Medicine by Alexandros G.Sfakianakis,Anapafseos 5 Agios Nikolaos,Crete 72100,Greece,tel :00302841026182 & 00306932607174
Δευτέρα 14 Μαρτίου 2016
Consecutive lynestrenol and cross-sex hormone treatment in biological female adolescents with gender dysphoria: a retrospective analysis
BACKGROUND: Prior to the start of cross-sex hormone therapy (CSH), androgenic progestins are often used to induce amenorrhea in female to male (FtM) pubertal adolescents with gender dysphoria (GD). The aim of this single-center study is to report changes in anthropometry, side effects, safety parameters, and hormone levels in a relatively large cohort of FtM adolescents with a diagnosis of GD at Tanner stage B4 or further, who were treated with lynestrenol (Orgametril®) monotherapy and in combination with testosterone esters (Sustanon®). METHODS: A retrospective analysis of clinical and biochemical data obtained during at least 6 months of hormonal treatment in FtM adolescents followed at our adolescent gender clinic since 2010 (n = 45) was conducted. McNemar's test to analyze reported side effects over time was performed. A paired Student's t test or a Wilcoxon signed-ranks test was performed, as appropriate, on anthropometric and biochemical data. For biochemical analyses, all statistical tests were done in comparison with baseline parameters. Patients who were using oral contraceptives (OC) at intake were excluded if a Mann-Whitney U test indicated influence of OC. RESULTS: Metrorrhagia and acne were most pronounced during the first months of monotherapy and combination therapy respectively and decreased thereafter. Headaches, hot flushes, and fatigue were the most reported side effects. Over the course of treatment, an increase in musculature, hemoglobin, hematocrit, creatinine, and liver enzymes was seen, progressively sliding into male reference ranges. Lipid metabolism shifted to an unfavorable high-density lipoprotein (HDL)/low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ratio; glucose metabolism was not affected. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone, and estradiol levels decreased, and free testosterone slightly increased during monotherapy; total and free testosterone increased significantly during combination therapy. Gonadotropins were only fully suppressed during combination therapy. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) remained stable throughout the treatment. Changes occurred in the first 6 months of treatment and remained mostly stable thereafter. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of FtM gender dysphoric adolescents with lynestrenol monotherapy and in combination with testosterone esters is effective, safe, and inexpensive; however, suppression of gonadotropins is incomplete. Regular blood controls allow screening for unphysiological changes in safety parameters or hormonal levels and for medication abuse.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QXJ8ls
via IFTTT
Asexuality: a multidimensional approach
While lack of sexual attraction, lack of sexual behavior, and self-identification as asexual have been used as criteria to define asexuality, it is not known how much they overlap in describing the same group of people. This study aimed to assess how many individuals could be identified as asexual based on each of these criteria and on combinations of these criteria. Participants were recruited through the Asexuality Visibility and Education Network, social media, and posts on several health- and lifestyle-related websites. In total, 566 participants between 18 and 72 years old (M=27.86, SD=10.53) completed an online survey (24% male, 68.9% female, 7.1% other). Based on self-identification or lack of sexual attraction, 71.3% and 69.2%, respectively, of participants were categorized as asexual, while based on lack of sexual behavior only 48.5% were categorized as asexual. Gender differences were found only for those participants who indicated that they did not experience sexual attraction, with more women (72.8%) than men (58.8%) indicating a lack of sexual attraction. Given that self-identification as asexual implies familiarity with the term asexual, we argue for the use of lack of sexual attraction as the primary criterion to define asexuality.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1V6op44
via IFTTT
Host Cell Stress Responses to Flavivirus Infection
Characterizing host cell response to viral infection is a valuable step in therapeutic discovery. In light of the current Zika virus outbreak, the review published by Blázquez et al. (2014) of papers investigating these pathways following flavivirus infection is a useful refresher for researchers engaged in world health initiatives.1 Members of the Flavivirus genus are Read the rest of this article
The post Host Cell Stress Responses to Flavivirus Infection appeared first on Accelerating Science.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1Rhz7Pl
via IFTTT
Skin surgery, an evidence-based update: meeting report
Summary
The Evidence Based Update on Skin Surgery was held in Nottingham in May 2015. The meeting featured presentations on new diagnostic techniques, trials in development, discussions of recently published trials, and a question and answer session with an expert panel. This report aims to summarize the presentations and discussions from the day.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1V6mZXg
via IFTTT
Response to “Darier Disease in Israel: combined evaluation of genetic and neuropsychiatric aspects”
With interest we read the valuable contribution to the delineation of the neuropsychiatric phenotype in Darier disease (DD) by Dodiuk-Gad et al.1. We are not completely convinced, however, that ATP2A2 mutations are as independently associated with psychiatric symptoms in DD, especially depression, as the authors propose. We would like to make two remarks and advocate a clinically oriented approach to psychiatric symptoms in DD patients.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QXHWP8
via IFTTT
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia - Possible Association with Leave-on Facial Skin Care Products and Sunscreens; A Questionnaire Study
Abstract
Background
Since its first description in 1994 frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) has become increasingly common, suggesting that environmental factors are involved in the aetiology.
