Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 08/18/18

Σάββατο 18 Αυγούστου 2018

Monitoring of patients with metastatic melanoma treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors using PET–CT

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized therapy of metastatic melanoma. The first ICI was ipilimumab, a cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated Ag 4 (CLTA-4) inhibitor with response rates of approximately 11% and disease control of 22%. The programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, led to longer progression-free survival and overall survival rates with fewer side effects. Molecular imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET–CT) with 2-deoxy-2-(¹⁸F)fluoro-d-glucose (¹⁸F-FDG) are in use for staging and therapy monitoring of metastatic melanoma. However, classical radiological imaging criteria such as RECIST and WHO are not appropriate for the assessment of ICI response. New immune-related criteria have been defined such as iRECIST or irRC, which refer to radiological imaging modalities. Until now only a few studies report on immunotherapy response assessment based on ¹⁸F-FDG PET–CT. The classical criteria used for therapy monitoring with ¹⁸F-FDG PET, such as the EORTC criteria, are not suitable for ICI monitoring. In this focussed review, we present different criteria proposed for ICI monitoring with ¹⁸F-FDG and their limitations. One goal is to early identify non-responders to tailor immunotherapy. Another question is pseudoprogression and how to interpret the ¹⁸F-FDG images for response assessment. Finally, the definition of ¹⁸F-FDG criteria which can be used to identify progress is crucial and discussed in the review. The recent presented PET-based immune-related criteria, the so-called PERCIMT (PET Response Evaluation Criteria for IMmunoTherapy) are presented. Furthermore, new tracers are discussed.

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Top Reviewers

Publication date: September–October 2018

Source: American Journal of Otolaryngology, Volume 39, Issue 5

Author(s):

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Effectiveness of voriconazole and corneal cross-linking on Phialophora verrucosa keratitis: a case report

We report a rare case of Phialophora verrucosa fungal keratitis, which required various types of treatment according to the intractable natural history of the disease.

https://ift.tt/2weSRSr

Synchronous double primary hepatic cancer consisting of hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiolocellular carcinoma: a case report

The incidence of synchronous double primary hepatic cancers is extremely low. Cholangiolocellular carcinoma is also a rare disease.

https://ift.tt/2nQ3eIU

Tuberculous sacroiliitis with secondary psoas abscess in an older patient: a case report

Tuberculosis is the leading infectious cause of death worldwide. Among native Swiss people, tuberculosis is more common in older people than in younger people. Approximately 25–30% of reported cases of tubercu...

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Recurrent hypoglycemia secondary to metformin toxicity in the absence of co-ingestions: a case report

Metformin toxicity is well known to cause lactic acidosis. Multiple cases of hypoglycemia due to isolated metformin overdose have been reported. Increased glucose consumption secondary to anaerobic metabolism ...

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Proximal carpal crease incision for carpal tunnel release: a pilot study

Abstract

Background

Limited palmar incision (PI) is the standard approach for treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Proximal carpal crease incision (CI) is an investigated alternative. The aim of our study was to evaluate safety and results of PI and CI approaches.

Methods

A prospective, randomised, open label pilot study was carried out in the period of November 2011–November 2017. A total of 104 patients were randomised into two groups according to the incision: group 1 (CI) had 33 patients and group 2 (PI) had 71 patients. Measured characteristics are the following: safety, severity of pain, DASH score, hand grip and pinch strength, two-point discrimination test and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test. Data were collected 1 h before surgery, in the early (2–3 weeks after surgery) and late (3–4 months after surgery) post-operative periods. A significance level of 0.05 was considered for testing statistical hypotheses.

Results

We found that CI results in lower early (p = 0.064) and late (p = 0.033) post-operative period pain and better hand function: lower DASH score in early (p = 0.005) and late (p = 0.047) post-operative period and stronger hand pinch in early post-operative period (p = 0.037). However, hand grip strength, two-point discrimination and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test did not reveal any significant differences between the study groups. No major complications appeared in both study groups; thus, both incisions were considered safe.

Conclusions

Pilot study suggests that CI is a safe alternative treatment method of the carpal tunnel syndrome resulting in faster patient recovery after carpal tunnel release.

Level of Evidence: Level I, therapeutic study.

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The changing aetiology of head and neck squamous cell cancer: A tale of three cancers?

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Analysis of gene copy number changes in head and neck cancer

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Decreasing cytokeratin 17 expression in head and neck cancer predicts nodal metastasis and poor prognosis: The first evidence

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Evaluation of an abutment‐level superpower sound processor for bone‐anchored hearing

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Assessing normal values for the FACE‐Q rhinoplasty module: An observational study

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Effects of sumatriptan nasal spray (Imigran) on human nasal mucosa

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Does otitis media in early childhood affect later behavioural development? Results from the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study

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A web‐based prediction score for head and neck cancer referrals

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C‐reactive protein is an independent prognostic marker in patients with tongue carcinoma ‐ A retrospective study

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Hearing aids in patients with vestibular schwannoma: Interest of the auditory brainstem responses

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Reliable sonographic features for nodal thyroglobulin to diagnose recurrent lymph node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma

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Patient‘s perspective on long‐term complications after superficial parotidectomy for benign lesions: Prospective analysis of a 2‐year follow‐up

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High sensitivity and negative predictive value of sentinel lymph node biopsy in a retrospective early stage oral cavity cancer cohort in the Northern Netherlands

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Oesophageal causes of dysphagia localised only to the pharynx: Implications for the suspected head and neck cancer pathway

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Very long‐term Voice Handicap Index Voice Outcomes after Montgomery Thyroplasty: A cross‐sectional study

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A meta‐analysis on the surgical management of paraganglioma of the carotid body per Shamblin class

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Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma induces an innate systemic inflammation, affected by the size of the tumour and the lymph node spread

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Hard onset therapy for functional hypoadduction and presbylaryngis: Our experience in 22 patients

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Use of an autologous bony crossbar graft for the management of caudal septal deviation: Our experience in twenty‐two patients

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Cochlear dead regions: Using the Threshold Equalising Noise (TEN) test to improve the assessment of potential cochlear implant candidates—The Oxford experience

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Use of Vascularized Fibular Free Flap in the Reconstruction of the Femur in Pediatric and Adolescent Bone Sarcomas: Complications and Functional Outcome

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1668142

Background Most reports on skeletal reconstruction using vascularized fibular free flap include patients with varying age groups and anatomic locations. This study has limited the inclusion criteria to pediatric and adolescent patients diagnosed with bone sarcoma of the femoral shaft. Methods Forty-one patients, diagnosed with a malignant bone tumor of the femoral shaft (21 Ewing's sarcomas and 20 osteosarcomas), were locally treated by joint sparing wide resection and reconstruction using a vascularized fibular free flap. All clinical and radiographic data were reviewed for graft healing and hypertrophy as well as oncologic and functional outcome. Results The mean follow-up period was 48.7 months (12–104 months). The mean age at presentation was 10.3 years (5–17 years). The average length of the resected femoral shaft was 19.2 cm (15–24 cm) and the average length of the harvested fibula was 17.4 cm (15–21 cm). The mean time to union was 4.8 months (1–6 months) and the mean hypertrophy index was 78% (15.5–184%). Complications included 12 fractures (33.3%), 5 non-unions (13.8%), and 5 failures of graft hypertrophy (13.8%). At the latest clinical evaluation, the mean MSTS score was 81% (56–100%) and the mean limb length inequality was 4.75 cm (3–11 cm). Conclusion Despite the high functional demand and deleterious effect of chemotherapy on bone healing, reconstruction of the femur by vascularized fibular free flap in pediatric bone sarcomas can lead to a good functional outcome. Complications, such as fracture and non-union, can be successfully treated by revision of fixation and autologous iliac crest grafting. Level of Evidence IV.
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Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
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Precise One-Suture Needle-Guided Technique for Window Creation in Supermicrosurgical End-to-Side Anastomosis

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1667361

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
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Patient Reported Outcomes Following Lower Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma Resection with Microsurgical Preservation of Ambulation

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1668116

Background Lower extremity soft tissue sarcoma treatment has evolved from primarily amputation procedures toward limb salvage. This series assesses whether soft tissue sarcoma tissue defects, extensive enough to require microsurgical reconstruction, can reliably result in preservation of ambulation, as well as objectively evaluate functional outcomes utilizing a patient-reported validated scale. It will also look at whether immediate functional muscle reconstructions and tendon transfers can be successful at restoring ambulation, potentially expanding the indications for limb salvage procedures. Methods A retrospective review of all microsurgical reconstructions for limb salvage in lower extremity sarcoma patients was completed at our institution (2009–2013). Patients were additionally asked to complete the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score(TESS) quality of life survey. Results Over a 5-year period, 23 patients (mean age: 53 years) underwent free flap reconstructions for 23 sarcomas (mean follow-up: 14 months). Seventy-eight percent of patients received neoadjuvant radiation. The thigh was the most common tumor site (61%) and three muscles were resected on average. Perforator flaps were most frequently used (61%), and functional muscle transfers or immediate tendon transfers were used in four patients. There were no flap take-backs or failures, and 22 patients achieved independent ambulation. Three patients in the series died, two from metastatic disease found postoperatively and one from local recurrence. A 74% response rate was achieved for the TESS survey, with a mean score of 83. Conclusions Microsurgical reconstruction of lower extremity sarcoma defects enables preservation of independent ambulation. Restoration of function utilizing immediate functional microsurgical reconstructions and tendon transfers should be considered.
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Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
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Microsurgery Training Resource Variation among US Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Programs

