Tattoos and Penalty Success at the FIFA World Cup 2018

Dermatology

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Decreased Systemic Levels of Endocan-1 and CXCL16 in Psoriasis Are Restored following Narrowband UVB Treatment

Background: In psoriasis, a common immune-mediated disease affecting 2–3% of the population worldwide, there is an increased prevalence of extracutaneous diseases including obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. This is believed to be linked to systemic inflammation. In previous studies, we have explored various markers in plasma and serum to characterize the ongoing systemic inflammation in psoriasis patients compared to controls. We have identified several markers that were altered in psoriasis patients, but which all were unresponsive to narrowband UVB (NB-UVB) treatment. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of NB-UVB treatment on markers of cardiovascular risk and systemic inflammation in psoriasis. Methods: The levels of 17 potential biomarkers with an association with cardiovascular risk were quantitated in plasma from 37 age- and gender-matched psoriasis patients and controls at baseline and in 21 psoriasis patients after 12 weeks of NB-UVB treatment to identify a systemic treatment response. Results: We identified the mediators endocan-1, CXCL16, and sVEGFR1, which were systemically decreased in psoriasis at baseline, as well as FABP3, FABP4, and sIL-1R1, which showed normal baseline levels. After 10–12 weeks of NB-UVB treatment, endocan-1 and CXCL16 were restored to normal levels, while sVEGFR1, FABP3, FABP4, and sIL-1R1 showed a significant reduction. Conclusion: The current study expands the number of potential biomarkers in psoriasis by including a greater number and variety of mediators, approaching the systemic inflammation from additional vantage points, including soluble immune receptors and adipocyte contribution, to provide a more complete picture of the systemic inflammatory state in psoriasis.
Dermatology

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An investigator‐blinded, randomized, prospective, comparative study of efficacy of four anti‐inflammatory and barrier hand moisturizers in patients with chronic hand dermatitis

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2PwFQvA

The use of etanercept for treatment of toxic epidermal necrolysis when toxic shock syndrome is in the differential

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2oAPSjU

Values of body mass index (BMI) and body surface area (BSA) in patients with psoriatic arthritis treated with adalimumab: Preliminary report

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2PzPaiz

“SENECA” Sinecatechins 10% ointment: A green tea extract for the treatment of actinic keratosis. Case series

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2oAik5J

Adipose tissue, fillers, and skin tightening

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2PxHGMH

Parasitoids of the eucalyptus gall wasp Leptocybe spp.: a global review

Abstract

The genus Leptocybe Fisher & La Salle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and its type species L. invasa were first described in 2004. Leptocybe spp. are global pests of eucalyptus plantations, and parasitoids play an important role in their control. In this review, we describe the species, distribution, biology, ecology and parasitism levels of Leptocybe spp. parasitoids and the problems associated with biological control programmes against Leptocybe spp. Additionally, prospects for the use of conservation or augmentative biological control programmes against Leptocybe spp. are discussed. Worldwide, approximately 23 species of parasitoids of Leptocybe spp. in 7 families and 10 genera have been found to date. Comparing the parasitism levels of the parasitoids showed that Quadrastichus mendeli, Selitrichodes neseri and several (approximately 4) native Megastigmus spp. could be exploited to manage Leptocybe spp. Available information on the Leptocybe spp. parasitoids is expected to improve our understanding related to ongoing studies of biological control programmes against Leptocybe spp.

https://ift.tt/2Q17LEZ

Electrode Penetration of the Caudate Nucleus in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Parkinson’s Disease

Objective: To evaluate the possible influence of electrode trajectories penetrating the caudate nucleus (CN) on cognitive outcomes in deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for Parkinson's disease (PD). Background: It is currently unclear how mandatory CN avoidance during trajectory planning is. Design/Methods: Electrode trajectories were determined to be inside, outside, or in border region of the CN. Pre- and postoperative neuropsychological tests of each trajectory group were compared in order to evaluate possible differences in cognitive outcomes 12 months after bilateral STN DBS. Results: One hundred six electrode tracks in 53 patients were evaluated. Bilateral penetration of the CN occurred in 15 (28%) patients, while unilateral penetration occurred in 28 (53%). In 19 (36%) patients tracks were located in the border region of the CN. There was no electrode penetration of the CN in 10 (19%) patients. No difference in cognitive outcomes was found between the different groups. Conclusion: Cognitive outcome was not influenced by DBS electrode tracks penetrating the CN. It is both feasible and sensible to avoid electrode tracks through the CN when possible, considering its function and anatomical position. However, penetration of the CN can be considered without major concerns regarding cognitive decline when this facilitates optimal trajectory planning due to specific individual anatomical variations.
Stereotact Funct Neurosurg

