Ιατρικά Άρθρα

Δευτέρα 12 Μαρτίου 2018

Toxic effect and mechanism of four ionic liquids on seedling taproots of Arabidopsis thaliana

Abstract

Arabidopsis thaliana was selected as model organisms to investigate the toxic effect and mechanism of four kinds of imidazolium and pyridinium ionic liquids (ILs) on plant seedling taproots. After exposure to ILs, the growth of seedling taproots was significantly inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. The toxicity of ILs on seedling taproots was [Bmim][BF₄] > [Bmpy][BF₄] > [Bmim][Br] > [Bmpy][Br]. The reduction of seedling root cell vitality, aggravation of seedling root cell death, and repression of gravitropic growth responses were observed. The amounts of H₂O₂ and ROS in seedlings were enhanced with increasing concentrations of ILs. Moreover, the expression levels of cdc2a and pcna1 genes were decreased after exposure to ILs. Our results suggest that ILs can induce the overproduction of ROS in A. thaliana seedling taproots and thus cause oxidative damage to seedling taproots. Meanwhile, ILs alter the expression patterns of two cell cycle-related genes and hence cause the seedling taproot growth inhibition. This work provides an integrated understanding of the toxic effect and mechanism of ILs on A. thaliana seedlings at the molecular and physiological level and also provides theoretical basis and reference for the environmental safety evaluation of ILs, prior to their widespread use and release.

Graphical abstract

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Radiation therapy for the whole breast: Executive summary of an American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) evidence-based guideline

Publication date: Available online 12 March 2018
Source:Practical Radiation Oncology
Author(s): Benjamin D. Smith, Jennifer R. Bellon, Rachel Blitzblau, Gary Freedman, Bruce Haffty, Carol Hahn, Francine Halberg, Karen Hoffman, Kathleen Horst, Jean Moran, Caroline Patton, Jane Perlmutter, Laura Warren, Timothy Whelan, Jean L. Wright, Reshma Jagsi
IntroductionThe purpose of this guideline is to offer recommendations on fractionation for whole breast irradiation (WBI) with or without a tumor bed boost and guidance on treatment planning and delivery.Methods and materialsThe American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) convened a task force to address 5 key questions focused on dose-fractionation for WBI, indications and dose-fractionation for tumor bed boost, and treatment planning techniques for WBI and tumor bed boost. Guideline recommendations were based on a systematic literature review and created using a predefined consensus-building methodology supported by ASTRO-approved tools for grading evidence quality and recommendation strength.ResultsFor women with invasive breast cancer receiving WBI with or without inclusion of the low axilla, the preferred dose-fractionation scheme is hypofractionated WBI to a dose of 4000 cGy in 15 fractions or 4250 cGy in 16 fractions. The guideline discusses factors that might or should affect fractionation decisions. Use of boost should be based on shared decision-making that considers patient, tumor, and treatment factors, and the task force delineates specific subgroups in which it recommends or suggests use or omission of boost, along with dose recommendations. When planning, the volume of breast tissue receiving >105% of the prescription dose should be minimized and the tumor bed contoured with a goal of coverage with at least 95% of the prescription dose. Dose to the heart, contralateral breast, lung, and other normal tissues should be minimized.ConclusionsWBI represents a significant portion of radiation oncology practice, and these recommendations are intended to offer the groundwork for defining evidence-based practice for this common and important modality. This guideline also seeks to promote appropriately individualized, shared decision-making regarding WBI between physicians and patients.

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Competition of charge-mediated and specific binding by peptide-tagged cationic liposome–DNA nanoparticles in vitro and in vivo

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 166
Author(s): Emily Wonder, Lorena Simón-Gracia, Pablo Scodeller, Ramsey N. Majzoub, Venkata Ramana Kotamraju, Kai K. Ewert, Tambet Teesalu, Cyrus R. Safinya
Cationic liposome–nucleic acid (CL–NA) complexes, which form spontaneously, are a highly modular gene delivery system. These complexes can be sterically stabilized via PEGylation [PEG: poly (ethylene glycol)] into nanoparticles (NPs) and targeted to specific tissues and cell types via the conjugation of an affinity ligand. However, there are currently no guidelines on how to effectively navigate the large space of compositional parameters that modulate the specific and nonspecific binding interactions of peptide-targeted NPs with cells. Such guidelines are desirable to accelerate the optimization of formulations with novel peptides. Using PEG-lipids functionalized with a library of prototypical tumor-homing peptides, we varied the peptide density and other parameters (binding motif, peptide charge, CL/DNA charge ratio) to study their effect on the binding and uptake of the corresponding NPs. We used flow cytometry to quantitatively assess binding as well as internalization of NPs by cultured cancer cells. Surprisingly, full peptide coverage resulted in less binding and internalization than intermediate coverage, with the optimum coverage varying between cell lines. In, addition, our data revealed that great care must be taken to prevent nonspecific electrostatic interactions from interfering with the desired specific binding and internalization. Importantly, such considerations must take into account the charge of the peptide ligand as well as the membrane charge density and the CL/DNA charge ratio. To test our guidelines, we evaluated the in vivo tumor selectivity of selected NP formulations in a mouse model of peritoneally disseminated human gastric cancer. Intraperitoneally administered peptide-tagged CL–DNA NPs showed tumor binding, minimal accumulation in healthy control tissues, and preferential penetration of smaller tumor nodules, a highly clinically relevant target known to drive recurrence of the peritoneal cancer.

Graphical abstract

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Studies on mercury occurrence in inorganic constituents of Polish coking coals

Abstract

During the cokemaking process, a significant amount of mercury occurring in a coal blend is released to the atmosphere. One of the ways of reducing this emission is to reduce mercury content in a coal blend. This could be obtained through the coal washing process. The optimization of this process requires the knowledge of mercury occurrence in coal, especially in its inorganic constituents. A qualitative analysis of mercury occurrence in the inorganic constituents of Polish coking coals was performed using an electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA). For that purpose, selected samples of rejects and middling products derived from the washing process in dense media separators and jig concentrators were examined. The obtained results have confirmed a strong connection between mercury occurrence and the presence of sulfides (pyrite, marcasite, and chalcopyrite) in Polish coking coals. Significant amounts of mercury were also noticed for barite, siderite, and aluminosilicates. The highest value of mercury content, at the level of 0.100%, was obtained for marcasite. For the analyzed coals, the effectiveness of mercury removal in the washing process was determined by the forms of pyrite occurring in coal. The highest values of effectiveness of mercury removal were obtained in the case of coals for which the large framboidal pyrite aggregates with chalcopyrite overgrowths were noticed. It was also found that middling products were characterized by the occurrence of the Hg-rich overgrowths of pyrite on organic matter. To achieve a significant reduction in mercury content in clean coal, it is necessary to develop an effective method of removing this form of pyrite from hard coal.

