Metabolic Determinants of Impaired Pulmonary Function in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0653-7135

Aims Impaired lung function associates with deterioration of glycemic control and diabetes-related oxidative stress in long-standing type 2 diabetes. We hypothesized that recent-onset type 2 diabetes patients exhibit abnormal pulmonary function when compared to glucose-tolerant controls and that the frequencies of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), known to associate with lung dysfunction, are different between both groups. Methods Type 2 diabetes patients with a known disease duration<1 year (n=34) had similar age, sex distribution and BMI as overweight controls (n=26). Lung function was assessed by spirometry comprising predicted forced vital capacity (FVC%), predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1%) and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Multivariable linear regressions were performed to investigate group differences, which were adjusted for potential confounders such as age, sex, BMI, height and smoking status. SNP genotyping was conducted using real-time polymerase chain reaction-based allelic discrimination. Results Patients with type 2 diabetes had lower FEV1%, FEV1/FVC and VO2max (all p<0.05). Among patients with type 2 diabetes, FEV1% correlated positively with VO2max (r=0.40, p<0.05) and FEV1/FVC correlated negatively with HbA1c (r=−0.49, p<0.01). Regression analyses across the whole cohort indicated that the group differences in FEV1/FVC can be explained by the confounding effect of HbA1c. The frequencies of the SNPs rs1042713, rs1079572, rs11172113, rs12504628, rs1422795, rs1481345, rs2235910, rs2277027, rs2284746, rs4341, rs7068966, rs925284, rs993925 and rs3824658 did not differ between both groups. Conclusions Recent-onset type 2 diabetes patients exhibit reductions in features of pulmonary function, which might be at least in part resulting from glucotoxicity.
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© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Article in Thieme eJournals:
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Ornamental hyperaccumulator Mirabilis jalapa L. phytoremediating combine contaminated soil enhanced by some chelators and surfactants

Abstract

Mirabilis jalapa L. is an ornamental plant of the composite family, which was found hyperaccumulating Cd. Due to its larger biomass, developed root system, root exudation, and microbial interactions, certain organic pollutants in its rhizosphere can be effectively degraded. Thus, M. jalapacan be used to co-remediate heavy metal and organic pollutant co-contaminated soil. The aim of this paper is to explore the remediation capacity of M. jalapa for Cd-PAHs co-contaminated soil in the presence of five chelators or surfactants. The concentrations of Cd and PAHs in collected soil samples were 0.85 mg kg⁻¹ Cd and 1.138 mg kg⁻¹ PAHs (16 kinds of priority control polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by USEPA). The chelators or surfactants of EDTA, EGTA, CA, TW80, and SA were respectively spiked to the pots according to the experiment design at 1 month before the plant harvested. The results showed that the capacity of Cd in shoot of M. jalapa was 7.99 μg pot⁻¹ without any addition (CK4, M. jalapa in original soil without amendment). However, Cd capacity in shoot of M. jalapa was increased (p < 0.05) by 31.7%, 181.7%, and 107.4% in treatment of R_EGTA, R_CA and R_{EGTA + SA}, respectively. As for the degradation of PAHs in soil, there was no significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the treatment of CK2 (original soil spiked with 0.9 SA without M. jalapa), CK3 (original soil spiked with 0.3 TW80 without M. jalapa), and CK4 compared to the control CK1 (original soil without M. jalapa and amendment). When amendments were added to soils with M. jalapa,the PAHs concentrations in soils significantly decreased (p < 0.05) by 21.7%, 23.8%, 27.0%, 19.8%, 21.8%, 31.2%, and 25.5% for the treatment of R_{EDTA + SA}, R_{EDTA + T80}, R_{EGTA + SA}, R_{EGTA + T80}, R_{CA + T80}, R_{SA + T80 + EDTA}, and R_{SA + T80 + CA}, respectively. Basically, Cd capacity in shoot of M. jalapa was improved by chelators. PAHs degradation was caused by the existence of surfactants in rhizosphere of M. jalapa. But the roles of different chelators or surfactants were quite distinct. In short, the Cd capacity in the shoot and PAHs degradation in the rhizosphere of M. jalapa in the treatment of R_{EGTA + SA} were all significantly increased (p < 0.05), which was more practical for M. jalapa phytoremediating Cd-PAHs co-contaminated soil.

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Preoperative percutaneous arthrography provides detailed information for treatment of Wassel type IV thumb duplication

: We aimed to detect whether percutaneous arthrography can provide detailed information for surgery for Wassel type IV thumb duplication prior to skin incision.

https://ift.tt/2BK27nR

Upper blepharoplasty revision technique: Correction of the high fold using the pretarsal orbicularis oculi flap

With the growing popularity of upper lid blepharoplasty, there have been increasing reports of unsatisfactory outcomes that have necessitated a revision surgery. This study aimed to evaluate aesthetic outcomes of surgical correction of the high fold using a pretarsal orbicularis oculi flap, and to highlight the key practice points of this surgical procedure in secondary blepharoplasty.

https://ift.tt/2o7lbCT

Endoscopic assisted retrograde release of posterior interosseous nerve: Preliminary results of a new technique

Open surgical release of posterior interosseous nerve(PIN) has been well defined in literature with different surgical approaches. In this retrospective study, we aimed to present outcomes of endoscopic assisted retrograde release of posterior interosseous nerve.

