CCR2 mediates Helicobacter pylori-induced immune tolerance and contributes to mucosal homeostasis

Abstract

Background

We previously demonstrated that H. pylori infection leads to increased induction of regulatory T cells in local and systemic immune compartments. Here, we investigate the role of CCR2 in the tolerogenic programing of dendritic cells in a mouse model of H. pylori infection.

Materials and Methods

CCR2 deficient (CCR2KO) mice and wild-type (Wt) mice infected with H. pylori SS1 strain were analyzed by qPCR and FACS analysis. In vitro, bone marrow-derived DC on day 6 from CCR2KO and Wt mice cocultured with or without H. pylori were examined to determine the impact of CCR2 signaling on dendritic cells function by qPCR, ELISA, and FACS analyses.

Results

Acute H. pylori infection was associated with a threefold increase in CCR2 mRNA expression in the gastric mucosa. H. pylori-infected CCR2KO mice exhibited a higher degree of mucosal inflammation, that is, increased gastritis scores and pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA levels, but lower degree of H. pylori gastric colonization compared to infected Wt mice. Peripheral H. pylori-specific immune response measured in the CCR2KO spleen was characterized by a higher Th17 response and a lower Treg response. In vitro, CCR2KO bone marrow-derived DC was less mature and shown a lower Treg/Th17 ratio. Moreover, blockade of CCR2 signaling by MCP-1 neutralizing antibody inhibited H. pylori-stimulated bone marrow-derived DC maturation.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that CCR2 plays an essential role in H. pylori-induced immune tolerance and shed light on a novel mechanism of CCR2-dependent DC Treg induction, which appears to be important in maintaining mucosal homeostasis during H. pylori infection.

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Effect of ISAD use on speech stimulus decoding through speech-evoked ABR

Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
Author(s): Renata Aparecida Leite, Fernanda Cristina Leite Magliaro, Jeziela Cristina Raimundo, Mara Gândara, Sergio Garbi, Ricardo Ferreira Bento, Carla Gentile Matas
IntroductionThe electrophysiological responses obtained with the complex auditory brainstem response (cABR) provide objective measures of subcortical processing of speech and other complex stimuli. The cABR has also been used to verify the plasticity in the auditory pathway in the subcortical regions.ObjectiveTo compare the results of cABR obtained in children using Individual Sound Amplification Device (ISAD), before and after 9 months of adaptation, as well as to compare the results of these children with those obtained in children with normal hearing.MethodsFourteen children with normal hearing (Control Group – CG) and 18 children with mild to moderate bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (Study Group – SG), aged 7–12 years, were evaluated. The children were submitted to pure tone and vocal audiometry, acoustic immittance measurements and ABR with speech stimulus, being submitted to the evaluations at three different moments: initial evaluation (M0), 3 months after the initial evaluation (M3) and 9 months after the evaluation (M9); at M0, the children assessed in the study group did not use ISAD yet.ResultsWhen comparing the CG and the SG, it was observed that the SG had a lower median for the V–A amplitude at M0 and M3, lower median for the latency of the component V at M9 and a higher median for the latency of component O at M3 and M9. A reduction in the latency of component A at M9 was observed in the SG.ConclusionChildren with mild to moderate hearing loss showed speech stimulus processing impairment, and the main impairment is related to the decoding of the transient portion of this stimulus spectrum. It was demonstrated that the use of ISAD promoted neuronal plasticity of the Central Auditory Nervous System after an extended time of sensory stimulation.



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Temporal bone paragangliomas: 15 years experience

Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
Author(s): Mehmet Düzlü, Hakan Tutar, Recep Karamert, Furkan Karaloğlu, Muammer Melih Şahin, Mehmet Göcek, Mehmet Birol Uğur, Nebil Göksu
IntroductionTemporal bone paragangliomas (TBPs) are benign tumors arising from neural crest cells located along the jugular bulbus and the tympanic plexus. In general surgical excision, radiotherapy and wait-and-scan protocols are the main management modalities for TBPs.ObjectiveIn this paper we aim to present our clinical experience with TBPs and to review literature data.MethodsThe patients who were operated for tympanomastoid paraganglioma (TMP) or tympanojugular paraganglioma (TJP) in our clinic in the last 15 years were enrolled in the study. A detailed patient's charts review was performed retrospectively.ResultsThere were 18 (52.9%) cases with TMPs and 16 (47.1%) cases with TJPs, a total of 34 patients operated for TBPs in this time period. The mean age was 50.26± 11.65 (range 25–71 years). The most common presenting symptoms were tinnitus and hearing loss for both TMPs and TJPs. Gross total tumor resection was achieved in 17 (94.4%) and 10 (62.5%) cases for TMPs and TJPs, respectively. Five patients (31.2%) with TJP experienced facial palsy following the operation. For all the patients the mean follow-up period was 25.8 months (range 4–108 months).ConclusionIn conclusion, based on our findings and literature review, total surgical excision alone or with preoperative embolization is the main treatment modality for TBPs. However radiotherapy, observation protocol and subtotal resection must be considered in cases of preoperative functioning cranial nerves, large tumors and advanced age.



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The Accuracy of Measurements of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Sizes Referred to the Mohs Surgery Clinic

Background:

Tumour size is a crucial factor used to plan Mohs procedures. Larger tumours require more time and stages of excision, and they need to be triaged as a higher priority. Therefore, the accuracy in measurement of tumour size is critical.

Objective:

To investigate if there is a significant difference in accuracy of tumour measurements in referrals between dermatologists and nondermatologists.

Methods and Materials:

Performed a retrospective study of 180 referrals from dermatologists and 47 referrals from nondermatologists to The Ottawa Hospital Riverside Mohs Surgery Clinic. We compared the mean size difference of tumours between the preoperative size and the size reported on referral.

Results:

Average reported size upon referral of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) was 1.39 cm² and 1.35 cm² from dermatologists and nondermatologists, respectively (P = .881). During the preoperative assessment, tumour sizes were 0.65 cm² and 1.45 cm² larger than that reported from dermatologists and nondermatologists, respectively (P < .05). The duration between referral and preoperative assessment was 3 to 4 months for both groups (P = .26).

Conclusion:

The accuracy of tumour measurements between dermatologists and nondermatologists differed significantly, as nondermatologists underestimated the size of NMSCs. This directly affects triaging patients and operative management in Mohs surgery. To compensate for size underestimation, early and prompt referrals of NMSCs from nondermatologists are warranted.

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Cerebral Microvascular Dysfunction and Inflammation Are Improved by Centrally Acting Antihypertensive Drugs in Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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The Prevalence of Thyroid Nodules and Their Association with Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors in a Moderate Iodine Intake Area

Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Myeloid-derived NF-{kappa}B negative regulation of PU.1 and c/EBP-{beta}-driven pro-inflammatory cytokine production restrains LPS-induced shock

Sepsis is a life-threatening event predominantly caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Bacterial infection causes a pronounced macrophage (M) and dendritic cell activation that leads to excessive pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α production (cytokine storm), resulting in endotoxic shock. Previous experimental studies have revealed that inhibiting NF-B signaling ameliorates disease symptoms; however, the contribution of myeloid p65 in endotoxic shock remains elusive. In this study, we demonstrate increased mortality in mice lacking p65 in the myeloid lineage (p65^mye) compared with wild type mice upon ultra-pure LPS challenge. We show that increased susceptibility to LPS-induced shock was associated with elevated serum level of IL-1β and IL-6. Mechanistic analyses revealed that LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production was ameliorated in p65-deficient bone marrow-derived Ms; however, p65-deficient 'activated' peritoneal Ms exhibited elevated IL-1β and IL-6. We show that the elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion was due, in part, to increased accumulation of IL-1β mRNA and protein in activated inflammatory Ms. The increased IL-1β was linked with heightened binding of PU.1 and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-β to Il1b and Il6 promoters in activated inflammatory Ms. Our data provide insight into a role for NF-B in the negative regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines in myeloid cells.