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Characterization of phosphate rock and phosphogypsum from Gabes phosphate fertilizer factories (SE Tunisia): high mining potential and implications for environmental protection

Abstract

Since the establishment of the coastal industrial complex in Gabes city (Gulf of Gabes, SE Tunisia), hundred million tons of untreated phosphogypsum have been discharged in the open sea causing serious environmental problems. To better understand the dynamic and behavior of phosphate/phosphogypsum contaminants from raw ores to marine environment, a chemical, organic, mineralogical, and morphological characterization of phosphate rock and phosphogypsum was conducted using several sophisticated techniques. The chemical analysis showed that phosphate and phosphogypsum contain high loads of trace elements and that the transfer factors of pollutants varied from 5.83% (U) to 140% (Hg). Estimated annual flows of phosphogypsum contaminants into the marine environment ranged between 0.05 (Re) and 87,249.60 (F) tons. The phosphate rock was found to be formed by carbonate fluorapatite, calcite, dolomite, natural gypsum, quartz, calcite-Mg, apatite, pyrite, fluorite, and sphalerite-Cd and phosphogypsum by synthetic gypsum and sphalerite-Cd. The phosphate was found to be richer in organic compounds compared to phosphogypsum. Based on this work, the Tunisian phosphogypsum has a high mining potential and encourages the development of an economically beneficial and environmentally friendly phosphogypsum-treating industry.

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Clarifying the Proper Definitions for Type 2 Myocardial Infarction

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N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in the Emergency Department: The ICON-RELOADED Study

AbstractBackground

Contemporary reconsideration of diagnostic N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) cutoffs for diagnosis of heart failure (HF) is needed.

Objectives

This study sought to evaluate the diagnostic performance of NT-proBNP for acute HF in patients with dyspnea in the emergency department (ED) setting.

Methods

Dyspneic patients presenting to 19 EDs in North America were enrolled and had blood drawn for subsequent NT-proBNP measurement. Primary endpoints were positive predictive values of age-stratified cutoffs (450, 900, and 1,800 pg/ml) for diagnosis of acute HF and negative predictive value of the rule-out cutoff to exclude acute HF. Secondary endpoints included sensitivity, specificity, and positive (+) and negative (–) likelihood ratios (LRs) for acute HF.

Results

Of 1,461 subjects, 277 (19%) were adjudicated as having acute HF. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for diagnosis of acute HF was 0.91 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.90 to 0.93; p < 0.001). Sensitivity for age stratified cutoffs of 450, 900, and 1,800 pg/ml was 85.7%, 79.3%, and 75.9%, respectively; specificity was 93.9%, 84.0%, and 75.0%, respectively. Positive predictive values were 53.6%, 58.4%, and 62.0%, respectively. Overall LR+ across age-dependent cutoffs was 5.99 (95% CI: 5.05 to 6.93); individual LR+ for age-dependent cutoffs was 14.08, 4.95, and 3.03, respectively. The sensitivity and negative predictive value for the rule-out cutoff of 300 pg/ml were 93.9% and 98.0%, respectively; LR– was 0.09 (95% CI: 0.05 to 0.13).

Conclusions

In acutely dyspneic patients seen in the ED setting, age-stratified NT-proBNP cutpoints may aid in the diagnosis of acute HF. An NT-proBNP <300 pg/ml strongly excludes the presence of acute HF.

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The Western Denmark Heart Registry: Its Influence on Cardiovascular Patient Care

Abstract

The WDHR (Western Denmark Heart Registry) is a seminational, multicenter-based registry with longitudinal registration of detailed patient and procedure data since 1999. The registry includes as of January 1, 2017 approximately 240,000 coronary angiographies, 90,000 percutaneous coronary interventions, 60,000 cardiac computed tomographies, 40,000 cardiac operations, and 2,000 transcatheter aortic valve replacements. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are soon to be added. Each procedure is registered with 50 to 200 administrative, patient, and procedure variables. Lesion data are also registered for percutaneous coronary intervention, and cardiac surgeries also include variables for EuroSCORE, anesthesia, perfusion, and intensive care. The registry has high completeness and accuracy. The Danish registry infrastructure allows for complete follow-up for medical events and mortality, which greatly enhances the research potential of the data. This review describes why the WDHR is a unique data resource and how it continues to influence cardiovascular patient care.

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Interpreting the Wide Range of NT-proBNP Concentrations in Clinical Decision Making

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Correction

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The Diagnostic Yield of Brugada Syndrome After Sudden Death With Normal Autopsy

AbstractBackground

Familial evaluation after a sudden death with negative autopsy (sudden arrhythmic death syndrome; SADS) may identify relatives at risk of fatal arrhythmias.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the impact of systematic ajmaline provocation testing using high right precordial leads (RPLs) on the diagnostic yield of Brugada syndrome (BrS) in a large cohort of SADS families.

Methods

Three hundred three SADS families (911 relatives) underwent evaluation with resting electrocardiogram using conventional and high RPLs, echocardiography, exercise, and 24-h electrocardiogram monitor. An ajmaline test with conventional and high RPLs was undertaken in 670 (74%) relatives without a familial diagnosis after initial evaluation. Further investigations were guided by clinical suspicion.

Results

An inherited cardiac disease was diagnosed in 128 (42%) families and 201 (22%) relatives. BrS was the most prevalent diagnosis (n = 85, 28% of families; n = 140, 15% of relatives). Ajmaline testing was required to unmask the BrS in 97% of diagnosed individuals. The use of high RPLs showed a 16% incremental diagnostic yield of ajmaline testing by diagnosing BrS in an additional 49 families. There were no differences of the characteristics between individuals and families with a diagnostic pattern in the conventional and the high RPLs. On follow-up, a spontaneous type 1 Brugada pattern and/or clinically significant arrhythmic events developed in 17% (n = 25) of the concealed BrS cohort.

Conclusions

Systematic use of ajmaline testing with high RPLs increases substantially the yield of BrS in SADS families. Assessment should be performed in expert centers where patients are counseled appropriately for the potential implications of provocation testing.

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Cybersecurity for Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: What Should You Know?