Objective
To identify possible causative environmental factors in frontal fibrosing alopecia.
Methods
A questionnaire enquiring about exposure to a wide range of lifestyle, social and medical factors was completed by 105 women with FFA and 100 age and sex-matched control subjects. A sub-cohort of women with FFA was patch-tested to an extended British standard series of allergens.
Results
The use of sunscreens was significantly greater in the FFA group compared to controls. FFA subjects also showed a trend towards more frequent use of facial moisturisers and foundations but, compared to controls, the difference in frequencies just failed to reach statistical significance. The frequency of hair shampooing, oral contraceptive use, hair colouring and facial hair removal were significantly lower in the FFA group than in controls. Thyroid disease was more common in FFA subjects than controls and there was a high frequency of positive patch tests in women with FFA, mainly to fragrances.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest an association between FFA and the use of facial skin care products. The high frequency of sunscreen use in patients with FFA, and the fact that many facial skin care products now contain sunscreens, raises the possibility of a causative role for sunscreen chemicals. The high frequency of positive patch tests in women with FFA and the association with thyroid disease may indicate a predisposition to immune-mediated disease.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1V6mWL6
via IFTTT
Tobacco Smoking Kills Slowly, while Smoking on Oxygen Is a Burning Issue
Respiration
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/22dAudh
via IFTTT
Bone volume changes after immediate implant placement with or without flap elevation
Abstract
Objectives
The aims of this prospective study were to evaluate bone dimensions after immediate implant placement with simultaneous grafting of the buccal gap, to determine if initial buccal bone width had an influence on bone remodelling and to compare bone volume changes using a flap or a flapless approach after 6 months of healing.
Material and methods
This prospective study included patients who required an extraction and a subsequent immediate implant placement at a non-molar site. In those cases where tooth extraction was not feasible with a flapless approach (test group) a mucoperiosteal flap was carefully elevated (control group). After extraction, a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was taken. Then, an implant was placed and the buccal gap was grafted using anorganic bovine bone. After 6 months of healing, a second CBCT was performed. A blinded investigator superimposed both images and performed a series of measurements to determine bone volume changes between the two time points.
Results
Thirty-five patients were included in this study, 20 of which belonged to the test group. All together, the differences between baseline and 6 months in buccal plate height, lingual plate height and in ridge width at 2, 4 and 6 mm were 0.48 ± 1.35; 0.58 ± 1.51; 0.64 ± 0.81; 0.59 ± 1.36 and 0.52 ± 1.16, respectively. Only a moderate correlation was observed between initial buccal plate width and buccal plate height at 6 months (P = 0.0001). No statistically significant differences were observed between flap and flapless approach.
Conclusions
A mean reduction of around 0.5 mm in height and width after placing immediate implants and filling the residual gap with anorganic bovine bone may be expected. No significant association between initial buccal bone width and ridge width at 6 months was seen. No statistically significant differences were found between the two treatment protocols although more ridge reduction was observed for the flap group.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QRt5aW
via IFTTT
Osteogenic potential of rhBMP9 combined with a bovine-derived natural bone mineral scaffold compared to rhBMP2
Abstract
Objectives
Combination therapies of growth factors and scaffolds for bone tissue engineering are becoming routine for clinical use. BMP9 has previously been characterized as one of the most osteogenic inducers among the BMP superfamily; however, up until recently, BMP9 has only been available through adenovirus transfection experiments (gene therapy). While recombinant human (rh)BMP2 is regarded as the gold standard for bone regeneration with recombinant growth factors, recently the successful development of rhBMP9 brings intriguing new possibilities for future clinical use. The purpose of this pioneering study was to investigate the effects of rhBMP9 in comparison with rhBMP2 on an in vitro cell behavior of bone-forming osteoblasts when combined with a bone grafting material.
Material and methods
Undifferentiated mouse ST2 stromal bone marrow cells were seeded onto bovine-derived natural bone mineral (NBM) particles treated with (i) control, (ii) rhBMP2 (10 ng/ml), (iii) rhBMP2 (100 ng/ml), (iv) rhBMP9 (10 ng/ml) and (v) rhBMP9 (100 ng/ml). The effects of rhBMPs were compared for cell adhesion at 8 h, cell proliferation at 1, 3 and 5 days and osteoblast differentiation as assessed by real-time PCR at 3 and 14 days for genes encoding Runx2, collagen1alpha2 (COL1a2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN). Furthermore, ALP staining and alizarin red staining were used to investigate localization of osteoblast differentiation marker and mineralization on NBM.
Results
Although neither rhBMP2 nor rhBMP9 influenced cell attachment to NBM particles, both were able to stimulate cell proliferation at 3 days. Furthermore, all concentrations of rhBMPs were able to significantly induce mRNA levels of Runx2, COL1a2 and OCN at 3 days. Interestingly, only rhBMP9 was able to significantly upregulate mRNA levels of ALP up to eightfold, and ALP staining up to 25-fold, when compared to rhBMP2. In addition, only rhBMP9 (100 ng/ml) significantly increased alizarin red staining when compared to control and rhBMP2 (10 ng/ml) samples.
