Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 08/25/18

Σάββατο 25 Αυγούστου 2018

Testimony of an Ethiopian girl sexually assaulted by her stepfather: a case report

The sensitiveness and stigma associated with sexual assault deter many victims from speaking about their experiences. This silence of victims worsens the problem, especially in patriarchal communities like Eth...

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Adjuvant radiotherapy as a risk factor for developing capsular contracture in women after breast implant surgery

I wish to congratulate Bachour and colleagues for their article1 in which they investigated risk factors for developing capsular contracture in women after breast implant surgery in a systematic review of the literature. Longer duration of follow-up, breast reconstructive surgery in patients with a history of breast cancer, subglandular implant placement, postoperative hematoma, and a textured implant surface were found to be a presumptive increased risk factors. However, authors did not take adjuvant radiotherapy into consideration as a risk factor in breast cancer patients.

https://ift.tt/2P8GuiV

Commentary – Consensus research priorities for facial palsy: a Delphi survey of patients, carers, clinicians and researchers

Facial paralysis is a devastating medical condition with approximately 50 cases per 100,000 in the United States.1 The psychological and social distress in individuals with facial paralysis is well documented.2 The overall societal burden and costs are less well understood. With divergent priorities and finite healthcare and research funds, the need for focused research efforts to maximize treatment outcomes is ever more important. This study by Hamlet et al highlights a novel attempt to develop research priorities for facial paralysis using a Delphi survey of a multi-disciplinary group of facial nerve experts, patients and caregivers.

https://ift.tt/2MRwRr9

Variation in the perioperative care of women undergoing abdominal-based microvascular breast reconstruction in the United Kingdom (The optiFLAPP Study)

Abdominal-based microvascular breast reconstruction constitutes approximately one fifth of reconstructions following mastectomy for breast cancer. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been implemented to improve patient care. The aim of this project was to identify variation in the perioperative care of women undergoing microvascular breast reconstruction to inform development of an ERAS protocol.

https://ift.tt/2P21UxY

Behavioral activity patterns of adult and juvenile Greater Flamingos ( Phoenicopterus roseus ) with alteration of climatic pattern at Uchalli Lake, Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

A study was carried out at Uchalli Lake, District Khushab on Greater Flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) to find their behavioral activity pattern. The hypothesis that local climatic temperature affects the wintering behavior of Greater Flamingos was tested. Data were collected for a period of 3 days in March and 10 days in April using focal animal analysis. Each day was divided into four periods (7–8 a.m., 10–11 a.m., 1–2 p.m., and 4–5 p.m.). Activity patterns included characters like feeding, resting, flying, walking, preening, aggression, and alert. Results showed that feeding was the major activity for adults (51.06%) and juveniles (56.51%). Juveniles spent more time (t = − 2.02, p < 0.05) feeding than adults. There was a highly significant difference (t = 3.20, p < 0.01) in alert between adults and juveniles across time periods. Adults spent more time alert (8.3%) than juveniles (4.49%). Only aggression and alert in adults and walking and alert in juveniles was found significantly correlated to change with temperature. The findings of the present study highlighted the need of in-depth eco-ethological study of Greater Flamingo and hydrology of wetland.

https://ift.tt/2MRwc99

Contamination of Indian sea salts with microplastics and a potential prevention strategy

Abstract

This study reports the contamination of Indian sea salts with different microplastic particles, as a consequence of using contaminated sea water. Samples from all eight brands of investigated sea salts were found contaminated, and concentrations of these particles ranged from 103 ± 39 to 56 ± 49 particles kg⁻¹ of salt. Both fibers and fragments were observed with large variation in size. Eighty percent of the extracted fibers and the fragments were smaller than 2000 μm and 500 μm respectively. Extracted particles were mostly polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide, polyethylene, and polystyrene. Their total mass concentration was also estimated as 63.76 μg kg⁻¹ of salt. These results are significant, since India is a leading producer and exporter of sea salts. A simple sand filtration of artificially contaminated sea water could effectively (> 85% removal by weight and > 90% removal by number) remove these microplastics and has the potential for preventing the transfer of microplastics into the salt from contaminated sea waters.

https://ift.tt/2MOdQ9a

Isolation and characterization of phosphate solubilizing bacteria from rhizosphere soils of the Yeyahu Wetland in Beijing, China

Abstract

Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) can convert insoluble forms of phosphorus (P) to accessible forms. 11 strains of PSB, including five inorganic phosphate solubilizing bacteria (IPSBs) and six organic phosphate solubilizing bacteria (OPSBs), were isolated from rhizosphere soils of three plants Scirpus planiculmis, Zizania latifolia, and Phrnagmites australis in the Yeyahu Wetland of Beijing, China to investigate P-solubilizing activities. In addition, the distributions of P fractions in soil samples were also observed. All strains evaluated above 1.0 by the ratio of transparent circle diameter to colony diameter (D/d) on Ca₃(PO₄)₂ or lecithin plates were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing. Results showed that Ca-bound P (Ca-P) was the main species of inorganic P (IP), and highly resistant organic P (HR-OP) accounted for the most part of organic P (OP). These strains were identified as bacterial species of Enterobacter asburiae, Acinetobacter sp., Bacillus cereus strain, and so on. The most efficient IPSB strain could convert over 430 mg L⁻¹ orthophosphate, while the equivalent OPSB strain only liberated less than 4 mg L⁻¹ in liquid culture, which indicated that IPSBs have a better P-solubilizing ability than OPSBs in rhizosphere soils of the Yeyahu Wetland and IPSBs are likely to regulate the P transformation process in this wetland.

Graphical abstract

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Comparison of temporomandibular joint shape and size in patients with facial asymmetry

Abstract

Objective

To examine the morphologic similarities and differences in mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa between the deviated and non-deviated sides in patients with facial asymmetry using statistical analysis.

Methods

One hundred eighty-four patients (95 men, 89 women; mean age, 22.30 ± 3.87 years) with facial asymmetry were examined with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Shape analysis was performed to compare the shapes and sizes of the condyle and fossa between the deviated and non-deviated sides in the frontal and lateral aspects. Ordinary Procrustes analysis (OPA) was used to determine shape variations of the fossa and condyle.

Results

Shape variations derived from ordinary sum of squares (OSS) suggested that, in the frontal aspect, there was a difference between the two sides in both the fossa and condyle (P < 0.05). In the lateral aspect, there was no difference in fossa shape between the two sides (P > 0.05); however, the shape of condyle was different between the non-deviated and deviated sides (P < 0.05). Size comparison in OPA matching and centroid size (CS) in the frontal aspect demonstrated that the non-deviated side was larger than the deviated side. In the lateral aspect, fossa showed no difference in CS between the two sides (P > 0.05); however, the non-deviated side was larger than the deviated side for condyle (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Morphometric differences in condyle and fossa between the deviated and non-deviated sides were observed. Structures of the non-deviated side were relatively larger than those of the deviated side, except for fossa in the lateral aspect.

https://ift.tt/2weAPAB

Influence of earthworm bioturbation on metals phytoavailability and human gastric bioaccessibility

Abstract

At the global scale, urban agriculture is increasingly developing in cities due to demographic growth and sustainable food concerns. But, urban soils are frequently polluted with metals. In urban gardens, organic matter is also commonly added both to valorize organic household waste and to promote biophysicochemical fertility. As earthworms promote the decomposition and the recycling of soil organic matter, they can also influence the biogeochemical cycle of metals in urban polluted soils. In order to produce safe vegetables in urban areas, it is crucial to highlight the mechanisms involved in complex soil-earthworm-plant ecosystems. An experiment was set up to examine these relationships using lettuce cultivated in controlled conditions with RHIZOtest® devices. Thanks to the RHIZOtest® devices, metal transfer and bioaccessibility were for the first time compared for urban polluted soil without (1—urban soil polluted with Pb, Cd, Cu, and Zn: essential or toxic metals currently found in environment, SNB) and with bioturbation (2—this metal-polluted soil subjected to earthworm bioturbation, SB) and earthworm casts (3—earthworm casts produced in this polluted soil and naturally enriched in organic matter and microorganisms, T). Metal concentration, phytoavailability, and human gastric bioaccessibility were determined in the different samples. Results showed that earthworm bioturbation increased the phytoavailability of all the metals. For the experimental condition SB, the phytoavailability of metals was increased up to 75% compared to SNB. In addition, surprisingly, metal phytoavailability was always superior in SB compared to earthworm casts (T). Moreover, earthworms led to an increase in Zn gastric bioaccessibility up to 10% in the soils in the same way as for phytoavailability, meaning Zn bioaccessibility in SB > T > SNB, whereas it remained unchanged in the lettuces. These data are important to promote sustainable agriculture activities in urban areas; actually, databases concerning different experimental conditions are needed to develop decision support tools.