Abstract

Medical devices have been targets of hacking for over a decade, and this cybersecurity issue has affected many types of medical devices. Lately, the potential for hacking of cardiac devices (pacemakers and defibrillators) claimed the attention of the media, patients, and health care providers. This is a burgeoning problem that our newly electronically connected world faces. In this paper from the Electrophysiology Section Council, we briefly discuss various aspects of this relatively new threat in light of recent incidents involving the potential for hacking of cardiac devices. We explore the possible risks for the patients and the effect of device reconfiguration in an attempt to thwart cybersecurity threats. We provide an outline of what can be done to improve cybersecurity from the standpoint of the manufacturer, government, professional societies, physician, and patient.

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Searching for a Diagnosis After SADS: The Value of Perseverance

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Beyond Pulmonary Vein Isolation During Catheter Ablation in Atrial Fibrillation and Systolic Dysfunction

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Cardiac Genetic Predisposition in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

AbstractBackground

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a leading cause of postneonatal mortality. Genetic heart diseases (GHDs) underlie some cases of SIDS.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the spectrum and prevalence of GHD-associated mutations as a potential monogenic basis for SIDS.

Methods

A cohort of 419 unrelated SIDS cases (257 male; average age 2.7 ± 1.9 months) underwent whole exome sequencing and a targeted analysis of 90 GHD-susceptibility genes. The yield of "potentially informative," ultra-rare variants (minor allele frequency <0.00005) in GHD-associated genes was assessed.

Results

Overall, 53 of 419 (12.6%) SIDS cases had ≥1 "potentially informative," GHD-associated variant. The yield was 14.9% (21 of 141) for mixed-European ancestry cases and 11.5% (32 of 278) for European ancestry SIDS cases. Infants older than 4 months were more likely to host a "potentially informative" GHD-associated variant. There was significant overrepresentation of ultra-rare nonsynonymous variants in European SIDS cases (18 of 278 [6.5%]) versus European control subjects (30 of 973 [3.1%]; p = 0.013) when combining all 4 major cardiac channelopathy genes (KCNQ1, KCNH2, SCN5A, and RYR2). According to the American College of Medical Genetics guidelines, only 18 of 419 (4.3%) SIDS cases hosted a "pathogenic" or "likely pathogenic" variant.

Conclusions

Less than 15% of more than 400 SIDS cases had a "potentially informative" variant in a GHD-susceptibility gene, predominantly in the 4- to 12-month age group. Only 4.3% of cases possessed immediately clinically actionable variants. Consistent with previous studies, ultra-rare, nonsynonymous variants within the major cardiac channelopathy-associated genes were overrepresented in SIDS cases in infants of European ethnicity. These findings have major implications for the investigation of SIDS cases and families.

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JACC Instructions for Authors

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Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Genetics: Dont Throw Out the Infant With the Dirty Water

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The Taiwan Heart Registries: Its Influence on Cardiovascular Patient Care

Abstract

Taiwanese heart registries for the main cardiovascular diseases have been conducted in the past 10 years, with the goal of examining the quality of cardiovascular patient care, which cannot be guaranteed by the universal Taiwan National Health Insurance. The results show suboptimal adherence to guideline recommendations. Door-to-balloon time and dual antiplatelet therapy use in acute coronary syndrome, standard medications for management of heart failure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in dyslipidemia, anticoagulant agent use in atrial fibrillation, and the understanding of sudden arrhythmia death syndrome were all found to be inadequate. However, all were improved, either by changing National Health Insurance policy or through continuous education for physicians and patients. Thus, specific cardiovascular disease registries could help examine the status of real-world practice, find inadequacies in guideline implementation and understanding of rare diseases, facilitate lobbying to policy makers and education for physicians and patients, and influence and improve cardiovascular patient care.

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Bivalirudin or Heparin in Patients Undergoing Invasive Management of Acute Coronary Syndromes

AbstractBackground

Contrasting evidence exists on the comparative efficacy and safety of bivalirudin and unfractionated heparin (UFH) in relation to the planned use of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs).

Objectives

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of bivalirudin compared with UFH with or without GPIs in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who underwent invasive management.

Methods

In the MATRIX (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of AngioX) program, 7,213 patients were randomly assigned to receive either bivalirudin or UFH with or without GPIs at discretion of the operator. The 30-day coprimary outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) (a composite of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke), and net adverse clinical events (NACEs) (a composite of MACEs or major bleeding).

Results

Among 3,603 patients assigned to receive UFH, 781 (21.7%) underwent planned treatment with GPI before coronary intervention. Bailout use of GPIs was similar between the bivalirudin and UFH groups (4.5% and 5.4%) (p = 0.11). At 30 days, the 2 coprimary endpoints of MACEs and NACEs, as well as individual endpoints of mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis or stroke did not differ among the 3 groups after adjustment. Compared with the UFH and UFH+GPI groups, bivalirudin reduced bleeding, mainly the most severe bleeds, including fatal and nonaccess site–related events, as well as transfusion rates and the need for surgical access site repair. These findings were not influenced by the administered intraprocedural dose of UFH and were confirmed at multiple sensitivity analyses, including the randomly allocated access site.

Conclusions

In patients with ACS, the rates of MACEs and NACEs were not significantly lower with bivalirudin than with UFH, irrespective of planned GPI use. However, bivalirudin significantly reduced bleeding complications, mainly those not related to access site, irrespective of planned use of GPIs. (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of AngioX [MATRIX]; NCT01433627)

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Effects of Ticagrelor, Prasugrel, or Clopidogrel at Steady State on Endothelial Function

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The Quest for the Optimal Periprocedural Antithrombotic Treatment Strategy in ACS Patients Undergoing PCI

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Reply: Clarifying the Proper Definitions for Type 2 Myocardial Infarction

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Radiation Exposure of Operators Performing Transesophageal Echocardiography During Percutaneous Structural Cardiac Interventions

AbstractBackground

Transesophageal echocardiography operators (TEEOP) provide critical imaging support for percutaneous structural cardiac intervention procedures. They stand close to the patient and the associated scattered radiation.

Objectives

This study sought to investigate TEEOP radiation dose during percutaneous structural cardiac intervention.

Methods

Key personnel (TEEOP, anesthetist, primary operator [OP1], and secondary operator) wore instantly downloadable personal dosimeters during procedures requiring TEE support. TEEOP effective dose (E) and E per unit Kerma area product (E/KAP) were calculated. E/KAP was compared with C-arm projections. Additional shielding for TEEOP was implemented, and doses were measured for a further 50 procedures. Multivariate linear regression was performed to investigate independent predictors of radiation dose reduction.

