Αρχειοθήκη ιστολογίου

Πέμπτη 31 Αυγούστου 2017

Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy: After the Gold Rush.

No abstract available

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Long-term Functioning of Allogeneic Islets in Subcutaneous Tissue Pretreated with a Novel Cyclic Peptide without Immunosuppressive Medication.

Background: There exists a need for a minimally invasive method of islet transplantation without immunosuppressive drugs for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. Methods: In diabetic ACI rats, an agarose rod containing the cyclic oligopeptide SEK-1005 (agarose-SEK rod) was implanted at 2 dorsal subcutaneous sites. Then these rods were removed, and 1500 islets isolated from F344 rats were transplanted into each of the pockets. Results: Ten days after implantation of agarose-SEK rods, vascularized pockets were present. Nonfasting blood glucose levels confirmed long-term survival of the allogeneic islet grafts, without immunosuppressive therapy, in 8 of 10 recipients. Flow cytometry and gene expression analyses were performed to investigate the mechanisms underlying graft acceptance. Agarose-SEK rod implantation led to the formation of granulomatous tissue containing regulatory T cells that suppressed immune reactions against the allogeneic islet grafts. Conclusions: These results indicate that the use of an agarose-SEK rod to prevascularize a subcutaneous site may be a useful method for achieving successful allogeneic islet transplantation without immunosuppression. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Preface to the proceedings of the Workshop on Eosinophils in Allergy and Related Diseases 2016

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Allergology International, Volume 66, Supplement
Author(s): Kohei Yamauchi




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Influence of Parasitic Worm Infections on Allergy Diagnosis in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Epidemiological studies from Sub-Saharan Africa indicate that allergies are on the rise in this region especially in urban compared to rural areas. This increase has been linked to improved hygiene, lifestyle changes, and lower exposure to pathogens in childhood. Reduced exposure to parasitic worm (helminth) infections and allergy outcomes has been the focus of a number of population studies over the years. Paradoxically, there are parallels in the immune responses to helminths and to allergies. Both conditions are associated with elevated levels of immunoglobulin E, high numbers of T helper 2 cells, eosinophils, and mast cells. These immune parallels have meant that the diagnosis of allergies in parts of the world where helminths are endemic can be hampered. The aim of this review is to examine observations from population studies conducted in Sub-Saharan Africa that demonstrate how helminth infections influence the parameters used to diagnose allergy outcomes in this region. We explore specifically how helminth infections hinder the in vitro diagnosis of allergic sensitization, influence the clinical manifestations of allergy, and also the effect of anthelmintic treatment on allergy outcomes. Advancing our understanding of how helminths influence allergy diagnosis is imperative for the development of improved tools to assess, diagnose, and treat allergic disorders in both helminth-endemic and non-endemic countries worldwide.



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Influence of Parasitic Worm Infections on Allergy Diagnosis in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Epidemiological studies from Sub-Saharan Africa indicate that allergies are on the rise in this region especially in urban compared to rural areas. This increase has been linked to improved hygiene, lifestyle changes, and lower exposure to pathogens in childhood. Reduced exposure to parasitic worm (helminth) infections and allergy outcomes has been the focus of a number of population studies over the years. Paradoxically, there are parallels in the immune responses to helminths and to allergies. Both conditions are associated with elevated levels of immunoglobulin E, high numbers of T helper 2 cells, eosinophils, and mast cells. These immune parallels have meant that the diagnosis of allergies in parts of the world where helminths are endemic can be hampered. The aim of this review is to examine observations from population studies conducted in Sub-Saharan Africa that demonstrate how helminth infections influence the parameters used to diagnose allergy outcomes in this region. We explore specifically how helminth infections hinder the in vitro diagnosis of allergic sensitization, influence the clinical manifestations of allergy, and also the effect of anthelmintic treatment on allergy outcomes. Advancing our understanding of how helminths influence allergy diagnosis is imperative for the development of improved tools to assess, diagnose, and treat allergic disorders in both helminth-endemic and non-endemic countries worldwide.



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Triple synchronous primary lung cancer: a case report and review of the literature

Multiple primary lung cancer may present in synchronous or metachronous form. Synchronous multiple primary lung cancer is defined as multiple lung lesions that develop at the same time, whereas metachronous mu...

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Is voice therapy effective for the treatment of dysphonic patients with benign vocal fold lesions?

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Publication date: Available online 31 August 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Makoto Ogawa, Hidenori Inohara
ObjectiveTo update our knowledge regarding the effectiveness of voice therapy for the treatment of vocal disturbance associated with benign vocal fold lesions, including vocal polyps, nodules and cysts, and for determining the utility of voice therapy in treating organic voice disorders, while highlighting problems for the future development of this clinical field.MethodsWe conducted a review of the most recent literature on the therapeutic effects of voice therapy, vocal hygiene education or direct vocal training on vocal quality, the lesion appearance and discomfort felt by patients due to the clinical entity of benign vocal fold mass lesions.ResultsAlthough voice therapy is principally indicated for the treatment of functional dysphonia without any organic abnormalities in the vocal folds, a number of clinicians have attempted to perform voice therapy even in dysphonic patients with benign mass lesions in the vocal folds. The two major possible reasons for the effectiveness of voice therapy on vocal disturbance associated with benign vocal fold lesions are hypothesized to be the regression of lesions and the correction of excessive/inappropriate muscle contraction of the phonatory organs. According to the current literature, a substantial proportion of vocal polyps certainly tend to shrink after voice therapy, but whether or not the regression results from voice therapy, vocal hygiene education or a natural cure is unclear at present due to the lack of controlled studies comparing two groups with and without interventions. Regarding vocal nodules, no studies have investigated the effectiveness of voice therapy using proper experimental methodology. Vocal cysts are difficult to cure by voice therapy without surgical excision according to previous studies. Evidences remains insufficient to support the use of voice therapy against benign vocal fold lesions.ConclusionEvidences at present is therefore still insufficient to support the use of voice therapy for the treatment of benign vocal fold lesions.



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Basal cell carcinoma of the Auricular concha

Mohammad Waheed El-Anwar, Mohamed Salah

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):200-202

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer. Eighty percent of BCC affect the facial skin. The important challenge is removing all tumor cells to avoid recurrence because recurrent tumor is more difficult to cure. The current study describes the first surgically removed BCC of the concha and describes its management. A 65-year-old woman presented with left painless fixed conchal swelling proved by punch biopsy to be BCC. This mass was totally removed with 0.5 safety margin with excision of all the conchal cartilage and lower part of ascending ramus of the helix. Postauricular raw area was left to be healed with frequent dressing. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of BCC and proved free surgical margin. The patient was cosmetically satisfied and symptom free up to date without complication or recurrence. A case of BCC of the conchae was reported and could be safely and completely removed. This directs surgeon attention to BCC as a cause of conchal swelling as an early diagnosis when it is still small allows easy, safe removal without the need for reconstruction.

