Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 02/19/18

Δευτέρα 19 Φεβρουαρίου 2018

A 74-year-old woman with dyspnoea and a mass in the right atrium

A 74-year-old woman was admitted with pericardial effusion causing haemodynamic instability. On echographic and radiological examination, a mass was identified in the right atrium, extending into the epicardial layer. In the differential diagnosis of a cardiac mass, benign primary lesions like a myxoma must be distinguished from rare primary cardiac malignancies like sarcomas or more frequent secondary tumours. These include localisations of lymphomyeloproliferative disease and metastases of a melanoma or various subtypes of carcinoma. In this case, histopathological examination of a surgical biopsy showed findings consistent with a high-grade angiosarcoma. Because of the size and localisation, as well as the presence of a possible metastasis in the rib, surgical treatment was not possible. After diagnosis, the patient developed multiple additional metastasis. She received palliative radiotherapy to control the pain and died 10 months after the initial diagnosis was made. Median reported survival is 6 months.

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Bier spots treated with intense pulsed light

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Bier spots treated with intense pulsed light

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GeneReviews®

https:--www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov-corehtml-pm

GeneReviews®

Book. 1993

Authors: Adam MP, Ardinger HH, Pagon RA, Wallace SE, Bean LJH, Stephens K, Amemiya A

Abstract
CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Individuals with X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism (XDP) have dystonia of varying severity and parkinsonism. XDP afflicts primarily Filipino men and, rarely, women. The mean age of onset in men is 39 years; the clinical course is highly variable with parkinsonism as the initial presenting sign, overshadowed by dystonia as the disease progresses. Features of parkinsonism include resting tremor, bradykinesia, rigidity, postural instability, and severe shuffling gait. The dystonia develops focally, most commonly in the jaw, neck, trunk, and eyes, and less commonly in the limbs, tongue, pharynx, and larynx, the most characteristic being jaw dystonia often progressing to neck dystonia. Individuals with pure parkinsonism have non-disabling symptoms that are only slowly progressive; those who develop a combination of parkinsonism and dystonia can develop multifocal or generalized symptoms within a few years and die prematurely from pneumonia or intercurrent infections. Female carriers are mostly asymptomatic, though a small minority may manifest dystonia, parkinsonism, or chorea.
DIAGNOSIS/TESTING: The diagnosis of XDP is suspected in a male with typical clinical findings, family history consistent with X-linked inheritance, and maternal ancestral roots from the Panay Islands in the Philippines. Molecular genetic testing for variants that tag a disease-associated haplotype of the multilocus transcript system termed TAF/DYT3 is required to confirm the diagnosis in those with no known family history of XDP, very early symptoms, and/or a phenotype of pure parkinsonism, pure tremor, or chorea without dystonia. Olfactory testing indicates olfactory dysfunction early in the disease and may be used to support the diagnosis when molecular genetic testing is not available.
MANAGEMENT: Treatment of manifestations: Pharmacologic agents are used to treat dystonia or parkinsonism or both. Anticholinergic agents, benzodiazepines, and sometimes neuroleptics are used in the early stages of dystonia; zolpidem and tetrabenazine are used after dystonia becomes multifocal or generalized. Botulinum toxin injections improve focal dystonia but may worsen swallowing in individuals with preexisting dysphagia. Parkinsonism is treated with levodopa and dopamine agonists to control tremor. Bilateral pallidal deep brain stimulation may be used to treat advanced disease and medically refractory dystonia, although it may have less effect on parkinsonism. Prevention of secondary complications: Swallowing evaluation to guide diet modification and swallowing techniques to minimize risk of aspiration. Physical therapy, coupled with maximal medical and surgical therapy, may help delay immobility and its complications. Surveillance: Annual clinical evaluations in males with the disease-related haplotype who are not yet symptomatic, biannual evaluation for symptomatic males to monitor medications, and periodic swallowing evaluation, especially in those with subjective dysphagia.
GENETIC COUNSELING: XDP is inherited in an X-linked manner. Approximately 94% of affected individuals have a known family history of the condition. De novo occurrence of the disease-related haplotype associated with the disorder has not been observed to date. Males with XDP pass the TAF1/DYT3 disease-associated haplotype to all of their daughters and none of their sons. Women who are carriers have a 50% chance of transmitting the TAF1/DYT3 disease-associated haplotype in each pregnancy: males who inherit the TAF1/DYT3 disease-associated haplotype will be affected; females who inherit the TAF1/DYT3 disease-associated haplotype are mostly asymptomatic, although a small percentage may manifest symptoms. Carrier evaluation of at-risk female relatives is possible if the TAF1/DYT3 disease-associated haplotype has been identified in the family. Once the TAF1/DYT3 disease-associated haplotype has been identified in an affected family member, prenatal testing for a pregnancy at increased risk and preimplantation genetic diagnosis for XDP are possible. Caution should be exercised in interpreting the results of prenatal testing as the c.94C>T (p.Arg32Cys) variant that marks the disease haplotype has not been proven to be the molecular cause of XDP.

PMID: 20301662

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A surgical case of inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm that responded remarkably to preoperative steroid therapy

Abstract

We describe the surgical management of a 58-year-old man with inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm (IAAA) following treatment with preoperative steroids. The patient was transferred to our institution for abdominal pain and fever. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm surrounded by dense perianeurysmal fibrous tissue. Under a diagnosis of IAAA, steroid therapy with prednisolone was initiated to control the perianeurysmal inflammation. It continued for 3 weeks with a decreasing dose schedule, with remarkable decrease in the soft tissue mass. The patient underwent elective surgery 21 days after commencing steroid therapy. During surgery, adjacent organs were adherent to the aneurysmal wall, but fibrotic change to the retroperitoneum was very limited. He recovered uneventfully, and was discharged on postoperative Day 10. Therefore, it can be concluded that preoperative steroid therapy could minimize the operative risk for IAAAs, and improve surgical outcome.

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Successful management of an aorto-gastric fistula occurring 15 years after oesophagectomy with covered aortic stent graft placement followed by open surgery

Abstract

Aorto-gastric fistula (AGF) is an uncommon and life threatening complication of oesophagectomy. Usually occurring in the immediate weeks following the procedure at anastomosis lines, this case describes a rare development of an AGF 15 years after an oesophagectomy due to the presence of a benign ulcer. Initially successful endovascular stenting of the thoracic aorta was followed by re-bleed, further stenting but eventually open surgery was required.

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Tracheo-oesophageal fistula: a delayed complication of missed inhaled magnetic toys

Abstract

Delayed diagnosis of tracheobronchial foreign body (FB) aspiration is not uncommon in children. It occurs when symptoms are underappreciated and/or radiological findings are overlooked. In such cases serious complications can arise, which make the diagnosis and removal of the FB much more difficult. Here, we present a case where FB aspiration was misdiagnosed as asthma after a radio-opaque FB on the chest radiograph was missed, leading to formation of a tracheo-oesophageal fistula as a rare delayed complication.

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Adsorptive removal of organics from aqueous phase by acid-activated coal fly ash: preparation, adsorption, and Fenton regenerative valorization of “spent” adsorbent

Abstract

Raw coal fly ash was activated to an adsorbent by sulfuric acid impregnation. The activation condition, the adsorption capacity, and the regenerative valorization of the adsorbent were studied. The results show that the optimal preparation conditions of the adsorbent are [H₂SO₄] = 1 mol L⁻¹, activation time = 30 min, the ratio of coal fly ash to acid = 1:20 (g:mL), calcination temperature = 100 °C. The adsorption of p-nitrophenol on the adsorbent accords with the pseudo-second-order kinetic equation and the adsorption rate constant is 0.089 g mg⁻¹ min⁻¹. The adsorption on this adsorbent can be considered enough after 35 min, when the corresponding adsorption capacity is 1.07 mg g⁻¹ (85.6% of p-nitrophenol removal). Compared with raw coal fly ash, the adsorbent has a stable adsorption performance at low pH range (pH = 1–6) and the adsorption of p-nitrophenol is an exothermic process. Ninety minutes is required for the regenerative valorization of saturated adsorbent by Fenton process. The regenerative valorization for this saturated adsorbent can reach 89% under the optimal proposed conditions (30 °C, pH = 3, [H₂O₂] = 5.0 mmol L⁻¹, [Fe²⁺] = 5.5 mmol L⁻¹). Within 15 experimental runs, the adsorbent has a better and better stability with the increase of experimental runs. Finally, the mechanism of activating coal fly ash is proposed, being verified by the results of the SEM and BET test.

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The environmental Kuznets curve in the presence of corruption in developing countries

Abstract

Environmental degradation is at an alarming level in developing economies. The present paper examines the direct and indirect impacts of corruption on environmental deterioration using the panel data of 64 developing countries. Adopting the generalized method of moments (GMM) technique, the paper finds evidence that corruption exhibits a positive impact on pollution. Subsequently, there is also evidence indicating that the level of pollution tends to be higher in countries with a higher level of corruption, eliminating the effectiveness of income effect on environmental preservation. These results also suggest that environmental degradation is monotonically increasing with higher corruption and invalidate the presence of the EKC. Hence, a policy focuses that an anti-corruption particularly in the environmental and natural resources sector needs to be emphasized and enforced in order to reduce or possibly to totally eliminate the rent for corruption.

