| : A series of nine cases from a regional cancer center in Northeast India | p. 69 |
| Srigopal Mohanty, Yumkhaibam Sobita Devi, Daffilyne Lyngdoh Nongrum, Laishram Jaichand Singh, Vimal Sekar, Deep Sikha Das DOI:10.4103/oji.oji_39_18 Background: Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast (MCB) is a rare histological subtype of breast carcinoma containing glandular and nonglandular components with mixed epithelial and mesenchymal differentiations. Aim of the Study: The study aimed to report clinical, radiological and pathological profiles, treatment and outcome of patients diagnosed with MCB from a tertiary care institute along with literature review. Materials and Methods:Diagnosed cases of MCB were obtained from the record over a period of January 2010 to December 2017, and data were recorded in a structured pro forma. Results: A total of 9 (0.9%) cases of MCB were identified out of 1031 breast cancer patients with the median age of presentation of 53 years. The palpable lump was the most common presentation (77.78%). The mean tumor size was 4.9 cm in greatest dimension. Sonographically, most of the lesions were solid (44.44%) followed by cystic (33.33%). Mammographically, microcalcifications were absent in eight cases. Histologically, 55.56% of cases were purely epithelial subtype (3: pure squamous and 2: adenosquamous) and 4 (44.44%) cases were mixed epithelial and mesenchymal subtypes (3: carcinosarcoma and 1: invasive lobular carcinoma with sarcomatous component and osseous metaplasia). All the cases were having triple-negative receptor status. Modified radical mastectomy (MRM) was performed in all cases and 33.33% of cases had axillary node positive. About 77.88% and 88.89% of cases received adjuvant chemotherapy and adjuvant radiotherapy, respectively. At median follow-up of 27 months, local recurrence and distant metastases were seen in 1 and 3 cases, respectively. At present, 33.33%, 22.22%, and 44.45% of patients were died, alive, and lost for follow-up, respectively. Conclusion: MCB is a rare histologic subtype of breast cancer with larger tumor size at presentation and MRM is the preferred surgical procedure over breast conservation surgery. Long-term and regular follow-up is necessary to know the outcome. |
Τετάρτη 26 Δεκεμβρίου 2018
Metaplastic carcinoma of breast
Anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities of aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) leaves
p. 586
Nhuan Do Thi, Eun-Sun Hwang
DOI:10.4103/2221-1691.248095
Objective: To determine the anti-cancer effect of aronia leaf extract on SK-Hep1 cells using migration, metallo metrix proteinase-2/-9 (MMP-2/-9) and MT-1 MMP expression and to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activities of the leaf extract. Methods: The effect of aronia leaf extract on cancer prevention was investigated. SK-Hep1 human liver cancer cell line was treated with aronia leaf extract at various concentractions. MTT assay was used to measure cancer cell growth inhibition, and wound migration assay was used for metastasis determination. The expression of MMP-2/-9 was measured at the protein level using zymography and the expression of MMP-2/-9 and MT-1 MMP was examined at the gene level by RT-PCR. Raw 264.7 macrophage cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharides to induce inflammation, and then the inhibition of inflammation was evaluated by treatment of aronia leaf extract. Expressions of interleukin-6, tumor factor-α, and nitric oxide (NO) were also determined. Results: SK-Hep1 cell growth was inhibited in proportion to the concentration of aronia leaf extract. In migration assay, aronia leaf extract showed 61.3%-96.3% wound size inhibtion after treating 50-200 μg/mL of aronia leaf extract for 24 h. At the protein level, the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 decreased as the concentration of aronia leaf extract treated with SK-Hep1 cells increased. In addition, the same pattern as in the protein was also observed in the mRNA levels. The expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein were inhibited by 92.2% and 53.8%, respectively after treatment with 200 μg/mL aronia leaf extract. In addition, Raw 264.7 cells treated with aronia leaf extract did not affect cell survival. There was dose dependent inhibition of interleukine-6, tumor necrosis factor-α and nitric oxide after treating aronia leaf extract in lipopolysaccharides-treated Raw 264.7 cell. Conclusions: The results show that aronia leaf has anticancer and and antimetastatic properties in SK-Hep1 and Raw 264.7 cells.
