Table of Contents

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Table of Contents

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Editorial Board

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Editorial Board

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Guidelines for Contributing Authors

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Guidelines for Contributing Authors

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Risk Factors for Knee Injury in Golf: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background

Golf is commonly considered a low-impact sport that carries little risk of injury to the knee and is generally allowed following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Kinematic and kinetic studies of the golf swing have reported results relevant to the knee, but consensus as to the loads experienced during a swing and how the biomechanics of an individual's technique may expose the knee to risk of injury is lacking.

Objectives

Our objective was to establish (1) the prevalence of knee injury resulting from participation in golf and (2) the risk factors for knee injury from a biomechanical perspective, based on an improved understanding of the internal loading conditions and kinematics that occur in the knee from the time of addressing the ball to the end of the follow-through.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to determine the injury rate, kinematic patterns, loading, and muscle activity of the knee during golf.

Results

A knee injury prevalence of 3–18% was established among both professional and amateur players, with no clear dependence on skill level or sex; however, older players appear at greater risk of injury. Studies reporting kinematics indicate that the lead knee is exposed to a complex series of motions involving rapid extension and large magnitudes of tibial internal rotation, conditions that may pose risks to the structures of a natural knee or TKA. To date, the loads experienced by the lead knee during a golf swing have been reported inconsistently in the literature. Compressive loads ranging from 100 to 440% bodyweight have been calculated and measured using methods including inverse dynamics analysis and instrumented knee implants. Additionally, the magnitude of loading appears to be independent of the club used.

Conclusions

This review is the first to highlight the lack of consensus regarding knee loading during the golf swing and the associated risks of injury. Results from the literature suggest the lead knee is subject to a higher magnitude of stress and more demanding motions than the trail knee. Therefore, recommendations regarding return to golf following knee injury or surgical intervention should carefully consider the laterality of the injury.

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Histological Characteristics on the Testes of Mud Spiny Lobster, Panulirus polyphagus (Herbst, 1793)

Background and Objective: Mud spiny lobsters, Panulirus polyphagus (P. polyphagus) are one of the most important fisheries resources now-a-days due to quality that its possessed. However, there is still lack of in-depth study about this species mainly on males testicular characteristics and sexual maturity size. Therefore, the present study was carried out to investigate the histological characteristics on the testes and sexual maturity sizes of mud spiny lobster, Panulirus polyphagus. Materials and Methods: The testes were dissected out and fixed in 10% buffered formalin solution for 11 h, dehydrated in 70% alcohol and lastly placed in tissue processor for 18±1 h at 60°C. The tissues blocks were cut at the thickness of 4 μm on a rotary microtome. Stained tissues were taken under Advance Microscope (Nikon Eclipse 80i Nomarski DIC). Collected data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2013. Data were presented as mean±standard deviation. Statistical analyses were done using one-way ANOVA using SPSS (Version 22). Results: These lobules of mature P. polyphagus were formed via different germinative lineage cells such as spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and spermatozoa. The histological characteristics of testes showed that the process of spermatogenesis went through the stages of four testes maturation which were spermatogonia I and II, spermatocytes I and II, spermatids and spermatozoa stages within different body weight of P. polyphagus. It was found that there were significant difference between body weight and carapace length to the testicular maturation stages (one-way ANOVA and p = 0.000). Conclusion: The results of this experiment indicated that males P. polyphagus have four stages of testes maturation and can be considered to have fully mature testes that ready for fertilization at 452 g body weight (BW) and 107 mm carapace length (CL) or more.

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The role of the transient receptor potential ankyrin type-1 (TRPA1) channel in migraine pain: evaluation in an animal model

Abstract

Background

Clinical and experimental studies have pointed to the possible involvement of the transient receptor potential ankyrin type-1 (TRPA1) channels in migraine pain. In this study, we aimed to further investigate the role of these channels in an animal model of migraine using a novel TRPA1 antagonist, ADM_12, as a probe.

Methods

The effects of ADM_12 on nitroglycerin-induced hyperalgesia at the trigeminal level were investigated in male rats using the quantification of nocifensive behavior in the orofacial formalin test. The expression levels of the genes coding for c-Fos, TRPA1, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) in peripheral and central areas relevant for migraine pain were analyzed. CGRP and SP protein immunoreactivity was also evaluated in trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC).

Results

In rats bearing nitroglycerin-induced hyperalgesia, ADM_12 showed an anti-hyperalgesic effect in the second phase of the orofacial formalin test. This effect was associated to a significant inhibition of nitroglycerin-induced increase in c-Fos, TRPA1 and neuropeptides mRNA levels in medulla-pons area, in the cervical spinal cord and in the trigeminal ganglion. No differences between groups were seen as regards CGRP and SP protein expression in the TNC.

Conclusions

These findings support a critical involvement of TRPA1 channels in the pathophysiology of migraine, and show their active role in counteracting hyperalgesia at the trigeminal level.

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Hypothesis Serum- and Glucocorticoid-inducible Kinase 1 (SGK1)

Hypothesis Serum- and Glucocorticoid-inducible Kinase 1 (SGK1) is involved in the regulation of insulin secretion and may represent a candidate ...

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A comprehensive analysis on child mortality and its determinants in Bangladesh using frailty models

Bangladesh has experienced a significant reduction of child mortality over the past decades which helped achieve the Millennium Development Goal 4 (MDG 4) target. But the mortality among under-5 aged children ...

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Moscow dentistry seeks to aid those without insurance

They will provide free dentist appointments to anyone over age 18 who does not have insurance. The free appointment includes a cleaning, extraction and filling, if needed.

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Helping cancer survivors return to work

A new Psycho-Oncology analysis of published studies indicates that there are various employer-related factors that can help or hinder cancer survivors as they attempt to go back to work. The analysis included five studies representing the employers'...

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N-terminus determines activity and specificity of styrene monooxygenase reductases

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Proteins and Proteomics
Author(s): Thomas Heine, Anika Scholtissek, Adrie H. Westphal, Willem J.H. van Berkel, Dirk Tischler
Styrene monooxygenases (SMOs) are two-enzyme systems that catalyze the enantioselective epoxidation of styrene to (S)-styrene oxide. The FADH2 co-substrate of the epoxidase component (StyA) is supplied by an NADH-dependent flavin reductase (StyB). The genome of Rhodococcus opacus 1CP encodes two SMO systems. One system, which we define as E1-type, displays homology to the SMO from Pseudomonas taiwanensis VLB120. The other system, originally reported as a fused system (RoStyA2B), is defined as E2-type. Here we found that E1-type RoStyB is inhibited by FMN, while RoStyA2B is known to be active with FMN. To rationalize the observed specificity of RoStyB for FAD, we generated an artificial reductase, designated as RoStyBart, in which the first 22 amino acid residues of RoStyB were joined to the reductase part of RoStyA2B, while the oxygenase part (A2) was removed. RoStyBart mainly purified as apo-protein and mimicked RoStyB in being inhibited by FMN. Pre-incubation with FAD yielded a turnover number at 30°C of 133.9±3.5s⁻¹, one of the highest rates observed for StyB reductases. RoStyBart holo-enzyme switches to a ping-pong mechanism and fluorescence analysis indicated for unproductive binding of FMN to the second (co-substrate) binding site. In summary, it is shown for the first time that optimization of the N-termini of StyB reductases allows the evolution of their activity and specificity.

Graphical abstract

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Erratum to: Clinical experience with four cases of jackhammer esophagus

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Acupuncture for temporomandibular joint syndrome

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): W. Rodgers




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Sclerosing thymoma-like thymic amyloidoma with nephrotic syndrome: a case report

Primary localized amyloidosis presenting as an isolated mediastinal mass is extremely rare, especially in the thymus. Sclerosing thymoma is also an extremely rare anterior mediastinal tumor, pathologically cha...

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Zonnic®: a new player in an old field

The tobacco industry is continually evolving to adapt to increasing tobacco control pressure and regulation, and to cater to consumer preferences. Recently, RJ Reynolds rolled-out a nicotine-containing gum, Zo...

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Free amino acids profile of Polish and Slovak honeys based on LC–MS/MS method without the prior derivatisation

Abstract

LC–MS/MS method was applied for determination of free amino acids in honey without derivatisation steps. Twenty free amino acids including aspartic acid, asparagine, glutamic acid, glutamine, alanine, arginine, glycine, leucine, histidine, hydroxyproline, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, valine and ornithine were analyzed in thirty honey samples from Poland and Slovakia. The analysis covered: acacia, lime, rape, multifloral and forest types of honey. Applied method was characterized to had good sensitivity with limit of detection ranged from 3.0 ng/cm³ for valine to 13.0 ng/cm³ for hydroxyproline. Average content of proline (main amino acid component in honey) ranged from 151.46 μg/g (rape honey from Slovakia) to 389.66 μg/g for forest honey (honeydew honey) from Poland. In analyzed honeys large quantities of glutamine, glutamic acid, lysine, phenylalanine, asparagine, alanine, and valine were also found.

