Ετικέτες

Παρασκευή 27 Απριλίου 2018

Ammonia production in poultry houses can affect health of humans, birds, and the environment—techniques for its reduction during poultry production

Abstract

Due to greater consumption of poultry products and an increase in exports, more poultry houses will be needed. Therefore, it is important to investigate ways that poultry facilities can coexist in close proximity to residential areas without odors and environmental challenges. Ammonia (NH3) is the greatest concern for environmental pollution from poultry production. When birds consume protein, they produce uric acid, ultimately converted to NH3 under favorable conditions. Factors that increase production include pH, temperature, moisture content, litter type, bird age, manure age, relative humidity, and ventilation rate (VR). NH3 concentration and emissions in poultry houses depend on VR; seasons also have effects on NH3 production. Modern ventilation systems can minimize NH3 in enclosed production spaces quickly but increase its emissions to the environment. NH3 adversely affects the ecosystem, environment, and health of birds and people. Less than 10 ppm is the ideal limit for exposure, but up to 25 ppm is also not harmful. NH3 can be minimized by housing type, aerobic and anaerobic conditions, manure handling practices, litter amendment, and diet manipulation without affecting performance and production. Antibiotics can minimize NH3, but consumers have concerns about health effects. Administration of probiotics seems to be a useful replacement for antibiotics. More studies have been conducted on broilers, necessitating the need to evaluate the effect of probiotics on NH3 production in conjunction with laying hen performance and egg quality. This comprehensive review focuses on research from 1950 to 2018.



https://ift.tt/2Fm46uV

The nexus between energy consumption and financial development: estimating the role of globalization in Next-11 countries

Abstract

In the modern era of globalization, the economic activities expand with the passage of time. This expansion may increase demand for energy both in developing and developed countries. Therefore, this study assesses the impact of financial development on energy consumption incorporating the role of globalization in Next-11 countries. A group of panel estimation techniques is used to analyze the panel data and time series data for the time 1990–2014. The empirical results of the study suggest that financial development stimulates energy consumption. Also, globalization increases demand for energy consumption, although the single country analysis suggests that the effect of globalization on energy demand is heterogeneous among N-11 countries. Furthermore, feedback hypothesis is confirmed between financial development and energy consumption. Also, bidirectional causality is found between economic growth and energy consumption. The findings urge for the attention of policymaker in emerging countries to develop a strategy to reduce the consequences of energy consumption by controlling resource transfer through globalization to the host country and by adopting energy conversation policies.



https://ift.tt/2KmdBOA

Degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during Sphagnum litters decay

Abstract

The dynamics of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) degradation in Sphagnum litters and the decomposition of the litters were investigated. PAH concentration decreased to approximately half of the initial concentration as Sphagnum litters decayed. The initial PAH concentration was 489.2 ± 72.2 ng g−1, and the concentration after 120 days of incubation was 233.0 ± 5.8 ng g−1. The different PAH compositions changed concentrations at different times. The low-molecular-weight (LMW) and high-molecular-weight (HMW) PAHs started to be degraded after incubation and after 40 days of incubation, respectively. PAH concentrations in the Sphagnum litters correlated with the total organic carbon (TOC) content (p < 0.05), indicating that PAHs were associated with the TOC of the Sphagnum litters and were degraded as organic matter decayed. The positive relationship between LMW PAH concentration and the soluble carbohydrate content (p < 0.05) indicated that LMW PAHs and the readily decomposed organic carbon fractions were cometabolized, or that LMW PAHs were mainly absorbed by soluble carbohydrate. The weak negative correlation between fulvic acid (FA) and PAH concentrations (p < 0.1) indicated that FA may enhance PAH degradation. Redundancy analysis suggested that the contents of both soluble carbohydrate and cellulose significantly affected the changes in PAH concentrations (p < 0.05), and that FA content and C/N ratios may also contribute to the changes in PAH concentrations (p < 0.1). However, the polyphenol that was related to microbial activities was not associated with changes in PAH concentrations. These results suggested that litter quality is more important than microbial activities in PAH degradation in Sphagnum litters.



https://ift.tt/2FotPmy

CAD/CAM Custom Abutments for Esthetic Anterior Implant-Supported Restoration: Materials and Design

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to discuss the use of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) custom abutments in the anterior region with a focus on abutment design and material selection. Advantages, disadvantages, and complications of CAD/CAM abutments are also considered.

Recent Findings

CAD/CAM abutments are available in various materials and with different connection platforms to the implant in order to meet esthetic, functional, and biological demands. Use of CAD/CAM concepts in the fabrication of custom abutments allows for definite advantages over both stock abutments and conventional cast custom abutments.

Summary

CAD/CAM technology should be considered when restoring dental implants in the esthetic zone.



https://ift.tt/2KlFWEL

Changes in Perceived Supervision Quality After Introduction of Competency-Based Orthopedic Residency Training: A National 6-Year Follow-Up Study

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Journal of Surgical Education
Author(s): Stefan N. van Vendeloo, Paul L.P. Brand, Boudewijn J. Kollen, Cees C.P.M. Verheyen
ObjectiveTo evaluate the perceived quality of the learning environment, before and after introduction of competency-based postgraduate orthopedic education.DesignFrom 2009 to 2014, we conducted annual surveys among Dutch orthopedic residents. The validated Dutch Residency Educational Climate Test (D-RECT, 50 items on 11 subscales) was used to assess the quality of the learning environment. Scores range from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent).SettingDynamic cohort follow-up study.ParticipantsAll Dutch orthopedic residents were surveyed during annual compulsory courses.ResultsOver the 6-year period, 641 responses were obtained (response rate 92%). Scores for "supervision" (95% CI for difference 0.06-0.28, p = 0.002) and "coaching and assessment" (95% CI 0.11-0.35, p < 0.001) improved significantly after introduction of competency-based training. There was no significant change in score on the other subscales of the D-RECT.ConclusionsAfter the introduction of some of the core components of competency-based postgraduate orthopedic education the perceived quality of "supervision" and "coaching and assessment" improved significantly.



https://ift.tt/2JzJrWP

Grasping at Laws: Speed-Accuracy Trade-Offs in Manual Prehension.

Author: McIntosh, Robert D.; Mon-Williams, Mark; Tresilian, James R.
DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000512
Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 26 April 2018


https://ift.tt/2r1obCD

PM2.5 and gaseous pollutants in New York State during 2005–2016: Spatial variability, temporal trends, and economic influences

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 183
Author(s): Stefania Squizzato, Mauro Masiol, David Q. Rich, Philip K. Hopke
Over the past decades, mitigation strategies have been adopted both by federal and state agencies in the United States (US) to improve air quality. Between 2007 and 2009, the US faced a financial/economic crisis that lowered activity and reduced emissions. At the same time, changes in the prices of coal and natural gas drove a shift in fuels used for electricity generation. Seasonal patterns, diel cycles, spatial gradients, and trends in PM2.5 and gaseous pollutants concentrations (NOx, SO2, CO and O3) monitored in New York State (NYS) from 2005 to 2016 were examined. Relationships between ambient concentrations, changes in NYS emissions retrieved from the US EPA trends inventory, and economic indicators were studied. PM2.5 and primary gaseous pollutants concentrations decreased across NYS. By 2016, PM2.5 and SO2 attained relatively homogeneous concentrations across the state. PM2.5 concentrations decreased significantly at all sites. Similarly, SO2 concentrations declined at all sites within this period, with the highest slopes observed at the urban sites. Reductions in NOx emissions likely contributed to summertime average ozone reductions. NOx and VOCs controls reduced O3 peak concentrations as seen in significant relationships between the annual O3 4th-highest daily maximum 8-h concentrations and estimated NOx emissions at rural and suburban sites (r2 ∼ 0.7). Spring maxima were not reduced with most sites showing insignificant slopes or significant positive slopes (e.g., +2.6% y−1 and +2% y−1, at CCNY and PFI, respectively). Increases in autumn and winter ozone concentrations were found (e,g., 6.6 ± 0.4% y−1 on average in New York City). Significant relationships were observed between PM2.5, primary pollutants, and economic indicators. Overall, a decrease in electricity generation with coal, and the simultaneous increase in natural gas consumption for power generation, led to a decrease in PM2.5 and gaseous pollutants concentrations.



https://ift.tt/2r8nRRF

Modeling biogenic secondary organic aerosol (BSOA) formation from monoterpene reactions with NO3: A case study of the SOAS campaign using CMAQ

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 184
Author(s): Momei Qin, Yongtao Hu, Xuesong Wang, Petros Vasilakos, Christopher M. Boyd, Lu Xu, Yu Song, Nga Lee Ng, Athanasios Nenes, Armistead G. Russell
Monoterpenes react with nitrate radicals (NO3), contributing substantially to nighttime organic aerosol (OA) production. In this study, the role of reactions of monoterpenes + NO3 in forming biogenic secondary organic aerosol (BSOA) was examined using the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model, with extended emission profiles of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), species-specific representations of BSOA production from individual monoterpenes and updated aerosol yields for monoterpene + NO3. The model results were compared to detailed measurements from the Southern Oxidants and Aerosol Study (SOAS) at Centreville, Alabama. With the more detailed model, monoterpene-derived BSOA increased by ∼1 μg m−3 at night, accounting for one-third of observed less-oxidized oxygenated OA (LO-OOA), more closely agreeing with observations (lower error, stronger correlation). Implementation of a multigenerational oxidation approach resulted in the model capturing elevated OA episodes. With the aging model, aged semi-volatile organic compounds (ASVOCs) contributed over 60% of the monoterpene-derived BSOA, followed by SOA formation via nitrate radical chemistry, making up to 34% of that formed at night. Among individual monoterpenes, β-pinene and limonene contributed most to the monoterpene-derived BSOA from nighttime reactions.



https://ift.tt/2HzQgLL

Development of non-linear models predicting daily fine particle concentrations using aerosol optical depth retrievals and ground-based measurements at a municipality in the Brazilian Amazon region

