Rosacea in black South Africans with skin phototypes V and VI

Summary

Rosacea is a chronic facial dermatosis considered to affect primarily white patients with light phototype skin, and is poorly documented in black patients. The aim of this study was to document the clinical features of rosacea in patients with phototypes V and VI. An 8-year retrospective chart review of patients with a clinical and histological diagnosis of rosacea or acne rosacea was undertaken. Of 6700 patients, 15 (0.2%) had rosacea. All were of African descent with skin phototype V or VI. Mean age was 47 years, and female : male ratio was 14 : 1. Of the 15 patients, 5 (33%) were positive for human immunodeficiency virus; 5 (33%) had used topical steroids to treat the roseacea; 6 (40%) had phototype V and presented with erythema, telangiectasia and erythematous papules, while 9 (60%) had phototype VI skin and presented with skin-coloured papules; and 10 (67%) had histology showing granulomatous rosacea, while 5 (33%) declined a facial skin biopsy. A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose rosacea in black patients as the classic signs of erythema and telangiectasia are difficult to discern.

http://ift.tt/2sU12ni

Expression of the autoantigen TRIM33/TIF1γ in skin and muscle of patients with dermatomyositis is upregulated, together with markers of cellular stress

Summary

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune disorder associated with a dysregulation of immune homeostasis of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Earlier data suggested that these two arms of the immune system interconnect in DM. In the current study, we analysed the association of autoantigen expression [adaptive system components: Mi2, transcriptional intermediary factor (TIF)1γ, small ubiquitin-like modifier 1 activating enzyme subunit (SAE)1, melanoma differentiation-associated protein (MDA)5] with markers of cellular stress (innate system components: MxA, p53) in skin and muscle (immunohistology and gene expression data, respectively). We found that distinctive self-antigens of DM were elevated in both skin and muscle tissue. In particular, TIF1γ expression was seen in autoimmune diseases including DM, but not in other inflammatory skin disorders. This upregulation was closely associated with p53 expression and type I interferon-regulated inflammation, suggesting that upregulation of autoantigens in the skin and muscle of patients with DM might be driven by cellular stress. Better understanding of these mechanisms could pave the way for new therapeutic concepts focusing on stress reduction.

http://ift.tt/2tRUjaU

Vesiculobullous variant of erythema elevatum diutinum

Summary

The vesiculobullous variant of erythema elevatum diutinum (EED) is a very rare variant of EED. We describe a 16-year-old boy who presented with symmetrical nodular lesions accompanied by vesicles on the dorsa of his hands. Biopsy findings were consistent with EED. The histopathological presence of IgA and neutrophils in the vesicles indicates that the joint action of both is responsible for formation of these subepidermic vesicles. We hypothesize that absence of human leucocyte antigen related to dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) in our patient might have influenced the location and distribution of the lesions, so that they were not typical of DH. We report the second case of the vesiculobullous variant of EED with IgA deposits in the dermoepidermal membrane. To our knowledge, there are only 14 previously reported cases of the vesiculobullous variant of EED.

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Refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria associated with CD4 lymphocytopenia in a patient with thymoma

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Lymphœdème des membres inférieurs révélant une linite gastrique

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie
Author(s): S. Nguyen, D. Ouvrier, D. Massalou, P. Viau, A. Chevallier, S. Patouraux, T. Passeron, J.-P. Lacour, H. Montaudié
IntroductionLes lymphœdèmes primaires sont liés à des anomalies constitutionnelles du système lymphatique. Les formes secondaires surviennent après des lésions du système lymphatique, essentiellement après des traitements de cancers ou par compression extrinsèque, notamment ganglionnaire. Il existe aussi de multiples autres causes, dont la filariose qui reste toutefois exceptionnelle en France.ObservationUn homme de 52 ans, en excellent état général, consultait pour une augmentation de volume du membre inférieur gauche apparue deux mois plus tôt. L'aspect clinique était celui d'un lymphœdème ferme, ne prenant pas le godet, avec présence d'un signe de Stemmer, associé à une hydrocèle homolatérale, sans adénopathie loco-régionale palpable. Le bilan initial approfondi, biologique et par imagerie, était sans particularité. Une lymphoscintigraphie révélait une hypofixation du membre inférieur gauche. La symptomatologie ne cessait de s'aggraver, avec majoration et bilatéralisation du lymphœdème. Deux mois plus tard, on notait l'apparition d'adénopathies axillaires en rapport avec des métastases d'une linite gastrique. Malgré deux lignes de chimiothérapie, le patient décédait huit mois plus tard des suites d'une évolution poly-métastatique.DiscussionNotre observation est originale du fait de l'absence de mécanisme compressif à l'origine du lymphœdème, signe révélateur d'un cancer gastrique. En l'absence de processus compressif, le mécanisme pourrait être la présence de micro-métastases endo-lymphatiques. Un lymphœdème acquis des membres inférieurs doit être reconnu comme un possible signe précurseur et précoce de cancer, en particulier de carcinome gastrique, et doit mener à des explorations approfondies.BackgroundPrimary lymphedemas are constitutional abnormalities of the lymphatic system. Secondary lymphedemas occur after damage to the lymphatic system, mainly after cancer treatments or tumour mass compression. There are many other causes, including filariasis, which is nonetheless very rare in France.Patients and methodsA 52-year-old man presented with a two-month history of increased size of the left leg. He was asymptomatic and in good general condition. Clinical examination revealed non-pitting lymphedema and ipsilateral hydrocele without loco-regional compressive lymph node. Initial extensive explorations were unremarkable. Lymphoscintigraphy revealed low tracer fixation in the left leg. The symptoms continued to worsen, with exacerbation and bilateralization of the lymphedema. Two months later, axillary lymph nodes appeared corresponding to metastasis from a signet-ring cell carcinoma. Despite two lines of chemotherapy, the patient died 8 months later due to multiple metastatic disease.DiscussionOur case is remarkable because the lymphedema was not related to extrinsic compression and was the first symptom of gastric cancer. In the absence of compression, endo-lymphatic micro-metastases could constitute the causative process. Acquired lymphedema of the lower limbs must be recognized as a potential early symptom of gastric carcinoma and should therefore prompt further investigations.



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Syphilis secondaire impétigoïde

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie
Author(s): A. Sakkah, J. Elbenaye, Y. Elkhachine, A. Jakar, M. El Haouri




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Scholar : Australian Journal of Political Science, Volume 52, Issue 3, September 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online

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The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content Australian Journal of Political Science, Volume 52, Issue 3, September 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online. This new issue contains the following articles: Articles The Iron Butterfly and the Political Warrior: mobilising models of femininity in the Australian Liberal Party Katrina Lee-Koo http://ift.tt/2rUe9UZ & Maria Maley http://ift.tt/2sRRi9V Pages: 317-334 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1336202 Abbott's 'budget crisis', CALD women's loss? Service providers explore the impact of funding cuts Lesley Pruitt, Gemma Hamilton, Georgina Heydon & Ceridwen Spark Pages: 335-350 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1332157 Managing midterm vacancies: institutional design and partisan strategy in the Australian parliament, 1901–2013 Narelle Miragliotta & Campbell Sharman Pages: 351-366 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1325441 Bounded political contestation: the domestic translation of international health and housing rights in Australia Russell Solomon Pages: 367-382 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1326460 Australia's anti-Islam right in their own words. Text as data analysis of social media content Charles Miller Pages: 383-401 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1324561 Political opportunity structures, evangelical Christians and morality politics in Canada, Australia and New Zealand Jonathan Malloy Pages: 402-418 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1330396 Deliberation in representative institutions: an analytical framework for a systemic approach Andreas Schäfer Pages: 419-435 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1330397 Republican patriotism and Machiavelli's patriotism Jun-Hyeok Kwak Pages: 436-449 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1326458 Born in Melbourne? Considerations on the origins of Australian political science Tod William Moore http://ift.tt/2qDIIuV Pages: 450-464 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1326459 Review Essay First above equals? Assessments of the Abbott Prime Ministership 2013–2015 Mary Walsh Pages: 465-480 | DOI: 10.1080/10361146.2017.1332158 Interested in the political-economic topics surrounding China? You wouldn't want to miss this exclusive collection. To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Modelling efforts needed to advance herpes simplex virus (HSV) vaccine development: Key findings from the World Health Organization Consultation on HSV Vaccine Impact Modelling

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Sami L. Gottlieb, Birgitte Giersing, Marie-Claude Boily, Harrell Chesson, Katharine J. Looker, Joshua Schiffer, Ian Spicknall, Raymond Hutubessy, Nathalie Broutet
Development of a vaccine against herpes simplex virus (HSV) is an important goal for global sexual and reproductive health. In order to more precisely define the health and economic burden of HSV infection and the theoretical impact and cost-effectiveness of an HSV vaccine, in 2015 the World Health Organization convened an expert consultation meeting on HSV vaccine impact modelling. The experts reviewed existing model-based estimates and dynamic models of HSV infection to outline critical future modelling needs to inform development of a comprehensive business case and preferred product characteristics for an HSV vaccine. This article summarizes key findings and discussions from the meeting on modelling needs related to HSV burden, costs, and vaccine impact, essential data needs to carry out those models, and important model components and parameters.