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Feasibility of 5-fluorouracil pharmacokinetic monitoring using the My-5FU PCM™ system in a quaternary oncology centre

Abstract

Purpose

5-Fluorouracil (5FU) drug exposure correlates with treatment response and toxicity in cancer patients. Dosing is based upon body surface area which does not correlate with 5FU pharmacokinetics (PK)/pharmacodynamics. Therapeutic drug monitoring has enabled real-time 5FU dose adjustments: reducing toxicity with increased efficacy. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility of a 5FU monitoring service utilising a commercial kit in a quaternary cancer centre and to compare PK parameters to previously published studies.

Methods

Cancer patients receiving continuous infusional (CI) 5FU with ECOG PS 0–2, and adequate organ function, were eligible. Patients had blood samples taken at t = 0, mid infusion (if feasible) then 2 h pre infusion end. 5FU levels were measured using a commercial kit (My-5FU PCM™). A feasibility questionnaire was completed by trial nurses and toxicity data were recorded at baseline and at the commencement of the next cycle. 5FU pharmacokinetic exposure parameters were calculated.

Results

Twenty patients (12 male; 8 female), median age 62, (range 37–71) had samples taken. Twenty (100%) feasibility forms were available for assessment. Blood samples were taken at 51/69 (74%) specified time points. Ease of sample processing was recorded as easy in all 20 patients. Patient compliance with scheduled visits was 18/20 (90%). One form noted other difficulties with predicting end of infusion time. 19/20 patients had blood samples analysed. Mean measured 5FU AUC (0-Tlast) for 5FU 1 g/m² with platinum: 35.8 h mg/L (range 28.56–44.26), mean Css 372.2 µg/L (range 297.5–461.0); 5FU 600 mg/m² with platinum: 12.42 h mg/L (range 6.91–18.29), mean Css 111.0 µg/L (72.0–190.5) and 5FU 2400 mg/m² as part of FOLFOX ± bevacizumab: 14.75 h mg/L (range 6.74–22.93), mean Css 320.70 µg/L (range 146.5–498.5). One patient had grade 4 neutropenia and one patient without PK parameters experienced febrile neutropenia (grade 4 neutropenia). Mucositis was observed in two patients: [5FU/platinum (1), grade 1, FOXFOX ± bevacizumab (1) grade 1]. Diarrhoea was reported in three patients [5FU/platinum (2) grade 1–2, FOXFOX ± bevacizumab (1) grade 1].

Conclusion

Therapeutic 5FU drug monitoring was feasible using commercial kits and analysers and hence warrants development as a routine standard of care in cancer patients. The variability in the 5FU exposure parameters is consistent with other studies using the My 5FU PCM kit.

https://ift.tt/2LSJVIj

Primary adrenal insufficiency due to bilateral infiltrative disease

Abstract

Purpose

Evidence on clinical presentation, evaluation, and management of patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) due to bilateral adrenal infiltrative disease is scarce. Our objective was to review the clinical presentation, biochemical work-up, imaging findings, and management of patients with PAI due to infiltrative adrenal disease in order to determine the best diagnostic and management approach.

Methods

Retrospective study of patients with PAI due to bilateral infiltrative adrenal disease referred for adrenal biopsy during 2000–2014 at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. Two additional patients evaluated after 2014 were included.

Results

Seven patients (six males and one female) were diagnosed with PAI caused by bilateral adrenal infiltrative disease at a median age of 54 (range 36–80) years. Duration of symptoms prior to the diagnosis of PAI and initiating treatment was 6 months (range 3 months–4 years). All patients demonstrated bilateral adrenal masses on adrenal imaging. The underlying diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology and included: bilateral adrenal metastases (lung and breast adenocarcinoma), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, tuberculosis, cryptococcus, histoplasmosis, and, Erdheim-Chester disease.

