Scholar : CPAP - νέα αποτελέσματα

Effects of Exercise Training and CPAP in Patients With Heart Failure and OSA: A Preliminary Study

DM Servantes, S Javaheri, ACP Kravchychyn, LJ Storti… - Chest, 2018

Background Exercise and CPAP improve OSA. This study examined the effects of
exercise in patients with heart failure (HF) and OSA. Methods Patients with HF and
OSA were randomized to the following study groups: control, exercise, CPAP, and …

Impact of obstructive sleep apnea on long-term blood pressure variability in Japanese men: a cross-sectional study of a work-site population

Y Kansui, K Matsumura, Y Morinaga, M Inoue… - Hypertension Research, 2018

… 7]. OSA increases the events of cardiovascular disease [8, 9]; the treatment of OSA
with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) might reduce blood pressure levels
[10] and prevent cardiovascular disease [11]. Therefore …

[HTML] Efficiency and efficacy of two techniques of preoxygenation during modified rapid sequence intubation

R Kesavan, S Balakrishnan, S Rajan… - Anesthesia: Essays and …, 2018

… DOI: 10.4103/aer.AER_119_18. Rights and Permissions Abstract, Background: Apneic
mass movement of oxygen by applying continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is
possible only when the airway is kept patent which helps to reduce the rate of desaturation …

Hydrogen production from pine-derived catalytic pyrolysis aqueous phase via microbial electrolysis

V Brooks, AJ Lewis, P Dulin, JR Beegle… - Biomass and Bioenergy, 2018

… 20]. However, this catalytic pyrolysis aqueous phase (CPAP) can contain up to 20%
of the carbon fed into the pyrolysis process [21]. Thus, valorization of the CPAP can
lead to improved economic feasibility for the process. Use …

Gigantism: Management of Fatigue and Daytime Sleepiness After Surgery and Radiation in Adolescents with GH Secreting Adenoma

V Singhal - Pituitary Tumors, 2018

… She uses continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) at night and reports decreased
exercise tolerance … This was very debilitating and she was missing a lot of school. She
had discontinued CPAP at night and was no longer snoring …

Sleep and asthma

J Kavanagh, DJ Jackson, BD Kent - Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine, 2018

Purpose of review There is a longstanding recognition
of the detrimental effect of poorly controll.

Current treatment of comorbid insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea with CBTI and PAP-therapy: a systematic review

K Bahr, R Cámara, H Gouveris, I Tuin - Frontiers in Neurology, 2018

… on more recent evidence regarding treatment of patients presenting with
both clinical entities of comorbid insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea in
terms of their management, especially using combinations of positive airway …

[HTML] Pre-hospital lung ultrasound for cardiac heart failure and COPD: is it worthwhile?

M Zanatta, P Benato, S De Battisti, C Pirozzi, R Ippolito… - Critical ultrasound journal, 2018

… The patients with ultrasound integrated management received a more
appropriate pharmacological therapy (p 0.01), as well as non-invasive
ventilation (CPAP) was used more frequently in those with an acute …

[PDF] Study of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome in Relation to Birth Weight and Gestational age

R Chaudhary, RS Sethi, OS Chaurasiya, AS Sethi - People, 2018

… All these studies are consistent with our study. All 83 MAS babies required respiratory
support in the form of oxygen, CPAP or mechanical ventilation. 26 cases (31.32%) needed
CPAP support and 15 cases (18.07%) required mechanical ventilation …

[HTML] Clues to the Pathophysiology of Sudden Cardiac Death in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

TO Brodovskaya, IF Grishina, TF Peretolchina… - Cardiology, 2018

… The expression of KCNQ1, KCNH2, and KCNE1 was determined by the severity of
hypoxia. After 4 weeks of OSA treatment with CPAP therapy, positive dynamics of
KCNQ1 and KCNJ2 expression were established. Unfortunately …

 

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Scholar : ΠΡΟΣΩΠΙΚΟ ΝΕΥΡΟ - νέα αποτελέσματα

[PDF] Αξιολόγηση φωνής σε καλλιτέχνες (τραγουδιστές και ηθοποιούς)

Κ Παπαλεξανδράκη - 2018

… 1.2.1.v: Νεύρα και αγγεία του λάρυγγα Ο λάρυγγας νευρώνεται από δύο κλάδους
του πνευμονογαστρικού νεύρου: το άνω λαρυγγικό και το κάτω λαρυγγικό (ή
παλίνδρομο) νεύρο: Άνω λαρυγγικό νεύρο: Το σημείο όπου το άνω …

 

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Scholar : ΓΝΑΘΟΣ - νέα αποτελέσματα

[PDF] Αξιολόγηση φωνής σε καλλιτέχνες (τραγουδιστές και ηθοποιούς)

Κ Παπαλεξανδράκη - 2018

Page 1. 1 Τ.Ε.Ι. ΗΠΕΙΡΟΥ ΣΧΟΛΗ ΕΠΑΓΓΕΛΜΑΤΩΝ ΥΓΕΙΑΣ & ΠΡΟΝΟΙΑΣ ΤΜΗΜΑ
ΛΟΓΟΘΕΡΑΠΕΙΑΣ ΠΤΥΧΙΑΚΗ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΑ ΘΕΜΑ: ΑΞΙΟΛΟΓΗΣΗ ΦΩΝΗΣ ΣΕ ΚΑΛΛΙΤΕΧΝΕΣ
(ΤΡΑΓΟΥΔΙΣΤΕΣ ΚΑΙ ΗΘΟΠΟΙΟΥΣ) Φοιτήτρια: Παπαλεξανδράκη Καλλιόπη, Α.Μ: 16241 …

 

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Scholar : ΑΚΟΥΣΤΙΚΟ - νέα αποτελέσματα

[PDF] Αξιολόγηση φωνής σε καλλιτέχνες (τραγουδιστές και ηθοποιούς)

Κ Παπαλεξανδράκη - 2018

Page 1. 1 Τ.Ε.Ι. ΗΠΕΙΡΟΥ ΣΧΟΛΗ ΕΠΑΓΓΕΛΜΑΤΩΝ ΥΓΕΙΑΣ & ΠΡΟΝΟΙΑΣ ΤΜΗΜΑ
ΛΟΓΟΘΕΡΑΠΕΙΑΣ ΠΤΥΧΙΑΚΗ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΑ ΘΕΜΑ: ΑΞΙΟΛΟΓΗΣΗ ΦΩΝΗΣ ΣΕ ΚΑΛΛΙΤΕΧΝΕΣ
(ΤΡΑΓΟΥΔΙΣΤΕΣ ΚΑΙ ΗΘΟΠΟΙΟΥΣ) Φοιτήτρια: Παπαλεξανδράκη Καλλιόπη, Α.Μ: 16241 …

[PDF] Ταξίδι στην τέχνη: μια μουσικοπαιδαγωγική παράσταση για παιδιά ηλικίας 4-7 ετών

