Radiological Evaluation of Maxillary Sinus Anatomy: A cross-sectional study of 300 Patients

Publication date: Available online 29 July 2017
Source:Annals of Anatomy - Anatomischer Anzeiger
Author(s): Naroa Lozano-Carrascal, Oscar Salomó-Coll, Sergio Alexandre Gehrke, José Luis Calvo-Guirado, Federico Hernández-Alfaro, Jordi Gargallo-Albiol
ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the principal anatomical characteristics of the maxillary sinus using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in order to facilitate prevention of intra- and post-operative complications.Materials and methodsThree hundred CBCT scans from patients undergoing implant surgery were analysed. The following anatomical structures were evaluated: (1) Residual ridge height (RRH) and width (RRW); (2) Ridge bone density (BD); (3) Maxillary sinus angle (MSA); (4) Maxillary sinus lateral wall thickness (LWT); (5) Schneiderian membrane thickness (MT); (6) Maxillary sinus septa (SS); (7) Posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA).ResultsMean patient age was 59.5±13.6. Mean RRH at upper second premolar (2PM) was 8.66±3.95mm, 4.90±2.28mm at first molar (1M), and 5.26±2.13mm at second molar (2M). Mean RRW was 6.72±2.69mm at 2PM, 6.87±2.65mm at 1M and 7.09±2.80mm at 2M. Bone Density was 330.93±211.02 Hounsfield Units (HU) at first molar position and MSA was 73.39±15.23°. LWT was 1.95±0.98mm. Mean Schneider Membrane thickness (MT) was 1.82±1.59mm; MT was≤3mm in 72.9% of patients and >3mm in 27.10%. 20.56% of patients presented bucco-palatal oriented septa with a mean height of 13.11±3.82mm. PSAA was observed in 48.60% and mean distance to the top of the ridge was 13.15±3.71mm, and was mostly observed inside the sinus (53.85%).ConclusionsCBCT scanning has been shown to be a useful tool for evaluating maxillary sinus anatomical variations. CBCT should be considered the gold standard when evaluating the maxillary sinus area.



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Online Embryology teaching using learning management systems appears to be a successful additional learning tool among Egyptian medical students

Publication date: Available online 29 July 2017
Source:Annals of Anatomy - Anatomischer Anzeiger
Author(s): Ahmed Farid Al-Neklawy
Although the traditional didactic lecture is considered to be efficient for presenting information and providing explanations, it usually does not provide adequate time for deeper learning activities. So, traditional lecture is one of the most widely criticized educational methods.Virtual learning environment (VLE) is a specially designed environment that facilitates teachers' management of educational courses for their students, using computer hardware and software, which involves distance learning.In this study, we evaluated the experiment of online teaching of General Embryology for Egyptian undergraduate medical students using WizIQ learning management system.A total of 100 students were invited to submit an online survey at the end of the course to evaluate delivery of instruction, creation of an environment that supported learning, and administrative issues.Most of the students reported that they were strongly satisfied with the efficacy of the instructional methods and were strongly satisfied with the degree of clarity of the course material. They strongly accepted the page format and design of the virtual classroom and strongly agreed that the learning environment supported the learning procedure. The item of easy logging into the virtual classroom had aberrant variable responses; it recorded the lowest mean response; this variation in responses was due to technical factors as the students used different devices with different speeds of internet connections.Ninety percent of students have strongly recommended the course attendance for their fellow students.These results demonstrate that online Anatomy teaching using learning management systems appears to be a successful additional learning tool among Egyptian medical students.



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Mechanistic insight into pyrene removal by natural sepiolites

Abstract

This paper investigates the sorption characteristics and mechanisms of pyrene onto two types of natural sepiolite-brown (B-Sep) and white (W-Sep). The effects of relevant properties such as clay content, surface area, pore diameter and volume, divalent cations, and organic carbon content were investigated by single component batch adsorption systems. The results suggest that pyrene has high affinity for both sepiolite and its sorption behavior could be mainly affected by exchangeable strongly hydrated cations such as Ca²⁺ and H₂O in the zeolite-like channels and by open channel defects (OCD) structures but no so much by the large number of Si-OH groups located on the sepiolite's basal surfaces. Mesoporosity rather than surface area largely controls the sorption capacity and intensity of both sepiolites. This is shown by the increase in pore volume that exhibited the greatest increase in BET surface area. Particle size and morphological changes of both sepiolites following pyrene adsorption determined by FE-SEM showed that the sepiolite fibers are much longer than their widths, which are only several laths (several nanometers). This is a result of growth, mostly along the c-axis, at the expense of the diffusion of pyrene molecules through aqueous solution. As a consequence, a significant fibrous morphology is produced following the adsorption of pyrene by both sepiolites.

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Clinical Similarity of the Biosimilar ABP 501 Compared With Adalimumab After Single Transition: Long-Term Results From a Randomised, Double-Blind, 52-Week, Phase 3 Study in Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis Patients

Abstract

Background

ABP 501, an FDA- and EMA-approved biosimilar, is highly similar to adalimumab in structure, function, and pharmacokinetics.

Objective

Demonstrate similarity in efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of ABP 501 versus adalimumab for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

Methods

Patients were randomised (1:1) to receive ABP 501 or adalimumab 40 mg every 2 weeks for 16 weeks. At Week 16, patients with ≥50% improvement from baseline in psoriasis area-and-severity index score (PASI) were eligible to continue to Week 52. Patients receiving ABP 501 continued; adalimumab patients were re-randomised (1:1) to continue adalimumab or undergo a single transition to ABP 501. Key efficacy assessments included % PASI improvement from baseline, PASI responders, and mean change in affected body surface area (BSA) from baseline to Weeks 16, 32, and 50. Safety was monitored via adverse events (AEs) and antidrug antibodies (ADAs) were assessed.

Results

308 patients were re-randomised at Week 16 (ABP 501/ABP 501, n=152; adalimumab/adalimumab, n=79; adalimumab/ABP 501, n=77). PASI percent improvements from baseline were similar across groups for Weeks 16, 32, and 50 (range: 85.8%-88.2%), with no significant differences detected across groups in percentages of PASI 50, 75, 90, and 100 responders. Changes from baseline in %BSA affected were similar across groups and timepoints. No new safety signals were detected. AEs were balanced between groups. Percentages of patients with binding and neutralizing ADAs were similar across treatments.

Conclusions

ABP 501 and adalimumab have similar clinical efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity profiles over 52 weeks, including after single transition, in this patient population.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of patients with multiple primary melanomas

Abstract

This narrative review provides an evidence-based overview of existing literature on the epidemiology, clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic outcomes of tumours arising in patients with multiple primary melanomas (MPM). PubMed and MEDLINE were searched for original research papers and review articles from 2000 to 2016 using the term 'multiple primary melanoma.' Population-wide increases in life expectancy, advances in early detection and increasing incidence of melanoma give rise to an expanding group of patients that are at an increased risk of developing subsequent primary tumours.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Activity of Pazopanib and Trabectedin in Advanced Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma

AbstractBackground.Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is an exceedingly rare and orphan disease, without active drugs approved in the front line. Pazopanib and trabectedin are licensed for sarcoma treatment from second‐line, but very little and contradictory data are available on their activity in ASPS. Lacking ongoing and/or planned clinical trials, we conducted a multi‐institutional study involving the reference sites for sarcoma in Europe, U.S., and Japan, within the World Sarcoma Network, to investigate the efficacy of pazopanib and trabectedin.Materials and Methods.From May 2007, 14 of the 27 centers that were asked to retrospectively review their databases had identified 44 advanced ASPS patients treated with pazopanib and/or trabectedin. Response was evaluated by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were computed by Kaplan‐Meier method.Results.Among 30 patients who received pazopanib, 18 were pretreated (13 with other antiangiogenics). Response was evaluable in 29/30 patients. Best responses were 1 complete response, 7 partial response (PR), 17 stable disease (SD), and 4 progressions. At a 19‐month median follow‐up, median PFS was 13.6 months (range: 1.6–32.2+), with 59% of patients progression‐free at 1 year. Median OS was not reached.Among 23 patients treated with trabectedin, all were pretreated and evaluable for response. Best responses were 1 PR, 13 SD, and 9 progressions. At a 27‐month median follow‐up, median PFS was 3.7 months (range: 0.7–109), with 13% of patients progression‐free at 1 year. Median OS was 9.1 months.Conclusion.The value of pazopanib in advanced ASPS is confirmed, with durable responses, whereas the value of trabectedin appears limited. These results are relevant to defining the best approach to advanced ASPS.Implications for Practice.This retrospective study, conducted among the world reference centers for treatment of sarcoma, confirms the value of pazopanib in patients with advanced alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), with dimensional and durable responses, whereas trabectedin shows a limited activity. Alveolar soft part sarcoma is resistant to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. Pazopanib and trabectedin are licensed for treatment of sarcoma from second line; in the lack of prospective clinical trials, these results are relevant to defining ASPS best management and strongly support initiatives aimed at obtaining the approval of pazopanib in the front line of the disease.

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Fixed Dosing of Monoclonal Antibodies in Oncology

AbstractMost monoclonal antibodies in oncology are administered in body–size‐based dosing schedules. This is believed to correct for variability in both drug distribution and elimination between patients. However, monoclonal antibodies typically distribute to the blood plasma and extracellular fluids only, which increase less than proportionally with the increase in body weight. Elimination takes place via proteolytic catabolism, a nonspecific immunoglobulin G elimination pathway, and intracellular degradation after binding to the target. The latter is the primary route of elimination and is related to target expression levels rather than body size. Taken together, the minor effects of body size on distribution and elimination of monoclonal antibodies and their usually wide therapeutic window do not support body–size‐based dosing. We evaluated effects of body weight on volume of distribution and clearance of monoclonal antibodies in oncology and show that a fixed dose for most of these drugs is justified based on pharmacokinetics. A survey of the savings after fixed dosing of monoclonal antibodies at our hospital showed that fixed dosing can reduce costs of health care, especially when pooling of preparations is not possible (which is often the case in smaller hospitals). In conclusion, based on pharmacokinetic parameters of monoclonal antibodies, there is a rationale for fixed dosing of these drugs in oncology. Therefore, we believe that fixed dosing is justified and can improve efficiency of the compounding. Moreover, drug spillage can be reduced and medication errors may become less likely.Implications for Practice.The currently available knowledge of elimination of monoclonal antibodies combined with the publicly available data from clinical trials and extensive population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) modeling justifies fixed dosing. Interpatient variation in exposure is comparable after body weight and fixed dosing and most monoclonal antibodies show relatively flat dose‐response relationships. For monoclonal antibodies, this results in wide therapeutic windows and no reduced clinical efficacy after fixed dosing. Therefore, we believe that fixed dosing at a well‐selected dose can increase medication safety and help in reduction of costs of health care without the loss of efficacy or safety margins.

