Cosmetics, Vol. 5, Pages 67: Evaluation of the Transepidermal Penetration of a Carnosine Complex in Gel Formulation by 3D Skin Models

Cosmetics, Vol. 5, Pages 67: Evaluation of the Transepidermal Penetration of a Carnosine Complex in Gel Formulation by 3D Skin Models

Cosmetics doi: 10.3390/cosmetics5040067

Authors: Valeria Dissette Carlo Alberto Bignozzi Giuseppe Valacchi Alessandra Pecorelli Stefano Manfredini Silvia Vertuani

Carnosine has several physiological roles, from intracellular pH buffering to antioxidant activities, which all depend on bioavailability. This study was conducted in a human skin 3D model and focuses on the effects of the topical delivery of carnosine, from a dermo-cosmetic gel, through the stratum corneum in the presence of a magnesium ion as a complexing agent. To evaluate possible enhancement for small peptide delivery to the skin from simple cosmetic formulations, we discovered that complexation was able to improve the delivery of carnosine into human skin 3D models by application in gel formulation. The concentrations of carnosine released in the underlying media and those that remained in the reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) tissues after 24 and 48 h exposure were measured. Moreover, the influence of magnesium ions was also evaluated comparing the same formulation with and without the salt. The results obtained in this study support hypothesis that magnesium can influence the delivery of small peptides and that the gel formulation based on the carnosine-magnesium complex allows for superior delivery of carnosine in the lower skin layer at a concentration up to 60% more than carnosine alone.

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Pollutants from fish feeding recycled for microalgae production as sustainable, renewable and valuable products

Abstract

Trash fish feeding of cage fish can result in marine pollution. Whole and chopped trash fish can leach pollutants such as ammonia, phosphate and protein into surrounding waters. Reduction of pollution can be achieved by recycling the wastewater generated from trash fish feeding for cultivation of microalgae. Microalgae are potent candidates for the production of renewable and sustainable products such as feed and food, health and pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, industrial products, and biofuel. Two microalgae, Chlorella saccharophila and Nannochloropsis sp., have the potential to produce high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, high oil content ranging from 10.7 to 13.6% is found in Chlorella saccharophila and up to 9.3% for Nannochloropsis sp. Moreover, these microalgae can also be utilized as a biofuel to give a mean calorific value of 5364 Cal/g which is higher than that of wood for Chlorella saccharophila and 6132 Cal/g which is equivalent to that of coal for Nannochloropsis sp. An alternative biofuel derived from microalgae is feasible due to the fact that they do not compete for arable land for cultivation and land crops for feed and food. This study discusses the synergistic coupling of microalgae mass production with wastewater treatment and carbon sequestration potential for mitigation of environmental impacts and a technically viable alternative energy resource. Additionally, the de-oiled biomass byproduct after oil extraction or its whole biomass can be converted into sustainable and renewal industrial products such as bioplastic, biopaint, bioasphalt, and biobuilding components.

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Statistical assessment of nonpoint source pollution in agricultural watersheds in the Lower Grand River watershed, MO, USA

Abstract

The water quality in many Midwestern streams and lakes is negatively impacted by agricultural activities. Although the agricultural inputs that degrade water quality are well known, the impact of these inputs varies as a function of geologic and topographic parameters. To better understand how a range of land use, geologic, and topographic factors affect water quality in Midwestern watersheds, we sampled surface water quality parameters, including nitrate, phosphate, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, bacteria, pH, specific conductance, temperature, and biotic index (BI) in 35 independent sub-watersheds within the Lower Grand River Watershed in northern Missouri. For each sub-watershed, the land use/land cover, soil texture, depth to bedrock, depth to the water table, recent precipitation area, total stream length, watershed shape/relief ratio, topographic complexity, mean elevation, and slope were determined. Water quality sampling was conducted twice: in the spring and in the late summer/early fall. A pairwise comparison of water quality parameters acquired in the fall and spring showed that each of these factors varies considerably with season, suggesting that the timing is critical when comparing water quality indicators. Correlation analysis between water quality indicators and watershed characteristics revealed that both geologic and land use characteristics correlated significantly with water quality parameters. The water quality index had the highest correlation with the biotic index during the spring, implying that the lower water quality conditions observed in the spring might be more representative of the longer-term water quality conditions in these watersheds than the higher quality conditions observed in the fall. An assessment of macroinvertebrates indicated that the biotic index was primarily influenced by nutrient loading due to excessive amounts of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) discharge from agricultural land uses. The PCA analysis found a correlation between turbidity, E. coli, and BI, suggesting that livestock grazing may adversely affect the water quality in this watershed. Moreover, this analysis found that N, P, and SC contribute greatly to the observed water quality variability. The results of this study can be used to improve decision-making strategies to improve water quality for the entire river basin.

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Composition, mixing state, and size distribution of single submicron particles during pollution episodes in a coastal city in southeast China

Abstract

Size-resolved particle composition, size distribution, and mixing state were characterized at the single-particle level during two air pollution episodes during 12–25 January, 2016 in a coastal city in southeast China. The two pollution episodes occurred under distinct meteorological conditions (i.e., different wind speeds, relative humidity, and backward trajectories); thus, they were assigned to stagnation and transport episodes, respectively. Single-particle data, obtained from single-particle aerosol mass spectrometry (SPAMS), showed that carbonaceous particles were the predominant particles during the whole study period, accounting for more than 60% of the total particles. However, the number fractions of carbonaceous particles and nitrate-containing particles significantly increased in the stagnation episode, while the number fractions of sulfate- and ammonium-containing particles both increased in the transport episode compared to the levels over the whole study period. The potassium-rich (K-rich) particle class was more abundant and more strongly mixed with sulfate in the transport episode, which indicates the impact of biomass burning emissions and the subsequent aging process by acquiring sulfate during transport. The particle classes (e.g., carbonaceous and K-rich classes) had a broader size distribution during the pollution episodes than during the clean episode. The diameters of the size distribution peak for all particle classes (except for dust class) were observed to be larger in the transport episode than in the stagnation episode. This suggests that the particles underwent an extensive aging process through the addition of sulfate and ammonium during transport, leading to the growth of particles.

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aCGH Analysis of Predictive Biomarkers for Response to Bevacizumab plus Oxaliplatin‐ or Irinotecan‐Based Chemotherapy in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

AbstractBackground.The randomized phase III study (WJOG4407G) showed equivalent efficacy between FOLFOX and FOLFIRI in combination with bevacizumab as the first‐line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We studied whole genome copy number profiles using array‐based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis of tumor tissue samples obtained in this study. The aim of this study was to identify gene copy number alterations that could aid in selecting either FOLFOX or FOLFIRI in combination with bevacizumab for patients with mCRC.Materials and Methods.DNA was purified from 154 pretreatment formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue samples (75 from the FOLFOX arm and 79 from the FOLFIRI arm) of 395 patients enrolled in the WJOG4407G trial and analyzed by aCGH. Genomic regions greater than 1.2‐fold were regarded as copy number gain (CNG).Results.Patient characteristics between the treatment arms were well balanced except for tumor laterality (left side; 64% in FOLFOX arm and 80% in FOLFIRI arm, p = .07). FOLFIRI showed a trend toward better response rate (RR), progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) than FOLFOX in the patients with CNG of chromosome 8q24.1 (Fisher's exact test, p = .134 for RR; interaction test, p = .102 for PFS and p = .003 for OS) and 8q24.2 (Fisher's exact test, p = .179 for RR; interaction test, p = .144 for PFS and p = .002 for OS).Conclusion.Chromosome 8q24.1–q24.2 may contain genes that could potentially serve as predictive markers for selecting either FOLFOX or FOLFIRI in combination with bevacizumab for treatment of patients with mCRC.Implications for Practice.Bevacizumab has been used as a standard first‐line treatment for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in combination with either oxaliplatin‐based or irinotecan‐based chemotherapy. Until now, there has been no predictive marker to choose between the two combination chemotherapies. This array‐based comparative genomic hybridization analysis revealed that the difference in therapeutic effect between the two combination chemotherapies is prominent in patients with mCRC with gene copy number gain in chromosome 8p24.1–p24.2. Such patients showed more favorable response and survival when treated with irinotecan‐based combination chemotherapy. Overlapping genes commonly found in this region may be predictive biomarkers of the efficacy of the combination chemotherapy with bevacizumab.

