Σφακιανάκης Αλέξανδρος
ΩτοΡινοΛαρυγγολόγος
Αναπαύσεως 5 Άγιος Νικόλαος
Κρήτη 72100
00302841026182
00306932607174
alsfakia@gmail.com

Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

Η λίστα ιστολογίων μου

Τετάρτη 26 Ιουλίου 2017

A Verrucous Plaque on the Abdomen.

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2vLiidw

Volar Papulonodules in a Patient With Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis.

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2uA0xiU

Nutritional Deficiency-Related Oral and Cutaneous Lesions in an Obese Patient.

The cutaneous and oral lesions related to nutritional deficiencies are scarcely reported. Micronutrient deficiencies may significantly affect mouth mucosa and skin, causing great morbidity. We report an extraordinary case with detailed clinical and microscopic findings affecting the oral cavity and skin. Physicians must be familiar with these manifestations to suspect the diagnosis. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2vLteru

Rapid Number Naming and Quantitative Eye Movements May Reflect Contact Sport Exposure in a Collegiate Ice Hockey Cohort.

Background: The King-Devick (K-D) test of rapid number naming is a reliable visual performance measure that is a sensitive sideline indicator of concussion when time scores worsen (lengthen) from preseason baseline. Within cohorts of youth athletes

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Modern Hearing Aids: Verification, Outcome Measures, and Follow-Up.

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2w2g74y

Detecting masses in dense breast using independent component analysis

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Artificial Intelligence in Medicine
Author(s): Luis Claudio de Oliveira Silva, Allan Kardec Barros, Marcus Vinicius Lopes
Breast cancer is the second type of cancer that most affects women in the world, losing only for non-melanoma skin cancer. Breast density can hinder the location of masses, especially in early stages. In this work, the use of independent component analysis for detecting lesions in dense breasts is proposed. Several works suggest the use of computer aided diagnosis (CAD), increasing sensitivity to over 90% in detecting cancer in nondense breasts, however there are few published studies about detecting in dense breasts. To analyse its efficiency in relation to other segmentation techniques, we compare the performance with principal component analysis. To measure the quality of the segmentation obtained by the two methods, an area overlay measure will be used. To verify if there was any difference between the results of the proposed methods in the detection of lesions in nondense breasts and in dense breasts, a statistic test for two proportions was used. Experimental results on the Mini-MIAS and DDSM database showed an accuracy of 92.71% in detecting masses in nondense and 79.17% in dense breasts. All experiments showed that the ICA filters have a better performance for detect lesions in dense breast, compared with PCA. Contrary to previous works, our experiments showed that there is actually a significant difference between the detection of masses in dense and nondense breasts. This study can help specialist to detect lesions in dense breast.



http://ift.tt/2ePh3Gg

Optimising the surgical outcome in a case of post-traumatic cataract using ultrasound biomicroscopy

A 12-year-old boy was brought with the chief complaint of diminution of vision in his left eye for the past 1 month. History revealed a blunt trauma to his left eye with a wooden stick 6âweeks ago.Visual acuity was 20/20 and hand movement close to face in right and left eye, respectively, without any relative afferent pupillarydefect. Slit-lamp examination showed a total cataractous lens with signs suggestive of suspected posterior capsular (PC) defect. The PC defect was screened initially using B-scan ultrasound of the posterior segment, followed by confirmation of the same using ultrasound biomicroscopy. Left eye lens aspiration along with limited anterior vitrectomy followed by placement of multipiece intraocular lens in the sulcus was performed. Best-corrected visual acuity at 6 months of follow-up was 20/20.



http://ift.tt/2uzPYMM

Giant oesophageal gastrointestinal stromal tumour presenting with dyspnoea and clubbed fingers

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract originating from the interstitial cells of Cajal. Giant oesophageal GISTs are rare since the oesophagus is rarely the primary site of GISTs, and they are usually diagnosed early due to complaints such as dysphagia. We present the case of a giant oesophageal GIST presenting with prominent clubbing. The case underlined the diagnostic importance of clubbing and the careful consideration of chemotherapy. Although clubbed fingers associated with GISTs are rare, our experience demonstrates the importance of physicians' recognition of clubbing as a paraneoplastic phenomenon for early diagnosis of malignancies since patients seldom notice their own clubbing by themselves. Chemotherapy using imatinib, an Bcr-Abl kinase inhibitor, is the standard option for unresectable giant GISTs. However, careful consideration must be made of the risk of complications associated with rapid mass reduction due to imatinib such as bleeding, oesophageal perforation and mediastinitis.



http://ift.tt/2vKTulV

Type I talon cusp on mandibular incisor

Description

Talon cusp is a comparably rare developmental dental anomaly assumed to arise because of evagination on the surface of a tooth crown during tooth calcification stage. Talon cusp also called as Eagle's is a well-defined extra cusp like structure located on lingual or palatal surface of deciduous or permanent anterior teeth. Its occurrence may be either unilateral or bilateral, single or multiple teeth in males or females. Prevalence of talon's cusp is reported to be between 0.06% to 7.7%. Eagle's talon is most commonly seen in maxillary lateral incisor >maxillary central incisor> maxillary canine> mandibular incisor.1

Mandibular talon cusp is a rare entity to occur. Mandibular talon cusps are more prevalent in men than women. Occurrence in talon cusp is more common in permanent dentition. Most of the mandibular talon cusp shows unilateral presentation. Talon cusp associated with permanent central incisor and primary lateral incisor...



http://ift.tt/2uzucJ0

Between fire and ice: refractory hypothermia and warmth-induced pain in inherited erythromelalgia

Inherited erythromelalgia (IEM) is a well-described pain disorder caused by mutations of sodium channel Nav1.7, a peripheral channel expressed within dorsal root ganglion and the sympathetic ganglion neurons. Clinically, IEM is characterised by paroxysmal attacks of severe pain, usually in the distal extremities, triggered by warmth or exercise. Pain is not adequately treated by existing pharmacological agents. Individuals with IEM classically cool their limbs for relief, in some cases resulting in tissue injury. We describe a patient from a family with IEM due to the L858F mutation of Nav1.7 who presented with refractory hypothermia due to overcooling. This presentation of refractory hypothermia necessitating warming strategies, complicated by severe warmth-induced pain, posed a substantial therapeutic challenge. We report our experience in overcoming hypothermia lasting 3 weeks in a child with IEM, discuss possible pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this unusual complication and suggest potential therapeutic interventions.



http://ift.tt/2vKB7h1

Primary and secondary particulate matter intake fraction from different height emission sources

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 165
Author(s): Fatema Parvez, Carmen Lamancusa, Kristina Wagstrom
This study uses intake fraction, the fraction of emissions that are inhaled, to compare potential particulate matter exposure among different height emission sources. We use the Particulate Matter Source Apportionment Technology (PSAT) in the Comprehensive Air Quality Model with Extensions (CAMx) to estimate intake fraction for primary and secondary particulate matter species from different height emission sources. We develop an approach to quantify intake fraction for both primary and secondary particulate matter species emitted from all types of emission sources in the contiguous United States. To compute intake fraction for secondary particulate matter species, we consider the inhalation of the precursor gas and condensed species based on the common atomic unit between the emitted gas and particulate matter product. Our calculated intake fraction varies from 1.0 to 4.9 per million for primary particulate matter, 0.4 to almost 6.0 per million for secondary species, including inhalation of both particulate matter and the relevant precursor species. Intake fraction is consistently higher in the winter than the summer for all species from all emission heights. The shortest height sources, which include area sources, display intake fractions over an order of magnitude greater than more elevated sources.

Graphical abstract

image


http://ift.tt/2uExV6u

Experimental and theoretical investigations of the kinetics and mechanism of the Cl + 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone reaction

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Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): L. Aslan, A. Mano Priya, C. Sleiman, M.N. Zeineddine, P. Coddeville, C. Fittschen, B. Ballesteros, A. Canosa, L. Senthilkumar, G. El Dib, A. Tomas
The reaction of 4-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone (4H4M2P) with Cl atoms was studied for the first time experimentally and theoretically. Relative kinetic measurements were carried out at room temperature and 1 bar of synthetic air/N2 in two different environmental chambers: a 300 L Teflon bag and a 16 L borosilicate glass cell. Reactants, reference compounds and products were monitored either by IR absorption or by GC-FID. Theoretical calculations were performed using the density functional theory method at BH&HLYP level of theory for twelve hydrogen abstraction pathways. The individual rate coefficients for the most favorable H-abstraction pathways were calculated by canonical variational theory using small curvature tunneling method at 298 K. An average experimental rate coefficient of (7.4 ± 0.6) × 10−11 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 was obtained at 298 K, in good agreement with the theoretical rate coefficient. The branching ratios for each reaction channel were evaluated theoretically from the individual rate coefficients of the identified channels. The H-atom abstracted on the –CH2 group appeared to be the dominant channel with a small barrier height. Formaldehyde, acetic acid, HCl, CO2 and CO were identified by IR as the major primary products. The obtained results are presented and discussed in terms of structure-reactivity relationships. A mechanism is suggested for the formation of the observed products. The atmospheric implications of the studied reaction are presented and more particularly, the lifetime of 4H4M2P towards Cl atoms is evaluated to be about 3 days.



http://ift.tt/2uEETbw

Editorial board

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Publication date: September 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 165





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In vitro fermentation of beta-glucans and other selected carbohydrates by infant fecal inoculum: An evaluation of their potential as prebiotics in infant formula

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre
Author(s): Ka-Lung Lam, Hoi-Yee Keung, Kin-Chun Ko, Hoi-Shan Kwan, Peter Chi-Keung Cheung
Prebiotics are being added to infant formula in order to mimic the effects of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) for the growth of probiotic bacteria especially bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the infant gut. This preliminary study compares the in vitro fermentation of 13 different carbohydrates including monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides and polysaccharides by infant fecal samples collected from 3-month old breast-milk fed babies. The growth of the total anaerobic bacteria and two probiotic bacteria (bifidobacteria and lactobacilli) during the fermentation period was measured by total plate count (TPC) and was expressed as colony forming units (CFUs). Among other things, beta-glucans seem to selectively enhance the growth of lactobacilli for a longer period of fermentation time than most of the carbohydrates tested. The selective enrichment of the probiotic bacteria by these carbohydrates and their potential use as prebiotics in the infant formula are discussed.



http://ift.tt/2h4U22z

It Takes Two: One Resects, One Reconstructs

Care of patients with advanced head and neck cancer is a multidisciplinary effort through all phases of care. Head and neck cancer surgery involves balancing oncologic control, functional preservation, and aesthetics. Given the advances in free tissue reconstruction, the majority of defects can be reconstructed using free tissue transfer flaps. A 2-team approach allows for early, continual communication and meticulous operative planning. Operations can be combined into a single effort. This approach maximizes efficiency and enables multidisciplinary collaboration for comprehensive surgical treatment. We present our experience and an outline of how responsibilities between the ablative and reconstructive teams are shared.

