Ετικέτες

Τρίτη 3 Οκτωβρίου 2017

Scholar : These new articles for Journal of Strategic Marketing are available online

Taylor & Francis Online - The new journals and reference work platform for Taylor & Francis
The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content
Original Articles

Impact of firm's customer orientation on performance: the moderating role of interfunctional coordination and employee commitment
Mujahid Mohiuddin Babu
Pages: 1-21 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384037


Mobile advertising to Digital Natives: preferences on content, style, personalization, and functionality
Katherine Taken Smith
Pages: 1-14 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384043


Corporate social responsibility: a boon or bane for innovative firms?
Bilwa Dipak Upadhye, Gopal Das & Geetika Varshneya
Pages: 1-17 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384042


The influence of green brand innovativeness and value perception on brand loyalty: the moderating role of green knowledge
Jialing Lin, Antonio Lobo & Civilai Leckie
Pages: 1-15 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384044


Between saying and doing is the ocean: an empirical exploration of the gap between strategic marketing plans and their implementation in the life sciences industry
Brian D. Smith
Pages: 1-12 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384041


Product standardisation in the food service industry: post-purchase attitudes and repurchase intentions of non-Muslims after consuming halal food
Stephen Wilkins, Muhammad Mohsin Butt, Farshid Shams & Andrea Pérez
Pages: 1-17 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384749


Incubator mediation in commercialising disruptive innovation
Sussie C. Morrish, Matthew C. Whyte & Morgan P. Miles
Pages: 1-13 | DOI: 10.1080/0965254X.2017.1384751


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.



Contour changes after guided bone regeneration of large non-contained mandibular buccal bone defects using deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a porcine-derived collagen membrane: an experimental in vivo investigation

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate soft tissue contour changes after three different regenerative therapies in chronic ridge defects.

Material and methods

Buccal bone defects were created in the mandible of nine beagle dogs. Augmentation procedures were performed 3 months later using a bone replacement graft (BRG), resorbable collagen membrane (MBG), or a combination of both procedures (CBG). Silicone impressions were taken before tooth extraction (T1), before the augmentation procedure (T2), and 3 months after the regenerative surgeries (T3). Casts were optically scanned and stereolithography files were superimposed to analyze the horizontal changes in ridge contours.

Results

After defect creation, most part of the horizontal changes occurred 4 and 6 mm below the gingival margin. In the mesial defect (D1) at T3, the mean horizontal gain in MBG amounted to 0.47 ± 0.34 mm, 0.79 ± 0.67 mm in the BRG, and 0.87 ± 0.69 mm for the CBG. In the middle defect (D2), the mean changes for the MBG were 0.11 ± 0.31, 1.01 ± 0.91 for the BRG, and 0.98 ± 0.49 for the CBG. The mean changes in the distal defect (D3) amounted to 0.24 ± 0.72 for the MBG, 1.04 ± 0.92 for the BRG, and 0.86 ± 0.56 for the CBG. The differences reached significance in all defects for the comparison MBG-BRG and MBG-CBG, while similar parameters were observed for the comparison BRG-CBG.

Conclusion

BRG and CBG were equally effective and superior to MBG in increasing the horizontal tissue contours. The augmentation seldom reached the values before extraction.

Clinical relevance

Scaffolding materials are needed for contour augmentation when using resorbable collagen membranes.



http://ift.tt/2g7GVLn

EIF1AX Mutation in a Patient with Hürthle Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

The EIF1AX gene is a novel cancer gene that has been reported in the tumorigenesis of papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma, and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. A 71-year-old woman presented with a right thyroid mass, which was follicular neoplasm on cytology. The fine needle aspirate of the nodule was examined by next-generation sequencing and found to harbor EIF1AX and TP53 mutations. Right thyroid lobectomy was performed with final pathology showing Hürthle cell carcinoma with capsular and vascular invasion. We report an EIF1AX mutation in a patient found to have Hürthle cell carcinoma.



http://ift.tt/2fNoQFv

Clinical and Histological Studies of Suborbital Wrinkles Treated with Fractional Bipolar Radiofrequency

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


http://ift.tt/2wuQPwt

Symbiotic Origin of Aging

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


http://ift.tt/2xQgIsh

Berberine Improves Diabetic Encephalopathy Through the SIRT1/ER Stress Pathway in db/db Mice

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


http://ift.tt/2wu53Ob

Modified V-Y Advancement Flap With “Directed” Granulation and Leveling Sutures for Defects of the Lid-Cheek Junction

imageNo abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xd0HdU

Successful Treatment of Stable Vitiligo by Low-Density Cultured Autologous Melanocyte Transplantation Combined With Narrowband Ultraviolet B Therapy

imageBACKGROUND: Cultured autologous melanocyte transplantation (CMT) is an effective treatment for stable vitiligo, but the current method is time consuming and expensive because of the requirement of a large number of melanocytes. OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical effect of low-density CMT combined with narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) in treating stable vitiligo. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors treated 8 patients with CMT at a low cell density (less than 2.5 × 104 cells/cm2). Among them, 6 patients underwent NB-UVB therapy after CMT. RESULTS: All the 6 patients treated with low-density CMT combined with NB-UVB obtained more than 90% repigmentation at the 1-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: The authors' data suggest that low-density CMT combined with NB-UVB can be an effective form of surgical treatment for stable vitiligo.

http://ift.tt/2xdA3S2

Use of Turn-in Skin Flaps for Nasal Lining Reconstruction

imageBACKGROUND: Reconstruction of the nasal lining is the most difficult part of complex nasal reconstruction because the mucosa has a unique texture and fineness. Many techniques, ranging from skin grafts to local flaps, have been applied for the reconstruction of the mucosa. In some cases, even free flaps have been used. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to discuss the feasibility of using turn-in flaps in nasal reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen patients with full-thickness nasal defects underwent reconstruction with turn-in flaps. In all the patients, the bone structure was formed using cartilage grafts, and the skin defects were reconstructed using paramedian forehead flaps. A rhinoplasty procedure was added in 10 of the patients. RESULTS: Necrosis was not observed in any of the flaps, and the results were satisfactory for all the patients. CONCLUSION: This technique provided enough support for the onlay cartilage grafts, and the flap was thin enough to avoid any nasal airway obstruction. In selected patients, this technique can also be used in conjunction with a rhinoplasty procedure.

http://ift.tt/2xdpVJ9

Differences in Hyaluronic Acid Filler Persistence Depending Upon Facial Site: A Consideration of Anatomical Factors

imageNo abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xd76Wp

Effect of Electroacupuncture at The Zusanli Point (Stomach-36) on Dorsal Random Pattern Skin Flap Survival in a Rat Model

imageBACKGROUND: Random skin flaps are commonly used for wound repair and reconstruction. Electroacupuncture at The Zusanli point could enhance microcirculation and blood perfusion in random skin flaps. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether electroacupuncture at The Zusanli point can improve the survival of random skin flaps in a rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: control group (no electroacupuncture), Group A (electroacupuncture at a nonacupoint near The Zusanli point), and Group B (electroacupuncture at The Zusanli point). McFarlane flaps were established. On postoperative Day 2, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase were detected. The flap survival rate was evaluated, inflammation was examined in hematoxylin and eosin–stained slices, and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was measured immunohistochemically on Day 7. RESULTS: The mean survival area of the flaps in Group B was significantly larger than that in the control group and Group A. Superoxide dismutase activity and VEGF expression level were significantly higher in Group B than those in the control group and Group A, whereas MDA and inflammation levels in Group B were significantly lower than those in the other 2 groups. CONCLUSION: Electroacupuncture at The Zusanli point can effectively improve the random flap survival.

http://ift.tt/2xd0GXo

Repair of an Inferior Helical Rim Defect

imageNo abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xdrMh9

The Nasal Tip Rotation Flap for Reconstruction of the Lateral Nasal Tip, Anterior Ala, and Soft Triangle: The Authors' Experience With 55 Patients

imageBACKGROUND: Defects of the lateral nasal tip, anterior ala, and soft triangle subunits lack reconstructive options that are consistently satisfactory. For such defects, the novel anterior-based nasal tip rotation flap provides functional and aesthetic results in a single operative session. OBJECTIVE: To describe the authors' experience with the nasal tip rotation flap, including patient selection and design modifications to enhance aesthetic success. METHODS: An IRB-approved retrospective database review of nasal tip rotation flap repairs was performed at the Medical University of South Carolina and Stanford University Medical Center. The design and surgical technique of this flap are described and illustrated, emphasizing factors such as nasal shape and defect location in modifying flap design. RESULTS: The nasal tip rotation is a single-stage, local flap that provides optimal tissue match with recapitulation of the native topography of the nasal tip and incision lines that are well hidden at the junction of cosmetic subunits. The mechanics of the flap distribute closure tension widely across the alar rim without focal notching or airway compromise. CONCLUSION: The nasal tip rotation flap is a reliable, cosmetically elegant repair that fills a gap in the reconstructive options for anterior ala and soft triangle defects on the nose.

http://ift.tt/2xdBZtT

Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Management of Nail Unit Squamous Cell Carcinomas

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xRqvOy

Commentary on The Nasal Tip Rotation Flap for Reconstruction of the Lateral Nasal Tip, Anterior Ala, and Soft Triangle

imageNo abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xRqtGq

Scholar : These new articles for Aphasiology are available online

Taylor & Francis Online - The new journals and reference work platform for Taylor & Francis
The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content



New for Aphasiology and online now on Taylor & Francis Online:

Original Articles

Rate of aphasia among stroke patients discharged from hospitals in the United States
Charles Ellis, Rose Y. Hardy, Richard C. Lindrooth & Richard K. Peach
Pages: 1-12 | DOI: 10.1080/02687038.2017.1385052


Vowel formant dispersion reflects severity of apraxia of speech
Dirk-Bart den Ouden , Elena Galkina, Alexandra Basilakos & Julius Fridriksson
Pages: 1-20 | DOI: 10.1080/02687038.2017.1385050


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.