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TERT Promoter Hypermethylation in Gastrointestinal Cancer: A Potential Stool Biomarker

AbstractBackground.There is a high demand for noninvasive screening tools for gastrointestinal cancer (GIC) detection, and GIC‐specific markers are required for such purposes. It is established that induction of the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (TERT) coupled with telomerase activation is essential for cancer development/progression and aberrant TERT promoter methylation of specific 5′—C—phosphate—G—3′ (CpGs) has been linked to TERT induction in oncogenesis. Here we analyzed TERT promoter methylation in fecal samples from GIC patients and healthy adults and determined its value as a stool biomarker for GIC detection.Materials and Methods.Sixty‐nine GIC patients (34 colorectal carcinoma and 35 gastric cancer) and 62 healthy adults were recruited and fecal samples were collected. Paired tumors and adjacent non‐cancerous tissues from 34 patients and normal mucosa tissues from 12 healthy individuals were collected. TERT promoter methylation density was determined using pyrosequencing.Results.We identified two GIC‐specific methylation sites at −218 (CpG site 1) and −210 (CpG site 2) in the TERT promoter in tumor tissues. Methylated TERT promoter CpG sites 1 and 2 were also detectable in patient stool, while only background levels were observed in healthy individuals. The overall sensitivity reached 52.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 48.3–56.0) for fecal methylated TERT promoter assays at 90% specificity, which was comparable to other known stool methylation markers for GIC detection. The combined assays of fecal TERT promoter methylation and occult blood (OB) significantly improved sensitivity and specificity in colorectal cancer (area under curves for methylation alone: 0.798, 95% CI: 0.707–0.889 vs. methylation + OB: 0.920, 95% CI: 0.859–0.981; p = .028), but not in gastric cancer.Conclusion.This proof‐of‐concept study suggests the feasibility of stool TERT promoter methylation analyses as an additional tool in noninvasive GIC screening. The OncologistImplications for Practice.Induction of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) expression coupled with telomerase activation is essential for cancer development/progression, while aberrant TERT promoter methylation has been linked to TERT induction in oncogenesis. We identified two cancer‐specific methylation sites (CpG1 and 2) in the TERT promoter in tumors from GIC patients. Methylated TERT promoter CpG sites 1 and 2 were detectable in patient stool, while only background levels were observed in healthy individuals. The sensitivity and specificity was comparable to other known stool methylation markers for GIC detection. This proof‐of‐concept study suggests the feasibility of stool TERT promoter methylation analyses for noninvasive screening of GIC.

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Sleep and Alzheimer’s disease: A pivotal role for the suprachiasmatic nucleus?

Alzheimer's disease (AD), which accounts for most of the dementia cases, is, aside from cognitive deterioration, often characterized by the presence of non-cognitive symptoms. Society is desperately in need for interventions that alleviate the economic and social burden related to AD. Circadian dysrhythmia, one of these symptoms in particular, immensely decreases the self-care ability of AD-patients and is one of the main reasons of caregiver exhaustion. Studies suggest that these circadian disturbances form the root of sleep-wake problems, diagnosed in more than half of AD patients.

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Effects of vitamin E-diffused highly cross-linked UHMWPE particles on inflammation, apoptosis and immune response against S. aureus

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 143
Author(s): Weishen Chen, David A. Bichara, Jeremy Suhardi, Puyi Sheng, Orhun K. Muratoglu
Particle-induced osteolysis and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) are closely associated with periprosthetic tissue immune function. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of polyethylene particles on inflammation and response against S. aureus. Effects that vitamin E-diffused cross-linked UHMWPE (VE-PE) particles had on apoptosis, inflammation, and bactericidal activities compared to virgin cross-linked UHMWPE (control PE) particles were examined. Murine RAW 264.7 macrophages exposed to VE-PE particles in vitro were less apoptotic, secreted less tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and responded more effectively against lipopolysaccharide or S. aureus compared to control PE particles. Implantation of VE-PE particles in murine calvaria in vivo caused less reactive oxygen species generation, less apoptosis, and less osteolysis compared to control PE particles. Implantation of PE particles in mice calvaria for 28 days, followed by inoculation with S. aureus in the same site where PE particles were implanted, demonstrated enhanced S. aureus clearance in the VE-PE group at day 33 after inoculation. These findings indicate that VE-PE particles might be less inflammatory and might preserve innate immunity of local tissue, allowing for enhanced clearance of bacteria.



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Deposition mechanism of plasma sprayed droplets on textured surfaces with different diameter-to-distance ratios

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Na Tan, Zhi-guo Xing, Xiao-li Wang, Hai-dou Wang, Guo Jin, Shu-ying Chen, Bin-shi Xu
The laser method was used to process dimples with different diameters and distances on ASTM 1045 steel substrates. Ni60 alloy powders were deposited on the textured substrates using atmosphere plasma spray technology. Single sprayed particles were collected to study the spreading behavior. Scanning electron microscopy was applied to characterize the cross-section morphology of splats and coatings, investigating the deposition behavior of droplets. Image analysis was used to calculate the open angle of first particle, thus also providing information on the subsequent particles. Transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the crystal structure of coatings near the interface. The bonding strength of coatings was evaluated by pull-off tests. The impact of various texture parameters on the adhesion strength of coatings was investigated. The results showed that bonding strength improved with increasing texture diameter and decreasing texture distance. Wetting behavior between two particles as well as bond style between particles and substrates have great influence on bond strength of coatings with the variant texture diameter and distance. The diameter-to-distance ratio was found to be the factor directly determining the adhesion strength between substrates and coatings.

Graphical abstract

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Influence of HfH2 addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TiC-NiTi cermets

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Bolu Liu, Shuigen Huang, Jan Van Humbeeck, Jef Vleugels
(Ti,Hf)C0.7 cermets with different Ti/Hf atomic ratio and 20vol% NiTi binder were prepared by pressureless liquid-phase sintering at 1380°C for 60min. The Hf content was modified by adding up to 42.4wt% HfH2 powder in a TiC0.95+Ni49.4Ti50.6+TiH2 starting powder mixture. Upon HfH2 addition, the binder phase changed from austenite to martensite NiTi. The actual Hf content in the (Ti,Hf)C0.7 at different HfH2 addition was slightly lower than the theoretical value, due to some Hf dissolution in the binder phase. The (Ti,Hf)C0.7 grain size and binder mean free path length decreased whereas the apparent porosity slightly increased with increasing HfH2 content up to 42.4wt% HfH2. The hardness increased with increasing HfH2 addition up to 42.4wt%, while the elastic modulus remained the same. The bending strength and fracture toughness increased with increasing HfH2 addition to 19.9wt% but decreased upon further increasing the HfH2 content up to 42.4wt%.

Graphical abstract

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Insight into γ-Ni/γ′-Ni3Al interfacial energy affected by alloying elements

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Xuan L. Liu, Shun-Li Shang, Yong-Jie Hu, Yi Wang, Yong Du, Zi-Kui Liu
Interfacial energy (σγ/γ′) of the γ-Ni/γ′-Ni3Al interface is critical to understand and design Ni-based superalloys. In the present work, a first-principles methodology with constrained relaxations has been used to study the effect of dilute alloying element (X) on σγ/γ′ of the (100) coherent interface, where the sixteen X's include Al, Co, Cr, Fe, Hf, Mo, Nb, Pd, Pt, Re, Ru, Ta, Ti, W, Y, and Zr. σγ/γ′=19mJ/m² has been predicted for the unalloyed γ/γ′ interface, agreeing well with the previous estimations. It is found that the σγ/γ′ value is the lowest when alloying element is in γ-Ni, while the addition to γ′-Ni3Al increases σγ/γ′ due mainly to the in-plane lattice expansion. Specifically, our calculations show that alloying elements Mo, W, and Re have the largest effect on the σγ/γ′ value by decreasing it to 4–5mJ/m² when partitioned to γ-Ni; Ru and Pt are shown to increase greatly the σγ/γ′ value up to 25–28mJ/m² when partitioned to γ-Ni; all ternary additions substituting for Ni in γ′-Ni3Al increase σγ/γ′ except for Pt; and for Ti and Ta, which segregate strongly to γ′-Ni3Al and substitute for Al, the σγ/γ′ values increase to 32 and 35mJ/m², respectively.

Graphical abstract

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Printable low-cost and flexible carbon nanotube buckypaper motion sensors

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Joshua DeGraff, Richard Liang, Minh Quyen Le, Jean-Fabien Capsal, Florent Ganet, Pierre-Jean Cottinet
Wearable technology, which features affordable and flexible sensors integrated into fabrics and garments to detect both deliberate and subtle body movements, will reshape the way we approach self-rehabilitation, physical training, and many high-dexterity tasks by harvesting data about the wearer's activity. Metallic and semi-conductor sensors are currently the most commercially viable sensors. Metallic sensors designs are low profile and flexible; however, they are limited by low sensitivity and complex manufacturing. Semi-conductor sensor designs are highly sensitive but limited by their rigidity and brittle nature. Wearable sensors that are low profile, flexible, and sensitive to micro-strains are highly desired. We have developed a printable and low profile strain sensor using multi-wall carbon nanotube thin films called buckypaper (MWCNT-BP). Our tests indicate that the buckypaper sensors are 77% more sensitive than similar sensor designs. This paper explains the low-cost printing technology and displays the sensors' performance after integration into a fabric glove.

Graphical abstract

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Self-templating faceted and spongy single-crystal ZnO nanorods: Resistive switching and enhanced piezoresponse

Publication date: 5 November 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 133
Author(s): Alberto Quintana, Andrés Gómez, Maria Dolors Baró, Santiago Suriñach, Eva Pellicer, Jordi Sort
A template-free, cost-effective, hydrothermal procedure is used to synthesize large areas of either faceted or spongy self-standing single-crystalline ZnO nanorods (NRs) from electrodeposited Zn films. The morphology of the NRs (faceted versus spongy) can be easily adjusted by simply varying the electrodeposition parameters of the parent Zn film. The obtained NRs exhibit an enhanced piezoelectric response (compared to bulk ZnO) and resistive switching properties which depend on their intrinsic morphology. This combination of properties together with the simplicity of the synthetic approach is particularly appealing for the fabrication of large arrays of nanosensors, nanoactuators and other applications that could benefit from an enhanced surface area in single-crystalline semiconductors.