ΑΖ Καυκά - 2018

… (Ανδρουλάκη κ. ά.). Ως παραδείγματα συμμετοχής του κοινού εντόπισα τα
ακόλουθα: ● Ερωταπαντήσεις: Οι ηθοποιοί ρωτούν τα παιδιά, κι εκείνα
απαντούν ● Ανταπόκριση σε ερέθισμα: Τα παιδιά αντιδρούν σε ακουστικό …

 

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Scholar : ΛΑΡΥΓΓΙΚΟ ΝΕΥΡΟ - νέα αποτελέσματα

[PDF] Αξιολόγηση φωνής σε καλλιτέχνες (τραγουδιστές και ηθοποιούς)

Κ Παπαλεξανδράκη - 2018

… και την κάτω μοίρα οι οποίες έχουν ως όριο μεταξύ τους τον πυθμένα της
λαρυγγικής κοιλότητας … Η κάτω μοίρα έχει σαν όριο την λαρυγγική κοιλία και
προς τα κάτω το άνω όριο … Ο έξω κλάδος του άνω λαρυγγικού νεύρου νερώνει …

 

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Scholar : ΠΑΡΑΡΡΙΝΙΟΙ - νέα αποτελέσμα

[PDF] Αξιολόγηση φωνής σε καλλιτέχνες (τραγουδιστές και ηθοποιούς)

Κ Παπαλεξανδράκη - 2018

Page 1. 1 Τ.Ε.Ι. ΗΠΕΙΡΟΥ ΣΧΟΛΗ ΕΠΑΓΓΕΛΜΑΤΩΝ ΥΓΕΙΑΣ & ΠΡΟΝΟΙΑΣ ΤΜΗΜΑ
ΛΟΓΟΘΕΡΑΠΕΙΑΣ ΠΤΥΧΙΑΚΗ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΑ ΘΕΜΑ: ΑΞΙΟΛΟΓΗΣΗ ΦΩΝΗΣ ΣΕ ΚΑΛΛΙΤΕΧΝΕΣ
(ΤΡΑΓΟΥΔΙΣΤΕΣ ΚΑΙ ΗΘΟΠΟΙΟΥΣ) Φοιτήτρια: Παπαλεξανδράκη Καλλιόπη, Α.Μ: 16241 …

 

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Scholar : Laryngomalacia - νέα αποτελέσματα

[PDF] A 10-year-review of pediatric laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital

J Deerojanawong, N Prapphal, S Sritippayawan

… The most common finding in this group was laryngomalacia (69 cases, 41,6%), followed
by subglottic lesions (14 cases, 8.4%) and glottic lesions (12 cases, 7.2%) … The most
common finding was laryngomalacia (69 cases, 41.6%) …

[PDF] Cardiac malformations in Down's syndrome, Chulalongkorn Hospital

P Chottivittayatarakorn

… Several hypotheses have been made to explain the development of significant
pul- monary hypertension in these children; such as chronic upper airway
obstruction due to tonsillar and adenoid hypertrophy, laryngomalacia …

 

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Sonocatalytic removal of methylene blue from water solution by cobalt ferrite/mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (CoFe 2 O 4 /mpg-C 3 N 4 ) nanocomposites: response surface methodology approach

Abstract

In this study, cobalt ferrite/mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄) nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by using a two-step protocol. Firstly, monodispersed CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via thermal decomposition of metal precursors in a hot surfactant solution and then they were assembled on mpg-C₃N₄ via a liquid phase self-assembly method. The sonocatalytic performance of as-synthesized CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites was evaluated on the methylene blue (MB) removal from water under ultrasonic irradiation. For this purpose, response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) model was successfully utilized to optimize the MB removal over CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to investigate the significance of the model. The results predicted by the model were obtained to be in reasonable agreement with the experimental data (R² = 0.969, adjusted R² = 0.942). Pareto analysis demonstrated that pH of the solution was the most effective parameter on the sonocatalytic removal of MB by CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites. The optimum catalyst dose, initial dye concentration, pH, and sonication time were set as 0.25 g L⁻¹, 8 mg L⁻¹, 8, and 45 min, respectively. The high removal efficiency of MB dye (92.81%) was obtained under optimal conditions. The trapping experiments were done by using edetate disodium, tert-butyl alcohol, and benzoquinone. Among the reactive radicals, ^•OH played a more important role than h⁺ and \( {O}_2^{-\bullet } \) in the MB dye removal process. Moreover, a proposed mechanism was also presented for the removal of MB in the presence of CoFe₂O₄/mpg-C₃N₄ nanocomposites under the optimized sonocatalytic conditions. Finally, a reusability test of the nanocomposites revealed a just 9.6% decrease in their removal efficiency after five consecutive runs.

https://ift.tt/2NgIitG

Adsorption of heavy metal tolerance strains to Pb 2+ and Cd 2+ in wastewater

Abstract

The functional strains with high tolerance to heavy metal Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ were screened from soil obtained in a heavy metal waste accumulation area. The immobilized biological adsorbent was made by embedding method and used for treatment of wastewater containing heavy metals. The effects of initial concentration of heavy metals, adsorption time, pH value of wastewater, and dosage of adsorbent on adsorption performance were investigated. The study showed (1) the strains tested were Brevibacterium and their maximum tolerable concentrations for Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ were 2200 and 700 mg/L, respectively; (2) the maximum adsorption rate for Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ was 87.77% and 57.50% respectively when the dosage of adsorbent was 10 g/L and the pH value of wastewater was 6; (3) Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ could be adsorbed in the equilibrium solution for 40 min and the maximum adsorption capacity reached 114.36 mg/g and 82.12 mg/g, respectively; and (4) when the initial pH value of the wastewater was 5–7, the adsorption rate decreased with the increase of the concentration, and the initial concentration of Pb²⁺ had a greater effect on the adsorption rate than Cd²⁺. Langmuir and Freundlich equation showed that the adsorption of Pb²⁺ and Cd²⁺ was mainly on the surface of monolayer. And the pseudo-second-order kinetic equation indicates that Cd²⁺ has a relatively greater adsorption rate than Pb²⁺ does.

https://ift.tt/2OoMzHO

Letter to the Editor about the article published in Clinical Oral Investigations tilted “Impacted and transmigrated mandibular canines: an analysis of 3D radiographic imaging data” (Bertl MH, Frey C, Bertl K, Giannis K, Gahleitner A, Strbac GD (2018), Clin Oral Investig , doi: 10.1007/s00784-018-2342-0)

https://ift.tt/2pabUKQ

The effects of photobiomodulation therapy on mouse pre-osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 proliferation and apoptosis via miR-503/Wnt3a pathway

