Head and Neck Diseases by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis: 09/14/18

Παρασκευή 14 Σεπτεμβρίου 2018

Pesticide residue profiles in bee bread and pollen samples and the survival of honeybee colonies—a case study from Luxembourg

Abstract

Pesticide residues (112 compounds) were quantified by GC-MS/MS or LC-MS/MS in 85 bee bread samples and 154 pollen samples obtained from five apiaries each with three or four colonies (genotype Buckfast) in Luxembourg over the period 2011–2013. Thiacloprid, chlorfenvinphos, tebuconazole, and methiocarb were found most frequently in bee bread while thiacloprid, permethrin-cis, and permethrin-trans were detected most frequently in the pollen samples. Three neonicotinoid insecticides (clothianidin, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam) that were restricted by an EU regulation in 2013 after our sampling campaign was finished were each found in less than 8% of the pollen or bee bread samples. The maximum concentrations of thiacloprid, metazachlor, and methiocarb measured in the pollen collected by a group of honeybee colonies (n = 5) without survivors within the 3-year period of observation were 86.20 ± 10.74 ng/g, 2.80 ± 1.26 ng/g, and below the limit of quantification, respectively. The maximum concentrations of the same compounds measured in the pollen collected by a group of honeybee colonies with significantly (P = 0.02) more survivors (7 out of 9) than expected, if the survivors had been distributed randomly among the groups of colonies, were 11.98 ± 2.28 ng/g, 0.44 ± 0.29 ng/g, and 8.49 ± 4.13 ng/g, respectively. No honeybee colony that gathered pollen containing more than 23 ng/g thiacloprid survived the 3-year project period. There was no statistically significant association between pesticide residues in the bee bread and the survival of the colonies. Actions already taken or planned and potential further actions to protect bees from exposure to pesticides are discussed.

https://ift.tt/2OjBcRn

Nivolumab induced encephalopathy in a man with metastatic renal cell cancer: a case report

Great progress has recently been made in the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma, including the introduction of nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor. Despite promising results, this treatment bri...

https://ift.tt/2Onpaqn

Sonocatalytic removal of methylene blue from water solution by cobalt ferrite/mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (CoFe 2 O 4 /mpg-C 3 N 4 ) nanocomposites: response surface methodology approach

Abstract

In this study, cobalt ferrite/mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄) nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by using a two-step protocol. Firstly, monodispersed CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via thermal decomposition of metal precursors in a hot surfactant solution and then they were assembled on mpg-C₃N₄ via a liquid phase self-assembly method. The sonocatalytic performance of as-synthesized CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites was evaluated on the methylene blue (MB) removal from water under ultrasonic irradiation. For this purpose, response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) model was successfully utilized to optimize the MB removal over CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to investigate the significance of the model. The results predicted by the model were obtained to be in reasonable agreement with the experimental data (R² = 0.969, adjusted R² = 0.942). Pareto analysis demonstrated that pH of the solution was the most effective parameter on the sonocatalytic removal of MB by CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites. The optimum catalyst dose, initial dye concentration, pH, and sonication time were set as 0.25 g L⁻¹, 8 mg L⁻¹, 8, and 45 min, respectively. The high removal efficiency of MB dye (92.81%) was obtained under optimal conditions. The trapping experiments were done by using edetate disodium, tert-butyl alcohol, and benzoquinone. Among the reactive radicals, ^•OH played a more important role than h⁺ and $ {O}_2^{-\bullet } $ in the MB dye removal process. Moreover, a proposed mechanism was also presented for the removal of MB in the presence of CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites under the optimized sonocatalytic conditions. Finally, a reusability test of the nanocomposites revealed a just 9.6% decrease in their removal efficiency after five consecutive runs.

https://ift.tt/2NgIitG

Adsorption of heavy metal tolerance strains to Pb 2+ and Cd 2+ in wastewater

Abstract

The functional strains with high tolerance to heavy metal Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ were screened from soil obtained in a heavy metal waste accumulation area. The immobilized biological adsorbent was made by embedding method and used for treatment of wastewater containing heavy metals. The effects of initial concentration of heavy metals, adsorption time, pH value of wastewater, and dosage of adsorbent on adsorption performance were investigated. The study showed (1) the strains tested were Brevibacterium and their maximum tolerable concentrations for Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ were 2200 and 700 mg/L, respectively; (2) the maximum adsorption rate for Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ was 87.77% and 57.50% respectively when the dosage of adsorbent was 10 g/L and the pH value of wastewater was 6; (3) Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ could be adsorbed in the equilibrium solution for 40 min and the maximum adsorption capacity reached 114.36 mg/g and 82.12 mg/g, respectively; and (4) when the initial pH value of the wastewater was 5–7, the adsorption rate decreased with the increase of the concentration, and the initial concentration of Pb²⁺ had a greater effect on the adsorption rate than Cd²⁺. Langmuir and Freundlich equation showed that the adsorption of Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ was mainly on the surface of monolayer. And the pseudo-second-order kinetic equation indicates that Cd²⁺ has a relatively greater adsorption rate than Pb²⁺ does.

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Letter to the Editor about the article published in Clinical Oral Investigations tilted “Impacted and transmigrated mandibular canines: an analysis of 3D radiographic imaging data” (Bertl MH, Frey C, Bertl K, Giannis K, Gahleitner A, Strbac GD (2018), Clin Oral Investig , doi: 10.1007/s00784-018-2342-0)

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Auch Melanompatienten mit Hirnmetastasen profitieren von neuen Behandlungsmethoden

Moderne Therapeutika haben das Leben von Melanompatienten verlängert. Ob und in welchem Ausmaß das auch für Patienten mit Hirnmetastasen zutrifft, wurde nun anhand von Beobachtungsdaten analysiert.

https://ift.tt/2NPwldI

Biopsie der Sentinellymphknoten: prognostischer Wert bei Melanomen fraglich

Eine Biopsie der Sentinellymphknoten ist neben der Beurteilung der Tumordicke nach Breslow eine zweite gängige Methode, bei Melanomen Informationen zu Stadium und Prognose zu sammeln. Ob der Befund tatsächlich zusätzliche prognostische Informationen liefert, wurde nunin einer retrospektiven Studie untersucht.

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Haben Sie auch eine fachliche Frage?

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Onychomykose mit dem Laser behandeln?

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Anwendung der ABC-Regel in der Melanomdiagnostik

Bei der Bewertung der Dignität von Pigmentmalen der Haut gilt die ABC-Regel mit den drei Hauptmerkmalen Asymmetrie, (unregelmäßige) Begrenzung und (uneinheitliches) Colorit. Wie Experten die Regel anwenden, und ob sie in ihren Einschätzungen übereinstimmen, wurde nun getestet.

https://ift.tt/2NLLpcv

Melissa de la Cruz: Tochter der Finsternis

In New York hat sich eine geheime Parallelgesellschaft etabliert: Wichtige Positionen in der Kunst- und Kulturszene, aber auch in der Politik sind von Vampiren besetzt. Sie und ihre Familien verbindet nicht nur ein äußerlich sichtbares Mal, sondern auch ein gemeinsamer Feind, den die meisten längst besiegt glaubten.

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Inhaltsverzeichnis

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Gewichtsreduktion wichtigste Kointervention bei Psoriasis und Psoriasisarthritis

Mit einer therapiebegleitenden Kostumstellung kann der Schweregrad einer Psoriasis beziehungsweise Psoriasisarthritis reduziert werden. Die National Psoriasis Foundation hat jetzt Ernährungsempfehlungen für diese Patientengruppe veröffentlicht.

https://ift.tt/2MA6DFL

TNF-α-Hemmer gut für Haut und Herz?

Psoriasis gilt als eigenständiger Risikofaktor für kardiovaskuläre Ereignisse. Eine Schlüsselrolle wird dem Tumornekrose-Faktor α zugeschrieben — von der Behandlung mit dessen Inhibitioren könnten Patienten mehrfach profitieren.

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Wiederkehrende „Scheibe“ an der Hand

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Über App statt Überweisung

Beim Modellprojekt „mSkin" in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern können Hausärzte bei Hautveränderungen ihrer Patienten per App einen Dermatologen konsultieren.

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Wenn Drogenkonsum die Haut zeichnet

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Erscheinungsfreiheit bei Psoriasis als realistisches Ziel

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Androgenetische Alopezie: Laserlicht scheint Haarausfall am besten zu stoppen

Bei androgenetischer Alopezie ist Laserlicht möglicherweise am wirksamsten. Ein indirekter Vergleich per Netzwerkmetaanalyse findet für dieses Verfahren die stärksten Therapieeffekte.

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Akne: Überzeugende Belege nur für Glykolsäure-Peeling

Aknepatienten suchen oft nach nichtmedikamentösen Optionen. Deren Wirksamkeit ist aber nur wenig verlässlich belegt.

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Hautkrebs-Früherkennung mit dem Smartphone

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Photodynamische Therapie mit Tageslicht bei aktinischer Keratose langfristig erfolgreich

Die konventionelle photodynamische Therapie aktinischer Keratosen ist sehr effektiv, bringt aber einige Unannehmlichkeiten mit sich: Die Durchführung nimmt viel Zeit in Anspruch und kann für den Patienten schmerzhaft sein. Seit einiger Zeit gibt es mit der photodynamischen Therapie mit Tageslicht eine in der Anwendung einfachere Alternative.

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Patienten sollen Arztbriefe verstehen

Die Menschen wüssten heutzutage mehr über Medizin, meinen die Gesundheitsminister — die Ärzteschaft sollte dies in der Kommunikation mit ihren Patienten berücksichtigen.

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Von Acne inversa bis Zosterimpfung

Das Münchner Kindl auf der Spitze des Rathausturms breitete seine Arme aus und hieß vom 24. bis 28. Juli 2018 die Teilnehmer der zweijährlichen Fortbildungswoche für praktische Dermatologie und Venerologie im Internationalen Congress Center in München willkommen. Trotz verdichtetem Kernprogramm auf vier Tage war die Auswahl dermatologischer Themen wieder einmal breit gefächert.