Results

In the initial 98 procedures, median TEEOP E was 2.62 μSv (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.95 to 4.76 μSv), similar to OP1 E: 1.91 μSv (IQR: 0.48 to 3.81 μSv) (p = 0.101), but significantly higher than secondary operator E: 0.48 μSv (IQR: 0.00 to 1.91 μSv) (p < 0.001) and anesthetist E: 0.48 μSv (IQR: 0.00 to 1.43 μSv) (p < 0.001). Procedures using predominantly right anterior oblique (RAO) and steep RAO projections were associated with high TEEOP E/KAP (p = 0.041). In a further 50 procedures, with additional TEEOP shielding, TEEOP E was reduced by 82% (2.62 μSv [IQR: 0.95 to 4.76] to 0.48 μSv [IQR: 0.00 to 1.43 μSv] [p < 0.001]). Multivariate regression demonstrated shielding, procedure type, and KAP as independent predictors of TEEOP dose.

Conclusion

TEE operators are exposed to a radiation dose that is at least as high as that of OP1 during percutaneous cardiac intervention. Doses were higher with procedures using predominantly RAO projections. Radiation doses can be significantly reduced with the use of an additional ceiling-suspended lead shield.

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Reply: Beyond Pulmonary Vein Isolation During Catheter Ablation in Atrial Fibrillation and Systolic Dysfunction

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Important Strategies to Reduce Occupational Radiation Exposure in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory: No Lower Limit

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Modeling the emissions of a dual fuel engine coupled with a biomass gasifier—supplementing the Wiebe function

Abstract

There is a growing market demand for small-scale biomass gasifiers that is driven by the economic incentives and the legislative framework. Small-scale gasifiers produce a gaseous fuel, commonly referred to as producer gas, with relatively low heating value. Thus, the most common energy conversion systems that are coupled with small-scale gasifiers are internal combustion engines. In order to increase the electrical efficiency, the operators choose dual fuel engines and mix the producer gas with diesel. The Wiebe function has been a valuable tool for assessing the efficiency of dual fuel internal combustion engines. This study introduces a thermodynamic model that works in parallel with the Wiebe function and calculates the emissions of the engines. This "vis-à-vis" approach takes into consideration the actual conditions inside the cylinders—as they are returned by the Wiebe function—and calculates the final thermodynamic equilibrium of the flue gases mixture. This approach aims to enhance the operation of the dual fuel internal combustion engines by identifying the optimal operating conditions and—at the same time—advance pollution control and minimize the environmental impact.

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Cancer patients’ wish for psychological support during outpatient radiation therapy

Abstract

Background

Cancer patients frequently suffer from physical and psychosocial impairments due to their disease and its treatment. Psychooncology (PO) can help to cope with stress resulting from outpatient radiotherapy (RT) treatment. There are currently few data regarding patients' wishes for PO support. The aim of this study was to investigate the number of patients with a wish for PO, treatment paths, and predictors of the wish for PO among cancer patients at the beginning of RT.

Methods

The results of routine psychological stress screening (Hornheide screening instrument; cut-off  ≥ 4) of 944 cancer patients between 2015 and 2017 were analyzed in a retrospective cross-sectional study. Predictors for a wish for PO support were identified by stepwise binary logistic regression, in which sociodemographic and treatment data were included in addition to the screening items.

Results

Around 20% of patients had above-average stress levels and 13% expressed a wish for PO support (participation rate was approximately 55%). Low emotional wellbeing (OR = 11.3) and lack of social support (OR = 9.4) were strong predictors for this treatment wish. Among patients with pancreatic cancer, head and neck tumors, and hematologic disease, there was a substantial difference between the degree of psychological stress and the wish for treatment. Patients with urological (23.5%) and lung tumors (20.9%) most frequently expressed a wish for PO support.

Conclusion

Patient-reported psychosocial problems were better predictors of a wish for PO support than sociodemographic or clinical data. Stress screening should thus be implemented in clinical routine.

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Successfully Managing Impending Skin Necrosis following Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injection, using High-Dose Pulsed Hyaluronidase

Summary: Facial fillers are becoming increasingly popular as aesthetic procedures to temporarily reduce the depth of wrinkles or to contour faces. However, even in the hands of very experienced injectors, there is always a small possibility of vascular complications like intra-arterial injection of filler substance. We present a case report of a patient who developed features of vascular obstruction in right infraorbital artery and tell-tale signs of impending skin necrosis, after hyaluronic acid filler injection by an experienced injector. The diagnosis of a vascular complication was made quickly with the help of clinical features like blanching, livedo reticularis, and poor capillary refill. Patient was treated promptly with "high-dose pulsed hyaluronidase protocol" comprising three 1,000-unit pulses of hyaluronidase, administered hourly. There was no further increase in size of the involved area after the first dose of hyaluronidase. All of the involved area, along with 1 cm overlapping in uninvolved skin area, was injected during each injection pulse, using a combination of cannula and needle. Complete reperfusion and good capillary filling were achieved after completion of 3 pulses, and these were taken as the end-point of high-dose pulsed hyaluronidase treatment. Immediate skin changes after filler injections, as well as after hyaluronidase injections and during the 3-week recovery period, were documented with photographs and clinical notes. Involved skin was found to have been fully recovered from this vascular episode, thus indicating that complete recovery of the ischemic skin changes secondary to possible intra-arterial injection could be achieved using high-dose pulsed hyaluronidase protocol.