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Toxicological study of the degradation products of antineoplastic agent etoposide in commercial formulation treated by heterogeneous photocatalysis using SrSnO 3

Abstract

Etoposide is an antineoplastic agent used for treating lung cancer, testicular cancer, breast cancer, pediatric cancers, and lymphomas. It is a pollutant due to its mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. Disposal of waste from this drug is still insufficiently safe, and there is no appropriate waste treatment. Therefore, it is important to use advanced oxidative processes (AOPs) for the treatment and disposal of medicines like this. The use of strontium stannate (SrSnO₃) as a catalyst in heterogeneous photocatalysis reactions has emerged as an alternative for the removal of organic pollutants. In our study, SrSnO₃ was synthesized by the combustion method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, UV-Vis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, obtaining a surface area of 3.28 m² g⁻¹ with cubic and well-organized crystallinity and a band gap of 4.06 eV. The experimental conditions optimized for degradation of an etoposide solution (0.4 mg L⁻¹) were pH 5 and catalyst concentration of 1 g L⁻¹. The results showed that the degradation processes using SrSnO₃ combined with H₂O₂ (0.338 mol L⁻¹) obtained total organic carbon removal from the etoposide solution, 97.98% (± 4.03 × 10⁻³), compared with TiO₂, which obtained a mineralization rate of 72.41% (± 6.95 × 10–3). After photodegradation, the degraded solution showed no toxicity to zebrafish embryos through embryotoxicity test (OECD, 236), and no genotoxicity using comet assay and micronucleus test.

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Study of the efficacy of carboxytherapy in alopecia

Summary

Background

Management of alopecia areata (AA) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is often challenging. The use of carboxytherapy may be a novel therapeutic option for such cases.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of carboxytherapy in alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia.

Patients and methods

This study was conducted on 80 patients with alopecia divided into two groups; Group I included 40 AA patients (Group IA received carboxytherapy and Group IB control received placebo), and Group II included 40 AGA patients (Group IIA received carboxytherapy and Group IIB control received placebo), and followed up monthly for 3 months. They were evaluated clinically (by assessment of Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score in group I, and Sinclair scale and Norwood-Hamilton scale in group II), by dermoscopy and digital dermoscopy at each visit.

Results

Group IA patients showed significant clinical improvement in SALT score and dermoscopic improvement after carboxytherapy and at the end of follow-up period with significant reduction in dystrophic hair, black dots, yellow dots, and tapered hair coinciding with significant emergence of regrowing hair. Group IIA patients showed significant clinical and dermoscopic improvement after carboxytherapy with significant increase in hair density measured by digital dermoscopy. However, regression of these results was observed during the follow-up period but was still significantly better than before treatment. There were statistically significant improvements in clinical score, global assessments, dermoscopic, and digital dermoscopic findings in both group IA and group IIA received carboxytherapy in comparison with group IB and group IIB received placebo injections, respectively.

Conclusion

Carboxytherapy seems to be a promising therapeutic option for patchy AA and could be helpful as an adjuvant therapy of AGA but more than 6 sessions are required and adjuvants are recommended for maintenance of the results.

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Safety assessment, biological effects, and mechanisms of Myrica rubra fruit extract for anti-melanogenesis, anti-oxidation, and free radical scavenging abilities on melanoma cells

Summary

Objective

Currently, the cosmetic and medical industries are paying considerable attention to solve or prevent skin damage or diseases, such as hyperpigmentation and oxidation and free radical damage. In this study, the effective compounds in Myrica rubra fruit were extracted and studied the biological effects of these M. rubra fruit extracts.

Methods

In this study, we extracted M. rubra fruit using solutions with various ratios of water to ethanol (100:0, 50:50, 5:95) and studied the anti-melanogenesis, anti-oxidation and radical scavenging effects of these M. rubra fruit extracts on two melanoma cell lines: mouse melanoma (B16-F0) and human melanoma (A2058). The cytotoxicity, melanin synthesis, mushroom and cellular tyrosinase activities, enzyme kinetics, melanogenesis-related gene expression, melanogenesis-related protein secretion, radical DPPH scavenging activity and ROS inhibition after treatment with M. rubra fruit extracts were determined.

Results

The results showed that the water extract of M. rubra fruit was less cytotoxic to the melanoma cell lines, effectively inhibited melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity and down-regulated the gene expression and protein secretion of MITF and TRP-1. In addition, the M. rubra fruit extracts also showed the abilities to scavenge DPPH free radicals and suppress ROS production. Finally, the effective compounds in the water extract were Myricetin-O-deoxyhexoside, Quercetin-O-deoxyhexoside, and Kaempferol-O-hexoside determined by LC/MS/MS assay.

Conclusion

Overall, the water extract of M. rubra fruit is a safe and effective melanin inhibitor and anti-oxidant and can be applied widely in the fields of cosmetics and medicine.

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Vitamin D levels in acne vulgaris patients treated with oral isotretinoin

Summary

Background/Objectives

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disease. Vitamin D deficiency plays a role in many inflammatory skin diseases. It may play a role in pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. This study aimed to assess serum levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D in patients with acne vulgaris before and after treatment with isotretinoin and its relation with acne vulgaris severity.

Methods

Ninety patients with acne vulgaris and 60 age-sex matched healthy subject as controls have been recruited in this study. Patients were treated with 0.75 mg/kg/d isotretinoin for 3 months. Serum level of 25 hydroxy vitamin D has been measured at baseline and after treatment.

Results

Serum levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D were significantly higher in patients with acne vulgaris than healthy controls (P = .001). There was a significant inverse relation between level of 25 hydroxy vitamin D and severity of acne vulgaris before treatment (P = .001). Serum levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D were significantly increased after isotretinoin treatment in patients with acne vulgaris (P = .001).

Conclusion

This study concluded that vitamin D may play a potential role in pathogenesis of acne vulgaris or acne vulgaris may have a negative effect on vitamin D synthesis. Further studies are needed to confirm these potential relations.

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Study of the efficacy of carboxytherapy in alopecia

Summary

Background

Management of alopecia areata (AA) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is often challenging. The use of carboxytherapy may be a novel therapeutic option for such cases.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of carboxytherapy in alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia.

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusion

http://ift.tt/2oncSCK

Safety assessment, biological effects, and mechanisms of Myrica rubra fruit extract for anti-melanogenesis, anti-oxidation, and free radical scavenging abilities on melanoma cells

Summary

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Overall, the water extract of M. rubra fruit is a safe and effective melanin inhibitor and anti-oxidant and can be applied widely in the fields of cosmetics and medicine.

http://ift.tt/2ocAA5o

Vitamin D levels in acne vulgaris patients treated with oral isotretinoin

Summary

Background/Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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Neuroimaging in bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder: a systematic review

Abstract

Objective

In recent decades there has been growing interest in the use of neuroimaging techniques to explore the structural and functional brain changes that take place in those with eating disorders. However, to date, the majority of research has focused on patients with anorexia nervosa. This systematic review addresses a gap in the literature by providing an examination of the published literature on the neurobiology of individuals who binge eat; specifically, individuals with bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED).

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, PsycInfo, Medline and Web of Science, and additional hand searches through reference lists. 1,003 papers were identified in the database search. Published studies were included if they were an original research paper written in English; studied humans only; used samples of participants with a diagnosed eating disorder characterised by recurrent binge eating; included a healthy control sample; and reported group comparisons between clinical groups and healthy control groups.

Results

Thirty-two papers were included in the systematic review. Significant heterogeneity in the methods used in the included papers coupled with small sample sizes impeded the interpretation of results. Twenty-one papers utilised functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI); seven papers utilized Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with one of these using both MRI and Positron Emission Technology (PET); three studies used Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and one study used PET only. A small number of consistent findings emerged in individuals in the acute phase of illness with BN or BED including: volume reduction and increases across a range of areas; hypoactivity in the frontostriatal circuits; and aberrant responses in the insula, amygdala, middle frontal gyrus and occipital cortex to a range of different stimuli or tasks; a link between illness severity in BN and neural changes; diminished attentional capacity and early learning; and in SPECT studies, increased rCBF in relation to disorder-related stimuli.

Conclusions

Studies included in this review are heterogenous, preventing many robust conclusions from being drawn. The precise neurobiology of BN and BED remains unclear and ongoing, large-scale investigations are required. One clear finding is that illness severity, exclusively defined as the frequency of binge eating or bulimic episodes, is related to greater neural changes. The results of this review indicate additional research is required, particularly extending findings of reduced cortical volumes and diminished activity in regions associated with self-regulation (frontostriatal circuits) and further exploring responses to disorder-related stimuli in people with BN and BED.

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Structure-activity relationships for analogs of the tuberculosis drug bedaquiline with the naphthalene unit replaced by bicyclic heterocycles

Publication date: Available online 20 February 2018
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Hamish S. Sutherland, Amy S.T. Tong, Peter J. Choi, Daniel Conole, Adrian Blaser, Scott G. Franzblau, Christopher B. Cooper, Anna M. Upton, Manisha U. Lotlikar, William A. Denny, Brian D. Palmer
Replacing the naphthalene C-unit of the anti-tuberculosis drug bedaquiline with a range of bicyclic heterocycles of widely differing lipophilicity gave analogs with a 4.5-fold range in clogP values. The biological results for these compounds indicate on average a lower clogP limit of about 5.0 in this series for retention of potent inhibitory activity (MIC90s) against M.tb in culture. Some of the compounds also showed a significant reduction in inhibition of hERG channel potassium current compared with bedaquiline, but there was no common structural feature that distinguished these.

Graphical abstract

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Synthesis, Photophysical Properties, and Photodynamic Activity of Positional Isomers of TFPP-Glucose Conjugates

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Author(s): Arif Fadlan, Hiroki Tanimoto, Tatsuya Ito, Yusuke Aritomi, Maho Ueno, Masaya Tokuda, Shiho Hirohara, Makoto Obata, Tsumoru Morimoto, Kiyomi Kakiuchi
The synthesis and characterization of a 'complete set' of positional isomers of tetrakis(perfluorophenyl)porphyrins (TFPP)-glucose conjugates (1OH, 2OH, 3OH, 4OH, and 6OH) are reported herein. The cellular uptake and photocytotoxicity of these conjugates were examined in order to investigate the influence of location of the TFPP moiety on the d-glucose molecule on the biological activity of the conjugates. An In vitro biological evaluation revealed that the certain of these isomers have a greater effect on cellular uptake and cytotoxicity than others. The TFPP-glucose conjugates 1OH, 3OH, and 4OH were found to exert exceptional photocytotoxicity in several types of cancer cells compared to 2OH and 6OH substituted isomers.

