Information architecture for a patient-specific dashboard in head and neck tumor boards

Abstract

Purpose

Overcoming the flaws of current data management conditions in head and neck oncology could enable integrated information systems specifically tailored to the needs of medical experts in a tumor board meeting. Clinical dashboards are a promising method to assist various aspects of the decision-making process in such cognitively demanding scenarios. However, in order to provide extensive and intuitive assistance to the participating physicians, the design and development of such a system have to be user-centric. To accomplish this task, conceptual methods need to be performed prior to the technical development and integration stages.

Methods

We have conducted a qualitative survey including eight clinical experts with different levels of expertise in the field of head and neck oncology. According to the principles of information architecture, the survey focused on the identification and causal interconnection of necessary metrics for information assessment in the tumor board.

Results

Based on the feedback by the clinical experts, we have constructed a detailed map of the required information items for a tumor board dashboard in head and neck oncology. Furthermore, we have identified three distinct groups of metrics (patient, disease and therapy metrics) as well as specific recommendations for their structural and graphical implementation.

Conclusion

By using the information architecture, we were able to gather valuable feedback about the requirements and cognitive processes of the tumor board members. Those insights have helped us to develop a dashboard application that closely adapts to the specified needs and characteristics, and thus is primarily user-centric.

Reverence and Cheng-Zhu Ecology

Abstract

The Cheng-Zhu 程朱 school of Confucianism congealed from the larger Learning of the Way school in the 11th and 12th centuries. In contrast to Buddhist conceptions of human nature, Cheng-Zhu advocates claimed an understanding that gave a significant role to the natural world. Addressing the ecology of the human organism in its relationship with the natural environment revealed a complex moral psychology that characterized human beings. Self-cultivation was indispensable for connecting to our inborn nature that revealed no separation between ourselves and nature. Cultivating the mental state of maintaining reverence (chi jing 持敬) was an indispensable form of self-cultivation. This mental state initially expressed itself in courteous and caring behavior that could be taught to the young; but, when more highly developed, reverent attention was disciplined, focused thinking that revealed the mind of the Way. A new single-mindedness might then be maintained as the master of one's actions. The morally perfected states of being called humaneness and sagehood confirmed that one was in touch with one's inborn connection to nature.

Interpreting Confucius: The Aesthetic Turn and Its Challenges

Characterization of CDOM absorption of reservoirs with its linkage of regions and ages across China

Abstract

The absorption of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) is an important part of light absorptions in aquatic systems. The increasing eutrophication of reservoirs and regional characteristics would affect the CDOM properties sensitively which would be important for the application of remote sensing monitoring. The highest (4.07 ± 2.31 m⁻¹) and lowest (0.79 ± 0.67 m⁻¹) CDOM concentrations of reservoirs were observed in the northeastern lake region (NER) and Tibetan Plateau lake region (TPR), respectively. The differences between S_275–295 among the five lake regions were significant (p < 0.05) in which the steepest S_275–295 (0.0173 ± 0.0026 nm⁻¹) was observed in TPR and the shallowest (0.0326 ± 0.0152 nm⁻¹) in Yungui Plateau lake region (YGR). The strong relationships between a_CDOM(355) and DOC appeared in the NER (R² = 0.43), eastern lake region (EAR) (R² = 0.69), Mengxin lake region (MXR) (R² = 0.61), and YGR (R² = 0.79) which would be a good proxy for DOC in regional reservoirs. Most of all, the correlation between reservoir's establishing time and CDOM absorption under oligotrophic states was relatively strong in the EAR and MXR regions. It indicated that the establishing time of reservoirs affected the CDOM absorption to some extent under the oligotrophic states without much human disturbance. Our results indicate CDOM absorption varies with regions, and the relationships between CDOM and DOC are variable for different regions. Therefore, DOC estimation in reservoirs through CDOM absorption needs to be considered according to lake regions and trophic states.

Element uptake and physiological responses of Lactuca sativa upon co-exposures to tourmaline and dissolved humic acids

Abstract

Element migration and physiological response in Lactuca sativa upon co-exposure to tourmaline (T) and dissolved humic acids (DHAs) were investigated. Different fractions of DHA₁ and DHA₄ and three different doses of T were introduced into Hoagland's solution. The results indicated that T enhanced the contents of elements such as N and C, Si and Al in the roots and shoots. The correlation between TF values of Si and Al (R² = 0.7387) was higher than that of Si and Mn (R² = 0.4961) without the presence of DHAs. However, both DHA₁ and DHA₄ increased the correlation between Si and Mn, but decreased the one between Si and Al. CAT activities in T treatments were positively correlated to the contents of N and Al in the shoots, whose R² was 0.9994 and 0.9897, respectively. In the co-exposure of DHAs and tourmaline, DHA₄ exhibited more impacts on element uptake, CAT activities, as well as ABA contents in comparison with the presence of DHA₁, regardless of the T exposure doses. These results suggested that DHAs have effects on mineral element behaviors and physiological response in Lactuca sativa upon exposure to tourmaline for the first time, which had great use in guiding soil remediation.

The forgotten aspects of the quality of life of significant others of patients with a peripheral facial palsy

A peripheral facial palsy (PFP) has a significant impact on the health related quality of life (HRQoL), psychosocial distress, communication and social interaction. Even after several treatment modalities the HRQoL increases, but comes nowhere near the pre-disease levels. 1 It is hypothesized and studied that there might be differences between cosmetic appreciation of patients with a left and right PFP, and that this might lead to altered social interactions between patients and their significant others (including partners, family members and close friends) (SO's).

Subungual Atypical Lentiginous Melanocytic Proliferations in Children and Adolescents: A Clinicopathologic Study

Most subungual melanocytic lesions in children are benign, but some are difficult to classify due to prominent lentiginous growth and high-grade cytologic atypia.