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Culture broth of Ganoderma lucidum exhibited antioxidant, antibacterial and α-amylase inhibitory activities

Abstract

Culture broth of Ganoderma lucidum was determined for antioxidant, antibacterial and α-amylase inhibitory activities. The culture broth contained protein as determined by Bradford method equaled to 0.2 mg/ml and total phenol content as 0.078 mg GAE/mg protein (0.557 mg GAE/g extract). It exhibited radicals scavenging activities against ABTS^+· and DPPH^· radicals with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) less than 1.70 ± 0.02 and 2.28 ± 0.02 µg protein/ml, respectively and reducing power equaled to 4.38 ± 0.02 µmol Trolox/µg protein as investigated by ferric ion reducing antioxidant power method. The culture broth experimented into two approached; (1) treated with pronase and (2) filtered through a membrane with 10 kDa molecular weight cut-off (MWCO). The pronase-treated culture broth exhibited insignificant lower antioxidant activities, but the retained culture broth 10 kDa MWCO resulted in significant decrease in antioxidant activities suggesting that the small proteins might play the key role in antioxidant activity. The culture broth could protect DNA damage from hydroxyl radicals (^·OH) generated by Fenton's reaction. This culture broth showed antibacterial activity towards pathogenic strains Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and also had an interesting α-amylase inhibitory activity. This study suggested that apart from the fruiting bodies and the mycelial of G. lucidum, its culture broth also had potential applications as a value-added ingredient in the product such as in cosmetics and in nutraceuticals.

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Status of the bioactive phytoceuticals during deep-fat frying of snack food using nutra -coconut oil

Abstract

The present study was carried out to study the physico-chemical changes that take place in both product and oil during the deep fat frying of a traditional savoury snack 'kodubale', at 120–160 °C for 120–600 s using coconut oil (CO) and nutra-coconut oil (NCO). Further, kinetic studies on moisture loss, oil uptake, color and degradation of β-carotene, total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity for kodubale was carried out during frying as a function of temperature and time. The study showed that the kinetic coefficients for above parameters increased with temperature and time and the data obtained were well fitted with first order kinetic model. The results also revealed that NCO fried product retained major phenolic acids due to the presence of antioxidants in the NCO which was enriched with flaxseed oil concentrate. The fatty acids profile of oil extracted from products obtained by frying using NCO was characterized with higher ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids content as compared to same obtained using CO. However, the breaking strength and sensory characteristics of CO and NCO fried kodubale was found to have no significant difference (p < 0.05).

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Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of dabrafenib in Japanese patients with BRAF V600 mutation-positive solid tumors: a phase 1 study

Summary

Background Dabrafenib is a BRAF inhibitor that has demonstrated clinical activity with a good tolerability profile in patients with BRAF ^V600E mutated metastatic melanoma. This study evaluated the safety and tolerability, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of dabrafenib in Japanese patients. Methods This phase I, open-label, dose escalation study was conducted in 12 Japanese patients with BRAF ^V600 mutation positive solid tumours. Primary endpoint was safety, assessed by monitoring and recording of all adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, drug-related AEs; secondary endpoints were pharmacokinetic profiles and efficacy measured by tumour response. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01582997. Results Of the 12 patients enrolled, 3 each received 75 mg and 100 mg dabrafenib while 6 received 150 mg dabrafenib twice daily orally. Melanoma and thyroid cancer were the primary tumours reported in 11 (92%) and 1 (8%) patients respectively. Most AEs were grade 1 or 2 and considered related to study treatment. Most common AEs reported in the 12 patients were alopecia in 7 (58%); pyrexia, arthralgia and leukopenia in 6 (50%) each, hyperkeratosis and nausea in 4 (33%) each. Partial response as best overall response was reported in 7 of 12 (58%) patients and in 6 (55%) with malignant melanoma. No dose-limiting toxicity (DLTs) were reported during the DLT evaluation periods. Conclusions Dabrafenib was well tolerated and rapidly absorbed administered as single- or multiple dose. Comparable safety and pharmacokinetic profiles were observed compared with non-Japanese patients. Dabrafenib has promising clinical activity in Japanese patients with BRAF mutated malignant melanoma.

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Effects of low-to-moderate alcohol supplementation on urinary estrogen metabolites in postmenopausal women in a controlled feeding study

Abstract

Heavy alcohol drinking is associated with increased breast cancer risk, but associations with low-to-moderate alcohol consumption are less clear and the biological mechanisms are not well defined. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of 8 weeks of low (15 g/d) and moderate (30 g/d) alcohol ingestion on concentrations of 15 urinary estrogen metabolites (EMs) in postmenopausal women (n = 51) in a controlled feeding study with a randomized crossover design. Compared to no alcohol, 15 g/day for 8 weeks had no effect on urinary EMs. However, compared to no alcohol, 30 g/day for 8 weeks decreased urinary 2-hydroestrone (2-OHE1) by 3.3% (P = 0.055) and increased 16-epiestriol (16-EpiE3) by 26.6% (P = 0.037). Trends for reduced urinary 2-OHE1 (P = 0.045), reduced ratio of 2-OH:16OH pathways (P = 0.008), and increased 16-EpiE3 (P = 0.035) were observed as alcohol ingestion increased from 0 g to 15 g to 30 g/d. Moderate alcohol consumption for 8 weeks had modest effects on urinary concentrations of 2-OHE1 and 16-EpiE3 among postmenopausal women in a carefully controlled feeding study.

Recent evidence indicates that postmenopausal breast cancer risk increases with higher levels of 16-EpiE3 and decreases with lower levels of 2-OHE1 in different prospective cohorts. Since moderate alcohol consumption in our study of postmenopausal women increased 16-EpiE3 and lowered 2-OHE1, these results imply that moderate drinking may have dual effects on later breast cancer development, but this finding needs confirmation.

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Long-term outcomes in patients treated with proton therapy for localized prostate cancer

Abstract

The aim of this retrospective study was to report long-term clinical outcomes in patients treated with proton therapy (PT) for localized prostate cancer. Between 2001 and 2014, 1375 consecutive patients were treated with PT. Patients were classified into prognostic risk groups based on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network criteria. Freedom from biochemical relapse (FFBR), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and incidence of late gastrointestinal (GI)/genitourinary (GU) toxicities were calculated. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify clinical prognostic factors for FFBR and late toxicities. The median follow-up period was 70 months (range, 4–145 months). In total, 99% of patients received 74 Gy (relative biologic effectiveness [RBE]); 56% of patients received neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy. For the low-, intermediate-, high-, and very high-risk groups, 5-year FFBR was 99% (95% confidence intervals [CI], 96–100%), 91% (95% CI, 88–93%), 86% (95% CI, 82–89%), and 66% (95% CI, 53–76%), respectively, and 5-year CSS was 100% (95% CI, 100–100%), 100% (95% CI, 100–100%) , 99% (95% CI, 97–100%), and 95% (95% CI, 94–98%), respectively. Patient age, T classification, Gleason score, prostate-specific antigen, and percentage of positive cores were significant prognostic factors for FFBR. Grade 2 or higher GI and GU toxicities were 3.9% and 2.0%. Patient age was a prognostic factor for both late GI and GU toxicities. This study represents the largest cohort of patients treated with PT for localized prostate cancer, with the longest follow-up to date. Our results demonstrate that the biochemical control of PT is favorable particularly for high- and very high-risk patients with lower late genitourinary toxicity and indicates the necessity of considering patient age in the treatment protocols.

Proton therapy for localized prostate cancer demonstrates favorable biochemical control particularly for high- and very high-risk patients and a lower incidence of late genitourinary toxicity. Our findings indicate the necessity of considering patient age in the treatment protocols.

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Survival of cutaneous melanoma based on sex, age, and stage in the United States, 1992–2011

Abstract

Women diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma have a survival advantage compared to men, which has been hypothesized to be due to difference in behavior and/or biology (sex hormones). It remains controversial whether this advantage is dependent on age or stage of disease. We sought to compare melanoma-specific survival between females in pre, peri, and postmenopausal age groups to males in the same age group, adjusting for stage of disease. This is a retrospective population-based cohort study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Patients diagnosed from 1 January 1992 through 31 January 2011 with primary invasive cutaneous melanoma were included in our cohort. Melanoma-specific survival was the main outcome studied. Of the 106,511 subjects that were included, 45% were female. Females in all age groups (18–45, 46–54, and ≥55) with localized and regional disease, were less likely to die from melanoma compared to males in the same age group. Among patients with localized and regional disease, the relative risk of death due to melanoma increased with advancing age at diagnosis; this increase was more pronounced among females than males. In contrast, we observed no female survival advantage among patients with distant disease and no effect of age on relative risk of death from melanoma. Females with localized and regional melanoma have a decreased risk of death compared to males within all age groups. Our data show no differences in survival between men and women with metastatic melanoma, indicating that the influence of sex on survival is limited to early stage disease but not confined to pre or perimenopausal age groups.

In local and regional cutaneous melanoma, women of all ages have a significant survival benefit over men. However, data from the SEER registry indicate that this female survival advantage is decreased when the disease is metastatic, suggesting an unknown protective biology is lost in distant disease.

