Evaluation of speech reception threshold in noise in young Cochlear™ Nucleus® system 6 implant recipients using two different digital remote microphone technologies and a speech enhancement sound processing algorithm

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): Sergio Razza, Monica Zaccone, Aannalisa Meli, Eliana Cristofari
ObjectiveChildren affected by hearing loss can experience difficulties in challenging and noisy environments even when deafness is corrected by Cochlear implant (CI) devices. These patients have a selective attention deficit in multiple listening conditions. At present, the most effective ways to improve the performance of speech recognition in noise consists of providing CI processors with noise reduction algorithms and of providing patients with bilateral CIs.The aim of this study was to compare speech performances in noise, across increasing noise levels, in CI recipients using two kinds of wireless remote-microphone radio systems that use digital radio frequency transmission: the Roger Inspiro accessory and the Cochlear Wireless Mini Microphone accessory.MethodsEleven Nucleus Cochlear CP910 CI young user subjects were studied. The signal/noise ratio, at a speech reception threshold (SRT) value of 50%, was measured in different conditions for each patient: with CI only, with the Roger or with the MiniMic accessory. The effect of the application of the SNR-noise reduction algorithm in each of these conditions was also assessed. The tests were performed with the subject positioned in front of the main speaker, at a distance of 2.5 m. Another two speakers were positioned at 3.50 m. The main speaker at 65 dB issued disyllabic words. Babble noise signal was delivered through the other speakers, with variable intensity.ResultsThe use of both wireless remote microphones improved the SRT results. Both systems improved gain of speech performances. The gain was higher with the Mini Mic system (SRT = −4.76) than the Roger system (SRT = −3.01). The addition of the NR algorithm did not statistically further improve the results.ConclusionThere is significant improvement in speech recognition results with both wireless digital remote microphone accessories, in particular with the Mini Mic system when used with the CP910 processor. The use of a remote microphone accessory surpasses the benefit of application of NR algorithm.



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Newborn hearing screening failure and maternal factors during pregnancy

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): Yehuda Schwarz, Gabriel N. Kaufman, Sam J. Daniel
ObjectiveTemporary conductive hearing loss due to amniotic fluid accumulation in the middle ear cavity may lead to failure (false positive) in newborn hearing screening tests.The aim of this study was to identify whether amniotic fluid index has association with failure of the initial newborn otoacoustic emission (OAE) screening test.MethodsA cohort study in a tertiary hospital center (Royal Victoria Hospital, Montréal) was constructed from 70 newborns that failed the OAE test, but passed a subsequent auditory brainstem response (ABR) test, and 75 randomly selected newborns that passed initial otoacoustic emission testing. Maternal (including the amniotic fluid index in the third trimester) and newborn clinical data were extracted from medical records. Statistical association models were built to determine variables that influenced hearing screen passage or failure.ResultsThe two arms of the cohort had no significant differences in maternal or child clinical indices, including in amniotic fluid index. Calculated as individual odds ratios, maternal tobacco [95% CI of odds ratio: 0.04, 0.59, p = 0.0078], and drug use [95% CI of odds ratio: 0.0065, 0.72, p = 0.058] [borderline significance] were associated with failing the otoacoustic emission testing.ConclusionsAmniotic fluid index was not found to be associated with failure of otoacoustic emission screening in newborns. However, our study unveiled an interesting unexpected association of OAE failure with maternal smoking and/or drug use. This finding can help alleviate some of the time, cost and parental anxiety related to failed OAE screening.In selected cases of maternal smoking or drug use we might want to replace or add OAE to the ABR test in newborn hearing screening protocols, that don't perform both tests before discharge.



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Parental knowledge and attitudes to childhood hearing loss and hearing services in the Solomon Islands

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): Annette Kaspar, Obiga Newton, Joseph Kei, Carlie Driscoll, De Wet Swanepoel, Helen Goulios
ObjectiveAn understanding of parental knowledge and attitudes towards childhood hearing loss is essential to the successful implementation of audiology services. The present study aimed to investigate parental knowledge and attitudes among parents in the Solomon Islands.Methods and materialsA total of 100 mothers and 50 fathers were administered a questionnaire via semi-structured interviews.ResultsHighest parental awareness of aetiology of childhood hearing loss was noted for otitis media (94%), noise exposure (87.3%), and family history (72.7%). The highest parental awareness concerning public health initiatives to reduce/prevent otitis media was noted for routine childhood immunizations (84%) and breast-feeding (76%). Higher rates of knowledge in fathers than in mothers included otitis media (p = 0.038), noise exposure (p = 0.007), and breast-feeding (p = 0.031). Approximately half of parents (56%) agreed that curses may cause hearing loss. Overall parental responses showed positive support for infant hearing screening programs (96%) and school-based ear and hearing health examinations (99.3%).ConclusionsHigh levels of parental readiness and support for childhood hearing services in the Solomon Islands was evident. Knowledge of aetiology of childhood hearing loss was highest for otitis media, noise exposure, and family history. Knowledge and attitudes of fathers to childhood hearing loss and hearing services was either the same or better than that of mothers.



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Uncharacterized ORF HUR1 influences the efficiency of non-homologous end-joining repair in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Publication date: 10 January 2018
Source:Gene, Volume 639
Author(s): Katayoun Omidi, Matthew Jessulat, Mohsen Hooshyar, Daniel Burnside, Andrew Schoenrock, Tom Kazmirchuk, Maryam Hajikarimlou, Mary Daniel, Houman Moteshareie, Urvi Bhojoo, Megan Sanders, Dindial Ramotar, Frank Dehne, Bahram Samanfar, Mohan Babu, Ashkan Golshani
Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ) is a highly conserved pathway that repairs Double-Strand Breaks (DSBs) within DNA. Here we show that the deletion of yeast uncharacterized ORF HUR1, Hydroxyurea Resistance1 affects the efficiency of NHEJ. Our findings are supported by Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI), genetic interaction and drug sensitivity analyses. To assess the activity of HUR1 in DSB repair, we deleted its non-overlapping region with PMR1, referred to as HUR1-A. We observed that similar to deletion of TPK1 and NEJ1, and unlike YKU70 (important for NHEJ of DNA with overhang and not blunt end), deletion of HUR1-A reduced the efficiency of NHEJ in both overhang and blunt end plasmid repair assays. Similarly, a chromosomal repair assay showed a reduction for repair efficiency when HUR1-A was deleted. In agreement with a functional connection for Hur1p with Tpk1p and NEJ1p, double mutant strains Δhur1-A/Δtpk1, and Δhur1-A/Δnej1 showed the same reduction in the efficiency of plasmid repair, compared to both single deletion strains. Also, using a Homologous Recombination (HR) specific plasmid-based DSB repair assay we observed that deletion of HUR1-A influenced the efficiency of HR repair, suggesting that HUR1 might also play additional roles in other DNA repair pathways.



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Reversible profound sensorineural hearing loss due to propranolol sensitive hemangioma in an infant with PHACE syndrome

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): John N. Bangiyev, Richard Gurgel, Sheryll L. Vanderhooft, J. Fredrik Grimmer
PHACE syndrome is the association of large or segmental infantile hemangiomas of the face or scalp with abnormalities within the posterior fossa, arteries, cardiovascular system, and eyes. We present a case of reversible profound sensorineural hearing loss due to a cerebellopontine angle infantile hemangioma that was successfully treated with propranolol.



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Evaluation of speech reception threshold in noise in young Cochlear™ Nucleus® system 6 implant recipients using two different digital remote microphone technologies and a speech enhancement sound processing algorithm

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): Sergio Razza, Monica Zaccone, Aannalisa Meli, Eliana Cristofari
ObjectiveChildren affected by hearing loss can experience difficulties in challenging and noisy environments even when deafness is corrected by Cochlear implant (CI) devices. These patients have a selective attention deficit in multiple listening conditions. At present, the most effective ways to improve the performance of speech recognition in noise consists of providing CI processors with noise reduction algorithms and of providing patients with bilateral CIs.The aim of this study was to compare speech performances in noise, across increasing noise levels, in CI recipients using two kinds of wireless remote-microphone radio systems that use digital radio frequency transmission: the Roger Inspiro accessory and the Cochlear Wireless Mini Microphone accessory.MethodsEleven Nucleus Cochlear CP910 CI young user subjects were studied. The signal/noise ratio, at a speech reception threshold (SRT) value of 50%, was measured in different conditions for each patient: with CI only, with the Roger or with the MiniMic accessory. The effect of the application of the SNR-noise reduction algorithm in each of these conditions was also assessed. The tests were performed with the subject positioned in front of the main speaker, at a distance of 2.5 m. Another two speakers were positioned at 3.50 m. The main speaker at 65 dB issued disyllabic words. Babble noise signal was delivered through the other speakers, with variable intensity.ResultsThe use of both wireless remote microphones improved the SRT results. Both systems improved gain of speech performances. The gain was higher with the Mini Mic system (SRT = −4.76) than the Roger system (SRT = −3.01). The addition of the NR algorithm did not statistically further improve the results.ConclusionThere is significant improvement in speech recognition results with both wireless digital remote microphone accessories, in particular with the Mini Mic system when used with the CP910 processor. The use of a remote microphone accessory surpasses the benefit of application of NR algorithm.



