Light-absorbing impurities in snow of the Indian Western Himalayas: impact on snow albedo, radiative forcing, and enhanced melting

Abstract

Seasonal snow cover in the Himalayas acts as source of fresh water for several Asian rivers such as Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Yangtze. Early loss of seasonal snow exposes the ice layer of the glaciers directly to sunlight, consequently leading to their ablation and alterations in discharge of glacier-fed rivers. Therefore, any alteration in the melting rate of the Himalayan snow pack can significantly affect the ecological balance in the region. Besides global warming, enhanced melting of snow, caused by light-absorbing impurities (LAIs) such as dust and elemental carbon (EC), has also been recognized as prominent cause of enhanced melting of snow in the Himalayas of China and Nepal. However, in light of vast area of the Himalayas and persistent emissions from India, studies, emphasizing the potential of LAIs to substantially affect the snow radiation budget of snow cover in IWHs, are still scanty. Therefore, in this study, field campaigns were made on three glaciers, i.e., Hamta, Beas Kund, and Deo Tibba, in IWHs to collect snow samples for estimation of LAIs. Snow of the studied glaciers was observed to be contaminated with 13.02 to 74.57 ng/g of EC and 32.14 to 216.54 μg/g of dust. Albedo simulations done using SNow and ICe Aerosol Radiation (SNICAR) model indicated that besides the changes caused by increased grain size, EC and dust, cumulatively induced 0.60 to 32.65% reduction in albedo of snow. Further assessment, constrained by measurements, illustrated that radiative forcing (RF), of 1.8 to 80 W/m², was instigated due to enhanced thermal absorption of snow. Ten hours of daily mean RFs in this range could correspond to 3 to 9.65 mm/d of snow melt and contribute significantly in reducing the seasonal snow cover in IWHs. Considering the consequences of LAIs-induced snow melt and lack of in situ observations in the IWHs, the outcomes of this study could assist researchers and policy makers in developing efficient climate models and framing mitigation measures, respectively.

http://bit.ly/2TWR3bc

Dual Infection with Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Correlated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0794-6135

Background Conflicting data exist regarding the relationship between dual infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We assessed dual infection of HBV and HCV with the levels of blood glucose and development of DM. Methods A total of 9621 participants in a community-based study were enrolled from 18 towns in Maoli county of Taiwan. Blood samples were collected and tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibodies (HBsAb), antibodies against hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV) and fasting plasma glucose. DM was defined as fasting plasma glucose≥126 mg per 100 ml. Results Only 0.7% of total participants had HBV/HCV coinfection. The prevalence of HBV and HCV monoinfection were 9.9  and 5.7%, respectively. Adjusted blood glucose levels and development risk of T2DM (odds ratio [OR], 2.55; p<0.001) were significantly high among HBV/HCV coinfection group using multivariate linear regression adjusted for age, gender, education, race and BMI. Furthermore, using multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for covariates, HCV mono-and HBV/ HCV coinfection significantly increased on blood glucose levels. Conclusions Our study shows HBV/HCV coinfection was significantly correlated with blood glucose levels. A significant proportion (28%) of participants with HBV/HCV coinfection developed T2DM. Although the precise mechanisms of dual positive infection of HBV and HCV are unclear, there is increasing evidence that dual infection of HCV and HBV is strongly associated with the development of T2DM.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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http://bit.ly/2U5l5JX

Association of ACE I/D Polymorphism with Risk of Diabetes in Cardiovascular Disease Patients

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0824-6515

Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), as part of renin angiotensin aldosterone system, is involved in blood pressure regulation and control several physiological functions. Insertion/Deletion (I/D) polymorphism of ACE has pronounced effects on development of metabolic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and hypertension. However, association of I/D polymorphism with risk of diabetes in CVD patients is not known. The aim of present study was to check the association of ACE I/D polymorphism with risk of diabetes in subjects with CVD. For this, 531 subjects were sampled and divided into 3 groups; G1-H (healthy controls, n=117), G2-CN (cardiac patients without diabetes, n=271) and G3-CD (cardiac patients with diabetes, n=143). Genotyping of ACE I/D polymorphism was done by polymerase chain reaction. Allelic and genotypic frequencies were in Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium (χ2=0.11, p>0.05) and revealed high prevalence of I allele (55%) among all groups. However, II genotype was more common (37%) in G3-CD group. Level of glucose was also higher in subjects with II genotype than DD genotype (12.6±6.3 mmol/L vs. 9.7±5.1 mmol/L). Logistic regression analysis revealed that ACE II genotype increase the risk of diabetes in CVD patients by ~2 times [OR=1.94, CI: 1.24–3.01, p=0.03]; however, this association did not reach the significance level when adjusted for age and gender. In conclusion, ACE I/D polymorphism influence the risk of diabetes in CVD patients and ACE II increases this risk by ~2 fold.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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http://bit.ly/2DmtYZO