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Clinical development of a recombinant Ebola vaccine in the midst of an unprecedented epidemic

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Beth-Ann G. Coller, Jeffrey Blue, Rituparna Das, Sheri Dubey, Lynn Finelli, Swati Gupta, Frans Helmond, Rebecca J. Grant-Klein, Kenneth Liu, Jakub Simon, Sean Troth, Susan VanRheenen, Julie Waterbury, Ashley Wivel, Jayanthi Wolf, D. Gray Heppner, Tracy Kemp, Rick Nichols, Thomas P. Monath
The 2014–2016 Ebola outbreak caused over 28,000 cases and 11,000 deaths. Merck & Co. Inc., Kenilworth, NJ USA and NewLink Genetics are working with private and public partners to develop and license an Ebola vaccine that was evaluated extensively during the outbreak. The vaccine referred to as V920 is a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) in which the VSV-G envelope glycoprotein (GP) is completely replaced by the Zaire ebolavirus GP (rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP). Eight Phase I and four Phase II/III clinical trials enrolling approximately 17,000 subjects were conducted in parallel to the outbreak to assess the safety, immunogenicity, and/or efficacy of V920. Immunogenicity data demonstrate that anti-GP antibodies are generally detectable by ELISA by 14days postvaccination with up to 100% seroconversion observed by 28days post dose. In addition, the results of a ring vaccination trial conducted by the WHO and their partners in Guinea suggest robust vaccine efficacy within 10days of receipt of a single dose of vaccine. The vaccine is generally well-tolerated when administered to healthy, non-pregnant adults. The development of this vaccine candidate in the context of this unprecedented epidemic has involved the close cooperation of large number of international partners and highlights what we as a public health community can accomplish when working together towards a common goal.Study identification: V920-001 to V920-012.CLINICALTRIALS.GOV identifiers: NCT02269423; NCT02280408; NCT02374385; NCT02314923; NCT02287480; NCT02283099; NCT02296983; NCT02344407; NCT02378753; NCT02503202.



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The number of injected same-day preschool vaccines relates to preadolescent needle fear and HPV uptake

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Amy L. Baxter, Lindsey L. Cohen, Mark Burton, Anaam Mohammed, M. Louise Lawson
PurposeFear of needles develops at approximately five years of age, and decreases compliance with healthcare. We sought to examine the relationship of preschool vaccine history, parent and preadolescent needle fear, and subsequent compliance with optional vaccines.MethodsAs part of a private practice randomized controlled trial, parents and 10–12year olds rated needle anxiety on a 100mm visual analog scale. This follow-up cohort study compared their needle anxiety to previous vaccination records, including number of vaccinations between ages four and six years (total and same-day maximum), and subsequent initiation of the HPV vaccine through age 13.ResultsOf the 120 preadolescents enrolled between 4.28.09 and 1.19.2010, 117 received preschool vaccinations between ages four and six years. The likelihood of being in the upper quartile of fear (VAS≥83) five years later increased with each additional same-day injection (OR=3.108, p=0.0100 95%CI=1.311, 7.367), but was not related to total lifetime or total four-to-six year injections. Only 12.5% (15) of parents reported anxiety about their preadolescents' vaccines (VAS>50). Parent and child anxiety was weakly correlated (r=0.15). Eight children in the upper fear quartile began their HPV series (26.67%) compared to 14 in the lower quartile (48.28% VAS<32) (OR 2.57, p=0.0889, 95%CI 0.864–7.621); there was no difference in HPV uptake between upper and lower quartile of parent anxiety.ConclusionsThe more same-day preschool injections between 4 and 6years of age, the more likely a child was to fear needles five years later. Preadolescent needle fear was a stronger predictor than parent vaccine anxiety of subsequent HPV vaccine uptake.



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Adolescent meningococcal serogroup A, W and Y immune responses following immunization with quadrivalent meningococcal A, C, W and Y conjugate vaccine: Optimal age for vaccination

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Mariëtte B. van Ravenhorst, Fiona R.M. van der Klis, Debbie M. van Rooijen, Elisabeth A.M. Sanders, Guy A.M. Berbers
BackgroundRecently the incidence of meningococcal serogroup Y (MenY) and in particular serogroup W (MenW) invasive disease has risen in several European countries, including the Netherlands. Adolescents are a target group for primary prevention through vaccination to protect against disease and reduce carriage and induce herd protection in the population. The present study assessed MenA, MenW and MenY antibody levels in adolescents up to one year following primary vaccination with quadrivalent MenACWY-PS conjugated to tetanus toxoid (MenACWY-TT).MethodsIn this phase IV, open-label study, healthy 10-, 12- and 15-year-olds received the MenACWY-TT vaccine. Blood samples were collected before, 1month and 1year after the vaccination. Functional antibody levels against MenA, MenW and MenY were measured with serum bactericidal assay using baby rabbit complement (rSBA). MenA-, MenW-, and MenY-PS specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2 levels were measured using fluorescent-bead-based multiplex immunoassay.ResultsThe quadrivalent MenACWY-TT vaccine elicited robust antibody responses against MenA, MenW and MenY, and the majority (94%) of the participants maintained rSBA titers ≥128 one year after the vaccination against all three serogroups. After one year, higher MenW rSBA GMTs were observed in the 12- and 15-year-olds compared to the 10-year-olds, while rSBA GMTs against MenA and MenY were similar between age groups. Furthermore, those participant who showed SBA titer ≥8 at baseline, also had higher antibody levels one year after vaccination as compared to participants with rSBA titer <8 at baseline.ConclusionThe MenACWY-TT vaccine induces robust protective primary immune responses up to one year after vaccination. Our results suggest that persistence of individual protection increases with the age at which a primary quadrivalent MenACWY-TT vaccination is administered. Our results indicate that 12 or 15years seems a more optimal age for a primary quadrivalent MenACWY-TT vaccination to protect against the rapid increase of MenW disease.



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The complexity and cost of vaccine manufacturing – An overview

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Vaccine
Author(s): Stanley Plotkin, James M. Robinson, Gerard Cunningham, Robyn Iqbal, Shannon Larsen
As companies, countries, and governments consider investments in vaccine production for routine immunization and outbreak response, understanding the complexity and cost drivers associated with vaccine production will help to inform business decisions. Leading multinational corporations have good understanding of the complex manufacturing processes, high technological and R&D barriers to entry, and the costs associated with vaccine production. However, decision makers in developing countries, donors and investors may not be aware of the factors that continue to limit the number of new manufacturers and have caused attrition and consolidation among existing manufacturers. This paper describes the processes and cost drivers in acquiring and maintaining licensure of childhood vaccines. In addition, when export is the goal, we describe the requirements to supply those vaccines at affordable prices to low-resource markets, including the process of World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification and supporting policy recommendation. By providing a generalized and consolidated view of these requirements we seek to build awareness in the global community of the benefits and costs associated with vaccine manufacturing and the challenges associated with maintaining consistent supply. We show that while vaccine manufacture may prima facie seem an economic growth opportunity, the complexity and high fixed costs of vaccine manufacturing limit potential profit. Further, for most lower and middle income countries a large majority of the equipment, personnel and consumables will need to be imported for years, further limiting benefits to the local economy.



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DNA aptamer-based colorimetric detection platform for Salmonella Enteritidis

Publication date: 15 December 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 98
Author(s): Ceren Bayraç, Füsun Eyidoğan, Hüseyin Avni Öktem
Food safety is a major issue to protect public health and a key challenge is to find detection methods for identification of hazards in food. Food borne infections affects millions of people each year and among pathogens, Salmonella Enteritidis is most widely found bacteria causing food borne diseases. Therefore, simple, rapid, and specific detection methods are needed for food safety. In this study, we demonstrated the selection of DNA aptamers with high affinity and specificity against S. Enteritidis via Cell Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (Cell-SELEX) and development of sandwich type aptamer-based colorimetric platforms for its detection. Two highly specific aptamers, crn-1 and crn-2, were developed through 12 rounds of selection with Kd of 0.971µM and 0.309µM, respectively. Both aptamers were used to construct sandwich type capillary detection platforms. With the detection limit of 10³ CFU/mL, crn-1 and crn-2 based platforms detected target bacteria specifically based on color change. This platform is also suitable for detection of S. Enteritidis in complex food matrix. Thus, this is the first to demonstrate use of Salmonella aptamers for development of the colorimetric aptamer-based detection platform in its identification and detection with naked eye in point-of-care.



