IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2533: Differential Expression of Nitric Oxide Synthase Isoforms nNOS and iNOS in Patients with Non-Segmental Generalized Vitiligo

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2533: Differential Expression of Nitric Oxide Synthase Isoforms nNOS and iNOS in Patients with Non-Segmental Generalized Vitiligo

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18122533

Authors: Mario Vaccaro Natasha Irrera Giuseppina Cutroneo Giuseppina Rizzo Federico Vaccaro Giuseppe Anastasi Francesco Borgia Serafinella Cannavò Domenica Altavilla Francesco Squadrito

Nitric oxide (NO) is involved in several biological processes, but its role in human melanogenesis is still not well understood. Exposure to UVA and UVB induces nitric oxide production in keratinocytes and melanocytes through the activation of constitutive nitric oxide synthase, increasing tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis, whereas inducible nitric oxide synthase over expression might be involved in hypopigmentary disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether inducible nitric oxide synthase and neuronal nitric oxide synthase expression were modified in vitiligo skin compared to healthy controls. Skin biopsies were obtained from inflammatory/lesional and white/lesional skin in 12 patients with active, non-segmental vitiligo; site-matched biopsies of normal skin from eight patients were used as controls. Nitric oxide synthase isoforms expression was evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy and Western Blot analysis. Inducible nitric oxide synthase expression was significantly increased in inflammatory/lesional skin compared to healthy skin; melanocytes showed a moderate neuronal nitric oxide synthase expression in white/lesional skin, demonstrating that metabolic function still goes on. The obtained data demonstrated that vitiligo lesions were characterized by modifications of nitric oxide synthase isoforms, thus confirming the hypothesis that nitric oxide imbalance is involved in vitiligo and supporting the idea that nitric oxide synthase inhibitors might be used as a possible therapeutic approach for the management of vitiligo.

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Effects of genetic and environmental risk for schizophrenia on hippocampal activity and psychosis-like behavior in mice

Publication date: 26 February 2018
Source:Behavioural Brain Research, Volume 339
Author(s): Daniel Scott, Carol A. Tamminga
Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness most notably characterized by psychotic symptoms. In humans, psychotic disorders are associated with specific hippocampal pathology. However, animal model systems for psychosis often lack this pathology, and have been weak in providing a representation of psychosis. We utilized a double-risk model system combining genetic risk with environmental stress. We hypothesized these factors will induce hippocampal subfield pathology consistent with human findings, as well as behavioral phenotypes relevant to psychosis. To address this, we exposed wild-type and transgenic Disc1 dominant negative (Disc1-deficient) mice to maternal deprivation. In adulthood, hippocampal subfields were examined for signs of cellular and behavioral pathology associated with psychosis. Mice exposed to maternal deprivation showed a decrease in dentate gyrus activity, and an increase in CA3/CA1 activity. Furthermore, results demonstrated a differential behavioral effect between maternal deprivation and Disc1 deficiency, with maternal deprivation associated with a hyperactive phenotype and impaired prepulse inhibition, and Disc1 deficiency causing an impairment in fear conditioning. These results suggest distinct consequences of environmental and genetic risk factors contributing to psychosis, with maternal deprivation inducing a state more wholly consistent with schizophrenia psychosis. Further research is needed to determine if this pathology is causally related to a specific behavioral phenotype. The development of a strong inference animal model system for psychosis would satisfy a high medical need in schizophrenia research.



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Predicting Violent Behavior: What Can Neuroscience Add?

Publication date: Available online 25 November 2017
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences
Author(s): Russell A. Poldrack, John Monahan, Peter B. Imrey, Valerie Reyna, Marcus E. Raichle, David Faigman, Joshua W. Buckholtz
The ability to accurately predict violence and other forms of serious antisocial behavior would provide important societal benefits, and there is substantial enthusiasm for the potential predictive accuracy of neuroimaging techniques. Here, we review the current status of violence prediction using actuarial and clinical methods, and assess the current state of neuroprediction. We then outline several questions that need to be addressed by future studies of neuroprediction if neuroimaging and other neuroscientific markers are to be successfully translated into public policy.



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Facial Contouring Surgery—Malarplasty

No abstract available

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Review of 494 Consecutive Breast Augmentation Patients: System to Improve Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction

Background: Breast augmentation continues to be one of the most common surgical procedures performed by plastic surgeons. As implant options expand, controlling the numerous variables required for a successful result will prove increasingly challenging. The purpose of this study was to outline specific steps that can be taken during the patient consultation and during surgery to decrease complications and improve overall patient satisfaction and patient outcomes. Methods: A retrospective review of 494 consecutive patients who underwent primary augmentation mammaplasty performed by a single surgeon was undertaken. Surgical outcomes were recorded and compared with previously published results. Patient satisfaction was measured using the BREAST-Q Augmentation Module. Results: Patients were followed for an average of 6 months (range, 0–45 months). Of the 494 patients, 1.3% developed capsular contracture. Other complications included 0.6% asymmetry, 0.4% malposition, 0.2% hematoma, and 0.2% rippling. The median BREAST Q score for the patient's overall satisfaction with outcome was 86%. The median BREAST Q score for patient's satisfaction with the plastic surgeon, medical team, and office staff was 100% in each case. The median score for psychological well-being, physical well-being, and sexual well-being was 100%, 90%, and 88%, respectively. Conclusions: The system outlined in this study showed very low rates of complications and high scores for patient satisfaction. Following a system like this will become increasingly important as breast augmentation continues to become more popular, implant options continue to expand, and social media continues to be used by patients to share surgical experiences.

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On computational fluid dynamics models for sinonasal drug transport: relevance of nozzle subtraction and nasal vestibular dilation.

On computational fluid dynamics models for sinonasal drug transport: relevance of nozzle subtraction and nasal vestibular dilation.

Int J Numer Method Biomed Eng. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Basu S, Frank-Ito DO, Kimbell JS

Abstract
Generating anatomically realistic three-dimensional (3D) models of the human sinonasal cavity for numerical investigations of sprayed drug transport presents a host of methodological ambiguities. For example, subject-specific radiographic images used for 3D reconstructions typically exclude spray bottles. Subtracting a bottle contour from the 3D airspace and dilating the anterior nasal vestibule for nozzle placement augment the complexity of model-building. So, we explored the question: how essential are these steps to adequately simulate nasal airflow and identify the optimal delivery conditions for intranasal sprays? In particular, we focused on particle deposition patterns in the maxillary sinus, a critical target site for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The models were reconstructed from post-surgery computed tomography scans for a 39-year-old Caucasian male, with CRS history. Inspiratory airflow patterns during resting breathing are reliably tracked through CFD-based steady state laminar-viscous modeling and such regimes portray relative lack of sensitivity to inlet perturbations. Consequently, we hypothesized that the posterior airflow transport and the particle deposition trends should not be radically affected by the nozzle subtraction and vestibular dilation. The study involved 1 base model and 2 derived models; the latter two with nozzle contours (two different orientations) subtracted from the dilated anterior segment of the left vestibule. We analyzed spray transport in the left maxillary sinus for multiple release conditions. Similar release points, localized on an approximately 2mm-by-4.5mm contour, facilitated improved maxillary deposition in all three test cases. This suggests functional redundancy of nozzle insertion in a 3D numerical model for identifying the optimal spray release locations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

PMID: 29172251 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Potentiation by potassium iodide reveals that the anionic porphyrin TPPS4 is a surprisingly effective photosensitizer for antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation.

Potentiation by potassium iodide reveals that the anionic porphyrin TPPS4 is a surprisingly effective photosensitizer for antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation.

J Photochem Photobiol B. 2017 Oct 31;178:277-286

Authors: Huang L, El-Hussein A, Xuan W, Hamblin MR

Abstract
We recently reported that addition of the non-toxic salt, potassium iodide can potentiate antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation of a broad-spectrum of microorganisms, producing many extra logs of killing. If the photosensitizer (PS) can bind to the microbial cells, then delivering light in the presence of KI produces short-lived reactive iodine species, while if the cells are added after light the killing is caused by molecular iodine produced as a result of singlet oxygen-mediated oxidation of iodide. In an attempt to show the importance of PS-bacterial binding, we compared two charged porphyrins, TPPS4 (thought to be anionic and not able to bind to Gram-negative bacteria) and TMPyP4 (considered cationic and well able to bind to bacteria). As expected TPPS4+light did not kill Gram-negative Escherichia coli, but surprisingly when 100mM KI was added, it was highly effective (eradication at 200nM+10J/cm(2) of 415nm light). TPPS4 was more effective than TMPyP4 in eradicating the Gram-positive bacteria, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and the fungal yeast Candida albicans (regardless of KI). TPPS4 was also highly active against E. coli after a centrifugation step when KI was added, suggesting that the supposedly anionic porphyrin bound to bacteria and Candida. This was confirmed by uptake experiments. We compared the phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate derivative (ClAlPCS4), which did not bind to bacteria or allow KI-mediated killing of E. coli after a spin, suggesting it was truly anionic. We conclude that TPPS4 behaves as if it has some cationic character in the presence of bacteria, which may be related to its delivery from suppliers in the form of a dihydrochloride salt.