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Glycemic Control Effect on Placental Vascularization in Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0824-6362

Aims The aim of our study was to assess the effect of glycemic control on placental vascularization in pregnancies complicated by type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and to compare dataset of optimal/suboptimal glycemic control to normal placental 3-dimensional power Doppler (3-DPD) indices in 2nd and 3rd trimester. Methods Placental vascularization of pregnant women was prospectively evaluated by 3-DPD ((vascularization-index (VI); flow-index (FI); vascularization-flow-index (VFI)) ultrasound technique. The normal pregnancies (n=214) were compared to those complicated by T1DM (n=53) with optimal (HbA1C≤6%;≤ 42 mmol/mol) and suboptimal (HbA1C>6%;>42 mmol/mol) glycemic control. Results Pregnancies complicated by T1DM expressed lower placental vascularization indices as compared with normal pregnancies (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for VI:0.86; FI:0.94; VFI:0.76). Placental 3-DPD indices have a significant correlation with HbA1C and optimal glycemic control is associated with lower placental perfusion (AOR for VI:1.64; FI:1.13; VFI:2.34). Short-term adverse neonatal outcome was predicted by lower 3-DPD indices (AORVI:0.83, AORFI:0.93, AORVFI:0.66, p<0.05 for each index). Besides the glycemic control, the pregestational body mass index (BMI), had significant influences on placental perfusion. Conclusions VI displayed the best screening ability for suboptimal glycemic control with a sensitivity of 90.9%. The suboptimal glycemic control has a direct deteriorating effect on placental vasculature. Therefore the ultrasound examination could be an adjunct diagnostic modality for pregnant women with T1DM.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

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http://bit.ly/2U6fZ03

Interleukin-10 Protects Schwann Cells against Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced Apoptosis via NF-κB Suppression

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0826-4374

Demyelination resulting from Schwann cell injury is a main pathological feature of diabetic neuropathy, and a key contributor to this process may be inflammation due to advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Therefore, protection by anti-inflammation agents is anticipated. In this study, we showed that interleukin-10 (IL-10), an anti-inflammatory cytokine, inhibits apoptosis of Schwann cells induced by AGEs in vitro. We isolated and cultured Schwann cells from rat sciatic nerves. As detected by flow cytometry, apoptosis of Schwann cells markedly increased following incubation with AGEs for 48 h. However, pretreatment with IL-10 inhibited AGE-induced apoptosis. The effect of IL-10 on NF-κB, which is a very important regulator of inflammation, was also evaluated, and results showed high levels of phospho-NF-κB and nuclear localization of NF-κB in cells incubated with AGEs but low levels of phospho-NF-κB and cytoplasmic localization in the cells incubated with IL-10, indicating the activation of NF-κB by AGEs and inhibition of NF-κB by IL-10. Moreover, incubating Schwann cells with an NF-κB inhibitor (caffeic acid phenethyl ester) for 30 min before adding AGEs mimicked IL-10, lowering the amount of reactive oxygen species and activity of caspase-3 and also decreasing apoptosis in Schwann cells. These results indicate that IL-10 may protect Schwann cells against AGE-induced apoptosis by attenuating oxidative stress via the inhibition of activation of NF-κB.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Article in Thieme eJournals:
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http://bit.ly/2DlADUa

The effect of low-level laser radiation on improving inferior alveolar nerve damage after sagittal split osteotomy: a systematic review