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Seltenes bakterielles Mitbringsel aus Westafrika am Bein

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Tongue-in-Groove Technique for Rhinoplasty: Technical Refinements and Considerations

Facial plast Surg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1670647

A key concept in successful rhinoplasty surgery is maintaining or increasing tip support, and addressing tip projection and rotation. The tongue-in-groove (TIG) technique is a method to achieve this goal using sutures to create a strong connection between the septum and medial crura to change tip rotation and projection. Criticisms of this method include that it may cause stiffness of the nasal tip and columellar retraction. TIG is routinely used by the authors during anterior septal reconstructions (a modified extracorporeal septoplasty technique), as well as in primary and revision aesthetic and functional rhinoplasties. Through this review, technical aspects of the TIG technique are discussed, as well as how pitfalls of the technique can be avoided, as illustrated by several rhinoplasty patient examples.
[...]

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 effects of photobiomodulation therapy on mouse pre-osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 proliferation and apoptosis via miR-503/Wnt3a pathway

Abstract

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has been demonstrated as regulating osteoblast proliferation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in various pathophysiologic processes in osteoblast, but the role of miRNAs in the PBMT-based promotion of osteoblast proliferation remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PBMT treatment (3.75 J/cm²) on mouse pre-osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 proliferation and apoptosis via the miR-503/Wnt3a pathway; meanwhile, detect the expressions of miR-503 and Wnt3a after PBMT treatment and the role of miR-503 in regulating Wnt signaling molecules Wnt3a, β-catenin, Runx2, apoptotic proteins caspase-3, and Bcl-2 in vitro. The PBMT parameters were as follows: 808 nm continuous wavelength, 0.401 W output power, 0.042 W/cm² power density, 9.6 cm² spot size, 36 J energy, 3.75 J/cm² energy density, 90 s irradiation for three times per 12 h, 14.5 cm distance of the laser source and the angle of divergence of the laser beam was 7°. In our present study, the target relationship was predicted and verified by bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays. Gene mRNA and protein expressions were examined by qPCR and western blot analysis. The MTT method was used to evaluate the effect of miR-503 on MC3T3-E1 cells proliferation. And cell apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry. The results showed that PBMT treatment reduced the expression of miR-503 and increased the level of Wnt3a (p < 0.01). Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays revealed that Wnt3a was a target of miR-503, and Wnt3a was regulated by miR-503. Furthermore, miR-503 was found to functionally inhibit proliferation and promote apoptosis (p < 0.01). And during this process, Wnt3a, β-catenin, Runx2, and Bcl-2 expressions were significantly inhibited (p < 0.01); however, caspase-3 level was upregulated (p < 0.01). These results suggest that miR-503 plays a role in osteoblast proliferation and apoptosis in response to PBMT, which is potentially amenable to therapeutic manipulation for clinical application.

https://ift.tt/2MzmfZO

Fabrication of manganese-based Zr-Fe polymeric pillared interlayered montmorillonite for low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NO x by NH 3 in the metallurgical sintering flue gas

Abstract

A series of Zr-Fe (Zr/Fe = 4:0, 3:1, 2:2, 1:3, 0:4) polymeric pillared interlayered montmorillonite loading 10 wt.% MnO_x (Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM) were investigated for the selective catalytic reduction of NO_x by NH₃ (NH₃-SCR) in metallurgical sintering flue gas. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), N₂ adsorption-desorption isotherm, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and ammonia temperature-programmed desorption (NH₃-TPD) were used to analyze the physicochemical property. The Fe polymerized with Zr exchanged to montmorillonite can improve the Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM low-temperature NO_x conversion and N₂ selectivity. The Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM (1:3) shows the highest NO_x conversion between 140 and 180 °C. The XRD results suggest that the growth of crystalline ZrO₂ phase is intensely restrained for the Fe₂O₃ migration into the ZrO₂ lattice. The ZrO₂ and MnO_x have an excellent dispersion in montmorillonite. The N₂ adsorption result illustrates that the increase of Fe molar content in the Zr-Fe-PILM support increases the catalyst-specific surface area. The NH₃-TPD results elucidate that the Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM (1:3) has the most total acid sites. Therefore, the low-temperature catalytic activity of the Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM (1:3) has been assigned to the large specific surface area, abundant acid sites, and the dispersion of metallic oxides.

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Organic matter facilitates the binding of Pb to iron oxides in a subtropical contaminated soil

Abstract

The bioavailability and potential uptake of heavy metals by crops is fundamentally influenced by the forms of metals in soils. Organic matter plays an important role in controlling the transformation of heavy metal fractionations in soils. However, long-term effects of organic matter on heavy metal speciation remains highly uncertain. In this study, rice straw was introduced to a subtropical Pb-contaminated soil for 2-year period so as to clarify the redistribution of Pb fractions and their correlations with soil properties. By combining sequential extraction and X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, we find that lead is predominantly presented in Fe oxide-bound, surface adsorbed, and residual fractions in the soil. The incorporation of rice straw can effectively reduce the labile species of Pb by promoting the binding of Pb to iron oxides. Furthermore, aging leads to the transfer of considerable amounts of Pb to the association with Fe oxides and this transformation is enhanced by the presence of organic matter. Organic matter input and soil aging tend to shift Pb to amorphous Fe oxides than crystalline Fe oxides. The correlation analysis shows that Fe oxide fractions play vital roles in controlling the forms of Pb in soil. This study presents the first result regarding the long-term effect of organic matter on the redistribution of Pb in naturally polluted soil, which is useful for understanding the fate of Pb and developing remediation strategies for Pb-polluted soils.

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Coexistence of oral lichen planus and pemphigus vulgaris

https://ift.tt/2CWyRuH

Clinical, double blind, randomized controlled trial of experimental adhesive protocols in caries-affected dentin

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the clinical performance of posterior resin composite restorations regarding experimental and regular adhesive protocols in caries affected-dentin (CAD).

Material and methods

A total of 92 class I and class II cavities with carious lesions were selected and randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) bioactive glass-ceramic powder/two-step etch and rinse system, (2) control/two-step etch and rinse system, (3) bioactive glass-ceramic powder/two-step self-etching system, and (4) control/two-step self-etching system. Two operators carried out the adhesive protocols and restored the cavities with a nano-hybrid resin composite. Participants were followed up at 1 week and 6, 12, and 18 months for clinical evaluation performed by two blinded examiners and calibrated according to FDI criteria. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests with a confidence of 95%.

Results

The clinical performance of resin composite restoration was not affected by the experimental use of an adhesive protocol including a bioactive glass-ceramic powder for 18 months post-procedure. However, there was a significant difference between group 2 and group 4 (p < 0.05) for marginal adaptation (18 months). Group 2 was significantly different from group 3 (p < 0.05) for fracture of material/retention (18 months) and marginal adaptation (1 week); group 2 showed a better performance.

Conclusion

Adhesive protocols can alter the clinical performance of posterior restorations in terms of marginal adaptation and the fracture of material/retention in CAD. Clinical significance: Adhesive protocols may influence the success of resin composite restorations in CAD; this is important because failure can lead to caries, re-incidence, and/or clinical re-work.

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Mineral density changes in bovine carious dentin after treatment with bioactive dental cements: a comparative micro-CT study

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the potential of conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC), Biodentine™, MTA, and Portland cement to induce mineral density changes in carious dentin compared to zinc oxide eugenol control cement (ZOE).

Materials and methods

Fifty blocks of bovine root dentin were prepared and a biofilm model using ATCC strains of S.mutans, S.sobrinus, and L.casei was used to promote artificial dentin lesions. After demineralization, the blocks were randomly divided into the five cement groups. Half of the surface of each specimen received the tested material and the other half was covered with wax (control). Samples were stored in phosphate buffered saline solution for 30 days and after that were scanned in a micro-CT with standardized parameters. Dentin mineral density changes were calculated using differences in plot profiles of the exposed and control carious dentin. Friedman's test, followed by Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used with 5% significance.

Results

Mean ΔZ values for the cements were 48.63 ± 19.09 for the control (ZOE), 63.31 ± 32.59 for Biodentine™, 114.63 ± 72.92 for GIC, 109.56 ± 66.28 for MTA, and 106.88 ± 66.02 for Portland cement. All cements showed a statistically significant increase in ΔZ values compared to the control, but Biodentine™ values were statistically significantly lower compared to GIC and the other calcium silicate cements.

Conclusions

Tested materials present potential to induce mineral density changes in carious bovine dentin. MTA, Portland, and GIC showed higher bioactivity potential than Biodentine™.

Clinical relevance

Based on minimally invasive concept, materials with remineralization potential can be used to preserve diseased but still repairable dental tissue.

https://ift.tt/2CVAatW

Targeted Gene Panel Sequencing for Molecular Diagnosis of Kallmann Syndrome and Normosmic Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0681-6608

Background Isolated gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency (IGD) is classified either as Kallmann syndrome (KS) with anosmia or normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH) and caused by mutations in more than 30 different genes. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing technologies have revolutionized the identification of causative genes by using massively parallel sequencing of multiple samples. This study was performed to establish the genetic etiology of IGD using a targeted gene panel sequencing of 69 known human IGD genes. Methods This study included 28 patients with IGD from 27 independent families. Exomes were captured using customized SureSelect kit (Agilent Technologies) and sequenced on the Miseq platform (Illumina, Inc.), which includes a 163,269 bp region spanning 69 genes. Results Four pathogenic and six likely pathogenic sequence variants were identified in 11 patients from 10 of the 27 families (37%) included in the study. We identified two known pathogenic mutations in CHD7 and PROKR2 from two male patients (7.4%). Novel sequence variants were also identified in 10 probands (37%) in CHD7, SOX3, ANOS1, FGFR1, and TACR3. Of these, while eight variants (29.6%) were presumed to be pathogenic or likely pathogenic, the remaining two were classified as variants of uncertain significance. Of the two pre-pubertal males with anosmia, one harbored a novel heterozygous splice site variant in FGFR1. Conclusions The overall diagnostic yield was 37% of the patients who had undergone targeted gene panel sequencing. This approach enables rapid, cost-effective, and comprehensive genetic screening in patients with KS and nIHH.
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Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents | Abstract | Full text

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Asthma phenotypes based on health services utilization for allergic diseases in a province-wide birth cohort

Previous studies on asthma phenotypes were often conducted in selected clinical populations and overlooked changes over the life course.

https://ift.tt/2Mx0zhc

An In-Depth Characterization of a Large Cohort of Adults Patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic allergic, immune-mediated disease associated with increased risk of comorbid atopic conditions.

https://ift.tt/2NKQguj

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Do Absorbable or Non-Absorbable Suture Materials Differ in Cosmetic Outcomes in Patients Requiring Primary Closure of Facial Wounds?