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Newborn hearing screening failure and maternal factors during pregnancy

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): Yehuda Schwarz, Gabriel N. Kaufman, Sam J. Daniel
ObjectiveTemporary conductive hearing loss due to amniotic fluid accumulation in the middle ear cavity may lead to failure (false positive) in newborn hearing screening tests.The aim of this study was to identify whether amniotic fluid index has association with failure of the initial newborn otoacoustic emission (OAE) screening test.MethodsA cohort study in a tertiary hospital center (Royal Victoria Hospital, Montréal) was constructed from 70 newborns that failed the OAE test, but passed a subsequent auditory brainstem response (ABR) test, and 75 randomly selected newborns that passed initial otoacoustic emission testing. Maternal (including the amniotic fluid index in the third trimester) and newborn clinical data were extracted from medical records. Statistical association models were built to determine variables that influenced hearing screen passage or failure.ResultsThe two arms of the cohort had no significant differences in maternal or child clinical indices, including in amniotic fluid index. Calculated as individual odds ratios, maternal tobacco [95% CI of odds ratio: 0.04, 0.59, p = 0.0078], and drug use [95% CI of odds ratio: 0.0065, 0.72, p = 0.058] [borderline significance] were associated with failing the otoacoustic emission testing.ConclusionsAmniotic fluid index was not found to be associated with failure of otoacoustic emission screening in newborns. However, our study unveiled an interesting unexpected association of OAE failure with maternal smoking and/or drug use. This finding can help alleviate some of the time, cost and parental anxiety related to failed OAE screening.In selected cases of maternal smoking or drug use we might want to replace or add OAE to the ABR test in newborn hearing screening protocols, that don't perform both tests before discharge.



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Parental knowledge and attitudes to childhood hearing loss and hearing services in the Solomon Islands

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): Annette Kaspar, Obiga Newton, Joseph Kei, Carlie Driscoll, De Wet Swanepoel, Helen Goulios
ObjectiveAn understanding of parental knowledge and attitudes towards childhood hearing loss is essential to the successful implementation of audiology services. The present study aimed to investigate parental knowledge and attitudes among parents in the Solomon Islands.Methods and materialsA total of 100 mothers and 50 fathers were administered a questionnaire via semi-structured interviews.ResultsHighest parental awareness of aetiology of childhood hearing loss was noted for otitis media (94%), noise exposure (87.3%), and family history (72.7%). The highest parental awareness concerning public health initiatives to reduce/prevent otitis media was noted for routine childhood immunizations (84%) and breast-feeding (76%). Higher rates of knowledge in fathers than in mothers included otitis media (p = 0.038), noise exposure (p = 0.007), and breast-feeding (p = 0.031). Approximately half of parents (56%) agreed that curses may cause hearing loss. Overall parental responses showed positive support for infant hearing screening programs (96%) and school-based ear and hearing health examinations (99.3%).ConclusionsHigh levels of parental readiness and support for childhood hearing services in the Solomon Islands was evident. Knowledge of aetiology of childhood hearing loss was highest for otitis media, noise exposure, and family history. Knowledge and attitudes of fathers to childhood hearing loss and hearing services was either the same or better than that of mothers.



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Reversible profound sensorineural hearing loss due to propranolol sensitive hemangioma in an infant with PHACE syndrome

Publication date: December 2017
Source:International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Volume 103
Author(s): John N. Bangiyev, Richard Gurgel, Sheryll L. Vanderhooft, J. Fredrik Grimmer
PHACE syndrome is the association of large or segmental infantile hemangiomas of the face or scalp with abnormalities within the posterior fossa, arteries, cardiovascular system, and eyes. We present a case of reversible profound sensorineural hearing loss due to a cerebellopontine angle infantile hemangioma that was successfully treated with propranolol.



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Viruses, Vol. 9, Pages 297: MicroRNA and mRNA Dysregulation in Astrocytes Infected with Zika Virus

Viruses, Vol. 9, Pages 297: MicroRNA and mRNA Dysregulation in Astrocytes Infected with Zika Virus

Viruses doi: 10.3390/v9100297

Authors: Robert Kozak Anna Majer Mia Biondi Sarah Medina Lee Goneau Babu Sajesh Jessy Slota Vanessa Zubach Alberto Severini David Safronetz Shannon Hiebert Daniel Beniac Timothy Booth Stephanie Booth Gary Kobinger

The Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic is an ongoing public health concern. ZIKV is a flavivirus reported to be associated with microcephaly, and recent work in animal models demonstrates the ability of the virus to cross the placenta and affect fetal brain development. Recent findings suggest that the virus preferentially infects neural stem cells and thereby deregulates gene expression, cell cycle progression, and increases cell death. However, neuronal stem cells are not the only brain cells that are susceptible to ZIKV and infection of other brain cells may contribute to disease progression. Herein, we characterized ZIKV replication in astrocytes, and profiled temporal changes in host microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcriptomes during infection. We observed the deregulation of numerous processes known to be involved in flavivirus infection, including genes involved in the unfolded protein response pathway. Moreover, a number of miRNAs were upregulated, including miR-30e-3p, miR-30e-5p, and, miR-17-5p, which have been associated with other flavivirus infections. This study highlights potential miRNAs that may be of importance in ZIKV pathogenesis.

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2147: Diabetes-Induced Dysfunction of Mitochondria and Stem Cells in Skeletal Muscle and the Nervous System

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2147: Diabetes-Induced Dysfunction of Mitochondria and Stem Cells in Skeletal Muscle and the Nervous System

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102147

Authors: Shin Fujimaki Tomoko Kuwabara

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common metabolic diseases spread all over the world, which results in hyperglycemia caused by the breakdown of insulin secretion or insulin action or both. Diabetes has been reported to disrupt the functions and dynamics of mitochondria, which play a fundamental role in regulating metabolic pathways and are crucial to maintain appropriate energy balance. Similar to mitochondria, the functions and the abilities of stem cells are attenuated under diabetic condition in several tissues. In recent years, several studies have suggested that the regulation of mitochondria functions and dynamics is critical for the precise differentiation of stem cells. Importantly, physical exercise is very useful for preventing the diabetic alteration by improving the functions of both mitochondria and stem cells. In the present review, we provide an overview of the diabetic alterations of mitochondria and stem cells and the preventive effects of physical exercise on diabetes, focused on skeletal muscle and the nervous system. We propose physical exercise as a countermeasure for the dysfunction of mitochondria and stem cells in several target tissues under diabetes complication and to improve the physiological function of patients with diabetes, resulting in their quality of life being maintained.

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Dough rheology and physicochemical properties of steamed buns fortified with cross-linked rice starch

Publication date: Available online 14 October 2017
Source:Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre
Author(s): Farah Syahirah Abdul Shukri, Syazwani Abdul Refai, Radhiah Shukri, Kharidah Muhammad, Nor Afizah Mustapha, Wan Zunairah Wan Ibadullah, Nurul Shazini Ramli
Although fibre is associated with numerous health effects, daily fibre consumption is less than recommended. Fibre-enriched food is desirable to overcome this problem and resistant starch (RS) has potential as fibre ingredient. The objective of the research was to study the effect of cross-linked (CL) rice starch (RS type 4) at different levels (0%, 15% and 30%) on dough rheology, physicochemical and sensory acceptance of steamed bun. CL rice starch was produced by cross-linking rice starch with combination of 12% sodium trimetaphosphate and sodium tripolyphosphate for 3h at 45°C under alkaline condition. The dough of steamed bun was characterized by Farinograph and Extensograph, whereas cooked steamed bun was characterized by total dietary fibre, protein, moisture, textural properties, colour and sensory acceptance. Incorporation of CL rice starch in wheat flour lowered the strength, extensibility and quality of dough. The quality of dough was positively correlated with the protein content, indicating lower gluten formation in fortified SB. Total dietary fibre of steamed bun increased significantly with increasing CL starch in the order: 30CL (2.44%) > 15CL (1.33%) > 0CL (0.75%). Hardness and yellowness of steamed bun incorporated with CL rice starch reduced significantly. SB with 15% CL rice starch showed similar sensory acceptability with control SB. The study suggests that CL rice starch at 15% is suitable to increase fibre in steamed bun with little effects on the appearance and sensory attributes.



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Sulfated polysaccharides from Padina tetrastromatica arrest cell cycle, prevent metastasis and downregulate angiogenic mediators in HeLa cells

Publication date: Available online 14 October 2017
Source:Bioactive Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre
Author(s): Geena Mariya Jose, G. Muraleedhara Kurup
Development of therapeutic agents that can inhibit cell cycle, metastasis and angiogenesis in cancer cells is now emerging as a crucial strategy for cancer management. Some marine derived compounds such as sulfated polysaccharides were found to possess all these properties and hence they can be exploited well for these therapeutic applications. Based on this background, the current study focuses on the cell cycle arresting, anti metastatic and anti angiogenic activities of marine algal derived sulfated polysaccharides. Sulfated polysaccharides have been isolated and purified from the marine algae Padina tetrastromatica and named as Ethanolic Sulfated Polysaccharides-Column Purified (ESPs-CP). They were then evaluated for various anticancer effects in HeLa cells. Count and viability assay and cell cycle analysis were done using flow cytometry and other studies include scratch wound assay, CAM assay and gene expression. ESPs-CP successfully arrested cell cycle at Go/G1 phase and the effect was mediated through the upregulated expression of P21 and down regulation of cyclin D. The scratch wound assay revealed the inhibitory effect of ESPs-CP on the migration of HeLa cells. The two important mediators of metastasis, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were downregulated by ESPS-CP. During CAM assay, ESPs-CP suppressed the development of new blood vessels and reduced the hemoglobin content. They have also downregulated the expression of VEGF and HIF1A in HeLa cells, which might be the reason behind their anti angiogenic potency. Thus ESPs-CP can be considered as a potent therapeutic agent for the management of cancer.