Abstract

Inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) damage is a common complication occurring after sagittal split osteotomy (SSO) and results in sensory disorders of the jaw region. In recent years, published experimental and clinical evidence suggests that low-level laser (LLL) radiation is effective in nerve recovery. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to review clinical trial studies investigating the effect of LLL radiation on improving the sensory defects of IAN after SSO. The keywords associated with SSO and LLL were searched in PubMed, Medline (via Ovid), Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Then, controlled clinical trial studies published before November 2017 regarding LLL radiation conducted on patients with IAN neuropathy due to SSO were investigated. The articles fulfilling the study criteria were further scrutinized and the necessary information was extracted from them. A total of seven papers were included in the study. The diode laser used had a wavelength range of 760–930 nm, radiation power of 20–200 mw, and radiation energy of 10.2–95 J (per point of radiation). In the mentioned studies, the patients underwent 3–20 sessions of laser irradiation and were monitored for an additional 0–23 months after completion of the laser intervention. The tests performed in the mentioned studies dealt with examining the perceptions of superficial touch and pressure, two-point discrimination, stimulus movement on skin, temperature, and pain. Furthermore, the patients' general awareness regarding sensory perception in the mandibular region was gauged. In six studies, laser irradiation caused relative improvement in the IAN sensory disorder for a subjective test as well as for one or more objective tests. In the reviewed clinical trial studies, LLL was generally found to be effective in improving the IAN sensory disturbance resulting from SSO, though there was no placebo effect.

http://bit.ly/2U4kYOM

In vivo detection of oral precancer using a fluorescence-based, in-house-fabricated device: a Mahalanobis distance-based classification

Abstract

In vivo detection of oral precancer has been carried out by a fluorescence-based, in-house-developed handheld probe on three groups: oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), dysplastic (precancer), and control (normal). Measurements have been performed on a total of 141 patients and volunteers of different age groups. Excitation wavelength of 405 nm was used and fluorescence emission spectra were recorded in the scan range of 450.14 to 763.41 nm at very low incident power (122 μW) from different oral sites buccal mucosa (BM), lateral boarder of tongue (LBT), and dorsal surface of tongue (DST). Spectral profiles are found to vary among the three groups as well as among the different oral sites. Major and minor bands of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and porphyrins near 500, 634, 676, 689, and 703 nm have been obtained. Porphyrin contribution is found to be more dominant than the FAD in OSCC and dysplastic groups as compared to the control group. A better classification has been observed using the entire spectral range rather than restricting to individual bands, by application of principal component analysis (PCA), Mahalanobis distance model, and receiver operating characteristic analysis (ROC). ROC on Mahalanobis distance differentiates OSCC to normal, dysplastic to normal, and OSCC to dysplastic with sensitivities from 71% to 98%, 92% to 94% and 81% to 93% and specificities 91% to 100%, 86% to 100% and 79% to 97% for oral sites BM, LBT and DST. LBT and DST appear to be more sensitive to dysplasia detection as compared to BM.

http://bit.ly/2Dmkyxx

Impact of lens density and lens thickness on cumulative dissipated energy in femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery

Abstract

To evaluate the required cumulative dissipated energy (CDE) to fragment the crystalline lens in femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) in relation to lens density and lens thickness. Consecutive eyes that underwent FLACS between September 2014 and March 2017 by a single surgeon using in all cases the same femtosecond laser and phacoemulsification platform were included in our retrospective study. Prior to surgery, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), optical biometry corneal, and crystalline lens tomographies were performed to assess anterior chamber depth (ACD), axial length (AL), and crystalline lens parameters (i.e., lens density, thickness, and nucleus staging (NS)). After surgery, CDE was calculated and analyzed in relation to lens density (LD) and lens thickness (LT). Zero ultrasound expenditure cases were recorded and their occurrence analyzed. The chart review identified 236 eyes of 200 patients, 98 males and 102 females aged 65± 15 years which were included in the study. Mean LD was 11.26 ± 2.05 pixel intensity units (range 7.30–18.80), and the mean LT was 3417 ± 405.17 μm (range 2545–4701). LD and LT correlated moderately (r = 0.50, p < 0.001) and weakly (r = 0.23, p < 0.001), with post-laser CDE. Higher LD and LT were also associated with lower rates of zero phaco (eyes in which no phacoemulsification energy was necessary). Furthermore, NS (r = 0.528, p < 0.001) and CDVA (r = − 0.3524, p < 0.001) also correlated with CDE. Higher LD, LT, NS values, and low CDVA are associated with higher ultrasound expenditure (CDE—cumulative dissipated energy) and with lower rates of zero ultrasound expenditure during FLACS.