Conclusion
These results demonstrate that both rhBMP2 and rhBMP9 have osteopromotive properties on osteoblast differentiation. It was found that rhBMP9 additionally stimulated the osteopromotive potential of osteoblasts when compared to rhBMP2 by demonstrating higher levels of ALP expression and alizarin red staining. Further animal studies comparing both recombinant proteins are necessary to further characterize the osteoinductive potential of BMP9.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/22dz96i
via IFTTT
Pectin nanocoating of titanium implant surfaces - an experimental study in rabbits
Abstract
Introduction
A major determinant of successful osseointegration of endosseous implants is the surface of the implant, which influences the cellular response of the surrounding tissues. A new strategy to improve osseointegration and bone healing is biochemical stimulation by surface nanocoatings that may increase adhesion of bone proteins, and bone cells at the implant surface. Nanocoating with pectins, plant cell wall-derived polysaccharides, is frequently done using rhamnogalacturonan-I (RG-I).
Aim
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of nanocoating titanium implants with plant cell wall-derived rhamnogalacturonan-I, on bone healing and osseointegration.
Material and methods
Machined titanium implants were coated with three modifications of rhamnogalacturonan-I (RG-I). Chemical and physical surface properties were examined before insertion of nanocoated implants (n = 96) into the left and right tibia of rabbits. Machined titanium implants without RG-I nanocoating were used as controls (n = 32). Total number of 128 implants was placed in tibias of 16 rabbits. Fluorochrome bone labels, calcein green and alizarin red S were given intravenously after 9 and 12 days, respectively. The bone response to the nanocoated implants was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively after 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of healing using light microscopy and histomorphometric methods.
Results
The RG-I coating influenced the surface chemical composition; wettability and roughness, making the surface more hydrophilic without any major effect on surface micro roughness compared to control implant surfaces.
The different modifications of pectin RG-I did not significantly enhance bone healing and osseointegration analyzed after 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of healing compared to control implants. Although the qualitative analyses of the fluorochromes indicated a higher activity of bone formation in the mineralization front at the early stage, after 9 and 12 days at the RG-I nanocoated implants compared to the control implants although no significant quantitative difference was demonstrated.
Conclusion
The present study showed that nanocoating of titanium implants with pectin RG-Is did not significantly enhance bone healing and osseointegration when placed in rabbit tibia bone.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QRt32L
via IFTTT
68Ga-DOTATATE PET in juvenile angiofibroma
Future Oncology Ahead of Print.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1pGs0dh
via IFTTT
Reassessment of dispensing pharmacy and animal experiments in undergraduate practical pharmacology curriculum: feedback from students
2016-03-14T05-35-18Z
Source: International Journal of Basic & Clinical Pharmacology
Satish G. R., Laxminarayana Kamath, Jayanthi C. R..
Background: Dispensing pharmacy exercises and animal experiments are still being taught in medical colleges even though they are not relevant for clinical practice. One has to keep pace with ever changing needs of the students and changing trends. So this study is designed to know the perceptions and alternative suggestions of MBBS students regarding dispensing pharmacy and animal experiments and use them to improve teaching. Methods: 177 MBBS students studying at Bangalore medical college who have completed their university examination in pharmacology subject were included in this questionnaire based study. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Majority of the students disfavoured dispensing pharmacy (82%) and animal experiments (73%) in undergraduate practical pharmacology. 78% of the students preferred computer assisted learning (CAL) as an alternative to animal experiments. Some of the clinical pharmacology exercises favoured by students, as an alternative to dispensing pharmacy were, drug station (clinical station) with real cases in hospital (88%), module on various drug formulations (74%), module on pharmacovigilance (74%), problem based exercises (73%), drug administration procedures (68%), drug dosage calculations (68%), pharmacoeconomic exercises (66%), prescription writing and criticism of prescription (62%), short term research project (44%) and so on. Conclusions: Computer assisted learning seems to be a better alternative to animal experiments. In the changing scenario, teaching clinical pharmacology should be focused rather than teaching dispensing pharmacy, which is obsolete.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1TIbANT
via IFTTT
Effects of dairy products consumption on health: benefits and beliefs: a commentary from the Belgian Bone Club and the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases
Dairy products provide a package of essential nutrients that is difficult to obtain in low-dairy or dairy-free diets, and for many people it is not possible to achieve recommended daily calcium intakes with a dairy-free diet. Despite the established benefits for bone health, some people avoid dairy in their diet due to beliefs that dairy may be detrimental to health, especially in those with weight management issues, lactose intolerance, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or trying to avoid cardiovascular disease. This review provides information for health professionals to enable them to help their patients make informed decisions about consuming dairy products as part of a balanced diet. There may be a weak association between dairy consumption and a possible small weight reduction, with decreases in fat mass and waist circumference and increases in lean body mass. Lactose intolerant individuals may not need to completely eliminate dairy products from their diet, as both yogurt and hard cheese are well tolerated. Among people with arthritis, there is no evidence for a benefit to avoid dairy consumption. Dairy products do not increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly if low fat. Intake of up to three servings of dairy products per day appears to be safe and may confer a favourable benefit with regard to bone health.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIkFW
via IFTTT
Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is not regulated by testosterone in transmen
Brain morphology significantly differs between the sexes. It has been shown before that some of these differences are attributable to the sex-specific hormonal milieu. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in myriads of neuroplastic processes and shows a sexual dimorphism. Transsexual persons may serve as a model to study sex steroid-mediated effects on brain plasticity. We have recently demonstrated that serum levels of BDNF are reduced in transwomen following 12 months of cross-sex hormone treatment. We now wanted to look at the effects of testosterone treatment on BDNF in transmen. In contrast to our initial hypothesis, BDNF levels did not significantly change, despite dramatic changes in the sex-hormonal milieu. Our data indicate that testosterone does not seem to play a major role in the regulation of BDNF in females.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn3Wh
via IFTTT
Sensorimotor Memory Biases Weight Perception During Object Lifting
van Polanen, V; Davare, M; (2015) Sensorimotor Memory Biases Weight Perception During Object Lifting. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience , 9 , Article 700. 10.3389/fnhum.2015.00700 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIj4U
via IFTTT
Subverting expectations: memories of editing with Jackie
Robson, E; (2015) Subverting expectations: memories of editing with Jackie. BSHM Bulletin: Journal of the British Society for the History of Mathematics , 30 (3) pp. 178-182. 10.1080/17498430.2015.1055902 .