Adnexal Carcinomas Treated With Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Comprehensive Review

imageBACKGROUND: Adnexal carcinomas (ACs) are rare cutaneous malignancies of sweat gland or pilosebaceous origin. Optimal treatment and metastatic potential of AC are poorly defined. Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) has been increasingly used to treat AC. OBJECTIVE: To review selected primary cutaneous AC and their treatment outcomes with MMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature review using PubMed search for articles related to primary cutaneous ACs. RESULTS: Sebaceous carcinoma treated with MMS recurred and metastasized in 6.4% and 3.7%, respectively. Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma treated with MMS recurred and metastasized in 9.6% and 6.4%, respectively. After MMS, 4.7% of microcystic AC recurred with no reported metastases. After MMS, recurrences and metastases of trichilemmal carcinoma or hidradenocarcinoma have not been reported. Two (4.2%) regional lymph node metastases but no distant metastases or local recurrences have been reported in eccrine porocarcinoma. Squamoid eccrine duct tumor, pilomatrix carcinoma, and spiradenocarcinoma treated with MMS are also reviewed. CONCLUSION: The rarity of ACs and the lack of comparative data on treatment makes conclusive recommendations on treatment difficult. Recent large case series and reviews suggest MMS is a useful and possibly superior treatment for AC and should be considered if primary cutaneous disease is suspected.

http://ift.tt/2xRqOsG

Unnecessary Cost of Post-Mohs Permanent Pathology

imageBACKGROUND: By providing tumor-free margins, Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) results in high cure rates in the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). However, when closure of the post-MMS defect is coordinated with reconstructive surgery, redundant tissue is sometimes submitted for permanent section evaluation. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of our study was to investigate the frequency and effect of this practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients (12 years and older) with NMSCs cleared by MMS with coordinated closures from 2014 to 2016 were identified. Cost analysis was performed using the 2016 Current Procedural Terminology codes and averaged nation-wide Medicare reimbursement rates. RESULTS: During the study period, 408 cases were coordinated with reconstructive surgeons post-MMS. Of these, 125 had specimens were submitted for permanent section with none showing residual malignancy. There were no significant differences between the cases sent for permanent section and the remaining coordinated MMS cases, with respect to patient age, to basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma histology, or to defect size (p > .05). The marginal cost of sending specimens for permanent section was $121 per case. CONCLUSION: Sending post-MMS redundant tissue for permanent sections may be of limited utility and should not be performed routinely. Additional work is warranted to determine when this practice should be used in conjunction with MMS.

http://ift.tt/2xQWTRK

Analysis of Wait Times and Impact of Real-Time Surveys on Patient Satisfaction

imageBACKGROUND: Increasing emphasis is being placed on patient satisfaction, which is linked to reimbursement rates. The Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) is a national, standardized survey used to assess patient satisfaction. Its limitations include the length of the survey, delay in administration, and generalization to all specialties. Ideal patient satisfaction surveys should collect information in a way that allows for corrective action in a timely manner. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate patient dissatisfaction with wait time using a short, in-office, real-time survey. METHODS: A cross-sectional study in which patients from one provider's office completed a real-time survey. These results were compared with the CAHPS survey data of the same time period. RESULTS: Seven hundred fifty-six patients were seen and 251 surveys were collected. The real-time survey response rate was 33% compared with 9% for the CAHPS survey. Overall, 95.74% of patients who completed the real-time survey were satisfied with their wait times and the duration of their visit, versus 84.2% from the CAHPS survey. CONCLUSION: Implementation of a short in-office survey immediately after patient care can provide better feedback that can be used to ensure that improvement measures are aimed at making significant strides in improving overall health outcomes for patients.

http://ift.tt/2xRjKwj

A Multicenter Pivotal Study to Evaluate Tissue Stabilized—Guided Subcision Using the Cellfina Device for the Treatment of Cellulite With 3-Year Follow-Up

imageBACKGROUND: Cellulite is a common female cosmetic concern for which no single treatment option had been proven effective over the long term. A novel tissue stabilized-guided subsicion system (TS-GS system) has demonstrated significant reduction in the appearance of cellulite after treatment. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this extended follow-up period was to assess the effectiveness of TS-GS out to 3 years after initial treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: After completing an open-label, multicenter, pivotal study, 45 subjects were followed for an extended period of up to 3 years after receiving a single treatment using the TS-GS system. Treatment areas were photographed prior to the procedure and at multiple time points post-treatment throughout the 3 years. In this open-label study, subjects served as their own controls. Effectiveness was assessed based on blinded independent physician panel assessments of improvement from baseline using a cellulite severity scale. Subject aesthetic improvement and patient-reported satisfaction were also collected. RESULTS: The results of this trial supported Food and Drug Administration clearance of the device for the long-term reduction in the appearance of cellulite following TS-GS. CONCLUSION: These data further demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this treatment with no reduction in treatment benefits out to 3 years.

http://ift.tt/2xQgtxn

Lacrimal Apparatus Defect Repair: Use of the Monocanalicular Silicone Stent

imageNo abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xQLqSa

ASDS Guidelines Task Force: Consensus Recommendations Regarding the Safety of Lasers, Dermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Energy Devices, and Skin Surgery During and After Isotretinoin Use

imageBACKGROUND: Currently, the isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid) package insert contains language advising the discontinuation of isotretinoin for 6 months before performing cosmetic procedures, including waxing, dermabrasion, chemical peels, laser procedures, or incisional and excisional cold-steel surgery. It is common practice to follow this standard because of concerns regarding reports of sporadic adverse events and increased risk of scarring. OBJECTIVE: To develop expert consensus regarding the safety of skin procedures, including resurfacing, energy device treatments, and incisional and excisional procedures, in the setting of concurrent or recent isotretinoin use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery authorized a task force of content experts to review the evidence and provide guidance. First, data were extracted from the literature. This was followed by a clinical question review, a consensus Delphi process, and validation of the results by peer review. RESULTS: The task force concluded that there is insufficient evidence to justify delaying treatment with superficial chemical peels and nonablative lasers, including hair removal lasers and lights, vascular lasers, and nonablative fractional devices for patients currently or recently exposed to isotretinoin. Superficial and focal dermabrasion may also be safe when performed by a well-trained clinician.

http://ift.tt/2xQrhvn

Repeatable Tie-Over Dressing Technique Using “3-Way Stop-Cock”

imageNo abstract available

http://ift.tt/2xQcdhd

Neoadjuvant trials can accelerate research on novel systemic treatment modalities in cancer of the uterine cervix

Publication date: Available online 28 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Peter van Dam, Christian Rolfo, Rossna Ruiz




http://ift.tt/2xPVlqP

Could Lymphadenectomy be Avoided in Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer Patients Administered Preoperative Chemoradiation? A Large-Scale Retrospective Study

Publication date: Available online 23 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Gabriella Ferrandina, Mariagrazia Distefano, Floriana Mascilini, Valerio Gallotta, Vito Chiantera, Francesco Cosentino, Barbara Costantini, Alfredo Ercoli, Luigi Pedone Anchora, Francesco Fanfani, Alessandro Pasquale Margariti, Vincenzo Valentini, Giovanni Scambia
IntroductionTo identify a subset of cervical cancer (CC) patients administered chemoradiation (CT/RT) plus radical surgery (RS), who can be spared lymphadenectomy, and complications.Patients and methods430 Stage IB2-IIB patients without LN involvement at imaging were accrued (March 1996-December 2015) at Gynecologic Oncology Unit of the Catholic University of Rome/Campobasso. CT/RT consisted of pelvic irradiation plus cisplatin based chemotherapy. Objective response was evaluated according to RECIST criteria; radical hysterectomy and pelvic ± aortic lymphadenectomy was attempted in patients achieving response or stable disease. Surgical morbidity was classified according to the Chassagne grading system.Results421 cases underwent RS; metastatic pelvic and aortic LNs were documented in 10.7%, and 8.8% of cases, respectively. In patients without residual tumor in the cervix, there was only 1 case (0.53%) with positive pelvic LNs, and 1 case (2.3%) with metastatic aortic LNs. Analysis of patients according to pre- and post-CT/RT imaging was able to select cases without any metastatic LNs: in patients with negative pelvic LNs at pre- and post-CT/RT imaging, none of cases without residual disease in the cervix had metastatic pelvic or aortic LNs. Of 149 early complications, 76 (51.0%) were lymphovascular. The most frequent late complications were lymphovascular (N=25/61, 41.0%).ConclusionLymphadenectomy could be avoided in stage IB2-IIB CC patients undergoing preoperative CT/RT, when a careful evaluation of pre- and post-CT/RT imaging and histological assessment of no residual disease in the cervix is made. This approach may avoid lymphadenectomy in 40% of patients with a favourable impact on lymphovascular morbidity.



http://ift.tt/2ymDUl6

Multicentric initial experience with the use of the pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) in the management of unresectable peritoneal carcinomatosis

Publication date: Available online 21 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Mohammad Alyami, Johan Gagniere, Olivia Sgarbura, Delphine Cabelguenne, Laurent Villeneuve, Denis Pezet, Francois Quenet, Olivier Glehen, Naoual Bakrin, Guillaume Passot
BackgroundPIPAC is a recent approach for intraperitoneal chemotherapy with promising results for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). We aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcome of PIPAC in patients with non-resectable PC during our initial experience of the technique.MethodsAll patients who underwent PIPAC for non-resectable PC in three centers were analyzed regarding postoperative outcomes.ResultsSeventy-three patients underwent 164 PIPAC. PC was from colorectal, gastric, ovarian, malignant mesothelioma, pseudomyxoma peritonei or other origins in 20, 26, 13, 8, 1 and 5 patients respectively. Forty-five (62%), 31 (42%), 8 (11%), 6 (8%), 1 (1%) patients underwent a second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth PIPAC respectively. At the time of the first PIPAC, the median PCI was 17 (1–39), 57 patients presented with symptomatic PC (pain: 33; ascites: 35; transit disorder like diarrhea and constipation: 11). PCI improved in 64.5% of patients, 63.5% of patients presented with complete disappearance of symptoms. Major complications occurred as the outcome of 16 PIPAC (9.7%) and 5 (6.8%) patients died within 30 days of the PIPAC procedure. Rate of mortality and major complications 40% and 62% respectively occurred in first 20 treated patients. For 64 (88%) patients, systemic chemotherapy was associated with PIPAC and could be administered after PIPAC with a median delay of 14 days (2–28).ConclusionsImplementing a PIPAC program in association with systemic chemotherapy is feasible and is associated with a risk of postoperative morbidity, even in teams highly experienced in PC management and requires a learning curve in patient selection.