Effects of phototherapy on outer hair cell function in infants with hyperbilirubinemia
p. 52
Vikas Mysore Dwarakanath, Pavana Mohan, Sapthami Patel
DOI:10.4103/jisha.JISHA_8_17
Introduction: Hyperbilirubinemia in newborns has been hypothesized to cause damage to inner ear, thus leading to sensorineural hearing loss. Phototherapy is treatment protocol in most of the hospitals for newborns with high bilirubin levels. The present study aimed to determine the effects of phototherapy on outer hair cell (OHC) function of cochlea. Methods: Twenty-two neonates with hyperbilirubinemia undergoing phototherapy and 22 neonates without any high-risk registers were included in the study. Distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) was administered before and after phototherapy. Auditory brainstem response (ABR) evaluation was done during the postphototherapy recording. Results: Results showed that DP amplitude and signal-to-noise ratio improved significantly after phototherapy. ABR evaluation revealed; 19 neonates had significantly prolonged wave V latency compared to normal, whereas no peaks were identified among three neonates. Most of the infantile hyperbilirubinemia are found to be harmless until and unless treatment is not initiated at the earliest, but still it is found that short-term increase in bilirubin level can induce temporary changes in OAEs and ABR measures. ABR needs to be repeated over a period of time for these three neonates to rule out auditory dyssynchrony (AD). Conclusion: The results indicate that phototherapy has temporary effects on OHC function and can improve as the bilirubin levels reduce. Follow-up testing over a period of time helps in discriminating the sensory pathology and AD.
http://www.jisha.org/currentissue.asp?sabs=y
Vikas Mysore Dwarakanath, Pavana Mohan, Sapthami Patel
DOI:10.4103/jisha.JISHA_8_17
Introduction: Hyperbilirubinemia in newborns has been hypothesized to cause damage to inner ear, thus leading to sensorineural hearing loss. Phototherapy is treatment protocol in most of the hospitals for newborns with high bilirubin levels. The present study aimed to determine the effects of phototherapy on outer hair cell (OHC) function of cochlea. Methods: Twenty-two neonates with hyperbilirubinemia undergoing phototherapy and 22 neonates without any high-risk registers were included in the study. Distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) was administered before and after phototherapy. Auditory brainstem response (ABR) evaluation was done during the postphototherapy recording. Results: Results showed that DP amplitude and signal-to-noise ratio improved significantly after phototherapy. ABR evaluation revealed; 19 neonates had significantly prolonged wave V latency compared to normal, whereas no peaks were identified among three neonates. Most of the infantile hyperbilirubinemia are found to be harmless until and unless treatment is not initiated at the earliest, but still it is found that short-term increase in bilirubin level can induce temporary changes in OAEs and ABR measures. ABR needs to be repeated over a period of time for these three neonates to rule out auditory dyssynchrony (AD). Conclusion: The results indicate that phototherapy has temporary effects on OHC function and can improve as the bilirubin levels reduce. Follow-up testing over a period of time helps in discriminating the sensory pathology and AD.
http://www.jisha.org/currentissue.asp?sabs=y
Long-term exposure to traffic noise
Effect of long-term exposure to traffic noise on acceptable noise level measures in traffic police officers p. 47
PG Vipin Ghosh, D Nagashreeya, V Hemavathi
DOI:10.4103/jisha.JISHA_24_18
Introduction: The acceptable noise level (ANL) measure is a subjective way of identifying how much of noise a person is able to put up with while listening to speech. Individuals with low ANL were observed to be satisfied hearing users than the individuals with high ANL. However, the reason for large individual variations of the measure is still not well understood. Exposure to noise may be one such factor that would affect the ANL which was never explored. Among the individuals who are exposed to noise, majority are exposed to occupational noise. Traffic police is such a working population who is exposed continuously to traffic noise during their duty hours. Hence, the present study was planned to investigate ANL measures in traffic police officers that might further provide insight toward the heterogeneity of the measure. Methods: A total of 38 participants were divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of 19 traffic police officers with minimum of 5 years of job experience and Group 2 consisted of normal hearing individuals without any noise exposure. All the participants underwent routine audiological evaluations followed by ANL testing. Results: The mean ANL obtained in both the groups was statistically compared. The results revealed that the traffic police officers yielded better ANLs than participants in Group 2. Conclusion: This ability of traffic police officers to put up with more noise while listening to speech may be attributed to their long-standing experience in listening to wanted signals in noise.