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1668160

Background Given emerging focus on competency-based surgical training and work-hour limitations, surgical skills laboratories play an increasingly important role in resident education. This study was designed to investigate educational opportunities in microsurgery across integrated residency programs. Methods Senior residents (PGY 4–6) at integrated plastic surgery programs were surveyed during the 2016 to 2017 academic year to determine each program's access to: training microscopes and anastomosis models, video-based skills assessment, pre-requisite skills exams, flap courses, or a formal microsurgical training curriculum. Programs were stratified based on large size (>18 residents) and presence of microsurgery fellows. Chi-squared analysis was performed with p < 0.05 to assess statistical significance. Results Survey responses were collected from 32 of 60 eligible programs (53% response rate). Sixty-nine percent provide access to one to two training microscopes, 25% provide three or more, and 6% provide none. Sixty-nine percent of programs train anastomosis with nonliving prosthetics, 66% with living biologics, and 50% with nonliving biologics. Large program size or having microsurgical fellows was not associated with increased access to training microscopes or specific anastomosis models. Programs without microsurgery fellows reported more often that a formal microsurgery curriculum would be helpful (90 vs. 58% of programs with fellows, p = 0.0003). Respondents who indicated that creating a formal curriculum would not be helpful elaborated that their program already has a formal curriculum or a high volume of microsurgery cases. Conclusion This study demonstrates the current variation in microsurgery training at integrated plastic surgery residency programs. A formal microsurgical training curriculum is commonly viewed as being helpful, particularly at programs without microsurgery fellows.
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Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents | Abstract | Full text

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The content of dioxins and furans in soils, bottom sediments of water bodies, and tissues of small mammals near the landfill site with municipal solid wastes (Moscow, Russia)

Abstract

For the first time, the levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) were characterized in the tissues of wild small mammals living in contaminated sites near a municipal solid waste landfill (Moscow, Russia). The Ural field mice Sylvaemus uralensis, the bank voles Clethrionomys glareolus, and the common shrews Sorex araneus were trapped at 1- and 5-km distances from the landfield "Salariyevo." High-resolution chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to measure the levels of 17 PCDD/Fs congeners in the animal organisms and natural objects (soils, bottom sediments). The values of the total toxic equivalencies (WHO-TEQ₀₅) for animals were many times higher than those for soils and bottom sediments. The octo-substituted congeners dominated in the samples from the habitat, whereas the highly toxic 2,3,7,8-substituted ones — in the mammalian tissues. The levels of WHO-TEQ₀₅ were comparable in the soil samples collected at 1- and 5-km distances from the dump body. The levels of WHO-TEQ₀₅ in tissues of mammals caught 1 km from the dump were much higher than those of the distant territory inhabitants. The maximum WHO-TEQ₀₅ levels were found in the shrews, and this has been considered in terms of nutrition characteristics. The data obtained will be used to assess the risks of chronic exposure to low doses of PCDD/Fs contaminating the environment near landfills.

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Tie-over bolsters versus quilting sutures for the closure of full-thickness skin grafts

Background: Full-thickness skin grafting is a well established and preferred technique in the reconstruction of various tissue defects and wounds. However, lack of uniformity in the procedure of closing and securing the grafts has led to a wide-range of different techniques.

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Multicenter clinical study proving antiseptic, bactericide and fungicide efficacy in a talc containing 17% sulfur in the treatment of patients with interdigital mycosis of the feet

Introduction: Set as an infection caused by fungi that use the keratin of skin, nails and hair as nutrients, the superficial mycosis develop under favorable conditions, such as heat and humidity, and stand out among the dermatologic diseases most prevalent in Brazil. One of the most common superficial mycoses is interdigital mycosis, characterized by flaking, cracks and itching between the toes, and the use of products with drying and antiseptic action is recommended to contribute to the decrease in the incidence of the disease.

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Pseudocellulitis and gemcitabine, a recently described entity: Case report and literature review

Case report: A 55-year-old woman presents with a dermatosis disseminated to the abdomen and left pelvic extremity, constituted by two erythematous and edematous plaques, with a diameter of 30 × 15 cm in the abdomen and 20 × 15 cm in the thigh, well circumscribed with "peau d'orange" appearance. The evolution was of sudden development 2 days before presenting to consultation, with mild pain and pruritus, without any previous treatment. Patient refered 2 previous similar episodes, presenting after administration of chemotherapy, with 2 cycles of clindamycin and remission of symptoms after 7 days.

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Chronic spontaneous urticaria treated with omalizumab (Xolair): A proposal of standardized tapering protocol before withdrawal to achieve the minimal effective dosage

Background: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) may represent a therapeutic challenge, although the recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody omalizumab has demonstrated a high effectiveness in the treatment of antihistamines-resistant CSU. There are no clear recommendations regarding the optimal duration of the treatment or the way to taper down the drug. The objective of our study was to describe our experience with a standardized tapering protocol of omalizumab before withdrawal.

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Quality Improvement Project: Improving intake forms to make them more readable for patients in an urban clinic setting

In the landscape of increasing demands on physician and staff time, intake forms are frequently utilized to gather information before the start of the clinical encounter. These forms typically contain information on reason for visit, allergies, current medications, pertinent health history, abbreviated review of systems and important social history. We assessed a sample of the intake forms at our clinic and found that 63% of the time the forms were not filled out at all. A resident poll showed that 75% of residents felt the forms were not useful.

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Transdermal effectiveness of a lipid-based antimicrobial emulsion

A proprietary lipid-based emulsion (ML:8) with established antimicrobial efficacy was investigated. To model a clinical situation in which bacteria have penetrated the integumentary barrier, a reference strain of Staphylococcus aureus (NCTC 8255-4) was inoculated into the subdermal compartment of isolated sheets of pig skin mounted between two chamber-halves to permit separate access to surface and to subdermal compartments. The objective was to evaluate transdermal efficacy of a range of concentrations of ML:8 through porcine skin in vitro.

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Topical glycopyrronium tosylate (DRM04) for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis: Pooled results from the ATMOS-1 and ATMOS-2 phase 3 randomized controlled trials

Introduction: The impact of hyperhidrosis on quality of life is comparable to, or greater than, psoriasis or eczema. Glycopyrronium tosylate (GT; formerly DRM04) is a cholinergic receptor antagonist developed for topical application for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis. ATMOS-1 (NCT02530281) and ATMOS-2 (NCT02530294) were designed to assess the efficacy and safety of GT in patients with primary axillary hyperhidrosis.

https://ift.tt/2OJslsk

The use of intralesional triamcinolone as treatment of primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas

Primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas (PCBCLs) are benign malignancies which rarely disseminate, with 5-year disease-specific survival ranging from 94% to 100%. They are commonly treated with excision, radiation, or chemotherapy, alone or in combination. Intralesional corticosteroid injection is an alternative that is cost-effective with minimal side-effects, although it is less-frequently utilized as a primary mode of treatment. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the experience of an academic medical center in using intralesional corticosteroid injection as first-line therapy for PCBCL.

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The rodent, the Hedgehog, and the man with nosocomephobia

A 71-year-old Caucasian gentleman presented in 2004 with a basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on his right cheek. A wide excision was arranged but was rescheduled and subsequently cancelled by the patient. He was noted to have a severe hospital phobia (nosocomephobia) related to childhood experiences concerning medical care of his parents. He declined all efforts to provide treatment and accepted the consequences. He represented 12 years later with a large tumor involving his right cheek, nose and sight threating eyelid involvement.

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The Onychomycosis/Onychodystrophy Dermoscopy study (OMODO)—A comparative prospective study of onychoscopy features

Background: Onychomycosis (OM) and traumatic onychodystrophy (OD) are common causes of toenail dystrophy. Their treatment and prognosis differ, so early diagnosis is essential and questionable without mycology. Onychoscopy may prove useful in this setting. Although, few studies have addressed this issue and none directly compared OM and OD onychoscopic findings. We aimed to identify and describe onychoscopic patterns associated with OM and OD, proposing an onychoscopy-based algorithm to guide their differential.

https://ift.tt/2L7qnjj

Detection of tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate and other organophosphorous compounds in Arctic rivers

Abstract

The flame-retardant tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (TDBrPP) was in the 1970s banned for uses in textiles that may be in contact with the skin, owing to strong suspicions that the substance was a human carcinogen. The substance is looked for but rarely detected in samples from the built and natural environments, but there are indications that TDBrPP is still in use. Here, we report the measurement of a polymer-water partition coefficient (K_pw) for two types of silicone rubber (SR), allowing quantitative estimation of freely dissolved concentrations of TDBrPP by passive sampling in water. We found levels of 100 to 200 pg/L in two Arctic rivers that were sampled during a 2014–2015 survey of contamination using passive samplers in Norwegian and Russian rivers draining into the Barents Sea. We also report the widespread presence of other organophosphorus flame retardants in this survey of eight rivers that drain into the Barents Sea.