http://ift.tt/2v9oM8V

Multidisciplinary Approach to Head and Neck Cancer

The complexity of cancer care in the twenty-first century mandates the input of a spectrum of health care providers to achieve the best possible outcome. Head and neck cancer in particular occurs in an anatomical region unmatched in the number of physiological functions potentially affected with disease and treatment, including respiration, physical appearance, vocalization, gustation, olfaction, and alimentation. Further complicating treatment is the wide range of tumor types and tumor locations in head and neck cancer, all of which taken separately are relatively rare cancers.

http://ift.tt/2w2fbNL

Contributors

SUJANA S. CHANDRASEKHAR, MD

http://ift.tt/2v9oLSp

Systemic Treatment for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

In patients with locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the head and neck, a multimodality treatment approach is recommended. The addition of platinum-based systemic therapy concurrently with radiation has been shown to be superior to radiation alone and is considered standard therapy for locally advanced disease. No study has shown superiority of induction therapy followed by chemoradiotherapy versus chemoradiotherapy alone. In the adjuvant setting only patients with nodal extracapsular extension or positive margins seem to benefit from chemoradiotherapy versus radiotherapy alone. In the recurrent or metastatic setting, systemic treatment with chemotherapy is palliative. A subset of patients treated with PD-1 immunotherapy may achieve durable responses.

http://ift.tt/2w2kL2G

Multidisciplinary Approach to Head and Neck Cancer

OTOLARYNGOLOGIC CLINICS OF NORTH AMERICA

http://ift.tt/2va0uf4

Survivorship

Survivorship encompasses the entire therapeutic, psychosocial, functional, and financial experience of living with and through a cancer diagnosis. The period of survivorship starts on the day of the cancer diagnosis and lasts until the end of the survivor's life, regardless of the cause of death. The National Cancer Institute's Office of Cancer Survivorship expands the term "survivor" to include, importantly, caregivers, family, and friends close to the survivor who also live through this period.

http://ift.tt/2w20NFh

CME Accreditation Page



http://ift.tt/2v9Rh6x

Immunotherapy

Recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck cancer portends a poor prognosis with traditional treatments, but current immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors has the potential to improve these clinical outcomes. This review focuses on the major breakthroughs that have led to the current understanding of immunotherapy in head and neck cancer as well as the future direction of the field. Ultimately, this understanding will guide clinicians on the selection of patients with head and neck cancer and practical considerations before starting immunotherapy.

http://ift.tt/2w1Tr4n

Copyright

Elsevier

http://ift.tt/2v9JkOs

Through the Glass Brightly

Hospital-centered academic surgical pathologists are essential members of multidisciplinary head and neck tumor boards. A working, multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board is composed of many dedicated professionals who contribute their individual pieces of patient data. This weekly congregation of head and neck specialists results in a special, concerted, and dynamic process of data integration into a holistic matrix view of the patients. Despite all the technological advances in communication, the fundamentals of human interactions still apply: there is no better substitute for a regular, working, multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board.

http://ift.tt/2w20tGk

It Takes Two: One Resects, One Reconstructs

Care of patients with advanced head and neck cancer is a multidisciplinary effort through all phases of care. Head and neck cancer surgery involves balancing oncologic control, functional preservation, and aesthetics. Given the advances in free tissue reconstruction, the majority of defects can be reconstructed using free tissue transfer flaps. A 2-team approach allows for early, continual communication and meticulous operative planning. Operations can be combined into a single effort. This approach maximizes efficiency and enables multidisciplinary collaboration for comprehensive surgical treatment. We present our experience and an outline of how responsibilities between the ablative and reconstructive teams are shared.

http://ift.tt/2v9oM8V

Multidisciplinary Approach to Head and Neck Cancer

The complexity of cancer care in the twenty-first century mandates the input of a spectrum of health care providers to achieve the best possible outcome. Head and neck cancer in particular occurs in an anatomical region unmatched in the number of physiological functions potentially affected with disease and treatment, including respiration, physical appearance, vocalization, gustation, olfaction, and alimentation. Further complicating treatment is the wide range of tumor types and tumor locations in head and neck cancer, all of which taken separately are relatively rare cancers.

http://ift.tt/2w2fbNL

Contributors

SUJANA S. CHANDRASEKHAR, MD

http://ift.tt/2v9oLSp

Multidisciplinary Approach to Head and Neck Cancer

OTOLARYNGOLOGIC CLINICS OF NORTH AMERICA

http://ift.tt/2va0uf4

Psychosocial Distress and Distress Screening in Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer Treatment

Psychosocial distress screening (DS) for cancer and head and neck cancer (HNC) patients is rapidly becoming the standard of care. DS is of particular importance for patients with HNC, given their heightened incidence of distress, depression, anxiety, suicide, quality of life impacts, and negative medical outcomes. In the absence of DS, distress is frequently missed in oncology settings. However, when identified, distress is highly responsive to treatment, with cognitive behavioral and behavioral medicine interventions demonstrating evidence of efficacy. Multidisciplinary HNC teams are uniquely positioned to implement effective DS programs and treatment tailored to HNC patients' psychological and medical vulnerabilities.

http://ift.tt/2w20tGp

Forthcoming Issues

Simulation in Otolaryngology

http://ift.tt/2v9Ot9u

Survivorship

Survivorship encompasses the entire therapeutic, psychosocial, functional, and financial experience of living with and through a cancer diagnosis. The period of survivorship starts on the day of the cancer diagnosis and lasts until the end of the survivor's life, regardless of the cause of death. The National Cancer Institute's Office of Cancer Survivorship expands the term "survivor" to include, importantly, caregivers, family, and friends close to the survivor who also live through this period.

http://ift.tt/2w20NFh

CME Accreditation Page



http://ift.tt/2v9Rh6x

Immunotherapy

Recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck cancer portends a poor prognosis with traditional treatments, but current immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors has the potential to improve these clinical outcomes. This review focuses on the major breakthroughs that have led to the current understanding of immunotherapy in head and neck cancer as well as the future direction of the field. Ultimately, this understanding will guide clinicians on the selection of patients with head and neck cancer and practical considerations before starting immunotherapy.

http://ift.tt/2w1Tr4n

Copyright

Elsevier

http://ift.tt/2v9JkOs

More than Just Mitoses: Complete Care of the Patient with Head and Neck Cancer

Dr Maie St John has put together a most comprehensive, readable "monograph" on care of the patient with head and neck cancer, in this issue of Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America.

http://ift.tt/2w28UBv

Contents

Sujana S. Chandrasekhar

http://ift.tt/2tFje1s

Th9 cells induce steroid-resistant bronchial hyperresponsiveness in mice

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Allergology International
Author(s): Mayumi Saeki, Osamu Kaminuma, Tomoe Nishimura, Noriko Kitamura, Akio Mori, Takachika Hiroi
BackgroundReduced responsiveness to corticosteroid therapy is a major problem for patients with severe asthma. Although Th9 cells, along with Th2 cells, facilitate antigen-induced airway eosinophilia and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), the sensitivity of Th9 cell-mediated responses to steroid therapy remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of dexamethasone (Dex) on antigen-induced airway inflammation in Th9 cell-transferred mice.MethodsOvalbumin (OVA)-specific Th2 and Th9 cells were polarized from the CD4+ T cells of DO11.10/RAG-2−/− mice. BALB/c mice were adoptively transferred with Th2 or Th9 cells and challenged with OVA. Dex treatment was performed twice, at 1 h before and at 24 h after the OVA challenge. Following treatment, the number of inflammatory cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and the bronchial responsiveness to inhaled methacholine were determined.ResultsIn both the Th2 and Th9 cell-transferred mice, substantial accumulation of eosinophils in the lungs and BHR were induced by challenge with the specific antigen. In the Th2 cell-transferred mice, these responses were significantly diminished by Dex treatment. In contrast, neither cellular infiltration nor BHR was affected by Dex treatment in the Th9 cell-transferred mice, although the Th9 cells substantially expressed glucocorticoid receptor α. Accordingly, antigen-induced interleukin-9 expression in the Th9 cells was attenuated by Dex treatment at least in vitro. Antigen-induced lung infiltration of infused Th2 cells but not Th9 cells was significantly suppressed by Dex.ConclusionsIn contrast to Th2-mediated responses, Th9-mediated airway inflammation was not affected by Dex. Th9 cells might be involved in the developmental mechanisms of steroid-resistant asthma.



http://ift.tt/2v1kHmt

The effect of active components from citrus fruits on dentin MMPs

Publication date: November 2017
Source:Archives of Oral Biology, Volume 83
Author(s): Zhengya Liu, Fang Li, Ling Zhang, Haohan Yu, Fan Yu, Jihua Chen
ObjectivesThis study was aimed to evaluate the anti-matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) ability of active components from citrus fruits (hesperetin: Hst, hesperidin: Hsd and naringenin: Nge).MethodsInactivation effects of citrus flavonoids (Hst, Hsd, Nge) at different concentrations on soluble collagenase were measured using a fluorometric assay. Matrix-bound endogenous MMPs activity was evaluated via dry mass loss and hydroxyproline (HYP) release of demineralized human dentin. Demineralized dentin beams were pretreated with 500μg/mL citrus flavonoids for 10min. Chlorhexidine (CHX) was used as inhibitor control. Beams pretreated with distilled water served as blank control. Dentin slabs were used for in situ zymography and evaluated under confocal microscopy. Ultrastructure of demineralized collagen fibers was exhibited by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM).ResultsCitrus flavonoids exhibited inactivation function on soluble MMPs and the extent of inactivation increased in a dose-dependent manner. The inactivation percent of citrus flavonoids reached above 90% at the concentration of 500μg/mL. Compared with control group, citrus flavonoids pretreated demineralized dentin beams exhibited less dry mass loss, lower hydroxyproline release and more intact collagen architecture after 15days storage. Dentin samples pretreated with citrus flavonoids showed lower enzymes activities in in situ zymography.ConclusionsHst, Hsd or Nge have anti-MMPs ability and can preserve dentin collagen from degradation.Clinical Significance: Hst, Hsd and Nge may have the potential to be used in dentin bonding systems and improve the resin-dentin bonding durability.