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Minimally Invasive Face Lifting and Lipofilling

No abstract available

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Methylglyoxal – a signaling molecule in plant abiotic stress responses

Publication date: Available online 12 March 2018
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): Mohammad Golam Mostofa, Ajit Ghosh, Zhong-Guang Li, Md. Nurealam Siddiqui, Masayuki Fujita, Lam-Son Phan Tran
Abiotic stresses are the most common harmful factors, adversely affecting all aspects of plants' life. Plants have to elicit appropriate responses against multifaceted effects of abiotic stresses by reprogramming various cellular processes. Signaling molecules play vital roles in sensing environmental stimuli to modulate gene expression, metabolism and physiological processes in plants to cope with the adverse effects. Methylglyoxal (MG), a dicarbonyl compound, is known to accumulate in cells as a byproduct of various metabolic pathways, including glycolysis. Several works in recent years have demonstrated that MG could play signaling roles via Ca²⁺, reactive oxygen species (ROS), K⁺ and abscisic acid. Recently, global gene expression profiling has shown that MG could induce signaling cascades, and an overlap between MG-responsive and stress-responsive signaling events might exist in plants. Once overaccumulated in cells, MG can provoke detrimental effects by generating ROS, forming advanced glycation end products and inactivating antioxidant systems. Plants are also equipped with MG-detoxifying glyoxalase system to save cellular organelles from MG toxicity. Since MG has regulatory functions in plant growth and development, and glyoxalase system is an integral component of abiotic stress adaptation, an in-depth understanding on MG metabolism and glyoxalase system will help decipher mechanisms underlying plant responses to abiotic stresses. Here, we provide a comprehensive update on the current knowledge of MG production and detoxification in plants, and highlight the putative functions of glyoxalase system in mediating plant defense against abiotic stresses. We particularly emphasize on the dual roles of MG and its connection with glutathione-related redox regulation, which is crucial for plant defense and adaptive responses under changing environmental conditions.

Graphical abstract

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Ascorbic acid increases SVCT2 localization at the plasma membrane by accelerating its trafficking from early secretory compartments and through the endocytic-recycling pathway

Publication date: Available online 12 March 2018
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): A. Covarrubias-Pinto, A.I. Acuña, G. Boncompain, E. Pápic, P.V. Burgos, F. Perez, M.A. Castro
Ascorbic acid (Asc) is an antioxidant molecule essential for physiological functions. The concentration of extracellular Asc increases during synaptic transmission and renal reabsorption. These phenomena induce an increase of the Sodium-dependent-Vitamin-C-transporter 2 (SVCT2) at plasma membrane (PM) localization, as we previously demonstrated in neuronal and non-neuronal cells. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate intracellular SVCT2 trafficking kinetics in response to Asc. We observed two peaks of SVCT2 localization and function at the PM (at 5–10min, "acute response", and 30–60min, "post-acute response") when cells were incubated with Asc. We defined that the post-acute response was dependent on SVCT2 located in early secretory compartments, and its trafficking was abolished with Tunicamycin and Brefeldina A treatment. Moreover, using the RUSH system to retain and synchronize cargo secretion through the secretory pathway we demonstrated that the post-acute response increases SVCT2 trafficking kinetics from the ER to the PM suggesting the retention of SVCT2 at the early secretory pathway when Asc is absent. However, these observations do not explain the increased SVCT2 levels at the PM during the "acute" response, suggesting the involvement of a faster mechanism in close proximity with the PM. To investigate the possible role of endosomal compartments, we tested the effect of endocytosis inhibition. Expression of dominant-negative (DN) versions of the GTPase-dynamin II and clathrin-accessory protein AP180 showed a significant increase in SVCT2 levels at the PM. Moreover, expression of Rab11-DN, a GTPase implicated in cargo protein recycling from endosomes to the PM showed a similar outcome, strongly indicating that Asc impacts SVCT2 trafficking during the acute response. Therefore, our results revealed two mechanisms by which Asc modulates SVCT2 levels at the PM, one at the early secretory pathway and another at the endocytic compartments. We propose that these two mechanisms have key protective implications in the homeostasis of metabolically active and specialized tissues.

Graphical abstract

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Expression of reactive species related genes is associated with patient survival in luminal B breast cancer

Publication date: Available online 12 March 2018
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): Soumya Luthra, Uma Chandran, Brenda Diergaarde, Michael Becich, Adrian V. Lee, Carola A. Neumann
Increased reactive species (RS; reactive oxygen and nitrogen species) are a byproduct of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic systems, and critical in cancer development, including breast tumorigenesis. To investigate the role of RS-related genes in breast cancer, expression levels of the most common annotated genes involved in regulating cellular RS levels and proteins that are substrates of RS in specific subtypes of breast cancer 9 were evaluated using public data bases. Based on the premise that increased RS promote tumor formation, and breast cancer subtypes vary in aggressiveness, we hypothesized that specific RS gene expression signatures are associated with breast cancer aggressiveness and patient survival. We identified a group of genes (GSTK1, PRDX2, PRDX3 and SLC36A1) that differentiate Luminal B tumors in two clusters and predict survival of patients with Luminal B breast cancers. Furthermore, network analyses of these four genes revealed an overlap of known LumB related pathways with those of RS-related signaling, which included regulation of M-phase and mitochondrial functions.

Graphical abstract

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Woman with a Bleeding Friable Lesion in the Right Hand

The effects of the IGF1-R antagonists GSK1838705A and OSI-906 on HCC cell migration inhibition after Sorafenib and/or VK1 administration, individually or in combination, were evaluated. We found a synergistic effect in PLC/PRF/5, HLF and Hep3B cells for combinations of fixed doses of GSK1838705A or OSI-906 together with different doses of Sorafenib and/or VK1. The levels of synergy were found to be stronger at higher Sorafenib and/or VK1 concentrations and lower or absent at lower concentrations, with some variation among the different cell lines tested. In addition, we found that in PLC/PRF/5 and HLF cells IGF1-R blockage strongly enhanced the reduction and redistribution of F-actin induced by Sorafenib and/or VK1 through alterations in the phosphorylation levels of some of the principal proteins involved in the MAPK signaling cascade, which is essential for cell migration.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that modulation of the efficacy of Sorafenib through combinations with VK1 and/or IGF1-R antagonists results in synergistic inhibition of HCC cell migration.

Aberrant fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) expression is thought to contribute to the development of many types of cancer. As yet, however, their impact on the course and prognosis of head and neck cancer remains to be determined. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of expression of the FGFR family members FGFR1 and FGFR3, as well as their downstream PI3K/AKT signal-regulated kinases, on the aggressiveness and prognosis of laryngeal cancer.

Methods

In total 137 surgically removed squamous cell laryngeal cancer (SCLC) and 100 matched non-cancerous laryngeal mucosa (NCLM) samples were assessed for mRNA expression using quantitative real-time PCR. The corresponding proteins were analyzed by Western blotting. SLUG expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The expression data were subsequently related to tumor front grading (TFG), local/nodal recurrences, prognosis and overall survival.