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Speech language development after cochlear implants in prelingual children according to the age of implantation

Alexandre Caixeta Guimarães, Henrique Furlan Pauna, Silvia Badur Curi, Vagner Rodrigues Silva, Alexandre S. M Duarte, Arthur Menino Castilho

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):185-188

Objectives: The purpose of this article is to evaluate the results regarding speech development of implanted children according to the age of implantation. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study with all implanted children at a tertiary hospital from 2003 to 2010. Children were grouped according to the age of the activation of the cochlear implant (CI), gender, and etiology. The degree of oral communication and the speech development using the MacArthur-Bates scale were evaluated. Results: Fifty-six children were included, 23 of them were activated before 3 years of age and 33 between 3 and 6 years. The average time of CIs use was 66 months with no significant difference between groups. Oral communication and the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Development Inventories were significantly better in children activated before 3 years (P = 0.018). Conclusion: The oral communication and speech development of children implanted before 3 years of age were significantly better than children implanted after 3 years of age.

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Significance of round window niche drilling for cochlear implant surgery

Deepak Dalmia, Sanjaya Kumar Behera

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):141-145

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the extent of round window niche (RWN) drilling for optimal visualization of the round window membrane (RWM) during cochlear implant surgery. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study of 38 candidates between 1 and 8 years for cochlear implant surgery from March 2014 to March 2016. We classified the visibility of RWM and its cover by RWN on the surgical view through the posterior tympanotomy during surgery into four types (1) Type 1 - fully visible, (2) Type 2-2/3rd (75%–99%) of RWM visible, (3) Type 3 - ½–2/3rd (50%–74%) of RWM visible, and (4) Type IV - ¼th–½ (25%–49%) of RWM visible. Extent of drilling of RWN into (1) drilling of anterosuperior and superior lip, (2) drilling of anterosuperior, superior, and posterosuperior lip, (3) drilling of the anterior lip with anterosuperior, superior, and posterosuperior lip, and (4) drilling of the posterior lip with Type III drilling. Results: Type-4 RWN is the most common and Type-1 least common. The extent of drilling most commonly performed was Type IV drilling of anterosuperior, superior, and posterosuperior and anterior and posterior lip of RWN. Conclusion: Sufficient drilling of the bony overhang is essential for complete exposure of RWM for insertion of electrodes without any hindrance.

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Multimodality approach in evaluation of common crus aplasia

Sai Kiran Pendem, Rajeswaran Rangasami, S Sanjeev Mohanty, Prabhu Radhan Radhakrishnan

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):211-215

Common crus aplsia is a rare congenital anomaly caused due to abnormal reabsorption of neuroectodermal tissue of membranous common crus. Three patients came to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology with the complaints of poor response to sound. Audiometry examination revealed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. They were referred to radiology department for high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) temporal bone as a part of preoperative cochlear implant work up. In the present study, we discuss the HRCT and MRI findings helpful in the diagnosis of this rare anomaly in three cases.

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Comparative assessment of grommets with topical intranasal steroid in cases of otitis media with effusion

Sushil Suresh Chavan, Prakash S Nagpure

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):146-150

Aim: This study of 56 patients is to assess the effectiveness of grommet insertion compared with non-surgical treatment steroids (topical intranasal) in otitis media effusion (OME) cases and study complications related to the grommet and topical intranasal steroid. Material: A total subjects of various age groups attending out patient department of ENT, Kasturba Hospital, MGIMS Sevagram, Hospital, Wardha from june 2013 to august 2015 who meet the inclusion criteria and give their written consent in local language will be included in the study. Method: Comparison of medical and surgical management were done. Medical management include topical intranasal steroids by Mometasone fuorate. The recommended dose for treatment of the nasal symptoms is 1 spray (50 microgram of mometasone furoate in each spray). Recommended duration of spray is 2 to 4 weeks and the stated achievement of effect of spray is approximately 1 to 2 weeks. Surgical management include myringotomy with grommet insertion. Generally, myringotomy is performed in conjunction with the insertion of a polyethylene tube called as grommet. Infants and small children are best managed by performing this procedure under a general anesthetic. In older children and adults, local anesthetic can be used as a single block in posterior canal wall so as it block Arnold"s nerve. Results: From this present study cases of children 10 (47.62%) patients shows improvement and 17 (48.57%) adult patient shows improvement having minimal difference. Similarly failure of treatment in children is 1 (4.76%) complications in 2 (9.52%) and in adult patients 0 (0%) complication in 2 (5.71%) it was not showing significant differences. p value was not significant and showing that the differences in value was not having any level of significance in same group. It is concluded that topical nasal steroids are not so effective as surgical drainage of exudative material (myringotomy). Conclusion: Use of steroid causes nasal irritation and temporary relief only and in some patient causes only retention of fluid. Sometimes grommet retained in tympanic membrane and not extruded out needed manual removel. Beside that Overall results are in the favour of myringotomy with grommet insertion as a better modality.

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Preauricular sinus: A comparative study between different surgical approaches

Ahmed Shaker ElAassar, Mohammad Abd-El Hady, Sherif M Askar, Hazem Said Amer, Mohammad Waheed El-Anwar

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):193-196

Background: The preauricular sinus is a congenital abnormality of the external ear that is usually asymptomatic. However, if recurrent infection, persistent discharge or abscess formation occurs, complete surgical excision of the sinus is required. Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the long-term results of the preauricular sinus excision by simple sinectomy, microscopic-assisted sinectomy, and supra-auricular approach. Patients and Methods: Patients who had symptomatic preauricular sinus scheduled for surgical excision were randomly categorized into three groups: Group A (sinectomy) for whom preauricular sinus was excised by simple sinectomy using methylene blue; Group B (microscopic-assisted sinectomy) treated by simple sinectomy using the microscopic to follow, dissect out and excise the sinus tract(s); and Group C (supra-auricular approach) treated by the supra-auricular approach. Results: Excisions of 68 preauricular sinuses were carried out in 58 patients. The mean follow-up period was 19.7 months with a range of 9–30 months. The overall recurrence rate was 13.4% (9 cases). The timing of recurrence ranged from 3 to 6 months (3–12 months). The simple sinectomy technique had the highest recurrence rate (28%). The recurrence rate of the microscopic-assisted technique was 15% while the supra-auricular approach had the lowest recurrence rate (3.4%). Conclusion: The supra-auricular approach offers the most favorable outcome for the management of the preauricular sinus.