Teaser

Synopsis: PIPAC is a recent approach for intraperitoneal chemotherapy with promising results for patients with PC. Implementing a PIPAC program in association with systemic chemotherapy is associated with a risk of postoperative morbidity, even in teams highly experienced in PC management.


http://ift.tt/2xPgS2U

Does portal vein embolization prior to liver resection influence the oncological outcomes – a propensity score matched comparison

Publication date: Available online 20 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Joost Huiskens, Pim B. Olthof, Eric P. van der Stok, Thomas Bais, Krijn P. van Lienden, Adriaan Moelker, Jan Krumeich, Rudi M. Roumen, Dirk J. Grünhagen, Cornelis J.A. Punt, Martin van Amerongen, Johannes H.W. de Wilt, Cornelis Verhoef, Thomas M. Van Gulik
IntroductionThere is an ongoing controversy surrounding portal vein embolization (PVE) regarding the short-term safety of PVE and long-term oncological benefit. This study aims to compare survival outcomes of patients subjected to major liver resection for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) with or without PVE.MethodsAll consecutive patients who underwent major liver resection for CRLM in four high volume liver centers between January 2000 and December 2015 were included. Major liver resection was defined as resection of at least three Couinaud liver segments. To reduce selection bias, propensity score matching was performed for PVE and non-PVE patients with overall and disease-free survival as primary endpoints. For matching, all patients who underwent PVE followed by a major liver resection were selected. Patients were matched to patients who had undergone major liver resection without PVE.ResultsOf 745 patients undergoing major liver resection for CRLM, 53 patients (7%) underwent PVE before liver resection. In the overall cohorts, PVE patients had inferior DFS and a trend towards inferior OS. A total of 46 PVE patients were matched to 46 non-PVE patients to create comparable cohorts and between these two matched cohorts no differences in DFS (3-year DFS 16% vs 9%, p = 0.776) or OS (5-year OS 14% vs 14%, p = 0.866) were found.ConclusionsThis retrospective, matched analysis does not suggest a negative impact of PVE on long-term outcomes after liver resection in patients with CRLM.



http://ift.tt/2ymDFXe

Preoperative segmental localization of colorectal carcinoma: CT colonography vs. optical colonoscopy

Publication date: Available online 20 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): T. Offermans, F.J. Vogelaar, M. Aquarius, M.L.G. Janssen-Heijnen, P.C.G. Simons
BackgroundAdequate preoperative segmental localization of colorectal cancer is important to indicate the right surgical treatment. Preoperative localization has become more important in the era of minimally invasive surgery. The aim of this study was to compare optical colonoscopy (OC) and CT colonography (CTC) with respect to the error rates in the segmental localization of colorectal carcinoma.MethodsA total of 420 patients with histopathologically proven colorectal carcinoma underwent CTC between December 2006 and February 2017. 284 Of these patients underwent surgical resection and had their carcinomas located on CTC report as well as OC report and surgical report. The segmental localization error rates of OC and CTC were compared using surgery as golden standard. McNemar's test was used to evaluate the differences in error rate.Results284 Patients with a total of 296 colorectal carcinomas were evaluated. The segmental localization error rate of CTC (39/296, 13.2%) was found to be lower than the segmental localization error rate of OC (64/296, 21.6%) (p < 0.001). Per segment analysis showed that OC had a significantly higher error rate for carcinomas located in the descending colon (60.6% vs. 21.2% [p < 0.001] and cecum(60.0% vs. 23.3% [p = 0.001]). In 9.2% of the patients (26/284), localization based on CTC would lead to a change in surgical plan.ConclusionCTC has a lower localization error rate than OC, which is most relevant for tumors located in the descending colon. If there is a doubtful localization on OC, particularly in the left-sided colon, an additional CTC should be performed to choose the best surgical treatment.



http://ift.tt/2xPCOuJ

Early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy is associated with survival benefit for appendiceal adenocarcinoma with peritoneal dissemination

Publication date: Available online 28 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Yeqian Huang, Nayef A. Alzahrani, Winston Liauw, Hussein Soudy, Abdulaziz M. Alzahrani, David L. Morris
IntroductionThe combined approach of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has achieved encouraging outcomes for patients with PMCA with peritoneal dissemination. However, there is little evidence for the use of EPIC in addition to HIPEC in this group of patients.Patients and MethodsThis was a retrospective study of prospectively collected data of consecutive patients with PMCA who underwent CRS and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy by one surgical team at St George Hospital in Sydney, Australia between Jan 1996 and Aug 2016.ResultsA total of 185 patients formed the cohort of this study. However, there was no significant difference in terms of hospital mortality (p=0.632), major morbidity rate (i.e. Grade III/IV) (p=0.444), intensive unit care stay (p=0.638) and total hospital stay (p=0.0.078). However, patients who received HIPEC and EPIC had a significant longer stay in high dependency unit (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed combined HIPEC with EPIC is an independent prognostic factor for better overall survival (Hazard ratio (HR)=0.42, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.19-0.92, P=0.030) and disease free survival (HR=0.66, 95%CI=0.44-0.99, p=0.045), adjusted for age, sex, peritoneal cancer index, completeness of cytoreduction score, CEA≥6.5mg/L, CA19-9≥24.0 U/mL and CA125≥32.0 U/mL.ConclusionsIn summary, the combination of HIPEC and EPIC could potentially provide additional survival benefit for patients with PMCA with peritoneal spread as compared to HIPEC alone without increasing postoperative morbidity and mortality. More studies are warranted to further confirm the potential benefits of EPIC in PMCA and address the question of optimal drug and/or duration of EPIC.



http://ift.tt/2ykFCDi

Epidemiology of rare cancers and inequalities in oncologic outcomes

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): G. Gatta, A. Trama, R. Capocaccia
Rare cancers epidemiology is better known compared to the other rare diseases. Thanks to the long history of the European population-based cancer registries and to the EUROCARE huge database, the burden of rare cancers has been estimated the European (EU28) population. A considerable fraction of all cancers is represented by rare cancers (24%). They are a heterogeneous group of diseases, but they share similar problems: uncertainty of diagnosis, lack of therapies, poor research opportunities, difficulties in clinical trials, lack of expertise and of centres of reference. This paper analyses the major epidemiological indicators of frequency (incidence and prevalence) and outcome (5-year survival) of all rare cancers combined and of selected rare cancers that will be in depth treated in this monographic issue. Source of the results is the RARECAREnet search, a database publicly available. Disparities both in incidence and survival, and consequently in prevalence of rare cancers were reported across European countries. Major differences were shown in outcome: 5-year relative survival for all rare cancers together, adjusted by age and case-mix, varied from 55% or more (Italy, Germany, Belgium and Iceland) and less than 40% (Bulgaria, Lithuania and Slovakia). Similarly, for all the analyzed rare cancers, a large survival gap was observed between the Eastern and the Nordic and Central European regions. Dramatic geographical variations were assessed for curable cancers like testicular and non epithelial ovarian cancers. Geographical difference in the annual age-adjusted incidence rates for all rare cancers together varied between >140 per 100,000 (Italy, Scotland, France, Germany, and Switzerland) and < 100 (Finland, Portugal, Malta, and Poland). Prevalence, the major indicator of public health resources needs, was about 7-8 times larger than incidence. Most of rare cancers require complex surgical treatment, thus a multidisciplinary approach is essential and treatment should be provided in centres of expertise and/or in networks including expert centres. Networking is the most appropriate answer to the issues pertaining to rare cancers. Actually, in Europe, an opportunity to improve outcome and reduce disparities is provided by the creation of the European Reference Networks for rare diseases (ERNs). The Joint Action of rare cancers (JARC) is a major European initiative aimed to support the mission of the ERNs. The role of population based cancer registries still remains crucial to describe rare cancers management and outcome in the real word and to evaluate progresses made at the country and at the European level.



http://ift.tt/2xQQyWr

Treatment challenges in and outside a network setting: soft tissue sarcomas

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Sandro Pasquali, Sylvie Bonvalot, Tzanis Dimitri, Paolo G. Casali, Annalisa Trama, Alessandro Gronchi
Patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) experienced better outcomes when treated according to existing clinical practice guidelines either at reference institution or dedicated treatment networks. Despite increasing evidence supporting referral to sarcoma specialised units, up to half of patients are not managed according to guidelines, particularly those in the early stage of their disease requiring surgery. Also, criteria to certify expertise of institutions, such as the treatment volume, are debated and health authorities have only recently started identification of these centres and creation of treatment networks in Europe as well as in several countries. This process have important implications for both patient outcomes and innovation of existing treatment strategies through clinical research, making improvement of clinical pathways a priority for health care authorities. This article will discuss issues with management of patients with STS, such as pathological diagnosis and adherence to guidelines, and the definition of referral centres and networks will be illustrated along with existing experiences and population-based data.