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Archaeobotanical evidence of crop growing and diet within the areas of the Karanovo and the Linear Pottery Cultures: a quantitative and qualitative approach

Abstract

For the interpretation of the transition process to the European Neolithic, it is important to understand the archaeobotanical on-site display of plant remains in different investigation areas and different archaeological contexts. As regionally diverse archaeological feature types have been sampled in varying ways, they might bring to light different assemblages of plant remains for methodological reasons. Therefore, this paper uses the underlying fully quantified archaeobotanical data from 67 Neolithic sites and 2,279 samples from 832 features in Bulgaria, Austria and Germany. Also, a feature based quantitative comparison was made between the Early to Late Neolithic crop spectra from Bulgaria and those of the Early Neolithic Linear Pottery Culture (LBK) of central Europe. This touches the hypothesis of agricultural risk management and the question whether an ecological barrier may have prevented the LBK farmers from growing all of the original crops of the Balkan area and southwest Asia, so that they changed to a less diverse crop spectrum as well as new dietary preferences.

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Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of systematic reviews including harms checklist: A pilot tool to be used for balanced reporting of benefits and harms

Publication date: Available online 14 October 2017
Source:Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
Author(s): Konstantinos I. Bougioukas, Aris Liakos, Apostolos Tsapas, Evangelia Ntzani, Anna-Bettina Haidich
ObjectiveAn Overview of Systematic Reviews (OoSRs) is a study designed to synthesize multiple evidence from existing systematic reviews on a specific domain. The aim of this paper was to offer a pilot version checklist with Preferred Reporting Items for OoSRs (PRIO-harms) in order to promote a more balanced reporting of benefits and harms in OoSRs of healthcare interventions.MethodsThe included items were developed by combining key features from healthcare OoSRs designs with recommendations from statements of other relevant checklists and pertinent methodological review articles. Two raters independently used the PRIO-harms checklist to assess a sample of 20 OoSRs.ResultsThe PRIO-harms tool consists of a 27-item (56 sub-items in total) checklist and is accompanied by a five-stage process flow diagram (identification, screening, eligibility, inclusion and separation of relevant studies). The mean inter-rater reliability (Gwet's AC1 statistic) between reviewers was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.88, 0.92) indicating a very good agreement.ConclusionThe PRIO-harms tool can be used in every OoSRs that addresses healthcare interventions. This instrument will assist overview authors to improve completeness and transparency of research reporting with emphasis on harms. However, it might benefit from critical review and further validation from experts and research teams that produce OoSRs.



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Hydrogen peroxide resistance in Strigomonas culicis: Effects on mitochondrial functionality and Aedes aegypti interaction

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine, Volume 113
Author(s): Ana Cristina Souza Bombaça, Felipe de Almeida Dias, Vitor Ennes-Vidal, Aline dos Santos Garcia-Gomes, Marcos Henrique Ferreira Sorgine, Claudia Masini d'Avila-Levy, Rubem Figueiredo Sadok Menna-Barreto
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are toxic molecules involved in several biological processes such as cellular signaling, proliferation, differentiation and cell death. Adaptations to oxidative environments are crucial for the success of the colonization of insects by protozoa. Strigomonas culicis is a monoxenic trypanosomatid found in the midgut of mosquitoes and presenting a life cycle restricted to the epimastigote form. Among S. culicis peculiarities, there is an endosymbiotic bacterium in the cytoplasm, which completes essential biosynthetic routes of the host cell and may represent an intermediary evolutive step in organelle origin, thus constituting an interesting model for evolutive researches. In this work, we induced ROS resistance in wild type S. culicis epimastigotes by the incubation with increasing concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and compared the oxidative and energetic metabolisms among wild type, wild type-H2O2 resistant and aposymbiotic strains. Resistant protozoa were less sensitive to the oxidative challenge and more dependent on oxidative phosphorylation, which was demonstrated by higher oxygen consumption and mitochondrial membrane potential, increased activity of complexes II-III and IV, increased complex II gene expression and higher ATP production. Furthermore, the wild type-H2O2 resistant strain produced reduced ROS levels and showed lower lipid peroxidation, as well as an increase in gene expression of antioxidant enzymes and thiol-dependent peroxidase activity. On the other hand, the aposymbiotic strain showed impaired mitochondrial function, higher H2O2 production and deficient antioxidant response. The induction of H2O2 resistance also led to a remarkable increase in Aedes aegypti midgut binding in vitro and colonization in vivo, indicating that both the pro-oxidant environment in the mosquito gut and the oxidative stress susceptibility regulate S. culicis population in invertebrates.

Graphical abstract

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Reactive oxygen species enhance mitochondrial function, insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle of senescence accelerated prone mice SAMP8

Publication date: December 2017
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine, Volume 113
Author(s): Valentin Barquissau, Frédéric Capel, Dominique Dardevet, Christine Feillet-Coudray, Anne Gallinier, Marie-Agnès Chauvin, Jennifer Rieusset, Béatrice Morio
Whereas reactive oxygen species (ROS) can have opposite impacts on insulin signaling, they have mainly been associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in skeletal muscle. We analyzed the relationship between these three features in skeletal muscle of senescence accelerated mice (SAM) prone (P8), which are characterized by enhanced oxidative stress compared to SAM resistant (R1). Oxidative stress, ROS production, antioxidant system, mitochondrial content and functioning, as well as in vitro and in vivo insulin signaling were investigated in gastrocnemius and quadriceps muscles. In SAMP8 compared to SAMR1, muscle content in carbonylated proteins was two-fold (p < 0.01) and ROS production by xanthine oxidase 70% (p < 0.05) higher. Furthermore, insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation measured in vivo and ex vivo as well as muscle glucose uptake measured ex vivo were significantly higher (p < 0.05). Mitochondrial respiration evidenced uncoupling and higher respiration rates with substrates of complexes II and IV, in agreement with higher maximal activity of complexes II and IV (+ 18% and 62%, respectively, p < 0.05). By contrast, maximal activity of complex I was 22% lower (p < 0.05). All strain differences were corrected after 6 months of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) treatment, thus supporting the involvement of high ROS production in these differences. In conclusion in muscle of SAMP8 compared to SAMR1, high ROS production is associated to higher insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake but to lower mitochondrial complex I activity. These conflicting adaptations, with regards to the resulting imbalance between NADH production and use, were associated with intrinsic adjustments in the mitochondrial respiration chain (mitochondrial uncoupling, enhanced complexes II and IV activity). We propose that these bioenergetics adaptations may help at preserving muscle metabolic flexibility of SAMP8.

Graphical abstract

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The pathophysiological role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in lung diseases

Mitochondria are critically involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent lung diseases, such as lung fibrosis, asbestos, chronic airway diseases and lung cancer. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) encodes mitoch...

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Association of red cell distribution width with all-cause and cardiovascular-specific mortality in African American and white adults: a prospective cohort study

While the mortality rate is declining in the United States, the life expectancy gap among different population groups suggests a need to identify biomarkers to improve early identification of individuals at ri...

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The relative efficiency of Iranian’s rural traffic police: a three-stage DEA model

Road traffic Injuries (RTIs) as a health problem imposes governments to implement different interventions. Target achievement in this issue required effective and efficient measures. Efficiency evaluation of t...

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Determinants of self-rated health among shanghai elders: a cross-sectional study

As the most populous nation in the world, China has now becoming an emerging ageing society. Shanghai is the first city facing the challenge of ageing demographics. Against this background, a study that employ...

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Trauma burden in Tanzania: a one-day survey of all district and regional public hospitals

Trauma contributes significantly to the burden of disease and mortality throughout the world, but particularly in developing countries. In Tanzania, there is an enormous research gap on trauma; the limited dat...

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2146: Inhibition of Starvation-Triggered Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Autophagy, and Apoptosis in ARPE-19 Cells by Taurine through Modulating the Expression of Calpain-1 and Calpain-2

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2146: Inhibition of Starvation-Triggered Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Autophagy, and Apoptosis in ARPE-19 Cells by Taurine through Modulating the Expression of Calpain-1 and Calpain-2

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102146

Authors: Yuanyuan Zhang Shu Ren Yuci Liu Kun Gao Zheng Liu Zhou Zhang

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex disease with multiple initiators and pathways that converge on death for retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. In this study, effects of taurine on calpains, autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells (a human RPE cell line) were investigated. We first confirmed that autophagy, ER stress and apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells were induced by Earle's balanced salt solution (EBSS) through starvation to induce RPE metabolic stress. Secondly, inhibition of ER stress by 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA) alleviated autophagy and apoptosis, and suppression of autophagy by 3-methyl adenine (3-MA) reduced the cell apoptosis, but the ER stress was minimally affected. Thirdly, the apoptosis, ER stress and autophagy were inhibited by gene silencing of calpain-2 and overexpression of calpain-1, respectively. Finally, taurine suppressed both the changes of the important upstream regulators (calpain-1 and calpain-2) and the activation of ER stress, autophagy and apoptosis, and taurine had protective effects on the survival of ARPE-19 cells. Collectively, this data indicate that taurine inhibits starvation-triggered endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, and apoptosis in ARPE-19 cells by modulating the expression of calpain-1 and calpain-2.

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2145: A Functional Interplay between IGF-1 and Adiponectin

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2145: A Functional Interplay between IGF-1 and Adiponectin

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102145

Authors: Stefania Orrù Ersilia Nigro Annalisa Mandola Andreina Alfieri Pasqualina Buono Aurora Daniele Annamaria Mancini Esther Imperlini

A functional relationship is suggested between two well-known protein hormones, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and adiponectin. In the last two decades in fact, different experimental evidence has indicated a non-random link between them. Here, we describe briefly the IGF-1 and adiponectin systems, and we then focus on their putative interplay in relation to several pathological conditions, including obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Although the existing studies are hardly comparable, they definitely indicate a functional connection between these two protein hormones. In conclusion, the current knowledge strongly encourages further research into the common, as well as novel, mechanisms through which IGF-1 and adiponectin exert their concerted action.