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The association between periodontitis and interleukin-6 genetic polymorphism -174 G/C: A meta-analysis

Publication date: Available online 18 August 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): Bo Zhao, Ronghua Li

Abstract

Background

To evaluate the association between periodontitis and interleukin-6 (IL6) -174 G/C polymorphism by data synthesis and subgroup analysis.

Methods

Eighteen case-control studies from 16 articles with 1,616 cases and 1,511 controls were included in this meta-analysis by searching the public databases including PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases by Jun 2018. Data syntheses were performed using Stata 9.0.

Results

There were inverse associations of IL6 -174 G/C polymorphism with both general periodontitis and overall periodontitis. In CC vs. GG inheritance model, whose effect was the most profound, the genetic polymorphism reduced the risks of general and overall periodontitis by 60% (95% CI = 0.25-0.65, P < 0.01) and 31% (95% CI = 0.38-0.97, P = 0.04) respectively. In addition, the G/C variation was likely to be protective against moderate (allele C vs. allele G: OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.43-0.87, P = 0.01; CC + GC vs. GG: OR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.37-0.89, P = 0.01) and severe periodontitis (allele C vs. allele G: OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.41-0.84, P < 0.01; CC vs. GG: OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.13-0.82, P = 0.02) exclusively in Brazilian people. No reliable evidence was found regarding chronic periodontitis.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests that IL6 -174 G/C polymorphism may be negatively associated with risk of periodontitis.

https://ift.tt/2OMmtyf

Antagonistic effect of IL1 variants in Periodontitis and External Apical Root Resorption: evidence from a literature review

Publication date: Available online 18 August 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): Sónia Margarida Alves Pereira, Ana Carolina Jacob Melo, Elisabete Cristina Peres Resende, Fernando de Jesus Regateiro, Henriqueta Alexandra Mendes Breda Lobo Coimbra Silva

Abstract

External apical root resorption (EARR) induced by orthodontic treatment and chronic periodontitis (CP) are complex phenotypes dependent on the interaction of multiple genetic and non-genetic risk factors. Apart from different environmental triggers, these phenotypes are caused by antagonistic biological mechanisms involving local immunoinflammatory reaction and alveolar bone metabolism, for which IL1 have a prominent role. Whereas EARR benefits from bone remodelling, CP is characterized by osteolytic damaged. Our aim was to verify if these two phenotypes have opposite genetic profiles, considering the most frequently analysed polymorphisms for both diseases.

A review of the literature was performed searching for the association of rs1800587 from Interleukin-1 alpha (IL1A) gene and rs1143634 from interleukin-1 beta (IL1B) gene with EARR and CP. The electronic search included MEDLINE/PubMed, EBSCOhost, Cochrane and Web of Science databases. Twenty four articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. For IL1B polymorphism, two out of seven studies found a significant statistical association between EARR and CC genotype, whether for CP, there were eighth out of fifteen references describing a statistically significant associations with T allele. For IL1A variant, no significant association with EARR was described.

In conclusion, literature review suggests that for IL1B SNP rs1143634, EARR and CP have an opposite genetic profile. For IL1A SNP, our hypothesis could not be confirmed.

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Application of paclobutrazol: a strategy for inducing lodging resistance of wheat through mediation of plant height, stem physical strength, and lignin biosynthesis

Abstract

Lodging is a major constraint contributing to poor grain yield and quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) worldwide. The use of plant growth regulators is becoming a foremost agro-chemical approach for minimizing the risk of lodging in cereal crops. The present study was conducted to examine the effects of the paclobutrazol application on culm physical strength, lignin content, and lodging resistance of wheat. Wheat seeds were soaked in paclobutrazol at the concentrations of 0 (CK, as control), 200 (PB1), 300 (PB2), and 400 (PB3) mg L⁻¹. Our results showed that paclobutrazol resulted in a dose-dependent decrease of plant height, internode length, and center of gravity height. Paclobutrazol treatments evidently increased the culm diameter, culm filling degree, and wall thickness of basal internodes, resulting in greater stalk-breaking strength and lodging resistance index (CLRI), where their maximum values were obtained with PB1 treatment. In addition, the activities of lignin-related enzymes were improved by paclobutrazol, particularly at low concentration, which increased the lignin accumulation of the basal internodes of wheat, subsequently improving the capability of stalk lodging resistance. Moreover, the correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between stem diameter, culm filling degree, and lignin with stalk bending strength and CLRI. The paclobutrazol concentration ≥ 300 mg L⁻¹ (PB2 and PB3 treatments) showed inhibitive effects on various culm morphological traits. These results suggest that not only the plant height, but also the lignin contents and physical strength of internodes are closely related with the lodging resistance of wheat, and reduction in plant height along with improved culm morphological characteristics and higher lignin accumulation in basal internodes could effectively relieve the risk of lodging.

https://ift.tt/2vVRQiR

Role of Innate Immune Signaling in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Publication date: Available online 18 August 2018

Source: Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism

Author(s): Jingjing Cai, Xiao-Jing Zhang, Hongliang Li

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most epidemic liver disease worldwide owing to rapid changes in lifestyle over the past few decades. This chronic condition intertwines with low-grade inflammation and metabolic disequilibrium, and potentiates the onset and progression of devastating hepatic and extrahepatic complications. In addition to an integral role in promoting host defense, recent studies also implicate innate immune signaling in a multitude of processes that control the progression of NAFLD. The focus of this review is to highlight emerging evidence regarding the role of innate immunity in NAFLD and the integration of different pathways that affect both inflammation and metabolism across the spectrum of this liver morbidity.

https://ift.tt/2nPGfNO

Quantitative analysis of susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in chronic hepatitis in rats

Publication date: Available online 18 August 2018

Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Author(s): Yu Cai, Meng-ping Huang, Xiao-feng Wang, Xin Lu, Li Luo, Jian Shu

Abstract

Purpose

To assess the value of susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) for staging of liver fibrosis (F), necroinflammatory activity (A), and steatosis (S) of chronic hepatitis.

Methods

100 Sprague-Dawley (SD) male rats were randomly divided into a chronic hepatitis model group (n = 88) and a control group (n = 12). The chronic hepatitis model rats were induced by intraperitoneal injection of 40% (v/v) of carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) diluted in olive oil. All rats were examined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and then killed immediately to detect pathologic staging as liver fibrosis (F), necroinflammatory activity (A), and steatosis (S). Liver-to-muscle signal intensity ratios (SIRs) of SWI were analyzed and associated with histopathologic findings.

Results

There were ultimately 11 normal control rats and 60 chronic hepatitis model rats. Statistical data were as follows: F0 (n = 11), F1 (n = 18), F2 (n = 16), F3 (n = 13), F4 (n = 13); A0 (n = 11), A1 (n = 29), A2 (n = 21), A3 (n = 10); S0 (n = 11), S1 (n = 12), S2 (n = 12), S3 (n = 18), and S4 (n = 18). The liver-to-muscle SIR of the SWI was related to hepatic fibrosis (P < 0.05) and liver steatosis (P < 0.05) but not to necroinflammatory activity (P > 0.05). By partial correlation analysis, a significant negative correlation was shown between the liver-to-muscle SIR and staging of liver fibrosis (r = −0.68, P < 0.05) as well as a low correlation with liver steatosis (r = 0.30, P < 0.05). Except for F0–F1 and F1–F2, there were statistical differences between each of the stages of hepatic fibrosis (P < 0.05), with an area under the ROC of 0.87 for F3 or above and of 0.96 for F4.

