.

Mucoperiosteal Flap Necrosis after Primary Palatoplasty in Patients with Cleft Palate.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):217-222

Authors: Rossell-Perry P, Cotrina-Rabanal O, Barrenechea-Tarazona L, Vargas-Chanduvi R, Paredes-Aponte L, Romero-Narvaez C

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of flap necrosis after palatoplasty in patients with cleft palate. The prevalence of mucoperiosteal flap necrosis after palatoplasty remains unknown, and this complication is rare. This event is highly undesirable for both the patient and the surgeon. We present here a new scale to evaluate the degree of hypoplasia of the palate and identify patients with cleft palate at high risk for the development of this complication.
METHODS: In this case series, a 20-year retrospective analysis (1994-2014) identified patients from our records (medical records and screening day registries) with nonsyndromic cleft palate who underwent operations at 3 centers. All of these patients underwent operations using 2-flap palatoplasty and also underwent a physical examination with photographs and documentation of the presence of palatal flap necrosis after primary palatoplasty.
RESULTS: Palatal flap necrosis was observed in 4 cases out of 1,174 palatoplasties performed at these centers. The observed prevalence of palatal flap necrosis in these groups was 0.34%.
CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of flap necrosis can be reduced by careful preoperative planning, and prevention is possible. The scale proposed here may help to prevent this complication; however, further studies are necessary to validate its utility.

PMID: 28573096 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qNZZ8v

Faces of the Face.

Faces of the Face.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):251-256

Authors: Choi J

PMID: 28573104 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2rwT5lm

Spontaneous Pseudoaneurysm of the Proximal Occipital Artery Presenting as a Neck Mass.

Spontaneous Pseudoaneurysm of the Proximal Occipital Artery Presenting as a Neck Mass.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):249-250

Authors: Kim TG, Lee JH, Chung KJ, Lee JH, Kim YH, Chang CH

PMID: 28573103 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2rwOxv5

Late-Onset Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection after Facial Poly-L-Lactic Acid Injection.

Late-Onset Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection after Facial Poly-L-Lactic Acid Injection.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):248-249

Authors: Choi M, Cheon JS, Choi WY, Son KM

PMID: 28573102 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2rwUfNH

Using a Thermal Imaging Camera to Locate Perforators on the Lower Limb.

Using a Thermal Imaging Camera to Locate Perforators on the Lower Limb.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):243-247

Authors: Paul SP

Abstract
Reconstruction of the lower limb presents a complex problem after skin cancer surgery, as proximity of skin and bone present vascular and technical challenges. Studies on vascular anatomy have confirmed that the vascular plane on the lower limb lies deep to the deep fascia. Yet, many flaps are routinely raised superficial to this plane and therefore flap failure rates in the lower limb are high. Fascio-cutaneous flaps based on perforators offer a better cosmetic alternative to skin grafts. In this paper, we detail use of a thermal imaging camera to identify perforator 'compartments' that can help in designing such flaps.

PMID: 28573101 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2rwYedb

Acellular Dermal Matrices and Paraffinoma: A Modern Tool for a Nearly Obsolete Disease.

Acellular Dermal Matrices and Paraffinoma: A Modern Tool for a Nearly Obsolete Disease.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):234-237

Authors: Grassetti L, Torresetti M, Scalise A, Lazzeri D, Di Benedetto G

Abstract
Paraffinoma is a destructive complication of paraffin oil injection, usually associated with massive tissue destruction, thus requiring radical surgery and subsequent complex reconstruction. Although breast and penile paraffinomas have been widely described and their management is quite standardized, paraffinomas of the knee are still rare and only few case reports or small case series are available in the current literature. We describe the case of a 77-year-old man with a large paraffinoma of the right knee that occurred after self-injection of paraffin oil, 58 years before. He underwent wide surgical resection of the soft tissues overlying the knee and subsequent two-stage reconstruction by using acellular dermal matrix and, after 20 days, split-thickness skin grafts. Follow-up after 16 months showed no signs of skin ulcerations or inflammation, with an overall improvement in function. Even though conventional flap reconstructions may be still useful, the authors believe that acellular dermal matrices represent a safe, reliable, and less invasive alternative for challenging soft tissue reconstructions even in elderly patients with multiple medical problems.

PMID: 28573099 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qO0PlE

Validation of a Cognitive Task Simulation and Rehearsal Tool for Open Carpal Tunnel Release.