https://ift.tt/2MARpVT

Maximization of CO 2 storage for various solvent types in indirect carbonation using paper sludge ash

Abstract

This study aimed to maximise the amount of CO₂ storage by indirect carbonation using paper sludge ash (PSA), which is an alkaline industrial waste. The properties of the following three types of solvents were considered: acids (acetic acid and hydrochloric acid), ammonium salts (ammonium chloride and ammonium acetate) and others (sodium citrate and water). When carbon dioxide was injected into calcium leachates prepared from PSA using acids, carbonation did not occur, and using ammonium salts as solvent, the carbonation efficiency was low. However, after pH swing of the leachates using sodium hydroxide and ammonia solution for acid and ammonium salt solvents, up to 324 kg CO₂/(ton PSA) and 175 kg CO₂/(ton PSA) were stored, respectively. When carbon dioxide was injected into calcium leachates prepared from PSA using sodium citrate or water, solid was initially generated which later dissolved. In order to solve this problem, CO₂ injection was stopped just before the pH of the solution reached 10.5 for sodium citrate and 8.3 for water, resulting in the storage of 136 kg CO₂/(ton PSA) and 29 kg CO₂/(ton PSA), respectively. Solids obtained through carbonation were pure calcium carbonate.

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Quantification of the impact of the offshore petrochemical industrial park on ambient ozone using photochemical grid modeling and assessment monitoring

Abstract

This study integrated the results of photochemical grid modeling and assessment monitoring to quantify the impact of the offshore petrochemical industrial park (OPIP), with area of 26.03 km², on ambient ozone in a coastal region of Taiwan. A highly repetitive ozone-spreading phenomenon in the adjacent OPIP area was observed, which shows that ozone spreading follows a clear cycle between offshore and inland areas during the prevailing periods of ozone events (≥ 120 ppb). The incremental ratio of ambient ozone for the OPIP on ozone event days during the southwest and northeast monsoons in 2011–2016 ranged from 1.05 to 1.25 (average = 1.15) and 1.04–1.27 (average = 1.17), respectively. Data from ten photochemical assessment monitoring stations surrounding the OPIP in 2016 showed that the ratio of monthly average concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the northeast monsoon to the southwest monsoon was approximately 1.5. The ratio of the monthly latent incremental amount of ozone to the total volatile organic amount in the same month during the northeast and southwest monsoons was in the ranges of approximately 0.84–0.97 and 1.01–1.12, respectively. Moreover, the latent incremental amount of ozone during the daytime was greater than that at night. The results indicate that the observed ozone concentration increases as the latent incremental amount of ozone or ambient VOCs decreases.

https://ift.tt/2MuA6p8

Borohydride method modification in synthesizing nano zero valent iron and its application in DDT removal

Abstract

Among the methods used in the literature for the synthesizing of nano zero valent iron (nZVI), borohydride is the most commonly used method; it is seen that different variables are used together. In this study, optimum nano zero valent iron (nZVI) synthesizing method using borohydride method has been modified by using multiple optimization method in terms of both particle size and zeta potential. Selected independent variables are selected as iron sulfate concentration, ethanol ratio, and flow rate of borohydride solution. With the optimum synthesis method determined, the lowest particle size was obtained as 70 nm only when the particle size was taken into consideration, whereas 88.2 nm nZVI could be produced when both the particle size and the zeta potential were taken into consideration. In addition, the removal of DDT, which is the most commonly used persistent organic pollutant pesticides in the world, was investigated by nZVI synthesized. Different initial DDT concentration was investigated by expressing oxidation reduction potential (ORP) difference, removal rates, and oxidation byproducts. When DDD and DDE concentrations are considered, it is found that DDT is more likely to oxidize in DDD in all studied initial DDT concentrations. Removal rate was higher than 80% with initial concentrations lower than 125 μg/L, which is a high concentration that could be found in surface waters.

https://ift.tt/2LpD4WN

Treatment of Genital Psoriasis: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Genital psoriasis affects approximately 63% of psoriasis patients at least once in their lifetime. More than any other area on the body, genital lesions significantly impair patients' psychologic well-being and quality of life. We aimed to systematically review the published evidence on the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of treatments of genital psoriasis and synthesize the available clinical data. A total of 1 randomized controlled trial, 11 open-label studies, and 26 case reports were included in our analysis, representing a total of 458 patients, of which 332 were adults and 126 were children. Topical corticosteroids were commonly used first-line for genital psoriasis and were well tolerated. Nonsteroidal agents, such as topical calcineurin inhibitors or vitamin D analogs, were also efficacious, but were often irritating. One systemic agent, ixekizumab, demonstrated efficacy in reducing genital psoriasis symptoms in a large, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Various systemic and topical medications may improve genital psoriasis lesions, but there is a lack of high-quality evidence to guide clinical decision-making. Specific reporting of efficacy for genital psoriasis in larger controlled studies of psoriasis treatments are necessary to improve the available evidence regarding the optimal treatment regimen for genital psoriasis.

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New Animal Model of Extrinsic Dental Erosion—Erosive Effect on the Mouse Molar Teeth

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): Amela Tulek, Muhammad Saeed, Aida Mulic, Kjersti Refsholt Stenhagen, Tor Paaske Utheim, Hilde Kanli Galtung, Cuong Khuu, Minou Nirvani, Marthe Smedmoen Kristiansen, Amer Sehic

Abstract

Objective

Consumption of acidic food and drinks is considered as important risk factor for development of dental erosion. There are severalin vitro and in situ studies focusing on the risk indicators and preventive treatment, however, the need for a standardized animal model has been emphasised for many years. The aim was to establish an animal model of extrinsic dental erosion, which may serve as a standard for future studies to improve our understanding of the erosion.

Design

Two acidic drinks, sports drink and cola drink, were given to young mice for six weeks. Experimental and control (water) molars and incisors were dissected out and observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Mandibular first molars were subsequently ground transversely and observed again by SEM. The tooth height and enamel thickness were measured on the SEM images.

Results

The lingual surface of the mandibular molars was most eroded after consumption of acidic drinks. The cola drink exhibited higher erosive effect on mandibular molars compared to sports drink. The lingual tooth height, compared to control, was about 34% and 18% lower in the cola drink and sports drink molars, respectively. Compared to the control molars, the lingual enamel was about 23% thinner in the sports drink molars and totally eroded on the certain lingual areas of the cola drink molars.

Conclusions

This new animal model of extrinsic dental erosion and the presented method with ground molars observed in SEM are suitable for further studies, which will gain deeper insights into the erosive disease.

https://ift.tt/2o9LfgJ

Platycarya strobilacea leaf extract inhibits tumor necrosis factor-α production and bone loss induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis-derived lipopolysaccharide

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): Joo-Hee Lee, Hyungkeun Kim, Jae Hoon Shim, Junhee Park, Sun Kyoung Lee, Kwang-Kyun Park, Won-Yoon Chung

Abstract

Objective

Remodeling of alveolar bone is controlled by osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and osteoblast-induced bone formation. LPS of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major causative agent of periodontitis, produces proinflammatory cytokines in host immune cells, which thereby triggers osteoclastogenesis and leads to alveolar bone resorption. We investigated the anti-periodontitis potential of Platycarya strobilacea leaf extract (PLE), which is used as a traditional medicine in Asian countries.

Design

TNF-α levels in cell culture media were measured using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Osteoclast differentiation was observed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, and the expression levels of osteoclastogenic genes were measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Bone-resorbing activity was confirmed by the resorption pit formation, gelatin zymographic, and the cathepsin K activity assays. Osteogenic differentiation was confirmed with an ALP activity assay and alizarin red S staining.