PMID: 29172135 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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AHNS Series: Do you know your guidelines? Principles of treatment for locally advanced or unresectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

AHNS Series: Do you know your guidelines? Principles of treatment for locally advanced or unresectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Head Neck. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Fulcher CD, Haigentz M, Ow TJ, Education Committee of the American Head and Neck Society (AHNS)

Abstract
This article is a continuation of the "Do You Know Your Guidelines" series, initiated by the Education committee of the American Head and Neck Society. Treatment guidelines for advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma are reviewed here, including the critical roles of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and the recent application of immunotherapy agents. We will be limiting this discussion to include cancers of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. It should be noted that much of the article pertains to human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative oropharyngeal cancer where applicable, as HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma carries a different natural history, different prognosis, and now different staging criteria. Additionally, the article will not include information on nasopharyngeal or sinus cancers, as these latter topics are covered in separate "Do you know your guidelines?" installments and these diagnoses carry somewhat different approaches to diagnosis and management that diverge from the focus of this article.

PMID: 29171929 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Long-term outcomes in unilateral vocal fold paralysis patients.

Long-term outcomes in unilateral vocal fold paralysis patients.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: McLaughlin CW, Swendseid B, Courey MS, Schneider S, Gartner-Schmidt JL, Yung KC

Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: At presentation, unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) patients have different treatment options, including conservative management (CM), injection laryngoplasty (IL) with a temporary agent, or permanent medialization (PM). This study evaluates long-term outcomes for UVFP patients relative to intervention.
STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective chart review.
METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed of UVFP patients who presented to the University of California San Francisco Voice and Swallowing Center. Videolaryngostroboscopy examinations were reviewed. Maximum glottic closure was quantified with the normalized glottic gap area (NGGA). Perceptual voice analysis was performed using the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (CAPE-V) at corresponding time points.
RESULTS: Fifty-three patients met inclusion criteria. Six underwent CM only, 20 went on to require PM, 19 underwent IL only, and eight underwent IL and subsequent PM. NGGA at presentation was similar among groups; however, the CM group was noted to have more favorable CAPE-V scores for Breathiness (P = .007) and Loudness (P = .018). All groups had similar NGGA and CAPE-V scores at last follow-up. When compared to pooled data for patients who underwent PM, the IL group was noted to have similar NGGA and CAPE-V scores at presentation. Although improvements in both groups were noted following intervention, both groups appeared similar at last follow-up with the exception of Roughness, for which the IL group retained a slightly improved outcome (13.3 vs. 18.3, P = .03).
CONCLUSIONS: At presentation, UVFP patients have similar NGGA. This finding suggests that treatment recommendations cannot be made on the size of the glottic gap alone. Furthermore, in many patients, IL results in long-term benefit with glottic closure and CAPE-V scores equivalent to that obtained with PM.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171729 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Perspectives in allergen immunotherapy: 2017 and beyond.

Perspectives in allergen immunotherapy: 2017 and beyond.

Allergy. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Pfaar O, Bonini S, Cardona V, Demoly P, Jakob T, Jutel M, Kleine-Tebbe J, Klimek L, Klysner S, Kopp MV, Kuna P, Larché M, Muraro A, Schmidt-Weber CB, Shamji M, Simonsen K, Somoza C, Valovirta E, Zieglmayer P, Zuberbier T, Wahn U, FASIT group

Abstract
The Future of the Allergists and Specific Immunotherapy (FASIT) workshop provides a regular platform for global experts from academia, allergy clinics, regulatory authorities and industry to review developments in the field of allergen immunotherapy (AIT). The most recent meeting, held in February 2017, had two main themes: advances in AIT and hot topics in AIT from the regulatory point of view. The first theme covered opportunities for personalised AIT, advances in adjuvants and delivery systems, and the development of new molecules and future vaccines for AIT. Key topics in the second part of the meeting were the effects of the enactment of European Directive 2001/83 on the availability of allergens for therapy and diagnosis across the EU, the challenges of conducting Phase III studies in the field, the future role of allergen exposure chambers in AIT-studies, and specific considerations in performing AIT-studies in the paediatric population. Finally, the group highlighted the forthcoming EAACI guidelines and their particular importance for the standardisation of practice in the treatment of allergies. This supplement presents a comprehensive insight into those panel discussions and highlights unmet needs and also possible solutions to them for the future. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

PMID: 29171712 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Teaching frontal sinus anatomy using the frontal sinus masterclass 3- D conceptualization model.

Teaching frontal sinus anatomy using the frontal sinus masterclass 3- D conceptualization model.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Chen PG, McMains KC, Tewfik MA, Aden JK, Brown S, Weitzel EK

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Frontal sinus anatomy is complex and often is a difficult subject to both teach and learn. The traditional surgical dogma of "see one, do one, teach one" is impractical and dangerous in the frontal sinus. Based on the building block three-dimensional conceptualization module, the Frontal Sinus Masterclass (FSMC) was created to teach this anatomy.
METHODS: Study was performed at two academic centers among second- to fifth-year otolaryngology residents. A pretest assessed knowledge prior to the course. Computed tomography scans of the sinuses were evaluated in triplanar view, and participants attempted to reconstruct the anatomy. Subsequently, the course instructor explained the anatomy using the building block method and showed a short video of the surgical dissection, pointing out relevant anatomy. Cases progressed in anatomical difficulty and inflammatory load. A posttest determined knowledge after the course.
RESULTS: Thirty of 50 participating residents completed the pre- and posttests (14 junior, 16 senior residents). Correct identification of the frontal sinus drainage pathway increased from 42% to 63% correct (P = 0.054). Anatomical assessment increased from 61% to 68% correct (P = 0.047), and overall assessment increased from 52% to 66% correct (P = 0.016).
CONCLUSION: Objectively, participants of the FSMC expanded on their ability to recognize cells of the frontal recess on CT scans. Before the class, residents could answer less than half of the answers correctly, and by the end of the class they were answering over two-thirds of these complex questions correctly. Subjectively, participants reported benefit from the course and felt they would be better surgeons.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA. Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171672 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Meta-analysis of induction chemotherapy as selection marker for chemoradiation in the head and neck.

Meta-analysis of induction chemotherapy as selection marker for chemoradiation in the head and neck.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Kiong KL, de Souza NN, Sultana R, Iyer NG

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Many trials incorporate induction chemotherapy (IC) in selecting for organ preservation in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). However, few studies examine IC response in predicting for chemoradiation therapy (CRT) response. This meta-analysis aims to determine the predictive accuracy of IC for subsequent response to CRT and overall survival (OS).
DATA SOURCES: Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane register.
METHODS: A systematic search identified studies from database inception to October 2016 that used IC prior to CRT as definitive treatment for advanced HNSCC. The sensitivities and specificities of IC response predicting for complete CRT response were calculated, and the results were pooled in a summary receiver operating curve. One-, 2- and 5-year OS data were extracted.
RESULTS: Seven studies (n = 423 patients) were analyzed for response and six (n = 439) for OS. Pooled median sensitivity and specificity of IC response predicting CRT response were 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.72-0.98) and 0.43 (95% CI: 0.00-0.61), respectively. Patients were more likely to respond to CRT given previous response to IC (positive likelihood ratio = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.21-2.11) and less likely to respond to CRT if they failed to respond to IC (negative likelihood ratio = 0.16; 95% CI: 0.07-0.38). At 2 years, good response to IC was a statistically significant prognostic marker with a risk ratio of 1.35 (95% CI: 1.12-1.64).
CONCLUSION: Our data suggests that patients with poor IC response will have poorer response to CRT and should be directed to other modalities. In contrast, good IC response does not guarantee a favorable outcome to CRT; however, because these patients are likely to have better prognoses, they should be offered salvage therapies of curative intent despite treatment failure.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA. Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171671 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Potential treatment for vocal fold scar with pirfenidone.

Potential treatment for vocal fold scar with pirfenidone.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Kodama H, Kumai Y, Nishimoto K, Toya Y, Miyamaru S, Furushima S, Yumoto E

Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Pirfenidone (PFD) is a strong antifibrotic agent that has been clinically approved in Japan for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We examined the antifibrotic effects of PFD on fibroblasts isolated from scarred vocal folds (VFs) of ferrets in vitro.
STUDY DESIGN: Prospective animal experiments with controls.
METHODS: Scar fibroblasts (SFs) were isolated from scarred VFs that had been electrocauterized 2 weeks before harvesting (N = 4). Normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated from intact VFs (N = 4). SFs and NFs were incubated in the presence of 10 ng/mL transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), with or without PFD. After the 48-hour incubation, mRNA expression levels of α smooth muscle actin (αSMA), TGF-β1, collagen type I, and hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemistry with anti-αSMA anti-collagen type I and phosphorylated Smad (p-Smad)2/3 antibodies in SFs with or without PFD was performed. SFs and NFs were cultured in collagen gel with or without PFD for 48 hours, and the extent of gel contraction was examined quantitatively.
RESULTS: PFD treatment significantly (P < .05) decreased mRNA expression of collagen type I, significantly increased mRNA expression of TGF-β1 and HAS2, and significantly suppressed collagen gel contraction. However, it did not have a significant effect on the expression of αSMA. The expression of p-Smad2/3 in the nucleus was faded with PFD, possibly demonstrating the suppression of translocation of p-Smad2/3 from cytoplasm to nucleus with PFD.
CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report to demonstrate the in vitro antifibrotic effects of PFD on fibroblasts isolated from scarred VFs of ferrets.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171670 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Relationship between degree of obstruction and airflow limitation in subglottic stenosis.