https://ift.tt/2P1fguA

Autologous Fat Grafting after Breast Conserving Surgery – Breast-Imaging Changes and Patient-Reported Outcome

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) to the breast is known to cause radiologic breast-imaging changes. However, these changes have primarily been investigated in breast augmentation settings, whereas the radiologic breast-imaging changes after AFG in breast conserving surgery (BCS) patients have only been sparsely studied.

https://ift.tt/2PBzBYb

The Surgical Anatomy of the Superficial and Deep Palmar Arches: a Meta-Analysis

The following study aimed to find the pooled prevalence estimate of anatomical variations in the palmar vasculature, namely the superficial palmar arch (SPA) and the deep palmar arch (DPA). The importance of understanding the vasculature of the hand is critical with the increasing use of hand microsurgery.

https://ift.tt/2wnSyFg

Clinical results and quality of life after reconstruction following sacrectomy for primary bone malignancy

Sacrectomy is a rare and demanding surgical procedure resulting in major soft tissue defects and spinopelvic discontinuity. No consensus is available on the optimal reconstruction algorithm. Therefore, the present study evaluated the results of sacrectomy reconstruction and its impact on patients' quality of life.

https://ift.tt/2PzvGeF

Technical refinements to a validated autologous fat harvesting technique

Dear Sir,

https://ift.tt/2P52ona

Absorbable Sutures for Carpal Tunnel Decompression: A Cochrane Review Summary

Carpal tunnel decompression (CTD) is the most common elective hand operation, with approximately 73,000 procedures performed annually in England1. After CTD, skin closure may be achieved with absorbable or non-absorbable sutures. Our Cochrane review2 collates the evidence comparing absorbable versus non-absorbable sutures for skin closure after CTD and we have summarised our findings below.

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The amounts of melanin pigment causing color differences between the vermilion and lip mucosa

Text

https://ift.tt/2P4kxl4

Techniques to enable identification and safe elevation of the Posterior interosseous artery flap.

The distally-based, pedicled posterior interosseous artery (PIA) flap can be a useful option for reconstruction of dorsal hand defects, particularly following trauma.1,2 The flap is generally thin and pliable and avoids sacrificing a major vessel supplying the hand. It can be raised as a skin flap, adipofascial variant, or the super-thin fascia-only type.

https://ift.tt/2PwvvRc

Delayed-Onset Nodules After Polymethyl Methacrylate Injections

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2Lorzij

How We Do It: Utility of Conservative Thickness Layers in Mohs Micrographic Surgery in Selected Patients

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2wct2U6

Measuring the Depth of Perineural Invasion in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Implications on Biopsy Technique

BACKGROUND Perineural invasion (PNI) is a high-risk feature of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Depths at which PNI occurs are unknown. OBJECTIVE To determine the most superficial depth at which PNI occurs in CSCC and stratify by tumor clinical diameter and body location. METHODS AND MATERIALS Single-institution retrospective review of CSCC specimens reporting PNI on pathology reports between January 2004 and August 2014. Depth was defined as distance from top of granular layer to middle of nerve invaded by CSCC or distance from erosion to middle of nerve affected by CSCC. RESULTS Of 66 specimens identified with PNI, 45 specimens were included. Mean histopathologic depth to PNI was 2.7 mm (SD = 1.8 mm, median depth = 2.2 mm, range 0.5–12 mm). Perineural invasion depth varied by anatomic location, with the head associated with most superficial average PNI depth (2.2 mm) and trunk with greatest average PNI depth (4.3 mm). Perineural invasion depth correlated with clinical tumor diameter. The largest percentage of specimens with PNI were of clinical diameter of at least 2 cm (20/45 = 44%). CONCLUSION Clinicians encountering lesions suspicious for CSCC have the greatest chance of detecting PNI using biopsy techniques that reach at least 3 to 4 mm deep.

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Systematic Review of Surgical Treatment and Outcomes After Local Surgery of Primary Cutaneous Melanomas of the Penis and Scrotum

BACKGROUND Few data exist to guide surgical management and counseling about local recurrence after surgery of primary male genital melanoma. OBJECTIVE To compile all available data on local recurrence rates after surgery of primary cutaneous melanoma of the penis and scrotum. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review of PubMed, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), and Web of Science identified all surgically treated penile and scrotal melanomas that reported local recurrence status and follow-up time. RESULTS One hundred twenty-seven melanomas from 74 manuscripts were included. Eighty-six percent of melanomas were located on the penis, and 14% were located on the scrotum. Average follow-up time was 35.7 months. Scrotal melanomas were predominantly treated with organ-sparing surgeries (16/18, 88.9%), whereas penile melanomas were treated more often with amputation (61/109, 56.0%). Overall, local recurrence rate was 15.7% (20/127). Local recurrence rates for penile cases were 18.8% (9/48) after organ-sparing surgery versus 13.1% (8/61) for amputative surgery. Local recurrence rates were 66.7% (4/6) after positive surgical margins versus 10.2% (5/49) after negative surgical margins. CONCLUSION Local recurrence rates are high after both organ-sparing and amputative surgery of primary cutaneous melanoma of the penis and scrotum. There is a need to standardize reporting for this rare tumor, as more complete data are necessary to develop consensus guidelines for surgical management of male genital melanoma.