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 184
Author(s): Karen dos Santos Gonçalves, Mirko S. Winkler, Paulo Roberto Benchimol-Barbosa, Kees de Hoogh, Paulo Eduardo Artaxo, Sandra de Souza Hacon, Christian Schindler, Nino Künzli
Epidemiological studies generally use particulate matter measurements with diameter less 2.5 μm (PM2.5) from monitoring networks. Satellite aerosol optical depth (AOD) data has considerable potential in predicting PM2.5 concentrations, and thus provides an alternative method for producing knowledge regarding the level of pollution and its health impact in areas where no ground PM2.5 measurements are available. This is the case in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest region where forest fires are frequent sources of high pollution. In this study, we applied a non-linear model for predicting PM2.5 concentration from AOD retrievals using interaction terms between average temperature, relative humidity, sine, cosine of date in a period of 365,25 days and the square of the lagged relative residual. Regression performance statistics were tested comparing the goodness of fit and R2 based on results from linear regression and non-linear regression for six different models. The regression results for non-linear prediction showed the best performance, explaining on average 82% of the daily PM2.5 concentrations when considering the whole period studied. In the context of Amazonia, it was the first study predicting PM2.5 concentrations using the latest high-resolution AOD products also in combination with the testing of a non-linear model performance. Our results permitted a reliable prediction considering the AOD-PM2.5 relationship and set the basis for further investigations on air pollution impacts in the complex context of Brazilian Amazon Region.



https://ift.tt/2r43Jju

Editorial Board

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 183





https://ift.tt/2r6bAgx

Evolution of the spatiotemporal pattern of PM2.5 concentrations in China – A case study from the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 183
Author(s): Dan Yan, Yalin Lei, Yukun Shi, Qing Zhu, Li Li, Zhien Zhang
Atmospheric haze pollution has become a global concern because of its severe effects on human health and the environment. The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei urban agglomeration is located in northern China, and its haze is the most serious in China. The high concentration of PM2.5 is the main cause of haze pollution, and thus investigating the temporal and spatial characteristics of PM2.5 is important for understanding the mechanisms underlying PM2.5 pollution and for preventing haze. In this study, the PM2.5 concentration status in 13 cities from the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region was statistically analyzed from January 2016 to November 2016, and the spatial variation of PM2.5 was explored via spatial autocorrelation analysis. The research yielded three overall results. (1) The distribution of PM2.5 concentrations in this area varied greatly during the study period. The concentrations increased from late autumn to early winter, and the spatial range expanded from southeast to northwest. In contrast, the PM2.5 concentration decreased rapidly from late winter to early spring, and the spatial range narrowed from northwest to southeast. (2) The spatial dependence degree, by season from high to low, was in the order winter, autumn, spring, summer. Winter (from December to February of the subsequent year) and summer (from June to August) were, respectively, the highest and lowest seasons with regard to the spatial homogeneity of PM2.5 concentrations. (3) The PM2.5 concentration in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region has significant spatial spillovers. Overall, cities far from Bohai Bay, such as Shijiazhuang and Hengshui, demonstrated a high-high concentration of PM2.5 pollution, while coastal cities, such as Chengde and Qinhuangdao, showed a low-low concentration.



https://ift.tt/2Hy5X62

Bidirectional juxtacrine ephrinB2/Ephs signaling promotes angiogenesis of ECs and maintains self-renewal of MSCs

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 172
Author(s): Cen Cao, Ying Huang, Qingming Tang, Chenguang Zhang, Lei Shi, Jiajia Zhao, Li Hu, Zhewen Hu, Yun Liu, Lili Chen
Co-transplantation of endothelial cells (ECs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is an important strategy for repairing complex and large bone defects. However, the ways in which ECs and MSCs interact remain to be fully clarified. We found that forward ephrinB2/Ephs signaling from hBMSCs to hUVECs promoted the tube formation of hUVECs by activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Reverse ephrinB2/Ephs signaling from hUVECs to hBMSCs promoted the proliferation and maintenance of hBMSCs self-renewal via upregulation of OCT4, SOX2, and YAP1. Subcutaneous co-transplantation of ECs and MSCs in nude mice confirmed that forward ephrinB2/Ephs signaling could increase the cross-sectional area of blood vessels in the transplanted area, and reverse ephrinB2/Ephs signaling could maintain the self-renewal of transplanted hBMSCs in vivo. Based on these results, ephrinB2/Ephs bidirectional juxtacrine regulation between ECs and MSCs plays a pivotal role in improving the healing of bone defects by promoting angiogenesis and achieving a sufficient number of MSCs.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2rb39AT

Radiofrequency Ablation of Asymptomatic Brugada Syndrome: Don't Go Burning My Heart.

Author: Viskin, Sami MD
Page: 1883-1884


https://ift.tt/2FlZogU

Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Coronary Artery Calcium, and Cardiovascular Disease Events in a Cohort of Generally Healthy Middle-Age Men: Results From the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study.

Author: Radford, Nina B. MD; DeFina, Laura F. MD; Leonard, David PhD; Barlow, Carolyn E. PhD; Willis, Benjamin L. MD, MPH; Gibbons, Larry W. MD; Gilchrist, Susan C. MD, MS; Khera, Amit MD, MSc; Levine, Benjamin D. MD
Page: 1888-1895


https://ift.tt/2FnqioJ

Fitness, Exercise, and Coronary Calcification.

Author: Thompson, Paul D. MD
Page: 1896-1898


https://ift.tt/2KkZTLH

Geographic Variation in Cardiac Rehabilitation Participation in Medicare and Veterans Affairs Populations: Opportunity for Improvement.

Author: Beatty, Alexis L. MD, MAS; Truong, Michael MS; Schopfer, David W. MD, MAS; Shen, Hui MS; Bachmann, Justin M. MD, MPH; Whooley, Mary A. MD
Page: 1899-1908


https://ift.tt/2FnqaFL

Geographic Variations in Cardiac Rehabilitation Use: Regional Variations in Medical Care or in Patient Behaviors?.

Author: Ades, Philip A. MD; Gaalema, Diann E. PhD
Page: 1909-1911


https://ift.tt/2KmOzis

Risk of Dementia in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease: Population-Based Cohort Study.

Author: Bagge, Carina N. BSc; Henderson, Victor W. MD, MS; Laursen, Henning B. MD, DMSc; Adelborg, Kasper MD, PhD; Olsen, Morten MD, PhD; Madsen, Nicolas L. MD, MPH
Page: 1912-1920


https://ift.tt/2Fnq0OF

Improving 1-Year Outcomes of Infrainguinal Limb Revascularization: Population-Based Cohort Study of 104 000 Patients in England.

Author: Heikkila, Katriina PhD; Mitchell, David C. MS; Loftus, Ian M. MD; Johal, Amundeep S. PhD; Waton, Sam BSc; Cromwell, David A. PhD
Page: 1921-1933


https://ift.tt/2KlFgiO

Inhibition of JAK-STAT Signaling Suppresses Pathogenic Immune Responses in Medium and Large Vessel Vasculitis.

Author: Zhang, Hui MD, PhD; Watanabe, Ryu MD, PhD; Berry, Gerald J. MD; Tian, Lu PhD; Goronzy, Jorg J. MD, PhD; Weyand, Cornelia M. MD, PhD
Page: 1934-1948


https://ift.tt/2FofkPC

Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in Acute ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Recent Advances, Controversies, and Future Directions.

Author: Bulluck, Heerajnarain MBBS, PhD; Dharmakumar, Rohan PhD; Arai, Andrew E. MD; Berry, Colin MBCHB, PhD; Hausenloy, Derek J. MD, PhD
Page: 1949-1964


https://ift.tt/2KnKrOS

Precision Obesity Care on the Horizon.

Author: Kuehn, Bridget M.
Page: 1965-1966


https://ift.tt/2Fof6rK

Highlights From the Circulation Family of Journals.

Author:
Page: 1967-1972


https://ift.tt/2KlFczA

Association Between Race and Clinical Profile of Patients Referred for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

Author: Wells, Sophie MD; Rowin, Ethan J. MD; Bhatt, Viraj BS; Maron, Martin S. MD; Maron, Barry J. MD
Page: 1973-1975


https://ift.tt/2FoeW3C

Letter by Jin-shan and Xue-bin Regarding Article, "Chronic Myocardial Infarction: Where Is It Located?".

Author: Jin-shan, He MD; Xue-bin, Li MD
Page: 1976


https://ift.tt/2KhHkbg

Response by Goldwasser et al to Letter Regarding Article, "Chronic Myocardial Infarction: Where Is It Located?".

Author: Goldwasser, Diego MD; Elizari, Marcelo MD; Bayes de Luna, Antonio MD, PhD
Page: 1977-1978


https://ift.tt/2FnbVRa

Letter by Gazmuri and Karmazyn Regarding Article, "Activation and Inhibition of Sodium-Hydrogen Exchanger Is a Mechanism That Links the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus With That of Heart Failure".

Author: Gazmuri, Raul J. MD, PhD; Karmazyn, Morris PhD
Page: 1979-1980


https://ift.tt/2KkZPLX

Response by Packer to Letter Regarding Article, "Activation and Inhibition of Sodium-Hydrogen Exchange Is a Mechanism That Links the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus With That of Heart Failure".

Author: Packer, Milton MD
Page: 1981-1982


https://ift.tt/2FlQUGp

Letter by Grocott Regarding Article, "Sodium Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibition in Heart Failure: Potential Mechanisms, Clinical Applications, and Summary of Clinical Trials".

Author: Grocott, Hilary P. MD
Page: 1983


https://ift.tt/2Kk5GRG

Response by Lytvyn et al to Letter Regarding Article, "Sodium Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibition in Heart Failure: Potential Mechanisms, Clinical Applications, and Summary of Clinical Trials".