http://ift.tt/2ymQctq

CA 19-9 to peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) ratio is prognostic in patients with epithelial appendiceal mucinous neoplasms and peritoneal dissemination undergoing cytoreduction surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Mathew A. Kozman, Oliver M. Fisher, Bree-Anne J. Rebolledo, Sarah J. Valle, Nayef Alzahrani, Winston Liauw, David L. Morris
BackgroundSerum tumour levels have been shown to be prognostic in patients with epithelial appendiceal mucinous neoplasms with peritoneal dissemination (pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP)). A singular index which incorporates both tumour activity (as depicted by serum tumour marker levels) and tumour volume (as depicted by peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI)), may give a more precise surrogate of tumour biological behaviour. The prognostic implication of this index has not yet been reported.MethodsA retrospective cohort study of all patients with PMP managed from 1996 to 2016 with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) was performed by analysing the survival effect of the ratio of preoperative serum CEA, CA19.9 and CA125 to PCI.ResultsThree hundred and eighty-six patients were included. In patients with low-grade PMP, elevated CA19-9/PCI ratio resulted in poorer median overall survival times (104 months vs NR, 95%CI 83 – NR, log-rank p<0.001) and was an independent predictor of reduced overall survival on multivariable analysis (adjusted HR 5.60, 95%CI 1.60 - 19.68, p = 0.007). In patients with high-grade PMP, no statistically significant difference in survival was recognised. Recurrence free survival times were not significantly affected by serum tumour marker levels or ratios.ConclusionCA19-9/PCI ratio is an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with low-grade PMP undergoing CRS and IPC. By accounting for both tumour activity and tumour volume simultaneously, this novel index behaves as a surrogate of tumour biology and provides a useful adjunct for decisions regarding treatment allocation in this patient group.



http://ift.tt/2xRjiy7

Is it necessary to dissect the posterior lymph nodes along the splenic vessels during total gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy for advanced gastric cancer?

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Jian-Xian Lin, Chang-Ming Huang, Chao-Hui Zheng, Ping Li, Jian-Wei Xie, Jia-Bin Wang, Jun Lu, Qi-Yue Chen, Long-Long Cao, Mi Lin
BackgroundD2 lymphadenectomy including No.10 lymph nodes (LNs) is the standard procedure for treating advanced gastric cancer (AGC) via total gastrectomy. However, there was no research focusing on the posterior LN dissection along the splenic vessels (No.10p LNs). This study is performed to assess the effect of dissecting No.10p LNs.MethodsWe analyzed 404 consecutive gastric cancer patients who underwent laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) with D2 lymphadenectomy. There were 68 patients with No.10p LN dissection (No.10p group), and 336 patients without No.10p LN dissection (nNo.10p group). The surgical outcomes are compared.ResultsNo.10p LN dissection was preferentially performed in patients who were younger and had a lower BMI, concentrated and single-branched type of splenic artery, and pancreatic tail near the lower pole of the spleen. The time for No.10 LN dissection and the number of No.10 LNs were greater in the No.10p group than in the nNo.10p group. There was no No.10p LNs metastasis, and the numbers of positive No.10 LNs were similar between the two groups. The morbidity and mortality rates of the No.10p group were comparable to those of the nNo.10p group. The overall survival (OS) rates of the two groups were not significantly different (P>0.05).ConclusionsAlthough No.10p LN dissection might retrieve more No.10 LNs, operation times were longer, and the number of positive No.10 LNs and the OS rate were not improved. It might be no necessary to dissect No.10p LNs during total gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy for AGC.



http://ift.tt/2ymPSLe

Timing of initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy for gastric cancer: A case-matched comparison study of laparoscopic vs. open surgery; methodological issues

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Erfan Ayubi, Saeid Safiri




http://ift.tt/2xQPWjB

Multidisciplinary international survey of post-operative radiation therapy practices after nipple-sparing or skin-sparing mastectomy

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Gustavo Nader Marta, Philip Poortmans, Alfredo C. de Barros, José Roberto Filassi, Ruffo Freitas Junior, Riccardo A. Audisio, Max Senna Mano, Sarkis Meterissian, Sarah M. DeSnyder, Thomas A. Buchholz, Tarek Hijal
Purpose/Objective(s)Skin sparing mastectomy (SSM) and nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) have entered routine surgical practice for breast cancer, though their oncologic safety has not been established in randomized controlled trials. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare radiation oncologists' and breast surgeons' opinions concerning the indications of post-operative radiation therapy (PORT) after SSM and NSM.Materials/MethodsRadiation oncologists and breast surgeons from North America, South America and Europe were invited to contribute in this study. A 22-question survey was used to evaluate their opinions.ResultsA total of 550 physicians (298 radiation oncologists and 252 breast surgeons) answered the survey. The majority of responders affirmed that PORT should be performed in early-stage (stages I and II) breast cancer for patients who present with risk factors for relapse after SSM and NSM. They considered age, lymph node involvement, tumor size, extracapsular extension, involved surgical margins, lymphovascular invasion, triple negative receptor status and multicentric presentation as major risk factors. Considering that after SSM and NSM, residual breast tissue can be left behind, the residual tissue considered as acceptable in the context of an oncologic surgery were 1–5 mm for breast surgeons. There is no consensus for the necessity of evaluating residual breast tissue through breast imaging.ConclusionAlthough the indications of PORT after SSM and NSM vary among practitioners, standard risk factors for relapse are considered as important by radiation oncologists and breast surgeons.



http://ift.tt/2ylYBgV

Incidental detection of colorectal lesions by FDG PET/CT scans in melanoma patients

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Christopher J. Young, Assad Zahid, Ian Choy, John F. Thompson, Robyn P.M. Saw
BackgroundIncreased use of PET/CT scans in oncology patients has raised detection of Colorectal incidentalomas (CIs). The frequency and diagnostic outcomes of identifying these lesions in melanoma patients have not previously been studied. This studies primary objective was to determine the prevalence of CIs found on PET/CT scans in melanoma patients. The secondary objectives were to correlate the PET/CT findings with the pathology found at colonoscopy, and identify which patients were referred for colonoscopy.MethodsA retrospective analysis of patients identified from the prospectively collected research database of Melanoma Institute Australia. 2509 patients with melanoma underwent PET/CT scans between 2001 and 2013. The prevalence of CIs, the correlation of lesions, and the survival of patients who underwent colonoscopy versus patients who did not were analyzed.ResultsThe prevalence of CIs in melanoma patients who had PET/CT scans was 3.2%. Forty-five of the 81 (56%) patients with CIs underwent colonoscopy. Of these, premalignant or malignant disease was found in 58%. Patients with previous metastatic melanoma were significantly less likely to be referred for colonoscopy. Patients undergoing colonoscopy had significantly better survival, as did those without previous distant metastases before the CIs were found, and those without any metastases at the time the CIs were found. These factors were not significant on multivariate analysis.ConclusionThe prevalence of incidental colorectal lesions identified on PET/CT scans in melanoma patients was found to be equivalent to that in the general cancer population. Patients undergoing colonoscopy had better survival than those who did not.



http://ift.tt/2xRj3mH

Correlation of clinicopathologic features and lung squamous cell carcinoma subtypes according to the 2015 WHO classification

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2017
Source:European Journal of Surgical Oncology (EJSO)
Author(s): Rongrong Chen, Zhengping Ding, Lei Zhu, Shun Lu, Yongfeng Yu
AimsThis study aimed to determine the relationship between clinicopathologic features and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) subtypes according to the 2015 WHO classification.MethodsWe identified 824 operable LSCC patients undergoing a complete surgical resection at Shanghai Chest Hospital between April 2015 and January 2017. Immunohistochemistry was used to investigate the clinicopathologic features.ResultsAmong them, the percentages of LSCC subtypes were 66.1% (545/824), 28.6% (236/824), and 5.2% (43/824) for keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma (KSCC), nonkeratinizing squamous cell carcinoma (NKSCC), and basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC), respectively. There were more males, more smokers, and more pneumonectomy surgeries in KSCC patients (p = 0.008, p = 0.000, p = 0.043). There were more N2 lymph node involvement and pathological stage III in NKSCC patients (p = 0.01, p = 0.03). BSCC did not demonstrate specificity to anything, but expressed adenocarcinoma markers more frequently. No significant difference existed between pathological subtypes and other clinicopathologic features, such as age, location type, visceral pleural involvement and lymphovascular invasion. The frequencies of EGFR sensitive mutations and ALK rearrangements were not significantly different among three subtypes.ConclusionSignificant relationships exist between some clinicopathologic features and LSCC subtypes.



http://ift.tt/2ylYqlL

Significance of finding benign endometrial cells in women 40–45 versus 46 years or older on Papanicolaou tests and histologic follow-up

Shanna M Colletti, Ghassan A Tranesh, Aziza Nassar

CytoJournal 2017 14(1):22-22

Background: The 2014 Bethesda System recommends reporting the finding of benign-appearing, exfoliated endometrial cells on Papanicolaou (Pap) tests in women aged 45 years and older. We aimed to determine the significance of normal endometrial cells on liquid-based Pap tests in women aged 40 years and older and to correlate this finding with clinical factors and cytologic/histologic follow-up. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively identified all women aged 40 years and older who had benign endometrial cells (BECs) on Pap tests at our institution during a 6-year period. Histologic follow-up and outcomes were evaluated. Results: Among 18,850 Pap tests during the study period, 255 (1.4%) had findings of BECs and 159 (62.4%) of these women had follow-up Pap tests or subsequent tissue sampling by surgical procedures. Of the 159 cases, only 4 (2.5%) had significant endometrial pathologic processes, all endometrial endometrioid adenocarcinoma (three women had postmenopausal bleeding and 1 was perimenopausal with menorrhagia). No women between ages 40 and 45 years had significant pathologic findings and only one woman between 46 and 50 years (47 years) had an endometrial endometrioid carcinoma (1.5%). Women older than 47 years have higher odds (5.38) of having a significant endometrial lesion (P = 0.029) than those who are ≤47. Conclusion: Clinically significant endometrial lesions occurred predominantly in women older than 50 years (4.6%) and in only one woman between ages 46 and 50 years (1.5%). Therefore, endometrial sampling should be performed in women aged 47 years and older with BECs, especially when additional clinical indicators (e.g., postmenopausal bleeding) are recognized.

http://ift.tt/2xRiWaL

Perihepatic cystic mass: Zebra or horse?

