Factors affecting the outcomes of direct pulp capping using Biodentine

Abstract

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of factors with regard to the treatment outcome of direct pulp capping using Biodentine (Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France), in permanent teeth in which the pulps were exposed during caries removal.

Methods

Between 2010 and 2014, 112 teeth with deep carious lesions underwent direct pulp capping. The patients were followed up at 2–3 months and 1–1.5 years with a routine examination on both recall visits. Periapical radiographs were taken at 1–1.5 years. Lack of patient complaints, positive reactions to cold and electric testing, no sensitivity to percussion, and no widening of the periapical ligament indicated success. The Fisher exact test was used for statistical analysis. The significance level was P = .05.

Results

Eighty-six teeth were available for 1–1.5 years follow-up. The overall success rate was 82.6%. Only age had a significant effect on the pulpal survival rate: the success rate was 90.9% in patients younger than 40 years and 73.8% in patients 40 years or older (P = .0480). Sex, initial or secondary caries treatment, occlusal or cervical/proximal caries, delayed placement of permanent filling, tooth position, and arch type did not influence the outcome.

Conclusions

A patient's age influenced the outcome of direct pulp capping using this new calcium silicate cement.

Clinical relevance

Asymptomatic vital permanent teeth with cariously exposed pulp can be treated successfully by direct pulp capping using Biodentine.

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Simple classifiers for molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Arab Journal of Gastroenterology
Author(s): Woo Gyeong Kim, Joo Yeon Kim, Do Youn Park
Background and study aimColorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease entity with a diverse biological pathogenesis. This study aims to validate the two studies published in 2013 which established a separate CRC molecular subtype classification by utilizing a rapidly accessible miniclassifier, and verify a simplified version thereof.Patients and methodsParticipants diagnosed with CRC (n = 568) were subtyped in three classifications for characteristic, and prognostic purposes. Colorectal cancer subtypes (CCS) were classified as: i) CCS1 (CDX2+, microsatellite stable (MSS)/microsatellite instability (MSI)-low), ii) CCS2 (MSI-high), and iii) CCS3 (FRMD6/ZEB1/HTR2B +, CDX2-, MSS/MSI-low]. Simplified CCS (SiCCS) subtypes were grouped as: i) CDX2 (CDX2+, MSS/MSI-low, ZEB1 ≤ 2), ii) MSI-H (MSI-high, CDX2/FRMD6/ZEB1/HTR2B +/-), and iii) ZEB1 (ZEB1 ≥ 2, CDX2-, MSS/MSI-low). New molecular classification (NMC) subtypes were defined as: i) enterocyte (E-C) (MUC2 +), ii) goblet-like (G-L) (MUC2 + and TFF3 +), iii) transit-amplifying (T-A) (CFTR +), and iv) stem-like (S-L) (ZEB1 +).ResultsIn total, 53.5% (n = 304) CCS, 58.3% (n = 331) SiCCS, and 37.7% (n = 214) NMC tumours could be evaluated. CCS2 and MSI-H CRCs had the most favourable survival outcome, whereas the CCS3, ZEB1 and S-L subtypes showed the poorest prognosis. A significant overlap between CCS3, ZEB1, and S-L tumours was demonstrated.ConclusionThere is still a need for a consensus gene expression-based subtyping classification system for CRCs, thereby allowing the categorization of most CRC tumours. This study reveals that a simple and rapidly accessible process could replace the complicated, costly and mostly inapproachable methods clinical practices that have been introduced in the majority of previous studies.



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Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis D virus infection in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection attending the three main tertiary hospitals in Libya

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Arab Journal of Gastroenterology
Author(s): Abdel-Naser Elzouki, Saleh M. Bashir, Omar Elahmer, Islam Elzouki, Fathi Alkhattali
Background and study aimsGlobally, More than 350 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), and >20 million of them are co-infected with hepatitis D virus (HDV). The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of HDV infection in patients with chronic hepatitis B in three main tertiary hospitals in Tripoli and Benghazi, Libya.Patients and methodsThis cross sectional and descriptive study was conducted on 162 patients with chronic hepatitis B positive for more than six months) who were followed up at hepatitis clinics of the three main tertiary hospitals in Tripoli city (88 patients from Tripoli Medical Centre and Tripoli Central Hospital) and Benghazi city (74 patients from Aljomhoria Hospital) during the period from January 2010 to June 2012. HBV and HDV markers were detected by enzyme linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and HBV-DNA was quantified by real-time PCR techniques.ResultsThe mean age of patients was 36,92 ± 15,35. One hundred and three (63.6%) of them were males and 59 (36,4%) were females. Four patients (2,5%) were tested positive for anti-HD antibodies, all of them have had clinical and/or histological diagnosis of cirrhosis. In multivariable regression analysis, age (p = .04), elevation of serum ALT (p = .03), elevation of serum AST (p = .04), and presence of cirrhosis (p = .003) were significantly related to HDV seropositivity.ConclusionAlthough the study demonstrated that Libya has low to moderate prevalence of HDV (2,5%), it is important for policy makers and health care providers to continue the preventive measures for HDV spread, and HBV prevention program including utilization of HBV vaccine. Furthermore, it is imperative to screen chronic HBV patients for HDV for close observation for early diagnosis of subsequent development of liver cirrhosis. Moreover, further epidemiologic and genetic studies are needed to explore the trend for HDV infection in Libya.



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Value of water enema computed tomography in elderly symptomatic patients

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Arab Journal of Gastroenterology
Author(s): Heyfa Romdhane, Imen Marzouk, Zeineb Mzoughi, Meriem Cheikh, Meriem Dridi, Houcem Fadhl, Rym Ennaifer, Najet Belhadj
Background and study aimsColonoscopy remains the gold standard for the examination of the colon. However, its use in the elderly is not well tolerated, and there is often a need for general anaesthesia, thus increasing the risk, especially if there are co-morbidities. Water enema computed tomography has been suggested to be a satisfactory alternative as a non-invasive, fast and effective means for the diagnosis of colorectal supra-centimetric lesions.The aim of our study was to assess the performance of water enema computed tomography as first-line examination by calculating its negative predictive value (NPV) for the diagnosis of supra-centimetric lesions in symptomatic elderly referred to colonoscopy.Patients and methodsThis was a prospective study including 57 symptomatic patients older than 65 years. All patients were explored by water enema computed tomography at first, followed by colonoscopy, and responded to a questionnaire on the tolerance to the preparation and both procedures.ResultsThe mean age of patients was 73 years. The M:F sex ratio was 1.59. The most frequent indication for colonoscopy was bowel disorders associated with abdominal pain (30%). Water enema computed tomography allowed the diagnosis of tumours (n = 2), polyps (n = 6), diverticulosis (n = 7), inflammatory wall thickening (n = 1) and extra-colic lesions (n = 28). NPV of water enema computed tomography for supra-centimetric lesions was 96.5%. Sensitivity and specificity were 87.3% and 98%, respectively. However, for sub-centimetric lesions, water enema computed tomography had a low sensitivity estimated at 6%, specificity at 89.9%, positive predictive value at 91.9% and NPV at 27.7%.ConclusionWater enema computed tomography has proven to be a valuable and non-invasive method indicated as a first-line examination in case of colonic symptoms in the elderly to diagnose supra-centimetric lesions.



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High riding of brachiocephalic artery: A rare case of pulsatile anterior neck mass

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Egyptian Journal of Ear, Nose, Throat and Allied Sciences
Author(s): Bao Ling Wong, Shashi Gopalan, Muhammad Nasri Abu Bakar, Ming Huei Wong
Anterior neck swellings are common presentations that are seen in otorhinolaryngology clinics. We presented a rare diagnosis of pulsatile anterior neck swelling where a high riding brachiocephalic artery needs to be considered as a differential diagnosis. This 54-year-old lady presented with anterior neck swelling for one year which appear to be pulsatile, soft and non-tender mass. Ultrasound and Doppler scan, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scan revealed that the neck swelling corresponds to the high riding brachiocephalic artery. Hence, ultrasound scan is essential to detect any vascular lesion prior to biopsy or fine needle aspiration cytology as to avoid catastrophic hemorrhage.



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Postoperative nausea and vomiting after unrestricted clear fluids before day surgery: A retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND Guidance on pre-operative fluids fasting policy continues to evolve. Current European guidelines encourage the intake of oral fluids up to 2 h before the induction of general anaesthesia. From October 2014, Torbay Hospital Day Surgery Unit commenced an unrestricted fluid policy, encouraging patients to drink clear fluids up until the time of transfer to theatre. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting before and after the change to the unrestricted pre-operative clear oral fluids. DESIGN Retrospective, before and after study. SETTING Single district general hospital between November 2013 and February 2016. PATIENTS A total of 11 500 patients on the day case pathway who were receiving either sedation, general anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia or their combination. The data from these patients were collected routinely. This number of patients represents approximately 78% of all patients before the change in fluids policy and 74% after the change. Exclusions were patients undergoing a termination of pregnancy, or patients undergoing community dental procedures, from whom patient experience data are not collected. INTERVENTION Introduction of a change to the day surgery pathway policy permitting unrestricted clear oral fluids preoperatively until transfer to theatre (from October 2014). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. RESULTS The rates of nausea within 24 h postoperatively were 270/5192 (5.2%) when patients could not drink within 2 h of surgery, and 179/4724 (3.8%) when patients could drink up until surgery, a relative rate (95% confidence interval) of 0.73 (0.61 to 0.88), P = 0.00074. The corresponding rates of vomiting were 146/5186 (2.8%) and 104/4716 (2.2%), a relative rate (95% confidence interval) of 0.78 (0.61 to 1.00), P = 0.053. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that the liberal consumption of clear fluids before the induction of scheduled day case anaesthesia reduced the rates of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Correspondence to Dr Graham C. McCracken, MB, BCh, BAO, Department of Anaesthetics, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, Lowes Bridge, Torquay TQ2 7AA, Devon, UK E-mail: gmccracken@nhs.net © 2017 European Society of Anaesthesiology

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Knowledge Translation: the bridging function of Cochrane Rehabilitation

Publication date: Available online 12 December 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Stefano Negrini, Francesca Gimigliano, Chiara Arienti, Carlotte Kiekens
Cochrane Rehabilitation is aimed to ensure that all rehabilitation professionals can apply Evidence Based Clinical Practice and take decisions according to the best and most appropriate evidence in this specific field, combining the best available evidence as gathered by high quality Cochrane systematic reviews, with their own clinical expertise and the values of patients. This mission can be pursued through Knowledge Translation. The aim of this paper is to shortly present what Knowledge Translation is, how and why Cochrane (previously known as Cochrane Collaboration) is trying to reorganize itself in light of Knowledge Translation, and the relevance that this process has for Cochrane Rehabilitation and in the end for the whole world of Rehabilitation.It is well known how it is difficult to effectively apply in everyday life what we would like to do and to apply the scientific knowledge in the clinical field: this is called the "know-do gap". In the field of Evidence Based Medicine, where Cochrane belongs, it has been proven that high quality evidence is not consistently applied in practice. A solution to these problems is the so-called "Knowledge Translation". In this context, Cochrane Rehabilitation is organized to provide the best possible Knowledge Translation in both directions (bridging function), obviously toward the world of rehabilitation (spreading reviews), but also to the Cochrane community (production of reviews significant for rehabilitation). Cochrane is now strongly pushing to improve its KT activities, and this creates a strong base for Cochrane Rehabilitation work, focused not only on spreading the evidence, but also on improving its production to make it more meaningful for the world of rehabilitation.