Abstract

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has been demonstrated as regulating osteoblast proliferation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in various pathophysiologic processes in osteoblast, but the role of miRNAs in the PBMT-based promotion of osteoblast proliferation remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PBMT treatment (3.75 J/cm²) on mouse pre-osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 proliferation and apoptosis via the miR-503/Wnt3a pathway; meanwhile, detect the expressions of miR-503 and Wnt3a after PBMT treatment and the role of miR-503 in regulating Wnt signaling molecules Wnt3a, β-catenin, Runx2, apoptotic proteins caspase-3, and Bcl-2 in vitro. The PBMT parameters were as follows: 808 nm continuous wavelength, 0.401 W output power, 0.042 W/cm² power density, 9.6 cm² spot size, 36 J energy, 3.75 J/cm² energy density, 90 s irradiation for three times per 12 h, 14.5 cm distance of the laser source and the angle of divergence of the laser beam was 7°. In our present study, the target relationship was predicted and verified by bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays. Gene mRNA and protein expressions were examined by qPCR and western blot analysis. The MTT method was used to evaluate the effect of miR-503 on MC3T3-E1 cells proliferation. And cell apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry. The results showed that PBMT treatment reduced the expression of miR-503 and increased the level of Wnt3a (p < 0.01). Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assays revealed that Wnt3a was a target of miR-503, and Wnt3a was regulated by miR-503. Furthermore, miR-503 was found to functionally inhibit proliferation and promote apoptosis (p < 0.01). And during this process, Wnt3a, β-catenin, Runx2, and Bcl-2 expressions were significantly inhibited (p < 0.01); however, caspase-3 level was upregulated (p < 0.01). These results suggest that miR-503 plays a role in osteoblast proliferation and apoptosis in response to PBMT, which is potentially amenable to therapeutic manipulation for clinical application.

https://ift.tt/2MzmfZO

Fabrication of manganese-based Zr-Fe polymeric pillared interlayered montmorillonite for low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NO x by NH 3 in the metallurgical sintering flue gas

Abstract

A series of Zr-Fe (Zr/Fe = 4:0, 3:1, 2:2, 1:3, 0:4) polymeric pillared interlayered montmorillonite loading 10 wt.% MnO_x (Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM) were investigated for the selective catalytic reduction of NO_x by NH₃ (NH₃-SCR) in metallurgical sintering flue gas. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), N₂ adsorption-desorption isotherm, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and ammonia temperature-programmed desorption (NH₃-TPD) were used to analyze the physicochemical property. The Fe polymerized with Zr exchanged to montmorillonite can improve the Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM low-temperature NO_x conversion and N₂ selectivity. The Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM (1:3) shows the highest NO_x conversion between 140 and 180 °C. The XRD results suggest that the growth of crystalline ZrO₂ phase is intensely restrained for the Fe₂O₃ migration into the ZrO₂ lattice. The ZrO₂ and MnO_x have an excellent dispersion in montmorillonite. The N₂ adsorption result illustrates that the increase of Fe molar content in the Zr-Fe-PILM support increases the catalyst-specific surface area. The NH₃-TPD results elucidate that the Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM (1:3) has the most total acid sites. Therefore, the low-temperature catalytic activity of the Mn/Zr-Fe-PILM (1:3) has been assigned to the large specific surface area, abundant acid sites, and the dispersion of metallic oxides.

https://ift.tt/2MxgBrl

Organic matter facilitates the binding of Pb to iron oxides in a subtropical contaminated soil

Abstract

The bioavailability and potential uptake of heavy metals by crops is fundamentally influenced by the forms of metals in soils. Organic matter plays an important role in controlling the transformation of heavy metal fractionations in soils. However, long-term effects of organic matter on heavy metal speciation remains highly uncertain. In this study, rice straw was introduced to a subtropical Pb-contaminated soil for 2-year period so as to clarify the redistribution of Pb fractions and their correlations with soil properties. By combining sequential extraction and X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, we find that lead is predominantly presented in Fe oxide-bound, surface adsorbed, and residual fractions in the soil. The incorporation of rice straw can effectively reduce the labile species of Pb by promoting the binding of Pb to iron oxides. Furthermore, aging leads to the transfer of considerable amounts of Pb to the association with Fe oxides and this transformation is enhanced by the presence of organic matter. Organic matter input and soil aging tend to shift Pb to amorphous Fe oxides than crystalline Fe oxides. The correlation analysis shows that Fe oxide fractions play vital roles in controlling the forms of Pb in soil. This study presents the first result regarding the long-term effect of organic matter on the redistribution of Pb in naturally polluted soil, which is useful for understanding the fate of Pb and developing remediation strategies for Pb-polluted soils.

https://ift.tt/2xe05rv

Coexistence of oral lichen planus and pemphigus vulgaris

https://ift.tt/2CWyRuH

Clinical, double blind, randomized controlled trial of experimental adhesive protocols in caries-affected dentin

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the clinical performance of posterior resin composite restorations regarding experimental and regular adhesive protocols in caries affected-dentin (CAD).

Material and methods

A total of 92 class I and class II cavities with carious lesions were selected and randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) bioactive glass-ceramic powder/two-step etch and rinse system, (2) control/two-step etch and rinse system, (3) bioactive glass-ceramic powder/two-step self-etching system, and (4) control/two-step self-etching system. Two operators carried out the adhesive protocols and restored the cavities with a nano-hybrid resin composite. Participants were followed up at 1 week and 6, 12, and 18 months for clinical evaluation performed by two blinded examiners and calibrated according to FDI criteria. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests with a confidence of 95%.

Results

The clinical performance of resin composite restoration was not affected by the experimental use of an adhesive protocol including a bioactive glass-ceramic powder for 18 months post-procedure. However, there was a significant difference between group 2 and group 4 (p < 0.05) for marginal adaptation (18 months). Group 2 was significantly different from group 3 (p < 0.05) for fracture of material/retention (18 months) and marginal adaptation (1 week); group 2 showed a better performance.

Conclusion

Adhesive protocols can alter the clinical performance of posterior restorations in terms of marginal adaptation and the fracture of material/retention in CAD. Clinical significance: Adhesive protocols may influence the success of resin composite restorations in CAD; this is important because failure can lead to caries, re-incidence, and/or clinical re-work.

https://ift.tt/2QC5b90

Mineral density changes in bovine carious dentin after treatment with bioactive dental cements: a comparative micro-CT study

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the potential of conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC), Biodentine™, MTA, and Portland cement to induce mineral density changes in carious dentin compared to zinc oxide eugenol control cement (ZOE).

Materials and methods

Fifty blocks of bovine root dentin were prepared and a biofilm model using ATCC strains of S.mutans, S.sobrinus, and L.casei was used to promote artificial dentin lesions. After demineralization, the blocks were randomly divided into the five cement groups. Half of the surface of each specimen received the tested material and the other half was covered with wax (control). Samples were stored in phosphate buffered saline solution for 30 days and after that were scanned in a micro-CT with standardized parameters. Dentin mineral density changes were calculated using differences in plot profiles of the exposed and control carious dentin. Friedman's test, followed by Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used with 5% significance.

Results

Mean ΔZ values for the cements were 48.63 ± 19.09 for the control (ZOE), 63.31 ± 32.59 for Biodentine™, 114.63 ± 72.92 for GIC, 109.56 ± 66.28 for MTA, and 106.88 ± 66.02 for Portland cement. All cements showed a statistically significant increase in ΔZ values compared to the control, but Biodentine™ values were statistically significantly lower compared to GIC and the other calcium silicate cements.

