Changes of biotoxicity in food waste fermentation wastewater treated by a membrane bioreactor system

Abstract

The biotoxicity of industrial effluents has attracted much concern in the wastewater treatment process. This research performed the biological treatment of the wastewater generated from food waste fermentation by anaerobic/anaerobic/anoxic/aerobic-membrane bioreactor (A³-MBR) system aiming at the meet of discharge standards and elimination of ecological risks to aquatic environment. The results showed that the A³-MBR could effectively remove pollutants such as COD, TN, ammonia, and TP in the wastewater. The study of biotoxicity revealed that the acute toxicity was mainly contained in the polar and mid-polar fractions of the wastewater, and the remained acute toxicity was less than 0.6 TU, much lower than the secondary effluent of domestic wastewater treatment plant. The genotoxicity was found abundantly in the polar fractions and less in mid-polar fractions, and a relatively low genotoxicity (0.086 μg 4-NQO/L) was obtained in the final effluent of the treatment system. The fulvic acid-like compounds and humic acid-like compounds were the main cause of the acute toxicity, while the aromatic proteins and soluble microbial by-products mainly resulted in the genotoxicity in the wastewater.

https://ift.tt/2FrqSBB

Impact of selected drugs and their binary mixtures on the germination of Sorghum bicolor (sorgo) seeds

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the toxicological potential of binary drug mixtures and individual drugs under different pH conditions with different inorganic ion additions on the germination of Sorghum bicolor (sorgo) seeds. To assess whether the given drug mixtures were more phytotoxic than the individual compounds, concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) approaches were applied to estimate the predicted phytotoxicity values, followed by calculations of the MDR (model deviation factor) to determine the deviation from the predicted values. Binary mixtures of chloramphenicol with ketoprofen, diclofenac sodium, and oxytetracycline hydrochloride proved to be synergistic. The pH changes had the largest impact on the phytotoxicity of the diclofenac sodium and ketoprofen solutions, elevating their toxicity toward S. bicolor, and the co-presence of inorganic ions was shown to have an impact on ketoprofen, chloramphenicol, and oxytetracycline hydrochloride. Most of the interactions between sorgo plants and pharmaceuticals with added ions were antagonistic in nature, particularly those calculated using the IA model, with a few cases (one case for ketoprofen and chloramphenicol, two cases for oxytetracycline hydrochloride, and four cases for diclofenac sodium) of overestimation.

https://ift.tt/2jhpxVF

Facile synthesis of highly porous “carbon sponge” with adsorption and co-adsorption behavior of lead ions and atrazine

Abstract

The rapid industrialization and modern agriculture, increasing emission of heavy metals, and abusing application of pesticide have changed biochemical features of the soil system and water system. Additionally, heavy metals and pesticide compounds may occur together in environments, giving rise to more serious damage to the environment because of their combined toxicity and carcinogenic properties. Therefore, there is a growing need for the development of low-cost adsorbents for their removal. Porous carbon materials have been considered as highly effective materials for pollutant ion control. In this thesis, a novel porous "carbon sponge" is produced using sucrose (S-PCS) with gas-producing molten salt KHCO₃ as the activator at different pyrolysis temperatures under a limited-oxygen condition. Results from these characterizations have indicated that the as-prepared carbon sponges share high surface area (up to 457.6434 m² g⁻¹) and abundant oxygen-containing functional groups existed on the surface. The essential factors of contact time, initial concentrations, and cyclic availability on adsorption of lead ions and atrazine onto the as-prepared porous samples are also discussed. The typical kinetic and thermodynamic models are carried out to interpret the adsorption behaviors of lead ions and atrazine. The interactive effects and mechanism of lead ions and atrazine adsorption onto S-PCS samples are examined by simultaneous adsorption and preloading adsorption procedures. Combined with the economic and environmental merits of the raw materials, the porous carbon sponges of sucrose by KHCO₃ activated are promising materials for potential practical applications.

Graphical abstract

The schematic diagram on the preparation of porous carbon sponse from sucrose.

https://ift.tt/2w0PFNM

Ionizing radiation exposure: hazards, prevention, and biomarker screening

Abstract

Radiation is a form of energy derived from a source that is propagated through material in space. It consists of ionizing radiation or nonionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation is a feature of the environment and an important tool in medical treatment, but it can cause serious damage to organisms. A number of protective measures and standards of protection have been proposed to protect against radiation. There is also a need for biomarkers to rapidly assess individual doses of radiation, which can not only estimate the dose of radiation but also determine its effects on health. Proteomics, genomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics have been widely used in the search for such biomarkers. These topics are discussed in depth in this review.

https://ift.tt/2r6g7jR

Concentration-dependent responses of soil bacterial, fungal and nitrifying communities to silver nano and micron particles

Abstract

The growing use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is likely to result in increased environmental contamination. Although AgNPs have been reported to affect microbial communities in a range of ecosystems, there is still a lack of information concerning the effect of low concentrations of AgNPs on soil microbial community structures and functional groups involved in biogeochemical cycling. In this study, the concentration-dependent effects of AgNPs and silver micron particles (AgMPs) on bacterial and fungal community structures in an agricultural pastureland soil were examined in a microcosm-based experiment using enzyme analysis, molecular fingerprinting, qPCR and amplicon sequencing. Soil enzyme processes were impacted by Ag contamination, with soil dehydrogenase activity reduced by 1 mg kg⁻¹ of AgNPs and AgMPs. Soil urease activity was less susceptible, but was inhibited by ≥ 10 mg kg⁻¹ AgNPs. The significant (P ≤ 0.001) decrease in copy numbers of the amoA gene by 10 mg kg⁻¹ AgNPs indicated that archaea ammonia oxidisers may be more sensitive to AgNP contamination than bacteria. Amplicon sequencing revealed the bacterial phyla Acidobacteria and Verrucomicrobia to be highly sensitive to AgNP contamination. A broad reduction in the relative abundance of Acidobacterial genera was observed, with the exception of the genus Geothrix which increased in response to AgNP and AgMP amendment. Broad tolerance to Ag was observed among the Bacteriodetes, with higher relative abundance of most genera observed in the presence of AgNPs and AgMPs. The proteobacterial genus Dyella was highly tolerant to AgNPs and AgMPs and relative abundance of this genus increased with Ag concentration. Soil fungal community structure responded to both AgNPs and AgMPs, but the nanoparticle had an impact at a lower concentration. This study demonstrates that pastureland soil microbial communities are highly sensitive to AgNP amendment and key functional processes may be disrupted by relatively low levels of contamination.

https://ift.tt/2JxUVu8

Cadmium bioaccumulation and antioxidant enzyme activity in hepatopancreas, kidney, and stomach of invasive apple snail Pomacea canaliculata