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How Does a Supervised Exercise Program Improve Quality of Life in Patients with Cancer? A Concept Mapping Study Examining Patients' Perspectives

AbstractBackground.Previous systematic reviews and meta‐analyses demonstrated beneficial effects of exercise during or following cancer treatment on quality of life (QoL). Aiming to understand how exercise contributes to a patient's QoL, we examined patients' perspectives via a process called concept mapping. This unique method provides structure and objectivity to rich qualitative data.Methods.Patients with cancer who were participating in an exercise program were invited to enroll. Eleven meetings with 3–10 patients were organized in which patients generated ideas in response to the question "How has participating in a supervised exercise program contributed positively to your QoL?" Next, patients individually clustered (based on similarity) and rated (based on importance) the ideas online. The online assessments were combined, and one concept map was created, visualizing clusters of ideas of how patients perceive that participating in a supervised exercise program improved their QoL. The research team labelled the clusters of ideas, and physiotherapists reflected on the clusters during semistructured interviews.Results.Sixty patients attended the meetings; of these, one patient was not able to generate an idea in response to the statement. Forty‐four patients completed the online clustering and rating of ideas. The resulting concept map yielded six clusters: personalized care, coaching by a physiotherapist, social environment, self‐concept, coping, and physical fitness and health. Personalized care was rated as most important. Overall, physiotherapists recognized these clusters in practice.Conclusion.Patients with cancer reported that participating in a supervised exercise program improved their physical fitness and influenced social, mental, and cognitive factors, resulting in improvements in QoL. These results can be used to increase the awareness of the importance of supervised exercise programs for the QoL of patients with cancer.Implications for Practice.According to patients, a supervised exercise program contributes positively to their quality of life by improving physical fitness and health and providing personalized care, coaching by a physiotherapist, and improved social environment, self‐concept, and coping. This knowledge could help to increase physicians' and patients' awareness of the importance of an exercise program during or following cancer treatment, possibly improving referral, participation, and adherence rates to these programs. Furthermore, patients' perspectives may be used to improve supervised exercise programs, taking into account the importance of personalized care, the supervision of a physiotherapist, the social environment, self‐concept, and coping.

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Association between hidradenitis suppurativa and hospitalization for psychiatric disorders: A cross‐sectional analysis of the National Inpatient Sample

Abstract

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is associated with pain, disfigurement, psychosocial distress and poor quality of life, all of which may lead to higher likelihood of mental health (MH) disorders. However, little is known about the MH comorbidities of HS.

Objectives

to determine the MH disorders and cost‐burden associated with HS.

Methods

Data were examined from the 2002‐2012 National Inpatient Sample, comprising a ~20% sample of all US pediatric and adult hospitalizations (n=87,053,155 admissions).

Results

MH disorders were much more common in inpatients with vs. without HS (34·27% vs. 20·05%). In multivariable logistic regression models controlling for gender, age, race/ethnicity, and insurance status, HS was associated with significantly higher odds of a MH disorder (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 2·53 [2·42‐2·63]), including 10 of 15 MH disorders examined. In contrast, HS was not associated with primary hospitalization for a MH disorder overall (0·95 [0·84‐1·07]), but was associated with primary hospitalization for 8 of 15 MH disorders examined. Among inpatients with HS, primary admission for a MH disorder was associated with female sex, public or no insurance, more chronic diseases, but inversely associated with older age, female sex, and non‐white race/ethnicity. HS was associated with >$38 million of excess mean annual costs of hospitalization for MH disorders.

Conclusions

Inpatients with HS had increased odds of comorbid mental health disorders, overall, and multiple primary mental health admissions, in particular, which were associated with considerable excess costs.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Natural disasters, climate change, and their impact on inclusive wealth in G20 countries

Abstract

This paper uses the 1990–2010 natural disaster and carbon emission data of G20 countries to examine the impact of natural disasters and climate change on the natural capital component of inclusive wealth. Our study shows that climate change and GDP have no positive impacts on the growth of natural capital. By contrast, trade openness and natural disaster frequency contribute to the accumulation of natural capital in G20 countries. There is an inverted U-shaped relationship between the growth of natural capital and the magnitude of natural disaster. Natural capital growth is not affected very much by small disasters. By contrast, large disasters tend to make the growth of natural capital fall sharply.

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Multi-criteria decision approach for evaluation, ranking, and selection of remediation options: case of polluted groundwater, Kuwait

Abstract

Freshwater groundwater resources at north Kuwait were contaminated by infiltrated oil as well as sea water that was used to fight the oil-well fires during the liberation of Kuwait in 1991. This paper investigates the feasibility of five remediation options to restore the polluted aquifers. These options include: (i) pump and treat of contaminated groundwater; (ii) cleaning the aquifer formation; (iii) construction of additional desalination plant; (iv) constructing additional storage tanks, and (v) development of artificial aquifer recharge schemes. The basis for this assessment study is to supply minimum basic drinking water to Kuwait City at a total rate of 50,000 m³/day in an emergency for up to one year based on essential basic need of 32 liters per capita per day. To compare these options, a decision matrix to select suitable remediation options using Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approach is developed. The cost was given a relative weight of 20 whereas other criteria are given weight of 10. Based on these MCDA scores, it was found that option 3, namely, establishing an additional water desalination plant, is the most feasible option followed by option 5, artificial recharge of aquifers.

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Cyhalothrin biodegradation in Cunninghamella elegans

Abstract

The insecticide λ-cyhalothrin was incubated with planktonic and biofilm cultures of the fungus Cunninghamella elegans. ¹⁹F nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated that the compound was initially biosorbed to the biomass and more slowly degraded by the fungus. Furthermore, the presence of trifluoromethyl-containing metabolites was observed. Analysis of culture extracts by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified non-fluorinated metabolites that suggested the likely catabolic pathway. The hydroxylated metabolites were probably generated from the action of cytochromes P450 (CYPs), as the presence of CYP inhibitors resulted in the absence of biodegradation. Planktonic cells were measurably faster at degrading the pesticide compared with biofilm.

https://ift.tt/2qGwALc

Effective degradation of Orange G and Rhodamine B by alkali-activated hydrogen peroxide: roles of HO 2 − and O 2 ·−

Abstract

Advanced oxidation processes offer effective solutions in treating wastewater from various industries. The process of alkali-activated hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) was superior for the treatment of alkaline dye wastewater because no additional reagents were required except H₂O₂. However, an important and interesting phenomenon had been observed that the primary reactive species were found different for degrading organic pollutants with the process of alkali-activated H₂O₂. Azo dye of Orange G (OG) and triphenylmethane dye of Rhodamine B (RhB) were chosen as the target organic pollutants. The influences of various parameters on OG and RhB degradation by alkali-activated H₂O₂ were evaluated. Furthermore, different scavengers, including ascorbic acid, methanol, t-butanol, isopropyl alcohol, furfuryl alcohol, and nitro blue tetrazolium, have been tested to identify the active species involved in dye degradation, and it was found that O₂^·− was mainly responsible for degrading OG, while HO₂⁻ anion was the primary oxidant for degrading RhB.