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Characterizing the impact of adaptive planning on image-guided perineal interstitial brachytherapy for gynecologic malignancies

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Adam Gladwish, Ananth Ravi, Lisa Barbera, Lucas Mendez, Melanie Davidson, Laura D'Alimonte, David D'Souza, Matt Wronski, Eric Leung
PurposeTo determine the dosimetric impact of organ and implant motion/deformation in the context of adaptive planning in image-guided gynecologic brachytherapy using a 3-fraction transperineal approach.Methods and materialsTwenty-six patients were analyzed. Each patient was treated with three fractions given over a 24-h period using a single insertion. A planning CT scan (±MRI) was acquired before the first fraction. A verification scan was taken within 1 h following the second fraction. A single plan was delivered for Fractions 1 and 2 with an adaptive plan delivered for Fraction 3. Two evaluation frameworks were established. Framework 1 investigated the effects of motion/deformation from both implant and organs. Framework 2 investigated the impact of implant motion/deformation alone. Differences in high-risk clinical target volume (HRCTV) D90%, V100%, and bladder/rectum D2cc were assessed.ResultsFrom implant to verification, the HRCTV D90% and V100% decreased significantly (5.0%, p < 0.01; 3.1%, p < 0.01) and rectal D2cc was significantly higher (12.2%, p = 0.02). Adaptive planning recouped these changes. Implant changes resulted in a reduction in HRCTV dose and coverage, but no significant effect was seen in the bladder or rectum.ConclusionsAdaptive planning represents an important aspect of perineal-based interstitial image-guided brachytherapy given in three fractions; its absence would result in plan degradation.



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Development and characterization of an anthropomorphic breast phantom for permanent breast seed implant brachytherapy credentialing

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Michael Roumeliotis, Sarah Quirk, Matthew Skarsgard, Tiana Trumpour, Elizabeth Watt, Tyler Meyer
PurposeTo develop an anthropomorphic breast phantom for use in credentialing of permanent breast seed implant brachytherapy.Methods and MaterialsA representative external contour and target volume was used as the basis of mold manufacturing for anthropomorphic breast phantom development. Both target and normal tissue were composed of gel-like materials that provide suitable computed tomography and ultrasound contrast for brachytherapy delivery. The phantoms were evaluated for consistency in construction (target location) and Hounsfield unit (computed tomography contrast). For both target and normal tissue, the speed of sound was measured and compared to the image reconstruction algorithm's expectation value. Five phantoms were imaged preimplant and postimplant to assess interphantom similarity as well as to evaluate the uncertainty in quantifying seed position.ResultsThe average Hounsfield units of the target and normal tissue gels is −146 ± 5 and 23 ± 1, respectively. The average speed of sound of the target and normal tissue gels is 1485 ± 7 m/s and 1558 ± 9 m/s, respectively, resulting in an estimated 0.4 mm uncertainty in image guidance. The registration/deformation uncertainty was determined to be 0.8 mm. The standard combined uncertainty in assessing seed position spatial accuracy, also including a 0.9 mm estimate based on literature for seed localization, is estimated to be 1.3 mm.ConclusionsThe development of the anthropomorphic breast phantom and evaluation of both the consistency as well as overall seed position uncertainty illustrates the suitability of this phantom for use in brachytherapy end-to-end delivery and implant accuracy evaluation. When evaluating a user's implant accuracy, we estimate a standard combined uncertainty of 1.3 mm.



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Placement of an absorbable rectal hydrogel spacer in patients undergoing low-dose-rate brachytherapy with palladium-103

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Amandeep S. Taggar, Tomer Charas, Gil'ad N. Cohen, Keeratikarn Boonyawan, Marisa Kollmeier, Sean McBride, Nitin Mathur, Antonio L. Damato, Michael J. Zelefsky
PurposeRates of rectal toxicity after low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy for prostate cancer are dependent on rectal dose, which is associated with rectal distance from prostate and implanted seeds. Placement of a hydrogel spacer between the prostate and rectum has proven to reduce the volume of the rectum exposed to higher radiation dose levels in the setting of external beam radiotherapy. We present our findings with placing a rectal hydrogel spacer in patients following LDR brachytherapy, and we further assess the impact of this placement on dosimetry and acute rectal toxicity.Methods and MaterialsBetween January 2016 and April 2017, 74 patients had placement of a hydrogel spacer, immediately following a Pd-103 seed-implant procedure. Brachytherapy was delivered as follows: as a monotherapy to 26 (35%) patients; as part of planned combination therapy with external beam radiotherapy to 40 (54%) patients; or as a salvage monotherapy to eight (11%) patients. Postoperative MRI was used to assess separation achieved with rectal spacer. Acute toxicity was assessed retrospectively using Radiation Oncology Therapy Group radiation toxicity grading system. Rectal dosimetry was compared with a consecutive cohort of 136 patients treated with seed implantation at our institution without a spacer, using a 2-tailed paired Student's t test (p < 0.05 for statistical significance).ResultsOn average, 11.2-mm (SD 3.3) separation was achieved between the prostate and the rectum. The resultant mean rectal volume receiving 100% of prescribed dose (V100%), dose to 1 cc of rectum (D1cc), and dose to 2 cc of rectum (D2cc) were 0 (SD 0.05 cc), 25.3% (SD 12.7), and 20.5% (SD 9.9), respectively. All rectal dosimetric parameters improved significantly for the cohort with spacer placement as compared with the nonspacer cohort. Mean prostate volume, prostate V100 and dose to 90% of gland (D90) were 29.3 cc (SD 12.4), 94.0% (SD 3.81), and 112.4% (SD 12.0), respectively. Urethral D20, D5cc, and D1cc were 122.0% (SD 17.27), 133.8% (SD 22.8), and 144.0% (SD 25.4), respectively. After completing all treatments, at the time of first the followup, 7 patients reported acute rectal toxicity—6 experiencing Grade 1 rectal discomfort and 1 (with preexisting hemorrhoids) experiencing Grade 1 bleeding.ConclusionsInjection of rectal spacer is feasible in the post-LDR brachytherapy setting and reduces dose to the rectum with minimal toxicity. Prostate and urethral dosimetries do not appear to be affected by the placement of a spacer. Further studies with long-term followup are warranted to assess the impact on reduction of late rectal toxicity.



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Central Mound Mastopexy for the Correction of Tuberous/Tubular Breast Deformity

Summary: Tuberous and tubular breast deformity are well-recognized abnormalities in the plastic surgery community that incur severe physical and psychological consequences in affected patients. Current reconstructive options for the tuberous and tubular breasts favor the use of prosthetic implants and soft-tissue manipulation. We present a case of tuberous and tubular breast deformity treated with a central mound reduction technique and mastopexy with imbricating sutures without the use of prosthetic implants. The patient remained extremely pleased with her results at long-term follow-up. This represents a unique case of successful reconstruction in a patient with a tuberous and tubular breast deformity using a central mound reduction technique with mastopexy and without a prosthetic device.

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Gluteal Black Market Silicone–induced Renal Failure: A Case Report and Literature Review

Summary: Very few cases of successful surgical treatment for renal failure due to gluteal silicone injections have been reported in the literature. The silicone toxicity and subsequent renal failure seem to follow repetitive silicone injections and silicone injections in large quantities. This is a case of a 31-year-old woman who developed renal failure after 6 years of gluteal silicone injections who underwent radical resection of bilateral gluteal regions in an attempt to mitigate her impending complete renal failure. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed database and with assistance from medical library staff to conduct keyword searches for "Silicone," "Renal failure," "Silicone emboli syndrome," "Silicone granuloma," and "Silicone end organ toxicity." The search results were reviewed by the authors and selected based on the relevance to the case report presented. Extensive literature relating to silicone granulomas and their systemic effects supports the use of steroids for immediate treatment and eventual surgical resection for cure of the various silicone-related end-organ toxicities including renal failure.

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Cardiac function in pediatric patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency

Abstract

Background

Hyperandrogenism and exogenous glucocorticoid excess may cause unfavorable changes in the cardiovascular risk profile of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

Objective

To evaluate the cardiac function in pediatric patients with CAH.

Patients and methods

27 pediatric patients with CAH, aged 8-16 years, were evaluated by physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), conventional echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging and two-dimensional (2D) myocardial strain (rate) imaging. Results were compared to 27 age and gender matched healthy controls.

Results

No signs of left ventricular hypertrophy or dilatation were detected on ECG and echocardiography. ECG revealed a high prevalence (25.9%) of incomplete right bundle branch block. Left ventricular posterior wall thickness in diastole (LVPWd) was significantly lower in patients with CAH compared to controls (5.55 vs 6.53 mm; p=0.009). The LVPWd Z-score was significantly lower in patients with CAH yet within the normal range (-1.12 vs -0.35; p=0.002). Isovolumetric relaxation time was significantly lower in patients with CAH (49 vs 62 ms; p=0.003). Global longitudinal, radial and circumferential strain were not significantly different compared to controls. Global radial strain rate was significantly higher compared to healthy controls (2.58 vs 2.06 1/s; p=0.046). Global longitudinal strain was negatively correlated with 24 hour blood pressure parameters.