Abstract

The acute toxicity of Cd was tested, and metal bioaccumulation in tissue was determined for the alien invasive species Pomacea canaliculata and its native competitor Sinotaia quadrata under experimental conditions. The invasive species was more tolerant to Cd toxicity than native species, for which the LC₅₀ values were 4.26, 2.24, and 1.98 mg/L at exposure times of 48, 72, and 96 h, respectively, approximately three times higher than those of the native snails. The viscera accumulated the highest Cd concentration, followed by the foot and shell in both species. Metal concentrations in the above three tissues of P. canaliculata were much higher than those of S. quadrata, irrespective of Cd dose and exposure time. For P. canaliculata, the highest concentration of metal was further observed in the hepatopancreas (0.64–3.98 mg/g) followed by the kidney (0.067–3.78 mg/g), with lowest levels in the stomach (0.062–1.53 mg/g). Among the five antioxidant enzymes, the most responsive enzymes were CAT, ALP, and GST in the hepatopancreas; CAT, POD, and GST in the kidney; and POD in the stomach of exposed animals. These results, demonstrating a high Cd tolerance, may partly explain the ability of P. canaliculata to displace S. quadrata in Cd-contaminated habitat. The Cd was accumulated mainly in the hepatopancreas and kidney of invasive species, which changed the activity of antioxidant enzymes allowing the animals to cope with the toxicity.

Graphical abstract

Cadmium bioaccumulation and antioxidant enzyme activity in the invasive Pomacea canaliculata.

https://ift.tt/2vXgFgQ

Source characterization and risk of exposure to atmospheric polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Ghana

Abstract

With recent evidence that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are emerging in environmental media in some developing countries that otherwise have sparing production and usage history, it has become important to identify such contemporary source factors of PCBs and the risks this may pose, in line with the global consensus on POP management and elimination. The present study investigated contaminations from atmospheric PCBs in Ghana, deciphered source factors, and accessed risk of exposure to dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs). Atmospheric PCBs were monitored by deployment of PUF-disk passive air samplers (PAS) at several sites across Ghana for 56 days. Atmospheric ∑₁₉₀PCB concentration in Ghana ranged from 0.28 ng/m³ in Kumasi to 4.64 ng/m³ at Agbogbloshie, a suburb in Accra noted for informal electronic waste (e-waste) recycling activities. As high as 11.10 ng/m³ of PCB concentration was measured in plumes from uncontrolled open burning of e-wastes at Agbogbloshie. Applying statistical source characterization tools, it emerged that e-wastes were a major contributor to the environmental burden of atmospheric PCBs in Ghana. The risk of DL-PCB toxicity via inhalation in the Agbogbloshie area was 4.2 pg TEQ/day, within similar order of magnitude of an estimated risk of 3.85 pg TEQ/day faced by e-waste workers working averagely for 8 h per day. It is suggested that elimination of e-waste sites would help to significantly reduce PCB-related toxicity issues in Ghana.

Graphical abstract

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https://ift.tt/2r70SaD

Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Its Contradictory Effect on Peripheral Nerve Repair after Malignant Tumor Resection: Nerve Regeneration versus Cancer Proliferation

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1639481

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Full text

https://ift.tt/2r6WWGQ

Effects of Transfusion on Free Flap Survival: Searching for an Optimal Hemoglobin Threshold for Transfusion

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1648244

Background Microsurgical free tissue transfer is a popular technique nowadays. Because of its considerably exquisite procedure, various risk factors can affect surgical outcome. However, current key practices, especially those in blood transfusion, are in contention due to the lack of enough evidence. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of perioperative blood transfusion on microsurgical complication. Methods Data of a total of 168 patients who underwent microvascular free tissue transfer from 2013 through 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Age, comorbidity, anatomical surgical site, preoperative and postoperative lowest hemoglobin (Hb) level, estimated blood volume loss, and final clinical flap outcome were compared between patients with and without transfusion treatment. Factors with a significance of p < 0.05 in univariate analysis were included in the multivariate logistic regression model to identify independent risk factors. Results Of 168 patients, 72 (43%) were in the transfusion group. Cross analysis statistics showed that flap failure in the transfusion group was 3.6 times higher (p = 0.018) than that in the control group. Multivariable analysis revealed that age (p = 0.083) and perioperative lowest Hb level (p = 0.021) remained as significant predictors of flap failure. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the appropriate lower limit of transfusion commencement of Hb was 8.75 g/dL (area under the curve: 0.721). Conclusion A transfusion during perioperative period of free flap did not increase its failure rate. Rather than appropriate transfusion strategy, perioperative lowest Hb level, and age were significant predictors of flap failure. Therefore, transfusion can be confidently used in patients who undergo free flap without any hesitation. Results of this study provide practical evidence of performing perioperative transfusion for free tissue transfer patients.
[...]

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text

https://ift.tt/2vURwTX

From Autotransplantation to Allotransplantation: A Perspective on the Future of Reconstructive Microsurgery

J reconstr Microsurg
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1639367

It has been half a century since Susumu Tamai reported on the first thumb replantation. The evolution of reconstructive microsurgery has continually added new applications of the operating microscope for reconstructive surgery and has had profound impact on countless patients. From the time of Harold Gillies until today, the reconstructive ladder has evolved to a reconstructive elevator with the "penthouse" floor being represented by vascularized composite allotransplantation.
[...]

Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text

https://ift.tt/2HX86HS

Rapid continuous 3D printing of customizable peripheral nerve guidance conduits

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Materials Today
Author(s): Wei Zhu, Kathryn R. Tringale, Sarah A. Woller, Shangting You, Susie Johnson, Haixu Shen, Jacob Schimelman, Michael Whitney, Joanne Steinauer, Weizhe Xu, Tony L. Yaksh, Quyen T. Nguyen, Shaochen Chen
Engineered nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have been demonstrated for repairing peripheral nerve injuries. However, there remains a need for an advanced biofabrication system to build NGCs with complex architectures, tunable material properties, and customizable geometrical control. Here, a rapid continuous 3D-printing platform was developed to print customizable NGCs with unprecedented resolution, speed, flexibility, and scalability. A variety of NGC designs varying in complexity and size were created including a life-size biomimetic branched human facial NGC. In vivo implantation of NGCs with microchannels into complete sciatic nerve transections of mouse models demonstrated the effective directional guidance of regenerating sciatic nerves via branching into the microchannels and extending toward the distal end of the injury site. Histological staining and immunostaining further confirmed the progressive directional nerve regeneration and branching behavior across the entire NGC length. Observational and functional tests, including the von Frey threshold test and thermal test, showed promising recovery of motor function and sensation in the ipsilateral limbs grafted with the 3D-printed NGCs.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2FqWB5V

Human-specific features of the G-quadruplex in the androgen receptor gene promoter: A comparative structural and dynamics study