Author: Lytvyn, Yuliya PhD *,,; Bjornstad, Petter MD *,; Udell, Jacob A. MD, MPH; Lovshin, Julie A. PhD, MD; Cherney, David Z.I. MD, PhD
Page: 1984-1985


https://ift.tt/2FocKZY

Letter by d'Aloja et al Regarding Article, "Competitive Sport Participation Among Athletes With Heart Disease: A Call for a Paradigm Shift in Decision Making".

Author: d'Aloja, Ernesto MD, PhD; Chighine, Alberto MD; Gabiati, Letizia MD
Page: 1986-1987


https://ift.tt/2KnPmQa

A Work Flow to Build and Validate Patient Specific Left Atrium Electrophysiology Models from Catheter Measurements

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Medical Image Analysis
Author(s): Cesare Corrado, Steven Williams, Rashed Karim, Gernot Plank, Mark O'Neill, Steven Niederer
Biophysical models of the atrium provide a physically constrained framework for describing the current state of an atrium and allow predictions of how that atrium will respond to therapy. We propose a work flow to simulate patient specific electrophysiological heterogeneity from clinical data and validate the resulting biophysical models. In 7 patients we recorded the atrial anatomy with an electroanatomical mapping system (St Jude Velocity); we then applied an S1-S2 electrical stimulation protocol from the coronary sinus (CS) and the high right atrium (HRA) whilst recording the activation patterns using a PentaRay catheter with 10 bipolar electrodes at 12 ± 2 sites across the atrium. Using only the activation times measured with a PentaRay catheter and caused by a stimulus applied in the CS with a remote catheter we fitted the four parameters for a modified Mitchell-Schaeffer model and the tissue conductivity to the recorded local conduction velocity restitution curve and estimated local effective refractory period. Model parameters were then interpolated across each atrium. The fitted model recapitulated the S1-S2 activation times for CS pacing giving a correlation ranging between 0.81 and 0.98. The model was validated by comparing simulated activations times with the independently recorded HRA pacing S1-S2 activation times, giving a correlation ranging between 0.65 and 0.96. The resulting work flow provides the first validated cohort of models that capture clinically measured patient specific electrophysiological heterogeneity.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2vSBJ8m

Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Inhibitors and Radiation in the Management of Brain Metastases from EGFR Mutant Lung Cancers

AbstractThe growth of genotype‐directed targeted therapies, such as inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), has revolutionized treatment for some patients with oncogene‐addicted lung cancer. However, as systemic control for these patients has improved, brain metastases remain an important source of morbidity and mortality. Traditional treatment for brain metastases has been radiotherapy, either whole‐brain radiation or stereotactic radiosurgery. The growing availability of drugs that can cross the blood‐brain barrier and have activity in the central nervous system (CNS) has led to many studies investigating whether targeted therapy can be used in combination with or in lieu of radiation. In this review, we summarize the key literature about the incidence and nature of EGFR‐mutant brain metastases (EGFR BMs), the data about the activity of EGFR inhibitors in the CNS, and whether they can be used as front‐line therapy for brain metastases. Although initial use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors for EGFR BMs can often be an effective treatment strategy, multidisciplinary evaluation is critical, and prospective studies are needed to clarify which patients may benefit from early radiotherapy.Implications for Practice.Management of brain metastases in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutant lung cancer is a common clinical problem. The question of whether to start initial therapy with an EGFR inhibitor or radiotherapy (either whole‐brain radiotherapy or stereotactic radiosurgery) is controversial. The development of novel EGFR inhibitors with enhanced central nervous system (CNS) penetration is an important advance in the treatment of CNS disease. Multidisciplinary evaluation and evaluation of extracranial disease status are critical to choosing the best treatment option for each patient.

https://ift.tt/2r5dmyx

Immuno‐Oncology Biomarkers for Gastric and Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma: Why PD‐L1 Testing May Not Be Enough

AbstractPurpose.The treatment of patients with advanced gastric and gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) adenocarcinomas has been transformed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of pembrolizumab. Tumor and adjacent tissue must stain positively for the programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) protein by companion diagnostic testing. However, some patients with PD‐L1‐negative tumors also benefit from pembrolizumab. High microsatellite instability (MSI) and tumor mutational load (TML) are positive predictive biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) in other tumors. We sought to identify more patients who could benefit from ICI using alternative PD‐L1 thresholds, MSI, and TML.Methods.Tumor specimens underwent next‐generation sequencing (NGS) and PD‐L1 testing using immunohistochemistry. NGS was used to determine TML and MSI.Results.We profiled 581 G/GEJ adenocarcinoma specimens. PD‐L1 staining was scored for intensity (0, none; 1+, weak; 2+, moderate; 3+, strong). Using 2+ staining at a 5% threshold, 9.3% of tumors were PD‐L1 positive, and using 1+ staining at 1%, 16.2% were PD‐L1 positive. 6.9% of tumors had high MSI. High TML (≥17 mutations per megabase) was seen in 6.9%, and medium TML (≥7) was seen in 56.5% of tumors. Thirty (5.2%) PD‐L1‐negative tumors at the 1+, 1% threshold had high TML or high MSI. Primary tumors had higher rates of high TML (8.8% vs. 3.9%; p = .0377) and high MSI (8.5% vs. 3.9%; p = .0471) than metastases.Conclusion.PD‐L1 testing alone fails to detect patients who may benefit from ICI. Lower PD‐L1 thresholds and TML testing should be considered in future clinical trials.Implications for Practice.Pembrolizumab is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for patients with refractory gastric and gastroesophageal cancers if the tumor and adjacent tissue stain positively for the programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) protein by companion diagnostic testing. Tumor mutational load, microsatellite instability (MSI), and alternative PD‐L1 testing thresholds may serve as predictive biomarkers for response to immune checkpoint inhibition, and standard PD‐L1 testing will not identify all patients who may benefit from this therapy.

https://ift.tt/2HvierD

Emerging Gene Fusion Drivers in Primary and Metastatic Central Nervous System Malignancies: A Review of Available Evidence for Systemic Targeted Therapies

AbstractPrimary and metastatic tumors of the central nervous system present a difficult clinical challenge, and they are a common cause of disease progression and death. For most patients, treatment consists primarily of surgery and/or radiotherapy. In recent years, systemic therapies have become available or are under investigation for patients whose tumors are driven by specific genetic alterations, and some of these targeted treatments have been associated with dramatic improvements in extracranial and intracranial disease control and survival. However, the success of other systemic therapies has been hindered by inadequate penetration of the drug into the brain parenchyma. Advances in molecular characterization of oncogenic drivers have led to the identification of new gene fusions driving oncogenesis in some of the most common sources of intracranial tumors. Systemic therapies targeting many of these alterations have been approved recently or are in clinical development, and the ability to penetrate the blood‐brain barrier is now widely recognized as an important property of such drugs. We review this rapidly advancing field with a focus on recently uncovered gene fusions and brain‐penetrant systemic therapies targeting them.Implications for Practice.Driver gene fusions involving receptor tyrosine kinases have been identified across a wide range of tumor types, including primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors and extracranial solid tumors that are associated with high rates of metastasis to the CNS (e.g., lung, breast, melanoma). This review discusses the systemic therapies that target emerging gene fusions, with a focus on brain‐penetrant agents that will target the intracranial disease and, where present, also extracranial disease.

https://ift.tt/2r6krPp

Influence of temperature fluctuations on one-stage deammonification systems in northern cold region

Abstract

Cold and fluctuant temperatures are still a bottleneck for the application of one-stage deammonification in mainstream anammox (anaerobic ammonium oxidation). In this study, to simulate the practical but critical operational condition under rapidly fluctuant temperatures between April and May in cold northern area, two deammonification reactors with anammox granular sludge and nitritation flocculent sludge were tested under the cold shock with temperature fluctuations (11–18 °C). Under the controlled temperature (32 °C), good performances were obtained in both reactors. However, after the cold shock (ca. 13 °C), both reactors deteriorated similarly. The ammonia removal efficiencies decreased by half, while total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiencies decreased by two thirds. Nitrite accumulated in both reactors, while nitrate production was not disturbed although its contributions from nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) increased. In the stage with increasing wastewater temperatures (17.5 ± 2.2 °C), several operational conditions were tested to recover the performances, including limited dissolved oxygen, long hydraulic retention time (HRT), high nitrogen loading with elevated pH, and low NH4+–N (60 mg/L), which did not significantly improve the performances, while the phenomena of heterotrophic nitrate reduction dramatically improved the nitrogen removal performances under limited aeration. During the cold temperature shock, insufficient anammox activity, and nitrate overproduction were the main problems.



https://ift.tt/2HyhbU4

Nuclear progestin receptor (Pgr) knockouts resulted in subfertility in male tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Xuelian Fang, Limin Wu, Lanying Yang, Lingyun Song, Jing Cai, Feng Luo, Jing Wei, Linyan Zhou, Deshou Wang
It was documented that 17α, 20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP), a fish specific progestin, might play critical roles in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and spermiation partially through activating nuclear receptor (Pgr). However, no direct evidence is available to demonstrate the functions of DHP in fish spermatogenesis. To further elucidate the roles of DHP in teleosts, we generated a pgr homozygous mutant line in XY Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Pgr gene mutation resulted in the development of a smaller, thinner testis and a lower GSI compared with normal testis. Pgr gene knockout led to irregular arrangement of spermatogenic cysts, decline of sperm count and sperm motility. Significant decrease of spermatocytes and spermatozoa was observed, which was further proved by the PCNA and Ph3 staining. Real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that mutation of pgr gene resulted in a significant up-regulation of steroidogenesis-related genes of cyp17a, cyp11b2, StAR, scc, 20β-HSD, and sf1, and down-regulation of fshb, fshr, oct4, sycp3, cdk1, prm, cyclinB1, cyclinB2 and cdc25 genes. Furthermore, both Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting experiments revealed a remarkable increase of Cyp17a1, Cyp17a2 and Cyp11b2 expressions in the pgr−/− testis. EIA measurement showed that an evident increase of 11-KT level was found in the pgr−/− XY fish. There was a significant increase in the mortality of offspring when crossing pgr−/− XY fish with wild type XX fish. Increased TUNEL staining and enhanced apoptosis maker gene (bax) expressions were also observed. Taken together, our data suggested that DHP-activated physiology via pgr is crucial for the fertility in the XY tilapia.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2KjR30V