Surgeons are often judged on the cosmetic appearance of any scar after surgery rather than the functional outcome of treatment, especially when considering facial wounds.

https://ift.tt/2xeWWYc

Clobetasol pretreatment to reduce or prevent injection site dermatitis from biologic agents

https://ift.tt/2OpLvn1

Answer to the comment concerning our article “Risk of skin cancer in HIV-infected patients: a Danish nationwide cohort study”

https://ift.tt/2p8sXg4

Use of Immortal time within survival analysis

https://ift.tt/2OpLlvV

Reply to: “Risk of skin cancer in HIV-infected patients: a Danish nationwide cohort study”

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Carotid Artery Calcification on Orthopantomograms (CACO Study) – Is it indicative of carotid stenosis?

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

https://ift.tt/2D6rX6i

Comparison of temporalis fascia and tragal cartilage grafts in type 1 tympanoplasty in elderly patients

To investigate the success rates and hearing outcomes of temporalis fascia and tragal cartilage grafts used for type-1 tympanoplasty in the elderly (³65 years)

https://ift.tt/2Qyw9Ou

Linking obesity-induced leptin-signaling pathways to common endocrine-related cancers in women

Abstract

Obesity is related to many major diseases and cancers. Women have higher rates of obesity and obesity is linked to commonly occurring cancers in women. However, there is a lack of knowledge of the unique mechanism(s) involved in each type of cancer. The objective of this review is to highlight the need for novel experimental approaches and a better understanding of the common and unique pathways to resolve controversies regarding the role of obesity in cancer. In women, there is a link between hormones and obesity-associated genes in cancer development. Leptin is an obesity-associated gene that has been studied extensively in cancers; however, whether the defect is in the leptin gene or in its signaling pathways remains unclear. Both leptin and its receptor have been positively correlated with cancer progression in some endocrine-related cancers in women. This review offers an up-to-date and cohesive review of both upstream and downstream pathways of leptin signaling in cancer and a comprehensive picture of cancer pathogenesis in light of current evidence of leptin effects in several major types of cancer. This work is intended to aid in the design of better therapeutic strategies for obese/overweight women with cancer.

https://ift.tt/2xiOfvk

Linking obesity-induced leptin-signaling pathways to common endocrine-related cancers in women

Abstract

https://ift.tt/2xiOfvk

Variability of the cortisol awakening response and morning salivary oxytocin in late adolescence

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

https://ift.tt/2MssVck

Diagnosis and Management of NSAID‐Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (N‐ERD) – a EAACI position paper

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

https://ift.tt/2MwkwEQ

Pro‐inflammatory role of transient receptor potential canonical channel 6 in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

International Forum of Allergy &Rhinology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2xhOerx

Serum fatty acid‐binding protein 4 level is inversely correlated with serum thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine level in psoriatic patients achieving clear skin by biologics

The Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2OobyuY

Free gingival graft adjunct with low-level laser therapy: a randomized placebo-controlled parallel group study

Abstract

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in terms of enhancing wound healing, reducing free gingival graft (FGG) shrinkage and postoperative pain.

Materials and methods

Thirty patients were randomly assigned to receive either FGG + LLLT (test, n = 15) or FGG + plasebo LLLT (control, n = 15). In the test group, a diode laser (810 nm, 0.1 W, energy density 6 J/cm²) was applied immediately after surgery and 1, 3, 7, and 14 days later. Measurements of the graft surface areas of the groups were made with an image-analyzing software at baseline and first, third, and sixth months. Complete wound epithelialization and visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain score were evaluated after surgery.

Results

Shrinkage of the graft was statistically higher in the control than the test group at third and sixth months (p < 0.05). In terms of epithelization of the graft area, the test and control groups did not show any significant difference during the 28-day period (p > 0.05). Besides this, statistically significant differences were observed for VAS pain score and the number of analgesic used (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The use of an 810-nm diode laser provided additional benefits to FGG in terms of less shrinkage of the graft dimensions and postoperative pain.

Clinical relevance

Low-level laser therapy reduced the shrinkage of free gingival graft's surface area after 6 months and enhanced postoperative pain relief.

https://ift.tt/2p7IUmJ

Effects of oral prophylaxis including tongue cleaning on halitosis and gingival inflammation in gingivitis patients—a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of oral prophylaxis including tongue scraping on level of halitosis, clinical periodontal parameters and local cytokine response in gingivitis patients.

Materials and methods

In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 36 gingivitis patients were randomly assigned into two subgroups after scaling and polishing. Group 1 received oral hygiene instructions including the use of tongue scraper; group 2 received oral hygiene instructions alone without tongue cleaning. Levels of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC), organoleptic and tongue coating scores, clinical periodontal parameters and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were collected at baseline and 7 days after oral prophylaxis. GCF samples were analyzed using multiplexing analysis for the simultaneous measurements of cytokines. The Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon, and Student's paired and unpaired t tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Statistically significant reductions were found in terms of clinical periodontal parameters in both groups. However, significant improvements in VSC levels, organoleptic and tongue coating scores were observed just in tongue scraping group. Moreover, the GCF levels of IL-1β and IL-8 significantly decreased after the treatment in group 1 according to the baseline values.

Conclusion

The present study indicated that oral prophylaxis including tongue scraping was effective in improving intra-oral halitosis and pro-inflammatory cytokine response in GCF in gingivitis patients.

Clinical relevance

The results suggest that tongue scraping can be taken into consideration in order to manage gingival inflammation as well as VSC levels in gingivitis patients but further clinical studies are required to judge the clinical relevance.

https://ift.tt/2MypEbs

Adsorption of ionic liquids onto an activated carbon: kinetic modeling studies

Abstract

In this study, the uptake of hydrophobic bromide-based ionic liquids (ILs) (imidazolium, pyrrolidinium, and pyridinium) from aqueous solutions onto granulated and fabric-based microporous activated carbons (ACs). Surface characterization study shows that both ACs have basic pHpzc, like 8.7 for granulated AC and 8.0 for fabric AC. Granulated AC have ten times higher phenolic groups 0.2 meq g⁻¹ compared to fabric AC which is 0.03 meq g⁻¹. The kinetics of adsorption was remarkably slower for ILs on granulated/fabric AC than milled one. We also studied the effect of AC size on the rate of adsorption in the operating conditions. In order to improve the adsorption kinetics of ILs with ACs, different phenomenological and empirical kinetic models like as pseudo-first order, Boyd model, pseudo-second-order diffusion model and Elovich were applied on the kinetic experimental data. The analysis of kinetic specified that the adsorption mechanism of ILs onto ACs is controlled mainly by the mass transfer through the pores of ACs. So, the selection of appropriate adsorbent particle size of AC plays a main role for the development of viable IL adsorption.

Graphical abstract

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Postoperative local fractionated radiotherapy for resected single brain metastases

Abstract

Purpose

Evaluation of postoperative fractionated local 3D-conformal radiotherapy (3DRT) of the resection cavity in brain metastases.

Patients and methods

Between 2011 and 2016, 57 patients underwent resection of a single, previously untreated (37/57, 65%) or recurrent (20/57, 35%) brain metastasis (median maximal diameter 3.5 cm [1.1–6.5 cm]) followed by 3DRT. For definition of the gross tumor volume (GTV), the resection cavity was used and for the clinical target volume (CTV), margins of 1.0–1.5 cm were added. Median dose was 48.0 Gy (30.0–50.4 Gy) in 25 (10–28) fractions; most patients had 36.0–42.0 Gy in 3.0 Gy fractions (n = 16, EQD2_10Gy 39.0–45.5 Gy) or 40.0–50.4 Gy in 1.8–2.0 Gy fractions (n = 37, EQD2_10Gy 39.3–50.0 Gy).

Results

Median follow-up was 18 months. Local control rates were 83% at 1 year and 78% at 2 years and were significantly influenced by histology (breast cancer 100%, non-small lung cancer 87%, melanoma 80%, colorectal cancer 26% at 2 years, p = 0.006) and resection status (p < 0.0001), but not by EQD2_10Gy or size of the planning target volume (median 96.7 ml [16.7–282.8 ml]). At 1 and 2 years, 74% and 52% of the patients were free from distant brain metastases. Salvage procedures were applied in 25/27 (93%) of recurrent patients. Survival was 68% at 1 year and 41% at 2 years and was significantly improved in younger patients (p = 0.006) with higher Karnofsky performance score (p < 0.0001) and without prior radiotherapy (54% vs. 9% at 2 years, p = 0.006). No cases of radiographic or symptomatic radionecrosis were observed.