Publication date: Available online 28 April 2018
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Christian Solís-Calero, Taize M. Augusto, Hernandes F. Carvalho
The androgen receptor (AR) promoter contains guanine-rich regions that are able to fold into polymorphic G-quadruplex (GQ) structures, and whose deletion decreases AR gene transcription. Our attention was focused on this region because of the frequent termination of sequencing reactions during promoter methylation studies. UV and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy of synthetic oligonucleotides encompassing these guanine-rich regions suggested a parallel quadruplex topology with three guanine quartets and three side loops in the three cases. Melting curves revealed a lower thermostability of the human GQ compared to the rat/mouse QG structures, which is attributed to the presence of a longer central loop in the former. One molecular model is proposed for the highly similar sequences in the rat/mouse. Due to the polymorphism resulting from possible arrangements of the guanine tracts, two models were derived for the human GQ. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations determined that both models for the human GQ had higher flexibility and lower stability than the rodent GQ models. These properties result from the presence of a longer central loop in the human GQ models, which contains 11 and 13 nucleotides, in comparison to the 2-nucleotide long loop in the rat/mouse GQ. Overall, the unveiled structural and dynamics features provide sufficient detail for the intelligent design of drugs targeting the human AR promoter.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2vTNYkV

An approach for phycoremediation of different wastewaters and biodiesel production using microalgae

Abstract

Four microalgal strains, namely, Tetraselmis indica (T. indica), Scenedesmus abundans (S. abundans), Spirulina sp., and Nostoc muscorum (N. muscorum) were cultivated on four different wastewaters in 1000 ml photobioreactors with 750 ml working volume under 94.5 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹ light intensity for 14 days for phycoremediation of wastewaters and sustainable biodiesel production. These microalgal strains attained maximum biomass growth in the secondary treated sewage (STS). Maximum biomass yield (0.6533 g L⁻¹) and lipid productivity (25.44 mg L⁻¹ d⁻¹) for T. indica were achieved in STS. T. indica removed (63.6–78.24%) of nitrate, (60.90–65.97%) of phosphate, (61.01–80.01%) of ammonical nitrogen, and (71.16–85.70%) of total organic carbon (TOC) in all four wastewaters. The fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profile of T. indica shows the presence of myristic acid (1.2%) pentadecylic acid (0.28%), palmitic acid (10.32%), oleic acid (34.59%), linoleic acid (12.38%), and eicosanoic acid (14.88%) in STS. This study demonstrates that T. indica is the most suitable microalgal species among the four microalgal strains selected for phycoremediation of wastewaters and higher biomass production for sustainable biodiesel production.

https://ift.tt/2HCZH91

Soil organic carbon, macro- and micronutrient changes in soil fractions with different lability in response to crop intensification

Publication date: September 2018
Source:Soil and Tillage Research, Volume 181
Author(s): R. Romaniuk, M. Beltrán, L. Brutti, A. Costantini, S. Bacigaluppo, H. Sainz-Rozas, F. Salvagiotti
Soils under no tillage have experienced unfavorable changes, mainly due to current agricultural practices that consist in monocultures that leave little residue cover. The inclusion of grass as cover crops during the winter season could be a sustainable strategy to increase crop intensification in sequences where soybean predominates, helping to maintain soil fertility, organic matter levels and enhance soil physical properties. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of 8 years of sustainable crop intensification (by increasing the proportion of cereals in crop rotations) on soil organic carbon, macro- and micronutrients associated with granulometric fractions of different lability in a Typic Argiudoll of the Rolling Pampa, Argentina. The experiment included two crop sequences commonly used in this area: soybean-soybean (S-S) and maize-soybean-wheat/soybean (M-S-W/S) combined with the inclusion of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as cover crop (CC) in winter. The intensification sequence indices (ISI) were 0.39, 0.69, 0.55 and 0.64 for S-S, S-CC-S, M-S-W/S and M-CC-S-W/S, respectively. The carbon measured in the coarse particulate fraction (Pcf) in the 0–5 cm soil depth was 3 times larger in S-CC-S than in S-S. Cropping intensity also modified N, S, P, Ca and Mn in the Pcf with no changes in Mg, K, Zn, Fe and Cu contents. Among the carbon fractions studied, only the carbon measured in the Pcf and the easy mineralizable carbon estimated by the soil respiration in the first soil layer (0–5 cm), were positively correlated with the ISI. In the present study, 8 years under sustainable crop intensification were sufficient to show changes in the mineral associated fraction (Maf). Increases in the C in the Maf in maize legume-based rotation, suggest SOC accumulation in more stable carbon pools.



https://ift.tt/2r6kJqg

Elemental changes of hippocampal formation occurring during postnatal brain development

Publication date: September 2018
Source:Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, Volume 49
Author(s): J. Chwiej, M. Palczynska, A. Skoczen, K. Janeczko, J. Cieslak, R. Simon, Z. Setkowicz
In this paper the elemental changes of rat hippocampal formation occurring during the postnatal development were examined. Three groups of animals were used in the study. These were naive Wistar rats at the age of 6-, 30- and 60-days and the chosen life periods corresponded to the neonatal period, childhood and early adulthood in humans, respectively.For the topographic and quantitative elemental analysis X-ray fluorescence microscopy was applied and the measurements were done at the FLUO beamline of ANKA. The detailed quantitative and statistical analysis was done for four areas of hippocampal formation, namely sectors 1 and 3 of the Ammon's horn (CA1 and CA3, respectively), dentate gyrus (DG) and its internal area (hilus of DG, H).The obtained results showed that among the all examined elements (P, S, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn and Se), only the levels of Fe and Zn changed significantly during postnatal development of the hippocampal formation and both the elements were significantly higher in young adults comparing to the rats in neonatal period. The increased Fe areal density was found in all examined hippocampal areas whilst Zn was elevated in CA3, DG and H.In order to follow the dynamics of age-dependent elemental changes, the statistical significance of differences in their accumulation between subsequent moments of time was examined. The obtained results showed statistically relevant increase of Zn level only in the first observation period (between 6th and 30th day of life). Afterwards the areal density of the element did not change significantly. The increase of Fe areal density took place in both examined periods, however the observed changes were small and usually not statistically relevant.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2vRFLhf

First and Second Trimester Prenatal Screening Update [Internet].

This report examines the safety, screening accuracy, therapeutic efficacy, patient outcomes and cost effectiveness of first trimester Quad (1T-Quad) +/- NT and NIPT screening for fetal trisomies.

https://ift.tt/2KmpXpO

Newborn Blood Spot Screening for Galactosemia, Tyrosinemia Type I, Homocystinuria, Sickle Cell Anemia, Sickle Cell/Beta-Thalassemia, Sickle Cell/Hemoglobin C Disease and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency: Costs and Cost Analysis [Internet].

This STE report examines the safety, screening accuracy, therapeutic efficacy/effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, budget impact, and health system readiness of newborn screening for seven conditions (galactosemia, tyrosinemia type I, homocystinuria, sickle cell anemia, sickle cell/beta-thalassemia, sickle cell/hemoglobin C disease, and severe combined immunodeficiency), contextualized to the Alberta setting.

https://ift.tt/2Fn5TA4

Endovenous Thermal Ablation Interventions for Symptomatic Varicose Veins of The Legs – An Update [Internet].