Results

The FGFR1, FGFR3 and PI3K/AKT kinase mRNA and protein levels were found to be significantly higher in the SCLC than the NCLM samples (p < 0.05). A high FGFR1 mRNA/protein expression level was found to be associated with an increased invasion rate, according to TFG scale and SLUG level, a high local/nodal recurrence rate and a poor prognosis (p < 0.05). Similarly, we found that a high FGFR3 mRNA/protein expression level was associated with a shorter survival time (p < 0.05). In addition, we found that high PI3K/AKT kinase mRNA/protein levels were associated with a high TFG (p < 0.05). We also found that FGFR1/3 mRNA and FGFR1 protein levels were inversely associated with overall survival (log-rank test: FGFR1 mRNA p = 0.03, FGFR3 mRNA p = 0.04, FGFR1 protein p = 0.03). Subsequent multivariate analyses revealed that high FGFR3 mRNA expression may serve as an independent poor prognostic factor (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.03–6.59; p = 0.04). We also found that the p-PI3K regulatory kinase protein level was significantly associated with survival in the cohort studied (HR 1.78, 95% CI 0.64–8.53; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

From our data we conclude that FGFR1 and FGFR3, as well as its downstream regulatory PI3K/AKT kinases, may serve as potential biomarkers for the invasiveness and prognosis of laryngeal cancer. The expression of FGFR1/3-PI3K/AKT regulatory pathway members may be instrumental for the identification of patients at risk for an unfavorable clinical outcome.

http://ift.tt/2qgqvrg

Stony Hard Skin During Early Infancy

Stiff skin syndrome is a rare disease causing stony hard induration of skin usually in early childhood. We report a case of 12 years old boy who presented to our clinic with biopsy showing adipocyte entrapment which we believe is an unrecognized key pathological finding in diagnosis of this entity. Correspondence: Alfred Ammoury, MD, Saint George Hospital, Achrafieh, Beirut 11 00 2807, Lebanon (e-mail: docalf@yahoo.com). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Periumbilical Papule: Challenge

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2HqIMWE

Facial Plaque in a Woman With Sjogren Syndrome: Challenge

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2FLxcIl

Photosensitive Eruption in a Patient with Metastatic Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: Challenge

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2Hsr1GH

A Unique Case of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans With Melanocytic Differentiation

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2FLxFKB

T-Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma With Annular Skin Rash and Epidermotropism

Abstract: Leukemia cutis is uncommon in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It typically presents with dermal papules or subcutaneous nodules, with no epidermal or upper papillary dermal involvement on histopathology. We present an unusual clinical presentation of leukemia cutis, with annular plaques and epidermotropism. Correspondence: Parisa Mansoori, MD, Department of Pathology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 (e-mail: pmansoo@wakehealth.edu). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://ift.tt/2FBQsom

White–Yellow Papules on the Neck of a Young Woman—Challenge

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2FNk99o

Grover Disease With Epidermal Dysmaturation Pattern: a Common Histopathologic Finding

Background: Grover disease is an entity whose diagnosis is based on clinicopathologic correlation. Histopathologically, focal acantholysis is the most common finding. In some cases, there is prominent squamous atypia which can prove to be very challenging and the lesion may be confused with an epidermal neoplasm. Objective: To report on atypical histopathological changes in Grover disease and to provide helpful clues to differentiate between the epidermal atypia seen in some cases of Grover disease and epithelial neoplasms. Material and Methods: We analyzed 33 cases of Grover disease histologically diagnosed at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, NC, between 2011 and 2017. Atypical changes in keratinocytes were defined as epithelial buds, nuclear pleomorphism, and dyskeratosis in all layers of epidermis or altered granular layer. Results: Twenty cases (64%) showed foci with alteration of the normal keratinocytic maturation, whereas 18 cases demonstrated nuclear pleomorphism. Buds of epithelial cells emanating from the basal layer of the epidermis and granular cell alteration was present in 19 cases. Conclusions: The findings especially the presence of an altered granular layer may represent a diagnostic clue in cases of Grover disease with atypical changes. Correspondence: Ohoud Z. Aljarbou, MD, 2682 Ar Rimayah, Riyadh, 14611, Saudi Arabia (e-mail: ohoudaljarbou@hotmail.com). The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Context for Practice: Pressure Injury Prevention: The Struggle Continues.

Author: Gray, Mikel

Page: 104-105

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Factors Associated With Pediatric Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries.

Author: Razmus, Ivy

Page: 107-116

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Treatment of Dehisced, Thoracic Neonatal Wounds With Single-Use Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Device and Medical-Grade Honey: A Retrospective Case Series.

Author: Boyar, Vita

Page: 117-122

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The Effect of Foot Exercises on Wound Healing in Type 2 Diabetic Patients With a Foot Ulcer: A Randomized Control Study.

Author: Eraydin, Sahizer; Avsar, Gulcin

Page: 123-130

http://ift.tt/2Fx2vaV

Predictors of Pressure Injuries in a Critical Care Unit in Lebanon: Prevalence, Characteristics, and Associated Factors.

Author: El-Marsi, Jihad; Zein-El-Dine, Salah; Zein, Bana; Doumit, Rita; Kurdahi Badr, Lina

Page: 131-136

http://ift.tt/2tFuxer

Decreasing Incidence of Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries in a Small Community Hospital: A Quality Improvement Project.

Author: Monarca, Melissa C.; Marteka, Patty; Breda, Karen

Page: 137-140

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Prevention of Pressure Injuries in the Operating Room: A Quality Improvement Project.

Author: Riemenschneider, Karen J.

Page: 141-145

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Cost-effectiveness of a Ceramide-Infused Skin Barrier Versus a Standard Barrier: Findings From a Long-Term Cost-effectiveness Analysis.

Author: Berger, Ariel; Inglese, Gary; Skountrianos, George; Karlsmark, Tonny; Oguz, Mustafa

Page: 146-155

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Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Intrarectal Device for Management of Fecal Incontinence in Bedridden Patients.

Author: Singh, Sandeep; Bhargava, Balram; Vasantha, Padma; Bhatia, Rohit; Sharma, Hanish; Pal, Sujoy; Sahni, Peush; Makharia, Govind K.

Page: 156-162

http://ift.tt/2GkvVGj

Experience of Nurses Caring for Patients With Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction: A Qualitative Study.

Author: Todd, Claire; Woodward, Sue

Page: 163-167

http://ift.tt/2tJ2ET8

Factors Associated With Healthcare-Acquired Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections: Analysis Using Multiple Data Sources and Data Mining Techniques.

Author: Park, Jung In; Bliss, Donna Z.; Chi, Chih-Lin; Delaney, Connie W.; Westra, Bonnie L.

Page: 168-173

http://ift.tt/2GnWdaI

Relationships Among Use of Complementary and Alternative Interventions, Urinary Incontinence, Quality of Life, and Self-esteem in Women With Urinary Incontinence.