Relationship between degree of obstruction and airflow limitation in subglottic stenosis.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Lin EL, Bock JM, Zdanski CJ, Kimbell JS, Garcia GJM

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Subglottic stenosis (SGS) is one of the most common airway disorders in pediatric patients. Currently, treatment decisions rely primarily on the Cotton-Myer scale, which classifies SGS severity based on percentage reduction in airspace cross-sectional area (CSA). However, the precise relationship between upper airway resistance and subglottic CSA is unknown. We hypothesize that airway resistance can be described by the Bernoulli Obstruction Theory, which predicts that airway resistance is inversely proportional to airspace CSA ( R∝A-1) in cases of severe constriction.
METHODS: Computed tomography (CT) scans of six healthy subjects and five SGS patients were used to create three-dimensional models of the respiratory tract from nostrils to carina. Cylindrical segments of varying lengths and varying diameters were digitally inserted in the subglottis of the healthy subjects to create simulated SGS models. Computational fluid dynamics simulations were run, and airway resistance was computed in the simulated SGS models and actual SGS models.
RESULTS: Constriction diameter had a greater impact in airway resistance than constriction length. In agreement with the Bernoulli Obstruction Theory, airway resistance in the simulated SGS models was well represented by the power law R=aAb, where a is a constant and the exponent b ranged from -0.85 to -1.07. The percentage reduction in airflow (QOBSTRUCTIONQHEALTHY) at a constant pressure drop was found to be directly proportional to the percentage reduction in CSA (AOBSTRUCTIONAHEALTHY) in the limit of severe constrictions, namely QOBSTRUCTIONQHEALTHY=kAOBSTRUCTIONAHEALTHY, where k=2.25 ± 0.15. Airway resistances in the simulated SGS models were similar to resistances in models based on CT scans of actual SGS patients, suggesting that our simulated SGS models were representative of airway resistance in actual SGS patients.
CONCLUSION: Our computer simulations suggest that the degree of airflow limitation in SGS patients may be estimated based on anatomic measurements alone. Future studies are recommended to test these predictions in larger cohorts.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4. Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171660 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Epistaxis in children and adolescents with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.

Epistaxis in children and adolescents with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Gonzalez CD, Mcdonald J, Stevenson DA, Whitehead KJ, Petersen MG, Presson AP, Ding Q, Wilson KF

Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Our objective was to describe epistaxis onset and severity in pediatric hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) patients and study the cumulative incidence of epistaxis by age of onset within each genetic subtype.
STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort chart review.
METHODS: Charts were reviewed of patients age 0 to 18 years with a clinical or genetic diagnosis of HHT who were evaluated at a tertiary multidisciplinary HHT clinic from January 2010 to June 2016. The epistaxis severity score (ESS), a validated tool for assessing epistaxis severity, was used to assess epistaxis. Statistical analyses were conducted on the full HHT cohort as well as subgroups stratified by the HHT causative gene (HHT1 = ENG and HHT2 = ACVRL1).
RESULTS: Sixty-nine pediatric subjects were identified; 60 had HHT confirmed by genetic testing, and nine (from families with known mutations) met published clinical diagnostic criteria alone. Fifty-nine (85%) had onset of epistaxis. The median age of onset of epistaxis was 5 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 2-9 years). The median ESS for the entire cohort was 1.6 (IQR: 0-2.6). The median ESS was higher in HHT1 versus HHT2 (2.3 vs. 1.1, P = .002), and age of epistaxis onset was earlier in HHT1 (3 vs. 5 years, P = .03). Sex and age were not associated with ESS.
CONCLUSIONS: Epistaxis may present early in HHT, but is typically mild in the pediatric period. Severity in the pediatric population is worse in patients with HHT1. By recognizing the significance of even mild, infrequent epistaxis in a child with a family history of HHT, and understanding that not all HHT patients have epistaxis during childhood, community providers and otolaryngologist can assist in the early detection of HHT.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171658 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Investigation of the presence of HPV on KTP laser fibers following KTP laser treatment of papilloma.

Investigation of the presence of HPV on KTP laser fibers following KTP laser treatment of papilloma.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Dodhia S, Baxter PC, Ye F, Pitman MJ

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is often treated with in-office laser procedures using a potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser transmitted through a laser fiber. Although effective, this procedure has notable downsides, including the possibility of transmitting human papillomavirus (HPV) in the smoke plume and the high cost of these single-use fibers. The objective of this study is to determine if HPV can be detected on a laser fiber after use, with or without sterilization.
METHODS: Twelve patients with laryngeal papillomas were treated with KTP laser energy transmitted via a KTP fiber. Ten fibers were sterilized in CIDEX (ASP, Irvine, California), a glutaraldehyde disinfectant, for 12 minutes, whereas two fibers were left unsterilized. Human papillomavirus DNA amplification was done on all 12 fiber samples with real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using general primer mediated 5+ and 6+. Human papillomavirus genotyping detection was done using type specific probes and/or Sanger sequencing.
RESULTS: Over 27 strains of HPV were not detected on KTP fibers after use, with or without sterilization.
CONCLUSION: Human papillomavirus was undetectable by PCR on KTP laser fibers that were sterilized or unsterilized after use. Further studies are needed utilizing a transmission model to determine if HPV can be incubated from this fiber after sterilization.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA. Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171656 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Oral sampling methods are associated with differences in immune marker concentrations.

Oral sampling methods are associated with differences in immune marker concentrations.

Laryngoscope. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Fakhry C, Qeadan F, Gilman RH, Yori P, Kosek M, Patterson N, Eisele DW, Gourin CG, Chitguppi C, Marks M, Gravitt P

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the concentration and distribution of immune markers in paired oral samples were similar.
STUDY TYPE: Clinical research.
STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.
METHODS: Paired saliva and oral secretions (OS) samples were collected. The concentration of immune markers was estimated using Luminex multiplex assay (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA). For each sample, the concentration of respective immune markers was normalized to total protein present and log-transformed. Median concentrations of immune markers were compared between both types of samples. Intermarker correlation in each sampling method and across sampling methods was evaluated.
RESULTS: There were 90 study participants. Concentrations of immune markers in saliva samples were significantly different from concentrations in OS samples. Oral secretions samples showed higher concentrations of immunoregulatory markers, whereas the saliva samples contained proinflammatory markers in higher concentration.
CONCLUSION: The immune marker profile in saliva samples is distinct from the immune marker profile in paired OS samples.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2b. Laryngoscope, 2017.

PMID: 29171655 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Tubeless Total Intravenous Anesthesia Spontaneous Ventilation for Adult Suspension Microlaryngoscopy.

Tubeless Total Intravenous Anesthesia Spontaneous Ventilation for Adult Suspension Microlaryngoscopy.

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2017 Nov 01;:3489417744223

Authors: Yoo MJ, Joffe AM, Meyer TK

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Maintaining spontaneous ventilation (SV) under total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) without an endotracheal tube provides uninterrupted and unobstructed surgical access for suspension microlaryngoscopy (SML). This study describes the method and outcome of adults who underwent SML under tubeless TIVA-SV.
METHODS: Retrospective review of adults who underwent SML between June 2014 and September 2016 using TIVA-SV without an endotracheal tube.
RESULTS: Sixty-six cases in 36 patients were included with mean age of 50.6 years and 52.7% were female. Airway pathology included 41.6% subglottic or tracheal stenosis, 19.4% laryngeal lesion or mass, 16.7% glottic stenosis, 13.9% recurrent respiratory papilloma, and 8.3% supraglottic stenosis. Anesthesia was most commonly provided by continuous infusion of propofol and remifentanil (57.6%). Approximately half (53%) of cases received superior laryngeal nerve block. Average operative time was 72.9 minutes (range, 27-166 minutes). Eight cases required supplemental ventilation: 6 cases required transient endotracheal ventilation or mask ventilation, and 2 cases were converted to alternative ventilation.
CONCLUSIONS: Total intravenous anesthesia is an attractive alternative to traditional endotracheal tube intubation, jet ventilation, or intermittent apneic ventilation for adult SML. During episodes of hypoventilation or desaturation, endotracheal ventilation, mask ventilation, or jet ventilation can effectively recover oxygenation.

PMID: 29171300 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Complete Malleus Removal for Cholesteatoma: A Multivariate Analysis of Ossiculoplasty Success and Residual Disease.

Complete Malleus Removal for Cholesteatoma: A Multivariate Analysis of Ossiculoplasty Success and Residual Disease.

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2017 Nov 01;:3489417743519

Authors: Shapiro S, Bennett D, Wetmore S, Cassis A

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Determine the effect of complete malleus removal during canal wall up tympanomastoidectomy for cholesteatoma on ossiculoplasty success and rate of residual cholesteatoma.
METHODS: We reviewed the operative, audiogram, and clinical reports of patients who underwent canal wall up tympanomastoidectomy for cholesteatoma between 2009 and 2016 at a tertiary academic medical center with at least 8 months of follow-up after surgery. To control for extent of disease, we independently catalogued the subsites of the middle ear and mastoid that cholesteatoma involved from each operation. We performed multivariate logistic regression to determine the independent effect of complete removal of the malleus on the rate of residual disease and success of ossiculoplasty.
RESULTS: One hundred eighty surgeries were included in the analysis. For ossiculoplasty success, the adjusted odds ratio of complete malleus removal was 1.7 (95% CI, 0.43-7.0, P = .43), which was not statistically significant. For residual disease, the adjusted odds ratio of complete malleus removal versus not was 0.29 (95% CI, 0.074-1.1, P = .076), which approached but did not meet statistical significance.
CONCLUSION: Though complete malleus removal does not independently decrease the rate of residual cholesteatoma, it may be a safe technique as it did not compromise ossiculoplasty success.

PMID: 29171281 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Cause-specific mortality in HPV+ and HPV- oropharyngeal cancer patients: insights from a population-based cohort.

Cause-specific mortality in HPV+ and HPV- oropharyngeal cancer patients: insights from a population-based cohort.