Graphical abstract

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Identification of serum proteome signature of irritable bowel syndrome: Potential utility of the tool for early diagnosis and patient's stratification

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Athanasios Tsigaridas, Athanassios K. Anagnostopoulos, Aggeliki Papadopoulou, Stamatia Ioakeim, Anna Vaiopoulou, Ioannis S. Papanikolaou, Nikos Viazis, George Karamanolis, Gerasimos J. Mantzaris, George T. Tsangaris, Maria Gazouli
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder with high incidence, and great heterogeneity of symptoms. Numerous factors are correlated with IBS development; however, the pathophysiology is not yet clear. In addition, there is no appropriate diagnostic tool available. The aim of this study was the identification of protein expression alterations in IBS patients compared to healthy individuals. Serum samples from 30 IBS patients (10 with IBS-Diarrhea, 10 IBS-Constipation and 10 IBS-Mixed) and 10 healthy individuals were subjected to proteomic analysis by 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Following evaluation of densitometrical data, protein spots exhibiting differential expression among the groups, were further characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometer and the results were confirmed by Western blot analysis. Eight significantly different expressed proteins were identified. Seven of them were overexpressed in IBS cases and only one was overexpressed in healthy individuals. These proteins were also differently expressed between the three IBS subgroups. IBS-D group overexpressed immunoglobulin light chain Lambda (LAC3) and apolipoprotein E (APOE), IBS-C group overexpressed apolipoprotein H (APOH) and collagen alpha-1 (XIV) chain (COEA1), and IBS-M group and healthy individuals overexpressed retinol-binding protein 4 (RET4). Our results show a different serum protein profile of IBS patients compared to healthy controls. Understanding the role of these eight proteins which are differently expressed in IBS patients, may contribute to a better clarification of IBS pathogenesis and to patient's stratification.SignificanceIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder with high incidence and great heterogeneity of symptoms without any appropriate diagnostic tool available. Eight significantly different expressed proteins were identified. Seven of them were overexpressed in IBS cases and only one was expressed in healthy individuals. These proteins were also differently expressed between the three IBS subgroups. Our results show that there is a different serum proteome signature in IBS compared to healthy individuals, as well as in IBS subgroups that could be used in the future for patient's stratification and as a diagnostic tool.

Graphical abstract

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Mini-encyclopaedia of the wound healing - Opportunities for integrating multi-omic approaches into medical practice

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Lara Stolzenburg-Veeser, Olga Golubnitschaja
Wound healing is a highly complex life-important repair process triggered by plenty of local and/or systemic organ and tissue damaging events, such as an acute surgical invasion, accidental organ and tissue damages, acute and chronic diseases, aggressive local and systemic therapeutic approaches (e.g. irradiation and systemic chemotherapy). Individual health condition determines over the quality of wound healing. Impaired wound healing, in turn, may lead, for example, to post-surgical complications frequently observed in elderly, chronic ulcers in diabetic patients, hindered and ineffective pain management, etc. However, these well-acknowledged examples are just the tip of the iceberg. The entire spectrum of potential consequences is much broader. Therefore, all the aspects of wound healing need to receive a dedicated attention of many specialised medical fields and healthcare as a whole. In contrast, there is still strongly limited knowledge collected regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the physiologic versus impaired wound healing. The contents of this article might be of great importance for multi-professional considerations as well as for the experts working in specific fields such as clinical proteomics, general practice, laboratory medicine, surgery including plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine, gerontology, psychology, diabetology, endocrinology, oncology, cardiovascular disease, radiology, and healthcare economy.SignificanceThe contents of this article are strongly motivated by the particular value of wound healing quality for medical care and might be of great importance for multi-professional considerations and experts working in specialised fields: predictive and preventive medicine, general practitioners, laboratory medicine, surgery including plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine, gerontology, psychology, diabetology, endocrinology, oncology, cardiovascular disease, radiology, and healthcare economy. The article is aiming at both educational and scientific purposes: on one side it summarises comprehensive information available regarding wound healing mechanisms and molecular pathways involved. On the other side the article provides highly innovative hypotheses for multi-professional considerations relevant for several research fields which may potentially advance medical services in the close future such as clinical proteomics and multi-omics.

Graphical abstract

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An online 2D-reversed-phase – Reversed-phase chromatographic method for sensitive and robust plasma protein quantitation

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Vincent R. Richard, Dominik Domanski, Andrew J. Percy, Christoph H. Borchers
Offline high-pH reversed-phase fractionation is widely used to reduce sample complexity in proteomic workflows. This is due to the semi-orthogonality and high peak resolution of the two separations. Offline 2D fractionation, however, is low throughput and requires several manual manipulations and is prone to sample losses. To address these issues, we developed an online two dimensional high-pH – low-pH reversed-phase-reversed-phase LC-MRM (2D RPRP) method whereby hundreds of peptides can be quantified in a single LC-MS/MS injection. The method allowed the reproducible and sensitive quantitation of a test panel of 367 peptides (168 proteins) from undepleted human plasma. Of these, we were able to detect and quantify 95 peptides (29 proteins) by 2D-RPRP that were not detectable by 1D LC-MRM-MS. Online 2D RPRP resulted in an average increase of roughly 10-fold in sensitivity compared to traditional 1D low-pH separations, while improving reproducibility and sample throughput relative to offline 2D RPRP by factors of 1.7 and 5, respectively, compared to offline 2D RPRP. This paper serves as proof-of-concept of the feasibility and efficacy of online 2D RPRP at analytical flow rates for highly multiplexed targeted proteomic analyses.

Graphical abstract

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MiR-130b attenuates vascular inflammation via negatively regulating tumor progression locus 2 (Tpl2) expression

Publication date: October 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 51
Author(s): Peng Wang, Xue Zhang, Fulun Li, Kai Yuan, Maoran Li, Jiwei Zhang, Bin Li, Wei Liang
Endothelial cell (EC) activation and dysfunction have been linked to a wide variety of vascular inflammatory diseases. However, the role of microRNAs in EC activation and inflammation remains largely unknown. In this study, we found that miR-130b was significantly decreased in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) after lipopolysaccharides (LPS) treatment. Forced expression of miR-130b inhibited the LPS-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and the inflammatory genes expression, such as interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Furthermore, we identified that tumor progression locus 2 (Tpl2) is a direct target of miR-130b. Finally, in vivo overexpression of miR-130b via miR-130b agomir attenuates acute lung vascular inflammation in the LPS-induced sepsis mouse model. Taken together, our data demonstrated that miR-130b represses vascular inflammation via targeting Tpl2, suggesting that miR-130b mimics might be a promising therapeutic strategy for treatment of vascular inflammatory diseases.

Graphical abstract

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Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are associated with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection

Publication date: October 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 51
Author(s): Zhidan Zhao, Jianhua Liu, Jiaxin Wang, Tinyan Xie, Qiuhuan Zhang, Sisi Feng, Hui Deng, Baiyun Zhong
ObjectiveThis retrospective study aimed to investigate the associations between the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and disease severity in patients with chronic HBV infection-related liver disease (CHB).MethodsPatients with CHB were retrospectively identified. Clinical data for 172 HBV-infected patients and 40 healthy controls were collected from the electronic patient medical record system database of our hospital.ResultsHBV-related-compensated-cirrhosis patients (HBV-CC patients) had a significantly lower mean PLR than did other patients (P<0.001). HBV-related-decompensated-cirrhosis patients (HBV-DC patients) had a significantly higher mean NLR than did any other patients (P<0.001). In the entire cohort of CHB patients, significant correlations were observed between the PLR and both serum HBV DNA (r=0.264, P<0.001) and serum HBeAg (r=0.240, P=0.002). The PLR was significantly correlated with serum HBV DNA in both HBV-CC patients (r=−0.116, P=0.044) and HBV-DC patients (r=0.456, P=0.008). In HBV-Active-Carriers patients (HBV-AC patients), the PLR was positively correlated with serum HBeAg level (r=0.321, P=0.023). In HBV-DC patients, the NLR was positively correlated with serum HBeAg level (r=0.372, P=0.033). In the logistic regression prediction model, a predictive probability cutoff of 0.392 had the highest sensitivity and specificity (sensitivity, 91.2%; specificity, 84.0%) in distinguishing between HBV-CC and HBV-AC patients. A NLR cutoff value of 2.94 had the highest sensitivity and specificity (sensitivity, 81.8%; specificity, 88.2%) in distinguishing between HBV-DC and HBV-CC patients.ConclusionThe PLR and NLR partially reflect the amounts of serum HBV DNA and serum HBeAg levels circulating in CHB patients. The logistic regression model including the PLR and age most accurately distinguished between HBV-CC and HBV-AC patients. The NLR may be useful for follow-up in HBV-CC patients to predict disease progression. In summary, the PLR and NLR provided a supplementary means for effectively managing chronic HBV infection and disease.



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Partial clinical remission in type 1 diabetes: a comparison of the accuracy of total daily dose of insulin of

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2tR5PI4

MRI in medium-chain acyl-coenzyme a dehydrogenase deficiency: neuroimaging during the first month

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2u6rHdn

Health-related quality of life among children with Turner syndrome: controlled cross-sectional study

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2tQL5jj

Clinical features and genotyping of patients with primary carnitine deficiency identified by newborn screening

Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism
Issue: Ahead of print


http://ift.tt/2u5RqTy

Corrigendum to “A Survey of Eyespot Sexual Dimorphism across Nymphalid Butterflies”

http://ift.tt/2uEq20T

Influence of remaining coronal tooth structure on fracture resistance and failure mode of restored endodontically treated maxillary incisors