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Prognostic effect of parotid area lymph node metastases after preliminary diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a propensity score matching study

Abstract

Parotid area lymph node (PLN) metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is rare, and its prognosis remains largely unknown. Our study aimed to investigate the prognostic value and staging categories of PLN metastasis in patients with NPC and treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), to provide a reference for clinical treatment for NPC with PLN metastasis. Records for 1616 untreated NPC patients without distant metastasis was retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination prior to treatment and then received IMRT as their primary treatment. Forty-five NPC patients (2.8%) showed initial PLN metastasis on follow-up MRI. PLN metastasis was significantly associated with the N classification and clinical stage. Univariate analysis showed that PLN metastasis had an unfavorable influence on overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), and regional relapse-free survival (RRFS) in NPC patients. Using propensity score matching (PSM) to calibrate selection bias and confounding bias, it was observed that PLN metastasis remained an adverse prognostic factor for OS, PFS, DMFS, and RRFS. Furthermore, the 5-year DMFS and RRFS curves for PLN metastasis were significantly separated from that for N2 disease but crossed that for N3 disease. Therefore, PLN metastasis was found to be an adverse prognostic factor for NPC and to be associated with the same DMFS as N3 disease. Therefore, more aggressive therapeutic strategies consistent with those for N3 disease are recommended for NPC with PLN metastasis to reduce distant metastasis.

PLN metastasis was found to be an adverse prognostic factor for NPC and to be correlated with the same DMFS as N3 disease.

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A Proposed Method for Identification of Streptomycin Resistance from 16s rRNA Sequence by Co-localization Analysis of Fluorescent Signals: A Step Towards Detection of Streptomycin Resistant Mycobacterium Species in Culture Free and Gene Amplification Independent Technique

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A rational approach to enhancing antibody Fc homodimer formation for robust production of antibody mixture in a single cell line [Immunology]

Combinations of different antibodies have been shown to be more effective for managing certain diseases than monotherapy. Co-expression of the antibody mixture in a single cell line is key to reducing complexity during antibody development and manufacturing. However, co-transfection of multiple light and heavy chains into cells often leads to production of mismatched, heterodimeric byproducts that are inactive, making the development of co-expression systems that robustly and efficiently produce highly active antibody mixtures a high priority. In this study, we modified the CH3 domain interface of the antibody fragment crystallizable (Fc) region by changing several charge pairs to create electrostatic interactions favoring Fc homodimer formation and disfavoring Fc heterodimer formation. When co-expressed, these modified antibodies with altered charge polarity across the Fc dimer interface preferentially formed homodimers that fully preserved the functions of each component, rather than inactive heterodimers whose formation was reduced because of rationally designed repulsive interactions. We designed eight different combinations, and experimentally screened the best one, which enabled us to produce a binary antibody mixture against EGFR with minimal heterodimer contaminant. We further determined the crystal structure of a triple mutated Fc variant in the best combination, and elucidated the molecular interactions favoring Fc homodimer over heterodimer formation, which provided a structural basis for further optimization. The approach presented here demonstrates the feasibility of rational antibody modification for efficient and consistent production of monoclonal antibody mixtures in a single cell line and thus broadens our options for manufacturing more effective antibody-based therapeutic agents.

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Structural basis for pH-insensitive inhibition of immunoglobulin G recycling by an anti-neonatal Fc receptor antibody [Immunology]

The neonatal Fc receptor FcRn plays a critical role in the trafficking of immunoglobulins (IgGs) across tissue barriers and in retaining high circulating concentrations of both IgG and albumin. Although generally beneficial in maintaining IgG populations from an immunological perspective, FcRn can contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders when an abnormal immune response targets normal biological components. We previously described a monoclonal antibody (DX-2507) that binds to FcRn with high affinity at neutral and acidic pH, prevents the simultaneous binding of IgG, and reduces circulating IgG levels in preclinical animal models. Here, we show the a 2.5 Å x-ray crystal structure of an FcRn:DX-2507 Fab complex, revealing a near complete overlap of the IgG Fc-binding site in FcRn by DX-2507 Fab CDR regions. This overlap explains how DX-2507 blocks IgG binding to FcRn and consequently shortens IgG half-life by preventing them from recycling back into circulation. Additionally, the complex structure explains how the DX-2507 interaction is pH-insensitive unlike normal Fc-interactions and how serum albumin levels are unaffected by DX-2507 binding. These studies support a novel therapeutic approach for limiting the effects of antibody-mediated autoimmune disease.

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Enantiomeric barbiturates bind distinct inter- and intra-subunit binding sites in a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) [Protein Structure and Folding]

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAARs) are members of the pentameric ligand-gated ion channel superfamily. Drugs acting as positive allosteric modulators of muscle-type α2βγδ nAChRs, of use in treatment of neuromuscular disorders, have been hard to identify. However, identification of nAChR allosteric modulator binding sites has been facilitated by using drugs developed as photoreactive GABAAR modulators. Recently, R-mTFD-MPAB (R-1-methyl-5-allyl-5-(m-trifluoromethyl-diazirinylphenyl) barbituric acid), an anesthetic and GABAAR potentiator, has been shown to inhibit Torpedo α2βγδ nAChRs, binding in the ion channel and to a γ+-α- subunit interface site similar to its GABAAR intersubunit binding site. In contrast, S-1-methyl-5-propyl-5-(m-trifluoromethyl-diazirinylphenyl) barbituric acid ( S-mTFD-MPPB) acts as a convulsant and GABAAR inhibitor. Photolabeling studies established that S-mTFD-MPPB binds to the same GABAAAR intersubunit binding site as R-mTFD-MPAB, but with negative rather than positive energetic coupling to GABA binding. We now show that S-mTFD-MPPB binds with the same state (agonist)-dependence as R-mTFD-MPAB within the nAChR ion channel, but it does not bind to the intersubunit binding site. Rather, S-mTFD-MPPB binds to intrasubunit sites within the α and δ subunits, photolabeling αVal-218 (αM1), δPhe-232 (δM1), δThr-274 (δM2) and δIle-288 (δM3). Propofol, a general anesthetic that binds to GABAAR intersubunit sites, inhibited [3H] S-mTFD-MPPB photolabeling of these nAChR intrasubunit binding sites. These results demonstrate that in a nAChR, the subtle difference in structure between S-mTFD-MPPB and R-mTFD-MPAB (chirality; 5-propyl vs. 5-allyl) determines selectivity for intra- vs. inter-subunit sites, in contrast to GABAARs where this difference affects state dependence of binding to a common site.

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Lipid stress inhibits endocytosis of Melanocortin-4 Receptor from modified clathrin-enriched sites and impairs receptor desensitization [Molecular Bases of Disease]

Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) is a G protein coupled receptor expressed in the brain hypothalamus where it regulates energy homeostasis. MC4R agonists function to lower food intake and weight. In this respect, while obesity promotes hyperlipidemia and hypothalamic injury, MC4R agonists are nevertheless more effective to reduce food intake within hours of administration in overweight, rather than lean, mice. MC4R undergoes constitutive internalization and recycling to the plasma membrane, with agonist binding inducing receptor retention along the intracellular route and, under prolonged exposure, desensitization. Here, we found that, in neuronal cells, lipid stress by exposure to elevated palmitate leaves unchanged the rate by which MC4R and transferrin receptor (TfR) are constitutively excluded from the cell surface. However, lipid stress disrupted later steps of MC4R and TfR internalization to endosomes, as well as traffic of agonist-occupied MC4R to lysosome, and MC4R desensitization. In the lipid-stressed cells, MC4R and clathrin were redistributed to the plasma membrane where they co-localized to sites that appeared by super-resolution microscopy to be modified and to have higher clathrin content than those of cells not exposed to elevated palmitate. The data suggest that lipid stress disrupts steps of endocytosis following MC4R localization to clathrin-coated sites and exclusion of the receptor from the extracellular medium. We conclude that increased effectiveness of MC4R agonists in obesity may be an unexpected outcome of neuronal injury with disrupted clathrin-dependent endocytosis and impaired receptor desensitization.

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The lipopolysaccharide transport (Lpt) machinery: a non-conventional transporter for lipopolysaccharide assembly at the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria [Membrane Biology]

The outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative is a unique lipid bilayer containing Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in its outer leaflet. Because of the presence of amphipathic LPS molecules, the OM behaves as an effective permeability barrier that makes Gram-negative bacteria inherently resistant to many antibiotics. This review focuses on LPS biogenesis and discusses recent advances that have contributed to our understanding of how this complex molecule is transported across the cellular envelope and is assembled at the OM outer leaflet. Clearly this knowledge represents an important platform for the development of novel therapeutic options to manage Gram-negative infections.

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Identification of a 35S U4/U6.U5 Tri-snRNP Complex Intermediate in Spliceosome Assembly [RNA]

The de novo assembly and post-splicing reassembly of the U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP remain to be investigated. We report here that ZIP, a protein containing a CCCH type of zinc finger and a G-patch domain as we characterized previously, regulates pre-mRNA splicing in a RNA binding-independent manner. We found that ZIP is physically associated with the U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP. Remarkably, ZIP-containing tri-snRNP has a sedimentation coefficient ~35S, a tri-snRNP that has not been described before. We showed that the 35S tri-snRNP contains hPrp24, indicative of a state when the U4/U6 di-snRNP is just integrating with the U5 snRNP. We found that the 35S tri-snRNP is enriched in the Cajal body, indicating that it is an assembly intermediate during 25S tri-snRNP maturation. We showed that the 35S tri-snRNP also contains hPrp43, whose ATPase/RNA helicase activities are stimulated by ZIP. Our study identified, for the first time, a tri-snRNP intermediate, shedding new light on the de novo assembly and recycling of the U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP.