Cancer Med. 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Nørregaard C, Grønhøj C, Jensen D, Friborg J, Andersen E, von Buchwald C

Abstract
Identifying the causes of death in head and neck cancer patients can optimize follow-up and therapeutic strategies, but studies in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) patients stratified by HPV status are lacking. We report cause-specific mortality in a population-based cohort of patients with OPSCC. Patients who had been diagnosed with OPSCC (n = 1541) between 2000 and 2014 in eastern Denmark were included in the study. Causes of death were collected through medical files and the Danish National Cause of Death registry. Deaths were grouped as (1) primary oropharyngeal cancer, (2) secondary malignancies, (3) cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, or (4) other/unspecified. The cumulative incidence of death and specific causes of death were determined using risk analysis. At follow-up, 723 (47.5%) patients had died. The median time to and cause of death were determined: oropharyngeal cancer (n = 432; 1.00 year), secondary malignancies (n = 131; 2.37 years), cardiovascular and pulmonary causes (n = 58; 3.48 years), and unspecified causes (n = 102; 3.42 years). HPV/p16 status was the strongest predictor of improved survival across all causes of death. The only cause of death to decrease in incidence over the 2 years after treatment was death from OPSCC. HPV/p16 positivity was an independent factor for improved survival across all causes of death in patients with OPSCC. In addition, both HPV-positive and HPV-negative OPSCC patients faced high 5- and 10-year mortality rates. Implementing secondary screening and prevention strategies for late toxicity and mortality are major goals in managing the treatment of these patients.

PMID: 29171183 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Contemplating Resectability.

Contemplating Resectability.

Hastings Cent Rep. 2017 Nov;47(6):3-4

Authors: Shuman AG

Abstract
Suzie loves to talk. A successful mid-thirties businesswoman, she is a self-described social butterfly-which made her diagnosis of tongue cancer even more devastating. She came to the clinic complaining of a lump in her throat, which in most young healthy people turns out to be benign and easily treated. But not for Suzie, who had a very rare salivary tumor arising in the back of her tongue. Its slow growth was both a blessing and a curse; such tumors do not kill people quickly, but they typically require surgery. It would slowly and relentlessly grow until and unless we removed most of her tongue. In head and neck surgery, issues of appearance, identity, function, and communication are the foremost considerations when we decide when, and whether, to operate. As the adage goes, knowing when not to operate is the sine qua non of the wise surgeon. But the inverse is also true.

PMID: 29171050 [PubMed - in process]

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Letter to the editor of Acta Neurochirurgica: simultaneous pericranial and nasoseptal "double-flap" reconstruction after combined transcranial and endoscopic endonasal resection of anterior skull base tumors.

Letter to the editor of Acta Neurochirurgica: simultaneous pericranial and nasoseptal "double-flap" reconstruction after combined transcranial and endoscopic endonasal resection of anterior skull base tumors.

Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2017 Nov 24;:

Authors: Gabriel PJ, Eloy JA, Liu JK

PMID: 29170846 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Application of endoscopy in otology: Changes over the last 8years in Korean Otological Society.

Application of endoscopy in otology: Changes over the last 8years in Korean Otological Society.

Am J Otolaryngol. 2017 Sep 22;:

Authors: Oh SJ, Goh EK, Lee HM, Kong SK, Moon IJ, Chung JW, Lee IW

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Despite the worldwide availability of endoscope in otology, it still has not replaced the microscopic surgery as it has for nose surgery. In 2008, we administered a questionnaire on the preference of using otoscopes in Korea. In light of the worldwide availability of endoscopic ear surgery, we have now conducted a more detailed survey to determine if this preference has changed over 8years.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A questionnaire consisting of 10 questions was used to survey members of the Korean Otological Society who were actively performing middle ear surgery. The responses to this questionnaire were compared to those from 2008. The study also determined the preference for endoscope use based on the surgeon's experience.
RESULTS: The mean surgical experience of the otologists was 12.7years. Endoscopy for tympanoplasty and tympanomastoidectomy increased over a period of 8years. In the outpatient clinic, the use of endoscopy also increased; over 8-year period, it surpassed the microscope as the most preferred diagnostic tool in the outpatient clinic. Greater than half of the operating rooms were equipped with endoscopic sets; however, only 4.5% of otologists acknowledged having endoscopic instruments.
CONCLUSION: Endoscopy for surgery and in outpatient clinic assessment increased in otology in Korea; however, endoscopes have consistently been used as an adjuvant to the microscope to improve visualization of the tympanic cavity rather than as a tool for totally endoscopic ear surgery.

PMID: 29169954 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Total caloric eye speed in patients with vestibular migraine.

Total caloric eye speed in patients with vestibular migraine.

Am J Otolaryngol. 2017 Nov 14;:

Authors: Thompson-Harvey A, Mikulec AA

Abstract
PURPOSE: Vestibular migraine is a common cause of dizziness that lacks a known objective test. This study examined total eye speed on caloric testing as a diagnostic marker for vestibular migraine.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective chart review of patients seen in a tertiary otologic practice between 2004 and 2016 who had undergone caloric testing with water irrigation and had a diagnosis of vestibular migraine (n=34). A group of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (n=10) were used as a control group. Patients were grouped into quartiles based on total eye speed.
RESULTS: Only patients in the lowest quartile (total eye speed<79) had a diagnosis of vestibular migraine. All other quartiles included a mix of control and vestibular migraine patients.
CONCLUSION: Low total eye speed may be suggestive of a diagnosis of vestibular migraine, but most patients with vestibular migraine do not have low total eye speed.

PMID: 29169953 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Aggressive differentiated thyroid cancer.

Aggressive differentiated thyroid cancer.

Eur J Surg Oncol. 2017 Oct 06;:

Authors: Janjua N, Wreesmann VB

Abstract
Differentiated thyroid cancer is characteristically associated with an innocuous clinical course, but a minority of cases may manifest surprisingly aggressive behaviour. Such aggressive DTC are directly responsible for the majority of thyroid cancer related deaths. Moreover, they contribute indirectly to increased DTC-related morbidity, because our inability to differentiate these tumours from innocuous DTC at an early stagefuels a significant degree of DTC overtreatment around the globe. In the present paper we describe how improved understanding of the clinicopathological thyroid tumour progression model and optimization of clinical staging systems continues to improve our ability to diagnose and treat aggressive DTC. Early recognition of aggressive DTC allows instillation of an aggressive management strategy which is based upon surgical-oncologic completeness, and minimization of treatment-related sequelae through continued development of reconstructive options and focussed delivery of adjuvant treatments.

PMID: 29169931 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Serological prevalence and public health significance of brucellosis on a dairy farm in Namibia from 2011 to 2014

The main objective of this study was to determine the serological prevalence of brucellosis on a dairy farm with no past history of abortions, but where Brucella control measures including test and slaughter and ...

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Effectiveness of case management in the prevention of COPD re-admissions: a pilot study

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations are associated with high disease burden and costs, especially in the case of hospitalizations. The overall number of hospital admissions due to exacer...

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Whole Exome Sequencing allows the identification of two novel groups of Xeroderma pigmentosum in Tunisia, XP-D and XP-E: Impact on molecular diagnosis.

Whole Exome Sequencing allows the identification of two novel groups of Xeroderma pigmentosum in Tunisia, XP-D and XP-E: Impact on molecular diagnosis.

J Dermatol Sci. 2017 Nov 02;:

Authors: Ben Rekaya M, Naouali C, Messaoud O, Jones M, Bouyacoub Y, Nagara M, Pippucci T, Jmel H, Chargui M, Jerbi M, Alibi M, Dallali H, Bashamboo A, McElreavey K, Romeo G, Barakat A, Zghal M, Yacoub-Youssef H, Abdelhak S

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Skin cancers (SC) are complex diseases that develop from complex combinations of genetic and environmental risk factors. One of the most severe and rare genetic diseases predisposing to SC is the Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) syndrome.
OBJECTIVES: First, to identify the genetic etiology of XP and to better classify affected patients. Second, to provide early molecular diagnosis for pre-symptomatic patient and finally to offer genetic counseling for related individuals.
METHODS: Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) and Run Of Homozygosity (ROH) were performed for two patients belonging to two different multiplex consanguineous families. The identified mutations were confirmed by Sanger sequencing and researched in ten Tunisian families including a total of 25 affected individuals previously suspected as having XP group V (XP-V) form. All patients had mild dermatological manifestations, absence of neurological abnormalities and late onset of skin tumors.
RESULTS: Screening for functional variations showed the presence of the ERCC2 p.Arg683Gln in XP14KA-2 patient and a novel mutation, DDB2 p. (Lys381Argfs*2), in XP51-MAH-1 patient. Sanger sequencing and familial segregation showed that the ERCC2 mutation is present at a homozygous state in 10 affected patients belonging to 3 families. The second mutation in DDB2, is present at a homozygous state in 5 affected cases belonging to the same family. These two mutations are absent in the remaining 10 affected patients. The ERCC2 c.2048G > A mutation is present in a medium ROH region (class B) suggesting that it mostly arises from ancient relatedness within individuals. However, the c.1138delG DDB2 mutation is present in a large ROH region (class C) suggesting that it arises from recent relatedness.
CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study that identifies XP-D and XP-E complementation groups in Tunisia. These two groups are very rare and under-diagnosed in the world and were not reported in North Africa.

PMID: 29169765 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Intra-oral Sebaceous Gland Tumours in Two Dogs.

Intra-oral Sebaceous Gland Tumours in Two Dogs.