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Validation study of a new method for sexual prediction based on CBCT analysis of maxillary sinus and mandibular canal

Publication date: November 2017
Source:Archives of Oral Biology, Volume 83
Author(s): Thiago de Oliveira Gamba, Mayra Cristina Yamasaki, Francisco Carlos Groppo, Heraldo Luis Dias da Silveira, Solange Maria de Almeida Boscolo, Gerard C.H. Sanderink, W. Erwin R. Berkhout
ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of two craniometric methods for sexual prediction (SP) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the Dutch population and to construct a formula for each method and then the two combined.DesignOne-hundred sixty CBCT images were selected from a Dutch database (80 males and 80 females). The images were analyzed by two examiners taking seven measurements in the maxillary sinus (MS) region (first method) and nine in the mandibular canal (MC) region (second method). The most predictive measurements in both methods were used to develop an equation to determine the accuracy of each method.ResultsAll measurements showed statistical difference between genders. Logistic regression results showed two variables with greater SP index with 75% accuracy in the first method and four variables with 71.9% accuracy in the second. The two methods combined showed another four variables with 78.5% accuracy.ConclusionAll measurements showed statistically significant differences between sexes. The SP accuracy values were 75% for first 71.9% for the second method. When the two methods were combined, the accuracy increased to 78.5%. The formulas developed in this study can be applied as a complementary method for human identification in the Dutch population.



http://ift.tt/2uZFJlF

Grb7 is over-expressed in cervical cancer and facilitate invasion and inhibit apoptosis in cervical cancer cells

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Pathology - Research and Practice
Author(s): Hong-Bing Zhao, Xi-Feng Zhang, Xue-Lin Jia, Hong-Bin Wang
Growth factor receptor bound protein-7 (Grb7) is a multi-domain adaptor protein that is co-opted by numerous tyrosine kinases involved in various cellular signaling. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of Grb7 and its clinicopathological significance in cervical cancer. Utilising immunohistochemical staining, we examined the expression of Grb7 in 120 cases of human cervical cancer tissue and 10 cases of adjacent non-cancerous cervical tissue. The positive rate of Grb7 protein expression was 34.2%, which was significantly higher than that in adjacent non-cancerous cervical tissue (0%, p<0.05). The expression of Grb7 was found to be correlated with age, tumor size, serosal invasion, differentiated degree, tumor stage, early or advanced stage and lymph node metastasis. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that patients with positive Grb7 protein expression had a lower overall survival rate than patients without Grb7 expression. In addition, Grb7 plays an important role in promoting tumor progression, including invasion and anti-apoptosis, in cervical cancer cell line. Down-regulation of Grb7 repressed the expression of MMP-9 and Bcl-2, and increased the expression of Bax in Grb7 knockdown Hela cells. Cell invasion assay showed decreased number of Grb7 knockdown Hela cells (18.7±2.1) compared to Hela cells (65.3±2.5, P<0.05). Our results indicated that Grb7 over-expression may facilitate invasion and inhibit apoptosis in cervical cancer and Grb7 is a potentially molecular target of cervical cancer chemotherapy.



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Oral bexarotene for post-transplant cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Abstract

Organ transplant recipients receiving immunosuppression have an increased risk of developing post-transplant lymphoproliferative diseases (PTLDs). Traditionally, PTLDs refer to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced B-cell lymphoma. However, post-transplant T-cell lymphoma may also occur and tends to have a poorer response to reduced immunosuppressive therapy. As such, additional therapy is often needed for post-transplant T-cell lymphoma, including post-transplant cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (PT-CTCL). We present only the third case of PT-CTCL occurring after liver transplantation. The patient was diagnosed with stage IB mycosis fungoides (MF). His lesions were refractory to multiple skin-directed therapies, and so he was given oral bexarotene 150 mg daily and his oral tacrolimus dose was decreased to 2 mg daily. Remarkably, his MF patches have demonstrated a complete response to oral bexarotene 75 mg daily without recurrence over 11 years of follow-up. He developed hypertriglyceridemia with bexarotene 150 mg, so his dose was decreased to 75 mg, without loss of response. Our report is the second to describe PT-CTCL demonstrating a long-term complete response to oral bexarotene. Given its anti-carcinogenic properties and favorable toxicity profile, oral bexarotene represents an appealing treatment option for PT-CTCL refractory to skin-directed therapies.



http://ift.tt/2uDWkJj

Oral bexarotene for post-transplant cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Abstract

Organ transplant recipients receiving immunosuppression have an increased risk of developing post-transplant lymphoproliferative diseases (PTLDs). Traditionally, PTLDs refer to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced B-cell lymphoma. However, post-transplant T-cell lymphoma may also occur and tends to have a poorer response to reduced immunosuppressive therapy. As such, additional therapy is often needed for post-transplant T-cell lymphoma, including post-transplant cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (PT-CTCL). We present only the third case of PT-CTCL occurring after liver transplantation. The patient was diagnosed with stage IB mycosis fungoides (MF). His lesions were refractory to multiple skin-directed therapies, and so he was given oral bexarotene 150 mg daily and his oral tacrolimus dose was decreased to 2 mg daily. Remarkably, his MF patches have demonstrated a complete response to oral bexarotene 75 mg daily without recurrence over 11 years of follow-up. He developed hypertriglyceridemia with bexarotene 150 mg, so his dose was decreased to 75 mg, without loss of response. Our report is the second to describe PT-CTCL demonstrating a long-term complete response to oral bexarotene. Given its anti-carcinogenic properties and favorable toxicity profile, oral bexarotene represents an appealing treatment option for PT-CTCL refractory to skin-directed therapies.



http://ift.tt/2uDWkJj

The Simple Way to Hear More with the Naida Link CROS Solution

An overview of Advanced Bionic's newest innovation, the Naída Link CROS Solution, including candidacy, features, and benefits.

http://ift.tt/2v9npqI

Particulate matter (PM's) adheres to human hair exposed to severe aerial pollution: Consequences for certain hair surface properties

Abstract

Background

The deposit and adherence of particulate matter (PM's) from aerial pollution onto the surface of human hair is a poorly studied phenomenon.

Objectives

i) To reproduce in vitro the deposit of known PM's on standardized hair swatches in a closed box, ii) to compare in vitro data with those obtained under "real life" conditions of severe aerial pollution, iii) to assess the changes of the hair surface properties, potentially caused by the adherence of airborne PM's onto the hair.

Methods

In vitro: a PM was sprayed onto untreated or sebum-coated hair swatches.

Real life conditions: other swatches were exposed to a severely polluted environment, for 24 to 72 hours, in Baoding (PR China). In both cases, swatches were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The shine, the frictional properties and the level of metals were measured and compared to those same properties for the unexposed swatches.

Results

The present work clearly indicates that, under real life conditions, a large number of PM's of various sizes are deposited onto the hair surface. This phenomenon is increased by the presence of sebum and longer exposure times. The in vitro level of PMs deposited onto the hair surface is comparable to the in vivo level. The presence of sebum seems to favour the deposit of larger PM's. The shine of the exposed swatches is significantly decreased, whereas their respective friction coefficients are significantly increased. Both the presence of sebum and length of exposure time increased the amount of analysed metals present on the exposed hair surface (Al, Fe, Cu, Ba, Zn).

Conclusion

This work indicates that a very high amount (e.g. billions) of PM's can be deposited on a full head of hair for subjects living in a severely aerially polluted environment. This process can be reproduced in vitro. In real life, pollution has a strong impact on hair surface properties, leading to a modification of the visual aspect (loss of shine) and the alteration of hair surface (increase of friction force). This work may be used to pave the way for prevention and cleansing studies in the field of hair care.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Hepatoprotective effect of Opuntia microdasys (Lehm.) Pfeiff flowers against diabetes type II induced in rats

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 94
Author(s): Hassiba Chahdoura, Khawla Adouni, Aida Khlifi, Ichrak Dridi, Zohra Haouas, Fadoua Neffati, Guido Flamini, Habib Mosbah, Lotfi Achour
Opuntia sp. has long been used as a folk medicine to treat hepatitis and diabetes in Sicile (Italy). To extract the polyphenols from the flower of Opuntia microdasys Lehm. at post flowring stage and evaluate the antidiabetic activity in vitro and in vivo. The hepatoprotective activity of Opuntia microdasys aqueous flowers extract at post flowering stage (OFP) has been tested for their antidiabetic activity. On fructose-alloxan induced diabete in rat model, evaluating the inhibitory effects of OFP on some carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, pancreatic α-amylase and intestinal α-glucosidase activities in vitro. The OFP extract showed inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase (IC50=0.17±0.012mg/ml) and α-amylase (IC50=2.55±0.41mg/ml). The inhibitory potential of OFP extract on these enzymes suggests a positive and probable role of this extract in the management and treatment of diabetes mellitus, particularly, for type 2. Oral administration of the OFP at 200mg/kg to diabetic male rats for 28days demonstrated a significant protective effect by lowering the levels of glucose (123.21±1.38mg/dL) and hepatic marker enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH, γ-GT, BT, PAL, TC, LDL-C, HDL-C and TG). OFP attenuated oxidative stress by decreasing the SOD, CAT, GPX activity and the levels of PC and MDA in the liver and restored the histological architecture of the rat liver. OFP has protective effects on the protection of liver, thereby reducing some of the causes of diabetes in experimental animals.



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Flavonoids from Carya cathayensis Sarg. leaves inhibit carotid artery lesion formation induced by low blood flow

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 94
Author(s): Jin Bo, Ding Zhishan
The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of the total flavonoids (TFs) from the leaves of Carya cathayensis Sarg. against early development of atherosclerosis. An in vivo model of carotid arterial partial ligation was established in mice, and the effects of TFs were investigated by morphometric measurements, Cell proliferation measurement and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that TFs could reduce neointima area by 41%, and the adventitial thickening induced by partial ligation was remarkable inhibited by TFs treatment. medial SMCs proliferation was significantly inhibited in TFs treated group. Immunohistochemistry analyses demonstrated that mice with TFs treatment have significant less macrophages accumulation in adventitia. These findings indicated that TFs have inhibitory effect in early atherosclerosis lesion formation model and strong action on reduce the inflammation in vivo.



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Functional Independence Measure - Minimum Data Set Motor Item Bank: Short Forms Development and Precision Comparison in Veterans

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Chih-Ying Li, Sergio Romero, Annie N. Simpson, Heather S. Bonilha, Kit N. Simpson, Ickpyo Hong, Craig A. Velozo
ObjectiveTo improve the practical use of the short forms (SFs) developed from the item bank, we compared the measurement precision of the 4- and 8-item SFs generated from a motor item bank composed of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) and the Minimum Data Set (MDS).DesignThe FIM-MDS motor item bank allowed scores generated from different instruments to be co-calibrated. The 4- and 8-item SFs were developed based on Rasch analysis procedures. This paper compared person strata, ceiling/floor effects, test standard error (SE) plots for each administration form and examined 95% confidence interval (CI) error bands of anchored person measures with the corresponding SFs. We used 0.3 SE as a criterion to reflect a reliability level of 0.90.SettingVeterans' inpatient rehabilitation facilities and community living centers.Participants2500 Veterans who had both FIM and the MDS data within 6 days during years 2008 through 2010.InterventionsNAMain Outcome Measure(s)4- and 8-item SFs of FIM, MDS and FIM-MDS motor item bank.ResultsSix SFs were generated with 4- and 8-items across a range of difficulty levels from the FIM-MDS motor item bank. The three 8-item SFs all had higher correlations with the item bank (r=0.82∼0.95), higher person strata and less test error than the corresponding 4-item SFs (r=0.80∼ 0.90). The three 4-item SFs did not meet the criteria of SE less than 0.3 for any theta values.Conclusions8-item short forms could improve clinical use of item bank composed of existing instruments across the continuum of care in Veterans. We also found number of items, not test specificity, determines the precision of the instrument.