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Thioredoxin-1 actively maintains the pseudokinase MLKL in a reduced state to suppress disulfide bond-dependent MLKL polymer formation and necroptosis [Molecular Bases of Disease]

Necroptosis is an immunogenic cell death program that is associated with a host of human diseases, including inflammation, infections and cancer. Receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) and its substrate mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL) are required for necroptosis activation. Specifically, RIPK3-dependent MLKL phosphorylation promotes the assembly of disulfide bond-dependent MLKL polymers that drive the execution of necroptosis. However, how MLKL disulfide bond formation is regulated is not clear. In this study, we discovered that the MLKL-modifying compound necrosulfonamide crosslinks cysteine 86 of human MLKL to cysteine 32 of the thiol oxidoreductase thioredoxin-1 (Trx1). Recombinant Trx1 preferentially binds to monomeric MLKL, and blocks MLKL disulfide bond formation and polymerization in vitro. Inhibition of MLKL polymer formation requires the reducing activity of Trx1. Importantly, shRNA-mediated knockdown of Trx1 promotes MLKL polymerization and sensitizes cells to necroptosis. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of Trx1 with compound PX-12 induces necroptosis in multiple cancer cell lines. Altogether, these findings demonstrate that Trx1 is a critical regulator of necroptosis that suppresses cell death by maintaining MLKL in a reduced inactive state. Our results further suggest new directions for targeted cancer therapy, in which thioredoxin inhibitors like PX-12 could potentially be used to specifically target cancers expressing high levels of MLKL or MLKL short isoforms.

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Anxiety and pain related to mandibular block injections: comparison of self-reported measures and physiological response.

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Jacco G. Tuk, Jerome A. Lindeboom, Linda Hoogendoorn, Byron W. Taylor, Arjen van Wijk
ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine whether patients with a pain score ≥7 (high pain group) after a mandibular block injection had a higher physiological response than patients with scores <7 (low pain group).Study Design: Prior to oral surgery, patients (n = 66) filled out questionnaires to measure anxiety and expected pain. Questionnaires also assessed the patients' experiences with dental injections and dental anxiety, as well as their emotional state and intensity of anxiety. Before, during, and after the injection, physiological responses were measured using the Nexus-10. Patients were then asked about the pain and anxiety they experienced.ResultsThe mean score for pain experienced was 3.45 (SD 2.17) on an 11-point rating scale. Eight patients (12.1%) experienced high injection pain. There was a significant increase in mean sweat secretion and a significant decrease in mean respiration between the relaxing and injection phases. There was a significant positive relationship between experienced anxiety and mean heart rate during the injection phase. No significant difference was found in physiological response between patients who experienced high vs. low pain.ConclusionReported pain was not associated with the physiological response of patients receiving mandibular block injections.



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Radiation-related caries assessment through the international caries detection and assessment system and the post-radiation dental index

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Natalia Rangel Palmier, Ana Carolina Prado Ribeiro, Jéssica Montenegro Fonsêca, João Victor Salvajoli, Pablo Agustin Vargas, Marcio Ajudarte Lopes, Thaís Bianca Brandão, Alan Roger Santos-Silva
Purpose: Although radiation-related caries (RRC) are a well-known toxicity of head and neck radiotherapy, a clinical classification system for RRC has not yet been clinically validated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess if the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) and the Post-Radiation Dental Index (PRDI) were viable methods for the assessment of RRC. Methods: Clinicopathological data and intraoral digital photographs of 60 patients (833 teeth) affected by RRC were assessed and classified according to the ICDAS and PRDI criteria. Results: A total of 814 (97.7%) teeth presented RRC lesions ranging from early stage to complete tooth destruction. Mean scores for the whole sample were 5 for ICDAS and 3 for PRDI, indicating that RRC were diagnosed predominately in late stages. ICDAS and PRDI criteria underestimate the clinical expressivity of RRC by not including the whole qualitative clinical spectrum of RRC, such as enamel cracks, delamination, dental crown amputation, surface color alterations, and atypical lesions topography (incisal/cuspal caries). Conclusion: ICDAS and PRDI may not be considered viable for the assessment of RRC. The development of a specific clinical classification system is urgently needed to help clinicians recognize the peculiar patterns of RRC, particularly in incipient cases.



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23 year-old female with a painless left mandibular swelling

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Alia Khan, Scott M. Peters, Chang Han, Angela J. Yoon, Elizabeth M. Philipone




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AAOM clinical practice statement

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology





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Mandibular embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma with cartilaginous metaplasia: report of a case and review of literature

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
Author(s): Scott M. Peters, Tim Kunkle, Michael A. Perrino, Elizabeth M. Philipone, Angela J. Yoon
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a malignant tumor of the skeletal muscle origin that frequently involves the head and neck region. It represents the second most common pediatric soft tissue sarcoma, and accounts for 3% of all childhood cancers. Herein, we report a case of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma presenting as a right sided facial swelling in a 7-year-old boy. Histologically, the tumor consisted of classic embryonal rhabdosarcomatous areas with metaplastic cartilage both in the initial biopsy and final resection specimen. Cartilaginous metaplasia arising in the background of RMS is a rare finding, thereby raising a diagnostic challenge. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first case of a RMS with cartilaginous metaplasia in the oral cavity.



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Chronic lymphocytic leukemia with isochromosome 17q: An aggressive subgroup associated with TP53 mutations and complex karyotypes

Although i(17q) [i(17q)] is frequently detected in hematological malignancies, few studies have assessed its clinical role in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We recruited a cohort of 22 CLL patients with i(17q) and described their biological characteristics, mutational status of the genes TP53 and IGHV and genomic complexity. Furthermore, we analyzed the impact of the type of cytogenetic anomaly bearing the TP53 defect on the outcome of CLL patients and compared the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of i(17q) cases with those of a group of 38 CLL patients harboring other 17p aberrations.

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Role of cellular metabolism in regulating type I interferon responses: Implications for tumour immunology and treatment

Type I interferons (IFN) are increasingly recognized for their role in regulating anti-tumour immune responses. However, chronic activation of these pathways can result in immunosuppression and has been linked to poor responses to genotoxic and radiotoxic therapies. Emerging evidence suggests energy, lipid and amino acid metabolism play an important role in regulating and fine tuning type I IFN responses. Further, dysregulation of these processes has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic viral infections and autoimmune disorders.

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Discovery of peptide drug carrier candidates for targeted multi-drug delivery into prostate cancer cells

Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains essentially incurable. Targeted Drug Delivery (TDD) systems may overcome the limitations of current mCRPC therapies. We describe the use of strict criteria to isolate novel prostate cancer cell targeting peptides that specifically deliver drugs into target cells. Phage from a libraries displaying 7mer peptides were exposed to PC-3 cells and only internalized phage were recovered. The ability of these phage to internalize into other prostate cancer cells (LNCaP, DU-145) was validated.

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mTOR signaling in immune cells and its implications for cancer immunotherapy

The realization that cellular metabolism dictates immune cell development, differentiation and function affords metabolic intervention as a potential venue for cancer immunotherapy. mTOR signaling, as a metabolic master regulator, controls immune cell biology in a cell type-specific and context dependent manner. Furthermore, mTOR activity needs to be fine-tuned to maintain proper immune function. These properties may be exploited for therapeutic purpose, yet caution should be taken against radical changes of mTOR activity.

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HSF1 upregulates ATG4B expression and enhances epirubicin-induced protective autophagy in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Considerable evidences have shown that both heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) and autophagy can attenuate the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells to chemotherapeutic reagents. However, it is still little known whether HSF1 is associated with autophagy in regulating the chemosensitivity of HCC cells. In this study, we for the first time demonstrated that HSF1 markedly attenuated the killing effect of epirubicin (EPI) to HCC cells via enhancing the EPI-induced protective autophagy.

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Mutations of RNA splicing factors in hematological malignancies

Systematic large-scale cancer genomic studies have produced numerous significant findings. These studies have not only revealed new cancer-promoting genes, but they also have identified cancer-promoting functions of previously known "housekeeping" genes. These studies have identified numerous mutations in genes which play a fundamental role in nuclear precursor mRNA splicing. Somatic mutations and copy number variation in many of the splicing factors which participate in the formation of multiple spliceosomal complexes appear to play a role in many cancers and in particular in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

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TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) for bone sarcoma treatment: pre-clinical and clinical data

Bone sarcomas are rare, highly malignant mesenchymal tumours that affect teenagers and young adults, as well as older patients. Despite intensive, multimodal therapy, patients with bone sarcomas have poor 5-year survival, close to 50%, with lack of improvement over recent decades. TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), a member of the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) ligand superfamily (TNFLSF), has been found to induce apoptosis in cancer cells while sparing nontransformed cells, and may therefore offer a promising new approach to treatment.

