Efficacy of breast reconstruction with fat grafting: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Breast reconstruction with fat grafting is a new alternative to prosthetic implants and flaps for women with breast cancer. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of fat grafting for breast reconstruction in a meta-analysis.

Cartilage sparing surgery for melanoma of the external ear

The excision of melanoma of the external ear poses a challenge to surgeons, who must achieve adequate oncological control while minimising impact on form and function. Cartilage preserving surgery is an attractive option as it leaves behind a scaffold for immediate reconstruction with a variety of techniques including full thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) and local flaps. This manuscript will review the literature comparing cartilage sparing surgery with composite excision of skin and cartilage for the treatment of auricular melanoma.

Readability and quality of breast reduction on-line resources

Many patients are now using the Internet as a resource for health-related information. It is recommended that the readability of patient education materials should be equal to or less than an 11-13-year-old reading level.The aim of this study was to evaluate the readability and quality of websites related to breast reduction.The largest internet search engine was queried for 'breast reduction'. 112 articles from the ten most popular websites were downloaded for analysis. Results from the private cosmetic industry were excluded.

Comparison of piezosurgery, percutaneous and endonasal continuous osteotomy techniques on a caprine skull model

Osteotomy is a crucial step in rhinoplasty which can have a significant impact on the outcome. In addition to previous percutaneous (external perforating) and endonasal (internal) approaches, piezosurgery has been used in rhinoplasty practice since 2007. This experimental model was planned to compare the three osteotomy techniques.

Utilization of Installation Wound Vacuum Device for Breast Implant Salvage: Approach and Results

Negative pressure wound therapy allow for an increase in fibroblast migration, a decrease in cell death and stimulation of angiogenesis, all to allow for more rapid wound healing. With irrigating vacs, wounds can be continually washed without painful dressing changes, while concurrently providing the benefit of intermittent negative pressure.

Shear wave elastography in the diagnosis of the ulnar tunnel syndrome.

An interesting alternative to traditional diagnostic techniques of the upper extremity nerve entrapments might be provided by an ultrasound elastography that started to gain attention in recent research. The aim of this preliminary study was to verify if quantitative analysis of ulnar nerve stiffness with shear-wave elastography can be used to diagnose the ulnar tunnel syndrome, an ulnar nerve neuropathy at the Guyon's canal. The study included 46 patients (39 women) and 39 healthy controls (34 women).

A SIMPLE METHOD FOR LYMPHEDEMA SELF-MEASUREMENT USING THE ZOZOSUIT BODYSUIT

Dear Editor,

Allergic contact dermatitis in a child caused by isothiazolinones in a “noise putty”

Contact Dermatitis, EarlyView.

Survival, disease progression and prognostic factors in elderly patients with mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome: a retrospective analysis of 174 patients

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Management of patients with hereditary angioedema in Germany: comparison to other countries in the Icatibant Outcome Survey

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Secukinumab survival and long‐term efficacy in patients with plaque psoriasis: real‐life data from a tertiary hospital in Greece

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Comparison of clinical and ultrasound scores in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa: results from an Italian ultrasound working group

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Hidradenitis suppurativa/acne inversa: A practical framework for treatment optimization – systematic review and recommendations from the HS ALLIANCE working group

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Probabilistic risk assessment (Monte Carlo simulation method) of Pb and Cd in the onion bulb (Allium cepa) and soil of Iran

Abstract

Recently, the exposure to heavy metals through the consumption of vegetables has become a global concern. In this regard, the current study was aimed to measure the concentrations of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in the collected onion bulb samples as well as the surrounded soil using a flame atomic absorption spectrometer (FAAS). Additionally, the target hazard quotient (THQ) for males and females in all age groups of consumers were estimated by using Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) method. Furthermore, the soil threshold values (STVs) were evaluated to investigate the heavy metal contents in the soil based on the established standard limits. In this context, 45 onion bulbs (HashtBandi region, 25 and Ravang region, 20) and 41 soil (HashtBandi region, 21 and Ravang region, 20) samples were collected (March–May of 2016). The average concentrations of Pb in the onions from HashtBandi and Ravang regions were determined as 0.0052 ± 0.0011 and 0.0061 ± 0.0022 mg/kg, and for Cd were 0.0095 ± 0.0024 and 0.0011 ± 0.0035 mg/kg, respectively. The average concentration of Pb in the soil from HashtBandi and Ravang regions were measured as 3.99 ± 3.77 and 2.03 ± 0.69 mg/kg, and for Cd, the corresponding values were determined as 2.21 ± 3.17 and 2.22 ± 0.92 mg/kg, respectively. The average concentration of Pb and Cd in both investigated onion bulb and soil were lower than Iranian national (onion bulb: Pb = 0.1 mg/kg, Cd = 0.05 mg/kg) and FAO/WHO (onion bulb: Pb = 0.3 mg/kg, Cd = 0.1 mg/kg; soil: Pb = 50 mg/kg, Cd = 0.3 mg/kg) standard limits. Moreover, the THQ and total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) for males and females in all age groups were less than 1 value. Therefore, no risk of the exposure to Pb and Cd as result of onion bulb consumption was reported. STVs for Pb and Cd in the HashtBandi region were calculated as 3.99 and 2.21 mg/kg, and Ravang as 2.03 and 2.22 mg/kg, respectively. Due to the higher calculated STVs for Cd while compared with the established standard limit for the soil, the further revisions regarding the heavy metal standard limits in the soil were recommended.

Impact of cluster headache on employment status and job burden: a prospective cross-sectional multicenter study

Cluster headaches (CH) are recurrent severe headaches, which impose a major burden on the life of patients. We investigated the impact of CH on employment status and job burden.

The effect of ICT, financial development, growth, and trade openness on CO 2 emissions: an empirical analysis

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of Internet use, financial development, economic growth, and trade openness on carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in selected European Union (EU) countries. To this end, pooled mean group (PMG) estimator is utilized for panel data from 2001 to 2014. Empirical findings suggest that Internet use has long-run relationship with CO₂ emissions and lowering the environmental quality in EU countries. Also, the electricity consumption has a positive and significant effect on CO₂ emissions. Moreover, interestingly, economic growth and financial development have a diminishing negative impact on CO₂ emission. Heterogeneous panel Granger causality results suggest unidirectional causality running from Internet use to CO₂ emissions. The finding implies that the European Union countries did not achieve the level of green information and telecommunication (ICTs) consumption. Overall, the innovative findings indicate that Internet use is raising the threat to the sustainable development. Thus, to curb and mitigate CO₂ emissions from Internet use and electricity consumption is the need of time to maintain the sustainable development in EU countries.

Effects of Microcystis aeruginosa on the life history traits and SOD activity of Daphnia similoides sinensis

Abstract

With water eutrophication and global warming, cyanobacteria blooms have occurred frequently, and the interaction between M. aeruginosa and Daphnia has been widely paid attention by researchers. However, the effects of toxic M. aeruginosa on the SOD activity of Daphnia are poorly known. Six D. similoides sinensis clones collected from Lake Junshan and the offspring of two clones were employed. The effects of toxic M. aeruginosa on the life history traits and SOD activities of D. similoides sinensis in the mother and their offspring were studied. Toxic M. aeruginosa could significantly inhibit the life history traits (e.g., body lengths, offspring numbers at first reproduction, cumulative offspring numbers, and the intrinsic rate of population) and induce higher SOD activities of D. similoides sinensis. Compared with the mother, the effects of toxic M. aeruginosa on the life history traits and SOD activities of D. similoides sinensis in the offspring showed obvious differences. Moreover, the adaptability of the offspring to M. aeruginosa indicated also the differences between two clones. Our results suggested that the mother exposed to toxic M. aeruginosa could enhance the fitness of their offspring to Microcystis by maternal effect and was also affected by the D. similoides sinensis genotypes.

Rarasaponin-bentonite-activated biochar from durian shells composite for removal of crystal violet and Cr(VI) from aqueous solution

Abstract

This paper presents the preparation of composite material and its application for the adsorption of crystal violet and Cr(VI) from aqueous solution onto acid-activated bentonite (AAB) and rarasaponin–bentonite-activated biochar from durian shells composite (RBAB). The influence of initial pH of the solution and the temperature of adsorption on the adsorbents adsorption performance was also studied. Langmuir and Freundlich models could represent the adsorption equilibria equally well. Thermodynamic parameters such as ∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S° were evaluated based on the adsorption isotherms. The values of ∆G°, ∆H°, and ∆S° for crystal violet adsorption system demonstrate behavior contrary to the Cr(VI) adsorption system. Where crystal violet adsorption is preferred at high temperatures with q_max, value is 518.64 mg/L; while adsorption Cr(VI) is better at low temperature with q_max, value is 106.30 mg/L. Pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models could represent the kinetic data well.

Estimation and Validation of Flour Exposure in Bakeries in Alberta, Canada

Abstract

Objectives

In epidemiological studies of work-related ill-health only current exposures can, at best, be measured. Previous exposures may be estimated using contemporaneous hygiene records or published data. This study aimed to create a job exposure matrix for exposure in bakers for use in an ongoing cohort study.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted of English language publications on exposures in bakeries. All publications that appeared to contain quantitative measures of exposure to flour dust, wheat allergen, or fungal α-amylase were read independently by two investigators and relevant data extracted. A third investigator reviewed these data and publications were retained that reported full-shift exposures to inhalable dust, wheat allergen, or α-amylase, and for which geometric means (GMs) were given or could be estimated. For each study, the number of sampling results contributing to each GM was recorded together with information on task, bakery size, product, filter type, sampling head, the country in which the study was conducted, and the estimated year of sampling. Multivariable models were elaborated for each exposure using a linear mixed effects approach. The predictive capacity of the model for inhaled particles was tested against samples collected in eight Alberta bakeries. The capacity of exposure intensity, estimated from each of the three models, to predict sensitization was tested against skin prick testing (SPT) for bakery allergens in bakers currently employed in Alberta.