J Comp Pathol. 2017 Nov;157(4):296-298

Authors: Go DM, Lee SH, Woo SH, Kim DY

Abstract
A 12-year-old female miniature schnauzer and a 12-year-old neutered female cocker spaniel each had a grey-yellow nodular lesion arising from the gingiva. Microscopical examination showed that both nodules were composed of varied proportions of sebocytes and basal-type reserve cells with few ducts lined by stratified squamous epithelium. Based on the histopathological findings, the cases were diagnosed as sebaceous adenoma and sebaceous epithelioma, respectively. In man, the occurrence of sebaceous neoplasms in the oral cavity has been reported to some extent, but these lesions are very rare in animals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of intra-oral sebaceous neoplasms in dogs. Intra-oral sebaceous epithelioma has never been reported in animals.

PMID: 29169626 [PubMed - in process]

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Prevalence of oncogenic human papillomavirus genotypes in patients diagnosed with anogenital malignancies in Botswana

Human papillomavirus (HPV) associated malignancies are the leading cause of cancer death in Botswana. We sought to determine causative HPV types in patients with anogenital malignancies in Botswana to inform v...

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Multiresistant ST59-SCCmec IV-t437 clone with strong biofilm-forming capacity was identified predominantly in MRSA isolated from Chinese children

This study aimed to investigate the clinical and molecular epidemiology and biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) isolated from pediatricians in China.

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Effects of IFN-γ coding plasmid supplementation in the immune response and protection elicited by Trypanosoma cruzi attenuated parasites

Previous studies showed that a naturally attenuated strain from Trypanosoma cruzi triggers an immune response mainly related to a Th2-type profile. Albeit this, a strong protection against virulent challenge was ...

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ASCO update on lymphoma

Summary

Abstracts concerning indolent and aggressive lymphoma and multiple myeloma with clinical relevance from the ASCO 2017 meeting are discussed.

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The first meeting of the Austrian Expert Panel for Molecular Cancer Profiling

Summary

Personalized medicine is rapidly changing the daily routine for the diagnostic work-up and treatment of cancer patients. Several clinical studies and programs are ongoing worldwide to implement personalized anticancer therapies particularly for relapsed/refractory malignancies. On 28 October 2016, the first meeting of the Austrian Expert Panel for Molecular Cancer Profiling was held in Salzburg with the purpose to identify clinical studies and registry programs focusing on comprehensive molecular tumor profiling and personalized cancer therapies in Austria. Representatives of the four Austrian academic centers and from two teaching hospitals were invited to present and debate the current status, challenges, and perspectives in precision oncology. To date, three clinical programs are recruiting patients with relapsed/refractory malignancies in Austria: the ONCO-T-PROFILE program at the Medical University of Innsbruck, the platform MONDTI at the Medical University of Vienna, and the ICT (Individualized Cancer Treatment) phase II trial at the Medical University of Graz. The aim of both research programs and the phase II trial is to investigate the efficacy of molecular profile-based personalized therapies in refractory and relapsed metastatic cancer patients. Furthermore, in cooperation with the AGMT (Study Group of Medical Tumor Therapy), a clinical registry will be established to monitor and to analyze the benefit of molecular profiling in real life.

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Novel antibiotic combinations proposed for treatment of Burkholderia cepacia complex infections

Effective strategies to manage Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are lacking. We tested combinations of clinically available antibiotics and show that moxifloxacin-cef...

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Interhemispheric motor interactions in hemiparetic children with perinatal stroke: Clinical correlates and effects of neuromodulation therapy

Perinatal ischemic stroke (PS) is the occlusion of arteries or veins that results in cerebral damage between 20 weeks gestation and 28 days of life (Raju, 2007; Nelson and Lynch, 2004). PS is common, occurring in >1:3000 live births, and accounts for most hemiparetic cerebral palsy (CP) (Kirton and DeVeber, 2013). Children with PS-induced hemiparetic CP typically manifest motor asymmetry and early hand preference in the first 4-6 months of life (Kirton et al., 2010b). How the motor system develops following such early unilateral brain injury is increasingly defined by animal (Martin et al., 2007) and human (Eyre, 2007; Staudt, 2007) studies.

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Nerve Ultrasound in Neurofibromatosis type 1: a Follow-up Study

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) are one of the main characteristics of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). They can undergo malignant transformation, which is a leading cause of mortality (Hirbe and Gutmann, 2014; Stucky et al., 2012).

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Founder mutation in IKBKAP gene causes vestibular impairment in familial dysautonomia

Familial dysautonomia (FD, OMIN #223900) is an inherited sensory and autonomic neuropathy (type III) mapped to the IKBKAP gene on chromosome 9 (Slaugenhaupt et al., 2001). Mutations in the gene affect the development and survival of primary afferent neurons (Norcliffe-Kaufmann et al., 2010; Macefield et al., 2011; Norcliffe-Kaufmann et al., 2017). Phenotypically, patients with FD have widespread somatosensory and autonomic deficits caused by impaired transmission of nociceptive, thermal, mechanical, chemical, metabolic, and osmotic information from the body to the brain (Norcliffe-Kaufmann et al., 2010; Gutierrez et al., 2015; Palma et al., 2015; Norcliffe-Kaufmann et al., 2017).

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Chronic deep brain stimulation normalizes scalp EEG activity in isolated dystonia

Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary sustained or intermittent muscle contractions causing abnormal movements and postures (Albanese et al., 2013). It is recognized as a circuit disorder involving the basal ganglia, thalamus, cortex and cerebellum (Marsden et al., 1985; Vitek et al., 1999; Neychev et al., 2011). Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus (GP; (Kupsch et al., 2006; Vidailhet et al., 2007; Volkmann et al., 2014)), subthalamic nucleus (STN; (Ostrem et al., 2011)) or thalamus (Fukaya et al., 2007; Mure et al., 2014) is able to improve dystonic symptoms, but its mechanism of action is unknown (Tisch et al., 2007; Vidailhet et al., 2013).

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Sepsis by Pasteurella multocida in an Elderly Immunocompetent Patient after a Cat Bite

Pasteurella multocida colonizes animal scratches and bites. This bacterium was described to cause sepsis or endocarditis mainly in immunocompromised patients. We report the case of a 92-year-old woman presenting at the Emergency Department with coma and fever a week after the bite of her cat. The cat bite was misdiagnosed at admission partly due to an underestimation of this event by the patient's relatives. An inflamed area localized at perimalleolar skin of the right leg was detected. Laboratory biomarkers of inflammation were elevated. The cerebral computed tomography (CT) scan with angiographic sequences showed a complete occlusion of right intracranial vertebral artery. Total body CT scan and abdominal echocardiography were negative for foci of infection. Three consecutive blood cultures were positive for Pasteurella multocida. A diagnosis of sepsis by Pasteurella multocida was made, and the patient recovered after a specific antimicrobial treatment. In order to confirm the animal transmission, the cat saliva was cultured and found positive for Pasteurella multocida with a similar antibiotic sensitivity to that isolated from the patient. In conclusion, the case of a patient with coma and fever after a cat bite was presented. The transmission of pathogens from pets has to be carefully considered as an important route of infection in immunocompetent patients.

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Neuroinvasive Infection from O117:K52:H-Escherichia coli following Acute Pyelonephritis

Spontaneous or nosocomial Escherichia coli meningitis remains rare in healthy adults but is still carrying a high mortality rate despite adapted antimicrobial treatment for susceptible strains. A 39-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital with severe subarachnoid haemorrhage complicated by acute hydrocephalus. On hospital day 10, she developed Streptococcus anginosus septicaemia and urinary tract infection due to a multisensitive strain of E. coli. This infection was successfully controlled by antimicrobial therapy. As a late complication in the neurosurgical ward (day 39), she developed fever, alteration of consciousness, and shock, leading to the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The culture of blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine grew positive for a multisensitive E. coli. The strain was identified as O117:K52:H, a serotype that was until now never associated with acute meningitis or brain abscesses. The source appeared to be the urinary tract with the demonstration of acute pyelonephritis. The patient died on day 94 from delayed complications of multiple brain abscesses.

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Nematicidal potential and specific enzyme activity enhancement potential of neem ( Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) aerial parts

Abstract

Nematodes are considered as major plant parasites damaging most of the crops, and neem plant exhibits potential nematicidal and insecticidal properties. This study aimed to check nemato-toxic potential of neem (Azadirachta indica) plant using in vitro and in-planta trials against Meloidogyne incognita. The findings suggested that the neem extracts were lethal to second-stage juvenile (J₂) and egg hatching with simultaneous enhancement in treated tomato plant growth. The egg numbers of M. incognita found less sensitive to the aqueous and alcoholic extracts than those of J₂ as per LC₅₀ values. Complete mortality of J₂s was recorded at 40, 60, and 80% of neem standard extract (SE) dilutions and for undiluted SE of neem. The undiluted SE extract showed 100% inhibition of egg production. The highest reductions in the number of galls/root system, J₂ population, and egg production were observed with 80, 85, and 82% SE as compared control (untreated distilled water). The maximum 250% growth increment was observed in the length of tomato roots supplemented with neem extracts. Resistance-related enzyme [phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and peroxidase (POX)] activities in tomato plant have been increased significantly by supplementation with neem extracts. It appears that the aerial parts of neem (A. indica) extracts showed significant and sustainable eco-friendly nemato-toxic potential towards M. incognita growth inhibition and eradication using alcoholic extracts compared to aqueous. From this study, it was concluded that the neem aerial parts were useful for the control of M. incognita and could be a possible replacement for synthetic nematicides in crop protection with utilization in enhancement of specific enzyme activity in tomato plants.