Results

PLE treatment inhibited the production of TNF-α inP. gingivalis LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. In bone marrow-derived macrophages serving as osteoclast precursors, PLE treatment blocked RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and gene expression levels of the osteoclastogenic transcription factor NFATc1, DC-STAMP for osteoclast fusion, and cathepsin K for osteoclast activity. In addition, PLE treatment reduced the formation of resorption pits and the secretion of MMP 9 and cathepsin K from the differentiated osteoclasts. Furthermore, PLE treatment induced osteogenesis by increasing ALP activity and calcium content in preosteoblastic cells.

Conclusion

PLE inhibitsP. gingivalis LPS-induced TNF-α production and bone resorption and induces bone formation. PLE may be a beneficial agent to promote oral health by inhibiting periodontitis-induced alveolar bone loss.

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Non-syndromic tooth agenesis patterns and their association with other dental anomalies: A retrospective study

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): Bianca Núbia Souza-Silva, Walbert de Andrade Vieira, Ítalo de Macedo Bernardino, Marília Jesus Batista, Marcos Alan Vieira Bittencourt, Luiz Renato Paranhos

Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and the factors associated with non-syndromic tooth agenesis, besides identifying its pattern of occurrence.

Study Design

Pre-orthodontic exams of 3400 subjects, aged 8 to 30 years, were selected from a radiographic center in Brazil. Panoramic and periapical radiographs were analyzed to verify the presence of tooth agenesis and other six dental anomalies. Descriptive statistics were calculated using the Tooth Agenesis Code tool and, to evaluate significant associations, a negative binomial regression model was constructed. Besides, unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated for the bivariate and the multivariate analysis.

Results

Prevalence of tooth agenesis was 3.0% (n = 68) and 41 different phenotypic patterns were observed. Teeth most often symmetrically missing were maxillary lateral incisors (13.2%) and mandibular second premolars (8.8%). Females (PR = 3.49, CI 95% = 1.96-6.19) presented more tooth agenesis. Other dental anomalies, such as palatal displacement of maxillary canine and infraocclusion of primary molar were significantly more frequent (p < 0.001) in subjects with agenesis.

Conclusion

There was a strong relationship between tooth agenesis and gender and the association with other dental anomalies was significant, with the exception of the supernumerary teeth, which seems to be independent.

https://ift.tt/2o9L4SB

Effects of sunlight, microbial activity, and temperature on the declines of antibiotic lincomycin in freshwater and saline aquaculture pond waters and sediments

Abstract

The residues of lincomycin (LIN), an antibiotic administered to aquatic animals, are often detected in aquatic environments. This study investigated effects of three environmental factors, sunlight, microbial activity, and temperature, on declines of spiked LIN in waters and sediment slurry samples collected from freshwater tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) and marine shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) culture ponds. The results showed that sunlight, temperature, and microbial activity all accelerated LIN transformation in the water and slurry samples. In matrixes of all water and slurry samples, LIN transformation was significantly faster under light conditions [half-life (t_1/2) = 24–53 days] than under dark conditions (t_1/2 = 154–2897 days). Microbial activity also accelerated LIN transformation; the t_1/2 of LIN was shorter after nonsterile treatment (t_1/2 = 12–809 days) than after sterile treatment (t_1/2 = 154–2897 days). Moreover, LIN transformation was faster at 28 °C (t_1/2 = 18–38 days) than at 20 and 12 °C (t_1/2 = 34 and 462 days, respectively) in both slurry samples. The results revealed that LIN transformation in aquaculture pond water and sediment was either slow or stagnant. Sunlight, microbial activity, and temperature can accelerate LIN transformation to reduce LIN residue levels.

https://ift.tt/2LrbuIy

UK Immunotherapy Study: Reanalysis by a combined symptom and medication score

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Author(s): Anthony J. Frew, Christian Ljørring, Hendrik Wolf, Eike Wüstenberg, Stephen R. Durham, Christopher J. Corrigan, Richard J. Powell, Oliver Pfaar

https://ift.tt/2woA8nQ

Topical platelet rich plasma versus hyaluronic acid during fat graft myringoplasty

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: American Journal of Otolaryngology

Author(s): Yasser Ahmed Fouad, Mohammad Abdelhady, Mohammad El-anwar, Ezzat Merwad

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of adding platelet rich plasma (PRP) or Hyaluronic acid (HA) to fat graft myringoplasty (FGM) for medium sized central tympanic membrane (TM) perforations.

Methods

This is a retrospective study conducted on 69 patients with medium sized central TM perforations. In 21 patients, PRP was used with the FGM; and in 23 patients, HA was used with the FGM; while in 25 patients, pure FGM was performed without adding an enhancing material.

Results

Successful TM perforation repair was achieved in 18 ears (85.7) with using PRP with FGM and in 20 ears (87%) with using HA with FGM and in 15 ears (60%) with pure FGM.

Conclusion

FGM with adding PRP or HA is more successful in closure of TM perforation than pure FGM in case of medium sized central TM perforation.

https://ift.tt/2BIk5qG

Salt-Inducible Kinases: Physiology, Regulation by cAMP, and Therapeutic Potential

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism

Author(s): Marc N. Wein, Marc Foretz, David E. Fisher, Ramnik J. Xavier, Henry M. Kronenberg

Salt-inducible kinases (SIKs) represent a subfamily of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) family kinases. Initially named because SIK1 (the founding member of this kinase family) expression is regulated by dietary salt intake in the adrenal gland, it is now apparent that a major biological role of these kinases is to control gene expression in response to extracellular cues that increase intracellular levels of cAMP. Here, we review four physiologically relevant examples of how cAMP signaling impinges upon SIK cellular function. By focusing on examples of cAMP-mediated SIK regulation in gut myeloid cells, bone, liver, and skin, we highlight recent advances in G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signal transduction. New knowledge regarding the role of SIKs in GPCR signaling has led to therapeutic applications of novel small molecule SIK inhibitors.

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Comment on “Photobiomodulation delays the onset of skeletal muscle fatigue in a dose-dependent manner”

https://ift.tt/2P197yn

A 1470-nm laser combined with foam sclerotherapy in day surgery: a better choice for lower limb varicose veins

Abstract

Day surgery is being more and more adopted by clinicians. Higher wavelength lasers give patients better experience than lower wavelength lasers, which makes it more suitable for day surgery. This study compares the short- and mid-term efficacy, postoperative morbidity, and patient satisfaction of "1470-nm endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) combining foam sclerotherapy in day surgery" with "810-nm EVLA with high ligation combining foam sclerotherapy in hospital surgery" on great saphenous vein (GSV) insufficiency postoperatively. A single-institution historical cohort study of 194 patients was performed in Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, China. Ninety-seven patients received 1470-nm EVLA combining foam sclerotherapy in day surgery ("1470-nm group"), and 97 patients received 810-nm EVLA with high ligation combining foam sclerotherapy in hospital surgery recommended by guidelines ("810-nm group"). No significant difference was found between the 1470-nm group and the 810-nm group in terms of GSV occlusion rate (both 100%), complication rate, and recurrence rate (8.2 vs. 11.3%) during the period of 1–12 months after surgery. Serious complications in the 1470-nm group and 810-nm group were 0 and 1.0%. Minor complications in the 1470-nm group and 810-nm group were ecchymosis at 20.6 and 18.6%, edema at 69.1 and 63.9%, and paresthesia around ankle at 0 and 3.1%, respectively. Advantage of the 1470-nm group over the 810-nm group was statistically significant considering the patient perioperative comfort and economic cost. Treatment of 1470-nm EVLA combining foam sclerotherapy in day surgery has similar efficacy as the 810-nm EVLA with high ligation combining foam sclerotherapy in hospital surgery in GSV insufficiency and is more comfortable with less incision, hospitalization procedure, and medical costs. It may be a new option for patients who are afraid or unable to be hospitalized.