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Impact of smoking and tobacco addiction on sensorineural hearing loss among normal healthy participants: A cross-sectional cohort study

Balaji Sekher, Vikas Sinha, Sushil G Jha

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):151-154

Background: Cigarette smoking and tobacco addiction is one of the major health issues worldwide. Tobacco addiction is generally related to health issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart disease hypertension. It is also said that tobacco addiction causes sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Aim and Objective: The aim of this study was to show direct correlation between tobacco addiction and SNHL. Materials and Methods: In our study, sixty participants who are addicted to tobacco products at least minimum of 20 years were taken as subjects and matched with age-specific controls who do not have any tobacco addiction. They were asked to undergo basic history taking session, otoscopy, and pure tone audiometry, and results were analyzed. Results: SNHL is more common in tobacco users than the age-specific control group. Conclusion: TObacco addiction (both smoking and tobacco chewing) is associated with increased risk of developing SNHL.

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Left mastoid abscess and right automastoidectomy: Two rare complications of cholesteatoma in a patient

Boon Chye Gan, Mohd Khairi Md Daud

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):205-207

In most cases of cholesteatoma, patients have a history of occasional scanty ear discharge, tinnitus, and gradual progression of hearing loss that may not bother their daily activities. Therefore, late presentation may occur when this group of patients attributes little importance to the otological symptoms. We report a patient with bilateral cholesteatoma who presented with mastoid abscess on the left ear and automastoidectomy on the right ear. Early detection and management of cholesteatoma is crucial in preventing its complication.

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Evaluation of effects of diabetes mellitus type 2 and hyperlipidemia on hearing

Sandip M Parmar, Pushkar Khare, Meenu Chaudhary

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):155-161

Background: Age related hearing loss or Presbyacusis may be defined as mid to late onset, bilateral, progressive sensorineural hearing loss, where underlying causes have been excluded. In recent decades there has been a rapid progression in population aging, and with advancing age, chronic diseases and functional impairments become more common. Varying ranges of the prevalence of sensorineural deafness in subjects with diabetes and hyperlipidemia has been reported. The present study was undertaken to determine whether or not diabetes mellitus type 2 and hyperlipidemia induced auditory dysfunction. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional observational study was undertaken which comprised of a total of 200 subjects who were divided in 4 groups, which comprised of 50 control subjects in one group and 150 case subjects in the other 3 groups with presence of diabetes mellitus type 2, hyperlipidemia and those having both diabetes mellitus type 2 and hyperlipidemia. All subjects were evaluated by conducting pure tone audiometry and blood investigations like lipid profile and fasting and postprandial blood sugars. Results: It was observed that hearing loss was more prevalent (62%) and highly significant (P 0.001) as compared to controls in patients with both diabetes mellitus type 2 and hyperlipidemia together. The hearing loss was significantly more for higher frequencies in air and bone conduction thresholds. Conclusion: The prevalence of sensorineural hearing loss was increased in subjects having both diabetes mellitus type 2 and hyperlipidemia and these subjects are at a higher risk of developing sensorineural hearing loss. The hearing loss was progressive, bilateral and affected mainly higher frequencies.

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Comparative study of speech and language development in children with normal hearing and cochlear implant in Iran

Hamed Ahmadi, Hamed Mahmoudian Sani, Gholamreza Farnoosh, Mohammad Reza Mahmoudian Sani

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):135-140

Today, cochlear implant provides an appropriate opportunity for the development of speech and language in children. In some studies, the age of children at the time of surgery has been stated as the most important factor in the development of speech and language of children after cochlear implant, while in other studies factors, including participation in rehabilitation programs, parental educational level, and lack of other disability have been regarded as key factors in the development of speech and language in these children. This review aims to assess the conducted studies in Iran to identify factors contributing to improving the auditory perception, language, and other skills in children with cochlear implants in comparison to children with normal hearing. The purpose of this study is to review the results of studies conducted on speech and language abilities in children with cochlear implant compared to the normal group in Iran. Directory of Open Access Journals, Google Scholar, PubMed (NLM), LISTA (EBSCO), and Web of Science have been searched. cochlear implants in deaf children before language learning results in the acquisition of speech and language skills in children. Timely detection of hearing impairment, early implantation, duration of hearing, and parental involvement in the rehabilitation process are important factors that affect the development of speech and language. The child's age at the time of implantation, continued participation in rehabilitation programs and the lack of associated problems directly impact the development of auditory perception, speech and language of children with cochlear implant while family education level indirectly impacts this developmental process.

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Effects of nonlinear amplification on differential sensitivity measures in individuals with cochlear hearing impairment

N Devi, G Amritha, Kishore Tanniru

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):162-167

Objective: The current study focused on exploring the influence of multichannel amplification with wide dynamic range compression (WDRC) on frequency, intensity, and duration discrimination measures at two frequencies in different channels of amplification. Methods: Discrimination measures were performed on twenty ears with moderate flat sensorineural hearing loss using 2-down and 1-up adaptive procedure to achieve 70.7% response on the psychometric function. All stimuli were generated through AUX script and presented using Psycon version 2.18 experimental software and delivered through the speakers oriented at an angle of 0° azimuth. Discrimination measures were performed in both aided and unaided conditions for two pure tone frequencies of 750 and 1500 Hz with 500 ms duration (on/off ramp duration of 80 ms to avoid spectral splatter) presented at a level of 20 dBSL (with reference to the threshold separately in each condition). The responses were recorded through three interval alternative forced choice paradigm with visual feedback. An average of final four reversals out of eight was considered for discrimination threshold estimation. Results and Conclusions: Results revealed a statistically significant deterioration in intensity discrimination and a significant improvement in difference limen for frequency and duration with nonlinear amplification. The deteriorated intensity discrimination scores were explained in perspectives of WDRC acting in amplification device.

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Comparison of myringostapediopexy and malleostapediopexy tympanoplasty with sculptured incus in case of hearing reconstruction in tubotympanic chronic otitis media: A case series

Virendra Pratap Singh, Neha Sharma, Chetan Bansal

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):189-192

Introduction: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a burden on Indian population due to hearing loss due to deformation of the ossicular chain which needs reconstruction (ossiculoplasty). This study is an attempt to analyze the use of autogenous incus in ossiculoplasty for the same. Aim: The aim of this study is comparison of malleostapediopexy and myringostapediopexy in seventy cases of tubotympanic CSOM. Materials and Methods: Seventy patients with CSOM were operated and tympanoplasty was done. Ossiculoplasty was done using incus interposition as malleostapediopexy and myringostapediopexy and results analyzed. Results: In the present study, the pre- and post-operative air-bone gap values for myringostapediopexy cases were 38.00 ± 6.84 and 27.28 ± 5.12, respectively, and for type malleostapediopexy were 37.95 ± 7.51 and 18.08 ± 4.34, respectively. Statistical Test Used: Unpaired t-test. Conclusion: A better outcome was seen in malleostapediopexy than myringostapediopexy.