Results

One thousand three hundred and ninety-seven publications were identified through the systematic search, of which 27 had data used to create one or more of the predictive models. Weighted GMs were used as outcome variables. For inhalable dust, task, bakery size, type of sampling head, and year of sampling contributed to the final model. For wheat allergen and α-amylase, task, bakery size, sampling head, and year of sampling again contributed. Product (bread rather than confectionary or mixed products) was also important in these two latter measures. The model for inhalable dust was used to predict the concentration in 33 samples from Alberta bakeries. Overall, 91% of observed samples had 95% confidence intervals (CIs) overlapping the 95% CIs of the predicted values. A model including the Alberta samples found no effect attributable to Alberta provenance. Using this model for inhalable dust and the models developed solely from the literature for wheat allergen and α-amylase, a positive SPT for bakery allergens in 57 bakers recruited for this study was significantly related to log cumulative exposure for each of the three outcome variables and to log exposure intensity for wheat allergen and α-amylase.

Conclusions

The exposure models developed from the literature provide useful estimates of exposure. Calibration of the models against locally collected samples may be useful for countries poorly represented in the modeling dataset.

A global consensus statement on ashy dermatosis, erythema dyschromicum perstans, lichen planus pigmentosus, idiopathic eruptive macular pigmentation, and Riehl's melanosis

International Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Highlights from the Literature

Forthcoming Meetings

Edited by Albert H. Kim and Jennie W. Taylor

Health insurance and the ongoing debate of quality and quantity

See the article by Brown et al. pp. 1374-1382.

First results on the DCVax phase III trial: raising more questions than providing answers

Recently, the long-awaited report on efficacy data of the DCVax trial has appeared in the Journal of Translational Medicine.¹ Patients and physicians alike are eager to critically evaluate the first results of this important trial, which is one of the earliest major attempts to improve outcome in patients with glioblastoma using immunotherapy based on an autologous tumor lysate-pulsed dendritic cell vaccine (DCVax). It is not only one of the first randomized phase III trials of its kind, but in light of recent successes with cancer immunotherapies outside neuro-oncology, there is a huge interest in any form of immune treatment for glioma patients. Any report is highly relevant, not in the least as the treatment is offered commercially to patients, at high cost, and without the effectiveness of the treatment being known to date. In the interplay between concept-based hopes and urgent need for effective treatments, it is of the utmost importance that outcome data are shared with the community.

Four compartment method as an efficacious and simplified technique for autologous non‐cultured epidermal cell suspension preparation in vitiligo surgery: A randomized, active‐controlled study

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Role of cytochrome c in modulating chromium-induced oxidative stress in Oryza sativa

Abstract

Cytochrome c (CYTc) is one of the redox-active molecules responsible for electron transport in plant mitochondria. It is important in the interaction of metal ions with mitochondrial proteome, it is also essential for insights into electron transport during oxidative stress. This study focused on the clarification of interactions of CYTc with metal accumulation and associated modulation of CYTc with reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in rice seedlings exposed to chromium either hexavalent Cr(VI) or trivalent Cr(III). The result indicates that exposures to both Cr species resulted in significant accumulation of Cr in rice tissues. ROS-dependent growth inhibition of rice seedlings was also evident from both Cr treatments. Changes of CYTc content in roots and shoots maintained almost the same pattern after both Cr exposures. However, dynamically transcriptional levels of rice CYTc genes conducted by real-time quantitative RT-PCR were inconsistent in rice tissues. The results presented here demonstrate that oxidative stresses induced by ROS accumulation do not equally and/or detrimentally influence the perturbations of CYTc content and expression patterns of CYTc genes in rice tissues after Cr exposure, suggesting that the decrease of CYTc levels in roots did not originate ROS accumulation, it may be due to metal-binding properties, while enhancement of CYTc content in shoots was probably a signal of severe growth inhibition owing to ROS accumulation.

Towards a semantics for metanormative constructivism

Abstract

The status of constructivism as a metaethical or metanormative theory is unclear partly due to the lack of a clear semantics for central normative terms such as 'reason' and 'ought'. In a series of recent papers, Sharon Street has attempted to clarify the central commitments of constructivism by focusing on the idea of a practical point of view and what follows from it. We improve upon the informal understanding provided by Street and attempt to provide a semantics for 'ought'. Our semantics respects the core intuition of the constructivist that normative claims are made true because of our practical commitments as agents and also reflects the constructivist's commitment to the centrality of practical deliberation to normative truth. On our view, a normative claim of the form ⌜S ought to ϕ⌝ is true if ϕ is entailed from S's set of evaluative attitudes. We argue that a virtue of our definition is that it allows us to see precisely what is distinctive about constructivism as opposed to realism and expressivism.

Skin type differences in solar simulated radiation‐induced oxidative stress

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

MR Imaging of Patients with Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices (CIEDs): Implementing a Program and Optimizing CMR

Abstract

Purpose of review

How to implement a program for MRI in patients with conditional and non-conditional ("legacy") CIED. How to optimize safety and image quality in CMR? What the radiologists need to know: device programming, pre- and post-MRI CIED parameters.

Recent findings

New Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines have opened MRI to many patients with nonconditional devices. Newer pulse sequences for cardiac MRI (CMR) in device patients, including modified cine, late gadolinium enhancement and T1 mapping sequences, have resulted in improved image quality in device patients. We present several cases of CMR in device patients, including imaging of leadless pacemakers subcutaneous ICDs. Imaging pitfalls/artifacts in CMR interpretation are also presented.

Summary

An organized institutional workflow with an established protocol involving proper patient screening, device programming, scan monitoring, and pre- and post-ICD interrogation minimizes risk in patients with conditional and non-conditional CIEDs. Although rare, significant changes in lead performance, power-on/reset, inappropriate pacing or ICD discharges and battery voltage depletion should be documented. High-quality scans with accurate scar characterization in CIED patients require the use of wideband sequences. CMS has recently acknowledged MRI as a reasonable test necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of beneficiaries with implanted CIEDs, improving the financial prospects and encouraging future developments.

Quality and Safety in Emergency Radiology

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To review and outline problems and challenges in regard to patient safety along with solutions to overcome them.

Recent Findings

Errors and discrepancies in radiology practice are disappointingly common. The estimated rate of errors is more than 5% in many targeted studies. This requires a detailed review of different types of errors in radiology and potential strategies to prevent them.

Summary

An effective health care delivery system relies heavily on high degrees of skill in professionalism and communication. Strategies to prevent errors and improve communication with physicians in the Emergency Department are helpful in providing quality patient care, thus also decreasing the chances of conflicts and litigation.

Imaging and its role in tendinopathy: current evidence and the need for guidelines

Cadmium-accumulator straw application alleviates cadmium stress of lettuce ( Lactuca sativa ) by promoting photosynthetic activity and antioxidative enzyme activities

Abstract

The effects of application of straw derived from cadmium (Cd) accumulator plants (Siegesbeckia orientalis, Conyza canadensis, Eclipta prostrata, and Solanum photeinocarpum) on growth and Cd accumulation of lettuce plants grown under Cd exposure were studied. Treatment with straw of the four Cd-accumulator species promoted growth, photosynthesis, and soluble protein contents and enhanced the activities of peroxidase in leaves of lettuce seedlings. The biomass of shoot of lettuce from high to low in turn is the treatment of C. canadensis straw > S. photeinocarpum straw > S. orientalis > E. prostrata > Control. The Cd content in edible parts (shoots) of the lettuce plants was significantly decreased in the presence of straw from the Cd-accumulator species, except the presence of the straw of E. prostrata. And, the greatest reduction in Cd content in shoots was 27.09% in the S. photeinocarpum straw treatment compared with that of the control. Therefore, application of straw of S. orientalis, C. canadensis, and S. photeinocarpum can promote the growth of lettuce seedlings, and decrease their Cd accumulation, when grown in Cd-contaminated soil, which is beneficial for production of lettuce safe for human consumption.

Impact of marine and continental sources on aerosol characteristics using an on-board SPAMS over southeast sea, China

Abstract

The chemical composition of atmospheric aerosols was characterized using an on-board single particle aerosol mass spectrometer (SPAMS) over the Southeast China Sea. High-time-resolution observation of marine aerosols was carried out to clarify the source of aerosols and the interaction of marine and continental aerosols. Atmospheric aerosols were determined by the interaction of continental and marine sources over coastal area. Aerosols from continental sources flux into sea surfaces through deposition or diffusion, which results in the rapid decrease of continental aerosols. Five main subtypes of carbonaceous particles are identified as C_Al-Si, C_V-Ni, C_S, C_K, and C_secondary to clarify the impact of marine and continental sources on atmospheric aerosols. High fraction of C_Al-Si and C_secondary is present over XA (Xiamen anchorage), accounting for 23.8% and 18.6% of total carbonaceous particles. Contrarily, the relative percentage of C_S increases as the distance from land to sea increases. The influence of continental aerosols declines, while the contribution of marine aerosols increases as the distance from land to sea increases. Air masses in XA, LSA (land to sea area), SLA (sea to land area), and SA (sea area) were all from ocean during the observation period, resulting in low relative fraction of continental aerosols in SLA, SA, and LSA. High-time-resolution measurement is useful to understand aerosol source types and the impact of marine and continental sources on marine atmosphere aerosols.

Behçet's disease diagnosed by lower extremity ulcers

International Wound Journal, EarlyView.