Author: Oz, Ozge; Altay, Birsen

Page: 174-178

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When and How to Perform Cultures on Chronic Wounds?.

Author: Stallard, Yvonne

Page: 179-186

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When and How to Perform Cultures on Chronic Wounds?.

Author:

Page: E1-E2

http://ift.tt/2tEA70T

Urinary Management With an External Female Collection Device.

Author: Beeson, Terrie; Davis, Carmen

Page: 187-189

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Turn Knowledge Into Action!: Education in Specialized Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care.

Author: Hill, Mary

Page: 190

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Getting Ready for WOCNCB Foot Care Certification: Understanding Nail Terminology.

Author: Trelease, Jill

Page: 191-192

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WOCN(R)-Accredited Professional Education Programs.

Author:

Page: 194-196

http://ift.tt/2tH5QhO

Copyright

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 32, Issue 2

http://ift.tt/2Fv0xYz

Contributors

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America, Volume 32, Issue 2

http://ift.tt/2tC9DwZ

Allergic diseases: A collection of interactive immunologic disorders at the crossroads of genetics, environment, and immunity

http://ift.tt/2tGgfug

Association between urticaria and nematode infections

http://ift.tt/2Gl7qsC

Association of alopecia areata with atopic dermatitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria

http://ift.tt/2tDSH9c

Association between psoriasis and asthma risk: A meta-analysis

http://ift.tt/2GkuCap

Safety of a novel intranasal formulation of azelastine hydrochloride and fluticasone propionate in children: A randomized clinical trial

http://ift.tt/2tEi9vl

Randomized trial to assess the efficacy and safety of beclomethasone dipropionate breath-actuated inhaler in patients with asthma

http://ift.tt/2FuNVAn

Asthma control, lung function, symptoms, and corticosteroid sparing after omalizumab initiation in patients with allergic asthma

http://ift.tt/2tEegXl

The age-related characteristics of adults with asthma who visited emergency departments in Korea from 2007 to 2012

http://ift.tt/2GjpF1m

In vitro induction of T regulatory cells by a methylated CpG DNA sequence in humans: Potential therapeutic applications in allergic and autoimmune diseases

http://ift.tt/2tJ1Pt8

Interleukin 33 and interleukin 4 regulate interleukin 31 gene expression and secretion from human laboratory of allergic diseases 2 mast cells stimulated by substance P and/or immunoglobulin E

http://ift.tt/2FuNW7p

Guidance for compassionate restraint of small children to prevent injuries with epinephrine autoinjectors

http://ift.tt/2tJytLu

For the Patient

http://ift.tt/2Fx30BO

VideoEndocrinology™ High-Impact Videos

VideoEndocrinology™
The Official Journal of: American Thyroid Association

FREE ACCESS through March 12, 2018.
Watch now:

Delphian Lymph Node Dissection: Surgical Dissection Technique as Illustrated by the Johns Hopkins Head and Neck Endocrine Surgery Division
Vaninder K. Dhillon, Jonathon O. Russell, Ralph P. Tufano

Postoperative Continuous Pressure Monitoring in Thyroid Surgery: Pathophysiology of Post-Thyroidectomy Hemorrhage
Ulrich Wirth, Thomas von Ahnen, Stefan Schopf, Hans Martin Schardey

An Elusive Parathyroid: Interesting Case Presentation
Anton F. Engelsman, Robert F. Parkyn, Andrew Carter, James Christie, Leigh W. Delbridge

Transaxillary Robotic Parathyroidectomy: Huge Parathyroid Adenoma
Patrick Aidan, Maroun Bechara

The post VideoEndocrinology™ High-Impact Videos appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

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Thyroid® High-Impact Articles

thy.2018.28.issue-2.png

FREE ACCESS through March 9, 2018.
Read now:

Latest Impact Factor: 5.515
The Official Journal of: American Thyroid Association^®

Gene Fusions in Thyroid Cancer
Valentina D. Yakushina, Larisa V. Lerner, Alexander V. Lavrov

Alterations of the Gut Microbiota in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Patients
Fuya Zhao, Jing Feng, Jun Li, Lei Zhao, Yang Liu, Huinan Chen, Ye Jin, Biqiang Zhu, Yunwei Wei

Cancer Risk Associated with Nuclear Atypia in Cytologically Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Pablo Valderrabano, Laila Khazai, Zachary J. Thompson, Susan C. Sharpe, Valentina D. Tarasova, Kristen J. Otto, Julie E. Hallanger-Johnson, J. Trad Wadsworth, Bruce M. Wenig, Christine H. Chung, Barbara A. Centeno, Bryan McIver

Maternal Thyrotropin Receptor Antibody Concentration and the Risk of Fetal and Neonatal Thyrotoxicosis: A Systematic Review
Naomi Kiyota, Bruce Robinson, Manisha Shah, Ana O. Hoff, Matthew H. Taylor, Di Li, Corina E. Dutcus, Eun Kyung Lee, Sung-Bae Kim, Makoto Tahara

The post Thyroid® High-Impact Articles appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

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Clinical Thyroidology®High-Impact Articles

FREE ACCESS through March 6, 2018
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Editorial: What's Ahead for Clinical Thyroidology in 2018
Jerome M. Hershman

Patient Age Is Associated with Papillary Thyroid Cancer Mortality Only in Patients with BRAF V600E Mutation
Masha J. Livhits, Michael W. Yeh

Current ATA Thyroid Cancer Guidelines Are Poor Predictors of the Extent of Thyroidectomy
Tracy S. Wang

A Low-Iodine Diet During Methimazole Treatment Worsens Graves' Disease Outcomes
Elizabeth N. Pearce

The post Clinical Thyroidology®High-Impact Articles appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

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Clinical Thyroidology®for the Public – Highlighted Article

From Clinical Thyroidology^® for the Public: Many clinicians and laboratories check TSH alone as the initial test for thyroid problems and then only add a Free T4 measurement if the TSH is abnormal, referred to as "reflex" testing. Read More….

We welcome your feedback and suggestions. Let us know what you want to see in this publication.