Conclusion

SWI can be a reliable method for staging hepatic fibrosis.

https://ift.tt/2Bp8KvI

Fusobacterium nucleatum promotes M2 polarization of macrophages in the microenvironment of colorectal tumours via a TLR4-dependent mechanism

Abstract

Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) has been shown to promote colorectal cancer (CRC) development by inhibiting host anti-tumour immunity. However, the impact of Fn infection on macrophage polarization and subsequent intestinal tumour formation as well as the underlying molecular pathways has not been investigated. We investigated the impact of Fn infection on macrophage polarization in human CRCs and cultured macrophages as well as the effects on macrophage phenotype and intestinal tumour formation in Apc^Min/+ mice. We also examined whether macrophage-polarized activation challenged by Fn infection via a TLR4-dependent mechanism involved the IL-6/STAT3/c-MYC signalling cascade. Our data showed that macrophages are a major tumour-infiltrating immune cell type in human CRCs with Fn infection (P < 0.001). Fn infection increased M2 polarization of macrophages in vitro and in vivo, leading to intestinal tumour growth in Apc^Min/+ mice. Moreover, Fn infection induced high expression of TLR4, IL-6, STAT3, p-STAT3, and c-MYC in cultured macrophages challenged with Fn, which was blocked by TAK-242 pre-treatment (P < 0.05). Interestingly, c-MYC protein was mainly co-localized with CD206⁺ M2 macrophages with Fn infection. In conclusion, we show that Fn infection increased M2 polarization of macrophages in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, Fn infection enhanced colorectal tumour growth in a TLR4-dependent manner involving activation of the IL-6/p-STAT3/c-MYC signalling pathway. For the first time, our results indicate an immunosuppressive effect of Fn by promoting M2 polarization of macrophages through a TLR4-dependent mechanism, which may serve as a promising target for immunotherapy of Fn-related CRC.

https://ift.tt/2PfLPpk

Effect of Bacillus cereus peptide conjugated with nanoporous silica on inactivation of Listeria monocytogenes in apple juice, as an ecofriendly preservative

Abstract

Bacteriocins are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial proteins/peptides. They are of great interest in the food processing industries as potential natural preservative agent to control food-borne pathogens. Bacillus spp. are one among the potential probiotics receiving more attention since they produce a broad spectrum of antimicrobial bioactive peptides. In this study, a small-scale medium composition and bioprocessing parameters were statistically optimized to increase the yield of bacteriocin namely cerein from Bacillus cereus NS02 showing antagonism against a wide range of food-borne pathogens. The cerein was partially purified, characterized, and evaluated for their optimal reaction condition. It was subjected to surface adsorption onto food-grade silica to evaluate its maximal adsorption, reached at 4 h, 40 °C, pH 6–7, and at the initial concentration of 200 AU mL⁻¹. The effectiveness of silica-adsorbed and silica-free cerein was checked in Listeria monocytogenes inoculated fresh apple juice and demonstrated biopreservative activity. In juice treated with silica-cerein, the colony forming unit (CFU) was found to be less in count on the 15th day of storage at 4 °C whereas, free-cerein was found to contain 3.8 log CFU mL⁻¹. While, on the same day of storage, the control juice contained the strength of 14.6 log CFU mL⁻¹. Based on the above, this study concludes that the identified heat stable low molecular weight peptide cerein from B. cereus NS02 could serve as a potential biopreservative with effective antilisterial activity in the food system. However, a more detailed study is required to determine if their quality change especially the effect of cerein in organoleptic and nutritional properties of food beyond their addition is necessary, before it is to be exploited as an ecofriendly biopreservative.

https://ift.tt/2L54iSj

Assessment of facial analysis measurements by golden proportion

Publication date: Available online 18 August 2018

Source: Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Kerem Sami Kaya, Bilge Türk, Mahmut Cankaya, Nurullah Seyhun, Berna Uslu Coşkun

Abstract

Introduction

The face is the most important factor affecting the physical appearance of a person. In facial aesthetics, there is a specific mathematical proportion, which is called golden proportion, used to measure and analyse facial aesthetic qualities in population.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to measure the facial soft tissue proportions which would help to constitute a standard for facial beauty and diagnose facial differences and anomalies and to compare these proportions to the golden proportion.

Methods

One hundred and thirty-three (133) Turkish patients 18–40 years of age (61 females, 72 males) were involved in the study. Analysis of the photographs was performed by the same physician, and a software programme was used (NIH Image, version 1.62). Facial proportions were measured and differences from the golden proportions were recorded and grouped as normal (1.6–1.699), short (<1.6) and long (>1.699).

Results

According to the facial analysis results, the trichion–gnathion/right zygoma–left zygoma was assessed: 33.1% of the patients were in normal facial morphology, 36.8% were in long facial morphology and 30.1% were in short facial morphology, according to this proportion. The trichion–gnathion/right zygoma–left zygoma proportion was significantly higher in males than females (p < 0.001). Statistically significant difference was noted in gender groups, according to the trichion–gnathion/right zygoma–left zygoma and the right lateral canthus–left lateral canthus/right cheilion–left cheilion proportions (p = 0.001, p = 0.028).

Conclusion

Facial proportion assessments in relation to the golden proportion showed that a statistically significant difference was observed between gender groups. Long facial morphology was observed more in males (51.4%); normal (41%) and short (39.3%) facial morphology were more common in females. The measurements and proportions for facial balance in our study population showed that the facial width and height proportions deviated from the golden proportion.

Resumo

Introdução

A face é o aspecto mais importante da aparência física de uma pessoa. Na estética facial, existe uma proporção matemática específica, que é chamada de proporção áurea. A proporção áurea é utilizada para medir e analisar as qualidades estéticas da face na população.

Objetivos

O objetivo deste estudo foi medir as proporções dos tecidos moles faciais que contribuem para o padrão da beleza facial auxiliando a percepção e diagnóstico das diferenças e anomalias faciais, e comparar essas proporções com a proporção áurea.

Método

Cento e trinta e três (133) pacientes turcos com 18 a 40 anos de idade (61 mulheres, 72 homens) foram incluídos no estudo. A análise das fotografias foi realizada pelo mesmo médico, e um programa de software foi utilizado (NIH Image, versão 1.62). As proporções faciais foram medidas e as diferenças das proporções áureas foram registradas e agrupadas como normais (1,6–1,699), curtas (<1,6) e longas (>1,699).

Resultados

De acordo com os resultados da análise facial, avaliou-se a proporção do tríquion-gnátio/zigoma direito-zigoma esquerdo, e 33,1% dos pacientes apresentaram morfologia facial normal, enquanto 36,8% tinham morfologia facial longa e 30,1% morfologia facial curta, segundo essa proporção. A proporção do tríquion-gnátio/zigoma direito-zigoma esquerdo, foi significantemente maior em homens do que em mulheres (p < 0,001). Uma diferença estatisticamente significante foi observada entre os sexos, de acordo com a proporção do tríquion-gnátio/zigoma direito-zigoma esquerdo e do canto lateral direito - canto lateral esquerdo/ângulo cantal direito- ângulo cantal esquerdo (p = 0,001, p = 0,028).

Conclusão

A avaliação da proporção facial em relação à proporção áurea mostrou que houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os sexos. A morfologia facial longa foi mais observada no sexo masculino (51,4%), a morfologia facial normal (41%) e a curta (39,3%) foram mais comuns no sexo feminino. As medidas e proporções para o equilíbrio facial em nossa população estudada mostraram que as proporções de largura e altura faciais se desviaram da proporção áurea.

https://ift.tt/2L57ddJ

A preliminary comparison between the effects of red and infrared laser irradiation on viability and proliferation of SHED

Abstract

The aim of this preliminary study was to compare the effects of different energy densities from red and infrared low-level laser (LLL) on viability and proliferation of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED). SHED were irradiated with red laser (R) or infrared laser (IR) set with the following dosimetry: 1.2 J/cm² (0.05 J), 2.5 J/cm² (0.1 J), 5.0 J/cm² (0.2 J), and 7.5 J/cm² (0.3 J). Positive (C+) and negative (C−) control groups comprised non-irradiated cells. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (P < 0.05). At 24- and 48-h period, group R5.0 showed significantly higher cell viability rates than R1.2 and R2.5. At 48 h, R2.5 also revealed lower proliferation than R5.0. Comparing to the C+ group, R2.5 exhibited lower viability at 72 h, and proliferation at 24 and 48 h. Groups R1.2, IR1.2, and IR5.0 were less viable at 24 h, while R1.2, IR2.5, and IR5.0 revealed lower proliferative capacity at 48 h. Overall, our results showed that LLL can favor viability and proliferation of SHED, especially when cells receive red laser irradiation at 5.0 J/cm². Therefore, according to this preliminary investigation, 5 J/cm² applied by red LLL induced high rates of cell viability and proliferation, while the same irradiation dose using infrared laser led to negative effects. LLL irradiation with 1.2 and 2.5 J/cm² was deleterious to metabolic activity and proliferation of SHED regardless of the type of laser. Further studies are necessary to gain in-depth knowledge about the effects of different wavelengths of LLL on SHED viability and proliferation.

https://ift.tt/2PisTGx

Effects of combined exposure to perfluoroalkyl acids and heavy metals on bioaccumulation and subcellular distribution in earthworms ( Eisenia fetida ) from co-contaminated soil