Validation of a Cognitive Task Simulation and Rehearsal Tool for Open Carpal Tunnel Release.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):223-227

Authors: Paro JAM, Luan A, Lee GK

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Carpal tunnel release is one of the most common surgical procedures performed by hand surgeons. The authors created a surgical simulation of open carpal tunnel release utilizing a mobile and rehearsal platform app. This study was performed in order to validate the simulator as an effective training platform for carpal tunnel release.
METHODS: The simulator was evaluated using a number of metrics: construct validity (the ability to identify variability in skill levels), face validity (the perceived ability of the simulator to teach the intended material), content validity (that the simulator was an accurate representation of the intended operation), and acceptability validity (willingness of the desired user group to adopt this method of training). Novices and experts were recruited. Each group was tested, and all participants were assigned an objective score, which served as construct validation. A Likert-scale questionnaire was administered to gauge face, content, and acceptability validity.
RESULTS: Twenty novices and 10 experts were recruited for this study. The objective performance scores from the expert group were significantly higher than those of the novice group, with surgeons scoring a median of 74% and medical students scoring a median of 45%. The questionnaire responses indicated face, content, and acceptability validation.
CONCLUSIONS: This mobile-based surgical simulation platform provides step-by-step instruction for a variety of surgical procedures. The findings of this study help to demonstrate its utility as a learning tool, as we confirmed construct, face, content, and acceptability validity for carpal tunnel release. This easy-to-use educational tool may help bring surgical education to a new-and highly mobile-level.

PMID: 28573097 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qNT1Al

Correction of Minor-Form and Microform Cleft Lip Using Modified Muscle Overlapping with a Minimal Skin Incision.

Correction of Minor-Form and Microform Cleft Lip Using Modified Muscle Overlapping with a Minimal Skin Incision.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):210-216

Authors: Kim MC, Choi DH, Bae SG, Cho BC

Abstract
BACKGROUND: In treating minor-form or microform cleft lip, obtaining an optimal result is a challenge because of the visible scarring caused by traditional surgery. We present a refined method using muscle overlapping with a minimal skin incision in patients younger than 3 years, a group characterized by thin muscle.
METHODS: The surgical technique involves restoration of the notched vermillion using Z-plasty, formation of the philtral column using overlapping of an orbicularis oris muscle flap through an intraoral incision, and correction of the cleft lip nasal deformity using a reverse-U incision and V-Y plasty. A single radiologist evaluated ultrasonographic images of the upper lip.
RESULTS: Sixty patients were treated between September 2008 and June 2014. The age at the time of operation ranged from 6 to 36 months (mean, 26 months). The follow-up period ranged from 8 to 38 months (mean, 20 months) in minor-form cases and from 14 to 64 months (mean, 37 months) in microform cases. A notched cupid's bow was corrected in 10 minor-form cases and 50 microform cases. Ultrasonographic images were obtained from 3 patients with minor-form cleft lip and 9 patients with microform cleft lip 12 months after surgery. The average muscle thickness was 4.5 mm on the affected side and 4.1 mm on the unaffected side.
CONCLUSIONS: The advantages of the proposed procedure include the creation of an anatomically natural philtrum with minimal scarring. This method also preserves the continuity and function of the muscle and provides sufficient augmentation of the philtral column and nostril sill.

PMID: 28573095 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qNt6Jr

Hydrogel and Platelet-Rich Plasma Combined Treatment to Accelerate Wound Healing in a Nude Mouse Model.

Hydrogel and Platelet-Rich Plasma Combined Treatment to Accelerate Wound Healing in a Nude Mouse Model.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):194-201

Authors: Park YG, Lee IH, Park ES, Kim JY

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains high concentrations of growth factors involved in wound healing. Hydrogel is a 3-dimensional, hydrophilic, high-molecular, reticular substance generally used as a dressing formulation to accelerate wound healing, and also used as a bio-applicable scaffold or vehicle. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PRP and hydrogel on wound healing, in combination and separately, in an animal wound model.
METHODS: A total of 64 wounds, with 2 wounds on the back of each nude mouse, were classified into 4 groups: a control group, a hydrogel-only group, a PRP-only group, and a combined-treatment group. All mice were assessed for changes in wound size and photographed on scheduled dates. The number of blood vessels was measured in all specimens. Immunohistochemical staining was used for the analysis of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression.
RESULTS: Differences in the decrease and change in wound size in the combined-treatment group were more significant than those in the single-treatment groups on days 3, 5, 7, and 10. Analysis of the number of blood vessels through histological examination showed a pattern of increase over time that occurred in all groups, but the combined-treatment group exhibited the greatest increase on days 7 and 14. Immunohistochemical staining showed that VEGF expression in the combined-treatment group exhibited its highest value on day 7.
CONCLUSIONS: This experiment demonstrated improved wound healing using a PRP-hydrogel combined treatment compared to either treatment individually, resulting in a decrease in wound size and a shortening of the healing period.