Graphical abstract

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The accuracy and precision of Kilovoltage Intrafraction Monitoring (KIM) six degree-of-freedom prostate motion measurements during patient treatments

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Radiotherapy and Oncology
Author(s): Jung-Ha Kim, Doan T. Nguyen, Jeremy T. Booth, Chen-Yu Huang, Todsaporn Fuangrod, Per Poulsen, Ricky O'Brien, Vincent Caillet, Thomas Eade, Andrew Kneebone, Paul Keall
Background and purposeTo perform a quantitative analysis of the accuracy and precision of Kilovoltage Intrafraction Monitoring (KIM) six degree-of-freedom (6DoF) prostate motion measurements during treatments.Material and methodsReal-time 6DoF prostate motion was acquired using KIM for 14 prostate cancer patients (377 fractions). KIM outputs the 6DoF prostate motion, combining 3D translation and 3D rotational motion information relative to its planning position. The corresponding groundtruth target motion was obtained post-treatment based on kV/MV triangulation. The accuracy and precision of the 6DoF KIM motion estimates were calculated as the mean and standard deviation differences compared with the ground-truth.ResultsThe accuracy ± precision of real-time 6DoF KIM−measured prostate motion were 0.2 ± 1.3° for rotations and 0.1 ± 0.5 mm for translations, respectively. The magnitude of KIM-measured motion was well-correlated with the magnitude of ground-truth motion resulting in Pearson correlation coefficients of  ≥0.88 in all DoF.ConclusionsThe results demonstrate that KIM is capable of providing the real-time 6DoF prostate target motion during patient treatments with an accuracy ± precision of within 0.2 ± 1.3° and 0.1 ± 0.5 mm for rotation and translation, respectively. As KIM only requires a single X-ray imager, which is available on most modern cancer radiotherapy devices, there is potential for widespread adoption of this technology.

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Revised Value of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound for Solid Hypo-Echoic Thyroid Nodules Graded with the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
Author(s): YanFang Wang, Fang Nie, Ting Liu, Dan Yang, Qi Li, Jing Li, AiLing Song
The use of ultrasound in differentiation of benign and malignant solid hypo-echoic thyroid nodules is a dilemma in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the revised value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for differentiating solid hypo-echoic thyroid nodules using the Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS).The study included 135 patients with 135 nodules confirmed by fine-needle aspiration and/or surgery. Every nodule underwent both conventional US and CEUS. Binary logistic regression analysis for conventional US features revealed that irregular shape, microcalcification and height greater than width were significant malignant predictive features. Binary logistic analysis for CEUS features indicated that hetero-enhancement, slow wash-in, an ill-defined enhancement border and fast wash-out were significantly associated with malignancy. The areas under the curve of the TI-RADS, CEUS and the combination were 0.806, 0.934 and 0.950, respectively. CEUS is a potentially useful tool in the differentiation of solid hypo-echoic thyroid nodules.

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Validation of RUNX1 as a potential target for treating circadian clock-induced obesity through preventing migration of group 3 innate lymphoid cells into intestine

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses
Author(s): Fangjia Lu, Qingyang Liu
The impact of unrhythmic circadian clock on obesity has started to be increasingly appreciated nowadays. Recently it was discovered that interaction between intestinal microbiota and unrhythmic circadian clock plays a key role in such a process. It involves relaying signals from microbiota through dendritic cells to group 3 innate lymphoid cells in the intestine and in the end impacting some of the key transcription factors of circadian clock. Breaking such a signal relay may prove to be an effective way reducing unrhythmic circadian clock-induced obesity. Here, we propose a hypothesis and design experiments to prove that suppressing one of the transcription factors, RUNX1, plays a key role in the homing of ILC3 cells to intestine. Such suppression is in response to a retinoic acid-RARα binding initiated pathway and results in the upregulation of gut-homing chemokine receptor CCR9 and downregulation of lymphoid tissue-homing receptor CCR7, which can then guide ILC3 cells to intestine. Therapies that can specifically sustain Runx1 expression in ILC3 cells may assist preventing the ever-escalating obesity problem in modern society.

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Could ryanodine receptor dysfunction be linked to PKR brain accumulations in Alzheimer’s disease?

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses
Author(s): Jacques Hugon, Claire Paquet

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Menstrual chest pain, spontaneous coronary dissection, and takotsubo syndrome: Any connections?

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses
Author(s): John E. Madias

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Male Pattern Hair Loss: Taking one for the team: The Selfless Gene

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses
Author(s): Chika Edward Uzoigwe, Luis Carlos Sanchez Franco, Ignacio Gascon Conde Dip, Adrian Sanchez Campoy
Male-pattern hair loss (MPHL) is exceedingly common. It is characterised by onset in early adulthood and progression with age. It has a strong heritable component. The reason for its existence remains unexplained. Given that MPHL is progressive and has its earliest manifestations in young adults it may be a barometer of age. Here we suggest that MPHL may have atavistically allowed women in our species and ancestor species to select younger (but not necessarily the youngest) adult mates. Evidence suggests that conceptions by younger fathers are more likely to lead to live births and less likely to result in miscarriage. Further children fathered by younger men may have improved health and be less likely to suffer from a number of co-morbidities. This is collectively known as the "paternal age affect". Hence the selection of younger males mediated by the MPHL may improve the fitness of the population and of the species at the expense of the individual. Indeed MPHL may have been an evolutionary "nudge" directing women to favour younger partners. It is conceivable that for a species whose success is predicated upon co-operation, collaboration and altruism the gene cannot be exclusively selfish and must have a selfless allele.

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Perceived Fatigue and Energy are Independent Unipolar States: Supporting Evidence

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses
Author(s): Bryan D. Loy, Michelle H. Cameron, Patrick J. O'Connor
Persistent fatigue is a common problem (∼20-45% of U.S. population), with higher prevalence and severity in people with medical conditions such as cancer, depression, fibromyalgia, heart failure, sleep apnea and multiple sclerosis. There are few FDA-approved treatments for fatigue and great disagreement on how to measure fatigue, with over 250 instruments used in research. Many instruments define fatigue as "a lack of energy", thus viewing energy and fatigue states as opposites on a single bipolar continuum. In this paper, we hypothesize that energy and fatigue are distinct perceptual states, should be measured using separate unipolar scales, have different mechanisms, and deficits should be treated using tailored therapies. Energy and fatigue independence has been found in both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis studies. Experiments in various fields, including behavioral pharmacology and exercise science, often find changes in energy and not fatigue, or vice versa. If the hypothesis that energy and fatigue are independent is correct, there are likely different mechanisms that drive energy and fatigue changes. Energy could be increased by elevated dopamine and norepinephrine transmission and binding. Fatigue could be increased by elevated brain serotonin and inflammatory cytokines and reduced histamine binding. The hypothesis could be tested by an experiment that attempts to produce simultaneously high ratings of energy and fatigue (such as with two drugs using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design), which would offer strong evidence against the common viewpoint of a bipolar continuum. If the hypothesis is correct, prior literature using bipolar instruments will be limited, and research on the prevalence, mechanisms, and treatment of low energy and elevated fatigue as separate conditions will be needed. In the immediate future, measuring both energy and fatigue using unipolar measurement tools may improve our understanding of these states and improve therapeutic outcomes.

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ERCP induced and non-ERCP-induced acute pancreatitis: two distinct clinical entities?

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses
Author(s): Ivana Zitinic, Ivana Plavsic, Goran Poropat, Goran Hauser
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common gastrointestinal disease of varied etiology; however, the most common causes of AP are gallstones and alcohol abuse. AP has emerged as the most frequent complication after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Post-ERCP pancreatitis is generally a clinically irrelevant condition; however, it can be severe or even fatal in up to 0.8% of cases. Different clinical courses and outcomes have been observed between mild and severe AP of different etiologies (i.e., non-ERCP AP and post-ERCP AP), which opens the discussion as to whether they are the same or distinct clinical entities.

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Using Technology in Global Otolaryngology

Technology is integral to the diverse diagnostics and interventions of Otolaryngology. Historically, major advances in this field derive from advances of associated technologies. Challenges of visualization and surgical access are increasingly overcome by integrating endoscopic, electronic, and robotic instruments. Otolaryngology is often limited to urban areas and large academic centers, making it difficult to allocate care and resources to many underserved populations. The widespread use of technology has important implications in regards to global access to this field as telemedicine is most effectively applied to specialties that are heavily reliant on data and visuals that may be electronically disseminated.

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Pancreaticoduodenectomy for an Ampullary Region Carcinoma Occurred in Annular Pancreas Coexistent with Replaced Common Hepatic Artery

Introduction. Annular pancreas is a rare congenital abnormality characterized by a ring of pancreatic tissue surrounding the descending portion of the duodenum. Annular pancreas coexisting with replaced common hepatic artery which is also a rare anatomical variation has not been reported previously. Case Presentation. A 53-year-old man visited our hospital complaining of epigastric pain. Based on radiological examinations, he was diagnosed as having pancreatitis, annular pancreas, and hepatomesenteric trunk. One month later, obstructive jaundice developed. Endoscopic examination revealed ampullary region carcinoma. We performed pancreaticoduodenectomy using the "artery-first" approach. Discussion. Both annular pancreas and common hepatic artery anomaly are rare. High-quality preoperative imaging and awareness of such rare conditions are necessary for operative safety. Although the embryological relationship between these anomalies is uncertain, the present case may suggest some relevance between the two. Conclusion. The "artery-first" approach may be a useful method for pancreaticoduodenectomy in patients who have an anatomical abnormality.