Abstract

The effects of combined exposure to perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and heavy metals (HMs) including cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) on earthworms (Eisenia fetida) were investigated. The results have demonstrated that the concentrations of labile acid exchangeable Cd, Zn, Ni, Pb, and Cu in soil were enhanced in addition of PFAAs. With PFAAs, the uptake of Cd, Zn, Ni, Pb, and Cu in earthworms was increased compared to those without PFAAs with the order of Cd > Zn > Pb > Ni > Cu. In the presence of HMs, the average biota-to-soil accumulation factors (BSAFs) of PFAAs in earthworms were decreased by 0.498–0.729 times for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and 0.606–0.978 times for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), indicating decrease rates of PFOS were higher than those of PFOA. And different levels of HMs led to insignificant different responses on the inhibiting effects of PFAAs uptake in earthworms. The increase of Cd in fraction C (associated with cytosol) and decrease of PFAAs in fraction C and fraction P (associated with tissue fragments, cell membranes, and intact cells) especially for fraction C were revealed when they were combined, suggesting cytosolic PFAAs and Cd were susceptibly mutual effected. This study indicated that PFAAs and metals mutually affected their bioaccumulation and subcellular distribution in earthworms, which will help to understand the fate and risks of PFAAs and metals in co-contaminated soil.

https://ift.tt/2wcPMCC

A new approach for excess sludge reduction by manganese dioxide oxidation: performance, kinetics, and mechanism studies

Abstract

A considerable amount of excess sludge, a kind of hazardous waste, is produced from the conventional wastewater treatment systems such as activated sludge process, and efficient sludge reduction processes are needed. A new chemical method for sludge reduction was proposed by using manganese dioxide as oxidant in this study. A favorable condition for sludge reduction is determined as manganese dioxide dosage of 0.165 g g⁻¹ wet sludge, sulfuric acid concentration of 3 mol L⁻¹, and reduction temperature of 90 °C for 90 min, where the sludge reduction efficiency can reach 73.30%. Reaction kinetic study revealed that the sludge reduction rate was controlled by the surface chemical reaction and the reaction followed a shrinking core kinetic model with apparent activation energy of 37.76 kJ mol⁻¹. Furthermore, reaction process analysis indicated that the sludge hydrolysis included two steps, i.e., floc destruction and microbial cell disruption. Considering the high efficiency and short treatment time, manganese dioxide oxidation is suggested to be a feasible method for disintegration of excess activated sludge.

https://ift.tt/2MuOr4j

Trend of the environmental supervision on submarine pipeline installation

https://ift.tt/2Pmhohw

Crude oil removal from aqueous solution using raw and carbonized Xanthoceras sorbifolia shells

Abstract

Fruit shell residue from Xanthoceras sorbifolia was investigated as a potential biosorbent to remove crude oil from aqueous solution. The shell powder and its carbonized material were compared while assessing various factors that influenced oil removal capacity. The structure and sorption mechanism were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The oil removal capacity of the raw material (75.1 mg g⁻¹) was better than the carbonized material (49.5 mg g⁻¹). The oil removal capacity increased with greater saponin content, indicating that hydrophobic and lipophilic surface characteristics of the saponins improved adsorption by the raw X. sorbifolia shell. An orthogonal experimental design was used to optimize the adsorption. Using 4 g L⁻¹ of raw X. sorbifolia shell (particle size of < 0.15 mm), the highest crude oil removal efficiency was obtained using an initial oil concentration of 400 mg L⁻¹, adsorption temperature of 30 °C, adsorption time of 10 min at a shaking speed of 150 rpm. The adsorption of crude oil onto X. sorbifolia shell was best described using a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Raw X. sorbifolia shell material was more efficient than the carbonized material at crude oil removal from aqueous solution. This was attributable to the functional groups of saponins in raw X. sorbifolia shell. This study highlights that some agricultural and forest residues could be a promising source of low-cost biosorbents for oil contaminants from water—without requiring additional processing such as carbonization.

https://ift.tt/2BneBS4

People with diabetes do not learn and recall their diabetes foot education: a cohort study

Abstract

Purpose

Diabetes education for those patients at risk of diabetes complications remains a mainstay of diabetes treatment. This study aimed primarily to determine the retention of foot health information 6 months post delivery of education. The secondary aim was to determine the type and delivery method of diabetes-specific foot health information during a podiatry consultation.

Methods

This study was a prospective cohort study with two groups: patients with diabetes and their treating podiatrist. Baseline data collection included educational topics and delivery methods discussed during the consultation. The Problem Areas in Diabetes Questionnaire (PAID) and perceived key educational message were collected from each group's perspective at baseline and 6 months afterwards.

Results

Three podiatrists and 24 participants with diabetes provided information at the two time points. At baseline, the key messages of 14 (58%) patient participant responses differed from their podiatrists and 15 (63%) differed 6 months later. Education covered up to seven separate topics, including neurological impact of diabetes, vascular supply and general foot care. The majority of consultations (n = 23, 96%) covered three or more topics.

Conclusions

Education is vital to effective treatment of people with diabetes. Current common approaches used in individual consultations such as verbal explanations appear ineffective in aiding the learning and retention of podiatry-specific diabetes education. This study highlights the need for research investigating more effective methods to deliver key education to this population to aid retention and therefore assist behaviour change.

https://ift.tt/2vS7bRG

Cause-specific risk of major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and hypoglycemic in patients with type 2 diabetes: a multicenter prospective cohort study

Abstract

Purpose

Glycated hemoglobin A1_c (HbA1_c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was identified to account for the risk of cardiovascular diseases in type 2 diabetic patients, but no study evaluated the risk based on both HbA1_c and FPG levels. We described the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and hypoglycemic in type 2 diabetic patients according to both HbA1_c and FPG levels.

Methods

With the usage of databases of Action in Diabetes and Vascular disease: preterAx and diamicroN-MR Controlled Evaluation (ADVANCE), 1815 patients from 61 centers in China was identified and grouped according to the criterion value of HbA1_c and FPG: Good glycemic control (HbA1_c < 6.5%, FPG < 6.1 mmol/L); Insufficient glycemic control (HbA1_c < 6.5%, FPG ≥ 6.1 mmol/L or HbA1_c ≥ 6.5%, FPG < 6.1 mmol/L); Poor glycemic control (HbA1_c ≥ 6.5%, FPG ≥ 6.1 mmol/L). Time-varying multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were employed.

Results

Average age was 64.8 ± 5.8 years, with a median of 4.8 years of follow-up. Overall, the incidence rates of MACE were 20.6 per 1000-person-years in Good glycemic control compared with 45.9 per 1000-person-years in Insufficient glycemic control (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 1.99; 95% CI 1.11–3.56; p = 0.02) and 54.7 per 1000-person-years in Poor glycemic control (aHR: 2.46; 95% CI 1.38–4.40; p = 0.002), respectively. The risk of hypoglycemic was highest in Insufficient glycemic control; 67.3 per 1000-person-years compared with 46.3 per 1000-person-years in Good glycemic control (aHR: 1.62; 95% CI 1.03–2.56; p = 0.04). Apart from this, we also observed that both MACE (aHR:1.41; 95% CI 1.13–1.77; p = 0.003) and hypoglycemic episodes (aHR: 1.82; 95% CI 1.48–2.24; p < 0.001) were sufficiently more frequent in the insulin-exposed group than the non-exposed group. In a post-hoc analysis, the risk of MACE (aHR:1.43; 95% CI 1.09–1.86; p = 0.01) and hypoglycemic (aHR: 1.99; 95% CI 1.46–2.69; p < 0.001) were more pronounced in Insufficient glycemic control with insulin exposure.

Conclusions

We observed a significant association of cause-specific risk of MACE and hypoglycemic with Insufficient glycemic control, particularly with insulin exposure.

https://ift.tt/2L4MTsJ

People with diabetes do not learn and recall their diabetes foot education: a cohort study

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

https://ift.tt/2vS7bRG

Cause-specific risk of major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and hypoglycemic in patients with type 2 diabetes: a multicenter prospective cohort study

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

We observed a significant association of cause-specific risk of MACE and hypoglycemic with Insufficient glycemic control, particularly with insulin exposure.

https://ift.tt/2L4MTsJ

Clinicopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of autoimmune regulator expression in patients with osteosarcoma

Abstract

Autoimmune regulator (AIRE) is a transcription factor that is expressed in medullary thymic epithelial cells. It plays an essential role in central tolerance by eliminating self-reactive T cells. Recently, extrathymic AIRE-expressing cells have been revealed, which are associated with peripheral tolerance. Moreover, AIRE expression has been demonstrated in skin tumors and breast cancer. However, the expression of AIRE in osteosarcoma is unknown. We used immunohistochemistry to investigate AIRE expression in biopsy samples from 43 patients with conventional osteosarcoma and statistically analyzed the association between AIRE expression and clinicopathological characteristics. High AIRE expression was detected in 25 patients (58.1%), and significantly associated with the presence of lung metastasis (P = 0.014) and an increased number of forkhead box P3-positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (regulatory T cells) (P = 0.014). The overall survival rate for all osteosarcoma patients with high AIRE expression was significantly shorter than that for those with low AIRE expression (P = 0.046). In a subgroup analysis of American Joint Committee on Cancer stage II patients who underwent complete surgical resection and conventional chemotherapy, the overall survival and metastasis-free survival rates were significantly shorter for patients with high AIRE expression than for those with low AIRE expression (P = 0.019 and P < 0.01, respectively). High AIRE expression was confirmed to be an independent poor prognostic factor for both overall survival (hazard ratio: 3.841, P = 0.038) and metastasis-free survival (hazard ratio: 4.348, P = 0.022) in the multivariate analysis. The evaluation of AIRE expression may be useful for stratifying osteosarcoma patients for more effective clinical follow-up.