Conclusion

Adjuvant fractionated local 3DRT is highly effective in radiosensitive, completely resected metastases and should be considered for treating large resection cavities as an alternative to postoperative stereotactic single dose or hypofractionated radiosurgery.

https://ift.tt/2QqcGj4

Determination of optimum exposure parameters for dentoalveolar structures of the jaws using the CB MercuRay system with cluster signal-to-noise analysis

Abstract

Objective

To determine the optimum cone beam computed tomography exposure parameters for specific diagnostic tasks.

Methods

A Teflon phantom attached to a half-mandible in a large container was scanned in dental (D), implant (I), and panoramic (P) modes. An identical phantom in a small container was scanned in D mode. Both were scanned at 60, 80, 100, and 120 kV. We evaluated the image quality of five anatomical structures [dentinoenamel junction (1), lamina dura and periodontal ligament space (2), trabecular pattern (3), cortex–spongy bone junction (4), and pulp chamber and root canal (5)] and analyzed the diagnostic image quality with cluster signal-to-noise analysis. We then evaluated correlations between the two image qualities and calculated the threshold of acceptable diagnostic image quality. Optimum exposure parameters were determined from images with acceptable diagnostic image quality.

Results

For the small container, the optimum exposure parameters were D mode, 80 kV for (1), (3), and (4) and D mode, 100 kV for (5). For the large container, they were D mode, 120 kV for (1), (3), and (5) and D mode, 100 kV for (4). I mode, 120 kV reached the acceptable level for (4). No images reached the acceptable level for (2).

Conclusions

No optimum exposure parameters were identified for the evaluation of the lamina dura and periodontal ligament space. D mode was sufficient for the other structures; however, the tube voltage required for each structure differed. Smaller patients required lower tube voltage. I mode, 120 kV may be used for larger lesions.

https://ift.tt/2p6Xwmr

Agricultural environmental total factor productivity in China under technological heterogeneity: characteristics and determinants

Abstract

With limited resources, growing environment constraints and downward pressure on the economy, increasing agricultural environmental total factor productivity (AETFP) and its contribution to agricultural growth is significant for transforming agricultural development to make it more resource efficient and environment-friendly. This paper considered technological heterogeneity in different regions of China and measured AETFP in 30 provinces from 1997 to 2015 using the Metafrontier Malmquist-Luenberger (MML) productivity index. Multi-dimensional analysis was made on temporal and spatial characteristics, evolution patterns, and influencing factors of AETFP in China. The results showed that: (1) AETFP increased in the Ninth, Tenth, Eleventh, and Twelfth Five-Year Plan periods, with average annual growth rates of 0.76%, 0.88%, 1.17%, and 0.87%, respectively. (2) The average annual growth rate of AETFP in the eastern, central, and western regions decreased successively. The eastern region generally had played a leading role. The central region had a catch-up effect on environmental production technologies from the eastern region, while the western region lacked the catch-up effect. (3) The dynamic evolution of AETFP had prominent features. For the whole nation, the kernel density curve of AETFP continuously moved to the right. The main peak value continuously decreased and the width of the main peak continuously increased. The internal differences of AETFP in the eastern and western regions exhibited an increasing trend, while the internal differences of AETFP in the central region showed little change. (4) There was an inverted U-shaped relationship between agricultural economic growth and AETFP. Both the disaster rate and planting structure had a negative impact on AETFP with varying degrees of significance. Income gaps between urban and rural areas can partially offset the role of urbanization in promoting the growth of AETFP. The greater the income differences between urban and rural areas, the weaker the role of urbanization in promoting the growth of AETFP. These findings can help the government determine policies to change the agricultural development mode and formulate effective measures to improve AETFP.

https://ift.tt/2MyC6YV

Necrobiosis lipoidica associated with sarcoidosis

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

https://ift.tt/2N9ERF7

Diffuse papulopustular eruption in a newborn

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 683-684, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2NawjOe

Enlarging verrucous plaques in a teenager

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 671-672, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Mv0ivb

Red‐brown macules in a linear distribution on the arm

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 685-687, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Naw85w

Skin lesions in a 5‐year‐old boy with recent unusual course of pneumonia

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 673-675, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Mv09I9

Response to “Doing the math: A simple approach to topical timolol dosing for infantile hemangiomas”

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 700-700, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2NavYLs

Child with flagellate skin eruptions

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 676-677, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2MuZYfX

An infant with a capillary malformation on the lower lip

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 681-682, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2NaQ8oy

A hair out of place in a 6‐year‐old boy

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 669-670, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Mw3w1t

A comprehensive next‐generation sequencing assay for the diagnosis of epidermolysis bullosa

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 732-735, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2N9EqKZ

A rapidly‐growing, exophytic papule on the nose of a 9‐year‐old Native American boy

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 678-680, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Mw3mHp

Comment on “Doing the math: A simple approach to topical timolol dosing for infantile hemangiomas”

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 698-699, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Ndwngg

Patient Perspectives: What is Diaper Rash?

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 667-668, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Mw343h

Comment on “Excellent response to ustekinumab in a 9‐year‐old girl with severe psoriasis”

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 701-701, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2Ndwatu

Issue Information

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 541-546, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2MvZXrO

Society for Pediatric Dermatology 43rd Annual Meeting Poster Presentations July 2018 | Lake Tahoe, California

Pediatric Dermatology, Volume 35, Issue 5, Page 702-731, September/October 2018.

https://ift.tt/2NdvTXu

A challenging case: Multiple and Blaschkoid hair follicle naevi or supernumerary accessory tragi?

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2NHX1gA

Polymorphisms in P53 and VEGFA genes in different subtypes of periorbital hyperpigmentation in a Malaysian Chinese population

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2xeCPJ5

Angina bullosa haemorrhagica‐like lesions in pemphigus vulgaris

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2NHWRWw

A challenging case: Multiple and Blaschkoid hair follicle naevi or supernumerary accessory tragi?

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2NHX1gA

Polymorphisms in P53 and VEGFA genes in different subtypes of periorbital hyperpigmentation in a Malaysian Chinese population

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2xeCPJ5

Angina bullosa haemorrhagica‐like lesions in pemphigus vulgaris

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

https://ift.tt/2NHWRWw

Pineoblastoma in a child with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome

Description

A 4-year-old girl with a history of chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome presented to the emergency department with 2–3 weeks of worsening emesis. CT of the head revealed a large pineal region calcified tumour with associated hydrocephalus. Contrast-enhanced MRI of the brain and spine status postexternal ventricular drain placement confirmed a pineal tumour with diffuse metastatic leptomeningeal spinal spread (figure 1A,B). The child had a normal MRI of the brain 2 years prior (figure 1C) as work-up for her developmental delay. The diagnosis of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome was made by chromosomal microarray testing, which revealed a 2.5 MB deletion of 22q11.2 that included the TBX1 gene. Neuropathology on a subtotal resection showed clusters and sheets of tightly packed, small, blue cells with oval or slightly angulated nuclei and scant cytoplasm, consistent with a primitive neuroectodermal tumour. The tumour showed no loss of expression of INI...

https://ift.tt/2MvHxra

Coronary artery ectasia: a rare cause of acute coronary syndrome

Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is defined as a localised or diffuse dilatation of coronary artery lumen more than 1.5 times that of an adjacent normal segment. CAE may present with or without functionally significant stenosis. Such patients may manifest with stable angina or with acute coronary syndrome. Ectasia may serve as a nidus for thrombus formation with likelihood of distal embolisation or it may lead to dissection or spasm. This condition presents a challenge for an interventionist. Should we intervene or manage it medically. We describe a case of CAE where all the vessels were diffusely ectatic with variable degree of stenosis. In brief we discuss the causes and management issues in ectasia.

https://ift.tt/2Qvj60h

Uncommon cause of chest pain in a postoperative spinal patient

An 84-year-old woman with previous spinal operations including vertebroplasty and lumbar decompressions was admitted electively under the spinal team for right-sided L4/5 decompression for worsening back pain which she undergoes using a posterior approach. Postoperatively, she develops stabbing upper central chest pain and given unremarkable chest X-ray, ECG and cardiac troponin, she undergoes a CT pulmonary angiogram which shows a fracture of the upper part of sternum but no pulmonary embolism. There is no history of recent trauma and this is deemed to be secondary to prolonged spinal surgery in the prone position in a patient with osteopenic bones. To date, we have not come across a case of spontaneous sternal fracture as a complication of spinal surgery at our regional spinal unit. Most cases of sternal fractures are secondary to blunt anterior chest wall trauma with spontaneous fractures and stress fractures being rare.

https://ift.tt/2MvHmfu

Spin-top-like encrustation of suprapubic cystostomy catheter: when proper counselling is all that it takes!

Description

A 25-year-old man from a rural background and suffering from psychiatric illness had complaints of acute urinary retention 1 year ago for which trocar-guided suprapubic cystostomy (SPC) Foley catheter placement was done elsewhere after failed attempt of per-urethral catheterisation.

There was no history of haematuria, lithuria, catheterisation and endourological intervention in the past. On further eliciting the history, there was a retrograde urethrogram film taken 1 year back which revealed a short segment (1.0 cm) bulbar urethral stricture. He had undergone optical internal urethrotomy with Foley catheter placement (14F) under regional anaesthesia for his urethral stricture. Per-urethral catheter was removed after 7 days and he voided well with good urinary stream. He was sent back home and instructed to follow-up after 3 days for removal of SPC catheter and need of de-clamping SPC catheter in case of urinary retention again.