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Classification of Foreign Body Reactions due to Industrial Silicone Injection

BACKGROUND A foreign body reaction (FBR) is a typical tissue response to a biomaterial that has been injected or implanted in human body tissue. There has been a lack of data on the classification of foreign body reaction to silicone injection, which can describe the pattern of body tissue responses to silicone. OBJECTIVE Determine the foreign body reaction to silicone injection. METHOD We modified the classification proposed by Duranti and colleagues, which has categorized a FBR to hyaluronic acid injection into a new classification of an FBR to silicone injection. A cohort study of 31 women suffering from silicone-induced granulomas on their chin was conducted. Granulomatous tissue and submental skin were stained with hematoxylin–eosin and evaluated. RESULTS Our data revealed that there were at least 7 categories of FBRs to silicone injection that could be developed. Categories 1 to 4 showed inflammatory activity, and categories 5 to 8 showed tissue repair by fibrosis. CONCLUSION Using histopathological staining, we are able to sequence the steps of body reactions to silicone injection. Initial inflammatory reaction is then replaced by fibrosis process repairing the damaged tissues. The process depends on the host immune tolerance.

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

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2wdvrxL

Injectable Platelet-, Leukocyte-, and Fibrin-Rich Plasma (iL-PRF) in the Management of Androgenetic Alopecia

BACKGROUND The role of enriched autologous plasmas in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) management is emerging in recent literature. OBJECTIVE In this prospective study, the authors aimed to confirm that the induction of a minor local trauma immediately followed by injections of an enriched plasma made of a strongly concentrated platelet fraction, a robust white cell presence, concentrated fibrinogen, and other plasma proteins (injectable leukocyte platelet-rich fibrin [iL-PRF]) could be able to produce positive clinical results in patients with AGA. MATERIALS AND METHODS A 2-injection regimen was instituted, with a 3-month interval between the 2 interventions. A treatment group (TG) and a control group (CG) were instituted. Macrophotographs were taken at baseline and after 6 months, and rated by 5-people expert panel (blinded to this assignment) using the 15-point scale proposed by Jaeschke to evaluate the clinical change. RESULTS Overall, TG showed better scores compared with the CG in all 5 classes of global physician assessment at baseline, all age groups, and in both sexes, and such differences always reached statistical significance. A greater severity at baseline showed a larger improvement after treatment in the TG. CONCLUSION This study provides preliminary evidence that the biological composition of the iL-PRF is of crucial importance in ensuring a good degree of clinical efficacy in patients with AGA.

https://ift.tt/2LnYF1O

Surgical Cadaver Curriculum

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2wdvp97

Evaluating the Efficacy of Different Platelet-Rich Plasma Regimens for Management of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Single-Center, Blinded, Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND Studies suggest platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may mitigate androgenetic alopecia (AGA), but each varies in the frequency of and interval between treatments. OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy, satisfaction, tolerability, and safety of 2 initial PRP injection protocols over 6 months. METHODS Prospective, randomized, single-blinded trial among 40 patients with moderate AGA. Participants received subdermal PRP injections according to 1 of 2 treatment protocols: 3 monthly sessions with booster 3 months later (Group 1) or 2 sessions every 3 months (Group 2). Folliscope hair count and shaft caliber, global photography, and patient satisfaction questionnaires were obtained at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. RESULTS At 6 months, both groups demonstrated statistically significant increases in hair count (p

https://ift.tt/2LnYALy

A Tender Subcutaneous Fluctuant Forehead Nodule: An Unexpected Foray Into the Cranium

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2w9Z9Uo

Concomitant Use of 1,550-nm Nonablative Fractional Laser With Low-Dose Isotretinoin for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris in Asian Patients: A Randomized Split-Face Controlled Study

BACKGROUND Nonablative fractional laser (NAFL) has been shown to improve the appearance of inflammatory acne and acne scars. Isotretinoin is effective for the treatment of moderate-to-severe cases of recalcitrant acne. However, the recommended dose of isotretinoin can have profound effects. OBJECTIVE To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of performing NAFL treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris under treatment with low-dose oral isotretinoin. METHODS AND MATERIALS Eighteen patients who received 10-mg oral isotretinoin per day completed 3 sessions of NAFL treatment on one half of the face and presented for each scheduled follow-up appointment. RESULTS Low-dose isotretinoin was effective in managing papules and nodule lesions (p

https://ift.tt/2LnYsM4

Atypical Fibroxanthoma Arising in a Burn Scar Treated With Mohs Micrographic Surgery

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2waz6fC

Dual-Frequency Ultrasound as a New Treatment Modality for Refractory Rosacea: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND Dual-frequency ultrasound (DFU) has emerged as a new treatment modality for improving inflammatory skin disorders. Although there have been few pilot studies, there are a limited number of studies that investigated efficacy of DFU on refractory rosacea. OBJECTIVE This study investigated the effect of DFU on patients with refractory rosacea. MATERIALS AND METHODS The authors retrospectively analyzed medical records of 42 patients with refractory rosacea (erythematotelangiectatic rosacea [ETR], n = 26; papulopustular rosacea [PPR], n = 14, mixed, n = 2). The patients were treated with DFU twice per week for the 1st week, and then once per week thereafter. Efficacy was assessed using erythema index (EI), transepithelial water loss (TEWL), and patient self-assessment (PSA). RESULTS Treatment with DFU resulted in significant decrease in EI, TEWL, and PSA. No significant difference was noted between ETR and PPR. CONCLUSION Application of DFU in patients with refractory rosacea resulted in improvement in persistent erythema, barrier dysfunction, and patient-reported symptoms. Dual-frequency ultrasound may be an additional treatment option for rosacea that is resistant to other treatments.