Malignant melanoma associated with chronic once daily aspirin exposure in males: a large, single-center, urban, U.S. patient population cohort study from the Research on Adverse Drug events And Reports (RADAR) project

A healthy diet in women is associated with less facial wrinkles in a large Dutch population-based cohort

Little is known about the impact of nutrition on youthful appearance., Adherence to a recommended healthy diet associates with less wrinkling in women whereas an unhealthy population driven dietary pattern is associated with more facial wrinkling., Dietary recommendations for skin aging preventing strategies could additionally help improve overall health.

Wound care for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis; A Systematic Review

An ex-vivo evaluation of cytotoxicity and melanocyte viability after A-101 hydrogen peroxide topical solution 40% or cryosurgery treatment in Seborrheic Keratosis lesions

Longitudinal Associations of Metabolic Syndrome Severity Between Childhood and Young Adulthood: The Bogalusa Heart Study

Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders, Ahead of Print.

Anthropometrics and Allometry: Beyond Body Mass Index

Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders, Ahead of Print.

Treatment of municipal sludge by Fenton oxidation combined vacuum preloading

Abstract

Municipal sludge, composed of numerous types of organic matter with a gel structure, has high water content, low permeability coefficient, and poor mechanical properties. Fenton oxidation-assisted vacuum preloading method for municipal sludge treatment was proposed. First, the municipal sludge was oxidized and treated with Fenton's reagent; then, drainage consolidation was performed on the sludge with the vacuum preloading method. The optimal dosage of Fenton's reagent for municipal sludge was determined. Comparative experiments of the one-dimensional consolidation of municipal sludge treated with Fenton's reagent and the drainage consolidation by Fenton oxidation-assisted vacuum preloading were conducted. The results reveal that the specific resistance of municipal sludge decreases upon Fenton oxidation by approximately 98.6% at the optimal dosage of 22%, sludge water content decreases from 82.14 to 66.67%, volume reduces by ~ 40%, and unconfined compressive strength increases to 55 kPa.

Calcinosis cutis facial en una paciente con dermatomiositis paraneoplásica

Publication date: Available online 26 March 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): M. Herrero-Moyano, C. Martínez-Mera, C. García-García, E. Dauden

Pápula eritematosa pediculada en la rodilla

Publication date: Available online 26 March 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): M.C. García del Pozo, C. Martín de Hijas, L. Iñíguez

Dermatitis urticante. Un patrón de reacción cutánea

Publication date: Available online 26 March 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): M.C. García del Pozo, I. Poveda, P. Álvarez, J.F. Silvestre

Utilidad del diltiazem tópico al 2% en la condrodermatitis nodular del hélix: descripción de 2 casos

Publication date: Available online 26 March 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): A. de Quintana-Sancho, L. Carnero-González, R. González-Pérez, M. Drake-Monfort

Eczema alérgico de contacto por metil glucosa dioleato contenido en una crema bálsamo

Publication date: Available online 26 March 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): T. Sanz-Sánchez, R.M. Díaz-Díaz, C. Garrido Gutiérrez, V. Leis Dosil

Linfangitis esclerosante no venérea del pene: la importancia del diagnóstico clínico

Publication date: Available online 26 March 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): A. Gómez-Zubiaur, C. Guirado-Koch, S. Beà-Ardébol, L. Trasobares-Marugán

Life cycle of PCBs and contamination of the environment and of food products from animal origin

Abstract

This report gives a summary of the historic use, former management and current release of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Germany and assesses the impact of the life cycle of PCBs on the contamination of the environment and of food products of animal origin. In Germany 60,000 t of PCBs were used in transformers, capacitors or as hydraulic oils. The use of PCB oils in these "closed applications", has been banned in Germany in 2000. Thirty to 50% of these PCBs were not appropriately managed. In West Germany, 24,000 t of PCBs were used in open applications, mainly as additive (plasticiser, flame retardant) in sealants and paints in buildings and other construction. The continued use in open applications has not been banned, and in 2013, an estimated more than 12,000 t of PCBs were still present in buildings and other constructions. These open PCB applications continuously emit PCBs into the environment with an estimated release of 7–12 t per year. This amount is in agreement with deposition measurements (estimated to 18 t) and emission estimates for Switzerland. The atmospheric PCB releases still have an relevant impact on vegetation and livestock feed. In addition, PCBs in open applications on farms are still a sources of contamination for farmed animals. Furthermore, the historic production, use, recycling and disposal of PCBs have contaminated soils along the lifecycle. This legacy of contaminated soils and contaminated feed, individually or collectively, can lead to exceedance of maximum levels in food products from animals. In beef and chicken, soil levels of 5 ng PCB-TEQ/kg and for chicken with high soil exposure even 2 ng PCB-TEQ/kg can lead to exceedance of EU limits in meat and eggs. Areas at and around industries having produced or used or managed PCBs, or facilities and areas where PCBs were disposed need to be assessed in respect to potential contamination of food-producing animals. For a large share of impacted land, management measures applicable on farm level might be sufficient to continue with food production. Open PCB applications need to be inventoried and better managed. Other persistent and toxic chemicals used as alternatives to PCBs, e.g. short chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs), should be assessed in the life cycle for exposure of food-producing animals and humans.

Editorial Board

Publication date: April 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, Volume 181

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using leaf extract of Acalypha hispida and its application in blood compatibility

Publication date: Available online 27 March 2018
Source:Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology
Author(s): P. Selvakumar, R. Sithara, K. Viveka, P. Sivashanmugam
The blood compatibility of AgNPs is of great relevance as it has good antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and the toxicological information of their effects on cells need to be analyzed before using it as drug carriers in the biomedical field. The present study deals with the synthesis of AgNPs from an aqueous solution of silver nitrate using Acalypha hispida leaf extract as the reducing and capping agent. The presence of AgNPs in the reaction mixture was confirmed by visual observation of color change and subsequently identified using UV–Visible Spectroscopy. XRD results revealed the crystalline nature of synthesized AgNPs. The shape and size of particles were characterized by TEM. These results revealed the elemental status of nanopowder. The components present in leaf extract were identified by GC–MS and functional groups present in the sample when treated with silver nitrate were obtained from FT-IR results. The surface of synthesized AgNPs was modified using four different compounds such as CTAB, PEG, PEI, and APTMS to evaluate the blood compatibility. The results showed that 50 μg/mL CTAB coated AgNPs and 50 and 100 μg/mL PEG coated AgNPs had non-hemolytic property and considered as more blood compatible surface modified AgNPs. This investigation gives an idea of using surface modified AgNPs in the field of biomedicine and therapeutic applications.