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In situ genotoxicity assessment in freshwater zooplankton and sediments from different dams, ponds, and temporary rivers in Tunisia

Abstract

Tunisia water resources are limited. The country currently has 29 large dams, more than 1000 hill lakes, and 220 small dams which are essential for economic and social development given their contribution to irrigation, drinking water consumption, flooding protection, production of electrical energy, groundwater recharge, and industrial uses. Given the scarcity of these resources, it is crucial to be able to ensure the quality of freshwater environments, particularly those intended for human consumption. In this study, we meant to assess the health status of various freshwater ecosystems in different regions of Tunisia (north and center west) in order to detect genotoxic components in sediments and their potential effect on zooplankton (cladocerans). Sediment and cladoceran species were collected from dams, ponds, and temporary rivers in Tunisia. For each collection site, micronucleus (MN) assay was performed, in triplicates, using a pool of ten specimens of the same cladoceran species. MN occurrence in cladocerans varied from one site to another and MN frequencies varied between 0.67 and 22‰, suggesting the presence of genotoxic substances in certain sites. Sediment genotoxicity and mutagenicity were assessed using the SOS Chromotest and the Ames test. Sediment results showed that genotoxicity varies from one site to another displaying a quantitative and a qualitative variation of pollutant among the sites. These results suggest an urgent need for continuous monitoring of freshwater environments in Tunisia, particularly those intended for drinking water.

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Evaluation of efficacy of the essential oil from Ostericum viridiflorum (Turcz.) Kitagawa in control of stored product insects

Abstract

The natural and ecologically safe control of stored product insects has gained considerable attention in modern society. In this study of further searching for botanical pesticides from wild-growing plant, the contact toxicity and repellency towards Tribolium castaneum and Liposcelis bostrychophila were assessed for the essential oil (EO) from Ostericum viridiflorum. The EO was distilled from aboveground parts of O. viridiflorum and checked by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Twenty-two compounds were identified and the main components were β-caryophyllene (24.3%), α-humulene (21.0%), apiol (10.2%), and carotol (2.5%). For bioactivity tests, results indicated that the EO and its two main compounds (β-caryophyllene and α-humulene) all showed potent contact toxicity towards L. bostrychophila with LD₅₀ values of 44.52 μg/cm², 74.11 μg/cm², and 118.56 μg/cm², respectively. The EO and the two main compounds also exhibited comparable repellency towards T. castaneum and L. bostrychophila. The results evidenced the EO of O. viridiflorum aboveground parts and its major compounds could be considered for the development of eco-friendly botanical insecticides and repellents in controlling stored product insects.

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The relative role of spatial and environmental processes on seasonal variations of phytoplankton beta diversity along different anthropogenic disturbances of subtropical rivers in China

Abstract

The phytoplankton community structure is potentially influenced by both environmental and spatial processes. In addition, the relative importance of these two processes to phytoplankton assemblage will be affected by hydrological connectivity. However, the impacts of anthropogenic activities on phytoplankton beta diversity and the relative importance of these two processes to phytoplankton are still poorly understood, especially in water conservation areas. Here, we examined the relative importance of local and regional environmental control and spatial structuring of phytoplankton communities in five rivers with different degrees of disturbance during wet and dry seasons. We found that community structure and local environmental conditions varied greatly in seasons and rivers. The reference river (with minimum disturbance) had the highest homogeneity of environmental conditions and phytoplankton assemblage, while the excessive disturbance rivers (sand mining activities) had the greatest environmental heterogeneity and species dissimilarity between sites. Variation partitioning analysis showed that the phytoplankton community variation was mainly explained by the spatial variables in the wet season (summer and autumn) and winter, while the local environmental variables explained the largest variation of phytoplankton community in the dry season (spring). However, broad-scale variables were selected by redundancy analysis in both dry and wet seasons, which indicates that long-distance scales always have low river connectivity, regardless of whether the river is overflowing or drying up. Local environmental processes explained the most variation in phytoplankton community within all of the rivers, suggesting that deterministic processes usually work on relatively small spatial scales. However, this effect would be weakened by anthropogenic activities, especially sand mining activities. We inferred that sand mining activities increased the environmental heterogeneity and species dissimilarity between sites by causing watercourse habitat patches and obstructing river connectivity. On the other hand, as the excessive disturbance, sand mining activities significantly reduced the species richness and abundance of phytoplankton.

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Thyroid® High-Impact Articles

FREE ACCESS through November 27, 2018.
Latest Impact Factor: 7.557
The Official Journal of: American Thyroid Association^®

Read now:

Immune-Related Thyroiditis with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Priyanka C. Iyer, Maria E. Cabanillas, Steven G. Waguespack, Mimi I. Hu, Sonali Thosani, Victor R. Lavis, Naifa L. Busaidy, Sumit K. Subudhi, Adi Diab, and Ramona Dadu

Patients with Benign Thyroid Diseases Experience an Impaired Sex Life
Nadia Sawicka-Gutaj, Marek Ruchala, Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen, Åse Krogh Rasmussen, Laszlo Hegedüs, Steen Joop Bonnema, Mogens Groenvold, Jakob Bue Bjorner, and Torquil Watt

Thyroid Cancer Treatment Choice: A Pilot Study of a Tool to Facilitate Conversations with Patients with Papillary Microcarcinomas Considering Treatment Options
Juan P. Brito, Jae Hoon Moon, Rebecca Zeuren, Sung Hye Kong, Yeo Goon Kim, Nicole M. Iñiguez-Ariza, June Young Choi, Kyu Eun Lee, Ji-hoon Kim, Ian Hargraves, Victor Bernet, Victor M. Montori, Young Joo Park, and R. Michael Tuttle

Association of Thyroid Function and Autoimmunity with Ovarian Reserve in Women Seeking Infertility Care
Tim I.M. Korevaar, Lidia Mínguez-Alarcón, Carmen Messerlian, Ralph A. de Poortere, Paige L. Williams, Maarten A. Broeren, Russ Hauser, and Irene C. Souter  

Hyperthyroidism and Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in Thyrotropin Receptor D633H Mutant Mice
Holger Jaeschke, Henriette Undeutsch, Konrad Patyra, Christoffer Löf, Markus Eszlinger, Moosa Khalil, Meeri Jännäri, Kristiina Makkonen, Jorma Toppari, Fu-Ping Zhang, Matti Poutanen, Ralf Paschke, and Jukka Kero  

The post <i>Thyroid^®</i> High-Impact Articles appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

https://ift.tt/2T7j00i

Physical Activity, Functional Ability, and Quality of Life after Breast Cancer Surgery

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the influence of different surgical treatment modalities on the level of physical activity, functional capacity and quality of life of breast cancer survivors. One hundred and eighty women aged 30 to 60 years old were selected and allocated to control (CG, women without breast cancer, n=45), breast-conserving surgery (BCG, n=45), mastectomy (MG, n=45) and breast reconstruction (BRG, n=45) groups. Physical activity, functional capacity and quality of life were assessed, respectively, by using the following self-report questionnaires validated for use in Brazil: International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ-20) and Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36).