http://ift.tt/2rYJTEN

Nanoporous gold-based microbial biosensor for direct determination of sulfide

Publication date: 15 December 2017
Source:Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Volume 98
Author(s): Zhuang Liu, Hanyue Ma, Huihui Sun, Rui Gao, Honglei Liu, Xia Wang, Ping Xu, Luying Xun
Environmental pollution caused by sulfide compounds has become a major problem for public health. Hence, there is an urgent need to explore a sensitive, selective, and simple sulfide detection method for environmental monitoring and protection. Here, a novel microbial biosensor was developed using recombinant Escherichia coli BL21 (E. coli BL21) expressing sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQR) for sulfide detection. As an important enzyme involved in the initial step of sulfide metabolism, SQR oxidizes sulfides to polysulfides and transfers electrons to the electron transport chain. Nanoporous gold (NPG) with its unique properties was selected for recombinant E. coli BL21 cells immobilization, and then glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified by the resulting E. coli/NPG biocomposites to construct an E. coli/NPG/GCE bioelectrode. Due to the catalytic oxidation properties of NPG for sulfide, the electrochemical reaction of the E. coli/NPG/GCE bioelectrode is attributed to the co-catalysis of SQR and NPG. For sulfide detection, the E. coli/NPG/GCE bioelectrode showed a good linear response ranging from 50μM to 5mM, with a high sensitivity of 18.35μAmM⁻¹cm⁻² and a low detection limit of 2.55μM. The anti-interference ability of the E. coli/NPG/GCE bioelectrode is better than that of enzyme-based inhibitive biosensors. Further, the E. coli/NPG/GCE bioelectrode was successfully applied to the detection of sulfide in wastewater. These unique properties potentially make the E. coli/NPG/GCE bioelectrode an excellent choice for reliable sulfide detection.



http://ift.tt/2stSYZG

The association of addictive-like eating with food intake in children

Publication date: 1 October 2017
Source:Appetite, Volume 117
Author(s): Rebekah L. Richmond, Christina A. Roberto, Ashley N. Gearhardt
ObjectivesThe potential role of an addictive process in problematic eating is a growing area of interest and debate. Children are more vulnerable to the negative effects of addictive substances than adults and may be at increased risk for addictive-like eating behavior. No prior study has evaluated the association of addictive-like eating with objectively measured eating behavior in adults or children. We examined the association between "food addiction" and observed food consumption among children and whether age moderated this association.MethodSeventy children participated in an observed dinner meal, completed a dietary recall interview, and answered the Yale Food Addiction Scale for Children (YFAS-C), a questionnaire assessing symptoms of "food addiction". Children's total calories ordered, calories consumed at dinner, calories consumed post-dinner, and a total of calories consumed at dinner and post-dinner were calculated along with their BMI percentile. We used generalized estimated equation models to investigate the relationship between the YFAS-C and food consumption.ResultsElevated "food addiction" symptoms, but not BMI percentile, were positively associated with an increased amount of calories consumed at dinner and post-dinner. Age significantly moderated the relationship between YFAS-C and caloric intake, with only younger children exhibiting this association.ConclusionsAs the first study of objectively measured eating behavior, we found addictive-like eating scores in children were positively associated with the total amount of calories consumed. Among younger children, "food addiction" was more strongly associated with the total calories consumed than BMI percentile, highlighting the importance of assessing behavioral phenotypes when evaluating caloric intake. This association between addictive-like eating and caloric intake among younger, but not older children may be due to differences in inhibitory control and dietary restraint.



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Photodynamic therapy in dermatology beyond non-melanoma cancer: an update

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Xiang Wen, Yong Li, Michael R. Hamblin
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) employs a photosensitizer (PS) and visible light in the presence of oxygen, leading to production of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species, which can damage the cellular organelles and cause cell death. In dermatology PDT has usually taken the form of topical application of a precursor in the heme biosynthesis pathway, called 5-aminolevulinic acid (or its methyl ester), so that an active PS, protoporphyrin IX accumulates in the skin. As PDT enhances dermal remodeling and resolves chronic inflamation, it has been used to treat cutaneous disorders include actinic keratoses, acne, viral warts, skin rejuvenation, psoriasis, localized scleroderma, some non-melanoma skin cancers and port-wine stains. Efforts are still needed to mitigate the side effects (principally pain) and improve the overall procedure.



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Photodynamic therapy with epidermal ablation using fractional CO2 laser for treating superficial basal cell carcinoma: A case series

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy
Author(s): Jae Min Sung, You Chan Kim




http://ift.tt/2sXCavZ

Scholar : These new articles for Aging & Mental Health are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for Aging & Mental Health and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Subjective well-being of visually impaired older adults living in the community Liran Rafaely, Sara Carmel & Yaacov G. Bachner Pages: 1-8 | DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1341469 Tea consumption is associated with cognitive impairment in older Chinese adults Ying-Jie Gu, Chun-Hong He, Su Li, Shu-Yi Zhang, Sheng-Yu Duan, Hong-Peng Sun, Yue-Ping Shen, Yong Xu, Jie-Yun Yin http://ift.tt/2rYIBcR & Chen-Wei Pan Pages: 1-7 | DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1339779 FREE ACCESS: Health Care for Women International: Research on Women's Health in Africa: Issues, Challenges & Opportunities To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

Scholar : These new articles for AIDS Care are available online

The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content New for AIDS Care and online now on Taylor & Francis Online: Original Articles Behavioral intention to take up different types of HIV testing among men who have sex with men who were never-testers in Hong Kong Zixin Wang, Joseph T.F. Lau, Rui She, Mary Ip, Hui Jiang, Shara P.Y. Ho & XueYing Yang Pages: 1-8 | DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2017.1338659 Routledge Psychology 2017 sponsor of BPS #PsychCrunch podcasts. Access 25 journal articles: http://bit.ly/psychcrunch2017 To update which email alerts you receive, manage your alerts within the My Account area. You can also unsubscribe from this alert with one click. If you need any further help, please contact us at support@tandfonline.com Please do not reply to this email. To ensure that you receive your alerts and information from Taylor & Francis Online, please add "alerts@tandfonline.com" and "info@tandfonline.com" to your safe senders list. Taylor & Francis, an Informa business. Taylor & Francis is a trading name of Informa UK Limited, registered in England under no. 1072954. Registered office: 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.

EEG spectral analysis as a putative early prognostic biomarker in nondemented, amyloid positive subjects

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 57
Author(s): Alida A. Gouw, Astrid M. Alsema, Betty M. Tijms, Andreas Borta, Philip Scheltens, Cornelis J. Stam, Wiesje M. van der Flier
We studied whether electroencephalography (EEG)-derived measures of brain oscillatory activity are related to clinical progression in nondemented, amyloid positive subjects. We included 205 nondemented amyloid positive subjects (63 subjective cognitive decline [SCD]; 142 mild cognitive impairment [MCI]) with a baseline resting-state EEG data and ≥1-year follow-up. Peak frequency and relative power of 4 frequency bands were calculated. Relationships between normalized EEG measures and time to clinical progression (conversion from SCD to MCI/dementia or from MCI to dementia) were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models. One hundred eight (53%) subjects clinically progressed after 2.1 (IQR 1.3–3.0) years. In the total sample, none of the EEG spectral measures were significant predictors. Stratified for baseline diagnosis, we found that in SCD patients higher delta and theta power (HR [95% CI] = 1.7 [1.0–2.7] resp. 2.3 [1.2–4.4]), and lower alpha power and peak frequency (HR [95% CI] = 0.5 [0.3–1.0] resp. 0.6 [0.4–1.0]) were associated with clinical progression over time. In amyloid positive subjects with normal cognition, slowing of oscillatory brain activity is related to clinical progression.



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Cortical amyloid accumulation is associated with alterations of structural integrity in older people with subjective memory complaints

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Neurobiology of Aging, Volume 57
Author(s): Stefan J. Teipel, Enrica Cavedo, Sarah Weschke, Michel J. Grothe, Katrine Rojkova, Gaëlle Fontaine, Luce Dauphinot, Gabriel Gonzalez-Escamilla, Marie-Claude Potier, Hugo Bertin, Marie-Odile Habert, Bruno Dubois, Harald Hampel
We determined the effect of cortical amyloid load using ¹⁸F-florbetapir PET on cognitive performance and gray matter structural integrity derived from MRI in 318 cognitively normally performing older people with subjective memory impairment from the INSIGHT-preAD cohort using multivariate partial least squares regression. Amyloid uptake was associated with reduced gray matter structural integrity in hippocampus, entorhinal and cingulate cortex, middle temporal gyrus, prefrontal cortex, and lentiform nucleus (p < 0.01, permutation test). Higher amyloid load was associated with poorer global cognitive performance, delayed recall and attention (p < 0.05), independently of its effects on gray matter connectivity. These findings agree with the assumption of a two-stage effect of amyloid on cognition, (1) an early direct effect in the preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease and (2) a delayed effect mediated by downstream effects of amyloid accumulation, such as gray matter connectivity decline.