Graphical abstract

The Impact of Natural Disasters on Domestic Violence: An Analysis of Reports of Simple Assault in Florida (1999–2007)

Violence and Gender, Ahead of Print.

Workplace Respiratory Protection Factors during Asbestos Removal Operations

Abstract

Numerous changes have been made to the French labour regulations in recent years relating to the prevention of risks of exposure to asbestos fibres for operators removing asbestos-containing materials. These changes refer to the method used to count fibres, the collective and personal protective devices to be used on these worksites, and the occupational exposure limit value, which was reduced to 10 f.L⁻¹ on 2 July 2015. In this context, this study assessed the level of respiratory protection afforded by supplied-air respirators and powered air-purifying respirators by monitoring exposure for several operators on nine worksites. The levels of dustiness measured in personal samples taken outside masks showed significant evidence of potential exposure during removal of asbestos-containing plaster or sprayed asbestos, and when using abrasive blasting to treat asbestos-containing materials. For these tasks outside concentration regularly exceeds 25000 f.L⁻¹. Measurements inside masks were generally low, under 10 f.L⁻¹, except in some situations involving the removal of asbestos-containing plaster. This partial penetration of fibres inside masks could be due to the high loading linked to this material. The distributions of Workplace Protection Factors obtained for the two types of respiratory protective devices studied were broad, and the fifth percentile values equal to 236 and 104, respectively, for supplied-air respirators and powered air-purifying respirators. This work highlights once again the need to prioritize collective protection when seeking to prevent asbestos-related risks.

The multiforme of glioblastoma

See article by Mahlokozera et al, pp. 472–483

Highlights from the Literature

Forthcoming Meetings

Drug discovery in neuro-oncology: challenges in the path forward

It is an honor to have been asked to write an editorial for Neuro-Oncology, the highly ranked journal of the Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO). My goal is to enunciate my vision for what I believe we, as a group dedicated to curing central nervous system (CNS) malignancies, need to achieve.

Quality improvement in neurology: Neuro-Oncology Quality Measurement Set

[213] All Oncology[120] MRI[109] All Health Services Research[334] All Practice ManagementQuality Measurement

Real-time inextensible surgical thread simulation

Abstract

Purpose

This paper discusses a real-time simulation method of inextensible surgical thread based on the Cosserat rod theory using position-based dynamics (PBD). The method realizes stable twining and knotting of surgical thread while including inextensibility, bending, twisting and coupling effects.

Methods

The Cosserat rod theory is used to model the nonlinear elastic behavior of surgical thread. The surgical thread model is solved with PBD to achieve a real-time, extremely stable simulation. Due to the one-dimensional linear structure of surgical thread, the direct solution of the distance constraint based on tridiagonal matrix algorithm is used to enhance stretching resistance in every constraint projection iteration. In addition, continuous collision detection and collision response guarantee a large time step and high performance. Furthermore, friction is integrated into the constraint projection process to stabilize the twining of multiple threads and complex contact situations.

Results

Through comparisons with existing methods, the surgical thread maintains constant length under large deformation after applying the direct distance constraint in our method. The twining and knotting of multiple threads correspond to stable solutions to contact and friction forces. A surgical suture scene is also modeled to demonstrate the practicality and simplicity of our method.

Conclusions

Our method achieves stable and fast simulation of inextensible surgical thread. Benefiting from the unified particle framework, the rigid body, elastic rod, and soft body can be simultaneously simulated. The method is appropriate for applications in virtual surgery that require multiple dynamic bodies.

Digitalisierung und Big Data – Was nun?

Expression and Purification of Biologically Active Recombinant Rabbit Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein1 in Escherichia coli

Abstract

Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1) with recruiting monocytes is an important factor at the beginning of inflammatory disorders such as atherosclerosis which seems its blocking preclude this process and help improvement of related diseases. To perform clinical research in this field, MCP1 protein is required but firstly, animal studies should be done. As the rabbit is a suitable model for many inflammatory disorders, and Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) (BL21) cell is a high-efficiency host for protein expression, we decided to produce recombinant rabbit MCP1 (rRMCP1) in BL21/pET28a system.After codon usage, a construct containing RMCP1 sequence was synthesized, cloned into the pET28a plasmid, and overexpressed in BL21 cells. Followed that, with changing expression condition such as cell concentration before the induction, time period, temperature, shaking rate and inducer concentration (IPTG), rRMCP1 expression was optimized, and purified by Ni-NTA. The biological activity of the expressed protein was verified using monocyte migration assay. Using this expression system, nearly 28 mg/mL rRMCP1 was produced at 26°C/180 rpm for 24 h in LB broth medium with 1 mM IPTG. Therefore, we were succeeded to express the intermediate level of rRMCP1 with this method. This amount of protein is sufficient for biological researches in the laboratory.

Making point mutations in Escherichia coli BL21 genome using the CRISPR-Cas9 System

Abstract

The CRISPR-Cas9 system is an efficient and rapid tool for genome editing. However, its utilization in bacteria suffers challenges such as the risk of repeated recognition and cutting by Cas9. Here we established a two-step genome editing strategy using Streptococcus pyogenes CRISPR-Cas9 system to achieve a clean mutation with only the target sites into Escherichia coli genome. This strategy can avoid the risk of repeated cutting by gRNA/Cas9 without altering the PAM or inserting additional silent mutations into the genome. The principles and approaches we developed in this study can be applied to modify coding and non-coding sequences in essential and non-essential genes and can also be used for precise genome editing in other microorganisms.