https://ift.tt/2B5rCO1

Title: Microscope Assisted Surgery for Dupuytrens Disease

The traditional surgical management for Dupuytrens Disease (DD) is a limited fasciectomy.1 Surgeons will often use magnification in the form of surgical loupes to dissect out the fibrous cord from the neurovascular structures in the palm and digit. Authors have described an up to 7.8% risk of neurovascular injury in DD.2 This can be higher in recurrent disease as often the neurovascular structures are encased in scar tissue and surgical planes are hard to determine.

https://ift.tt/2K2wTJ0

USE OF INNOVATIVE NEGATIVE PRESSURE THERAPY FOR CARTILAGE EXPOSURE IN MICROTIA RECONSTRUCTION

Complications of autologous cartilage staged microtia reconstruction are multiple with a variable incidence; nevertheless, delayed wound healing leading to skin necrosis and cartilage exposure is among the most frequent. Although in most cases of framework exposure flap coverage is needed, we report a case in which portable negative pressure therapy was used achieving complete and definitive coverage of the defect.

https://ift.tt/2B3RR7B

Referral of patients to Plastic Surgeons following self-harm: Opportunities for suicide prevention

Self-harm is a common source of referral to plastic and hand surgery services. Appropriate management of these patients is complex and includes the need for close liaison with mental health services. Self-harm is the single biggest risk factor for completed suicide, increasing the risk by a factor of 66.1 This study aimed to analyse the clinical pathway and demographics of patients referred to plastic surgeons following self-harm.This 6-year retrospective series captured patients referred to plastic surgeons following self-harm within the Galway University Hospital group.

https://ift.tt/2K7ZwEV

Perioperative intralesional injection of fibrin glue for extirpation of oral haemangioma: A technical note

Ethical approval: Not required

https://ift.tt/2B6biwB

Microvascular Anastomosis with Fish-Mouth Suturing and Adhesive Sealants

The primary drive in microvascular surgery is to ensure reliability of patency and flow. Conventional interrupted suturing (CIS) is the current gold standard, despite the known complication of intimal damage and exposure of the media layer1. Numerous techniques have been described to remove suture dependency and reduce vessel trauma, including vessel clips, stents, and laser-assisted bonding with no clinical success.

https://ift.tt/2K1Gik8

Reduction mammaplasty technique. The core and the master key of oncoplastic breast surgery.

Dear Sir,

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Shear wave elastography of median nerve at wrist and forearm. Heterogeneity of normative values – response to authors

We read with interest the letter of Abdelmohsen Bedewi, et al. concerning the heterogeneity of the normative values of the median nerve in shear wave elastography.1 The authors investigated 20 wrists of healthy patients of Asian ethnicity with an average age of 31. The mean value of nerve elasticity at the wrist was 20.78 kPa which was lower than the normal wrist values observed by Kantarci, et al. (31 - 32 kPa)2 and much lower than the normal values observed by our group (43.6 kPa)3. There may be several reasons for these discrepancies, although we believe that it probably results from two main differences.

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Should we be imaging soft tissue masses of the hand and wrist?

We examined the relationship between pre-operative clinical diagnosis, radiological diagnosis (ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) and histopathological findings of soft tissue lesions of the hand. A retrospective review of 62 patients undergoing excision of soft tissue masses of the hand between 2015 and 2018 was conducted. The most common diagnoses were: ganglion (n=23), fibroma (n=8), giant cell tumour (GCT) (n=6) and vascular malformation (n=4). 31 patients underwent pre-operative imaging with US and/or MRI.

https://ift.tt/2B3s92O

Single use negative-pressure wound therapy: Are we being sucked in?

Single use negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) devices (PICOTM Smith and Nephew and PrevenaTM Acelity,) have been marketed as a significant advancement in wound care providing a more comfortable and user-friendly experience than their cumbersome re-usable competitors.1 A small, light weight pump, powered by batteries, and small enough to fit easily into a pocket, unobtrusively delivers 80mmHg (PICOTM) or 125mmHg (PrevenaTM) of continuous negative pressure.

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The Evolving Role of the Chaperone in Medicine-Protection and Training: A plastic Surgery Perspective

The role of the chaperone is integral in clinical examination and with this short communication aim to highlight the evolving role of the chaperone as a "witness" who with the appropriate training and standardised documentation can act as an observer of the behaviour of all parties during the consultation.

https://ift.tt/2B2GMDx

The Plastic Surgeon as Employee: Survey of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

None of the authors have received funding for this manuscript.

https://ift.tt/2K3bUpw

Achieving clear margins: Review of techniques to more accurately delineate basal cell carcinoma (BCC) macroscopic border prior to excision biopsy

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer worldwide, and a large proportion are amenable to removal by excision biopsy under local anaesthetic with predetermined margins. This article reviews the techniques reported in the literature to assist surgeons in achieving this aim (Table 1).

https://ift.tt/2B62wyz

Immediate Breast Reconstruction in High Risk Cases Using an Anatomical Shaped Permanent Expandable Implant

Anatomically shaped permanent expandable implants are dual-chambered devices, which allow their postoperative expansion for adjustment of the volume. Their use is optional when 1-stage immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) direct to permanent implant is not feasible. The aim of this study is to present one center's long-term experience with the anatomical Becker expandable implant in a large series of patients who underwent either IBR or a salvage procedure for IBR with the device.

https://ift.tt/2K5bFug

ALT vs. Jejunum: Have We Found the Ideal Flap for Circumferential Pharyngoesophageal Reconstruction? A Meta-analysis of Comparative Studies

Free flap reconstruction has become the preferred procedure for circumferential pharyngoesophageal defect. Among the free flaps used, free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap and free jejunal flap are the two most popularly used flaps. The choice of flap usually depends on the surgeon's training and experience. There are limited studies that directly compared the clinical and functional outcomes with these two flaps. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the postoperative complications and the functional outcomes after reconstruction of circumferential pharyngoesophageal defects using free ALT flap versus free jejunal flap.

https://ift.tt/2B3s5QC

Shear wave elastography of median nerve at wrist and forearm. Heterogeneity of normative values

we have read the Letter by Paluch and collaborators about the potential usefulness of wrist-forearm ratio of the median nerve stiffness measured by shear wave elastography (SWE).1 The paper is very interesting and we completely agree with the authors about the use of relative values instead of absolute ones to increase the diagnostic meaning of the SWE findings. A similar approach of ratio between two segment of the same nerve has shown high usefulness in other measurements, like nerve cross sectional area.

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Altered Lymphatic Drainage in Malignant Melanoma after previous Sentinel Node Biopsy in the Same Nodal Drainage Basin

We would like to present the case of a melanoma patient with altered sentinel lymph node drainage on repeat sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) subsequent to previous breast cancer. A 53-year-old lady underwent a wide local excision (WLE) of a melanoma scar from her right breast with lymphoscintigraphy. She had a completely excised superficial spreading malignant melanoma (SSMM) of Breslow thickness (BT) 3.7mm with ulceration. She had a history of right breast carcinoma diagnosed in 2009, treated with lumpectomy and radiotherapy, and had undergone a previous negative sentinel lymph node biopsy of the right axilla.

https://ift.tt/2B3MNzU

Fast and inexpensive production of "homemade" PRP: a simple method

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is increasingly used to improve wound healing in plastic surgery, orthopaedic surgery or maxillofacial surgery, and as a tissue inducer in skin, muscles, tendons, cartilage and bone.

https://ift.tt/2K1LDI4

Wound healing after cultured epithelial autografting in patients with massive burn injury: a cohort study

Last century, our laboratory produced Cultured Epithelial Autograft (CEA) for clinical use by the affiliated adult burn service and other burn units across the country. Production of CEA for clinical use was discontinued after several years because of a low success rate and subsequent low demand. Recently at our burns unit, a cell culture program was re-introduced as a direct response to the need for improvement in ongoing deficiencies and clinical requirements in burn wound closure. The aim of this study was to validate the laboratory processes and clinical algorithms established and share our recent clinical experiences involving CEA.