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Fungal extracellular vesicles: modulating host-pathogen interactions by both the fungus and the host

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Microbes and Infection
Author(s): D. Zamith-Miranda, L. Nimrichter, M.L. Rodrigues, J.D. Nosanchuk
The secretion of biomolecules by fungal cells occurs via the conventional export of signal peptide-coupled soluble molecules, but it also results from transport within extracellular vesicles (EV). During the last ten years since the description of this non-conventional secretion pathway, varied, interesting biological roles have been associated with EV release by fungi. The various organic molecules carried by these structures are involved in pathogenesis and immune evasion, and may be associated with cell-cell communication. In regards to host-pathogen interactions, EV roles are diverse and organism-specific, although some features seem to be conserved among the pathogenic fungal organisms studied to date. This review aims to highlight our current understanding of the biologically relevant findings regarding EV released by the pathogenic fungal organisms and describes our knowledge of the roles of EV in host-pathogen interactions.

http://ift.tt/2BFvMgp

Heat stress-induced reactive oxygen species participate in the regulation of HSP expression, hyphal branching and ganoderic acid biosynthesis in Ganoderma lucidum

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Rui Liu, Xue Zhang, Ang Ren, Deng-Ke Shi, Liang Shi, Jing Zhu, Han-Shou Yu, Ming-Wen Zhao
Heat stress (HS) is an important environmental factor that affects the growth and metabolism of edible fungi, but the molecular mechanism of the heat stress response (HSR) remains unclear. We previously reported that HS treatment increased the length between two hyphal branches and induced the accumulation of ganoderic acid biosynthesis and the gene expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in Ganoderma lucidum. In this study, we found that HS induced a significant increase in the cytosolic ROS concentration, and exogenously added ROS scavengers NAC, VC and NADPH oxidase (Nox) inhibitor DPI reduce the cytosolic ROS accumulation in G. lucidum. In addition, the phenomena of the increased gene expression and increased length between the two hyphal branches and the accumulation of GA biosynthesis induced by HS were mitigated. Furthermore, we investigated the effects of HS on Nox-silenced strains (NoxABi-10, NoxABi-11 and NoxRi-4, NoxRi-7) and found that the level of ROS concentration was lower than that in wild-type (WT) strains treated with HS. Additionally, Nox silenced strains reduced the HS-induced increase in HSP expression, the length between two hyphal branches and GA biosynthesis compared with the WT strain. These data indicate that HS-induced ROS participate in the regulation of HSP expression, hyphal branching and ganoderic acid biosynthesis in G. lucidum. In addition, these findings identified potential pathways linking ROS networks to HSR, physiological and metabolic processes in fungi and provide a valuable reference for studying the role of ROS in HSR, mycelium growth and secondary metabolites.

http://ift.tt/2o9d896

Antidiabetic “gliptins” affect biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Microbiological Research
Author(s): Arpan De, Arianna Pompilio, Jenifer Francis, Iain C. Sutcliffe, Gary W. Black, Giulio Lupidi, Dezemona Petrelli, Luca A. Vitali
Streptococcus mutans, a dental caries causing odontopathogen, produces X-prolyl dipeptidyl peptidase (Sm-XPDAP, encoded by pepX), a serine protease known to have a nutritional role. Considering the potential of proteases as therapeutic targets in pathogens, this study was primarily aimed at investigating the role of Sm-XPDAP in contributing to virulence-related traits. Dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP IV), an XPDAP analogous enzyme found in mammalian tissues,is a well known therapeutic target in Type II diabetes. Based on the hypothesis that gliptins, commonly used as anti-human-DPP IV drugs, may affect bacterial growth upon inhibition of Sm-XPDAP, we have determined their ex vivo antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity towards S. mutans. All three DPP IV drugs tested reduced biofilm formation as determined by crystal violet staining. To link the observed biofilm inhibition to the human-DPP IV analogue present in S. mutans UA159, a pepX isogenic mutant was generated. In addition to reduced biofilm formation, CLSM studies of the biofilm formed by the pepX isogenic mutant showed these were comparable to those formed in the presence of saxagliptin, suggesting a probable role of this enzyme in biofilm formation by S. mutans UA159. The effects of both pepX deletion and DPP IV drugs on the proteome were studied using LC-MS/MS. Overall, this study highlights the potential of Sm-XPDAP as a novel anti-biofilm target and suggests a template molecule to synthesize lead compounds effective against this enzyme.

http://ift.tt/2oleI6P

Author response to “do we need to keep playing this tune?”

We thank Dr. Weinberger for the interest in our publication "Dexamethasone for inpatient childhood asthma exacerbations is as effective as short-acting corticosteroid treatment."1 The growing number of studies in this area reflects the importance of refining our approach to treating children with acute asthma exacerbations, the most common reason for childhood hospitalizations in the U.S.2 We believe our report fills an important knowledge gap by answering the question whether a two-dose dexamethasone regimen is as effective as short-acting systemic corticosteroid for hospitalized children.

http://ift.tt/2obIjjT

Results of an asthma education program delivered via telemedicine in rural schools

Asthma morbidity is high among low-income children living in rural U.S. regions, yet few interventions have been designed to reduce asthma burden among rural populations.

http://ift.tt/2olddFJ

Erratum

In the editorial, "Is eosinophilic esophagitis a member of the atopic march?" (Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018;120(2):113–114), on page 113, "see page XXX in this issue" should have read "see pages 131–137 in this issue" to reference the CME Review article "The atopic march: Critical evidence and clinical relevance" (Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018;120(2):131–137). The online version of the editorial has been corrected to reflect this change.

http://ift.tt/2o9cxUU

Relationship between cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of orexin A/hypocretin-1 and body composition in humans

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Peptides
Author(s): João C.P. Santiago, Markus Otto, Werner Kern, Paul Christian Baier, Manfred Hallschmid
The hypothalamic neuropeptide orexin A (hypocretin-1) is a key signal in sleep/wake regulation and promotes food intake. We investigated the relationship between cerebrospinal fluid orexin A concentrations and body composition in non-narcoleptic human subjects with a wide range of body weight to gain insight into the role of orexin A in human metabolism. We collected cerebrospinal fluid and blood samples and measured body composition by bioelectric impedance analysis in 36 subjects (16 women and 20 men) with body mass indices between 16.24 and 38.10 kg/m² and an age range of 19–80 years. Bivariate Pearson correlations and stepwise multiple regressions were calculated to determine associations between orexin A and body composition as well as biometric variables. Concentrations of orexin A in cerebrospinal fluid averaged 315.6 ± 6.0 pg/ml, were comparable between sexes (p > 0.15) and unrelated to age (p > 0.66); they appeared slightly reduced in overweight/obese compared to normal-weight subjects (p = .07). Orexin A concentrations decreased with body weight (r = −0.38, p = .0229) and fat-free mass (r = −0.39, p = .0173) but were not linked to body fat mass (p > 0.24). They were inversely related to total body water (r = −0.39, p = .0174) as well as intracellular (r = −0.41, p = .0139) and extracellular water (r = −0.35, p = .0341). Intracellular water was the only factor independently associated with cerebrospinal fluid orexin A concentrations (p = .0139). We conclude that cerebrospinal fluid orexin A concentrations do not display associations with body adiposity, but are inversely related to intracellular water content. These cross-sectional findings suggest a link between orexin A signaling and the regulation of water homeostasis in humans.

http://ift.tt/2CxXo3v

Seasonal variation of heavy metals in water, sediment, and highly consumed cultured fish ( Labeo rohita and Labeo bata ) and potential health risk assessment in aquaculture pond of the coal city, Dhanbad (India)

Abstract

The extent of heavy metal pollution and their impact on the various component of urban aquaculture pond (India) were investigated on the basis of seasonal variation. The water, sediment, and fish samples (Labeo rohita and Labeo bata) were collected and analyzed to assess the metal toxicity. In the sediment, geoaccumulation index (I_geo), contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), and ecological risk index (ERI) were calculated. The estimated daily dietary intake (EDI) for As, Cd, Cr, Mn, Pb, and Zn was estimated in adult and children on the basis an average amount of fish consumed by the Indian people and its associated health hazard with was also assessed in terms of target hazard quotients (THQs). The concentration of metals in all the analyzed samples was found higher during pre-monsoon season. While, in case of fish, L. bata species has higher metal accumulation rate during both the seasons than the L. rohita because of their bottom dweller feeding habit. The order of metals in L. bata muscles is Zn > Mn > Pb > Cr > As > Cd. The I_geo value for Zn (2.66 to 3.68) was found to be highest and followed by Cd (1.65 to 3.52) and Pb (1.52 to 2.55) indicating moderate to highly polluted sediment quality. The values of ERI were significantly high during pre-monsoon period and varied from 319 to 557, representing very high metal contamination. From the human health perspective, present study highlighted that the local inhabitants who rely on this valuable pond for fish consumption are exposed chronically to As and Pb pollution due to higher THQ values, especially from the intake of L. bata.

http://ift.tt/2obNtMQ

Metals in Racomitrium lanuginosum from Arctic (SW Spitsbergen, Svalbard archipelago) and alpine (Karkonosze, SW Poland) tundra