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
Author(s): Domingo Santos Pantaleón, Brian R. Morrow, David R. Cagna, Cornelis H. Pameijer, Franklin Garcia-Godoy
Statement of problemLimited information is available on the effect of an incomplete ferrule because of the varying residual axial wall heights and the volume of residual tooth structure on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated and restored maxillary incisors.PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro investigation was to examine the effect of varying residual axial wall heights, residual coronal tooth structure, and the absence of 1 proximal axial wall on the fracture resistance and failure mode of endodontically treated teeth restored with metal posts.Material and methodsSixty intact human maxillary central incisors were divided into 6 groups (n=10): no ferrule (NF), 2-mm complete ferrule (CF2), 2-mm (IF2), 3-mm (IF3), and 4-mm (IF4) incomplete ferrules missing a single interproximal wall, and a control group that had a 6-mm incomplete ferrule (IF6). Cast metal post-and-cores were placed in all experimental specimens except for controls. Control specimens received 1 interproximal cavity preparation extending to the root canal access and a composite resin restoration. Complete metal crowns were then cemented on all specimens. Completed specimens were subjected to thermocycling (6000 cycles, 5°C/55°C) followed by the immediate testing of fracture resistance. Failed specimens were sectioned buccolingually and evaluated to identify the failure mode. The data were analyzed with an analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Student-Newman-Keuls multiple comparison test (α=.05).ResultsAn incomplete ferrule (IF2) with 1 interproximal wall missing had significantly reduced fracture resistance (697 N) compared with a complete ferrule (932 N). An increase of 3 to 4 mm of remaining wall height improved fracture resistance, from 844 N (IF3) to 853 N (IF4). Partial decementation was noticed in 8 NF and 5 IF2 specimens. IF3 and IF4 had no decementations. Radicular fractures and cracks (catastrophic failure) were observed in all IF2, IF3, and IF4, 9 CF2, and 6 NF specimens. In 7 specimens without posts (IF6, control), composite resin foundation and/or coronal dentin fracture were observed and the failure was considered repairable.ConclusionsThe results of this in vitro study indicated that specimens with a 2-mm ferrule of uniform height were more resistant to fracture than specimens with a 2-mm ferrule and 1 missing interproximal wall. An increased wall height of 3 or 4 mm was associated with a significant increase in fracture resistance and can compensate for the missing interproximal wall.



http://ift.tt/2tQQarV

In pursuit of our ancestors' hand laterality

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Journal of Human Evolution, Volume 111
Author(s): Amèlia Bargalló, Marina Mosquera, Sergi Lozano
The aim of this paper is to apply a previously published method (Bargalló and Mosquera, 2014) to the archaeological record, allowing us to identify the hand laterality of our ancestors and determine when and how this feature, which is exhibited most strongly in humans, appeared in our evolutionary history. The method focuses on identifying handedness by looking at the technical features of the flakes produced by a single knapper, and discovering how many flakes are required to ascertain their hand preference.This method can potentially be applied to the majority of archaeological sites, since flakes are the most abundant stone tools, and stone tools are the most widespread and widely-preserved remains from prehistory. For our study, we selected two Spanish sites: Gran Dolina-TD10.1 (Atapuerca) and Abric Romaní (Barcelona), which were occupied by pre-Neanderthal and Neanderthal populations, respectively.Our analyses indicate that a minimum number of eight flakes produced by the same knapper is required to ascertain their hand preference. Even though this figure is relatively low, it is quite difficult to obtain from many archaeological sites. In addition, there is no single technical feature that provides information about handedness, instead there is a combination of eight technical features, localised on the striking platforms and ventral surfaces. The raw material is not relevant where good quality rocks are used, in this case quartzite and flint, since most of them retain the technical features required for the analysis. Expertise is not an issue either, since the technical features analysed here only correlate with handedness (Bargalló and Mosquera, 2014). Our results allow us to tentatively identify one right-handed knapper among the pre-Neanderthals of level TD10.1 at Gran Dolina (Atapuerca), while four of the five Neanderthals analysed from Abric Romaní were right-handed. The hand preference of the fifth knapper from that location (AR5) remains unclear.



http://ift.tt/2uGyqhY

Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery: Not Only for Senior Residents

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Journal of Surgical Education
Author(s): Darren R. Cullinan, Matthew R. Schill, Angelia DeClue, Arghavan Salles, Paul E. Wise, Michael M. Awad
ObjectiveFundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS) was developed by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons to teach the physiology, fundamental knowledge, and technical skills required for basic laparoscopic surgery. We hypothesize that residents are doing more laparoscopic surgery earlier in residency, and therefore would benefit from an earlier assessment of basic laparoscopic skills. Here, we examine FLS test results and ACGME case logs to determine whether it is practical to administer FLS earlier in residency.DesignFLS test results were reviewed for the 42 residents completing FLS between July 2011 and July 2016. ACGME case logs for current and former residents were reviewed for laparoscopic cases logged by each postgraduate year. Basic and complex laparoscopic cases were determined by ACGME General Surgery Defined Category and Minimums Report. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.SettingAcademic general surgery residency, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine.ParticipantsCurrent and former general surgery residents.ResultsA total of 42 residents took and passed FLS between July 2011 and July 2016. All residents successfully passed the FLS knowledge and skills examinations on the first attempt regardless of their postgraduate year (PGY 3n = 13, PGY 4n = 15, and PGY 5n = 14).Total laparoscopic case volume has increased over time. Residents who graduated in 2012 or 2013 completed 229 laparoscopic cases compared to 267 laparoscopic cases for those who graduated from 2014 to 2016 (p = 0.02). Additionally, current residents completed more laparoscopic cases in the first 2 years of residency than residents who graduated from 2012 to 2016 (median current = 38; former = 22; p < 0.001).Examining laparoscopic case numbers for current residents by PGY demonstrated that the number of total and complex laparoscopic cases increased in each of the first 3 years of residency with the largest increase occurring between the PGY 2 and PGY 3 years. In the PGY 4 and PGY 5 years, most laparoscopic cases were complex.ConclusionIncreased use of laparoscopic surgery has led to a corresponding increase in laparoscopic case volume among general surgery residents. We would advocate for FLS testing to serve as an early assessment of laparoscopic knowledge and skill and should be performed before a significant increase in complex laparoscopic surgery during training.



http://ift.tt/2eV3xAF

The Right Way to Teach Left-Handed Residents: Strategies for Training by Right Handers

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Journal of Surgical Education
Author(s): Nikhil K. Prasad, Charlotte Kvasnovsky, Eric S. Wise, Stephen M. Kavic
PurposeLeft-handed (LH) residents remain underrepresented among surgical trainees, and there are few available data on how best to train them. The challenge is amplified when pairing a LH resident with a right-handed (RH) mentor. This report provides recommendations on how to improve the training of LH surgeons in a safe and effective manner.MethodsA comprehensive literature review was performed using different databases and search engines to identify all articles relevant to the training of LH residents.ResultsA total of 40 articles highlighted the challenges for LH surgical residents and RH mentors. Our recommendations are based on the following 4 themes: identifying inherent differences in left vs. RH residents, providing guidance to RH mentors training LH residents, adapting the RH environment to the LH surgeon, and maximizing safety during training.ConclusionAn organized approach needs to be taken in training the LH resident. Changes should be instituted at program-wide and national levels to ensure that the training experience of the sinistral surgical resident is optimized.



http://ift.tt/2hanNPy

Impact of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy on wound healing and cosmetic outcome in 224 women treated with accelerated partial breast irradiation using interstitial brachytherapy

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Ashwini Budrukkar, Prakash Pandit, Tabassum Wadasadawala, Ritu Raj Upreti, Rakesh Jalali, Sudeep Gupta, Tanuja Shet, Vani Parmar, Rajendra Badwe, Rajiv Sarin
PurposeTo evaluate the impact of timing of adjuvant chemotherapy on wound healing and cosmetic outcome in women treated with accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI).Methods and MaterialsBetween August 2000 to December 2011, 224 women were treated with APBI using multicatheter interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy. Patients were treated to a dose of 34 Gy/10#/5–7 days with bid regimen. Systemic chemotherapy was administered as per the standard guidelines.ResultsMulticatheter interstitial brachytherapy technique was open cavity in 136 (60%) and closed cavity in 88 (40%). Adjuvant chemotherapy was given in 117 (52%). Wound complications (WCs) were observed in 24 patients (11%), which included wound infections (WIs) in 20 and wound dehiscence in 14. The median gap between chemotherapy and APBI was 13 days in women who developed WCs, 20 days for prechemo, and 32 days for postchemo APBI in its absence. On multivariate analysis, gap between APBI and chemotherapy of ≤3 weeks was the only significant factor (p = 0.03) affecting WCs. Acute WI (p = 0.01) and two-dimensional planning (p = 0.04) had significant impact on cosmesis resulting in fair to poor cosmetic outcome.ConclusionsGap of ≤3 weeks between APBI and chemotherapy resulted in increased WCs. WI and two-dimensional planning resulted in poorer cosmetic outcome. We recommend gap of at least 3 weeks for optimal outcome.



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Intermediate dose–volume parameters and the development of late rectal toxicity after MRI-guided brachytherapy for locally advanced cervix cancer

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Reem Ujaimi, Michael Milosevic, Anthony Fyles, Akbar Beiki-Ardakani, Marco Carlone, Haiyan Jiang, Patricia Lindsay, Jason Xie, Rachel Gerber, Jennifer Croke, Julia Skliarenko, Wilfred Levin, Kathy Han
PurposeThe dose delivered to the most exposed 2 cm³(D2cm3) of the rectum and bladder is predictive of late rectal and bladder toxicity in cervix cancer patients. We investigated the predictive value of intermediate doses to the rectum and bladder for late rectal/bladder toxicity after MRI-guided brachytherapy for patients with locally advanced cervix cancer.Methods and MaterialsToxicity was prospectively graded using Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0 and retrospectively verified for women with Stage IB–IVA cervix cancer treated consecutively with MRI-guided brachytherapy between 2008 and 2013. The minimum equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions delivered to 0.1, 1, 2, 5, and 10 cm³ of the rectum and bladder and the absolute volume of the rectum receiving 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 Gy3 (V55–75) were collected. The association between dose–volume parameters and Grade 2+ rectal/bladder toxicity was examined using logistic regression.ResultsWith a median followup of 44 months, cumulative incidences of Grade 2+ rectal and bladder toxicity among the 106 patients were 29% and 15% at 3 years, respectively. All the dose–volume parameters were significantly associated with late Grade 2+ rectal and bladder toxicity (p < 0.05), except for bladder D0.1cm3. On multivariable logistic regression, both D2cm3 > 70 Gy3 and V55 > 11 cm³ (p < 0.05) were predictive of late Grade 2+ rectal toxicity, with improved model fitting and higher area under the curve compared with the model with D2cm3 > 70 Gy3 alone.ConclusionsIn this study, V55 was predictive of late Grade 2+ rectal toxicity. Adding V55 to D2cm3 improved prediction accuracy.



http://ift.tt/2eUwTiQ

Performance of a palladium-103 line source for prostate brachytherapy implants: A Phase I trial