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A simulator for training in endovascular aneurysm repair: The use of three dimensional printers

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Author(s): I.O. Torres, N. De Luccia
ObjectivesTo develop an endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) simulation system using three dimensional (3D) printed aneurysms, and to evaluate the impact of patient specific training prior to EVAR on the surgical performance of vascular surgery residents in a university hospital in Brazil.MethodsThis was a prospective, controlled, single centre study. During 2015, the aneurysms of patients undergoing elective EVAR at São Paulo University Medical School were 3D printed and used in training sessions with vascular surgery residents. The 3D printers Stratasys-Connex 350, Formlabs-Form1+, and Makerbot were tested. Ten residents were enrolled in the control group (five residents and 30 patients in 2014) or the training group (five residents and 25 patients in 2015). The control group performed the surgery under the supervision of a senior vascular surgeon (routine procedure, without simulator training). The training group practised the surgery in a patient specific simulator prior to the routine procedure. Objective parameters were analysed, and a subjective questionnaire addressing training utility and realism was answered.ResultsPatient specific training reduced fluoroscopy time by 30% (mean 48 min, 95% confidence interval [CI] 40–58 vs. 33 min, 95% CI 26–42 [p < .01]), total procedure time by 29% (mean 292 min [95% CI 235–336] vs. 207 [95% CI 173–247]; p < .01), and volume of contrast used by 25% (mean 87 mL [95% CI 73–103] vs. 65 mL [95% CI 52–81]; p = .02). The residents considered the training useful and realistic, and reported that it increased their self confidence. The 3D printers Form1+ (using flexible resin) and Makerbot (using silicone) provided the best performance based on simulator quality and cost.ConclusionAn EVAR simulation system using 3D printed aneurysms was feasible. The best results were obtained with the 3D printers Form1+ (using flexible resin) and Makerbot (using silicone). Patient specific training prior to EVAR at a university hospital in Brazil improved residents' surgical performance (based on fluoroscopy time, surgery time, and volume of contrast used) and increased their self confidence.



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Title Page

Stereotact Funct Neurosurg 2017;95(suppl 1):I-II

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17th Quadrennial Meeting of the World Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery. Berlin, Germany, June 26-29, 2017: Abstracts

Stereotact Funct Neurosurg 2017;95(suppl 1):1-460

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Wogonin attenuates inflammation by activating PPAR-γ in alcoholic liver disease

Publication date: September 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 50
Author(s): Hai-Di Li, Xin Chen, Yang Yang, Hui-Min Huang, Ling Zhang, Xin Zhang, Lei Zhang, Cheng Huang, Xiao-Ming Meng, Jun Li
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one of the predominant causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, effective therapy for ALD is still lacking. Wogonin, a major flavonoid compound, is found in Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. Accumulating studies have revealed that wogonin possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour activities in various models. However, the hepatoprotective activity of wogonin in ALD is still obscure. In this study, we found that wogonin significantly attenuated inflammatory response in EtOH-fed mice, and reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 in EtOH-induced RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, our findings showed that wogonin remarkably induced the expression of PPAR-γ in vivo and in vitro. Compared with the wogonin-treated group, blockade of PPAR-γ with inhibitor (T0070907) or PPAR-γ small interfering (si)-RNA were applied in RAW264.7 cells to evaluate the involvement of wogonin in alleviating EtOH-induced inflammation. Moreover, forced expression of PPAR-γ further suppressed the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 when treated with wogonin on EtOH-induced RAW264.7 cells. In addition, it was demonstrated that wogonin remarkably suppressed PPAR-γ-meditated phosphorylation and activation of NF-κB-P65. In conclusion, our results indicated that wogonin may serve as an effective modulator of PPAR-γ by down-regulating NF-κB pathway, thereby attenuated inflammatory response in ALD.



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Improving Abnormality Detection on Chest Radiography Using Game-Like Reinforcement Mechanics

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Po-Hao Chen, Howard Roth, Maya Galperin-Aizenberg, Alexander T. Ruutiainen, Warren Gefter, Tessa S. Cook
Rationale and ObjectivesDespite their increasing prevalence, online textbooks, question banks, and digital references focus primarily on explicit knowledge. Implicit skills such as abnormality detection require repeated practice on clinical service and have few digital substitutes. Using mechanics traditionally deployed in video games such as clearly defined goals, rapid-fire levels, and narrow time constraints may be an effective way to teach implicit skills.Materials and MethodsWe created a freely available, online module to evaluate the ability of individuals to differentiate between normal and abnormal chest radiographs by implementing mechanics, including instantaneous feedback, rapid-fire cases, and 15-second timers. Volunteer subjects completed the modules and were separated based on formal experience with chest radiography. Performance between training and testing sets were measured for each group, and a survey was administered after each session.ResultsThe module contained 74 cases and took approximately 20 minutes to complete. Thirty-two cases were normal radiographs and 56 cases were abnormal. Of the 60 volunteers recruited, 25 were "never trained" and 35 were "previously trained." "Never trained" users scored 21.9 out of 37 during training and 24.0 out of 37 during testing (59.1% vs 64.9%, P value <.001). "Previously trained" users scored 28.0 out of 37 during training and 28.3 out of 37 during testing phases (75.6% vs 76.4%, P value = .56). Survey results showed that 87% of all subjects agreed the module is an efficient way of learning, and 83% agreed the rapid-fire module is valuable for medical students.ConclusionsA gamified online module may improve the abnormality detection rates of novice interpreters of chest radiography, although experienced interpreters are less likely to derive similar benefits. Users reviewed the educational module favorably.



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Characterization of Breast Masses in Digital Breast Tomosynthesis and Digital Mammograms

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Heang-Ping Chan, Mark A. Helvie, Lubomir Hadjiiski, Deborah O. Jeffries, Katherine A. Klein, Colleen H. Neal, Mitra Noroozian, Chintana Paramagul, Marilyn A. Roubidoux
Rationale and ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) assessment of lesions in two-view digital mammogram (DM) to two-view wide-angle digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) without DM.Materials and MethodsWith Institutional Review Board approval and written informed consent, two-view DBTs were acquired from 134 subjects and the corresponding DMs were collected retrospectively. The study included 125 subjects with 61 malignant (size: 3.9–36.9 mm, median: 13.4 mm) and 81 benign lesions (size: 4.8–43.8 mm, median: 12.0 mm), and 9 normal subjects. The cases in the two modalities were read independently by six experienced Mammography Quality Standards Act radiologists in a fully crossed counterbalanced manner. The readers were blinded to the prevalence of malignant, benign, or normal cases and were asked to assess the lesions based on the BI-RADS lexicon. The ratings were analyzed by the receiver operating characteristic methodology.ResultsLesion conspicuity was significantly higher (P << .0001) and fewer lesion margins were considered obscured in DBT. The mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the six readers increased significantly (P = .0001) from 0.783 (range: 0.723–0.886) for DM to 0.911 (range: 0.884–0.936) for DBT. Of the 366 ratings for malignant lesions, 343 on DBT and 278 on DM were rated as BI-RADS 4a and above. Of the 486 ratings for benign lesions, 220 on DBT and 206 on DM were rated as BI-RADS 4a and above. On average, 17.8% (65 of 366) more malignant lesions and 2.9% (14 of 486) more benign lesions would be recommended for biopsy using DBT. The inter-radiologist variability was reduced significantly.ConclusionWith DBT alone, the BI-RADS assessment of breast lesions and inter-radiologist reliability were significantly improved compared to DM.



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Practical Considerations for the Use of Breast MRI for Breast Cancer Evaluation in the Preoperative Setting

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Debra L. Monticciolo
Preoperative contrast-enhanced (CE) breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains controversial in the newly diagnosed breast cancer patient. Additional lesions are frequently discovered in these patients with CE breast MRI. As staging and treatment planning evolve to include more information on tumor biology and aggression, so should our consideration of extent of disease. Directing CE breast MRI to those patients most likely to have additional disease may be beneficial. We sought to develop practical guidance for the use of preoperative CE breast MRI in the newly diagnosed breast cancer patient based on recent scientific data. Our review suggests several populations for whom preoperative breast MRI is most likely to find additional disease beyond that seen on conventional imaging. These can be viewed in three categories: (1) tumor biology—patients with invasive lobular carcinoma or aggressive tumors such as triple negative breast cancer (estrogen receptor negative, progesterone receptor negative, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative) and HER2 positive tumors; (2) patient characteristics—dense breast tissue or younger age, especially those age <60; and (3) clinical scenarios—patients with more sonographic disease than expected or those who are node positive at initial diagnosis. Focusing breast MRI on patients with any of the aforementioned characteristics may help utilize preoperative breast MRI where it is likely to have the most impact.