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Organ- and cell-specific immune responses are associated with the outcomes of intracerebral hemorrhage [Research]

Severe brain injury significantly influences immune responses; however, the levels at which this influence occurs and which neurogenic pathways are involved are not well defined. Here, we used MRI to measure spleen volume and tissue diffusion changes in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We observed increased capillary exchange and spleen shrinkage by d 3 post-ICH, with recovery by d 14. The extent of spleen shrinkage was associated with brain hematoma size, and a reduced progression of perihematomal edema was observed in the presence of severe spleen shrinkage. At the cellular level, lymphopenia was present in patients with ICH at admission and persisted up to 14 d. Lymphopenia did not parallel the observed spleen alteration. In addition, patients with ICH with infection had significant deficiencies of T and NK cells and poor functional outcomes. Finally, in mouse models of ICH, spleen shrinkage could be related to innervations from adrenergic input and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In sum, the profound impact of ICH on the immune system involves the coordinated actions of sympathetic innervation and the HPA axis, which modulate spleen shrinkage and cellular immunity.—Zhang, J., Shi, K., Li, Z., Li, M., Han, Y., Wang, L., Zhang, Z., Yu, C., Zhang, F., Song, L., Dong, J.-F., La Cava, A., Sheth, K. N., Shi, F.-D. Organ- and cell-specific immune responses are associated with the outcomes of intracerebral hemorrhage.

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Proline-dependent and basophilic kinases phosphorylate human TRPC6 at serine 14 to control channel activity through increased membrane expression [Research]

Signaling via the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel C6 plays a pivotal role in hereditary and sporadic glomerular kidney disease. Several studies have identified gain-of-function mutations of TRPC6 and report induced expression and enhanced channel activity of TRPC6 in association with glomerular diseases. Interfering with TRPC6 activity may open novel therapeutic pathways. TRPC6 channel activity is controlled by protein expression and stability as well as intracellular trafficking. Identification of regulatory phosphorylation sites in TRPC6 and corresponding protein kinases is essential to understand the regulation of TRPC6 activity and may result in future therapeutic strategies. In this study, an unbiased phosphoproteomic screen of human TRPC6 identified several novel serine phosphorylation sites. The phosphorylation site at serine 14 of TRPC6 is embedded in a basophilic kinase motif that is highly conserved across species. We confirmed serine 14 as a target of MAPKs and proline-directed kinases like cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) in cell-based as well as in vitro kinase assays and quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis of TRPC6. Phosphorylation of TRPC6 at serine 14 enhances channel conductance by boosting membrane expression of TRPC6, whereas protein stability and multimerization of TRPC6 are not altered, making serine 14 phosphorylation a potential drug target to interfere with TRPC6 channel activity.—Hagmann, H., Mangold, N., Rinschen, M. M., Koenig, T., Kunzelmann, K., Schermer, B., Benzing, T., Brinkkoetter, P. T. Proline-dependent and basophilic kinases phosphorylate human TRPC6 at serine 14 to control channel activity through increased membrane expression.

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Identification of a new adtrp1-tfpi regulatory axis for the specification of primitive myelopoiesis and definitive hematopoiesis [Research]

A genomic variant in the human ADTRP [androgen-dependent tissue factor (TF) pathway inhibitor (TFPI) regulating protein] gene increases the risk of coronary artery disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. TFPI is the TF pathway inhibitor that is involved in coagulation. Here, we report that adtrp and tfpi form a regulatory axis that specifies primitive myelopoiesis and definitive hematopoiesis, but not primitive erythropoiesis or vasculogenesis. In zebrafish, there are 2 paralogues for adtrp (i.e., adtrp1 and adtrp2). Knockdown of adtrp1 expression inhibits the specification of hemangioblasts as shown by decreased expression of the hemangioblast markers, etsrp, fli1a, and scl; blocks primitive hematopoiesis as shown by decreased expression of pu.1, mpo, and l-plastin; and disrupts the specification of hematopoietic stem cells (definitive hematopoiesis) as shown by decreased expression of runx1 and c-myb. However, adtrp1 knockdown does not affect erythropoiesis during primitive hematopoiesis (no effect on gata1 or h-bae1) or vasculogenesis (no effect on kdrl, ephb2a, notch3, dab2, or flt4). Knockdown of adtrp2 expression does not have apparent effects on all markers tested. Knockdown of adtrp1 reduced the expression of tfpi, and hematopoietic defects in adtrp1 morphants were rescued by tfpi overexpression. These data suggest that the regulation of tfpi expression is one potential mechanism by which adtrp1 regulates primitive myelopoiesis and definitive hematopoiesis.—Wang, L., Wang, X., Wang, L., Yousaf, M., Li, J., Zuo, M., Yang, Z., Gou, D., Bao, B., Li, L., Xiang, N., Jia, H., Xu, C., Chen, Q., Wang, Q. K. Identification of a new adtrp1-tfpi regulatory axis for the specification of primitive myelopoiesis and definitive hematopoiesis.

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The Rise of the Recliner as a Male Social Space

The gendering of spaces changed the way people could relax in their homes.

-- Read more on ScientificAmerican.com

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The Rise of the Recliner as a Male Social Space

The gendering of spaces changed the way people could relax in their homes.

-- Read more on ScientificAmerican.com

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Targeting Aberrant p70S6K Activation for Estrogen Receptor Negative Breast Cancer Prevention

The prevention of ER- breast cancer remains a major challenge in the cancer prevention field although anti-estrogen and aromatase inhibitors have shown adequate efficacy in preventing ER+ breast cancer. Lack of commonly expressed, druggable targets is a major obstacle for meeting this challenge. Previously, we detected the activation of Akt signaling pathway in atypical hyperplasic early stage lesions of patients. In the current study, we found that Akt and the downstream p70S6K signaling pathway was highly activated in ER- pre-malignant breast lesions and ER- breast cancer. Additionally, p70S6K activation induced transformation of ER- human mammary epithelial cells. Therefore, we explored the potential of targeting Akt/p70S6K in the p70S6K activated, ER- hMECs models and mouse mammary tumor models for the prevention of ER- breast cancer. We found that a clinically applicable Akt/p70S6K dual inhibitor, LY2780301, drastically decreased proliferation of hMECs with ErbB2-induced p70S6K activation via Cyclin B1 inhibition and cell cycle blockade at G0-G1 phase, while it did not significantly reverse the abnormal acinar morphology of these hMECs. In addition, a brief treatment of LY2780301 in MMTV-neu mice that developed atypia/ADH and mammary intraepithelial neoplasia lesions with activated p70S6K was sufficient to suppress S6 phosphorylation and decrease cell proliferation in hyperplasic MECs. In summary, targeting the aberrant Akt/p70S6K activation in ER- hMEC models in vitro and in the MMTV-neu transgenic mouse model in vivo effectively inhibited Akt/S6K signaling and reduced proliferation of hMECs in vitro and ADH/MIN lesions in vivo, indicating its potential in prevention of p70S6K activated ER- breast cancer.

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Alterations in bronchial airway microRNA expression for lung cancer detection

We have previously shown that gene-expression alterations in normal-appearing bronchial epithelial cells can serve as a lung cancer detection biomarker in smokers. Given that microRNAs regulate airway gene-expression responses to smoking, we evaluated whether microRNA-expression is also altered in the bronchial epithelium of smokers with lung cancer. Using epithelial brushings from the mainstem bronchus of patients undergoing bronchoscopy for suspected lung cancer (as part of the AEGIS-1/2 clinical trials), we profiled microRNA-expression via small-RNA sequencing from 347 current and former smokers for which gene-expression data was also available. Patients were followed for one year post-bronchoscopy until a final diagnosis of lung cancer (n=194) or benign disease (n=153) was made. Following removal of 6 low-quality samples, we used 138 patients (AEGIS-1) as a discovery set to identify four microRNAs (miR-146a-5p, miR-324-5p, miR-223-3p, miR-223-5p) that were down-regulated in the bronchial airway of lung cancer patients (ANOVA p<0.002, FDR<0.2). The expression of these microRNAs is significantly more negatively-correlated with the expression of their mRNA-targets than with the expression of other non-target genes (K-S p<0.05). Further, these mRNA-targets are enriched among genes whose expression is elevated in cancer patients (GSEA FDR<0.001). Finally, we found that the addition of miR-146a-5p to an existing mRNA-biomarker for lung cancer significantly improves its performance (AUC) in the 203 samples (AEGIS-1/2) serving an independent test set (DeLong p<0.05). Our findings suggest that there are microRNAs whose expression is altered in the cytologically-normal bronchial epithelium of smokers with lung cancer, and that they may regulate cancer-associated gene expression differences.