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Beck depression Inventory-II in hearing impaired elderly patients: A presbycusis study

Mohammad Hossein Nilforoush, Mahsa Sepehrnejad, Zahra Habibi

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):168-170

Background and Objective: Hearing impairment is one of the most common sensory deficits in human communities. Recent studies have shown that presbycusis happens earlier than before. Hearing loss due to the aging process, or presbycusis, can cause inability to interpret sounds in speech, decreased ability to communicate and withdrew from society. Therefore these factors may lead to psychological problems such as depression. Since there are few studies evaluating the side effects of presbycusis in Iran, we started the study of depression in presbycusis clients referred to the audiology clinics of Isfahan University of medical science, Isfahan, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the relationship between demographic characteristics and depression was determined. In order to collect information and evaluate depression, Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) was utilized and conducted on 35 cases. Results: Results indicated that 8.6fcr% had minimal depression, 14.3% with mild, 20.0% moderate depression and 57.1% had severe depression. No significant correlation between age, gender and depression was achieved. Conclusion: Using depression questionnaire such as BDI-II during aural rehabilitation process could be valuable. More complications were found in acceptance of hearing aids in elderly people with depression. Psychological treatment can be suitable while audiological management was accomplished simultaneously for this group.

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Simultaneous labyrinthectomy and cochlear implantation for a case of otosclerosis with intractable vertigo

Joyce Pascal Rozario, Anjali Lepcha, John Mathew

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):197-199

Stapedotomy, though a common surgical procedure for otosclerosis, if inadequately performed, can cause dreaded complications of vertigo and profound hearing loss. Labyrinthectomy with cochlear implantation can be considered in cases of intractable vertigo, as numerous reports have shown that the cochlea still remains responsive to electrical stimulation postlabyrinthectomy. This report presents a case of otosclerosis, with severe to profound deafness and intractable vertigo poststapedotomy surgery, which was treated with simultaneous labyrinthectomy and cochlear implantation. This patient had good control of vertigo postoperatively and the Dizziness Handicap Index score pre- and post-operative were 80 and 38, respectively, with significant improvement in speech perception.

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Comparison of manual and computer-assisted measurement of cochlear nerve obtained from magnetic resonance imaging

S Jeevakala, A Brintha Therese, Rajeswaran Rangasami

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):171-175

Objectives: Cochlear implantation of sensorineural hearing loss requires accurate measurement of cochlear nerve (CN). The precise measurement of very small structures can be improved by automated segmentation and measurement. The variability and reproducibility of the computer-assisted measurement were compared with manual measurements. Materials and Methods: The 3D-constructive interference in steady state magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images of twenty patients who were referred for MRI in the assessment of giddiness/vertigo or fitness for cochlear implant during the period from June 2013 to June 2014 were analyzed. The CN sizes were measured manually by two independent radiologists. The automatic measurements were then performed on the same images, and its correlation and agreement were calculated between automated and manual measurements. Results: The intra-observer correlation coefficients were significantly larger for cross-sectional area (CSA) of CN using automated measurements when compared to manual measurement (intra-observer r: 0.94021 vs. 0.91437). Similarly, the inter-observer correlation for CSA of CN is also higher in automated measurements (inter measurement r: 0.94786 vs. 0.92013). Conclusions: Using computer-assisted CN dimension measurement, the intra- and inter-observer correlation can be improved when compared to manual measurements. The automated measurement can assist the radiologist in eliminating the need for tedious manual tracing and thus, the time and effort for manual segmentation are also significantly reduced.

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Unrare but unfamiliar preauricular pilomatricoma mimicking parotid tumor

Anna Park, Jeong Hwan Choi

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):203-204

Pilomatricoma is a benign skin tumor arising from the outer root sheath cell of the hair follicle that usually present in the head and neck region. Pilomatricoma usually presents as an asymptomatic, solitary, firm or hard, freely mobile, dermal or subcutaneous nodule, and exhibits no fixation to neighboring tissues and has a cartilage-like hardness. The characteristic image findings are reported as well-defined subcutaneous masses with or without visible calcification. Despite these general clinical characteristics, the preoperative diagnosis-based solely on the clinical examination is often difficult because of various manifestations frequently presented by the tumor.

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Radiological changes in anatomy of temporal bone in cases of unsafe chronic suppurative otitis media: A retrospective study

Vinit Kumar Sharma, Neeraj Prajapati, Rohit Sharma, Zafar Iqbal, Shubham Dadoo

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):176-179

Introduction: The ability of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) to depict the status of structure of the temporal bone represents a major advance in delineating pathology before surgical exploration of ear in cases of unsafe chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) or cholesteatoma. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of HRCT temporal bone in cases of unsafe CSOM and to assess the erosion of various structures in middle ear cleft. Study Design: This was a retrospective analysis. Materials and Methods: Fifty HRCT scans of temporal bone of the patients who were diagnosed as case of unsafe CSOM were selected and analyzed retrospectively. Criterion for inclusion was CSOM with cholesteatoma or granulations or polyp or posterior canal wall sagging or foul smelling discharge. In HRCT scans, 1 mm thickness sections were studied in both axial and coronal planes. Criterion for exclusion was history of previous ear surgery, history suggestive of head injury or skull base trauma in the past or known cases of temporal bone neoplastic pathology. Results: Maximum number of patients belonged to the age group of 21–30 years. Ossicular erosion was the most common (90%) finding followed by scutum erosion (84%). Erosion of sigmoid sinus plate was seen in only one case (2%). Cochlear promontory fistula was seen in none of the computed tomography scans. In ossicular chain, incus was the most common ossicle to be necrosed (92%) followed by malleus (66%). Conclusion: HRCT temporal bone delineates the location and extent of the disease and provides information on anatomical variations and complications.

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Reimplantation of an amputated pinna: A case report and review of literature

Brajpal Singh Tyagi, Sushant Tyagi

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):208-210

Management of the partial or total amputations of the external ear has always stayed a difficult problem for otolaryngologists and plastic surgeons. For successful reimplantations of these amputations, multidisciplinary approach consisting of aggressive medical therapy with broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics, anticoagulation, and reperfusion in conjunction with efficient surgical approach is needed. The surgeon's main objective is to obtain the best cosmetic result without damaging the auricular area to allow for subsequent future ear reconstruction in case any failure occurs after replantation. To enhance the survival of a reattached ear segment, Mladick et al. have advocated the use of the retroauricular pocket. This technique involves deepithelialization of the amputated part of the avulsed cartilage, followed by reattachment to the amputation stump and then burial into a retroauricular skin pocket. This increases the surface area of the avulsed segment in contact with surrounding nutrients, maximizing the probability of graft uptake and survival. We have used this technique successfully in our case and found acceptable results with it.