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The Importance of Combined Teaching Methods in Radiology Resident Education

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Academic Radiology
Author(s): Teresa Chapman, Janet R. Reid, Erin E. O'Connor




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Transducing-Like Enhancer of Split 1: A Potential Immunohistochemical Marker for Glomus Tumor

Abstract: Glomus tumors (GTs) are rare, perivascular soft tissue tumors. Although GTs are usually found in the subcutaneous tissue, they may be detected in extracutaneous sites and mucosal areas. Transducing-like enhancer of split 1 (TLE1) is a highly useful immunohistochemical marker, which basically helps in differential diagnosis of synovial sarcoma. Based on a coincidental detection of TLE1 in one GT case, we studied 26 additional GT cases to establish the importance and distribution of TLE1 in GTs. Of 24 subcutaneous GTs, 22 (91.6%) were positive for TLE1 antibody and the remaining 2 mucosal GTs were negative. Of the 22 positive cases, 10 showed strong nuclear positivity. There was no difference between the subtypes of the GTs. Although TLE1 expression is significantly correlated to SS18 (SYT) rearrangements in synovial sarcomas, the fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses of the GTs showed no evidence of translocation involving this locus. TLE1 is a potential immunohistochemical marker for GTs, but further studies are required to confirm this finding.

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Foreign Body Type Nasal Pseudocyst After Augmentation Rhinoplasty: Histopathologically Mucin-Containing Pseudocyst

No abstract available

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Histopathological and Clinical Findings in Cutaneous Manifestation of Erdheim–Chester Disease and Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Overlap Syndrome Associated With the BRAFV600E Mutation

Abstract: The overlap of Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) and Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is more common than it was generally accepted. Both diseases seem to be linked by a mutation in oncogenic BRAFV600E, probably an early event which occurs in bone marrow progenitor cells. In this article are described the clinical and histological findings in 2 cases of ECD-LCH overlap syndrome bearing the BRAFV600E mutation in both ECD and LCH lesions in bone and skin. In one case, lesions of ECD and LCH were situated directly site-to-site in the same bone section leading to the assumption of a common myeloid precursor cell for these diseases. Furthermore, we focus on the histopathological diagnostic criteria of cutaneous involvement in ECD. Lesional tissue shows a dermal infiltrate of lipidized CD68+, CD163+, CD1a−, and langerin histiocytes admixed with Touton giant cells—a xanthogranulomatous phenotype. Often, this pattern of histopathology requires correlation with patterns of systemic involvement to differentiate ECD from other xanthogranulomatous infiltrates. This endeavor is of major importance to determine early diagnosis and treatment, because ECD often shows a poor prognosis compared with its differential diagnoses. Finally, adults who suffer from LCH and develop xanthogranulomatous infiltrates should always be screened for ECD-LCH overlap syndrome.

http://ift.tt/2sYmNTB

Phosphohistone-H3 and Ki67: Useful Markers in Differentiating Dermatofibroma From Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans and Atypical Fibrohistiocytic Lesions

Abstract: Dermatofibromas (DF) are common, benign, skin tumors, usually easily differentiated from dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) by the presence of a relative low cellularity, lesser degree of infiltration of subcutaneous tissue, and immunohistochemical pattern (eg, FXIIIa in DF and CD34 in DFSP). Atypical fibrohistiocytic lesions (AFL) have features intermediate to DF and DFSP (trunk location, storiform pattern, infiltration of the subcutaneous tissue, and focal expression of both CD34 and Factor XIIIa). It is unclear if mitotic counts/degree of proliferation is helpful to distinguish DF from DFSP. To study the mitotic rate and proliferation index in DF, AFL/DFSP, anti-ki67, and anti-PHH3 were performed on 10 cases of DF (including 4 cellular DF), 10 standard DFSP, and 2 AFL. The proliferation index and mitotic figures were counted per square millimeter in a "hotspot" (in a fashion similar to mitotic counts in melanoma). All cases of DF showed much higher Ki67 proliferation index (P = 0.0001) along with increased mitotic figures both on H&E and with anti-PHH3 (P = 0.0001) when compared to AFL/DFSP. Our data indicate that DF has a higher proliferation index and mitotic counts when compared to superficial/peripheral portion of AFL and DFSP. This finding may be helpful in the differential diagnosis among these fibrohistiocytic lesions.

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An Annular Plaque on the Inner Thigh

No abstract available

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CD30 Positive Lymphomatoid Angiocentric Drug Reactions: Characterization of a Series of 20 Cases

Introduction: Lymphomatoid drug reactions are atypical T cell cutaneous lymphocytic infiltrates induced by pharmacological therapy. Due to phenotypic abnormalities, clonality, and their close clinical and morphologic resemblance to T cell lymphomas, these eruptions have been categorized as drug-associated reversible granulomatous T cell dyscrasias. Design: A total of 20 cases were encountered in which a diagnosis of CD30+ lymphomatoid drug reaction was rendered. Results: There were 11 women and 9 men ranging from 31 to 86 years of age presenting with a sudden onset often generalized cutaneous papular eruption. Two patients had vasculitic lesions. In all cases, a positive drug history was elicited and in most the initiation of the drug was temporally associated with the cutaneous eruption. Among the implicated drugs were statins (6 cases), immunomodulators (4 cases), ACE inhibitors (3 cases), antibiotics (3 cases), chemotherapy agents (3 cases), and antidepressants (1 case). Biopsies demonstrated a similar morphology, namely a superficial angiocentric lymphocytic infiltrate containing many immunoblasts. Tissue eosinophilia, interface dermatitis, and supervening eczematous changes in the overlying epidermis were observed in most cases. In all cases, the angiocentric infiltrate was highlighted by CD3, CD30, and CD4. Cytotoxic protein granule expression or monoclonality was not observed. In all cases, there was improvement or complete regression of the eruption upon drug modulation. Conclusion: The CD30 positive lymphomatoid angiocentric drug reaction poses a diagnostic challenge because of its close resemblance to type A lymphomatoid papulosis and potential confusion with a peripheral T cell lymphoma with large cell transformation.

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Annular Plaque on the Inner Thigh

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2rEXtOA

Gottron Papules Show Histopathologic Features of Localized Lymphedema

Abstract: Although Gottron papules are a relevant feature of dermatomyositis, they are reported in very few papers in the literature, and the largest series on the subject includes 11 cases. We intend to study the main histopathologic features of Gottron papules in a series of 12 biopsies. We evaluated hematoxylin–eosin stains on all cases. We also performed histochemical stains to evaluate the dermal deposition of mucin. Finally, we studied the CD123+ cell population in the inflammatory infiltrate by immunohistochemistry. We found that the epidermis was either acanthotic or hyperplastic in all cases. We found a dermal inflammatory infiltrate in all cases but one. Mucin deposition in the reticular dermis was an inconstant feature. Vacuolization of the basal layer was also a frequent finding. There was thickening of the base membrane on periodic acid-Schiff stains in all our cases. We identified CD123+ cells in all cases but 2. Intraepidermal CD123+ cells were also found in 8 cases. All cases but one showed lymphangiectasia in the upper part of the dermis, including the papillary and reticular dermis. In addition, collapsed lymphatics were evident underlying the dermal sclerosis. We conclude that Gottron papules show typical features of localized lymphedema.

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Gluteal Papular Eruption

No abstract available

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Elastic Fibers in Scars and Alopecia

No abstract available

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Xanthelasma Palpebrarum after Artecoll (polymethylmethacrylate collagen) Injections to the Bilateral Tear Troughs

No abstract available

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Epidermolysis Bullosa Acquisita (Brunsting-Perry Pemphigoid Variant) Localized to the Face and Diagnosed With Antigen Identification Using Skin Deficient in Type VII Collagen

Abstract: Brunsting-Perry pemphigoid is defined as an autoimmune vesiculobullous eruption typically localized on the head and neck region with minimal or no mucosal involvement. The disease tends to run a chronic and recurrent course with residual scarring. Histological features are characterized by subepidermal bullae and linear IgG deposits at the dermo-epidermal junction. We report a case of a 46-year-old lady who presented with typical features of Brunsting-Perry pemphigoid. Autoantibodies to type VII collagen were identified by using recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa skin which lacks type VII collagen in an indirect immunofluorescence assay. As a result, we diagnosed our patient as having the Brunsting-Perry pemphigoid variant of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA). This finding led us to review the literature on target antigens in Brunsting-Perry pemphigoid. Only 11 out of the 58 cases reported to date had target antigens identified. Interestingly, type VII collagen was the second most common target antigen/autoantibody (4 cases) detected after BP180 (5 cases). However, 2 further cases of EBA localized to the face with typical features of Brunsting-Perry pemphigoid were found in the literature. Although the target antigens are heterogeneous in Brunsting-Perry pemphigoid, a significant number of cases represent a clinical presentation of localized EBA.

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Osteogenic Melanoma With Desmin Expression

Background: Osteogenic differentiation is rarely seen in melanomas, when it occurs it is mainly in acral lesions. Methods: We report a case of an osteogenic melanoma in a 49-year-old woman who presented with a pigmented lesion in the subungueal region of her left hallux. The lesion was ulcerated and infiltrated until the deep dermis without bone involvement. Results: The tumor was composed of pleomorphic atypical epithelioid and fusiform cells disposed in nests or cords, with vesicular nuclei and prominent central nucleoli. Focal lentiginous proliferation of large atypical melanocytes was present along the dermoepidermal junction. Areas of osteoid matrix focally mineralized were disposed in trabeculae, and there were islands of neoplastic cells. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong expression of S-100 protein and, unexpectedly, of desmin. Focal expression of Melan-A, microphthalmia transcription factor, and HMB-45 is also revealed. Mutations in BRAF and NRAS genes were not present. The patient was submitted to an amputation of the left hallux with negative sentinel lymph node. Conclusion: The importance of recognizing osteogenic melanoma is based on difficulties for histologic recognition and its differentials diagnosis.