The role of nutrition in inflammatory pilosebaceous disorders: Implication of the skin‐gut axis

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Setting sun pattern in dermoscopy of a scalp nodule

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Analysis, characterization of coenzyme B12 biosynthetic gene clusters and improvement of B12 biosynthesis in Pseudomonas denitrificans ATCC 13867

Abstract

Coenzyme B₁₂ is an essential cofactor for many enzymes such as glycerol dehydratase, methionine synthase and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. Herein, we revisited the B₁₂ biosynthetic gene clusters (I and II) in Pseudomonas denitrificans, a well-known industrial producer of the coenzyme B₁₂, to understand the regulation of gene expression and improve the production of coenzyme B₁₂. There existed eight operons, seven in the cluster I and one in the cluster II, and four operons were regulated by B₁₂–responsive riboswitches with a switch-off concentration at ∼5 nM coenzyme B₁₂. DNA sequences of the four riboswitches were partially removed, individually or in combination, to destroy the structures of riboswitches, but no improvement was observed. However, when whole length of riboswitches in the cluster I were completely removed and promoters regulated by the riboswitches were replaced with strong constitutive ones, B₁₂ biosynthesis was improved up to two-fold. Interestingly, modification of the promoter region for cluster II, where many (>10) late genes of B₁₂ biosynthesis belong, always resulted in a significant, more than six-fold reduction of B₁₂ biosynthesis.

The two-component regulatory system CpxA/R is required for the pathogenesis of Aeromonas hydrophila

Abstract

Aeromonas hydrophila is a causative pathogen of many infectious diseases in fish and human. The two-component regulatory system enables bacteria to response to a wide range of stimuli, growth conditions and environments. The two-component system CpxA/R is prevalent in microorganisms and involved in the pathogenesis of a number of pathogens. In this study, we generated a ΔcpxA/R mutant of A. hydrophila ZYAH72 to explore the biological functions mediated by the CpxA/R in this organism. Compared to the wild type strain, the knockout mutant strain ΔcpxA/R exhibited a significant impairment in adherence to human epithelial cells Caco-2 and resistance against host killing in fish blood. However, the mutant strain and the wild type strain showed no difference in the cytotoxicity assay revealed that the absent of CpxA/R did not influence the cytopathic effect of this pathogen in vitro. Furthermore, the virulence of ΔcpxA/R was attenuated in zebrafish (Danio rerio) and grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) infections, with reduced mortality or delayed death time. These findings suggest that CpxA/R is required for the virulence of A. hydrophila.

Enhancing acid tolerance of the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM with trehalose

Abstract

Enhancing the acid tolerance of the probiotic bacterial strain Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM (L. acidophilus NCFM) is critical for improving its viability during transiting through gastrointestinal tract, which is the basis of eliciting beneficial effects as an intestinal probiotic. In this study, the role of trehalose and the glutamateγ-aminobutyric acid antiporter gene gadC in enhancing the acid tolerance of L. acidophilus NCFM was investigated. Trehalose at a concentration of 0.5% (w/v) was sufficient to significantly increase bacterial viability at pH 2.0, and trehalose of 2.0% can preserve more than 80% of bacterial viability both at pH 2.0 and 3.0. The inactivation of gadC gene in L. acidophilus NCFM significantly reduced bacterial viability at pH 2.0, and diminished the protective effect of trehalose against acid stress. In conclusion, exogeneous trehalose conferred L. acidophilus NCFM enhanced viability at extreme low pH values, an effect that appeared to depend on its endogenous glutamate-depenent acid resistance system.

Chlorothalonil Biotransformation by Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenases in Sclerotinia homoeocarpa

Abstract

Cytochrome P450s have been shown to play a vital role in the xenobiotic detoxification system of Sclerotinia homoeocarpa, the causal agent of the turfgrass disease dollar spot. A previous study indicated that three CYP450s were validated to play a functional role in resistance against different fungicide classes including propiconazole and plant growth regulator, flurprimidol. In this study, we present these CYP450s possess the capability to modify the multi-site mode of action fungicide chlorothalonil. Chlorothalonil is an extensively used contact fungicide and has been shown to persist in soils. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) indicated faster rates of chlorothalonil biotransformation by CYP561 and CYP65 overexpression strains when compared to the wild-type and CYP68 overexpression strain. Our GC-MS results show that the primary transformation intermediate found in soils, 4-hydroxy-2,5,6 trichloro-isophthalonitrile is produced by CYP450s' metabolism. These findings suggest fungal CYP450s can biotransform chlorothalonil for biodegradation or detoxification.

Recent advances in the microbial hydroxylation and reduction of soy isoflavones

Abstract

Soy isoflavones are naturally occurring phytochemicals, which are biotransformed into functional derivatives through oxidative and reductive metabolic pathways of diverse microorganisms. Such representative derivatives, ortho-dihydroxyisoflavones (ODIs) and equols, have attracted great attention for their versatile health benefits since they were found from soybean fermented foods and human intestinal fluids. Recently, scientists in food technology, nutrition, and microbiology began to understand their correct biosynthetic pathways and nutraceutical values, and have attempted to produce the valuable bioactive compounds using microbial fermentation and whole-cell/enzyme-based biotransformation. Furthermore, artificial design of microbial catalysts and/or protein engineering of oxidoreductases were also conducted to enhance production efficiency and regioselectivity of products. This minireview summarizes and introduces the past year's studies and recent advances in notable production of ODIs and equols, and provides information on available microbial species and their catalytic performance with perspectives on industrial application.

Myo-inositol as an adjuvant to florfenicol against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in common carp Cyprinus carpio

Abstract

Florfenicol, a synthetic drug with chemical structure and spectrum of antibacterial activity similar to chloramphenicol, has been shown to be effective against a number of bacterial pathogens. However, there are increasing signs of florfenicol-resistant bacteria due to the misuse and overuse of florfenicol in aquaculture. In the present study, florfenicol had a higher bactericidal efficacy in the presence of myo-inositol, may be due to the ability of myo-inositol to increase susceptibility of Aeromonas hydrophila to florfenicol. Furthermore, in two different infected models, co-administration myo-inositol and florfenicol significantly reduced the bacterial load in the liver, kidney and spleen tissues of A. hydrophila-infected Cyprinus carpio, and greatly increased the survival rate of infected fish. Finally, it was also found that myo-inositol exhibited synergistic action with other antibiotic drugs including neomycin sulfate, ceftriaxone and enrofloxacin. The results obtained in this study suggest that myo-inositol as a efficient adjuvant to antibiotic drugs, could be useful in increasing the antimicrobial activity of antibiotic drugs against A. hydrophila infection, also be useful to help decrease the occurrence of antibiotic overuse in aquaculture.

Severe contact dermatitis caused by urushiol in Japanese lacquer

Contact Dermatitis, EarlyView.

Subtraction CT angiography improves evaluation of significant coronary artery disease in patients with severe calcifications or stents—the C-Sub 320 multicenter trial

Abstract

Objectives

Diagnostic accuracy of conventional coronary CT angiography (CCTA_conv) may be compromised by blooming artifacts from calcifications or stents. Blooming artifacts may be reduced by subtraction coronary CT angiography (CCTA_sub) in which non-contrast and contrast CT data sets are subtracted digitally. We tested whether CCTA_sub in patients with severe coronary calcification or stents reduces the number of false-positive stenosis evaluations compared with CCTA_conv.

Methods

In this study, 180 symptomatic patients scheduled for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) were prospectively enrolled and CT scanned (2013-2016) at three international centers. CCTA_conv, and CCTA_sub data sets were reconstructed. Target segments were defined as motion-free coronary segments with a suspected stenosis (> 50% of lumen) potentially due to blooming of either calcium or stents. Target segments were evaluated with respect to misregistration artifacts from the CCTA_sub reconstruction process, in which case evaluation was omitted. CCTA_sub and CCTA_conv were compared with ICA. Primary outcome measure was the frequency of false positives by CCTA_conv versus CCTA_sub to identify > 50% coronary stenosis by ICA on a per-segment level.

Results

After exclusion of 76 patients, 104 (14% females) with mean age 67 years and median Agatston score 852 were included. There were 136 target segments with misregistration and 121 target segments without. Accuracy calculations in target segments without misregistration showed a reduction of the false positives from 72% [95% confidence interval (CI): 63-80%] in CCTA_conv to 33% (CI:25-42%) in CCTA_sub, at the expense of 7% (CI:3-14%) false negatives in CCTA_sub.

Conclusions

In severely calcified coronary arteries or stents, CCTA_sub reduces the false-positive rate in well-aligned, calcified or stent segments suspected of significant stenosis on CCTA_conv. Nevertheless, misregistration artifacts are frequent in CCTA_sub.

Key Points

• A high calcium-score reduces the diagnostic accuracy in patients scanned with cardiac CT.

• These patients would normally need an invasive angiogram for diagnosis.

• In this prospective, multicenter study, subtraction CT, when evaluable, reduces false-positive stenosis evaluations.

• Subtraction coronary CT angiography may, when evaluable, reduce excessive downstream testing.

Correction to: Magnetic resonance with diffusion-weighted imaging improves assessment of focal liver lesions in patients with potentially resectable pancreatic cancer on CT

The original version of this article, published on 19 January 2018, unfortunately contained a mistake.

Scapholunate instability: improved detection with semi-automated kinematic CT analysis during stress maneuvers

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of radioulnar deviation (RUD) and clenching fist (CF) maneuvers for the evaluation of scapholunate dissociation (SLD) using quantitative kinematic CT.

Methods

Thirty-seven patients with suspected scapholunate instability were prospectively evaluated with kinematic CT. Two radiologists independently evaluated the SLD during RUD and CF maneuvers. Various dynamic parameters describing SLD were compared (maximal value, variation coefficient and range) in patients with and without scapholunate ligament ruptures confirmed by CT arthrography.

Results

SLD in CF varied from 3.17 ± 0.38 to 3.24 ± 0.80 mm in controls and from 4.11 ± 0.77 and 4.01 ± 0.85 mm in patients with scapholunate ligament ruptures for reader 1 and 2 (p < 0.009). SLD in RUD varied from 3.35 ± 0.51 and 3.01 ± 0.78 mm in controls and from 4.51 ± 1.26 to 4.42 ± 1.75 mm in patients with scapholunate ligament ruptures for reader 1 and 2 (p varied from 0.001 to 0.002). The inter-observer variability was better for RUD (ICC = 0.85 versus 0.6 for RUD and CF respectively).