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Video-recording a surgical procedure

Funding: None

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The red leg dilemma: a scoping review of the challenges of diagnosing lower limb cellulitis

Abstract

Background

Suspected lower limb cellulitis presentations are commonly misdiagnoses, resulting in avoidable antibiotic prescribing or hospital admissions. Understanding the challenges posed in diagnosing cellulitis may help enhance future care.

Objectives

To examine and map out the challenges and facilitators identified by patients and health professionals in diagnosing lower limb cellulitis.

Methods

A scoping systematic review was performed in MEDLINE and Embase in October 2017. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes. Quantitative data was summarised by narrative synthesis.

Results

Three themes were explored: (i) clinical case reports of misdiagnosis, (ii) service development and (iii) diagnostic aids. Forty‐seven different pathologies were misdiagnosed, including seven malignancies. Two different services have been piloted to reduce the misdiagnosis rates of lower limb cellulitis and save costs. Four studies have looked at biochemical markers, imaging and a scoring tool to aid diagnosis.

Conclusions

This review highlights the range of alternative pathologies that can be misdiagnosed as cellulitis, and emerging services and diagnostic aids developed to minimise misdiagnosis. Future work should focus on gaining a greater qualitative understanding of the diagnostic challenges from the perspective of patients and clinicians.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

https://ift.tt/2qIreij

Arthrocentesis in the management of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint

Abstract

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) cover a wide spectrum of disorder; myalgic, arthralgic and psychogenic. The procedure of TMJ arthrocentesis has a role in managing patients with arthralgic pain and limitation if they fail to respond to non‐surgical therapy.

Method

The patient records of a single private specialist OMS were searched over the nine year period of 2006‐2014 to identify patients who had arthrocentesis as part of their multidisciplinary management. The detailed demographic, diagnosis, pre and post arthrocentesis procedure were identified and put on a database. Appropriate statistics were performed.

Results

Seventy six patients had 115 arthrocentesis procedures performed in the study period. Fifty of 76 had improvement in their pain and 16 of 41 had an increased jaw opening of more than 10mm. There was no complications or morbidity. Analysis of patient variables generally showed no correlations.

Conclusions

Temporomandibular joint arthrocentesis has a role in the multidisciplinary, multimodality treatment of arthralgic TMD.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

https://ift.tt/2QFHgVy

Assessment of the content, occurrence, and leachability of arsenic, lead, and thallium in wastes from coal cleaning processes

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the content, occurrence, and leachability of arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and thallium (Tl) in wastes from coal cleaning processes with respect to the safe management of this waste. The study focused on wastes resulting from the wet gravitation and flotation processes employed for the purposes of coking coal cleaning in four coal mines situated in the Upper Silesian Coal Basin (Poland). The scope of the study included (i) determination of the content of these elements in the investigated wastes using atomic absorption spectrometry, (ii) evaluation of their mode of occurrence using electron microprobe analysis, and (iii) preliminary assessment of their leachability in deionized water. The content of the analyzed elements in the examined samples of coal waste was twice as high as the average content of these elements in the Earth's crust. The contents of As and Pb, however, did not exceed their permissible contents in inert waste in accordance with Polish legal regulations based on EU directives. The limit on the content of Tl is not specified by these regulations, but its amount in the examined samples was similar to that occurring in the soils. Moreover, leaching tests have shown that these elements are hardly eluted from the analyzed material. Their content in the water leachates was generally lower than the detection limit of the analytical method, complying with the standards for good and very good water quality. Low leachability of these elements most probably results from their mode of occurrence in the investigated wastes. The chemical analysis using an electron microprobe and the analysis of the correlation between these elements, e.g., total and pyritic sulfur, have shown that Pb, As, and Tl are mainly found in sulfide minerals which are characterized by negligible solubility. In conclusion, the investigated hard coal processing waste does not constitute a threat to the environment and can be commercially used or safely neutralized, e.g., by landfilling.

https://ift.tt/2Tdt9c3

Inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers at protein and molecular levels in workers occupationally exposed to crystalline silica

Abstract

Workers chronically exposed to respirable crystalline silica (CS) are susceptible to adverse health effects like silicosis and lung cancer. This study aimed to investigate potential early peripheral biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in miners. The subjects enrolled in this study were occupationally unexposed workers (OUW, n = 29) and workers exposed to crystalline silica (WECS), composed by miners, which were divided into two subgroups: workers without silicosis (WECS I, n = 39) and workers diagnosed with silicosis, retired from work (WECS II, n = 42). The following biomarkers were evaluated: gene expression of L-selectin, CXCL2, CXCL8 (IL-8), HO-1, and p53; malondialdehyde (MDA) plasma levels and non-protein thiol levels in erythrocytes. Additionally, protein expression of L-selectin was evaluated to confirm our previous findings. The results demonstrated that gene expression of L-selectin was decreased in the WECS I group when compared to the OUW group (p < 0.05). Regarding gene expression of CXCL2, CXCL8 (IL-8), HO-1, and p53, significant fold change decreases were observed in workers exposed to CS in relation to unexposed workers (p < 0.05). The results of L-selectin protein expression in lymphocyte surface corroborated with our previous findings; thus, significant downregulation in the WECS groups was observed compared to OUW group (p < 0.05). The MDA was negatively associated with the gene expression of CXCL-2, CXCL8 (IL-8), and p53 (p < 0.05). The participants with silicosis (WECS II) presented significant increased non-protein thiol levels in relation to other groups (p < 0.05). Taken together, our findings may contribute to help the knowledge about the complex mechanisms involved in the silicosis pathogenesis and in the risk of lung cancer development in workers chronically exposed to respirable CS.

https://ift.tt/2zSLDFx

Issue Information

https://ift.tt/2PnNI7c

Low-Level Laser in Treatment of Head and Neck Lymphedema: A Pilot Study

Conditions:   Head and Neck Cancer;   Lymphedema;   Fibrosis
Intervention:   Device: Low-Level Laser
Sponsor:   University of Pennsylvania
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2FwJSEr

Window of Opportunity Trial of Durvalumab (MEDI4736) or Durvalumab/Tremelimumab as Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy to Identify Immune Dynamics in Surgically Resectable Head and Neck Cancer Patients.

Conditions:   Stage II-IVB Operable HNSCC Oral Cavity;   Hypopharynx;   Oropharynx;   Larynx
Interventions:   Drug: Durvalumab;   Drug: durvalumab + tremelimumab
Sponsor:   Yonsei University
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2qL8jn4

Study on the Occurrence of Head and Neck Cancers During Pregnancy

Conditions:   Head and Neck Cancer;   Pregnancy Related
Intervention:  
Sponsors:   Centre Francois Baclesse;   French scientific group REFCOR
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2FjdIvR

Gustatory Function Following Radiotherapy to the Head and Neck

Condition:   Head and Neck Cancer
Interventions:   Other: Olfactory screening;   Other: Quantative Gustatory Testing using Taste Strips
Sponsor:   Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2OJdMEC

Radiotherapy of epicondylitis humeri

Abstract

Background

Epicondylitis humeri is a common disease with a prevalence of 1.7%. One of the treatment options is radiotherapy. Most published cases were treated with the orthovoltage technique or with a telecobalt device. Many radiotherapy institutions are nowadays using linear accelerators for treatment of epicondylitis humeri. There is a discussion whether the treatment results with linear accelerators are comparable to the orthovoltage technique. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of radiotherapy with a linear accelerator for epicondylitis humeri.