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Multiple Follicular Keratotic Papules in a Patient With a Distal Limb Polyneuropathy: Challenge

No abstract available

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Eccrine Syringofibroadenoma in Association With Acquired Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis

Abstract: A 75-year-old man with human immunodeficiency virus infection and numerous biopsy-proven warts for 10 years, refractory to cryosurgery, cimetidine, and topical imiquimod, presented with numerous pink to hypopigmented verrucous papules and plaques involving the face, trunk, buttocks, and groin. Laboratory evaluation revealed a CD4 T-cell count of 62 cells per microliter and human immunodeficiency virus viral load of

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Malignant Melanoma in Association With a Thymic Nevus in a Patient With a Giant Congenital Nevus

Abstract: Nevi and melanocytic proliferations are known to appear in multiple extracutaneous sites, including lymph nodes and meninges. We report a case of an anterior mediastinal mass in a patient with a giant congenital nevus and neurofibromatosis type I. Histologically, the tumor was found to be a malignant melanoma in the thymus arising in association with a nevus that involved most of the thymic tissue. There was no sign of cutaneous melanoma on skin examination. We suggest that the tumor originated from the benign nevus in the thymus, a rare extracutaneous location for nevi and malignant melanoma.

http://ift.tt/2rFB5Ew

Generalized Indeterminate Cell Histiocytosis Presenting as Eroded Papules and Crusts

Abstract: Indeterminate cell histiocytosis (ICH) is a very rare histiocytic disease. We reported a case of generalized ICH presenting as eroded papules and crusts, accompanied with intermittent fever, pulmonary disorder, lymphadenectasis in the mediastinum, and the retroperitoneum. The histopathology indicated a neoplasm that was composed of small nests of large cells with ample pale cytoplasm. Immunohistochemistry results and the absence of Birbeck granules led us to the diagnosis of ICH. Four months later, the patient died of anemia, ascites, and swelling of the limbs.

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Multiple Follicular Keratotic Papules in a Patient With a Distal Limb Polyneuropathy

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2sYHgaC

Isolated Ectopic Cutaneous Atypical Meningioma of the Scalp: Another Mimicker of Primary Adnexal Tumor

Abstract: Cutaneous meningiomas are rare tumors most commonly located in the skin and soft tissue of the scalp. They may be congenital (type I), acquired and derived from ectopic arachnoid tissue in the skin (type II), or arise through direct extension from an intracranial meningioma (type III). Despite their well-established documentation in the literature, they may escape recognition when classic features are not present. Herein, we present a case of a cutaneous atypical meningioma (≥4 mitotic figures/10 High Power Fields (HPF)) on the posterior scalp of a 31-year-old man with histologic features mimicking a malignant adnexal tumor. To our knowledge, this is the first case of isolated cutaneous meningioma mimicking an adnexal neoplasm. Thus, cutaneous meningiomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dermal and subcutaneous epithelioid neoplasms of the scalp.

http://ift.tt/2sYhpjb

Role of Skin Biopsies in the Diagnosis of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis

Abstract: This is a report of a 15-year-old female who presented with a skin eruption and clinical features consistent with severe sepsis and septic shock. A diagnosis of acquired hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) was made and confirmed by bone marrow analysis. Skin biopsy showed hemophagocytosis and CD163-positive staining of macrophages. We briefly review the clinical, histologic, and laboratory findings of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in addition to the potential role of skin biopsies in this condition.

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Increasing the accuracy of proteomic typing by decellularisation of amyloid tissue biopsies

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): P. Patrizia Mangione, Giuseppe Mazza, Janet A. Gilbertson, Nigel B. Rendell, Diana Canetti, Sofia Giorgetti, Luca Frenguelli, Marco Curti, Tamer Rezk, Sara Raimondi, Mark B. Pepys, Philip N. Hawkins, Julian D. Gillmore, Graham W. Taylor, Massimo Pinzani, Vittorio Bellotti
Diagnosis and treatment of systemic amyloidosis depend on accurate identification of the specific amyloid fibril protein forming the tissue deposits. Confirmation of monoclonal immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (AL), requiring cytotoxic chemotherapy, and avoidance of such treatment in non-AL amyloidosis, are particularly important. Proteomic analysis characterises amyloid proteins directly. It complements immunohistochemical staining of amyloid to identify fibril proteins and gene sequencing to identify mutations in the fibril precursors. However, proteomics sometimes detects more than one potentially amyloidogenic protein, especially immunoglobulins and transthyretin which are abundant plasma proteins. Ambiguous results are most challenging in the elderly as both AL and transthyretin (ATTR) amyloidosis are usually present in this group. We have lately described a procedure for tissue decellularisation which retains the structure, integrity and composition of amyloid but removes proteins that are not integrated within the deposits. Here we show that use of this procedure before proteomic analysis eliminates ambiguity and improves diagnostic accuracy.SignificanceUnequivocal identification of the protein causing amyloidosis disease is crucial for correct diagnosis and treatment. As a proof of principle, we selected a number of cardiac and fat tissue biopsies from patients with various types of amyloidosis and show that a classical procedure of decellularisation enhances the specificity of the identification of the culprit protein reducing ambiguity and the risk of misdiagnosis.

Graphical abstract

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Proteomics to study macrophage response to viral infection

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Tuula A. Nyman, Sampsa Matikainen
Viral infections are a major burden to human and animal health. Immune response against viruses consists of innate and adaptive immunity which are both critical for the eradication of the viral infection. The innate immune system is the first line of defense against viral infections. Proper innate immune response is required for the activation of adaptive, humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Macrophages are innate immune cells which have a central role in detecting viral infections including influenza A and human immunodeficiency viruses. Macrophages and other host cells respond to viral infection by modulating their protein expression levels, proteins' posttranslational modifications, as well as proteins' intracellular localization and secretion. Therefore the detailed characterization how viruses dynamically manipulate host proteome is needed for understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral infection. It is critical to identify cellular host factors which are exploited by different viruses, and which are less prone for mutations and could serve as potential targets for novel antiviral compounds. Here, we review how proteomics studies have enhanced our understanding of macrophage response to viral infection with special focus on Influenza A and Human immunodeficiency viruses, and virus infections of swine.SignificanceInfluenza A viruses (IAVs) and human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) infect annually millions of people worldwide and they form a severe threat to human health. Both IAVs and HIV-1 can efficiently antagonize host response and develop drug-resistant variants. Most current antiviral drugs are directed against viral proteins, and there is a constant need to develop new next-generation drugs targeting host proteins that are essential for viral replication. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) are economically important swine pathogens. Both PRRSV and PCV2 cause severe respiratory tract illnesses in swine. IAVs, HIV-1, and swine viruses infect macrophages activating antiviral response against these viruses. Macrophages also have a central role in the replication and spread of these viruses. However, macrophage response to these viruses is incompletely understood. Current proteomics methods can provide a global view of host-response to viral infection which is needed for in-depth understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral infection. Here we review the current proteomics studies on macrophage response to viral infection and provide insight into the global host proteome changes upon viral infection.

Graphical abstract

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Autoreactivity to malondialdehyde-modifications in rheumatoid arthritis is linked to disease activity and synovial pathogenesis

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Journal of Autoimmunity
Author(s): Caroline Grönwall, Khaled Amara, Uta Hardt, Akilan Krishnamurthy, Johanna Steen, Marianne Engström, Meng Sun, A. Jimmy Ytterberg, Roman A. Zubarev, Dagmar Scheel-Toellner, Jeffrey D. Greenberg, Lars Klareskog, Anca I. Catrina, Vivianne Malmström, Gregg J. Silverman
Oxidation-associated malondialdehyde (MDA) modification of proteins can generate immunogenic neo-epitopes that are recognized by autoantibodies. In health, IgM antibodies to MDA-adducts are part of the natural antibody pool, while elevated levels of IgG anti-MDA antibodies are associated with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Yet, in human autoimmune disease IgG anti-MDA responses have not been well characterized and their potential contribution to disease pathogenesis is not known. Here, we investigate MDA-modifications and anti-MDA-modified protein autoreactivity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While RA is primarily associated with autoreactivity to citrullinated antigens, we also observed increases in serum IgG anti-MDA in RA patients compared to controls. IgG anti-MDA levels significantly correlated with disease activity by DAS28-ESR and serum TNF-alpha, IL-6, and CRP. Mass spectrometry analysis of RA synovial tissue identified MDA-modified proteins and revealed shared peptides between MDA-modified and citrullinated actin and vimentin. Furthermore, anti-MDA autoreactivity among synovial B cells was discovered when investigating recombinant monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) cloned from single B cells, and 3.5% of memory B cells and 2.3% of plasma cells were found to be anti-MDA positive. Several clones were highly specific for MDA-modification with no cross-reactivity to other antigen modifications such as citrullination, carbamylation or 4-HNE-carbonylation. The mAbs recognized MDA-adducts in a variety of proteins including albumin, histone 2B, fibrinogen and vimentin. Interestingly, the most reactive clone, originated from an IgG1-bearing memory B cell, was encoded by near germline variable genes, and showed similarity to previously reported natural IgM. Other anti-MDA clones display somatic hypermutations and lower reactivity. Importantly, these anti-MDA antibodies had significant in vitro functional properties and induced enhanced osteoclastogenesis, while the natural antibody related high-reactivity clone did not. We postulate that these may represent distinctly different facets of anti-MDA autoreactive responses.