Alan Marcus, June Koizumi, Brian Robinson, Tamara Giorgadze

CytoJournal 2017 14(1):21-21



http://ift.tt/2ylYhyJ

Fine needle aspiration of spindle cell ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast: A case report and the use of ancillary tests for the differential diagnosis of metaplastic carcinoma

Yosep Chong, Young Sub Lee, Tae-Jung Kim, Woo-Chan Park, Chang Suk Kang, Eun Jung Lee

CytoJournal 2017 14(1):23-23

Spindle cell ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a recently recognized subtype of DCIS, which is associated with a very rare and unique morphology. Although the histologic features have been relatively well described in a few reports, the cytologic features have not. Even though the distinction of this lesion from usual DCIS is not crucial clinically, it should be noted that this lesion might simulate the features of metaplastic carcinoma on fine needle aspiration cytology. Here, we report a case of spindle cell DCIS in a 45-year-old female, with the detailed cytologic features, both on conventional and liquid-based preparations, along with some useful immunohistochemical staining markers for the differential diagnosis.

http://ift.tt/2xQPUIv

Instructions to Authors

Publication date: October 2017
Source:The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences, Volume 33, Issue 10





http://ift.tt/2ylY7r7

Checklist

Publication date: October 2017
Source:The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences, Volume 33, Issue 10





http://ift.tt/2xPCLix

Authorship and conflict statements

Publication date: October 2017
Source:The Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences, Volume 33, Issue 10





http://ift.tt/2ylJl3p

Impact of a pH 5 Oil-in-Water Emulsion on Skin Surface pH

Background: Human skin surface has a physiologically acidic pH (pHss). In cases of increased pHss, the acidity of the skin can be restored by topical formulations. We tested a pH 5 oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion for pHss regeneration and stabilization. Methods: We performed 2 experiments with 10 female study subjects in each. In both experiments, 2D imaging with luminescent sensor foils was used to determine pHss. Alkalization was reached by washing the volar forearm with a soap bar and warm running tap water for 20 min. Experiment 1: after defining the baseline pHss, we alkalized the respective area and measured pHss over a duration of 5 h, while applying emulsion every hour. Experiment 2: study subjects used the emulsion twice daily for 1 week. Then, pHss was measured before and after 5 min of washing a treated and an untreated area on the volar forearm. Results: (1) 5 h after alkalization, the treated arm showed a significantly lower pHss than the untreated one (5.87 ± 0.03 vs. 6.05 ± 0.03); (2) after washing, the treated area had a significantly lower pHss than controls (6.13 ± 0.03 vs. 6.27 ± 0.05). Conclusions: The tested pH 5 O/W emulsion seems to improve regeneration and stabilization of pHss.
Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2017;30:292-297

http://ift.tt/2wvcchv

Kojic acid: Side effects and benefits

Learn about kojic acid, a substance found in skin-lightening cosmetic products. We look at its effects, uses, and possible side effects.

http://ift.tt/2ylkugh

Quantitative proteomic analysis reveals that chemotaxis is involved in chlortetracycline resistance of Aeromonas hydrophila

Publication date: Available online 3 October 2017
Source:Journal of Proteomics
Author(s): Wanxin Li, Farman Ali, Qilan Cai, Zujie Yao, Lina Sun, Wenxion Lin, Xiangmin Lin
In recent years, Aeromonas hydrophila, which has been classified as a food borne pathogen, has presented with increased levels of antibiotic resistance, with the mechanisms of this resistance being poorly understood. In this study, iTRAQ coupled mass spectrometry was employed to compare differentially expressed proteins in chlortetracycline (CTC) resistant A. hydrophila relative to a control strain. Result showed that a total of 234 differential proteins including 151 down-regulated and 83 up-regulated were identified in chlortetracycline resistance strain. Bioinformatics analysis showed that chemotaxis related proteins, such as CheA-2, CheR-3, CheW-2, EnvZ, PolA, FliS and FliG were down-regulated in addition to previously reported tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) related proteins also being down-regulated. A subset of identified differentially expressed proteins was then further validated via Western blotting. Exogenous metabolite combined with CTC further enhanced the bacterial susceptibilities to CTC in A. hydrophila. Furthermore, a bacterial survival capability assay showed that several chemotaxis related mutants, such as ΔcheR-3 and ΔAHA_0305, may affect the antimicrobial susceptibility of A. hydrophila. Overall, these findings contribute to a further understanding of the mechanism of CTC resistance in A. hydrophila and may contribute to the development of more effective future treatments.Biological significanceA. hydrophila is a well-known fish pathogenic bacterium and has presented with increasing levels of antibiotic resistance, with the mechanisms of this resistance being poorly understood. Our current study compared the differentially expression proteins between chlortetracycline (CTC) resistant and control stains via an iTARQ-based quantitative proteomics method. Chemotaxis related proteins were down-regulated in CTC resistant strain but exogenous metabolite addition increased bacterial susceptibility in A.hydrophila. Significantly, chemotaxis related genes depletion affected antimicrobial susceptibilities of A.hydrophila indicating the role of chemotaxis process in antibiotics resistance.

Graphical abstract

image


http://ift.tt/2fNyqIr

First-in-Human Study of Acoustic Angiography in the Breast and Peripheral Vasculature

S03015629.gif

Publication date: Available online 2 October 2017
Source:Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
Author(s): Sarah E. Shelton, Brooks D. Lindsey, Paul A. Dayton, Yueh Z. Lee
Screening with mammography has been found to increase breast cancer survival rates by about 20%. However, the current system in which mammography is used to direct patients toward biopsy or surgical excision also results in relatively high rates of unnecessary biopsy, as 66.8% of biopsies are benign. A non-ionizing radiation imaging approach with increased specificity might reduce the rate of unnecessary biopsies. Quantifying the vascular characteristics within and surrounding lesions represents one potential target for assessing likelihood of malignancy via imaging. In this clinical note, we describe the translation of a contrast-enhanced ultrasound technique, acoustic angiography, to human imaging. We illustrate the feasibility of this technique with initial studies in imaging the hand, wrist and breast using Definity microbubble contrast agent and a mechanically steered prototype dual-frequency transducer in healthy volunteers. Finally, this approach was used to image pre-biopsy Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) 4 and 5 lesions <2 cm in depth in 11 patients. Results indicate that sensitivity and spatial resolution are sufficient to image vessels as small as 0.2 mm in diameter at depths of ~15 mm in the human breast. Challenges observed include motion artifacts, as well as limited depth of field and sensitivity, which could be improved by correction algorithms and improved transducer technologies.



http://ift.tt/2xODF1b

Transtemporal Investigation of Brain Parenchyma Elasticity Using 2-D Shear Wave Elastography: Definition of Age-Matched Normal Values

S03015629.gif

Publication date: Available online 2 October 2017
Source:Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
Author(s): Michael Ertl, Nele Raasch, Gertrud Hammel, Katharina Harter, Christopher Lang
The goal of our research was to assess the possibility of reliable investigation of brain tissue stiffness using ultrasonographic brain parenchyma elastography with an intact temporal bone. We enrolled 108 patients after exclusion of intracranial pathology or healthy volunteers. All patients were subdivided by age into groups: 20–40, 40–60 and >60 y. For statistical analysis, the χ2 test and t-test were used. The mean values, regardless of age and other parameters, were 3.34 kPa (SD = 0.59) on the left side and 3.33 kPa (SD = 0.58) on the right side. We found no correlation between the values, body mass index (r = 0.07, p = 0.48) and sex (t = −0.11, p = 0.91), but we observed a highly significant correlation between the values and age (r = 0.43, p < 0.0001). We found ultrasonographic brain parenchyma elastography to be a valid, reproducible and investigator-independent method that reliably determines brain parenchyma stiffness. Normal values should serve as a reference for studies on various intracranial lesions.



http://ift.tt/2fNybwZ

Scholar : Traffic Injury Prevention, Volume 18, Issue 8, November 17, 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online

Taylor & Francis Online - The new journals and reference work platform for Taylor & Francis
The online platform for Taylor & Francis Online content

Traffic Injury Prevention, Volume 18, Issue 8, November 17, 2017 is now available online on Taylor & Francis Online.