Conclusion

Analysis of SLD using kinematic CT has shown significant measurement differences between the groups with or without scapholunate instability with good diagnostic performance.

Key Points

• Kinematic CT can quantitatively assess scapholunate dissociation.

• SLD analysis on kinematic CT has excellent reproducibility with radioulnar deviation maneuver.

• Scapholunate dissociation was significantly different in patients with and without instability.

• Diagnostic performance for scapholunate instability identification was better with radioulnar deviation.

Correction to: Anatomy of the retro-oesophageal major aortopulmonary collateral arteries in patients with pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect: results from preoperative CTA

The original version of this article, originally published online ahead of printing on January 05, 2018, unfortunately contained mistakes.

Optic radiations are thinner and show signs of iron deposition in patients with long-standing remitting-relapsing multiple sclerosis: an enhanced T 2 * -weighted angiography imaging study

Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to investigate iron deposition and thickness and signal changes in optic radiation (OR) by enhanced T₂^*-weighted angiography imaging (ESWAN) in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) with unilateral and bilateral lesions or no lesions.

Methods

Fifty-one RRMS patients (42 patients with a disease duration [DD] ≥ 2 years [group Mor], nine patients with a DD < 2 years [group Les]) and 51 healthy controls (group Con) underwent conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ESWAN at 3.0 T. The mean phase value (MPV) of the OR was measured on the phase image, and thickness and signal changes of the OR were observed on the magnitude image.

Results

The average MPVs for the OR were 1,981.55 ± 7.75 in group Mor, 1,998.45 ± 2.01 in group Les, and 2,000.48 ± 5.53 in group Con. In group Mor, 28 patients with bilateral OR lesions showed bilateral OR thinning with a heterogeneous signal, and 14 patients with unilateral OR lesions showed ipsilateral OR thinning with a heterogeneous signal. In the remaining nine patients without OR lesions and in group Con, the bilateral OR had a normal appearance. In the patients, a negative correlation was found between DD and OR thickness and a positive correlation was found between MPV and OR thickness.

Conclusions

We confirmed iron deposition in the OR in the RRMS patients, and the OR thickness was lower in the patients than in the controls.

Key Points

• Enhanced T ₂ ^* -weighted magnetic resonance angiography (ESWAN) provides new insights into multiple sclerosis (MS).

• Focal destruction of the optic radiation (OR) is detectable by ESWAN.

• Iron deposition in OR can be measured on ESWAN phase image in MS patients.

• OR thickness was lower in the patients than in the controls.

• Iron deposition and thickness changes of the OR are associated with disease duration.

The inhibitory effect of gadoxetate disodium on hepatic transporters: a study using indocyanine green

Abstract

Objectives

To assess the inhibitory effect of gadoxetate disodium on the transporter system using indocyanine green (ICG).

Materials and Methods

Groups of six female B6 Albino mice were injected with the test agent (0.62 mmol/kg gadoxetate disodium) or phosphate-buffered saline (control) 10 min before injection of ICG. Identical fluorescence images were subsequently obtained to create time-efficiency curves of liver parenchymal uptake. The study was performed on hypothermic and normothermic mice. The logarithms of the absorption rate constants (logKa values) and of the elimination rate constants (logKe values) were calculated for each experimental condition, and between-group differences were compared using Student's t-test.

Results

The logKe values of the test group were lower than those of the control group at both temperatures (-6.52 vs. -5.87 under hypothermic conditions and -4.54 vs. -4.14 under normothermic conditions), and both differences were statistically significant (p = 0.037, 0.015 respectively). In terms of the logKa values, although the difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.052), the test group had lower values than the control group under hypothermic conditions (-0.771 vs. -0.376). In normothermic mice, the logKa values for the test and control groups were 0.037 and 0.277 respectively, thus not significantly different (p = 0.404).

Conclusions

Gadoxetate disodium inhibited ICG excretion. Thus, gadoxetate disodium inhibited the ATP-binding cassette sub-family C member 2 transporter.

Key Points

• Gadoxetate disodium inhibited ICG excretion.

• Gadoxetate disodium tended to inhibit hepatic ICG uptake.

• Drug-drug interactions of gadoxetate disodium need further investigation.

Arterial spin-labeling is useful for the diagnosis of residual or recurrent meningiomas

Abstract

Objectives

ASL is useful in evaluating tumour blood flow and in detecting hypervascular tumours. The purpose of this study was to assess the additive value of ASL to non-contrast and contrast-enhanced (NC/CE)-T1WI for diagnosing residual or recurrent meningiomas.

Methods

This retrospective study included 25 postoperative patients (20 women, 5 men; median age, 65 [32–85] years) with and 25 gender- and age-matched postoperative patients without residual or recurrent meningiomas. ASL was performed using a pseudocontinuous method. Seven independent observers (two radiology residents, two general radiologists and three neuroradiologists) participated in two reading sessions consisting of only NC/CE-T1WI (first session) or NC/CE-T1WI with ASL (second session). We evaluated the sensitivity and diagnostic performance for the detection of residual or recurrent meningiomas. The diagnostic performance was assessed using a figure of merit (FOM) calculated via jackknife free-response receiver-operating characteristics. Statistical analysis was performed with paired t tests, with a significance level of p < .05.

Results

The sensitivities were as follows (NC/CE-T1WI vs. NC/CE-T1WI with ASL): residents (62.1% vs. 70.7%), general radiologists (75.9% vs. 87.9%), neuroradiologists (97.7% vs. 100%) and all observers (81.3% vs. 88.2%). The FOMs were as follows (NC/CE-T1WI vs. NC/CE-T1WI with ASL): residents (0.76 vs. 0.83), general radiologists (0.83 vs. 0.93), neuroradiologists (0.95 vs. 0.99) and all observers (0.86 vs. 0.93). The addition of ASL significantly improved the diagnostic parameters for all observers except neuroradiologists (p <. 05).

Conclusions

ASL improved the detection rate of residual or recurrent meningiomas on NC/CE-T1WI among both radiology residents and general radiologists.

Key Points

• ASL improved diagnostic performance for residual/recurrent meningioma compare to NC/CE-T1WI alone.

• Diagnostic sensitivity was increased after adding ASL compared with NC/CE-T1WI.

• FOM was increased after adding ASL compared with NC/CE-T1WI.

Clinical impact of preoperative liver MRI in the evaluation of synchronous liver metastasis of colon cancer

Abstract

Objectives

To investigate whether additional MRI including gadoxetic acid enhancement is associated with survival rate (SR) in patients with synchronous liver metastasis of colon cancer (sCLM), compared with patients assessed only with CT.

Methods

Fifty-two patients underwent only CT (CT group) and 65 underwent additional MRI (CT+MRI group) for preoperative work-up of sCLM. In the CT+MRI group, the discrepancy between CT and MRI was analyzed. The 5-year SR was compared between the groups, and affecting factors were investigated. The inverse probability treatment weighting analysis (IPTW) adjusted by propensity scores was performed.

Results

In the CT+MRI group, 44 (67.7%) showed a discrepancy in the number of sCLMs between CT and MRI. MRI detected 39 additional sCLMs initially missed on CT in 26 patients. The number of detected sCLMs was better correlated with the pathologic findings in the CT+MRI group than in the CT group (p = 0.008). The estimated 5-year SR in the CT+MRI group was 70.8%, while that in the CT group was 48.1%. On adjusted multivariate analyses after the IPTW, the CT+MRI group showed a significantly lower risk of overall mortality than the CT group.

Conclusion

Additional preoperative evaluation by MRI allowed us to more precisely detect sCLM and was associated with a better SR.

Key Points

• CT+MRI group showed significantly higher 5-year survival rates than CT group.

• CT+MRI group was an independent prognostic factor of overall mortality.

• MRI facilitates more accurate detection and better lesion characterization.

• MRI selected better candidates for curative treatment.

• The benefits of MRI were reflected by better survival.

Correction to: Reference ranges of left ventricular structure and function assessed by contrast-enhanced cardiac MR and changes related to ageing and hypertension in a population-based study

The original version of this article, published on 14 March 2018, unfortunately contained a mistake.

Interobserver and intermodality agreement of standardized algorithms for non-invasive diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in high-risk patients: CEUS-LI-RADS versus MRI-LI-RADS

Abstract

Objectives

We compared the interobserver agreement for the recently introduced contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS)-based algorithm CEUS-LI-RADS (Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System) versus the well-established magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-LI-RADS for non-invasive diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in high-risk patients.

Methods

Focal liver lesions in 50 high-risk patients (mean age 66.2 ± 11.8 years; 39 male) were assessed retrospectively with CEUS and MRI. Two independent observers reviewed CEUS and MRI examinations, separately, classifying observations according to CEUS-LI-RADSv.2016 and MRI-LI-RADSv.2014. Interobserver agreement was assessed with Cohen's kappa.

Results

Forty-three lesions were HCCs; two were intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas; five were benign lesions. Arterial phase hyperenhancement was perceived less frequently with CEUS than with MRI (37/50 / 38/50 lesions = 74%/78% [CEUS; observer 1/observer 2] versus 46/50 / 44/50 lesions = 92%/88% [MRI; observer 1/observer 2]). Washout appearance was observed in 34/50 / 20/50 lesions = 68%/40% with CEUS and 31/50 / 31/50 lesions = 62%/62%) with MRI. Interobserver agreement was moderate for arterial hyperenhancement (ĸ = 0.511/0.565 [CEUS/MRI]) and "washout" (ĸ = 0.490/0.582 [CEUS/MRI]), fair for CEUS-LI-RADS category (ĸ = 0.309) and substantial for MRI-LI-RADS category (ĸ = 0.609). Intermodality agreement was fair for arterial hyperenhancement (ĸ = 0.329), slight to fair for "washout" (ĸ = 0.202) and LI-RADS category (ĸ = 0.218)

Conclusion

Interobserver agreement is substantial for MRI-LI-RADS and only fair for CEUS-LI-RADS. This is mostly because interobserver agreement in the perception of washout appearance is better in MRI than in CEUS. Further refinement of the LI-RADS algorithms and increasing education and practice may be necessary to improve the concordance between CEUS and MRI for the final LI-RADS categorization.