http://bit.ly/2U4biUb

ICRU report 91 on prescribing, recording, and reporting of stereotactic treatments with small photon beams

Abstract

The International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU) report 91 with the title "prescribing, recording, and reporting of stereotactic treatments with small photon beams" was published in 2017. This extensive publication covers different relevant aspects of stereotactic radiotherapy such as small field dosimetry, accuracy requirements for volume definition and planning algorithms, and the precise application of treatment by means of image guidance. Finally, recommendations for prescribing, recording and reporting are given.

http://bit.ly/2FM3eUd

Synthesis and characterization of exfoliated biochar from four agricultural feedstock

Abstract

Highly porous biochar (BC) structures have been prepared from inexpensive biomasses like rice straw, bamboo, sugarcane waste, and corn cob via a slow pyrolysis technique in nitrogenous atmosphere. A surface engineering technique has been applied to enhance the surface-to-volume ratio of each biochar sample and finally compared its characteristics through standard surface and elemental characterization techniques, viz. CHN (carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen), FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller), and SEM (scanning electron microscopy). All the biochar samples were observed to be highly carbonized and aromatized. Exfoliated structures were found to contain more elemental carbon (34.14–77.32%) than its native form (30.92–74.46%). Aromatic hydrocarbon, aromatic C=C, aromatics, aliphatic C–O, aliphatic hydrocarbon, and H-bonded OH groups were found to predominate in the surface of biochar structures independent of their precursor composition and extent of exfoliation. SEM micrographic images clearly ensured about the unoriented sheets like the morphology of different biochar samples. Although no significant structural difference was found to exist depending on their precursor compositions, quantitative enhancement of porosity was found to be observed after exfoliation. Both native (240.65 m²/g) and exfoliated (712.89 m²/g) biochars derived from sugarcane wastes were observed to have a maximum surface area in comparison to the biochars derived from rice straw (native, 22.08 m²/g; exfoliated, 29.92 m²/g), bamboo (native, 42.08 m²/g; exfoliated, 248.38 m²/g), and corn cob (native, 136.62 m²/g; exfoliated, 221.71 m²/g). Exfoliated biochars were found to be consistently more potent in comparison to its native form as per our comparative characterizations performed so far.

http://bit.ly/2FBa003

A novel approach to outpatient clinic management

Abstract

I read with great interest the study by Khoury et al¹ in the BJD on the safety of patient‐initiated care consultations (PICC) for psoriasis patients, though has wider implications for all patients with chronic conditions. There are over 15 million people in England with chronic conditions, accounting for 64% of outpatient appointments, and with future trends suggesting a further increase.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2MjWaj0

Anti‐TNF‐associated cutaneous leishmaniasis: a single‐institution experience

Abstract

Leishmaniasis is an infection by protozoa Leishmania, vector‐transmitted by sandflies. There are three major forms: cutaneous (CL), mucocutaneous and visceral (VL). It is endemic on the European Mediterranean basin, where mostly Leishmania infantum produces CL. Over the last decade, cases in patients undergoing tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor (anti‐TNF) have been reported. This could result from increasingly widespread anti‐TNF use coupled with a rising global incidence¹. Notably, 80% of all reported cases are related to residence or travel to European Mediterranean countries, particularly Spain.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2sK6Oqx

Double transcranial direct current stimulation of the brain increases cerebral energy levels and systemic glucose tolerance in men