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Richard Stock, David Beyer, Jed Kaminetsky, William Ge
PurposeTo evaluate the use of a polymer-encapsulated palladium-103 (¹⁰³ Pd) source with a unique linear radioactive distribution in prostate brachytherapy. This feasibility study assessed dosimetry, ease and efficiency of use, and side effects. The number of needles required for adequate coverage was the primary end point.Methods and MaterialsCivaString ¹⁰³ Pd Model CS10 implants were preplanned for 25 patients. CivaStrings were custom manufactured according to plan. CivaStrings were implanted with 18 gauge needles. Post-implant dosimetry was performed at 3-6 weeks.ResultsMonotherapy (125 Gy) was prescribed for 11 implants. External beam radiation with CivaString boost (100 Gy) was prescribed for 14 implants. The mean time to implant the sources was 23.5 min. The number of planned needles and prostate sizes ranged from 14 to 25 and 21-101 cm3, respectively. 70% of implants in prostates less than 50 cm3 required ≤17 needles. Planned source strength ranged from 2.8 U/cm to 3.9 U/cm. Total source strength averaged 216 U (130-323 U) for monotherapy and 154 U (92.4-245 U) for boost. Nomograms were generated at both prescription dose levels.ConclusionsThe linear ¹⁰³Pd source provides good dose coverage to the prostate. Prostate volume changes were minimal suggesting minimal swelling using the CivaString device.



http://ift.tt/2h9Q357

Altered patterns of resting-state functional connectivity between the caudate and other brain regions in medication-naïve children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Zhilong Yang, Hongxing Li, Wenjuan Tu, Suhong Wang, Yanling Ren, Yang Yi, Ting Wu, Kaihua Jiang, Huijuan Shen, Jian Wu, Xuan Dong
BackgroundStructural and functional alterations occur in the caudate of patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Here we aimed to investigate the functional connectivity between the dorsal caudate and other brain regions in ADHD children.MethodsResting-state functional connectivity from 30 ADHD and 33 age- and gender-matched "normal" children were measured by functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging.ResultsPositive connectivity with dorsal caudate was observed in the prefrontal areas, cingulate cortex and temporal lobe. Negative functional connectivity was observed in the precuneus, occipital cortices and cerebellum. The connectivity of left dorsal caudate to left inferior frontal gyrus was correlated with severity of ADHD.ConclusionsConnectivity of dorsal caudate with several brain regions was identified in ADHD children.



http://ift.tt/2tQoXG7

Diffusion-weighted imaging as a routine MRI protocol for the evaluation of ‘infantile hemangioma’

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Masahiro Kitami




http://ift.tt/2u668tC

Diffusion-weighted imaging for cutaneous vascular anomalies

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Clinical Imaging
Author(s): Mark D. Mamlouk, Andrew D. Nicholson, Daniel L. Cooke, Christopher P. Hess




http://ift.tt/2tQQWFk

A colorimetric and electrochemical immunosensor for point-of-care detection of enterovirus 71

Publication date: 15 January 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 99
Author(s): Yuan-Hui Hou, Jia-Jia Wang, Yong-Zhong Jiang, Cheng Lv, Li Xia, Shao-Li Hong, Miao Lin, Yi Lin, Zhi-Ling Zhang, Dai-Wen Pang
Point-of-care detection of human enterovirus 71 (EV71), the major pathogen that causes hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) among children, is urgently needed for early diagnosis and control of related epidemics. A colorimetric and electrochemical immunosensor for point-of-care detection of EV71 has been developed based on dual-labeled magnetic nanobeads amplification. The dual-labeled magnetic nanobeads (DL-MBs) are fabricated by simultaneous immobilization of EV71 monoclonal antibody (mAb) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) on magnetic nanobeads. By capturing EV71 virions in 20μL sample on mAb modified AuNPs-coated ITO electrode and subsequently binding with DL-MBs, with the addition of TMB and H2O2, colorimetric signals corresponding to EV71 with a concentration of 1.0ngmL⁻¹ can be directly read out by naked eyes, making it possible towards point-of-care detection of the virus. Furthermore, on the reduction of oxidized TMB on the electrode, electrochemical signal can be detected in the same detection cell without solution transfer, with a detection limit of 0.01ngmL⁻¹. Validated with clinical samples, the colorimetric and electrochemical immunosensor shows a complete consistency with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results. So far as we know, this is the first report on EV71 detection using electrochemical method. The merits of this assay, including high sensitivity, ability for colorimetric detection and easy to operation, ensure a promising future in point-of-care diagnostics of virus related diseases.



http://ift.tt/2tK7vib

Corrigendum to “Autophagy-linked FYVE containing protein WDFY3 interacts with TRAF6 and modulates RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis” [J. Autoimmun. 73C (2016) 73–84]

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Journal of Autoimmunity
Author(s): Dennis J. Wu, Ran Gu, Ritu Sarin, Regina Zavodovskaya, Chia-Pei Chen, Blaine A. Christiansen, Konstantinos S. Zarbalis, Iannis E. Adamopoulos




http://ift.tt/2tQuYCw

The dogs of war: A Bronze Age initiation ritual in the Russian steppes

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Journal of Anthropological Archaeology, Volume 48
Author(s): David W. Anthony, Dorcas R. Brown
At the Srubnaya-culture settlement of Krasnosamarskoe in the Russian steppes, dated 1900–1700 BCE, a ritual occurred in which the participants consumed sacrificed dogs, primarily, and a few wolves, violating normal food practices found at other sites, during the winter. At least 64 winter-killed canids, 19% MNI/37% NISP, were roasted, fileted, and apparently were eaten. More than 99% were dogs. Their heads were chopped into small standardized segments with practiced blows of an axe on multiple occasions throughout the occupation. Two adult men and two adult women from the nearby cemetery, possibly two generations of resident ritual specialists, showed unusual skeletal pathologies and post-mortem treatments. The repeated violation of the canid-eating taboo, unique to this site, combined with the metaphor of human transformation into male canids, suggests that the participants entered a liminal state typical of a rite of passage. Parallels from comparative Indo-European (IE) mythology provide the indigenous narrative that gave meaning to this ritual: we argue that it was an initiation into the widely attested IE institution of the youthful male war-band, symbolized by transformation into a dog or wolf.



http://ift.tt/2tQcbXX

Non-surgical ablative therapies for inoperable benign insulinoma

Abstract

Purpose

Benign insulinoma is the most common functioning neuroendocrine tumor of the pancreas. The gold-standard therapeutic approach for insulinoma is surgery, which allows for tumor removal, histology and immunochemical analyses. If surgery is not feasible, minimally invasive ablative procedures performed by interventional radiology can lead to partial or complete remission of hormone hypersecretion and tumor control in insulinoma patients.

Methods

We performed a review of existing literature on non-chemotherapeutic/radioactive ablative techniques employed for the treatment of benign, otherwise inoperable, pancreatic insulinoma. For this purpose, feasibility, effectiveness and safety of ablative treatments for pancreatic insulinoma were reviewed from literature data published from 1982 to date.

Results

A total of 44 insulinoma cases treated with non-surgical ablative techniques were desumed, and divided as follows: 7 cases of tumor embolization, 26 ethanol ablations, 7 radiofrequency ablations, 2 high intensity focused ultrasound ablation, 1 irreversible electroporation and 1 percutaneous microwave ablation. Most cases involved single insulinoma, predominantly located in the pancreas head and body. In the majority of patients, ablation was chosen instead of surgery due to severe comorbidities. After an average follow-up of 16 months, the overall success rate of non-surgical ablative treatments of insulinoma was 84%, the recurrence/persistence rate was 16%, and transient adverse events were noted in 23% of cases. Adverse events were usually self-limiting and medically manageable.

Conclusions

Non-surgical ablation is a feasible, safe and repeatable procedure in patients with pancreatic insulinoma, who are not candidate to surgery or refuse it. Partial or complete control of symptoms and tumor growth is experienced by the majority of patients.

http://ift.tt/2veOlFR

Four pathways of CD1 antigen presentation to T cells

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Immunology, Volume 46
Author(s): D Branch Moody, Rachel N Cotton
CD1a, CD1b, CD1c and CD1d proteins migrate through distinct subcellular compartments of antigen presenting cells and so can be considered to take four separate pathways leading to display of lipid antigens to T cell receptors. This review discusses the intersection of CD1 trafficking and lipid antigen loading mechanisms in cells, highlighting key controversies relating to CD1 gene expression, size mismatches between antigens and CD1 binding clefts and unexpected mechanisms of T cell receptor-based recognition.



http://ift.tt/2vQvePm

Young calcareous soil chronosequences as a model for ecological restoration on alkaline mine tailings

Publication date: 31 December 2017
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 607–608
Author(s): Adam T. Cross, Hans Lambers
Tailings are artificial soil-forming substrates that have not been created by the natural processes of soil formation and weathering. The extreme pH environment and corresponding low availability of some macro- and micronutrients in alkaline tailings, coupled with hostile physical and geochemical conditions, present a challenging environment to native biota. Some significant nutritional constraints to ecosystem reconstruction on alkaline tailings include i) predominant or complete absence of combined nitrogen (N) and poor soil N retention; ii) the limited bioavailability of some micronutrients at high soil pH (e.g., Mn, Fe, Zn and Cu); and iii) potentially toxic levels of biologically available soil phosphorus (P) for P-sensitive plants. The short regulatory time frames (years) for mine closure on tailings landforms are at odds with the long time required for natural pedogenic processes to ameliorate these factors (thousands of years). However, there are similarities between the chemical composition and nutrient status of alkaline tailings and the poorly-developed, very young calcareous soils of biodiverse regions such as south-western Australia. We propose that basic knowledge of chronosequences that start with calcareous soils may provide an informative model for understanding the pedogenic processes required to accelerate soil formation on tailings. Development of a functional, stable root zone is crucial to successful ecological restoration on tailings, and three major processes should be facilitated as early as possible during processing or in the early stages of restoration to accelerate soil development on alkaline tailings: i) acidification of the upper tailings profile; ii) establishment of appropriate and resilient microbial communities; and iii) the early development of appropriate pioneer vegetation. Achieving successful ecological restoration outcomes on tailings landforms is likely one of the greatest challenges faced by restoration ecologists and the mining industry, and successful restoration on alkaline tailings likely depends upon careful management of substrate chemical conditions by targeted amendments.