However, a thorough counselling about catheter's care and related complications was not...

https://ift.tt/2QviVlD

A rare case of cellular angiofibroma affecting the periurethral region in a 38-year-old woman

Cellular angiofibroma (CAF) is a rare, site-specific, benign mesenchymal tumour affecting both women and men in the genitourinary region. The tumour usually presents as a small, asymptomatic lesion involving the vulvovaginal regions in women and inguinoscrotal regions in men. We report the case of a 38-year-old woman presenting with a painless mass in the vulval region, especially on the right side of urethral meatus for 8 years with progressively increasing lower abdominal discomfort. A simple excision was performed. The diagnosis of CAF was confirmed histopathologically.

https://ift.tt/2MvGd7Z

Cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis in an elderly adult

Description

A 94-year-old man presented with complaints of increasing fatigue and generalised weakness for 1 month's duration. On admission, the patient had tachycardia of 112 bpm and fever of 101.1 °F. His initial physical examination was otherwise normal. Lactic acid was elevated (4.13 pg/mL), but other laboratory markers were within normal limits. No apparent source of infection was identified by initial urinalysis, chest radiography or CT of the abdomen without contrast. The lactic acidosis resolved after administration of normal saline, but he continued to have fever, which prompted more thorough physical examination that revealed a painless right-sided neck mass. CT of the neck without contrast confirmed a low-density neck mass in the right posterior cervical region measuring 7 cm in the maximum diameter (figures 1 and 2), suspicious for necrotic tumour or an abscess. Ultrasound-guided drainage of the mass recovered 50 mL of purulent material that was submitted for...

https://ift.tt/2QstE0d

Cytomegalovirus-associated haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: a rare cause of febrile neutropenia during cancer chemotherapy

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a common complication in patients with cancer during treatment with antineoplastic drugs. The initial cause is usually bacterial, and treatment of FN follows well-defined algorithms. We report a case of a 62-year-old patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), who developed FN, which was unresponsive to both empirical antibacterial and empirical antifungal therapy. Surprisingly, a diagnosis of the life-threatening condition haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) associated with cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection was made and treated successfully. CMV-associated HLH has not previously been described in patients with CLL treated with rituximab and bendamustine. It is concluded that HLH should be considered in patients with cancer with FN not responding to conventional antibiotic therapy.

https://ift.tt/2MvH2NO

Patella incarceration with associated patella fracture: a rare case of a paediatric patient with no associated femoral fracture

We describe the case of a 15-year-old girl who presented to the Accident and Emergency Department with right knee pain and a tense effusion following a twist and fall directly onto her right knee. An MRI scan demonstrated that she had an incarcerated dislocated patella with an associated patella avulsion fracture. This required open reduction. Open reduction and fixation was performed using suture anchors. We feel that this case is particularly pertinent since nearly all previous case reports describe an incarcerated patella with an associated femur fracture. Furthermore, no previous case reports have been published in a child.

https://ift.tt/2QviAzn

Tibial osteomyelitis with cold abscess within calf muscles in a toddler referred with suspected oligoarthritis to rheumatology clinic

Description

A 2-year-old male child was referred to the paediatric rheumatology clinic with history of limping, swelling of right knee and low-grade fevers for 6 weeks. About 2 months prior to this presentation, he had an episode of upper respiratory infection which was followed by swelling of the right knee. He was initially treated with oral analgesics by his primary physician. After 6 weeks when there was no improvement, he was referred for evaluation of possible juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

On examination, there was visible swelling of his right knee compared with his left and he was refusing to bear weight on his right lower limb (figure 1). On closer observation, a diffuse swelling was noted over the right calf region with fullness of the popliteal fossa (figure 1). The swelling was not warm or tender. There was no contact history with tuberculosis. The patient...

https://ift.tt/2MwD73l

Management of oesophageal intramucosal carcinoma

We present an interesting case of an intramucosal carcinoma (IMC) in the setting of Barrett's oesophagus in a 66-year-old woman. Her clinical course highlights the shifting paradigm in the approach to management of Barrett's oesophagus and IMC. With innovation in imaging and endoscopic treatment modalities, patients are detected earlier and managed prior to development of malignancy. The patient was treated with endoscopic modalities, and after 3 years' follow-up, she remains recurrence free.

https://ift.tt/2QtDVcH

Rehabilitation Planning Consult Phase II Trial

Condition: Head and Neck Neoplasms
Interventions: Behavioral: Rehabilitation Planning Consult (RPC); Other: Wait list control (WLC)
Sponsor: University Health Network, Toronto
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2Qsf1dr

Combination of Chemotherapy Plus RT and SHR-1210 to Treat Patients With ESCC

Condition: Esophageal Cancer
Interventions: Drug: SHR-1210; Radiation: IMRT or VMAT; Drug: Apatinib
Sponsors: Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital; Jiangsu HengRui Medicine Co., Ltd.
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2MvyUNv

Perioperative Perfusion Measurement - a Feasibility and Usability Study

Condition: Esophageal Cancer
Interventions: Device: Q-ICG; Procedure: White light perfusion assessment; Procedure: Fluorescence angiography
Sponsor: Rigshospitalet, Denmark
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2QuutWg

Rehabilitation Planning Consult Phase II Trial

Combination of Chemotherapy Plus RT and SHR-1210 to Treat Patients With ESCC

Perioperative Perfusion Measurement - a Feasibility and Usability Study

Investigation of antibiotics in sea cucumbers: occurrence, pollution characteristics, and human risk assessment

Abstract

Occurrence and distribution of 24 antibiotics from 7 categories were screened in sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) collected from different coastal regions of China. The samples were simultaneously extracted and purified using accelerated solvent extraction with in-cell clean-up and analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A total of ten antibiotics were detected in the sea cucumbers with concentrations ranging from not detected to 32.8 μg/kg (dry weight). Sulfonamides are predominant antibiotics with a mean concentration of 11.5 μg/kg (dry weight), followed by macrolides (11.3 μg/kg, dry weight) and fluoroquinolones (11.2 μg/kg, dry weight). High concentrations of the antibiotics were found in the samples from the South China Sea, implying that the antibiotic pollution in sea cucumbers was geographical region-dependent, which was further confirmed by principal component analysis. It was also found that the antibiotic levels are slightly higher in instant sea cucumbers than in the dried ones. Hazard quotient calculation suggested no obvious human health risks associated with the consumption of sea cucumbers regarding antibiotics.

https://ift.tt/2CW9mts

Treatment of 1,4-dioxane and trichloroethene co-contamination by an activated binary persulfate-peroxide oxidation process

Abstract

The efficacy of a binary oxidant system, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and persulfate, was investigated for treatment of 1,4-dioxane (dioxane) and trichloroethene (TCE) co-contamination. Batch experiments were conducted to examine the catalytic efficiency of Fe²⁺ and NaOH-based activation, oxidant decomposition rates, contaminant degradation effectiveness, and competitive degradation effects. For NaOH activation, the oxidant decomposition rate was moderate and sustained during the entire test period of 96 h. However, dioxane degradation was limited (~ 33%). Conversely, the oxidants were depleted within 24 h for the Fe²⁺-activated system, and dioxane degradation was complete within 4 h. The activation and radical generation processes were different between Fe²⁺ and NaOH activation. Both dioxane and TCE underwent complete degradation in the co-contaminant experiment. The results of this study indicate that the Fe²⁺-catalyzed binary hydrogen peroxide-persulfate oxidant system is effective for oxidation of the tested contaminants separately and as co-contaminants.

https://ift.tt/2NOVNQU

Resistance of alfalfa and Indian mustard to Cd and the correlation of plant Cd uptake and soil Cd form

Abstract

Phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil is considered to be one ecological environmental protection way that is effective and economical. The selection of suitable hyperaccumulators is a key issue for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil. Pot experiments were conducted to study the effects of different Cd levels (0, 75, 150, 300, and 600 mg kg⁻¹ Cd) on the dry weight, antioxidant enzyme activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, Cd concentration, Cd accumulation, and soil Cd form distribution ratio (FDC) of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.). The correlations between Cd concentration in shoots and roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard and soil Cd form were also investigated. The results showed that with the increase of soil Cd levels, dry weight of shoot and root of alfalfa and Indian mustard significantly decreased, which decreased by 50.0–71.8% and 29.6–59.3% (alfalfa), 59.6–89.0% and 64.3–74.8% (India mustard), respectively, compared with the control. With the increase of soil Cd level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in shoot of alfalfa significantly increased. Catalase (CAT) activity and malondialdehyde contents in shoots and roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard, as well as superoxide dismutase activity in the roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard increased first and then decreased with the increase of soil Cd level. With increasing Cd stress, Cd concentration in shoots and roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard significantly increased. At soil Cd level of 75 mg kg⁻¹, Cd concentrations in shoots of alfalfa and Indian mustard exceeded the critical value of Cd-hyperaccumulator (100 mg kg⁻¹), which was 356.46 mg kg⁻¹ and 308.74 mg kg⁻¹, respectively. Cadmium concentrations in shoots and roots of plants were in the order of that of alfalfa > Indian mustard; total Cd accumulation in the aboveground tissues and roots of the plants was in the order of that of Indian mustard > alfalfa at the same Cd level. With increasing soil Cd level, Cd concentrations of exchangeable form (EXC-Cd), carbonate-bound form (CAB-Cd), iron-manganese oxide-bound form (FeMn-Cd), organic-bound form (OM-Cd), and residual form (RES-Cd) showed an increasing trend. The form distribution ratio of soil Cd forms in alfalfa's rhizosphere was in the order of that of exchangeable form Cd > carbonate-bound form Cd > iron-manganese oxide-bound form Cd > residual form Cd > organic-bound form Cd. Except for organic-bound form Cd, soil Cd forms were significantly positively correlated with Cd concentration in shoot and root (P < 0.01). Comprehensively considering the biomass and Cd accumulation, Indian mustard is more suitable as remediation material for soil Cd pollution.

https://ift.tt/2xe88DR

Future intensification of summer hypoxia in the tidal Garonne River (SW France) simulated by a coupled hydro sedimentary-biogeochemical model

Abstract

Projections for the next 50 years predict a widespread distribution of hypoxic zones in the open and coastal ocean due to environmental and global changes. The Tidal Garonne River (SW France) has already experienced few episodic hypoxic events. However, predicted future climate and demographic changes suggest that summer hypoxia could become more severe and even permanent near the city of Bordeaux in the next few decades. A 3D model, which couples hydrodynamic, sediment transport, and biogeochemical processes, is applied to assess the impact of factors submitted to global and regional climate changes on oxygenation in the turbidity maximum zone (TMZ) of the Tidal Garonne River during low-discharge periods. The model simulates an intensification of summer hypoxia with an increase in temperature, a decrease in river flow or an increase in the local population, but not with sea level rise, which has a negligible impact on dissolved oxygen. Different scenarios were tested by combining these different factors according to the regional projections for 2050 and 2100. All the simulations showed a trend toward a spatial and temporal extension of summer hypoxia that needs to be considered by local water authorities to impose management strategies to protect the ecosystem.

https://ift.tt/2p8P9GQ

Nachsorge statt Operation in der Neoadjuvanz beim Ösophaguskarzinom? – Ergebnisse der preSANO-Studie

https://ift.tt/2p82cZu

Risk factors for brain metastasis in patients with small cell lung cancer without prophylactic cranial irradiation

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to determine the risk factors for brain metastasis (BM) and the prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in patients with small cell lung cancer without prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI).