Abstract

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a neuromodulatory method, which has been experimentally tested and is already used as an adjuvant therapeutic option to treat a number of neurological disorders and neuropsychiatric diseases. Beyond its well‐known local effects within the brain, tDCS also transiently promotes systemic glucose uptake and reduces the activity of the neurohormonal stress axes. We aimed to test if the effects of a single tDCS application could be replicated upon double stimulation to persistently improve systemic glucose tolerance and stress axes activity in humans. In a single‐blinded crossover study, we examined 15 healthy male volunteers. Anodal tDCS vs. sham was applied twice in series. Systemic glucose tolerance was investigated by the standard hyperinsulinaemic‐euglycaemic glucose clamp procedure and parameters of neurohormonal stress axes activity were measured. Because tDCS‐induced brain energy consumption has been shown to be part of the mechanism underlying the assumed effects, we monitored the cerebral high‐energy phosphates adenosinetriphosphate (ATP) and phosphocreatine (PCr) by ³¹phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (³¹P‐MRS). As hypothesized, analyses revealed that double anodal tDCS persistently increases glucose tolerance compared with sham. Moreover, we observed a significant rise in cerebral high‐energy phosphate content upon double tDCS. Accordingly, activity of the neurohormonal stress axes was reduced upon tDCS compared with sham. Our data demonstrate that double tDCS promotes systemic glucose uptake and reduces stress axes activity in healthy humans. These effects raise hope that repetitive tDCS may be a future non‐pharmacological option to combat glucose intolerance in type 2 diabetes patients.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2FIY3EJ

Regulation of water‐soluble glucan synthesis by the Streptococcus mutans dexA gene effects biofilm aggregation and cariogenic pathogenicity

Abstract

The cariogenic pathogen Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) effectively utilizes dietary sucrose for the synthesis of exopolysaccharides (EPS), which act as a scaffold for its biofilm and thus contribute to its cariogenic pathogenicity. Dextranase (Dex), which is a type of glucanase, participates in the degradation of water‐soluble glucan; however, the structural features of the exopolysaccharides regulated by the dexA gene have received limited attention. Our recent studies reported novel protocols to fractionate and analyzed the structural characteristics of glucans from S. mutans biofilms. In this study, we identify the role of the S. mutans dexA gene in dextran‐dependent aggregation in biofilm formation. Our results show that deletion of dexA (SmudexA) results in increased transcription of exopolysaccharide synthesis‐related genes, including gtfB, gtfD, and ftf. Interestingly, we reveal that inactivating the dexA gene may lead to elevated water‐soluble glucan (WSG) synthesis in S. mutans, which results in dysregulated cariogenicity in vivo. Furthermore, structural analysis provides new insights regarding the lack of mannose monosaccharides, especially in the water‐soluble glucan synthesis of the SmudexA mutants. The biofilm phenotypes that are associated with the reduced glucose monosaccharide composition in both WSG and water‐insoluble glucan (WIG) shift the dental biofilm to reduce the cariogenic incidence of the SmudexA mutants. Taken together, these data reveal that exopolysaccharide synthesis fine‐tuning by the dexA gene results in a densely packed EPS matrix that may impede the glucose metabolism of WSG, thereby leading to the lack of an energy source for the bacteria. These results highlight dexA targeting as a potentially effective tool in dental caries management.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2CGVrEn

Human telomerase reverse transcriptase in papillary thyroid cancer: gene expression, effects of silencing and regulation by BET inhibitors in thyroid cancer cells

Abstract

Purpose

Mutations in TERT promoter have been detected in the more aggressive papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs). To elucidate the role of TERT as an eligible molecular target in these tumors, the expression of hTERT was analyzed in a series of PTCs and the effects of both pharmacological and RNA-interference-induced hTERT silencing were investigated in two human PTC cell lines (K1 and BCPAP).

Methods

The expression levels of hTERT mRNA and protein were evaluated by real-time PCR and western blot assays, respectively. Effects of hTERT silencing on PTC cell lines were analyzed by MTT, migration and western blot assays. Pharmacological inhibition of hTERT was performed using two bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitors, JQ1 and I-BET762.

Results

hTERT expression results increased in 20 out of 48 PTCs, including tumors either positive or negative for the presence of hTERT promoter and/or BRAF mutations. In K1 and BCPAP cells, hTERT silencing determined a reduction in cell viability (~50% for K1 and ~70%, for BCPAP, vs control) and migration properties that were associated with a decrease of AKT phosphorylation and β-Catenin expression. Moreover, hTERT mRNA levels were down-regulated by two BET inhibitors, JQ1 and I-BET762, which at the same dosage (0.5 and 5 µM) reduced the growth of these thyroid cancer cells.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that hTERT may represent an excellent therapeutic target in subgroups of aggressive PTCs.

http://bit.ly/2DmdIbA

Human telomerase reverse transcriptase in papillary thyroid cancer: gene expression, effects of silencing and regulation by BET inhibitors in thyroid cancer cells

Abstract

Purpose

Mutations in TERT promoter have been detected in the more aggressive papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs). To elucidate the role of TERT as an eligible molecular target in these tumors, the expression of hTERT was analyzed in a series of PTCs and the effects of both pharmacological and RNA-interference-induced hTERT silencing were investigated in two human PTC cell lines (K1 and BCPAP).