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn3FY
via IFTTT
Tell Khaiber: an administrative centre of the Sealand period
Campbell, S; Moon, J; Killick, R; Robson, E; Calderbank, D; Shepperson, M; Slater, F; (2016) Tell Khaiber: an administrative centre of the Sealand period. Iraq , 78 (1) (In press). Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIixN
via IFTTT
Fourth millennium BC silver from tell esh-Shuna, Jordan: Archaeometallurgical investigation and some thoughts on ceramic skeuomorphs
Philip, G; Rehren, T; (1996) Fourth millennium BC silver from tell esh-Shuna, Jordan: Archaeometallurgical investigation and some thoughts on ceramic skeuomorphs. Oxford Journal of Archaeology , 15 (2) pp. 129-150.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn5gR
via IFTTT
Diet and exercise in uterine cancer survivors (DEUS pilot) - piloting a healthy eating and physical activity program: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Koutoukidis, DA; Beeken, RJ; Manchanda, R; Burnell, M; Knobf, MT; Lanceley, A; (2016) Diet and exercise in uterine cancer survivors (DEUS pilot) - piloting a healthy eating and physical activity program: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials , 17 , Article 130. 10.1186/s13063-016-1260-1 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIihr
via IFTTT
Dworkin's "one right answer" thesis
Guest, SFD; (2016) Dworkin's "one right answer" thesis. Problema. Anuario de Filosofía y Teoría del Derecho , 10 pp. 3-21. (In press).
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn50v
via IFTTT
The experience of taking methotrexate for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: results of a cross-sectional survey with children and young people
Mulligan, K; Wedderburn, LR; Newman, S; (2015) The experience of taking methotrexate for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: results of a cross-sectional survey with children and young people. Pediatric Rheumatology , 13 (1) 10.1186/s12969-015-0052-6 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn2Sk
via IFTTT
Effective emotion regulation strategies improve fMRI and ECG markers of psychopathology in panic disorder: implications for psychological treatment action
Reinecke, A; Filippini, N; Berna, C; Western, DG; Hanson, B; Cooper, MJ; Taggart, P; Reinecke, A; Filippini, N; Berna, C; Western, DG; Hanson, B; Cooper, MJ; Taggart, P; Harmer, CJ; - view fewer (2015) Effective emotion regulation strategies improve fMRI and ECG markers of psychopathology in panic disorder: implications for psychological treatment action. Translational Psychiatry , 5 , Article e673. 10.1038/tp.2015.160 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIj4M
via IFTTT
Multidisciplinary approach to the management of children with female genital mutilation (FGM) or suspected FGM: service description and case series
Creighton, SM; Dear, J; de Campos, C; Williams, L; Hodes, D; (2016) Multidisciplinary approach to the management of children with female genital mutilation (FGM) or suspected FGM: service description and case series. BMJ Open , 6 (2) , Article e010311. 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010311 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn2BV
via IFTTT
Configural Learning in Contextual Cuing of Visual Search
Beesley, T; Vadillo, MA; Pearson, D; Shanks, DR; (2016) Configural Learning in Contextual Cuing of Visual Search. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance 10.1037/xhp0000185 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIiOm
via IFTTT
What are the barriers to care integration for those at the advanced stages of dementia living in care homes in the UK? Health care professional perspective
Kupeli, N; Leavey, G; Harrington, J; Lord, K; King, M; Nazareth, I; Moore, K; Kupeli, N; Leavey, G; Harrington, J; Lord, K; King, M; Nazareth, I; Moore, K; Sampson, EL; Jones, L; - view fewer (2016) What are the barriers to care integration for those at the advanced stages of dementia living in care homes in the UK? Health care professional perspective. Dementia 10.1177/1471301216636302 . (In press). Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn4JL
via IFTTT
Frequency of HIV-testing and factors associated with multiple lifetime HIV-testing among a rural population of Zambian men
Hensen, B; Lewis, JJ; Schaap, A; Tembo, M; Vera-Hernández, M; Mutale, W; Weiss, HA; Hensen, B; Lewis, JJ; Schaap, A; Tembo, M; Vera-Hernández, M; Mutale, W; Weiss, HA; Hargreaves, J; Stringer, J; Ayles, H; - view fewer (2015) Frequency of HIV-testing and factors associated with multiple lifetime HIV-testing among a rural population of Zambian men. BMC Public Health , 15 , Article 960. 10.1186/s12889-015-2259-3 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIhKe