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An Essential Role of Maspin in Embryogenesis and Tumor Suppression—Response

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An Essential Role of Maspin in Embryogenesis and Tumor Suppression—Letter

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Sudden sensorineural hearing loss in children and adolescents: Clinical characteristics and age-related prognosis

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Jin Youp Kim, Jae Joon Han, Woong Sang Sunwoo, Ja-Won Koo, Seung-Ha Oh, Min-Hyun Park, Young Ho Kim
ObjectiveAlthough many studies have investigated sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in adults, there were few studies on SSNHL in the pediatric population; especially research on treatment and prognosis of pediatric SSNHL was limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in children and adolescents with SSNHL.MethodsA retrospective review of medical records of 67 pediatric patients (67 ears) who had diagnosed with SSNHL at our hospitals was performed to analyze patients' clinical manifestations and audiograms. All patients were treated with high-dose systemic prednisolone (1mg/kg), and 17 of them underwent intratympanic steroid injection therapy. Audiological evaluation was carried out before and after treatment, and hearing recovery was defined as complete recovery and partial recovery according to Siegel's criteria. Patients were divided into two groups: childhood group (ages between 4 and 12 years old) and adolescence group (age>12years), and clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes were investigated. In addition, patients were divided into two groups according to degree of hearing recovery, and evaluation was made regarding possible prognostic factors.ResultsThe recovery rate in total 67 patients was 55.2%. The recovery rate of the childhood group was significantly lower than that of the adolescence group (p=0.038). While the presence of vertigo did not significantly correlate with prognosis (p=0.219), the presence of tinnitus was significantly associated with hearing recovery (p=0.005). Audiological assessment revealed that a low initial hearing threshold, high speech discrimination score, and descending type of audiogram were positively associated with hearing recovery (p=0.002, p=0.003, and p=0.029, respectively).ConclusionThe childhood group had worse treatment outcomes than the adolescence group. High initial hearing threshold and absence of tinnitus were poor prognostic factors of hearing recovery. Active treatment is required for patients with these poor prognostic factors and childhood patients with SSNHL.



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The Study of Calcium, Phosphonium, Magnesium, and Ferrum Concentration in Serum of Patients With Primary Trigeminal Neuralgia: Erratum

No abstract available

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Research and Clinical Application of Three-Dimensional Location of Amygdaloid Body

Abstract: Accurately representing the spatial location of the amygdaloid body can lay an anatomical basis for the neurosurgery operation for amputation of the amygdaloid body through lateral fissure approach. As we know, there are a number of nerve nucleuses and essential structures locating around amygdaloid body in our brain, especially optic tract. However, only few research had been done to protect these tissues or nerve nucleuses. Thus, we reconstructed the three-dimensional images of the amygdaloid body of the human brain and established a coordinate system. The morphological parameters of the amygdaloid body and the three-dimensional coordinate data were measured. The spherical coordinates (R, θ, ϕ) were constructed by calculating the azimuth angle, elevation angle, and the distance from the coordinates origin to each amygdaloid body centroid. Sixty people brain MRI images without any visible organic disease were used in our research to investigate the average level of related parameters. The authors selected a proper coordinate origin and measured the value of anteroposterior diameter, right-and-left diameter, vertical diameter of the amygdaloid body, and the distance from the optic tract to amygdaloid body. The authors also measured the three-dimensional coordinate data of each centroid of the amygdaloid body in order to provide anatomical suggestion for surgery. The authors confirmed the nearest point from the foremost edge of the brain ventricle temporal horn to the lateral fissure, then viewed it as the coordinate origin. By means of coordinate translation, the authors got various morphological parameters and the coordinate values of each centroid of the amygdaloid body. Spherical coordinates were calculated from the three-dimensional coordinate values. The distances between the different layers of the amygdaloid body and the optic tract were also measured. The reconstruction of the three-dimensional coordinates of amygdaloid body is part of the digital engineering of the human body. The measurement of the parameters provides an important theoretical basis for the clinical amygdaloid body destruction surgery. Finally, the authors get conclusions as follows. There are no significant differences in the measured values of r1, r2, and r3 between the upper and lower diameters, the left and right diameters, the anteroposterior diameter of the amygdaloid body. The measured values of men and women are not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Spherical coordinates (R, θ, ϕ) calculated from the three-dimensional coordinate values and values from different sexes of the amygdaloid body are not statistically significant, either (P > 0.05). The distance between the different levels of the amygdaloid body and the optic tract (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6, and h7) are not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

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The Current Challenge for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in China, the Biggest Developing Country

No abstract available

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Intracranial Enterogenous Cysts Close to the Brainstem Treated Through the Nerve Endoscope

Abstract: Enterogenous cysts (ECs) are rare, inborn lesions of central nervous system, which mostly occurred in the ventral side of the spinal cord as well as common in children; adult intracranial cysts are rare. Although the morbidity of intracranial ECs is quite low, we also can make a preliminary diagnosis of those patients with the help of imaging examination. In this article, we introduced 1 case of ECs ventral to the brainstem, which present images on magnetic resonance imaging as hypointense lesions on T1-weighted and high-intensity mass on T2-weighted image. In consideration of the difficulty of the surgical approach and the surgical visual field exposure, we use microscope and nerve endoscope to design personalized surgical approach to minimize the surgical injury. Pathologic examination showed that it was typical EC. Not only is the location extremely rare, but also the surgical method is uncommon in this disease. We not only study the intracranial ECs' manifestations, but also discuss the surgical approach and the application of nerve endoscope of our choice,which aims to provides a new surgical therapeutic approach for these lesions.

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Global Medical Cooperation With the East and West: Achieve Excellence in Craniofacial Surgery

No abstract available

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Three-Dimensional Radiologic Study on Index Measurement of Endonasal Endoscopic Optic Nerve Decompression

Objective: To provide the radiologic basis for the clinical application of endonasal endoscopic optic nerve decompression (EEOND). Methods: CTA images were used to observe the optic canal (OC) and related structures of 60 patients (120 sides) with normal nasal, paranasal sinuses, OC, and other related structures. Results: Optic canal could be classified as: the canal (10 sides, 8.33%), the semicanal (25 sides, 20.83%), the impression (49 sides, 40.83%), and the nonimpression (36 sides, 30%). According to its relationships with the sinuses, OC could be further typed as: ethmoid sinus (22 sides, 18.3%), sphenoid sinus (38 sides, 31.7%), ethmoid and sphenoid sinus (60 sides, 50%). The thickness of OC medial wall is about 1.11 ± 0.24 mm at orbital mouth, 0.87 ± 0.25 mm at middle part and 1.19 ± 0.27 mm at cranial mouth. The arc length of OC bone wall which can be opened from the sinus cavity is about 7.18 ± 0.76 mm at orbital mouth, 8.27 ± 0.93 mm at middle part, and 6.98 ± 0.89 mm at cranial mouth. The length of the OC medial wall is 12.18 ± 1.35 mm. In the three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system that origined with the last point of middle turbinate root and oriented by temporal side, front side, and superior side, the coordinates of midpoints of OC medial wall are: (3.64 ± 1.11, 8.48 ± 1.65, 23.14 ± 2.67) at orbital mouth, (0.16 ± 1.21, 3.99 ± 1.80, 24.85 ± 2.67) at middle part, and (−3.59 ± 1.22, 0.77 ± 2.13, 26.39 ± 2.68) at cranial mouth. One length unit on the axes is a millimeter. Conclusion: Computed tomography (CT) scanning technique can measure the data of the OC in EEOND. It has great guiding significance for clinical operation.

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The Excellence of Graduate Medical Education in China: the New Door to Open for the Future of Young Surgeons

No abstract available

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Eyelid and Periorbital Surgery, Second Edition, edited by Mark A. Codner and Clinton D. McCord, Jr Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 2016

No abstract available

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Global Craniofacial Care

No abstract available

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Comprehensive Treatment of Primary Orbital Arteriovenous Malformation

Abstract: Primary orbital arteriovenous malformations are a rare kind of vascular malformation lesions. The authors present a 17-year-old man presented with swelling and pulsation in the left upper eyelid. The angiogram of the left internal carotid artery showed that arteriovenous malformations at the left upper eyelid area were supplied with one of the branches of ophthalmic artery. In this report, the authors elaborated the comprehensive treatments of primary arteriovenous malformation.

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Meet Dr Kilner at the Hunterian Museum

No abstract available

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Relative Location of Fundus Meatus Acustici Interni Via Porus Acusticus Internus in Facial Nerve Decompression

Abstract: Facial neural edema is the pathophysiological base of Bell's palsy. The middle cranial fossa approach is used to relieve the oppression of facial nerve at its most narrow course in the facial canal. In this research, the authors mainly discussed the internal auditory canal segment of facial nerve, completely in the shadow of the bony structure, which is inconvenient for transmastoid decompression. Therefore, the objective was to explore the definite position of the fundus meatus acustici interni from internal acoustic pore. Two hundred persons (age 22–60, 100 men and 100 women), presenting with healthy facial nerve, ear, and internal auditory canal, were investigated by computed tomography 3-dimensional reconstruction. Using statistical method to analyze, the authors obtained the definite position of the fundus meatus acustici interni, regarding the internal acoustic pore as the origin of coordinates. Our data provided more significant information for medical workers to improve the efficiency of operation and to prevent complications of surgery.