Conclusions

Tested materials present potential to induce mineral density changes in carious bovine dentin. MTA, Portland, and GIC showed higher bioactivity potential than Biodentine™.

Clinical relevance

Based on minimally invasive concept, materials with remineralization potential can be used to preserve diseased but still repairable dental tissue.

https://ift.tt/2CVAatW

Targeted Gene Panel Sequencing for Molecular Diagnosis of Kallmann Syndrome and Normosmic Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0681-6608

Background Isolated gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency (IGD) is classified either as Kallmann syndrome (KS) with anosmia or normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH) and caused by mutations in more than 30 different genes. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing technologies have revolutionized the identification of causative genes by using massively parallel sequencing of multiple samples. This study was performed to establish the genetic etiology of IGD using a targeted gene panel sequencing of 69 known human IGD genes. Methods This study included 28 patients with IGD from 27 independent families. Exomes were captured using customized SureSelect kit (Agilent Technologies) and sequenced on the Miseq platform (Illumina, Inc.), which includes a 163,269 bp region spanning 69 genes. Results Four pathogenic and six likely pathogenic sequence variants were identified in 11 patients from 10 of the 27 families (37%) included in the study. We identified two known pathogenic mutations in CHD7 and PROKR2 from two male patients (7.4%). Novel sequence variants were also identified in 10 probands (37%) in CHD7, SOX3, ANOS1, FGFR1, and TACR3. Of these, while eight variants (29.6%) were presumed to be pathogenic or likely pathogenic, the remaining two were classified as variants of uncertain significance. Of the two pre-pubertal males with anosmia, one harbored a novel heterozygous splice site variant in FGFR1. Conclusions The overall diagnostic yield was 37% of the patients who had undergone targeted gene panel sequencing. This approach enables rapid, cost-effective, and comprehensive genetic screening in patients with KS and nIHH.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text

https://ift.tt/2CW2KuU

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Do Absorbable or Non-Absorbable Suture Materials Differ in Cosmetic Outcomes in Patients Requiring Primary Closure of Facial Wounds?

Surgeons are often judged on the cosmetic appearance of any scar after surgery rather than the functional outcome of treatment, especially when considering facial wounds.

https://ift.tt/2xeWWYc

Carotid Artery Calcification on Orthopantomograms (CACO Study) – Is it indicative of carotid stenosis?

Australian Dental Journal, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2D6rX6i

Linking obesity-induced leptin-signaling pathways to common endocrine-related cancers in women

Abstract

Obesity is related to many major diseases and cancers. Women have higher rates of obesity and obesity is linked to commonly occurring cancers in women. However, there is a lack of knowledge of the unique mechanism(s) involved in each type of cancer. The objective of this review is to highlight the need for novel experimental approaches and a better understanding of the common and unique pathways to resolve controversies regarding the role of obesity in cancer. In women, there is a link between hormones and obesity-associated genes in cancer development. Leptin is an obesity-associated gene that has been studied extensively in cancers; however, whether the defect is in the leptin gene or in its signaling pathways remains unclear. Both leptin and its receptor have been positively correlated with cancer progression in some endocrine-related cancers in women. This review offers an up-to-date and cohesive review of both upstream and downstream pathways of leptin signaling in cancer and a comprehensive picture of cancer pathogenesis in light of current evidence of leptin effects in several major types of cancer. This work is intended to aid in the design of better therapeutic strategies for obese/overweight women with cancer.

https://ift.tt/2xiOfvk

Linking obesity-induced leptin-signaling pathways to common endocrine-related cancers in women

Abstract

Obesity is related to many major diseases and cancers. Women have higher rates of obesity and obesity is linked to commonly occurring cancers in women. However, there is a lack of knowledge of the unique mechanism(s) involved in each type of cancer. The objective of this review is to highlight the need for novel experimental approaches and a better understanding of the common and unique pathways to resolve controversies regarding the role of obesity in cancer. In women, there is a link between hormones and obesity-associated genes in cancer development. Leptin is an obesity-associated gene that has been studied extensively in cancers; however, whether the defect is in the leptin gene or in its signaling pathways remains unclear. Both leptin and its receptor have been positively correlated with cancer progression in some endocrine-related cancers in women. This review offers an up-to-date and cohesive review of both upstream and downstream pathways of leptin signaling in cancer and a comprehensive picture of cancer pathogenesis in light of current evidence of leptin effects in several major types of cancer. This work is intended to aid in the design of better therapeutic strategies for obese/overweight women with cancer.

https://ift.tt/2xiOfvk

Variability of the cortisol awakening response and morning salivary oxytocin in late adolescence

Journal of Neuroendocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2MssVck

Free gingival graft adjunct with low-level laser therapy: a randomized placebo-controlled parallel group study

Abstract

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in terms of enhancing wound healing, reducing free gingival graft (FGG) shrinkage and postoperative pain.

Materials and methods

Thirty patients were randomly assigned to receive either FGG + LLLT (test, n = 15) or FGG + plasebo LLLT (control, n = 15). In the test group, a diode laser (810 nm, 0.1 W, energy density 6 J/cm²) was applied immediately after surgery and 1, 3, 7, and 14 days later. Measurements of the graft surface areas of the groups were made with an image-analyzing software at baseline and first, third, and sixth months. Complete wound epithelialization and visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain score were evaluated after surgery.

Results

Shrinkage of the graft was statistically higher in the control than the test group at third and sixth months (p < 0.05). In terms of epithelization of the graft area, the test and control groups did not show any significant difference during the 28-day period (p > 0.05). Besides this, statistically significant differences were observed for VAS pain score and the number of analgesic used (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The use of an 810-nm diode laser provided additional benefits to FGG in terms of less shrinkage of the graft dimensions and postoperative pain.

Clinical relevance

Low-level laser therapy reduced the shrinkage of free gingival graft's surface area after 6 months and enhanced postoperative pain relief.

https://ift.tt/2p7IUmJ

Effects of oral prophylaxis including tongue cleaning on halitosis and gingival inflammation in gingivitis patients—a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of oral prophylaxis including tongue scraping on level of halitosis, clinical periodontal parameters and local cytokine response in gingivitis patients.

Materials and methods

In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 36 gingivitis patients were randomly assigned into two subgroups after scaling and polishing. Group 1 received oral hygiene instructions including the use of tongue scraper; group 2 received oral hygiene instructions alone without tongue cleaning. Levels of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC), organoleptic and tongue coating scores, clinical periodontal parameters and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were collected at baseline and 7 days after oral prophylaxis. GCF samples were analyzed using multiplexing analysis for the simultaneous measurements of cytokines. The Chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon, and Student's paired and unpaired t tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Statistically significant reductions were found in terms of clinical periodontal parameters in both groups. However, significant improvements in VSC levels, organoleptic and tongue coating scores were observed just in tongue scraping group. Moreover, the GCF levels of IL-1β and IL-8 significantly decreased after the treatment in group 1 according to the baseline values.

Conclusion

The present study indicated that oral prophylaxis including tongue scraping was effective in improving intra-oral halitosis and pro-inflammatory cytokine response in GCF in gingivitis patients.