Clinical characteristics and management of gastric tube cancer after esophagectomy

Abstract

Background

Gastric cancer is the second most common malignancy, overlapping with thoracic esophageal cancer (TEC). Among them, metachronous gastric tube cancers after TEC surgery have been increasing. The aims of this study were to examine the clinicopathological factors and treatment outcomes of gastric tube cancer (GTC) after TEC surgery.

Methods

Thirty-three GTCs in 30 cases after TEC treated between 1997 and 2016 were investigated retrospectively.

Results

Most cases were males. The median interval from TEC surgery to GTC occurrence was 57 (6.5–107.5) months. Almost 2/3 lesions occurred in the lower third of the gastric tube (21/33); 29 lesions (in 26 cases) were superficial cancers, and 4 lesions were advanced cancers. Twenty-two lesions of superficial cancer were differentiated type, and the remaining seven lesions were undifferentiated type. Treatment for superficial cancer had previously been performed with partial gastric tube resection (10 lesions), and the number of cases undergoing endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) had increased recently (19 lesions). Most cases with superficial cancer survived without relapse. Four lesions of advanced cancer were found after a relatively long interval following TEC surgery. Most lesions of advanced cancer were scirrhous, undifferentiated type, and they died due to GTC.

Conclusion

GTCs may occur late in the postoperative course following TEC surgery. If they are discovered at an early stage, these lesions can be cured with ESD. Long-term periodic endoscopic examinations after TEC surgery are important.

A Randomized Controlled Trial to Measure Spillover Effects of a Combined Water, Sanitation, and Handwashing Intervention in Rural Bangladesh

Abstract

Water, sanitation, and handwashing interventions may confer spillover effects on neighbors of intervention recipients by interrupting pathogen transmission. We measured geographically local spillovers in WASH Benefits, a cluster-randomized trial in rural Bangladesh, by comparing outcomes among neighbors of intervention vs. control participants. WASH Benefits randomly allocated geographically-defined clusters to a compound-level intervention (chlorinated drinking water, upgraded sanitation, and handwashing promotion) or control. From January to August 2015, in 180 clusters, we enrolled 1,799 neighboring children age-matched to trial participants that would have been eligible for WASH Benefits had they been conceived slightly earlier or later. After 28 months of intervention, we quantified fecal indicator bacteria in toy rinse and drinking water samples, measured soil-transmitted helminth infections, and recorded caregiver-reported diarrhea and respiratory illness. Neighbors' characteristics were balanced across arms. The prevalence of detectable E. coli in tubewell samples was lower for neighbors of intervention vs. control trial participants (prevalence ratio = 0.83; 0.73, 0.95). There was no difference in fecal indicator bacteria prevalence between arms for other environmental samples. Prevalence was similar in neighbors of intervention vs. control participants for soil-transmitted helminth infection, diarrhea, and respiratory illness. A compound-level water, sanitation, and handwashing intervention reduced neighbors' tubewell water contamination but did not impact neighboring children's health.

β–III-spectrin immunohistochemistry as a potential diagnostic tool with high sensitivity for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors

β–III-spectrinMPNSTssarcomas

Prostate segmentation in transrectal ultrasound using magnetic resonance imaging priors

Abstract

Purpose

In the current standard of care, real-time transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is commonly used for prostate brachytherapy guidance. As TRUS provides limited soft tissue contrast, segmenting the prostate gland in TRUS images is often challenging and subject to inter-observer and intra-observer variability, especially at the base and apex where the gland boundary is hard to define. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has higher soft tissue contrast allowing the prostate to be contoured easily. In this paper, we aim to show that prostate segmentation in TRUS images informed by MRI priors can improve on prostate segmentation that relies only on TRUS images.

Methods

First, we compare the TRUS-based prostate segmentation used in the treatment of 598 patients with a high-quality MRI prostate atlas and observe inconsistencies at the apex and base. Second, motivated by this finding, we propose an alternative TRUS segmentation technique that is fully automatic and uses MRI priors. The algorithm uses a convolutional neural network to segment the prostate in TRUS images at mid-gland, where the gland boundary can be clearly seen. It then reconstructs the gland boundary at the apex and base with the aid of a statistical shape model built from an MRI atlas of 78 patients.

Results

Compared to the clinical TRUS segmentation, our method achieves similar mid-gland segmentation results in the 598-patient database. For the seven patients who had both TRUS and MRI, our method achieved more accurate segmentation of the base and apex with the MRI segmentation used as ground truth.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that utilizing MRI priors in TRUS prostate segmentation could potentially improve the performance at base and apex.

Performance and mechanisms of thermally treated bentonite for enhanced phosphate removal from wastewater

Abstract

Optimization of clays as adsorbent for low concentration phosphorus removal from wastewater has received increasing attention in recent years. This study explored the feasibility of using bentonite as an adsorbent for phosphate (P) removal from synthetic wastewater, by assessing the performance of thermally treated bentonite for P removal and elucidating the mechanisms of P adsorption. Natural bentonite (B25) was thermally treated at 100–1000 °C (B100–B1000) for 2 h. Physical and chemical properties were measured by the SEM, XRD, pore size distribution, EDX, and cation exchange capacity (CEC) methods. Thermal treatment increased P sorption capacity of bentonite and that B800 had a higher P sorption capacity (6.94 mg/g) than B25 (0.237 mg/g) and B400 (0.483 mg/g) using the Langmuir isotherm equation. Study of sorption kinetics indicated that B800 rapidly removed 94% of P from a 10 mg P/L solution and the pseudo-second-order equation fitted the data well. The Ca²⁺ release capacity of B800 (1.31 mg/g) was significantly higher than that of B25 (0.29 mg/g) and B400 (0.40 mg/g) (p < 0.05). The initial pH level had a smaller impact on P removal efficiency for B800 than that of B25 and B400. Ca-P was the main fraction of P adsorbed onto B800, and Ca₁₀-P was the main species (41.4%). The main factors affecting the phosphorous adsorption capacity of B800 were changed crystal structure, strong calcium release capacity, and improved stability in different pH solutions. The results demonstrated that thermally treated bentonite (B800) has the potential to be an efficient adsorbent for removal of low-concentration phosphorus from wastewater.