Patients and methods

Limited stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) patients achieving a complete response (CR) or partial response (PR) were enrolled into this study between January 2010 and December 2016. We retrospectively evaluated the influencing factors for time to BM and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 153 patients were enrolled into this study. Sixty-eight developed BM during the follow-up period. For the whole cohort, the 1‑ and 2‑year BM rates were 29.4 and 41.2%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that T stage (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.27, P = 0.024), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; HR = 2.07, P = 0.029), time to thoracic radiotherapy (HR = 0.34, P = 0.002) and chemotherapy cycles (HR = 0.49, P = 0.036) were the independent influencing factors of time to BM. Only NLR (HR = 2.11, P = 0.005) and time to thoracic radiotherapy (HR = 1.95, P = 0.011) were independent prognostic factors of OS. Of the 68 patients developing BM, those with BM occurring as the first relapse (42/68) had better OS than the others (39.5 months vs 23.0 months, P = 0.016).

Conclusion

LS-SCLC patients without PCI had a high risk of BM. High T stage, high NLR, early thoracic radiotherapy and fewer chemotherapy cycles were the risk factors of BM. Further research is needed to confirm the results.

https://ift.tt/2MAGnuU

Aktuelle hormonelle Verhütungsmethoden und das Risiko für Brustkrebs

https://ift.tt/2p6UKNX

IgA nephropathy: clearance kinetics of IgA-containing immune complexes

Abstract

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is associated predominantly IgA deposition in the affected glomeruli and has been shown to be the most common glomerular disorder among young people in the world. Although the exact pathogenic mechanism underlying IgAN remains largely unknown, circulating IgA-containing immune complexes (IgA ICs) is considered to play a major role in initiating the development and evolution of the renal disorder. In this review article, we discuss the fundamental mechanisms of clearance kinetics of IgA ICs and related issues, covering the following: (1) role of circulating IgA ICs in the pathogenesis of IgAN and (2) elimination of IgA ICs from the body, with emphasis of the role of the liver and Fc receptors in immune cells.

https://ift.tt/2Nfs7Nh

Three-dimensional reconstruction of the temporal bone: Comparison of in situ, CT, and CBCT measurements

Publication date: Available online 13 September 2018

Source: European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Diseases

Author(s): E. Guyader, J. Savéan, C. Clodic, P. Letellier, P. Meriot, R. Marianowski

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and Computed Tomography (CT) reconstructions of human temporal bones compared with in situ measurements.

Material and methods

Experimental anatomical study of 10 human temporal bones. Wilcoxon's test was used to compare 8 distances on each temporal bone measured in situ and then on 3D CT and CBCT reconstructions. Six landmarks were used: external auditory canal (EAC), tip of the mastoid process, tip of the occiput, zygoma, a point situated 1 cm above the tip of the mastoid process (T0) (open technique: lower limit of the mastoidectomy), head of stapes.

Results

No significant difference was observed between the 3 measuring techniques for any of the distances studied (P > 0.05).

Discussion

This study demonstrates the equivalence of CBCT and CT for temporal bone measurements.

Conclusion

CBCT is a new imaging modality providing 3D reconstructions of the temporal bone that are as reliable as those obtained by CT. As a result of better spatial resolution compared to CT, CBCT is associated with a significantly lower radiation dose. This technique constitutes a morphological progress, as CBCT is comparable to CT, allowing investigation of pathological ears with a lower radiation dose.

https://ift.tt/2Ol62JB

Outcomes and Swallowing Evaluations after Injection Laryngoplasty for Type I Laryngeal Cleft: Does Age Matter?

Publication date: Available online 13 September 2018

Source: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Elisabeth Cole, Alexandra Dreyzin, Amber D. Shaffer, Allison B.J. Tobey, David H. Chi, Tony Tarchichi

Abstract

Objectives

To improve the recognition of differences in presentation amongst patients with type 1 laryngeal clefts of various ages and better understand the age dependent outcomes of injection laryngoplasty. A second aim was to analyze the discrepancies between swallow assessment modalities in various age groups with type I laryngeal clefts undergoing injection laryngoplasty.

Methods

A retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients who underwent injection laryngoplasty from 2009 through 2015 at a tertiary care children's hospital. Data extracted included: Demographics, histories and physical exam findings, diagnostic studies, and medical and surgical treatments.

Results

Most (72/102, 70.6%) patients were male with a median gestational age at birth of 37 weeks (range 24–41 weeks). Formula thickening and GERD medications were used in 94/102 (92.2%) and 97/102 (95.1%) patients, respectively. Comorbid GERD, laryngomalacia, tracheomalacia, and subglottic stenosis were present in 98/102 (96.1%), 40/102 (39.2%), 9/102 (8.8%), and 14/102 (13.7%) patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in demographics, comorbidities or medical therapy between age groups. Symptoms at presentation differed between age groups with stridor (χ²(1) =11.6, p=0.002) and cyanosis (χ²(1) =8.13, p=0.012) being more common in the 0–3-month group compared to the 12-36 month group. Symptom resolution and the odds of undergoing additional surgery (second injection or suture repair) over time, however, did not differ. There was a significant reduction in aspiration with thins during FEES (McNemar χ²(1) =10.7, p=0.002) and aspiration with nectar during MBS (McNemar χ²(1) =5.26, p=0.035) post-injection. After injection, there was significant agreement in aspiration with thins between FEES and MBS (kappa=0.308 ± SE 0.170, p=0.035). However, finding aspiration with thins was more common during MBS than during FEES (McNemar χ²(1) =7.00, p=0.016). There were no differences in swallow evaluation findings between the age groups.

Conclusions

Symptoms of type I laryngeal clefts may differ by age. However, there was no impact of age on the safety and efficacy of surgical intervention.

https://ift.tt/2NcVcZK

Use of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for Post-Procedural Monitoring in Young Children Following Microlaryngobronchoscopy: Impact on Resource Utilization and Hospital Cost

Publication date: Available online 13 September 2018

Source: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Elizabeth J. Kerris, Jason T. Patregnani, Matthew Sharron, Anthony A. Sochet

Abstract

Objective

To assess the frequency of post-procedural complications, medical interventions, and hospital costs associated with microlaryngobronchoscopy (MLB) in children prophylactically admitted for pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) monitoring for age ≤ 2 years.

Methods

We performed a single-center, retrospective, descriptive study within a 44-bed PICU in a stand-alone, tertiary, pediatric referral center. Inclusion criteria were age ≤ 2 years and pre-procedural selection of prophylactic PICU monitoring after MLB between January 2010 and December 2015. Children were excluded for existing tracheostomy, if undergoing concurrent non-otolaryngeal procedures, or if intubated at the time of PICU admission. Primary outcomes were the development of major and minor procedural complications and medical rescue interventions. Secondary outcomes were hospital cost and length of stay (LOS).

Results

One hundred and eight subjects met inclusion criteria with a median age of 5.3 (IQR: 2.6-10.9) months. A majority (86%) underwent therapeutic instrumentation in addition to diagnostic MLB. There were no observed major complications or rescue interventions. Minor complications were noted within 5 hours of monitoring and included isolated stridor (24%), desaturation <90% (10%), and nausea/emesis (8%). Minor interventions included supplemental oxygen via regular nasal cannula (39%), single-dose inhaled racemic epinephrine (19%), single-dose systemic corticosteroids (19%), or high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy (4%). Save for two cases of HFNC, interventions were completed or discontinued within 5 hours. Median PICU LOS was 1.1 days and median cost was $9,650 (IQR: $8,235- $14,861) per encounter. Estimated cost of same day observation in our post anesthesia care unit (PACU) following MLB without PICU admission is $1,921 per encounter.