https://ift.tt/2MUR3sa

Time-dependent antimicrobial effect of photodynamic therapy with TONS 504 on Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a major cause of infectious keratitis, which itself is a major cause of blindness worldwide. We have now evaluated the time-dependent effectiveness of photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) with the chlorin derivative TONS 504 and a light-emitting diode (LED) on P. aeruginosa in vitro. PACT with TONS 504 (10 mg/L) and irradiation (30 J/m²) by an LED device that delivers light centered on a wavelength of 660 nm was applied to 1 × 10⁶ colony-forming units of P. aeruginosa in liquid medium. The bacteria were then cultured at 37 °C for various times before assay of viability by determination of colony formation on agar plates. The effect of a second irradiation at 3 h after the initial LED exposure was also examined. Bacterial growth was markedly inhibited between 3 and 9 h after PACT with TONS 504, with the maximal effect being apparent at 3 h. Furthermore, a second exposure to LED irradiation at 3 h after the first treatment enhanced the inhibitory effect on bacterial growth. PACT with TONS 504 thus inhibited the growth of P. aeruginosa in a time-dependent manner, and an additional irradiation exposure applied 3 h after the first LED treatment greatly increased the effectiveness of PACT. This antibacterial system thus warrants further evaluation with regard to its potential effectiveness for the treatment of infectious keratitis.

https://ift.tt/2LnPkH3

Photobiomodulation effects on mRNA levels from genomic and chromosome stabilization genes in injured muscle

Abstract

Muscle injuries are the most prevalent type of injury in sports. A great number of athletes have relapsed in muscle injuries not being treated properly. Photobiomodulation therapy is an inexpensive and safe technique with many benefits in muscle injury treatment. However, little has been explored about the infrared laser effects on DNA and telomeres in muscle injuries. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate photobiomodulation effects on mRNA relative levels from genes related to telomere and genomic stabilization in injured muscle. Wistar male rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, laser 25 mW, laser 75 mW, injury, injury laser 25 mW, and injury laser 75 mW. Photobiomodulation was performed with 904 nm, 3 J/cm² at 25 or 75 mW. Cryoinjury was induced by two applications of a metal probe cooled in liquid nitrogen directly on the tibialis anterior muscle. After euthanasia, skeletal muscle samples were withdrawn and total RNA extracted for evaluation of mRNA levels from genomic (ATM and p53) and chromosome stabilization (TRF1 and TRF2) genes by real-time quantitative polymerization chain reaction. Data show that photobiomodulation reduces the mRNA levels from ATM and p53, as well reduces mRNA levels from TRF1 and TRF2 at 25 and 75 mW in injured skeletal muscle. In conclusion, photobiomodulation alters mRNA relative levels from genes related to genomic and telomere stabilization in injured skeletal muscle.

https://ift.tt/2w6X2Rh

Fractional CO 2 laser contributes to the treatment of non-segmental vitiligo as an adjunct therapy: a systemic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

The treatment of stable non-segmental vitiligo is often challenging, which new therapies are being searched. Multiple clinical trials have proposed the benefits and safety of using fractional carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser as an adjunct therapy to conventional treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of fractional carbon dioxide laser as a combination therapy to conventional treatments in patients with stable non-segmental vitiligo. A literature search using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed for comparative studies among vitiligo patients treated with additional fractional CO₂ laser. Clinical outcomes in the selected studies were compared, and a meta-analysis was performed via Review Manager version 5.3, according to the PRISMA guidelines. Six studies with a total of 184 patches/patients were included in the present meta-analysis. The combination therapy group had significantly superior results than that of the control group (≥ 75% re-pigmentation, risk ratio [RR] 2.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29–6.07; ≥ 50% re-pigmentation, RR 2.26, 95% CI 1.23–5.9; < 25% re-pigmentation, RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.43–0.75). Limitations of the study included the small number of studies and sample size, inadequate blinding of participants, and variation between therapy protocols. Meta-analysis revealed that using fractional CO₂ laser in combination with conventional treatments is efficient and safe, and may be considered as an adjunct therapeutic option for patients with refractive non-segmental vitiligo.

https://ift.tt/2P2FkW0

Effects of different treatments on chemical and morphological features of eroded dentin

Abstract

To evaluate the treatment of eroded dentin (Sensodyne Repair & Protect™, Er:YAG laser and combinations). The occlusal surfaces of 25 third molars were sectioned 1.5 mm in thickness. After an erosion cycle (5 min in demineralizing solution + 3 h in remineralizing solution; six cycles a day for 8 days), the samples were divided into five groups (n = 5): (E) erosion − control; (ES) erosion + Sensodyne Repair & Protect (NovaMin); (EL) erosion + Er:YAG laser (40 mJ, 10 Hz, 0.4 W, 50 μs, 3.1 J/cm², 63 W/cm²); (ELS) erosion + Er:YAG laser + Sensodyne; and (ESL) erosion + Sensodyne + Er:YAG laser. Following storage in ultrapure water (37 °C/14 days), the Ca/P ratio was evaluated by EDXRF and the morphology surfaces examined in SEM. The percentage of exposed dentin tubules was calculated. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5% were used to treat the data. The Ca/P ratio was higher in E and ES groups. More exposed dentin tubules were found in E group and less exposed tubules were found in the ES group (p < 0.0001). When the toothpaste and laser were combined, the number of occluded dentin tubules was higher when laser was performed first (ELS). A positive effect was found when the laser and toothpaste were combined.

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Femtosecond lenticule extraction performed on a wrong meridian and effectively reversed by excimer laser ablation

https://ift.tt/2Lqy8AT

Photodynamic inactivation in the expression of the Candida albicans genes ALS3, HWP1, BCR1, TEC1, CPH1, and EFG1 in biofilms

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of photodynamic inactivation (PDI) on Candida albicans biofilms, evaluating its effects on gene expression of ALS3, HWP1, BCR1, TEC1, CPH1, and EFG1 by yeast. Three samples of C. albicans were used in this study: a clinical sample from a patient with HIV (39S), a clinical sample from a patient with denture stomatitis lesion (Ca30), and a standard strain ATCC 18804. The quantification of gene expression was related to the production of those genes in the samples referred above using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay in real time. The photosensitizer methylene blue at 300 uM and erythrosine at 400 uM, sensitized with low-power laser (visible red, 660 nm) and green LED (532 nm), respectively, were used for PDI. Four groups of each sample and PDI protocol were evaluated: (a) P+L+: sensitization with the photosensitizer and irradiation with light, (b) P+L−: only treatment with the photosensitizer, (c) P−L+: only irradiation with light, and (d) P−L−: without sensitization with the dye and absence of light. The results were analyzed by t test, with a significance level of 5%. The photodynamic inactivation was able to reduce the expression of all genes for both treatments, laser and LED. The fold-decrease for the genes ALS3, HWP1, BCR1, TEC1, CPH1, and EFG1 were 0.73, 0.39, 0.77, 0.71, 0.67, and 0.60 for laser, respectively, and 0.66, 0.61, .050, 0.43, 0.54, and 0.66 for LED, respectively. It could be concluded that PDI showed a reduction in the expression of C. albicans genes, suggesting its virulence decrease.

https://ift.tt/2Lsit42

Thulium (Tm:YAG) laser vaporesection of prostate and bipolar transurethral resection of prostate in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Thulium laser vaporesection (ThuVARP) and bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate (B-TURP) are novel surgeries for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). This paper is a systematic review and analysis of literatures comparing efficacy indicators, operative parameters, as well as safety indicators between ThuVARP and B-TURP for the treatment of BPH. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), was carried out up to December 1, 2015 (updated on March 1, 2016). The captivating outcomes included basic clinical characteristics, perioperative parameters, local complications, and efficacy indicators which included International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual (PVR). After assessing the quality of methodology and extracting data, a meta-analysis was carried out by using STATA 12.0 software. Five studies involving 500 patients met the standard. The outcomes of this analysis were as follows: (a) efficacy indicators: there were no significant differences in IPSS, QoL, PVR, and Qmax between the two groups (all P > 0.05); (b) perioperative indicators: ThuVARP had longer operative time [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.843; 95% confidence interval (CI) − 0.391, 1.296; P < 0.001] but less serum hemoglobin decreased (SMD = − 0.561; 95% CI − 0.796, − 0.327; P < 0.001), shorter hospital stay (SMD = − 1.558; 95% CI − 2.709, − 0.407; P < 0.01), and catheterization time (SMD = − 1.274; 95% CI − 2.158, − 0.390; P < 0.01). Additionally, no significant difference was found in estimated resected weight (P > 0.05); (c) safety indicators: no significant difference was found in local complication rates (all P > 0.05) between ThuVARP and B-TURP. In our analysis, there exists no statistical difference between ThuVARP and B-TURP group in efficacy. However, in spite of requiring longer surgical time, ThuVARP was better in terms of less blood loss as well as shorter hospitalization and catheterization time.