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Pseudomonas aeruginosa and its sensitivity spectrum in chronic suppurative otitis media: A study from Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand State, India

Deepak Juyal, Munesh Sharma, Vikrant Negi, Rajat Prakash, Neelam Sharma

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):180-184

Introduction: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a chronic inflammation of the middle ear and mastoid cavity, with recurrent ear discharge through a perforated tympanic membrane. It is a major health problem in developing countries causing serious local damage and life-threatening complications. The advent of sophisticated systemic antibiotics and their irrational use has led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial strains and disease complication in return. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, one of the most common organisms to cause CSOM, is a notorious pathogen and is known for its MDR attribute. Objective: The aim of this study was to know the prevalence of P. aeruginosa among the patients suffering from CSOM, to analyze their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern, and to find out MDR P. aeruginosa strains. Materials and Methods: A total of 571 patients clinically diagnosed of CSOM were enrolled in the study (559 patients with unilateral and 12 with bilateral discharge), and 583 samples were obtained from them. Sample processing and identification was done by standard bacteriological methods. One hundred eighty-seven strains were identified as P. aeruginosa and were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing for 10 different antibiotics categorized into five classes. Results: Of total 583 samples collected, growth was seen in 576 (98.8%) samples. P. aeruginosa strains were isolated from 187 (32.1%) samples. Piperacillin-tazobactam (75.4%), amikacin (74.3%), imipenem (70.6%), and cefepime (69.0%) were found to be the most effective antibiotics. Twenty-nine (15.5%) strains were resistant to all the five classes of antibiotics tested. The rate of resistance to fluoroquinolones (48.7%) was highest, followed by antipseudomonal penicillin (41.7%), and was lowest for carbapenems (29.4%). Conclusion: Knowing the etiological agents of CSOM and their antibiogram is of paramount importance for an efficient treatment and prevention of both disease complications and antimicrobial resistance.

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Malnutrition among children having otitis media: A Hospital-based cross-sectional study in Lucknow District

Mahmood Dhahir Al-Mendalawi

Indian Journal of Otology 2017 23(3):216-216



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Hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis: is it a mast cell driven hematological disorder?

imagePurpose of review: Hymenoptera-induced allergy (HVA) is a common cause of anaphylaxis and may be fatal. It is associated with systemic mastocytosis in about 7% of adult patients. Systemic mastocytosis is a proliferative disorder of hematopoietic mast cell progenitors. There is recent data on the association between systemic mastocytosis and HVA. Recent findings: Hymenoptera venoms are the most common immunoglobulin E-mediated elicitors of anaphylaxis in patients with mastocytosis. Some patients with systemic mastocytosis do not have cutaneous involvement and have only been identified because of HVA. These patients do have distinct demographic, clinical, and laboratory features as compared with patients with mastocytosis with skin lesions. They show a male predominance, more severe (cardiovascular) as compared to skin symptoms, lower baseline serum tryptase, less bone marrow mast cell aggregates, and KIT mutations restricted to mast cell lineage. Summary: Although hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis is not primarily a mast cell-driven hematological disorder, the latter is present in a significant proportion of patients and has to be excluded by basal serum tryptase determination, skin inspection as well as exclusion of systemic mastocytosis by D816V mutation analysis in peripheral blood and/or bone marrow examination in selected patients.

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Novel molecular defects associated with very early-onset inflammatory bowel

imagePurpose of review: Immune dysregulation disorders present with common clinical features of multiorgan autoimmunity. Gastrointestinal involvement is the hallmark of an impaired immune homeostasis. This review will give an overview on the novel phenotypes, highlighting the major points that will help to enable early diagnosis and treatment. Recent findings: The rapid progress on DNA sequencing technologies have led to the identification of monogenic defects that adversely impact the control of immune homeostasis. Lymphocytes may be present but dysfunctional, allowing for the development of excessive autoreactivity and resultant autoimmune disease. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an essential role in enforcing immune tolerance. Here we illustrate disorders caused by impairment of mechanisms ensuring Tregs function (Tregs related) in which autoimmunity is a hallmark of the clinical disease presentation and other disorders, affecting molecules more broadly involved in immune responses and indirectly causing immune dysregulation (Tregs unrelated). Clinical presentation is sometime mischievous and often symptoms are analogous in different diseases and can mislead diagnosis. Summary: The increasing comprehension of immunological concepts behind immune dysregulation diseases will allow better and in some cases possibly even targeted treatment. A genetic diagnosis therefore becomes important information in this group of patients, especially as some patients might require hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

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Editorial introductions

imageNo abstract available

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Do advanced glycation end-products cause food allergy?

imagePurpose of review: The aim of this study was to appraise the evidence relating to dietary advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), their influence on innate and adaptive immune responses and their possible role in the increasing rate of food allergy that is being observed globally. Recent findings: The western pattern of diet is high in both AGEs and their substrates and this has been increasing in the last 30 years. AGEs mimic alarmins such as S100 proteins and the high molecular group box 1 (HMBG1), binding to the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE), which in turn influences innate and adaptive immune responses. AGEs can directly cause mast cell activation and degranulation. Population data from USA and Australia have correlates with the rise in food allergy and sources of AGEs in the diet and this is also reinforced by urban and regional data within countries. The function of the RAGE receptor is inter-twined with Toll-like receptor (TLR) signalling and vitamin D levels. Activation of the RAGE receptor results in loss of epithelial integrity. Animal models studies have shown that dietary compounds that reduce the formation of AGEs can protect from the development of food allergies; however, this has not been shown in humans. Summary: Dietary sources of AGEs and their substrates are a plausible contributor to the increasing prevalence of food allergy, which requires prospective evaluation in human populations.

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Neuropathic symptoms of the ocular surface: dryness, pain, and itch

imagePurpose of review: This review aims to describe the recent findings on epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of neuropathic symptoms of the ocular surface, with a focus on potential similarities between sensations of dry eye, pain and itch. Recent findings: A narrative review of the literature was undertaken. Key references from research in dry eye, neuropathic symptoms of the ocular surface, ocular pain and itch, as well as general references on itch and pain neurobiology were included. Recent findings suggest aspects of dry eye, chronic ocular pain and itch symptomatology are driven by neuropathic pain mechanisms involving peripheral and central sensitization processes. Summary: Ocular dryness, pain, and itch are prevalent complaints with several of shared features. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that peripheral and central neuronal sensitization processes are involved in generating and maintaining ocular sensory symptoms. Research is warranted on the epidemiology of ocular sensations, molecular mechanisms involved in nociception and pruriception in the eye, electrophysiological alterations in animal models of eye conditions, and therapeutic modalities that can alleviate unpleasant ocular sensations.

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Risk of anaphylaxis in complementary and alternative medicine

imagePurpose of review: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is widespread across the world. Patients with asthma and allergy regularly use CAM therapies. Allergic and anaphylactic reactions to CAM have been reported. Recent findings: Recent attempts to regulate and monitor adverse reaction to these therapies have given us further insight into potential causes of severe allergic reactions. Several culprits identified including Andrographis paniculata, Echinacea species, bee products, Ginkgo biloba and Ginseng are discussed here. Summary: Knowing the factors that increase the risk of anaphylaxis allows reactions to be recognized, reported and further investigated. Research to identify key causative allergens is necessary in the future. Collaboration between the allergy community and CAM practitioners can allow better understanding of allergy to these therapies.