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The Current Challenge For Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery In China, The Biggest Developing Country

No abstract available

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Role of Notch Signaling in the Physiological Patterning of Posterofrontal and Sagittal Cranial Sutures

Background: The mutations in a Notch signaling ligand, jagged 1, are associated with unilateral coronal craniosynostosis in humans. However, the underlying mechanisms of Notch signaling in cranial suture biology still remain unclear. Methods: The temporal and spatial patterns of Notch signaling expression were examined in the posterofrontal and sagittal sutures of Sprague–Dawley rats by real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction at postnatal ages of 2, 15, and 25 days. The role of Notch signaling in the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts isolated from calvarial was examined in vitro by EdU incorporation assays and real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction after activating and inhibiting Notch signaling. Results: The mRNA levels of Notch family members (including Jagged 1, Delta 1, 3, 4, Notch 1–4, Hes 1, and Hes 5) decreased during the posterofrontal cranial suture fusion in rat. However, in the patent sagittal sutures, the mRNA levels of Notch family members (Jagged 2, Delta 1, Notch 1, Notch 3, Hes 5, and Hey 1) increased during suture development. The EdU incorporation assays revealed that the induction of Notch signaling in calvaria osteobalsts using Jagged 1 promoted the proliferation rates in those cells in vitro. Further studies showed that activation of Notch signaling calvaria osteobalsts using Jagged 1 led to the suppression of late osteogenetic markers such as type I collagen and osteocalcin. Conclusions: The regulation of Notch signaling is of crucial importance during the physiological patterning of posterofrontal and sagittal cranial sutures. Thus, targeting this pathway may prove significant for the development of future therapeutic applications in craniosynostosis.

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Intralesional Lidocaine Anesthesia: A Novel Facilitated Anesthesia Technique for Ethanol Sclerotherapy of Venous Malformation

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe a novel anesthesia, intralesional lidocaine anesthesia (ILA), for ethanol sclerotherapy of venous malformation and evaluate the efficacy and safety. Methods: A prospective study of 100 patients with venous malformations undergoing 100 sclerotherapy procedures with intralesional lidocaine anesthesia (ILA) was conducted. Pain was evaluated by numeric rating scale (NRS) immediately following the procedure. The grade of pain was classified by the NRS as no pain (0), mild (1–3), moderate (4–6), and severe (7–10). Local and systemic complications caused by lidocaine were recorded. Results: The median injected volume of absolute ethanol and 0.25% lidocaine was 5.9 mL and 17.0 mL, respectively. In ILA group, 13 patients had no pain during the procedure, 42 patients had mild pain, 38 patients had moderate pain, and 7 patients had severe pain. The mean NRS scores of the whole ILA group were 3.2 (0–8). No local or systemic complications attributed to lidocaine were reported. Conclusion: In a limited series, intralesional lidocaine anethesia seems to be efficient and safe for use in pain management for ethanol sclerotherapy of venous malformation. This anesthesia technique may be a promising first approach for the ethanol sclerotherapy of venous malformations, as it is easy to handle and has minimal sequelae.

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Three Skin Zones in the Asian Upper Eyelid Pertaining to the Asian Blepharoplasty: Erratum

No abstract available

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Reduction of Surgical Site Infections After Cranioplasty With Perioperative Bundle

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) are the most common complication after cranioplasty and it is associated with poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors that triggered the development of SSI after cranioplasty and establish a new perioperative bundle and monitoring system to reduce SSI. Methods: A retrospective review of a database that included all cranioplasty patients from 2001 to 2007 was carried out to determine the prevalence of infection. A surveillance team was set up, which assessed the clinical practice and led to the development of a new perioperative bundle and supervision system. A prospective study between 2008 and 2014 was carried out to observe whether infection rates had changed and whether an active surveillance program can change clinical practice. Results: Retrospective period included 86 adult patients. The overall rate of infection was 10.5% (9 SSI in 86 patients). Age ≥60 years (OR 1.05; 95% CI: 1.00–1.10; P = 0.04), smoking (OR 9.13; 95% CI: 1.65–50.60; P = 0.01), and duration of operation ≥180 minutes (OR1.19; 95% CI: 1.06–1.34; P 

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Single-Stage Reconstruction of Eyebrow Defect Using a V-Y Advancement Pedicle Flap Based on the Orbicularis Oculi Muscle

Abstract: Eyebrows play an important role in face expression and facial mimics by virtue of muscle contraction. Defects or deformity of the eyebrows result in abnormal facial expressions, and may lead to aesthetic issues for patients. The objective of this study is to report the case of a patient, with a congenital skin pigmented nevus at the right side of the eyebrow treated with direct surgical resection and followed by immediate reconstruction of the eyebrow with a V-Y advancement pedicle flap based on the orbicularis oculi muscle.

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Comparison of Two Different Grafts in Nasal Framework Reconstruction of Binder Syndrome: Cartilage and Silicone

Background: Binder syndrome is a rare congenital malformation with a flat facial profile especially a depressed nose. Rhinoplasty plays an important part in the multidisciplinary surgical protocol. Different materials have been proposed to reconstruct nasal framework. But fewer evidence concerns which graft can achieve more stable and appreciated nasal contour. In this article, the authors reported surgical details and experience of nasal framework reconstruction of Binder syndrome, compare the esthetic outcomes of 2 grafts: autologous costal cartilage and L-shaped silicone covered with auricular cartilage. Methods: A retrospective study of 25 Binder syndrome patients (9 with silicone and 16 with costal cartilage) was managed. Anthropometric method was used to evaluate nasal profiles preoperatively and postoperatively. Surgical techniques, complications were reviewed. Statistics analysis was managed. Probability (P) of

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Oral Localization of Kaposi Sarcoma: Clinical Presentation and Conservative Management

Abstract: Kaposi sarcoma (KS) caused by human herpes virus type-8 is the most frequent immunosuppression-associated malignancy worldwide and its treatment is still controversial. We report on the clinical management of a patient who developed oral KS after liver transplantation. The disease appeared 1 month after the transplant and recurred after 4 months. The patient represents, to our knowledge, a rare case that was treated successfully only by shifting a conventional immunosuppressive therapy to everolimus alone.

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Prognosis in patients with obstructive sleep apnea with special reference to comorbidities and treatment of positive airway pressure

None declared.

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Association of sleep duration and incidence of diabetes modified by tea consumption: a report from the Shanghai Men’s Health Study

To evaluate the association between sleep duration and the incidence of diabetes stratified by sleep-related factors among Chinese men.

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Perceptual Differences between Novice and Professional Music Theater Singers

Research examining contemporary commercial music styles of singing has increased significantly over the last 10 years. While acoustic analysis has helped determine which characteristics define various vocal genres, a discrepancy still exists in how those acoustic characteristics are perceived, described, and evaluated.

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Commentary on: Treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux using a sleep positioning device: A prospective cohort study

We reviewed the paper entitled "Treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux using a sleep positioning device: A prospective cohort study," by Tierney et al. [1] with interest. This is an excellent work. Use of the sleep positioning device constitutes a minimally invasive treatment approach, resulting in more comfortable sleep and an improvement in the symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). However, the authors did not describe the symptoms of the upper gastrointestinal tract or the performance of gastroscopy or 24-hour oropharyngeal or esophageal pH monitoring.

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Intraoperative imaging during minimally invasive transoral robotic surgery using near-infrared light

The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of the FIREFLY imaging system could be an asset in transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). The system uses indocyanine green dye (ICG), which fluoresces when illuminated by near-infrared light from the Da Vinci robot. The system may improve visualization of tumor margins, highlight important vascular structures, and help identify the location of tumors and unknown primary head and neck cancers.

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Commentary on: Treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux using a sleep positioning device: A prospective cohort study

We reviewed the paper entitled "Treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux using a sleep positioning device: A prospective cohort study," by Tierney et al. [1] with interest. This is an excellent work. Use of the sleep positioning device constitutes a minimally invasive treatment approach, resulting in more comfortable sleep and an improvement in the symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). However, the authors did not describe the symptoms of the upper gastrointestinal tract or the performance of gastroscopy or 24-hour oropharyngeal or esophageal pH monitoring.

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Intraoperative imaging during minimally invasive transoral robotic surgery using near-infrared light

The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of the FIREFLY imaging system could be an asset in transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). The system uses indocyanine green dye (ICG), which fluoresces when illuminated by near-infrared light from the Da Vinci robot. The system may improve visualization of tumor margins, highlight important vascular structures, and help identify the location of tumors and unknown primary head and neck cancers.

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Acupuncture for temporomandibular joint syndrome

Acupuncture for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome is listed as an "emerging treatment" in the recent edition of BMJ Best Practice,1 which recommends that "Acupuncture treatment can be given weekly for a total of six treatments". In addition, the NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary2 has suggested that referral of the patient to an acupuncture specialist should be considered, to help relax muscular spasm.

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Integra® as a single-stage dermal regeneration template in reconstruction of large defects of the scalp

Dermal regeneration templates may be used in the reconstruction of large defects after the excision of cutaneous malignancies. We describe the successful use of Integra® (Integra Lifesciences Corporation, Plainsboro, NJ, USA) as a single-stage regeneration template after the excision of multiple lesions of the scalp with a surface area of 96.7cm2. Second-stage epidermal autografting was precluded because of an unforeseen deterioration in the patient's condition, and the wound re-epithelialised over a period of six months.

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Sudden sensorineural hearing loss in children and adolescents: Clinical characteristics and age-related prognosis

Although many studies have investigated sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in adults, there were few studies on SSNHL in the pediatric population; especially research on treatment and prognosis of pediatric SSNHL was limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in children and adolescents with SSNHL.

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Sudden sensorineural hearing loss in children and adolescents: Clinical characteristics and age-related prognosis

Although many studies have investigated sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in adults, there were few studies on SSNHL in the pediatric population; especially research on treatment and prognosis of pediatric SSNHL was limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes and prognostic factors in children and adolescents with SSNHL.