Toward a real-time system for temporal enhanced ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy

Abstract

Purpose

We have previously proposed temporal enhanced ultrasound (TeUS) as a new paradigm for tissue characterization. TeUS is based on analyzing a sequence of ultrasound data with deep learning and has been demonstrated to be successful for detection of cancer in ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy. Our aim is to enable the dissemination of this technology to the community for large-scale clinical validation.

Methods

In this paper, we present a unified software framework demonstrating near-real-time analysis of ultrasound data stream using a deep learning solution. The system integrates ultrasound imaging hardware, visualization and a deep learning back-end to build an accessible, flexible and robust platform. A client–server approach is used in order to run computationally expensive algorithms in parallel. We demonstrate the efficacy of the framework using two applications as case studies. First, we show that prostate cancer detection using near-real-time analysis of RF and B-mode TeUS data and deep learning is feasible. Second, we present real-time segmentation of ultrasound prostate data using an integrated deep learning solution.

Results

The system is evaluated for cancer detection accuracy on ultrasound data obtained from a large clinical study with 255 biopsy cores from 157 subjects. It is further assessed with an independent dataset with 21 biopsy targets from six subjects. In the first study, we achieve area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 0.94, 0.77, 0.94 and 0.92, respectively, for the detection of prostate cancer. In the second study, we achieve an AUC of 0.85.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that TeUS-guided biopsy can be potentially effective for the detection of prostate cancer.

Characterization and phenanthrene sorption of organic matter fractions isolated from organic and mineral soils

Abstract

Sorption of phenanthrene (PHE) to humic acid (HA) and humin (HM) fractions isolated from organic and mineral soils was investigated to better understand sorption processes in varying soil types. Samples were characterized by elemental analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance, and CO₂ adsorption. No clear correlation was found between the distribution coefficient (K_d) and the bulk polarity of the soil organic matters (SOMs). By contrast, PHE K_d values generally increased with increasing surface polarity of the tested SOMs, implying that surface polarity may play a more important role in PHE sorption than the bulk one. The organic carbon (OC)-normalized K_d values (K_oc) of HMs were higher than those of HAs as a result of the higher aliphatic C contents of HMs. For SOMs isolated from mineral soil (MI-SOMs), part of the aliphatic domains may be tightly associated with minerals and were not accessible to PHE molecules, resulting in lower PHE K_oc values of MI-SOMs than the corresponding fractions extracted from the organic soil. This study implies that both chemical characteristics and physical conformation of SOMs are paramount considerations when investigating sorption process of hydrophobic organic compounds in soils.

Evaluating toxicity of copper(II) oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) through waterborne exposure to tilapia ( Oreochromis mossambicus ) by tissue accumulation, oxidative stress, histopathology, and genotoxicity

Abstract

Metal oxide nanoparticles are widely used in industries, and peak level can be confirmed in their surroundings. In the present study, the sub-lethal effects of CuO-NPs from low to high concentration as 0.5 to 1.5 mg/L were observed in tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). Accumulation of copper from CuO-NPs was increased with the increase in doses, and maximum accumulation was found in the gill than liver and muscles. The increased lipid peroxidation level was observed in the gill as compared to liver, and the similar results were obtained in catalase and glutathione while superoxide dismutase level was higher in the liver than gills. In histological alterations, gill edema, curved tips, fusion of gill lamellae, and thickening of primary and secondary gill lamellae were observed. Necrosis and apoptosis with condensed nuclear bodies and pyknotic nuclei were observed in the liver at the highest dose concentration. In a genotoxic study, the highest value of % tail DNA and olive tail movement was observed with increasing concentrations. Copper oxide nanoparticles has greater potential to accumulate in the soft tissues, which may cause respiratory distress such as oxidative stress, induction of antioxidant defense by raising glutathione, organ pathology, and genotoxicity.

Evaluation of iron loading in four types of hepatopancreatic cells of the mangrove crab Ucides cordatus using ferrocene derivatives and iron supplements

Abstract

The mangrove crab Ucides cordatus is a bioindicator of aquatic contamination. In this work, the iron availability and redox activity of saccharide-coated mineral iron supplements (for both human and veterinary use) and ferrocene derivatives in Saline Ucides Buffer (SUB) medium were assessed. The transport of these metallodrugs by four different hepatopancreatic cell types (embryonic (E), resorptive (R), fibrillar (F), and blister (B)) of U. cordatus were measured. Organic coated iron minerals (iron supplements) were stable against strong chelators (calcein and transferrin). Ascorbic acid efficiently mediated the release of iron only from ferrocene compounds, leading to redox-active species. Ferrous iron and iron supplements were efficient in loading iron to all hepatopancreatic cell types. In contrast, ferrocene derivatives were loaded only in F and B cell types. Acute exposition to the iron compounds resulted in cell viability of 70–95%, and to intracellular iron levels as high as 0.40 μmol L⁻¹ depending upon the compound and the cell line. The easiness that iron from iron metallodrugs was loaded/transported into U. cordatus hepatopancreatic cells reinforces a cautionary approach to the widespread disposal and use of highly bioavailable iron species as far as the long-term environmental welfare is concerned.

Approximation of personal exposure to fine particulate matters (PM 2.5 ) during cooking using solid biomass fuels in the kitchens of rural West Bengal, India

Abstract

More than 85% of the rural Indian households use traditional solid biofuels (SBFs) for daily cooking. Burning of the easily available unprocessed solid fuels in inefficient earthen cooking stoves produce large quantities of particulate matters. Smaller particulates, especially with aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM_2.5), largely generated during cooking, are considered to be health damaging in nature. In the present study, kitchen level exposure of women cooks to fine particulate matters during lunch preparation was assessed considering kitchen openness as surrogate to the ventilation condition. Two-way ANCOVA analysis considering meal quantity as a covariate revealed no significant interaction between the openness and the seasons explaining the variability of the personal exposure to the fine particulate matters in rural kitchen during cooking. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed the openness as the only significant predictor for personal exposure to the fine particulate matters. In the present study, the annual average fine particulate matter exposure concentration was found to be 974 μg m⁻³.