Clinical relevance

The results suggest that tongue scraping can be taken into consideration in order to manage gingival inflammation as well as VSC levels in gingivitis patients but further clinical studies are required to judge the clinical relevance.

https://ift.tt/2MypEbs

Adsorption of ionic liquids onto an activated carbon: kinetic modeling studies

Abstract

In this study, the uptake of hydrophobic bromide-based ionic liquids (ILs) (imidazolium, pyrrolidinium, and pyridinium) from aqueous solutions onto granulated and fabric-based microporous activated carbons (ACs). Surface characterization study shows that both ACs have basic pHpzc, like 8.7 for granulated AC and 8.0 for fabric AC. Granulated AC have ten times higher phenolic groups 0.2 meq g⁻¹ compared to fabric AC which is 0.03 meq g⁻¹. The kinetics of adsorption was remarkably slower for ILs on granulated/fabric AC than milled one. We also studied the effect of AC size on the rate of adsorption in the operating conditions. In order to improve the adsorption kinetics of ILs with ACs, different phenomenological and empirical kinetic models like as pseudo-first order, Boyd model, pseudo-second-order diffusion model and Elovich were applied on the kinetic experimental data. The analysis of kinetic specified that the adsorption mechanism of ILs onto ACs is controlled mainly by the mass transfer through the pores of ACs. So, the selection of appropriate adsorbent particle size of AC plays a main role for the development of viable IL adsorption.

Graphical abstract

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https://ift.tt/2CWtOKB

Postoperative local fractionated radiotherapy for resected single brain metastases

Abstract

Purpose

Evaluation of postoperative fractionated local 3D-conformal radiotherapy (3DRT) of the resection cavity in brain metastases.

Patients and methods

Between 2011 and 2016, 57 patients underwent resection of a single, previously untreated (37/57, 65%) or recurrent (20/57, 35%) brain metastasis (median maximal diameter 3.5 cm [1.1–6.5 cm]) followed by 3DRT. For definition of the gross tumor volume (GTV), the resection cavity was used and for the clinical target volume (CTV), margins of 1.0–1.5 cm were added. Median dose was 48.0 Gy (30.0–50.4 Gy) in 25 (10–28) fractions; most patients had 36.0–42.0 Gy in 3.0 Gy fractions (n = 16, EQD2_10Gy 39.0–45.5 Gy) or 40.0–50.4 Gy in 1.8–2.0 Gy fractions (n = 37, EQD2_10Gy 39.3–50.0 Gy).

Results

Median follow-up was 18 months. Local control rates were 83% at 1 year and 78% at 2 years and were significantly influenced by histology (breast cancer 100%, non-small lung cancer 87%, melanoma 80%, colorectal cancer 26% at 2 years, p = 0.006) and resection status (p < 0.0001), but not by EQD2_10Gy or size of the planning target volume (median 96.7 ml [16.7–282.8 ml]). At 1 and 2 years, 74% and 52% of the patients were free from distant brain metastases. Salvage procedures were applied in 25/27 (93%) of recurrent patients. Survival was 68% at 1 year and 41% at 2 years and was significantly improved in younger patients (p = 0.006) with higher Karnofsky performance score (p < 0.0001) and without prior radiotherapy (54% vs. 9% at 2 years, p = 0.006). No cases of radiographic or symptomatic radionecrosis were observed.

Conclusion

Adjuvant fractionated local 3DRT is highly effective in radiosensitive, completely resected metastases and should be considered for treating large resection cavities as an alternative to postoperative stereotactic single dose or hypofractionated radiosurgery.

https://ift.tt/2QqcGj4

Determination of optimum exposure parameters for dentoalveolar structures of the jaws using the CB MercuRay system with cluster signal-to-noise analysis

Abstract

Objective

To determine the optimum cone beam computed tomography exposure parameters for specific diagnostic tasks.

Methods

A Teflon phantom attached to a half-mandible in a large container was scanned in dental (D), implant (I), and panoramic (P) modes. An identical phantom in a small container was scanned in D mode. Both were scanned at 60, 80, 100, and 120 kV. We evaluated the image quality of five anatomical structures [dentinoenamel junction (1), lamina dura and periodontal ligament space (2), trabecular pattern (3), cortex–spongy bone junction (4), and pulp chamber and root canal (5)] and analyzed the diagnostic image quality with cluster signal-to-noise analysis. We then evaluated correlations between the two image qualities and calculated the threshold of acceptable diagnostic image quality. Optimum exposure parameters were determined from images with acceptable diagnostic image quality.

Results

For the small container, the optimum exposure parameters were D mode, 80 kV for (1), (3), and (4) and D mode, 100 kV for (5). For the large container, they were D mode, 120 kV for (1), (3), and (5) and D mode, 100 kV for (4). I mode, 120 kV reached the acceptable level for (4). No images reached the acceptable level for (2).

Conclusions

No optimum exposure parameters were identified for the evaluation of the lamina dura and periodontal ligament space. D mode was sufficient for the other structures; however, the tube voltage required for each structure differed. Smaller patients required lower tube voltage. I mode, 120 kV may be used for larger lesions.

https://ift.tt/2p6Xwmr

Agricultural environmental total factor productivity in China under technological heterogeneity: characteristics and determinants

Abstract

With limited resources, growing environment constraints and downward pressure on the economy, increasing agricultural environmental total factor productivity (AETFP) and its contribution to agricultural growth is significant for transforming agricultural development to make it more resource efficient and environment-friendly. This paper considered technological heterogeneity in different regions of China and measured AETFP in 30 provinces from 1997 to 2015 using the Metafrontier Malmquist-Luenberger (MML) productivity index. Multi-dimensional analysis was made on temporal and spatial characteristics, evolution patterns, and influencing factors of AETFP in China. The results showed that: (1) AETFP increased in the Ninth, Tenth, Eleventh, and Twelfth Five-Year Plan periods, with average annual growth rates of 0.76%, 0.88%, 1.17%, and 0.87%, respectively. (2) The average annual growth rate of AETFP in the eastern, central, and western regions decreased successively. The eastern region generally had played a leading role. The central region had a catch-up effect on environmental production technologies from the eastern region, while the western region lacked the catch-up effect. (3) The dynamic evolution of AETFP had prominent features. For the whole nation, the kernel density curve of AETFP continuously moved to the right. The main peak value continuously decreased and the width of the main peak continuously increased. The internal differences of AETFP in the eastern and western regions exhibited an increasing trend, while the internal differences of AETFP in the central region showed little change. (4) There was an inverted U-shaped relationship between agricultural economic growth and AETFP. Both the disaster rate and planting structure had a negative impact on AETFP with varying degrees of significance. Income gaps between urban and rural areas can partially offset the role of urbanization in promoting the growth of AETFP. The greater the income differences between urban and rural areas, the weaker the role of urbanization in promoting the growth of AETFP. These findings can help the government determine policies to change the agricultural development mode and formulate effective measures to improve AETFP.

https://ift.tt/2MyC6YV

Necrobiosis lipoidica associated with sarcoidosis

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2N9ERF7

A challenging case: Multiple and Blaschkoid hair follicle naevi or supernumerary accessory tragi?