Material and methods

The analysis was performed on patients of 2 German radiotherapy institutions and included 138 irradiated elbows. Pain was documented with the numeric rating scale (NRS). Evaluation of the NRS was done before and directly after each radiation therapy course as well as for the follow-up of 24 months. The median age of the patients was 49 years with 48.4% male and 51.6% female. In all, 81.0% were suffering from from epicondylitis humeri radialis while 16.7% were treated because of epicondylitis humeri ulnaris. In 65.4% the dominant arm was treated.

Results

A significant response to radiotherapy could be found. For the whole sample the median pain was 7 on the NRS before radiotherapy, 4 after 6 weeks and 0 after 12 and 24 months. The percentage of patients with 0 or 1 on the NRS was 64.6% 12 months after radiotherapy. All subgroups, notably those with epicondylitis humeri radialis and epicondylitis humeri ulnaris had a significant reduction of pain.

Conclusion

Radiotherapy of epicondylitis humeri with a linear accelerator is an effective treatment without showing side effects. All analyzed subgroups showed a good response to radiotherapy for at least 24 months.

https://ift.tt/2z6Zicw

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in commonly consumed seafood from the coastal area of Bangladesh: occurrence, distribution, and human health implications

Abstract

Dietary intake is the most important route of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) exposure and seafood is the major dietary component for the coastal populations. It is, therefore, an urgent need to assess the levels of PCBs in seafood. A comprehensive congener-specific evaluation of PCBs was carried out for the first time in Bangladesh. All 209 congeners of PCBs in 48 seafood samples (5 finfish and 2 shellfish species) collected in winter and summer of 2015 were measured by GC-MS/MS. Regardless of season and site, the ∑PCBs (ng/g wet weight) in finfish and shellfish were in the range of 6.4–86.2 and 3.8–37.7, respectively. The results were comparable to or higher than those observed in other studies worldwide, particularly from Spain, China, Korea, Thailand, and Hong Kong. No significant seasonal variation was observed in the levels of ∑PCBs in the examined seafood (p > 0.05); however, interspecies differences were significant (p < 0.05). Nonetheless, spatial distribution revealed seafood collected from the areas with recent urbanization and industrialization (Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, and Sundarbans) were more contaminated with PCBs than the area unaffected by industries (Meghna Estuary). Moderately chlorinated (4–6 Cl) homologs dominated the PCB profiles. The congener profile and homolog composition revealed that the source origin of PCBs in the Bangladeshi seafood was related to mixtures of technical PCBs formulations. The dietary exposure assessment revealed that the coastal residents are sufficiently exposed to the dietary PCBs through seafood consumption which may cause severe health risk including dioxin-like toxic effects.

https://ift.tt/2FjxVl7

Pollutant source analysis and tempo-spatial analysis of pollutant discharge intensity in a transboundary river basin

Abstract

From the perspective of river basin refined management and pollution control of water bodies, a transboundary river basin and its regional pollutant sources are identified and the typical status of discharging processes of different pollutant sources are screened. Then organic connection which can comprehensively reflect and dynamically characterize the discharge of transboundary water pollutants is constructed. In addition, the integrated prediction (IP) model of the transboundary river basin and its regional water pollutants discharge is established. Finally, the dynamic simulation of typical status characteristics of the transboundary river basin and its regional pollutant sources discharge as well as the tempo-spatial changing pattern of pollutant discharge intensity is conducted in this paper. This paper selected the Songhua River basin as an example where planting, industry, household (urban living and rural living), and livestock and poultry are the main pollutant sources. The dynamic simulation of water pollution discharge in Songhua River basin during the 13th Five-year Plan and its tempo-spatial changing trend analysis are conducted by employing the established IP model of transboundary river basin water pollution discharge. The results show that during the 13th Five-year Plan, through comprehensive management and control of pollutant sources in Songhua River basin, the discharge amounts of different pollutant sources (planting, industry, household, livestock, and poultry) present an overall decreasing trend and the main pollutants discharge intensity decreases significantly year by year. It is demonstrated that pollution discharge in Songhua River basin is controlled effectively.

https://ift.tt/2qI9oMn

No evidence of the role of early chemical exposure in the development of β-cell autoimmunity

Abstract

Exposure to environmental chemicals can modulate the developing immune system, but its role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes is largely unexplored. Our objective was to study the levels of circulating concentrations of environmental pollutants during the first years of life and their associations with the later risk of diabetes-predictive autoantibodies. From two birth-cohort studies including newborn infants with HLA-conferred susceptibility to type 1 diabetes (FINDIA and DIABIMMUNE), we identified case children with at least one biochemical diabetes-associated autoantibody (n = 30–40) and from one to four autoantibody-negative controls per each case child matched for age, gender, diabetes-related HLA-risk, delivery hospital, and, in FINDIA, also dietary intervention group. Plasma levels of 13 persistent organic pollutants and 14 per- and polyfluorinated substances were analyzed in cord blood and plasma samples taken at the age of 12 and 48 months. Both breastfeeding and the geographical living environment showed association with circulating concentrations of some of the chemicals. Breastfeeding-adjusted conditional logistic regression model showed association between decreased plasma HBC concentration at 12-month-old children and the appearance of diabetes-associated autoantibodies (HR, 0.989; 95% Cl, 0.978–1.000; P = 0.048). No association was found between the plasma chemical levels and the development of clinical type 1 diabetes. Our results do not support the view that exposure to the studied environmental chemicals during fetal life or early childhood is a significant risk factor for later development of β-cell autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes.

https://ift.tt/2FhwhQU

The suitability of growing mulberry ( Morus alba L.) on soils consisting of urban sludge composted with garden waste: a new method for urban sludge disposal

Abstract

Efficient disposal of urban sewage sludge, material that typically contains high concentrations of heavy metals, has become a significant concern worldwide. The empirical purpose of the current study is to investigate physical and chemical parameters of composted sludge and garden waste at different ratios. Results reveal that nutrient content has significantly increased after the application of composts as compared to the controlled sample. Composting garden waste with sewage sludge at a 1:1 ratio promoted plant growth and gradually showed superiority in the later period. The maximum plant height, total biomass, and crown width of mulberry trees increased by 12.1, 33.5, and 45.7%, respectively, compared with the control treatment. The bound to organic matter of Hg, Cr, and Pb in the sewage sludge increased after composting with garden waste, and the mulberry exhibited a high ability to accumulate Ni and Cd from the soil. Conclusively, compared to using the two soil mediums separately, composting garden waste and sewage sludge together is beneficial for soil improvement and vegetation growth.

https://ift.tt/2qHJyIm

CORRECTION

Publication date: Available online 13 November 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s):

https://ift.tt/2PTosoN

Sensing Mitochondrial Acetyl-CoA to Tune Respiration

Publication date: Available online 12 November 2018

Source: Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism

Author(s): Christine A. Mills, Alec G. Trub, Matthew D. Hirschey

Fatty acid synthesis (FAS) in mitochondria produces a key metabolite called lipoic acid. However, a new study by Van Vranken et al.[1] (Mol. Cell 2018;71:567–580) shows that mitochondrial FAS regulates the assembly of oxidative phosphorylation complexes, thereby functioning as a nutrient sensor for mitochondrial respiration.

https://ift.tt/2PrUYic

6-MOMIPP, a novel brain-penetrant anti-mitotic indolyl-chalcone, inhibits glioblastoma growth and viability

Abstract

Purpose

3-(6-Methoxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-1-(4-pyridinyl)-2-propene-1-one (6-MOMIPP) is a novel indole-based chalcone that disrupts microtubules. The present study aims to define the mechanism through which 6-MOMIPP induces cell death and to evaluate the efficacy of the compound in penetrating the blood–brain barrier and inhibiting growth of glioblastoma xenografts.