via IFTTT
The clinical and cost effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy plus treatment as usual for the treatment of depression in advanced cancer (CanTalk): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Serfaty, M; King, M; Nazareth, I; Tookman, A; Wood, J; Gola, A; Aspden, T; Serfaty, M; King, M; Nazareth, I; Tookman, A; Wood, J; Gola, A; Aspden, T; Mannix, K; Davis, S; Moorey, S; Jones, L; - view fewer (2016) The clinical and cost effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy plus treatment as usual for the treatment of depression in advanced cancer (CanTalk): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Trials , 17 , Article 113. 10.1186/s13063-016-1223-6 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn2ln
via IFTTT
Process evaluation of the MOSAIC trial: treatment experience of two psychological therapies for out-patient treatment of Anorexia Nervosa
Zainal, KA; Renwick, B; Keyes, A; Lose, A; Kenyon, M; DeJong, H; Broadbent, H; Zainal, KA; Renwick, B; Keyes, A; Lose, A; Kenyon, M; DeJong, H; Broadbent, H; Serpell, L; Richards, L; Johnson-Sabine, E; Boughton, N; Whitehead, L; Treasure, J; Schmidt, U; MOSAIC trial group, ; - view fewer (2016) Process evaluation of the MOSAIC trial: treatment experience of two psychological therapies for out-patient treatment of Anorexia Nervosa. Journal of Eating Disorders , 4 , Article 2. 10.1186/s40337-016-0091-5 . Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIhtS
via IFTTT
Going home after infant cardiac surgery: a UK qualitative study
Tregay, J; Wray, J; Crowe, S; Knowles, R; Daubeney, P; Franklin, R; Barron, D; Tregay, J; Wray, J; Crowe, S; Knowles, R; Daubeney, P; Franklin, R; Barron, D; Hull, S; Barnes, N; Bull, C; Brown, KL; - view fewer (2016) Going home after infant cardiac surgery: a UK qualitative study. Archives of Disease in Childhood 10.1136/archdischild-2015-308827 . (In press). Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1ppn2l6
via IFTTT
Electroabsorption investigations of advanced polymer light-emitting diodes.
Bodrozic, V.; (2005) Electroabsorption investigations of advanced polymer light-emitting diodes. Doctoral thesis, University of London. Green open access
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1MhIhdq
via IFTTT
Successful Improvement of Metabolic Disorders, Including Osteopenia, by a Dopamine Agonist in a Male Patient with Macro-Prolactinoma.
Successful Improvement of Metabolic Disorders, Including Osteopenia, by a Dopamine Agonist in a Male Patient with Macro-Prolactinoma.
Am J Case Rep. 2016;17:160-164
Authors: Takeno A, Yamamoto M, Okazaki K, Yamaguchi T, Toshitsugu S
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bone metabolic disorders in patients with prolactinoma have not been fully characterized. The case presented herein illustrates potential causal associations between prolactinoma and osteopenia, with a reversal of the disorder by treatment with a dopamine agonist. CASE REPORT A 43-year-old male with macro-prolactinoma [PRL 7770 ng/mL] was referred to our hospital. He suffered was overweight [body mass index (BMI) 29.4 kg/m2] and had impaired glucose tolerance, hypertriglyceridemia, and osteopenia. The patient was administered cabergoline, a dopamine D2 receptor agonist, and the dose was gradually increased up to 9 mg/week over the period of 1 year. One year later, the patient's serum PRL levels decreased to within the normal range (19.1 ng/mL), and his pituitary tumor mass decreased to 1/4 of its initial size. His weight, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose tolerance improved within 1 year. A marked increase in the bone mineral density (BMD) at the second to fourth lumbar spine (from 0.801 g/cm2 to 0.870 g/cm2, +8.6%) and at the femoral neck (from 0.785 g/cm2 to 0.864 g/cm2, +10.1%) were observed despite the presence of unresolved hypogonadism. CONCLUSIONS Treatments with dopamine agonists represent a beneficial strategy for patients with prolactinoma accompanied with bone loss, in addition to their established efficacy in shrinkage of the size of pituitary tumors, normalization of PRL levels, and improvement of metabolic disorders.
PMID: 26971354 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1WkppQE
via IFTTT
Cervicogenic somatosensory tinnitus: An indication for manual therapy plus education? Part 2: A pilot study.