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2NHX1gA

Polymorphisms in P53 and VEGFA genes in different subtypes of periorbital hyperpigmentation in a Malaysian Chinese population

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2xeCPJ5

Angina bullosa haemorrhagica‐like lesions in pemphigus vulgaris

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2NHWRWw

Rehabilitation Planning Consult Phase II Trial

Condition:   Head and Neck Neoplasms
Interventions:   Behavioral: Rehabilitation Planning Consult (RPC);   Other: Wait list control (WLC)
Sponsor:   University Health Network, Toronto
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2Qsf1dr

Combination of Chemotherapy Plus RT and SHR-1210 to Treat Patients With ESCC

Condition:   Esophageal Cancer
Interventions:   Drug: SHR-1210;   Radiation: IMRT or VMAT;   Drug: Apatinib
Sponsors:   Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital;   Jiangsu HengRui Medicine Co., Ltd.
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2MvyUNv

Perioperative Perfusion Measurement - a Feasibility and Usability Study

Condition:   Esophageal Cancer
Interventions:   Device: Q-ICG;   Procedure: White light perfusion assessment;   Procedure: Fluorescence angiography
Sponsor:   Rigshospitalet, Denmark
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2QuutWg

Investigation of antibiotics in sea cucumbers: occurrence, pollution characteristics, and human risk assessment

Abstract

Occurrence and distribution of 24 antibiotics from 7 categories were screened in sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) collected from different coastal regions of China. The samples were simultaneously extracted and purified using accelerated solvent extraction with in-cell clean-up and analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A total of ten antibiotics were detected in the sea cucumbers with concentrations ranging from not detected to 32.8 μg/kg (dry weight). Sulfonamides are predominant antibiotics with a mean concentration of 11.5 μg/kg (dry weight), followed by macrolides (11.3 μg/kg, dry weight) and fluoroquinolones (11.2 μg/kg, dry weight). High concentrations of the antibiotics were found in the samples from the South China Sea, implying that the antibiotic pollution in sea cucumbers was geographical region-dependent, which was further confirmed by principal component analysis. It was also found that the antibiotic levels are slightly higher in instant sea cucumbers than in the dried ones. Hazard quotient calculation suggested no obvious human health risks associated with the consumption of sea cucumbers regarding antibiotics.

https://ift.tt/2CW9mts

Treatment of 1,4-dioxane and trichloroethene co-contamination by an activated binary persulfate-peroxide oxidation process

Abstract

The efficacy of a binary oxidant system, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and persulfate, was investigated for treatment of 1,4-dioxane (dioxane) and trichloroethene (TCE) co-contamination. Batch experiments were conducted to examine the catalytic efficiency of Fe²⁺ and NaOH-based activation, oxidant decomposition rates, contaminant degradation effectiveness, and competitive degradation effects. For NaOH activation, the oxidant decomposition rate was moderate and sustained during the entire test period of 96 h. However, dioxane degradation was limited (~ 33%). Conversely, the oxidants were depleted within 24 h for the Fe²⁺-activated system, and dioxane degradation was complete within 4 h. The activation and radical generation processes were different between Fe²⁺ and NaOH activation. Both dioxane and TCE underwent complete degradation in the co-contaminant experiment. The results of this study indicate that the Fe²⁺-catalyzed binary hydrogen peroxide-persulfate oxidant system is effective for oxidation of the tested contaminants separately and as co-contaminants.

https://ift.tt/2NOVNQU

Resistance of alfalfa and Indian mustard to Cd and the correlation of plant Cd uptake and soil Cd form

Abstract

Phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil is considered to be one ecological environmental protection way that is effective and economical. The selection of suitable hyperaccumulators is a key issue for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil. Pot experiments were conducted to study the effects of different Cd levels (0, 75, 150, 300, and 600 mg kg⁻¹ Cd) on the dry weight, antioxidant enzyme activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, Cd concentration, Cd accumulation, and soil Cd form distribution ratio (FDC) of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.). The correlations between Cd concentration in shoots and roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard and soil Cd form were also investigated. The results showed that with the increase of soil Cd levels, dry weight of shoot and root of alfalfa and Indian mustard significantly decreased, which decreased by 50.0–71.8% and 29.6–59.3% (alfalfa), 59.6–89.0% and 64.3–74.8% (India mustard), respectively, compared with the control. With the increase of soil Cd level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in shoot of alfalfa significantly increased. Catalase (CAT) activity and malondialdehyde contents in shoots and roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard, as well as superoxide dismutase activity in the roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard increased first and then decreased with the increase of soil Cd level. With increasing Cd stress, Cd concentration in shoots and roots of alfalfa and Indian mustard significantly increased. At soil Cd level of 75 mg kg⁻¹, Cd concentrations in shoots of alfalfa and Indian mustard exceeded the critical value of Cd-hyperaccumulator (100 mg kg⁻¹), which was 356.46 mg kg⁻¹ and 308.74 mg kg⁻¹, respectively. Cadmium concentrations in shoots and roots of plants were in the order of that of alfalfa > Indian mustard; total Cd accumulation in the aboveground tissues and roots of the plants was in the order of that of Indian mustard > alfalfa at the same Cd level. With increasing soil Cd level, Cd concentrations of exchangeable form (EXC-Cd), carbonate-bound form (CAB-Cd), iron-manganese oxide-bound form (FeMn-Cd), organic-bound form (OM-Cd), and residual form (RES-Cd) showed an increasing trend. The form distribution ratio of soil Cd forms in alfalfa's rhizosphere was in the order of that of exchangeable form Cd > carbonate-bound form Cd > iron-manganese oxide-bound form Cd > residual form Cd > organic-bound form Cd. Except for organic-bound form Cd, soil Cd forms were significantly positively correlated with Cd concentration in shoot and root (P < 0.01). Comprehensively considering the biomass and Cd accumulation, Indian mustard is more suitable as remediation material for soil Cd pollution.

https://ift.tt/2xe88DR

Future intensification of summer hypoxia in the tidal Garonne River (SW France) simulated by a coupled hydro sedimentary-biogeochemical model

Abstract

Projections for the next 50 years predict a widespread distribution of hypoxic zones in the open and coastal ocean due to environmental and global changes. The Tidal Garonne River (SW France) has already experienced few episodic hypoxic events. However, predicted future climate and demographic changes suggest that summer hypoxia could become more severe and even permanent near the city of Bordeaux in the next few decades. A 3D model, which couples hydrodynamic, sediment transport, and biogeochemical processes, is applied to assess the impact of factors submitted to global and regional climate changes on oxygenation in the turbidity maximum zone (TMZ) of the Tidal Garonne River during low-discharge periods. The model simulates an intensification of summer hypoxia with an increase in temperature, a decrease in river flow or an increase in the local population, but not with sea level rise, which has a negligible impact on dissolved oxygen. Different scenarios were tested by combining these different factors according to the regional projections for 2050 and 2100. All the simulations showed a trend toward a spatial and temporal extension of summer hypoxia that needs to be considered by local water authorities to impose management strategies to protect the ecosystem.

https://ift.tt/2p8P9GQ

Nachsorge statt Operation in der Neoadjuvanz beim Ösophaguskarzinom? – Ergebnisse der preSANO-Studie

https://ift.tt/2p82cZu

Risk factors for brain metastasis in patients with small cell lung cancer without prophylactic cranial irradiation

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to determine the risk factors for brain metastasis (BM) and the prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in patients with small cell lung cancer without prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI).