Conclusion

In patients with newly diagnosed PAI, the differential diagnosis should include bilateral infiltrative adrenal disease, especially when testing for autoimmune adrenalitis is negative, or if there is clinical history suggesting another etiology. Patients who present with known bilateral adrenal infiltrative disease should be counseled and tested for PAI periodically, particularly if presenting with suggestive signs or symptoms.

https://ift.tt/2oA644X

Primary adrenal insufficiency due to bilateral infiltrative disease

Abstract

Purpose

Evidence on clinical presentation, evaluation, and management of patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) due to bilateral adrenal infiltrative disease is scarce. Our objective was to review the clinical presentation, biochemical work-up, imaging findings, and management of patients with PAI due to infiltrative adrenal disease in order to determine the best diagnostic and management approach.

Methods

Retrospective study of patients with PAI due to bilateral infiltrative adrenal disease referred for adrenal biopsy during 2000–2014 at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. Two additional patients evaluated after 2014 were included.

Results

Seven patients (six males and one female) were diagnosed with PAI caused by bilateral adrenal infiltrative disease at a median age of 54 (range 36–80) years. Duration of symptoms prior to the diagnosis of PAI and initiating treatment was 6 months (range 3 months–4 years). All patients demonstrated bilateral adrenal masses on adrenal imaging. The underlying diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology and included: bilateral adrenal metastases (lung and breast adenocarcinoma), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, tuberculosis, cryptococcus, histoplasmosis, and, Erdheim-Chester disease.

Conclusion

In patients with newly diagnosed PAI, the differential diagnosis should include bilateral infiltrative adrenal disease, especially when testing for autoimmune adrenalitis is negative, or if there is clinical history suggesting another etiology. Patients who present with known bilateral adrenal infiltrative disease should be counseled and tested for PAI periodically, particularly if presenting with suggestive signs or symptoms.

https://ift.tt/2oA644X

Toxicity potential of particles caused by particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PPAHs) at two roadside locations and relationship with traffic

Abstract

This study assessed exposure by the roadside to highly toxic particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PPAHs) that are known to adsorb preferentially on fine particles, aerodynamic diameter (d_p ≤ 1 μm). The real-time air quality measurements were conducted in March, April, and May 2015 in Kanpur at two busy roadside locations: one outside IIT Kanpur main gate, IG, and another by a residential area, M3. The locations show varying land use type and traffic density. Higher averaged daily concentrations of PM₁₀, PM_2.5, and PM₁ were observed at IG (PM₁₀ 700–800 μg/m³) owing to nature and high density of traffic, and occurrence of biomass burning nearby. Statistically significant relation (R² > 90%, p < 0.05) between PM₁ and PM_2.5 highlights the influence of mobile sources on particle load at IG. IG, the busier location, had higher daily averaged concentration of aggregate PPAHs (104 ng/m³) than M3 which is located near a residential area (38 ng/m³). In contrast, the higher average daily value of PC/DC ratio (mass per unit surface area of PPAHs on nanoparticles) at M3 (4.87 ng/mm²) than at IG (4.08 ng/mm²) suggests that PAHs of greater mass occur on particles at M3. Finer particles are known to adsorb pollutants of a larger mass that are likely to be more toxic in case of PAHs suggest that ambient air at M3 has more toxicity potential. However, this inference is not based on chemical analyses, and chemical characteristics must also be taken into account for the detailed assessment of health risk. The multiple path dosimetry model (MPPD-v3.04) reveals that the 99.02% of PM₁₀ inhaled, 77.01% of PM_2.5 and 34.54% of PM₁ are deposited in the outermost (head) region of the human respiratory tract.

https://ift.tt/2oATnGY

Economic valuation of noise pollution control policy: does the type of noise matter?

Abstract

As the average noise level and number of noise sources have increased, governments have taken various measures to make soundscapes sustainable. Wise policy decisions require information about the monetary value of noise-control policies. This study elicited people's willingness to pay (WTP) for noise policies, separating traffic noise from residential noise to compare the value of controlling different types of noise. The contingent valuation method was used for the empirical analysis, with data from South Korea. The results show that the monthly mean WTP of respondents was KRW 3392.3 for residential noise reduction and KRW 3507.1 for transport noise reduction; thus, the WTP for the latter is slightly higher than that for the former. Moreover, about 80% of people are unwilling to pay for a noise policy at all, and that high ratio of people with zero WTP must be taken into consideration in the process of policy formulation and implementation. Respondents' experiential and psychological factors were found to be more important than their demographics in explaining their WTP for a noise policy. Potential policy implications based on the analysis results are provided.