Delineating the regulation of estrogen and androgen receptor expression by sex steroids during rat spermatogenesis

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Anita Kumar, Kushaan Dumasia, Sharvari Deshpande, Sanketa Raut, N.H. Balasinor
Estrogen receptors (ERα and β) and androgen receptor (AR) regulate various critical processes during spermatogenesis. Since spermatogenesis is very sensitive to hormonal stimuli and perturbations, it is important to understand the regulation of expression of these receptors by sex steroid hormones. Although many studies have reported deregulation of steroid receptors on endocrine disruption, there is no consensus on the regulation of their expression by steroid hormones during spermatogenesis, and a lack of clear understanding of the mechanism of regulation. Here, we evaluated the receptor expressions in a well-established exogenous estradiol administration model. We then investigated the mechanisms by which the individual receptors regulate their expression by binding to the respective hormone response elements upstream of these receptor genes. By further employing in vitro and in vivo models of ER and AR stimulation or antagonism, we delineated their regulation in a receptor subtype-specific manner. Our results indicate that ERα positively regulates expression of both the ERs; whereas, ERβ and AR negatively regulate expression of both ERβ and AR by direct binding to upstream regulatory regions. The perturbations in the levels of steroid receptors could be an important factor contributing to spermatogenic defects and male sub-fertility after estradiol and ER agonist treatment. Our study delineates the direct contribution of the individual steroid receptors in the regulation of their own expression.



https://ift.tt/2FnqnZw

The impact of occupational exposure to traffic-related air pollution among professional motorcyclists from Porto Alegre, Brazil, and its association with genetic and oxidative damage

Abstract

Vehicles play an important role in modern life; however, they also generate hazards. Occupational exposed subjects are in long-term contact with harmful products, which sets these professionals in a susceptible group to air pollutant damage. The aims of this study were to quantify individual exposure to pollutant gases and chemical elements and to evaluate oxidative and genetic damage in professional motorcyclists and office workers. We recruited professional motorcyclists and office workers from Porto Alegre, Brazil, between January and December 2016. Individual exposure to air pollutants was assessed by passive monitoring. Fingernail trace elements were determined by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Oxidative stress biomarkers were quantified spectrophotometrically, and genotoxicity was evaluated by micronuclei assay. Individual exposure to NO2 and O3, trace element content (Sb, Pt, As, Cd, V, Mn, and Co), oxidative stress factors, and genetic damage were statistically higher in professional motorcyclists (p < 0.05). Moreover, NO2 and O3 levels showed very strong positive correlation with plasmatic lipid peroxidation (p < 0.001 and r = 0.8849 and 0.8995) and strong positive correlation with micronuclei frequency (p < 0.001 and r = 0.7683 and 0.7280). Results suggest that professional motorcyclists are at high risk due to long-term air pollution exposure, which implies in the onset of several harmful effects and worsening of pre-existent diseases.



https://ift.tt/2r3XYCH

Neonicotinoid detection in wild turkeys ( Meleagris gallopavo silvestris ) in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

The use of neonicotinoid insecticides in agriculture is now recognized for the health risks it poses to non-target wildlife, with associated honey bee mortality especially concerning. Research directed toward the presence and effects of these pesticides on terrestrial vertebrates that consume neonicotinoid-coated seeds, such as wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris), is lacking. This study used liquid chromatography attached to a tandem mass spectrometer to assess the liver from 40 wild turkeys for neonicotinoid and other pesticide residues and compared detected levels of these contaminants across the southern Ontario, Canada. Nine (22.5%) wild turkeys had detectible levels of neonicotinoid residues—clothianidin in eight, and thiamethoxam in three. Two (5.0%) of these turkeys had detectable levels of both clothianidin and thiamethoxam. Fuberidazole was detected in two (5.0%) wild turkeys. The highest level of thiamethoxam detected was 0.16 ppm, while clothianidin was detected at 0.12 ppm, and fuberidazole at 0.0094 ppm. Knowledge of exposure in free-ranging wildlife is critical for better understanding the effects of neonicotinoids on wildlife health; thus, these data help establish baseline data for southern Ontario wild turkeys and provide context for reference values in future analyses.



https://ift.tt/2HzbIQU

Interhemispheric alpha-band hypoconnectivity in children with autism spectrum disorder

S01664328.gif

Publication date: 1 August 2018
Source:Behavioural Brain Research, Volume 348
Author(s): Abigail Dickinson, Charlotte DiStefano, Yin-Ying Lin, Aaron Wolfe Scheffler, Damla Senturk, Shafali Spurling Jeste
• Diverse genetic and environmental etiologies converge onto circuit level brain dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), manifesting at a macroscopic level as aberrant neural connectivity. Previous studies have described atypical patterns of decreased short range and increased long range connectivity in ASD [1]. However, it remains unclear whether group level features of circuit dysfunction are consistently present across the range of cognitive function seen in the autism spectrum.• The dynamics of neural oscillations in the alpha range (6–12 Hz) are exquisitely sensitive to healthy development of functional and structural connectivity. Alpha-band coherence, measured with high temporal-precision electroencephalography (EEG) therefore represents an ideal tool for studying neural connectivity in developmental populations.• Here we examined spontaneous alpha phase coherence in a heterogeneous sample of 59 children with ASD and 39 age matched typically developing children. Using a data driven approach, we conducted an unbiased examination of all possible atypical connectivity patterns across all cortical regions.• Long-range hypoconnectivity was present in children with ASD compared to typically developing children, with temporal interhemispheric connectivity showing the largest difference between the two groups.• Decreased long range alpha coherence distinguishes a heterogeneous group of ASD children from typically developing children. Interhemispheric temporal hypoconnectivity represents a fundamental functional difference in children with ASD across a wide cognitive and age range that may reflect white matter disturbances or increased signal variability at temporal sites in ASD.



https://ift.tt/2JAAn3R

Effects of taurine on striatal dopamine transporter expression and dopamine uptake in SHR rats

S01664328.gif

Publication date: 1 August 2018
Source:Behavioural Brain Research, Volume 348
Author(s): Vincent Chin-Hung Chen, Chun-Ching Chiu, Li-Jeng Chen, Tsai-Ching Hsu, Bor-Show Tzang
Dopaminergic deficits in the prefrontal cortex and striatum have been attributed to the pathogenesis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Our recent study revealed that high-dose taurine improves hyperactive behavior and brain-functional signals in SHR rats. This study investigates the effect of taurine on the SHR striatum by detecting the spontaneous alternation, DA transporter (DAT) level, dopamine uptake and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. A significant increase in the total arm entries was detected in both WKY and SHR rats fed with low-dose taurine but not in those fed with high-dose taurine. Notably, significantly increased spontaneous alternation was observed in SHR rats fed with high-dose taurine. Significantly higher striatal DAT level was detected in WKY rats fed with low-dose taurine but not in SHR rats, whereas significantly reduced striatal DAT level was detected in SHR rats fed with high-dose taurine but not in WKY rats. Significantly increased dopamine uptake was detected in the striatal synaptosomes of both WKY and SHR rats fed with low-dose taurine. Conversely, significantly reduced dopamine uptake was detected in the striatal synaptosomes of SHR rats fed with high-dose taurine. Accordingly, a negative correlation was detected between striatal dopamine uptake and spontaneous alternation in SHR rats fed with low or high-dose taurine. Significantly increased BDNF was detected in the striatum of both WKY and SHR rats fed with low or high-dose taurine. These findings indicate that different dosages of taurine have opposite effects on striatal DAT expression and dopamine uptake, suggesting high-dose taurine as a possible candidate for ADHD treatment.



https://ift.tt/2KfI013

Effects of the NMDA receptor antagonists dizocilpine and Ro 63-1908 on delay-discounting and risky decision-making in a gambling task

S01664328.gif

Publication date: 1 August 2018
Source:Behavioural Brain Research, Volume 348
Author(s): Guy A. Higgins, Leo B. Silenieks, Cam MacMillan, Fiona D. Zeeb, Sandy Thevarkunnel
Previous studies demonstrated that NMDA receptor antagonists such as dizocilpine (MK801) and the GluN2B NMDA antagonist Ro 63–1908 promote impulsive action (motor impulsivity). The effects of these treatments on impulsive choice and decision-making is less well characterized. Two experiments were undertaken. In the first experiment, given evidence for delay order as a factor in choice selection, the effect of dizocilpine was examined in a delay discounting task with separate groups of male Long-Evans rats trained to a schedule of either ascending (i.e. 0–40 s), or descending delays (i.e. 40–0 s). Under the ascending-delay schedule, dizocilpine (0.03–0.06 mg/kg SC) reduced discounting, yet on the descending-delay schedule discounting was increased. Subgrouping rats according to discounting rate under vehicle pretreatment were consistent with a treatment-induced choice perseveration. In a second experiment, male Long-Evans rats were trained to a gambling task (rGT). Neither dizocilpine (0.01–0.06 mg/kg SC) nor Ro 63–1908 (0.1–1 mg/kg SC) shifted choice from the advantageous to the disadvantageous options. However dizocilpine, and marginally Ro 63–1908, increased choice of the least risky, but suboptimal option. This effect was most evident in rats that initially preferred the disadvantageous options. Consistent with previous studies, both treatments increased measures of motor impulsivity. These results demonstrate that dizocilpine has effects on discounting dependent on delay order and likely reflective of perseveration. On the rGT task, neither dizocilpine nor Ro 63–1908 promoted risky choice, yet both NMDA receptor antagonists increased impulsive action.