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American Brachytherapy Society recurrent carcinoma of the endometrium task force patterns of care and review of the literature

Publication date: Available online 6 September 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Mitchell Kamrava, Sushil Beriwal, Beth Erickson, David Gaffney, Anuja Jhingran, Ann Klopp, Sang June Park, Akila Viswanathan, Catheryn Yashar, Lilie Lin
PurposeThe purpose of this American Brachytherapy Society task force is to present a literature review and patterns of care by a panel of experts for the management of vaginal recurrence of endometrial cancer.Methods and materialsIn 2016, the American Brachytherapy Society Board selected a panel of experts in gynecologic brachytherapy to update our current state of knowledge for managing vaginal recurrence of endometrial cancer. Practice patterns were evaluated via an online survey and clinical updates occurred through a combination of literature review and clinical experience and/or expertise.ResultsThere are various retrospective series of patients treated with radiation for vaginal recurrence of endometrial cancer, which include a varied group of patients, multiple treatment techniques, and a range of total doses and demonstrate a wide scope of local control and overall survival outcomes. In the era of image-guided brachytherapy, high local control rates with low significant late-term morbidities can be achieved. Lower rates of local control and higher late-term toxicity are reported in the retreatment setting. In patients with no previous history of radiation treatment, external beam radiation therapy followed by brachytherapy boost should be used. There are varying practices with regard to the definition and appropriate doses of both the high-risk clinical target volume and the intermediate-risk clinical target volume in the setting of vaginal recurrence of endometrial cancer. There are limited data to provide appropriate dose constraints for some organs at risk with the majority of guidance taken from the definitive cervical cancer literature.ConclusionsA summary of literature and expert practice patterns for patient selection, dose recommendations, and constraints are provided as guidance for practitioners.



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The effect of breathing on ductus arteriosus blood flow directly after birth

Abstract

Spontaneous breathing at birth influences ductus arteriosus (DA) flow. This study quantifies the effect of breathing on DA shunting directly after birth. In healthy term infants born by elective cesarean section, simultaneous measurements of DA shunting and tidal volumes during spontaneous breathing were performed at 2–5, 5–8, and 10–13 min after birth. Eight infants with a mean (SD) gestational age of 40 (1) weeks and 3216 (616) grams were studied. Inspiratory tidal volume was 5.8 (3.3–7.7), 5.7 (4.0–7.1), and 5.2 (4.3–6.1) mL/kg at 2–5, 5–8, and 10–13 min. The velocity time integral of left-to-right shunting significantly increased during inspiration when compared to expiration (8.4 (5.2) vs. 3.7 (2.3) cm, 8.9 (4.4) vs. 5.6 (3.4) cm, and 14.0 (6.7) vs. 8.4 (6.9) cm; all p < 0.0001) at 2–5, 5–8, and 10–13 min, respectively. In contrast, right-to-left shunting was not different between inspiration and expiration at 2–5 and 10–13 min (11.1 (2.4) vs. 11.1 (2.6) cm and 10.7 (2.3) vs. 10.6 (3.0) cm; p > 0.05), but there was a small increase at 5–8 min (12.1 (2.4) vs. 10.8 (2.9) cm; p = 0.001) during expiration.

Conclusion: Directly after birth, ductal shunting is influenced by breathing effort, predominantly with an increase in left-to-right shunt due to inspiration.

What is Known: • Spontaneous breathing at birth influences ductus arteriosus flow and pulmonary blood flow. • Crying causes a significant increase in left-to-right ductus arteriosus shunting.

What is New: • Left-to-right ductus arteriosus shunting increases during inspiration compared to expiration. • Breathing is important for ductal shunting and contributes to pulmonary blood flow.

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Comparing the Centering Ability of Different Pathfinding Systems and Their Effect on Final Instrumentation by Hyflex CM

Recently, different rotary glide path systems have been introduced. The aim of this study was to compare the centering ability of different rotary pathfinding systems and their effect on the final preparation by Hyflex CM files.

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A type of sleep therapy reduces depression, anxiety and paranoia

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia has been found to also help a range of mental health issues, including negative thoughts, hallucinations and psychosis

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Dealing with Chronic Illness: Experiences of Iranian Families of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis—A Qualitative Study

Background. Today family members are providing care and support to each other during illness. In particular, in chronic illness, such as multiple sclerosis, the families are more involved in caring for and supporting their patients, so they use several strategies to cope with this situation. The purpose of this study was to explore the coping strategies in family caregivers of persons with multiple sclerosis in Iran. Methods. This is a qualitative study that was conducted through 18 family caregivers of persons with multiple sclerosis. A purposeful sampling method was used. Data were collected through semistructured and in-depth interviews conducted in Multiple Sclerosis Society and hospitals of Tabriz in Iran. The collected data was analyzed according to qualitative content analysis. Results. Five main categories were elicited from interviews: "using spirituality," "living with hope," "experiencing persistence and stability," "seeking support," and "seeking alternative treatments." Conclusion. The study findings can help to inform the support given to families to help them cope with the effects of caring for someone with multiple sclerosis. Health system managers and professionals by using these results are able to support patients and their families appropriately in order to improve their quality of life and alleviate the complications of disease.

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Expression of C4.4A in an In Vitro Human Tissue-Engineered Skin Model

A multi-LU-domain-containing protein denoted C4.4A exhibits a tightly regulated membrane-associated expression in the suprabasal layers of stratified squamous epithelia such as skin and the esophagus, and the expression of C4.4A is dysregulated in various pathological conditions. However, the biological function of C4.4A remains unknown. To enable further studies, we evaluated the expression of C4.4A in monolayer cultures of normal human keratinocytes and in tissue-engineered skin substitutes (TESs) produced by the self-assembly approach, which allow the formation of a fully differentiated epidermis tissue. Results showed that, in monolayer, C4.4A was highly expressed in the centre of keratinocyte colonies at cell-cell contacts areas, while some cells located at the periphery presented little C4.4A expression. In TES, emergence of C4.4A expression coincided with the formation of the stratum spinosum. After the creation of a wound within the TES, C4.4A expression was observed in the suprabasal keratinocytes of the migrating epithelium, with the exception of the foremost leading keratinocytes, which were negative for C4.4A. Our results are consistent with previous data in mouse embryogenesis and wound healing. Based on these findings, we conclude that this human TES model provides an excellent surrogate for studies of C4.4A and Haldisin expressions in human stratified epithelia.

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Impacts of Cloud Cover and Dust on the Performance of Photovoltaic Module in Niamey

The sensitivity of monocrystalline solar module towards dust accumulation and cloud cover is investigated from May to August 2015 for Niamey's environment. Two solar modules with the same characteristics have been used to assess the impacts of the dust on the solar PV module. One of the modules is being cleaned every morning and the second one was used for monitoring the effect of dust accumulation onto the surface of the unclean module for May and June. Results show that dust accumulation has a great effect on decreasing the daily energy yield of the unclean module. But this effect is a long-term effect. For the cloud cover, the effect is immediate. It was estimated that exposing the module into the environment in 23 days in June 2015 has reduced the daily energy yield by 15.29%. This limitation makes solar PV an unreliable source of power for remote devices and thus strongly suggests the challenges of cleaning the module's surface regularly.

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Static and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Long-Span Cable-Stayed Bridges Using CFRP Cables

The elastic modulus and deadweight of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) cables are different from those of steel cables. Thus, the static and dynamic behaviors of cable-stayed bridges using CFRP cables are different from those of cable-stayed bridges using steel cables. The static and dynamic performances of the two kinds of bridges with a span of 1000 m were studied using the numerical method. The effects of geometric nonlinear factors on static performance of the two kinds of cable-stayed bridges were analyzed. The live load effects and temperature effects of the two cable-stayed bridges were also analyzed. The influences of design parameters, including different structural systems, the numbers of auxiliary piers, and the space arrangement types of cable, on the dynamic performance of the cable-stayed bridge using CFRP cables were also studied. Results demonstrate that sag effect of the CFRP cable is much smaller than that of steel cable. The temperature effects of CFRP cable-stayed bridge are less than those of steel cable-stayed bridge. The vertical bending natural vibration frequency of the CFRP cable-stayed bridge is generally lower than that of steel cable-stayed bridge, whereas the torsional natural vibration frequency of the former is higher than that of the latter.

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A Clustering Method for Isomorphic Evolution of Web Services

Since the basic binding unit of current service request and response schema is an atomic Web service, it needs to costly find a substitute service or reconstruct the service process in the original service space once a fine granular evolution requirement occurs. To reduce the complexity of fine granular service evolution, an isomorphic evolution mechanism based on service clusters is proposed. Searching space can be reduced and responding flexibility will also be improved by adopting service cluster as the unit of service response. Simple evolution and merging evolution were put forward to handle the evolution of atomic Web services. Meanwhile, a formal model and the quality computing method for service processes built by service clusters were presented based on the logic Petri nets. Two types of evolution patterns including dot isomorphic evolution and chain isomorphic evolution were proposed to evolve service processes. The algorithms for different isomorphic evolution patterns of atomic service and service processes were designed in the paper. Simulation experiments were conducted on 10000 Web services with different process patterns. Compared with the traditional service request and response schema, the efficiencies of service discovery and isomorphic evolution are improved greatly in our proposed method.

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