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Childhood epidermolysis bullosa acquisita during squaric acid dibutyl ester immunotherapy for alopecia areata

Summary

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA) is a rare acquired subepidermal blistering disease associated with autoantibodies against type VII collagen. Although EBA manifests more frequently in adults, it can occur in childhood. We describe a 6-year-old boy who developed the inflammatory variant of EBA shortly after initiation of immunotherapy with squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) for scalp alopecia areata. The disease rapidly regressed following SADBE discontinuation and starting combined steroid and dapsone therapy, and never recurred after treatment tapering and withdrawal. The association of EBA with other autoimmune diseases is common, but EBA occurring during alopecia areata has not been described previously. The development of EBA during SADBE treatment is also notable: the clinical history and therapeutic response in our patient point to a possible role of SADBE in EBA onset.

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Prof. Dr. Aroldo Miniti - A Great Master

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Influence of Hormonal Changes on Audiologic Examination in Normal Ovarian Cycle Females: An Analytic Study

Abstract Introduction There is only limited information from previous studies that suggest that auditory function may be influenced by hormones. Recent advances in the field have exposed the potential role of hormones in modulating the auditory system. Objective This study aims to investigate the relationship between menstrual cycle and outer hair cell function with audiological examination. Methods This is an analytic study with a cross-sectional design. The sampling was a systematic random sampling. We found 49 women with normal menstrual cycle and collected their data through interviews, physical examination, and examination of the ear, with otoscopic and other routine otorhinolaryngology examinations. We evaluated Tympanometry, distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE), and pure tone audiometry. Results We found the audiometric threshold worse in the follicular phase than other phases at 4000 Hz of the right ear, and in the ovulation was found best than any other phases at 1000 Hz of the left ear with significant difference. We found significant difference of DPOAE between ovulation time and follicular phase at 3000 Hz and 1000 Hz in the left ear and between ovulation and luteal phased at 2000 Hz, 3000 Hz and 5000 Hz in the right ear and at 1000 Hz in the left ear with p< 0.05. Conclusion The result of this study showed that only a small part of audiometry threshold had a significant difference between each menstrual phase. In other words, we found no correlation between menstrual and audiometry threshold. Nonetheless, there is a correlation between menstrual cycle phase and DPOAE amplitude.

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Newborn Hearing Screening in a Public Maternity Ward in Curitiba, Brazil: Determining Factors for Not Retesting

Abstract Introduction Law 12.303/10 requires hearing screening in newborns before hospital discharge to detect possible hearing problems within the first three months after birth. If the newborn fails the test or presents signs of risk for hearing loss, it must undergo a retest and monitoring during the first year of life. In practice, this often does not happen. Objective To identify, in a group of mothers of children with risk factors for hearing loss, the determining reasons for non-compliance with the auditory retest. Method This is a cross-sectional quantitative study. For data collection, we handed a semi-structured questionnaire to 60 mothers of babies at risk for hearing loss who did not attend the hearing retest after hospital discharge. The questionnaire investigated their age, education, marital status, level of knowledge about the hearing screening, and reasons for non-compliance with the retest. We compared and analyzed data using the Chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05 %. Results Our study found that 63% of the respondents were unaware of the hearing screening and most did not receive guidance on testing during prenatal care; 30% of participants stated forgetting as the reason for not attending the retest. There was no significant relationship between age, education, and marital status regarding knowledge about the test and the non-compliance with the retest. Conclusion Identified as the most significant determining factors for non-compliance with the newborn hearing screening retest were the surveyed mothers' forgetting the date, and their ignorance as to the importance of retesting.

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Comparison of Pre-Attentive Auditory Discrimination at Gross and Fine Difference between Auditory Stimuli

Abstract Introduction Mismatch Negativity is a negative component of the event-related potential (ERP) elicited by any discriminable changes in auditory stimulation. Objective The present study aimed to assess pre-attentive auditory discrimination skill with fine and gross difference between auditory stimuli. Method Seventeen normal hearing individual participated in the study. To assess preattentive auditory discrimination skill with fine difference between auditory stimuli, we recorded mismatch negativity (MMN) with pair of stimuli (pure tones), using /1000 Hz/ and /1010 Hz/ with /1000 Hz/ as frequent stimulus and /1010 Hz/ as infrequent stimulus. Similarly, we used /1000 Hz/ and /1100 Hz/ with /1000 Hz/ as frequent stimulus and /1100 Hz/ as infrequent stimulus to assess pre-attentive auditory discrimination skill with gross difference between auditory stimuli. The study included 17 subjects with informed consent. We analyzed MMN for onset latency, offset latency, peak latency, peak amplitude, and area under the curve parameters. Result Results revealed that MMN was present only in 64% of the individuals in both conditions. Further Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) showed no significant difference in all measures of MMN (onset latency, offset latency, peak latency, peak amplitude, and area under the curve) in both conditions. Conclusion The present study showed similar pre-attentive skills for both conditions: fine (1000 Hz and 1010 Hz) and gross (1000 Hz and 1100 Hz) difference in auditory stimuli at a higher level (endogenous) of the auditory system.

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Temporal Resolution and Active Auditory Discrimination Skill in Vocal Musicians

Abstract Introduction Enhanced auditory perception in musicians is likely to result from auditory perceptual learning during several years of training and practice. Many studies have focused on biological processing of auditory stimuli among musicians. However, there is a lack of literature on temporal resolution and active auditory discrimination skills in vocal musicians. Objective The aim of the present study is to assess temporal resolution and active auditory discrimination skill in vocal musicians. Method The study participants included 15 vocal musicians with a minimum professional experience of 5 years of music exposure, within the age range of 20 to 30 years old, as the experimental group, while 15 age-matched non-musicians served as the control group. We used duration discrimination using pure-tones, pulse-train duration discrimination, and gap detection threshold tasks to assess temporal processing skills in both groups. Similarly, we assessed active auditory discrimination skill in both groups using Differential Limen of Frequency (DLF). All tasks were done using MATLab software installed in a personal computer at 40dBSL with maximum likelihood procedure. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS (version 17.0). Result Descriptive statistics showed better threshold for vocal musicians compared with non-musicians for all tasks. Further, independent t-test showed that vocal musicians performed significantly better compared with non-musicians on duration discrimination using pure tone, pulse train duration discrimination, gap detection threshold, and differential limen of frequency. Conclusion The present study showed enhanced temporal resolution ability and better (lower) active discrimination threshold in vocal musicians in comparison to non-musicians.