Abstract

Arctic-alpine tundra habitats are very vulnerable to the input of relatively small amounts of xenobiotics, and thus their level in such areas must be carefully controlled. Therefore, we collected the terrestrial widespread moss Racomitrium lanuginosum (Hedw.) Brid. in Spitsbergen in the Arctic moss lichen tundra and, for comparison, in the Arctic-alpine tundra in the Karkonosze (SW Poland). Concentrations of the elements Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Li, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn in this species and in the parent rock material were measured. We tested the following hypothesis: R. lanuginosum from Spitsbergen contains lower metal levels than the species from the Karkonosze collected at altitudes influenced by long-range transport from former Black Triangle industry. Principal component and classification analysis (PCCA) ordination revealed that mosses of Spitsbergen were distinguished by a significantly higher Na concentration of marine spray origin and mosses of Karkonosze were distinguished by significantly higher concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Li, Mn, Pb, V, and Zn probably from long-range atmospheric transport. The influence of the polar station with a waste incinerator resulted in significantly higher Co, Li, and Ni concentrations in neighbouring mosses in comparison with this species from other sites. This investigation contributes to the use of R. lanuginosum as a bioindicator for metal contamination in Arctic and alpine tundra regions characterised by severe climate habitats with a restricted number of species. This moss enables the control of pollution usually brought solely by long-range atmospheric transport in high mountains as well as in Arctic areas.

http://ift.tt/2olPu8i

Comparison of emerging contaminants in receiving waters downstream of a conventional wastewater treatment plant and a forest-water reuse system

Abstract

Forest-water reuse (FWR) systems treat municipal, industrial, and agricultural wastewaters via land application to forest soils. Previous studies have shown that both large-scale conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and FWR systems do not completely remove many contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) before release of treated wastewater. To better characterize CECs and potential for increased implementation of FWR systems, FWR systems need to be directly compared to conventional WWTPs. In this study, both a quantitative, targeted analysis and a nontargeted analysis were utilized to better understand how CECs release to waterways from an FWR system compared to a conventional treatment system. Quantitatively, greater concentrations and total mass load of CECs was exhibited downstream of the conventional WWTP compared to the FWR. Average summed concentrations of 33 targeted CECs downstream of the conventional system were ~ 1000 ng/L and downstream of the FWR were ~ 30 ng/L. From a nontargeted chemical standpoint, more tentatively identified chemicals were present, and at a greater relative abundance, downstream of the conventional system as well. Frequently occurring contaminants included phthalates, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals. These data indicate that FWR systems represent a sustainable wastewater treatment alternative and that emerging contaminant release to waterways was lower at a FWR system than a conventional WWTP.

http://ift.tt/2odgUhD

Detection of anabolic androgenic steroid use by elite athletes and by members of the general public

Publication date: 15 March 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Volume 464
Author(s): Bradley D. Anawalt
Because national and international sports competitions are sources of community pride and financial revenue, there have been great efforts to prevent and detect the use of performance-enhancing drugs such as anabolic androgenic steroids by elite athletes. The World Anti-Doping Agency and its national affiliate anti-doping agencies have created sophisticated monitoring systems and advanced testing techniques to detect the use of banned substances including anabolic androgenic steroids by participants in international and national athletic competitions. The creation of a longitudinal monitoring program known as the biological passport is a recent, important development in the efforts to prevent and detect the use of banned performance-enhancing drugs and methods. The biological passport program consists of the measurement of urinary and blood markers of anabolic androgenic steroid use (and other banned drugs or methods) at baseline and at random times. A panel of experts reviews the longitudinal data and interprets the likelihood of the use of banned drugs and methods. These advances in anti-doping appear to be highly effective, but some athletes persist in their efforts to cheat the detection process.In addition, some members of the general public use anabolic androgenic steroids for a variety of reasons including to improve physical appearance or to enhance performance in athletics. Clinicians must depend on clinical acumen and the measurement of serum testosterone and gonadotropins to guide them in making a tentative diagnosis of anabolic androgenic steroid use. Definitive diagnosis requires that the patient disclose the use of the drugs.Because anabolic androgenic steroids are effective for improving certain aspects of physical performance, some elite athletes (and members of the general public) will continue to use these drugs. Effective efforts to curtail the use of these drugs will require decreasing the ease of access to them, continued advancements in laboratory techniques, and perhaps a shift in societal approbation for athletic performance and muscular appearance.

http://ift.tt/2ogUriO

Editorial Board

Publication date: 15 March 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Volume 464

http://ift.tt/2odlBb5

Adverse health effects of androgen use

Publication date: 15 March 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Volume 464
Author(s): Anna Goldman, Shehzad Basaria
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are performance enhancing drugs commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders to improve appearance and athletic capability. Unfortunately, these testosterone derivatives can be associated with serious and potentially irreversible side effects, and can impact multiple organ systems. It is important that physicians be familiar with these adverse consequences so that they can appropriately counsel patients whom they suspect of AAS-abuse. In this chapter, we will review the negative effects of these compounds on various organ systems in men using AAS.

http://ift.tt/2oikczb

Use of growth hormone, IGF-I, and insulin for anabolic purpose: Pharmacological basis, methods of detection, and adverse effects

Publication date: 15 March 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Volume 464
Author(s): Lindsey J. Anderson, Jamie M. Tamayose, Jose M. Garcia
Hormones with anabolic properties such as growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), and insulin are commonly abused among professional and recreational athletes to enhance physical ability. Performance enhancing drugs (PEDs) such as these are also commonly used by recreational athletes to improve body aesthetics. The perception of increased muscle mass due to supraphysiologic hormone supplementation, or doping, is widespread among PED users despite a paucity of evidence-based data in humans. Even still, athletes will continue to abuse PEDs in hopes of replicating anecdotal results. It is important to educate the general public and potential treating physicians of the risks of PED use, including the dangers of polypharmacy and substance dependence. It will also be important for the research community to address the common challenges associated with studying PED use such as the ethical considerations of PED administration, the general reticence of the PED-using community to volunteer information, and the constant need to improve or create new detection methods as athletes continually attempt to circumvent current methods. This review highlights the anabolic mechanisms and suggestive data implicating GH, IGF-I, and insulin for use as PEDs, the specific detection methods with cutoff ranges that may be utilized to diagnose abuse of each substance, and their respective side effects.

http://ift.tt/2obu3ru

Pyk2 deficiency potentiates osteoblast differentiation and mineralizing activity in response to estrogen or raloxifene

Publication date: Available online 8 February 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
Author(s): Sumana Posritong, Jung Min Hong, Pierre P. Eleniste, Patrick W. McIntyre, Jennifer L. Wu, Evan R. Himes, Vruti Patel, Melissa A. Kacena, Angela Bruzzaniti
Bone remodeling is controlled by the actions of bone-degrading osteoclasts and bone-forming osteoblasts (OBs). Aging and loss of estrogen after menopause affects bone mass and quality. Estrogen therapy, including selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), can prevent bone loss and increase bone mineral density in post-menopausal women. Although investigations of the effects of estrogen on osteoclast activity are well advanced, the mechanism of action of estrogen on OBs is still unclear. The proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2) is important for bone formation and female mice lacking Pyk2 (Pyk2-KO) exhibit elevated bone mass, increased bone formation rate and reduced osteoclast activity. Therefore, in the current study, we examined the role of estrogen signaling on the mechanism of action of Pyk2 in OBs. As expected, Pyk2-KO OBs showed significantly higher proliferation, matrix formation, and mineralization than WT OBs. In addition we found that Pyk2-KO OBs cultured in the presence of either 17β-estradiol (E2) or raloxifene, a SERM used for the treatment of post-menopausal osteoporosis, showed a further robust increase in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineralization. We examined the possible mechanism of action and found that Pyk2 deletion promotes the proteasome-mediated degradation of estrogen receptor α (ERα), but not estrogen receptor β (ERβ). As a consequence, E2 signaling via ERβ was enhanced in Pyk2-KO OBs. In addition, we found that Pyk2 deletion and E2 stimulation had an additive effect on ERK phosphorylation, which is known to stimulate cell differentiation and survival. Our findings suggest that in the absence of Pyk2, estrogen exerts an osteogenic effect on OBs through altered ERα and ERβ signaling. Thus, targeting Pyk2, in combination with estrogen or raloxifene, may be a novel strategy for the prevention and/or treatment of bone loss diseases.

http://ift.tt/2oiAAjq

Epigenomic drugs and the germline: Collateral damage in the home of heritability?

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
Author(s): Patrick S. Western
The testis and ovary provide specialised environments that nurture germ cells and facilitate their maturation, culminating in the production of mature gametes that can found the following generation. The sperm and egg not only transmit genetic information, but also epigenetic modifications that affect the development and physiology of offspring. Importantly, the epigenetic information contained in mature sperm and oocytes can be influenced by a range of environmental factors, such as diet, chemicals and drugs. An increasing range of studies are revealing how gene-environment interactions are mediated through the germline. Outside the germline, altered epigenetic state is common in a range of diseases, including many cancers. As epigenetic modifications are reversible, pharmaceuticals that directly target epigenetic modifying proteins have been developed and are delivering substantial benefits to patients, particularly in oncology. While providing the most effective patient treatment is clearly the primary concern, some patients will want to conceive children after treatment. However, the impacts of epigenomic drugs on the male and female gametes are poorly understood and whether these drugs will have lasting effects on patients' germline epigenome and subsequent offspring remains largely undetermined. Currently, evidence based clinical guidelines for use of epigenomic drugs in patients of reproductive age are limited in this context. Developing a deeper understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms regulating the germline epigenome and its impact on inherited traits and disease susceptibility is required to determine how specific epigenomic drugs might affect the germline and inheritance. Understanding these potential effects will facilitate the development of informed clinical guidelines appropriate for the use of epigenomic drugs in patients of reproductive age, ultimately improving the safety of these therapies in the clinic.

http://ift.tt/2oekJmw

Home-based contact immunotherapy with diphenylcyclopropenone for alopecia areata is as effective and safe as clinic-based treatment in patients with stable disease: A retrospective study of 40 patients

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Solam Lee, Won-Soo Lee

http://ift.tt/2HvQ8J9

Crowdsourcing dermatology: DataDerm, big data analytics, and machine learning technology

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Andrew J. Park, Justin M. Ko, Robert A. Swerlick

http://ift.tt/2GtMXAB

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2Hu2SQF

Forehead horizontal primary closure: A retrospective analysis of 25 cases assessing for long-term eyebrow asymmetry