This new issue contains the following articles:

Original Articles

Understanding the context of alcohol impaired driving for fatal crash–involved drivers: A descriptive case analysis
Lisa Wundersitz & Simon Raftery
Pages: 781-787 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1322696


Acute impairing effects of morphine related to driving: A systematic review of experimental studies to define blood morphine concentrations related to impairment in opioid-naïve subjects
Maren Cecilie Strand, Marianne Arnestad, Bente Fjeld & Jørg Mørland
Pages: 788-794 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1326595


Prevalence of drink-driving among adults in China: A nationally representative survey in 2010
Deng Xiao, Ye Pengpeng, Li Yichong, Duan Leilei, Wang Limin, Ruth A. Shults, Douglas R. Roehler & Sue Lin Yee
Pages: 795-800 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2016.1161760


Increasing use of cannabis among arrested drivers in Norway
Anja Valen, Stig Tore Bogstrand, Vigdis Vindenes & Hallvard Gjerde
Pages: 801-806 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1321114


German taxi drivers' experiences and expressions of driving anger: Are the driving anger scale and the driving anger expression inventory valid measures?
Stefan Brandenburg, Michael Oehl & Kristin Seigies
Pages: 807-812 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1316493


Driving violations and health promotion behaviors among undergraduate students: Self-report of on-road behavior
Liat Korn, Yossi Weiss & Tova Rosenbloom
Pages: 813-819 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1316842


Provisional drivers' perceptions of the impact of displaying P plates
Lyndel Bates, Bridie Scott-Parker, Millie Darvell & Barry Watson
Pages: 820-825 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1322697


A spectral power analysis of driving behavior changes during the transition from nondistraction to distraction
Yuan Wang, Shan Bao, Wenjun Du, Zhirui Ye & James R. Sayer
Pages: 826-831 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1320549


Impact of improving vehicle front design on the burden of pedestrian injuries in Germany, the United States, and India
Dane Moran , Dipan Bose & Kavi Bhalla
Pages: 832-838 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1324200


Risk of serious injury of occupants involved in frontal crashes of cab-over-type trucks
Hyeok-Jin Jeon, Sang-Chul Kim, Jaeho Shin, Jae-Yoon Jung, Kang-Hyun Lee , Hee-Young Lee & Ho-Jung Kim
Pages: 839-844 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1315413


Perils of using speed zone data to assess real-world compliance to speed limits
Anna Chevalier , Elizabeth Clarke, Aran John Chevalier, Julie Brown, Kristy Coxon, Rebecca Ivers & Lisa Keay
Pages: 845-851 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1315636


Efficacy of seat-mounted thoracic side airbags in the German vehicle fleet
Luke Gaylor, Mirko Junge & Sylvester Abanteriba
Pages: 852-858 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1316843


Effects of rearview cameras and rear parking sensors on police-reported backing crashes
Jessica B. Cicchino
Pages: 859-865 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1317758


Predictors of restraint use among child occupants
Marco Benedetti, Kathleen D. Klinich, Miriam A. Manary & Carol A. Flannagan
Pages: 866-869 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1318209


Standardized error severity score (ESS) ratings to quantify risk associated with child restraint system (CRS) and booster seat misuse
Christina M. Rudin-Brown, Chelsea Kramer, Robin Langerak, Andrea Scipione & Shelley Kelsey
Pages: 870-876 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1322204


Are automatic systems the future of motorcycle safety? A novel methodology to prioritize potential safety solutions based on their projected effectiveness
Gustavo Gil , Giovanni Savino , Simone Piantini , Niccolò Baldanzini , Riender Happee & Marco Pierini
Pages: 877-885 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1326594


Corrigendum

Corrigendum
Pages: 886-886 | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1369727


Miscellany

Editorial Board EOV
Pages: ebi-ebi | DOI: 10.1080/15389588.2017.1382185


Browse articles in this special issue on: 'Advancements in Civil and Structural Engineering'

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.



Arsenic removal methods for drinking water in the developing countries: technological developments and research needs

Abstract

Arsenic pollution of drinking water is a concern, particularly in the developing countries. Removal of arsenic from drinking water is strongly recommended. Despite the availability of efficient technologies for arsenic removal, the small and rural communities in the developing countries are not capable of employing most of these technologies due to their high cost and technical complexity. There is a need for the "low-cost" and "easy to use" technologies to protect the humans in the arsenic affected developing countries. In this study, arsenic removal technologies were summarized and the low-cost technologies were reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of these technologies were identified and their scopes of applications and improvements were investigated. The costs were compared in context to the capacity of the low-income populations in the developing countries. Finally, future research directions were proposed to protect the low-income populations in the developing countries.



http://ift.tt/2kh5j1k

Sectoral assessment of greenhouse gas emissions in Pakistan

Abstract

In this study, an attempt has been made to develop inventory of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for Pakistan at the national and sectoral level. The emission profile includes carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). In 2012, GHG emissions from different sectors of economy are estimated at 367 Tg CO2eq. Out of this, CO2 emissions were 179 Tg; CH4 emissions were 107 Tg CO2eq; and N2O emissions were 81 Tg CO2eq. Energy and agriculture sectors contribute approximately 89% of national GHG emissions. Industrial processes, waste, and land use change and forestry (LUCF) sectors contribute the remaining 11% GHG emissions. A comparison with the 1994 GHG emission inventory of Pakistan shows that GHG emissions in Pakistan from 1994 to 2012 have increased at an annual growth rate of 4.1% and yet anticipated to increase further for meeting the national developmental goals; however, the per capita emissions in Pakistan will remain low when compared with the global average.



http://ift.tt/2ylR8hW

Radionuclides as natural tracers of the interaction between groundwater and surface water in the River Andarax, Spain

S0265931X.gif

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 180
Author(s): Francisco Navarro-Martinez, Alejandro Salas Garcia, Francisco Sánchez-Martos, Antonio Baeza Espasa, Luis Molina Sánchez, Antonio Rodríguez Perulero
The identification of specific aquifers that supply water to river systems is fundamental to understanding the dynamics of the rivers' hydrochemistry, particularly in arid and semiarid environments where river flow may be discontinuous. There are multiple methods to identify the source of river water. In this study of the River Andarax, in the Southeast of Spain, an analysis of natural tracers (physico-chemical parameters, uranium, radium and radon) in surface water and groundwater indicates that chemical parameters and uranium clearly identify the areas where there is groundwater-surface water interaction. The concentration of uranium found in the river defines two areas: the headwaters with U concentrations of 2 μg L−1 and the lower reaches, with U of 6 μg L−1. Furthermore, variation in the 234U/238U isotopic ratio allowed us to detect the influence that groundwater from the carbonate aquifer has on surface water in the headwaters of the river, where the saline content is lower and the water has a calcium bicarbonate facies. The concentration of 226Ra and 222Rn are low in the surface waters: <1.6 × 10−6 μg L−1 and <5.1 × 10−12 μg L−1, respectively. There is a slight increase in the lower reaches where the water has a permanent flow, greater salinity and a calcium-magnesium-sulphate facies. All this is favoured by the influence of groundwater from the detritic aquifer on the surface waters. The results of this study indicate the utility in the use of physico-chemical and radiological data conjointly as tracers of groundwater-surface water interaction in semiarid areas where the lithology of aquifers is diverse (carbonate and detritic) and where evaporitic rocks are present.



http://ift.tt/2xXJfhu

A data-oriented self-calibration and robust chemical-shift encoding by using clusterization (OSCAR): Theory, optimization and clinical validation in neuromuscular disorders

S0730725X.gif

Publication date: Available online 2 October 2017
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Author(s): G. Siracusano, A. La Corte, M. Gaeta, G. Finocchio
Multi-echo Chemical Shift–Encoded (CSE) methods for Fat-Water quantification are growing in clinical use due to their ability to estimate and correct some confounding effects. State of the art CSE water/fat separation approaches rely on a multi-peak fat spectrum with peak frequencies and relative amplitudes kept constant over the entire MRI dataset. However, the latter approximation introduces a systematic error in fat percentage quantification in patients where the differences in lipid chemical composition are significant (such as for neuromuscular disorders) because of the spatial dependence of the peak amplitudes. The present work aims to overcome this limitation by taking advantage of an unsupervised clusterization-based approach offering a reliable criterion to carry out a data-driven segmentation of the input MRI dataset into multiple regions. Results established that the presented algorithm is able to identify at least 4 different partitions from MRI dataset under which to perform independent self-calibration routines and was found robust in NMD imaging studies (as evaluated on a cohort of 24 subjects) against latest CSE techniques with either calibrated or non-calibrated approaches. Particularly, the PDFF of the thigh was more reproducible for the quantitative estimation of pathological muscular fat infiltrations, which may be promising to evaluate disease progression in clinical practice.



http://ift.tt/2fNwwat

Patient-adapted respiratory training: Effect on navigator-triggered 3D MRCP in painful pancreatobiliary disorders

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: January 2018
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Volume 45
Author(s): Liang Zhu, Zhao-yong Sun, Hua-dan Xue, Dong Liu, Tian-yi Qian, Patrick Asbach, Zheng-yu Jin
PurposeTo compare the image quality of navigator-triggered (NT) 3D MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) with and without a patient-adapted respiratory training, in clinical patients with painful pancreatobiliary disorders.Materials and methodsWith institutional review board approval, hospitalized patients with painful pancreatobiliary disorders who were scheduled for MRCP study were prospectively enrolled. The numerical rating scale (NRS) of abdominal pain during the examination was recorded. Special patient-adapted respiratory training was conducted before the examination. A control group of patients was enrolled with the same criteria, who received ordinary instructions only (n=60 for each group). A subgroup of patients (n=10) underwent MRCP studies with ordinary instructions first and with patient-adapted training later. Acquisition time was recorded. General image quality, degree of artifacts and visualization of 12 segments of the pancreatobiliary tree were rated on a five-point scale and compared between the groups.ResultBoth groups had similar NRS of pain. There was a significant improvement in image quality (p<0.01) as well as visualization of right posterior hepatic duct (p=0.045), left lateral hepatic duct (p=0.037), and pancreatic duct (p<0.01 for head, body and tail segments) in patients receiving respiratory training. The other segments showed no significant differences. The percentage of patients with severe and extensive imaging artifacts decreased from 18.3%(11/60) to 8.3%(5/60). The acquisition time was shorter (175±54s vs 249±67s, p<0.01) in patients with respiratory training.ConclusionPatient-adapted respiratory training improves the image quality of NT-MRCP in patients with painful pancreatobiliary disorders.