https://ift.tt/2LpLEob

Prolonged Inflammatory Reaction After Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedle Treatment

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2wiVAeP

Cosmetic Dermatology Training During Residency: Outcomes of a Resident-Reported Survey

BACKGROUND As the demand for cosmetic treatments increases, it is important for dermatology residents to be educated about and achieve proficiency in dermatologic cosmetic procedures. OBJECTIVE To assess dermatology residents' educational exposure to cosmetic dermatology. MATERIALS AND METHODS An anonymous 18-question survey was sent electronically to 1,266 dermatology residents requesting information about cosmetic dermatology training during residency. RESULTS Two hundred sixty-eight residents responded to the survey (21% response rate). Most residents receive didactic instruction (94%) and hands-on training (91%) on cosmetic dermatology topics during residency. Survey participants in residency programs perceived as supportive of cosmetic dermatology training are more frequently provided lectures (70% vs 31%, p

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The Use of Silicone Microdroplet Injections for Correction of Depressed Scars

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2w9Z6YI

Medial Canthal Reconstruction With Malar Advancement Flap Combined With Cutaneous Island Flap Created Using “Conventionally Discarded” Tissue

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2LnYfIM

To Form a More Perfect Dermatologic Union

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2w8vhrq

AMPH-1 is a tumor suppressor of lung cancer by inhibiting Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signal pathway

Abstract

Amphiphysin 1 (AMPH-1) is a nerve terminal-enriched protein and it is a 128-kD protein with three identified functional domains. Some studies found that AMPH-1 was a dominant autoantigen associated with breast cancer and melanoma. However, its function in lung cancer is unknown. Here, we showed that AMPH-1 knockdown dramatically increased cell proliferation, attenuated cell apoptosis, and promoted cell cycle progression in human lung cancer cells. In vivo xenograft studies confirmed that the AMPH-1-knockdown cells were more tumorigenic than the controls. Moreover, we demonstrated that silencing AMPH-1 markedly activated Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signal pathway. In summary, our results identified the anti-oncogenic function of AMPH-1 in lung cancer in vitro and in vivo. It is proposed that AMPH-1 may have potential as a new therapeutic target in human lung cancer treatment.

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γ-H2AX foci as indication for the DNA damage in erythrocytes of medaka ( Oryzias latipes ) intoxicated with 4-nonylphenol

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the genotoxicity in erythrocytes induced after exposure of medaka (Oryzias latipes) to 4-nonylphenol (4-NP). Adult female medaka fish were exposed to 4-NP at three sublethal concentrations for 15 days to compare their sensitivity with that of catfish as an aquatic model. Comet assay and γ-H2AX were used as biomarkers to detect DNA damage in erythrocytes. Exposure to 4-NP resulted in an increase in the tail moment in a dose-dependent manner. The highest level of DNA damage was recorded after exposure to 100 μg/l 4-NP. The number of foci was increased after exposure to 4-NP, indicating damage to DNA. The present results confirmed the high level of morphological alterations and apoptosis of erythrocytes detected in the first part of this study. 4-NP induced genotoxic effects in medaka, which were found to be more sensitive than catfish after exposure to 4-nonylphenol.

Graphical abstract

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Photo-modulation of zinc phthalocyanine-treated breast cancer cell line ZR-75-1 inhibited the normal tumor activity in vitro

Abstract

Regarding post-complication of convenient therapies against breast cancer, the emergence of effective approaches is essential. Photodynamic therapy is touted as a novel invasive therapeutic approach by the application of a photosensitizer promoted by laser irradiation. This study aimed to investigate the combined regime of low-level laser irradiation with zinc phthalocyanine in human breast cancer ZR-75-1 cell line. Cells were treated with 0.01 and 5 μg/ml of ZnPc for 24 h and exposed to radiation (70 mW) for 60 s. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT and flow cytometry. Cell migration capacity was monitored by scratch test, Transwell migration insert, and gelatin zymography. The function of MDR in treated cells was examined by Rhodamine 123 exclusion test. The level of GALNT11 was measured by ELISA. The expression of Bax and Bcl-2 genes was evaluated by real-time PCR. Laser irradiation and zinc phthalocyanine induced cell cytotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometry analysis showed the induction of apoptotic and necrotic changes in treated cells. We found a reduction in migration rate and MMP-9 activity in cells undergoing the experimental procedure (p < 0.05). Immunofluorescence imaging revealed the intracellular accumulation of Rhodamine 123 coincided with a reduction in the level of GALNT11 in treated cells, showing the reduction of MDR activity and tumor cell resistance. Similar to flow cytometry assay, the reduction of Bcl-2 (approximately twofold) and upregulation of Bax genes were found in treated cells. Photodynamic therapy could be as an effective and alternative method for the treatment of breast cancer in a human.

https://ift.tt/2BLPI2M

Assessment of the cellular localisation of the annexin A2/S100A10 complex in human placenta