Conclusion

Cardiac evaluation of pediatric patients with CAH showed no signs of left ventricular hypertrophy or ventricular dilatation. LVPWd was lower in patients with CAH than in controls, but within the normal range. A shorter isovolumetric relaxation time in patients with CAH may be a sign of mild left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Neoadjuvant radiotherapy combined with capecitabine and sorafenib in patients with advanced KRAS-mutated rectal cancer: A phase I/II trial (SAKK 41/08)

Publication date: January 2018
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 89
Author(s): Roger von Moos, Dieter Koeberle, Sabina Schacher, Stefanie Hayoz, Ralph C. Winterhalder, Arnaud Roth, György Bodoky, Panagiotis Samaras, Martin D. Berger, Daniel Rauch, Piercarlo Saletti, Ludwig Plasswilm, Daniel Zwahlen, Urs R. Meier, Pu Yan, Paola Izzo, Dirk Klingbiel, Daniela Bärtschi, Kathrin Zaugg
BackgroundKRAS mutation occurs in ∼40% of locally advanced rectal cancers (LARCs). The multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor sorafenib has radiosensitising effects and might improve outcomes for standard preoperative chemoradiotherapy in patients with KRAS-mutated LARC.MethodsAdult patients with KRAS-mutated T3/4 and/or N1/2M0 LARC were included in this phase I/II study. The phase I dose-escalation study of capecitabine plus sorafenib and radiotherapy was followed by a phase II study assessing efficacy and safety. Primary end-points were to: establish the maximum tolerated dose of the regimen in phase I; determine the pathologic complete response (pCR) rate in phase II defined as Dworak regression grade 3 and 4.ResultsFifty-four patients were treated at 18 centres in Switzerland and Hungary; 40 patients were included in the single-arm phase II study. Recommended doses from phase I comprised radiotherapy (45 Gy in 25 fractions over 5 weeks) with capecitabine 825 mg/m² twice daily × 33 plus sorafenib 400 mg/d. Median daily dose intensity in phase II was radiotherapy 100%, capecitabine 98.6%, and sorafenib 100%. The pCR rate (Dworak 3/4) was 60% (95% CI, 43.3–75.1%) by central independent pathologic review. Sphincter preservation was achieved in 89.5%, R0 resection in 94.7%, and downstaging in 81.6%. The most common grade 3 toxicities during phase II included diarrhoea (15.0%), skin toxicity outside radiotherapy field (12.5%), pain (7.5%), skin toxicity in radiotherapy field, proctitis, fatigue and cardiac ischaemia (each 5%).ConclusionsCombining sorafenib and standard chemoradiotherapy with capecitabine is highly active in patients with KRAS-mutated LARC with acceptable toxicity and deserves further investigation. http://ift.tt/PmpYKN: NCT00869570.



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Metastatic cutaneous apocrine adenocarcinoma responsive to the programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor pembrolizumab

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer
Author(s): Max Rogatsch, Johannes Schmid, Sigurd Lax, Maximilian Uranitsch, Karin Schmid-Zalaudek, Roberta Giuffrida, Iris Zalaudek




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Fertilizer effects of composted materials from different sources on cultivating Impatiens balsamina L. in municipal solid waste management

Abstract

At different stages of municipal solid waste management, several technologies such as home composting, industrial composting, and landfill mining could be used to recycle organic matters. Assessing the quality of composted material is crucial for determining where and how for recycling the organic fractions of municipal solid waste (OFMSW). Current studies mainly focused on comparing their biochemical characteristics and environmental impacts; however, comprehensive effects on cultivating plants were rarely compared with composted materials from different sources. Here, the final composting products from home composting (HC), industrial composting (IC), and landfill mining (LM), with different mixing ratios between OFMSW and soil (25, 50, 75, and 100%), were applied for cultivating Impatiens balsamina L. to examine the growing and flowering features under 195 days of observation. We found that all types of composted materials showed positive effects on growth of impatiens; however, their individual profiles were significant different. Generally, compost from HC showed the best comprehensive effects on the plant. Impatiens' dry weight biomass and maximum number of leaves and flowers of HC were1.5 and 2.8 times, 1.1 and 1.6 times, and 1.8 and 4.2 times than those of IC and LM, respectively. Compost from IC was superior in prolonging leaf-growing phase and increasing photosynthesis pigment contents of impatiens. Although comprehensive effect of fine fraction from landfill mining was much lower than HC and IC compost, it still improved impatiens growth and flowering compared to normal sandy soil. The results suggest that direct comprehensive effect on plants growth, flowering, and physiological influences could be introduced as an indicator when we compare different approach to recycle organics from MSW. Comprehensive effect on plants growth, flowering, and physiological influences could be introduced as a direct indicator for assessing organic waste recycling.

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Environmental exposure to cadmium—a risk for health of the general population in industrialized countries and preventive strategies

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal belonging to the group of the main chemical pollutants of the natural and occupational environment in economically developed countries. The forecasts indicate that contamination of the environment with this toxic metal, and thus the exposure of the general population, will increase. Food (particularly plant products) is the main source of the general population exposure to this element. Moreover, an important, and often the main, source of intoxication with Cd is habitual tobacco smoking. Recent epidemiological studies have provided numerous evidence that even low-level environmental exposure to this toxic metal, nowadays occurring in numerous economically developed countries, creates a risk for health of the general population. The low-level lifetime exposure to this metal may lead to the damage to the kidneys, liver, skeletal system, and cardiovascular system, as well as to the deterioration of the sight and hearing. Moreover, it has been suggested that environmental exposure to this xenobiotic may contribute to the development of cancer of the lung, breast, prostate, pancreas, urinary bladder, and nasopharynx. Taking the above into account, the aim of this review article is to draw more attention to Cd as an environmental risk factor for the health of the general population and the need to undertake preventive actions allowing to reduce the risk of health damage due to a lifetime exposure to this toxic metal.

http://ift.tt/2C572f1

Response of energy microalgae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to nitrogen and phosphorus stress

Abstract

Microalgae can effectively absorb nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in wastewater, while growth characteristics can be affected by such nutrients. The influences of the N and P concentration on growth, biomass yield, protein yield, and cell ultrastructure of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii) were investigated in this study. The results showed that, in the optimum conditions (24–72 mg/L for N and 4.5–13.5 mg/L for P), the final biomass and protein content of C. reinhardtii could reach maximum value, and the cell organelles (chloroplast, mitochondria,etc.) showed good structures with larger chloroplasts, and more and neater thylakoids. However, if the concentration of nutrients was much higher or lower than the optimal value, it would cause adverse effects on the growth of C. reinhardtii, especially in high nitrogen (1000 mg/L) and low phosphorus (0.5 mg/L) conditions. Under these extreme conditions, the ultrastructure of the cells was also damaged significantly as follows: the majority of the organelles were deformed, the chloroplast membrane became shrunken, and the mitochondria became swollen, even partial disintegrated (differing slightly under high-N and low-P conditions); furthermore, it is found that C. reinhardtii was more sensitive to low-P stress. On the basis of these results, our findings have general implications in the application of wastewater treatment.

http://ift.tt/2nQ7A5n

Exploiting the therapeutic potential of ready-to-use drugs: repurposing antibiotics against amyloid aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Progress in Neurobiology
Author(s): Sergio B. Socias, Florencia Gonzalez-Lizarraga, Cesar L. Avila, Cecilia Vera, Leonardo Acuña, Julia E. Sepulveda-Diaz, Elaine Del-Bel, Rita Raisman-Vozari, Rosana N. Chehin
Neurodegenerative diseases are chronic and progressive disorders that affect specific regions of the brain, causing gradual disability and suffering that results in a complete inability of patients to perform daily functions. Amyloid aggregation of specific proteins is the most common biological event that is responsible for neuronal death and neurodegeneration in various neurodegenerative diseases. Therapeutic agents capable of interfering with the abnormal aggregation are required, but traditional drug discovery has fallen short. The exploration of new uses for approved drugs provides a useful alternative to fill the gap between the increasing incidence of neurodegenerative diseases and the long-term assessment of classical drug discovery technologies. Drug re-profiling is currently the quickest possible transition from bench to bedside. In this way, experimental evidence shows that some antibiotic compounds exert neuroprotective action through anti-aggregating activity on disease-associated proteins. The finding that many antibiotics can cross the blood-brain barrier and have been used for several decades without serious toxic effects makes them excellent candidates for therapeutic switching towards neurological disorders. The present review is, to our knowledge, the first extensive evaluation and analysis of the anti-amyloidogenic effect of different antibiotics on well-known disease-associated proteins. In addition, we propose a common structural signature derived from the antiaggregant antibiotic molecules that could be relevant to rational drug discovery.



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Is Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio a New Standard of Care for Physiologic Assessment of Coronary Lesions?: More Questions Than Answers.

Author: Kern, Morton J. MD; Seto, Arnold H. MD

Page: 2295-2297

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Recent Evolution of the Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease in China: A Conversation With Ya-Ling Han, MD, PhD.

Author: Han, Ya-Ling MD, PhD; Rutherford, John D. MB ChB

Page: 2298-2302

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Increase in Endovascular Therapy in Get With The Guidelines-Stroke After the Publication of Pivotal Trials.

Author: Smith, Eric E. MD, MPH; Saver, Jeffrey L. MD; Cox, Margueritte MSc, MGIST; Liang, Li PhD; Matsouaka, Roland PhD; Xian, Ying MD, PhD; Bhatt, Deepak L. MD, MPH; Fonarow, Gregg C. MD; Schwamm, Lee H. MD

Page: 2303-2310

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Interhospital Transfer Before Thrombectomy Is Associated With Delayed Treatment and Worse Outcome in the STRATIS Registry (Systematic Evaluation of Patients Treated With Neurothrombectomy Devices for Acute Ischemic Stroke).

Author: Froehler, Michael T. MD, PhD; Saver, Jeffrey L. MD; Zaidat, Osama O. MD; Jahan, Reza MD; Aziz-Sultan, Mohammad Ali MD; Klucznik, Richard P. MD; Haussen, Diogo C. MD; Hellinger, Frank R. Jr. MD, PhD; Yavagal, Dileep R. MD; Yao, Tom L. MD; Liebeskind, David S. MD; Jadhav, Ashutosh P. MD, PhD; Gupta, Rishi MD; Hassan, Ameer E. DO; Martin, Coleman O. MD; Bozorgchami, Hormozd MD; Kaushal, Ritesh MD; Nogueira, Raul G. MD; Gandhi, Ravi H. MD; Peterson, Eric C. MD; Dashti, Shervin R. MD, PhD; Given, Curtis A. II MD; Mehta, Brijesh P. MD; Deshmukh, Vivek MD; Starkman, Sidney MD; Linfante, Italo MD; McPherson, Scott H. MD; Kvamme, Peter MD; Grobelny, Thomas J. MD; Hussain, Muhammad S. MD; Thacker, Ike MD; Vora, Nirav MD; Chen, Peng Roc MD; Monteith, Stephen J. MD; Ecker, Robert D. MD; Schirmer, Clemens M. MD, PhD; Sauvageau, Eric MD; Abou-Chebl, Alex MD; Derdeyn, Colin P. MD; Maidan, Lucian MD; Badruddin, Aamir MD; Siddiqui, Adnan H. MD, PhD; Dumont, Travis M. MD; Alhajeri, Abdulnasser MD; Taqi, M. Asif MD; Asi, Khaled MD; Carpenter, Jeffrey MD; Boulos, Alan MD; Jindal, Gaurav MD; Puri, Ajit S. MD; Chitale, Rohan MD; Deshaies, Eric M. MD; Robinson, David H. MD; Kallmes, David F. MD; Baxter, Blaise W. MD; Jumaa, Mouhammad A. MD; Sunenshine, Peter MD; Majjhoo, Aniel MD; English, Joey D. MD; Suzuki, Shuichi MD; Fessler, Richard D. MD; Delgado Almandoz, Josser E. MD; Martin, Jerry C. MD; Mueller-Kronast, Nils H. MD; on behalf of the STRATIS Investigators

Page: 2311-2321

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Optimizing Systems of Care for Endovascular Thrombectomy in Ischemic Stroke: Drip and Ship Versus Mothership.