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Trace metal accumulation by Ranunculus sceleratus : implications for phytostabilization

Abstract

This study investigated the growth response of Ranunculus sceleratus to pollution and its capacity to accumulate trace metals for its use as a phytoremediator in Lake Maruit, Egypt. Three basins (main basin, fish farm, and southwestern basin) representing the natural distribution of the plant as well as the pollution loads in the lake, were chosen for collecting plant and sediment samples. In each basin ten quadrats (0.5 m × 0.5 m), distributed equally along two sites, were selected for measuring growth parameters, nutrients, and trace metal concentration. The highest biomass of the shoot and root (610 and 236 g m⁻²) was recorded in the main basin and fish farm, respectively. R. sceleratus accumulated high concentrations of Cu and Pb (27.7 and 9.9 mg kg⁻¹), while toxic concentration of Mn (2508.0 mg kg⁻¹) in their roots compared to shoots. The bioaccumulation factor (BF) for the investigated metals was greater than one, and in the decreasing order: Ni (27.1) > Zn (20.0) > Cd (16.4) > Cu (7.7) > Mn (3.9) > Pb (3.6). The translocation factor of all analyzed trace metals was less than one. The ability of R. sceleratus to accumulate Mn, Ni, Cu, and Pb in its roots indicates the potential use of this species for phytostabilization of these metals (mainly Mn) in contaminated water bodies.

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The influence of surface EMG-triggered multichannel electrical stimulation on sensomotoric recovery in patients with lumbar disc herniation: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial (RECO)

Intervertebral disc degeneration is one of the most common reasons for chronic low back pain and sensomotoric deficits, often treated by lumbar sequestrectomy. Nevertheless, the prognostic factors relevant for...

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An optimized background regimen design to evaluate the contribution of levofloxacin to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment regimens: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Current guidelines for treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) are largely based on expert opinion and observational data. Fluoroquinolones remain an essential part of MDR-TB treatment, but the ...

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Herbst appliance with skeletal anchorage versus dental anchorage in adolescents with Class II malocclusion: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

The Herbst appliance is an orthodontic appliance that is used for the correction of class II malocclusion with skeletal discrepancies. Research has shown that this is effective. However, a potential harm is ex...

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Cost evaluation, quality of life and pelvic organ function of three approaches to hysterectomy for benign uterine conditions: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Hysterectomy is the commonest major gynaecological surgery. Although there are many approaches to hysterectomy, which depend on clinical criteria, certain patients may be eligible to be operated in any of the ...

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Comprehensive assessment of the impact of life habits on sleep disturbance, chronotype, and daytime sleepiness among high-school students

Sleep affects adolescents in various ways. However, the effects of multiple factors on sleep hygiene remain unclear. A comprehensive assessment of the effects of life habits on sleep in high-school students was conducted.

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Elemental composition of PM 2.5 in the urban environment of San Juan, Argentina

Abstract

This study contributes to the current knowledge about air pollution in the province of San Juan, Argentina. Sampling was carried out to measure the fine particulate matter in the atmosphere (PM_2.5) of the city of San Juan. PM_2.5 was collected continuously during the winter and spring seasons of 2014 and 2015, and the concentrations of 14 elements (Pb, Ca, K, Cd, Ni, Cr, Mn, V, Cu, Ti, Ba, Co, Sr, and Fe) were determined in PM_2.5 filters using the technique of X-ray fluorescence by synchrotron radiation (SR-XRF). The results revealed that PM_2.5 presented annual and seasonal variations, showing a higher concentration during the winter seasons. In addition, for the elements quantified in the filters, a multivariate analysis (Positive Matrix Factorization) was performed to identify the main sources of emission of these elements in the study area, with a series of components being obtained that corresponded to their compositions, which were assigned physical meanings. The first factor, which was the most important in contribution of the sum of the measured elements (45%), was determined mainly by the elements K, Ti, V, Mn, and Fe, which came predominantly from soil particles. The second factor contributed 30% to the measured species in PM_2.5, with higher Ba and Zn content perhaps being related to emissions from vehicular traffic. Finally, the third factor, in which Pb, Cr, and Ca predominated, may be an indicator of industrial activity and contributed 25% of the sum of the measured elements of PM_2.5. The results of this study provide the first PM composition database in the province, and this can now be used in the development of mitigation and prevention programs.

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How tapeworm infection and consumption of a Cd and Zn hyperaccumulating plant may affect Cu, Fe, and Mn concentrations in an animal—a plant consumer and tapeworm host

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of a hyperaccumulator plant (Arabidopsis halleri), containing surplus of cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) and being an admixture to the rat feed, on concentrations of copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) in the tissues of experimental rats infected/uninfected with the tapeworm (Hymenolepis diminuta). Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups (00, P0, and PT); the P0 and PT animals were fed a standard mixture for rats (ST-1) supplemented with the plant A. halleri at a weekly Zn and Cd dosage of 123 and 1 mg, respectively. Moreover, rats from the group PT were infected with the tapeworm. The group 00 served as control animals fed only ST-1 having no tapeworm infection. Rats were euthanized after 6 weeks, and Cu, Fe, and Mn levels were determined in rat and tapeworm tissues. The results indicated that both the consumption of hyperaccumulator plant and/or presence of tapeworms did have significant effect on Cu, Fe, and Mn concentrations in the host tissues. Concentrations of all the elements were higher in the rat liver and partially kidneys than in the tapeworms, and the concentrations of Cu, Fe, and Mn were affected by the consumption of Cd/Zn hyperaccumulator plants. Particularly, Fe concentrations in all rat tissues were significantly increased by consumption of A. halleri while decreased by the presence of tapeworms. Overall, the consumption of a Cd/Zn hyperaccumulator plant and tapeworm infection cause an imbalance in Cu, Fe, and Mn concentrations in the tissues of a consumer (experimental rats).

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Abnormal functional connectivity of high-frequency rhythms in drug-naïve schizophrenia

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a severe and chronic mental disorder characterized by distinct positive symptoms (e.g., delusions and hallucinations), negative symptoms (e.g., diminished expression or abolition of motivation), and cognitive deficits. Although the exact pathophysiology remains unclear, recent neuroimaging-based evidence points to the "dysconnection hypothesis" as a core pathophysiological mechanism of SZ (Friston, 1998; Ribolsi et al., 2009; Schmitt et al., 2011; Stephan et al., 2006). According to this hypothesis, patients with SZ have an impaired brain network, which leads to deviation from optimum functional connectivity reflected in at least some symptoms of SZ (Ćurčić-Blake et al., 2017; Mulert et al., 2011).

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Re: re: Mandibular stability using sliding compared with conventional four-hole plates for fixation after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy for mandibular setback

In response to Jain and Shetty,1 we would like to apologise for the errors in our paper that was published in your journal recently.2 The sentence: "These authors all used four-hole sliding plates to fix the mandibular bony segments" should have read: "These authors all used four-hole plates to fix the mandibular bony segments". It referred to earlier studies by Abeltins et al,3 Ballon et al,4 and Landes and Ballon,5 in which they all used four-hole plates to fix proximal and distal segments of mandible.

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The effectiveness of topical colloidal silver in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis: a randomized crossover control trial

Recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis without polyposis (CRSsP) is a challenging condition to manage as traditional medical therapies and surgery fail to provide satisfactory clinical improvements. Colloidal sil...

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The effectiveness of topical colloidal silver in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis: a randomized crossover control trial

Recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis without polyposis (CRSsP) is a challenging condition to manage as traditional medical therapies and surgery fail to provide satisfactory clinical improvements. Colloidal sil...

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Tissuepatch is biocompatible and seals iatrogenic membrane defects in a rabbit model

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate novel sealing techniques for their biocompatibility and sealing capacity of iatrogenic fetal membrane defects in a pregnant rabbit model.

Method

At day 23 of gestation (term=d31), a standardized fetoscopy was performed through a 14G cannula. The resulting fetal membrane defect was closed with either condensed collagen, collagen with fibrinogen, Tissuepatch®, Duraseal®, or a conventional collagen plug (Lyostypt®) as reference. At d30 the fetuses were harvested and full thickness fetal membrane samples were analyzed. The study consisted of two consecutive parts: (1) biocompatibility testing by fetal survival, apoptosis and infiltration of polymorphonuclear cells in the membranes; (2) the efficacy to seal fetal membrane defects.

Results

Three sealants (collagen with fibrinogen, Duraseal® or Lyostypt®) were associated with a higher fetal mortality compared to control unmanipulated littermates, and hence were excluded from further analysis. Tissuepatch® was biocompatible and amniotic fluid levels were comparable to those of control untouched littermates. Compared to the condensed collagen, Tissuepatch® was also easier in surgical handling and induced limited cell proliferation.

Conclusion

Tissuepatch® had the best biocompatibility and efficacy in sealing an iatrogenic fetal membrane defect in the pregnant rabbit compared to other readily available sealants.

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Editorial Board

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 77





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Patterns of adverse childhood experiences and substance use among young adults: A latent class analysis

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Sunny H. Shin, Shelby Elaine McDonald, David Conley
IntroductionAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been strongly linked with subsequent substance use. The aim of this study was to investigate how different patterns of ACEs influence substance use in young adulthood.MethodsUsing a community sample of young individuals (N=336; ages 18–25), we performed latent class analyses (LCA) to identify homogenous groups of young people with similar patterns of ACEs. Exposure to ACEs incorporates 13 childhood adversities including childhood maltreatment, household dysfunction, and community violence. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used in an effort to examine the associations between ACEs classes and four young adult outcomes such as alcohol-related problems, current tobacco use, drug dependence symptoms, and psychological distress.ResultsLCA identified four heterogeneous classes of young people distinguished by different patterns of ACEs exposure: Low ACEs (56%), Household Dysfunction/Community Violence (14%), Emotional ACEs (14%), and High/Multiple ACEs (16%). Multiple regression analyses found that compared to those in the Low ACEs class, young adults in the High/Multiple ACEs class reported more alcohol-related problems, current tobacco use, and psychological symptoms, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and common risk factors for substance use such as peer substance use.ConclusionsOur findings confirm that for many young people, ACEs occur as multiple rather than single experiences. The results of this research suggest that exposure to poly-victimization during childhood is particularly related to substance use during young adulthood.