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Anaphylaxis and intimate behaviour

imagePurpose of review: Intimate behaviours may represent an unusual way of exposure to a culprit allergen, or the frame for sex-related allergies due to triggers typically linked to that situation. The present review aims at summarizing the state of the art about the topic, in order to spread the awareness and the basic know-how in the field of sexual-related allergies. Recent findings: Kiss-related IgE-mediated reactions are caused in sensitized partners mainly by the passive transport of allergenic molecules through saliva, skin or oral mucosa. It has also been recently suggested that kissing may act as an epicutaneous way for induction of allergic sensitization. Among food and drugs, not only but mostly, peanuts and beta-lactams, respectively, are the usual trigger. Although controversial, 1-hour wait before kissing and a proper mouth cleaning have been suggested as prevention strategies. Sexual intercourse related local or systemic symptoms can be caused by seminal plasma hypersensitivity, an IgE-mediated/type IV reaction due to prostate-specific antigen, which carries high homology to the canine prostatic kallikrein (Can f 5). Although applied to few patients, successful desensitization and immunotherapy protocols have been proposed. Summary: Intimate behaviours are possible modalities of contact with the allergen. The exact prevalence of such hypersensitivity reactions is not known, but for its implications on Quality of Life and reproductive wishes, the possible link between sex and allergy should become part of the personal culture of clinical allergists and every clinician, in order to extend and improve the diagnosis of unusual or unexplained conditions.

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When nutrition and allergy collide: the rise of anaphylaxis to plant foods

imagePurpose of review: Interest in nutrition is increasing, but in the world of internet health gurus, whilst the nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables are extolled, wheat is often vilified. This review will assess the positive nutritional effects of plant foods in relation to allergy prevention, the effectiveness of gluten-avoidance and the likelihood of anaphylaxis to fruits and vegetables. Recent findings: Although the numbers of people who report gluten sensitivity is rising, hard evidence of mass sensitivity to gluten is scant. Also, the avoidance of wheat containing foods could lead to nutritional imbalance and effects on the gut microbiome. The evidence that fruits and vegetables have a protective effect on the development of allergy is inconsistent, although fruit juices may promote beneficial changes to gut microflora. Fruits and vegetables can cause severe allergic reactions, especially due to the presence of lipid transfer proteins, but this is not just a Mediterranean phenomenon, and not limited to peaches. Summary: These findings emphasise the importance of a keeping an open mind about reported reactions to plant foods, to ensure the correct diagnosis is made and nutrition is optimised to prevent any adverse effects of avoidance on the gut microbiome.

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Component resolved diagnostics for hymenoptera venom allergy

imagePurpose of review: Component-resolved diagnostics makes use of defined allergen molecules to analyse IgE-mediated sensitizations at a molecular level. Here, we review recent studies on the use of component-resolved diagnostics in the field of Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA) and discuss its benefits and limitations. Recent findings: Component resolution in HVA has moved from single molecules to panels of allergens. Detection of specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) to marker and cross-reactive venom allergens has been reported to facilitate the discrimination between primary sensitization and cross-reactivity and thus, to provide a better rationale for prescribing venom immunotherapy (VIT), particularly in patients sensitized to both honeybee and vespid venom. Characterization of IgE reactivity to a broad panel of venom allergens has allowed the identification of different sensitization profiles that in honeybee venom allergy were associated with increased risks for side effects or treatment failure of VIT. In contrast, component resolution so far has failed to provide reliable markers for the discrimination of sensitizations to venoms of different members of Vespidae. Summary: Component-resolved diagnostics allows a better understanding of the complexity of sensitization and cross-reactivities in HVA. In addition, the enhanced resolution and precision may allow identification of biomarkers, which can be used for risk stratification in VIT. Knowledge about the molecular composition of different therapeutic preparations may enable the selection of appropriate preparations for VIT according to individual sensitization profiles, an approach consistent with the goals of personalized medicine.

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Climate changes and Hymenoptera venom allergy: are there some connections?

imagePurpose of review: This review aims to update the world status of the main allergenic stinging Hymenoptera. Recent findings: In this review, we consider the problems that social Hymenoptera (bees, wasps and ants) could represent in the nearest future for human health in different parts of the world. Summary: Distribution and consistency of allergenic species including venomous insects are interested by accelerated dynamics caused by climate changes and globalization. Owing to the expansion of ranges of native species and colonization of invasive ones, even in the uncertainty of present available models, new challenges presented by stinging Hymenoptera should be expected in the future.

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Ocular surface lubricants

imagePurpose of review: The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the ocular lubricants currently available, consider the components of the various formulations and highlight the status of preservative use in the treatment of anterior ocular surface diseases. Recent findings: The primary components of ocular surface lubrication have been, in the past, based on various cellulose formulations that increase hydration. Advances in lubrication have come from areas of the human body requiring lubrication such as the skeletal joints as well as examining the use of natural components of the tear fluid. These have resulted in novel modifications of existing tear components, for example, thiolated carboxymethyl hyaluronic acid which creates crosslinking to mechanically increase retention time for ocular surface hydration. Other proteoglycans such as lubricin, having one of the lowest coefficients of friction in nature, to a lipopolysaccharide derivative of tamarind seed, may provide a unique delivery system for lubricants and medications. Summary: The present state of ocular surface lubrication is slowly advancing from the routine use of cellulose-based solutions and gels to more advanced replacement with natural tear components. The advances that are occurring on other lubricating surfaces of the musculoskeletal system are also providing some insights into potential use on the ocular surface.

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MiR-375 and YAP1 expression profiling in medullary thyroid carcinoma and their correlation with clinical–pathological features and outcome

Abstract

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a tumor marked by an indolent growth for which few prognostic factors and therapeutic strategies are actually available. Different studies have recently appraised well-differentiated thyroid cancers are characterized by a dysregulation in different microRNA sets; however, only few of them investigated the role of miRNA expression in MTCs. In this study, we have assessed the miR-375 expression in a series of 130 MTCs (104 are sporadic and 26 familial) with a median follow-up of 39 months (range 1–138) and then we have correlated our results with the clinical–pathological features and the patients' outcome.

Moreover, we have appraised YAP1 (Yes-associated protein 1) immunohistochemical expression in the same MTC series and in 5 C-cells hyperplasia (CCH) samples as well. We observed a significant upregulation of miR-375 in all MTCs, when compared to the normal thyroid tissues. Besides, miR-375 expression was found to be closely linked to neoplastic size, a chance of thyroid capsule infiltration, the risk of lymph node metastasis, and the staging of the tumor. At the end of follow-up, only 10% (13/130) showed a tumor progression and a higher miR-375 expression was found to be closely linked to a worst patient' outcome. On the contrary, YAP1 immunohistochemical expression was sharply downregulated in tumors, whereas it was weakly expressed in CCHs. Our results suggest miR-375 plays a central role in MTC progression and, therefore, we seek following the idea that miR-375 pathway may be an effective target in novel MTC therapeutic strategies.