Author: Campbell, Bruce C.V. PhD; Donnan, Geoffrey A. MD; Davis, Stephen M. MD

Page: 2322-2324

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Integrated Noninvasive Physiological Assessment of Coronary Circulatory Function and Impact on Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients With Stable Coronary Artery Disease.

Author: Gupta, Ankur MD, PhD; Taqueti, Viviany R. MD, MPH; van de Hoef, Tim P. MD, PhD; Bajaj, Navkaranbir S. MD, MPH; Bravo, Paco E. MD; Murthy, Venkatesh L. MD, PhD; Osborne, Michael T. MD; Seidelmann, Sara B. MD, PhD; Vita, Tomas MD; Bibbo, Courtney F. MSc; Harrington, Meagan BS; Hainer, Jon BS; Rimoldi, Ornella MD; Dorbala, Sharmila MD; Bhatt, Deepak L. MD, MPH; Blankstein, Ron MD; Camici, Paolo G. MD; Di Carli, Marcelo F. MD

Page: 2325-2336

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cGMP-Elevating Compounds and Ischemic Conditioning Provide Cardioprotection Against Ischemia and Reperfusion Injury via Cardiomyocyte-Specific BK Channels.

Author: Frankenreiter, Sandra Dr rer nat; Bednarczyk, Piotr Dr hab; Kniess, Angelina; Bork, Nadja I. MSc; Straubinger, Julia Dr rer nat; Koprowski, Piotr Dr hab; Wrzosek, Antoni Dr; Mohr, Eva MSc; Logan, Angela PhD; Murphy, Michael P. PhD; Gawaz, Meinrad Dr med; Krieg, Thomas Dr med; Szewczyk, Adam Dr hab; Nikolaev, Viacheslav O. Dr rer nat; Ruth, Peter Dr rer nat; Lukowski, Robert Dr rer nat

Page: 2337-2355

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Cardioprotection Is Alive But Remains Enigmatic: The Nitric Oxide-Protein Kinases-Mitochondria Signaling Axis.

Author: Heusch, Gerd MD

Page: 2356-2358

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Pathologic Stimulus Determines Lineage Commitment of Cardiac C-kit+ Cells.

Author: Chen, Zhongming PhD *,,; Zhu, Wuqiang MD, PhD *,,; Bender, Ingrid BS; Gong, Wuming PhD; Kwak, Il-Youp PhD; Yellamilli, Amritha BS; Hodges, Thomas J.; Nemoto, Natsumi BS; Zhang, Jianyi MD, PhD; Garry, Daniel J. MD, PhD; van Berlo, Jop H. MD, PhD

Page: 2359-2372

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Stem Cell Therapy for Congenital Heart Disease: A Systematic Review.

Author: Tsilimigras, Diamantis I. MD; Oikonomou, Evangelos K. MD; Moris, Demetrios MD, MSc, PhD; Schizas, Dimitrios MD, PhD; Economopoulos, Konstantinos P. MD, PhD; Mylonas, Konstantinos S. MD

Page: 2373-2385

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Regular Tachycardia With Abnormal QRS Axis.

Author: Choudhury, Rajin MD; Duytschaever, Mattias MD, PhD; Knecht, Sebastien MD, PhD; Vandekerckhove, Yves MD; Tavernier, Rene MD, PhD

Page: 2386-2388

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Meta-Analysis of Death and Myocardial Infarction in the DEFINE-FLAIR and iFR-SWEDEHEART Trials.

Author: Berry, Colin MBChB, PhD *,,; McClure, John D. PhD *,; Oldroyd, Keith G. MD(Hons)

Page: 2389-2391

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Letter by Jin-Shan and Xue-Bin Regarding Article, "Fractional Flow Reserve and Cardiac Events in Coronary Artery Disease: Data From a Prospective IRIS-FFR Registry (Interventional Cardiology Research Incooperation Society Fractional Flow Reserve)".

Author: Jin-Shan, He MD; Xue-Bin, Li MD

Page: 2392

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Response by Ahn and Park to Letter Regarding Article, "Fractional Flow Reserve and Cardiac Events in Coronary Artery Disease: Data From a Prospective IRIS-FFR Registry (Interventional Cardiology Research Incooperation Society Fractional Flow Reserve)".

Author: Ahn, Jung-Min MD; Park, Seung-Jung MD

Page: 2393-2394

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Letter by Triantafyllou and Straub Regarding Article, "Thresholds for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Among African Americans in the Jackson Heart Study".

Author: Triantafyllou, Georgios A. MD; Straub, Adam C. PhD

Page: 2395-2396

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Letter by Chi and Marszalek Regarding Article, "Composite End Points in Clinical Research: A Time for Reappraisal".

Author: Chi, Gerald MD; Marszalek, Jolanta MD

Page: 2397-2398

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American Heart Association Principles on the Accessibility and Affordability of Drugs and Biologics: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association.

Author: Antman, Elliott M. MD, FAHA, Chair; Creager, Mark A. MD, FAHA; Houser, Steven R. MD, FAHA; Warner, John J. MD, FAHA; Konig, Madeleine MPH; On behalf of the American Heart Association

Page: e441-e447

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Late-Breaking Science Abstracts From the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2017 and Late-Breaking Abstracts in Resuscitation Science From the Resuscitation Science Symposium 2017.

Author:

Page: e448-e467

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Decisional balance and self-efficacy mediate the association among provider advice, health literacy and cervical cancer screening

Publication date: February 2018
Source:European Journal of Oncology Nursing, Volume 32
Author(s): Kyounghae Kim, Qian-Li Xue, Benita Walton-Moss, Marie T. Nolan, Hae-Ra Han
PurposeHealth literacy has emerged as a potential determinant of cancer screening, yet limited literature has investigated the pathways which health literacy influences Pap tests among immigrant women who experience a higher incidence of cervical cancer. This study aimed to test a health literacy-focused sociocognitive model which proposes motivational (knowledge, decisional balance) and volitional (self-efficacy) factors mediating the association between health literacy and triennial Pap tests.MethodsUsing structural equation modeling, we conducted a secondary analysis of baseline data obtained from a randomized controlled trial to promote breast and cervical cancer screenings among 560 Korean American women 21–65 years of age. They were interviewed on demographics such as education and English proficiency, provider advice, health literacy, knowledge of cervical cancer, decisional balance for Pap tests, self-efficacy, and Pap test use.ResultsHigher health literacy predicted high level of knowledge and high decisional balance score, and greater self-efficacy and then only decisional balance and self-efficacy affected Pap tests. High level of knowledge predicted Pap tests through its impact on the decisional balance score. Receiving provider advice both directly and indirectly predicted Pap tests through high level of health literacy, high level of decisional balance and greater self-efficacy.ConclusionsFindings from this study suggest possible pathways through which provider advice and health literacy affect Pap tests. Interventions targeting immigrant women with limited English proficiency should consider skill-based approaches such as health literacy training, promoting patient-provider communications and emphasizing decisional balance and self-efficacy as potentially sustainable ways of promoting Pap tests.



http://ift.tt/2iWiDoh

Fibula osteomyocutaneous free flap in mandibular reconstruction: clinical experience in a community-based hospital

Abstract

Background

The fibula free flap (FFF) constitutes the gold standard surgical approach for mandibular reconstruction. Mandible reconstruction is routinely performed in high-volume academic centers. To our best knowledge, this is the first case series exclusively dedicated on FFF conducted in community hospitals. This study evaluates our 10-year experience with FFF mandible reconstruction in two community hospitals.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of all 12 patients who underwent partial or total mandibulectomy with concomitant mandible reconstruction using FFF from September 2005 through February 2015.

Results

The majority of the patients were men (75%) with a mean age of 61 years. Eleven (91.7%) patients had malignancies of the head and neck, and 10 (83.3%) received preoperative XRT. Overall flap survival was 100%, with no arterial/venous thrombosis or malunion. Partial flap failure (with skin paddle necrosis) was reported in only 1 patient, but the bone was viable and survived. Recipient-site wound infection, hardware exposure, and orocutaneous fistula occurred among previously irradiated patients, and in those who were suffering from osteoradionecrosis.

Conclusions

Our FFF outcomes were non-inferior to those reported in specialized university hospitals and are evidence that successful results can be obtained outside of high-volume academic centers. FFF represents a reliable surgical approach for mandible reconstruction in university and community hospitals.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

http://ift.tt/2AMsLZ4

The aetiopathogenesis of capsular contracture: a systematic review of the literature

Capsular contracture is the most frequent complication after breast augmentation or reconstruction with breast implants. The immune system plays a prominent role in capsular contracture formation, albeit to an unknown extent. Bacterial contamination in situ has been hypothesized to be causative for capsular contracture. How this relates to the immunological processes involved is unknown. This article aims to provide an overview of immunological and bacterial factors involved in development of capsular contracture.

http://ift.tt/2AMFcUM

Can you tell the difference: round vs anatomical implants – a real-time global ballot

Round and anatomical implants are used throughout the world for breast augmentation. However, controversy persists as to which provides the most aesthetically pleasing results, with a paucity of evidence comparing the cosmetic outcome of the two shapes. Many argue that in the majority of patients it is impossible to tell whether augmentation has been carried out using anatomical or round implants. We performed a live global ballot at the London Breast Meeting 2016 to determine whether delegates from around the world could determine the shape of implants used to augment 50 patients.

http://ift.tt/2BX1RNr

Gamification

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Author(s): D.C. Craig Liebenson




http://ift.tt/2C5ZPeE

Correlations between the Helkimo indices and the maximal mandibular excursion capacities of patients with temporomandibular joint disorders

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Author(s): Victor Moreira Leamari, Alex de Freitas Rodrigues, Rubens Camino Junior, João Gualberto C. Luz
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) may present with diverse signs and symptoms, and one very significant is the limitation of mandibular movements. Additionally, the Helkimo indices allow for the reliable quantification of the signs and symptoms of TMD. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether there are any correlations between the Helkimo indices and the maximal mandibular excursion capacity in a group of patients with TMD. Eighty patients (72 women and 8 men, mean age 33.6 years) with diagnosis of TMD according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) were evaluated to obtain the Helkimo indices and their maximal mandibular excursion capacities. Normal or decreased maximum mandibular movements, i.e., opening, lateral and protrusion were compared with the anamnestic index, muscular pain symptoms, joint pain symptoms and the dysfunction index. Chi-squared analysis was used to compare normal and decreased movement capacities in terms of the Helkimo indices, and the muscle and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. The statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19.0. There were statistically significant differences in the clinical dysfunction index with the maximum opening (p = .011) and lateral movements (p = .024) but not with the maximum protrusion. There were no significant differences in the anamnestic index or the muscle pain and TMJ pain items of the clinical dysfunction index according to the mandibular excursions. The occurrences of limitations in the maximum opening and lateral movements are indications of greater TMD intensity.