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Do trials of resistance training to improve mobility after stroke adhere to the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines? A systematic review

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Genevieve Hendrey, Anne E. Holland, Benjamin F. Mentiplay, Ross Clark, Gavin Williams
ObjectiveTo determine whether resistance training to improve mobility outcomes after stroke adhere to the ACSM guidelines, and whether adherence was associated with better outcomes.Data sourcesOnline databases searched from 1975 to 30 October 2016.Study SelectionRandomized controlled trials examining the effectiveness of lower limb strength training on mobility outcomes in adult stroke participants.Data Extraction and AnalysisTwo independent reviewers completed data extraction. Quality of trials was determined using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Trials were scored based on their protocol's adherence to eight ACSM recommendations. To determine if a relationship existed between total adherence score and effect size, Spearman's rho (rs) was calculated and between individual recommendations and effect size, Mann Whitney U or Kruskal Wallis tests were used.ResultsThirty-nine trials met the inclusion criteria and 34 were scored on their adherence to the guidelines. Adherence was high for frequency of training (100% of studies) but few trials adhered to the guidelines for intensity (32%), specificity (24%), and training pattern (3%). Based on the small number of studies that could be included in pooled analysis (n = 12), there was no relationship between overall adherence and effect size (rs = -0.39, p = 0.21).ConclusionsAdherence to the ACSM guidelines for resistance training following stroke varied widely. Future trials should ensure strength training protocols adhere more closely to the guidelines, to ensure their effectiveness in stroke can be accurately determined.



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Do quaternary ammonium monomers induce drug resistance in cariogenic, endodontic and periodontal bacterial species?

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Dental Materials
Author(s): Suping Wang, Haohao Wang, Biao Ren, Hao Li, Michael D. Weir, Xuedong Zhou, Thomas W. Oates, Lei Cheng, Hockin H.K. Xu
ObjectivesAntibacterial monomers were developed to combat oral biofilm acids and caries; however, little is known on whether quaternary ammonium monomers (QAMs) would induce drug resistance in oral bacteria. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of new antimicrobial monomers dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) and dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) on the induction of drug resistance in eight species of cariogenic, endodontic and periodontal bacteria for the first time.MethodsStreptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Streptococcus sanguis, Streptococcus gordonii, Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans), Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), and Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia) were tested. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was assessed using chlorhexidine (CHX) as control. Minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), bacterial growth and membrane permeability properties were also investigated.ResultsCHX induced drug resistance in four species. DMAHDM did not induce any resistance. DMADDM induced drug resistance in only one benign species S. gordonii. The DMADDM-resistant and CHX-resistant S. gordonii had the same MIC and MBC values as S. gordonii parental strain against DMAHDM (p>0.1), hence DMAHDM effectively inhibited the resistant strains. The resistant strains had slower growth metabolism than parental strain.SignificanceDMAHDM induced no drug resistance, and DMADDM had much less drug resistance than the commonly-used CHX in the eight common oral species. With its potent antimicrobial functions shown previously, the new DMAHDM is promising for applications in restorative, preventive, periodontal and endodontic treatments to combat cariogenic and pathological bacteria with no drug resistance in all tested species.



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Synthetic lethality between murine DNA repair factors XLF and DNA-PKcs is rescued by inactivation of Ku70

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:DNA Repair
Author(s): Mengtan Xing, Magnar Bjørås, Jeremy A. Daniel, Frederick W. Alt, Valentyn Oksenych
DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are recognized and repaired by the Classical Non-Homologous End-Joining (C-NHEJ) and Homologous Recombination pathways. C-NHEJ includes the core Ku70 and Ku80 (or Ku86) heterodimer that binds DSBs and thus promotes recruitment of accessory downstream NHEJ factors XLF, PAXX, DNA-PKcs, Artemis and other core subunits, XRCC4 and DNA Ligase 4 (Lig4). In the absence of core C-NHEJ factors, DNA repair can be performed by Alternative End-Joining, which likely depends on DNA Ligase 1 and DNA Ligase 3. Genetic inactivation of C-NHEJ factors, such as Ku70, Ku80, XLF, PAXX and DNA-PKcs results in viable mice showing increased levels of genomic instability and sensitivity to DSBs. Knockouts of XRCC4 or Lig4, on the other hand, as well as combined inactivation of XLF and DNA-PKcs, or XLF and PAXX, result in late embryonic lethality in mice, which in most cases correlate with severe apoptosis in the central nervous system. Here, we demonstrate that inactivation of the Ku70 gene rescues the synthetic lethality between XLF and DNA-PKcs, resulting in triple knockout mice that are indistinguishable from Ku70-deficient littermates by size or levels of genomic instability. Moreover, we find that combined inactivation of Ku70 and XLF results in viable mice. Together, these findings suggest that Ku70 is epistatic with XLF and DNA-PKcs and support a model in which inactivation of Ku70 allows DNA lesions to become accessible to alternative DNA repair pathways.



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Clinical Features of Psoriatic Arthritis: a Comprehensive Review of Unmet Clinical Needs

Abstract

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of inflammatory arthritis (IA) affecting approximately 0.25% of the population. It is a heterogeneous disorder associated with joint damage, disability, disfiguring skin disease and in severe cases, premature mortality. Inherently irreversible and frequently progressive, the process of joint damage begins at, or before, the clinical onset of disease. Early recognition and intervention is thus crucial to patient outcome. At disease onset, however, PsA often resembles other forms of arthritis—especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Despite the similarities between PsA and RA, their distinctive pathologies require different treatments. For example, drugs that are effective in RA may not be effective in PsA and can even cause adverse effects. Since there is no currently validated test for PsA, the diagnosis is often missed or delayed and this has functional consequences for the patient. In the context of PsA and RA, making an accurate diagnosis is not the only challenge faced by rheumatologists. Choosing an effective and safe medication to manage the disease is another significant challenge and currently approximately 40% achieve meaningful responses such as minimal disease activity status. For the patient, several months may be lost as a result of trial and error testing—meanwhile, irreversible joint damage may occur. Clearly, more effective clinical tests are urgently needed to improve personalised patient care in PsA. Specifically, there is need to develop minimally invasive tests predictive of diagnosis, response to treatment and radiographic progression. In this review, we examined the biomarker development process, highlighted the importance of qualifying unmet clinical needs and emphasised the challenges that impede biomarker studies. We have compiled a comprehensive list of potentially clinically relevant biomarkers in PsA and provided a summary of proteomic technologies that might usefully support additional biomarker research in PsA.



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Comparing manipulation with and without Kinesio Taping® in the treatment of chronic low back pain

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Author(s): Fahimeh Kamali, Ehsan Sinaei, Elham Taherkhani
ObjectivesChronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) is a prevalent problem among athletes that can cause long-lasting disability and time lost from sporting activities. Thus far, a variety of methods have been suggested to address this problem, including spinal manipulation (SM) and Kinesio Tape® (KT). The aim of this study was to investigate whether adding KT to SM can provide any extra effect in athletes with CNLBP or not.MethodForty-two athletes (21males, 21females) with CNLBP were randomized into two groups of SM (n = 21) and SM plus KT (n = 21). Pain intensity, functional disability level and trunk flexor-extensor muscles endurance were assessed by Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Oswestry pain and disability index (ODI), McQuade test, and unsupported trunk holding test, respectively. The tests were done before and immediately, one day, one week, and one month after the interventions and compared between the two groups.ResultsAfter treatments, pain intensity and disability level decreased and endurance of trunk flexor-extensor muscles increased significantly in both groups. Repeated measures analysis, however, showed that there was no significant difference between the groups in any of the evaluations.ConclusionsThe findings of the present study showed that adding KT to SM does not appear to have a significant extra effect on pain, disability and muscle endurance in athletes with CNLBP. However, more studies are needed to examine the therapeutic effects of KT in treating these patients.Clinical trial registry number (irct.ir)IRCT2016020624149N5.



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Simultaneous inhibition of growth and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma by co-delivery of ursolic acid and sorafenib using lactobionic acid modified and pH-sensitive chitosan-conjugated mesoporous silica nanocomplex

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Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 143
Author(s): Ruirui Zhao, Tao Li, Guirong Zheng, Kai Jiang, Lulu Fan, Jingwei Shao
Co-delivery multiple drugs using nanocarriers has been recognized as a promising strategy for cancer treatment to enhance therapeutic efficacy. In this study, a pH sensitive mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) based controlled release nanoparticles for co-delivery of sorafenib (SO), a multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and ursolic acid (UA), a sensitive agent for SO, was developed, which was decorated with pH sensitive chitosan (CS) and lactobionic acid (LA) targeting to asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) over-expressing hepatocellar carcinoma cells (denoted as USMNs-CL). The nanocomplex enhanced bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs, efficient tumor cell targeting and exhibited pH-responsive function and sustained release profile. USMNs-CL showed synergistic cytotoxicity and could attenuate the adhesion, migration of ASGPR over-expressing liver cancer SMMC-7721 cells at non-toxic concentrations. Moreover, the complex nanoparticles significantly increased the cellular apoptosis and down-regulated the expression of EGFR and VEGFR2 proteins related with cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis. In vivo, compared with UA or SO alone, the nanocomplex significantly reduced the tumor burden in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) H22 tumor-bearing mice model and inhibited the lung metastasis in the H22 lung metastasis models. Overall, co-delivery of UA and SO by MSN-CS-LA nanocarriers could provide a promising strategy for HCC combinational therapy, especially for the HCC metastasis chemoprevention.