http://ift.tt/2fMvsUD

3D patient-specific models for left atrium characterization to support ablation in atrial fibrillation patients

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: January 2018
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Volume 45
Author(s): Maddalena Valinoti, Claudio Fabbri, Dario Turco, Roberto Mantovan, Antonio Pasini, Cristiana Corsi
BackgroundRadiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an important and promising therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Optimization of patient selection and the availability of an accurate anatomical guide could improve RFA success rate. In this study we propose a unified, fully automated approach to build a 3D patient-specific left atrium (LA) model including pulmonary veins (PVs) in order to provide an accurate anatomical guide during RFA and without PVs in order to characterize LA volumetry and support patient selection for AF ablation.MethodsMagnetic resonance data from twenty-six patients referred for AF RFA were processed applying an edge-based level set approach guided by a phase–based edge detector to obtain the 3D LA model with PVs. An automated technique based on the shape diameter function was designed and applied to remove PVs and compute LA volume. 3D LA models were qualitatively compared with 3D LA surfaces acquired during the ablation procedure. An expert radiologist manually traced the LA on MR images twice. LA surfaces from the automatic approach and manual tracing were compared by mean surface-to-surface distance. In addition, LA volumes were compared with volumes from manual segmentation by linear and Bland-Altman analyses.ResultsQualitative comparison of 3D LA models showed several inaccuracies, in particular PVs reconstruction was not accurate and left atrial appendage was missing in the model obtained during RFA procedure. LA surfaces were very similar (mean surface-to-surface distance: 2.3±0.7mm). LA volumes were in excellent agreement (y=1.03x−1.4, r=0.99, bias=−1.37ml (−1.43%) SD=2.16ml (2.3%), mean percentage difference=1.3%±2.1%).ConclusionsResults showed the proposed 3D patient-specific LA model with PVs is able to better describe LA anatomy compared to models derived from the navigation system, thus potentially improving electrograms and voltage information location and reducing fluoroscopic time during RFA. Quantitative assessment of LA volume derived from our 3D LA model without PVs is also accurate and may provide important information for patient selection for RFA.



http://ift.tt/2xMNAoj

Extent of size, shape and systolic variability of the left ventricular outflow tract in aortic stenosis determined by phase-contrast MRI

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: January 2018
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Volume 45
Author(s): Florian Sagmeister, Markus Weininger, Sebastian Herrmann, Peter Bernhardt, Volker Rasche, Robert Bauernschmitt, Andreas Liebold, Herbert Köstler, Frank Weidemann, Meinrad Beer
PurposeLeft ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) dimensions are important for calculation of aortic valve areas and planning of valve repair. Mostly, LVOT areas are calculated from echocardiographic longitudinal measurements with the assumption of a round shape. Here, orthogonal phase contrast (PC) MRI with dynamic assessment of LVOT was compared to standard longitudinal cine MRI and 2D echocardiography.MethodsIn 19 patients with aortic stenosis (5 female; 69±10years), LVOT areas were determined on orthogonal PC images, either by planimetry (Aplan) or by two-diameter measurement (Aellip). Data were analyzed in early, middle and late systole (t1/t2/t3). Additionally, standard diameter-based calculation (A3CV) of LVOT on longitudinal three-chamber view (3CV) MRI images and 2D echocardiography was performed.ResultsCalculated PC LVOT areas strongly correlated to planimetry (r=0.95; p<0.001) with almost identical areas (Aplan 5.1±1.1cm2 vs. Aellip 5.3±1.0cm2). In PC changes of LVOT-eccentricity during systole were most pronounced in late systole (t1 vs. t3plan −7.4±18%). Cine 3CV calculation resulted in lower LVOT areas compared to Aplan (A3CV 3.7±0.9cm2; p<0.001), yet correlating to Aplan (r=0.66; p=0.002). 3CV LVOT areas correlated to echocardiography (r=0.56; p=0.014).ConclusionsCalculated LVOT areas seem to be sufficient for daily routine. Compared to the orthogonal view, standard long-axis 3CV underestimates the LVOT size and overestimates the systolic reduction of LVOT-size. Systolic changes are most pronounced in late systole.



http://ift.tt/2fMvs75

Modification of population based arterial input function to incorporate individual variation

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: January 2018
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Volume 45
Author(s): Harrison Kim
This technical note describes how to modify a population-based arterial input function to incorporate variation among the individuals. In DCE-MRI, an arterial input function (AIF) is often distorted by pulsated inflow effect and noise. A population-based AIF (pAIF) has high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), but cannot incorporate the individual variation. AIF variation is mainly induced by variation in cardiac output and blood volume of the individuals, which can be detected by the full width at half maximum (FWHM) during the first passage and the amplitude of AIF, respectively. Thus pAIF scaled in time and amplitude fitting to the individual AIF may serve as a high SNR AIF incorporating the individual variation. The proposed method was validated using DCE-MRI images of 18 prostate cancer patients. Root mean square error (RMSE) of pAIF from individual AIFs was 0.88±0.48mM (mean±SD), but it was reduced to 0.25±0.11mM after pAIF modification using the proposed method (p<0.0001).



http://ift.tt/2xMNywH

A limited series of synthetic tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids reduce inflammatory gene iNOS via inhibition of p-STAT-1 and suppress HMGB1 secretion in LPS-treated mice lung tissue

Publication date: November 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 52
Author(s): Young Shin Ko, Eun Jung Park, Young Min Kim, Hye Jung Kim, HyeSook Yun-Choi, Duck Hyung Lee, Ki Churl Chang
Tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids (THIs) have shown to increase survival and beneficial effect on animal model of sepsis, partly due to heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) induction. Here, we aimed to compare a limited series of synthesized THIs on HO-1 induction and inhibitory effect of iNOS and COX-2 expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW264.7 cells. To the end, most promising compound (THI-61) was tested whether this compound reduces iNOS protein expression and inflammatory markers (HMGB1, TNF-α) in LPS-treated mice lung tissue. The results indicated that N-carbonyl substituted THI seem to affect HO-1 induction depending on which functional group is attached to C1 position. All compounds that reduce LPS-activated NF-κB-luciferase activity showed to preferential inhibition of iNOS/NO but not COX-2/PGE2 that was partly related to inhibition of STAT-1 phosphorylation. In particular, THI-61 induced translocation of Nrf2 from cytosol into the nucleus by an increased Nrf2-ARE binding activity, and reduced IL-1β production in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells. The reduced expression of iNOS/NO by THI-61 was reversed by siHO-1RNA-transfection. In LPS-treated mice, THI-61 significantly reduced iNOS protein in lung tissues, and HMGB1 and TNF-α levels in the BALF. We concluded that 1) lipophilic moiety of 1C substituent is much more important in N-carbonyl substituted THI for induction of HO-1, 2) newly synthesized THI-61 may be beneficial for treatment of lung injury.

Graphical abstract

image


http://ift.tt/2xWAC6W

Upregulation of bacterial-specific Th1 and Th17 responses that are enriched in CXCR5+CD4+ T cells in non-small cell lung cancer

Publication date: November 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 52
Author(s): Qin-Yun Ma, Da-Yu Huang, Hui-Jun Zhang, Shaohua Wang, Xiao-Feng Chen
The microbial community in the mucosal surfaces is involved in the development of human cancers, including gastric cancer and colorectal cancer. The respiratory tract in the lung also hosts a distinctive microbial community, but the correlation between this community and lung cancer is largely unknown. Here, we examined the Th1 and Th17 responses toward several bacterial antigens, in CD4+ T cells sourced from the peripheral blood (PB), the lung cancer (LC) tissue, and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Compared to healthy controls, the NSCLC patients presented significantly higher frequencies of Th1 and Th17 cells reacting to Streptococcus salivarius and S. agalactiae, in the PB, LC, and GI tract. Further investigation showed that the upregulation in anti-bacteria response was likely antigen-specific for two reasons. Firstly, the frequencies of Th1 and Th17 cells reacting to Escherichia coli, a typical GI bacterium, were not upregulated in the PB and the LC of NSCLC patients. Secondly, the S. salivarius and S. agalactiae responses could be partially blocked by Tü39, a MHC class II blocking antibody, suggesting that antigen-specific interaction between CD4+ T cells and antigen-presenting cells was required. We also found that S. salivarius and S. agalactiae could potently activate the monocytes to secrete higher levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor, which were Th1- and Th17-skewing cytokines. Interestingly, whereas CXCR5+CD4+ T cells represented <20% of total CD4+ T cells, they represented 17%–82% of bacteria-specific Th1 or Th17 cells. Together, these data demonstrated that NSCLC patients presented a significant upregulation of bacterial-specific Th1 and Th17 responses that were enriched in CXCR5+CD4+ T cells.



http://ift.tt/2xWReLN

Δευτέρα 2 Οκτωβρίου 2017

Abnormal Structural Brain Connectome in Individuals with Preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract
Alzheimer's disease has a long preclinical phase during which amyloid pathology and neurodegeneration accumulate in the brain without producing overt cognitive deficits. It is currently unclear whether these early disease stages are associated with a progressive disruption in the communication between brain regions that subsequently leads to cognitive decline and dementia. In this study we assessed the organization of structural networks in cognitively normal (CN) individuals harboring amyloid pathology (A+N−), neurodegeneration (A−N+), or both (A+N+) from the prospective and longitudinal Swedish BioFINDER study. We combined graph theory with diffusion tensor imaging to investigate integration, segregation, and centrality measures in the brain connectome in the previous groups. At baseline, our findings revealed a disrupted network topology characterized by longer paths, lower efficiency, increased clustering and modularity in CN A−N+ and CN A+N+, but not in CN A+N−. After 2 years, CN A+N+ showed significant abnormalities in all global network measures, whereas CN A−N+ only showed abnormalities in the global efficiency. Network connectivity and organization were associated with memory in CN A+N+ individuals. Altogether, our findings suggest that amyloid pathology is not sufficient to disrupt structural network topology, whereas neurodegeneration is.