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Relationship between Speech Perception and Level of Satisfaction of Hearing Aid Users

Abstract Introduction Hearing difficulties can be minimized by the use of hearing aids. Objective The objective of this study is to assess the speech perception and satisfaction of hearing aids users before and after aid adaptation and to determine whether these measures are correlated. Methods The study was conducted on 65 individuals, 54% females and 46% males aged 63 years on average, after the systematic use of hearing aids for at least three months. We characterized subjectś personal identification data, the degree, and configuration of hearing loss, as well as aspects related to adaptation. We then applied a satisfaction questionnaire and a speech perception test (words and sentences), with and without the use of the hearing aids. Results Mean speech recognition with words and sentences was 69% and 79 %, respectively, with hearing aids use; whereas, without hearing aids use the figures were 43% and 53%. Mean questionnaire score was 30.1 points. Regarding hearing loss characteristics, 78.5% of the subjects had a sensorineural loss, 20% a mixed loss, and 1.5% a conductive loss. Hearing loss of moderate degree was present in 60.5% of cases, loss of descending configuration in 47%, and plain loss in 37.5%. There was no correlation between individual satisfaction and the percentages of the speech perception tests applied. Conclusion Word and sentence recognition was significantly better with the use of the hearing aids. The users showed a high degree of satisfaction. In the present study, there was no correlation observed between the levels of speech perception and levels of user satisfaction measured with the questionnaire.

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Pitch and Loudness Tinnitus in Individuals with Presbycusis

Abstract Introduction Tinnitus is a symptom that is often associated with presbycusis. Objective This study aims to analyze the existence of association among hearing thresholds, pitch, and loudness of tinnitus in individuals with presbycusis, considering the gender variable. Methods Cross-sectional, descriptive, and prospective study, whose sample consisted of individuals with tinnitus and diagnosis of presbycusis. For the evaluation, we performed anamnesis along with otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, and acuphenometry to analyze the psychoacoustic characteristics of tinnitus individuals. Results The sample consisted of 49 subjects, with a mean age of 69.57 6.53 years, who presented unilateral and bilateral tinnitus, therefore, a sample of 80 ears. In analyzing the results, as for acuphenometry, the loudness of tinnitus was more present at 0dB and the pitch was 6HKz and 8HKz. Regarding the analysis of the association between the frequency of greater hearing threshold and tinnitus pitch, no statistical significance (p= 0.862) was found. As for the association between the intensity of greater hearing threshold and tinnitus loudness, no statistical significance (p= 0.115) was found. Conclusion There is no significant association between the hearing loss of patients with presbycusis and the pitch and loudness of tinnitus.

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Auditory Temporal Resolution in Individuals with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Abstract Introduction "Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood sugar and abnormalities in insulin secretion and action" ( American Diabetes Association). Previous literature has reported connection between diabetes mellitus and hearing impairment. There is a dearth of literature on auditory temporal resolution ability in individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2. Objective The main objective of the present study was to assess auditory temporal resolution ability through GDT (Gap Detection Threshold) in individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2 with high frequency hearing loss. Methods Fifteen subjects with diabetes mellitus type 2 with high frequency hearing loss in the age range of 30 to 40 years participated in the study as the experimental group. Fifteen age-matched non-diabetic individuals with normal hearing served as the control group. We administered the Gap Detection Threshold (GDT) test to all participants to assess their temporal resolution ability. Result We used the independent t-test to compare between groups. Results showed that the diabetic group (experimental) performed significantly poorer compared with the non-diabetic group ( control ). Conclusion It is possible to conclude that widening of auditory filters and changes in the central auditory nervous system contributed to poorer performance for temporal resolution task (Gap Detection Threshold) in individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2. Findings of the present study revealed the deteriorating effect of diabetes mellitus type 2 at the central auditory processing level.

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Workplace Activity in Health Professionals Exposed to Chemotherapy Drugs: An Otoneurological Perspective

Abstract Introduction The manipulation of antineoplastic drugs presents high risk for accidents and occupational diseases. Objective To evaluate the auditory and vestibular systems of workers who are exposed to chemotherapeutic treatment in the University Hospital of Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Brazil, and to identify the use of individual protection equipment, related to the obtained results. Methods This study is a cross-sectional study using a quantitative method. We evaluate 33 male and female workers, ranging from 21-60 years old, of the nursing and pharmacy sectors. The workers underwent conventional Audiologic Assessment; Transient Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions; and Computerized Vectoelectronystagmography. Results The majority of the sample was female (90.9%). Individual protection equipment was used by 90.9% of the workers. Complaints of dizziness were reported by 56.25% of nursing workers and 52.94% of pharmacy workers. Audiological and vestibular assessment results were within normal limits, 96.97% and 74.20%, respectively. However, audiometric configuration of notch type was identified in 75.75% of all workers. Audiometric notches (76%) and altered caloric test (100%) were often associated with decreased use of coal masks. Conclusion Among the workers evaluated, the vestibulocochlear system was within the normal limits. The presence of notch configuration indicates the need to use individual protection equipment.

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The Influence of Tinnitus on the Audiometric Threshold of Sufferers

Abstract Introduction Tinnitus is a worldwide problem. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the audiometric hearing thresholds of adult patients with ongoing tinnitus as their only otological symptom. Methods We evaluated the hearing thresholds of 43 adult patients with ongoing tinnitus and no history of hearing loss from the otolaryngology department of a tertiary health institution at speech and high frequencies. A total of 56 tinnitus ears were compared against 30 contralateral normal ears as well as with the 100 ears of 50 healthy volunteers. Results The study group consisted of 11 (25.6%) males and 32 (74.4%) females with a mean age of 40.9 11.7. The mean Pure Tone Average of the 56 tinnitus ears was 14.8 9, while that of the 100 control ears was 11.2 6 (U 1/4 2078, p= 0.008). The mean pure tone average of the control was also significantly lower than that of the 30 contralateral normal ears of the tinnitus sufferers (U 1/4 1136, p= 0.02). We observed mild to moderate hearing loss in 10 (23%) of the participants. We observed no hearing loss among the control group. Conclusion A proportion of tinnitus sufferers with self-professed normal hearing are likely to have mildly elevated pure tone audiometric thresholds. In patients with unilateral tinnitus, such elevated pure tone hearing thresholds are likely to be in the tinnitus ear and the contralateral non-tinnitus ear.

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"Positive to Negative" Dix-Hallpike test and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo recurrence in elderly undergoing Canalith Repositioning Maneuver and Vestibular Rehabilitation

Abstract Introduction Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo is the most common cause of dizziness in elderly people. Recent studies have shown that the elderly present higher Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo recurrence and that vertiginous symptomatology remission varies according to comorbidities and the therapeutic techniques applied. Objective To assess the short-term effectiveness of Vestibular Rehabilitation in addition to Canalith Repositioning Maneuver on positive to negative Dix-Hallpike test, on recurrence and number of maneuvers to achieve a negative test in elderly patients with chronic Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. Methods In this randomized controlled trial, 7 older adults (median age: 69 years, range 65-78) underwent Canalith Repositioning Maneuver and Vestibular Rehabilitation for thirteen weeks. Seven older adults (median age: 73 years, range 65-76) in the control group received only Canalith Repositioning Maneuver. The participants were assessed at baseline (T0), one (T1), five (T5), nine (T9), and thirteen weeks (T13). We assessed the differences between the groups by Mann-Whitney and Fisher exact tests, and used the Friedman and Wilcoxon tests to determine the intragroup differences. Results No significant differences were found between groups for the positive to negative Dix-Hallpike test, recurrence, and number of maneuvers to achieve a negative test. The number of maneuvers to achieve negative Dix-Hallpike test was lower in intragroup comparisons in the experimental group. Conclusion The findings suggest that additional Vestibular Rehabilitation did not influence the positive to negative Dix-Hallpike test, recurrence, or number of maneuvers to achieve a negative test in elderly patients with chronic Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