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Impact of the Korean Diagnosis-Related Groups payment system on the outcomes of adenotonsillectomy: A single center experience

To report outcomes with regard to clinical aspects and medical costs of adenotonsillectomy and tonsillectomy at a single institution before and after implementation of the Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment system in Korea.

http://ift.tt/2tKLiVk

Surgical considerations and safety of cochlear implantation in otitis media with effusion

To evaluate the effects of otitis media with effusion on surgical parameters, patient safety, perioperative and postoperative complications.

http://ift.tt/2u0bgzi

Endoscopic contralateral transmaxillary approach for pterygoid process osteotomy in total maxillectomy: A technical case report

An approach for total maxillectomy with endoscopic transection of the pterygoid process via the contralateral maxillary sinus is described. In total maxillectomy, the resection of the pterygoid process of the sphenoid is a key step for successful resection. However, a conventional craniofacial approach requires extensive incision in the face, elevation of the lateral cheek flap. Even after elevation of the lateral cheek flap, visualization of this region is not good. An endoscopic approach through the contralateral maxillary sinus improved visualization of the pterygoid process, and osteotomy using a diamond-drilling bar was successfully performed.

http://ift.tt/2tL8MJW

Impact of the Korean Diagnosis-Related Groups payment system on the outcomes of adenotonsillectomy: A single center experience

To report outcomes with regard to clinical aspects and medical costs of adenotonsillectomy and tonsillectomy at a single institution before and after implementation of the Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment system in Korea.

http://ift.tt/2tKLiVk

Surgical considerations and safety of cochlear implantation in otitis media with effusion

To evaluate the effects of otitis media with effusion on surgical parameters, patient safety, perioperative and postoperative complications.

http://ift.tt/2u0bgzi

Endoscopic contralateral transmaxillary approach for pterygoid process osteotomy in total maxillectomy: A technical case report

An approach for total maxillectomy with endoscopic transection of the pterygoid process via the contralateral maxillary sinus is described. In total maxillectomy, the resection of the pterygoid process of the sphenoid is a key step for successful resection. However, a conventional craniofacial approach requires extensive incision in the face, elevation of the lateral cheek flap. Even after elevation of the lateral cheek flap, visualization of this region is not good. An endoscopic approach through the contralateral maxillary sinus improved visualization of the pterygoid process, and osteotomy using a diamond-drilling bar was successfully performed.

http://ift.tt/2tL8MJW

Pharmaceuticals released from senior residences: occurrence and risk evaluation

Abstract

One of the main pursuits, yet most difficult, in monitoring studies is to identify the sources of environmental pollution. In this study, we have identified health-care facilities from south European countries as an important source of pharmaceuticals in the environment. We have estimated that compounds consumed in by the elderly and released from effluents of senior residences can reach river waters at a concentration higher than 0.01 μg/L, which is the European Medicines Agency (EMA) threshold for risk evaluation of pharmaceuticals in surface waters. This study has been based on five health institutions in Portugal, Spain, and France, with 52 to 130 beds. We have compiled the pharmaceuticals dispensed on a daily base and calculated the consumption rates. From 54.9 to 1801 g of pharmaceuticals are consumed daily, with laxatives, analgesics, antiepileptics, antibiotics, and antidiabetic agents being the main drug families administered. According to excretion rates, dilution in the sewerage system, and elimination in wastewater treatment plants, macrogol, metformin, paracetamol, acetylcysteine, amoxicillin, and gabapentin, among others, are expected to reach river waters. Finally, we discuss the risk management actions related to the discharge of pharmaceuticals from senior residences to surface waters.



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Ozone risk assessment in three oak species as affected by soil water availability

Abstract

To derive ozone (O3) dose-response relationships for three European oak species (Quercus ilex, Quercus pubescens, and Quercus robur) under a range of soil water availability, an experiment was carried out with 2-year-old potted seedlings exposed to three levels of water availability in the soil and three levels of O3 pollution for one growing season in an ozone free-air controlled exposure (FACE) facility. Total biomass losses were estimated relative to a hypothetical clean air at the pre-industrial age, i.e., at 10 ppb as daily average (M24). A stomatal conductance model was parameterized with inputs from the three species for calculating the stomatal O3 flux. Exposure-based (M24, W126, and AOT40) and flux-based (phytotoxic O3 dose (POD)0–3) dose-response relationships were estimated and critical levels (CL) were calculated for a 5% decline of total biomass. Results show that water availability can significantly affect O3 risk assessment. In fact, dose-response relationships calculated per individual species at each water availability level resulted in very different CLs and best metrics. In a simplified approach where species were aggregated on the basis of their O3 sensitivity, the best metric was POD0.5, with a CL of 6.8 mmol m−2 for the less O3-sensitive species Q. ilex and Q. pubescens and of 3.5 mmol m−2 for the more O3-sensitive species Q. robur. The performance of POD0, however, was very similar to that of POD0.5, and thus a CL of 6.9 mmol m−2 POD0 and 3.6 mmol m−2 POD0 for the less and more O3-sensitive oak species may be also recommended. These CLs can be applied to oak ecosystems at variable water availability in the soil. We conclude that PODy is able to reconcile the effects of O3 and soil water availability on species-specific oak productivity.



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Unilateral Headache Status after Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Placement

Introduction. Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) counterpulsation is a catheter-based treatment for coronary artery disease and decompensated heart failure to increase coronary blood flow and improve cardiac output. IABP is generally well tolerated, and complications are usually related to peripheral vasculature or red blood cell and platelet consumption. The usual insertion site via femoral artery renders the patient bedbound. Recently, axillary artery has been used in patients with atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease and documented small arteries or in those awaiting transplant to ensure ambulation and prevent deconditioning. Case Report. We present a patient with ischemic cardiomyopathy and severe left ventricular dysfunction, awaiting Orthotropic Heart Transplant. His worsening intractable angina and dyspnea necessitated IABP placement via left axillary artery, significantly improving his condition. He subsequently experienced migraine-type persistent unilateral headache refractory to standard pain management. Multiple strategies were utilized to treat his pain, but the patient insisted that his pain commenced after IABP placement. Ultimately, the removal of the pump led to complete resolution with no recurrence. Conclusion. The authors hypothesize that the unilaterally directed blood flow and direct increase in cerebral perfusion from the intra-aortic balloon pump may have caused vasodilation of the extracranial arteries, leading to a persistent and debilitating headache in this susceptible patient.

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Impact of the Korean Diagnosis-Related Groups payment system on the outcomes of adenotonsillectomy: A single center experience

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Sang Hyun Kwak, Ji Hoon Kim, Da Hee Kim, Jung Min Kim, Hyung Kwon Byeon, Won Shik Kim, Yoon Woo Koh, Se-Heon Kim, Eun Chang Choi
ObjectivesTo report outcomes with regard to clinical aspects and medical costs of adenotonsillectomy and tonsillectomy at a single institution before and after implementation of the Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment system in Korea.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the records of patients treated with adenotonsillectomy or tonsillectomy between July 2012 and June 2014. The Korean DRG payment system was applied to seven groups of specific diseases and surgeries including adenotonsillectomy and tonsillectomy from July 2013 at all hospitals in Korea. We divided patients into four groups according whether the fee-for-service (FFS) or DRG payment system was implemented and operation type (FFS-adenotonsillectomy (AT), DRG-AT, FFS-tonsillectomy (T), and DRG-T).ResultsA total of 1402 patients were included (485 FFS-AT, 490 DRG-AT, 203 FFS-T, and 223 DRG-T). The total medical cost of the DRG-AT group was significantly lower than that of the FFS-AT group (1191±404 vs. 1110±279 USD, P<0.05). There were no significant differences in length of hospital stay or postoperative complications among groups.ConclusionThe Korean DRG system for adenotonsillectomy and tonsillectomy reduced medical costs and clinical outcomes were not significantly altered by the adoption of the DRG system.Level of evidence4.



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Examination of pathways involved in leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF)-induced cell growth arrest using label-free proteomics approach

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Syed Azmal Ali, Gurjeet Kaur, Ashok Kumar Mohanty, Sudarshan Kumar
Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a multifunctional highly glycosylated protein, synthesized and secreted in various body tissues. Besides the abundance in multiple organs, the molecular mechanism underlying the LIF interactions for cell survival and polarity is poorly understood. In the present study, high-resolution LC-MS/MS based LFQ approach identified 2083 proteins with the overall PSM as 16,032. This proteomics data reviles that LIF promotes the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. It induces cell growth arrest by an intracellular pathways loop to increase the half-life of the cell. Bioinformatics-based enrichment analysis revealed the involvement of LIF interacting partners in cell survival through increasing the cell cycle length. The anti-proliferative effect of LIF was confirmed by BrdU, MTT and Caspase 3/7 assays and further validated by RT-qPCR. Till date to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that elucidates LIF-mediated cascade of activation of MEK/ERK, Ras, mTOR, Hippo, and RAP1 pathways. This study further expands the repertoire of signaling pathways known to be subject to activation by LIF. These multiple involvements of pathways through autocrine-paracrine mediated cell cycle arrest additionally suggests a novel means for amplification of a growth arrest stimulus from LIF and its homolog's receptors.Biological significanceLeukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is the polyfunctional cytokine and highly pleiotropic member of the interleukin-6 family. It utilizes a receptor that consists of the LIF receptor b and gp130 and displays diverse effects on target cells. Despite well-known signal transduction mechanisms (JAK/STAT, MAPK, and PI3K) LIF also contains paradoxically opposing influences in several cell types which includes cellular stimulation, inhibition, proliferation, differentiation, and survival. LIF1 is also undergoing clinical trials as a driving force for the embryo implantation in the uterus in women who fail to become pregnant. As LIF can act on the broad spectrum of cell types, it is necessary to understand the basic response mechanism. The available non-canonical regulatory pathways and molecular mechanism associated with LIF are poorly explained. Therefore, we have performed the global proteome analysis of LIF-mediated autocrine-paracrine signaling. The obtained data were examined through advanced bioinformatics tools and LIF inducible changes in terms of pathways were elucidated. The result showed the involvement of cluster of proteins maintaining the Ras/Rap1/STAT3/Hippo pathways which modify the protein component machinery of core histone complexes. This report describes the involvement of proteins responsible for cell growth and progression and defines the LIF-mediated novel autocrine-paracrine signaling loop for cell growth arrest.

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iTRAQ proteomic analysis of the interactions between Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus and silkworm

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Wei-tao Dong, Long-fei Xiao, Jun-jie Hu, Xin-xu Zhao, Ji-xing Liu, Yong Zhang
The silkworm hemolymph is an important defense system against bacteria and viruses. In this study, silkworms were infected with Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus to investigate the subsequent immune response at the protein level. Proteomes were analyzed before and after infection using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation and LC-MS. A total of 456 differentially expressed proteins were identified, of which 179 were upregulated and 193 were downregulated. Changes in expression were validated by western blot for several proteins. Eleven of the differentially expressed proteins were involved in immunity. For example, modular serine protease and cecropin, which were downregulated, facilitate Toll and Imd signaling, while autophagy-related protein 3, which was upregulated, protects cells against oxidative damage. Collectively, the data highlight the unique interactions of baculovirus with the silkworm immune system.Biological significanceThis is the first time isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation were used to analyze B. mori proteins mobilized against B. mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus, and to investigate the immunity-associated proteome in B. mori. The results are a significant step towards a deeper understanding of immunoregulation in B. mori.SignificanceThis is the first time isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation were used to analyze B. mori proteins mobilized against B. mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus, and to investigate the immunity-associated proteome in B. mori. The results are a significant step towards a deeper understanding of immunoregulation in B. mori.