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Who is watching user-generated alcohol posts on social media?

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Eilin K. Erevik, Ståle Pallesen, Cecilie S. Andreassen, Øystein Vedaa, Torbjørn Torsheim
AimTo examine students' exposure to user-generated alcohol content on social media, and identify characteristics (i.e. demographics, personality traits, alcohol use, alcohol-related cognitions, and social media factors) associated with monthly or more frequent exposure.MethodCollege/university students (N=11,236) in Bergen, Norway, completed a web-survey measuring exposure to alcohol on social media – both frequency and interpretations of alcohol content. The survey included questions regarding demographics, personality, alcohol-related cognitions, and general use of social media and alcohol. Binary logistic regressions were run to identify characteristics associated with monthly or more frequent exposure to alcohol-related posts on social media.ResultsA total of 96.7% had been exposed to alcohol-related posts, exposure to posts with a positive valence of alcohol were more frequently reported than exposure to content with a negative valence of alcohol. Reports of monthly or more frequent exposure to alcohol on social media were associated with a range of characteristics, among these younger age, being native Norwegian, lower extroversion and higher agreeableness and self-monitoring scores, higher alcohol use, stronger descriptive norms for alcohol use among online-friends, and more frequent logins to social media.ConclusionsStudents' potential inflated alcohol norms (originating from social media) should be addressed. The results suggest that exposure may be determined by high alcohol use and membership in demographical groups associated with high alcohol use, an increased attentiveness towards others' behavior, and excessive social media use. Future studies investigating the relationship between alcohol exposure on social media and later alcohol use should control for such factors.



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Tobacco product use and mental health status among young adults

Publication date: February 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 77
Author(s): Jessica L. King, Beth A. Reboussin, John Spangler, Jennifer Cornacchione Ross, Erin L. Sutfin
BackgroundIndividuals with mental health conditions represent a priority population for tobacco control. This population smokes cigarettes at disproportionately higher rates than the general population, but less is known about the relationship between non-cigarette tobacco use and mental health status.MethodIn 2013, 2370 young adults recruited from 11 colleges in North Carolina and Virginia completed an online survey on tobacco use. We compared past 6-month self-reported mental health diagnosis, past 30-day depression score, and past 7-day stress score to past 30-day cigarette, e-cigarette, waterpipe, cigar, and smokeless tobacco use. Models adjusted for age, gender, race, ethnicity, and mother's education. Non-cigarette products were also adjusted for past 30-day cigarette use.ResultsAmong participants, 249 (10.5%) reported a mental health diagnosis, most commonly depression (5.5%), ADHD/ADD (4.5%), and anxiety (0.8%). Those who reported a mental health diagnosis had greater odds of using cigarettes (AOR=1.55; CI=1.01, 2.27). Mean stress score was 16.0 (SD=6.9) of possible 40. Higher stress scale score was associated with increased odds of e-cigarette (AOR=1.03; CI=1.01, 1.05), waterpipe (AOR=1.04; CI=1.01, 1.06), and cigarette (AOR=1.02; CI=1.00, 1.04) use. Mean depression score was 7.2 (SD=5.6) of possible 33. Higher depression scale score was associated with increased odds for e-cigarette (AOR=1.04; CI=1.01, 1.08) and cigarette (AOR=1.03; CI=1.01, 1.06) use.ConclusionFindings in this study provide further evidence of a potential relationship between non-cigarette tobacco products and mental health status. Tobacco control efforts aimed at reducing tobacco use disparities among mental health populations should focus on non-cigarette tobacco products in addition to cigarettes.



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Characteristics of prospectively identified negative alcohol-related events among college students

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Matthew K. Meisel, Shannon R. Kenney, Nancy P. Barnett
BackgroundThroughout the first two years of college, the majority of drinkers experience one or more alcohol-related consequences. Research that examines the characteristics surrounding negative consequences typically utilizes global retrospective survey methods. The objective of the current study was to apply an event-based methodology to describe the circumstances of a recent drinking episode that resulted in one or more alcohol-related consequences among first- and second-year college students.MethodsWe used a prospective web-based survey method to identify participants (N=296) who had one or more alcohol-related consequences in the past week. Shortly after reporting the consequence(s), participants attended an in-person interview during which they described the circumstances that preceded and followed the consequence(s), including the use of alcohol and other substances, proximal contextual factors including peer drinking, the characteristics of the negative alcohol-related consequence(s), and the reaction of others to the event.ResultsThe majority of participants reported experiencing the event at either their own (32.4%) or a friend's (32.8%) residence, and 87.1% of participants were with peers when the event happened. Most (85.0%) of the sample indicated that their closest friend knew about their event.ConclusionThe high peer involvement at all stages of the event suggest the potential for training college students to help each other avoid or prevent consequences.



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Trends and key correlates of prescription opioid injection misuse in the United States

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Christopher M. Jones
BackgroundDespite concerns over increasing harms associated with prescription opioid injection misuse, there is a paucity of research on the magnitude, characteristics, injection practices, and syringe sources for people who inject prescription opioids; limiting the implementation of targeted policy and programmatic initiatives.Materials and methodsData from the 2003 through 2014 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health were used to estimate prescription opioid injection trends and examine risky injection practices and syringe sources for people who inject prescription opioids. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify characteristics associated with prescription opioid injection.ResultsAmong people 12years or older, the rate of prescription opioid injection misuse increased from 1.6 per 1000 in 2003–2005 to 2.7 per 1000 in 2012–2014 (p value for trend <0.05). Groups with increased odds of prescription opioid injection included: males, non-Hispanic whites, having an annual household income <$50,000, the uninsured, people with Medicaid, and people with past-year use disorders for cocaine, heroin, or prescription opioids. Risky injection practices such as reusing a needle and sharing needles were common among people with a history of prescription opioid injection misuse.ConclusionThis study found significant increases in prescription opioid injection misuse trends in the U.S. These findings underscore the need to bring to scale evidence-based interventions to increase the provision of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorders and expand access to comprehensive risk-reduction services for people who inject drugs.



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Thinking while drinking: Fear of negative evaluation predicts drinking behaviors of students with social anxiety

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Margo C. Villarosa-Hurlocker, Robert B. Whitley, Daniel W. Capron, Michael B. Madson
College students with social anxiety disorder experience more alcohol-related negative consequences, regardless of the amount of alcohol they consume. Social anxiety refers to psychological distress and physiological arousal in social situations due to an excessive fear of negative evaluation by others. The current study examined within-group differences in alcohol-related negative consequences of students who met or exceeded clinically-indicated social anxiety symptoms. In particular, we tested a sequential mediation model of the cognitive (i.e., fear of negative evaluation) and behavioral (protective behavioral strategies) mechanisms for the link between social anxiety disorder subtypes (i.e., interaction and performance-type) and alcohol-related negative consequences. Participants were 412 traditional-age college student drinkers who met or exceeded the clinically-indicated threshold for social anxiety disorder and completed measures of fear of negative evaluation, protective behavioral strategies (controlled consumption and serious harm reduction), and alcohol-related negative consequences. Fear of negative evaluation and serious harm reduction strategies sequentially accounted for the relationship between interaction social anxiety disorder and alcohol-related negative consequences, such that students with more severe interaction social anxiety symptoms reported more fear of negative evaluation, which was related to more serious harm reduction strategies, which predicted fewer alcohol-related negative consequences. Future directions and implications are discussed.



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Depression symptoms and reasons for gambling sequentially mediate the associations between insecure attachment styles and problem gambling

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Matthew T. Keough, Trinda L. Penniston, Natalie Vilhena-Churchill, R. Michael Bagby, Lena C. Quilty
One of the central pathways to problem gambling (PG) is gambling to cope with negative moods, which is a cardinal feature of depression. Insecure attachment styles are also etiologically related to depression; and, therefore, by extension, those who are insecurely attached may engage in excessive gambling behaviors to cope with depression. In this study, we aimed to evaluate this and to this end predicted that depression severity and coping motives for gambling would conjointly mediate the relations between insecure attachment styles and PG. Data came from a larger investigation of PG within mood disorders. Participants exhibited a lifetime depressive or bipolar disorder and endorsed a mood episode within the past ten years. Participants (N=275) completed self-report measures during a two-day assessment. Path analysis supported two main indirect effects. First, anxious attachment predicted elevated depression, which in turn predicted increased coping motives for gambling, which subsequently predicted greater PG severity. Second, this double mediational pathway was also observed for avoidant attachment. Results suggest that insecure attachment relates to PG via depressive symptoms and coping-related gambling motives. Mood symptoms and associated gambling motives are malleable and are promising targets of gambling interventions for insecurely attached individuals.