Key Points

• CEUS-LI-RADS and MRI-LIRADS enable standardized non-invasive diagnosis of HCC in high-risk patients.

• With CEUS, interobserver agreement is better for arterial hyperenhancement than for "washout".

• Interobserver agreement for major features is moderate for both CEUS and MRI.

• Interobserver agreement for LI-RADS category is substantial for MRI, and fair for CEUS.

• Interobserver-agreement for CEUS-LI-RADS will presumably improve with ongoing use of the algorithm.

Non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography: a reliable clinical tool for evaluating transplant renal artery stenosis

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate image quality of non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and compare transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) seen by non-contrast-enhanced MRA with digital subtraction angiography (DSA) as the gold standard.

Materials and methods

330 patients receiving 369 non-contrast-enhanced MRA examinations from July 2014 to June 2017 were included. Thirty patients received at least two MRA examinations. Image quality was independently assessed by two radiologists. Inter-observer agreement was analyzed. Transplant renal artery anatomy and complications were evaluated and compared with DSA. If possible, accuracy was calculated on a per-artery basis.

Results

Good or excellent image quality was found in 95.4 % (352/369) of examinations with good inter-observer agreement (K=0.760). Twenty-two patients with DSA had 28 non-contrast-enhanced MRA examinations within a 2-month period. Of these, 19 patients had TRAS, two patients had pseudoaneurysms, and one patient had a normal transplant renal artery but an occluded external iliac artery. Non-contrast-enhanced MRA correctly detected 19 TRAS and nine normal arteries, giving 96.6 % accuracy on a per-artery basis.

Conclusions

Non-contrast-enhanced MRA demonstrates a good depiction of the transplanted renal artery and shows good correlation with DSA in cases where there was TRAS.

Key Points

• Good or excellent image quality was found in 95.4 % of examinations.

• Non-contrast-enhanced MRA can clearly map transplant renal artery anatomy.

• Non-contrast-enhanced MRA is a reliable tool to detect TRAS.

Improvement of radiology reporting in a clinical cancer network: impact of an optimised multidisciplinary workflow

Abstract

Purpose

To assess the effectiveness of implementing a quality improvement project in a clinical cancer network directed at the response assessment of oncology patients according to RECIST-criteria.

Methods

Requests and reports of computed tomography (CT) studies from before (n = 103) and after (n = 112) implementation of interventions were compared. The interventions consisted of: a multidisciplinary working agreement with a clearly described workflow; subspecialisation of radiologists; adaptation of the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS); structured reporting.

Results

The essential information included in the requests and the reports improved significantly after implementation of the interventions. In the requests, mentioning start date increased from 2% to 49%; date of baseline CT from 7% to 64%; nadir date from 1% to 41%. In the reports, structured layout increased from 14% to 86%; mentioning target lesions from 18% to 80% and non-target lesions from 11% to 80%; measurements stored in PACS increased from 76% to 97%; labelled key images from 38% to 95%; all p values < 0.001.

Conclusion

The combination of implementation of an optimised workflow, subspecialisation and structured reporting led to significantly better quality radiology reporting for oncology patients receiving chemotherapy. The applied multifactorial approach can be used within other radiology subspeciality areas as well.

Key points

• Undeveloped subspecialisation makes adherence to RECIST guidelines difficult in general hospitals.

• A clinical cancer network provides opportunities to improve healthcare.

• Optimised workflow, subspecialisation and structured reporting substantially improve request and report quality.

• Good interdisciplinary communication between oncologists, radiologists and others contributes to quality improvement.

Extracardiac findings at cardiac MR imaging: a single-centre retrospective study over 14 years

Abstract

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and significance of extracardiac findings (ECF) in a large set of cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) imaging examinations.

Methods

The institutional review board (IRB) of the Charité approved this retrospective, single-centre study. A total of 4376 cardiac MR imaging reports of 3553 patients (age 37.4 ± 20 years, 60.8 % male) examined from 2000 to 2014 were included. Findings with a recommendation for follow-up were considered "major ECF". To analyse the association of indication, age and gender with ECF, Poisson regression and computed incidence rate ratios (IRR) were evaluated.

Results

The overall prevalence of ECF was 34% (95% confidence interval [CI] 32.5–35.6%). Major ECF were present in 3.4% (95% CI 2.9–4.1%) while findings that changed patient management were found in 0.9% (95% CI 0.7–1.3%). In the cases of congenital heart disease, ECF prevalence was higher compared to myocarditis (IRR, 6.0; 95% CI 5.1–7.1%; p < 0.001), while the prevalence of major ECF was lower (IRR, 0.2; 95% CI 0.02–0.51%; p < 0.05). Older patient age was associated with more nonvascular ECF (p < 0.001). Female patients had the same probability of having an ECF as male patients (IRR, 1.04; 95% CI 0.95–1.1%; p = 0.43).

Conclusion

ECF in cardiac MR imaging are present in about every third patient while relevant ECF that change patient management can be found in about one out of 100 patients. Our data suggest that it is important to involve well-trained radiologists in reading cardiac MR images, which often reveal ECF if congenital heart disease is the clinical indication.

Key Points

• Extracardiac findings are present in about every third patient.

• Relevant ECF changing patient management are found in one out of 100 findings.

• Chance of ECF is high in patients with CHD and vascular indications.

Surgery after FOLFIRINOX treatment for locally advanced and borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: increase in tumour attenuation on CT correlates with R0 resection

Abstract

Objectives

To assess factors associated with radical resection (R0) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) after induction treatment with FOLFIRINOX.

Methods

Patients with either locally advanced (LA) and borderline resectable (BR) PDAC undergoing surgical exploration after FOLFIRINOX were retrospectively enrolled. Two pancreatic radiologists reviewed the CT blinded to the final outcome and assessed chemotherapy response and resectability. Patients were then divided into R0 resected (group A) and not resected/R1 resected (group B), which were compared.

Results

Of 59 patients included, 19 were defined as unresectable (32%), 33 borderline resectable (56%) and 7 resectable (12%) during the blind radiological evaluation after FOLFIRINOX. Once in a surgical setting, 27% were non-resectable, whereas 73% received surgical resection with a 70% R0 rate. Consequent sensitivity and specificity were 86% and 29%. At imaging review, significant decreases in longest tumour dimension were observed in both groups: from 32 mm (95% CI 15–55) to 21 (10–44) in group A and from 34 (18–70) to 26 (7–60) in group B, p < 0.05. However, a significant increase in tumour attenuation in all phases was only observed for R0 resected, from 52 HU (26–75) to 65 (35–92) in arterial phase (p < 0.001) and from 62 (36–96) to 78 (40–120) in the venous (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

After neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX, CT predicted resectability with acceptable sensitivity but low specificity. The observation of increased tumour attenuation at CT scan after FOLFIRINOX treatment might represent a reliable predictor of R0 resection.

Key Points

• CT drives the assessment of PDAC resectability after FOLFIRINOX

• CT predicts resectability with acceptable sensitivity but low specificity

• Significant increase in tumour attenuation was only observed for R0 resected PDAC

• Tumour attenuation after FOLFIRINOX represents a reliable predictor of R0 resection

Cardiac implanted electronic devices and MRI safety in 2018—the state of play

Abstract

Traditionally, the presence of cardiac implanted electronic devices (CIEDs) was a contra-indication to magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Professional groups from around the world are releasing updated guidelines for the imaging of MR-conditional and legacy CIEDs, reflecting increasing evidence that this can be performed safely when strict protocols are followed.

Key Points

• The presence of a pacemaker or automatic implanted cardioverter defibrillator is no longer an absolute contraindication to magnetic resonance imaging.

• Strict protocols enable diagnostic quality images to be obtained with minimal risk.

• Close collaboration among radiologists, cardiologists and device manufacturer representatives is required.

Use of whole body CT to detect patterns of CPR-related injuries after sudden cardiac arrest

Abstract

Aims and objectives

We have recently implemented a dedicated sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) - whole-body computed tomography (WBCT) protocol to evaluate SCA patients with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) following cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The aim of this study is to evaluate the number and pattern of CPR-related injuries in ROSC patients with SCA-WBCT.

Methods and materials

Single-centre retrospective review of 39 patients (13 female; 20 male, mean age 51.8 years) with non-traumatic, out-of-hospital SCA and ROSC and evaluation with dedicated SCA-WBCT over a 10-month period.

Results

In-hospital mortality was 54%. CPR-related injuries were detected in 85% (33/39).

Chest injuries were most common on WBCT: 85% (33) subjects had rib fractures (mean of 8.5 fractures/subject); 31% (12) sternal fractures; 13% (5) mediastinal haematoma; 10% (4) pneumothorax; 8% (3) pneumomediastinum and 3% (1) haemothorax. Three subjects (8%) had abdominal injuries on WBCT, including one hepatic haematoma with active haemorrhage.

Conclusion

CPR-related injuries on WBCT after ROSC are common, with serial rib fractures detected most commonly. An unexpectedly high rate of abdominal injuries was detected on SCA-WBCT. Radiologists need to be attuned to the spectrum of CPR-related injuries in WBCT, including abdominal injuries and subtle rib fractures.

Key Points

• CPR frequently causes injuries.

• Radiologists should be aware of the spectrum of CPR related injuries.

• Rib fractures are frequent and radiologic findings often subtle.

• Clinically unexpected abdominal injuries may be present.