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The association of mothers’ and fathers’ insomnia symptoms with school-aged children’s sleep assessed by parent report and in-home sleep-electroencephalography

Sleep plays an essential role for children's well-being. Because children's sleep is associated with parental sleep patterns, it must be considered in the family context. As a first aim of the present study, we test whether parental insomnia symptoms are related to children's in-home sleep-electroencephalography (EEG). Second, we examine the association between parental insomnia symptoms and maternal and paternal perception of children's sleep using actor–partner interdependence models.

http://ift.tt/2tKSpNC

What predicts inattention in adolescents? An experience-sampling study comparing chronotype, subjective and objective sleep parameters

Many adolescents sleep insufficiently, which may negatively affect their functioning during the day. To improve sleep interventions, we need a better understanding of the specific sleep-related parameters that predict poor functioning. We investigated to which extent subjective and objective parameters of sleep in the preceding night (state parameters) and the trait variable chronotype predict daytime inattention as an indicator of poor functioning.

http://ift.tt/2u0ELRw

Obstructive sleep apnea in pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal outcomes: a national cohort

Pregnancy and the obesity epidemic impacting women of reproductive age appear to predispose women to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pregnancy. The aim of this study is to examine the association between OSA and adverse maternal outcomes in a national cohort.

http://ift.tt/2tLarPQ

Vagal nerve stimulator induced chin electromyography artifact

Vagal nerve stimulator(VNS) is a FDA approved therapy for the treatment of refractory epilepsy. It can affect the sleep of patients in many ways. In this report, we describe a very specific and unique artifact seen during the Polysomnography as a result of the firing of the VNS along with review of literature.

http://ift.tt/2tZUsZw

GHB concentration in breast milk of narcoleptic women treated with sodium oxybate. How important it is to be careful when interpreting values

We have read with attention and interest the manuscript of Barker et al.1 entitled: "GHB levels in breast milk of women with narcolepsy with cataplexy treated with sodium oxybate".

http://ift.tt/2tKXXaF

Combined resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging study in patients with idiopathic restless legs syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder characterized by an urge to move the legs along with paraesthesia deep within them. In this study, we aimed to use diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) to investigate the changes in regional spontaneous brain activity change for RLS patients against age- and gender-matched normal control (NC) subjects.

http://ift.tt/2tZUrVs

Disrupted Day-Night Pattern of Cardiovascular Death in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients who suffer sudden cardiac death die predominantly during the night. We aimed to investigate whether all cardiovascular-related deaths display the same night-time peak as sudden cardiac death.

http://ift.tt/2uySP8H

Autistic traits and internet gaming addiction in Chinese children: The mediating effect of emotion regulation and school connectedness

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Publication date: September 2017
Source:Research in Developmental Disabilities, Volume 68
Author(s): Sha Liu, Chengfu Yu, Bradley T. Conner, Suiping Wang, Weiping Lai, Wei Zhang
This report details an 18-month longitudinal study designed to investigate the influence of autistic traits' on internet gaming addiction (IGA) in children. A total of 420 Chinese children (220 boys, Mean age=9.74±0.45) participated in the research. Autistic traits were measured in the 4th grade and emotion regulation, school connectedness and IGA measured in both the 4th and 5th grades. After controlling for age, sex, and sensation seeking, results showed that autistic traits were related to decreased emotion regulation, which in turn was related to lower school connectedness, which was related to increased IGA. The results suggest that improving emotion regulation and school connectedness could reduce the risk of IGA. As a result, these findings may inform intervention and prevention programs targeting children with IGA, especially among those with high levels of autistic traits.



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Liver disease predicts mortality in patients with XHIM but can be prevented by early hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

In the largest detailed study of liver disease in X-linked immunodeficiency with hyper-IgM, we show that liver disease is commoner than generally recognized and that early hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may prevent liver disease progression and improve survival.

http://ift.tt/2tEICUY

Ketamine changes the local resting-state functional properties of anesthetized-monkey brain

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Author(s): Jia-Sheng Rao, Zuxiang Liu, Can Zhao, Rui-Han Wei, Wen Zhao, Peng-Yu Tian, Xia Zhou, Zhao-Yang Yang, Xiao-Guang Li
ObjectiveKetamine is a well-known anesthetic. 'Recreational' use of ketamine always induces psychosis-like symptoms and cognitive impairments. The acute and chronic effects of ketamine on relevant brain circuits have been studied, but the effects of single-dose ketamine administration on the local resting-state functional properties of the brain remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of single-dose ketamine administration on the brain local intrinsic properties.MethodsWe used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) to explore the ketamine-induced alterations of brain intrinsic properties. Seven adult rhesus monkeys were imaged with rs-fMRI to examine the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in the brain before and after ketamine injection. Paired comparisons were used to detect the significantly altered regions.ResultsResults showed that the fALFF of the prefrontal cortex (p=0.046), caudate nucleus (left side, p=0.018; right side, p=0.025), and putamen (p=0.020) in post-injection stage significantly increased compared with those in pre-injection period. The ReHo of nucleus accumbens (p=0.049), caudate nucleus (p=0.037), and hippocampus (p=0.025) increased after ketamine injection, but that of prefrontal cortex decreased (p<0.05).ConclusionsThese findings demonstrated that single-dose ketamine administration can change the regional intensity and synchronism of brain activity, thereby providing evidence of ketamine-induced abnormal resting-state functional properties in primates. This evidence may help further elucidate the effects of ketamine on the cerebral resting status.



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Fast acceleration of ASL-based time-resolved magnetic resonance angiography by acquisition of control and labeled images in the same shot (fast ACTRESS): An optimization study

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Publication date: Available online 25 July 2017
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Author(s): Hiroyuki Sugimori, Noriyuki Fujima, Yuriko Suzuki, Hiroyuki Hamaguchi, Kinya Ishizaka, Kohsuke Kudo
PurposeTo establish an optimized sequence design for fast acceleration of arterial spin labeling (ASL)-based time-resolved magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) by acquisition of control and labeled images in the same shot (fast ACTRESS) and a scan time of <1min, for the evaluation of intracranial vessels.Materials and methodsTen healthy volunteers with no unilateral symptomatic arterial stenosis, who underwent 3-tesla MRI, were investigated. Imaging parameters for the fast ACTRESS sequence were set with an acquisition time of 45s. During post-processing, the first phase in the multi-phase readout, which was defined as the control image, was subtracted from each of the other phases. Thus, four-dimensional (4D)-MRA images of each phase were obtained. The maximum intensity projection was used for the reconstruction of 4D-MRA images and time-to-signal intensity curves (TIC) obtained for each vessel. The area under the curve (AUC), peak time, and maximum signal intensity were obtained from TIC. The different labeling types were broadly divided into six groups: L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, and L6 according to the actual number of labeling pulse.ResultsA total of 5040 regions of interest were evaluated. The peak SI of L3, except for those in the A2 segment of the anterior cerebral artery, was significantly higher than that of L5. However, there were no significant differences between L4 and L5. Although the AUCs of L3 and L4 for anterior circulation were relatively higher than that of the other subgroups, the AUC of L3 was significantly higher than that of L4.ConclusionThe fast ACTRESS was optimized and indicated that the labeling type of L3 was the most appropriate for the well visualization of intracranial arteries. The fast ACTRESS sequence was useful to acquire well-delineated images of intracranial vessels in ˂1min.



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Paediatric Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP): Evaluation of a Rare Childhood Malignancy, the Welsh Experience

A letter to author regarding paediatric DFSP.

http://ift.tt/2h4mH7T

The feasibility of cold atmospheric plasma in the treatment of complicated wounds in cranio-maxillo-facial surgery

Compromised wound healing in cranio-maxillo-facial surgery is a threat to the patient's rehabilitation. Therapy of chronic and/or infected wounds is time- and cost-consuming, burdensome and occasionally futile. Cold atmospheric plasma is a new approach that promises to overcome these limitations. The aim of this proof-of-concept study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of cold plasma irradiation in patients with impaired wound healing who are refractory to conservative wound therapy and/or revision surgery.

http://ift.tt/2uZhcNP

Biomechanical evaluation of a novel hybrid reconstruction plate for mandible segmental defects: A finite element analysis and fatigue testing

This study develops a novel hybrid (NH) reconstruction plate that can provide load-bearing strength, secure the bone transplant at the prosthesis favored position, and also maintain the facial contour in a mandibular segmental defect. A new patient-match bending technique which uses a three-dimensional printing (3DP) stamping process is developed to increase the interfacial fit between the reconstruction plate and mandibular bone.

http://ift.tt/2uDh4kh

Interferon-alpha Treatment for Disease Control in Metastatic Pheochromocytoma/Paraganglioma Patients

Abstract

Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) is recommended in neuroendocrine tumors (NET). Malignant pheochromocytoma and paragangliomas (MPPGLs) constitute a rare subgroup of NET with few treatment options. IFN-alpha efficacy in patients with MPPGLs was evaluated in a single-center retrospective study. Progression-free survival (PFS) was the primary endpoint according to RECIST 1.1 and/or PERCIST 1.0, and response rate, safety, and symptomatic efficacy were secondary endpoints. Fourteen patients received peginterferon alfa-2a (90 to 180 μg/week) or interferon alfa-2b (1.5 to 3 million units × 3/week) at our institution between December 2005 and February 2014 as the first (n = 7), second (n = 3), or subsequent line (n = 4) of treatment. Most of the patients had a slowly progressive disease before IFN-alpha initiation. Eight patients were men (57%); the median age was 44. At the beginning of treatment, 12 patients had progressive disease demonstrated by FDG-PET (n = 9), MIBG (n = 1), or CT scan (n = 2). Most of the patients treated (64%) had metastatic disease limited to or predominantly located in the bones. During IFN-alpha therapy, bone-directed loco-regional treatments were performed in 9 patients (range 1–4). Median PFS was 17.2 months (95% CI [12.1–58.3]). We observed 3 partial metabolic responses, 9 stable diseases, and 2 progressive diseases. No partial response according to RECIST 1.1 was observed. Symptomatic relief of pain, headaches, diarrhea, or sweating occurred in 6 out of 10 symptomatic pts. Most frequent all grade IFN-α-related toxicities were asthenia (n = 10), lymphopenia (n = 7), thrombopenia (n = 6), and anemia (n = 5). Median overall survival was 7.5 years (95% CI [4–NR]). This study suggests symptomatic response and tumor control effect with interferon-alpha in progressive MPPGLs.