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Logan M. Skelley, Daniel S. Winchester, Randall K. Roenigk

http://ift.tt/2GsPdYI

Information for Readers

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2FhcU7e

JAAD Case Reports Article List

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2GuWLuf

Satisfaction with care and likelihood to recommend ratings attributed to dermatology trainees

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Laura E. McDermott, Margaretta Midura, Vassiliki Papagermanos, Joslyn Kirby, Karolyn A. Wanat, Leah T. Belazarian, Cory Dunnick, Jessica S. Mounessa, Stephanie A. Savory, Nidhi Avashia-Khemka, Andrew Strunk, Amit Garg

http://ift.tt/2FhcTQI

Journal Based CME Instructions and Information

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2GteDp4

Maintenance of Certification: A grandfatherly ethical analysis

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Benjamin K. Stoff, Lionel Bercovitch, Jane M. Grant-Kels

http://ift.tt/2Hw3d5x

Editorial Board

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2GpjGHh

CME examination

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2Hw3bKX

Frontal fibrosing alopecia and cutaneous comorbidities: A potential relationship with rosacea

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Cristina Pindado-Ortega, David Saceda-Corralo, Diego Buendía-Castaño, Pablo Fernández-González, Óscar M. Monero-Arrones, Pablo Fonda-Pascual, Ana R. Rodrigues-Barata, Pedro Jaén-Olasolo, Sergio Vañó-Galván

http://ift.tt/2Gqv71u

Answers to CME examination

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2Hx48Ti

Comparison of cyclic and continuous 308-nm excimer laser treatments for vitiligo: A randomized controlled noninferiority trial

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Jae Min Sung, Jung Min Bae, Hee Young Kang

http://ift.tt/2z2FmWJ

Weight change and risk of onychomycosis: A nationwide cohort study in Korea

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Seong Jun Ha, Kyung Do Han, Yumee Song, Ji Hyun Lee

http://ift.tt/2HtyS7u

CME examination

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2GsSWpm

Risk of melanoma in patients with multiple myeloma: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results population-based study

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Timothy W. Chang, Amy L. Weaver, Jerry D. Brewer, Robert A. Kyle, Christian L. Baum

http://ift.tt/2Fdh4wF

Answers to CME examination

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3

http://ift.tt/2GsyAg3

The ethics of medical marijuana in dermatology

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Walter Liszewski, Benjamin K. Stoff, Ronda S. Farah

http://ift.tt/2Ffxg0h

Merkel cell carcinoma: Current US incidence and projected increases based on changing demographics

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 3
Author(s): Kelly G. Paulson, Song Youn Park, Natalie A. Vandeven, Kristina Lachance, Hannah Thomas, Aude G. Chapuis, Kelly L. Harms, John A. Thompson, Shailender Bhatia, Andreas Stang, Paul Nghiem
BackgroundMerkel cell carcinoma (MCC) incidence rates are rising and strongly age-associated, relevant for an aging population.ObjectiveDetermine MCC incidence in the United States and project incident cases through the year 2025.MethodsRegistry data were obtained from the SEER-18 Database, containing 6600 MCC cases. Age- and sex-adjusted projections were generated using US census data.ResultsDuring 2000-2013, the number of reported solid cancer cases increased 15%, melanoma cases increased 57%, and MCC cases increased 95%. In 2013, the MCC incidence rate was 0.7 cases/100,000 person-years in the United States, corresponding to 2488 cases/year. MCC incidence increased exponentially with age, from 0.1 to 1.0 to 9.8 (per 100,000 person-years) among age groups 40-44 years, 60-64 years, and ≥85 years, respectively. Due to aging of the Baby Boomer generation, US MCC incident cases are predicted to climb to 2835 cases/year in 2020 and 3284 cases/year in 2025.LimitationsWe assumed that the age-adjusted incidence rate would stabilize, and thus, the number of incident cases we projected might be an underestimate.ConclusionAn aging population is driving brisk increases in the number of new MCC cases in the United States. This growing impact combined with the rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape warrants expanded awareness of MCC diagnosis and management.

http://ift.tt/2Gs5ZHH

Fluorescence quenching of MoS 2 nanosheets/DNA/silicon dot nanoassembly: effective and rapid detection of Hg 2+ ions in aqueous solution

Abstract

Mercury (Hg) contamination of aquatic sites represents a serious risk for human health and the environment. Therefore, effective and rapid monitoring of Hg in aqueous samples is a challenge of timely importance nowadays. In the present study, a rapid and sensitive mercury sensor based on the fluorescence quenching of MoS₂ nanosheets/DNA/silicon dot nanoassembly has been developed for the efficient detection of mercury(II) in aquatic environments. In this process, silicon dots were synthesized through one-step high-temperature calcinations and thermomagnesium reduction method at 900 °C using rice husk as a silicon source, which demonstrates superior photophysical properties and excitation-dependent fluorescence behavior. The interaction between MoS₂ nanosheets/DNA/silicon dot nanoassembly and Hg²⁺ ions was studied using photoluminescence spectroscopy. The addition of Hg²⁺ ions to the assay solution induced the detachment of fluorescent probe from the surface of MoS₂ nanosheets. Thus, the fluorescent probes sustained its fluorescence intensity. The developed sensor was tested on various concentrations of Hg²⁺ ions ranging from 0 to 1000 nM as well as on various metal ions. In addition, MoS₂ nanosheets/DNA/silicon dot nanoassembly fluorescent Hg sensor efficiently detected the presence of Hg²⁺ ions in real-time water samples, which was comparably detected by the conventional atomic absorbance spectrometer (AAS). Overall, our results highlighted the high reliability of the present approach for environmental monitoring of Hg²⁺ ions, if compared to that of the customary method with a lowest detection limit of 0.86 nM.

http://ift.tt/2GrdRJo

Larvicidal activity of selected plant extracts and their combination against the mosquito vectors Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti

Abstract

In order to develop an environment-friendly botanical mosquito larvicide alternative to the chemical larvicides, extracts were made from the leaves of Hyptis suaveolens, Lantana camara, Nerium oleander, and Tecoma stans with three organic solvents such as methanol (ME), chloroform (CH), and petroleum ether (PE) using a Soxhlet extractor. The plant extracts were screened for larvicidal activity individually and in combination against the larvae of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus as per WHO protocol. Among the extracts, the maximum larvicidal activity was shown by the PE extract of L. camara (LC₅₀ 10.63 mg/L) followed by the PE extract of T. stans (LC₅₀ 19.26 mg/L), ME extract of N. oleander (LC₅₀ 35.82 mg/L), and PE extract of H. suaveolens (LC₅₀ 38.39 mg/L) against Cx. quinquefasciatus. In the case of Ae. aegypti, the PE extract of T. stans showed maximum activity with LC₅₀ value of 55.41 mg/L followed by H. suaveolens (LC₅₀ 64.49 mg/L), PE extract of L. camara (LC₅₀ 74.93 mg/L), and ME extract of N. oleander (LC₅₀ 84.09). A blend of these four extracts resulted in a combination with corresponding LC₅₀ values of 4.32 and 7.19 mg/L against Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. aegypti. The predator safety factors were 12.55 and 20.88 for Gambusia affinis with respect to Aedes and Culex larvae for the extract combination. Chemical constituents in extracts were also identified by FT-IR and GC-MS data. The present investigations suggest the possible use of this blend of botanical extracts as an ideal ecofriendly, larvicide against Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae.

http://ift.tt/2HtmqVv

Improving photoelectrochemical reduction of Cr(VI) ions by building α-Fe 2 O 3 /TiO 2 electrode

Abstract

Photoelectrochemical process is an environmentally friendly technology and has a wide application in the control of environmental pollutants. Efficient nanophotocatalysts responsive to visible light are still highly attractive. In this work, α-Fe₂O₃/TiO₂ were grown on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates by hydrothermal method for photoelectrochemical reduction of Cr(VI). Compared with the separate α-Fe₂O₃ and TiO₂ electrodes, the composite α-Fe₂O₃/TiO₂ electrodes show higher photocurrent density. Under visible light irradiation, 100% removal efficiency of Cr(VI) was obtained after 40 min treatment. The composite α-Fe₂O₃/TiO₂ electrodes showed an enhanced absorbance in visible light region and had good stability to photoelectrochemical reduction of Cr(VI). The role of hole scavengers (citric acid and oxalic acid) and pH values was systematically investigated. This novel intensification approach provides new insight on the application of photoelectrochemical reduction in environmental remediation.

http://ift.tt/2GuNqm9

Mediative mechanism of bicarbonate on anaerobic propionate degradation revealed by microbial community and thermodynamics

Abstract

Syntrophic acetogenesis of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) such as propionate and butyrate is considered as the rate-limiting step of anaerobic digestion. Though being extensively researched, the mechanism is not well understood as the main constraint on developing effective solutions to the practical problem. In the present research work, the mediation of methanogenic propionate degradation by exogenous bicarbonate was evaluated, while the mechanism was revealed by microbial community and thermodynamics. It was found that the exogenous bicarbonate not more than 0.10 mol/L acted as a mediative role to enrich syntrophic acetogenic bacteria and decrease the actual Gibbs free energy change (ΔG) of syntrophic acetogenesis reaction, resulted in the increased degradation rate and methane production rate of propionate. The remarkably increased ΔG of methanogenic propionate degradation by the exogenous bicarbonate more than 0.15 mol/L decreased the degradation rate and methane production rate of propionate, though the ΔG of syntrophic acetogenesis reaction was also decreased by the exogenous bicarbonate. This research work provided a control strategy to enhance syntrophic acetogenesis, as well as the methanogenic VFAs degradation.

http://ift.tt/2HrGIhY

Role of soil physicochemical properties in quantifying the fate of diuron, hexazinone, and metribuzin