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2144: DNA Adducts Formed by Aristolochic Acid Are Unique Biomarkers of Exposure and Explain the Initiation Phase of Upper Urothelial Cancer

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2144: DNA Adducts Formed by Aristolochic Acid Are Unique Biomarkers of Exposure and Explain the Initiation Phase of Upper Urothelial Cancer

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102144

Authors: Marie Stiborová Volker M. Arlt Heinz H. Schmeiser

Aristolochic acid (AA) is a plant alkaloid that causes aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN) and Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN), unique renal diseases frequently associated with upper urothelial cancer (UUC). This review summarizes the significance of AA-derived DNA adducts in the aetiology of UUC leading to specific A:T to T:A transversion mutations (mutational signature) in AAN/BEN-associated tumours, which are otherwise rare in individuals with UCC not exposed to AA. Therefore, such DNA damage produced by AA-DNA adducts is one rare example of the direct association of exposure and cancer development (UUC) in humans, confirming that the covalent binding of carcinogens to DNA is causally related to tumourigenesis. Although aristolochic acid I (AAI), the major component of the natural plant extract AA, might directly cause interstitial nephropathy, enzymatic activation of AAI to reactive intermediates capable of binding to DNA is a necessary step leading to the formation of AA-DNA adducts and subsequently AA-induced malignant transformation. Therefore, AA-DNA adducts can not only be utilized as biomarkers for the assessment of AA exposure and markers of AA-induced UUC, but also be used for the mechanistic evaluation of its enzymatic activation and detoxification. Differences in AA metabolism might be one of the reasons for an individual's susceptibility in the multi-step process of AA carcinogenesis and studying associations between activities and/or polymorphisms of the enzymes metabolising AA is an important determinant to identify individuals having a high risk of developing AA-mediated UUC.

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2126: Molecular Characterization and Functional Analysis of a Ferritin Heavy Chain Subunit from the Eri-Silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2126: Molecular Characterization and Functional Analysis of a Ferritin Heavy Chain Subunit from the Eri-Silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102126

Authors: Hai-Zhong Yu Shang-Zhi Zhang Yan Ma Dong-Qiong Fei Bing Li Li-Ang Yang Jie Wang Zhen Li Azharuddin Muhammad Jia-Ping Xu

Ferritins are conserved iron-binding proteins that are primarily involved in iron storage, detoxification and the immune response. Despite the importance of ferritin in organisms, little is known about their roles in the eri-silkworm (Samia cynthia ricini). We previously identified a ferritin heavy chain subunit named ScFerHCH in the S. c. ricini transcriptome database. The full-length S. c. ricini ferritin heavy chain subunit (ScFerHCH) was 1863 bp and encoded a protein of 231 amino acids with a deduced molecular weight of 25.89 kDa. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that ScFerHCH shared a high amino acid identity with the Bombyx mori and Danaus plexippus heavy chain subunits. Higher ScFerHCH expression levels were found in the silk gland, fat body and midgut of S. c. ricini by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting. Injection of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was associated with an upregulation of ScFerHCH in the midgut, fat body and hemolymph, indicating that ScFerHCH may contribute to the host's defense against invading pathogens. In addition, the anti-oxidation activity and iron-binding capacity of recombinant ScFerHCH protein were examined. Taken together, our results suggest that the ferritin heavy chain subunit from eri-silkworm may play critical roles not only in innate immune defense, but also in organismic iron homeostasis.

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Higher educational attainment associated with reduced likelihood of abnormal cervical lesions among Zambian women - a cross sectional study

The high burden of cervical cancer in Zambia prompted the Ministry of Health and partners to develop the cervical cancer prevention program in Zambia (CCPPZ) in 2006. Despite this intervention more women conti...

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Time to get under-involved with the kids

When it comes to nurturing children's creative skills, we have got it all wrong, argue two new books – especially when it comes to over-parenting

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Time to get under-involved with the kids

When it comes to nurturing children's creative skills, we have got it all wrong, argue two new books – especially when it comes to over-parenting

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The Rise of the Recliner as a Male Social Space Pexels Krystal D'Costa The Sciences Evolution What Do Companies Mean by Culture? http://ift.tt/2xJIHsc 5F90AB4B-D78F-4E7F-8AB5B4E132897BFA Mon, 04 Sep 2017 16:00:00 GMT Supportive. Curious. Unafraid. These are some of the words that advertising agencies use to describe their company culture. But do any of these words actually connect them with what culture actually is? Pexels Krystal D'Costa The Sciences Arts & Culture Labor Day: It's Abo

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Brain Sciences, Vol. 7, Pages 130: Propofol Induces Apoptosis of Neurons but Not Astrocytes, Oligodendrocytes, or Neural Stem Cells in the Neonatal Mouse Hippocampus

Brain Sciences, Vol. 7, Pages 130: Propofol Induces Apoptosis of Neurons but Not Astrocytes, Oligodendrocytes, or Neural Stem Cells in the Neonatal Mouse Hippocampus

Brain Sciences doi: 10.3390/brainsci7100130

Authors: Yasheng Yan Shigang Qiao Chika Kikuchi Ivan Zaja Sarah Logan Congshan Jiang Thiago Arzua Xiaowen Bai

It has been shown that propofol can induce widespread apoptosis in neonatal mouse brains followed by long-term cognitive dysfunction. However, selective brain area and cell vulnerability to propofol remains unknown. This study was aimed to dissect toxic effect of propofol on multiple brain cells, including neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neural stem cells (NSCs). Seven-day-old mice were intraperitoneally administrated propofol or intralipid as a vehicle control for 6 hours. To identify vulnerable cells undergoing apoptosis following propofol exposure, brain sagittal sections were co-stained with antibodies against an apoptosis marker along with neuron, astrocyte, oligodendrocyte, or NSC markers using immunofluorescence staining. The results showed widespread apoptosis in propofol-treated brains (apoptotic cells: 1.55 ± 0.04% and 0.06 ± 0.01% in propofol group and intralipid-treated control group, respectively). Apoptotic cell distribution exhibits region- and cell-specific patterns. Several brain regions (e.g., cerebral cortex and hippocampus) were more vulnerable to propofol than other brain regions. Most apoptotic cells in the hippocampus were located in the cornus ammonis 1 (CA1) subfield. These apoptotic cells were only detected in neurons and not astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, or NSCs. These data demonstrate that different brain regions, subfields, and different types of neuronal cells in mice exhibit various vulnerabilities to propofol. Understanding region- and cell-specific susceptibility to propofol will help to better understand cellular contribution to developmental neurotoxicity and further develop novel therapeutic targets.

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Current prognostic and predictive factors in follicular lymphoma

Abstract

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is generally considered an indolent disorder. With modern day treatments, long remissions are often achieved both in the front-line and relapsed setting. However, a subset of patients has a more aggressive course and a worse outcome. Their identification is the main purpose of modern day prognostic tools. In this review, we attempt to summarize the evidence concerning prognostic and predictive factors in FL, including (1) pre-treatment factors, from baseline clinical characteristics and imaging tests to histological grade, the microenvironment and genomic abnormalities; (2) post-treatment factors, i.e., depth of response, measured both by imaging tests and minimal residual disease; (3) factors at relapse and duration of response; and (4) prognostic factors in histological transformation. We conclude that, despite the existence of numerous tools, the availability of some of them is still limited; they generally suffer from notable downsides, and most have unproven predictive value, thus having scarce bearing on the choice of regimen at present. However, with the technological and scientific developments of the last few years, the potential for these prognostic factors is promising, particularly in combination, which will probably, in time, help guide therapeutic decisions.

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The effect of ribose pre-treatment of cortical bone on γ-irradiation sterilization effectiveness

Abstract

Reconstruction of large skeletal defects is a significant and challenging issue. Tissue banks often use γ-irradiation (15–35 kGy) to sterilize bone allografts, which, however, drastically impairs the post-yield mechanical properties. In previous studies, we reported the development of a method that protects human bone collagen connectivity through ribose crosslinking while still undergoing γ-irradiation. Given these promising results, the next step was to determine if the presence of ribose within the bone tissue would interfere with the effectiveness of the γ-irradiation sterilization against bacteria. This study had two stages. The aim of the first stage was to assess the protective effect of ribose in solution using a Bacillus pumilus spore strip model. The aim of the second stage was to assess the protective effect of ribose (R) on spores within a human cortical bone model in comparison to conventionally irradiated bone (I). Treatment of B. pumilus spore strips with ribose in solution led to temperature-dependent effects on spore viability versus spore strips treated with PBS alone. Ribose solution at 60 °C led to a notable two logs decrease in spore count relative to PBS at 60 °C. In the human bone model, the number of spores in the I and R groups were greatly decreased in comparison to the non-irradiated N group. No spore colonies were detected in the R group (n = 4) whereas two of the four plates of group I formed colonies. This study provides evidence that the method of pre-treating bone with ribose crosslinking prior to irradiation sterilization, while improving irradiation sterilized bone allograft quality, also may improve the effectiveness of the sterilization process.

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Identification of coronary artery anatomy on dual-source cardiac computed tomography before arterial switch operation in newborns and young infants: comparison with transthoracic echocardiography

Abstract

Background

Considering inherent limitations of transthoracic echocardiography, the diagnostic accuracy of cardiac CT in identifying coronary artery anatomy before arterial switch operation needs to be investigated with recently improved coronary artery visibility using electrocardiogram (ECG)-synchronized dual-source CT.

Objective

To compare diagnostic accuracy between cardiac CT using a dual-source scanner and transthoracic echocardiography in identifying coronary artery anatomy before arterial switch operation in newborns and young infants.