https://ift.tt/2JwRYtC

A refined rat primary neonatal microglial culture method that reduces time, cost and animal use

S01650270.gif

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Journal of Neuroscience Methods
Author(s): Marieta Georgieva, Alasdair Leeson-Payne, Maria Dumitrascuta, Ann Rajnicek, Marzia Malcangio, Wenlong Huang
BackgroundPrimary microglial cultures have been used extensively to facilitate the development of therapeutic strategies for a variety of CNS disorders including neurodegeneration and neuropathic pain. However, existing techniques for culturing these cells are slow and costly.New MethodHere, we report a refined protocol based on our previously published methods described by Clark et al., which reduces in the time, reagents and the number of animals used for each culture whilst yielding high number and excellent quality microglial cells.ResultsOur refined protocol offers an isolation of > 96% microglia from a mixed glial culture after only four days of incubation. It results in a high yield of microglia, in excess of one million cells per cortex with predominantly resting morphology and a low level of cell activation.Comparison with Existing Method(s)Compared to conventional procedures our refined protocol requires only one third of the time to prepare high quality microglial cultures, cuts the cost more than four-fold, and significantly reduces the number of animals used per culture.ConclusionOur consistent, reliable, and time/cost effective microglial culture protocol is crucial for efficient in vitro screening of potential therapeutics. By dramatically reducing the culture time from 2 weeks to just 4 days and increasing the laboratory research output it has implications for the Reduction, Refinement and Replacement policies endorsed by many government funding agencies and animal research regulatory bodies.



https://ift.tt/2Hwdp1n

Recovery of early neural spikes from stimulation electrodes using a DC-coupled low gain high resolution data acquisition system

S01650270.gif

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Journal of Neuroscience Methods
Author(s): Hyunjun Jung, Jintae Kim, Yoonkey Nam
BackgroundNeural responses to electrical stimulation provide valuable information to probe and study the network function. Especially, recording neural responses from the stimulated site provides improved neural interfacing method. However, it is difficult to measure short-delayed responses at the stimulated electrode due to the saturation of the amplifier after stimulation which is called "stimulus artifact". Despite the advances in handling stimulation artifacts, it is still very challenging to deal with the artifacts if one tries to stimulate and recording from the same electrode.New methodIn this paper, we developed a system consisting of 24 bit ADC and low gain DC-amplifier which allows us to record the entire responses including saturation-free stimulus artifact and neural responses with excellent resolution.ResultsOur approach showed saturation free recording after stimulation, which makes it possible to recover neural spike as early as in 2 ms at the stimulating electrode with digital elimination methods.Comparison with Existing methods With our system we could record neural signals after stimulation that was difficult with high gain and high pass filtered recording system due to amplifier saturation.ConclusionsOur new system can enhance interface performance with its higher robustness and with simple system configuration.



https://ift.tt/2JysPyV

Editorial Board

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2Jxu7de

APIC Masthead

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2Kj6TZK

Information for Readers

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2JyBLnE

Validity of administrative data in identifying complex surgical site infections from a population-based cohort after primary hip and knee arthroplasty in Alberta, Canada

S01966553.gif

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control
Author(s): Elissa Rennert-May, Braden Manns, Stephanie Smith, Shannon Puloski, Elizabeth Henderson, Flora Au, Kathryn Bush, John Conly
BackgroundSurgical site infections (SSIs) are a substantial burden to healthcare systems in North America. Administrative data is one method though which these may be identified, but the accuracy of using such data is uncertain.MethodsWe followed a population-based cohort of patients who received primary hip/knee arthroplasty in Alberta, Canada, for whom a comprehensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) prospective surveillance methodology was used to track SSIs. Patients were also followed using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes. We assessed the sensitivity/specificity and positive/negative predictive values of ICD-10 codes compared to IPC surveillance.ResultsBetween April 1, 2012, and March 31, 2015, 24,512 people received hip/knee arthroplasty. Of these, 258 (1.05%) had a complex SSI found by IPC surveillance. Sensitivity and specificity of ICD-10 codes in identifying complex SSIs after hip/knee arthroplasty were 85.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 80.3%-89.4%) and 99.5% (95% CI 99.4%-99.6%), respectively. Positive and negative predictive values were 63.6% (95% CI 58.3%-68.7%) and 99.8% (95% CI 99.8%-99.9%), respectively.DiscussionAdministrative data have reasonable testing characteristics for identifying complex SSIs after arthroplasty. For centers without prospective surveillance programs, this could be useful in identifying hospitals with frequent complex SSIs after arthroplasty.ConclusionsA comprehensive IPC surveillance program is superior at detecting SSIs after arthroplasty.



https://ift.tt/2KhFkjk

Information for Authors

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2Jxu4hy

Newly revised guide to clinically important microbes—available in print and digital formats

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2KlWixe

Table of Contents

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2Jxu29q

Exploring the nurses' role in antibiotic stewardship: A multisite qualitative study of nurses and infection preventionists

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Eileen J. Carter, William G. Greendyke, E. Yoko Furuya, Arjun Srinivasan, Alexa N. Shelley, Aditi Bothra, Lisa Saiman, Elaine L. Larson
BackgroundThere is a growing recognition of the need to partner with nurses to promote effective antibiotic stewardship. In this study, we explored the attitudes of nurses and infection preventionists toward 5 nurse-driven antibiotic stewardship practices: 1) questioning the need for urine cultures; 2) ensuring proper culturing technique; 3) recording an accurate penicillin drug allergy history; 4) encouraging the prompt transition from intravenous (IV) to oral (PO) antibiotics; and 5) initiating an antibiotic timeout.MethodsNine focus groups and 4 interviews with 49 clinical nurses, 5 nurse managers, and 7 infection preventionists were conducted across 2 academic pediatric and adult hospitals.ResultsNurse-driven antibiotic stewardship was perceived as an extension of the nurses' role as patient advocate. Three practices were perceived most favorably: questioning the necessity of urinary cultures, ensuring proper culturing techniques, and encouraging the prompt transition from IV to PO antibiotics. Remaining recommendations were perceived to lack relevance or to challenge traditionally held nursing responsibilities. Prescriber and family engagement were noted to assist the implementation of select recommendations. Infection preventionists welcomed the opportunity to assist in providing nurse stewardship education.ConclusionsNurses appeared to be enthusiastic about participating in antibiotic stewardship. Efforts to engage nurses should address knowledge needs and consider the contexts in which nurse-driven antibiotic stewardship occurs.



https://ift.tt/2Kjo0dT

Health care system leaders' perspectives on infection preventionist and registered nurse engagement in antibiotic stewardship

1-s2.0-S0196655317X00060-cov150h.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Mary Lou Manning, Monika Pogorzelska-Maziarz
BackgroundInfection preventionists (IPs) and registered nurses (RNs) have an important role to play in antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs). Recent articles highlight their potential roles in practice, research, education, and policy; however, little is known about their actual ASP engagement. Leaders often have early knowledge of emerging trends and evolving health care worker roles.MethodsA survey was developed using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Core Elements of Hospital Antibiotic Stewardship Programs to assess health care system infection prevention and control leaders' perceptions of IP and RN engagement in hospital ASPs.ResultsThirty-five leaders representing all regions of the United States completed the survey. Their organizations tended to have significant ASP leadership support, but lacked ASP policies indicating IP and RN roles and responsibilities. IPs were more likely than RNs to be members of the ASP team and have greater ASP knowledge. Neither discipline was conducting patient education related to proper use of antibiotics, but this was identified as a future ASP role. The 2017 Joint Commission Antimicrobial Stewardship Standard was accelerating ASP implementation.ConclusionsIPs and RNs are well-positioned to assume greater roles in ASPs, especially in educating patients about the safe and proper use of antibiotics. However, their roles must be clearly identified, defined, and quantified. In so doing, knowledge and skill gaps can be identified and specific educational programs developed to advance their successful engagement in ASPs.



https://ift.tt/2JwNfbm

Frequent contamination of nursing scrubs is associated with specific care activities

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Kerri A. Thom, Daniel Escobar, Mallory A. Boutin, Min Zhan, Anthony D. Harris, J. Kristie Johnson
BackgroundThe objective of this article is to assess health care worker (HCW) and patient care factors associated with bacterial contamination of scrubs.MethodsWe performed a cohort study of critical care HCWs. Participants were given 4 sets of new scrubs; each set was sampled 8 times during the 8-month study period on random days in the last 4 hours of the shift. Total colony counts and presence of prespecified pathogenic bacteria were assessed. Generalized estimating equation was used to identify factors associated with contamination.ResultsThere were 720 samples obtained from 90 HCWs; 30% of samples were contaminated with pathogenic bacteria. Multivariate analysis showed that providing care for patients with wounds (odds ratio [OR], 1.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17-2.62; P < .01) or giving a bath (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 0.96-2.22; P = .07) was associated with higher odds of scrub contamination. A second model showed the average log colony count of bacterial contamination of scrubs was higher when a bath was given (log colony count difference, 0.21; P = .05) but lower among HCWs assigned to care for at least 1 patient on contact precautions (log colony count difference, 0.28; P < .01).ConclusionsHCW attire was frequently contaminated with bacteria. Providing care for patients with wounds or giving a bath were associated with scrub contamination by pathogenic bacteria. However, the amount of contamination was lower among HCWs who were assigned to care for patients on contact precautions.



https://ift.tt/2KljL1B

Dynamics of intraoperative Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Enterobacter transmission