Abstract

The AnxA2/S100A10 complex has been implicated in various placental functions but although the localisation of these proteins individually has been studied, there is no information about the localisation of their complex in situ at the cellular level. Using the proximity ligation technique, we have investigated the in situ localisation of AnxA2/S100A10 complex in the placenta and have compared this with the location patterns of the individual proteins. High levels of expression of AnxA2/S100A10 complexes were observed in the amniotic membrane and in blood vessel endothelial cells. Lower levels were detected in the brush border area of the syncytium and in the trophoblasts. Immunohistochemical analysis of AnxA2 and S100A10 individually revealed broadly similar patterns of localisation. The brush border staining pattern suggests that in this location at least some of the AnxA2 is not in complex with S100A10. The formal location of the AnxA2/S100A10 complex is compatible with a role in cell–cell interaction, intracellular transport and secretory processes and regulation of cell surface proteases, implying contributions to membrane integrity, nutrient exchange, placentation and vascular remodelling in different parts of the placenta. Future applications will allow specific assessment of the association of the complex with pathophysiological disorders.

https://ift.tt/2BIAKud

Historical trends and assessment of radionuclides and heavy metals in sediments near an abandoned mine, Lavrio, Greece

Abstract

Two sediment cores (coastal and offshore) and surface sediments were collected near an abandoned mine area in the marine environment of Oxygono Bay at Lavreotiki peninsula to investigate temporal and spatial variations among radionuclides and trace metals/major elements. Lavreotiki was and still is well known for the mining and metallurgical activities, which lasted from ancient times to nowadays (early 1980s). Gamma-ray and X-ray fluorescence measurements were held to determine the radionuclide and trace metal/major element concentrations, respectively. The sedimentation rate at Oxygono Bay coastal core was determined using the ²¹⁰Pb and ¹³⁷Cs tracers, while the enrichment factors were estimated to assess the anthropogenic influence due to metals in a spatial (surface sediments) and a temporal (coastal core sediments) basis. The mass flux at the coastal core was utilized to provide a baseline information at Lavreotiki peninsula. The trace metal/major element profiles were indeed associated with the mining activity in the area, revealing the mining history. The ERICA Tool was incorporated to estimate the dose rates due to natural and ¹³⁷Cs radioactivity in the marine organisms and the values were found below the screening levels.

https://ift.tt/2Pyuc4i

The effect of innovation on CO 2 emissions of OCED countries from 1990 to 2014

Abstract

Human activities are accelerating CO₂ emissions all over the world most especially in high-income nations, spurring the rise in greenhouse gas emissions. For decades, technologies have been developed and patented in response to the environmental problems. There is an outcry for innovative ways to combat the environmental menace. This attests to the enormity of research being done, in recent years, to investigate how innovation can help mitigate CO₂ emissions. This research aims at investigating into the effect of innovation on CO₂ emissions in 28 OCED countries at an individual level for the recent period 1990 to 2014. The source of data for our utilized variables is the World Bank Indicators. Our study employed three key models based on the STIRPAT model, the economic-EKC growth model, and the innovation-EKC model. The findings of our study revealed that innovation plays a key role towards mitigation of CO₂ emissions in most OECD countries. Its impact, however, varies across the countries, depending on some key factors and channels elucidated in this paper. Additionally, our study asserts that improvement in GDP per capita leads to the rise in CO₂ in most OECD economies, although mitigate emissions in few OECDs; hence, the economic-EKC model is not valid for most economies. Non-renewable energy accelerates emissions whiles renewable energy sources mitigate emissions. Research and development (R&D) improves environmental quality and the EKC for both economic growth and innovation, valid for a few economies of the OECDs. We conclude that innovation is necessary in mitigating CO₂ emissions; hence, governments and policy makers should invest and promote innovative renewable energy sources.

https://ift.tt/2wonFR0

Dose variability in different lymph node levels during locoregional breast cancer irradiation: the impact of deep-inspiration breath hold

Abstract

Purpose

Aim of the present analysis was to evaluate the movement and dose variability of the different lymph node levels of node-positive breast cancer patients during adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) with regional nodal irradiation (RNI) in deep-inspiration breath hold (DIBH).

Methods

Thirty-five consecutive node-positive breast cancer patients treated from October 2016 to February 2018 receiving postoperative RT of the breast or chest wall including RNI of the supra-/infraclavicular lymph node levels (corresponding to levels IV, III, Rotter LN (interpectoral), and some parts of level II) were analyzed. To evaluate the lymph node level movement, a center of volume (COV) was obtained for each lymph node level for free-breathing (FB) and DIBH plans. Geometric shifts and dose differences between FB and DIBH were analyzed.

Results

A significant movement of the COV in anterior (y) and cranial (z) dimensions was observed for lymph node levels I–II and Rotter lymph nodes (p < 0.001) due to DIBH. Only minor changes in the lateral dimension (x axis) were observed, without reaching significance for levels III, IV, and internal mammary. There was a significant difference in the mean dose of level I (DIBH vs. FB: 38.2 Gy/41.3 Gy, p < 0.001) and level II (DIBH vs. FB: 45.9 Gy/47.2 Gy, p < 0.001), while there was no significant difference in level III (p = 0.298), level IV (p = 0.476), or internal mammary nodes (p = 0.471).