Patients and methods

Limited stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) patients achieving a complete response (CR) or partial response (PR) were enrolled into this study between January 2010 and December 2016. We retrospectively evaluated the influencing factors for time to BM and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 153 patients were enrolled into this study. Sixty-eight developed BM during the follow-up period. For the whole cohort, the 1‑ and 2‑year BM rates were 29.4 and 41.2%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that T stage (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.27, P = 0.024), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; HR = 2.07, P = 0.029), time to thoracic radiotherapy (HR = 0.34, P = 0.002) and chemotherapy cycles (HR = 0.49, P = 0.036) were the independent influencing factors of time to BM. Only NLR (HR = 2.11, P = 0.005) and time to thoracic radiotherapy (HR = 1.95, P = 0.011) were independent prognostic factors of OS. Of the 68 patients developing BM, those with BM occurring as the first relapse (42/68) had better OS than the others (39.5 months vs 23.0 months, P = 0.016).

Conclusion

LS-SCLC patients without PCI had a high risk of BM. High T stage, high NLR, early thoracic radiotherapy and fewer chemotherapy cycles were the risk factors of BM. Further research is needed to confirm the results.

https://ift.tt/2MAGnuU

Aktuelle hormonelle Verhütungsmethoden und das Risiko für Brustkrebs

https://ift.tt/2p6UKNX

Reply to: “Risk of skin cancer in HIV-infected patients: a Danish nationwide cohort study”

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): Matthew D. Mansh, Dustin H. Marks

https://ift.tt/2CS30eu

Clobetasol pretreatment to reduce or prevent injection site dermatitis from biologic agents

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): Deede Liu, Dominic J. Wu, Anand Rajpara, Ting Wang, Daniel J. Aires

https://ift.tt/2p8xpve

Answer to the comment concerning our article “Risk of skin cancer in HIV-infected patients: a Danish nationwide cohort study”

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): S.H. Omland, L.H. Omland

https://ift.tt/2CVvFzp

Principles of the magnetic resonance imaging movie method for articulatory movement

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a critical tool for dental examination. MRI has many advantages over radiographic examination methods, including the lack of a requirement for patient exposure and the ability to capture high-contrast images of various tissue and organ types. However, MRI also has several limitations, including long examination times and the existence of metallic or motion artifacts. A cardiac imaging method using cine sequences was developed in the 1990s. This technique allows for analysis of heart movement and functional blood flow. Moreover, this method has been applied in dentistry. Recent research involving 3 T MRI has led to the achievement of a temporal resolution of < 10 ms, surpassing the frame rate of typical video recording. The current review introduces the history and principles of the cine sequence method and its application to the oral and maxillofacial regions.

https://ift.tt/2NNCEhU

The rotating stretched curved planar reconstruction of 3D-FIESTA MR imaging for evaluating the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee joint

Publication date: Available online 14 September 2018

Source: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Author(s): Jun Zhang, Dapeng Hao, Feng Duan, Tengbo Yu, Chuanyu Zhang, Junyi Che

Abstract

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of the rotating stretched curved planar reconstruction (CPR) of three-dimensional fast imaging with steady-state acquisition magnetic resonance imaging (3D-FIESTA MRI) for evaluating the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee joint.

Materials and methods

MRI of 40 knee joints in healthy volunteers was performed on a 3.0-T MR scanner and a phased-array extremity coil. The protocol consisted of oblique sagittal spin echo (SE) T1WI, coronal FS-PDWI, axial FS-FSE-T2WI, and 3D-FIESTA sequences. The rotating stretched curved planar reconstructions (CPR) of the ACL at angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, and 180° were generated from images of 3D-FIESTA sequences. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the 3D-FIESTA were compared with those of the oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence. The presence of the tibial attachment, midportion, femoral attachment, and double bundles of the ACL on the oblique sagittal SE T1WI and CPR of 3D-FIESTA MR imaging were divided into two categories: visible and not visible.

Results

The ACL SNR efficiency of 3D-FIESTA sequences was significantly higher than that of oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence (P < 0.05). The 3D-FIESTA sequences produced images with a significantly higher CNR between ACL and synovial fluid than did the oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence (P < 0.05). CPR of 3D-FIESTA MRI generated an excellent visualization of the ACL. The CPR of 3D-FIESTA MRI was rated superior to oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence in 60% and 65% of cases with regard to the tibial attachment and midportion of ACL, respectively (P < 0.05). CPR of 3D-FIESTA MR imaging was rated superior to oblique sagittal SE T1WI sequence in 80% and 85% of cases with regard to femoral attachment and double bundles of ACL, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The rotating stretched curved planar reconstruction of 3D-FIESTA sequences is significantly better than that of conventional 2D-MRI in evaluating the native ACL and its components, AM bundle and PL bundle, in healthy volunteers.

https://ift.tt/2CTx4X2

The maximum chemiluminescence intensity predicts severe neutropenia in gemcitabine-treated patients with pancreatic or biliary tract cancer

Abstract

Purpose

To assess the predictive ability of the maximum chemiluminescence intensity (CI_max) for severe neutropenia (SN) during neoadjuvant chemo(radio)therapy [NAC(RT)] in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer.

Methods

Clinicopathological variables and blood test data before NAC(RT) were evaluated in 64 patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer who received gemcitabine plus tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil as NAC(RT).

Results

Thirty-nine patients (60.9%) developed Grade 3–4 SN. The median time between commencing NAC(RT) and the onset of SN was 15 (range 10–36) days. SN occurred during the NAC period, not the RT period. The CI_max, neutrophil count, serum interleukin-6 level, C-reactive protein level, complement C3 titer, serum complement titer, and 50.0% hemolytic unit of complement before NAC(RT) were significantly lower in patients with SN than in those without SN (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis confirmed the CI_max to be the sole independent predictor of SN (P < 0.05). The optimal threshold for the CI_max was 46,000 RLU/s. The sensitivity and specificity were 46.2% and 80.0%, respectively. Majority of the patients (81.8%) with a low CI_max before NAC(RT) experienced SN during NAC(RT).