Methods

The expression levels of hTERT mRNA and protein were evaluated by real-time PCR and western blot assays, respectively. Effects of hTERT silencing on PTC cell lines were analyzed by MTT, migration and western blot assays. Pharmacological inhibition of hTERT was performed using two bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitors, JQ1 and I-BET762.

Results

hTERT expression results increased in 20 out of 48 PTCs, including tumors either positive or negative for the presence of hTERT promoter and/or BRAF mutations. In K1 and BCPAP cells, hTERT silencing determined a reduction in cell viability (~50% for K1 and ~70%, for BCPAP, vs control) and migration properties that were associated with a decrease of AKT phosphorylation and β-Catenin expression. Moreover, hTERT mRNA levels were down-regulated by two BET inhibitors, JQ1 and I-BET762, which at the same dosage (0.5 and 5 µM) reduced the growth of these thyroid cancer cells.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that hTERT may represent an excellent therapeutic target in subgroups of aggressive PTCs.

http://bit.ly/2DmdIbA

Reconstructive surgery for mycetoma: a case series

Abstract

Background

Mycetoma is an under recognised but significant disease endemic in various countries and associated with high morbidity. Treatment is a combination of antimicrobial therapy, with surgery often reserved for refractory or delayed cases where functional sequelae are often ignored. This case series aimed to provide preliminary evidence for the role of reconstructive surgery in treating mycetoma.

Methods

Twenty-six cases of eumycetoma suitable for reconstruction post-excision were identified between 2013 and 2016 in three centres in Sudan. The choice of reconstruction was based on consensus of the treating team, and relevant end-points noted including patient satisfaction, mobility and complication rate.

Results

Mycetoma lesions affected primarily the limbs (n = 23), with three cases involving the gluteal region. A range of reconstructive options was used including skin grafting (n = 14), local flaps (n = 5) and regional flaps (n = 4). Three cases were closed primarily. No complications were noted, and disease recurrence was not found in any of the patients. Subjective interviewing revealed adequate patient satisfaction with cosmesis, and all patients reached a post-operative mobility status at least equivalent to their pre-morbid state.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the feasibility of reconstructive surgery in selective patients with mycetoma as part of their treatment protocol.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

http://bit.ly/2Crv4BS

Cosmetics, Vol. 6, Pages 5: Design of Prototype Formulations for In Vitro Dermal Delivery of the Natural Antioxidant Ferulic Acid Based on Ethosomal Colloidal Systems

Cosmetics, Vol. 6, Pages 5: Design of Prototype Formulations for In Vitro Dermal Delivery of the Natural Antioxidant Ferulic Acid Based on Ethosomal Colloidal Systems

Cosmetics doi: 10.3390/cosmetics6010005

Authors: Cesar A. Londoño John Rojas Cristhian J. Yarce Constain H. Salamanca

Ferulic acid (FA), a naturally occurring antioxidant, is currently used to prevent skin damage. However, FA is very unstable upon exposure to UV radiation and other factors, which decrease its shelf-life and effectiveness. Therefore, in this work, different prototypes of ethosomal FA vesicular systems were designed and developed to provide protection against different environmental factors. A two-level fractional factorial design was employed using particle size, zeta potential (ZP), incorporation efficiency (EE), polydispersity index (PDI), and the existing relationship between length and width of vesicles or aspect ratio (AR) as response variables. The optimal formulation was characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared analysis, UV-Vis absorption, in-vitro permeability, and thermal degradation studies. Depending on the processing conditions, the EE and particle size varied between 3 and 87% and 470 and 1208 nm, respectively. Membrane studies indicated that the free product released ~4.8% of the compound, whereas the encapsulated material released ~7.1%. Because of their enhanced permeability, ethosomes could be a promising alternative for the topical administration of antioxidants to reduce the oxidative damage caused by solar radiation.