http://ift.tt/2fFYWzw

Biochemical and histopathological changes of subacute cadmium intoxication in male rats

Abstract

Biochemical and histopathological effects of subacute intoxication of rats with cadmium (Cd) were studied in rats. Twenty adult healthy male albino rats were randomly divided into two duplicate groups (five rats in each cage); (1) control group where rats were provided with standard diet and water ad-libitum, (2) Cd group where rats were subjected to freshly prepared Cd chloride solution (CdCl2) 200 mg/l in drinking water daily for 8 weeks, the whole duration of experiment. Blood samples were obtained after 4 weeks, via retro-orbital bleeding for separation of serum. Five rats were killed, each sacrifice by decapitation for collection of kidneys and heart. Disturbed renal and cardiac functions were achieved after 4 weeks as indicated by the increase of most biochemical parameters measured in the serum, renal, and cardiac tissues. Histopathological examination of kidneys and hearts showed pathological alterations in Cd-intoxicated rats after 4 and 8 weeks with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson trichrome stains. It was concluded that subacute exposure of rats to Cd (200 mg/l) in drinking water daily induced glomerular shrinkage, focal renal, and cardiac fibrosis at 4 and 8 weeks.



http://ift.tt/2fMHkpu

Effect of the 5α-reductase enzyme inhibitor dutasteride in the brain of intact and parkinsonian mice

Publication date: Available online 2 October 2017
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Nadhir Litim, Marc Morissette, Donatella Caruso, Roberto C. Melcangi, Thérèse Di Paolo
Dutasteride is a 5alpha-reductase inhibitor in clinical use to treat endocrine conditions. The present study investigated the neuroprotective mechanisms of action of dutasteride in intact and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-lesioned mice using a low dose of MPTP not affecting motor activity modeling early stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). We hypothesized that dutasteride neuroprotection is due to altered steroids levels. Dutasteride pre-treatment prevented loss of striatal dopamine (DA) and its metabolite DOPAC. Dutasteride decreased effects of MPTP on striatal dopamine transporter (DAT), vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) and D2 DA receptor specific binding while D1 receptor specific binding remained unchanged. Dutasteride enhanced DAT specific binding and the glycosylated form of DAT in intact mice. MPTP-lesioned mice had plasma and brain testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels lower than control mice whereas progesterone and its metabolites (dihydroprogesterone, isopregnanolone and tetrahydroprogesterone) pathway showed increases. Dutasteride treatment by inhibiting transformation of progesterone and testosterone to its metabolites elevated plasma and brain concentrations of testosterone compared to MPTP mice and decreased DHT levels in intact mice. Plasma and brain estradiol levels were low and remained unchanged by MPTP and/or dutasteride treatment. Dutasteride treatment did not affect striatal phosphorylation of Akt and its downstream substrate GSK3β as well as phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in intact and MPTP lesioned MPTP mice. Striatal glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were markedly elevated in MPTP compared to control mice and dutasteride reduced GFAP levels in MPTP mice. Treatment with dutasteride post-lesion left unchanged striatal DA levels. These results suggest dutasteride as promising drug for PD neuroprotection.

Graphical abstract

image


http://ift.tt/2xQz2S4

Yield-scaled N2O emissions were effectively reduced by biochar amendment of sandy loam soil under maize - wheat rotation in the North China Plain

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 170
Author(s): Yuhui Niu, Zengming Chen, Christoph Müller, Monhammad M. Zaman, Donggill Kim, Hongyan Yu, Weixin Ding
It is increasingly recognized that the addition of biochar to soil has potential to mitigate climate change and increase soil fertility by enhancing carbon (C) storage. However, the effect of biochar on yield and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from upland fields remains unclear. In this study, a one-year field experiment was conducted in an area of calcareous fluvo-aquic soil to assess and quantify the effect of maize straw biochar in reducing N2O loss during 2014–2015 in the North China Plain. Eight treatments were designed as follows: no nitrogen (N) fertilizer (control, CK); biochar application at rates of 3 (B3), 6 (B6) and 12 (B12) t ha−1; chemical fertilizer (NPK) application at 200 kg N ha−1 (F); and fertilizer plus biochar application at rates of 3 (FB3), 6 (FB6) and 12 (FB12) t ha−1. Crop yield, N2O fluxes, soil mineral N concentrations, and soil auxiliary parameters were measured following the application of treatments during each season. During the maize growing season, N2O emission was 0.57 kg N2O-N ha−1 under CK treatment, and increased to 0.88, 0.93 and 1.10 kg N2O-N ha−1 under B3, B6 and B12, respectively. In contrast, N2O emissions were significantly reduced by 31.4–39.9% (P < 0.05) under FB treatments compared with F, and the N2O emission factor of the applied N was reduced from 1.36% under F to 0.71–0.85% under FB. There was also a significant interaction effect of fertilizer and biochar on N2O emissions (P < 0.01). During the wheat growing season, biochar had no effect on N2O emissions regardless of the fertilizer regime. Biochar application did not affect maize yield; however, a significant increase in wheat yield of 16.6–25.9% (P < 0.05) was observed without N fertilization. Nevertheless, a reduction in wheat yield was measured at a biochar rate of 12 t ha−1 with fertilization. Overall, under maize cropping, N2O emissions per unit yield of grain, biomass, grain N and biomass N (yield-scaled N2O emissions) were significantly reduced by 32.4–39.9% under FB compared with F treatment, regardless of the biochar application rate. Biochar did not affect yield-scaled N2O emissions in wheat. Decreased soil bulk density with biochar is suggested to reduce the denitrification potential and N2O emissions; while increased retention capacity of fertilizer N in biochar-added soil decreased wheat growth and yield. These findings suggest that N fertilization plus biochar application at 3 t ha−1 is a practical strategy for reducing yield-scaled N2O emissions from maize fields in the North China Plain.

Graphical abstract

image


http://ift.tt/2xUloyS

Carbon dioxide emissions from lakes and reservoirs of China: A regional estimate based on the calculated pCO2

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 170
Author(s): Zhidan Wen, Kaishan Song, Yingxin Shang, Chong Fang, Lin Li, Lili Lv, Xianguo Lv, Lijiang Chen
The role of inland water in CO2 exchange with the atmosphere was evaluated on the basis of calculated partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) from sampling of 207 lakes and 84 reservoirs across China in late summer. The results suggested that almost 60% of these water bodies were supersaturated with CO2 with respect to atmosphere, and the collected reservoirs samples exhibited higher mean pCO2 than lakes. The mean pCO2 in fresh water lakes was about 3.5 times of the value in saline lakes. The lakes and reservoirs were divided into five groups (Inner Mongolia -Xinjiang plateau region, Tibetan Plateau region, Northeastern plain and mountainous region, Yunnan- Guizhou Plateau region, and Eastern plain region). The Yunnan- Guizhou Plateau region showed the highest pCO2 compared with other regions, most likely due to the typical karst landforms, karst processes may promote aqueous CO2 concentration, and karstification has a significant effect on the capture of atmospheric CO2. Inner Mongolia-Xinjiang plateau and Tibetan Plateau region reserviors showed negative CO2 flux to atmosphere, other waters in this study all supersaturated with CO2 with respect to the atmosphere. A which We analyzed the relationship between pCO2 and environmental variables, and results showed that some indicators had correlations with pCO2 in individual region such as total phosphorus, dissolved organic matter, and total suspended solids, but the relationship could not be observed with all surveyed waters. This indicated that it might be much more effective in a smaller regional scale than the broadened scale when the environmental factors were used as the predictor of pCO2 in lakes. Therefore, the common algorithm that extrapolates CO2 concentration or emission flux from the study region to a wider scale might not be accurate because of the changes in the environmental and water quality conditions.



http://ift.tt/2xUaoSf

Assessment of long-term and large-scale even-odd license plate controlled plan effects on urban air quality and its implication

elsevier-non-solus.png

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 170
Author(s): Suping Zhao, Ye Yu, Dahe Qin, Daiying Yin, Jianjun He
To solve traffic congestion and to improve urban air quality, long-lasting and large-scale even-odd license plate controlled plan was implemented by local government during 20 November to 26 December 2016 in urban Lanzhou, a semi-arid valley city of northwest China. The traffic control measures provided an invaluable opportunity to evaluate its effects on urban air quality in less developed cities of northwest China. Based on measured simultaneously air pollutants and meteorological parameters, the abatement of traffic-related pollutants induced by the implemented control measures such as CO, PM2.5 and PM10 (the particulate matter with diameter less than 2.5 μm and 10 μm) concentrations were firstly quantified by comparing the air quality data in urban areas with those in rural areas (uncontrolled zones). The concentrations of CO, NO2 from motor vehicles and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) were shown to have significant decreases of 15%–23% during traffic control period from those measured before control period with hourly maximum CO, PM2.5, and NO2/SO2 reduction of 43%, 35% and 141.4%, respectively. The influence of the control measures on AQI (air quality index) and ozone was less as compared to its effect on other air pollutants. Therefore, to alleviate serious winter haze pollution in China and to protect human health, the stringent long-term and large-scale even-odd license plate controlled plan should be implemented aperiodically in urban areas, especially for the periods with poor diffusion conditions.



http://ift.tt/2yU47nY

Αναζήτηση αυτού του ιστολογίου