Magnetic resonance guided focused high frequency ultrasound ablation for focal therapy in prostate cancer – phase 1 trial

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of focal therapy for low–intermediate risk prostate cancer (PCa) with magnetic resonance-guided high frequency focused ultrasound (MRgFUS)

Methods

This IRB-approved phase 1 prospective study enrolled eight patients with prostate specific antigen (PSA) ≤ 10 ng/ml, ≤ cT2a and Gleason score ≤ 7 (4 + 3) disease following informed consent. Under MRI guidance, focused high frequency ultrasound energy was delivered to ablate the target tissue. Treatment-related adverse events were recorded. Oncologic outcomes were evaluated with multiparametric MRI, PSA and TRUS biopsy at 6 months following treatment.

Results

Ten target lesions [six Gleason 6 lesions, two Gleason 7 (3 + 4) and two Gleason 7 (4 + 3)] were treated in eight men (prostate volume range, 25–50 cc; mean MRI time, 248 min per patient; mean sonication duration, 65 min). Mean target volume was 2.7 cc and mean post-treatment non-perfused volume was 4.3 cc. Quality of life parameters were similar between baseline and 6 months in 6/8 patients. All treated regions were negative on MRI; 4/8 patients and 6/10 target lesions (60%) were clear of disease on biopsy. One patient with 2-mm Gleason 8 disease in one of five cores from treatment site (4 + 3 disease at baseline) subsequently underwent prostatectomy with negative surgical margins. Three patients with low volume (5–15%) Gleason 6 residual disease were offered active surveillance. Mean PSA decreased from 5.06 at baseline to 3.4 ng/ml at 6 months.

Conclusion

MRgFUS is a feasible and safe method of noninvasively ablating low–intermediate risk PCa with acceptable short-term oncologic outcomes.

Key Points

• Focal therapy selectively ablates locally confined, clinically significant index lesion with a margin while sparing rest of gland and adjacent vital structures.

• Magnetic resonance-guided focused high frequency ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) combines MRI with HIFU.

• MRgFUS provides ability to monitor treatments in real time and allows a targeted approach for focal ablation.

• MRgFUS is a feasible, safe method of noninvasively ablating low–intermediate risk PCa.

• MRgFUS provides acceptable oncologic outcomes at 6 months.

Experience of neuroprotective air injection during radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of spinal osteoid osteoma

Abstract

Purpose

To assess the usefulness of epidural air injection during the RFA treatment of spinal osteoid osteoma.

Methods

A retrospective review of 17 patients who underwent RFA for spinal osteoid osteoma between September 2006 and May 2017 was performed. All the procedures were performed by a single radiologist. We reviewed the perioperative CT studies to assess the distribution of air relative to the osteoid osteoma. The clinical outcome of each patient group was evaluated during routine follow-up.

Results

Seventeen patients were treated for spinal OO (male:female 13:4; mean age was 16, ranging from 4 to 42). The nidus size ranged from 5.8 to 17.2 mm (mean 11.2). In nine cases epidural air injection was performed. In three cases the neuroprotective air was deemed satisfactory with a clear layer of air between the osteoid osteoma and the dural sac being visualised. In six patients adherence between the cortical bone immediately adjacent to the osteoid osteoma and the dural sac in contact was observed.

In 15 patients the procedure was successful in terms of pain relief. No neural damage or other complication was reported in either group.

Conclusion

RFA is a safe treatment for spinal osteoid osteoma. Neuroprotective air injection does not appear to be necessary when performing the treatment in the spine.

Key Points

• Seventeen patients with spinal OO were treated with RFA, nine with air injection and eight without. Clinically successful treatment was achieved in 15 patients, with 2 subsequently undergoing surgery

• In 6/9 cases the injected air failed to achieve separation between the osteoid osteoma and the thecal sac because of inflammatory adhesion

• No complications were observed, regardless of whether neuroprotective air was instilled. Neuroprotective air injection appears unnecessary when treating spinal OO

Early osteosclerotic changes predict chemotherapy response in non-small-cell lung cancer patients with bone metastases

Abstract

Objectives

To explore the relationship between osteosclerotic changes and chemotherapy response in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with bone metastases (BM).

Methods

Fifty-two NSCLC patients with BM were enrolled from 1 January 2010–31 June 2015 and divided into two groups based on their CT features: an osteosclerotic change (OC) group and a no-osteosclerotic change (NOC) group. The disease control rate (DCR) was evaluated, and progression-free survival (PFS) was analysed using Kaplan-Meier curves. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to analyse the factors that could affect PFS.

Results

Osteosclerotic changes were observed in 35/52 patients. The median interval when osteosclerotic changes occurred was 2 months (range 1–3 months) after chemotherapy. The OC group had a significantly higher 3-month DCR than the NOC group (p < 0.001). The OC group had a higher 1-year PFS rate than the NOC group (1-year PFS: 74.9% vs. 30.2%, p < 0.001). Univariate Cox regression analysis indicated that pathological subtype (HR = 4.419; 95% CI = 1.635–11.941, p = 0.003) and osteosclerotic changes (HR = 0.199; 95% CI = 0.083–0.477, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of PFS.

Conclusion

Early osteosclerotic changes predict chemotherapy response in NSCLC patients with BM.

Key Points

• Osteosclerotic changes were prevalent CT features after chemotherapy in NSCLC patients.

• Osteosclerotic changes were positively related to increased 3-month DCR.

• Osteosclerotic changes were positively related to increased 1-year PFS rate.

An investigator‐blinded, randomized, prospective, comparative study of efficacy of four anti‐inflammatory and barrier hand moisturizers in patients with chronic hand dermatitis

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

The use of etanercept for treatment of toxic epidermal necrolysis when toxic shock syndrome is in the differential

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

Values of body mass index (BMI) and body surface area (BSA) in patients with psoriatic arthritis treated with adalimumab: Preliminary report

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

“SENECA” Sinecatechins 10% ointment: A green tea extract for the treatment of actinic keratosis. Case series

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

Adipose tissue, fillers, and skin tightening

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

Parasitoids of the eucalyptus gall wasp Leptocybe spp.: a global review

Abstract

The genus Leptocybe Fisher & La Salle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and its type species L. invasa were first described in 2004. Leptocybe spp. are global pests of eucalyptus plantations, and parasitoids play an important role in their control. In this review, we describe the species, distribution, biology, ecology and parasitism levels of Leptocybe spp. parasitoids and the problems associated with biological control programmes against Leptocybe spp. Additionally, prospects for the use of conservation or augmentative biological control programmes against Leptocybe spp. are discussed. Worldwide, approximately 23 species of parasitoids of Leptocybe spp. in 7 families and 10 genera have been found to date. Comparing the parasitism levels of the parasitoids showed that Quadrastichus mendeli, Selitrichodes neseri and several (approximately 4) native Megastigmus spp. could be exploited to manage Leptocybe spp. Available information on the Leptocybe spp. parasitoids is expected to improve our understanding related to ongoing studies of biological control programmes against Leptocybe spp.

Ultrashort time-to-echo quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of the triangular fibrocartilage: differences in position

Abstract

Purpose

To compare T2* values of the triangular fibrocartilage (TFC) obtained by ultrashort time-to-echo (UTE) techniques at the neutral position, ulnar flexion of the wrist, and pronation of the forearm.

Materials and methods

MR imaging was performed in ten healthy volunteers with a 3-T MR system by using an eight-channel knee coil. Coronal wrist T2* maps from three-dimensional cone UTE pulse sequences were obtained at the neutral, ulnar flexion, and pronation positions (TR: 19 ms, TE: 0.032 ms/4 ms/8 ms/12 ms, FOV: 18 cm, matrix: 430 × 430, section thickness: 1.5 mm, scan time: 8 min 31 s). UTE-T2* maps were calculated on a pixel-by-pixel basis for all structures of the wrist visualized in the coronal planes. The entire region of interest (ROI) for TFC was manually delineated, and the average T2* value was calculated for each ROI by three radiologists. The Kruskal-Wallis test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, or intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used for statistics.

Results

The difference in the average T2* value among the three groups according to the forearm/wrist position was significant (p < 0.001). The T2* value of the TFC at pronation (mean ± 2 SD: 7.92 ± 1.37 ms) was significantly lower than those at the neutral (10.08 ± 1.90 ms) and ulnar flexion positions (9.15 ± 1.03 ms) (p < 0.017). The ICC showed a substantial interobserver agreement in the T2* value measurements of the TFC (ICC = 0.986).

Conclusion

T2* relaxation time measurement of the TFC using UTE may be useful for assessing the loading effect by the forearm/wrist position.

Key Points

• The T2* value of the TFC may reflect the biomechanics of the wrist joint.

• Acute loading at pronation results in a decrease in the T2* value of the TFC.

• Quantitative wrist UTE MRI was successfully performed in vivo.

Multiparametric ultrasomics of significant liver fibrosis: A machine learning-based analysis

Abstract

Objective

To assess significant liver fibrosis by multiparametric ultrasomics data using machine learning.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study consisted of 144 patients with chronic hepatitis B. Ultrasomics—high-throughput quantitative data from ultrasound imaging of liver fibrosis—were generated using conventional radiomics, original radiofrequency (ORF) and contrast-enhanced micro-flow (CEMF) features. Three categories of features were explored using pairwise correlation and hierarchical clustering. Features were selected using diagnostic tests for fibrosis, activity and steatosis stage, with the histopathological results as the reference. The fibrosis staging performance of ultrasomics models with combinations of the selected features was evaluated with machine-learning algorithms by calculating the area under the receiver-operator characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

ORF and CEMF features had better predictive power than conventional radiomics for liver fibrosis stage (both p < 0.01). CEMF features exhibited the highest diagnostic value for activity stage (both p < 0.05), and ORF had the best diagnostic value for steatosis stage (both p < 0.01). The machine-learning classifiers of adaptive boosting, random forest and support vector machine were found to be optimal algorithms with better (all mean AUCs = 0.85) and more stable performance (coefficient of variation = 0.01–0.02) for fibrosis staging than decision tree, logistic regression and neural network (mean AUC = 0.61–0.72, CV = 0.07–0.08). The multiparametric ultrasomics model achieved much better performance (mean AUC values of 0.78–0.85) than the features from a single modality in discriminating significant fibrosis (≥ F2).