Methods

The effects of 6-MOMIPP were evaluated in cultured U251 glioblastoma cells, using viability, flow cytometry, and tubulin polymerization assays. Scintillation proximity and tubulin crosslinking methods were used to identify the binding site of 6-MOMIPP on tubulin, and western blots were performed to define the signaling pathways that contribute to cell death. LC/MS assays were used to study the pharmacokinetic behavior of 6-MOMIPP in mice. Subcutaneous and intracerebral xenograft models were utilized to assess the effects of 6-MOMIPP on growth of U251 glioblastoma in vivo.

Results

The findings indicate that 6-MOMIPP targets the colchicine site on β-tubulin. At concentrations ≥ 250 nm, 6-MOMIPP induces mitotic arrest, caspase activation and loss of cell viability. Cells are protected by caspase inhibitors, pointing to an apoptotic mechanism of cell death. Loss of cell viability is preceded by activation of Cdk1(Cdc2) and phosphorylation of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL. Inhibition of both events with a Cdk1 inhibitor prevents cell death. 6-MOMIPP has broad activity against the viability of multiple glioblastoma, melanoma and lung carcinoma cell lines. Viability of normal cells, including differentiated neurons, is not significantly affected at a drug concentration (1 µM) that reduces viability in most cancer lines. Pharmacokinetic studies in mice show that concentrations of 6-MOMIPP in the brain mirror those in the plasma, indicating that 6-MOMIPP readily penetrates the blood–brain barrier. Studies with mice bearing human U251 glioblastoma xenografts demonstrate that 6-MOMIPP is effective in suppressing growth of subcutaneous and intracerebral tumors without causing general toxicity.

Conclusions

The results indicate that 6-MOMIPP is a novel microtubule disruptor that targets the colchicine binding site on β-tubulin to induce mitotic arrest and cell death. The ability of 6-MOMIPP to penetrate the blood–brain barrier and inhibit growth of glioblastoma xenografts suggests that it warrants further preclinical evaluation as potential small-molecule therapeutic that may have advantages in treating primary and metastatic brain tumors.

https://ift.tt/2PXsrAF

Association between teat skin colonization and intramammary infection with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae in herds with automatic milking systems.

Association between teat skin colonization and intramammary infection with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae in herds with automatic milking systems.

J Dairy Sci. 2018 Nov 08;:

Authors: Svennesen L, Nielsen SS, Mahmmod YS, Krömker V, Pedersen K, Klaas IC

Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the association between teat skin colonization and intramammary infection (IMI) with Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus agalactiae at the quarter level in herds with automatic milking systems. Milk and teat skin samples from 1,142 quarters were collected from 300 cows with somatic cell count >200,000 cells/mL from 8 herds positive for Strep. agalactiae. All milk and teat skin samples were cultured on calf blood agar and selective media. A subset of samples from 287 quarters was further analyzed using a PCR assay (Mastit4 PCR; DNA Diagnostic A/S, Risskov, Denmark). Bacterial culture detected Staph. aureus in 93 (8.1%) of the milk samples and 75 (6.6%) of the teat skin samples. Of these, 15 (1.3%) quarters were positive in both the teat skin and milk samples. Streptococcus agalactiae was cultured in 84 (7.4%) of the milk samples and 4 (0.35%) of the teat skin samples. Of these, 3 (0.26%) quarters were positive in both the teat skin and milk samples. The PCR detected Staph. aureus in 29 (10%) of the milk samples and 45 (16%) of the teat skin samples. Of these, 2 (0.7%) quarters were positive in both the teat skin and milk samples. Streptococcus agalactiae was detected in 40 (14%) of the milk samples and 51 (18%) of the teat skin samples. Of these, 16 (5.6%) quarters were positive in both the teat skin and milk samples. Logistic regression was used to investigate the association between teat skin colonization and IMI at the quarter level. Based on bacterial culture results, teat skin colonization with Staph. aureus resulted in 7.8 (95% confidence interval: 2.9; 20.6) times higher odds of Staph. aureus IMI, whereas herd was observed as a major confounder. However, results from the PCR analyses did not support this association. Streptococcus agalactiae was isolated from the teat skin with both PCR and bacterial culture, but the number of positive teat skin samples detected by culture was too low to proceed with further analysis. Based on the PCR results, Strep. agalactiae on teat skin resulted in 3.8 (1.4; 10.1) times higher odds of Strep. agalactiae IMI. Our results suggest that Staph. aureus and Strep. agalactiae on teat skin may be a risk factor for IMI with the same pathogens. Focus on proper teat skin hygiene is therefore recommended also in AMS.

PMID: 30415854 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

https://ift.tt/2z68jCC

A paediatric puzzle: pulsating, pruritic papules and plaques

https://ift.tt/2QJz0UQ

Sex‐specific Effects of DHEA on Bone Mineral Density and Body Composition: A Pooled Analysis of Four Clinical Trials

Abstract

Objective

Studies of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) therapy in older adults suggest sex‐specific effects on bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition, but the ability of a single study to reach this conclusion was limited. We evaluated the effects of DHEA on sex hormones, BMD, fat mass, and fat‐free mass in older women and men enrolled in four similar clinical trials.

Design

Pooled analyses of data from four double‐blinded, randomized controlled trials.

Participants

Women (n=295) and men (n=290) aged 55 years or older who took DHEA or placebo tablet daily for 12 months.

Measurements

12‐month changes in BMD, fat mass, fat‐free mass, and serum DHEA sulfate (DHEAS), (17)estradiol, testosterone, and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1).

Results

Women on DHEA had increases (mean±SD; all p<0.001 vs placebo) in DHEAS (231±164 μg/dL), testosterone (18.6±20.9 μg/dL), (17)estradiol (8.7 ±11.0 pg/mL), and IGF‐1 (25.1±52.3 ng/mL), and men had increases in DHEAS (269.0±177 μg/dL; p<0.01), (17)estradiol (4.8±12.2 pg/m; p<0.01), and IGF‐1 (6.3±41.4 ng/mL; p<0.05). Women on DHEA had increases in lumbar spine (1.0%±3.4%) and trochanter (0.5%±3.8%) BMD and maintained total hip BMD (0.0%±2.8%); men had no BMD benefit and a decrease in fat mass (‐0.4±2.6 kg; all p<0.01 vs placebo).

Conclusions

DHEA therapy may be an effective approach for preserving bone and muscle mass in women. Key questions are 1) the extent to which longer duration DHEA can attenuate the loss of bone and muscle in women, and 2) whether DHEA has a more favorable benefit‐to‐risk profile for women than estrogen therapy.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

https://ift.tt/2TaArx2

Early invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma recurrence rates: a study examining surgical margins, tumor surface diameter, invasion depth and grade of differentiation in 1,296 cases over 9 years

Background

Invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is typically treated by surgical excision.