PMID: 28573093 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2sAlMwP

Current Methods for the Treatment of Alveolar Cleft.

Current Methods for the Treatment of Alveolar Cleft.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):188-193

Authors: Kang NH

Abstract
Alveolar cleft is a tornado-shaped bone defect in the maxillary arch. The treatment goals for alveolar cleft are stabilization and provision of bone continuity to the maxillary arch, permitting support for tooth eruption, eliminating oronasal fistulas, providing an improved esthetic result, and improving speech. Treatment protocols vary in terms of the operative time, surgical techniques, and graft materials. Early approaches including boneless bone grafting (gingivoperiosteoplasty) and primary bone graft fell into disfavor because they impaired facial growth, and they remain controversial. Secondary bone graft (SBG) is not the most perfect method, but long-term follow-up has shown that the graft is absorbed to a lesser extent, does not impede facial growth, and supports other teeth. Accordingly, SBG in the mixed dentition phase (6-11 years) has become the preferred method of treatment. The most commonly used graft material is cancellous bone from the iliac crest. Recently, many researchers have investigated the use of allogeneic bone, artificial bone, and recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein, along with growth factors because of their ability to decrease donor-site morbidity. Further investigations of bone substitutes and additives will continue to be needed to increase their effectiveness and to reduce complications.

PMID: 28573092 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qO0QWV

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Plastic Surgery: A Review.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Plastic Surgery: A Review.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):179-187

Authors: Kim Y, Kim H, Kim YO

Abstract
Recently, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have received increasing attention, with the development of VR/AR devices such as head-mounted displays, haptic devices, and AR glasses. Medicine is considered to be one of the most effective applications of VR/AR. In this article, we describe a systematic literature review conducted to investigate the state-of-the-art VR/AR technology relevant to plastic surgery. The 35 studies that were ultimately selected were categorized into 3 representative topics: VR/AR-based preoperative planning, navigation, and training. In addition, future trends of VR/AR technology associated with plastic surgery and related fields are discussed.

PMID: 28573091 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qNPO43

Peer Review Processes and Desirable Attitudes for Peer Reviewers.

Peer Review Processes and Desirable Attitudes for Peer Reviewers.

Arch Plast Surg. 2017 May;44(3):177-178

Authors: Chung KJ

PMID: 28573090 [PubMed]

http://ift.tt/2qOdxB5

Pluripotent stem cell models of Blau syndrome reveal an IFN-γ–dependent inflammatory response in macrophages

Blau syndrome, or early-onset sarcoidosis, is a juvenile-onset systemic granulomatosis associated with a mutation in nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2). The underlying mechanisms of Blau syndrome leading to autoinflammation are still unclear, and there is currently no effective specific treatment for Blau syndrome.

http://ift.tt/2qO5xjk

Spontaneous de novo vaginal adenosis resembling Bartholin’s cyst: A case report

Publication date: Available online 2 June 2017
Source:Alexandria Journal of Medicine
Author(s): Adebayo Alade Adewole, Osadolor Augustine Ugiagbe, Temitope Gabriel Onile, Olatunji Oluwaseyi Fadahunsi, Daniel Ike Awelimobor, Toba Ajagun, Obioma Jude Nnorom
BackgroundVaginal adenosis is a rare benign condition with a small percentage of patients at risk of vaginal adenocarcinoma.CaseA 34year old woman presented with paravaginal swelling resembling Bartholin's cyst. Vaginal examination revealed a cystic, fluctuant and non-tender mass on the right lateral vaginal wall measuring 6 by 5 cm. The cervix, uterus, adnexa and Pouch of Douglas (POD) were normal. She had paravaginal cyst excision and histology showed stratified cuboidal epithelial cells with proliferation of numerous glands of small caliber within its wall that are separated by scanty stroma and consistent with vaginal adenosis. No other lesion was found on the genital tract.ConclusionExcision and histology is required in suspicious cases of paravaginal cyst to rule out vaginal adenosis, a potential precursor of vaginal adenocarcinoma. Counseling and follow up will help detect early occurrence of adenocarcinoma.

http://ift.tt/2rx0fpD

Editorial Board

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Alexandria Journal of Medicine, Volume 53, Issue 2

http://ift.tt/2qOl4jd

Screening for psychological distress among High School Graduates Accepted for Enrollment at Alexandria Faculty of Medicine: Academic year 2016/2017