This report is an update of the "Technological efficacy / effectiveness analysis" (T) section of the 2014 Alberta STE report, which was an evidence assessment of the clinical effectiveness and safety of endovenous ablation interventions for symptomatic varicose veins of the legs, compared to conventional open surgery.

https://ift.tt/2KoJk1I

A meta-ethnography of health-care professionals’ experience of treating adults with chronic non-malignant pain to improve the experience and quality of health care.

This study highlights areas that help us to understand why the experience of health care can be difficult for patients and health-care professionals and, importantly, that health-care professionals can find it challenging not to find a diagnosis

https://ift.tt/2Fqjqqn

Endovenous Ablation Interventions for Symptomatic Varicose Veins of the Legs [Internet].

This report is an evidence assessment of the best available research evidence on the safety and effectiveness, cost effectiveness and budget impact of using Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) or Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) in the management of symptomatic varicose veins of the legs due to venous reflux in working age patients when compared to conventional open surgery.

https://ift.tt/2KjwvWi

Institute of Health Economics (IHE).

The Institute of Health Economics (IHE) is a not-for-profit organization with key competencies in health economics and decision analytic modeling; health technology assessment; and knowledge transfer and exchange. A core objective is to support decision making in health policy and practice, with evidence from research in health economics and health technology assessment. Another core objective is to assess the medical, economic, social, and ethical implications of both established and new health practices, procedures, and technologies. The final core objective is to facilitate discussions and partnerships among government, academia, industry and healthcare providers to address important issues in health care.

https://ift.tt/2FouN2l

Endovascular Therapy for Acute Ischemic Stroke [Internet].

This STE report examines the social and system demographics, technological safety and therapeutic efficacy / effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and budget impact of endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke, contextualized to the Alberta setting.

https://ift.tt/2KlnP1F

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Testing in Alberta [Internet].

This report is about testing for Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and can also cause cervical cancer. Cervical screening aims to reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality by detecting precancerous lesions early. Until the recent introduction of liquid-based cervical cytology (LBC) and HPV-DNA testing, conventional cervical cytology (Pap smear) was the only cervical screening test available in Canada. This report provides information on the effectiveness, economics, and social demographic implications of these different screening technologies.

https://ift.tt/2FoWSpW

Low Dose Computed Tomography for The Screening of Lung Cancer in Adults [Internet].

This report examines the potential role of low dose computed tomography (LDCT) in screening for lung cancer in adults aged 50 years or older in Alberta.

https://ift.tt/2KlZyZb

Hysteroscopic Tubal Sterilization [Internet].

This report is an evidence assessment of the clinical effectiveness and safety of hysteroscopic tubal sterilization, and the value for money associated with adopting hysteroscopic tubal sterilization in Alberta.

https://ift.tt/2FsJvW8

The Effectiveness and Safety of Preschool Hearing Screening Programs [Internet].

This report performs an evaluation of the scientific evidence on the safety, performance, and effectiveness of universal and targeted preschool hearing screening (PHS) to inform the Infant and Preschool Screening Framework being developed by the Community and Public Health (CPH) Division of Alberta Health and Wellness (AHW), as well as comparing the cost-effectiveness of various strategies used in preschool hearing screening, through a review of the published economic literature.

https://ift.tt/2KlZyIF

Fecal Transplantation for the Treatment of Clostridium difficile-Associated Disease or Ulcerative Colitis [Internet].

"Fecal transplantation for the treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated disease or ulcerative colitis" examines the clinical research evidence on the safety and effects of fecal transplantation in the treatment of patients with Clostridium difficile-associated disease and/or ulcerative colitis. It also provides information on the prevalence and incidence of the two diseases and the availability of fecal transplantation procedure in Alberta and Canada. The Institute of Health Economics prepared this STE report at the request of the Government of Alberta as part of the Institute's ongoing work to support the Alberta Health Technologies Decision Process.

https://ift.tt/2FpbpSO

The Safety and Effectiveness of Preschool Vision Screening [Internet].

This review focused on the best evidence available on the use of PSVS to detect vision conditions in asymptomatic preschool children (aged from birth to 6 years; not necessarily considered at risk for developing visual impairment) to determine the safety and efficacy / effectiveness of PSVS, compare the safety and effectiveness of universal and targeted PSVS, and to determine the best practice for conducting PSVS, as well as to assess the cost-effectiveness of various strategies used in the screening of preschool vision.

https://ift.tt/2KmBFB4

Bariatric Treatments for Adult Obesity [Internet].

This report summarizes available key information on the use of bariatric treatments for adult obesity in Alberta and North America (mainly Canada). This analysis was intended to describe the profile of adult obesity (definition, progression, epidemiology, and population dynamics of affected individuals in Alberta and in Canada) and patterns of care for this condition (focusing on bariatric treatments recommended by evidence-based clinical practice guidelines), as well as to identify potential inequities in health status or care across population groups. Also considered were social factors associated with the use of multidisciplinary programs involving bariatric treatments for adult obesity in Alberta.

https://ift.tt/2FpbqGm

The Safety and Efficacy/Effectiveness of Using Automated Testing Devices for Universal Newborn Hearing Screening: An Update [Internet].

This report is an update of a 2007 report. Permanent congenital hearing impairment / loss (PCHI/PCHL) is one of the most common congenital anomalies found at birth which can lead to delays and deficits in the development of speech, language, cognition, and learning, as well as secondary effects on the child and the family. Early identification and subsequent appropriate intervention (within the first 6 months) in infants with PCHL can minimize these effects. The report also compares the cost effectiveness of various strategies used in the universal screening of newborn hearing (UNHS).

https://ift.tt/2Kl3TvW

A Framework for Conceptualizing Evidence Needs of Health Systems [Internet].

To develop a framework for understanding the evidence needs of health systems to inform the AHRQ EPC Program future efforts.

https://ift.tt/2FmDOJb

Islet Transplantation for the Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes [Internet].

This report is an update of the 2008 report on islet transplantation (IT) for Type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Section One of this analysis was intended to describe the profile of T1DM (definition, progression, epidemiology, and population dynamics of affected adults in Alberta, in Canada, and worldwide) and patterns of care for this condition in adults (focusing on recommendations from evidence-based guidelines), as well as to identify potential inequities in health status or care across adult population groups. Social, ethical, and legal issues associated with the provision of IT as a treatment for adults with T1DM were also considered. Section Two of the analysis was to determine, for the treatment of patients with T1DM in Alberta, the potential role of IT compared to whole pancreas transplantation or intensive insulin therapy (IIT). The objective of the economic analysis in Section Three was to estimate the costs and cost effectiveness of IT compared to IIT alone.

https://ift.tt/2KoJdDk

IHE Systematic Reviews [Internet].