Abstract

The physicochemical properties of soil are fundamental to quantification of the fate of herbicides. Thus, the aim of this research was to evaluate the fate of diuron, hexazinone, and metribuzin in five soils (Clay-1, Clay-2, Loam-1, Loam-2, and Sand), presenting variation in clay content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), pH, and organic carbon (OC). Herbicides radiolabeled with ¹⁴C were applied, and the ¹⁴C–CO₂ released from mineralization was trapped in 0.2 mol L⁻¹ sodium hydroxide solution. The degradation ratio, as well as herbicide-bound residues (non-extractable), transformation products, and residues extractable from soil, was also evaluated. Average ¹⁴C–CO₂ evolution accumulated for diuron mineralization was higher (22.24%) than hexazinone (7.73%) and metribuzin (3.20%). The degradation time half-life (DT50) values for hexazinone correlated with soil OC content. Although no correlation between soil properties and DT50 values was found for metribuzin, the degradation rate and total degree of mineralization were low in sand soil for metribuzin. Regarding diuron, OC content and CEC value appear to be related to mineralization and degradation rate, respectively. Differences in soil properties can influence the persistence and fate of herbicides, affecting their impact on the environment, weed control, and possible effects on subsequent crops.

http://ift.tt/2GuNp1z

Rhizospheric effects on atrazine speciation and degradation in laterite soils of Pennisetum alopecuroides (L.) Spreng

Abstract

Atrazine (2-chloro-4-ethylamino-6-isopropylamino-1,3,5-triazine) is a worldwide-used herbicide and often detected in agricultural soils and groundwater at concentrations above the permitted limit, because of its high mobility, persistence, and massive application. This study applied pot experiments to investigate the atrazine contents and speciation during the phytoremediation process by Pennisetum alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. in laterite soils. From the change of the total atrazine and bioavailable atrazine measured by diffusive gradients in thin film (DGT), P. alopecuroides significantly improved atrazine degradation efficiency from 15.22 to 51.46%, attributing to the increasing bioavailable atrazine in rhizosphere. Only a small amount of atrazine was taken up by P. alopecuroides root and the acropetal translocation from roots to shoots was limited. The atrazine speciation was significantly different between rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere, attributing to the declining pH and organic matters in rhizosphere. The relationship between pH and soil-bound/humus-fixed atrazine illustrated the pH-dependant release of the atrazine from soils and the competition between humus adsorption and uptake by P. alopecuroides. The present study reveals the important roles of soil pH and organic matters in atrazine speciation and availability in laterite soils, and provides new insights in the rhizospheric effects on effective phytoremediation of atrazine.

http://ift.tt/2HwFEt0

Effect of spent mushroom substrate as a bulking agent on gaseous emissions and compost quality during pig manure composting

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the gaseous emissions (CH₄, N₂O, and NH₃) and compost quality during the pig manure composting by adding spent mushroom substrate (SMS) as a bulking agent. The control treatment was also studied using corn stalk (CS) as a bulking agent. The experiment was conducted in a pilot scale composting reactor under aerobic condition with the initial C/N ratio of 20. Results showed that bulking agents significantly affected gaseous emissions and compost quality. Using SMS as a bulking agent improved composting efficiency by shortening the time for maturity. SMS increased germination index and humic acid of the final compost (by 13.44 and 41.94%, respectively) compared with CS. Furthermore, composting with SMS as a bulking agent could reduce nitrogen loss, NH₃, and N₂O emissions (by 13.57, 35.56, and 46.48%, respectively) compared with the control. SMS slightly increased CH₄ emission about 1.1 times of the CS. However, a 33.95% decrease in the global warming potential of CH₄ and N₂O was obtained by adding SMS treatment. These results indicate that SMS is a favorable bulking agent for reducing gaseous emissions and increasing compost quality.

http://ift.tt/2GrsOuU

Morphological diversity and function of the stigma in Ficus species (Moraceae)

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Acta Oecologica
Author(s): Simone Pádua Teixeira, Marina F.B. Costa, João Paulo Basso-Alves, Finn Kjellberg, Rodrigo A.S. Pereira
The stigma plays several roles such as pollen hydration and selection, and pollen tube nutrition. In the Ficus-fig wasp mutualism, stigmata have an additional, almost unknown, function by representing a physical interface for both plant and wasp reproduction. We used light and electron microscopy to compare the detailed morphology of the stigmata of nine Ficus species of different sections and with different pollination modes and sexual expressions. Figs were collected at the stage when the stigmata were receptive for pollination. Stigmata in actively pollinated monoecious species have well developed papillae concentrated on the adaxial surface exposed towards the fig cavity. Conversely, the passively pollinated monoecious species have the whole surface of the stigmata covered by somewhat smaller papillae. In both actively and passively pollinated monoecious species these features are consistent, irrespective of style length. In all actively pollinated gynodioecious species, the stigmata of pistillate flowers were tubular or infundibuliform whereas in almost all actively pollinated monoecious species (except F. racemosa) the stigmata were filiform, with one branch or two asymmetric branches. In gynodioecious species the short-styled flowers in "male" figs show a limited receptive surface with small papillae, while the stigmata of long-styled flowers in "female" figs are covered by papillae that extend down the sides of the style, increasing the stigmatic surface. In actively pollinated species, stigmata are cohesive, forming a common surface for pollen tube germination (= synstigma). The synstigma arrangement was quite variable: lax, cohesive or very cohesive, with entanglement by stigmatic papillae and stylar trichomes. Entanglement by stylar trichomes is common in gynodioecious species. The synstigma arrangement did not correlate with phylogeny or breeding system. This study is the first to report a very loose synstigma in actively pollinated monoecious Ficus species. Our analyses revealed that, in Ficus, the synstigma is functionally analogous to an extra-gynoecial compitum. Comparative studies will be required to test further hypotheses about the evolutionary determinants of such variation.

http://ift.tt/2FfrprP

Revisiting energy intensity convergence: new evidence from OECD countries

Abstract

In this study, we examine the energy intensity convergence in OECD countries within the context of recent developments in unit root analysis by paying attention to modeling structural shifts. We collect the total primary energy consumption/GDP data of 27 OECD countries during the period 1980–2014. The findings indicate that controlling for shifts plays a crucial role, and different approximations in modeling breaks lead to changes in inferences. In conclusion, we present some policy proposals.

http://ift.tt/2HtDPgH

Targeting CD6 for the treatment of experimental autoimmune uveitis

Publication date: Available online 19 February 2018
Source:Journal of Autoimmunity
Author(s): Lingjun Zhang, Yan Li, Wen Qiu, Brent A. Bell, Nina Dvorina, William M. Baldwin, Nora Singer, Timothy Kern, Rachel R. Caspi, David A. Fox, Feng Lin
ObjectiveCD6 is emerging as a new target for treating many pathological conditions in which T cells are integrally involved, but even the latest data from studies of CD6 gene engineered mice were still contradictory. To address this issue, we studied experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), a model of autoimmune uveitis, in wild-type (WT) and CD6 knockout (KO) mice.MethodsAfter EAU induction in WT and CD6 KO mice, we evaluated ocular inflammation and compared retinal antigen-specific T-cell responses using scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, histopathology, and T cell recall assays. Uveitogenic T cells from WT and CD6 KO mice were adoptively transferred into WT naïve mice to confirm the impact of CD6 on T cells. In addition, we immunized CD6 KO mice with recombinant CD6 protein to develop mouse anti-mouse CD6 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in which functional antibodies exhibiting cross-reactivity with human CD6 were screened and identified for treatment studies.ResultsIn CD6 KO mice with EAU, we found significantly decreased retinal inflammation and reduced autoreactive T-cell responses, and confirmed the impaired uveitogenic capacity of T cells from these mice in an adoptive transfer experiment. Notably, one of these cross-reactive mAbs significantly ameliorated retinal inflammation in EAU induced by the adoptive transfer of uveitogenic T cells.ConclusionsTogether, these data strongly suggest that CD6 plays a previously unknown, but pivotal role in autoimmune uveitis, and may be a promising new treatment target for this blinding disease. In addition, the newly developed mouse anti-mouse/human CD6 mAbs could be valuable tools for testing CD6-targeted therapies in other mouse models of human diseases.

http://ift.tt/2Gp6uCf

Nitrogen and phosphorus dual-doped carbon dots as a label-free sensor for Curcumin determination in real sample and cellular imaging

Publication date: 1 June 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 183
Author(s): Yang Liu, Xiaojuan Gong, Wenjuan Dong, Ruixin Zhou, Shaomin Shuang, Chuan Dong
A nitrogen and phosphorus dual-doped carbon dots (NP-Cdots) was fastly synthesized with glucose as the carbon source, 1,2-ethylenediamine as N-dopant and concentrated phosphoric acid as P-dopant. The as-synthesized NP-Cdots was utilized as a label-free sensor for determination of Curcumin (Cur). The proposed NP-Cdots-based fluorescence sensor was applied for sensitive detection of Cur in aqueous solution, achieving a linear range of 0.5–20 µmol/L and a detection limit of 58 nmol/L (21.37 ng/mL). The common amino acids and other drugs do not interfere with the detection of Cur, providing good selectivity. The constructed sensor was successfully applied to the determination of Cur in drinking water and the food samples with satisfactory results and the RSDs and recoveries were 0.08–5.39% and 95.2–105.2%, respectively. More importantly, the as-prepared NP-Cdots was used as effective fluorescent agent for cellular imaging without noticeable cytotoxicity. The proposed sensor is simple and practical, illustrating that the potential application of NP-Cdots for biosensing, food monitoring and cellular labeling and imaging.