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Residual Hearing Preservation with the Evo® Cochlear Implant Electrode Array: Preliminary Results

Abstract Introduction The preservation of residual hearing is currently an important challenge for cochlear implant surgeries. Indeed, if patients exhibit functional hearing after cochlear implantation, they can benefit from the combination of acoustical stimulation, usually in the low-frequencies and electrical stimulation in the high-frequencies. This combined mode of stimulation has proven to be beneficial both in terms of speech perception and of sound quality. Finding the right procedures for conducting softsurgeries and designing electrode arrays dedicated to hearing preservation is an open issue. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the combination of a soft-surgery procedure implicating round-window insertion and the use of dexamethasone and hyaluronic acid during surgery, with the use of a specifically designed straight soft electrode array, on hearing preservation in patients with functional hearing in the low frequencies. Methods This pre-clinical trial was conducted on seven patients with residual hearing in the low frequencies. The surgical method used employed a round window insertion and the use of topical dexamethasone. Results The soft-surgery protocol could be successfully followed in five patients. In this group, the average hearing threshold shift compared with pre-operative values was of 18.7 þ/ 16.1 dB HL up to 500 Hz and 15.7 þ/ 15.1 up to 1 kHz, demonstrating satisfying levels of hearing preservation. Conclusion We were able to demonstrate the possibility of preserving residual hearing in most of the patients using the EVO electrode. Significant residual hearing preservation levels were was obtained when a soft surgical approach involving round window insertion, dexamethasone and hyaluronic use during the surgery.

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Early and Delayed Effect of Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery on Intraocular Pressure

Abstract Introduction Due to the close anatomical relationship between the paranasal sinuses and the orbit, involvement or injury of the orbit from paranasal sinuses procedures may occur. Objectives We aimed to study the early and delayed effect of endoscopic sinus surgery on intraocular pressure ( IOP ). Methods We included in the study 38 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis ( CRS), undergoing FESS. We performed FESS with the standard anterior to posterior approach. We measured IOP at the same time one day before surgery as well as day 1 and 6 weeks after surgery. Results One day after surgery, mean IOP in the right eye was 14.176 1.91 mm Hg and in the left eye was 13.79 2.42 mm Hg with statistically non-significant difference from preoperative values. Six weeks postoperative, the mean IOP in the right eye was 15.14 2.28 mm Hg. The difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative IOP values was found to be statistically significant (p 1/4 0.0012). While in the left eye, mean postoperative IOP was 15.14 þ 2.23mm Hg. The difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative IOP values was also found to be highly statistically significant (p 1/4 0.0005). Conclusion Delayed significant increase in IOP can occur after FESS, Thus, special measures must be taken to reduce IOP to protect the patient́s eye from the risk of increased IOP, especially in patients with glaucoma.

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Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor Production and Tissue Eosinophilia in Chronic Rhinitis

Abstract Introduction Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a strong proinflammatory cytokine that takes part in allergic nasal inflammation as an eosinophil colony-stimulating factor. However, the role of GM-CSF in non-allergic rhinitis has not been fully explored. Objectives The aim of this investigation was to assess the concentration of GM-CSF in nasal secretions of patients with non-allergic rhinitis with eosinophilia syndrome (NARES) in comparison to patients with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) and healthy subjects, as well as to assess the relationship with the degree of eosinophilic inflammation and clinical characteristics of the patients. Methods Fourteen patients with diagnosis of NARES, 14 PAR patients, and 14 healthy subjects were included in this cross-sectional study. All patients underwent symptom score assessment, nasal endoscopy, allergy testing, and cytological evaluation. The concentration of GM-CSF in nasal secretions of all participants was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( ELISA ). Results We found significantly higher levels of GM-CSF in patients with NARES than in the control group (p= 0.035). The percent of eosinophils in nasal mucosa was higher in NARES patients in comparison to patients with PAR (p< 0.001) and control patients (p< 0.0001). We found positive correlations between GM-CSF levels and eosinophil counts only in NARES patients. Conclusion The concentrations of GM-CSF in nasal secretions correlate well with eosinophil counts in the nasal mucosa of NARES patients. These facts indicate a possible role of GM-CSF as a favorable marker for assessment of nasal disease severity and the degree of chronic eosinophilic inflammation in the nasal mucosa.

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Curcumin Reduces the Noise-Exposed Cochlear Fibroblasts Apoptosis

Abstract Introduction The structural changes underlying permanent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) include loss of the sensory hair cells, damage to their stereocilia, and supporting tissues within the cochlear lateral wall. Objective The objective of this study is to demonstrate curcumin as a safe and effective therapeutic agent in the prevention and treatment for fibroblasts damage within the cochlear supporting tissues and lateral wall through cell death pathway. Methods We divided 24 Rattus norvegicus into 4 groups, Group 1: control; Group 2: noise (þ); Group 3: noise (þ), 50 mg/day curcumin (þ); Group 4: noise (þ), 100 mg/day curcumin (þ). We provided the noise exposure dose at 100 dB SPL for two hours over two weeks and administered the curcumin orally over two weeks. We examined all samples for the expressions of calcineurin, nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1), and apoptotic index of cochlear fibroblasts. Results We found significant differences for the expressions of calcineurin (p< 0.05) in all groups, significant differences for the expressions of NFATc1 (p< 0.05) in all groups, except in Groups 1 and 4, and significant differences for the apoptotic index (p< 0.05) in all groups. Conclusion Curcumin proved to be potentially effective in the prevention and treatment for fibroblasts damage within the cochlear supporting tissues and lateral wall regarding the decreased expression of calcineurin, NFATc1, and apoptotic index of cochlear fibroblasts.

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Evaluation of the Effects of Bismuth Subgallate on Wound Healing in Rats. Histological Findings

Abstract Introduction Bismuth subgallate (BS) is a yellow and odorless powder that has hemostatic astringent properties. Some otorhinolaryngologists and dentists currently use this substance to enhance wound healing. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of bismuth subgallate on wound healing, through the analysis of inflammatory process, collagen production, and angiogenesis. Method A standard wound was made on the back of 60 male Wistar rats, using a biopsy punch. We created two groups: the experimental group, which underwent daily application of 0.5mg BS over the entire wound, and the control group, which underwent daily application of sodium chloride 0.9%. We performed a qualitative evaluation of the tissue on the third, seventh, and fourteenth day. We assessed inflammatory markers using Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) stain, used Picrosirius stain for collagen analysis, and immunohistochemistry was used for angiogenesis analysis through evaluation of smooth muscle proliferation. Results Statistically, we found no significant differences between groups regarding inflammatory response on the third (p= 1), seventh (p= 0.474), and fourteenth day (p= 0.303). Also, collagen type I and III production showed no statistical differences between groups on the third (p= 0.436), seventh (p= 0.853), and fourteenth day (p= 0.436) of analysis. Immunohistochemistry did not present differences on angiogenesis between experimental and control group on the third (p= 0.280), seventh (p= 0.971), and fourteenth day (p= 0.218). Conclusion BS does not promote significant changes in inflammatory response, collagen, and angiogenesis. Thus, it does not influence healing on skin wounds on rats.