Cervicogenic somatosensory tinnitus: An indication for manual therapy plus education? Part 2: A pilot study.
Man Ther. 2016 Feb 21;
Authors: Oostendorp RA, Bakker I, Elvers H, Mikolajewska E, Michiels S, De Hertogh W, Samwel H
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Manual Therapy Utrecht (MTU) plus education in patients with cervicogenic somatosensory tinnitus (CeT).
STUDY DESIGN: Pretest-posttest design.
METHOD: Five hundred and six patients were referred or referred themselves. A subgroup of patients was identified with CeT, and within this a subgroup with tinnitus sensitization (TS). Two CeT groups were created based on the presence or absence of TS. Both groups underwent manual therapy combined with tinnitus education. Tinnitus intensity (VAS-tin 0-100 mm) was the primary outcome measure. Number of treatments and adverse effects were the secondary outcome measures.
RESULTS: A total of 122 patients with CeT (24.1%) were included (average age 53.3 years [±9.8], female 38.5% and duration of tinnitus 7.3 years [±8.9]). Patients were divided into two groups: 55 patients (45.1%) with TS (CeT + TS group) and 67 patients (54.9%) without TS (CeT - TS group). Pretest to posttest differences on the VAS-tin were statistically significant within both groups (CeT - TS group: difference VAS-tin 5.9 [p = 0.01]; CeT + TS group: difference VAS-tin 18.2 [p = 0.00]), and between the groups in favor of the CeT + TS group (difference VAS-tin 12.3 [p = 0.01]). Pretest to posttest differences were clinically significant for the CeT + TS group (difference VAS-tin 18.2 [MCIC = ≥10 mm VAS-tin]) and between the groups (difference VAS-tin 12.3 in favor of the CeT + TS group). The average number of treatment sessions was 9.6 (±2.6) for the CeT - TS group and 10.3 (±2.5) for the CeT + TS group, a non-significant difference. There were no adverse effects in either group.
CONCLUSIONS: Despite its limitations, this study provides valuable information on both the characteristics of patients with CeT and TS in a Dutch primary care manual therapy practice and on the potential effectiveness of MTU combined with tinnitus education for the subgroup of CeT + TS patients.
PMID: 26971019 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1Wkhd2L
via IFTTT
Carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma derived from recurrent pleomorphic adenoma shows important difference by array CGH compared to recurrent pleomorphic adenoma without malignant transformation.
Carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma derived from recurrent pleomorphic adenoma shows important difference by array CGH compared to recurrent pleomorphic adenoma without malignant transformation.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Feb 24;
Authors: Mariano FV, Giovanetti K, Saccomani LF, Del Negro A, Kowalski LP, Krepischi AC, Altemani A
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: A key step of cancer development is the progressive accumulation of genomic changes resulting in disruption of several biological mechanisms. Carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is an aggressive neoplasm that arises from a pleomorphic adenoma. CXPA derived from a recurrent PA (RPA) has been rarely reported, and the genomic changes associated with these tumors have not yet been studied.
OBJECTIVE: We analyzed CXPA from RPAs and RPAs without malignant transformation using array-comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) to identify somatic copy number alterations and affected genes.
METHODS: DNA samples extracted from FFPE tumors were submitted to array-CGH investigation, and data was analyzed by Nexus Copy Number Discovery Edition v.7.
RESULTS: No somatic copy number alterations were found in RPAs without malignant transformation. As for CXPA from RPA, although genomic profiles were unique for each case, we detected some chromosomal regions that appear to be preferentially affected by copy number alterations. The first case of CXPA-RPA (frankly invasive myoepithelial carcinoma) showed copy number alterations affecting 1p36.33p13, 5p and chromosomes 3 and 8. The second case of CXPA-RPA (frankly invasive epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma) showed several alterations at chromosomes 3, 8, and 16, with two amplifications at 8p12p11.21 and 12q14.3q21.2. The third case of CXPA-RPA (minimally invasive epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma) exhibited amplifications at 12q13.3q14.1, 12q14.3, and 12q15.
CONCLUSION: The occurrence of gains at chromosomes 3 and 8 and genomic amplifications at 8p and 12q, mainly those encompassing the HMGA2, MDM2, WIF1, WHSC1L1, LIRG3, CDK4 in CXAP from RPA can be a significant promotional factor in malignant transformation.
PMID: 26971045 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QXsIJK
via IFTTT
Genomic profile of a squamous cell carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma compared to a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Genomic profile of a squamous cell carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma compared to a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Feb 24;
Authors: Mariano FV, Saccomani LF, Giovanetti K, Del Negro A, Kowalski LP, Krepischi AC, Altemani A
PMID: 26971044 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1RgFPvg
via IFTTT
Forward thinking: where next for delirium prevention research?