Materials and methods

The study included 101 infants (median age 4 days, range 0 days to 10 months; M:F=78:23) who underwent ECG-synchronized cardiac dual-source CT and transthoracic echocardiography before arterial switch operation between July 2011 and December 2016. We evaluated and classified coronary artery anatomy on cardiac CT and transthoracic echocardiography. With the surgical findings as the reference standard, we compared the diagnostic accuracy for identifying coronary artery anatomy between cardiac CT and transthoracic echocardiography.

Results

The most common coronary artery pattern was the usual pattern (left coronary artery from sinus 1 and right coronary artery from sinus 2; 64.4%, 65/101), followed by a single coronary artery from sinus 2 and a conal branch from sinus 1 (7.9%, 8/101), the inverted pattern (5.9%, 6/101), the right coronary artery and left anterior descending artery from sinus 1 and the left circumflex artery from sinus 2 (5.9%, 6/101), and others. In 96 infants with surgically proven coronary artery anatomy, the diagnostic accuracy of cardiac CT was significantly higher than that of transthoracic echocardiography (91.7%, 88/96 vs. 54.2%, 52/96; P<0.0001).

Conclusion

Diagnostic accuracy of cardiac CT is significantly higher than that of echocardiography in identifying coronary artery anatomy before arterial switch operation in newborns and young infants.

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RT @OphiraG : Another must read –by the peerless @oncology_bg (and thx 4 MT @NatRevClinOncol !) https://t.co/sKwX8pPiOn

RT @OphiraG : Another must read –by the peerless @oncology_bg (and thx 4 MT @NatRevClinOncol !) https://t.co/sKwX8pPiOn

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Phase IV head-to-head randomised controlled trial comparing ingenol mebutate 0.015% gel with diclofenac sodium 3% gel for the treatment of actinic keratosis on the face or scalp

Abstract

Background

Ingenol mebutate (IngMeb) and diclofenac sodium (DS) are approved treatments for actinic keratosis (AK).

Objectives

Compare efficacy and safety of IngMeb 0.015% gel with DS 3% gel.

Methods

Patients with 4–8 visible, discrete AK lesions on face/scalp in a 25 cm² contiguous area of skin were randomised 1:1 to IngMeb once-daily for 3 consecutive days, or DS twice-daily for 90 days, following label instruction. Patients presenting with AK lesions at Week 8 following IngMeb were offered a second IngMeb course. The primary endpoint was complete clearance of AK lesions (AKCLEAR 100) at end of first treatment course (Week 8, IngMeb; Week 17, DS). Secondary endpoints included AKCLEAR 100 at end of last treatment course and Week 17; adverse events (AEs) were assessed at these time points. Patients completed Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaires for Medication (TSQM; Week 17).

Results

AKCLEAR 100 at end of first treatment course was higher with IngMeb (34.5%) versus DS (23.5%; p=0.006). AKCLEAR 100 at end of last IngMeb course (53.3%) and Week 17 (45.1%) was higher than DS (both p<0.001). The most frequent AE was application-site erythema (IngMeb 19%; DS 12%). Treatment-related AE (TRAE) duration was shorter with IngMeb. TRAE withdrawals were lower for IngMeb (2%) versus DS (6%). TSQM scores for global satisfaction (p<0.001) and effectiveness (p=0.002) were higher with IngMeb, as was dosing instruction adherence (≥90% versus 70%).

Conclusion

AKCLEAR 100, patient treatment satisfaction and effectiveness were significantly higher with IngMeb versus DS, demonstrating superiority of IngMeb for AK treatment on face/scalp (NCT02406014).

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Melatonin potentiates “inside-out” nano-thermotherapy in human breast cancer cells: a potential cancer target multimodality treatment based on melatonin-loaded nanocomposite particles

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Evaluation of antibacterial, angiogenic, and osteogenic activities of green synthesized gap-bridging copper-doped nanocomposite coatings

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Poly((D,L)lactic-glycolic)acid–star glucose nanoparticles for glucose transporter and hypoglycemia-mediated tumor targeting

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Complementary and Integrative Medicine in Hematologic Malignancies: Questions and Challenges

Abstract

Hematologic malignancies represent 9.7% of all cancers, making them the fourth most common type of cancer in the United States. The aggressive and complex treatments administered in hematologic malignancies result in a high burden of psychological needs. Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) is becoming one of the options that patients use to address their distress during and after cancer treatments. It is not clear whether appropriate CIM can relieve distress in patients affected by these malignancies. This review covers the potential benefits of CIM as relates to nutrition, nutritional supplements, exercise, circadian rhythm, methods for reducing distress during bone marrow aspiration, massage therapy, and acupuncture, in treating patients with hematological malignancies. This review may provide a framework to enhance patient-doctor dialogue regarding CIM use in hematologic malignancies.

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Antioxidants, Vol. 6, Pages 78: Total Phenolic and Yellow Pigment Contents and Antioxidant Activities of Durum Wheat Milling Fractions

Antioxidants, Vol. 6, Pages 78: Total Phenolic and Yellow Pigment Contents and Antioxidant Activities of Durum Wheat Milling Fractions

Antioxidants doi: 10.3390/antiox6040078

Authors: Bin Fu Constance Chiremba Curtis Pozniak Kun Wang Shin Nam

The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of total yellow pigments, total phenolic compounds, and their antioxidant activities in various durum wheat milling fractions. Carotenoid composition of yellow pigment extract was also examined using UPLC. The ABTS radical scavenging activity of the milling fractions decreased in the order of short bran/bran &gt; feed flour &gt; flour/semolina in both total phenolic and total yellow pigment extracts. Yellow pigments extracts from bran, short bran, and feed flour exhibited 5.6–15.4% higher antioxidant activity than those of total phenolic extracts from the corresponding milling fractions. The UPLC results showed a non-carotenoid peak at Rt 0.47 min which was present in fractions of the grain outer layers but absent in semolina and flour. This peak absorbed in the UV range of 271 to 327 nm. These observations suggest that the unknown peak could be composed of phenolic compounds co-extracted in their free form with carotenoids in the polar water-saturated butanol solvent. The compounds in this peak could result in overestimation of carotenoid content and antioxidant activity in bran, short bran and feed flour as the peak contributed to 18.3–26.0% of total carotenoids if it was taken into account.

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Correction to: Extent and Location of the Excitatory and Inhibitory Cortical Hand Representation Maps: A Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Study

Abstract

The original version of this article unfortunately contained an error. An error in the transformation between coordinate systems used to derive part of the results has been noticed.

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Clinical performance of 68 Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI for the detection of recurrent prostate cancer following radical prostatectomy

Abstract

Purpose

Sensitive visualization of recurrent prostate cancer foci is a challenge in patients with early biochemical recurrence (EBR). The recently established ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT has significantly improved the detection rate with published values of up to 55% for patients with a serum PSA concentration between 0.2–0.5 ng/mL. The increased soft tissue contrast in the pelvis using simultaneous ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI might further improve the detection rate in patients with EBR and low PSA values over PET/CT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 56 consecutive patients who underwent a ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI for biochemical recurrence in our institution between April and December 2016 with three readers. Median PSA level was 0.99 ng/mL (interquartile range: 3.1 ng/mL). Detection of PSMA-positive lesions within the prostate fossa, local and distant lymph nodes, bones, or visceral organs was recorded. Agreement among observers was evaluated with Fleiss's kappa (k).

Results

Overall, in 44 of 56 patients (78.6%) PSMA-positive lesions were detected. In four of nine patients (44.4%) with a PSA < 0.2 ng/mL, suspicious lesions were detected (two pelvic and one paraaortic lymph nodes, and two bone metastases). In eight of 11 patients (72.7%) with a PSA between 0.2 and < 0.5 ng/mL, suspicious lesions were detected (two local recurrences, six lymph nodes, and one bone metastasis). Five out of 20 patients with a PSA < 0.5 ng/mL had extrapelvic disease. In 12 of 15 patients (80.0%) with a PSA between 0.5 and < 2.0 ng/mL, suspicious lesions were detected (four local recurrences, nine lymph nodes, and four bone metastases). In 20 of 21 patients (95.2%) with a PSA >2.0 ng/mL, suspicious lesions were detected. The overall interreader agreement for cancer detection was excellent (κ = 0.796, CI 0.645–0.947).

Conclusions

Our data show that ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI has a high detection rate for recurrent prostate cancer even at very low PSA levels <0.5 ng/mL. Furthermore, even at those low levels extrapelvic disease can be localized in 25% of the cases and local recurrence alone is seen only in 10%.

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IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1225: A Novel Vaping Machine Dedicated to Fully Controlling the Generation of E-Cigarette Emissions

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1225: A Novel Vaping Machine Dedicated to Fully Controlling the Generation of E-Cigarette Emissions

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14101225

Authors: Sébastien Soulet Charly Pairaud Hélène Lalo

The accurate study of aerosol composition and nicotine release by electronic cigarettes is a major issue. In order to fully and correctly characterize aerosol, emission generation has to be completely mastered. This study describes an original vaping machine named Universal System for Analysis of Vaping (U-SAV), dedicated to vaping product study, enabling the control and real-time monitoring of applied flow rate and power. Repeatability and stability of the machine are demonstrated on flow rate, power regulation and e-liquid consumption. The emission protocol used to characterize the vaping machine is based on the AFNOR-XP-D90-300-3 standard (15 W power, 1 Ω atomizer resistance, 100 puffs collected per session, 1.1 L/min airflow rate). Each of the parameters has been verified with two standardized liquids by studying mass variations, power regulation and flow rate stability. U-SAV presents the required and necessary stability for the full control of emission generation. The U-SAV is recognised by the French association for standardization (AFNOR), European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and International Standards Organisation (ISO) as a vaping machine. It can be used to highlight the influence of the e-liquid composition, user behaviour and nature of the device, on the e-liquid consumption and aerosol composition.