Redox buffering and de-coupling of arsenic and iron in reducing aquifers across the Red River Delta, Vietnam, and conceptual model of de-coupling processes

Abstract

Analysis of over 500 groundwater samples from throughout the Red River Delta indicates de-coupling of dissolved arsenic (As) and dissolved iron (Fe). Sorting of all data along the redox potentials suggests re-adsorption of As released initially from Mn(IV)-oxyhydroxides and later from Fe(III)-oxyhydroxides on remaining ferric phases at moderate redox levels. A gradually decreasing specific surface area available for re-adsorption of As probably plays a role as a consequence of limited reactivity of more crystalline phases such as goethite and hematite. At low redox levels, concentrations of Fe and phosphate decrease, but As concentrations keep increasing and most As is present as As(III) with limited adsorption affinity. Based on the results of speciation modeling, the water is supersaturated with respect to siderite and vivianite. A general conceptual model of As and Fe behavior is presented, suggesting that coupled behavior is possible in two geochemical "windows", i.e., 1: between saturation of remaining adsorption sites and the onset of siderite and vivianite precipitation, and 2: after the beginning of secondary sulfide phases precipitation and during methanogenesis. The de-coupling of As from Fe is common and has been observed at many sites around the world where As is released as a consequence of redox processes, e.g., in Bangladesh, West Bengal and Assam in India, the Mekong Delta in Cambodia and Vietnam, and Taiwan. The presented general conceptual model of de-coupling processes can be applied to the interpretation of As and Fe data, and, thus, it can help in the preparation of a site conceptual model which is a necessary prerequisite for reactive transport modeling.

Khuzestan dust phenomenon: a content analysis of most widely circulated newspapers

Abstract

Dust is an atmospheric phenomenon that causes adverse environmental effects. It is deemed to have harmful effects on health, economics, and climate. This study aimed to analyze the content published on the phenomenon of dust in the widely circulated newspapers in Iran. We investigated the content of all national and provincial newspapers that were published between July and August 2014. Data on the materials related to the dust phenomenon in the newspapers were categorized and coded. From a total of 510 newspaper issues, 143 articles were devoted to the dust phenomenon which 74.1% of them were published in provincial newspapers. Among the national newspapers, Hamshahri newspaper with 16 headlines and from the provincial newspapers; Karoon with 23 headlines published the highest number of articles on dust phenomenon. 45.5% of content on dust were printed on the first page of the newspapers. The most common approach to the type of content published in these newspapers was an interview. Moreover, we noticed that 28.7% of the content published in the newspapers was related to the health issue. The media plays an important role in the transmission of health information. Weaknesses in addressing the causes of dust occurrence and also in providing solutions for the dust control and prevention were noticeable in the content published in the newspaper. It seems necessary to take practical measures to disseminate relevant information to dust and also address the needs of the target audience community influenced by the dust phenomenon properly.

Phthalate exposure and high blood pressure in adults: a cross-sectional study in China

Abstract

Widespread phthalate exposure has been recently documented and is hypothesized to increase blood pressure (BP) in humans. However, current studies have provided inconclusive evidence for an association between phthalate exposure and BP. Human epidemiologic studies on the topic remain lacking. Therefore, this study aims to examine the association between serum phthalate concentrations and BP in a Chinese population. We measured several parameters of BP (systolic BP, diastolic BP, total cholesterol, and triglyceride) and the concentrations of 16 phthalates (dimethyl phthalate (DMP), diethyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), bis (2-methoxyethyl) phthalate, bis (4-methyl-2-pentyl) phthalate, bis (2-ethoxyethyl) phthalate, diamyl phthalate, dihexyl phthalate, benzyl butyl phthalate, bis (2-nbutoxyethyl) phthalate (DBEP), dicyclohexyl phthalate, bis (2-ethyl hexyl) phthalate (DEHP), diisononyl phthalate, diphenyl phthalate, and di-n-octyl phthalate) in the serum of 474 adults recruited from a primary health care clinic. The relationship between serum phthalate concentrations and BP parameters was assessed with multivariate linear regressions. DBP was the most ubiquitous and dominant contaminant in the study population. The systolic BP of subjects in the median-exposure DEHP group significantly increased by 2.96 mmHg (p < 0.05) relative to that of subjects in the low-exposure group. Significant positive dose-related associations of DMP and DBEP with the levels of total cholesterol in serum (p for trend < 0.05) were also found. These associations persisted even when considering exposure to multiple phthalates. Our results suggested that phthalate exposure might increase BP in adults. However, our findings warrant further studies in a larger and more general population.

Comparison of Local Anaesthetic Efficacy of Tramadol Versus Lignocaine for Extraction of Tooth Under Supraperiosteal Infiltration

Abstract

Background

Tramadol has been shown to have a local anaesthetic effect when used as infiltration anaesthesia.

Methods

The local anaesthetic efficacy of tramadol was compared with that of lignocaine for the extraction of teeth in terms of their onset of action, duration of action, intraoperative pain, post-operative analgesic effect and adverse reactions. Apart from this, incidence of allergic reaction was also recorded for both the drugs. A total of 100 patients were divided into two groups randomly. Each patient was assigned to receive either a maximum of 2 ml of 5% tramadol (Supridol 50 mg, Neon laboratories), Group T (n = 50), as a local anaesthetic solution for extraction of maxillary premolar for orthodontic reason under supraperiosteal infiltration following strict aseptic precaution or a maximum of 2 ml of 2% lignocaine (Lox 2%, Neon laboratories), Group L (n = 50), in a double-blinded fashion.