Delirium is recognized as clinically important and yet has seen relatively little original research. Guidance from professional bodies and government policy in many countries highlights improving delirium as a priority. An updated Cochrane Review provides a nice summary of what we know and gives some pointers as to where we need to go with delirium prevention research.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1nIxFxE
via IFTTT
An Integrated Lateral Flow Assay for Effective DNA Amplification and Detection at the Point of Care
Analyst, 2016, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/C5AN02532J, Paper
DOI: 10.1039/C5AN02532J, Paper
Jane Ru Choi, Jie Hu, Yan Gong, Shangsheng Feng, Wan Abu Bakar Wan Abas, Belinda PINGGUAN-MURPHY, Feng Xu
Lateral flow assays (LFAs) have been extensively explored in nucleic acid testing (NAT) for medical diagnostics, food safety analysis and environmental monitoring. However, the amount of target nucleic acid in...
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Lateral flow assays (LFAs) have been extensively explored in nucleic acid testing (NAT) for medical diagnostics, food safety analysis and environmental monitoring. However, the amount of target nucleic acid in...
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1RZru37
via IFTTT
Trends in surgery and outcomes of squamous cell vulvar cancer patients over a 16-year period (1998–2013): a population-based analysis
Abstract
Purpose
The objective was to identify trends in surgery and the outcomes of squamous cell vulvar cancer in a population-based setting.
Methods
A total of 1113 patients with squamous cell vulvar cancer diagnosed between 1998 and 2013 in the catchment area of the Munich Cancer Registry (population approximately 4.6 million) were analysed. Trends in prognostic factors and treatment were examined by comparing patients diagnosed between 1998 and 2008 with those diagnosed between 2009 and 2013. Cumulative incidence was used to calculate time to local (LR) and lymph node recurrence (LNR). Survival was analysed by the Kaplan–Meier method, calculation of relative survival (RS), and a Cox model.
Results
The high median age at diagnosis of 75 years did not change significantly over time. In addition, no changes in the subsite of tumour or grading were noted. A decrease in patients undergoing complete vulvectomy from 27.7 to 17.8 % (p < 0.001) as well as an increase in the use of sentinel lymph node biopsy from 11.4 to 39.1 % (p < 0.001) was observed. However, time to LR (from 19 to 19 %) and time to LNR (from 9 to 9 %) as well as 5-year overall survival (from 55 to 55 %) and RS (from 66 to 63 %) were not significantly altered. After adjustment for prognostic factors, less radical locoregional surgery had no influence on survival.
Conclusion
Less radical locoregional surgery in vulvar cancer is increasingly implemented. Locoregional recurrence and survival have not been affected by these changes and are likely accompanied by an improvement in quality of life.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/21qXyzn
via IFTTT
Treatment of breast cancer with simultaneous integrated boost in hybrid plan technique
Abstract
Objective
The present study compares in silico treatment plans using hybrid plan technique during hypofractionated radiation of mammary carcinoma with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB). The influence of 6 MV photon radiation in flattening filter free (FFF) mode against the clinical standard flattening filter (FF) mode is to be examined.
Patients and methods
RT planning took place with FF and FFF radiation plans for 10 left-sided breast cancer patients. Hybrid plans were realised with two tangential IMRT fields and one VMAT field. The dose prescription was in line with the guidelines in the ARO-2010-01 study. The dosimetric verification took place with a manufacturer-independent measurement system.
Results
Required dose prescriptions for the planning target volumes (PTV) were achieved for both groups. The average dose values of the ipsi- and contralateral lung and the heart did not differ significantly. The overall average incidental dose to the left anterior descending artery (LAD) of 8.24 ± 3.9 Gy in the FFF group and 9.05 ± 3.7 Gy in the FF group (p < 0.05) were found. The dosimetric verifications corresponded to the clinical requirements. FFF-based RT plans reduced the average treatment time by 17 s/fraction.
Conclusion
In comparison to the FF-based hybrid plan technique the FFF mode allows further reduction of the average LAD dose for comparable target volume coverage without adverse low-dose exposure of contralateral structures. The combination of hybrid plan technique and 6 MV photon radiation in the FFF mode is suitable for use with hypofractionated dose schemes. The increased dose rate allows a substantial reduction of treatment time and thus beneficial application of the deep inspiration breath hold technique.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1RJ8149
via IFTTT
IMRT vs. 2D - radiotherapy or 3D - conformal radiotherapy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Abstract
Objective
We compared treatment outcomes of two-dimensional radiotherapy (2D-RT), three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).
Patients and methods
In total, 1237 patients with cT1-4N0-3M0 NPC were retrospectively analyzed. Of these, 350, 390, and 497 were treated with 2D-RT, 3D-CRT, and IMRT, respectively.
Results
3D-CRT and IMRT showed better 5-year overall survival (OS) rates (73.6 and 76.7 %, respectively) than did 2D-RT (5-year OS of 59.7 %, all p < 0.001). In T3–4 subgroup, IMRT was associated with a significantly better 5-year OS than was 2D-RT (70.7 vs. 50.4 %, respectively; p ≤ 0.001) and 3D-CRT (70.7 vs. 57.8 %, respectively; p = 0.011); however, the difference between the 2D-RT and 3D-CRT groups did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.063). In multivariate analyses of all patients, IMRT was a predictive factor for OS when compared with 2D-RT or 3D-CRT, as was 3D-CRT when compared with 2D-RT.