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A partially hydrolyzed 100% whey formula and the risk of eczema and any allergy: an updated meta-analysis

Recently, the role of using hydrolyzed formula for the prevention of allergic disease has been questioned. However, not all hydrolyzed formulas are equal. The efficacy of each hydrolyzed formula should be esta...

http://ift.tt/2uDhyHe

Pathway discovery using transcriptomic profiles in adult-onset severe asthma

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Pieter-Paul Hekking, Matt J. Loza, Stelios Pavlidis, Bertrand De Meulder, Diane Lefaudeux, Fred Baribaud, Charles Auffray, Ariane H. Wagener, Paul Brinkman, Rene. Lutter, ArunaT. Bansal, Ana R. Sousa, Steve. Bates, Yannis Pandis, Louise J. Fleming, Dominique E. Shaw, Stephen J. Fowler, Y. Guo, Andrea Meiser, Kai Sun, Julie. Corfield, Peter. Howarth, Elisabeth H. Bel, Ian M. Adcock, K.F. Chung, Ratko Djukanovic, Peter J. Sterk
RationaleAdult-onset severe asthma is characterized by highly symptomatic disease despite high intensity asthma treatments. Understanding of the underlying pathways of this heterogeneous disease needed for the development of targeted treatments. Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) is a statistical technique to identify gene profiles in heterogeneous samples.ObjectiveTo identify gene profiles associated with adult-onset severe asthma.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional, observational study in which adult patients with adult-onset of asthma (defined as starting at ≥18yrs old) as compared to childhood-onset severe asthma (<18 yrs) were selected from the U-BIOPRED cohort. Gene expression was assessed on the total RNA of induced sputum (n=83), nasal brushings (n=41), and endobronchial brushings (n=65) and biopsies (n=47) (Affymetrix HT HG-U133+ PM). GSVA was used to identify differentially enriched pre-defined gene signatures of leukocyte lineage, inflammatory and induced lung injury pathways.ResultsSignificant differentially enriched gene signatures in patients with adult-onset as compared to childhood-onset severe asthma were identified in nasal brushings (5 signatures), sputum (3 signatures) and endobronchial brushings (6 signatures). Signatures associated with eosinophilic airway inflammation, mast cells and group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3) were more enriched in adult-onset severe asthma, whereas signatures associated with induced lung injury were less enriched in adult-onset severe asthma.ConclusionsAdult-onset severe asthma is characterized by inflammatory pathways involving eosinophils, mast cells and ILC3s. These pathways could represent useful targets for the treatment of adult-onset severe asthma.

Graphical abstract

image

Teaser

This study elucidates distinct gene profiles in adult-onset severe asthma compared to childhood-onset severe asthma. Identified gene profiles include those associated with eosinophils, ILC3s and mast cells, and may represent targets for new treatments.


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Liver disease predicts mortality in patients with XHIM but can be prevented by early hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

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Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Vian Azzu, Lucinda Kennard, Beatriz Morillo-Gutierrez, Mary Slatter, J.David M. Edgar, Dinakantha S. Kumararatne, William JH. Griffiths

Teaser

In the largest detailed study of liver disease in X-linked immunodeficiency with hyper-IgM, we show that liver disease is commoner than generally recognized and that early hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may prevent liver disease progression and improve survival.


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Prevalence of clinic-defined food allergy in early adolescence: The SchoolNuts study

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Mari Sasaki, Jennifer J. Koplin, Shyamali C. Dharmage, Michael J. Field, Susan M. Sawyer, Vicki McWilliam, Rachel L. Peters, Lyle C. Gurrin, Peter J. Vuillermin, Jo Douglass, Angela Pezic, Maia Brewerton, Mimi L.K. Tang, George C. Patton, Katrina J. Allen
BackgroundRising rates of food-induced anaphylaxis have recently been shown in the adolescent age group, following earlier descriptions of a rise in children younger than 5 years. However, few population-based studies have examined the prevalence of food allergy in adolescence using objective measures such as oral food challenge (OFC).ObjectiveWe sought to determine the prevalence of food allergy among a population-based sample of 10- to 14-year-old adolescents using clinical evaluation including OFC to confirm the diagnosis.MethodsSchools were randomly selected from greater metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. Students aged 10 to 14 years, and their parents, were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding the adolescent's food allergy or food-related reactions. Clinic evaluation, which consisted of skin prick tests and OFC where eligible, was undertaken if students were suspected to have current food allergy from parent response. Among 9816 students assessed, 5016 had complete parent response and clinic evaluation when eligible. An additional 4800 students had student questionnaires only.ResultsThe prevalence of clinic-defined current food allergy based on history, sensitization data, and OFC results was 4.5% (95% CI, 3.9-5.1), with the most common food triggers being peanut, 2.7% (95% CI, 2.3-3.2), and tree nut, 2.3% (95% CI, 1.9-2.8). Among the additional group of 4800 adolescents who had only self-reported food allergy status available, the prevalence of self-reported current food allergy was 5.5% (95% CI, 4.9-6.2), with peanut, 2.8% (95% CI, 2.3-3.3), and tree nut, 2.3% (95% CI, 1.9-2.8), the most common.ConclusionsApproximately 1 in 20 10- to 14-year-old school students in Melbourne has current food allergy. This high prevalence suggests that the previously reported rise in food-induced anaphylaxis in this age group may reflect an increasing prevalence of food allergy rather than simply increased reporting of anaphylaxis.



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A partially hydrolyzed 100% whey formula and the risk of eczema and any allergy: an updated meta-analysis

Recently, the role of using hydrolyzed formula for the prevention of allergic disease has been questioned. However, not all hydrolyzed formulas are equal. The efficacy of each hydrolyzed formula should be esta...

http://ift.tt/2uDhyHe

A partially hydrolyzed 100% whey formula and the risk of eczema and any allergy: an updated meta-analysis

Recently, the role of using hydrolyzed formula for the prevention of allergic disease has been questioned. However, not all hydrolyzed formulas are equal. The efficacy of each hydrolyzed formula should be esta...

http://ift.tt/2uDhyHe

Jugulodigastric lymph node size by age on CT in an adult cancer-free population

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Leticia M.B. Costa e Silva Souza, Katherine J. Leung, Anne O'Neill, Jagadeesan Jayender, Thomas C. Lee
PurposeEvaluate jugulodigastric node size in cancer-free patients.MethodsRetrospective review of 234 neck CT angiograms was performed. Known neoplasm, inflammation or poor imaging were excluded. Maximal diameter of the largest jugulodigastric node in the axial plane bilaterally was measured.Results172 patients (median age=62) were included. Jugulodigastric node size decreased with age and was statistically significant between those above and below 62years. Patients 20–30years had mean 14.4mm (7.5–20.1mm).ConclusionsAlthough 15mm is considered the normal maximum long-axis size of the jugulodigastric node in cancer patients, average size in younger cancer-free patients is commonly above 15mm.



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Complex liver cysts in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

Publication date: Available online 25 July 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Zerwa Farooq, Ashkan Heshmatzadeh Behzadi, Jon D. Blumenfeld, Yize Zhao, Martin R. Prince
PurposeTo determine prevalence of complex liver cysts in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).MethodsAbdominal MRI in 186 ADPKD subjects were evaluated by two independent observers to determine prevalence of complex liver cysts.Results23 (12%) of subjects, had at least 1 complex cyst. Only 8 (4%) were reported to have a complex cyst prospectively, representing an under-reporting rate of 65%. Median total cyst volume was 66-times greater for subjects with complex cysts compared to subjects without (p<0.0001).ConclusionComplex hepatic cysts were observed in 12% of ADPKD cases, occurring more frequently in livers with extensive cystic involvement.



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New UV-B Laser Promising for Vitiligo


Reuters Health Information

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High-dose-rate brachytherapy boost for prostate cancer: Comparison of three different fractionation schemes

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Publication date: Available online 25 July 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Alexander T. Falk, Sylvain Demontoy, Emmanuel Chamorey, Marie-Eve Chand, Mathieu Gautier, David Azria, Sara Zaki, Daniel Chevallier, Daniel Lam Cham Kee, Jean-Michel Hannoun-Lévi
PurposeDose escalation for prostate cancer can be achieved with a combination of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (BT) boost to increase local control. For high-dose-rate (HDR)-BT, optimal fractionation remains under debate. The objective was to assess the clinical outcome of three schemes of HDR-BT boost.Methods and MaterialsRetrospective single institution data collection was performed. Patients received 46 Gy EBRT then an HDR-BT boost: 3 × 6 Gy, 2 × 9 Gy, or 1 × 14 Gy. HDR needles were placed under general anesthesia with endorectal ultrasonography guidance. CT-scan and treatment were performed postoperatively.ResultsBetween 2009 and 2012, 159 patients were included. Nine patients (5.7%) were low, 32 (20.1%) intermediate, and 118 (74.2%) high risk (D'Amico classification) without significant difference between the three BT schemes. With a median followup of 61 months, 5-year biochemical relapse–free survival, 5-year local relapse–free survival, 5-year metastases-free survival, and 5-year overall survival rates were 86.6% (SE 2.7%), 98.3% (SE 1%), 95.3% (SE 1%), and 96.5% (SE 1.5%), respectively, with no significant difference between the BT schemes. The rates of acute ≥ G2 genitourinary and ≥G2 gastrointestinal toxicities were 11.3% and 6.3%, respectively (p = NS). The rates of late genitourinary ≥ G2 and gastrointestinal ≥ G2 toxicities (at last followup) were 9.4% and 0.6% with, respectively, 0.6% and 0% of G4 (p = NS).ConclusionsHypofractionation up to a single-fraction HDR-BT boost for prostate cancer yields similar results in terms of biochemical control and late toxicity compared with two or three-fraction schemes. Single fraction HDR-BT appears acceptable for boosting prostate cancer after definitive EBRT.



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Serum Glypican 4 Level in Obese Children and Its Relation to Degree of Obesity

Summary

Objective

Previous adult studies have demonstrated associations of serum glypican 4 (Gpc4) and obesity parameters and insulin sensitivity. However, an association of serum Gpc4 and glucose metabolism remains contradictory. Study of serum Gpc4 in obese children has not been conducted. We aimed to determine serum Gpc4 levels in obese children with various degrees of obesity.

Design, Patients and Measurements

Up to 370 overweight and obese children, aged 6–18 years were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed with fasting serum Gpc4, lipid profiles, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) measured. Insulin sensitivity and β-cell function indices were calculated from plasma glucose and serum insulin levels derived from the OGTT. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed for body fat determination. Comparisons of serum Gpc4 levels among the groups of children with various degrees of obesity were performed.

Results

Serum Gpc4 levels progressively increased in children with increasing body mass index standard deviation score (BMI SDS) tertiles [median (interquartile range, IQR): 2.3 (1.8, 3.2), 2.6 (1.9, 3.4) and 3.2 (2.4, 3.8) μg/L, P <0.001]. There were no differences in serum Gpc4 levels among children in the different glucose metabolism categories. Log serum Gpc4 levels were positively correlated with SDSs of weight and BMI, cholesterol, AST and ALT. No associations of log serum Gpc4 and insulin sensitivity and β-cell function indices were demonstrated.