Method

Consecutive SCC excisions were reviewed prospectively in a single Australian center from 2009‐2017. Cases were examined for recurrence by histopathologic margins, microscopic tumor surface diameter, invasion depth, grade of differentiation and anatomic site.

Results

Over 9 years 1,296 cases were collected. By grade of differentiation maximum average microscopic surface diameters ranged from 8.0 to 9.6mm and maximum average depths from 1.3 to 2.5mm. Minimum average histopathologic margins for well, moderate and poorly differentiated SCC respectively were 1.4, 1.1 and 1.3mm. Recurrence occurred in 1.7 % of well (n=18/1084), 1.8 % moderate (n=3/165) and 6.4% in poorly differentiated (n=3/47) SCC. No recurrence occurred beyond a histopathologic margin of 3.5 mm for well and 2.5 mm for moderately differentiated SCC. Highest recurrence for well differentiated SCC by anatomic site were the lip (7.0%) then ear (4.6%).

Conclusion

We found a recurrence rate of 1.0% for histopathologic margins of 1.5 mm with early well differentiated SCC. The grade of differentiation and anatomic site had a larger influence on recurrence rates compared to the histopathologic margins. Poorly differentiated SCC and ear or lip sites require wider surgical margins.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

https://ift.tt/2B4e31g

No wonder it itches: quick bedside visualization of a scabies infestation using reflectance confocal microscopy

https://ift.tt/2JYXbfl

Issue Information

https://ift.tt/2B3Grk4

Intramural schwannoma involving a vein

Schwannoma involving the blood vessels is a rare phenomenon. So far, only three cases of intravascular schwannoma have been described (all of which were intraluminal), and the origin of the schwannoma in such cases is not yet completely understood. Here we describe a very rare intramural venous schwannoma in the subcutaneous right prepatellar area of a 31‐year‐old man. The schwannoma grew by enlarging and thickening the blood vessel wall, between two preserved layers of the vein. In some areas, there was erosion of the luminal layer, with fibrin apposed to the tumor. The tumor expressed S100 and was negative for CD31, CD34, desmin and smooth muscle actin. The expression of p16 was preserved. Endothelial markers such as CD31 and Factor VIII demonstrated the endothelial lining (which was D2‐40‐negative) above the tumor. Although degenerative atypia was present, there were no mitoses or necrosis identified.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

https://ift.tt/2K0pObL

Scholar : ΣΤΟΜΑΤΙΤΙΣ - νέα αποτελέσματ

… of Low-Level Laser Therapy Plus Topical Corticosteroid Therapy With Topical Corticosteroid Therapy Alone in Treatment of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis.

AM Shirani, P Honarvar - Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences, 2018

Background: Recurring aphthous stomatitis are common and painful ulcers of the
mouth. Many different treatment methods have been used to reduce pain intensity
and remission time. Common treatment consists of topical corticosteroid with …

[HTML] Vitamin D levels in patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis

A Öztekin, C Öztekin - BMC Oral Health, 2018

Lower serum vitamin D levels, a major public health problem worldwide, has been
found to be associated with various infectious diseases, cancers, autoimmune and
dermatological diseases. The serum levels of vitamin D in patients with recurrent …

Dissolving Microneedle Systems for the Oral Mucosal Delivery of Triamcinolone Acetonide to Treat Aphthous Stomatitis

HS Seon-Woo, HJ Kim, JY Roh, JH Park - Macromolecular Research, 2018

A microneedle (MN) oral mucosal patch system was prepared to increase its
adhesive strength, to improve the delivery of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) into the
mucosa, and to protect the adhesive layer from mouth movement and saliva. The MN …

[PDF] Comparison of anti-candidal efficacy of green tea, triphala and nystatin in the treatment of denture stomatitis: a randomised control trial

A Jethlia, H Lunkad, FA Nasyam - INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC …, 2018

Context: The last few decades have witnessed an upsurge in the geriatric population
and consequent upward shift in prevalence of age related changes in the oral cavity.
Edentulous state followed by denture usage remains the most prevalent condition …

The Clinical and Physical Aspects of NTCLT (Non-Thermal CO2 Laser Therapy) as a Photobiomodulative Pain Relieving Approach in Oral Lesions: An Update.

N Zand, P Mansouri, AI Zad, M Fateh, LA Fashtami… - Journal of Lasers in Medical …, 2018

… In our studies series, we have evaluated the pain-relieving effects of NTCLT
in some oral lesions for example; recurrent aphthous stomatitis (randomized
controlled clinical trial), oral lesions of pemphigus vulgaris (before- after …

A phase II trial of gemcitabine, S-1 and LV combination (GSL) therapy in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer

K Saito, H Isayama, Y Nakai, N Takahara, K Ishigaki… - Investigational New Drugs, 2018

… Major Grade 3–4 toxicities were neutropenia (22.4%) and stomatitis (14.3%). No toxicity
related death was observed … In cases of toxicities specifically attributable to S-1 ie, stomatitis
or diarrhea, the dose of S-1 was reduced. The dose of LV was fixed …

[PDF] Is there any association between human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection and Behcet's disease?

MJ Yazdanpanah, MR Hedayati-Moghaddam… - 2018

… Aphthous stomatitis, genital aphthous lesions, skin manifestations, joint swelling and pain
and a pathergy test were investigated in the case group … Positive pathergy test 33.33%
(1/3) 43.08% (28/65) 0.6 Aphthous stomatitis 100% (3/3) 78.46% (51/65) 0.5 …

의치사용자의 구강건강, 의치관리 및 의치건강보험 인식에 대한 실태 조사.

김선재， 김성균， 노관태， 안수진， 백상현， 김지환… - Journal of Korean Academy …, 2018

… Purpose: The aim of the present investigation was to understand the incidence,
prevalence of denture stomatitis in denture wearers, who were over 60 years
old, and use the results for a fundamental data to promote public awareness …

Establishment and application of visual LAMP detection method of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus

S Dong, M Feng, R Yu, C Xie, B Chen, Z Li - Sheng wu gong cheng xue bao …, 2018

… PCR method and equivalent to nested-PCR. There was no cross-reactivity of the
assay with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), pseudorabies virus (PRV) and vesicular
stomatitis virus (VSV). The positive rate of 301 nasal swabs …

HIV neutralising antibody delivered by gene therapy with a hybrid Vaccinia/retrovirus or BacMam/retrovirus expression systems

L Faqih - 2018

… In this thesis two different techniques were used in an attempt to insert HIV-neutralising
monoclonal antibody (IgG1b12) sequences into a simian retroviral gene therapy agent
pseudo-typed with vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein …

 

Δημιουργία λίστας των ειδοποιήσεών μου

Ακύρωση ειδοποίησης

Αυτή η ειδοποίηση αποστέλλεται από τον Μελετητή Google. Ο Μελετητής Google είναι μια υπηρεσία που παρέχεται από την Google.

Scholar : ΠΑΛΙΝΔΡΟΜΗΣΗ - νέα αποτελέσμ

[PDF] One class classifiers based on artificial immune systems

D Aronis, Δ Αρώνης - 2018

… χειρόγραφων ψηφίων. b) Παλινδρόμηση (Regression). Όπως και η ταξινόμηση, η
παλινδρόμηση ανήκει παραδοσιακά στην κατηγορία της επιτηρούμενης μάθησης
με την διαφορά ότι τα δεδομένα είναι συνεχή. Ένα παράδειγμα …

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