Conclusion

Machine-learning-based analysis of multiparametric ultrasomics can help improve the discrimination of significant fibrosis compared with mono or dual modalities.

Key Points

• Multiparametric ultrasomics has achieved much better performance in the discrimination of significant fibrosis (≥ F2) than the single modality of conventional radiomics, original radiofrequency and contrast-enhanced micro-flow.

• Adaptive boosting, random forest and support vector machine are the optimal algorithms for machine learning.

Toxicity potential of particles caused by particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PPAHs) at two roadside locations and relationship with traffic

Abstract

This study assessed exposure by the roadside to highly toxic particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PPAHs) that are known to adsorb preferentially on fine particles, aerodynamic diameter (d_p ≤ 1 μm). The real-time air quality measurements were conducted in March, April, and May 2015 in Kanpur at two busy roadside locations: one outside IIT Kanpur main gate, IG, and another by a residential area, M3. The locations show varying land use type and traffic density. Higher averaged daily concentrations of PM₁₀, PM_2.5, and PM₁ were observed at IG (PM₁₀ 700–800 μg/m³) owing to nature and high density of traffic, and occurrence of biomass burning nearby. Statistically significant relation (R² > 90%, p < 0.05) between PM₁ and PM_2.5 highlights the influence of mobile sources on particle load at IG. IG, the busier location, had higher daily averaged concentration of aggregate PPAHs (104 ng/m³) than M3 which is located near a residential area (38 ng/m³). In contrast, the higher average daily value of PC/DC ratio (mass per unit surface area of PPAHs on nanoparticles) at M3 (4.87 ng/mm²) than at IG (4.08 ng/mm²) suggests that PAHs of greater mass occur on particles at M3. Finer particles are known to adsorb pollutants of a larger mass that are likely to be more toxic in case of PAHs suggest that ambient air at M3 has more toxicity potential. However, this inference is not based on chemical analyses, and chemical characteristics must also be taken into account for the detailed assessment of health risk. The multiple path dosimetry model (MPPD-v3.04) reveals that the 99.02% of PM₁₀ inhaled, 77.01% of PM_2.5 and 34.54% of PM₁ are deposited in the outermost (head) region of the human respiratory tract.

Economic valuation of noise pollution control policy: does the type of noise matter?

Abstract

As the average noise level and number of noise sources have increased, governments have taken various measures to make soundscapes sustainable. Wise policy decisions require information about the monetary value of noise-control policies. This study elicited people's willingness to pay (WTP) for noise policies, separating traffic noise from residential noise to compare the value of controlling different types of noise. The contingent valuation method was used for the empirical analysis, with data from South Korea. The results show that the monthly mean WTP of respondents was KRW 3392.3 for residential noise reduction and KRW 3507.1 for transport noise reduction; thus, the WTP for the latter is slightly higher than that for the former. Moreover, about 80% of people are unwilling to pay for a noise policy at all, and that high ratio of people with zero WTP must be taken into consideration in the process of policy formulation and implementation. Respondents' experiential and psychological factors were found to be more important than their demographics in explaining their WTP for a noise policy. Potential policy implications based on the analysis results are provided.

Empirics on linkages among industrialization, urbanization, energy consumption, CO2 emissions and economic growth: a heterogeneous panel study of China

Abstract

This is the first attempt to explore linkages among industrialization, urbanization, energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and economic growth based on estimations in simultaneous equations framework. An economic growth model is extended to incorporate industrialization as shift factor and pollutant emissions as determinant of total factor productivity. A country panel of 30 Chinese provinces/cities and three regional panels, for periods 2000–2016, are estimated employing Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimator as well as Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG) estimator that are robust to both cross-sectional dependence and cointegration. The empirical findings are as follows: (i) the impact of urbanization on economic growth varied from negative to neutral to positive for western-, intermediate-, and eastern-economic zone, respectively, and is known as "urbanization ladder effect," (ii) moving from western to eastern economic zone, as regions develop, industry expansion has more powerful impact on economic growth, and thus, we define it as "industry expansion effect," (iii) industrialization promotes rapid urbanization in less developed and less employment saturated regions; hence, we name it as "employment saturation effect," (iv) economic growth in more developed regions pulled the CO2 emissions downward, while pushed it upward in case of less developed regions; therefore, we call it "growth pull/push effect," and (v) in bidirectional causality between energy consumption and economic growth, the "feedback effect" of economic growth remained dominant for all four panels. Based on empirical findings, policies are suggested for Chinese economy. Further, these policies have potential to extract implications for the rest of the world.

Correction to: Nematicidal potential of Taraxacum officinale

The original publication of this paper contains a mistake. Data on Table 1 under TR and TL column have been interchanged: that is compounds 1-12 and their amounts refer to TL; compounds 1-8 and related amounts refer to TR (see Fig. 1).

A risk model for the prediction of skin tears in aged care residents: A prospective cohort study

International Wound Journal, EarlyView.

Novel prognostic score of postoperative complications after transthoracic minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: a retrospective cohort study of 90 consecutive patients

Abstract

Background

Esophagectomy is the standard treatment for esophageal cancer, but has a high rate of postoperative complications. Some studies reported the various scoring system to estimate the postoperative complications. However, there were according to various surgical methods and included intra- and post-operative factors. Recently, minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) is becoming the first-line treatment for esophageal cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors of postoperative complications and to establish a useful system for predicting postoperative complications after transthoracic MIE.

Methods

From 2007 to 2015, 90 patients who underwent transthoracic MIE at our department were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups according to postoperative complication: patients with major complications (n = 32) and without major complications (n = 58). Major complication was defined as ≥ IIIa in the Clavien–Dindo classification.

Results

Multivariate analysis identified four independent risk factors for predicting postoperative complications: age [≥ 70 years; odd ratio (OR) 6.88; p = 0.001]; sex (male; OR 5.24; p = 0.031); total protein level (< 6.7 mg/dl; OR 6.51; p = 0.002), and C-reactive protein level (≥ 0.15; OR, 6.58; p = 0.001). These four factors were used to establish a score. The complication rate for scores 0–4 were 0, 11, 36, 71, 100%, respectively. The frequency of major complications was significantly associated with the score (p < 0.001). Receiver operator characteristic curves to predict the score with regard to major complications showed an area under the curve value of 0.798 (95% confidence interval: 0.696–0.871, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our novel score may help to decide surgical intervention for esophagectomy and provide appropriate resources for perioperative management.

DFT/TDDFT insights into effects of dissociation and metal complexation on photochemical behavior of enrofloxacin in water

Abstract

Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the effects of different dissociated forms and metal ion complexation on the photochemical behavior of antibiotics in aqueous media is a key problem and requires further research. We examined the mechanism of the direct photolysis of enrofloxacin (ENRO) in different dissociated forms in water and the impact of metal ions (Mg²⁺) on the photolysis of ENRO using density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory. The results showed that different dissociated forms of ENRO exhibited diverse maximum electronic absorbance wavelengths (ENRO³⁺ (264 nm) < ENRO⁻ (278 nm) < ENRO⁰ (280 nm) < ENRO²⁺ (282 nm) < ENRO⁺ (306 nm)). The calculations of the reaction pathways and activation energies (E_a) in the photolysis of ENRO⁰/ENRO⁺/ENRO⁻ showed that defluorination was the main reaction pathway. The removal of cyclopropane was the main reaction pathway for the direct photolysis of ENRO²⁺/ENRO³⁺. Furthermore, the presence of Mg²⁺ was observed to change the order of the maximum electronic absorbance wavelengths and increases the intensities of the ENRO absorbance peaks. Calculations of the photolysis reaction pathways showed that the presence of Mg²⁺ increased the E_a for the most direct photolysis pathways of ENRO, while its presence decreased the E_a for several partial direct photolysis pathways such as the pathway in which the piperazine ring moiety of ENRO⁰/ENRO³⁺ is damaged and the pathway in which cyclopropane is released from ENRO³⁺. The findings on the photolysis behavior of ENRO in water system have provided useful information on the risk assessment of antibiotics.

A novel case of an aggressive superficial spindle cell sarcoma in an adult resembling fibrosarcomatous dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans and harboring an EML4‐NTRK3 fusion

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Mycobacterium abscessus infection following penetrations through wetsuits

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.

Adjuvant treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis in adults by a herbal combination: Open German trial and review of the literature

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

Sudanese Association of Dermatologists Special Meeting, Khartoum, Sudan

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.

Demethylation and epigenetic modification with 5-Azacytidine reduces IDH1 mutant glioma growth in combination with Temozolomide

Abstract

Background

Isocitrate Deyhydrogenase (IDH) mutant gliomas are comprised of the majority of grade II-III gliomas and nearly all secondary glioblastomas. These progressive gliomas arise from mutations in IDH1 or IDH2 that pathologically produces D-2-hydroxyglutarate (2HG). 2-HG interferes with cell reactions using alpha ketoglutarate leading to a hypermethylated genome and epigenetic dysregulation of gene expression initiating tumorigenesis.

Methods

Human IDH1 WT and IDH1R132H cell lines and patient derived xenografts (PDX) were used to evaluate the FDA-approved DNA demethylating agent 5-Azacytidine (5-Aza). Cell growth, protein and gene expression, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and nucleosome position assays were performed in 5-Aza treated cells. To evaluate antitumor activity in vivo, 5-Aza was administered alone and in combination with Temozolomide (TMZ) in a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) glioma models harboring IDH1R132H mutation.