http://ift.tt/2nQZppI

Anxiolytic effect of CPEB1 knockdown on the amygdala of a mouse model of inflammatory pain

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Brain Research Bulletin
Author(s): Jiao Yue, Xin-shang Wang, Yan-yan Guo, Kai-yin Zheng, Hai-yan Liu, Li-ning Hu, Ming-gao Zhao, Shui-bing Liu
Anxiety disorders are a category of mental disorders characterized by feelings of anxiety, stress, and fear attached to various sources. However, their pathogenesis is complicated and has not been fully elucidated. The amygdala is a vital brain region that regulates anxiety and mental disorders. Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein 1 (CPEB1) mediates the extension of the mRNA polyadenylation tail and facilitates the translation of target RNA. CPEB1 is closely related to neuronal diseases, such as Fragile X Syndrome, learning and memory disorders, and chronic pain. In this study, the role of CPEB1 in anxiety development was determined in a pain-mediated anxiety mouse model. The anxiety model was established in mice by injecting with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the hindpaw. CFA injection then led to anxiety-like behaviors and increased the CPEB1 levels in the mouse basolateral amygdala (BLA). CPEB1 enhancement facilitated the translation of GluA1, GluN2A, GluN2B, PSD95, and GABA receptors, which disturbed the E/I balance in the BLA as shown by enhanced excitatory presynaptic release and reduced inhibitory presynaptic release. CPEB1 knockdown with AAV-CPEB1-shRNA alleviated the anxiety-like behaviors but not the pain-like behaviors by enhancing inhibitory transmission in the BLA of model mice. The data suggest that CPEB1 participates in anxiety development by regulating excitatory/inhibitory synaptic transmission in the BLA.



http://ift.tt/2kZHbB6

Sleep deprivation decreases neuronal excitability and responsiveness in rats both in vivo and ex vivo

Publication date: Available online 11 December 2017
Source:Brain Research Bulletin
Author(s): Sándor Borbély, Ildikó Világi, Zsófia Haraszti, Örs Szalontai, Tünde Hajnik, Attila Tóth, László Détári
Sleep deprivation has severe consequences for higher nervous functions. Its effects on neuronal excitability may be one of the most important factors underlying functional deterioration caused by sleep loss. In the present work, excitability changes were studied using two complementary in vivo and ex vivo models. Auditory evoked potentials were recorded from freely-moving animals in vivo. Amplitude of evoked responses showed a near-continuous decrease during deprivation. Prevention of sleep also reduced synaptic efficacy ex vivo, measured from brain slices derived from rats that underwent sleep deprivation. While seizure susceptibility was not affected significantly by sleep deprivation in these preparations, the pattern of spontaneous seizure activity was altered. If seizures developed, they lasted longer and tended to contain more spikes in slices obtained from sleep-deprived than from control rats. Current-source density analysis revealed that location and sequence of activation of local cortical networks recruited by seizures did not change by sleep deprivation. Moderate differences seen in the amplitude of individual sinks and sources might be explained by smaller net transmembrane currents as a consequence of decreased excitability. These findings contradict the widely accepted conception of synaptic homeostasis suggesting gradual increase of excitability during wakefulness. Our results also indicate that decreased neuronal excitability caused by sleep deprivation is preserved in slices prepared from rats immediately after deprivation. This observation might mean new opportunities to explore the effects of sleep deprivation in ex vivo preparations that allow a wider range of experimental manipulations and more sophisticated methods of analysis than in vivo preparations.

Graphical abstract

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Photodynamic therapy for treatment of oral mucositis: Pilot study with pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 21
Author(s): Vânia Cavalcanti Ribeiro da Silva, Fabiana Moura da Motta Silveira, Gabriela Souza Lima, Mônica Moreira Dias da Cruz, Arnaldo de França Caldas Júnior, Gustavo Pina Godoy
BackgroundOral mucositis has become a major dose-limiting toxicity of antineoplastic treatment.AimThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and low level laser therapy (LLLT) on the treatment of chemotherapy-induced mucositis in pediatric patients.MethodsAn open, controlled, and blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted with 29 patients, from 10 months to 18 years old, who were divided into two groups. Group A was submitted to photodynamic therapy (0.01% Methylene Blue and red laser, λ660nm) with 3J energy per point; and Group B submitted to low level laser therapy (λ660nm) with 1J energy per point. The results were evaluated by using the WHO and ChIMES mucositis scales. The Chi-square, Exact Fisher, Student's-t and Mann-Whitney tests, and the mixed linear regression model were used for comparison between the groups, with the maximum error admitted of 5%.ResultsThere was no difference between the groups as regards the number of sessions necessary for clinical cure of the oral lesions (p=0.954) or reduction in pain reported by the patients (p=0.258; p=0.486). Within each group, however, there was significant reduction in pain (p=0.032; p=0.003). The number needed to treat (NNT) was 4.75.ConclusionsPDT or LLLT could be used for treatment of oral mucositis in children/young patients. Each were well tolerated and presented satisfactory results in reducing pain associated with the lesion.



http://ift.tt/2ygkfyq

Novel potential photodynamic therapy strategy using 5-Aminolevulinic acid for ovarian clear-cell carcinoma

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 21
Author(s): Toshiya Teshigawara, Mika Mizuno, Takuya Ishii, Yuya Kitajima, Fumi Utsumi, Jun Sakata, Hiroaki Kajiyama, Kiyosumi Shibata, Masahiro Ishizuka, Fumitaka Kikkawa
BackgroundPhotodynamic therapy (PDT) is known as a minimally invasive treatment for cancer. 5-Aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is a precursor of the photosensitizing agent protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). Patients with ovarian clear-cell carcinoma (CCC) have poorer prognoses than those of patients with other histological CCC types. We evaluated the efficacy of ALA-PDT on CCC cells in vitro.MethodsWe used seven human CCC cell lines to measure the cytotoxicity of ALA-PDT. PpIX production in cancer cells was measured using a micro-plate reader. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to assess the mRNA levels of genes involved in the accumulation of PpIX in cancer cells. Additionally, we measured the enhancement in cytotoxicity with the use of an ABCG2 inhibitor.ResultsWe found that three cell lines were highly sensitive to ALA-PDT. In contrast, one cell line was resistant to ALA-PDT. The cytotoxicity of ALA-PDT varied among CCC cell lines. The IC50 values of ALA-PDT for the CCC cell lines had a wide range (30–882μM). The cytotoxicity of ALA-PDT was correlated with the intracellular PpIX accumulation. The cell lines sensitive to ALA-PDT expressed PEPT1 (an ALA uptake transporter). The cell line resistant to ALA-PDT expressed ABCG2 (a PpIX export transporter). In the resistant cell line, a combination treatment with both ALA and an ABCG2 inhibitor resulted in the promotion of cytotoxic sensitivity.ConclusionThe present study revealed the efficacy of ALA-PDT against CCC with chemoresistance in vitro.



http://ift.tt/2AuDoCS

Successful treatment of Rosai-Dorfman disease using ALA-PDT

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, Volume 21
Author(s): Li Sun, Jiaqi Shi, Zhonglan Su, Meihua Zhang, Yan Lu
Rosai-Dorfman disease is a rare inflammatory cutaneous histiocytosis with the involvement of lymph nodes. Therapeutic interventions include thalidomide, corticosteroids, surgical excision and radiotherapy . In this article, we report a case that was successfully treated with ALA photodynamic therapy.



http://ift.tt/2yfW4jV

Preparation and assessment of carboxylate polyelectrolyte as draw solute for forward osmosis

Abstract

Reverse draw solute diffusion not only reduces the water flux in forward osmosis (FO), but also contaminates the feed solution and eventually increases the regeneration cost of draw solution. In the present study, a new polyelectrolyte was synthesized as FO draw solute to address this problem. Acrylic acid and sodium p-styrenesulfonate monomers with hydrophilic group were used to fabricate carboxylate polyelectrolyte through free radical polymerization reaction. Results demonstrated that the osmotic pressure of carboxylate polyelectrolyte solution had a good linear relationship with concentration, and the viscosity of 0.18 g/mL solution was less than 5.4 cP. Active layer facing draw solution produced the initial water flux of 11.77 LMH and active layer facing feed solution yielded the initial water flux of 6.68 LMH when the concentration of draw solution was 0.18 g/mL. The reverse solute flux was around 1 gMH, and specific reverse solute flux of 0.18 g/mL carboxylate polyelectrolyte draw solution was 0.11 g/L which was much lower than that of traditional inorganic salts. Finally, diluted draw solution was regenerated via ultrafiltration, and the recovery efficiency of 94.78% was achieved. So, carboxylate polyelectrolyte can be suitable draw solute for FO.

http://ift.tt/2iS3zrV

Investigating monsoon and post-monsoon variabilities of bacterioplankton communities in a mangrove ecosystem

Abstract

In mangrove environments, bacterioplankton communities constitute an important component of aquatic biota and play a major role in ecosystem processes. Variability of bacterioplankton communities from Sundarbans mangrove, located in the Indian subcontinent in South Asia and sits on the apex of Bay of Bengal, was investigated over monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. The study was undertaken in two stations in Sundarbans using 16S rRNA clone library and Illumina MiSeq approaches with focus on the functionally important members that participate in coastal biogeochemical cycling. Out of 544 sequenced clones, Proteobacteria dominated the study area (373 sequences) with persistence of two major classes, namely, Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria across both monsoon and post-monsoon seasons in both stations. Several sequences belonging to Sphingomonadales, Chromatiales, Alteromonadales, Oceanospirillales, and Bacteroidetes were encountered that are known to play important roles in coastal carbon cycling. Some sequences showed identity with published uncultured Planctomycetes and Chloroflexi highlighting their role in nitrogen cycling. The detection of two novel clades highlighted the existence of indigenous group of bacterioplankton that may play important roles in this ecosystem. The eubacterial V3–V4 region from environmental DNA extracted from the above two stations, followed by sequencing in Illumina MiSeq system, was also targeted in the study. A congruency between the clone library and Illumina approaches was observed. Strong variability in bacterioplankton community structure was encountered at a seasonal scale in link with precipitation. Drastic increase in sediment associated bacteria such as members of Firmicutes and Desulfovibrio was found in monsoon hinting possible resuspension of sediment-dwelling bacteria into the overlying water column. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed dissolved ammonium and dissolved nitrate to account for maximum variation observed in the bacterioplankton community structure. Overall, the study showed that a strong interplay exists between environmental parameters and observed variability in bacterioplankton communities as a result of precipitation which can ultimately influence processes and rates linked to coastal biogeochemical cycles.