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IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1224: Fairness and Eligibility to Long-Term Care: An Analysis of the Factors Driving Inequality and Inequity in the Use of Home Care for Older Europeans

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1224: Fairness and Eligibility to Long-Term Care: An Analysis of the Factors Driving Inequality and Inequity in the Use of Home Care for Older Europeans

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14101224

Authors: Stefania Ilinca Ricardo Rodrigues Andrea Schmidt

In contrast with the case of health care, distributional fairness of long-term care (LTC) services in Europe has received limited attention. Given the increased relevance of LTC in the social policy agenda it is timely to evaluate the evidence on inequality and horizontal inequity by socio-economic status (SES) in the use of LTC and to identify the socio-economic factors that drive them. We address both aspects and reflect on the sensitivity of inequity estimates to adopting different definitions of legitimate drivers of care need. Using Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE)data collected in 2013, we analyse differences in home care utilization between community-dwelling Europeans in nine countries. We present concentration indexes and horizontal inequity indexes for each country and results from a decomposition analysis across income, care needs, household structures, education achievement and regional characteristics. We find pro-poor inequality in home care utilization but little evidence of inequity when accounting for differential care needs. Household characteristics are an important contributor to inequality, while education and geographic locations hold less explanatory power. We discuss the findings in light of the normative assumptions surrounding different definitions of need in LTC and the possible regressive implications of policies that make household structures an eligibility criterion to access services.

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IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1223: How Can Data Drive Policy and Practice in Child Welfare? Making the Link in Canada

IJERPH, Vol. 14, Pages 1223: How Can Data Drive Policy and Practice in Child Welfare? Making the Link in Canada

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph14101223

Authors: Barbara Fallon Joanne Filippelli Tara Black Nico Trocmé Tonino Esposito

Formal university–child welfare partnerships offer a unique opportunity to begin to fill the gaps in the child welfare knowledge base and link child welfare services to the realities of practice. With resources from a knowledge mobilization grant, a formal partnership was developed between the University of Toronto, clinicians, policy analysts, and researchers from child welfare agencies across Ontario. The key objectives of the grant included: (1) enhancing the capacity of service providers to access and analyze child welfare data to inform service and policy decisions; (2) integrating clinical expertise in service and policy decisions; and (3) developing a joint research agenda addressing high-priority knowledge gaps. This partnership was an opportunity to advance the evidence base with respect to service provision in Ontario and to create a culture of knowledge and evidence that would eventually support more complex research initiatives. Administrative data was analyzed for this partnership through the Ontario Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (OCANDS)—the first child welfare data system in Ontario to track child welfare-involved children and their families. Child welfare agencies identified recurrence as an important priority and agency-driven analyses were subsequently conducted on OCANDS generated recurrence Service Performance Indicators (SPI's). Using an urgent versus chronic investigative taxonomy for analyses, findings revealed that the majority of cases did not recur within 12 months and cases identified as chronic needs are more likely to return to the attention of child welfare authorities. One of the key outcomes of the partnership — helping agencies to understand their administrative data is described, as are considerations for next steps for future partnerships and research.

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Change Detection of Land Surface Temperature (LST) and some Related Parameters Using Landsat Image: a Case Study of the Ebinur Lake Watershed, Xinjiang, China

Abstract

This study assesses and detects land use/cover (LUC) and land surface temperature (LST) change using multi-temporal Landsat TM satellite data. NDVI, albedo and MNDWI were used to analyze the LST qualitatively. The results revealed that the accuracy of LST measurements in watershed is within 1.5 °C. Then, temperature changes between 1998 and 2011 were analyzed. The classifications of land surface temperatures lie in five categories as follows: lower (1.9–8.9 °C), low (8.9–15.9 °C), middle (15.9–22.9 °C), high (22.9–29.9 °C), higher (29.9–36.9 °C), and highest (36.9–43.9 °C). Second, east-west profiles of the characteristics of the distribution of LUC types were made based on 1998 and 2011 images. By comparing LSTs in these two years, one can conclude woodland-grassland has a very strong influence on temperature. Third, LST increased with the increases in the density of salinized and desert lands, but decreased with the increase in vegetation cover. The relationship between MNDWI and LST was significantly negatively correlated. Multiple regression analyses between LST and each index as well as elevation were created to evaluate the watershed thermal environment. This regression showed that NDVI, albedo, MNDWI and a digital elevation model were effective indicators for quantifying the effects of land use/cover change (LUCC) on LST, and the correlation coefficient R was 0.806. Finally, natural and human factors were important factors affecting temperature change. Generally, the temperature of the oasis was lower than the surroundings, which results in a 'cold island effect'.

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Letter outlines severe deficiencies in Via Christi HOPE program

Federal regulators raised concerns about untreated medical conditions and "severe clinical and operational deficiencies" in an October letter regarding the Via Christi HOPE program for seniors. The letter ordered Via Christi Healthcare Outreach for Elders to stop enrollment in the program, which provides medical and social services to Sedgwick County seniors and allows most participants to remain at home or with family rather than in a nursing home.

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2143: Single Administration of Melatonin Modulates the Nitroxidergic System at the Peripheral Level and Reduces Thermal Nociceptive Hypersensitivity in Neuropathic Rats

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2143: Single Administration of Melatonin Modulates the Nitroxidergic System at the Peripheral Level and Reduces Thermal Nociceptive Hypersensitivity in Neuropathic Rats

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102143

Authors: Elisa Borsani Barbara Buffoli Veronica Bonazza Russel Reiter Rita Rezzani Luigi Rodella

Neuropathic pain is a severe condition with unsatisfactory treatments. Melatonin, an indolamine, seems to be a promising molecule suitable for this purpose due to its well-known anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant effects, as well as its modulation of the nitroxidergic system. Nevertheless, the data on its mechanism of action and potentialities are currently insufficient in this pathology, especially at the peripheral level. Thus, this work evaluated the effect of a single administration of melatonin in an established mononeuropathy pain model that monitors the behaviour and the changes in the nitroxidergic system in dorsal root ganglia and skin, which are affected by nervous impairment. Experiments were carried out on Sprague Dawley rats subdivided into the sham operated (control) and the chronic constriction injured animals, a model of peripheral neuropathic pain on sciatic nerve. Single administrations of melatonin (5–10 mg/kg) or vehicle were injected intraperitoneally on the 14th day after surgery, when the mononeuropathy was established. The animals were behaviourally tested for thermal hyperalgesia. The dorsal root ganglia and the plantar skin of the hind-paws were removed and processed for the immunohistochemical detection of neuronal and inducible nitric oxide synthases. The behavioural results showed an increase of withdrawal latency during the plantar test as early as 30 min after melatonin administration. The immunohistochemical results indicated a modulation of the nitroxidergic system both at dorsal root ganglia and skin level, permitting speculate on a possible mechanism of action. We showed that melatonin may be a possible therapeutic strategy in neuropathic pain.

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IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2142: Recent Advances in SELEX Technology and Aptamer Applications in Biomedicine

IJMS, Vol. 18, Pages 2142: Recent Advances in SELEX Technology and Aptamer Applications in Biomedicine

International Journal of Molecular Sciences doi: 10.3390/ijms18102142

Authors: Zhenjian Zhuo Yuanyuan Yu Maolin Wang Jie Li Zongkang Zhang Jin Liu Xiaohao Wu Aiping Lu Ge Zhang Baoting Zhang

Aptamers are short DNA/RNA oligonucleotides capable of binding to target molecules with high affinity and specificity. The process of selecting an aptamer is called Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX). Thanks to the inherit merits, aptamers have been used in a wide range of applications, including disease diagnosis, targeted delivery agents and therapeutic uses. To date, great achievements regarding the selection, modifications and application of aptamers have been made. However, few aptamer-based products have already successfully entered into clinical and industrial use. Besides, it is still a challenge to obtain aptamers with high affinity in a more efficient way. Thus, it is important to comprehensively review the current shortage and achievement of aptamer-related technology. In this review, we first present the limitations and notable advances of aptamer selection. Then, we compare the different methods used in the kinetic characterization of aptamers. We also discuss the impetus and developments of the clinical application of aptamers.

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Nipple shields and antibiotic prophylaxis in skin and nipple sparing risk reducing mastectomies—a multi-centre study

Abstract

Background

Florid and sub-clinical infection in implant-based breast reconstruction can cause significant problems. There are a wide and varied range of methods utilised in an attempt to reduce infection. Nipple shields are well known to reduce the spread of infection during surgery as are prophylactic antibiotics.

Methods

Twenty patients, in two centres, had microbiological swabs taken from the nipple-areolar complex after preparation with povidone-iodine and post-operatively from the underside of nipple shields. These swabs were cultured in the local microbiology laboratory.

Results

No swabs after preparation grew organisms. Five (12.5%) swabs taken post-operatively were positive. Of these, three grew coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and two grew mixed skin commensals. All were sensitive to Flucloxacillin.

Conclusions

Nipple shields are essential to reduce the risk of infection. Povidone-iodine is satisfactory for preparation in our cohort. Prophylactic antibiotics are indicated on induction.

Level of Evidence: Level III, risk/prognostic study.