Feedback & Suggestions

The post Clinical Thyroidology®for the Public – Highlighted Article appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

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ATA® Thyroid Cancer Patient Survey

DIAGNOSED AND TREATED FOR THYROID CANCER?
ATA^® INVITES YOUR FEEDBACK ON THIS SURVEY:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/thyroidcancerpatientsurvey

The American Thyroid Association^® (ATA) is collecting information and opinions from patients about their experience with thyroid cancer to better inform medical providers about how patients experience the challenge of thyroid cancer diagnosis and treatment. ATA^® encourages anyone with a history of thyroid cancer to take this survey, feel free to disseminate this survey link broadly, and encourage others to take the survey. We also encourage all thyroid healthcare professionals to share this survey with their patients. Survey results will be compiled and discussed by thyroid leaders at the American Thyroid Association Satellite Symposium: The Spectrum of Thyroid Cancer, from Surveillance to Systemic Therapy on Friday, March 16, 2018 from 11:15 AM – 5:30 PM at McCormick Place West in Chicago, IL. Subsequently, survey results will be posted online with free access to the public as well as made available through publication. Your responses are anonymous and should only take a few minutes to complete.

For more information regarding the ATA Spring Satellite Symposium, visit the ATA website at www.thyroid.org or https://www.thyroid.org/2018-ata-spring-satellite/.

We again appreciate your continued support of ATA^® and its initiatives.

The post ATA® Thyroid Cancer Patient Survey appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

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Clinical Thyroidology®High-Impact Articles

FREE ACCESS through February 13, 2018
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Should a Young Patient in Whom a Multinodular Goiter Develops Be Assessed for DICER1 Mutations?
Stephen W. Spaulding

Levothyroxine Treatment Does Not Reduce Risk for Premature Delivery Among TPO-Negative Pregnant Women with a TSH of 2.5 to 10.0 mIU/L
Elizabeth N. Pearce

Adding the Immunosuppressant Mycophenolate Mofetil to Medium-Dose Infusions of Methylprednisolone Improves the Treatment of Graves' Orbitopathy
Jacques Orgiazzi

Surgery for Hyperthyroidism Lowers Cardiovascular Mortality Compared with Radioactive Iodine
Andrew J. Day, Michael W. Yeh, Masha J. Livhits

The post Clinical Thyroidology®High-Impact Articles appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

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Podoplanin emerges as a functionally relevant oral cancer biomarker and therapeutic target

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Oral Oncology, Volume 78
Author(s): Edward P. Retzbach, Stephanie A. Sheehan, Evan M. Nevel, Amber Batra, Tran Phi, Angels T.P. Nguyen, Yukinari Kato, Soly Baredes, Mahnaz Fatahzadeh, Alan J. Shienbaum, Gary S. Goldberg
Oral cancer has become one of the most aggressive types of cancer, killing 140,000 people worldwide every year. Current treatments for oral cancer include surgery and radiation therapies. These procedures can be very effective; however, they can also drastically decrease the quality of life for survivors. New chemotherapeutic treatments are needed to more effectively combat oral cancer. The transmembrane receptor podoplanin (PDPN) has emerged as a functionally relevant oral cancer biomarker and chemotherapeutic target. PDPN expression promotes tumor cell migration leading to oral cancer invasion and metastasis. Here, we describe the role of PDPN in oral squamous cell carcinoma progression, and how it may be exploited to prevent and treat oral cancer.

http://ift.tt/2FhLTAk

Identification of a gene expression signature predicting survival in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma using Monte Carlo cross validation

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Oral Oncology, Volume 78
Author(s): John Schomberg, Argyrios Ziogas, Hoda Anton-Culver, Trina Norden-Krichmar
ObjectivesThis study aims to identify a robust signature that performs well in predicting overall survival across tumor phenotypes and treatment strata, and validates the application of Monte Carlo cross validation (MCCV) as a means of identifying molecular signatures when utilizing small and highly heterogeneous datasets.Materials and methodsRNA sequence gene expression data for 264 patient tumors were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). 100 iterations of Monte Carlo cross validation were applied to differential expression and Cox model validation. The association between the gene signature risk score and overall survival was measured using Kaplan-Meier survival curves, univariate, and multivariable Cox regression analyses.ResultsPathway analysis findings indicate that ligand-gated ion channel pathways are the most significantly enriched with the genes in the aggregated signature. The aggregated signature described in this study is predictive of overall survival in oral cancer patients across demographic and treatment strata.ConclusionThis study reinforces previous findings supporting the role of ion channel gating, interleukin, calcitonin receptor, and keratinization pathways in tumor progression and treatment response in oral cancer. These results strengthen the argument that differential expression of genes within these pathways reduces tumor susceptibility to treatment. Conducting differential gene expression (DGE) with Monte Carlo cross validation, as this study describes, offers a potential solution to decreasing the variability in DGE results across future studies that are reliant upon highly heterogeneous datasets. This improves the ability of studies reliant upon similarly structured datasets to reach results that are reproducible.

http://ift.tt/2GyveIn

Characterization of bilayer AZO film grown by low-damage sputtering for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cell with a CBD-ZnS buffer layer

Publication date: July 2018
Source:Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, Volume 81
Author(s): Woo-Jung Lee, Dae-Hyung Cho, Jae-Hyung Wi, Won Seok Han, Boo-Kyoung Kim, Sang Dae Choi, Ju-Yeoul Baek, Yong-Duck Chung
Chemical bath deposition (CBD)-ZnS is used as a buffer layer for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cell and then, plasma damage originated from the negative oxygen ions or neutral particles with high energy is regarded as an important issue during subsequent deposition of window layer by sputtering process. To avoid negative plasma effects, we newly designed sputtering system with dual deposition mode of low damage sputtering (LDS) process and direct sputtering (DS) process, adjusting plasma direction by dual cylindrical targets. It allows to grow bilayer AZO film by sequentially depositing thin LDS AZO film as a protect layer and thick AZO film as a transparent conducting layer to collect electrons. The physical and electrical characteristics of bilayer AZO film were investigated to verify the positive effect against plasma damage. In plasma damage test using GaAs wafer, we observed that increase of sputtering power leads to a falling-off in electrical qualities by plasma damage. For practical solar cell application, we fabricated three types of CIGS/CBD-ZnS solar cells with LDS AZO film grown at 2 kW and 5 kW (by 1500 mm cylindrical targets) and Conventional-AZO film (by 4-in. circular targets), and demonstrated that the performance of CIGS solar cell with LDS AZO is superior to that with Conventional-AZO film due to the effective protection layer to relieve plasma damage.

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Wöchentliche oder dreiwöchentliche Cisplatin-Gaben bei der kombinierten Radiochemotherapie lokal fortgeschrittener Kopf-Hals-Tumoren?

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Δευτέρα 12 Μαρτίου 2018

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