https://ift.tt/2MxGgnF

Short-course regimen of palliative radiotherapy in complicated bone metastases: a phase i–ii study (SHARON Project)

Abstract

Metastases with soft tissues invasion, impending fractures or spinal cord compression (complicated bone metastases) represent a common clinical problem in advanced cancers and frequently lead to deterioration of patients' quality of life (QoL). A phase I–II study was planned to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of a short-course radiotherapy (RT) and its efficacy in palliation of complicated bone metastases. A phase I trial was designed with three dose-escalation steps: 16, 18, and 20 Gy. Total dose at each level was delivered in 2 days, twice daily. Eligibility criteria were painful complicated bone metastases and ECOG performance status ≤ 3. The presence of acute toxicity ≥ Grade 3 (RTOG scale) was considered the dose limiting toxicity. The MTD was used to plan a phase II trial with pain response as the primary outcome. Pain was recorded using a Visual Analogic Scale (VAS), and QoL using CLAS scales. Forty-five patients were enrolled in this trial. In phase I no Grade ≥ 2 acute toxicities were recorded. Thus 20 Gy was established as MTD. In phase II, with a median follow-up of 4 months, rates of complete symptom remission, partial response, no symptomatic change, and symptoms progression were 32.0%, 52.0%, 8.0%, and 8.0%, respectively. This RT protocol tested in our study is effective and tolerable with comparable results to traditional RT treatments delivered in 5–10 daily fractions.

https://ift.tt/2L3hpTO

Maternal exposure to farming environment protects offspring against allergic diseases by modulating the neonatal TLR-Tregs-Th axis

As the development of urbanization in China, the morbidity of allergic disease rise up prominently even in children, which may be partially associated with the excessively clean environment. It has been report...

https://ift.tt/2nMOmuA

Arundo donax L. stem-derived biochar increases As and Sb toxicities from nonferrous metal mine tailings

Abstract

Toxic metal(loid)s released from tailing residues of mining operations have become a global issue with regard to environmental impacts. Biochar derived from the agriculture waste is considered as a cost-effective and stable material, which could be applied for remediation of sites contaminated with toxic metal(loid)s. In the present study, tailings were amended for 90 days with increasing concentrations of Arundo donax L. stem-derived biochar (ASBC; at 0, 1, 3, and 5%). The 7-day wheat seed germination toxicity test was then used to assess the bioavailability of toxicants in aqueous leachates of the biochar-amended tailing samples. Concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Sb in leachates and the Community Bureau of Reference chemical fractions were determined using ICP-OES. The results indicated that tailing leachates were phytotoxic, an effect that was partially decreased due to increasing concentrations of ASBC, with maximum effects (∼47% of tailing phytotoxicity) occurring at 3% ASBC. Results of further fractionation analyses indicated that increasing concentrations of ASBC amendment decreased the mobile fractions of Cd, Cu, and Pb in tailing samples, but increased the mobilities of As and Sb. A novel approach using the relative toxicity index (= sum of toxicities of individual potentially toxic elements) indicated that the toxicity of the tailings decreased when As was not present, since As decreased the biochar-reduced toxicity. Our results suggest that the ability of using biochar to decrease toxicity in tailings (by sequestration of cationic metals such as Cd, Cu, and Pb) is limited by its inability to immobilize oxyanionic metalloids such as As and Sb.

https://ift.tt/2L670qR

The Western (Buonfornello) necropolis (7th to 5th BC) of the Greek colony of Himera (Sicily, Italy): site‐specific discriminant functions for sex determination in the common burials resulting from the battle of Himera (ca. 480 BC)

International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2Bl7glU

A case of non‐venereal treponematosis in a Pre‐Hispanic adult from Northeastern Argentina

International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2Pk1YKj

Osteophageous Insect Damage on Human Bone from Je’reftheel, a Maya Mortuary Cave Site in West‐Central Belize

International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2BnmpmS

Evidence for Differences in Activity Between Socioeconomic Groups at Kulubnarti, Nubia (550‐800 CE), from Osseous Modifications of the Proximal Femur

International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2PhKQVH

Éruption lichénoïde cutanéo-muqueuse sous anti-PD-1

Publication date: Available online 17 August 2018

Source: Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie

Author(s): M. Amini-Adle, B. Balme, M. Locatelli-Sanchez, P.-J. Souquet, S. Dalle

https://ift.tt/2OLXuv4

Étude rétrospective d’une série de pemphigus paranéoplasiques

Publication date: Available online 17 August 2018

Source: Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie

Author(s): M. Fournet, P. Roblot, P. Levillain, G. Guillet, L. Machet, L. Misery

Résumé

Contexte

Le pemphigus paranéoplasique (PPN) est une maladie très rare et de mauvais pronostic associant un pemphigus, particulier par certains critères cliniques, immunologiques et histologiques, à une néoplasie.

Méthodes

Nous avons rétrospectivement analysé les dossiers de patients présentant un PPN dans la région Poitou-Charentes entre 2000 et 2015.

Résultats

Sept patients présentaient neuf néoplasies diagnostiquées de 4 mois avant à 25 mois après l'apparition des lésions cutanées (6/7) ou muqueuses (6/7) de pemphigus. Les lésions étaient cliniquement polymorphes. L'examen histologique révélait une acantholyse épidermique (7/7), des nécroses kératinocytaires (4/7) et une dermite lichénoïde d'interface (5/7). On mettait en évidence des dépôts d'IgG et de C3 intercellulaires ou le long de la jonction dermo-épidermique en immunofluorescence directe (IFD) (7/7), des anticorps anti-substance intercellulaire en immunofluorescence indirecte (IFI) sur vessie de rat (4/6), un immunotransfert reconnaissant les cibles antigéniques du PPN (2/4). La durée du suivi allait de 1 à 132 mois, la survie à 1 an était de 85,7 %.

Discussion

Les présentations cliniques et histopathologiques observées chez nos patients sont polymorphes, avec un chevauchement entre les manifestations cliniques et histologiques de PPN et de pemphigus classique. Le pronostic est meilleur dans notre série que dans la littérature. Les néoplasies associées sont diverses. Il semble exister des associations fortuites de pemphigus à des néoplasies, de meilleur pronostic que les véritables PPN. Un nouveau consensus pour les critères diagnostiques du PPN est nécessaire, qui aiderait les praticiens à diagnostiquer le PPN de manière plus homogène pour réaliser des études pronostiques ou des essais thérapeutiques.

Summary

Context

Paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) is a rare condition associated with poor prognosis. It associates polymorphic mucocutaneous manifestations with neoplasia. Diagnosis is difficult because of the various clinical and histological features involved and the lack of specificity of immunological examinations.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the records of patients presenting with PNP in the Poitou-Charentes region between 2000 and 2015.

Results

Seven patients were included. They presented 9 neoplasias (1 lymphoma, 1 melanoma, and 7 carcinomas) diagnosed from 4 months before to 25 months after the occurrence of cutaneous (6/7) and/or mucosal (6/7) polymorphic lesions. Histological examination revealed epidermal acantholysis (7/7), keratinocytic necrosis (4/7), and interface lichenoid dermatitis (5/7). Intercellular deposits of IgG and C3 or along the dermo-epidermal junction were detected with direct immunofluorescence (IF) (7/7). Four of 6 patients tested had positive indirect IF on rat bladder epithelium. Follow-up ranged from 1–132 months with a one-year survival of 85.7%.