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Determinants of serum organochlorine pesticide and polychlorinated biphenyl levels in middle-aged Korean adults

Abstract

The serum levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in a middle-aged Korean population and investigated associations with age, gender, body mass index (BMI), metabolic syndrome (MS), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and dietary habits. The median concentrations of 22 OCPs and 34 PCBs in the serum samples were 483 and 216 ng g⁻¹ lipid, respectively. The most abundant compound was p,p'-DDE, followed by PCB 153, β-HCH, PCB 118, and PCB 180. The results of multiple linear regression and other statistical analyses revealed that serum OCP and PCB levels were higher in women and were positively correlated with age. BMI was positively associated with serum OCP and PCB levels, reflecting the influence of food intake and the preserving effect of body fat. MS and T2DM were significantly associated with serum OCP and PCB levels. The intake of animal foods had positive associations with serum OCP and PCB levels, whereas the intake of phytogenic foods showed negative associations, presumably because of contamination levels in food items and food matrices that governs absorption and excretion of OCPs and PCBs in the body. The relationship between dietary habits and serum OCP and PCB levels were different in participants with MS compared to healthy participants, suggesting MS may alter the influence of food intake on serum OCP and PCB levels.

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Micro-pollutants in sediment samples in the middle Danube region, Serbia: occurrence and risk assessment

Abstract

This is the first comprehensive study on the occurrence of 940 semi-volatile organic compounds including sterols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, plasticizers, and other emerging compounds in 10 river and canal sediments collected in northern Serbia. For quantification of investigated compounds GC-MS-MS (selected reaction monitoring) and GC-MS (using both selected ion monitoring and total ion monitoring) methods were used. The number of detected compounds was in the range of 85–117, while the sum of the concentrations varied from 959 μg/kg dry-wt to 84,445 μg/kg dry-wt. Sterols were quantified with high frequency in nearly 100% of investigated samples suggesting that the studied rivers and canals have been contaminated by sewage. Regarding persistent organic compounds, p,p′-DDE, p,p′-DDD, and o,p′-DDT were the dominant members of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). The concentration range of 11 quantified pesticides of 452 analyzed was from 0.564 to 61.6 μg/kg dry-wt, while the concentration range of 47 quantified PCBs of 90 analyzed was from 0.928 to 32.1 μg/kg dry-wt. OCPs (DDE, DDD, and γ-HCH) and several PAHs (fluoranthene, pyrene, phenanthrene, chrysene, benzo(a)anthracene, benzo(a)pyrene) exceeded the maximum values of the sediment quality guidelines. Contents of domestic compounds comprise a large proportion of the total contaminant concentration. Overall, the study reveals that river sediments in Vojvodina Province were moderately polluted mainly by domestic wastewater. The toxic equivalent quantity (TEQ) relative to benzo(a)pyrene and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin for seven carcinogenic PAHs and six quantified dioxin-like PCBs ranged from 3.59 to 103 μg TEQ/kg and from 0.001 × 10⁻³ to 2.10 × 10⁻³ μg TEQ/kg, respectively, and were in the range or lower than the literature published data.

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Spatiotemporal distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons close to a typical medical waste incinerator

Abstract

Environmental contaminations by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) especially from incinerators occur subtly, and PAH contribution from this source is underestimated. However, as environmental PAH concentrations build up, this may be a serious concern around the incinerator vicinity due to the potential consequences of PAHs on ecosystems and human health. Thus, the contribution of selected (12) PAHs from the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital medical waste incinerator (or source, HWI_0) was determined by sampling stack gas and ambient air around incinerator vicinity from June 2014 to May 2015. Results showed that the 12 PAH source (HWI_0) concentrations were in the range of NA (for phenanthrene, pyrene, anthracene, benz[e]acephenanthrylene, and indeno[2,1-b]chromene) to 10.9 ng/m³ (pyrelene) and generally higher than the receptor points (hospital waste incinerators (HWIs)). The average total PAH concentrations per month at HWI_0 and the receptors—HWI_1, HWI_2, HWI_3, HWI_4 and HWI_5—were 73.0 ± 27.9, 60.4 ± 30.8, 42.5 ± 23.6, 38.7 ± 21.9, 35.0 ± 27.2, and 39.2 ± 22.9 ng/m³, respectively. These results and multivariate receptor model analysis indicated high correlations between source PAH contributions and the receptor points. The PAH concentrations in the dry season were higher than the wet season suggesting that hydrological condition affects ambient PAH concentrations. The average PAH concentrations in the HWIs as well as the cumulative exposure concentrations observed throughout the period are of major health concern because PAH concentrations detected are several times higher than both the European Union standard and the WHO guideline level.

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Functional Anatomic Computer Engineered Surgery (FACES) Protocol for the Management of Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wounds to the Maxillofacial Skeleton

Publication date: Available online 14 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Baber Khatib, Karl Cuddy, Allen Cheng, Ashish Patel, Felix Sim, Melissa Amundson, Savannah Gelesko, Tuan Bui, Eric J. Dierks, R. Bryan Bell




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Nasolabial Flap improves Healing in Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Juliana Lemound, Thomas Muecke, Alexander-Nicolai Zeller, Jürgen Lichtenstein, André Eckardt, Nils-Claudius Gellrich
PurposeMedication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an adverse side effect of antiresoptive and antiangiogenic therapeutics that is difficult to treat owing to its high relapse rate. The aim of the study was to answer the question: Among patients with MRONJ, do those managed using decortication and a nasolabial flap, when compared to those managed with decortication and mucoperiosteal flaps, have better outcome respectively stable wound closure.Materials and MethodsTwo groups of patients suffering from MRONJ with intraoral exposed bone were evaluated in a cohort clinical study retrospectively. The primary predictor variable is treatment groups: The experimental group used the nasolabial flap for wound closure, whereas in control group a mucoperiosteal closure was performed. The outcome variable was a successful wound closure defined as symptomless and closed wound after at least 12 months. Other study variables were factors as perioperative drug holiday, duration of post-operative oral antibiotic administration, or post-operative use of nasogastric feeding tubes. Cox proportional hazard regression, Kaplan-Meier curves were used to determine factors independently associated with the dependent variable. Mann-Whitney-U test and χ²-test were used for analyses regarding group related data.ResultsBoth groups showed similar demographics. 16 study patients receiving nasolabial flaps had a mean age of 69.9 years, whereas 16 control patients receiving mucoperiosteal flaps had a mean age of 71.8 years. Both groups each comprised of ten women and six men. 15 patients of each group received a bisphosphonate and one patient a monoclonal antibody therapy.All evaluated patients underwent combined treatment including decortication and intravenous antibiotic treatment. 16 patients receiving nasolabial flaps showed symptomless intact wound closure in 68.8% of the cases. 16 patients with mucoperiosteal closure developed relapse of MRONJ in 81,2% of cases, yielding the control group and revealing significant differences (p<0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups for demographic variables. The mean time to relapse for the experimental and control group was 13.6 ± 7.8 and 8.2 ± 7.9, respectively (p =0.017).ConclusionMRONJ is a complication of the antiosteoclastic treatment of mostly oncological, palliative patients, which requires a very methodical approach to surgical treatment that has been reported in a variety of different methods. Nasolabial flaps can be considered as a highly reliable option for coverage the bone wound with less morbidity as microvascular free flaps and better long term results when compared to mucoperiosteal flaps.



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Dental Implants: The Last 100 Years

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Michael S. Block
This article on the History of Dental Implants spans beyond the last 100 years of the AAOMS. It was not until materials and methods became less traumatic to the bone that implants became firmly attached to the surrounding bone. This phenomenon is now utilized to replace single and multiple teeth and restore the patient to function and well-being. Many of the methods used to increase denture function are still utilized with modification to augment the environment for an implant. Technological changes allow patients to be treated efficiently, with the same need for a good treatment plan and physical evaluation by the clinician.



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Does surgical fragmentation of odontogenic keratocystic capsule interfere with the recurrence rate?

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Natália Batista Daroit, Rúbia da Rocha Vieira, Fernanda Visioli, Fabio Del Moro Maito, Márcia Gaiger de Oliveira, Pantelis Varvaki Rados
PurposeThe investigators hypothesized that fragmentation of the cystic capsule during surgery influences the recurrence rate of odontogenic keratocysts (OKC) regardless of the treatment modality chosen.MethodsThis retrospective study reviewed cases diagnosed as odontogenic keratocysts on histopathological examination at the Oral Pathology Department between 1991 and 2013. Fragmentation data were obtained from the records of the Oral Surgical Department.ResultsFragmentation of the capsules of OKCs during surgery did not affect recurrence, irrespective of the chosen treatment modality. Addition of techniques such as cryotherapy lowered the risk of recurrence of OKCs (p = 0.013) when compared with the risk of recurrence of OKCs after enucleation. Furthermore, patients with associated nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) had a higher recurrence rate compared to those with no associated syndrome (p = 0.033).ConclusionFragmentation of the cystic capsule does not play an important role in the rate of OKC recurrence. The rate of recurrence can be modified by using additional strategies such as cryotherapy.



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Relationship between occlusal features and enzyme replacement therapy in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Dmitry José de Santana Sarmento, Thiara Karine de Araújo, Germana de Queiroz Tavares Borges Mesquita, Denise Nóbrega Diniz, Fátima Roneiva Alves Fonseca, Paula Frassinetti V. Medeiros, Maria Teresa Botti Rodrigues dos Santos, Gustavo Pina Godoy
PurposeThe aim of this study was describe the relationship between occlusal features and enzyme replacement therapy in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses.Materials and MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted. The sample consisted of 20 patients with mucopolysaccharidoses, ten of whom were undergoing treatment at a hospital in northeast Brazil. Occlusal features were evaluated by clinical examination and panoramic radiography. A structured questionnaire was administered to evaluate the dental care of the patient. The Pearson's Chi-squared, Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney tests were used for data analysis, adopting a level of significance of 5%.ResultsMarked overjet (75%) and anterior open bite (70%) were the most frequent occlusal alterations, and 15% had class III disorders. Radiography revealed the presence of impacted teeth (75%) and the prolonged retention of the deciduous teeth (65%). It was observed that patients with enzyme replacement therapy had a lower average maximum protrusion (p=0.033). A total of 75% of mothers said they had not been advised to take their children to the dentist, and 10% of children had never been to the dentist.ConclusionPatients with mucopolysaccharidoses exhibited significant occlusal alterations, especially marked overjet and anterior open bite. Enzyme replacement therapy seems to influence the maximum protrusion of patients.