Conclusion

A significant movement of the axillary lymph node levels was observed during DIBH in anterior and cranial directions for node-positive breast cancer patients in comparison to FB. The movement leads to a significant dose reduction in level I and level II.

https://ift.tt/2PAV2Jd

Hochrisiko-Endometriumkarzinom: Immer eine adjuvante Radiochemotherapie?

https://ift.tt/2wotvSx

Trial of Ibrutinib Combined With Nivolumab or Cetuximab to Treat Recurrent/Metastatic HNSCC

Conditions:   Head and Neck Cancer;   Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Interventions:   Drug: Ibrutinib 560mg PO daily;   Drug: Ibrutinib 560mg PO daily (Imbruvica);   Drug: Cetuximab;   Drug: Nivolumab
Sponsors:   University of California, San Diego;   Pharmacyclics LLC.
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2P3Ac3N

Study of the Feasibility of Radiofrequency Ablation of Benign Thyroid Nodules

Condition:   Benign Thyroid Nodules
Intervention:   Procedure: Radiofrequency ablation
Sponsor:   University Hospital, Toulouse
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2MsTWB8

Oxygen Enhanced MRI Measurement in Head and Neck Cancer: Validation and Efficacy of Response.

Condition:   Head and Neck Cancer
Intervention:   Diagnostic Test: MRI scan
Sponsors:   Sally Falk;   University of Manchester
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2P5sqqr

The Comparison of Single and Multi-incision MIE for Esophageal Cancer

Condition:   Esophageal Cancer
Intervention:   Procedure: Minimally invasive esophagectomy
Sponsor:   National Taiwan University Hospital
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2MsztMV

Venous Thromboembolism and Bleeding Risk in Patients With Esophageal Cancer: a Retrospective Study

Conditions:   Venous Thromboembolism;   Esophagus Cancer;   Bleeding;   Chemotherapy Effect
Intervention:   Other: Venous thromboembolic event, arterial thromboembolic event, bleeding events
Sponsor:   Academisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA)
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2OY8HbY

Prospective Pilot Study of Multi-actor Tolerance Evaluation Using the VIRARE Device (VIrtual Reality Assisted Rehabilitation) in Visually Impaired Patients

Condition:   Visual Impairment
Intervention:   Device: Virtual reality tests
Sponsor:   Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nīmes
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2MtRpXm

Study of Autologous Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Patients With Solid Tumors

Conditions:   Metastatic Melanoma;   Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck;   Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Interventions:   Biological: Lifileucel;   Biological: LN-145;   Drug: Pembrolizumab
Sponsor:   Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc.
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2P06pco

Comprehensive modeling reveals proximity, seasonality, and hygiene practices as key determinants of MRSA colonization in exposed households.

Related Articles

Comprehensive modeling reveals proximity, seasonality, and hygiene practices as key determinants of MRSA colonization in exposed households.

Pediatr Res. 2018 Jul 19;:

Authors: Mork RL, Hogan PG, Muenks CE, Boyle MG, Thompson RM, Morelli JJ, Sullivan ML, Gehlert SJ, Ross DG, Yn A, Bubeck Wardenburg J, Rzhetsky A, Burnham CD, Fritz SA

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus is the leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). To develop interventions to prevent recurrent infections, household attributes and individual practices influencing S. aureus colonization must be discerned.
METHODS: Households of healthy children with methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) SSTI (n = 150; 671 participants) were interviewed regarding health history, activities, and hygiene practices. S. aureus colonization was assessed in household members, and recovered isolates were typed by repetitive sequence-based PCR.
RESULTS: The number of unique strain types in a household (median 1, range 0-7) correlated with the number of colonized individuals (p < 0.001). The MRSA infecting strain type colonized a household member in 57% of 91 households with an available infecting strain, and was the most common strain type recovered in 45% of these households. In multivariable models, household MRSA colonization burden (p < 0.001), sharing a bedroom with MRSA-colonized individuals (p = 0.03), renting dwelling (p = 0.048), and warmer seasons (p = 0.02) were associated with increased MRSA colonization. Increasing age (p = 0.02), bathing at least daily (p = 0.01), and antibacterial soap use (p = 0.03) correlated with reduced MRSA colonization.
CONCLUSIONS: This study identified practices that correlate with MRSA colonization, which will inform physician counseling and multifaceted interventions among MRSA-affected households to mitigate MRSA in the community.

PMID: 30135590 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

https://ift.tt/2NevtvL

Simple and fast adaptive nonlocal multispectral filtering algorithm for efficient noise reduction in magnetic resonance imaging

Publication date: Available online 24 August 2018

Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Author(s): Mustapha Bouhrara, Michael C. Maring, Richard G. Spencer

Abstract

Purpose

We recently introduced a multispectral (MS) nonlocal (NL) filter based on maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) of voxel intensities, termed MS-NLML. While MS-NLML provides excellent noise reduction and improved image feature preservation as compared to other NL or MS filters, it requires considerable processing time, limiting its application in routine analyses. In this work, we introduced a fast, simple, and robust filter, termed nonlocal estimation of multispectral magnitudes (NESMA), for noise reduction in multispectral (MS) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Through extensive simulation and in-vivo analyses, we compared the performance of NESMA and MS-NLML in terms of noise reduction and processing efficiency. Further, we introduce two simple adaptive methods that permit spatial variation of similar voxel, R, used in the filtering. The first method is semi-adaptive and permits variation of R across the image by using a relative Euclidean distance (RED) similarity threshold. The second method is fully adaptive and filters the raw data with several RED similarity thresholds to spatially determine the optimal threshold value using an unbiased criterion.

Results

NESMA shows very similar filtering performance as compared to MS-NLML, however, with much simple implementation and very fast processing time. Further, for both filters, the adaptive methods were shown to further reduce noise in comparison with the conventional non-adaptive method in which R is set to a constant value throughout the image.