Results

In group T, the mean subjective onset of action was 33.66 s, while in group L it was 33.06 s (p = 0.881). In group T, the mean objective onset of action was 3.04 min, while in group L it was 3.18 min (p > 0.05). The mean duration of action in group T was 55.60 min, while in group L it was 57.50 min (p = 0.432). Only 2 patients in group T and 1 patient in group L had nausea (p = 0.245).

Conclusion

We conclude that 5% tramadol has a local anaesthetic efficacy similar to 2% lignocaine but is comparatively a weaker agent.

Correction to: Histological liver chances in Swiss mice caused by tannery effluent

Abstract

There is a problem in the original publication of this paper (Figure 2 Graphs are in Portuguese). Shown in this paper is the correct version.

Environmental impact of rice production based on nitrogen fertilizer use

Abstract

While essential to food production, nitrogen (N) fertilizers in agricultural ecosystems are also important sources of environmental pollution nationally and globally. The environmental impact of three N fertilization levels (30, 60, and 90 kg ha⁻¹) plus a non-N control (0 kg ha⁻¹) in growing three rice cultivars (cv. Hashemi, cv. Alikazemi, and cv. Khazar) were assessed for 2 years in northern Iran, with the methodology of the life cycle assessment (LCA). The impact categories evaluated in this study were global warming, acidification, terrestrial eutrophication, and depletion of fossil, phosphate, and potassium resources. Over cultivars, no use of N fertilizer provided the lowest grain yield (2194 kg ha⁻¹), whereas the N rates of 60 and 90 kg ha⁻¹ increased grain yield by 52.9 and 66.9%, respectively. Over N rates, cv. Khazar produced the highest grain yield (3415 kg ha⁻¹) and cv. Hashemi the lowest (2663 kg ha⁻¹). On-farm (foreground) emissions were higher than off-farm (background) emissions in most impact categories. The maximum value of environmental index (1.33) was observed for cv. Hashemi with 90 kg N ha⁻¹, while the minimum value (0.38) was observed for cv. Khazar without N fertilization. Moreover, cv. Khazar showed the lowest resource depletion index (0.44) with 90 kg N ha⁻¹, whereas cv. Hashemi with no use of N showed the maximum value (0.96). Over cultivars, high N rates imposed drastic impact to the categories acidification and terrestrial eutrophication. However, selection of high-yielding cultivars significantly alleviated the impact to most categories. Fertilization that enables optimal yields, in accordance with the nutrient requirements of crops, ensures the most efficient land use and sustainable rice production.

Nitrogen fertilizer in combination with an ameliorant mitigated yield-scaled greenhouse gas emissions from a coastal saline rice field in southeastern China

Abstract

Coastal saline rice fields play an increasingly important role in rice production and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, few studies investigated the influences of nitrogen (N) fertilizer and soil ameliorant on GHG emissions simultaneously in this region. Thus, a field experiment was established to study the effects of different N fertilizers and soil ameliorant on global warming potential (GWP) and yield-scaled GHG intensity (GHGI) after accounting for carbon dioxide (CO₂) equivalent emissions of methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), agrochemical inputs, and farm operations along with agronomic nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) during the rice season of 2016 in a coastal saline paddy in Lianyungang, China. The experiment was initiated with four N treatments (N0, no N; Nu, urea; Nm, organic-inorganic mixed fertilizer; Nw, organic fertilizer made from wheat straw) and two ameliorant (A) treatments (A0, no ameliorant; A1, 22.5 kg ha⁻¹ ameliorant). The results showed that three N fertilizers significantly increased the CH₄ emissions, N₂O emissions, GWP, and grain yield by 42.2% (p < 0.001), 57.1% (p < 0.001), 49.8% (p < 0.001), and 58.9% (p < 0.001), respectively. NuA1, NmA1, and NwA1 treatments obviously reduced the yield-scaled GHGI by 21.3%, 16.3%, and 12.4%, respectively, relative to the corresponding NuA0, NmA0, and NwA0 treatments. Overall, although three N fertilizers would increase the GWP, combining an ameliorant amendment with N fertilizer can effectively reduce the yield-scaled GHGI and meanwhile increase the grain yield, particularly the NmA1 strategy.

Attenuating effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester and betaine on abamectin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity

Abstract

Abamectin (ABM) is a widely utilized potent anthelmintic and insecticidal agent. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and betaine (BET) against ABM-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in rats. Forty rats were divided into five groups, receiving either oral saline solution (normal control), oral ABM at a dose of 2 mg/kg BW (1/5 LD50), CAPE (10 μmol/kg BW intraperitoneally) followed by ABM, or BET supplementation at a dose of 250 mg/kg BW followed by ABM administration, while group V rats received a combination of i.p. CAPE and oral BET in the same doses before receiving ABM. Biochemical analysis showed that ABM administration significantly (p < 0.05) increased serum levels of aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and cholesterol, as well as serum creatinine and urea. Compared to the control group, ABM-intoxicated rats had significantly (p < 0.05) higher tissue concentrations of nitric oxide and malondialdehyde, as well as lower tissue glutathione concentration, total antioxidant capacity, and antioxidant enzymatic activity (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase). Histopathological examination of hepatic and renal tissues of ABM-intoxicated rats showed acute inflammatory and necrotic changes. Pretreatment with CAPE and/or BET reversed the biochemical and histopathological alterations of ABM on the liver and kidneys. Therefore, CAPE and BET (alone or in combination) could be promising protective agents against ABM-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Future studies should confirm our findings and evaluate the other molecular effects are involved in the combination chemoprotection of CAPE and BET.