The outcome of IHE initiatives is providing better information for developing health policy and best medical practices. IHE disseminates information in many ways. In addition to publications in peer-reviewed journals, IHE produces books and a variety of reports synthesizing information in a particular field. These reports include systematic reviews and health technology assessments.

https://ift.tt/2Fprjwl

Insulin Pump Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes [Internet].

This report examines the research evidence on the safety and efficacy of insulin pump therapy, as compared to multiple daily insulin injections, in the treatment of children, adults, and pregnant women diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The report also analyses the economic impact of introducing the insulin pump therapy in Alberta.

https://ift.tt/2KkDvSM

Hysteroscopic Tubal Sterilization (Using the Essure® System) – An Update [Internet].

This rapid report has been produced in response to a request from Alberta Health to provide an update on the new published research evidence on the efficacy / effectiveness, efficiency, and safety of hysteroscopic tubal sterilization (HTS) using the Essure® system for permanent birth control since the publication of the Institute of Health Economics (IHE) STE report in September 2014. Only updated information related to the Background and T sections of the STE report is included in the present rapid report.

https://ift.tt/2FqqDXx

Literature contradictions about the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and the existence of “diabetes paradox” in patients with takotsubo syndrome

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Medical Hypotheses, Volume 116
Author(s): John E. Madias




https://ift.tt/2r5cECg

Bimetallic NiFe oxide structures derived from hollow NiFe Prussian blue nanobox for label-free electrochemical biosensing adenosine triphosphate

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 113
Author(s): Minghua Wang, Longyu Yang, Bin Hu, Jiameng Liu, Linghao He, Qiaojuan Jia, Yingpan Song, Zhihong Zhang
We designed and constructed a novel aptasensor based on the porous nanostructured bimetallic NiFe-oxides embedded with the mesoporous carbon (represented by NiOxFeOy@mC) for sensitively detecting adenosine triphosphate (ATP), of which the porous NiOxFeOy@mC was derived from the hollow NiFe Prussian blue analogue (hollow NiFe PBA) by calcinating under high temperature. Owning to the excellent electrochemical activity originated from the metal oxides and mesoporous carbon and the strong binding interaction between the aptamer strands and the nanostructure hybrid, the formed porous NiOxFeOy@mC composite calcinated at 900 °C exhibited superior sensitivity toward ATP determination in comparison with other porous nanocubes obtained at 500 and 700 °C. The proposed aptasensor not only revealed a wide linear range from 5.0 fg·mL⁻¹ to 5.0 ng mL⁻¹ with a extremely low detection limit of 0.98 fg·mL⁻¹ (1.62 fM) (S/N = 3), but also displayed high selectivity towards other interferences, good stability and reproducibility, and acceptable applicability. Therefore, this proposed approach provides a promising platform for ultra-sensitive detection of ATP, further having the potential applications on diagnosis of ATP-related diseases.



https://ift.tt/2JyM2QL

Enzyme- and label-free electrochemical aptasensor for kanamycin detection based on double stir bar-assisted toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction for dual-signal amplification

Publication date: 30 July 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 112
Author(s): Feng Hong, Xixue Chen, Yuting Cao, Youren Dong, Dazhen Wu, Futao Hu, Ning Gan
It is critically important to detect antibiotic residues for monitoring food safety. In this study, an enzyme- and label-free electrochemical aptasensor for antibiotics, with kanamycin (Kana) as a typical analyte, was developed based on a double stir bar-assisted toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction (dSB-TMSDR) for dual-signal amplification. First, we modified two gold electrodes (E-1 and E-2) with different DNA probes (S1/S2 hybrid probe in E-1 and DNA fuel strand S3 in E-2). In the presence of Kana, an S1/S2 probe can be disassembled from E-1 to form an S2/Kana complex in supernatant. The S2/Kana could react with S3 on E-2 to form S2/S3 hybrid and release Kana through TMSDR. After then, the target recycling was triggered. Subsequently, the formed S2/S3 hybrid can also trigger a hybridization chain reaction (HCR). Consequently, the dual-signal amplification strategy was established, which resulted in many long dsDNA chains on E-2. The chains can associate with methylene blue (MB) as redox probes to produce a current response for the quantification of Kana. The assay exhibited high sensitivity and specificity with a detection limit at 16 fM Kana due to the dual-signal amplification. The double stir bars system can both increase phase separation and prevent leakage of DNA fuel to reduce background interference. Moreover, it allows flexible sequence design of the TMSDR probes. The assay was successfully employed to detect Kana residues in food and showed potential application value in food safety detection.



https://ift.tt/2r4oEEe

Rapid and background-free detection of avian influenza virus in opaque sample using NIR-to-NIR upconversion nanoparticle-based lateral flow immunoassay platform

Publication date: 30 July 2018
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 112
Author(s): Jaeyoung Kim, Jung Hoon Kwon, Jinyoung Jang, Hyojin Lee, Seungki Kim, Young Ki Hahn, Sang Kyung Kim, Kwan Hyi Lee, Seok Lee, Heesoo Pyo, Chang-Seon Song, Joonseok Lee
Rapid and sensitive on-site detection of avian influenza virus (AIV) is the key for achieving near real-time surveillance of AIV and reducing the risk of dissemination. However, unlike the laboratory-prepared transparent buffer solutions containing a single type of influenza virus, distinction between real- and false- positive outputs and detection of low concentrations of AIV in stool specimens or cloacal swabs are difficult. Here, we developed a rapid and background-free lateral flow immunoassay (LFA) platform that utilizes near-infrared (NIR)-to-NIR upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) to yield a sensor that detects AIV nucleoproteins (NPs) from clinical samples within 20 min. Ca²⁺ as a heterogeneous dopant ion in the shell enhanced the NIR-to-NIR upconversion photoluminescence (PL) emission without inducing significant changes in the morphology of the UCNPs. In a mixture of opaque stool samples and gold nanoparticles (GNPs), which are components of commercial AIV LFA, the background signal of the stool samples masked the absorption peak of GNPs. However, UCNPs dispersed in the stool samples still show strong emission centered at 800 nm when excited at 980 nm, which enables the NIR-to-NIR upconversion nanoparticle-based lateral flow immunoassay (NNLFA) platform to detect 10-times lower viral load than a commercial GNP-based AIV LFA. The detection limit of NNLFA for LPAI H5N2 and HPAI H5N6 viruses was 10² and 10^3.5 EID50/mL, respectively. Moreover, the viruses were successfully detected within dark brown-colored samples using the NNLFA but not the commercial AIV LFA. Therefore, the rapid and background-free NNLFA platform can be used for sensitive on-site detection of AIV.



https://ift.tt/2JyLYAv

A single preovulatory administration of ulipristal acetate affects the decidualization process of the human endometrium during the receptive period of the menstrual cycle