http://ift.tt/2iS0Y1a

Available forms of nutrients and heavy metals control the distribution of microbial phospholipid fatty acids in sediments of the Three Gorges Reservoir, China

Abstract

The construction of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) as well as the development of local industry and agriculture not only had tremendous impacts on the environment but also affected human health. Although water, soil, and air in the TGR have been well studied for environmental risk assessment, very little information is available on benthic sediments and microorganisms. In this study, sedimentary samples were collected along the main stream of the TGR to examine microbial phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) and relevant variables (e.g., nutrients and heavy metals) after the full operation of the TGR. The results showed that there were prominent trends (increase or decrease) of sedimentary PLFAs and properties from downstream to upstream. Bacteria-specific PLFA decreased toward the dam, while fungi-specific PLFA did not show any significant trend. The PLFA ratio of fungi to bacteria (F/B) increased along the mainstream. The total PLFA concentration, which represents the microbial biomass, decreased significantly toward the dam. Upstream and downstream sampling points were clearly distinguished by PLFA ordination in the redundancy analysis (RDA). That finding showed microbial PLFAs to have an obvious distribution pattern (increase or decrease) in the TGR. The PLFA distribution was markedly controlled by nutrients and heavy metals, but nutrients were more important. Moreover, among nutrients, Bio-P, NH₄⁺-N, NO₃⁻-N, and DOC were more important than TP, TN, TOC, and pH in controlling PLFA distribution. For heavy metals, Tl, V, Mo, and Ni were more important than Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb. These findings suggested that Tl, V, Mo, and Ni should not be ignored to guard against their pollution in the TGR, and we should pay attention to them and make them our first priority. This study highlighted that the construction of the TGR changed riverine environments and altered microbial communities in sediments by affecting sedimentary properties. It is a reminder that the microbial ecology of sediment as an indicator should be considered in assessing the eco-risk of the TGR.

http://ift.tt/2l1DpHH

Melanoma of the Face and Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Nationwide Mortality Data Analysis

BACKGROUND Although Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), narrow margin excision (NME), and wide margin excision (WME) are commonly used to treat melanoma of the face, there is a paucity of data comparing mortality outcomes for each method. OBJECTIVE To determine the association between surgical method used to treat cutaneous melanoma of the face and patient survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective review of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries for patients diagnosed with melanoma of the face between 2003 and 2012 was conducted. RESULTS The authors query resulted in 43,443 records. Patients with melanoma were more likely to undergo NME (57.79%) than WME (27.86%) or MMS (14.36%). Overall 5-year risk of death was higher with WME (hazard ratio [HR], 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.23; p = .043) and NME (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.00–1.20; p = .046) relative to MMS after adjusting for patient demographics, residence socioeconomic factors, and tumor characteristics. No statistically significant difference in melanoma-specific mortality was found between different surgical methods on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION Patients with melanoma of the face treated with MMS had similar melanoma-specific mortality or overall survival outcome as patients treated by other surgical modalities. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Nathalie C. Zeitouni, MDMC, FRCPC, University of Arizona, College of Medicine—Phoenix, University of Arizona Cancer Center at Dignity Health, 625 N. 6th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004, or e-mail: nathaliezeitouni@email.arizona.edu Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the full text and PDF versions of this article on the journal's Web site (http://ift.tt/2bw6lgr). The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. © 2017 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2kZxTVY

Evaluating the Therapeutic Success of Keloids Treated With Cryotherapy and Intralesional Corticosteroids Using Noninvasive Objective Measures

BACKGROUND Intralesional corticosteroid injections combined with cryotherapy are considered a first-line therapy for keloids. However, objective evaluation on its efficacy is widely missing. OBJECTIVE In this study, the authors evaluated the therapeutic benefits of cryotherapy directly followed by intralesional crystalline triamcinolone acetonide injections using ultrasound and a 3D topographic imaging device. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifteen patients with keloids were treated with cryotherapy and intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide for a total of 4 times at intervals of 4 weeks. Objective assessment was performed at each visit. RESULTS After the last treatment, a significant average reduction of scar volume of 34.3% and an average decrease in scar height of 41.3% as determined by 3D imaging was observed compared with baseline. Ultrasound revealed an average reduction of scar height of 31.7% and an average decrease in tissue penetration depth of 37.8% when compared with baseline measurements. CONCLUSION Objective measurements of relevant keloid characteristics as height, volume, and penetration depth help in quantifying the therapeutic effect. The observed results confirm that intralesional injections of crystalline triamcinolone acetonide combined with cryotherapy represent a powerful approach to reduce scar height and volume significantly. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Hannah Schwaiger, MD, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Frauenlobstr. 9-11, 80337 Munich, Germany, or e-mail: hannah.schwaiger@web.de The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. © 2017 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2iRvybf

Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Tretinoin in Treatment of Striae Distensae: A Comparative Study

BACKGROUND Striae distensae (SD) are dermal scars associated with atrophy of the epidermis. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect and safety of intralesional injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) versus topical tretinoin 0.05% in treatment of SD. METHODS Thirty patients (27 females and 3 males) had bilateral striae distensae were enrolled in this study. In every patient, half of the selected striae were treated with PRP intralesional injection. The other half was treated by topical tretinoin. Skin biopsies were taken from both sides before and after the treatment. Digital photographs were taken at the baseline and at the end of follow-up period. Clinical improvement was evaluated by 2 blind dermatologists in addition to the patient's satisfaction rating. RESULTS There was statistically significant improvement in the SD treated with PRP and topical tretinoin cream. The improvement was more in the SD treated with PRP injections (p = .015). Patient's satisfaction showed that the improvement was more in the PRP-treated side (p = .003). Collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis were increased in all biopsies after treatment. CONCLUSION PRP injection and topical tretinoin are safe for the treatment of SD, but PRP is more effective and it gives better therapeutic response than tretinoin. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Howyda M. Ebrahim, MD, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt, or e-mail: howyda1968@gmail.com The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. © 2017 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Evaluating Perceived Naturalness of Facial Expression After Fillers to the Nasolabial Folds and Lower Face With Standardized Video and Photography

BACKGROUND Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are commonly used in treating facial wrinkles and folds but have not been studied with standardized methodology to include assessment of standard facial expressions. OBJECTIVE To assess perceived naturalness of facial expression after treatment with 2 HA fillers manufactured with XpresHAn Technology (also known as Optimal Balance Technology). MATERIALS AND METHODS Treatment was directed to the nasolabial folds (NLFs) and at least 1 additional lower face wrinkle or fold. Maintenance of naturalness, attractiveness, and age at 1 month after optimal treatment were assessed using video recordings and photographs capturing different facial animations. Global aesthetic improvement, subjects' satisfaction, and safety were also evaluated. RESULTS The treatment was well tolerated. Naturalness of facial expression in motion was determined to be at least maintained in 95% of subjects. Attractiveness was enhanced in 89% of subjects and 79% of subjects were considered to look younger. Most subjects assessed their aesthetic appearance as improved and were satisfied with their treatment. CONCLUSION Naturalness and attractiveness can be assessed using video recordings and photographs capturing different facial animations. XpresHAn Technology HA filler treatments create natural-looking results with high subject satisfaction. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Wolfgang G. Philipp-Dormston, MD, Hautzentrum Köln, Schillingsrotter Str. 39-41, 50996 Cologne, Germany, or e-mail: mail@haut-zentrum.com Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the full text and PDF versions of this article on the journal's Web site (http://ift.tt/2bw6lgr). Galderma provided W.G. Philipp-Dormston, B. Schuster, and M. Podda with a camera, investigational products, and reimbursed costs for subject participation. W.G. Philipp-Dormston has given lectures, consulted, participated in advisory board meetings and clinical studies, and has received honorariums for those by Galderma. M. Podda has consulted, lectured, or participated in advisory board meetings for Galderma. B. Schuster reports of no further financial interest with Galderma besides involvement in the study. M.K. Larsson and C. Wong are affiliated with Galderma. The FACE-Q is owned by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). Drs. Cano, Klassen, and Pusic are co-developers of the FACE-Q and, as such, receive a share of any license revenues based on MSKCC's inventor sharing policy. © 2017 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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The Cellular Response of Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars to Botulinum Toxin A: A Comprehensive Literature Review

BACKGROUND Keloids and hypertrophic scars are conditions of pathologic scarring characterized by fibroblast hyperproliferation and excess collagen deposition. These conditions significantly impact patients by causing psychosocial, functional, and aesthetic distress. Current treatment modalities have limitations. Clinical evidence indicates that botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) may prevent and treat keloids and hypertrophic scars. OBJECTIVE To examine investigated cellular pathways involved in BoNT-A therapeutic modulation of keloids and hypertrophic scars. METHODS The authors searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for basic science articles related to botulinum toxin therapy, scarring, fibroblasts, keloids, and hypertrophic scars. RESULTS Eleven basic science articles involving keloids and hypertrophic scars were reviewed. DISCUSSION BoNT-A may reduce skin fibrosis by decreasing fibroblast proliferation, modulating the activity of transforming growth factor-β, and reducing transcription and expression of profibrotic cytokines in keloid-derived and hypertrophic scar–derived dermal fibroblasts. BoNT-A may modulate collagen deposition, but there is a paucity of evidence regarding specific mechanisms of action. CONCLUSION Overall, BoNT-A has the potential to prevent or treat pathologic scars in patients with a known personal or family history of keloids and hypertrophic scars, which may improve patient psychosocial distress and reduce clinic visits and health care costs. Variability in keloid and hypertrophic scar response to BoNT-A may be due to interexperiment differences in dosing, tissue donors, and assay sensitivity. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Jared Jagdeo, MD, MS, Department of Dermatology, University of California at Davis, 3301 C Street, Suite #1400, Sacramento, CA 95816, or e-mail: jrjagdeo@gmail.com The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. The contents do not represent the views of the US Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Government. © 2017 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Inside “Outside” Job: Unexpected Geometric Skin Ulcerations Overlying Orthopedic Hardware After Multimodal Laser Scar Revision

No abstract available

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A Multiple Recurrent Keratoacanthoma of the Lower Leg After Repeated Wide-Excision and Mohs Micrographic Surgery

No abstract available

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Novel Stereoscopic Optical System for Objectively Measuring Above-Surface Scar Volume—First-Time Quantification of Responses to Various Treatment Modalities