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Clinical Value of High Mobility Group Box 1 and the Receptor for Advanced Glycation Endproducts in Head and Neck Cancer: A Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction High mobility group box 1 is a versatile protein involved in gene transcription, extracellular signaling, and response to inflammation. Extracellularly, high mobility group box 1 binds to several receptors, notably the receptor for advanced glycation end-products. Expression of high mobility group box 1 and the receptor for advanced glycation end-products has been described in many cancers. Objectives To systematically review the available literature using PubMed and Web of Science to evaluate the clinical value of high mobility group box 1 and the receptor for advanced glycation end-products in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Data synthesis A total of eleven studies were included in this review. High mobility group box 1 overexpression is associated with poor prognosis and many clinical and pathological characteristics of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas patients. Additionally, the receptor for advanced glycation end-products demonstrates potential value as a clinical indicator of tumor angiogenesis and advanced staging. In diagnosis, high mobility group box 1 demonstrates low sensitivity. Conclusion High mobility group box 1 and the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts are associated with clinical and pathological characteristics of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Further investigation of the prognostic and diagnostic value of these molecules is warranted.

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Supra-auricular versus Sinusectomy Approaches for Preauricular Sinuses

Abstract Introduction Several surgical techniques and modifications have been described to reduce the high recurrence rate after excision of preauricular sinus. Objectives The aim of this study is to review the literature regarding surgical approaches for preauricular sinus. Data Synthesis We performed searches in the LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO, PubMed databases and Cochrane Library in September, 2015, and the key words used in the search were "preauricular sinus," "sinusectomy," "supra-auricular approach," "methylene blue," and/or "recurrence." We revised the results of 17 studies, including 1270 preauricular sinuses that were surgically excised by sinusectomy in 937 ears and by supra-auricular approach in 333 ears. Recurrence with supra-auricular was 4 (1.3%) while sinusectomy was 76 (8.1%) with significant difference (p< 0.0001). There were no reported facial nerve paresis or paralysis in any of the approaches. The sinusectomy approach showed significantly more complications (p= 0.0048). Conclusion Supra-auricular approach had significantly less recurrence rate than tract sinusectomy approaches. Thus, it could be regularly chosen as the standard procedure for preauricular sinus excision. As such, it would be helpful for surgeons to be familiar with this approach.

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Treatment and Prognosis of Facial Palsy on Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: Results Based on a Review of the Literature

Abstract Introduction Ramsay Hunt syndrome is the second most common cause of facial palsy. Early and correct treatment should be performed to avoid complications, such as permanent facial nerve dysfunction. Objective The objective of this study is to review the prognosis of the facial palsy on Ramsay Hunt syndrome, considering the different treatments proposed in the literature. Data Synthesis We read the abstract of 78 studies; we selected 31 studies and read them in full. We selected 19 studies for appraisal. Among the 882 selected patients, 621 (70.4%) achieved a House-Brackmann score of I or II; 68% of the patients treated only with steroids achieved HB I or II, versus 70.5% when treated with steroids plus antiviral agents. Among patients with complete facial palsy (grades V or VI), 51.4% recovered to grades I or II. The rate of complete recovery varied considering the steroid associated with acyclovir: 81.3% for methylprednisolone, 69.2% for prednisone; 61.4% for prednisolone; and 76.3% for hydrocortisone. Conclusions Patients with Ramsay-hunt syndrome, when early diagnosed and treated, achieve high rates of complete recovery. The association of steroids and acyclovir is better than steroids used in monotherapy.

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Outcomes of type I tympanoplasty using a cartilage shield graft in patients with poor prognostic factors

Publication date: Available online 8 December 2016
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Kyung Wook Heo
ObjectiveAlthough fascia is widely used as the grafting material in tympanoplasty (TP), unsatisfactory outcomes can result in patients with poor prognostic factors. Recently, cartilage has emerged as a graft material in TP. This study examined the operative outcomes of type I TP using a cartilage shield graft (CSG) in patients with poor prognostic factors.MethodsThis study reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent type I TP using CSG performed by the same surgeon, with over 24 months of follow-up.ResultsThere were 94 patients (mean age 46 years). Preoperatively, 39 patients had near-total perforation, 29 had a previous TP or myringoplasty, 14 had adhesive otitis media, and 12 had a marginal perforation covering ≥50% of the tympanic membrane area. The mean postoperative air-bone gap was significantly (p<0.0001) reduced compared to preoperative measurements. Postoperatively, tympanic membrane perforation occurred in 2.1% and otorrhea in 6.4%. There were no cases of retraction, adhesion, or lateralization. One subject complained of autophonia and ear fullness.ConclusionType I TP using CSG has excellent surgical results and minimal complications, even in patients with poor prognostic factors, and should thus be considered in those patients.



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The Pharyngoesophageal Segment After Total Laryngectomy

Objective:

The aim of the present study was to characterize the pharyngoesophageal segment in laryngectomees who rated themselves as functional tracheoesophageal speakers.

Methods:

Voice perceptual assessment, high-resolution videomanometry of swallowing and phonation, and high-speed camera recording during phonation provided information about the anatomy and function of the pharyngoesophageal segment.

Results:

Fourteen patients were included in the study. The voice assessments presented high intra/inter-listener reliability. We found a significant correlation between roughness and poor voice quality, hyperfunction and poor intelligibility, and poor voice quality, long time since the operation, and old age. High-resolution videomanometry during phonation revealed decreasing mean pressures from the distal esophagus to the pharynx and confirmed low resting pressures at the pharyngoesophageal segment and low esophageal peristaltic contraction pressures after laryngectomy in comparison to normal subjects. The neoglottis shape was mainly circular and presented a strong mucosal wave in most of the patients on the high-speed camera recording.

Conclusions:

Perceptual voice assessment and high-speed camera recordings provided baseline information about voice characteristics and vibration regularity of the neoglottis. Additionally, the quantitative measures obtained with high-resolution videomanometry may have clinical applicability as reference data in voice rehabilitation after total laryngectomy.

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Partial Tonsillectomy: Content and Readability of Online Health Information

Objectives:

Evaluate the content and readability of health information regarding partial tonsillectomy.

Methods:

A web search was performed using the term partial tonsillectomy in Google, Yahoo!, and Bing. The first 50 websites from each search were evaluated using HONcode standards for quality and content. Readability was assessed using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Flesch Reading Ease, Gunning-Fog Index, Coleman-Liau Index, Automated Readability Index, and SMOG score. The Freeman-Halton extension of Fisher's exact test was used to compare categorical differences between engines.

Results:

Less than half of the websites mentioned patient eligibility criteria (43.3%), referenced peer-reviewed literature (43.3%), or provided a procedure description (46.7%). Twenty-two websites (14.7%) were unrelated to partial tonsillectomy, and over half contained advertisements (52%). These finding were consistent across search engines and search terms. The mean FKGL was 11.6 ± 0.11, Gunning-Fog Index was 15.1 ± 0.13, Coleman-Liau Index was 14.6 ± 0.11, ARI was 12.9 ± 0.13, and SMOG grade was 14.0 ± 0.1. All readability levels exceeded the abilities of the average American adult.