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A review of flow analysis methods for determination of radionuclides in nuclear wastes and nuclear reactor coolants

Publication date: 1 June 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 183
Author(s): Marek Trojanowicz, Kamila Kołacińska, Jay W. Grate
The safety and security of nuclear power plant operations depend on the application of the most appropriate techniques and methods of chemical analysis, where modern flow analysis methods prevail. Nevertheless, the current status of the development of these methods is more limited than it might be expected based on their genuine advantages.The main aim of this paper is to review the automated flow analysis procedures developed with various detection methods for the nuclear energy industry. The flow analysis methods for the determination of radionuclides, that have been reported to date, are primarily focused on their environmental applications. The benefits of the application of flow methods in both monitoring of the nuclear wastes and process analysis of the primary circuit coolants of light water nuclear reactors will also be discussed.The application of either continuous flow methods (CFA) or injection methods (FIA, SIA) of the flow analysis with the β-radiometric detection shortens the analysis time and improves the precision of determination due to mechanization of certain time-consuming operations of the sample processing. Compared to the radiometric detection, the mass spectrometry (MS) detection enables one to perform multicomponent analyses as well as the determination of transuranic isotopes with much better limits of detection.

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http://ift.tt/2ETwWXm

Tube radial distribution chromatography system developed by combining commercially available HPLC system and open-tubular capillary tube as separation column

Publication date: 1 June 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 183
Author(s): Kento Yamada, Hyo Kan, Kazuhiko Tsukagoshi
Tube radial distribution chromatography based on tube radial distribution flow, or annular flow, in an open-tubular capillary has been reported, where the annular flow is created through phase separation multiphase flow. The chromatographic system requires some specific instruments and treatments for microfluidic flow in the capillary tube. In this study, we developed a new set-up for tube radial distribution chromatography by combining a commercially available HPLC system with an open-tubular capillary tube (with an inner diameter of 100 µm) as a separation column instead of a conventional packed column. The analyte solution was injected with an injection valve (2 μL volume) and a ternary solution of water/acetonitrile/ethyl acetate (3:8:2 vol ratio) was delivered as the eluent to the capillary tube at a flow rate of 8.6 μL min⁻¹. The chromatographic system, that is, the HPLC system equipped with the open-tubular capillary tube, could successfully separate the model analytes, 1-naphthol, 1-naphthalenesulfonic acid, and 2,6-naphthalenedisulfonic acid, with base-line separation. The inner and outer phases in the annular flow worked as the mobile and pseudo-stationary phases, respectively, in the tube radial distribution chromatography system. The experimentally obtained elution times of the analytes were compared with their corresponding theoretical values calculated using their capacity factors for the inner and outer phases and the linear flow velocities of the respective phases.

http://ift.tt/2sGpGcA

A fast and simple air-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction procedure for the simultaneous determination of bisphenols, parabens, benzophenones, triclosan, and triclocarban in human urine by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Publication date: 1 June 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 183
Author(s): Bruno Alves Rocha, Anderson Rodrigo Moraes de Oliveira, Fernando Barbosa
The increasing awareness and public concern with hazard exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals calls for methods capable to handle numerous samples in short analysis time. In this present study, a novel method combining air-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry was developed and validated for the extraction, preconcentration, and determination of 7 bisphenols (bisphenol A, bisphenol S, bisphenol AP, bisphenol P, bisphenol F, bisphenol AF, bisphenol Z), 7 parabens (methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, butyl-, benzyl-paraben, methyl-protocatechuic acid, and ethyl-protocatechuic acid), 5 benzophenones (benzophenone-1, benzophenone-2, benzophenone-3, benzophenone-8, and 4-hydroxybenzophenone), and two antimicrobials (triclosan and triclocarban) in human urine samples. Type and volume of solvent, extraction time (cycles), pH sample, ionic strength, agitation, and needle dimensions were evaluated. The matrix-matched calibration curves of all analytes were linear with correlation coefficients higher than 0.99 in the range level of 1.0–20.0 ng mL⁻¹. The relative standard deviation, precision, at three concentrations (1.0, 10.0 and 20.0 ng mL⁻¹) was lower than 15% with accuracy ranging from 90% to 114%. The biomonitoring capability of the new proposed method was confirmed with the analysis of 50 human urine samples randomly collected from Brazilian children. High urinary concentrations of several EDCs associated with usage of personal care products were found.

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Revisiting Reverse Remodeling After Aortic Valve Replacement for Aortic Stenosis

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JACC Instructions for Authors

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Tet2-Mediated Clonal Hematopoiesis Accelerates Heart Failure Through a Mechanism Involving the IL-1{beta}/NLRP3 Inflammasome

AbstractBackground

Recent studies have shown that hematopoietic stem cells can undergo clonal expansion secondary to somatic mutations in leukemia-related genes, thus leading to an age-dependent accumulation of mutant leukocytes in the blood. This somatic mutation-related clonal hematopoiesis is common in healthy older individuals, but it has been associated with an increased incidence of future cardiovascular disease. The epigenetic regulator TET2 is frequently mutated in blood cells of individuals exhibiting clonal hematopoiesis.

Objectives

This study investigated whether Tet2 mutations within hematopoietic cells can contribute to heart failure in 2 models of cardiac injury.

Methods

Heart failure was induced in mice by pressure overload, achieved by transverse aortic constriction or chronic ischemia induced by the permanent ligation of the left anterior descending artery. Competitive bone marrow transplantation strategies with Tet2-deficient cells were used to mimic TET2 mutation-driven clonal hematopoiesis. Alternatively, Tet2 was specifically ablated in myeloid cells using Cre recombinase expressed from the LysM promoter.

Results

In both experimental heart failure models, hematopoietic or myeloid Tet2 deficiency worsened cardiac remodeling and function, in parallel with increased interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) expression. Treatment with a selective NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor protected against the development of heart failure and eliminated the differences in cardiac parameters between Tet2-deficient and wild-type mice.

Conclusions

Tet2 deficiency in hematopoietic cells is associated with greater cardiac dysfunction in murine models of heart failure as a result of elevated IL-1β signaling. These data suggest that individuals with TET2-mediated clonal hematopoiesis may be at greater risk of developing heart failure and respond better to IL-1β–NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition.

http://ift.tt/2oh0LqE

PCSK9 as a Positive Modulator of Platelet Activation

http://ift.tt/2oi9iK4

Effect of NT-proBNP-Guided Therapy on All-Cause Mortality in Chronic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

http://ift.tt/2obwnyF

Reverse Myocardial Remodeling Following Valve Replacement in Patients With Aortic Stenosis

AbstractBackground

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, a key process in human cardiac disease, results from cellular (hypertrophy) and extracellular matrix expansion (interstitial fibrosis).

Objectives

This study sought to investigate whether human myocardial interstitial fibrosis in aortic stenosis (AS) is plastic and can regress.

Methods

Patients with symptomatic, severe AS (n = 181; aortic valve area index 0.4 ± 0.1 cm²/m²) were assessed pre–aortic valve replacement (AVR) by echocardiography (AS severity, diastology), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) (for volumes, function, and focal or diffuse fibrosis), biomarkers (N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide and high-sensitivity troponin T), and the 6-min walk test. CMR was used to measure the extracellular volume fraction (ECV), thereby deriving matrix volume (LV mass x ECV) and cell volume (LV mass x [1 – ECV]). Biopsy excluded occult bystander disease. Assessment was repeated at 1 year post-AVR.

Results

At 1 year post-AVR in 116 pacemaker-free survivors (age 70 ± 10 years; 54% male), mean valve gradient had improved (48 ± 16 mm Hg to 12 ± 6 mm Hg; p < 0.001), and indexed LV mass had regressed by 19% (88 ± 26 g/m² to 71 ± 19 g/m²; p < 0.001). Focal fibrosis by CMR late gadolinium enhancement did not change, but ECV increased (28.2 ± 2.9% to 29.9 ± 4.0%; p < 0.001): this was the result of a 16% reduction in matrix volume (25 ± 9 ml/m² to 21 ± 7 ml/m²; p < 0.001) but a proportionally greater 22% reduction in cell volume (64 ± 18 ml/m² to 50 ± 13 ml/m²; p < 0.001). These changes were accompanied by improvement in diastolic function, N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide, 6-min walk test results, and New York Heart Association functional class.

Conclusions

Post-AVR, focal fibrosis does not resolve, but diffuse fibrosis and myocardial cellular hypertrophy regress. Regression is accompanied by structural and functional improvements suggesting that human diffuse fibrosis is plastic, measurable by CMR and a potential therapeutic target. (Regression of Myocardial Fibrosis After Aortic Valve Replacement; NCT02174471)

http://ift.tt/2ojcDZ7

Revascularization Strategies in Cardiogenic Shock Patients With MVD: For Now, Keep it Simple

http://ift.tt/2obwKcx

Effect of Cocaine on Coronary Microvasculature

http://ift.tt/2obwlXz

Clonal Hematopoiesis Wages War on the Myocardium

http://ift.tt/2obwxGh

Editor-in-Chiefs Top Picks From 2017

Each week, I record audio summaries for every article in JACC, as well as an issue summary. While this process has been time-consuming, I have become quite familiar with every paper that we publish. Thus, I personally select papers (both original investigations and review articles) from 15 distinct specialties each year for your review. In addition to my personal choices, I have included manuscripts that have been the most accessed or downloaded on our websites, as well as those selected by the JACC Editorial Board members. In order to present the full breadth of this important research in a consumable fashion, we will present these manuscripts in this issue of JACC.

The highlights comprise the following sections: Basic & Translational Research, Cardiac Failure, Cardiomyopathies/Myocardial & Pericardial Diseases, Cardio-oncology, Congenital Heart Disease, Coronary Disease & Interventions, CVD Prevention & Health Promotion, Hypertension, Imaging, Metabolic & Lipid Disorders, Rhythm Disorders, Valvular Heart Disease, and Vascular Medicine (1–110).

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Δευτέρα 19 Φεβρουαρίου 2018

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