Graphical abstract

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Different sizes of ZnO diversely affected the cytogenesis of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus

Publication date: 31 December 2017
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 607–608
Author(s): Maria Oliviero, Simona Schiavo, Gabriella Rametta, Maria Lucia Miglietta, Sonia Manzo
Today nanoparticles (NPs) have many applications in commercial products due to their small size and peculiar properties that, conversely, make them potentially toxic for humans and the environment. ZnO NPs are largely used in many personal care products, such as sunscreens and cosmetics. In this study the cytotoxic effects of ZnO particles with different sizes (ZnO Bulk, >100nm; ZnO NPs, 100nm and ZnO NPs, 14nm) upon the first developmental stages of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, are evaluated. Morphological alterations are also assessed by embryotoxicity tests. The cytogenetic analysis highlighted that ZnO NPs interfere with cell cycle inducing a dose-dependent decrease of mitotic activity and chromosomal aberrations at higher concentrations (30μM). Moreover, the larval development was affected by ZnO NPs 100nm (EC50=0.46 [0.30–0.63] μM [Zn]) in a dose-dependent way. Size-dependent toxicity was instead not obtained for ZnO NPs. From our results could be highlighted that the presence of embryos, blocked in pre-larval stage, could be due to the induction of chromosome aberrations by ZnO particles, confirming that cytogenetic analyses allow evaluating possible NPs action mechanisms.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2eUuTa9

Coral trace metal of natural and anthropogenic influences in the northern South China Sea

Publication date: 31 December 2017
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 607–608
Author(s): Wei Jiang, Ke-Fu Yu, Yin-Xian Song, Jian-Xin Zhao, Yue-Xing Feng, Ying-Hui Wang, Shen-Dong Xu
The composition and concentrations of trace metals in coastal seawater have changed in parallel with variations in geochemical processes, climate and anthropogenic activities. To evaluate the response of trace metals in coastal seawater to climatic changes and human disturbances, we report annual-resolution trace element data for a Porites coral core covering ~100years of continuous growth from a fringing reef in Xiaodonghai Bay in the northern South China Sea. The results suggested that the trace metal contents in the coral skeleton demonstrated decadal to interdecadal fluctuations with several large or small peaks in certain years with remarkable environmental significances. All of the trace metals in coastal surface seawater, especially Cr and Pb (related to industrial or traffic emissions), were impacted by terrestrial inputs, except for Sr and U, which were impacted by the surface seawater temperature (SST). Moreover, Mn, Ni, Fe and Co were also contributed by weapons and military supplies during wars, and Cu, Cd and Zn were further impacted by upwelling associated with their biogeochemical cycles. Ba and rare earth element (REE) in coastal surface seawater were dominated by runoff and groundwater discharge associated with precipitation. This study provided the potential for some trace metals (e.g., REE, Ba, Cu, Cd, and Zn) in coral skeletons to be used as proxies of natural (e.g., upwelling and precipitation) and anthropogenic (e.g., war and coastal construction) variability of seawater chemistry to enable the reconstruction of environmental and climatic changes through time.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2tHzeQH

Vascular and cardiac autonomic function and PM2.5 constituents among the elderly: A longitudinal study

Publication date: 31 December 2017
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 607–608
Author(s): Youn-Hee Lim, Hyun-Joo Bae, Seung-Muk Yi, EunHa Park, Bo-Eun Lee, Yun-Chul Hong
BackgroundAlthough epidemiologic studies have shown an association between the total mass of particulate matter <2.5μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) and cardiovascular disease, few studies have examined PM2.5 constituents associated with vascular and cardiac autonomic dysfunction.MethodsIn this longitudinal study, we investigated the relationship between PM2.5 constituents and blood pressure (BP), and markers of the autonomic nervous system. In 466 elderly subjects residing in communities in Seoul, Korea, we examined 16 constituents, seven sources, and total mass concentrations of PM2.5. We measured the BP, heart rate (HR), and indices of heart rate variability (HRV), such as the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN), square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals (rMSSD), and two frequency-domain variables (low frequency [LF] and high frequency [HF]). We used linear mixed effects models to assess the association of PM2.5 constituents and sources with cardiovascular markers.ResultsBP, HR, and rMSSD were associated with concentration of total mass of PM2.5. For each increase of the interquartile range in PM2.5 constituents, systolic and diastolic BP, and HR increased by 2.1–3.3mmHg, 1.2–2.3mmHg, and 1.2–1.9bpm, respectively, while the rMSSD, LF, and HF decreased by 8.1–9.3%, 16.6%, and 20.4%, respectively. Particularly, elemental carbon, sulfate, ammonium, lead, and strontium in the PM2.5 constituents and emissions from oil combustion and incineration were associated with increased BP, HR, and decreased HRV.ConclusionsOur results suggest an association between specific PM2.5 constituents and vascular and cardiac autonomic functions. These findings may provide supportive evidence for developing a pollution reduction plan to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2w6MO0K

Application of a crustacean bioassay to evaluate a multi-contaminated (metal, PAH, PCB) harbor sediment before and after electrokinetic remediation using eco-friendly enhancing agents

Publication date: 31 December 2017
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volumes 607–608
Author(s): Y. Tian, C. Boulangé-Lecomte, A. Benamar, N. Giusti-Petrucciani, A. Duflot, S. Olivier, C. Frederick, J. Forget-Leray, F. Portet-Koltalo
Electrokinetic (EK) remediation can be a suitable technology for treating contaminated dredged harbor sediment, stored on terrestrial disposal sites. Citric acid (CA) and biosurfactants (rhamnolipids and saponin) were chosen as enhancing agents for simultaneous metal (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Zn) and PAH/PCB removal by EK because of their potential low toxicity with a view to site restoration. Three EK runs were performed using a periodic voltage (1Vcm⁻¹) and various concentrations of agents. The best combination of CA (0.2molL⁻¹) and saponin (0.85gL⁻¹) did not remove high amounts of metals (4.4–15.8%) and provided only slightly better results for PAH and PCB removal (29.2% and 38.2%, respectively). The harbor sediment was highly resistant to metal and organics mobilization and transport because of an aged contamination, a high buffering capacity, a very low hydraulic permeability and a high organic matter content. The efficiency of the EK process was also assessed by measuring the acute toxicity of the EK-treated sediment on E. affinis copepods exposed to sediment elutriates. Fortunately, the use of CA and biosurfactants did not significantly impact on sediment toxicity. Some treated sediment sections, particularly those near the anode compartment, were statistically more toxic than the raw sediment. More particularly, E. affinis copepods were significantly sensitive to low pH values and oxidative conditions, to Cu, and to a lesser extent to Pb amounts. The speciation of these metals probably changed in these pH and redox conditions so that they became more easily leachable and bioavailable. In contrast, toxicity was negatively correlated to PAH and PCB amounts after EK treatment, probably due to the production of oxidized metabolites of PAHs and PCBs.

Graphical abstract

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Six years' experience of tolerance induction in renal transplantation using stem cell therapy

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Clinical Immunology
Author(s): Aruna V. Vanikar, Hargovind L. Trivedi, Umang G. Thakkar
Tolerance induction (TI) has been attempted with chimerism/clonal deletion. We report results of TI protocol (TIP) using stem cell therapy (SCT) included adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSC) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) in 10 living-donor related renal transplantation (LDRT) patients under non-myeloablative conditioning with Bortezomib, Methylprednisone, rabbit-anti-thymoglobulin and Rituximab, without using conventional immunosuppression. Transplantation was performed following acceptable lymphocyte cross-match, flow cross-match, single antigen assay and negative mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). Monitoring included serum creatinine (SCr), donor specific antibodies (DSA) and MLR. Protocol biopsies were planned after 100days and yearly in willing patients. Rescue immunosuppression was planned for rejection/DSA/positive MLR. Over mean 6±0.37year follow-up patient survival was 80% and death-censored graft survival was 90%. Mean SCr was 1.44±0.41mg/dL. This is the first clinical report of sustained TI in LDRT for 6years using SCT.

Graphical abstract

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Érythème kératolytique hivernal familial : une cathepsine est aux commandes

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie
Author(s): O. Dereure




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Myofibromatose infantile sporadique : mutations avec gain de fonction de PDGFRB

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie
Author(s): O. Dereure




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Postoperative Anticholinergic Poisoning: Concealed Complications of a Commonly Used Medication

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:The Journal of Emergency Medicine
Author(s): Xiao Chi Zhang, Natalija Farrell, Thomas Haronian, Jason Hack
BackgroundScopolamine is a potent anticholinergic compound used commonly for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Scopolamine can cause atypical anticholinergic syndromes due to its prominent central antimuscarinic effects.Case ReportA 47-year-old female presented to the emergency department (ED) 20 h after hospital discharge for a right-knee meniscectomy, with altered mental status (AMS) and dystonic extremity movements that began 12 h after her procedure. Her vital signs were normal and physical examination revealed mydriasis, visual hallucinations, hyperreflexia, and dystonic movements. Laboratory data, lumbar puncture, and computed tomography were unrevealing. The sustained AMS prompted a re-evaluation that revealed urinary overflow with 500 mL of retained urine discovered on ultrasound and a scopolamine patch hidden behind her ear. Her mental status improved shortly after patch removal and physostigmine, with complete resolution after 24 h with discharge diagnosis of scopolamine-induced anticholinergic toxicity.Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?Although therapeutically dosed scopolamine transdermal patches rarely cause complications, incomplete toxidromes can be insidiously common in polypharmacy settings. Providers should thoroughly evaluate the skin of intoxicated patients for additional adherent medications that may result in a delay in ED diagnosis and curative therapies. Our case, as well as rare case reports of therapeutic scopolamine-induced anticholinergic toxicity, demonstrates that peripheral anticholinergic effects, such as tachycardia, dry mucous membranes, and hyperpyrexia are often not present, and incremental doses of physostigmine may be required to reverse scopolamine's long duration of action. This further complicates identification of the anticholinergic toxidrome and diagnosis.



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Pericardial Herniation of Small Bowel Post Minimally Invasive Hybrid Maze of Atrial Fibrillation

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:The Journal of Emergency Medicine
Author(s): David A. Farcy, Angelo Lapietra, Benjamin N. Abo, Michael Dalley
BackgroundHerniation of intraabdominal contents into the pericardial cavity is exceptionally rare, and when seen, it is most often the result of trauma, postsurgical complication, or genetic defect. There have been only a few case reports describing spontaneous bowel herniation into the pericardium in minimally invasive cardiac procedures like cardiac ablation, pacemaker placement, and minimally invasive coronary artery bypass graft.Case ReportWe report the case of a 65-year-old man who presented to an urgent care center complaining of abdominal and chest pain. This patient had recently undergone a laparoscopic hybrid maze procedure and ultimately had an incarcerated loop of small bowel herniate into the pericardial sac.Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?We present this case to increase awareness among emergency physicians of the diagnosis of a pericardial hernia in patients presenting with gastrointestinal or cardiorespiratory symptoms after surgical procedures involving the diaphragm.