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Brent Hadder, Hetal M. Patel, Randy W. Loftus
BackgroundOur primary objective was to examine anesthesia work area reservoir isolation of Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Enterobacter spp (KAPE) pathogens. This is a retrospective analysis of a randomized, prospective, and observational study involving 3 academic medical centers.MethodsPatients included adults undergoing general anesthesia. Gram-negative isolates (N = 2,682) were collected from anesthesia work area reservoirs in 274 randomly selected operating room case pairs. Nine hundred and forty-five isolates were included in this study. Chi square tests were used to examine the association of anesthesia work area reservoirs with KAPE genera isolation.ResultsAcinetobacter pathogens were more likely to be isolated from anesthesia provider hands (risk ratio [RR], 1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-1.10; corrected P = .004) and less likely to be isolated from patients (RR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.08-0.50; corrected P < .0001). Enterobacter pathogens were more likely to be isolated from patients (RR, 3.34; 95% CI, 1.92-5.81; corrected P = 0.001) and less likely to be isolated from provider hands (RR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.83-0.97; corrected P = .007).ConclusionsAnesthesia provider hands are important reservoirs for Acinetobacter spp, whereas patient skin surfaces are key reservoirs for Enterobacter spp. Future work should examine the impact of a multimodal program in controlling the intraoperative spread of Acinetobacter and Enterobacter pathogens.



https://ift.tt/2JwHU3J

Erratum

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5





https://ift.tt/2KjivMd

Sustained reduction in rates of hospital-onset Clostridium difficile infection using an automated electronic health record protocol

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Jad Antoine Khoury, William W. Sistrunk, Frances Hixson, Mary Duncan, Ann Perry, Amanda Varble, Alex M. Bryant
BackgroundAn automated protocol was designed within our electronic medical record (EMR) to help curb the Clostridium difficile problem at our institution. The protocol will identify patients at high risk for C difficile, improve the timing of testing of patients infected on admission, and enhance the appropriateness of C difficile testing throughout the patient's hospitalization.MethodsAdmitted patients with 2 of the following 3 criteria were labeled as high risk for C difficile: admission to a medical institution in the preceding 90 days, administration of antibiotics in the preceding 90 days, or a history of C difficile. High-risk patients with diarrhea in the first 3 days of admission are identified in the EMR, and prompt testing for C difficile is done. After day 3, if diarrhea develops, a series of questions is presented to help test the appropriate patients for C difficile.ResultsA statistically significant reduction in rates of hospital-onset C difficile was achieved after implementation of the protocol.ConclusionsImplementation of an automated protocol for targeted testing of high-risk patients for C difficile was successful at reducing rates of hospital-onset C difficile by improving timing and appropriateness of testing.



https://ift.tt/2JAtDmz

Positive deviance and hand hygiene of nurses in a Quebec hospital: What can we learn from the best?

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Josiane Létourneau, Marie Alderson, Annette Leibing
BackgroundAlthough it is well known that hand hygiene is the most effective measure to prevent health care–associated infections, hand hygiene adherence is low in Quebec, as it is elsewhere. For this study, an innovative framework was used to explore the clinical practice of nurses regarding hand hygiene and the factors that influence it: positive deviance, or the idea that there are people who find better solutions to problems than their peers. This study investigated positive deviance at the level of the care team to shed light on group dynamics.MethodsWe conducted focused ethnographies on 2 care units—a medical-surgery unit and a palliative care unit—at a Montreal university hospital. Data collection consisted mainly of systematic observations and individual interviews with nurses.ResultsThe results show that positive deviance related to hand hygiene is instigated by social cohesion within a care team, created, in this study, by the mobilizing leadership of the head nurse in the medical-surgery unit and the prevailing humanist philosophy in the palliative care unit.ConclusionsIn health care, it can be useful to apply the positive deviance approach to care teams instead of individuals to better understand the ideologic and structural differences linked to better hand hygiene performance by the nurses.



https://ift.tt/2KhF8AC

A national survey of interventions and practices in the prevention of blood culture contamination and associated adverse health care events

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Robert A. Garcia, Eric D. Spitzer, Barbara Kranz, Sue Barnes
The scientific literature indicates that blood culture contamination often leads to inappropriate antimicrobial treatment, adverse patient occurrences, and potential reporting of false-positive central line–associated bloodstream infections. The findings of a national infection prevention survey of blood culture practices and related interventions in hospitals support the need for infection preventionists to expand their participation in the review of topics related to the ordering and collection of blood for culture.



https://ift.tt/2JxeW3L

Healthcare-associated infections studies project: An American Journal of Infection Control and National Healthcare Safety Network data quality collaboration: Location mapping

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: May 2018
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 46, Issue 5
Author(s): Marc-Oliver Wright, Scott G. Decker, Katherine Allen-Bridson, Joan N. Hebden, Denise Leaptrot
This case study is part of a series centered on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) health care-associated infection (HAI) surveillance definitions. This specific case study focuses on appropriately mapping locations within an NHSN-enrolled facility. The intent of the case study series is to foster standardized application of the NHSN HAI surveillance definitions among IPs and encourage accurate determination of HAI events.An online survey link is provided where participants may confidentially answer questions related to the case study and receive immediate feedback in the form of correct answers and explanations and rationales. Details of the case study, answers, and explanations have been reviewed and approved by NHSN staff. We hope that participants take advantage of this educational offering and thereby gain a greater understanding of NHSN HAI surveillance definitions.



https://ift.tt/2KjtrJN

Assessment of genotoxic activity of oleoresins and leaves extracts of six Copaifera species for prediction of potential human risks

Publication date: 15 July 2018
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 221
Author(s): Ricardo Andrade Furtado, Pollyanna Francielli de Oliveira, Juliana Marques Senedese, Saulo Duarte Ozelin, Larissa Daniela Ribeiro de Souza, Luís Fernando Leandro, Wendel Luiz de Oliveira, Jonas Joaquim Mangabeira da Silva, Larissa Costa Oliveira, Hervé Rogez, Sérgio Ricardo Ambrósio, Rodrigo Cassio Sola Veneziani, Jairo Kenupp Bastos, Denise Crispim Tavares
Ethnopharmacological relevanceCopaifera species are used in folk medicine for a wide variety of pharmacological properties. This paper reports the cytotoxic and genotoxic analyses of oleoresins and leaves extracts of Copaifera species: C. duckei, C. multijuga, C. paupera, C. pubiflora, C. reticulata and C. trapezifolia.Materials and methodsIn vitro assays were performed using Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts (V79 cells). The clonogenic efficiency and cytokinesis-block micronucleus assays were employed for the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessment, respectively. The mouse bone marrow micronucleus test was used for in vivo studies.ResultsThe cytotoxicity results using the clonogenic efficiency assay showed IC50 values ranging from 9.8 to 99.2 µg/mL for oleoresins and 66.4–721.5 for leaves extracts. However, no cytotoxic effect was observed in the in vivo studies. Additionally, the treatments with oleoresins and leaves extracts did not significantly increase the frequency of micronuclei in both in vitro and in vivo mammalian cells. The UPLC-MS/MS and CG/MS analyses of Copaifera oleoresins allowed the identification of 10 acid diterpenes and 11 major volatile sesquiterpenes. Leaves are rich in phenolic compounds including two flavonoid heterosides and 16 galloylquinic acid derivatives.ConclusionsThe oleoresins and leaves extracts of studied Copaifera species were not cytotoxic in vivo, as well as not genotoxic in both in vitro and vivo assays, under the experimental conditions used. Therefore, the obtained results should be sufficient to demonstrate the absence of significant genotoxic risk of these Copaifera products for human use in the evaluated concentrations range.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2w1jQo3

Dominant factor affecting Pb speciation and the leaching risk among land-use types around Pb-Zn mine

Publication date: 15 September 2018
Source:Geoderma, Volume 326
Author(s): Haixia Tian, Linchuan Fang, Chengjiao Duan, Yunqiang Wang, Hao Wu
Soil lead (Pb) pollution around the mining area has severely threaten human health. However, Pb leaching risk in soils with different land uses and which is the proper land use are still unknown. In this work, Pb speciation characteristics and the dominant soil factors affecting Pb speciation in three land uses (farmland, woodland, and grassland) surrounding the Pb-Zn mine in Feng Country, Shaanxi province were investigated. Moreover, the Pb leaching risk and associated determining factors were evaluated by the combination of leached Pb concentration and structural equation model (SEM). The results showed that farmland presented the highest total Pb content (410.1 mg kg−1) among three land use types. The reducible fraction of Pb (Fe-Mn oxides bound) was the major speciation (>50%) in all tested soils of three land-use types. Soil total phosphorus (TP), water content (WC), and pH play major role in regulating Pb speciation. Though soil biological properties, like microbial communities, catalase, and microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) exhibited distinct responses to three different land uses, they showed minor influence on Pb speciation. More interestingly, SEM analysis indicated that Pb leaching risk was directly linked with bacteria abundance, total Pb content, clay content, and C/N. Grassland presented the higher predicted Pb leaching concentration (85.03 mg kg−1), compared with that in woodland, suggesting that grassland was the worst land-use type to buffer the Pb toxicity. Woodland could be recommended as the proper native land use to alleviate environmental risk. Overall, our results demonstrated the dominant factor to regulate Pb speciation and pointed out the proper land-use in relieving Pb leaching risk around Pb-Zn mine. These finding provides the new strategies to the remediation and management of metal-contaminated soil.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2HY2JIq

Morphological and anatomical changes of Phragmites australis Cav. due to the uptake and accumulation of heavy metals from polluted soils