BACKGROUND Current approaches use subjective semiquantitative or cumbersome objective methodologies to assess physical characteristics of hypertrophic and keloid scars. OBJECTIVE This pilot study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of a new stereoscopic optical and high-resolution 3-dimensional imaging system, for objectively measuring changes in above-surface scar volume after various interventions. METHODS Feasibility and accuracy were assessed by monitoring the above-surface scar volume of 5 scars in 2 patients for 5 successive months. Above-surface scar volume and Vancouver Scar Scale scores and the investigator and patient volume improvement assessment scores were assessed before and 12 weeks after last intervention. RESULTS Scar volume measured by the imaging system correlated significantly with the gold standard (actual weight). The greatest volume reduction followed a combination of cryotherapy and intralesional triamcinolone acetonide and 5-fluorouracil injections in Patient 1 and a combination of pulse dye laser and intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injections in Patient 2. CONCLUSION The new stereoscopic optical system is a valid, accurate, and practical objective method for assessing scar volume and for monitoring treatment response. It is more sensitive and accurate than semiquantitative objective scales. Further studies with a higher number of patients and scars are required to increase the measurement validity of the system. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Ofir Artzi, MD, Department of Dermatology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizman Street, Tel Aviv, 6423905 Israel, or e-mail: ofira@tlvmc.gov.il The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. © 2017 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Cold Panniculitis After Cryolipolysis Treatment of the Abdomen

No abstract available

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Clinical Utility of Bedside Multibeam Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging in a Patient With Multiple Basal Cell Carcinomas

No abstract available

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New sensor based on membranes with magnetic nano-inclusions for early diagnosis in periodontal disease

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Eugenia Eftimie Totu, Ibrahim Isildak, Aurelia Cristina Nechifor, Corina Marilena Cristache, Marius Enachescu
A series of sodium selective membranes with magnetic nano-inclusions using p-tertbutyl calix[4]arene as ionophore and polymeric matrix (polyvinyl chloride) have been developed, and the corresponding sodium selective sensors were obtained for the first time. A linear range was registered between 3.1 × 10⁻⁵ and 10⁻¹moldm⁻³ and near Nernstian electrochemical answer: 55.73mV/decade has been recoreded for PVC (polyvinyl chloride) – based sodium selective sensor, with a response time of 45s. Due to their small dimensions, sensors could be used for measuring ions from the gingival crevicular fluid directly into the peri-odontal pocket, avoiding the difficulties of collecting an appropriate amount of fluid for analysis. Alterations in the inorganic ions level could be evidenced with this new device, assisting the early diagnosis and prevention of periodontal disease.

Graphical abstract

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Cu@Pd core-shell nanostructures for highly sensitive and selective amperometric analysis of histamine

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Rajendra Kumar Reddy Gajjala, Suresh Kumar Palathedath
We demonstrate a facile and rapid methodology for preparation of Cu@Pd core-shell nanostructures on a cost-effective pencil graphite substrate. Galvanic replacement reaction was carried out for palladium modification on template electrodeposited copper nanostructures on pencil graphite substrate. The nanostructures are shown to be very stable with excellent electrocatalytic activities. Under optimised conditions, they could be used for histamine sensing at a very low oxidation potential of +0.55V vs. Ag/AgCl. The low oxidation potential enabled sensitive and selective analysis of histamine using chronoamperometry without any interference from oxygen evolution reactions. We have demonstrated that the sensor shows excellent selectivity towards histamine even in the presence of many of the common interfering biogenic amines. The sensor exhibited a sensitivity of 0.082 μ A/μ M/cm 2 with a limit of detection as low as 3.2 ± 0.1nM. The oxidation potential and limit of detection obtained using this sensor are much superior to the results reported so far in the literature. Practical feasibility of the developed sensor was manifested by histamine analysis in canned tuna fish samples, where the chronoamperometric estimation was also validated by conventional HPLC analysis.

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Electrochemical immunosensors – A powerful tool for analytical applications

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Fabiana S. Felix, Lúcio Angnes
Immunosensors are biosensors based on interactions between an antibody and antigen on a transducer surface. Either antibody or antigen can be the species immobilized on the transducer to detect antigen or antibody, respectively. Because of the strong binding forces between these biomolecules, immunosensors present high selectivity and very high sensitivity, making them very attractive for many applications in different science fields. Electrochemical immunosensors explore measurements of an electrical signal produced on an electrochemical transductor. This signal can be voltammetric, potentiometric, conductometric or impedimetric. Immunosensors utilizing electrochemical detection have been explored in several analyses since they are specific, simple, portable, and generally disposable and can carry out in situ or automated detection. This review addresses the potential of immunosensors destined for application in food and environmental analysis, and cancer biomarker diagnosis. Emphasis is given to the approaches that have been used for construction of electrochemical immunosensors. Additionally, the fundamentals of immunosensors, technology of transducers and nanomaterials and a general overview of the possible applications of electrochemical immunosensors to the food, environmental and diseases analysis fields are described.



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Pyridoxamine driven selective turn-off detection of picric acid using glutathione stabilized fluorescent copper nanoclusters and its applications with chemically modified cellulose strips

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Ravi Patel, Shilpa Bothra, Rajender Kumar, Guido Crisponi, Suban K. Sahoo
The present work reports the interaction of various vitamin B6 cofactors with the red emitting glutathione stabilized copper nanoclusters (GSH-CuNCs). Addition of pyridoxamine (PM) resulted a new turn-on band at 410nm due to the possible adsorption over the surface of GSH-CuNCs. The nano-assembly PM-GSH-CuNCs was applied for the selective detection of nitro-aromatic compounds. Upon addition of picric acid (PA), the fluorescence of PM-GSH-CuNCs was selectively quenched at 410nm and ~ 625nm among the other tested nitro-aromatic compounds. With a linearity range from 9.9μM to 43μM, the concentration of PA can be detected down to 2.74μM. The high selectivity exhibited by the nano-assembly allows to detect PA in real samples like tap water, river water and matchstick. Advantageously, the nano-assembly PM-GSH-CuNCs was chemically adsorbed over the cellulosic strips and applied for the naked-eye detection of PA down to 1μM.



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Sandwich-type biosensor for the detection of α2,3-sialylated glycans based on fullerene-palladium-platinum alloy and 4-mercaptophenylboronic acid nanoparticle hybrids coupled with Au-methylene blue-MAL signal amplification

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Qiqi Yuan, Junlin He, Yazhen Niu, Jun Chen, Yilin Zhao, Yuchan Zhang, Chao Yu
α2,3-sialylated glycans (α2,3-sial-Gs) are one of the significant tumour biomarkers for the early diagnosis of cancer. In this work, a neoteric sandwich-type biosensor was developed for detecting α2,3-sial-Gs using 4-mercaptophenylboronic acid (4-MPBA) to construct a novel molecular recognition system by the coordination of a boron atom of 4-MPBA to the amide group of Neu5Ac in the α2,3-sial-Gs structure. Amino-functionalized fullerene coupled with palladium-platinum bimetallic alloy nanocrystals (n-C60-PdPt) was synthesized to modify the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) because the n-C60 nanomaterial affords a large surface area for the on-site reduction of bimetallic alloy nanoparticles and an excellent capacity for electron transfer. Abundant 4-MPBA were immobilized on the n-C60-PdPt, since the 4-MPBA has the mercapto group can combine with PdPt alloy through strong adsorption. Maackia amurensis lectin (MAL) was covalently immobilized on Au-poly (methylene blue) (Au-PMB) acting as the signal amplification components, which was used to recognize the α2, 3-sial-Gs specifically like a second antibody linked on Au-PMB. The differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) current response of the biosensor in 5mL of PBS (0.1M, pH = 7.4) was recorded, and the proposed sandwich-type biosensor showed a wide linear range of 10 fg mL⁻¹ −100ngmL⁻¹ as well as, a low detection limit of 3fgmL⁻¹ (S/N = 3). Furthermore, the proposed method exhibited good recovery and stability, indicating its potential for use in clinical studies.



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Label-free electrochemical DNA biosensor for guanine and adenine by ds-DNA/poly(L-cysteine)/Fe3O4 nanoparticles-graphene oxide nanocomposite modified electrode

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Majid Arvand, Mona Sanayeei, Shiva Hemmati
In this study, we aim to design a simple and effective electrochemical DNA biosensor based on a carbon paste electrode modified with ds-DNA/poly(L-cysteine)/Fe3O4 nanoparticles-graphene oxide (ds-DNA/p(L-Cys)/Fe3O4 NPs-GO/CPE) for sensitive detection of adenine (A) and guanine (G). The electrocatalytic oxidation of A and G on the electrode was explored by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). This sensor shows separated and well-defined peaks for A and G, by which one can determine these biological bases individually or simultaneously. The ds-DNA/p(L-Cys)/Fe3O4 NPs-GO/CPE exhibited an increase in peak currents and the electron transfer kinetics and decrease in the overpotential for the oxidation reaction of A and G. Under the optimal conditions a linear relationship is figured out between the peak current and the analytes' concentrations on a range of 0.01–30.0μM and 0.01–25.0μM for simultaneous determination of A and G, with detection limits of 3.48 and 1.59nM, respectively. As well as, individually determination is resulted two linear concentration ranges of 0.01–30.0μM for A and 0.01–25.0μM for G with detection limits of 3.90 and 1.58nM for A and G, respectively. The proposed biosensor exhibited some advantages in terms of simplicity, rapidity, high sensitivity, good reproducibility and long-term stability. Furthermore, the measurements of thermally denatured single-stranded DNA were carried out and the value of (G + C)/(A + T) of DNA was calculated as about 0.77 for various DNA samples. This study also ascertained that the proposed biosensor can be profitable to evaluate DNA bases damage.

Graphical abstract

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Effect of Brownian motion on reduced agglomeration of nanostructured metal oxide towards development of efficient cancer biosensor

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Suveen Kumar, Ashish, Saurabh Kumar, Shine Augustine, Santosh Yadav, Birendra Kumar Yadav, Rishi Pal Chauhan, Ajay Kumar Dewan, Bansi Dhar Malhotra
We report results of the studies relating to fabrication of nanostructured metal oxide (NMO) based cancer biosensor. With the help of 2D electroactive reduced graphene oxide (RGO), we successfully inhibited the Brownian motion of NMO that led to reduced agglomeration of NMO. The nanostructured hafnium oxide (nHfO2) was used as a model NMO. The reduced agglomeration of nHfO2 was achieved through controlled hydrothermal synthesis and investigated via nanoparticles tracking analysis (NTA). X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques were used for phase identification as well as morphological analysis of the synthesized nanohybrid (nHfO2@RGO) material. The 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) was used for the functionalization of nHfO2@RGO and electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique was used for its deposition onto ITO coated glass electrode. Further, antibodies of cancer biomarker (anti-CYFRA-21-1) were immobilized via EDC-NHS chemistry and Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was used for blocking of the non-specific binding sites. The electrochemical response studies of fabricated immunoelectrode (BSA/anti-CYFRA-21-1/APTES/nHfO2@RGO/ITO) revealed higher sensitivity (18.24µAmLng⁻¹), wide linear detection range (0 to 30ngmL⁻¹), with remarkable lower detection limit (0.16ngmL⁻¹). The obtained results showed good agreement with the concentration of CYFRA-21-1 obtained through enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in saliva samples of oral cancer patients.