Conclusions:

Current online information regarding partial tonsillectomy may not provide adequate information and may be written at a level too difficult for the average adult reader.

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Spatial selection and local adaptation jointly shape life-history evolution during range expansion

In the context of climate change and species invasions, range shifts increasingly gain attention because the rates at which they occur in the Anthropocene induce rapid changes in biological assemblages. During range shifts, species experience multiple selection pressures. For poleward expansions in particular, it is difficult to interpret observed evolutionary dynamics because of the joint action of evolutionary processes related to spatial selection and to adaptation toward local climatic conditions. To disentangle the effects of these two processes, we integrated stochastic modeling and data from a common garden experiment, using the spider mite Tetranychus urticae as a model species. By linking the empirical data with those derived form a highly parameterized individual-based model, we infer that both spatial selection and local adaptation contributed to the observed latitudinal life-history divergence. Spatial selection best described variation in dispersal behavior, while variation in development was best explained by adaptation to the local climate. Divergence in life-history traits in species shifting poleward could consequently be jointly determined by contemporary evolutionary dynamics resulting from adaptation to the environmental gradient and from spatial selection. The integration of modeling with common garden experiments provides a powerful tool to study the contribution of these evolutionary processes on life-history evolution during range expansion.

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Integrated solutions for combating gully erosion in areas prone to soil piping: innovations from the drylands of Northern Ethiopia

http://ift.tt/2gYQMnO

Tree tensor network state with variable tensor order: an efficient multireference method for strongly correlated systems

We study the tree-tensor-network-state (TTNS) method with variable tensor orders for quantum chemistry. TTNS is a variational method to efficiently approximate complete active space (CAS) configuration interaction (CI) wave functions in a tensor product form. TTNS can be considered as a higher order generalization of the matrix product state (MPS) method. The MPS wave function is formulated as products of matrices in a multiparticle basis spanning a truncated Hilbert space of the original CAS-CI problem. These matrices belong to active orbitals organized in a one-dimensional array, while tensors in TTNS are defined upon a tree-like arrangement of the same orbitals. The tree-structure is advantageous since the distance between two arbitrary orbitals in the tree scales only logarithmically with the number of orbitals N, whereas the scaling is linear in the MPS array. It is found to be beneficial from the computational costs point of view to keep strongly correlated orbitals in close vicinity in both arrangements; therefore, the TTNS ansatz is better suited for multireference problems with numerous highly correlated orbitals. To exploit the advantages of TTNS a novel algorithm is designed to optimize the tree tensor network topology based on quantum information theory and entanglement. The superior performance of the TTNS method is illustrated on the ionic-neutral avoided crossing of LiF. It is also shown that the avoided crossing of LiF can be localized using only ground state properties, namely one-orbital entanglement.

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Post-traumatic balance disorder

Publication date: Available online 7 December 2016
Source:European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Diseases
Author(s): M. Elzière, A. Devèze, C. Bartoli, G. Levy
The causes of balance disorder are many and various, and the subjective syndrome of cranial trauma patients is diagnosed by elimination. Progress in otoneurologic functional exploration and brain imaging, however, now generally allow this functional complaint to be given an objective basis. In recent years, new diagnoses have improved recognition of such pathologies in the appraisal of corporal injury for compensation purposes. The present article seeks to detail etiology and, by a review of the literature, to determine factors liable to influence management and appraisal in particular.



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Acute Anterior Uveitis in a Patient Taking Fingolimod (FTY720) for Multiple Sclerosis

Fingolimod is an oral sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator and the first oral therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Its use has been complicated by a low rate of cystoid macular edema usually in the first 3 months after commencement of the medication. We report the case of a 34-year-old male with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, who developed acute anterior uveitis on day 5 of fingolimod treatment. He responded to appropriate treatment and cessation of drug, but developed low-grade chronic anterior uveitis without cystoid macular edema. We discuss possible mechanisms of uveitis onset in this group of patients. Urgent ophthalmological review is recommended for patients receiving fingolimod therapy who develop a red, painful eye, which may occur within 5 days of fingolimod treatment initiation.
Case Rep Ophthalmol 2016;7:284–288

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Rock fabric heterogeneity and its influence on the petrophysical properties of a building limestone: Lede stone (Belgium) as an example

http://ift.tt/2geze7W

Danger-associated peptide signaling in Arabidopsis requires clathrin

The Arabidopsis thaliana endogenous elicitor peptides (AtPeps) are released into the apoplast after cellular damage caused by pathogens or wounding to induce innate immunity by direct binding to the membrane-localized leucine-rich repeat receptor kinases, PEP RECEPTOR1 (PEPR1) and PEPR2. Although the PEPR-mediated signaling components and responses have been studied extensively, the contributions of the subcellular localization and dynamics of the active PEPRs remain largely unknown. We used live-cell imaging of the fluorescently labeled and bioactive pep1 to visualize the intracellular behavior of the PEPRs in the Arabidopsis root meristem. We found that AtPep1 decorated the plasma membrane (PM) in a receptor-dependentmanner and cointernalized with PEPRs. Trafficking of the AtPep1-PEPR1 complexes to the vacuole required neither the trans-Golgi network/early endosome (TGN/EE)-localized vacuolar H+-ATPase activity nor the function of the brefeldin A-sensitive ADP-ribosylation factor-guanine exchange factors (ARF-GEFs). In addition, AtPep1 and different TGN/EE markers colocalized only rarely, implying that the intracellular route of this receptor-ligand pair is largely independent of the TGN/EE. Inducible overexpression of the Arabidopsis clathrin coat disassembly factor, Auxilin2, which inhibits clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME), impaired the AtPep1-PEPR1 internalization and compromised AtPep1-mediated responses. Our results show that clathrin function at the PM is required to induce plant defense responses, likely through CME of cell surface-located signaling components.

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The plant-specific CDKB1-CYCB1 complex mediates homologous recombination repair in Arabidopsis

Upon DNA damage, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are typically inhibited to block cell division. In many organisms, however, it has been found that CDK activity is required for DNA repair, especially for homology-dependent repair (HR), resulting in the conundrum how mitotic arrest and repair can be reconciled. Here, we show that Arabidopsis thaliana solves this dilemma by a division of labor strategy. We identify the plant-specific B1-type CDKs (CDKB1s) and the class of B1-type cyclins (CYCB1s) as major regulators of HR in plants. We find that RADIATION SENSITIVE 51 (RAD51), a core mediator of HR, is a substrate of CDKB1-CYCB1 complexes. Conversely, mutants in CDKB1 and CYCB1 fail to recruit RAD51 to damaged DNA. CYCB1; 1 is specifically activated after DNA damage and we show that this activation is directly controlled by SUPPRESSOR OF GAMMA RESPONSE 1 (SOG1), a transcription factor that acts similarly to p53 in animals. Thus, while the major mitotic cell-cycle activity is blocked after DNA damage, CDKB1-CYCB1 complexes are specifically activated to mediate HR.