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Does pregnancy have any impact on long term damage accrual and on the outcome of lupus nephritis?

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Journal of Autoimmunity
Author(s): Davide Gianfreda, Silvana Quaglini, Giulia Frontini, Francesca Raffiotta, Piergiorgio Messa, Gabriella Moroni
No data are available about the impact of pregnancy on the long-term outcome of lupus nephritis.Thirty-two women with lupus nephritis with a 10-year follow-up after their first pregnancy ("women who gave birth") and 64 matched controls with the same follow-up and who never had pregnancies ("controls") were compared for the occurrence of SLE flares, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and SLICC/ACR Damage Index (SDI) in the post pregnancy period. The same evaluations were done before and after pregnancy in women who gave birth. The predictors of CKD and damage accrual in the whole population were studied.All patients were Caucasians and had biopsy proven LN. At conception and after 10 years, in both groups, less than 10% of patients had active renal disease (p = ns). Controls had more frequent arterial hypertension (p = 0.025). Between the two groups there was no difference in SLE flares and in CKD free survival curves (p = 0.6 and p = 0.37) during the 10-year follow-up. In both groups, the temporal trend, based on annual evaluation, of glomerular filtration rate and serum creatinine shows a significant decrease and increase respectively. However, the women who gave birth persistently maintained better values of renal function than controls during the whole follow-up (P = 0.00001). There was no difference in the CKD-free survival curves. SDI did not increase significantly in women who gave birth in comparison to controls. All the above mentioned clinical parameters were comparable before and after pregnancy in the women who gave birth.Among the basal clinical characteristics, high serum creatinine and occurrence of SLE flares predicted CKD, whereas low levels of C3, pre-existing damage score, and occurrence of SLE flares predicted SDI increase. Pregnancy was not a predictor of CKD or SDI increase.Carrying a pregnancy during inactive lupus nephritis does not seem to increase the rate of SLE flares, worsen renal prognosis or increase SDI significantly in the very long-term.



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The association between circulating fetuin-A levels and type 2 diabetes mellitus risk: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Abstract

Background and objective

Fetuin-A is a liver-derived circulating protein that is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis of published observational studies was to investigate mean levels of fetuin-A in T2D patients and the relationship between blood fetuin-A levels and T2D risk.

Materials and methods

PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library were systematically searched for potential relevant studies up to 1 December 2016. Natural logarithm-transformed estimate risks, standard mean differences on the basis of Hedges's adjusted g, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for all eligible studies and were combined to measure the pooled data using random-effects model.

Results

A total of 32 studies including 27 case–control and 5 cohort studies were included in the current study. Fetuin-A levels in T2D patients were significantly higher than control groups [Hedges' g = 1.73, 95% CI (1.25–2.22), P < 0.001], with significant heterogeneity across studies (P < 0.001, I ² = 98.46%). Findings from meta-analyses of cohort studies showed a statistically significant association between fetuin-A levels and T2D risk [rate ratio = 1.62, 95% CI (1.26–2.08), P < 0.001], with no significant heterogeneity (P = 0.10, I ² = 46.06%).

Conclusion

We found a significant relationship between the fetuin-A levels with T2D risk. Although fetuin-A may be as a potential screening and prediction biomarker or a therapeutic target in T2D patients, further studies are required in this regard.

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A comparison of clinical efficacy and economic value in Basalin- and Lantus-treated patients with type 2 diabetes using continuous glucose monitoring system

Abstract

Aim

To determine the clinical non-inferiority of recombinant glargine-Basalin vs glargine-Lantus, in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS).

Methods

One hundred patients with T2DM were recruited. They were either regularly taking Basalin (Basalin group) or Lantus (Lantus group) (n = 50 each). CGMS was employed to real-time monitor blood glucose profile for 4 days (from day 1 to day 5). To exclude the effect of patient background, the study design was to have a blinded crossover from glargine-Basalin to glargine-Lantus on day 3, and vice versa. 24-hour mean blood glucose (24hMBG), 24-hour standard deviation of blood glucose (24hSDBG), 24-hour mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (24hMAGE), and number of glycemic excursion (NGE) every 24 h (24hNGE) were calculated for each glargine from 100 patients.

Results

No significant difference of 24hMBG, 24hSDBG, 24hMAGE, and 24hNGE (p > 0.05 for all) was found between Basalin and Lantus treatments. The glucose area under the curve and time when blood glucose was below 3.9 mmol/L, between 3.9 and 10.0 mmol/L, or above 10.0 mmol/L were similar between Basalin and Lantus treatment. The frequency of hypoglycemic episodes was also similar. However, the mean cost of Basalin was only 72% of Lantus's in one treatment course.

Conclusion

Glargine-Basalin is non-inferior in clinical efficacy compared to glargine-Lantus. In view of the large difference in the cost of glargine-Basalin, it would be much more cost-effective for our patients.

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Using Taguchi method for the optimization of processing variables to prepare porous scaffolds by combined melt mixing/particulate leaching

Publication date: 5 October 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 131
Author(s): Roberto Scaffaro, Fiorenza Sutera, Francesco Lopresti
Synthetic biopolymers have made significant inroads into the development of devices for tissue regeneration. In this context, a challenge is the achievement of appropriate properties mimicking the natural extracellular matrix by fabricating scaffolds presenting mechanical properties, specific surface, porosity and pore interconnection adequate for the final application. This study involved a systematic procedure based on Taguchi method for parameters optimization of melt mixing/particulate leaching combined processes aiming to enhance the performance of the scaffolds. In particular, it was evaluated the effect of time and temperature of melt mixing of the poly(lactic acid) matrix with two water-soluble inorganic porogen agents (i.e. NaCl or CaCl2) with two different pore size and poly(ethylene glycol). Thereafter, the blends were compression molded and water-leached for different time and at different pH. By adopting L8 Taguchi orthogonal array, seven control factors, each at two levels, were tested, and ANOVA was applied to find the statistically significant factors and the combination of their optimal levels. The results revealed that the mixing temperature had the highest effect on mechanical properties. Moreover, the internal architecture of the scaffolds was studied by morphological analysis, finding that it is affected by the kind of porogen salt and by mixing time.

Graphical abstract

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Contact angle hysteresis analysis on superhydrophobic surface based on the design of channel and pillar models

Publication date: 5 October 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 131
Author(s): Zhenyu Shi, Xianzhi Zhang
Contact Angle Hysteresis (CAH) is critical to the hydrophobicity of a surface, which describes the dynamic characteristic of droplets. In this paper, two different micro-structured surfaces respectively with micro-channel and micro-pillar structures (20 samples for each structure, with a range of channel and pillar widths between 25 and 250μm) were fabricated by mechanical micro-milling process to investigate the effect of structural parameters on hydrophobicity of surfaces. It was found that the solid fraction plays a decisive role for a surface in the transition from being hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Quantitative interpretation was conducted and a dynamic methodology was established based on the physical nature of the controllable motion of a droplet. The five key states of a droplet including the initial, pre-forward, forward, pre-backward and backward were the main focus of this research. The prediction results based on the established model showed good consistency with experiments. The proposed model can estimate the advancing and receding angles very well. The outcome of this research will lead to new methodologies for preparing hydrophobic surfaces with micro-machining technology and play an important theoretical guiding role in fabrication of superhydrophobic surfaces.

Graphical abstract

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Design of a nickel-base superalloy using a neural network

Publication date: 5 October 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 131
Author(s): B.D. Conduit, N.G. Jones, H.J. Stone, G.J. Conduit
A new computational tool has been developed to model, discover, and optimize new alloys that simultaneously satisfy up to eleven physical criteria. An artificial neural network is trained from pre-existing materials data that enables the prediction of individual material properties both as a function of composition and heat treatment routine, which allows it to optimize the material properties to search for the material with properties most likely to exceed a target criteria. We design a new polycrystalline nickel-base superalloy with the optimal combination of cost, density, γ′ phase content and solvus, phase stability, fatigue life, yield stress, ultimate tensile strength, stress rupture, oxidation resistance, and tensile elongation. Experimental data demonstrates that the proposed alloy fulfills the computational predictions, possessing multiple physical properties, particularly oxidation resistance and yield stress, that exceed existing commercially available alloys.