https://ift.tt/2MN0g5P

The vitamin D3 analog, maxacalcitol, reduces psoriasiform skin inflammation by inducing regulatory T cells and downregulating IL-23 and IL-17 production

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Journal of Dermatological Science

Author(s): Carren S. Hau, Teruo Shimizu, Yayoi Tada, Masahiro Kamata, Shintaro Takeoka, Sayaka Shibata, Aya Mitsui, Yoshihide Asano, Makoto Sugaya, Takafumi Kadono, Shinichi Sato, Shinichi Watanabe

Abstract

Background

Psoriasis is a Th1/Th17-mediated inflammatory dermatosis treated with topical corticosteroids and vitamin D₃ analogs (VD3 As).

Objective

To compare the effects of a VD3 A maxacalcitol and betamethasone valerate (BV) steroid lotion on topical imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasiform skin inflammation.

Methods

Female BALB/c mice were treated with vehicle, maxacalcitol or BV lotion on the skin for 3 days, and IMQ cream for 6 days. q-PCR, H&E, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence studies were performed on skin samples. Additionally, mice were treated with vehicle, maxacalcitol or BV lotion for 3 days and CD4⁺CD25⁺ regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD4⁺CD25- cells from each group were isolated from lymph nodes. Adoptive transfer of the cells was performed on recipient mice which were treated with IMQ cream for 6 days, and skin samples were obtained for q-PCR and H&E staining.

Results

Maxacalcitol and BV were comparable in regards clinical improvement, although maxacalcitol reduced the MHC Class II⁺ inflammatory cell infiltration more than BV in IMQ skin. While both treatments downregulated IL-17 A, IL-17 F, IL-22, IL-12p40, TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA expression levels, only maxacalcitol downregulated IL-23p19 expression. Significantly increased Foxp3⁺ cell infiltrations and IL-10 expression were noted in maxacalcitol-treated IMQ skin. Adoptive transfer of Treg cells from maxacalcitol-treated donor mice improved IMQ-induced inflammation clinically and histopathologically more than the recipients of Treg cells from BV-treated donor groups, showing reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines and increased IL-10 expression.

Conclusion

These results indicate that maxacalcitol reduces psoriasiform skin inflammation by inducing Treg cells as well as downregulating IL-23 and IL-17 production.

https://ift.tt/2NjPP74

Subcutaneous infection with dematiaceous fungi in Card9 knockout mice reveals association of impair neutrophils and Th cell response

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Journal of Dermatological Science

Author(s): Wu Weiwei, Zhang Ruijun, Wang Xiaowen, Song Yinggai, Li Ruoyu

https://ift.tt/2PEElN5

IL-11 antagonist suppresses Th17 cell-mediated neuroinflammation and demyelination in a mouse model of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Clinical Immunology

Author(s): Xin Zhang, Nazanin Kiapour, Sahil Kapoor, Joseph R. Merrill, Yongjuan Xia, Woomi Ban, Stephanie M. Cohen, Bentley R. Midkiff, Valerie Jewells, Yen-Yu I. Shih, Silva Markovic-Plese

Abstract

IL-11 induced differentiation and expansion of Th17 cells in patients with early relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). In mice with relapsing-remitting experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (RREAE), IL-11 exacerbated disease, induced demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS), increased the percentage of IL-17A⁺CD4⁺ Th17 cells in the CNS in the early acute phase, and up-regulated serum IL-17A levels and the percentage of IL-17A⁺CD4⁺ Th17 cells in lymph nodes, and IFN-γ⁺CD4⁺ T cells in spinal cord in the RR phase. IL-11 antagonist suppressed RREAE disease activities, inhibited IL-17A⁺CD4⁺ cell infiltration and demyelination in the CNS, and decreased the percentage of IL-17A⁺CD4⁺ T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and ICAM1⁺CD4⁺ T cells in brain and SC. Diffusion Tensor Imaging indicated that IL-11 antagonist inhibited demyelination in several brain regions. We conclude that by suppressing Th17 cell-mediated neuroinflammation and demyelination, IL-11 antagonist can be further studied as a potential selective and early therapy for RRMS.

https://ift.tt/2NhsLWx

Transposable element dysregulation in systemic lupus erythematosus and regulation by histone conformation and Hsp90

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Clinical Immunology

Author(s): Maurer Kelly, Shi Lihua, Zhang Zhe, Song Li, Paucar Yoselin, Petri Michelle, E. Sullivan Kathleen

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) represents an autoimmune disease in which activation of the type I interferon pathway leads to dysregulation of tolerance and the generation of autoantibodies directed against nuclear constituents. The mechanisms driving the activation of the interferon pathway in SLE have been the subject of intense investigation but are still incompletely understood. Transposable elements represent an enormous source of RNA that could potentially stimulate the cell intrinsic RNA-recognition pathway, leading to upregulation of interferons. We used RNA-seq to define transposable element families and subfamilies in three cell types in SLE and found diverse effects on transposable element expression in the three cell types and even within a given family of transposable elements. When potential mechanisms were examined, we found that Hsp90 inhibition could drive increased expression of multiple type of transposable elements. Both direct inhibition and the delivery of a heat shock itself, which redirects heat shock regulators (including Hsp90) off of basal expression promoters and onto heat shock-responsive promoters, led to increased transposable element expression. This effect was amplified by the concurrent delivery of a histone deacetylase inhibitor. We conclude that transposable elements are dysregulated in SLE and there are tissue-specific effects and locus-specific effects. The magnitude of RNAs attributable to transposable elements makes their dysregulation of critical interest in SLE where transposable element RNA complexed with proteins has been shown to drive interferon expression.

https://ift.tt/2PCmeXR

Brief report: Pre- and post-deployment prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus colonization among U.S. Navy submariners.

Brief report: Pre- and post-deployment prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus colonization among U.S. Navy submariners.

MSMR. 2018 Aug;25(8):5-7

Authors: Millar EV, St Clair KJ, Schlett CD, Bennett JW, Virgilio GR, Kronmann KC, Lalani T

PMID: 30141956 [PubMed - in process]

https://ift.tt/2ogikaV

Co-occurrence of Anaerobes in Human Chronic Wounds.

Co-occurrence of Anaerobes in Human Chronic Wounds.

Microb Ecol. 2018 Aug 23;:

Authors: Choi Y, Banerjee A, McNish S, Couch KS, Torralba MG, Lucas S, Tovchigrechko A, Madupu R, Yooseph S, Nelson KE, Shanmugam VK, Chan AP

Abstract
Chronic wounds are wounds that have failed to heal after 3 months of appropriate wound care. Previous reports have identified a diverse collection of bacteria in chronic wounds, and it has been postulated that bacterial profile may contribute to delayed healing. The purpose of this study was to perform a microbiome assessment of the Wound Healing and Etiology (WE-HEAL) Study cohort, including underlying comorbidities less commonly studied in the context of chronic wounds, such as autoimmune diseases, and investigate possible relationships of the wound microbiota with clinical healing trends. We examined chronic wound specimens from 60 patients collected through the WE-HEAL Study using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. A group of co-occurring obligate anaerobes was identified from taxonomic analysis guided by Dirichlet multinomial mixtures (DMM) modeling. The group includes members of the Gram-positive anaerobic cocci (GPAC) of the Clostridia class (i.e., Anaerococcus, Finegoldia, and Peptoniphilus) and additional strict anaerobes (i.e., Porphyromonas and Prevotella). We showed that the co-occurring group of obligate anaerobes not only co-exists with commonly identified wound species (such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas, Corynebacterium, and Streptococcus), but importantly, they could also predominate the wound microbiota. Furthermore, examination of clinical comorbidities of the WE-HEAL specimens showed that specific obligate and facultative anaerobes were significantly reduced in wounds presented with autoimmune disease. With respect to future healing trends, no association with the wound microbiome community or the abundance of individual wound species could be established. In conclusion, we identified a co-occurring obligate anaerobic community type that predominated some human chronic wounds and underrepresentation of anaerobes in wounds associated with autoimmune diseases. Possible elucidation of host environments or key factors that influence anaerobe colonization warrants further investigation in a larger cohort.