Publication date: 15 September 2018
Source:Science of The Total Environment, Volume 636
Author(s): Tatiana Minkina, Grigoriy Fedorenko, Dina Nevidomskaya, Aleksei Fedorenko, Victor Chaplygin, Saglara Mandzhieva
The effect of strong chemical contamination of soils on the growth and structure of reed (Phragmites australis Cav.) roots and stems has been investigated. Soils and plants on monitoring plots in the zone of industrial sewage tanks and sludge reservoirs in the city of Kamensk-Shakhtinskii (southern Russia) were studied. Polyelement pollution of soils on the studied monitoring plots was revealed, with exceedances of Clarkes in hundreds of times for Zn and Cd, in tens of times for Pb, and in several times for Cu, Ni, Cr, and Mn. An ecological-geochemical estimation revealed an extremely hazardous level of soil contamination HMs in total. It is shown that the high level of soil contamination decelerates the ontogenetic development of plants and decreases their morphometric parameters. Electron-microscopic study of plants revealed changes in the ultrastructure of cell membranes, as well as the main cytoplasmic organelles of root and stem cells (mitochondria, plastids, etc.). It is suggested that the revealed structural changes in epidermis and mesoderm under the impact of metals hamper the radial migration of fluid in the root from the peripheral parts. These changes are one of the reasons for the decrease in the level of nutrient uptake and translocation from roots to shoots.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2vN5YgO

Synthesis of widely emission-tunable Ag–Ga–S and its quaternary derivative quantum dots

Publication date: 1 September 2018
Source:Chemical Engineering Journal, Volume 347
Author(s): Jong-Hoon Kim, Bu-Yong Kim, Eun-Pyo Jang, Suk-Young Yoon, Kyung-Hye Kim, Young Rag Do, Heesun Yang
Chalcopyrite I – III–VI chalcogenides have attracted great attention as environmentally benign, non-Cd compositions for synthesis of colloidal quantum dot (QD) emitters. Various Cu-based I–III–VI compositions have been intensively investigated for synthesis of highly fluorescent QDs, while the compositional diversity of Ag-based QD emitters remains still limited. Here, we explore synthesis of Ag-based I–III–VI QDs of ternary Ag–Ga–S (AGS) and its derivative quaternary Zn–Ag–Ga–S (ZAGS) and Ag–In–Ga–S (AIGS) QDs through alloying AGS with Zn2+ and In3+ ions, respectively. Being in line with the variation of band gap of a series of these QDs, they exhibit a systematic, wide photoluminescence (PL) tunability from blue (450 nm, the shortest PL wavelength reported to date from I–III–VI QD emitters) from the highest-band gap ZAGS to amber color (570 nm) from the lowest-band gap AIGS with high PL quantum yields of 58–69% after elaborate ZnS shelling. Among QDs above, two AIGS/ZnS QDs with different In contents, which are capable of efficiently absorbing blue photons, are further applied as down-converters in combination with a blue light-emitting diode (LED) to produce bicolored white solid-state lighting devices and down-conversion emission properties of the resulting white QD-LEDs are described in detail.

Graphical abstract

image


https://ift.tt/2HZeUos

Contact Dermatitis Symposium

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 13-16, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FoEspk

All About Acne

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 12-12, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I5nfob

Miscellaneous and Other Surprises

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 7-9, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FmuuEU

Author Index 2018

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 130-134, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I5bkGC

Plenary Session 4 and Awarding of Prizes

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 29-31, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FpX2ha

Poster Presentations

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 32-129, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I7zUXG

Mohs Quality Assurance Program and Fellow Talks

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 9-10, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2Fmuchi

Paediatric Symposium

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 16-19, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I2lYy0

What's New in Journals

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 31-31, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FoEpd8

Psoriasis Symposium

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 12-13, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I3d17D

Procedural Dermatology – Free Papers

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 11-12, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FoEeP0

Registrar Training Session

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 24-24, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I6tA2I

Dermatology Hospitalist

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 22-24, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FnJ9zM

Translational Research

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 25-28, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I1PCU1

Procedural Dermatology – Mohs Peer Review

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 4-4, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FmTVGB

Melanoma & Skin Cancer Free Communications

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 19-22, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I5n10j

Registrar & Fellow Update – Medical

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 3-4, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FmTMmx

Registrar Forum

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 4-7, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I94gsV

Dermatology Research

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 31-32, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2FmTlsp

Issue Information

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, Volume 59, Issue S1, Page 1-2, May 2018.


https://ift.tt/2I42iKb

Short Takes

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Pediatric Neurology
Author(s): Steven G. Pavlakis




https://ift.tt/2r8CVPs

Effect of single and mixed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contamination on plant biomass yield and PAH dissipation during phytoremediation

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-contaminated sites have a mixture of PAH of varying concentration which may affect PAH dissipation differently to contamination with a single PAH. In this study, pot experiments investigated the impact of PAH contamination on Medicago sativa, Lolium perenne, and Festuca arundinacea biomass and PAH dissipation from soils spiked with phenanthrene (Phe), fluoranthene (Flu), and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) in single and mixed treatments. Stimulatory or inhibitory effects of PAH contamination on plant biomass yields were not different for the single and mixed PAH treatments. Results showed significant effect of PAH treatments on plant growth with an increased root biomass yield for F. arundinacea in the Phe (175%) and Flu (86%) treatments and a root biomass decrease in the mixed treatment (4%). The mean residual PAHs in the planted treatments and unplanted control for the single treatments were not significantly different. B[a]P dissipation was enhanced for single and mixed treatments (71–72%) with F. arundinacea compared to the unplanted control (24–50%). On the other hand, B[a]P dissipation was inhibited with L. perenne (6%) in the single treatment and M. sativa (11%) and L. perenne (29%) in the mixed treatment. Abiotic processes had greater contribution to PAH dissipation compared to rhizodegradation in both treatments. In most cases, a stimulatory effect of PAH contamination on plant biomass yield without an enhancement of PAH dissipation was observed. Plant species among other factors affect the relative contribution of PAH dissipation mechanisms during phytoremediation. These factors determine the effectiveness and suitability of phytoremediation as a remedial strategy for PAH-contaminated sites. Further studies on impact of PAH contamination, plant selection, and rhizosphere activities on soil microbial community structure and remediation outcome are required.



https://ift.tt/2Kjrnl9

Vitamin D supplementation may improve symptoms in Meniere’s disease

alertIcon.gif

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses, Volume 116
Author(s): Bela Büki, Heinz Jünger, Yunxia Wang Lundberg
In the last 4 years the authors observed a trend that correcting vitamin D deficiency in newly diagnosed cases of Meniere's disease decreased the necessity of the ablative therapy with intratympanic gentamicin. According to their hypothesis, vitamin D supplementation may indeed have a beneficial effect in Meniere's disease if the symptoms are caused by a local postviral autoimmune reaction. Vitamin D has a strong immunomodulatory role, one of which is the regulation of the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators. The authors suggest further epidemiological studies to decide if there is a connection between vitamin D deficiency and Meniere's disease.



https://ift.tt/2r3HkTD

Complexities of perceived and actual performance in pathology interpretation: A comparison of cutaneous melanocytic skin and breast interpretations

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Hwl4sr

A cascade autocatalytic strand displacement amplification and hybridization chain reaction event for label-free and ultrasensitive electrochemical nucleic acid biosensing

S09565663.gif

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 113
Author(s): Zhiqiang Chen, Ying Liu, Chen Xin, Jikuan Zhao, Shufeng Liu
Herein, an autocatalytic strand displacement amplification (ASDA) strategy was proposed for the first time, which was further ingeniously coupled with hybridization chain reaction (HCR) event for the isothermal, label-free and multiple amplification toward nucleic acid detection. During the ASDA module, the target recognition opens the immobilized hairpin probe (IP) and initiates the annealing of the auxiliary DNA strand (AS) with the opened IP for the successive polymerization and nicking reaction in the presence of DNA polymerase and nicking endonuclease. This induces the target recycling and generation of a large amount of intermediate DNA sequences, which can be used as target analogy to execute the autocatalytic strand displacement amplification. Simultaneously, the introduced AS strand can propagate the HCR between two hairpins (H1 and H2) to form a linear DNA concatamer with cytosine (C)-rich loop region, which can facilitate the in-situ synthesis of silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) as electrochemical tags for further amplification toward target responses. With current cascade ASDA and HCR strategy, the detection of target DNA could be achieved with a low detection limit of about 0.16 fM and a good selectivity. The developed biosensor also exhibits the distinct advantages of flexibility and simplicity in probe design and biosensor fabrication, and label-free electrochemical detection, thus opens a promising avenue for the detection of nucleic acid with low abundance in bioanalysis and clinical biomedicine.



https://ift.tt/2vOAebm

Electrochemical immunosensor for differential diagnostic of Wuchereria bancrofti using a synthetic peptide

S09565663.gif

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 113
Author(s): Isis C. Prado, Verônica G. Mendes, André L.A. Souza, Rosa F. Dutra, Salvatore G. De-Simone
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease transmitted by mosquitoes and the second cause of permanent disability leading to a significant morbidity and mortality rate. Previously, we have identified epitopes of the filarial abundant larval transcript-2 (ALT-2) protein using a microarray mapping. In this study, one of the epitopes (Wb/ALT2-A5) was used to construct an electrochemical immunosensor. Electrochemical technique of cyclic voltammetry was performed for detecting the signal generated by the interaction between the (Wb/ALT2-A5) peptide and circulating antibodies of serum human samples. (Wb/ALT2-A5) epitope antigens were successfully immobilized on the working electrode of a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) by their amine groups via chitosan film by coupling with glutaraldehyde as crosslinker. After the sensor ready, a pool of human sera infected with Wuchereria bancrofti was added to its surface. Electrochemical responses were generated by applying a potential of − 0.6 to 0.6 V, scan rate of 0.025 V/s. A detection limit of 5.0 µg mL−1 for the synthetic peptides (Wb/ALT2-A5) and 0.002 µg mL−1 for human serum, with a sensitivity of 1.86 µA. The performance of this assay was successfully tested in human serum samples from infected and healthy patients. Thus, this proposed immunosensor, which is able to identify circulating antibodies, can be applied to the diagnosis of the W. bancrofti parasitic disease.



https://ift.tt/2r1XEFo

A photoelectrochemical aptasensor based on a 3D flower-like TiO2-MoS2-gold nanoparticle heterostructure for detection of kanamycin