http://bit.ly/2DlkRIX

Seed priming with silicon nanoparticles improved the biomass and yield while reduced the oxidative stress and cadmium concentration in wheat grains

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) is among the non-essential elements for the growth of crops while silicon (Si) is a beneficial element for plant growth. There is little evidence regarding the use of silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) on the reduction of Cd accumulation in crops especially wheat. The present study determined the impact of seed priming with Si NPs on Cd-induced responses in wheat in terms of growth, yield, photosynthesis, oxidative stress, and Si and Cd accumulation in wheat. Seed priming was done by different levels of Si NPs (0, 300, 600, 900, 1200 mg/L) for 24 h by providing continuous aeration. Afterwards, seeds were sown in soil contaminated with Cd. The results depicted that Si NPs positively affected the wheat growth and chlorophyll contents over the control. The Si NPs diminished the oxidative stress and positively affected the antioxidant enzyme activity. The Si NPs decreased the Cd concentrations in wheat, especially in grains, and increased the Si concentrations in plants. The Si NPs reduced the Cd contents by 10–52% in shoot, by 11–60% in roots, and by 12–75% in grains as compared with respective controls. The study suggested that the use of Si NPs may be a tool for reducing the Cd toxicity in wheat and declining its concentration in grains. Thus, Si NPs application by seed priming method might be helpful in increasing plants biomass and yield while reducing the oxidative stress and Cd uptake in wheat grains.

http://bit.ly/2W11ZX2

A Case of Pityriasis Lichenoides et Varioliformis Acuta Pemphigoides Successfully Treated with Methotrexate and Corticosteroids

Abstract

Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta(PLEVA) pemphigoides is an uncommon skin disease, which is characterized by the appearance of blistering skin lesions in patients with PLEVA. We present a 3‐year‐old boy, who was diagnosed PLEVA pemphigoides. Combined treatment of oral methotrexate and corticosteroids was more effective than corticosteroids alone on this patient.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2FCHBXb

Impressive response of CD30‐negative, treatment‐refractory mycosis fungoides to brentuximab vedotin

Abstract

Brentuximab vedotin is a CD30‐antibody/drug conjugate which has demonstrated excellent response in treating CD30‐positive mycosis fungoides (MF) and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). In this report, we present a patient with CD30‐negative MF refractory to multiple other lines of therapy who demonstrated a dramatic response to brentuximab. This paradoxical response may be due to inadequate detection of CD30 expression by immunohistochemical techniques. From this case we see that even in the setting of apparent CD30 negativity, brentuximab may be a viable treatment option for patients who require bridging to stem cell transplant or seek successful palliation. This case highlights the point that rigid inclusion criteria for MF trials without use of more sensitive techniques to confirm lack of CD30 expression may inappropriate.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2FJ9DQ9

Acitretin Combined with NB‐UVB in the Treatment of Cutaneous CD30‐positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Abstract

Cutaneous CD30⁺ lymphoproliferative disorders represent a spectrum of skin lymphatic reticular proliferative diseases, including lymphomatoid papulosis (LYP), primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (PC‐ALCL), and borderline lesions between them. Although they all express CD30 as a phenotypic marker and share overlapping immunophenotypic features, they differ in clinical manifestations, pathological features, treatment, and prognosis. LYP is a kind of benign disease characterized by recurrent papules and nodules and may spontaneously regress. PC‐ALCL presents with solitary tumor or local grouped nodules characterized by large T‐cells and may completely or partially resolve in fewer than half of cases. We reported a case of patient with clinical manifestation and pathologic features consistent with LYP in its early stages, which later turned into PC‐ALCL. This patient was treated with acitretin combined with NB‐UVB and had an obvious response.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2FCHyKZ

Rapid remission of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome by combination therapy using etanercept and intravenous immunoglobulin and a review of the literature

Abstract

SJS/TEN are spectrum of rare, acute and life‐threatening delayed‐type drug hypersensitivity reactions that are associated with high mortality rates. However, no therapeutic standard has been proposed for SJS/TEN. Here, we report a case of a patient diagnosed with Stevens‐Johnson syndrome whose disease progression was halted by a single dose of etanercept and was treated successfully. In addition, we reviewed the literature reporting patients with SJS/TEN treated with similar regimens.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

http://bit.ly/2FPr2a7

“Intramatricial Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy: A Novel Treatment Modality in Refractory Nail Disorders”

Abstract

Background

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is essentially an increased concentration of autologous platelets (growth factors) suspended in small amount of plasma. These factors have a proliferative and regenerative effect on a number of tissues in body and have been extensively used in dermatology, surgery, orthopedics and dentistry.