Discussion

The clinical and histopathological presentations observed in our patients were polymorphic, with overlap between the clinical and histological features of PNP and classical pemphigus. Prognosis and survival appear better in our series than in the literature. It is possible that in some cases, the association of pemphigus with neoplasia was fortuitous, which might account for the better prognosis. A new consensus on the diagnostic criteria for PNP is needed to help practitioners to consensually diagnose it for prognostic or therapeutic trials.

https://ift.tt/2nLQYcf

Comment on “The timing of parathyroid hormone measurement defines the cut-off values to accurately predict postoperative hypocalcemia: a prospective study”

https://ift.tt/2BmAIbp

Factors impacting on the action of glucocorticoids in patients receiving glucocorticoid therapy

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2OL3vIj

Comment on “The timing of parathyroid hormone measurement defines the cut-off values to accurately predict postoperative hypocalcemia: a prospective study”

https://ift.tt/2BmAIbp

A Bayesian assessment of occupational health surveillance in workers exposed to silica in the energy and construction industry

Abstract

Medical records generated during occupational health surveillance processes have large amounts of unexploited information that can help to reduce silica-related health risks and many occupational diseases. The methodology applied in this study consists in analyzing through machine learning techniques a database with 70,000 medical examinations from workers in the energy and construction industry in Spain. First, a general unsupervised Bayesian model is built and node force analysis is used to identify the factors with the greatest impact on the worker's health surveillance process. Second, a predictive Bayesian model is created and mutual information is employed to assess the more relevant factors affecting the medical capability of workers exposed to silica dust. The lung auscultation and the breathing exploration are the two factors that influence the most the medical capability of silica-exposed employees. Probabilistic inference shows a remarkable gender effect, where women present more resilience towards occupational diseases than men showing a higher proportion of normal results in certain key factors, such as body mass index (♀49.73%, ♂25.17%) or spirometry (♀53.73%, ♂48.91%). Finally, environmental conditions demonstrate to have a major influence on spatial variability of occupational diseases. The design of health prevention programs based on geographical variations can be crucial to the attainment of an ongoing and sustained healthier workforce with a reduction in the number of chronic workplace illnesses.

https://ift.tt/2L5Fiu3

Nasal polyp fibroblasts modulate epithelial characteristics via Wnt signaling

International Forum of Allergy &Rhinology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2Po2yHg

Operative time and cost variability for functional endoscopic sinus surgery

International Forum of Allergy &Rhinology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2MVY9JY

Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Emerging from Hashimoto Thyroiditis Demonstrates Increased PD-L1 Expression, Which Persists with Metastasis

Abstract

There is evidence that programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) is expressed by thyroid follicular epithelium in thyroiditis, but the role of PD-L1 in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is poorly understood. We aimed to determine whether (1) the presence of background chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (CLT) or Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) influenced the expression of PD-L1 in benign follicular epithelium or in PTC and (2) if PD-L1 expression in PTC persisted with lymph node metastasis. We performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) for PD-L1 on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. We first studied five cases of unremarkable thyroid, five cases of CLT, and five cases of HT without carcinoma. We subsequently performed PD-L1 IHC on ten cases of PTC arising in normal thyroid, ten cases of PTC arising in CLT, and ten cases of PTC arising in HT. Whenever available, we evaluated corresponding synchronous lymph node metastases from all cases for PD-L1 expression. PD-L1 expression was increased (10–90%) in all five cases of HT, only minimal expressed (1–5%) in two of five cases of CLT, and not expressed in five cases of unremarkable thyroid. PTC arising in normal thyroid or CLT nearly uniformly lacked PD-L1 expression. In contrast, PTC arising in HT demonstrated significant PD-L1 expression, which persisted in corresponding lymph node metastases. Background non-neoplastic follicular epithelium in the HT cases also demonstrated PD-L1 expression. Thyroid follicular epithelium in HT demonstrates increased PD-L1 expression, and PTC arising in a background of HT shows increased PD-L1 expression, which is retained with metastasis.

https://ift.tt/2nPcX2a

Critical assessment of approaches for molecular docking to elucidate associations of HLA alleles with adverse drug reactions

Publication date: September 2018

Source: Molecular Immunology, Volume 101

Author(s): Kerry A. Ramsbottom, Daniel F. Carr, Andrew R. Jones, Daniel J. Rigden

Abstract

Adverse drug reactions have been linked with genetic polymorphisms in HLA genes in numerous different studies. HLA proteins have an essential role in the presentation of self and non-self peptides, as part of the adaptive immune response. Amongst the associated drugs-allele combinations, anti-HIV drug Abacavir has been shown to be associated with the HLA-B*57:01 allele, and anti-epilepsy drug Carbamazepine with B*15:02, in both cases likely following the altered peptide repertoire model of interaction. Under this model, the drug binds directly to the antigen presentation region, causing different self peptides to be presented, which trigger an unwanted immune response. There is growing interest in searching for evidence supporting this model for other ADRs using bioinformatics techniques. In this study, in silico docking was used to assess the utility and reliability of well-known docking programs when addressing these challenging HLA-drug situations. The overall aim was to address the uncertainty of docking programs giving different results by completing a detailed comparative study of docking software, grounded in the MHC-ligand experimental structural data – for Abacavir and to a lesser extent Carbamazepine - in order to assess their performance. Four docking programs: SwissDock, ROSIE, AutoDock Vina and AutoDockFR, were used to investigate if each software could accurately dock the Abacavir back into the crystal structure for the protein arising from the known risk allele, and if they were able to distinguish between the HLA-associated and non-HLA-associated (control) alleles. The impact of using homology models on the docking performance and how using different parameters, such as including receptor flexibility, affected the docking performance were also investigated to simulate the approach where a crystal structure for a given HLA allele may be unavailable. The programs that were best able to predict the binding position of Abacavir were then used to recreate the docking seen for Carbamazepine with B*15:02 and controls alleles.

It was found that the programs investigated were sometimes able to correctly predict the binding mode of Abacavir with B*57:01 but not always. Each of the software packages that were assessed could predict the binding of Abacavir and Carbamazepine within the correct sub-pocket and, with the exception of ROSIE, was able to correctly distinguish between risk and control alleles. We found that docking to homology models could produce poorer quality predictions, especially when sequence differences impact the architecture of predicted binding pockets. Caution must therefore be used as inaccurate structures may lead to erroneous docking predictions. Incorporating receptor flexibility was found to negatively affect the docking performance for the examples investigated. Taken together, our findings help characterise the potential but also the limitations of computational prediction of drug-HLA interactions. These docking techniques should therefore always be used with care and alongside other methods of investigation, in order to be able to draw strong conclusions from the given results.

https://ift.tt/2N1TO7O

Zoon's plasma cell balanitis: clinical and dermoscopic features in pediatric patients

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2nPNlSt

Recommendations for the use of telemedicine in severely under‐resourced settings: results from a pilot study in Niamey, Niger

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2wf2f8V

Gastrointestinal prophylaxis in patients with autoimmune blistering disease treated with corticosteroids: an expert survey

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2nOeyoG

A novel surgical technique: Crushed septal cartilage graft application in endonasal septoplasty

Publication date: Available online 17 August 2018

Source: Auris Nasus Larynx

Author(s): Vahit Mutlu

Abstract

Objective

Nowadays, different septoplasty procedures are applied for therapy of nasal septum deviation. However, various complications of the septoplasty procedures have been described. Several techniques have been developed to decrease the incidence of these complications by surgeons. We aimed to present the effectiveness of the crushed septal cartilage graft, which is a novel septoplasty technique.

Methods

Patients: Patients The study was performed based on the parameters of 500 patients who underwent surgery with crushed cartilage graft technique in our clinic between the dates 2013 and 2016.

Technique: This novel operation technique was performed under general anestesia. The NOSE (Nasal obstruction symptom evaluation) scale was applied to all patients in both the preoperative period and the 2nd month of the postoperative period, and then the both values were statistically compared. Additionally, all the patients were followed up for complications that may occur after the operation for a year.

Results

The study included 140 (28%) female and 360 (72%) male patients, which totally makes 500 patients. The average age of the participants was 35 ± 12.5. When compared to the preoperative NOSE scale values (P ˂ 0.001), the postoperative NOSE scale values were found to be significant. We watched intranasal infection and incrustation in 7(1.4%) patients in early postoperative period and the epistaxis in 3(0.6%) patients in late postoperative period. We did not see any postoperative complications apart from these two minor and insignificant complications during the follow-up along a year.

Conclusion

The crushed cartilage technique is a feasible, safe and effective alternative surgery technique to traditional septoplasty. What is more, complications of septoplasty can be prevented with the help of this novel surgical technique.

https://ift.tt/2w71MFu

(Invited thematic article) Prevalence and pathogenesis of osteopenia and osteoporosis in epidermolysis bullosa: An Evidence Based Review

Experimental Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2BxV55F

Efficacy and safety of daylight photodynamic therapy after tailored pretreatment with ablative fractional laser or microdermabrasion: a randomized, side‐by‐side, single‐blind trial in patients with actinic keratosis and large area field cancerization

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2nKbsC2

Mosaic mutations in FGFR3 and FGFR2 are associated with naevoid acanthosis nigricans or RAVEN (round and velvety epidermal naevus)

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2OMJFMV

Tumor spontaneous regression in an elderly patient with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the cranial vertex pre‐treated with cetuximab monotherapy

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2vUJLer

Efficacy and safety of daylight photodynamic therapy after tailored pretreatment with ablative fractional laser or microdermabrasion: a randomized, side‐by‐side, single‐blind trial in patients with actinic keratosis and large area field cancerization

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2nKbsC2

Mosaic mutations in FGFR3 and FGFR2 are associated with naevoid acanthosis nigricans or RAVEN (round and velvety epidermal naevus)

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2OMJFMV

Tumor spontaneous regression in an elderly patient with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the cranial vertex pre‐treated with cetuximab monotherapy