Conclusion
Our study showed that 3D-CRT and IMRT were associated with a better local progression-free survival and OS than was 2D-RT in NPC. IMRT was significantly superior in terms of OS for advanced primary tumors (T3–4).
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QRkvJp
via IFTTT
Recognition of emotions in autistic children using physiological signals
Abstract
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) cannot express their emotions explicitly; this makes it difficult for the parents and caretakers associated with these children to understand the child's behavior, leading to a major setback in the child's early developmental stages. Studies have shown that a human being's physiological changes are directly related to his/her psychological reaction. In this paper we propose a wearable wristband for acquiring physiological signals and an algorithm, using a support vector machine (SVM) classifier, that will predict emotional states such as neutral, happy & involvement of children with autism. The psychological reactions (or emotions) are recognized based on the changes in the bodily parameters (physiological basis) such as the galvanic skin response (GSR) and heart rate variability (HRV). For this purpose, vital features extracted from the recorded physiological signals are classified into different emotional states using SVM, which resulted in an overall accuracy of 90 %. This will help the parents and the care takers to understand the emotional patterns of the child better.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1M1SM9U
via IFTTT
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of dialysis patients with atrial fibrillation: the Fushimi AF Registry
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in dialysis patients. However, clinical characteristics and outcomes of dialysis patients with AF are poorly understood. The Fushimi AF Registry is a community-based prospective survey of AF patients in Japan. Follow-up data were available for 3713 patients with a median follow-up of 2.8 years. We compared clinical characteristics and outcomes between the dialysis group (n = 92; 2.5 %) and others. The dialysis group had more various co-morbidities, with a mean CHADS2 score of 2.5, and the rate of warfarin prescription was 38 %. The annual incidence rates of stroke or systemic embolism (SE), major bleeding, and all-cause death in the dialysis group were 4.0, 5.1, and 20.9 per 100 person-years, respectively. There was no significant difference in the incidence rate of stroke/SE between the dialysis group and the non-dialysis group [hazard ratio (HR) 1.74 (95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.74–3.42)]. The incidence rates of major bleeding, all-cause death, and the composite of stroke/SE and all-cause death in the dialysis group were higher than those in the non-dialysis group [major bleeding: HR 3.09 (95 % CI 1.46–5.72), all-cause death: HR 3.51 (95 % CI 2.48–4.81), the composite of stroke/SE and all-cause death: HR 2.99 (95 % CI 2.15–4.05)]. Among dialysis patients, warfarin did not affect major clinical events including stroke/SE, bleeding or all-cause death. Among AF patients, those receiving dialysis showed higher incidence of major bleeding and all-cause death compared with non-dialysis patients, but the risk of stroke/SE was not particularly high.
Clinical trial registration
URL: http://ift.tt/1lXJedE.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1V6eyuY
via IFTTT
Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome (Gorlin Syndrome)
Abstract
Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, or basal cell nevus syndrome (Gorlin syndrome), is a rare autosomal dominantly inherited disorder that is characterized by development of basal cell carcinomas from a young age. Other distinguishing clinical features are seen in a majority of patients, and include keratocystic odontogenic tumors (formerly odontogenic keratocysts) as well as dyskeratotic palmar and plantar pitting. A range of skeletal and other developmental abnormalities are also often seen. The disorder is caused by defects in hedgehog signaling which result in constitutive pathway activity and tumor cell proliferation. As sporadic basal cell carcinomas also commonly harbor hedgehog pathway aberrations, therapeutic agents targeting key signaling constituents have been developed and tested against advanced sporadically occurring tumors or syndromic disease, leading in 2013 to FDA approval of the first hedgehog pathway-targeted small molecule, vismodegib. The elucidation of the molecular pathogenesis of nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome has resulted in further understanding of the most common human malignancy.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QRjFMF
via IFTTT
Brooke-Spiegler Syndrome and Phenotypic Variants: An Update
Abstract
Brooke-Spiegler syndrome (BSS) is an inherited autosomal dominant disease characterized by the development of multiple adnexal cutaneous neoplasms most commonly spiradenoma, cylindroma, spiradenocylindroma, and trichoepithelioma. Multiple familial trichoepithelioma (MFT) is a phenotypic variant of the disease characterized by the development of numerous trichoepitheliomas (cribriform trichoblastoma) only. Malignant tumors arise in association with preexisting benign cutaneous neoplasms in about 5–10 % of the patients . Apart from the skin, major and minor salivary glands have been rarely involved in BSS patients. Extremely rare is the occurrence of breast tumors (cylindroma). The gene implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease is the CYLD gene, a tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 16q12–q13. Germline CYLD mutations are detected in about 80–85 % of patients with the classical BSS phenotype and in about 40–50 % of the individuals with the MFT phenotype using a PCR based approach with analysis of exonic sequences and exon–intron junctions of the CYLD gene. There appears to be no genotype-phenotype correlations with respect to the severity of the disease, the possibility of malignant transformation, and development of extracutaneous lesions.
from #MedicinebyAlexandrosSfakianakis via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1LlZ9Vx
via IFTTT
Εγγραφή σε:
Αναρτήσεις (Atom)