Conclusions

Serum Gpc4 levels were increased with increasing degrees of obesity. There were no differences in serum Gpc4 levels among glucose metabolism categories.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Thyroid disease symptoms during early pregnancy do not identify women with thyroid hypofunction that should be treated

Summary

Objective

to evaluate whether women during early pregnancy with ''hypothyroidism'' symptoms are at risk for biochemical defined hypothyroidism. The 2017 guidelines of the American Thyroid Association (ATA) recommend case finding on the basis of symptoms to identify these women during pregnancy, while evidence is lacking.

Design

Construct validation of a thyroid hypofunction symptom checklist during first trimester of pregnancy comparing high scores with biochemical defined hypothyroidism.

Patients

2,198 healthy pregnant women from an iodine sufficient area in 2013-2014.

Measurements

completion of a draft questionnaire with ''classical'' symptoms of hypothyroidism at 12 weeks gestation. The the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles of TSH and fT4 during pregnancy in TPO-Ab negative (< 35 kU/l) women were used to define euthyroid women and those with overt (clinical) and sub-clinical hypothyroidism. The prevalence of overt (subclinical) hypothyroidism was compared between women with high symptom scores compared to those with low scores.

Results

According to fT4 and TSH cut-off's (0.23 – 4.0 mIU/L and 11.5 – 18.0 pmol/L, respectively) there were 15 women with ''to treat hypofunction'' (overt hypothyroidism or TSH > 10 mIU/L) and 68 women with subclinical hypothyroidism. Questionnaire construct validation revealed a 12-item hypothyroid checklist with normally distributed scores. The cut-off indicating high scores of OH was set at 1 SD > mean. Women with high symptom scores did not present more often with biochemically defined thyroid hypofunction.

Conclusion

The current study does not support the ATA recommendation that pregnant women who require levothyroxine therapy can be identified by case-based screening of women with symptoms of thyroid disease.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Letter to the Editor: Reply to “Ultrasonography and cytology as predictors of noninvasive follicular thyroid (NIFTP) neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features: importance of the differential diagnosis with the invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid cancer”

Abstract

As Dr. Rosario pointed out, it might be more useful to differentiate NIFTP from invasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (iE-FVPTC), not from infiltrative FVPTC (I-FVPTC) in clinical setting since infiltrative FVPTCs show overt malignant US features more frequently. However, in the previous study, we attempted to describe the characteristic ultrasound (US) features and diagnostic method of NIFTP specifically.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Topical tocopherol for the treatment of ROLP: randomozed,double-blind crossover study - A query

Abstract

In a recently published study "Topical tocopherol for treatment of reticular oral lichen planus: a randomized, double-blind, crossover study" (Oral Diseases, January 2017), the authors have assessed the efficacy of topical tocopherol acetate in improving the lesions and oral discomfort of patient's suffering from reticular oral lichen planus comparing it with the results achievable by administering placebo. (1)

In the study, 34 patients with clinically diagnosed and histologically confirmed ROLP were randomly assigned to two groups, which received first one of two treatments (treatment 1 or 2) for a month, then the other (treatment 2 or 1) for another month, with a two-week washout between them. One treatment contained tocopherol acetate, the other only liquid paraffin. The primary outcome was less discomfort, measured on a visual analog scale (VAS).

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Hormona Tirotropina: ¿cómo se encarga de regular la producción de hormonas tiroideas?

La tirotropina, que también se conoce como hormona tirotrópica o TSH (acrónimo del inglés Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) es una sustancia que segrega la hipófisis o pituitaria, una glándula situada en la base del cráneo formada por dos lóbulos y que produce hormonas que influyen en el crecimiento, el desarrollo sexual y otras funciones del organismo. La tirotropina se segrega en el lóbulo anterior de la hipófisis. De ella depende la producción de hormonas en otra glándula: la tiroides.

Nombres alternativos:

La producción de hormonas tiroideas T3 (triyodotironina) y T4 (tiroxina) depende de la actividad de la TSH.

El hipotálamo

El hipotálamo es una parte del cerebro que recibe mensajes de todo el organismo y participa en numerosas funciones enviando mensajes al sistema nervioso a través del cerebro.  Por ejemplo, del hipotálamo dependen el control de las sensaciones de hambre y sed.

Además, el hipotálamo regula el funcionamiento de la hipófisis o glándula pituitaria.

La hipófisis

Es una glándula que depende del hipotálamo en su funcionamiento. Se encuentra unida a éste mediante una prolongación conocida como tallo hipofisiario.

El lóbulo anterior de la pituitaria produce:

  • Hormona folículo estimulante (FSH) y hormona luteinizante(HL), que controlan la producción de hormonas sexuales (estrógeno y testosterona), así como el crecimiento y liberación del óvulo desde los ovarios. En los varones, regulan la producción de esperma.
  • Hormona del crecimiento
  • Hormona estimulante de la tiroides (TSH), que indica a la glándula tiroides cuándo producir y liberar hormonas tiroideas
  • Hormona adrenocorticotropa (ACTH), que regula la producción de cortisol en las glándulas suprarrenales
  • Hormona estimulante de melanocitos (MSH), que controla la producción de melanina, la sustancia que da color a la piel
  • Prolactina (PRL), que estimula la producción de leche materna y es necesaria para la producción de ésta durante la lactancia 

El lóbulo posterior de la hipófisis, por su parte, produce: 

  • Hormona antidiurética (ADH), que controla la eliminación de agua en los riñones
  • Oxitocina, que hace que el útero se contraiga durante el parto y desempeña también una función en la producción de leche materna

De las hormonas que produce la tiroides, la más importante es la tiroxina o T4, que contiene cuatro átomos de yodo. Para cumplir su función, la tiroxina se transforma en T3 –con un átomo de yodo menos-. Esta transformación se produce fundamentalmente en el hígado y en ciertos tejidos del organismo en los cuales actúa la T3, como el cerebro.

 

Mecanismos

  • La cantidad de T4 que produce la tiroides viene determinada por la TSH que segrega la hipófisis o pituitaria.
  • A su vez, la cantidad de TSH de la hipófisis depende de la cantidad de T4 que esta glándula detecta.
  • Cuando la hipófisis detecta una cantidad de T4 deficiente, aumenta la producción de TSH.
  • La TSH envía a la pituitaria el mensaje de que es necesario producir más T4.
  • Cuando los niveles de T4 en la sangre suben por encima de cierto umbral, la producción de TSH en la pituitaria se detiene.
  • La tiroides y la pituitaria funcionan en cierto modo como un radiador y un termostato:
    • Si el radiador se apaga y empieza a hacer frío, el termostato detecta la bajada de temperatura y enciende el radiador
    • Cuando se alcanza la temperatura adecuada, el termostato lo detecta y apaga el radiador

Aunque este sería el mecanismo descrito a grandes rasgos, los especialistas han advertido que todos estos fenómenos son complejos, y que en ellos intervienen otras sustancias presentes en el organismo. Por eso, se ha matizado que tener niveles normales de TSH no significa necesariamente que la tiroides esté funcionando a la perfección. Por eso se considera que medir los niveles de TSH más que para diagnosticar o descartar enfermedades, es una medida "orientativa" que debe ser complementada con otros análisis y técnicas de diagnóstico.

La entrada Hormona Tirotropina: ¿cómo se encarga de regular la producción de hormonas tiroideas? se publicó primero en Cuida tu tiroides.



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Hemoglobin Himeji and inconsistent hemoglobin A1c values: a case report

Hemoglobin A1c is used to evaluate the glycemic control in patients with diabetes and is a risk marker for chronic complications of diabetes. Hemoglobin variants are reported to falsely lower or increase hemog...

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Hypercapnic respiratory failure during pregnancy due to polymyositis-related respiratory muscle weakness: a case report

Polymyositis is a rare medical disorder complicating pregnancy. Ventilatory muscle weakness leading to respiratory failure is an uncommon manifestation of this autoimmune disease. We report a case of life-thre...

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A nanoparticle-based method for culture-free bacterial DNA enrichment from whole blood

Publication date: 15 January 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 99
Author(s): Marwa M. Hassan, Andrea Ranzoni, Matthew A. Cooper
Point-of-care (POC) diagnostics are one of the quick and sensitive detection approaches used in current clinical applications, but always face a performance tradeoff between time-to-result and assay sensitivity. One critical setting where these limitations are evident is the detection of sepsis, where 6–10mL of whole blood may contain as little as one bacterial colony forming unit (cfu). The large sample volume, complex nature of the sample and low analyte concentration necessitates signal enhancement using culture-based or molecular amplification techniques. In the time-critical diagnosis of sepsis, waiting for up to 24h to produce sufficient DNA for analysis is not possible. As a consequence, there is a need for integrated sample preparation methods that could enable shorter detection times, whilst maintaining high analytical performance. We report the development of a culture-free bacterial enrichment method to concentrate bacteria from whole blood in less than 3h. The method relies on triple-enrichment steps to magnetically concentrate bacterial cells and their DNA with a 500-fold reduction in sample volume (from 10 to 0.02mL). Using this sample preparation method, sensitive qPCR detection of the extracted S. aureus bacterial DNA was achieved with a detection limit of 5±0.58cfu/mL within a total elapsed time of 4h; much faster than conventional culture-based approaches. The method could be fully automated for integration into clinical practice for point-of-care or molecular detection of bacterial DNA from whole blood.

Graphical abstract

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Fully disposable microfluidic electrochemical device for detection of estrogen receptor alpha breast cancer biomarker

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Publication date: 15 January 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 99
Author(s): Carolina V. Uliana, Camila R. Peverari, André S. Afonso, Marcia R. Cominetti, Ronaldo C. Faria
A novel fully disposable microfluidic electrochemical array device (µFED) was developed and successfully applied for detection of the biomarker estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). The µFED was constructed using low-cost materials and an inexpensive home cutter printer enabled the manufacture of dozens of µFEDs in less than 2h, at a cost of less than US$ 0.20 in material per device. The µFED incorporates counter and reference electrodes and eight carbon-based working electrodes, which were modified with DNA sequences known as estrogen response elements (DNA-ERE), where ERα binds specifically. Paramagnetic particles heavily decorated with anti-ERα antibody and horseradish peroxidase (MP-Ab-HRP) were used to efficiently capture ERα from the sample solution. The ERα-MP-Ab-HRP bioconjugate formed was injected into the µFED and incubated with the DNA-ERE-modified electrodes, followed by amperometric detection with application of −0.2V vs. Ag|AgCl while a mixture of H2O2 and hydroquinone was injected into the microfluidic device. An ultralow limit of detection of 10.0 fg mL−1 was obtained with the proposed method. The performance of the assay, in terms of sensitivity and reproducibility, was studied using undiluted calf serum, and excellent recoveries in the range of 94.7–108% were achieved for the detection of ERα in MCF-7 cell lysate. The µFED system can be easily constructed and applied for multiplex biomarker detection, making the device an excellent cost-effective alternative for cancer diagnosis, especially in developing countries.



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