Tinea capitis und Onychomykose durch Trichophyton soudanense

Zusammenfassung

Zwei afrikanische Mädchen, die erst vor ca. 4 Wochen nach Deutschland gezogen waren, stellten sich mit juckenden und schuppenden Hautveränderungen an der behaarten Kopfhaut vor. Das gesamte Kapillitium war mit einer weißen, trockenen, schuppenden Kruste überzogen. An den Oberschenkeln sah man trockene, kreisrunde, randbetonte, erythematosquamöse Läsionen. Der linke Daumennagel des jüngeren Mädchens war oberflächlich weißlich verfärbt. Das unter dem Verdacht auf eine Tinea capitis et corporis sowie Onychomykose durchgeführte Blankophor-Präparat aus Kopfschuppen, Hautschuppen vom Oberschenkel und Nagelspänen vom Daumen war positiv. Kulturell ließ sich aus 3 Haut- und Nagelproben Trichophyton (T.) soudanense isolieren. Die Pilzisolate wurden zur Bestätigung der Identifizierung einer Sequenzierung der Internal-Transcribed-Spacer(ITS)-Region der ribosomalen Desoxyribonukleinsäure (rDNA) sowie des TEF1α(„translation elongation factor 1α")-Gens unterzogen. Die Speziesidentifizierung T. soudanense wurde bestätigt. Im phylogenetischen Stammbaum – Dendrogramm – unterschieden sich die T.-soudanense-Stämme genetisch klar von T. rubrum. Dagegen erlaubte die Sequenzierung des TEF1α-Gens keine Unterscheidung zwischen T. soudanense und T. rubrum. Beide Mädchen wurden systemisch antimykotisch mit Fluconazol behandelt. Topisch kamen bei beiden Mädchen Ciclopiroxolamin und Terbinafin (jeweils 1‑mal täglich) als Lösung bzw. Creme zur Anwendung. Nach 8 Wochen oraler Fluconazol-Therapie war die Dermatomykose der Haut, Haare und des Daumennagels bei beiden Kindern komplett geheilt. T. soudanense ist ein aus Afrika stammender anthropophiler Dermatophyt, mit dem in Deutschland und Europa zunehmend gerechnet werden muss. Die kulturelle Identifizierung des Erregers ist relativ einfach. Molekulare Methoden erlauben zudem die genaue Unterscheidung von T. violaceum und T. rubrum.

Goethe’s Polarity of Light and Darkness

Abstract

Rarely does research in the history and philosophy of science lead to new empirical results, but that is exactly what has happened in one of the essays of this special issue: Rang and Grebe-Ellis have developed new experimental techniques to perform measurements Goethe proposed 217 years ago. These measurements fit neatly with Goethe's idea of polarity—his complementary spectrum is not only an optical, but also a thermodynamical counterpart of Newton's spectrum. I use the new measurements, firstly, to argue against the asymmetries between light and darkness posited by Lyre and Schreiber; and, secondly, to explicate the alternative theory (the heterogeneity of darkness) that Goethe had introduced to urge scientific pluralism. In my replies to exegetical criticism by Böhler, Hampe and Zemplén, I show that the main goal of Goethe's Farbenlehre was indeed to expose symmetries between light and darkness. Furthermore, I argue that it is worthwhile to focus on the experiments, arguments and hypotheses of the Farbenlehre, and not merely on rhetorical, narrative or stylistical aspects, as Böhler and Hampe would have it. Goethe's criticism of Newton is often dismissed, but it is in fact surprisingly relevant today.

Importance of sentinel lymphatic node biopsy in patients with low-risk and high-risk cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Background

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is the second most common non-melanoma skin cancer type. The purpose of our study was to compare the diagnosis of CSCC micrometastases using sentinel lymphatic node biopsy (SLNB) in sentinel lymphatic nodes (SLN) in patients with high-risk and low-risk CSCC.

Methods

A prospective clinical study was carried out. Patients with clinically diagnosed and histologically confirmed CSCC were included in the study if no metastases were observed preoperatively. Patients were divided into low-risk (n = 42) and high-risk (n = 46) groups according to the risk factors. Patients underwent a one-stage operation, tumor excision, and SLNB. Primary tumor characteristics and metastases rates were compared between the groups. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0 software. A significance level of 0.05 was chosen.

Results

Micrometastases were found in three high-risk group patients (6.54%). However, the rate of micrometastases in the low-risk group was 0%. The mean size of primary tumors in the low-risk group was 0.97 cm ± 0.44 and was 2.25 cm ± 1.74 in the high-risk group (p < 0.001). The distribution of ulcerated and non-ulcerated tumors differed between the risk groups (p = 0.035). The mean Breslow thickness of CSCC was higher in the high-risk group (2.97 mm ± 1.49 versus 1.39 mm ± 0.51 in the low-risk group, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

According to the results of our study, SLNB should be performed for high-risk CSCC patients only. Primary tumor size, depth, and fact of ulceration correlate with the rate of micrometastases, which is 6.54% for high-risk CSCC patients.

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

Comments on “Breast augmentation combined with a transposed glandular flap for prevention and correction of lower pole deformities”

Three-dimensional printing modeling: application in maxillofacial and hand fractures and resident training

Abstract

Background

Imaging techniques in reconstructive surgery are of great assistance not only in diagnosis but also in preoperative planning; however, they are often limited to interpreting three-dimensional structures on flat surfaces. Three-dimensional (3D) printing has made it possible to overcome these limitations by allowing the creation of customized 3D anatomical models. We set out to create 3D printed models to demonstrate its application in maxillofacial and hand fractures and resident training.

Methods

Ten patients with hand and craniofacial fractures of different types were studied. Computed tomography was performed; the image files were processed digitally, and 3D models were subsequently printed. The quality and accuracy of the obtained models were rigorously evaluated, and the models were then used by plastic surgery teachers and residents in the preoperative planning.

Results

The comparative measurements confirmed that the models are at real scale with a 1:1 ratio; the pre-cast osteosynthesis plates were perfectly matched to the patient's anatomy intraoperatively, and the lengths of the pre-selected screws were accurate. The anesthetic surgical time was reduced by 20%. Teachers and residents were satisfied with the use of models for clinical discussions of patients and for preoperative planning and the advantages of manipulating physical models were highlighted.

Conclusions

We have created low-cost, good quality, reliable, and accurate 3D printed models for the preoperative planning of reconstructive surgeries of maxillofacial and hand fractures, reducing the operative times and providing a new academic teaching tool in the training of residents of plastic surgery.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.