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
Author(s): Saúl Lira-Albarrán, Marta Durand, David Barrera, Claudia Vega, Rocio García Becerra, Lorenza Díaz, Janice García-Quiroz, Claudia Rangel, Fernando Larrea
In order to get further information on the effects of ulipristal acetate (UPA) upon the process of decidualization of endometrium, a functional analysis of the differentially expressed genes in endometrium (DEG) from UPA treated-versus control-cycles of normal ovulatory women was performed. A list of 1183 endometrial DEG, from a previously published study by our group, was submitted to gene ontology, gene enrichment and ingenuity pathway analyses (IPA). This functional analysis showed that decidualization was a biological process overrepresented. Gene set enrichment analysis identified LIF, PRL, IL15 and STAT3 among the most down-regulated genes within the JAK STAT canonical pathway. IPA showed that decidualization of uterus was a bio-function predicted as inhibited by UPA. The results demonstrated that this selective progesterone receptor modulator, when administered during the periovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, may affect the molecular mechanisms leading to endometrial decidualization in response to progesterone during the period of maximum embryo receptivity.



https://ift.tt/2rbDCYj

Scholar : These new articles for Canadian Art Therapy Association Journal are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Canadian Art Therapy Association Journal and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Art Therapy Approaches Cultural Humility in Art Therapy and Child and Youth Care: Reflections on Practice by Sikh Women (L'humilité culturelle en art-thérapie et les soins aux enfants et aux jeunes : Réflexions sur la pratique de femmes sikhes) Jaspreet Bal PhD & Rapinder Kaur RP, RCAT, OATAR Pages: 1-8 | DOI: 10.1080/08322473.2018.1454096 2018 Future Directions Forum JOIN US at the 2018 Future Directions Forum for Journal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology - June 15-16, 2018 To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. Unsubscribe from new content alerts for this journal (both new issue and latest article notifications) with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Heavy metal availability, bioaccessibility, and leachability in contaminated soil: effects of pig manure and earthworms

Abstract

A pot experiment and a leaching experiment were conducted to investigate the effects of earthworms and pig manure on heavy metals (Cd, Pb, and Zn) immobility, in vitro bioaccessibility and leachability under simulated acid rain (SAR). Results showed manure significantly increased soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), available phosphorus (AP), total N, total P and pH, and decreased CaCl₂-extractable metals and total heavy metals in water and SAR leachate. The addition of earthworms significantly increased AP (from 0.38 to 1.7 mg kg⁻¹), and a downward trend in CaCl₂-extractable and total leaching loss of heavy metals were observed. The combined earthworm and manure treatment decreased CaCl₂-extractable Zn, Cd, and Pb. For Na₄P₂O₇-extractable metals, Cd and Pb were decreased with increasing manure application rate. Application of earthworm alone did not contribute to the remediation of heavy metal polluted soils. Considering the effects on heavy metal immobilization and cost, the application of 6% manure was an alternative approach for treating contaminated soils. These findings provide valuable information for risk management during immobilization of heavy metals in contaminated soils.

https://ift.tt/2Jz6dhv

Determination of cadmium in sediments by diluted HCI extraction and isotope dilution ICP-MS

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 186
Author(s): Javier Terán-Baamonde, Rosa-María Soto-Ferreiro, Alatzne Carlosena, José-Manuel Andrade, Darío Prada
Isotope dilution ICP-MS is proposed to measure the mass fraction of Cd extracted by diluted HCl in marine sediments, using a fast and simple extraction procedure based on ultrasonic probe agitation. The ¹¹¹Cd isotope was added before the extraction to achieve isotope equilibration with native Cd solubilized from the sample. The parameters affecting trueness and precision of isotope ratio measurements were evaluated carefully and subsequently corrected in order to minimize errors; they were: detector dead time, spectral interferences, mass discrimination factor and optimum sample/spike ratio. The mass fraction of Cd extracted was compared with the sum of the certified contents of the three steps of the sequential extraction procedure of the Standards, Measurements and Testing Programme (SM&T) analysing the BCR 701 sediment to validate the method. The certified and measured values agreed, giving a measured / certified mass fraction ratio of 1.05. Further, the extraction procedure itself was studied by adding the enriched isotope after the extraction step, which allowed verifying that analyte losses occurred during this process. Two additional reference sediments with certified total cadmium contents were also analysed. The method provided very good precision (0.9%, RSD) and a low detection limit, 1.8 ng g⁻¹. The procedural uncertainty budget was estimated following the EURACHEM Guide by means of the 'GUM Workbench' software, obtaining a relative expanded uncertainty of 1.5%. The procedure was applied to determine the bioaccessible mass fraction of Cd in sediments from two environmentally and economically important areas of Galicia (rias of Arousa and Vigo, NW of Spain).

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2HEvary

Short-probe-based duplex-specific nuclease signal amplification strategy enables imaging of endogenous microRNAs in living cells with ultrahigh specificity

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 186
Author(s): Yingjun Ma, Jun Chen, Danping Chen, Yuzhi Xu, Li Zhang, Zong Dai, Xiaoyong Zou
Specific nucleic acids amplification at a constant and mild temperature is important for imaging assay of endogenous microRNAs (miRNAs) in living cells. Duplex-specific nuclease (DSN) is attractive in one-step isothermal assay of miRNA; however, its intrinsic limitations of low amplification specificity and high reaction temperature greatly restrict the application scope. Herein, we present a short-probe-based DSN signal amplification (spDSNSA) strategy enabling analysis of miRNAs at body temperature with significantly high specificity. From systematic investigation of amplification reaction on different types of DNA probes, we revealed that the annealing rate between probe and target miRNA greatly affects the dynamics of amplification process. By simply shortening the length of DNA probe, the spDSNSA remarkably improved specificity without loss of amplification efficiency at 37 °C. As a proof-of-concept, let-7a was sensitively detected by spDSNSA with a limit of detection down to 30 p.M., and a specificity 10² ‒ 10⁴ folds higher than those of traditional DSNSA methods. The analysis of the let-7a in the lysates of A549 human lung cancer cells and BEAS-2B human lung normal bronchial epithelial cells exhibited well agreement with rt-qPCR method. Furthermore, the endogenous let-7a in A549 and BEAS-2B living cells was clearly imaged without damaging the original morphology of cells. The method provide a facile idea for extension of DNS related signal amplification strategies in the application in living cells and POCTs, and would pose a great impact on the development of simple and rapid molecular diagnostic applications for short oligonucleotides.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2jcC8sU

A sensitively non-enzymatic amperometric sensor and its application in living cell superoxide anion radical detection