Publication date: Available online 3 June 2017
Source:Alexandria Journal of Medicine
Author(s): Iman Hassan Diab, Heba Mahmoud Taha Elweshahi, Hesham Adel Sheshtawy, Ayat Nabil Youssef Salem Eltayar, Abd Elrahman Mohammed Sharaf
BackgroundMental and psychological health of adolescents in general and prospective medical students in particular is a priority area to investigate as it affects wellbeing of the future doctors.ObjectivesThe current research was conducted to screen first year medical students accepted for enrollment at Alexandria Faculty of Medicine to identify those with a high probability of having psychological distress before the start of academic courses as well as explore the sources of stress among them.Methods.A cross sectional survey of 779 high school graduates accepted for admission to Alexandria Faculty of medicine was conducted. Participants were approached on the days of obligatory pre-enrollment medical examination. The translated Arabic version of DASS 21 questionnaire was used to screen students for three negative emotional symptoms namely depression, anxiety and stress. Inquiry about age, sex, residency and type of high school was added.ResultsMore than a tenth of studied medical students (12.6%) suffered from severe or profound stress and 29.1% of them had mild to moderate stress. Moreover, one fifth (20%) of studied students were severely anxious and less than one third (29.3%) had mild to moderate anxiety. Severe and profound depression was diagnosed among 14.3% of students whereas, 18.7% them were moderately depressed. No association was found between any of studied negative emotional symptoms and the students' educational background or their residency.ConclusionNearly half of the prospective medical students might have some sort of psychological distress before starting their study in the Faculty of Medicine. They should be investigated to verify diagnosis and start intervention to minimize its adverse effects on academic performance and advancement at the faculty. Stress management courses should be considered for all medical students.

http://ift.tt/2rwGZZf

The effect of training level on complications after free flap surgery of the head and neck

Publication date: Available online 2 June 2017
Source:American Journal of Otolaryngology
Author(s): Jacob S. Brady, Meghan M. Crippen, Andrey Filimonov, Neil V. Nadpara, Jean Anderson Eloy, Soly Baredes, Richard Chan Woo Park
ObjectivesAnalyze postoperative complications after free flap surgery based on PGY training level.MethodsData on free flap surgeries of the head and neck performed from 2005 to 2013 was collected from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database. Cases identifying the status of resident participation in the surgery and the PGY level were included.ResultsThere were 582 cases with primary surgeon data available. 63 cases were performed with a junior resident, 211 were performed with the assistance of a senior resident, 279 cases were performed with a fellow, and 29 cases were performed by an attending alone without resident involvement. The overall complication rate was 55.2%. There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of complications between groups (47.6%, 59.7%, 53.0%, 58.6%, p=0.277). After controlling for all confounding variables using multivariate analysis there was no significant difference in morbidity, mortality, readmissions, and reoperation amongst the groups. Furthermore, when comparing resident versus fellow involvement using multivariate analysis there were no significant differences in morbidity (OR=0.768[0.522–1.129]), mortality (OR=1.489[0.341–6.499]), readmissions (OR=1.018[0.458–2.262]), and reoperation (OR=0.863[0.446–1.670]).ConclusionResident and fellow participation in microvascular reconstructive cases does not appear to increase 30-day rates of medical, surgical, or overall complications.

http://ift.tt/2rSaQym

AMMP-8 in correlation to caries and periodontal condition in adolescents—results of the epidemiologic LIFE child study

Abstract

Objectives

The suitability of a chairside aMMP-8 test in determination of periodontal inflammation and caries in adolescents was assessed. Secondly, the influence of orthodontic treatment on aMMP-8 test result was analyzed.

Materials and methods

Within the LIFE Child study, 434 adolescents (10 to 18 years) were included. Clinical dental examinations comprised caries experience (DMF/T-Index), signs of periodontal inflammation (probing pocket depth, PPD; community periodontal index of treatment needs; CPITN) at six index teeth and oral hygiene (OH). Information about orthodontic appliances (OA) and socioeconomic status (SES) were obtained by validated questionnaires. Test's sensitivity and specificity to detect periodontal inflammation and carious lesions were evaluated. The influence of OA on the test result was analyzed (multivariate model).

Results

No associations between age, gender, SES or OH, and test outcome were found (p > 0.05). Positive test results correlated to periodontal findings (CPITN, mean PPD; p < 0.001). However, for the detection of ≥ 1 site(s) with PPD ≥ 4 mm, the test's sensitivity and specificity were found to be 61 and 69%, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed a higher probability for a positive test result in cases of fixed OA (odds ratio 5.02, 95% confidence interval 1.90–13.19). The test had no diagnostic value considering carious lesions.