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An Old Challenge with New Promises: A Systematic Review on Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment in Long-Term Care Facilities

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Nutritional Status of Breast Cancer Survivors 1 Year after Diagnosis: A Preliminary Analysis from the Malaysian Breast Cancer Survivorship Cohort Study

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Author(s): Hazreen Abd Majid, Low Phei Keow, Tania Islam, Tin Tin Su, Marie Cantwell, Nur Aishah Taib
BackgroundLifestyle factors, such as diet, body weight, and physical activity, are linked to better survival after breast cancer (BC) diagnosis. A high percentage of the Malaysian population is overweight or obese. In addition, studies have shown a disparity in survival among Malaysian women compared with other higher-income countries. The Malaysian Breast Cancer Survivorship Cohort (MyBCC) study aims to study lifestyle factors that affect survival in BC survivors. These are the preliminary findings on the nutritional status of Malaysian BC survivors.ObjectiveOur aim was to evaluate the nutritional status of BC survivors at 1 year after diagnosis.DesignThis was a cross-sectional study of 194 participants from the MyBCC study, recruited within 1 year of their diagnosis. Participants completed a 3-day food diary.ParticipantsMalaysian women (aged 18 years and older) who were newly diagnosed with primary BC, managed at the University Malaya Medical Center, and able to converse either in Malay, English, or Mandarin were included.Main outcome measuresDietary intake and prevalence of overweight or obesity among participants 1 year after diagnosis were measured.Statistical analyses performedStudent's t test and analysis of variance or its equivalent nonparametric test were used for association in continuous variables.ResultsAbout 66% (n=129) of participants were overweight or obese and >45% (n=86) had high body fat percentage 1 year after diagnosis. The participants' diets were low in fiber (median=8.7 g/day; interquartile range=7.2 g/day) and calcium (median=458 mg/day; interquartile range=252 mg/day). Ethnicity and educational attainment contributed to the differences in dietary intake among participants. Higher saturated fat and lower fiber intake were observed among Malay participants compared with other ethnic groups.ConclusionsOverweight and obesity were highly prevalent among BC survivors and suboptimal dietary intake was observed. Provision of an individualized medical nutrition therapy by a qualified dietitian is crucial as part of comprehensive BC survivorship care.



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Clear-Cell Atypical Fibroxanthoma: an unusual case in an unusual place

Abstract

Atypical fibroxanthoma represents a low-grade sarcoma considered by some to be a superficial form of undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma.(1,2) It usually presents in the elderly population on sun-damaged areas of the head and neck regions as a dome-shaped nodule.(1,3) The clinical differential includes squamous cell carcinoma, among other skin malignancies.

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Fluid Shift on Obstructive and Central Sleep Apnea

Condition:   Apnea (Central and Obstructive)
Intervention:   Other: no interventions
Sponsor:   Nanjing Medical University
Recruiting - verified July 2017

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Polarity-independent effects of tDCS on paired associative stimulation-induced plasticity

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Brain Stimulation
Author(s): Hanna Faber, Alexander Opitz, Florian Müller-Dahlhaus, Ulf Ziemann
BackgroundTranscranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can polarize the cortex of the human brain.Objective/Hypothesis: We sought to verify the hypothesis that posterior-anterior (PA) but not anterior-posterior (AP) tDCS of primary motor cortex (M1) produces cooperative effects with corticospinal plasticity induced by paired associative stimulation of the supplementary motor area (SMA) to M1 projection (PASSMA→M1) in a highly controlled experimental design.MethodsThree experimental conditions were tested in a double-blinded, randomized crossover design in 15 healthy adults: Navigated PASSMA→M1 during PA-tDCS (35 cm² electrodes, anode 3 cm posterior to M1 hand area, cathode over contralateral frontopolar cortex, 1 mA, 2 × 5 min) or AP-tDCS (reversed polarity), or sham-tDCS. Effects were analyzed over 120 min post-intervention by changes of motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude in a hand muscle.ResultsThere was no significant effect of tDCS on PASSMA→M1 induced plasticity in the repeated-measures ANOVA. However, post-hoc within-subject contrasts revealed a significant tDCS with PASSMA→M1 interaction. This was explained by PA-tDCS and AP-tDCS modifying the PASSMA→M1 effect into the same direction in 13/15 subjects (87%, p = 0.004 for deviation from equality). Sizes of the PA-tDCS and AP-tDCS effects were correlated (rs = 0.53, p = 0.044). A control experiment demonstrated that PA-tDCS and AP-tDCS alone (without PASSMA→M1) had no effect on MEP amplitude.ConclusionsData point to unidirectional tDCS effects on PASSMA→M1 induced plasticity irrespective of tDCS polarity, in contrast to our hypothesis. We propose that radial symmetry of cortical columns, gyral geometry of motor cortex, and cooperativity of plasticity induction can explain the findings.



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Cumulative effects of single TMS pulses during beta-tACS are stimulation intensity-dependent

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Brain Stimulation
Author(s): Valerio Raco, Robert Bauer, Sandro Norim, Alireza Gharabaghi
BackgroundSingle transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) pulses activate different components of the motor cortex neural circuitry in a stimulation intensity-dependent way and may lead to a cumulative increase of corticospinal excitability (CSE) during the same stimulation session. Furthermore, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) has been shown to increase in a frequency-specific way the level of CSE probed by single-pulse TMS. The interaction of these two phenomena, i.e. cumulative increases and baseline shifts of CSE, and the involved neural circuitry has not been studied yet.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate stimulation intensity-specific online effects of simultaneous TMS and tACS on CSE.MethodsSingle-pulse TMS was applied concurrent to 20 Hz tACS over the left primary motor cortex of thirteen healthy subjects to probe CSE indexed by motor evoked potentials (MEPs) recorded from the contralateral extensor carpi radialis muscle of the right hand during rest. Six different TMS intensities (90%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, and 140% of resting motor threshold, RMT) were studied in a randomized blocked design. In each block, 40 pulses were applied with an inter-stimulus interval of 5 s and a jitter of ±0.5 s, i.e. at a stimulation frequency of 0.2–0.25 Hz.ResultsBeta-tACS has a general facilitatory effect on CSE across the tested TMS intensities. The results of the block wise regression of the MEP amplitudes show a more specific effect. Combining tACS and TMS leads to a cumulative increase in CSE for the stimulation intensity of 120% RMT only (p = 0.0004).ConclusionCSE increases due to beta-tACS and cumulative TMS pulses may be mediated by different neuronal mechanisms.



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Clinical application of next-generation sequencing for the diagnosis of segmental neurofibromatosis

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Journal of Dermatological Science
Author(s): Younhee Ko, CheolHo Lee, Hyunjoo Lee, Minjung Lee, Jin-Sung Lee




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Delivery of antioxidant enzymes for prevention of ultraviolet irradiation-induced epidermal damage

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Journal of Dermatological Science
Author(s): Brianna Hammiller, Bala Vamsi K. Karuturi, Christina Miller, Matti Holmes, Vinod Labhasetwar, Gary Madsen, Laura A. Hansen




http://ift.tt/2v6y7xl

Interaction of different forms of graphene with chicken embryo red blood cells

Abstract

With the rapid development of graphene synthesis and functionalization approaches, graphene and its related derivatives have shown great potential in many applications in material science, including biomedical applications. Several in vitro and in vivo studies clearly showed no definitive risks, while others have indicated that graphene might become health hazards. In this study, we explore the biocompatibility of graphene-related materials with chicken embryo red blood cells (RBC). The hemolysis assay was employed to evaluate the in vitro blood compatibility of reduced graphene, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide, because these materials have recently been used for biomedical applications, including injectable graphene-related particles. This study investigated structural damage, ROS production and hemolysis of chicken embryo red blood cells. Different forms of graphene, when incubated with chicken embryo RBC, were harmful to cell structure and induced hemolysis.

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Editorial Board and Contents

Publication date: August 2017
Source:Trends in Immunology, Volume 38, Issue 8





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Study on the organization of cellular elements in the granulomatous lesion caused by chromoblastomycosis

ABSTRACT

Background

Chromoblastomycosis is a deep fungal infection characterized by a complex cellular granuloma. The aim of this study was to analyze the arrangement of cells responsible for the granuloma configuration of this disease by semiquantification of the cellular components of chromoblastomycosis skin biopsies.

Methods

The cells of cutaneous biopsies slides from 100 patients with untreated chromoblastomycosis were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and the granuloma cells were evaluated by microscopic examination of the elements of each granuloma and semiquantified the number of cells through its expressivity in crosses and the histopathological variables. Their presences were coded in degrees of intensity and classified in two categories: low expression and high expression. The cells that constitute the granulomas were separated into three groups: A, B and C.

Results

The chromoblastomycotic granuloma analysed by this semiquantification of its cellular components showed that there was high expression of the elements setting up a mixed organized mycotic granuloma. It was observed that mononuclear phagocytic system (A), polymorphonuclear phagocytic system (B) and lymphoplasmocytic infiltrate (C) were located around the fungus.

Conclusions

The results indicated that the granuloma present in the cutaneous lesion of chromoblastomycosis is the mixed organized mycotic granuloma with high expression of the cellular components.

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PD-1 Inhibitor Associated Lichenoid Inflammation with Incidental Suprabasilar Acantholysis or Vesiculation – Report of Four Cases

ABSTRACT

Background

Immune checkpoint agents targeting Programmed cell death-1 protein (PD1) or Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Associated Protein-4 (CTLA-4) receptors are increasingly utilised in treatment of advanced malignancies. However, these immunotherapies are commonly associated with idiosyncratic cutaneous adverse reactions. Thus, recognition and awareness of these reactions are necessary.

Methods

We reviewed the skin biopsies of all patients on anti-PD1 therapy with or without ipilimumab who developed lichenoid inflammation and included those with microscopic suprabasal or intraepidermal clefts.

Results

Four patients presented with interface dermatitis with microscopic intraepidermal clefts. In 2 patients, the clefts were well developed and had some acantholytic cells while the other 2 appeared to be spongiosis or inflammation related. Immunofluorescence was negative in one patient. None of them had clinical findings in keeping with paraneoplastic pemphigus and the symptoms improved with either topical corticosteroid or withdrawal of immunotherapy.

Conclusions

Lichenoid drug reaction occurring in patients receiving anti-PD1 therapy may be associated with microscopic suprabasal or intraepidermal clefting. The clinical course was similar to lichenoid drug reactions without clefting even though some lesions may resemble paraneoplastic pemphigus microscopically.