Results

5-Aza treatment has been found to reduce cell growth and increase Glial Fibrillary Acid Protein expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and nucleosome position assay showed that the mechanism of increased GFAP expression induction is associated with histone modification and nucleosome repositioning of the GFAP promoter, respectively. In vivo, 5-Aza treatment extended survival in IDH1R132H mutant, but not in an IDH1 WT glioma model. Additionally, 5-Aza enhances the therapeutic effect of DNA damaging agent TMZ in both subcutaneous and orthotopic PDX models of IDH1R132H mutant glioma.

Conclusion

5-Aza provides a survival benefit as a single agent but worked best in combination with TMZ in two different IDH1R132H mutant glioma models.

Issue Information

The Journal of Dermatology, Volume 45, Issue 9, Page 1147-1147, September 2018.

Possible contribution of autophagy in pyogenic granuloma

The Journal of Dermatology, Volume 45, Issue 9, Page 1145-1146, September 2018.

Issue Information

The Journal of Dermatology, Volume 45, Issue 9, Page i, 1029-1030, September 2018.

Kératodermie acrale symétrique : responsabilité de mutations d’un facteur de transcription

Publication date: Available online 1 September 2018

Source: Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie

Author(s): O. Dereure

Consensus research priorities for facial palsy: a Delphi survey of patients, carers, clinicians and researchers

Publication date: Available online 1 September 2018

Source: Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery

Author(s): C Hamlet, N Rumsey, H Williamson, K Johnson, C Nduka

Abstract

Despite the potential negative impact of facial palsy, major gaps in understanding persist surrounding the treatment and care of those affected. This collaborative three-round Delphi process aimed to identify priorities for future facial palsy research, from the perspective of clinicians, researchers, patients and carers. It also determined whether the research priorities of patients and carers aligned with those of health professionals and researchers.

In Round one participants (n=85) were asked to generate research questions via focus groups or an online or postal survey. In Rounds two (n=72) and three (n=78) participants were asked to rate the priorities identified on a 5 point ordinal scale.

36 questions reached the definition of "high priority" consensus. Seven of each groups' top ten research priorities were shared. Prioritised questions included the provision and pathways of care, the psychosocial impact of living with facial palsy and the effective management of side-effects.

Establishing the research priorities in the field of facial palsy is a significant first step in ensuring the future research agenda is focussed on topics that are considered important by both patients and health professionals.

Granuloma Annulare’s Triangular Association with Malignancy

Publication date: Available online 1 September 2018

Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology

Author(s): Warren R. Heymann

Protective effect of Thai silk extracts on drug-induced phototoxicity in human epidermal A431 cells and a reconstructed human epidermis model

Publication date: Available online 1 September 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology

Author(s): Apiwan Rosena, Thongchai Koobkokkruad, Waleewan Eaknai, Phichaporn Bunwatcharaphansakun, Rawiwan Maniratanachote, Sasitorn Aueviriyavit

Abstract

Bombyx mori silk extracts, derived from the cocoon degumming process of draw and dye silk in the textile industry, are mainly composed of sericin protein. To add value to the Thai silk extracts, and hence the silk industry, a simple enrichment process was recently developed and the enriched silk extracts were then applied in nano-cosmeceutical products and nano-delivery systems. In this study, the protective effect of Thai silk extracts from three different strains of Bombyx mori on the drug-induced phototoxicity was evaluated in vitro using chlorpromazine (CPZ), a commonly used antipsychotic drug, as a representative phototoxic drug. The human epidermal A431 cell line and reconstructed human epidermis (RhE) model were used as the in vitro skin model. The silk extracts significantly improved the viability of A431 cells after CPZ exposure and ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation, as shown by the significantly increased CPZ and UVA IC₅₀ values and the decreased proportion of apoptotic cells. The protective effect of these silk extracts against the CPZ-induced UVA-phototoxicity in A431 cells was associated with the attenuation of intracellular oxidative stress via an increased intracellular glutathione level. Likewise, the silk extracts exhibited a protective effect on the CPZ-induced UVA-phototoxicity in the RhE model, in terms of an improved tissue viability and attenuation of the released inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1α. These findings support the potential usefulness of silk extracts in novel applications, especially in the protection of drug-induced phototoxicity.

Graphical abstract

Cadmium selenide quantum dot-zinc oxide composite: Synthesis, characterization, dye removal ability with UV irradiation, and antibacterial activity as a safe and high-performance photocatalyst

Publication date: Available online 1 September 2018

Source: Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology

Author(s): Niyaz Mohammad Mahmoodi, Behzad Karimi, Mahmoud Mazarji, Hassan Moghtaderi

Abstract

In this paper, cadmium selenide quantum dot (CdSe QD)-zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposite (CdSe QD-ZnO) was synthesized and characterized and its photocatalytic dye degradation ability was investigated. The XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis, AFM and SEM were used to characterize the synthesized nanomaterials. The correlation coefficient of pseudo-first-order kinetic reaction is 0.98. The rate constants from 20 to 30 mg/L of pollutant concentrations was reduced by the order of 0.9. The temporal change in dye concentration reduces as the photocatalyst dosage increase up to optimum value of 0.04 g/L, then beyond that value the increase in the dosage becomes detrimental. Antibacterial activity of the synthesized nanocomposite as a safe photocatalyst was studied in details. Antibacterial activity of as prepared samples was also examined against Escherichia coli (E. coli). For in vitro study, Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was utilized for the modeling of toxicity of each as prepared samples as representative of human normal cell line. In vivo study was conducted using leeches (Hirudo orientalis). In the presence of ethanol as hydroxyl radical (OH) scavenger, the removal efficiency significantly depresses compared to the di methyl sulfoxide as electron scavengers suggesting OH possesses a major role in photocatalytic BR18 decolorization. By coupling with CdSe QD, the zone of inhibition was greatly increased suggesting the size dependent inactivation of E. coli. The results present that the composite had no significant effect on the proliferation of HUVEC normal cells. In addition, the treatment of cells with ZnO and the composite do not impact on the cell morphology.

Graphical Abstract

Diagnostic heuristics in dermatology, Part 2: Metacognition and other fixes

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Topical resiquimod dosing regimens in patients with multiple actinic keratosis: a multi‐centre, partly placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, clinical trial

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Assessing the Severity of Pyoderma Gangrenosum – A Need for Validated Measurement Tools

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Lack of Confidence Interval Reporting in Dermatology: A Call to Action

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Protection of glucotoxicity by a tripeptide derivative of α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone in human epidermal keratinocytes

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

To what extent do disease severity and illness perceptions explain depression, anxiety and quality of life in Hidradenitis Suppurativa

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Autoantibodies undetectable by chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay require extended antigen‐antibody reaction time for detection

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.

Facial Fat Grafting: Why, Where, How, and How Much

Abstract

Although the importance of volume loss in the aging face is now well recognized and fat grafting has increasingly become an integral part of contemporary facelift procedures, general acceptance of the fat grafting technique is a relatively recent occurrence and many surgeons reluctance to adopt the technique can be traced back in part to questions they have as to how loss of volume contributes to how the face ages, how to specifically recognize those changes, and questions they have about how to perform the fat grafting procedure to correct them. In this article we attempt to answer the questions "why perform facial fat grafting during facelift procedures?", "where should fat be placed in the face?", "how should fat be injected?", and "how much should be injected in each area?".

Level of Evidence V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Incisional Ptosis Correction with Hidden Double Fold in Asian Patients

Abstract

Background

Korean males and a few females desire to have larger eyes; however, they often wish to enlarge their eyes and conceal their double eyelids. This paper attempts to describe how to make the eyes bigger and brighter without showing double-fold eyelids.

Methods

The authors performed cosmetic ptosis correction in 121 cases from April 2013 to December 2017. All patients enrolled in this retrospective study underwent surgical procedures at the author's institutions. Patients were included that had mild-to-moderate degrees of ptosis and levator function greater than 5 mm, ages greater than 16 years, and no prior ptosis surgery.

Results

A successful outcome was achieved with this surgical approach in 113 (93.4%) patients. Complications potentially associated with ptosis surgery were not observed.

Discussion

A refined method of preoperative evaluation for incisional ptosis correction to conceal a double fold with no visible signs of surgery is described. Ptosis correction without the formation of double eyelids will result in skin hooding and visible scarring, and thus, it is recommended to lower the height of the double eyelids. The lower height of double eyelids can cover the incisional scar and make it appear there are no double eyelids.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

A Modified Double Eyelid Plastic Surgery Method: Continuous Buried Suture Method Accompanied by Simultaneous Correction of Mild Blepharoptosis

Abstract

Background

Double eyelid surgery with a buried suture is a popular plastic surgery procedure in Asia owing to the relatively minor scarring and quick recovery associated with it. In this article, we present a new approach involving a continuous single-loop buried suture method, which expands the operating site to the conjunctiva and the aponeurosis–Müller's muscle complex.

Methods

The medical records of 42 patients (80 eyes) who underwent double-eyelid blepharoplasty were retrospectively reviewed. We performed double-eyelid blepharoplasty with a single-knot continuous buried suture method, along with the resection of a small piece of the orbicularis oculi muscle. The formation of a double eyelid was achieved through traction of the aponeurosis–Müller's muscle complex from the medial conjunctiva and penetration of the upper eyelid.

Results

The majority of patients achieved the expected cosmetic effect of double eyelid formation after the procedure. In the subsequent follow-up period of 2–30 months, no complications, such as loosing or sagging of the double eyelid or granuloma formation, occurred. The mean recovery time ranged between one and 6 weeks. The pre-operative margin reflex distance (MRD1) was 2.36 ± 0.61 mm, and the post-operative MRD1 was 3.72 ± 0.63 mm, (p < 0.001). The Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for nonparametric, paired comparisons.

Conclusions

We proposed a modified technique involving a continuous buried suture method to create a better cosmetic effect through the formation of a double eyelid and simultaneous correction of mild blepharoptosis. This modified procedure is simple, fast, and effective, with limited adverse effects.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.