Case report

Two patients, one with nail lichen striatus and second with idiopathic trachyonychia were treated with intramatriceal injections of platelet rich plasma. 0.1ml of the plasma solution was injected into the matrix of the involved nails at 3 weekly intervals. Follow up was done at each sitting and thereafter at 16 and 20 weeks. Assessment was done both photographically and by dermoscopy. Case 1 showed marked improvement within 3 weeks and case 2 showed improvement within 6 weeks. No relapses were seen at 16weeks and 20 weeks of follow up.

Conclusion

Intramatricial PRP is a safe and effective therapeutic modality in nail lichen striatus and idiopathic trachyonychia refractory to other treatment options. Further studies with larger sample size and controls are required to validate the results.

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Successful treatment of porocarcinoma with maxacalcitol and imiquimod

http://bit.ly/2FKURIG

Omalizumab as an alternative therapeutic tool in the treatment of Bullous Pemphigoid: a case report

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Scalp basal cell carcinoma: a different entity?

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequent malignant neoplasm in white‐skinned individuals. It develops in different body areas, including in the scalp, which is a unique anatomical region due to the high number of pilosebaceous follicles; the scalp is protected from UV exposure, a main risk factor for basal cell carcinoma development. Moreover, scalp basal cell carcinoma has been described as more aggressive and difficult to treat than other forms of basal cell carcinoma. In this study, we reviewed the clinical and pathological characteristics, risk factors, genetics, and treatment options for scalp basal cell carcinoma to better understand this special type of cancer. Even though it is not yet clear whether scalp basal cell carcinomas represent a different entity, it seems important to give them special attention due to their potential aggressiveness, invasion capacities, tendency to relapse, and treatment difficulties.

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“Change over time in the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris between 2004 and 2016 in Iran”: A multiple cross‐sectional study

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Kaposi varicelliform eruption induced by methotrexate in an adult atopic dermatitis patient

http://bit.ly/2FHVti6

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency‐induced micropores evaluated by in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, and histology

Abstract

Background

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MNRF) is a minimally invasive technique that delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy into the skin via microneedles. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) enable the characterization of device‐tissue interactions in in vivo skin. The aim of this study is to describe MNRF‐induced micropores using RCM and OCT imaging.

Materials and methods

Five healthy participants were treated with a 7 × 7 array of 1500 μm microneedles on two adjacent areas of the right hip. One area received MNRF using high RF energy while the other underwent MNRF at low RF energy. Micropore morphology was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively with RCM and OCT. To relate imaging with histology, one participant underwent punch biopsy in both areas.

Results

Reflectance confocal microscopy visualized shape, content, and thermal‐induced coagulation zone (CZ) of MNRF micropores. At high RF energy, micropores showed concentric shape, contained hyperreflective granules, and coagulated tissue from epidermis to dermo‐epidermal junction (diameter 63‐85 μm). Micropores at low RF energy, presented with a stellate shape, no content and CZs that were visible only in epidermis (CZ thickness 9 μm, IQR 8‐21 μm). Evaluating OCT, high RF energy showed deeper (150 μm), more easily identifiable micropores compared to low RF energy micropores (70 μm). Histology showed tissue coagulation to a depth of 1500 μm at high RF energy, while at low RF energy, disruption was only visible in epidermis.

Conclusion

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency micropores show distinct characteristics in both RCM and OCT, depending on RF energy. These in vivo imaging modalities are complementary and allow combined, qualitative, and quantitative evaluation.

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Multiple skin nodules in a newborn

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Multiple Papules on an Elderly Man: Challenge

No abstract available

http://bit.ly/2sDxAjW