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Hysterie als wesentliche Struktur des Subjekts und Big Brother

http://ift.tt/2h9vBxs

Centering Ability of ProTaper Next and WaveOne Classic in J-Shape Simulated Root Canals

Introduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the shaping and centering ability of ProTaper Next (PTN; Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) and WaveOne Classic systems (Dentsply Maillefer) in simulated root canals. Methods. Forty J-shaped canals in resin blocks were assigned to two groups ( for each group). Photographic method was used to record pre- and postinstrumentation images. After superimposition, centering and shaping ability were recorded at 9 different levels from the apex using the software Autocad 2013 (Autodesk Inc., San Rafael, USA). Results. Shaping procedures with ProTaper Next resulted in a lower amount of resin removed at each reference point level. In addition, the pattern of centering ability improved after the use of ProTaper Next in 8 of 9 measurement points. Conclusions. Within the limitations of this study, shaping procedures with ProTaper Next instruments demonstrated a lower amount of resin removed and a better centering ability than WaveOne Classic system.

http://ift.tt/2geacFZ

The salivary protein repertoire of the polyphagous spider mite Tetranychus urticae: a quest for effectors

http://ift.tt/2h9eVWI

Domestication and divergence of Saccharomyces cerevisiae beer yeasts

Whereas domestication of livestock, pets, and crops is well documented, it is still unclear to what extent microbes associated with the production of food have also undergone human selection and where the plethora of industrial strains originates from. Here, we present the genomes and phenomes of 157 industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeasts. Our analyses reveal that today's industrial yeasts can be divided into five sublineages that are genetically and phenotypically separated from wild strains and originate from only a few ancestors through complex patterns of domestication and local divergence. Large-scale phenotyping and genome analysis further show strong industry-specific selection for stress tolerance, sugar utilization, and flavor production, while the sexual cycle and other phenotypes related to survival in nature show decay, particularly in beer yeasts. Together, these results shed light on the origins, evolutionary history, and phenotypic diversity of industrial yeasts and provide a resource for further selection of superior strains.

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Rapid prototyping of microfluidic chips using laser-cut double-sided tape for electrochemical biosensors

http://ift.tt/2h9dUOn

Error correction, precoding and bitloading algorithms in high-speed access networks

http://ift.tt/2gepWsG

Hospitalisatieverzekering: verlies de wachtpolis niet uit het oog

http://ift.tt/2h9jSz0

Berichten uit Europa: Comité van de regio's, Europese Raden, Commissie, Europees Hof van Justitie: arresten

http://ift.tt/2gewmbh

Berichten uit Europa: mededeling Commissie 14 oktober 2015: herziening van het Europees nabuurschapsbeleid

http://ift.tt/2h9grZ0

Berichten uit Europa: stedenbeleid, migratiebeleid, sociaal beleid, monetair beleid, betere regelgeving

http://ift.tt/2gewlnJ

Het cohesiebeleid van de Europese Unie: van belang voor lokale overheden (deel 2)

http://ift.tt/2h9nqRA

Van den vos Reynaerde

http://ift.tt/2gYviYq

In-line NDT with X-Ray CT combining sample rotation and translation

http://ift.tt/2gYo8TN

Foregoing Lex specialis ? Exclusivist v. symbiotic approaches to the concurrent application of international humanitarian and Human Rights Law

Developments in the international arena have led to the widespread acceptance of the relevance and continued applicability of international human rights law (IHRL) during armed conflict, raising questions as to its relationship with international humanitarian law (IHL). These questions have become increasingly pressing in light of the expanding extraterritorial application of human rights in recent case law. A closer look at State practice and jurisprudence nonetheless reveals that there is no common approach to managing the co-application of IHL and IHRL. Traditionally, the lex specialis principle has been used to resolve any issues relating to the concurrent application of both bodies of law. Yet, more recently, Courts and legal experts alike have begun looking for alternative methods to translate the interplay between IHL and IHRL into practice. This casts doubts over the continued relevance and adequacy of the lex specialis principle as a one-size-fits-all solution ; at the same time, it remains unclear whether any of the alternative approaches can provide an adequate answer to the IHL/IHRL conundrum. This paper will therefore examine whether the practical challenges in implementing the principle, as identified in legal discourse, justify discarding it and whether the suggested alternative options succeed where lex specialis supposedly fails. Throughout and where necessary, the law and practice relating to internment during international military operations will serve as illustration.

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De hermaakbare wereld? Essays over globalisering

Hoewel globalisering de voorbije dertig jaar alomtegenwoordig was in het maatschappelijk debat, is de term steeds meer een vaag containerbegrip geworden. De meest uiteenlopende vraagstukken worden eraan verbonden, gaande van financiële crisissen en klimaatacties tot migratie en internationaal terrorisme. Vaak wordt globalisering daarbij begrepen of ervaren als een voldongen feit: een ongrijpbaar, onzichtbaar proces dat zich boven onze hoofden afspeelt. De hermaakbare wereld? toont hoe verlammend die beeldvorming is en reikt lezers een kritische, constructieve definitie aan. Wie dit boek leest, krijgt een nieuwe kijk op debatten rond globalisering. Zo biedt het zuurstof voor maatschappelijke veranderingen. Deze essaybundel stelt prangende vragen over globalisering, geïllustreerd aan de hand van specifieke cases. Het boek vormt een kritisch pleidooi voor verandering en wil ertoe bijdragen dat globalisering terug op de politieke agenda wordt geplaatst. Met bijdragen over o.a. mensenrechten, de financiële sector, global governance, de rol van de EU in de wereld, toegang tot essentiële geneesmiddelen en migratie, van de hand van onder meer: Eva Brems, Ben Derudder, Dries Lesage, Jan Orbie, Ferdi de Ville, Sigrid Sterckx en Eric Vanhaute. Nawoord door Sami Zemni.

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Madame de Lafayette, De Prinses van Clèves

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A role for human N-alpha acetyltransferase 30 (Naa30) in maintaining mitochondrial integrity

N-terminal acetylation (Nt-acetylation) by N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs) is one of the most common protein modifications in eukaryotes. The NatC complex represents one of three major NATs of which the substrate profile remains largely unexplored. Here, we defined the in vivo human NatC Nt-acetylome on a proteome-wide scale by combining knockdown of its catalytic subunit Naa30 with positional proteomics. We identified 46 human NatC substrates, expanding our current knowledge on the substrate repertoire of NatC which now includes proteins harboring Met-Leu, Met-Ile, Met-Phe, Met-Trp, Met-Val, Met-Met, Met-His and Met-Lys N termini. Upon Naa30 depletion the expression levels of several organellar proteins were found reduced, in particular mitochondrial proteins, some of which were found to be NatC substrates. Interestingly, knockdown of Naa30 induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and fragmentation of mitochondria. In conclusion, NatC N-tacetylates a large variety of proteins and is essential for mitochondrial integrity and function.