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Parachuting psychoactive substances: Pharmacokinetic clues for harm reduction

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Amélie Daveluy, Hélène Géniaux, Marie Baumevieille, Louis Létinier, Marie-Noëlle Matta, Aurélie Lazès-Charmetant, Françoise Haramburu, Pascale Guéroult
BackgroundParachuting, also called bombing, is a way to ingest psychoactive substances wrapped into cigarette paper, toilet paper, etc. There is little data describing parachuting in terms of substances use, context of use and, most importantly, the motivations for using such wrappers, although some authors hypothesized that parachute could be used for pharmacokinetic reason. However, inconsistently, some authors report that parachutes are used for sustained-release whereas others report that users are looking for an immediate effect.Research design and methodsConsidering parachute as a "home-made" dosage form, we have applied the dissolution testing to characterize the dissolution performance of a substance wrapped into a parachute and to characterize whether a parachute represents an immediate-release form or not.ResultsThis in-vitro study provides the first pharmacokinetic data for drugs wrapped in parachutes. It shows that parachute acts as sustained-release form when made with a cigarette paper wrapper, but as immediate release form in the presence of alcohol or if wrapped with toilet paper.ConclusionsAn important message to harm reduction is that users must be aware that a parachute can have unexpected pharmacokinetics and have to avoid taking another parachute in the absence of an immediate-effect to avoid overdose.



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Understanding sexual assault risk perception in college: Associations among sexual assault history, drinking to cope, and alcohol use

Publication date: March 2018
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 78
Author(s): Elizabeth C. Neilson, Elizabeth R. Bird, Isha W. Metzger, William H. George, Jeanette Norris, Amanda K. Gilmore
IntroductionSexual assault history and alcohol use are associated with higher likelihood of subsequent sexual assault. Alcohol use and drinking to cope are associated with re-assault, but it is unclear whether these factors are associated with malleable constructs like sexual assault risk perception. This study examined typical weekly drinking and drinking to cope motive as factors underlying the association between sexual assault history and risk perception.MethodsBoth perceived likelihood of experiencing incapacitated sexual assault and when to leaving a hypothetical sexual assault scenario were assessed as indicators of sexual assault risk perception. 660 female college students recruited from psychology courses completed questionnaires online.ResultsResults revealed that sexual assault history severity was positively associated with perceived incapacitated sexual assault likelihood and when to leave a risky scenario. Drinking to cope with anxiety was positively associated with perceived incapacitated sexual assault likelihood. Among women who reported regular drinking, typical weekly drinking was positively associated with when to leave a risky scenario, such that women who reported more weekly drinks stayed in a potentially risky scenario longer than women who reported fewer weekly drinks.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that alcohol use and drinking to cope with anxiety are associated with risk perception. Sexual assault history was associated with both perceived incapacitated sexual assault likelihood and when to leave a hypothetical scenario. Alcohol use and drinking to cope are two potential points of intervention for sexual assault risk reduction programs, but further examination is needed.



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Metabolic Glycoengineering of Sialic Acid Using N-acyl-modified Mannosamines

Sialic acid is a typical monosaccharide-unit found in glycoconjugates. It is involved in a plethora of molecular and cellular interactions. Here we present a method to modify cell surface sialic acid expression using metabolic glycoengineering with N-acetylmannosamine derivatives.

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Modification of chitosan/calcium alginate/Fe 3 O 4 hydrogel microsphere for enhancement of Cu(II) adsorption

Abstract

Copper in drinking water causes a significant environmental problem. Composite material based on alginate hydrogel has been gaining attention in the field of Cu(II) adsorption. However, alginate-based hydrogel exhibits poor mechanical property and relative low adsorption capacity which limit their application. The present study is devoted to the modification of chitosan/calcium alginate/Fe₃O₄ (CAF) hydrogel microsphere by NaOH solution for enhancement of Cu(II) adsorption. Results reveal that modification of CAF via NaOH solution significantly improves the mechanical strength and Cu²⁺ adsorption capacity of pristine materials. FTIR and XRD analysis confirms that CAF and newly prepared materials (NACAF) are successfully prepared. SEM and EDX are employed to analyze the surface morphology and elemental composition, respectively, both before and after their loading with Cu²⁺. XPS study demonstrates adsorption mechanism is based on chelation and ion-exchange. Compressive stress-strain curves demonstrate NACAF has better mechanical performance than CAF. The adsorption kinetics of the two adsorbents follow a pseudo-second-order model. The equilibrium data were best described by Langmuir isotherm model, and the estimated maximum equilibrium sorption capacity, q _m,is 261.31 mg/g for the NACAF, which is larger than that of CAF (145.39 mg/g). Hence, NACAF shows excellent mechanical strength and high sorption capacity for Cu²⁺. It has great potential for Cu(II) removal in aqueous solutions.

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Proficiency testing program for hemoglobin E, A2 and F analysis in Thailand using lyophilized hemoglobin control materials

Journal Name: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM)
Issue: Ahead of print


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EASI – European Autoimmunity Standardisation Initiative: facing the challenges of diagnostics in autoimmunity

Journal Name: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM)
Issue: Ahead of print


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Diagnostic and prognostic value of presepsin vs. established biomarkers in critically ill patients with sepsis or systemic inflammatory response syndrome

Journal Name: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM)
Issue: Ahead of print


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Determination of age- and sex-specific 99th percentiles for high-sensitive troponin T from patients: an analytical imprecision- and partitioning-based approach

Journal Name: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM)
Issue: Ahead of print


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Three-dimensional virtual cystoscopy: non invasive approach for the assessment of urinary tract in fetuses with lower urinary tract obstruction

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Hemi-laryngeal Setup for Studying Vocal Fold Vibration in Three Dimensions

This paper introduces a protocol for the preparation of hemi-larynx specimens facilitating a multi-dimensional view of vocal fold vibration, in order to investigate various biophysical aspects of voice production in humans and non-human mammals.

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Residues and health risk assessment of typical antibiotics in aquatic products from the Dongting Lake, China—“Did you eat “Antibiotics” today?”

Abstract

The contamination level of 12 antibiotics in 8 species of fish and shrimp from the Dongting Lake, China, was firstly studied. In total, the concentrations of antibiotics in fish and shrimp were lower, which were far lower than the maximum residue limits. The most abundant compound was enrofloxacin followed by sulfadiazine, sulfamethoxazole, sarafloxacin, and sulfadimidine with the highest content from 0.37 to 1.06 ng g⁻¹. The concentrations in Silurus asotus, Cyprinus carpio, and Palinuridae were higher. Concentrations in fish and shrimp from different water layers showed spatial difference, with the order of benthos and middle-lower species > middle-upper species. In addition, the antibiotic content could be affected by the diet, which showed the concentration level of antibiotics decreased in the order of carnivorous > omnivorous > phytophagous species. Human health risk assessment based on potential fish consumption indicates that main antibiotic risk factors were enrofloxacin and sarafloxacin, and main risk species were Silurus asotus and Palinuridae. The daily risk quotient of these antibiotics to rural residents was lower than townsmen. This study is the first report of antibiotic content in fish and shrimp from the Dongting Lake, which could enrich the research of emerging pollutants in aquatic products.

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Performance and biofilm characteristics of biotrickling filters for ethylbenzene removal in the presence of saponins

Abstract

Saponins were applied to enhance ethylbenzene removal in biotrickling filters (BTFs), and comparison experiments were carried out to evaluate the effects of saponins on ethylbenzene removal and biofilm characteristics at various saponin concentrations. Results showed that the optimum concentration of saponins was 40 mg/L and a maximum removal efficiency (RE) of ethylbenzene reached 84.3%. When the inlet ethylbenzene concentration increased, ranging from 750 to 2300 mg/m³, the RE decreased from 92.1 to 60.8% and from 69.4 to 44.2% for BTF1 and BTF2 in which saponin was and was not added, respectively. The corresponding RE declined from 91.1 to 40.8% and from 71.5 to 35.8% with a decreased empty bed residence time ranging from 45 to 7.5 s. Additionally, significant differences existed between both BTFs not only in the contents of polysaccharide and proteins but also in the surface charge of biofilms, and the ratio of protein to polysaccharide increased with the increase of saponin concentration, which indicated the presumable effect of saponins on liquid-biofilm transfer rates of ethylbenzene. Mechanisms for the enhanced removal of hydrophobic volatile organic compounds at the presence of surfactants were also discussed.

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Bioaccumulation of selected heavy metals and histopathological and hematobiochemical alterations in backyard chickens reared in an industrial area, India

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the concentrations of four heavy metals, cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and cobalt (Co), and histopathological lesions in tissues of chickens reared in an industrial area of West Bengal, India. In particular, Mejhia Block was selected as a heavy metal-exposed area and Vatar Block (120 km away from industrially polluted areas) as a reference site. Samples were collected from the backyard chickens in these areas. Concentrations of heavy metals in soil, water, feedstuffs, tissues (liver, kidney, spleen, lung, and muscle), and droppings were greater (p < 0.05) in the polluted site than in the reference site. The greatest tissue concentrations of Cd and Pb were noted in the kidney, followed by the liver, lung, spleen, and muscle, whereas Cu and Co concentrations accumulated in these tissues resulted in the following: liver > kidney > lung > spleen > muscle. Heavy metal concentrations were greater in older chickens (> 1 year) than in young chickens (< 1 year). Packed cell volume, total erythrocyte counts, hemoglobin, total protein, and total leucocyte counts were significantly (p < 0.01) lower in the blood picture of chickens in the exposed area. Different serum enzymes and biochemical profiles were altered due to heavy metal exposure. Histological changes revealed necrotic lesions and tubulitis in the kidney, degeneration and necrosis in liver parenchyma, and periarteriolitis, peribronchiolitis, and presence of hemosiderin pigment in the lung of chickens in the exposed site. Results indicated that backyard chickens in heavy metal-exposed site may show pathological lesions in different tissues due to accumulation of heavy metals, and thus, the consumption of chicken meat from the industrially exposed site may pose a potential health risk to local residents of polluted sites.

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