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Switchable electrochemiluminescence aptasensor coupled with resonance energy transfer for selective attomolar detection of Hg2+ via CdTe@CdS/dendrimer probe and Au nanoparticle quencher

Publication date: 15 April 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 102
Author(s): Bahareh Babamiri, Abdollah Salimi, Rahman Hallaj
In the present study, an ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) aptasensing assay for selective detection of Hg²⁺ was designed. In this electrochemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (ECL-RET) approach, Fe3O4@SiO2/dendrimers/QDs exhibited amplified ECL emissions (switch "on" state) and with the hybridization between T-rich ssDNA(S1) immobilized on the Fe3O4@SiO2/dendrimers/QDs and AuNPs modified with complementary aptamer (AuNPs-S2), the ECL of QDs nanocomposites was efficiently quenched (switch "off" state). In the presence of Hg²⁺ ions, formation of strong and stable T-Hg²⁺-T complex led to the release of the AuNPs-S2 from double-stranded DNA(dsDNA) and the recovery of the ECL signal of QDs (second signal switch "on" state). Under optimal conditions, Hg²⁺ can be detected in a wide linear range from 20aM to 2µM with a very low detection limit of 2aM. The proposed ECL aptasensor showed high selectivity for Hg²⁺ determination compared to other environmentally relevant metal ions at concentration ratio more than 1000 times. The aptasensor was used for detection Hg²⁺ ions from samples of tap waters, carp and saltwater fishes with satisfactory results. The aptasensor exhibited high sensitivity, wide linear response (11 orders of magnitude), excellent reproducibility and stability. The proposed aptasensor will be a promising candidate for facile and rapid determination of Hg^2＋in environmental and fishery samples.

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SALL4 promotes osteoblast differentiation by deactivating NOTCH2 signaling

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 98
Author(s): Wei Yu, Dianming Jiang, Yu Shaobin, Fu Jiabin, Zhijun Li, Yuchi Wu, Yulong Wang
BackgroundThe Spalt-Like Transcription Factor 4 (SALL4) is reported to regulate cell proliferation, migration and invasion. However, the roles of SALL4 in osteoblast differentiation are unclear. This study was aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of SALL4 in osteoporosis.MethodsFirstly, the expression of SALL4 was assessed in vivo and in vitro at various stages of development of rats (E14, E20, postnatal 2, 4, and 9 day) or different incubation time (0, 6, 9, 12 and 15 day) of C2C12 and MC3T3-E1 cells. Then, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities and positive cells percentages were respectively detected after oeSall4 or siSall4 transfection. Cell differentiation related markers and chondrogenesis-related genes expressions in C2C12 cells were tested by western blot assay and qRT-PCR. Finally, the connection and interaction between SALL4 and NOTCH2 were studied.ResultsThe results showed that SALL4 expression was increased in vivo and in vitro with the growth of rats or the incubation of cells. SALL4 overexpression promoted osteoblast differentiation; on the contrary, SALL4 knockdown inhibited osteoblast differentiation. Moreover, SALL4 participated in the middle and late stages of cell differentiation. Then, SALL4 and NOTCH2 interacted with each other. NOTCH2 expression was decreased both in vivo and in vitro, and negatively regulated by SALL4. Besides, SALL4 overexpression suppressed NOTCH2 target genes expressions and nuclear entry, while deactivated NOTCH2 signaling.ConclusionsOur study found that SALL4 played very important roles in the process of osteoblast differentiation by deactivating NOTCH2 signaling. These findings might provide a new insight for treatment of osteoporosis.



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Protocatechuic acid ameliorates high glucose-induced extracellular matrix accumulation in diabetic nephropathy

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 98
Author(s): Yali Ma, Fang Chen, Suxia Yang, Baoping Chen, Jun Shi
Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a phenolic compound of anthocyanins, was reported to possess various pharmacologic properties, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis, anti-diabetic and anti-tumor activities. However, the role of PCA in diabetic nephropathy remains elusive. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of PCA on extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in high glucose (HG)-induced human mesangial cells (MCs) and explore the possible mechanism. Our results demonstrated that PCA obviously inhibited HG-induced proliferation of MCs in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, PCA effectively reduced the protein expression levels of type IV collagen, laminin and fibronectin induced by HG, as well as decreased the levels of ROS and MDA in HG-stimulated MCs. Mechanistic studies showed that PCA efficiently down-regulated the phosphorylation level of p38 MAPK in HG-stimulated MCs. Taken together, our present study demonstrated that PCA protects MCs against HG damage might via inhibition of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Thus, PCA might be a beneficial agent for the prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy.



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MiR-208a-3p aggravates autophagy through the PDCD4-ATG5 pathway in Ang II-induced H9c2 cardiomyoblasts

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 98
Author(s): Li Wang, Nan Ye, Xiaoyu Lian, Fei Peng, Hexi Zhang, Hui Gong
Pathological cardiac hypertrophy is the main determinant of the development of heart failure, for which there is often no effective therapy. The dysregulation of autophagy is implicated in hypertrophy, but the mechanism linking these processes is unclear. In this study, we characterized the regulatory role of miR-208a-3p in autophagy in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts induced by Angiotensin II (Ang II). We found that miR-208a-3p was up-regulated in Ang II-induced H9c2 cardiomyoblasts and in starvation-induced autophagy. The overexpression of miR-208a-3p increased Ang II-induced autophagy, and this was accompanied by the inhibition of programmed cell death protein (PDCD4) and upregulation of autophagy protein 5 (ATG5). A dual-luciferase report assay confirmed the direct binding between miR-208a-3p and PDCD4. PDCD4 knockdown up-regulated autophagy, and its overexpression down-regulated this process. Moreover, the PDCD4-mediated regulation of autophagy was modulated by ATG5. Taken together, these findings indicate that miR-208a-3p promotes autophagy during Ang II-induced hypertrophy and provide a basis for the development of therapies for hypertrophic-induced cardiac dysfunction.



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Selecting passive dosimetry technologies for measuring the external dose of terrestrial wildlife

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 182
Author(s): Phakphum Aramrun, Nicholas A. Beresford, Michael D. Wood
Dosimeters attached to wild animals can be used to validate regulatory assessment approaches and models for estimating radiation exposure of wild animals. Such measurements are also necessary to ensure that robust dose-effect relationships can be developed from the results of field research programmes. This paper presents the first comprehensive evaluation of the different dosimetry technologies available for specifically measuring the external exposure of wildlife. Guidance is provided on the selection of appropriate passive dosimetry approaches for directly measuring external exposure of terrestrial wildlife under field conditions. The characteristics and performance of four available dosimetry technologies (thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD), optically stimulated luminescent dosimeter (OSLD), radiophotoluminescent dosimeter (RPLD) and direct ion storage, (DIS)) are reviewed. Dosimeter properties, detection limit and dose range, study organisms and the intended application are variables that need to be considered when selecting a suitable dosimetry technology. Evaluated against these criteria, it is suggested that LiF based and Al2O3:C TLDs, OSLD and RPLD could all be used to estimate doses to wildlife. However, only LiF based TLDs have been used to directly measure wildlife doses in field studies to date. DIS is only suitable for comparatively large species (e.g. medium to large mammals), but has the advantage that temporal variation in dose can be recorded. In all cases, dosimeter calibration is required to ensure that the dose measurements reported can be interpreted appropriately for the organisms of interest.



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A review of numerical models to predict the atmospheric dispersion of radionuclides

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 182
Author(s): Ádám Leelőssy, István Lagzi, Attila Kovács, Róbert Mészáros
The field of atmospheric dispersion modeling has evolved together with nuclear risk assessment and emergency response systems. Atmospheric concentration and deposition of radionuclides originating from an unintended release provide the basis of dose estimations and countermeasure strategies. To predict the atmospheric dispersion and deposition of radionuclides several numerical models are available coupled with numerical weather prediction (NWP) systems. This work provides a review of the main concepts and different approaches of atmospheric dispersion modeling. Key processes of the atmospheric transport of radionuclides are emission, advection, turbulent diffusion, dry and wet deposition, radioactive decay and other physical and chemical transformations. A wide range of modeling software are available to simulate these processes with different physical assumptions, numerical approaches and implementation. The most appropriate modeling tool for a specific purpose can be selected based on the spatial scale, the complexity of meteorology, land surface and physical and chemical transformations, also considering the available data and computational resource. For most regulatory and operational applications, offline coupled NWP-dispersion systems are used, either with a local scale Gaussian, or a regional to global scale Eulerian or Lagrangian approach. The dispersion model results show large sensitivity on the accuracy of the coupled NWP model, especially through the description of planetary boundary layer turbulence, deep convection and wet deposition. Improvement of dispersion predictions can be achieved by online coupling of mesoscale meteorology and atmospheric transport models. The 2011 Fukushima event was the first large-scale nuclear accident where real-time prognostic dispersion modeling provided decision support. Dozens of dispersion models with different approaches were used for prognostic and retrospective simulations of the Fukushima release. An unknown release rate proved to be the largest factor of uncertainty, underlining the importance of inverse modeling and data assimilation in future developments.



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Radiocesium uptake through leaf surfaces of tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.)

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 182
Author(s): Takashi Ikka, Yoshifumi Nishina, Mizuho Kamoshita, Yasuhisa Oya, Kenji Okuno, Akio Morita
To clarify the source of radiocesium detected in newly emerged tea leaves contaminated just before the time of bud opening by fallout of radionuclides from Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant, ¹³⁷CsCl solution (0.185 M Bq mL⁻¹) was applied to the front or the backside surfaces of mature leaves of tea plant (Camellia sinensis L. cv. Yabukita) at the time of bud opening. A 21 days after foliar application, the buds had grown and developed to the three- or four-leaf stage. In the front treatment, almost all (95%) of the applied ¹³⁷Cs was present in the mature leaves (hot mother leaves). In the backside treatment, 68% of applied ¹³⁷Cs also remained in hot mother leaves, but 22% and 10% was found in the new shoots attached to hot mother leaves and the other parts (non-applied mature leaves, stems and roots), respectively. The images of a hot leaf and its attached new shoots by imaging plate analysis revealed that the results coincided with those of the ¹³⁷Cs distribution above. These suggested that radiocesium was primarily absorbed from the backside surface of tea leaves through the stoma, and then the greater part was transported to newly emerged tea organs during the new shoot growth period.



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