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Women in transnational history: connecting the global and the local

Women in Transnational History offers a range of fresh perspectives on the field of women's history, exploring how cross-border connections and global developments since the nineteenth century have shaped diverse women's lives and the gendered social, cultural, political and economic histories of specific localities. The book is divided into three thematically-organised parts, covering gendered histories of transnational networks, women's agency in the intersecting histories of imperialisms and nationalisms, and the concept of localizing the global and globalizing the local. Discussing a broad spectrum of topics from the politics of dress in Philippine mission stations in the early twentieth century to the shifting food practices of British women during the Second World War, the chapters bring women to the centre of the writing of new transnational histories. Illustrated with images and figures, this book throws new light on key global themes from the perspective of women's and gender history. Written by an international team of editors and contributors, it is a valuable and timely resource for students and researchers of both women's history and transnational and global history.

http://ift.tt/2gYvMxI

Opinions of dentists on the barriers in providing oral health care to community-dwelling frail older people: a questionnaire survey

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent dentists in the Netherlands experience barriers in providing oral health care to community-dwelling older people. BACKGROUND: As most publications on the barriers in providing oral health care to older people consist of surveys on oral health care in care homes, it was decided to investigate the barriers dentists experience in their own dental practices while providing oral health care to community-dwelling frail older people. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A representative sample of 1592 of the approximately 8000 dentists in the Netherlands aged 64 or younger were invited to respond to a questionnaire online. The dentists were asked to respond to 15 opinions concerning oral healthcare provision to community-dwelling frail older people aged 75 years or more who experience problems in physical, psychological and social areas, as well as possible financial problems. RESULTS: The total response rate was 37% (n = 595; male=76%; average age 49). The majority of those who responded agreed that the reimbursement of oral health care to older people is poor. Two thirds of those who responded (66%) agreed that there are limited opportunities to refer the frail and elderly with complex oral healthcare problems to a colleague with specific knowledge and skills. CONCLUSION: Dentists experienced barriers in two domains; a lack of knowledge and practical circumstances. It was concluded that the dentist's gender, age, year of graduation and the number of patients aged 75 years or more treated weekly were in some respect, related to the barriers encountered.

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Luc Peire 100

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Zur Distribution von Irrelevanzpartikeln in was immer/auch-Konstruktionen. Positionelle und kombinatorische Varianz im Deutschen Referenzkorpus

The present study is concerned with the distributional patterns of the so-called "irrelevance particles" immer 'ever' and 'auch' in German universal concessive conditionals and free relatives (e.g. was immer wir auch versuchen 'whatever we try'). In contrast to languages such as English, where irrelevance is conveyed by a single element in a fixed position (-ever), German has multiple positions for and combinations of immer and auch, whose distribution is mostly simplified in reference works on German syntax and grammar. Following the example of a previous study by Leuschner (2000), the present study aims at a more adequate description of the particle distribution, based on a significantly larger sample of 8734 clauses with the WH-word was 'what' from the DeReKo-corpus. The distributional patterns in subordinate clauses ('primary constructions') and their elliptically reduced forms ('secondary constructions') are analyzed using statistical methods, and the functional motivation of the patterns is analysed. It is concluded that need for disambiguation and ease of reanalysis play an important role in the rise of the respective patterns and of secondary constructions from primary ones.

http://ift.tt/2gYuvGF

Simultaneous discovery of cancer subtypes and subtype features by molecular data integration

Motivation: Subtyping cancer is key to an improved and more personalized prognosis/treatment. The increasing availability of tumor related molecular data provides the opportunity to identify molecular subtypes in a data-driven way. Molecular subtypes are defined as groups of samples that have a similar molecular mechanism at the origin of the carcinogenesis. The molecular mechanisms are reflected by subtype-specific mutational and expression features. Data-driven subtyping is a complex problem as subtyping and identifying the molecular mechanisms that drive carcinogenesis are confounded problems. Many current integrative subtyping methods use global mutational and/or expression tumor profiles to group tumor samples in subtypes but do not explicitly extract the subtype-specific features. We therefore present a method that solves both tasks of subtyping and identification of subtype-specific features simultaneously. Hereto our method integrates' mutational and expression data while taking into account the clonal properties of carcinogenesis. Key to our method is a formalization of the problem as a rank matrix factorization of ranked data that approaches the subtyping problem as multi-view bi-clustering. Results: We introduce a novel integrative framework to identify subtypes by combining mutational and expression features. The incomparable measurement data is integrated by transformation into ranked data and subtypes are defined as multi-view bi-clusters. We formalize the model using rank matrix factorization, resulting in the SRF algorithm. Experiments on simulated data and the TCGA breast cancer data demonstrate that SRF is able to capture subtle differences that existing methods may miss.

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De canon in de klas: kritisch reflecteren over het (on)nut van literaire leeslijsten

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L'opposition massif/comptable

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L'éditeur Bemporad et les romans pour enfants sous le régime fasciste: la série 'I Libri dell’Ardimento'

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Steric maps to evaluate the role of steric hindrance on the IPr NHC ligand

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used to predict and rationalize the effect of the modification of the structure of the prototype 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene) (IPr) N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand. The modification consists in the substitution of the methyl groups of ortho isopropyl substituent with phenyl groups, and here we plan to describe how such significant changes effect the metal environment and therefore the related catalytic behaviour by simple steric maps. Bearing in mind that there is a significant structural difference between IPr and IPr* ligands, that translated in different reactivity for several olefin metathesis reactions, here by means of DFT we characterize where the NHC ligand plays a more active role and where it is a simple spectator, or at least its modification does not significantly change its catalytic role/performance. Furthermore, this communication endeavours to modify further the skeleton of the IPr NHC ligand. The optimization of these bulky new systems go to the limits of the DFT computational method.

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Omzien naar 'choses plus apparentes que les paroles': TJ Clark over Nicolas Poussin

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Red & Dead

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Selling dreams: advertising strategies from grands magasins to supermarkets in Ghent, 1900-1960

As argued above, the specific historical role of the grands magasins follows directly out of their capacity to fuse modernist bourgeois culture and commercial mass production into a dream marriage. The commercialization of modernism took place in the heyday of the department store, the last decades of the nineteenth century. From the 1920s on, a major change was taking place. As consumption was on the rise, paralleling the welfare society coming into being, the department stores, with a high concentration of capital in their hands, were not to remain indifferent. Following the prix uniques principle, expansion was to take place on three levels. Geographically webs of ever more local branches were created; commercially the emphasis upon fashionable goods faded away as basic products like food stuff were taken in; and finally socially the department stores were to come out of their bourgeois background, addressing themselves to a much broader stratum of the population. By 1960 the transformation of the former grands magasins had become irreversible, destroying most of the historical identity of the stores, and leading them into a confrontation with the maisons à succursales. Still, as contrasted with the end of the nineteenth century, during this second phase of the development of a consumer society from the 1920s on, the grands magasins were no longer fore-runners, merely good followers as stores in general were making way for brand-names on the publicity market. Still, paying a last tribute to their social and cultural roots, the grands magasins found a compromise in an advertising style of their own, convincing through low prices and seducing through genteel images.

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Automible advertising in Le Soir, Brussels 1905-1950

Without denying the importance of symbolic values inherent in modern advertising, I try to argue that arguments used in advertisements should be linked to commercial strategies as well as to broader cultural backgrounds. Advertising is never just advertising, it is always advertising for something. The presence —or absence— of appeal arguments has been a function of production techniques, commercial positions and the general situation on the market for the product involved. Arguments used in advertising do not just come into existence as an outcome of a natural process of evolution. Within an expanding market, the product-introducing force of appeal arguments can be useful. Yet producers will be likely to return to price/quality arguments whenever the market becomes stagnant, and competitive pressure rises.

http://ift.tt/2hn4opW

Immanuel Kant en de renaissance van het confucianisme

De negentiende-eeuwse confrontatie van China met een wetenschappelijk dominant Westen heeft de verdere ontwikkeling van haar filosofie fundamenteel bepaald. In dit artikel wordt besproken hoe onder meer de filosofie van Immanuel Kant mee aan de basis ligt van de ontwikkeling van het 'nieuw confucianisme' aan het begin van de twintigste eeuw.

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