Conclusions

NESMA is fast, robust, and straightforward to implement filter. These features render it suitable for routine clinical use and analysis of large MRI datasets.

https://ift.tt/2PzUovi

Microglia polarization by methylprednizolone acetate accelerates cuprizone induced demyelination

Abstract

Glucocorticoids (GC) are known as inflammatory drugs, which are used in neuroinflammatory diseases. Unlike the classic picture, recent studies have revealed that some GC drugs exacerbate inflammatory responses in their acute and prolonged administration. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating inflammatory disorder, in which reactive M1 microglia phenotype play a central role. Since methylprednisolone (MP), as a synthetic GC, are commonly used by MS patients, in this study, we evaluated the effect of long-term administration of MP on microglia polarization in cuprizone (CPZ)-induced MS model. The immunostaining results showed that chronic exposure to MP in the CPZ treated mice increased the number of Iba-1 positive microglia, which significantly expressed IP10 as M1 marker than arginase as M2 marker. MP treatment induced significant amplification in the transcript levels of iNOS and TNF-α (M1-related markers) in the corpus callosum of the MS mice, whereas no change detected in the expression of IL-10 (M2-related marker) between the groups. In addition, evaluation of myelin by luxol fast blue staining and transmission electron microscopy revealed that prolonged MP administration increased demyelination in comparison to the CPZ group. In conclusion, our results show that chronic MP therapy in the CPZ-induced demyelination model of MS polarized microglia to M1 pro-inflammatory phenotype.

https://ift.tt/2NetB6j

Accuracy of Microelectrode Trajectory Adjustments during DBS Assessed by Intraoperative CT

Background/Aims: Microelectrode recording (MER)-guided deep brain stimulation (DBS) aims to place the DBS lead in the optimal electrophysiological target. When single-track MER or test stimulation yields suboptimal results, trajectory adjustments are made. The accuracy of these trajectory adjustments is unknown. Intraoperative computed tomography can visualize the microelectrode (ME) and verify ME adjustments. We aimed to determine the accuracy of ME movements in patients undergoing MER-guided DBS. Methods: Coordinates following three methods of adjustment were compared: (1) those within the default "+" configuration of the ME holder; (2) those involving rotation of the default "+" to the "x" configuration; and (3) those involving head stage adjustments. Radial error and absolute differences between coordinates were determined. Results: 87 ME movements in 59 patients were analyzed. Median (IQR) radial error was 0.59 (0.64) mm. Median (IQR) absolute x and y coordinate errors were 0.29 (0.52) and 0.38 (0.44) mm, respectively. Errors were largest after rotating the multielectrode holder to its "x"-shaped setup. Conclusion: ME trajectory adjustments can be made accurately. In a considerable number of cases, errors exceeding 1 mm were found. Adjustments from the "+" setup to the "x" setup are most prone to inaccuracies.
Stereotact Funct Neurosurg

https://ift.tt/2w7KE3u

Influence of rainfall intensity and slope on suspended solids and phosphorus losses in runoff

Abstract

Suspended solids (SS) and phosphorus (P) losses in rainfall generated runoff can lead to the deterioration of surface water quality. Simulated rainfall experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of rainfall intensity (30, 50, 65, and 100 mm h⁻¹) and land slope (0°, 5°, and 10°) on SS and P losses in runoff from experimental rigs containing bare land soil and soil planted with grass (tall fescue). In addition, total phosphorus (TP), particulate phosphorus (PP), and dissolved phosphorus (DP) losses in runoff were also measured. Results showed that tall fescue could reduce loads of SS by 86–99.5%, PP by 92–98.5%, and TP by 55–89.8% in runoff compared with losses from bare soil; this is due to a combination reduced raindrop kinetic energy at the soil surface, reduced soil erodibility in the presence of plant roots and shoots, and an increase in roughness and consequently reduced overland flow velocity resulting in the trapping of particles. Linear relationships between losses of SS and TP and between TP and PP in runoff were significant (R² > 0.93) in both bare soil and grass. In addition, SS and TP losses increased greatly significantly with rainfall intensity and slope. The influence of rainfall intensity on SS and P losses was greater than the influence of slope. Simple linear regressions were constructed between losses of SS and P, the rainfall intensity (30 to 100 mm h⁻¹), and land slope (0° to 10°). The multiple regression equations of SS and P losses in runoff established in this study can provide a simple predicting approach for estimating the non-point source pollution load of SS and P arising from rainfall.

https://ift.tt/2o7Q5uA

Groundwater–surface water exchange associated metals at two intertidal transects, Dan’ao Estuary, Daya Bay, China

Abstract

In the evaluation of aquatic environments in estuarine waters, the groundwater–surface water exchanges and associated metal fluxes are difficult to quantify and often ignored. This study made such an attempt based on field data at two intertidal transects in the estuarine wetland of Dan'ao River, the largest river flowing into Daya Bay, China. The results of groundwater–surface water exchange associated six common metals (Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb, and Cr) indicate the following: the cumulative concentrations of the six metals are ranked as seawater > groundwater > river water. Among all estuarine groundwaters, the sum of metal concentrations in rhizospheric groundwater at the upstream transect is the highest, owing to the enriching effects of mangrove rhizospheres on metals. The net fluxes of Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Cr at the upstream transect are 4.8–13.8, 11.9–16.7, 147.8–190.2, 4.1–4.9, and 10.0–12.6 times higher than those at the downstream one. The much higher groundwater discharge rates at the upstream mangrove transect plays a vital role in increasing metal fluxes from groundwater to surface water in this estuary.