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Response to omalizumab using patient enrichment criteria from trials of novel biologics in asthma

Abstract

Background

Recent efficacy studies of asthma biologics have included highly enriched patient populations. Using a similar approach, we examined factors that predict response to omalizumab to facilitate selection of patients most likely to derive the greatest clinical benefit from therapy.

Methods

Data from two phase III clinical trials of omalizumab in patients with allergic asthma were examined. Differences in rates of asthma exacerbations between omalizumab and placebo groups during the 16-week inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose-stable phase were evaluated with respect to baseline blood eosinophil counts (eosinophils <300/μL [low] vs ≥300/μL [high]) and baseline markers of asthma severity (emergency asthma treatment in prior year, asthma hospitalization in prior year, forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1; FEV1 <65% vs ≥65% predicted], inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate dose [<600 vs ≥600 μg/day], long-acting beta-agonist [LABA] use [yes/no]).

Results

Adults/adolescents (N = 1071) were randomized to receive either omalizumab (n = 542) or placebo (n = 529). In the 16-week ICS dose-stable phase, rates of exacerbations requiring ≥3 days of systemic corticosteroid treatment were 0.066 and 0.147 with omalizumab and placebo, respectively, representing a relative rate reduction in omalizumab-treated patients of 55% (95% CI, 32–70%; P = 0.002). For patients with eosinophils ≥300/μL or with more severe asthma, this rate reduction was significantly more pronounced.

Conclusion

In patients with allergic asthma, baseline blood eosinophil levels and/or clinical markers of asthma severity predict response to omalizumab.

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Allergic FcεRI- and pseudo-allergic MRGPRX2-triggered mast cell activation routes are independent and inversely regulated by SCF

Abstract

While allergic mast cell (MC) degranulation occurs by FcεRI-aggregation and varies in strength among subjects, the analogous pseudo-allergic route was recently uncovered to proceed via MRGPRX2. Here, we examine inter-individual variability in skin MC responses to FcεRI-triggering versus those evoked by MRGPRX2. While population-based variability is comparable between the routes, FcεRI- and MRGPRX2-stimulated pathways are completely independent from each other, and responsiveness to one has therefore no predictive value for the other. Conversely, degranulation triggered by compound 48/80 is highly correlated to the process elicited by Substance P. MRGPRX2 mRNA shows pronounced population-based variability (coefficient of variation 102.9%). Surprisingly, SCF as the MC-supportive mediator par excellence potently inhibits pseudo-allergic degranulation, while it simultaneously promotes allergic stimulation via FcεRI. We conclude that SCF can have selective MC-dampening functions. Clinically, the data imply that subjects highly reactive in one pathway are not automatically hyper-responsive in terms of the alternative route.

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About MET expression and other biomarkers in non-small cell lung cancer



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Selective release of miRNAs via extracellular vesicles is associated with house dust mite allergen-induced airway inflammation

Abstract

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may facilitate cell-to-cell communication via extracellular vesicles (EVs). The biological roles of miRNAs in EVs on allergic airway inflammation is unclear.

Methods

Airway secreted EVs (AEVs) were isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of control and house dust mite (HDM) allergen-exposed HDM-sensitized mice. The expression of miRNAs in AEVs or miRNAs and mRNAs in lung tissue was analyzed using miRNA microarray.

Results

The amount of AEV increased 8.9-fold in BALF from HDM-exposed mice compared with that from sham-control mice. HDM exposure resulted in significant changes in the expression of 139 miRNAs in EVs and 175 miRNAs in lung tissues, with 54 miRNAs being common in both samples. Expression changes of these 54 miRNAs between miRNAs in AEVs and lung tissues after HDM exposure were inversely correlated. Computational analysis revealed that 31 genes, including IL-13 and IL-5Ra, are putative targets of the miRNAs upregulated in AEVs but downregulated in lung tissues after HDM exposure. The amount of AEV in BALF after HDM exposure was diminished by treatment with the sphingomyelinase inhibitor GW4869. The treatment with GW4869 also decreased Th2 cytokines and eosinophil counts in BALFs and reduced eosinophil accumulation in airway walls and mucosa.

Conclusion

These results indicate that selective sorting of miRNA including Th2 inhibitory miRNAs into AEVs and increase release to the airway after HDM exposure would be involve in the pathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation.

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Natural History and Tumor Volume Kinetics of Papillary Thyroid Cancers

This cohort study examines the probability, rate, and magnitude of tumor growth in patients with papillary thyroid cancer during active surveillance.

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Head-Trunk Coordination Deficits After Unilateral Vestibular Hypofunction

This cross-sectional study quantifies the extent of head and trunk kinematic abnormalities and the particular areas of deficit in head-trunk motion among patients who underwent recent vestibular schwannoma resection.

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Active Surveillance for Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer has been recognized as the most rapidly increasing cancer in the United States, tripling in incidence over the past 3 decades. It is estimated that there will be 56 870 new cases in the United States (42 470 in women and 14 400 in men) in 2017. The mortality from thyroid cancer has remained stable and low, with 2010 deaths estimated this year. Increased diagnostic testing, particularly with ultrasonography, has been responsible for much of this rise in incidence. Acknowledging that many subclinical papillary thyroid cancers (PTCs) are being detected that may not cause symptoms or death and that treatment toxic effects may not be inconsequential, strategies to personalize treatment have been explored. Most recently, active surveillance has been endorsed for the first time by the American Thyroid Association guidelines as an alternative to a traditional treatment approach in carefully selected patients. Although support for active surveillance has been established in Japan, there has been limited evidence in the United States or other countries for this approach.

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Intra-operative Rapid Identification of Lymph Node and Parathyroid

Conditions:   Thyroid Cancer;   Parathyroid; Absent;   Hypocalcemia;   Hypoparathyroidism Postprocedural
Intervention:   Diagnostic Test: Intraoperative identification method
Sponsor:   Xijing Hospital
Recruiting - verified August 2017

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Impact of Compliance With Fluoride Use on Caries Incidence After Cancer Therapy

Conditions:   Dental Caries;   Oral Cavity Cancer;   Oral Complications of Chemotherapy and Head/Neck Radiation
Interventions:   Other: Tray;   Other: Brush
Sponsor:   A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
Recruiting - verified August 2017

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Effects of Avmacol® in the Oral Mucosa of Patients Following Curative Treatment for Tobacco-related Head and Neck Cancer

Conditions:   Head and Neck Cancer;   Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma;   Head and Neck Carcinoma;   Head and Neck
Intervention:   Dietary Supplement: Avmacol
Sponsor:   University of Pittsburgh
Recruiting - verified August 2017

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Gabapentin for the Reduction of Radiation Therapy Induced Pain During the Treatment of Oropharyngeal Cancer