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2vUJLer

Analysis of a photobioreactor scaling up for tertiary wastewater treatment: denitrification, phosphorus removal, and microalgae production

Abstract

The present work studies the removal of nutrients (nitrate and phosphate) from a synthetic wastewater simulating a secondary treatment effluent using the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris in autotrophic photobioreactors, together with an analysis of the critical points affecting the scaling-up process from laboratory to pilot scale. Laboratory experiments were done in open agitated 1-L photobioreactors under batch operation mode, while pilot-scale experiments were done using a 150-L closed tubular photobioreactor under continuous operation mode. In both scales, nitrate was the limiting substrate and the effect of its concentration on microalgae performance was studied. From laboratory experiments, an average microalgae productivity of 85 mg_VSS L⁻¹ day⁻¹ and approximate maximum N-NO₃⁻ and P-PO₄³⁻ removal rates of 8 mg N g_VSS⁻¹ day⁻¹, and 2.6 mg P g_VSS⁻¹ day⁻¹ were found. Regarding pilot scale, the average microalgae productivity slightly decreased (76 mg_VSS L⁻¹ day⁻¹) while the approximate maximum N-NO₃⁻ and P-PO₄³⁻ removal rates slightly were increased (11.7 mg N g_VSS⁻¹ day⁻¹ and 3.04 mg P g_VSS⁻¹ day⁻¹) with respect to the laboratory-scale results. The pilot-scale operation worked under lower levels of turbulence and higher dissolved oxygen concentration and light intensity than laboratory experiments; those parameters were difficult to control and they can be identified as the critical points in the differences found on both nutrient removal and microalgae production.

https://ift.tt/2OMrZkE

Integrating natural and engineered remediation strategies for water quality management within a low-impact development (LID) approach

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate an interdisciplinary strategy combining both engineering- and biology-based approaches for stormwater and wastewater treatment. The work involves a novel and environmentally friendly surface material that can withstand urban load over its design service life, allows preliminary treatment through filtration, and diverts water to the subsurface to conduct secondary treatment below the surface through phytoremediation via the extensive rooting systems of trees. The present study highlights an interdisciplinary low-impact development (LID) approach developed for a polluted industrial wastewater site, for a cleaner and greener environment. The LID system involves (i) rhizofiltration and phytoremediation methods for removing heavy metals and organic pollutants using a hybrid poplar and aspen species; (ii) porous infrastructure produced using industrial waste, referred to as geopolymer pavers; and (iii) use of Silva cells as a tree-friendly and load support system. The design of the pavers over the Silva cells is innovative as it can deal with rainwater runoff and urban transportation loads simultaneously. The proposed system has the ability to extract heavy metals that are common in urban runoff or domestic and industrial effluents thus preserving the ecosystem naturally. The test site is only 15 m², but designed for a water-retention capacity of 2 m³ (roughly 1:100 year design volume draining a 10 × 10 m parking lot), and remediation levels for Cu and Zn are expected to reach 180 mg/kg dry weight and 1200 mg/kg dry weight, respectively.

https://ift.tt/2PjYebL

Short-term copper exposure as a selection pressure for antibiotic resistance and metal resistance in an agricultural soil

Abstract

Owing to the similar mechanisms of antibiotic and metal resistance, there is a growing concern that metal contamination may select for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment. Here, we constructed short-term laboratory microcosms to investigate the dynamics of a wide range of ARGs and two copper (Cu) resistance genes in an agricultural soil amended with a gradient of Cu concentrations (0~1000 mg kg⁻¹). Mobile genetic elements (MGEs) were also quantified as a proxy for the horizontal gene transfer potential of ARGs. We detected 126 unique ARGs across all the soil samples using the high-capacity quantitative PCR array, and multidrug and β-lactam resistance were the most abundant ARG categories. The copper amendments significantly enhanced the absolute and relative abundances of ARGs and MGEs, which gradually increased along the gradient of increasing Cu concentrations. The two Cu resistance genes (copA and pcoR) were highly enriched in low-level Cu treatment (50 and 100 mg kg⁻¹), and their abundances decreased with the increasing Cu concentrations. The level of metal and antibiotic resistance gradually declined over time in all Cu-amended treatments but was still considerably higher in contaminated soils than untreated soils after 56 days' incubation. Significant associations among ARGs and MGEs were revealed by the network analysis, suggesting the mobility potential of antibiotic resistance in Cu-amended soils. No significant positive correlations were found between ARGs and copper resistance genes, suggesting that these genes are not located in the same bacterial hosts. Taken together, our results provide empirical evidence that short-term copper stress can cause evolution of high-level antibiotic and metal resistance and significantly change the diversity, abundance, and horizontal transfer potential of soil ARGs.

https://ift.tt/2OLj7eR

Foliar application of Zn can reduce Cd concentrations in rice ( Oryza sativa L.) under field conditions

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) pollution in rice and its transfer to food chain are cause of global concern. Application of zinc (Zn) can reduce Cd uptake by plants, as both these metals are generally antagonistic in soil–plant systems. In a field experiment on Cd-contaminated acid soil, we investigated the effectiveness of foliar application of Zn in minimizing Cd accumulation and its effect on the content of mineral nutrient elements in rice. The treatment was done at an early grain filling stag using 0.3 and 0.5% w/v ZnSO₄·7H₂O solution. The spray did not affect the grain yield of rice but decreased the Cd concentration in the root, straw, husk, and brown rice to some extent and increased the Zn concentration. Foliar application of 0.5% ZnSO₄ resulted in maximum Zn concentration and minimum Cd concentration in brown rice. However, the concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, and Mn in brown rice were not affected. The correlation between Cd and Zn concentrations in brown rice, husk, and root was significantly negative, and that between Cd and Mn concentrations in brown rice was significantly positive. The inhibition of Cd uptake resulted in a decrease in its concentration in brown rice after the treatments. Thus, the foliar application of a suitable concentration of Zn at the early grain filling stage could effectively minimize the Cd concentration while enhancing the Zn concentration in brown rice on Cd-contaminated acid soil.

https://ift.tt/2Plsfs3

Evaluation of the odor impact of some environmental gaseous pollutants: calibration of the methodology and preliminary results

Abstract

During the last decades, it has been observed a growing interest on odor impact because of the frequenter social acceptability problems about energy plants handling and processing stored organic materials (e.g., biogas plants, landfills, farms, distilleries, etc.). In this context, the UNI EN 13725:2004 indicates the "dynamic olfactometry method" as validated, recognized, and adequate measurement procedure for estimating the odor concentration. This protocol is carried out by a panel of specifically trained and selected human receptors, but alternative analytical methodologies are currently under discussion. This work aims to describe the initial steps of a wider research toward the definition of a new analytical protocol for monitoring odor concentration. The alternative methodology is here presented through the implementation of a case study: stored organic materials exploited on an energy plant in Central Italy. The paper describes the preliminary activities related to the survey of the case study (i), the definition of alternative methods and devices for conducting emissions sampling (ii), and the adopted experimental approach (iii). Finally, preliminary results are also presented (iv). The resulting protocol, once validated, could be employed by local authorities to measure both the odor impacts and the effectiveness of specifically designed mitigation strategies.

https://ift.tt/2OLj4zH

Clinical study on the efficacy of LED phototherapy for pain control in an orthodontic procedure

Abstract

Pain is an unpleasant and emotional subjective sensory experience that occurs during orthodontic procedures. Currently, LED phototherapy is an alternative to the use of laser light as analgesic agent due to similarity of response and lower cost. This case-control, quantitative, qualitative, and longitudinal study aimed to investigate the effect of IR LED phototherapy (λ846 ± 20 nm) in pain during the process of tooth separation during orthodontic treatment. After approval by the Institution Ethics Committee, 40 patients (30 female/10 male, 20–30 years old, average age 24.5 ± 2.6 years old) fulfilling the inclusion criteria entered the study and received a set of four visual analog scales (VAS) for scoring pain immediately, 48 h, 72 h, and 7 days after the insertion of the separating elastics. The patients were randomly distributed into two groups (experimental and control). The patients of experimental group received LED phototherapy (180 mW, 22 s, 4 J, 8 J/cm²_, 0.36 W/cm², spot of 0.5 cm², spot diameter 0.8 cm) at the same times in which VAS was performed, and control patients were not irradiated. It was found that, in both groups, there was an increase in pain 48 h after insertion of the elastic tooth separator, decreasing 72 h after its installation and reached the lowest level of pain after 7 days. Comparison between groups showed that pain level in the LED group was always statistically significantly lower (p < 0.05), except for the time of installation (T1). The use of LED light was effective in significantly reducing the level of pain after insertion of the elastic tooth separators when compared to the control group.

https://ift.tt/2OPc8BZ

Reciprocal relationship between herpes zoster and cardiovascular diseases: A nationwide population‐based case–control study in Korea

The Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2nOx00k

Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

Η λίστα ιστολογίων μου

Σάββατο 18 Αυγούστου 2018

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