https://ift.tt/2Px7UPt

Empirics on linkages among industrialization, urbanization, energy consumption, CO2 emissions and economic growth: a heterogeneous panel study of China

Abstract

This is the first attempt to explore linkages among industrialization, urbanization, energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and economic growth based on estimations in simultaneous equations framework. An economic growth model is extended to incorporate industrialization as shift factor and pollutant emissions as determinant of total factor productivity. A country panel of 30 Chinese provinces/cities and three regional panels, for periods 2000–2016, are estimated employing Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimator as well as Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG) estimator that are robust to both cross-sectional dependence and cointegration. The empirical findings are as follows: (i) the impact of urbanization on economic growth varied from negative to neutral to positive for western-, intermediate-, and eastern-economic zone, respectively, and is known as "urbanization ladder effect," (ii) moving from western to eastern economic zone, as regions develop, industry expansion has more powerful impact on economic growth, and thus, we define it as "industry expansion effect," (iii) industrialization promotes rapid urbanization in less developed and less employment saturated regions; hence, we name it as "employment saturation effect," (iv) economic growth in more developed regions pulled the CO2 emissions downward, while pushed it upward in case of less developed regions; therefore, we call it "growth pull/push effect," and (v) in bidirectional causality between energy consumption and economic growth, the "feedback effect" of economic growth remained dominant for all four panels. Based on empirical findings, policies are suggested for Chinese economy. Further, these policies have potential to extract implications for the rest of the world.

https://ift.tt/2NcKSjr

Correction to: Nematicidal potential of Taraxacum officinale

The original publication of this paper contains a mistake. Data on Table 1 under TR and TL column have been interchanged: that is compounds 1-12 and their amounts refer to TL; compounds 1-8 and related amounts refer to TR (see Fig. 1).

https://ift.tt/2PqW5u4

DFT/TDDFT insights into effects of dissociation and metal complexation on photochemical behavior of enrofloxacin in water

Abstract

Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the effects of different dissociated forms and metal ion complexation on the photochemical behavior of antibiotics in aqueous media is a key problem and requires further research. We examined the mechanism of the direct photolysis of enrofloxacin (ENRO) in different dissociated forms in water and the impact of metal ions (Mg²⁺) on the photolysis of ENRO using density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory. The results showed that different dissociated forms of ENRO exhibited diverse maximum electronic absorbance wavelengths (ENRO³⁺ (264 nm) < ENRO⁻ (278 nm) < ENRO⁰ (280 nm) < ENRO²⁺ (282 nm) < ENRO⁺ (306 nm)). The calculations of the reaction pathways and activation energies (E_a) in the photolysis of ENRO⁰/ENRO⁺/ENRO⁻ showed that defluorination was the main reaction pathway. The removal of cyclopropane was the main reaction pathway for the direct photolysis of ENRO²⁺/ENRO³⁺. Furthermore, the presence of Mg²⁺ was observed to change the order of the maximum electronic absorbance wavelengths and increases the intensities of the ENRO absorbance peaks. Calculations of the photolysis reaction pathways showed that the presence of Mg²⁺ increased the E_a for the most direct photolysis pathways of ENRO, while its presence decreased the E_a for several partial direct photolysis pathways such as the pathway in which the piperazine ring moiety of ENRO⁰/ENRO³⁺ is damaged and the pathway in which cyclopropane is released from ENRO³⁺. The findings on the photolysis behavior of ENRO in water system have provided useful information on the risk assessment of antibiotics.

https://ift.tt/2wySFO4

Analysis of key genes and signaling pathways involved in Helicobacter pylori‐associated gastric cancer based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database and RNA sequencing data

Helicobacter, EarlyView.


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Herpes Zoster Optic Neuropathy: Comment

No abstract available

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Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy After Dental Extraction

Background: While often idiopathic, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy occasionally may occur from an identifiable cause. Methods: Observational case report. Results: A 19-year-old woman with unremarkable medical and ophthalmic histories developed visual loss from nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in her right eye after otherwise uneventful dental extraction of the inferior third molars. Conclusions: Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy may rarely occur after dental extraction. Potential pathophysiologic mechanisms of this rare occurrence are discussed. Address correspondence to Rod Foroozan, MD, Baylor College of Medicine, 1977 Butler Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030; E-mail: foroozan@bcm.edu From the Baylor College of Medicine (EK, RF), Houston, Texas. The authors report no conflicts of interest. © 2018 by North American Neuro-Ophthalmology Society

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