PMID: 30141127 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

https://ift.tt/2P0X2Js

Long-term changes in nitrogen and phosphorus emission into the Vistula and Oder catchments (Poland)—modeling (MONERIS) studies

Abstract

Modeling (MONERIS) studies allowed calculation of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) emission into the Vistula and Oder basins (Poland), and facilitated estimation of N and P retention in these catchments in 1995–2015. In the discussion of results, data of other authors were used in order to get an insight into N (1880–2015) and P emission (1955–2015) into the Oder basin. Population growth and agricultural intensification were responsible for respective 5.3-fold and 3.5-fold increase in N and P emission into the Oder basin, with the maximum (135,000 tons N year⁻¹; 14,000 tons P year⁻¹) observed at the turn of the 1980s/1990s. Pro-ecological activities during the economic transition period (since 1989) covered various sectors of the economy including agriculture, environmental protection related to, e.g., construction of a large number of waste water treatment plants (WWTPs). Consequently, in 1985–2015, the emission into the Oder basin decreased from the abovementioned maxima to 94,000 tons N year⁻¹ and to 5000 tons P year⁻¹, whereas in 1995–2015, the emission into the Vistula basin decreased from 170,000 to 140,000 tons N year⁻¹ and from 14,200 to 10,600 tons P year⁻¹. In 1995–2015, groundwater, tile drainage, and WWTPs played a key role in N emission, while erosion, overland flow, WWTPs, and urban areas played a predominant role in P emission. The relative shares of nutrient emission pathways in overall N and P emission were considerably changing over time. Extreme weather conditions have a great impact on increased (floods) or decreased (droughts) nutrient emission; particularly, N emission is susceptible to variable weather conditions. In total, approximately 91,000 tons of N and 7600 tons of P were retained annually in the river basins.

https://ift.tt/2PAfRUZ

Investigation of the rheological behavior of activated sludge in response to CeO 2 nanoparticles and potential mechanism

Abstract

With the rapid development of CeO₂ nanoparticles (NPs), the released CeO₂ NPs entering into wastewater treatment plants might bring the challenges for sludge pumping and mixing. In this study, we firstly elucidated the rheological behavior of 4.0 wt% sludge at various concentrations of CeO₂ NPs. With the increase of CeO₂ NPs to 5 mg/L, the shear stress at any given shear rate was reduced and the limiting viscosity was also decreased, indicating the sludge became more flowability. The dynamic sweep tests further demonstrated the decreased elastic behavior and weakened internal structure in response to low concentrations of CeO₂ NPs (≤ 5 mg/L). However, 20 mg/L CeO₂ NPs had negative effects on the rheological evolution of sludge, namely, better solid-like property and higher elastic structure. These results were mainly attributed to the combination of the decreased β-d-glucopyranose polysaccharides which support the rigid structure of sludge and the dramatically increased protein content (especially in 20 mg/L CeO₂ NPs). These results can potentially provide novel information for the efficient design of sludge treatment when coped with CeO₂ NPs.

Graphical abstract

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https://ift.tt/2BMC9Qy

Association of Preferences for Papillary Thyroid Cancer Treatment With Disease Terminology: A Discrete Choice Experiment.

Association of Preferences for Papillary Thyroid Cancer Treatment With Disease Terminology: A Discrete Choice Experiment.

JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2018 Aug 22;:

Authors: Nickel B, Howard K, Brito JP, Barratt A, Moynihan R, McCaffery K

Abstract
Importance: Given recent evidence of overdiagnosis and overtreatment of small papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs) and other low-risk cancers, strategies are needed to help patients consider less invasive treatment options.
Objectives: To determine which factors influence treatment preferences for patients with PTC, and the trade-offs in treatment factors people are willing to accept, and to understand how terminology influences preferences and benefit-harm trade-offs.
Design, Setting, and Participants: Preferences in PTC treatment were evaluated using a discrete choice experiment (DCE) conducted as a web-based survey using an existing public online research panel. Participants were randomized to receive 1 of 2 frames of information based on the terminology used to describe the condition: "cancer" or "lesion." Participants chose between 3 treatment options for PTC (thyroidectomy, hemithyroidectomy, and active surveillance). Analyses were conducted using a mixed logit model.
Main Outcomes and Measures: The main outcome variable was treatment preference; attributes of treatment options and sociodemographic characteristics were explanatory variables.
Results: The DCE was completed by 2054 participants (993 [48.3%] men and 1061 [51.7%] women; mean [SD] age, 46.0 [16.5] years) with no history of thyroid cancer. Participants preferred options with less frequent follow-up, lower out-of-pocket costs, lower chances of having voice and calcium level problems, and a lower risk of developing invasive thyroid cancer and of dying of thyroid cancer. When trading benefits against harms, participants were willing to accept a higher number of extra patients experiencing adverse effects to avoid a thyroid cancer death when the condition was described as a cancer compared with a lesion. Specifically, participants for whom the condition was described as a cancer were willing to accept more patients requiring lifelong medication (mean, 273; 95% CI, 207-339 vs mean, 98; 95% CI, 66-131), experiencing calcium problems (mean, 110; 95% CI, 77-144 vs mean, 56; 95% CI, 55-58), and fatigue (mean, 958; 95% CI, 691-1224 vs mean, 469; 95% CI, 375-564). For both the cancer and lesion terminology, health literacy consistently was associated with preferences for treatment options. Those with lower health literacy had a significantly lower preference for less invasive treatment options.
Conclusions and Relevance: This study makes an important contribution to understanding how attributes of treatment options, terminology, and patient characteristics, in particular health literacy, influence treatment decision making for PTC. As a result of increasing evidence of the indolent nature of PTC and other low-risk cancers, strategies to deal with potential overtreatment are critically needed.
Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12617000066381.

PMID: 30140909 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

https://ift.tt/2MUHycu

Association of the Word Cancer With Thyroid Cancer Treatment Decisions-A Rose by Any Other Name.

Association of the Word Cancer With Thyroid Cancer Treatment Decisions-A Rose by Any Other Name.

JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2018 Aug 22;:

Authors: Haymart MR

PMID: 30140895 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

https://ift.tt/2MQHZ7F

Circulating tumor cells and cell-free nucleic acids in patients with gynecological malignancies

Abstract

The ability to detect cancer cells in the blood or in the bone marrow offers invaluable information which potentially impacts early diagnosis, monitoring of treatment, and prognosis. Accessing blood or other body fluids has the additional advantage of being less invasive than biopsy. Consequently, considerable effort has been invested in the last 20 years in optimizing assays which may identify malignant cells at these anatomic sites. Detection of nucleic acids has been applied as alternative approach in this context, first targeting single cancer-associated genes using PCR-based technology, and recently using assays which identify different DNA classes, as well as microRNAs and exosomes. The present review focuses on studies which applied these assays to the detection of cells or cellular components originating from gynecological cancers.

https://ift.tt/2wmUNIR

Telemedicine: a Primer

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Due to rapid advancements in quality of real-time, interactive, audio-visual, and digital technologies as well as impressive gains in internet speed and capacity, medicine delivered over distance is happening faster than many healthcare providers and leaders can grasp.

Recent Findings

Depending on which market report you ascribe to, industry projections for the global compounded annual growth rate of telemedicine are between 13 and 27%, with valuation growing to over 20 billion US dollars in the next several years. The Mayo Clinic has reworked its entire telemedicine interest to a model with centralized operations, one virtual technology platform, standardized training, and connectedness for all of its locations. The National Quality Forum spent 2016 and 2017 formulating 70 some pages of recommendations for expanded measures to valuate telemedicine over the foreseeable future. There are so many patient experience studies indicating high satisfaction with telemedicine, that professionals in the industry accept it as fact. Telemedicine is leaving novel to the past.