Conclusions

CI_max before NAC(RT) predicts SN during NAC(RT) in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer.

https://ift.tt/2NMKJDw

Testing EKC hypothesis with energy and sustainable development challenges: a fresh evidence from belt and road initiative economies

Abstract

Diverse impact of greenhouse gasses (GHGs) over the landscape of environment is generally believed in literature. As CO2 emission acutely leads to GHGs is a major contributor for global warming, it creates a serious pressure on natural resources and ecological settings. Similarly, low-carbon (CO2) economy, plenty of energy resources, and sustainable growth are a big ask for worldwide economies in this era of mechanization. This paper analyzes the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) economies, to contend the role of mega projects in BRI as an attribute for ecological detriments. The on-hand study engages fresh data information ranging from 1981 to 2016 holding with heterogeneity and cross-sectional dependence as a special deliberation. The calculated outcomes expose that, mean group estimator provides strong evidence and favor the existence of EKC approximately in every region. The long-run influence is measured by pooled mean group estimators, which shows significant outcomes in every region; additionally, the EKC hypothesis affirmed in the long run especially for developed economies. Mega projects, i.e., BRI requisite immense energy sources to accomplishing the enclosed projects efficiently and effectively. The positive association between carbon emission and energy consumption troubled the governments to make policies for restraining the magnitude of carbon emission and controls energy usage for enduring environment to its original position. Next, the valuations depicted the dense recommendations for state administrations in capacity of rigorous level supremacy, trash managing campaigns, renewable energy reliance, and advance for desirable judgments to sterilize the atmosphere.

https://ift.tt/2x8BDrw

Metal wet deposition in the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) region of Southwest China

Abstract

Metal wet deposition has become an environmental concern because of its threats to soil or water quality and human health. This study was to collect rainfall waters in 2016 from seven sites, representing urban, town, rural, and wetland, within the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) region of Southwest China, determine the metal concentration and flux (Zn, Mn, Cu, As, Cd, Pb), and identify their possible sources. Results indicated that Zn was the most abundant metal with a concentration of 16.92 μg L⁻¹ in fall and 19.91 μg L⁻¹ in winter and flux of 4.71 mg m⁻² in fall, while Cd was the least with a monthly mean concentration of 0.02–0.37 μg L⁻¹. Among the seven sites, urban (FL) had the highest values of both concentrations of metals (Zn, Cu, Pb) and fluxes of metals (Mn, As), which significantly differed from the other sites. Component and redundancy analysis suggested that fossil fuel and biomass combustion be a potential metal source. Enrichment factors, box model, and potential ecological risk index showed that the TGR water quality could face a high risk due to wet metal deposition, especially Cd. Data could provide a valuable aid in mitigating metal pollution, developing the best watershed management practices, as well as safeguarding water quality and human health in the TGR region or other reservoir regions.

https://ift.tt/2MuqINp

Germanium in the soil-plant system—a review

Abstract

Germanium (Ge) is widespread in the Earth's crust. As a cognate element to silicon (Si), Ge shows very similar chemical characteristics. Recent use of Ge/Si to trace Si cycles and changes in weathering over time, growing demand for Ge as raw material, and consequently an increasing interest in Ge phytomining have contributed to a growing interest in this previously rather scarcely considered element in geochemical studies. This review deals with the distribution of Ge in primary minerals and surface soils as well as the factors influencing the mobility of Ge in soils including the sequestration of Ge in secondary mineral phases and soil organic matter. Furthermore, the uptake and accumulation of Ge in plants and effects of plant-soil relationships on the availability of Ge in soils and the biogeochemical cycling of Ge are discussed. The formation of secondary soil minerals and soil organic matter are of particular importance for the concentration of Ge in plant-available forms. The transfer from soil to plant is usually low and shows clear differences between species belonging to the functional groups of grasses and forbs. Possible uptake mechanisms in the rhizosphere are discussed. However, the processes that are involved in the formation of plant-available Ge pools in soils and consequently its biogeochemical cycling are not yet well understood. There is, therefore, a need for future studies on the uptake mechanisms and stoichiometry of Ge uptake under field conditions and plant-soil-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere as well as the chemical speciation in different plant parts.

https://ift.tt/2MvJDY7

Cobalt and nickel content in Hydrocharis morsus-ranae and their bioremoval from single- and binary solutions

Abstract

Aquatic macrophytes are known to remove trace metals from surrounding water. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate the phytofiltration capacity of Hydrocharis morsus-ranae and to show competition between cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni) for the better understanding of metal bioaccumulation in the species. In a laboratory experiment, H. morsus-ranae was exposed to separate (single) and binary solutions of these metals: Ni 10.7, 18.7, 32.7, 57.1, and 100 (μg L⁻¹); Co 5.33, 9.32, 16.3, 28.6, and 50.0 (μg L⁻¹); and 10.7 Ni + 5.33 Co, 18.7 Ni + 9.32 Co, 32.7 Ni + 16.3 Co, 57.1 Ni + 28.6 Co, 100 Ni + 50.0 Co (μg L⁻¹). The content of Co and Ni in the plant increased with the increasing concentration in the growth medium. Competition between the metals was seen during uptake in binary solutions. Ni interfered with the accumulation of Co, resulting in a lower Co content than in plants cultivated in Co solutions. A particularly high Co content (up to 155 mg kg⁻¹ dry weight [d.w.]) and high efficiency of Ni uptake (Bioaccumulation Factor (BF) 2572–7239) makes the species a very good accumulator of these metals. The high content of both trace metals in plant tissues (up to 511 mg kg⁻¹ d.w. Ni and 155 mg kg⁻¹ d.w. Co) did not affect its growth, indicating tolerance of these toxicants. The plant showed excellent ability in removing Co (up to 98.6% in solution with 5.33 μg L⁻¹ Co) and Ni (up to 91.4% in solution with 57.1 μg L⁻¹ Ni and 28.6 μg L⁻¹ Co) from nutrient solution. The results suggest that H. morsus-ranae may be useful for the phytoremediation of water bodies contaminated with Co and Ni.

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“Reporting Time Horizons in Randomized Controlled Trials in Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review.”

Background: Current guidelines for randomized controlled trial (RCT) reporting do not require authors to justify their choice of time horizon. This is concerning, as the time horizon when an outcome is assessed has important implications for the interpretation of study results, and resources allocated to an investigation. Therefore, this study seeks to examine the standards of time horizon reporting in the plastic surgery literature. Methods: This is a systematic review of plastic surgery RCTs published within the last 4 years. The MEDLINE database was searched to yield relevant studies. All studies included were English language, prospective, non-pharmaceutical RCTs, comparing two plastic surgical interventions. Studies were classified into plastic surgery domains, and information regarding study population, time horizon reporting, and justification of chosen time horizons, was extracted. Results: The search retrieved 720 articles, of which 103 were eligible for inclusion. Time horizons were reported as either a standardized time point at which all patients were assessed, a follow-up duration range, or were not reported at all. Although most studies (85.4%) reported a standardized time horizon, the majority (85.4%) failed to provide a valid justification to support their selection of time horizons. Conclusion: Clinical investigators failed to justify their choice of time horizons in the majority of published RCTs. To limit heterogeneity, time horizons for given interventions should be standardized to improve validity of outcome assessments, enable future pooling of results, and increase research efficiency. The authors have no financial interests to declare. Corresponding Author: Achilleas Thoma, MD, MSc, 101-206 James Street South, Hamilton, ON L8P 3A9, Canada. athoma@mcmaster.ca, ©2018American Society of Plastic Surgeons

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