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 186
Author(s): Xinhe Liu, Miaomiao Ran, Guoan Liu, Xiuhui Liu, Zhonghua Xue, Xiaoquan Lu
Here, we report a nanocomposite composed of silver nanoparticles and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (AgNPs/MWNTs) utilized as an efficient electrode material for sensitive detection superoxide anion (O2^•−). The procedure to synthesize AgNPs/MWNTs nanocomposites was green and facile. In the presence of functionalized multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were in situ generated by chemical reduction of silver nitrate with glucose as a reducing and stabilizing agent to give the desired AgNPs/MWNTs nanocomposites. The nanocomposites can be easily used for the construction of an electrochemical sensor on glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The characterization of sensor and experimental parameters affecting its activity were investigated employing scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The resulted sensor exhibited favorable electrochemical performance for O2^•− sensing with a low detection limit of 0.1192 nM and wide linear range of 6 orders of magnitude, which guarantees the capacity of sensitive and credible detection of O2^•− released from living cells. Notably, a simulation experiment indicated the capacity to resist oxidative stress is limited in biological milieu. Thus this work has great potential for further applications in biological researches.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2HAhwWb

Facile fabrication of ternary TiO2-gold nanoparticle-graphene oxide nanocomposites for recyclable surface enhanced Raman scattering

Publication date: 15 August 2018
Source:Talanta, Volume 186
Author(s): Lu-Lu Qu, Na Wang, Gen Zhu, T.P. Yadav, Xinting Shuai, Dandan Bao, Guohai Yang, Dawei Li, Haitao Li
A bi-functional ternary nanocomposite was developed by decorating TiO2 and gold nanoparticles on the reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (TiO2-Au-rGO) for recyclable surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection. TiO2-Au-rGO nanocomposites have been shown to demonstrate the superior SERS performances, which can be used for highly sensitive detection of rhodamine 6 G with a limit of detection of 1.2 × 10⁻¹⁰ M. Subsequently, the surface can be cleaned automatically by the photocatalytic degradation of the adsorbed analytes into inorganic small molecules under visible light irradiation. This can be attributed to the excellent photocatalytic degradation ability, leading to a recyclable SERS application. After being used four times, their excellent SERS and catalytic performances can still be retained. These results suggest that the TiO2-Au-rGO nanocomposites can provide a new strategy for fabricating recyclable SERS substrates, which are highly desirable for SERS practical application.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2jdjuBp

Regulatory T cells increase after treatment with poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 inhibitor in ischemic stroke patients

Publication date: July 2018
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 60
Author(s): Min-Young Noh, Won Moo Lee, Su-Jung Lee, Hyun Young Kim, Seung Hyun Kim, Young Seo Kim
BackgroundRegulatory T cells (Tregs) are thought to play a modulatory role in immune responses and to improve outcomes after ischemic stroke. Thus, various strategies for increasing Tregs in animal models of ischemic stroke have yielded successful results. The aim of this study was to examine the potential effect of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) inhibitor on Treg proportion in stroke patients.MethodsPeripheral blood samples were collected from 12 ischemic stroke patients (within 72 h of stroke onset) and 5 healthy control subjects. Flow cytometry analyses and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR) were performed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) before and after treating them with PARP-1 inhibitor (3-AB; JPI-289 1 μm, JPI-289 10 μm) for 24 h.ResultsTreg proportions were significantly higher in healthy controls (median 2.8%, IQR 2.6–5.0%) than ischemic stroke patients (median 1.6%, IQR 1.25–2.2%) (p < 0.001). In the latter, Treg proportions were positively correlated with age (r = 0.595, p = 0.041), but not with infarct volume (r = 0.367, p = 0.241). After PARP-1 inhibitor treatment, Treg proportions among PBMCs increased in response to high dose (10 μm) JPI-289 (median 2.3%, IQR 2.0–2.9%) as did Treg-associated transcription factors such as FoxP3 and CTLA-4 mRNA. PARP-1 inhibitor treatment also decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17) and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1).ConclusionTreg proportions are reduced in ischemic stroke patients and increased by treatment with high-dose PARP-1 inhibitor JPI-289. The PARP-1 inhibitor also had a possible anti-inflammatory effect on cytokine levels, and may ameliorate the outcome of ischemic stroke by up-regulating Tregs.



https://ift.tt/2r6XZWn

Phonological processes in the speech of school-age children with hearing loss: Comparisons with children with normal hearing

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Journal of Communication Disorders
Author(s): Areej Nimer Asad, Suzanne C Purdy, Elaine Ballard, Liz Fairgray, Caroline Bowen
PurposeIn this descriptive study, phonological processes were examined in the speech of children aged 5;0-7;6 (years; months) with mild to profound hearing loss using hearing aids (HAs) and cochlear implants (CIs), in comparison to their peers. A second aim was to compare phonological processes of HA and CI users.MethodChildren with hearing loss (CWHL, N = 25) were compared to children with normal hearing (CWNH, N = 30) with similar age, gender, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Speech samples obtained from a list of 88 words, derived from three standardized speech tests, were analyzed using the CASALA (Computer Aided Speech and Language Analysis) program to evaluate participants' phonological systems, based on lax (a process appeared at least twice in the speech of at least two children) and strict (a process appeared at least five times in the speech of at least two children) counting criteria.ResultsDevelopmental phonological processes were eliminated in the speech of younger and older CWNH while eleven developmental phonological processes persisted in the speech of both age groups of CWHL. CWHL showed a similar trend of age of elimination to CWNH, but at a slower rate. Children with HAs and CIs produced similar phonological processes. Final consonant deletion, weak syllable deletion, backing, and glottal replacement were present in the speech of HA users, affecting their overall speech intelligibility.ConclusionsDevelopmental and non-developmental phonological processes persist in the speech of children with mild to profound hearing loss compared to their peers with typical hearing. The findings indicate that it is important for clinicians to consider phonological assessment in pre-school CWHL and the use of evidence-based speech therapy in order to reduce non-developmental and non-age-appropriate developmental processes, thereby enhancing their speech intelligibility.



https://ift.tt/2HzN0eV

Severe peritoneal sclerosis after repeated pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy with oxaliplatin (PIPAC OX): report of two cases and literature survey

Abstract

Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) is a new laparoscopic administration of chemotherapy for peritoneal metastasis (PM). PIPAC is repeated every 5th week, and seems to stabilize or improve quality of life, and might improve survival. So far, PIPAC has been well tolerated. With this paper, we aim to highlight a potential severe adverse reaction, as we describe the first cases of severe peritoneal sclerosis (SPS) caused by PIPAC. Patients with isolated PM were included in a prospective PIPAC protocol. Following insufflation of normothermic CO₂, laparoscopy was performed at an intraabdominal pressure of 12 mmHg. After peritoneal lavage and quadrant biopsies of the PM, the patients were treated with oxaliplatin 92 mg/m² (flowrate 0.5 ml/s, maximum pressure of 200 per square inch). Treatment related toxicity was evaluated after 2 weeks. Response was evaluated histologically by the Peritoneal Regression Grading Score (PRGS) and cytologically by analysis of the lavage fluid. In a series of 24 PIPAC patients treated with oxaliplatin, two patients developed SPS. Patient one had a mucinous adenocarcinoma of the appendix with PM, the mean PRGS was reduced from 2.75 to 1.75 during the course of therapy. Patient two had an appendiceal goblet cell carcinoid with a dominating mucinous adenocarcinoma component with PM, the mean PRGS was reduced from 2.00 to 1.67. Repeated applications of PIPAC with oxaliplatin can lead to SPS.