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Seasonal variation of columnar aerosol optical properties and radiative forcing over Beijing, China

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): Xingna Yu, Rui Lü, Chao Liu, Liang Yuan, Yixing Shao, Bin Zhu, Lu Lei
Long-term seasonal characteristics of aerosol optical properties and radiative forcing at Beijing (during March 2001–March 2015) were investigated using a combination of ground-based Sun/sky radiometer retrievals from the AERONET and a radiative transfer model. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) showed a distinct seasonal variation with higher values in spring and summer, and relatively lower values in fall and winter. Average Angstrom exponent (AE) in spring was lower than other seasons, implying the significant impact of dust episodes on aerosol size distribution. AE mainly distributed between 1.0 and 1.4 with an obvious uni-peak pattern in each season. The observation data showed that high AODs (>1.0) were clustered in the fine mode growth wing and the coarse mode. Compared to AOD, seasonal variation in single scattering albedo (SSA) showed an opposite pattern with larger values in summer and spring, and smaller ones in winter and fall. The highest volume size distribution and median radius of fine mode particles occurred in summer, while those of coarse mode particles in spring. The averaged aerosol radiative forcing (ARF) at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) in spring, summer, fall and winter were −33 ± 22 W m^-2, -35 ± 22 W m^-2, -28 ± 20 W m^-2, and -24 ± 23 W m^-2 respectively, and these differences were mainly due to the SSA seasonal variation. The largest positive ARF within atmosphere occurred in spring, implying strong warming in the atmosphere. The low heating ratio in summer was caused by the increase in water vapor content, which enhanced light scattering capacity (i.e., increased SSA).



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Intermolecular interactions and its effect within Cr3+-containing atmospheric particulate matter using molecular dynamics simulations

Publication date: October 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 166
Author(s): Dhawal Shah, Bekbol Aldamzharov, Assel Bukayeva, Mehdi Amouei Torkmahalleh, Goodarz Ahmadi
Efforts have been dedicated recently to monitor, quantify, and explore the effects of VOCs on Cr containing atmospheric particles. However, considering difficulties in real-time experimental measurements, several ambiguities remain in the atmospheric Cr chemistry. Herein, we use molecular dynamics simulations to investigate interactions of Cr³⁺ containing particles with three commonly present 'additives', ozone, benzene, and formaldehyde. Different scenarios with Cr⁺³ particles and the effect of air around particles are examined. Interestingly, we observed no direct interaction between Cr⁺³ and the three additives used. However, the presence of these additives alters Cr⁺³/water interactions. Further, we found that the diffusion of Cr⁺³ and the additives is fast, however the results indicate that chemistry within atmospheric particles is not diffusion controlled. Although the higher concentrations of additives compared to their solubility levels could be a limitation of this study, taken together, the results shed insights to molecular behavior of Cr⁺³ within atmospheric particles.

Graphical abstract

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Observational study to estimate the changes in the effectiveness of bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination with time since vaccination for preventing tuberculosis in the UK.

BCG for tuberculosis in minority ethnic groups lasted at least 10 years and at least 20 years in white school-aged children.

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First- and Second-Generation Antipsychotics in Children and Young Adults: Systematic Review Update [Internet].

To review the evidence on first- and second-generation antipsychotics (FGAs and SGAs) for the treatment of various psychiatric and behavioral conditions in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages ≤ 24 years).

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Preventing Complications and Treating Symptoms of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy [Internet].

To assess benefits and harms of interventions for preventing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) complications and treatment of DPN symptoms.

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The Drug Development Paradigm in Oncology: Proceedings of a Workshop [Prepublication Draft].

Advances in cancer research have led to an improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning the development of cancer and how the immune system responds to cancer. This influx of research has led to an increasing number and variety of therapies in the drug development pipeline, including targeted therapies and associated biomarker tests that can select which patients are most likely to respond, and immunotherapies that harness the body's immune system to destroy cancer cells. Compared with standard chemotherapies, these new cancer therapies may demonstrate evidence of benefit and clearer distinctions between efficacy and toxicity at an earlier stage of development. However, there is a concern that the traditional processes for cancer drug development, evaluation, and regulatory approval could impede or delay the use of these promising cancer treatments in clinical practice. This has led to a number of efforts—by patient advocates, the pharmaceutical industry, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)—to accelerate the review of promising new cancer therapies, especially for cancers that currently lack effective treatments. However, generating the necessary data to confirm safety and efficacy during expedited drug development programs can present a unique set of challenges and opportunities.

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Opening Marrow Niches in Patients Undergoing Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Gene Therapy

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America
Author(s): Morton J. Cowan, Christopher C. Dvorak, Janel Long-Boyle

Teaser

Successful gene therapy for genetic disorders requires marrow niches to be opened to varying degrees to engraft gene-corrected hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). For example, in severe combined immunodeficiency, relatively limited chimerism is necessary for both T- and B-cell immune reconstitution, whereas for inborn errors of metabolism maximal donor chimerism is the goal. Currently, alkylating chemotherapy is used for this purpose. Significant pharmacokinetic variability exists in drug clearance in children less than 12 years old. Thus, pharmacokinetic monitoring is needed to achieve the targeted exposure goal for busulfan.


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Epileptic spikes in Rasmussen’s encephalitis: migratory pattern and short-term evolution. A MEG study

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Davide Rossi Sebastiano, Elisa Visani, Dunja Duran, Elena Freri, Ferruccio Panzica, Luisa Chiapparini, Francesca Ragona, Tiziana Granata, Silvana Franceschetti
ObjectiveWe aimed this study at identifying cortical areas involved in the generation of interictal spikes in Rasmussen's Encephalitis (RE) patients using magnetoencephalography (MEG), at comparing spike localization with the degree of cortical atrophy detected by MRI, and at identifying short-term changes during the follow-up .MethodsFive patients with RE underwent two MEG and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (six months interval). The sources of visually detected spikes were estimated using equivalent current dipoles technique; these were then superimposed on individual MRI and clustered; the locations of the clusters were related to the MRI stage of cortical atrophy.ResultsAll patients showed spikes and clusters located in different cortical areas in both recordings; the locations had a limited correspondence with cortical atrophy. The second recordings showed changes in the localisation of spikes and clusters, and confirmed the dissimilarities with neuroradiological abnormalities.ConclusionsThe presence of clusters of spikes of variable localisation suggests that RE progresses in a multifocal and fluctuating manner. The cortical areas most involved in epileptogenesis did not completely coincide with the most atrophic areas.SignificanceMEG can contribute to evaluating multifocal hemispheric spikes in RE and to better understand the time course of epileptogenic process.



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Electrophysiological brain mapping: basics of recording evoked potentials induced by electrical stimulation and its physiological spreading in the human brain

Publication date: Available online 28 July 2017
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Marion Vincent, David Guiraud, Hugues Duffau, Emmanuel Mandonnet, François Bonnetblanc




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Socioeconomic factors influencing childhood vaccination in two northern Italian regions

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Paola Anello, Laura Cestari, Tatjana Baldovin, Lorenzo Simonato, Gabriella Frasca, Nicola Caranci, Maria Grazia Pascucci, Francesca Valent, Cristina Canova
BackgroundInfant vaccination rates have been declining in Italy over the past 5–7years. The aims of this study were to assess the trend in the proportions of children unvaccinated at 24months old, to identify sociodemographic factors associated with non-vaccination; and to examine changes in parental attitudes to vaccination over time.MethodsWe conducted a population-based birth cohort study by combining existing electronic data sets. The study population consisted of children born from 1995 to 2010 in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia (FVG) region, and from 2007 to 2011 in part of the Emilia Romagna (ER) region, in north-eastern Italy. The immunization registers were linked with the medical birth registers, which contain sociodemographic data on both parents and the newborn. Unconditional logistic regressions were used to identify associations between vaccine uptake at 24months and maternal sociodemographic variables.ResultsOf 145,571 babies born in FVG and 75,308 in ER, there were 4222 (1.9%) who had not been vaccinated at all, and 23,948 (11.0%) without the optional measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination. The number of unvaccinated infants increased over time. Mothers who were over 35 or under 25years old, unmarried, with a higher formal education, and citizens of highly-developed countries were less compliant with vaccination recommendations in both the regions. A cohort effect was observed in FVG, for both educational level and citizenship: babies born between 1995 and 2000 to mothers without an Italian citizenship and with a lower formal education were more likely to refuse vaccination for their offspring, while this association was reversed between 2006 and 2010.ConclusionsMothers who are Italian citizens and have a good formal education have begun to refuse vaccination for their children in recent years. Future public health action in this setting should target highly educated parents.



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Untangling the psychosocial predictors of HPV vaccination decision-making among parents of boys

Publication date: Available online 27 July 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Samara Perez, Ovidiu Tatar, Vladimir Gilca, Gilla K. Shapiro, Gina Ogilvie, Juliet Guichon, Anila Naz, Zeev Rosberger
BackgroundHPV vaccination uptake in boys is suboptimal in many jurisdictions, particularly in the absence of publicly funded HPV vaccination programs. Parents represent key decision-makers of HPV vaccination and their HPV vaccine decision-making stage is influenced by multiple psychosocial determinants. Our objective was to assess the relationship between a broad range of psychosocial factors and parents of boys' HPV vaccine decision-making stage.MethodsData were collected through an online survey from a nationally representative sample of Canadian parents of boys in February (T1) and November 2014 (T2). We assessed a broad number of psychosocial factors including: socio-demographics, health behaviours and validated scales for assessing HPV knowledge, attitudes and beliefs. Parents selected their HPV vaccination adoption stage based on the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM). Multinomial logistic regression was used to test the association between predictors and PAPM stage at T1 and T2.ResultsDiscussion with a healthcare provider about the HPV vaccine and increased HPV knowledge was associated with increased odds of being in the more advanced PAPM stages. Increased perception of risks in the absence of HPV vaccination, increased perception that others endorse HPV vaccination and positive attitudes related to vaccines in general were associated with increased odds of being in the decided to vaccinate stage. Believing that HPV vaccination is harmful increased, and perceiving the benefits of HPV vaccination decreased the odds of deciding not to vaccinate.ConclusionsThis study highlights the psychosocial predictors of the decision-making stage reported by parents regarding HPV vaccination of their sons, that were significant at two time-points. Targeted interventions that consider the impact of the health care provider and address knowledge gaps as well as individual beliefs about benefits, risks, and harms of the HPV vaccine and vaccines in general should be implemented to help parents make better informed decisions that is, to move closer to actual vaccination adoption.



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