Conclusions

The chairside aMMP-8 test does not reliably identify adolescents with periodontal inflammation. Positive test results were more frequent in case of OA.

Clinical relevance

The chairside aMMP-8 test is no appropriate tool to screen children and adolescents neither for periodontal inflammation nor for carious lesions.

http://ift.tt/2rEjK1H

Development of an eco-friendly mosquitocidal agent from Alangium salvifolium against the dengue vector Aedes aegypti and its biosafety on the aquatic predator

Abstract

Plant extracts with their enriched chemical constituents have established potential alternative mosquito control agents. In this research, we developed an eco-friendly mosquitocidal agent from Alangium salvifolium leaves against the dengue and Zika virus vector Aedes aegypti and we investigated its biosafety on the mosquito aquatic predator Toxorhynchites splendens. Results showed that the methanolic extract of A. salvifolium leaves was composed by eight main compounds, with major peak area for hexadecenoic acid (21.74%). LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values calculated on Ae. aegypti fourth instar larvae were 104.80 and 269.15 ppm respectively. The methanolic extract tested at 100 ppm decreased the α-β carboxylesterase and SOD ratio significantly and upregulated the GST and CYP450 level. The A. salvifolium methanolic extract displayed significant repellent and adulticidal activity at 100 and 400 ppm respectively. The treatment with 100 ppm of the methanolic extract led to 210 min of protection from Ae. aegypti bites. Four hundred parts per million of the extract showed 98% adult mortality within 30 min from the treatment. Lastly, biosafety assays on the mosquito aquatic predator Tx. splendens showed that the toxicity of the A. salvifolium extract was significantly lower if compared to the cypermethrin-based treatments. The methanolic extract of A. salvifolium showed a maximum of 47.3% mortality rate at the concentration of 1000 ppm, while 0.7 ppm of cypermethrin achieved 91.3% mortality rate on Tx. splendens. Overall, our study enhances basic knowledge on how to improve natural larvicidal agents against dengue and Zika virus mosquito vector with harmless responses on non-target aquatic predators.

http://ift.tt/2rRB4kR

Analyzing the teeth next to the alveolar cleft: Examination and treatment proposal prior to bone grafting based on three-dimensional versus two-dimensional diagnosis—a diagnostic study

The objective was to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of three-dimensional (3D) cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) on information about the cleft and alignment of cleft neighboring teeth.

http://ift.tt/2rRyviL

What is the effect of Anti-resorptive drugs (ARDs) on the development of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) in Osteoporosis Patients: A Systematic Review

To conduct a systematic review of the literature to detect the effect of anti-resorptive drugs (ARDs) and their administration characteristics in the development of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) in osteoporosis patients.

http://ift.tt/2rRAhjO

Expression of Notch signaling pathway during osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joint

Our study aim was to characterize the expression of Notch molecules during temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA), thus exploring the mechanism and roles that Notch signaling possibly plays in the initiation and progression of TMJOA.

http://ift.tt/2sqxuLx

The influence of different abutment materials on tissue regeneration after surgical treatment of peri-implantitis - a randomized controlled preclinical study

This study aimed to assess the impact of different abutment materials on peri-implant tissue regeneration after surgical treatment of peri-implantitis in a large animal model.

http://ift.tt/2rRigSD

Fluorescence based characterization of early oral squamous cell carcinoma using the Visually Enhanced Light Scope technique

Several diagnostic tools have been developed to assess benign and potentially malignant disorders of soft tissues. In this study, we aimed to assess the value of the VELscope® (Visually Enhanced Light Scope) imaging device as a technical tool to investigate malignant lesions of the oral cavity.

http://ift.tt/2sqDFPL

Synchrotron radiation μCT and histology evaluation of bone-to-implant contact

Bone-to-implant contact (BIC) in loaded implants is proved to be 60–70% when using light microscopy, and 10% less in unloaded implants (Albrektsson 2008). However, histology studies in mini-pigs, pigs, and dogs show comparable BIC in unloaded implants ranging between 49% and 77.2% after healing periods of 2–4 months (Stadlinger et al. 2009; Bressan et al. 2012; Botzenhart et al. 2015). Attainment of osseointegration and primary stability is essential for implant success. A high BIC is a prerequisite for implant stability and is vital in order to generate secondary stability (Brånemark, 1983; Albrektsson 2008).

http://ift.tt/2sqELe6

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! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

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Σάββατο 3 Ιουνίου 2017

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