https://ift.tt/2BItheI

Effectiveness of photopneumatic technology: a descriptive review of the literature

Abstract

Usage of photopneumatic technology has recently increased for treatment of different skin conditions such as acne, keratosis pilaris (KP), and rosacea. Photopneumatic devices combine gentle negative pressure with broad band pulsed light simultaneously to attack multiple targets in the skin for better treatment outcomes. In this literature review, we evaluate the efficacy of photopneumatic therapy on treatment of acne, keratosis pilaris (KP), and rosacea.

https://ift.tt/2wmuEKi

Scholar : New articles have been published for Journal of Natural History, Volume 52, Issue 29-30

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content The following articles have been newly published in the issue Journal of Natural History, Volume 52, Issue 29-30 on Taylor & Francis Online: Articles The Neotropical genus Hapalotremus Simon, 1903 (Araneae: Theraphosidae), with the description of seven new species and the highest altitude record for the family Nelson Ferretti, Patricio Cavallo, Juan C. Chaparro, Duniesky Ríos-Tamayo, Tracie A. Seimon, Rick West Pages: 1927-1984 | DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2018.1506521 Nest structure and all stages of the long-cheeked yellow jacket Dolichovespula intermedia Birula (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) Qing-Qing Tan, Ruo-Nan Zhang, Tong Zhou, Jiang-Li Tan Pages: 1985-1999 | DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2018.1502374 The issue is in progress. To view all articles already published in this issue, please visit: https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/tnah20/52/29-30 Hoping to have your article read by anyone, anywhere and at any time? Find out more about publishing open access with Ecosystem Health and Sustainability. To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert 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.

Large Divergence in Testosterone Concentrations between Men and Women: Frame of Reference for Elite Athletes in Sex‐Specific Competition in Sports, a Narrative Review

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2PBfWYK

Comprehensive screening shows that mutations in the known syndromic genes are rare in infants presenting with hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2whLbPm

Cost-effectiveness of Linac-based single-isocenter non-coplanar technique (HyperArcTM) for brain metastases radiosurgery

Abstract

In the last few years, the major change has occurred in the expansion of indications for radiosurgery (SRS) to include patients with more than four brain metastases (BM). To address the expanding indications for SRS in the treatment of multiple BMs, HyperArcTM (Varian Medical System, Palo Alto, CA, U.S.) was recently introduced in order to automate and simplify sophisticated treatments such as SRS/FSRT for multiple lesions (up to 20 BM). In this editorial some consideration about HyperArc cost-effectiveness were discussed in terms of reduction of treatment delivery time (multiple intracranial targets can be treated in a few minutes), the reduction of overall treatment time (treatment course of SRS of multiple BMs in a single session, rather than having to irradiate lesion per lesion during separate sessions on different days); reduction of costs for health systems. In summary HyperArc™ system is a promising, safe and accurate solution for SRS/SFRT to treat multiple BMs in a single or few sessions. This has the potential to impact direct and indirect costs of SRS/SFRT delivery.

https://ift.tt/2PxuDfb

Use of high-strength electromagnetic radiation to remove phototrophic biofilms from terracotta artifacts

Abstract

A novel technique, effective in eliminating biodeteriogens from biofilms encrusting terracotta artifacts, is presented here. This method is based on the use of high-strength electromagnetic radiation (EMR) in the radiofrequency band. Shards of terracotta from historical pots at the Botanical Garden of Naples, Italy, were used. The shards, after sterilization, were inoculated with several phototrophic microorganisms previously isolated from whole terracotta pots. The newly formed biofilms were exposed to EMR amplitude modulated by a train of rectangular pulses with Tr = 200 ns repetition time and 10% duty cycle. The exposure protocol consisted of three applications of 2 h each, every other day. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analyses conducted on the newly formed biofilms showed that, after the first exposure to EMR, all species in the biofilms but one were still alive. The second exposure resulted in the disappearance of 9 out of 13 species that were initially present on the samples. After the third exposure, all species disappeared. Superficial layers of terracotta from the exposed samples, transferred to a culture medium at 24 °C for 72 h, did not show any re-growing of organisms. Petrographic analyses of the sampleswere carried out before and after the treatments; they showed that exposure to EMR did not cause structural alterations in the treated substrates. Moreover, the amplitude of the EMR that samples were exposed to was not high enough to cause any significant increase in the temperature of the substrates; that is, no thermal effect, which is the most relevant effect when matter or organisms containing water are exposed to EMR, was observed. Finally, the field strength of the EMR showed to be non-invasive for the artifacts and non-dangerous for operators and the environment as compared to other techniques adopted in the field of conservation of cultural heritage.

https://ift.tt/2OYnN1h

The Spectrum of Histopathologic Findings in Pemphigoid: Avoiding Diagnostic Pitfalls

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


https://ift.tt/2Nc1bK1

Issue Information

Journal of Neuroendocrinology, Volume 30, Issue 9, September 2018.


https://ift.tt/2LlTyiw

Treatments of uremic pruritus: A systematic review

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LqXQFg

Dermatological manifestations in cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome: A prospective multicentric study of 45 mutation‐positive patients

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2BIaUXh

Sleep disturbance in psoriasis: a case‐controlled study

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2o4umE3

Association between bullous pemphigoid and psoriasis: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of case‐control studies

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2wksXwR

e-learning: the anesthesiology media lab of Yale University School of Medicine. A review

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2NgOeip