Condition:   Oropharynx Cancer
Interventions:   Drug: Gabapentin;   Drug: Placebo Oral Capsule
Sponsor:   Henry Ford Health System
Recruiting - verified August 2017

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Retrospective 8-year analysis of negative pressure wound therapy in dermatosurgery: A single center experience

Abstract

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is an established treatment modality in dermatologic surgery, but proof of evidence for efficacy is inconclusive. Purpose: To evaluate patient characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes in a single dermatosurgery center with NPWT applied over chronic and acute surgical wounds. Methods: Of all surgical patients between 2008 and 2015, we selected those who were treated and hospitalized due to NPWT for treatment of acute and chronic wounds. The medical records of 188 patients were retrospectively evaluated and statistically calculated. Results: Method of surgical defect closure depends significantly on localization of the surgical defect, cardiovascular co-morbidity and age. Hence, outcome depends significantly on the surgical situation that indexes NPWT, the underlying diagnosis, and the vacuum system used, but is not associated with distinct treatment modalities or gender of the patients. Hospitalization significantly depends on the vacuum system used, surgical situation that indexes NPWT, and underlying diagnoses. Conclusion: NPWT has a fixed role in distinct, well-defined clinical indications in dermatosurgery as the treatment of acute surgical wounds, fixation of skin grafts, and treatment of skin substitutes, as well as an important treatment option for refractory, superinfected chronic wounds in dermatologic patients.

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Optical coherence tomography for the investigation of frontal fibrosing alopecia

Abstract

Background

FFA is a cicatricial alopecia that affects the frontotemporal hairline, eyebrows, and body hair. OCT is a non-invasive imaging technique useful in understanding skin architecture and vascularization.

Objective

To describe structural and vascular findings in FFA using OCT.

Methods

This was a case-control study conducted from the months of December 2016-February 2017. The study was IRB approved and conducted at the University of Miami Hospital outpatient dermatology hair and nail clinic in Miami, FL. Four patients with biopsy proven FFA, and three healthy age and sex-matched controls participated. OCT scans were taken on cicatricial alopecic band, inflammatory hairline, eyebrow, uninvolved scalp, facial papules, glabellar red dots, and arm. The same body regions were evaluated in controls.

Results

Patients and controls were women aged 42-66. Results reveal epidermal thickness is increased in the inflammatory hairline (0.13 mm) and decreased in the alopecic band (0.08 mm) compared to controls (0.10 mm). Attenuation coefficient is increased the inflammatory hairline, and decreased in the alopecic band compared to controls. Vascular flow in the alopecic band is decreased compared to inflammatory scalp and controls in the superficial levels, but increased at deeper levels as compared to controls. Inflammatory tissue is consistently more vascular at all levels (p< 0.01). Vascular flows in each stage are significantly different than one another (p< 0.01).

Conclusions

Increased vascular flow of the deep plexus in cicatricial stages can be a consequence of superficial tissue ischemia or fibrosis. It is difficult to establish if the increased flow in the inflammatory stage is due to neovascularization as seen in other ischemic diseases, or is the result of the inflammatory response. OCT may be a useful non-invasive tool in imaging FFA. Not only can the technology assist in monitoring disease activity in a non-invasive manner, but it may elucidate new pathophysiologic findings.

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Cosmetic Surgery Advertising on Instagram Misleading

Most Instagram posts offering plastic surgery services were not from board-certified plastic surgeons, a study found. Noneligible physicians, foreign surgeons, and nonphysicians made most of the posts.
Medscape Medical News

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A 5-year randomized trial on the safety and efficacy of pimecrolimus in atopic dermatitis: a critical appraisal – comment



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Comparison of the effect of aerosolized fibrin sealant and biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foam on hemostasis and wound healing after endoscopic sinus surgery: a prospective randomized study

Background

Use of absorbable packing materials after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is associated with increased patient comfort and a lack of need for packing removal. Different materials may induce different patterns of mucosal healing and hemostasis. This study investigated the effect of fibrin sealant (FS; Tisseel) or biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foam (Nasopore®) packing on hemostasis and wound healing after FESS.

Methods

This prospective randomized controlled trial included 35 consecutive patients who underwent bilateral FESS for chronic rhinosinusitis. The patients were randomized to receive FS through aerosol spraying on 1 side and Nasopore packing on the opposite side. They were followed at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after surgery. Endoscopically visible packing material, crusting, adhesion, bleeding, granulation tissue formation, frontal sinus patency, and adverse effects were assessed. Subjective symptoms related to nasal packing were evaluated by using questionnaires quantified with a visual analogue scale.

Results

No significant differences were found between the FS-treated side and the Nasopore-packed side with respect to postoperative bleeding, adhesion, or frontal sinus patency. However, crusting and granulation were significantly lower in FS-treated nostrils (p < 0.01). The patients' satisfaction and willingness to reuse the material were not significantly different between FS and Nasopore. There were no allergic reactions to either material.

Conclusion

FS and Nasopore were equally successful in achieving hemostasis and patient satisfaction after FESS. However, our results suggest that differential mucosal healing patterns may be induced by alternative absorbable hemostatic materials. FS-treated sides showed more optimal healing patterns than Nasopore-packed sides.



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Significance of human papillomavirus positivity in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma

Background

The role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) is not well understood.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for cases of SNSCC with known HPV status. Demographics, socioeconomic variables, TNM stage, histology, grade, treatment modalities, and overall survival (OS) through 5 years were compared between HPV-positive and HPV-negative tumors. Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were performed.

Results

Seven hundred seventy (770) cases were identified; 526 were HPV-negative (68.3%) and 244 (31.7%) were HPV-positive. Patients with HPV-positive tumors were younger (58.0 vs 63.7 years, p < 0.0001). Nasal cavity (49.4%) tumors were more likely to be HPV-positive (p < 0.05) than maxillary (18.8%), ethmoid (18.8%), and frontal (18.2%) sinus tumors. Large cell nonkeratinizing (42.4%), papillary (42.1%), and basaloid (56.5%) tumors were more likely than keratinizing (25.2%) tumors to be HPV-positive (p < 0.05). Well-differentiated (grade I) tumors (9.0%) were less likely than higher grade tumors to be HPV-positive (p < 0.05). Gender, race, facility type, insurance type, median income, education level, Charlson-Deyo comorbidity score, overall stage, T stage, N stage, M stage, tumor size, treatment modality, surgical approach, and surgical margins did not vary by HPV status (p ≥ 0.05). HPV-positive tumors had higher OS than HPV-negative tumors (p < 0.0001). At 5 years, OS was 68.1% and 51.5% for HPV-positive and HPV-negative tumors, respectively. On multivariate analyses, HPV positivity remained a favorable prognostic factor (hazard ratio, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.34-0.70).

Conclusion

HPV positivity is more common in nasal cavity SCC and nonkeratinizing SNSCC. It is also a favorable prognostic factor in SNSCC. Future studies on SNSCC should take HPV positivity into consideration.



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