Graphical abstract

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Motivational Interviewing Improves Sustainable Return to Work in Injured Workers After Rehabilitation: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Douglas P. Gross, Joanne Park, Fahreen Rayani, Colleen M. Norris, Shaniff Esmail
ObjectiveTo examine whether motivational interviewing (MI) leads to more sustainable return-to-work outcomes for injured workers undergoing rehabilitation. MI is a client-centred counselling approach that facilitates behavioural change through identifying and resolving ambivalence.DesignA cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted with analysis at level of claimant (registration ISRCTN45748422).SettingThe study was conducted at a workers' compensation rehabilitation facility in Edmonton, Canada.ParticipantsData were collected on claimants undergoing rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions. Participants were predominantly employed (72.7%) males (63.2%) with chronic conditions (mean duration 234 days).InterventionsTreating clinicians at the facility were randomised into 2 groups. One group included 6 clinicians who were trained to conduct MI interventions during the course of rehabilitation, while the control group included 6 clinicians who continued standard procedures.Main Outcome MeasuresOutcomes included compensation outcomes over 1 year after discharge. This included reception of disability benefits and recurrence rates. Analysis was stratified by admission employment status and included Chi square, t tests, and multivariable regression.ResultsParticipants included 728 claimants of whom 367 (50.4%) were treated with MI. Unemployed claimants in the MI group received significantly more partial disability benefits (average of 8.2 versus 0.2 days, p=0.02), indicating return to modified work duties. Employed claimants in the control group had a higher recurrence rate (9.1% versus 4.5%, p = 0.04). Adjusted odds ratio for benefit recurrence was 2.7 (1.1 – 6.5) after controlling for age, sex, and number of previous claims.ConclusionsUse of MI appears to lead to more sustainable return-to-work following rehabilitation, and facilitates transition to modified work duties.



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Factors predicting falls and mobility outcomes in patients with stroke returning home after rehabilitation who are at risk of falling

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Mandy Man-Di Ng, Keith D. Hill, Frances Batchelor, Elissa Burton
ObjectiveTo identify factors predicting falls and limited mobility in people with stroke at 12 months after returning home from rehabilitation.DesignObservational cohort study with 12 month follow-up.SettingCommunity.ParticipantsPeople with stroke (n=144) and increased falls risk discharged home from rehabilitation.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresFalls were measured using monthly calendars completed by participants, and mobility was assessed using gait speed over five metres (high mobility (>0.8m/s) versus low mobility (≤0.8m/s). Both measures were assessed at 12 months post-discharge. Demographics and functional measures including balance, strength, visual or spatial deficits, disability, physical activity level, executive function, functional independence and falls risk were analysed to determine factors significantly predicting falls and mobility levels after 12 months.ResultsThose assessed as being at high falls risk (Falls Risk for Older People in the Community (FROP-Com) score ≥19) were 4.5 times more likely to fall by 12 months (OR:4.506, 95% CI:1.71-11.86, p-value:0.002). Factors significantly associated with lower usual gait speed (<0.8m/s) at 12 months in the multivariable analysis were age (OR:1.07, 95% CI=1.01–1.14, p-value=0.033), physical activity (OR:1.09, 95% CI =1.03-1.17, p-value=0.007) and functional mobility (OR:0.83, 95% CI =0.75-0.93, p-value=0.001).ConclusionSeveral factors predicted falls and limited mobility for patients with stroke 12 months after rehabilitation discharge. These results suggest that clinicians should include assessment of falls risk (FROP-Com), physical activity, and dual task Timed Up and Go during rehabilitation to identify those most at risk of falling and experiencing limited mobility outcomes at 12 months, and target these areas during in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation to optimise long term outcomes.



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Longitudinal prediction of quality of life scores and locomotion in individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Shivayogi V. Hiremath, Nathan S. Hogaboom, Melissa R. Roscher, Lynn A. Worobey, Michelle L. Oyster, Michael L. Boninger
ObjectivesThe study examined differences in quality of life scores for groups based on transitions in locomotion status at 1, 5, and 10 years post-discharge in a sample of people with spinal cord injury (SCI). We also investigated whether demographic factors and transitions in locomotion status can predict quality of life measures at these time points.DesignRetrospective case study of the National SCI Database.SettingModel SCI Systems Centers.Participants10,190 individuals with SCI from 21 SCI Model Systems Centers, identified through the National SCI Model Systems Centers database between the years 1985-2012. Subjects had Functional Independence Measure (Locomotion-Mode) data at discharge and at least one of the following: 1, 5, or 10 years post-discharge.InterventionsNot applicable.Main OutcomesFunctional Independence Measure – Locomotion Mode; Severity of Depression Scale; Satisfaction with Life scale; Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique.ResultsParticipants who transitioned from ambulation to wheelchair use reported lower participation and life satisfaction, and higher depression levels (p<.05) than those who maintained their ambulatory status. Participants who transitioned from ambulation to wheelchair use reported higher depression levels (p<.05) and no difference for participation (p>.05) or life satisfaction (p>.05) compared to those who transitioned from wheelchair to ambulation. Demographic factors and locomotion transitions predicted quality of life scores at all time points (p<.05).ConclusionsThe results of this study indicate that transitioning from ambulation to wheelchair use can negatively impact psychosocial health 10 years after SCI. Clinicians should be aware of this when deciding on ambulation training. Further work to characterize who may be at risk for these transitions is needed.



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Clinical Utility of the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 in the Assessment of Major Depression after Broad Spectrum Traumatic Brain Injury

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Jacobus Donders, Adriene Pendery
ObjectiveTo determine the predictive validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ–9) when screening for symptoms of depression following traumatic brain injury.DesignRetrospective analysis of data collected as part of routine clinical outpatient care over a period of 30 months.ParticipantsPersons with mild to severe traumatic brain injury who were referred for neuropsychological evaluation within 1–12 months (N = 137).InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresPHQ–9 and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, Second Edition, Restructured Form (MMPI–2–RF).ResultsPHQ–9 scores > 10 had a sensitivity of 91.7 and a specificity of 60.2 in predicting a diagnosis of major depression. Correlations between PHQ–9 scores and MMPI–2–RF scales Demoralization (0.64) and Low Positive Emotions (0.48) ranged from large to medium. Premorbid outpatient psychiatric treatment was the most consistent predictor of PHQ–9 elevations as well as final diagnoses of major depression.ConclusionsThe PHQ–9 has adequate clinical utility as a screening instrument for depression in outpatients with traumatic brain injury. Elevations on this instrument can, however, not be automatically be attributed to neuropathology; especially not in the context of premorbid psychiatric dysfunction. Clinicians should conduct more thorough follow-up assessment in those with highly elevated PHQ–9 scores.



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Mucinous Naevus: A case of suboptimal response to laser treatment

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Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with multiple metastases in a patient with chronic gluteal pyoderma

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A randomised trial of a barrier lipid replacement strategy for the prevention of atopic dermatitis and allergic sensitisation: The PEBBLES Pilot Study

Abstract

It is hypothesised that the impaired skin barrier in atopic dermatitis (AD) allows the immune system to be exposed to environmental allergens, resulting in sensitisation and allergic disease[1]. Two small trials recently found that routine use of emollients reduced the incidence of AD during the active treatment period by approximately half [2, 3]. It remains unknown if prophylactic use of emollients can prevent the development of AD beyond the treatment period (as opposed to simply delay its onset) or if this reduction in AD leads to a reduced risk of allergic sensitisation.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Age-related changes in structural connectivity are improved using subject-specific thresholding

Publication date: Available online 21 June 2017
Source:Journal of Neuroscience Methods
Author(s): Corinna M. Bauer, Lauren E. Zajac, Bang-Bon Koo, Ronald J. Killiany, Lotfi B. Merabet
BackgroundDeterministic diffusion tractography obtained from high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) requires user-defined quantitative anisotropy (QA) thresholds. Most studies employ a common threshold across all subjects even though there is a strong degree of individual variation within groups. We sought to explore whether it would be beneficial to use individual thresholds in order to accommodate individual variance. To do this, we conducted two independent experiments.MethodFirst, tractography of the arcuate fasciculus and network connectivity measures were examined in a sample of 14 healthy participants. Second, we assessed the effects of QA threshold on group differences in network connectivity measures between healthy young (n=19) and old (n=14) individuals.ResultsThe results of both experiments were significantly influenced by QA threshold. Common thresholds set too high failed to produce sufficient reconstructions in most subjects, thus decreasing the likelihood of detecting meaningful group differences. On the other hand, common thresholds set too low resulted in spurious reconstructions, providing deleterious results.Comparison with Existing methodsSubject specific thresholds acquired using our QA threshold selection method (QATS) appeared to provide the most meaningful networks while ensuring that data from all subjects contributed to the analyses.ConclusionsTogether, these results support the use of a subject-specific threshold to ensure that data from all subjects are included in the analyses being conducted.



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