Summary

This short, informative piece of writing includes expert opinion and research findings about what is telemedicine, why one should practice telemedicine, and how one should approach implementation; a primer from which to grow.

https://ift.tt/2wc6dQi

A Review of Portable Electronic Spirometers: Implications for Asthma Self-Management

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Although portable electronic spirometers allow for at-home lung function monitoring, a comprehensive review of these devices has not yet been conducted. We conducted a systematic search and review of commercially available portable electronic spirometers designed for asthma patient use.

Recent Findings

All devices (N = 16) allowed for monitoring of basic lung function parameters, but only 31% provided in-app videos on how to perform breathing maneuvers. Most devices (63%) provided graphical representations of lung function results, but only 44% gave immediate feedback on the quality of the breathing maneuver. Several devices (25%) were FDA-approved and cost ranged from US$99 to $1390. Information on data security (63%), measurement accuracy (50%), and association with patient outcomes (0%) was commonly limited.

Summary

This review found that providers' ability to make informed decisions about whether asthma patients may benefit from portable electronic spirometers is limited due to lack of patient outcome data.

https://ift.tt/2P4tF9e

Divergence in larval diapause induction between the rice and water-oat populations of the striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Abstract

Differences in diapause traits can result in the seasonal reproductive isolation of host plant-associated insect populations and thereby facilitate the population divergence. The striped stem borer, Chilo suppressalis, has two host plant-associated populations: rice population and water-oat population. Several studies have found evidence that seasonal reproductive isolation between these populations is at least partially due to interpopulation differences in diapause. However, there still lack unambiguous evidence comparing characteristics of diapause induction for both populations. We compared the photoperiodic response and the age of peak photoperiod sensitivity of these populations and used RNA-Seq to compare the molecular response of diapause induction between populations. The photoperiodic response of the two populations differed at 25 °C; the critical night length of larvae from the rice population was 11 h and 20 min, whereas no obvious critical night length was in those from the water-oat population. In rice population, larvae were most sensitive to photoperiod at 9–12 days of age, whereas in water-oat population, larvae were the most sensitive to photoperiod at 9–10 days of age. The RNA-Seq results indicated that there were several differences in the molecular response of diapause induction and small overlap in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between populations. Furthermore, GO analysis indicated that both rice and water-oat population's DEGs were significantly enriched in heme and iron binding. Besides, water-oat population's DEGs were significantly enriched in metabolizing nutrients but rice population's DEGs do not. Thus, our results described differences in diapause induction between rice and water-oat populations of C. suppressalis which could affect the timing of diapause and thereby contribute to the seasonal reproductive isolation of these host plant-associated populations. In conclusion, this work suggests that difference in diapause induction could promote the population divergence in insects associated with different host plants.

https://ift.tt/2Mv5X9a

Temporal trends of contaminants in Arctic human populations

Abstract

The first Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) report was published in 1998 and followed by three assessment reports of human health (AMAP 2003, 2009 and 2015). The focus area of the AMAP reports was to monitor levels of environmental contaminants in the Arctic and to assess the health effects connected with detected levels in Arctic countries. This review gives an overview of temporal trends of contaminants and their health effects in humans of the Arctic based on data published by AMAP, as well as Russian scientific literature. Several time series of 31 contaminants in humans of the Arctic from different cohorts are reported. The lengths of time series and periods covered differ from each other. International restrictions have decreased the levels of most persistent organic pollutants in humans and food webs. Percentage changes for contaminants in human biological matrices (blood samples from children, mothers and males and breast milk samples) for the period of sampling showed declining trends in most of the monitored Arctic locations, with the exception of oxychlordane, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-hexabromodiphenyl ether (PBDE153) and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs).

https://ift.tt/2P4Dowg

The Role of Imaging in the Management of Cystic Formations of the Mobile Spine (CYFMOS)

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to give a better understanding of the pathogenesis of cystic formations of the mobile spine (CYFMOS) and the correlating imaging findings. This would help with medical decision-making, given the plethora of conservative, interventional, and surgical treatment options.

Recent Findings

There has been a general understanding that CYFMOS are associated with degenerative spine changes. More recent articles however have suggested that identifying detailed imaging characteristics can assist in determining outcomes when CYFMOS are treated with interventional percutaneous methods or surgical decompression with or without concomitant fusion.

Summary

CYFMOS although uncommon are not a rare finding seen in the spine when there is a background of degenerative spine changes. These cystic lesions are generally symptomatic by exhibiting mass effect on adjacent structure. Most treatments are aimed at decompression by interventional percutaneous or surgical means. Various imaging characteristics of these CYFMOS described in this article including their signal intensity, presence of spinal instability, particular patterns of adjacent degenerative changes, and imaging changes following interventional treatments can help guide physicians when managing these cases.

https://ift.tt/2NhK0ab

Telemedicine: a Primer

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

https://ift.tt/2wc6dQi

A Review of Portable Electronic Spirometers: Implications for Asthma Self-Management

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

This review found that providers' ability to make informed decisions about whether asthma patients may benefit from portable electronic spirometers is limited due to lack of patient outcome data.

https://ift.tt/2P4tF9e

Diversity in flower colorations of Ranunculus asiaticus L. revealed by anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway in view of gene composition, gene expression patterns, and color phenotype

Abstract

Anthocyanin biosynthesis is one of the best studied secondary metabolisms. However, related pathways were generally concluded based on anthocyanin components; most studies focused on the backbone forming of anthocyanidins (cyanidin, delphinidin, and pelargonidin) of model or commercial plants, while anthocyanin modification was less discussed, and non-model plants with abundant colorations were less researched either. Ranunculus asiaticus L. has great diversity in flower colorations, not only indicating its value in researching anthocyanin biosynthesis but also implying it is unique in this regard. Based on transcriptome sequencing and gene annotation of three varieties (10 samples) of Ranunculus asiaticus L., 176 unigenes from 151,136 unigenes were identified as involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, among which, 74 unigenes were related to anthocyanin modification; 61 unigenes were responsible for glycosylation at C3 and C5 with 3-monosaccharides of glucose, 3-biosides of rutinose, sophorose, or sambubiose to form 3Gly-, 3Gly5Gly-, 3Gly3′Gly-, 3Gly2′′Gly-, 3Gly2′′Xly-, 3Gly2′′Rly-glycosylated anthocyanins, etc.; 2 unigenes transferred –CH₃; 11 unigenes of BAHD family catalyzd the aromatic or malonyl acylation at 6′′ / 6′′′′position of 3/5-O-glucoside. Based on gene composition, a putative pathway was established. The pathway was validated by flower colorations, and gene expression patterns where F3H, F3′H, 3GT, 5GT, and FMT2 were highly expressed in varieties colored as lateritious and carmine, while variety with purple flowers had high expression of F3′5′H and 3MAT. In view of anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway of Ranunculus asiaticus L., great diversity in its flower colorations was illustrated via the complete branches (F3H, F3′H and F3′5′H) as well as complete modifications (glycosylation, methylation, and acylation), and besides, via the higher percentage of C3 glycosylation than C5 glycosylation.

https://ift.tt/2Lp5Wy4

“Spontaneous” medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw; two case reports and a systematic review

Australian Dental Journal, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2MtNgTv

Factors promoting vulnerability to dysregulated stress reactivity and stress‐related disease

Journal of Neuroendocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2wbWrh1

Fronto Ethmoidal Mucocele Associated with Type 4 Kuhn Cells

Abstract

A mucocele is an epithelial lined mucous containing sac completely filling the sinus and capable of expansion. We report a case with unilateral frontoethmoidal mucocele in relation with type IV Kuhn cell. A 26 year old man came to the ENT department at SDUMC, Tamaka, Kolar, presenting complaints of proptosis of left eye since 3 years. After detailed examination and investigations patient was Diagnosed to have mucocele of left frontoethmoidal region. Intraoperatively we found a rare picture of type IV kuhn cells completely seated in the frontal sinus. After externally assisted modified Lothrop's approach, marsupialization of mucocele was done in the nasal cavity and symptoms of the patient relieved. We state that, in cases of frontoethmoidal mucocele, externally assisted modified Lothrop procedure offers an alternative for endoscopic management of frontoethmoidal mucocele for the complete clearance of disease.