Conclusions

In children ≤ 2 years of age prophylactically admitted for PICU observation, we did not observe severe complications or major interventions after MLB. Minor interventions and complications were noted early during post-procedural monitoring. PICU monitoring was substantially more expensive than same-day PACU observation. Young age as the sole criteria for prophylactic PICU monitoring after diagnostic or therapeutic MLB may be unjustified when comparable, cost-conscious care can be achieved in a PACU setting. Prior to pre-procedural selection of PICU monitoring, we recommend a broad contextual risk assessment including a review of comorbidities, operative plan, and intended anesthetic exposure.

https://ift.tt/2Mw3yGu

LipoxinA4 attenuates acute pancreatitis-associated acute lung injury by regulating AQP-5 and MMP-9 expression, anti-apoptosis and PKC/SSeCKS-mediated F-actin activation

Publication date: November 2018

Source: Molecular Immunology, Volume 103

Author(s): Zhehao Shi, Wen Ye, Jiecheng Zhang, Fan Zhang, Dinglai Yu, Huajun Yu, Bicheng Chen, Mengtao Zhou, Hongwei Sun

Abstract

An essential component of acute pancreatitis(AP)-induced acute lung injury(ALI) is the inflammation that is part of the body's systemic inflammatory response to a variety of systemic stimuli. Lipoxins(LXs) are considered important endogenous lipids that mediate the resolution of inflammation. In previous studies, we found that Lipoxin A4 (LXA4) reduced AP-induced pulmonary oedema and TNF-α production in lung. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Due to the above studies, we investigated the aquaporin, matrix metalloprotein, apoptosis and PKC/SSeCKS signal pathway in cellular and animal models of AP-associated lung injury following LXA4 intervention. In this study, we first proved LXA4 could effectively promote F-actin reconstruction and regulate its expression in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells both in vivo and vitro via suppressing PKC/SSeCKS signalling pathway. Next, we found that LXA4 attenuated cell growth inhibition and apoptosis in lung tissues of AP-ALI mice and HPMECs. Additionally, we demonstrated that LXA4 could regulate the expression of AQP-5 and MMP-9 to stabilize the permeability of pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell. In summary, our results suggest that the anti-inﬂammatory eﬀ ;ects of LXA4 may be due to the inhibition of both the PKC/SSeCKS pathway and apoptosis to reduce alveolar fluid exudation and to the regulation of AQP-5 and MMP-9 expression to maintain the clearance of alveolar fluid. Thus, LXA4 is capable of exerting protective eﬀ ;ects on AP-induced ALI.

https://ift.tt/2MuZO87

Increase of follicular helper T cells skewed toward a Th1 profile in CVID patients with non-infectious clinical complications

Publication date: Available online 13 September 2018

Source: Clinical Immunology

Author(s): Delphine Turpin, Adeline Furudoi, Marie Parrens, Patrick Blanco, Jean-François Viallard, Dorothée Duluc

Abstract

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is characterized by low levels of circulating immunoglobulins and defects in B cell maturation leading to an increased susceptibility to infections. Some patients develop complications such as autoimmune diseases, enteropathy, and lymphoproliferation, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality. Follicular helper T (Tfh) cells are specialized in helping B cell differentiation into Ig-producing cells. Three subsets have been described, namely non B-cell helper Tfh1 and the two B-helper cell subsets Tfh2 and Tfh17. We determined that circulating Tfh cells were elevated in CVID patients and skewed toward a Tfh1 profile. Interestingly, elevated levels of Tfh1 cells were significant only in patients harboring non-infectious complications regardless of the type of complication and inversely correlated with switched memory B cells. Moreover, CXCR3⁺ cells are increased in splenic CVID germinal centers. Our observations suggest that the altered balance in Tfh subsets in CVID is linked to a more severe disease.

https://ift.tt/2NcoIyt

Chronic hyperglycemia with elevated glycated hemoglobin level and its association with postoperative acute kidney injury after a major laparoscopic abdominal surgery in diabetes patients

Abstract

Background

The relationship between preoperative hyperglycemia and postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) occurrence in non-cardiac surgery including laparoscopic surgery remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the relationship between preoperative chronic hyperglycemia and postoperative AKI occurrence after a major laparoscopic abdominal surgery.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of diabetic patients (≥ 20 years old) who underwent elective major laparoscopic abdominal surgery procedures between 2010 and 2016. Patients were divided into two groups based on a cut-off value of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) at 6%. Serum creatinine value was used for the diagnosis of AKI, and all assessments and diagnoses of postoperative AKI were performed on 0–3 postoperative days (POD) using the criteria of Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes.

Results

In all, 1885 patients were included in the final analysis, and patients were divided into the following groups: < 6.0% group with 1257 patients (66.7%), and ≥ 6.0% group with 628 patients (33.3%). Sixty-nine patients (3.7%) were diagnosed with postoperative AKI within 3 POD. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed no significant difference in the incidence rate of postoperative AKI between the HbA1c ≥ 6.0% group and the < 6.0% group (odds ratio 1.10, 95% confidence interval 0.57–2.15; P = 0.770). In addition, there was no significant interaction between preoperative HbA1c group and exposure to acute hyperglycemia (serum glucose > 200 mg/dL) for incidence of AKI on POD 0–3 (P = 0.181).

Conclusions

In diabetic patients, preoperative chronic hyperglycemia is not associated with postoperative AKI occurrence within 3 POD after a major laparoscopic abdominal surgery.

https://ift.tt/2xcqeqv

Reply to: “Risk of skin cancer in HIV-infected patients: a Danish nationwide cohort study”

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): Matthew D. Mansh, Dustin H. Marks

https://ift.tt/2CS30eu

Clobetasol pretreatment to reduce or prevent injection site dermatitis from biologic agents

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): Deede Liu, Dominic J. Wu, Anand Rajpara, Ting Wang, Daniel J. Aires

https://ift.tt/2p8xpve

Answer to the comment concerning our article “Risk of skin cancer in HIV-infected patients: a Danish nationwide cohort study”

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): S.H. Omland, L.H. Omland

https://ift.tt/2CVvFzp

Principles of the magnetic resonance imaging movie method for articulatory movement

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a critical tool for dental examination. MRI has many advantages over radiographic examination methods, including the lack of a requirement for patient exposure and the ability to capture high-contrast images of various tissue and organ types. However, MRI also has several limitations, including long examination times and the existence of metallic or motion artifacts. A cardiac imaging method using cine sequences was developed in the 1990s. This technique allows for analysis of heart movement and functional blood flow. Moreover, this method has been applied in dentistry. Recent research involving 3 T MRI has led to the achievement of a temporal resolution of < 10 ms, surpassing the frame rate of typical video recording. The current review introduces the history and principles of the cine sequence method and its application to the oral and maxillofacial regions.

https://ift.tt/2NNCEhU

The rotating stretched curved planar reconstruction of 3D-FIESTA MR imaging for evaluating the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee joint

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Author(s): Jun Zhang, Dapeng Hao, Feng Duan, Tengbo Yu, Chuanyu Zhang, Junyi Che

Abstract

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of the rotating stretched curved planar reconstruction (CPR) of three-dimensional fast imaging with steady-state acquisition magnetic resonance imaging (3D-FIESTA MRI) for evaluating the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee joint.

Materials and methods

MRI of 40 knee joints in healthy volunteers was performed on a 3.0-T MR scanner and a phased-array extremity coil. The protocol consisted of oblique sagittal spin echo (SE) T1WI, coronal FS-PDWI, axial FS-FSE-T2WI, and 3D-FIESTA sequences. The rotating stretched curved planar reconstructions (CPR) of the ACL at angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, and 180° were generated from images of 3D-FIESTA sequences. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the 3D-FIESTA were compared with those of the oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence. The presence of the tibial attachment, midportion, femoral attachment, and double bundles of the ACL on the oblique sagittal SE T1WI and CPR of 3D-FIESTA MR imaging were divided into two categories: visible and not visible.

Results

The ACL SNR efficiency of 3D-FIESTA sequences was significantly higher than that of oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence (P < 0.05). The 3D-FIESTA sequences produced images with a significantly higher CNR between ACL and synovial fluid than did the oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence (P < 0.05). CPR of 3D-FIESTA MRI generated an excellent visualization of the ACL. The CPR of 3D-FIESTA MRI was rated superior to oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence in 60% and 65% of cases with regard to the tibial attachment and midportion of ACL, respectively (P < 0.05). CPR of 3D-FIESTA MR imaging was rated superior to oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence in 80% and 85% of cases with regard to femoral attachment and double bundles of ACL, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The rotating stretched curved planar reconstruction of 3D-FIESTA sequences is significantly better than that of conventional 2D-MRI in evaluating the native ACL and its components, AM bundle and PL bundle, in healthy volunteers.

https://ift.tt/2CTx4X2

A gene expression profile associated with perineural invasion identifies a subset of HNSCC at risk of post-surgical recurrence

Publication date: November 2018

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 86

Author(s): Zuzana Saidak, Florian Clatot, Denis Chatelain, Antoine Galmiche

Abstract

Objectives

Perineural invasion (PNI) is a common histopathological finding in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms involved in PNI and the role of PNI as an aggressive pathological feature.

Materials and methods

We used data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to relate the histological presentation of 528 HNSCC tumours to clinical, whole genome expression and proteomic data.

Results

We identified a specific gene expression profile highly enriched in genes related to muscle differentiation/function and associated with PNI in HNSCC. We explored the clinical significance of this profile in three groups of HNSCC tumours stratified according to their low, intermediate or high risk of post-surgical recurrence. In the "low-risk" group, defined as tumours indicated for surgery without adjuvant radiotherapy (n = 51), the PNI gene expression profile identified a subset of HNSCC with a higher rate of tumour recurrence, decreased Disease Free Survival (DFS) and Overall Survival (OS) (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0064, respectively). Comparable results were observed in "intermediate risk" tumours (n = 112), but not in "high risk" tumours (n = 147), whose prognosis was driven by the presence of lymph node extracapsular spread. Finally, we found that tumours with histological PNI had increased activation levels of the Akt/PKB and mTOR (mammalian Target Of Rapamycin) kinases.