https://ift.tt/2JxeB18

Common proteomic profiles of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived three-dimensional neurons and brain tissue from Alzheimer patients

Publication date: Available online 27 April 2018
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Mei Chen, Han-Kyu Lee, Lauren Moo, Eugene Hanlon, Thor Stein, Weiming Xia
We established a unique platform for proteomic analysis of cultured three-dimensional (3D) neurons and brain tissue from Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), converted PBMC to induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines, and differentiated the iPSC into human 3D neuro-spheroids. The postmortem brain tissue from the superior frontal cortex, inferior frontal cortex and cerebellum area of the AD patients was compared to the same regions from the control subjects. Proteomic analysis of 3D neuro-spheroids derived from AD subjects revealed the alteration of a number of proteins involved in axon growth, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant defense. Similar analysis of postmortem AD brain tissue revealed significant alteration in proteins involved in oxidative stress, neuro-inflammation, along with proteins related to axonal injury. These results clearly indicate that the dysfunction of 3D neurons from AD patients in our in vitro environment is comparable to the postmortem AD brain tissue in vivo. In conclusion, our study revealed a number of candidate proteins that have important implications in AD pathogenesis and supports the notion that the iPSC-derived 3D neuronal system functions as a model to examine novel aspects of AD pathology.SignificanceIn this study, we present a unique platform for proteomic analysis of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived three dimensional (3D) neurons and compare the results to those from three regions of postmortem brain tissue from Alzheimer's disease patients and normal control subjects. Our results show that the dysfunction of 3D neurons from AD patients in our in vitro environment is comparable to the postmortem AD brain tissue in vivo. Our results revealed several candidate proteins that have important implications in AD pathogenesis.

Graphical abstract

https://ift.tt/2Fp2bWz

Scholar : intitle:Bioprinting - νέα αποτελέσματα

3D Bioprinting of Artificial Tissues: Construction of Biomimetic Microstructures.

Y Luo, X Lin, P Huang - Macromolecular bioscience, 2018

It is promising that artificial tissues/organs for clinical application can be produced via
3D bioprinting of living cells and biomaterials. The construction of microstructures
biomimicking native tissues is crucially important to create artificial tissues with …

3D Bioprinting Tissue Scaffolds with Living Cells for Tissue Engineering Applications

L Ning - 2018

In tissue engineering, tissue scaffolds are used as temporary supports to promote
regeneration of dysfunctional tissues. Of the available strategies, scaffolds produced
from hydrogels and living cells show the great potential for their enhanced biological …

 

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Scholar : Decannulation - νέα αποτελέσματα

Valores de fuerza muscular respiratoria y estado de conciencia medido previo a la decanulación en diferentes niveles de complejidad. Estudio de serie de casos …

L Diaz-Ballve, D Villalba, M Andreu, M Escobar… - Medicina Intensiva, 2018

… Objective. To describe the variables related to effective cough capacity and
the state of consciousness measured prior to decannulation and compare
their measured values between the different areas of care such as the …

[PDF] Diffuse Brain Injury-Review of Literature and Representative Case Reports

AA Kumar, BM Rao - Prensa Med Argent, 2018

… Tracheostomy was done. Motor response improved to M4 on 20th day and
was weaned from ventilator. He obeyed commands (M6) after 6 weeks.
Decannulation of tracheostomy tube was done at 2 months. Feeding tube …

 

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Scholar : Myringotomy and tubes - νέα αποτελέσματα

Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy in infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis using a myringotomy knife

IA Elnaggar, AM Elbatarny, MG Khiralla, MF Mewally - Annals of Pediatric Surgery, 2018

Background Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (LP) was first
described in 1991 by Alain. Since then, many.

Medicine and Surgery

JE Dohar, D Don, J Koempel, CH Lu, D Hakanson… - 2018

… Patients with any of the following were excluded: history of prior ear or
mastoid surgery (not including myringotomy or myringotomy with TT
placement), sen- sorineural hearing loss … Of the total ears examined by …

 

Δημιουργία λίστας των ειδοποιήσεών μου

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Scholar : intitle:laryngeal - new results

Total lesion glycolysis on FDG-PET/CT before salvage surgery predicts survival in laryngeal or pharyngeal cancer

H Suzuki, T Tamaki, M Nishio, Y Nakata, N Hanai… - Oncotarget, 2018

We investigated whether 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake parameters using positron emission
tomography combined with computed tomography predicts several survival
outcomes, including lung metastasis-free survival, in patients with laryngeal or pharyngeal …

Long non-coding RNA Dleu2 affects proliferation, migration and invasion ability of laryngeal carcinoma cells through triggering miR-16-1 pathway.

ZZ Xie, ZC Xiao, YX Song, W Li, GL Tan - European review for medical and …, 2018

Laryngeal cancer is a common malignant tumor in the head and neck, which affects
swallowing, breathing, and pronunciation function. In recent years, many long non-
coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to be involved in the progression of …

External laryngeal nerve landmarks revisited

C Ortega, E Maranillo, S McHanwell, J Sañudo… - Head & neck, 2018

Background Because external laryngeal nerve (ELN) iatrogenic damage is frequent
during neck surgery, its precise localization has been highly recommended. This
study analyzes the different surgical landmarks previously proposed and the …

The usage of Ambu® AuraGain™ laryngeal mask airway by the lifeguards

T Evrin, L Iskrzycki, P Gawlowski - The American Journal of Emergency Medicine, 2018

We read with a great interest the article "Which option for ventilation is optimal for
resuscitation performed by nurses? Pilot data" by Kaminska et al.[1], published in
The Journal of the American Journal of Emergency Medicine. The article raises a …

… device in cervical spine immobilization: a randomized trial of residents' use of the intubating laryngeal mask airway and the intubating laryngeal tube in manikins.

D Aleksandrowicz, T Gaszyński - Emergencias: revista de la Sociedad Espanola de …, 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the intubating laryngeal mask (iLM) airway and
the new intubating laryngeal tube (iLTS-D) in use by residents with minimal previous
intubation experience during simulated conditions of reduced cervical spine mobility …

[PDF] Use of Laryngeal Mask with Propofol Target Control Infusion for Anesthetic Management of a Patient with Escobar Syndrome

J Anest

We present the anesthetic management of a 10-year-old boy with Escobar syndrome
scheduled for left tympanoplasty. This syndrome may pose many problems to
anesthesiologist especially regarding management of airways, difficult venous …

 

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