https://ift.tt/2P5TgPa

Hearing Improvement in Interposition Ossiculoplasty and Myringostapediopexy

Abstract

Chronic otitis media (COM) may lead to partial or complete loss of tympanic membrane and erosion of the ossicles. Ossicular chain reconstruction may be done by interposition ossiculoplasty or myringostapediopexy. The aim of our study was to determine the hearing outcome in interposition ossiculoplasty and myringostapediopexy using autologous incus or cortical bone graft in intact canal wall tympanoplasty. 64 patients with COM, who underwent interposition ossiculoplasty or myringostapediopexy were included in the study. Audiometric evaluation was done after 3 months after surgery and all patients were followed up for a period of 1 year. The hearing results were compared in terms of mean pre-op and post-op Air conduction thresholds, Air-Bone gap (ABG) and hearing gain or ABG closure. In this study the mean ABG closure for interposition ossiculoplasty and myringostapediopexy was 15.4 dB and 21.8 dB, respectively. Hearing gain with cortical bone graft was higher than hearing gains with incus in both the groups, but not statistically significant. Myringostapediopexy provides marginally better hearing gain compared to interposition ossiculoplasty. Aulogous incus, and cortical bone graft are suitable autologous materials for ossicular reconstruction and provide similar hearing outcome.

https://ift.tt/2MAgX5p

Access to Round Window Niche via Posterior Tympanotomy and Impact of Drilling Its Overhangs: A Cadaveric Descriptive Study

Abstract

We intended to study the morphological parameters of round window region and assess the gain in exposure achieved by drilling the round window niche overhang. The Exposure of the round window membrane (RWM) is of prime importance to carry out atraumatic electrode insertion for cochlear implantation. The anatomy of round window has been a subject of considerable debate in literature. Fifty-one Formalin preserved adult cadaveric temporal bones were micro-dissected to carry out an 'optimal' posterior tympanotomy to expose the round window region. The bony overhangs of round window niche (RWN) were next drilled to achieve maximal possible exposure the RWM without violating the annulus of the same. The exposure was classified as per St Thomas' Hospital classification. The round window could not be visualized in 3 bones (5.9%). The commonest morphology of RWN was dome shaped, found in 18 (37.5%) and that of the RWM was oval shaped, found in 14 (29.2%) bones. Pre drilling 41 bones had a > 50% exposure of RWM while post drilling > 50% exposure could be achieved in all the bones except the 3 bones in which RWN could not be visualized to begin with. The drilling of the RWN overhangs exposed RWM in entirety in 91.7% of bones with a visible morphology of RWN pre drilling. RWN and RWM exhibit varied morphology. Drilling of the round window niche overhangs can considerably enhance the exposure of RWM.

https://ift.tt/2LoW87w

The differences of cell wall in roots between two contrasting soybean cultivars exposed to cadmium at young seedlings

Abstract

The plant root cell wall (CW) is the first structure that comes into contact with extracellular cadmium (Cd), and it plays an important role in the absorption, immobilization, and translocation of Cd in the roots. However, the differences in the cell wall components between Cd-tolerant and Cd-sensitive cultivars are unclear. A hydroponic experiment was carried out to investigate the differences in the concentrations of Cd, total sugars, and uronic acid in pectin, hemicellulose 1, hemicellulose 2, cellulose, and lignin, as well as pectin methylesterase enzyme activity (PME) in the roots of two soybean cultivars that differ with respect to Cd tolerance exposed to 0 and 23 μM Cd treatments. The bound forms of Cd in the roots were found to differ between the two soybean genotypes; 50.2% of the Cd in the root cell wall accumulates in the pectin in the highly Cd-tolerant and low Cd-accumulating cultivar HX3, while 50.6% of the root cell wall Cd accumulates in cellulose in the Cd-sensitive and high Cd-accumulating cultivar BX10. The total sugar and uronic acid concentrations of the cell wall components increased in response to Cd stress, while the concentrations of total sugars and uronic acid in BX10 were higher than in HX3 (except for hemicellulose 1). Increased demethylation of pectin may be the main reason that Cd is mainly concentrated in the primary wall in HX3, because the PME activity was higher in HX3 than it was in BX10 under Cd treatment. Furthermore, BX10 had a higher lignin concentration after Cd treatment, and showed the same change in cellulose. Cd in the root cell wall of BX10 was fixed in the secondary cell wall, which may be a result of the coupling to cellulose and lignin. In conclusion, root cell walls in soybean cultivars that differ in Cd tolerance may possess different mechanisms to prevent Cd from entering cells, and the sequestration of Cd in different cell wall components may determine the differences in Cd tolerance between the two genotypes.

https://ift.tt/2oc0SUB

Photocatalytic treatment of petroleum industry wastewater using recirculating annular reactor: comparison of experimental and modeling

Abstract

In this study, the treatment of petroleum wastewater has been investigated by applying heterogeneous photocatalytic process using a recirculating annual reactor. An attempt has been made to study the effect of operating parameters such as TiO₂ load, initial concentration of the pollutant, emitted photonic flux, and pH of the solution. The degradation efficiency of toluene and benzene, as target molecules, was studied. In fact, result showed that the toluene is better degraded alone than when it is in a mixture. The rate of elimination of toluene separately was 89.5%, while it was 76.19 and 79.55% in the binary (toluene/benzene) and the ternary mixtures (toluene/benzene/xylene), respectively. Moreover, the mineralization of the solution decreased more rapidly when toluene was pure with a rate of 83.13% compared to binary and ternary mixtures. A mathematical model is proposed taking into account the parameters influencing the process performances. The mass transfer step, the degradation, and the mineralization kinetics of the pollutants were defined as model parameters. To build the model, mass balances are written in bulk region and catalyst phase (solid phase). The degradation mechanism on solid phase is divided in two stages. Firstly, the removal of toluene gives an equivalent intermediate (EI). Secondly, EI is oxidized into carbon dioxide (CO₂). This approach gives a good agreement between modeling and empirical data in terms of degradation and mineralization. It also allows for the simulation of toluene kinetics without knowing the plausible chemical pathway. A satisfactory fit with experimental data was obtained for the degradation and mineralization of toluene.

https://ift.tt/2BMk70O

Comparison of the efficacy and mechanisms of intranasal budesonide, montelukast, and their combination in treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis

International Forum of Allergy &Rhinology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2o8gSHh

Fronto Ethmoidal Mucocele Associated with Type 4 Kuhn Cells

Abstract

https://ift.tt/2P5TgPa

Hearing Improvement in Interposition Ossiculoplasty and Myringostapediopexy

Abstract

https://ift.tt/2MAgX5p

Access to Round Window Niche via Posterior Tympanotomy and Impact of Drilling Its Overhangs: A Cadaveric Descriptive Study

Abstract

https://ift.tt/2LoW87w

Enhanced Therapeutic Effects of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Transduced with Superoxide Dismutase 3 in a Murine Atopic Dermatitis‐Like Skin Inflammation Model

Allergy, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2Nh3mw2

Reply to ‘Pruritic arthropod bite‐like papules in T‐cell large granular lymphocytic leukaemia and chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia’

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2P768EJ

Post‐bariatric surgery hidradenitis suppurativa: a new patient subset associated with malabsorption and micronutritional deficiencies

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2wbbrfl

Time spent in an endemic area is a crucial clue to diagnose scrub typhus without eschar

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2wbbLe3

Reply to ‘Pruritic arthropod bite‐like papules in T‐cell large granular lymphocytic leukaemia and chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia’

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2P768EJ

Post‐bariatric surgery hidradenitis suppurativa: a new patient subset associated with malabsorption and micronutritional deficiencies

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2wbbrfl

Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

Η λίστα ιστολογίων μου

Σάββατο 25 Αυγούστου 2018

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