Conclusion

PNI is characterised by a specific gene expression profile and distinct biological characteristics. Analysing the PNI gene expression profile holds potential for therapeutic stratification of HNSCC and identification of a subset of tumours with a higher risk of recurrence.

https://ift.tt/2p6W7MR

Editorial Board/Aims & Scope

Publication date: October 2018

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 85

Author(s):

https://ift.tt/2D4cfsm

Atopic dermatitis in African American patients is TH2/TH22-skewed with TH1/TH17 attenuation

African Americans/(AA) are disproportionately impacted by atopic dermatitis/(AD) with increased prevalence and therapeutic challenges unique to this population. Molecular profiling data informing development of targeted therapeutics for AD are derived primarily from European American/(EA) patients. These studies are absent in AA, hindering development of effective treatments for this population.

https://ift.tt/2p68GYA

Hyperhidrose – Ätiopathogenese, Diagnostik, Klinik und Therapie

Zusammenfassung

Die Hyperhidrose tritt meist als primäre, selten als sekundäre symptomatische Hyperhidrose auf. Die primäre Hyperhidrose wird als komplexe neuropathische Dysregulation mit genetischer Disposition verstanden, die ein pathologisches Schwitzverhalten mit vermehrter Schweißsekretion über mindestens 6 Monate bedingt und mindestens 4 der folgenden Diagnosekriterien erfüllt: Betroffenheit der Axillae und/oder der Handinnenflächen und/oder der Fußsohlen und/oder des Stirnbereiches, symmetrisches Auftreten, kein nächtliches Schwitzen, Häufigkeit des Auftretens mindestens wöchentlich, Beginn der Erkrankung vor dem 25. Lebensjahr, positive Familienanamnese sowie Beeinträchtigung der täglichen Aktivitäten. Zur Therapie der primären Hyperhidrose werden v. a. topisch Aluminiumsalze und Anticholinergika, Leitungswasseriontophorese sowie intrakutan Botulinumtoxin angewendet. In der systemischen Therapie kommen ebenfalls verschiedene Anticholinergika zum Einsatz. Meist als Ultima-Ratio-Therapie werden chirurgische Verfahren angewendet. Außerdem sind Verfahren zur Thermolyse entwickelt worden.

https://ift.tt/2Qv9hQf

Accurate quantification of T-cells expressing PD-1 in patients on anti-PD-1 immunotherapy

Abstract

Increasing numbers of trials employing anti-PD-1 immunotherapy emphasize the requirement for predictive biomarkers of clinical response. Many studies examine the cell surface expression of PD-1 and other key regulators of T-cell activation and inhibition. Here, we compared common commercially available anti-PD-1 diagnostic antibodies and tested whether they can bind the PD-1 receptor in the presence of the therapeutic antagonists pembrolizumab and nivolumab. We observed that currently no antibodies are available that can reliably stain all PD-1 receptors on T-cells from patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibodies. Furthermore, none of the diagnostic antibodies detected the entire population of PD-1⁺ T-cells relative to indirect staining using the therapeutic antibodies themselves. To overcome this problem, here we present a reliable method for quantifying PD-1 expression on immune cells from treated patients which can be included in any conventional flow or mass cytometry antibody panel used for patient monitoring.

https://ift.tt/2NEwsch

The maximum chemiluminescence intensity predicts severe neutropenia in gemcitabine-treated patients with pancreatic or biliary tract cancer

Abstract

Purpose

To assess the predictive ability of the maximum chemiluminescence intensity (CI_max) for severe neutropenia (SN) during neoadjuvant chemo(radio)therapy [NAC(RT)] in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer.

Methods

Clinicopathological variables and blood test data before NAC(RT) were evaluated in 64 patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer who received gemcitabine plus tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil as NAC(RT).

Results

Thirty-nine patients (60.9%) developed Grade 3–4 SN. The median time between commencing NAC(RT) and the onset of SN was 15 (range 10–36) days. SN occurred during the NAC period, not the RT period. The CI_max, neutrophil count, serum interleukin-6 level, C-reactive protein level, complement C3 titer, serum complement titer, and 50.0% hemolytic unit of complement before NAC(RT) were significantly lower in patients with SN than in those without SN (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis confirmed the CI_max to be the sole independent predictor of SN (P < 0.05). The optimal threshold for the CI_max was 46,000 RLU/s. The sensitivity and specificity were 46.2% and 80.0%, respectively. Majority of the patients (81.8%) with a low CI_max before NAC(RT) experienced SN during NAC(RT).

Conclusions

CI_max before NAC(RT) predicts SN during NAC(RT) in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer.

https://ift.tt/2NMKJDw

Testing EKC hypothesis with energy and sustainable development challenges: a fresh evidence from belt and road initiative economies

Abstract

Diverse impact of greenhouse gasses (GHGs) over the landscape of environment is generally believed in literature. As CO2 emission acutely leads to GHGs is a major contributor for global warming, it creates a serious pressure on natural resources and ecological settings. Similarly, low-carbon (CO2) economy, plenty of energy resources, and sustainable growth are a big ask for worldwide economies in this era of mechanization. This paper analyzes the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) economies, to contend the role of mega projects in BRI as an attribute for ecological detriments. The on-hand study engages fresh data information ranging from 1981 to 2016 holding with heterogeneity and cross-sectional dependence as a special deliberation. The calculated outcomes expose that, mean group estimator provides strong evidence and favor the existence of EKC approximately in every region. The long-run influence is measured by pooled mean group estimators, which shows significant outcomes in every region; additionally, the EKC hypothesis affirmed in the long run especially for developed economies. Mega projects, i.e., BRI requisite immense energy sources to accomplishing the enclosed projects efficiently and effectively. The positive association between carbon emission and energy consumption troubled the governments to make policies for restraining the magnitude of carbon emission and controls energy usage for enduring environment to its original position. Next, the valuations depicted the dense recommendations for state administrations in capacity of rigorous level supremacy, trash managing campaigns, renewable energy reliance, and advance for desirable judgments to sterilize the atmosphere.

https://ift.tt/2x8BDrw

Metal wet deposition in the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) region of Southwest China

Abstract

Metal wet deposition has become an environmental concern because of its threats to soil or water quality and human health. This study was to collect rainfall waters in 2016 from seven sites, representing urban, town, rural, and wetland, within the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) region of Southwest China, determine the metal concentration and flux (Zn, Mn, Cu, As, Cd, Pb), and identify their possible sources. Results indicated that Zn was the most abundant metal with a concentration of 16.92 μg L⁻¹ in fall and 19.91 μg L⁻¹ in winter and flux of 4.71 mg m⁻² in fall, while Cd was the least with a monthly mean concentration of 0.02–0.37 μg L⁻¹. Among the seven sites, urban (FL) had the highest values of both concentrations of metals (Zn, Cu, Pb) and fluxes of metals (Mn, As), which significantly differed from the other sites. Component and redundancy analysis suggested that fossil fuel and biomass combustion be a potential metal source. Enrichment factors, box model, and potential ecological risk index showed that the TGR water quality could face a high risk due to wet metal deposition, especially Cd. Data could provide a valuable aid in mitigating metal pollution, developing the best watershed management practices, as well as safeguarding water quality and human health in the TGR region or other reservoir regions.

https://ift.tt/2MuqINp

Germanium in the soil-plant system—a review

Abstract

Germanium (Ge) is widespread in the Earth's crust. As a cognate element to silicon (Si), Ge shows very similar chemical characteristics. Recent use of Ge/Si to trace Si cycles and changes in weathering over time, growing demand for Ge as raw material, and consequently an increasing interest in Ge phytomining have contributed to a growing interest in this previously rather scarcely considered element in geochemical studies. This review deals with the distribution of Ge in primary minerals and surface soils as well as the factors influencing the mobility of Ge in soils including the sequestration of Ge in secondary mineral phases and soil organic matter. Furthermore, the uptake and accumulation of Ge in plants and effects of plant-soil relationships on the availability of Ge in soils and the biogeochemical cycling of Ge are discussed. The formation of secondary soil minerals and soil organic matter are of particular importance for the concentration of Ge in plant-available forms. The transfer from soil to plant is usually low and shows clear differences between species belonging to the functional groups of grasses and forbs. Possible uptake mechanisms in the rhizosphere are discussed. However, the processes that are involved in the formation of plant-available Ge pools in soils and consequently its biogeochemical cycling are not yet well understood. There is, therefore, a need for future studies on the uptake mechanisms and stoichiometry of Ge uptake under field conditions and plant-soil-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere as well as the chemical speciation in different plant parts.

https://ift.tt/2MvJDY7

Cobalt and nickel content in Hydrocharis morsus-ranae and their bioremoval from single- and binary solutions

Abstract

Aquatic macrophytes are known to remove trace metals from surrounding water. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate the phytofiltration capacity of Hydrocharis morsus-ranae and to show competition between cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni) for the better understanding of metal bioaccumulation in the species. In a laboratory experiment, H. morsus-ranae was exposed to separate (single) and binary solutions of these metals: Ni 10.7, 18.7, 32.7, 57.1, and 100 (μg L⁻¹); Co 5.33, 9.32, 16.3, 28.6, and 50.0 (μg L⁻¹); and 10.7 Ni + 5.33 Co, 18.7 Ni + 9.32 Co, 32.7 Ni + 16.3 Co, 57.1 Ni + 28.6 Co, 100 Ni + 50.0 Co (μg L⁻¹). The content of Co and Ni in the plant increased with the increasing concentration in the growth medium. Competition between the metals was seen during uptake in binary solutions. Ni interfered with the accumulation of Co, resulting in a lower Co content than in plants cultivated in Co solutions. A particularly high Co content (up to 155 mg kg⁻¹ dry weight [d.w.]) and high efficiency of Ni uptake (Bioaccumulation Factor (BF) 2572–7239) makes the species a very good accumulator of these metals. The high content of both trace metals in plant tissues (up to 511 mg kg⁻¹ d.w. Ni and 155 mg kg⁻¹ d.w. Co) did not affect its growth, indicating tolerance of these toxicants. The plant showed excellent ability in removing Co (up to 98.6% in solution with 5.33 μg L⁻¹ Co) and Ni (up to 91.4% in solution with 57.1 μg L⁻¹ Ni and 28.6 μg L⁻¹ Co) from nutrient solution. The results suggest that H. morsus-ranae may be useful for the phytoremediation of water bodies contaminated with Co and Ni.

https://ift.tt/2NcD5mz

Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

! # Ola via Alexandros G.Sfakianakis on Inoreader

Η λίστα ιστολογίων μου

Παρασκευή 14 Σεπτεμβρίου 2018

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