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: 30 July 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 112
Author(s): Xiaoqiang Liu, Peipei Liu, Yunfei Tang, Liwei Yang, Lele Li, Zhichong Qi, Deliang Li, Danny K.Y. Wong
In this work, a sensitive photoelectrochemical aptasensor was developed for kanamycin detection using an enhanced photocurrent response strategy, which is based on the surface plasmon resonance effect of gold nanoparticles deposited on a 3D TiO2-MoS2 flower-like heterostructure. A significant aspect of this development lies in the photoelectrochemical and morphological features of the unique ternary composite, which have contributed to the excellent performance of the sensor. To develop an aptasensor, mercapto-group modified aptamers were immobilised on the photoactive composite as a recognition unit for kanamycin. The TiO2-MoS2-AuNP composite was demonstrated to accelerate the electron transfer, increase the loading of aptamers and improve the visible light excitation of the sensor. Under optimal conditions, the aptasensor exhibited a dynamic range from 0.2 nM to 450 nM of kanamycin with a detection limit of 0.05 nM. Overall, we have successfully synergised both the electrical and the optical merits from individual components to form a ternary composite, which was then demonstrated as an effective scaffold for the development of PEC biosensors.



https://ift.tt/2vRdhnK

Neural encoding of sensory and behavioral complexity in the auditory cortex

Publication date: October 2018
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 52
Author(s): Kishore Kuchibhotla, Brice Bathellier
Converging evidence now supports the idea that auditory cortex is an important step for the emergence of auditory percepts. Recent studies have extended the list of complex, nonlinear sound features coded by cortical neurons. Moreover, we are beginning to uncover general properties of cortical representations, such as invariance and discreteness, which reflect the structure of auditory perception. Complexity, however, emerges not only through nonlinear shaping of auditory information into perceptual bricks. Behavioral context and task-related information strongly influence cortical encoding of sounds via ascending neuromodulation and descending top-down frontal control. These effects appear to be mediated through local inhibitory networks. Thus, auditory cortex can be seen as a hub linking structured sensory representations with behavioral variables.



https://ift.tt/2r2Uv7Z

Which essential oils help get rid of wrinkles?

There are many lotions and creams that claim to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but some people may prefer a natural alternative. Many essential oils, including sandalwood, lavender, and rosemary, are believed to help. We look at the evidence for 10 essential oils that could help keep the skin looking young.

https://ift.tt/2Focfiq

Can you remove a skin tag yourself?

Skin tags are harmless, but some people choose to eliminate large or noticeable tags for cosmetic reasons. There are many simple methods of removal, including creams and freezing kits. In this article, we describe how to get rid of skin tags at home and when to see a doctor for professional removal.

https://ift.tt/2HusfFE

Comparison of Pain Levels in Anterior Versus Cephalic Approach for Supraorbital/Supratrochlear Nerve Blocks

imageNo abstract available

https://ift.tt/2HArpra

Commentary on Reactive Eccrine Syringofibroadenoma Associated With Basal Cell Carcinoma

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r45aP0

Commentary on Bupivacaine as an Adjunct to Lidocaine in Mohs Micrographic Surgery

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2HArfjy

Shave Versus Elliptical Biopsy for Melanoma Substantially Increases Re-excision Area and Length

imageNo abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r9DrwD

Factors Influencing Squamous Cell Carcinoma In Situ Recurrence and Implications for Treatment Choice

imageBACKGROUND Numerous treatment modalities have been reported for squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCCIS). Risk factors for recurrence have not been systematically reviewed. OBJECTIVE To systematically review and summarize the data on risk factors that contribute to recurrence of SCCIS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A PubMed search was completed using the terms "SCCIS," "Bowen's disease," "Bowen's disease and recurrence," and "Bowen's disease and Mohs." These sources were cross-referenced for the terms "treatment," "management," "therapy," "recurrence," and "margins." Studies were selected on the basis of relevance and applicable treatments. RESULTS Immunosuppression was the only variable with a statistically signficant association with progression or recurrence of SCCIS. Although there were no data directly correlating subclinical lateral extension or invasive squamous cell carcinoma within SCCIS with recurrence, evidence supports both of these as common features of SCCIS. Other potential recurrence risk factors for which there are limited supporting data included tumor size, depth of follicular extension, and location. CONCLUSION Immunosuppression was the only risk factor associated with increased risk of tumor recurrence. Subclinical tumor extension and occult invasive squamous cell carcinoma are relatively common features that theoretically could increase recurrence risk. These factors should be considered when deciding upon treatment for SCCIS. Further study is required to quantify variables that influence recurrence and to identify optimal treatment options.

https://ift.tt/2HwHduW

Venous Treatment of Lipodermatosclerosis to Improve Ambulatory Function

imageNo abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r4wSep

Bending the Arc of the Trilobed Flap Through External Interlobe Angle Inequality

imageBACKGROUND The trilobed flap is a useful repair option for distal nasal defects. In certain cases, however, the placement of its quaternary defect may risk compression of the internal nasal valve or induction of ectropion. In this study, we propose a modified design of the trilobed flap, which uses unequal external interlobe angles. OBJECTIVE To present the design principles and results of our modified trilobed flap for the reconstruction of difficult distal nasal Mohs defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mohs defects of 26 patients were reconstructed (21 with long-term follow-up) using our modified trilobed flap over 1 year. Two independent masked raters graded postoperative photographs for alar symmetry and overall cosmesis. RESULTS Median alar symmetry scores were excellent and overall cosmesis grades were between excellent and very good. CONCLUSION The modified trilobed flap with unequal external angles offers an excellent option for reconstruction of Mohs defect of the distal nose that may not be well-suited for other repairs. Over 1 year, 21 modified trilobed repairs were performed with overall excellent outcomes.

https://ift.tt/2HwH0Ia

Repair of a Large Central Upper Lip Defect

imageNo abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r4wY5L

Mechanism of Action of Topical Garlic on Wound Healing

imageBACKGROUND Allicin, the active component of garlic, has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic has also been used historically by many cultures to heal wounds. Several animal studies have shown that garlic extracts increase the rate of wound healing and decrease the rate of infection. OBJECTIVE Fibroblasts play a key role in wound healing. Here we hypothesize that fibroblasts are being activated by allicin, leading to more organized and rapid wound repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six rats were each given 2 surgical wounds. One side was treated with a 30% garlic ointment while the other was treated with Vaseline for two weeks. A biopsy was taken from each scar site and histopathology with Immunohistochemistry was performed to quantify the number of fibroblasts and proliferating fibroblasts in each site. RESULTS The wound biopsies had more proliferating fibroblasts in the scars treated with the 30% garlic ointment than in the scars treated with Vaseline with a p-value of 0.0175 at two weeks post op and 0.081 at 6 week post op. CONCLUSION This data tells us that allicin is acting on fibroblasts as there were more proliferating fibroblasts in the garlic treated sites than in the other sites.

https://ift.tt/2HwGTMK

Pearly Facial Nodule as a Presentation of Late Metastasis of Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma

imageNo abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r4wvAx

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

imageBACKGROUND 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.

https://ift.tt/2HwGLNg

Simple Technique to Optimize Second-Intention Healing of Nasal Alar and Tip Defects

imageNo abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r5nd7q

Treatment of Ingrowing Toenails With Phenol 88% or Trichloroacetic Acid 100%: A Comparative, Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind Study

imageBACKGROUND Phenol is the gold standard for chemical matricectomy in ingrowing toenail. Recently, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) was used as cauterant. Both agents have high success rates but a postoperative healing time claimed to be faster for TCA rather than phenol. OBJECTIVE Comparing the efficacy, the postoperative oozing time, the inflammatory reaction, and the postoperative pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS Comparative, prospective, randomized, double-blind study. Eighty-four patients with 96 ingrowing toenails were randomized in 2 groups. Forty-six ingrowing toenails were treated with phenol 88% and 50 with TCA 100% within a 4-month period. Patients were observed 4 times for the presence of oozing and for the degree of inflammation. Patients assessed also oozing and pain on a scale basis during 34 days. RESULTS Oozing was observed to be less with phenol treatment, as from the second week. Inflammation was also significantly inferior in the phenol group at Week 4. Patients evaluated the incidence of pain below 2/10 for both cauterants, while oozing was higher with TCA during 34 days. The overall success rates of both groups were similar with 100%. CONCLUSION Phenol and TCA are both effective but TCA does not offer any advantage in terms of postoperative morbidity compared with phenol.

https://ift.tt/2Hw2S6f

Commentary on ATX-101 (Deoxycholic Acid Injection) for Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia Secondary to Cryolipolysis

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2r9Dhp1

A Novel Window Technique Using CO2 Laser, and a Review of Methods for Nail Matrix Biopsy of Longitudinal Melanonychia

imageBACKGROUND Nail matrix histopathological examination is essential to diagnose longitudinal melanonychia (LM). Several methods for nail matrix biopsy have been introduced but are often difficult to perform because of their invasiveness and technical difficulty. Therefore, a less invasive and novel biopsy technique is needed. OBJECTIVE To introduce a window technique for nail matrix biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and histopathological specimens of patients with LM who underwent the window technique for nail matrix biopsy at our institution between September 2015 and December 2016. RESULTS Eleven cases from 10 patients with LM were subjected to our tailored window technique assisted by carbon dioxide (CO2) laser and dermoscopy. We performed nail plate dermoscopy to select the biopsy site and used CO2 laser to create the window in the proximal nail plate. Nail matrix pigmentation was carefully investigated using intraoperative dermoscopy. The technique established appropriate diagnosis in 11 LM cases, without significant complications, as follows: melanoma in situ (4 cases) and nail matrix activation (7 cases). CONCLUSION The window technique assisted by CO2 laser and dermoscopy can be a minimally invasive and effective method for nail matrix LM biopsy under local anesthesia.

https://ift.tt/2HAqGGs

Αναζήτηση αυτού του ιστολογίου