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Analysis of facial symmetry after zygomatic bone fracture management

Publication date: Available online 14 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Mohamad Saleh Khaqani, Fateme Tavosi, Mahdi Gholami, Hamid Reza Eftekharian, Leila Khojastepour
PurposeThe location of the zygomatic bone plays a significant role in facial symmetry and aesthetics. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the frequency of facial asymmetry in a sample of patients who had undergone treatment of unilateral ZMC fractures (study) and a sample of normal subjects (control).Patients and MethodsThis is a retrospective controlled cross-sectional study. The primary predictor variable was the type of ZMC fracture (linear or comminuted). The primary outcome variable was facial asymmetry characterized by the bilateral difference in the position of malar eminences (ME) in three dimensions based on a CT scan. The other variables for this study were classified into demographic (age and gender) and anatomic (side of ZMC fracture). Descriptive and bi-variate statistics were computed. Statistical significance was set at P < .05 with 95% reliability.ResultsThe samples in this study consisted of 134 subjects (n =67 per each group). The mean bilateral difference of ME position in the study subjects was significantly higher than that of the control subjects. More than half of the study subjects had facial symmetry, and just about 10 percent of them had marked asymmetry, while none of the control subjects had marked asymmetry. All the subjects with marked asymmetry and about 70 percent of the study subjects who were above the maximum normal asymmetry (MNA) had a comminuted fracture.ConclusionsThe results of this study show that although the frequency of facial asymmetry in the ZMC fracture patients was higher than the normal subjects, it was found in all individuals to a certain extent. The patients' awareness about this fact can reduce their dissatisfaction.



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Effectiveness of Immersive Virtual Reality in Surgical Training - A Randomized Control Trial

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Yeshwanth Pulijala, Minhua Ma, Matthew Pears, David Peebles, Ashraf Ayoub
IntroductionThe surgical training methods are evolving with technological advancements including the application of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Yet, twenty-eight to forty percent of novice residents are not confident in performing a major surgical procedure. VR Surgery, an immersive virtual reality (iVR) experience was developed using Oculus Rift and Leap Motion devices to address this challenge. It is a multi-sensory, holistic surgical training application, that demonstrates a maxillofacial surgical technique, Le Fort I osteotomy.ObjectiveThe main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of VR Surgery on the self-confidence and the knowledge of surgical residents.DesignA multisite, single-blinded, parallel, randomised controlled trial (RCT) was performed. The participants were novice surgical residents with a limited experience in performing the Le Fort I osteotomy. The primary outcome measures were the self- assessment scores of trainee's confidence on a Likert scale and objective assessment of the cognitive skills. Ninety-five residents from seven dental schools took part in the RCT. The participants were randomly divided into a study group n=51, and a control group n=44. Participants in the study group used the VR Surgery application on an Oculus Rift with Leap Motion device. The control group participants used similar content in a standard PowerPoint presentation on a laptop. A repeated measures multivariate ANOVA was applied to the data to assess the overall impact of the intervention on the confidence of residents.ResultsThe study group participants showed a significantly higher perceived self-confidence levels compared to those in the control group (p=0.034, α=0.05). Novices in the first year of their training showed the highest improvement in their confidence, compared to those in the second and third year.ConclusioniVR experiences improve the knowledge and self-confidence of the surgical residents.



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Orthognathic Surgical Outcomes in Patients with and without Craniofacial Anomalies

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Zohra Metalwala, Christopher Okunseri, Steven Fletcher, Veerasathpurush Allareddy
ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to examine hospitalization outcomes following orthognathic surgeries. This study tests the hypothesis that those with craniofacial anomalies have higher billed hospital charges, longer length of stay, and increased odds for developing infectious complications when compared to those without craniofacial anomalies.MethodsThe Nationwide Inpatient Sample for the years 2012 and 2013 was used. All patients that underwent an orthognathic surgery were selected. The primary independent variable of interest was presence of a congenital cleft/craniofacial anomaly. The outcome variables were occurrence of complications, billed hospital charges, and length of stay. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were used to examine the effect of a presence of craniofacial anomaly on outcomes.ResultsDuring the study period, a total of 16,515 patients underwent an orthognathic surgery in the United States. Of these, 2,760 patients had a cleft/craniofacial anomaly. 7.4% of those with a craniofacial anomaly had an infectious complication (compared to 0.6% in those without a craniofacial anomaly). The mean billed hospital charges in those with a craniofacial anomaly was $139,317 (compared to $56,189 in those without a craniofacial anomaly). The mean length of stay in hospital in those with craniofacial anomaly was 8.8 days (compared to 1.8 days in those without a craniofacial anomaly). These differences in outcomes between those with and without a craniofacial anomaly were significant after adjusting for patient and hospital level confounders.ConclusionsThose with a craniofacial anomaly are at a higher risk for developing infectious complications, have higher hospital charges, and stay in hospital for a longer duration of time following an orthognathic surgery when compared to those without a craniofacial anomaly.



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Le Morte d’Arthur, A Commentary on Hugo L. Obwegeser

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Robert Bruce MacIntosh




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Immunohistochemical analysis on cortex-to-cortex healing after mandibular vertical ramus osteotomy: A preliminary study

Publication date: Available online 13 October 2017
Source:Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): Hwi-Dong Jung, Sang Yoon Kim, Han-Sung Jung, Hyung-Sik Park, Young-Soo Jung
PurposeThis study aimed to analyze the expression of specific cytokines among TGF-β superfamily over postoperative periods after mandibular VRO.Materials and MethodsA total of 4 beagle dogs were enrolled and euthanized at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks postoperatively for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis using 6 specific antibodies (BMP-2/4, BMP-7, TGF-ß2, TGF-β3, MMP-3, and VEGF). The results from the surgical site and control (adjacent area) were compared.ResultsGeneralized upregulation of BMP-2/4 was observed in all healing periods while the strongest expression of BMP-7 was observed at 1 week. The strongest expression of TGF-ß2 was observed at 8 weeks with increasing pattern. The strong expression of TGF-β3 was observed at 1 and 4 weeks while VEGF at 1 week with decreasing pattern. There were no notable uptakes detected with 6 specific antobodies on adjacent bone (control).ConclusionThe absence of internal fixation following VRO lead to dynamic healing with a specific expression pattern of BMP-7 and TGF-β2. The anatomical factors including sufficient preexisting vascularity lead to the earlier expression pattern of VEGF.



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Postoperative care after tonsillectomy: what's the evidence?.

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to evaluate the current literature regarding postoperative management after tonsillectomy in children. Recent findings: Controversy remains regarding the ideal medication regimen to manage pain after tonsillectomy. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are routinely used, although concerns of more severe postoperative hemorrhage with ibuprofen remain. Narcotics are prescribed commonly, but with extreme caution in children with severe obstructive sleep apnea. Although not always utilized by the authors, additional adjunctive medications such as perioperative dexamethasone, ketamine, and local infiltration of lidocaine into tonsillar pillars may decrease postoperative pain. Systematic reviews have shown that dexamethasone does not increase risk of posttonsillectomy bleeding. Summary: Adenotonsillectomy is one of the most common procedures performed on children and may have significant morbidity from postoperative pain and bleeding. Managing pain remains challenging and the optimal treatment regimen has not been definitively identified. Many medications and alternative therapies have been studied and suggest possible benefit. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Bilateral Tolosa-Hunt syndrome mimicking pituitary adenoma

Abstract

The authors report a rare case of bilateral Tolosa-Hunt syndrome, which occurred in a 80-year-old female and remitted spontaneously. Inflammatory lesions were found not only in typical locations, i.e. superior orbital fissures and cavernous sinuses, but also in the pituitary; these imitated gland's macroadenoma in imaging studies.

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Integration of human papillomavirus 16 in esophageal carcinoma samples

Esophageal carcinoma (EC) is one of the major cancers in China. In 1982, Syrjanen first hypothesized the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the development of esophageal cancer. Sinc...

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HPV infection and p53 and p16 expression in esophageal cancer: are they prognostic factors?

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly lethal malignant tumor. Currently, Human papillomavirus (HPV) is suggested as a potential risk factor for esophageal cancer (EC) in addition to the classic...

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Healthy lifestyle behavior and risk of long duration troublesome neck pain or low back pain among men and women: results from the Stockholm Public Health Cohort

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Implant-oriented navigation in orbital reconstruction. Part 1: technique and accuracy study

Intraoperative navigation is frequently used to assess the position of the implant in orbital reconstruction. Interpretation of the feedback from the navigation system to a three-dimensional position of the implant needs to be done by the surgeon, and feedback is only gathered after the implant has been positioned. An implant-oriented navigation approach is proposed, with real-time intuitive feedback during insertion. A technical framework was set up for implant-oriented navigation, with requirements for planning, implant tracking, and feedback. (Source: International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)

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Systemic trichosporonosis mimicking disseminated varicella zoster viral infection during blinatumomab therapy

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Systemic trichosporonosis mimicking disseminated varicella zoster viral infection during blinatumomab therapy

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Movement Disorders: Volume 32, Number 10, October 2017

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Issue Information - Masthead

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What would Dr. James parkinson think today? Mutations in beta-glucocerebrosidase and risk of Parkinson's disease

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Issue Information - Table of Contents

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