http://www.jisha.org/currentissue.asp?sabs=y
PG Vipin Ghosh, D Nagashreeya, V Hemavathi
DOI:10.4103/jisha.JISHA_24_18
Introduction: The acceptable noise level (ANL) measure is a subjective way of identifying how much of noise a person is able to put up with while listening to speech. Individuals with low ANL were observed to be satisfied hearing users than the individuals with high ANL. However, the reason for large individual variations of the measure is still not well understood. Exposure to noise may be one such factor that would affect the ANL which was never explored. Among the individuals who are exposed to noise, majority are exposed to occupational noise. Traffic police is such a working population who is exposed continuously to traffic noise during their duty hours. Hence, the present study was planned to investigate ANL measures in traffic police officers that might further provide insight toward the heterogeneity of the measure. Methods: A total of 38 participants were divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of 19 traffic police officers with minimum of 5 years of job experience and Group 2 consisted of normal hearing individuals without any noise exposure. All the participants underwent routine audiological evaluations followed by ANL testing. Results: The mean ANL obtained in both the groups was statistically compared. The results revealed that the traffic police officers yielded better ANLs than participants in Group 2. Conclusion: This ability of traffic police officers to put up with more noise while listening to speech may be attributed to their long-standing experience in listening to wanted signals in noise.
http://www.jisha.org/currentissue.asp?sabs=y
“Slime” dermatitis, a fad‐associated chronic hand dermatitis - Kondratuk - - Pediatric Dermatology - Wiley Online Library
"Slime" is the colloquial name for a non‐Newtonian viscoelastic putty‐like substance that is currently a popular plaything among pre‐teens and adolescents. Several ingredients in homemade slime recipes may cause irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. We report two children who developed slime‐associated chronic hand dermatitis, more prominently on their dominant hand. We review the potential for irritant and allergic contact dermatoses as the causes of dermatitis associated with homemade slime.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13729
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13729
The impact of pediatric atopic dermatitis on families: A review - Yang - - Pediatric Dermatology - Wiley Online Library
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an extremely common childhood disease, with considerable impact on the quality of life of affected children and their families. While pruritus is the hallmark symptom of this disease, AD has been well‐documented to impact patients beyond physical symptoms, resulting in behavior problems, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance.
Objective
This literature review outlines how atopic dermatitis impacts the quality of life of families of children affected by AD.
Methods
A total of 3436 articles were identified via an online search of the MEDLINE health literature database and were screened for relevance to quality of life impacts on families with children affected by AD.
Results
Caring for children affected by AD can be an extremely time‐consuming task that can impair personal relationships, decrease psychosocial functioning, and cause sleep loss among family members of affected patients. Additionally, AD may result in work absence or decreased work productivity for caregivers. Special diets, irritant and allergen avoidance strategies, and alternative therapies are commonly used by patients to manage their disease and require large amounts of family involvement.
Conclusions
Atopic dermatitis can greatly decrease quality of life of families of affected children in various domains, including sleep, finances, and relationships. Early intervention and psychotherapy may be needed in some patients to address these quality of life impairments.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13727
Objective
This literature review outlines how atopic dermatitis impacts the quality of life of families of children affected by AD.
Methods
A total of 3436 articles were identified via an online search of the MEDLINE health literature database and were screened for relevance to quality of life impacts on families with children affected by AD.
Results
Caring for children affected by AD can be an extremely time‐consuming task that can impair personal relationships, decrease psychosocial functioning, and cause sleep loss among family members of affected patients. Additionally, AD may result in work absence or decreased work productivity for caregivers. Special diets, irritant and allergen avoidance strategies, and alternative therapies are commonly used by patients to manage their disease and require large amounts of family involvement.
Conclusions
Atopic dermatitis can greatly decrease quality of life of families of affected children in various domains, including sleep, finances, and relationships. Early intervention and psychotherapy may be needed in some patients to address these quality of life impairments.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13727
Successful treatment of hemorrhagic bullous Henoch‐Schonlein purpura with intravenous immunoglobulins - Mauro - - Pediatric Dermatology - Wiley Online Library
Henoch‐Schonlein purpura (HSP) is the most common systemic vasculitis in childhood. There is no consensus about the management for isolated cutaneous manifestations in HSP. We describe a case of HSP presenting with severe skin lesions that did not respond to standard therapy with corticosteroids. The 11‐year‐old child was treated with intravenous immunoglobulins, which induced rapid and persistent resolution of symptomatology.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13715
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13715
Biology of human melanocyte development, Piebaldism, and Waardenburg syndrome - Saleem - - Pediatric Dermatology - Wiley Online Library
Melanocyte development is orchestrated by a complex interconnecting regulatory network of genes and synergistic interactions. Piebaldism and Waardenburg syndrome are neurocristopathies that arise from mutations in genes involved in this complex network. Our understanding of melanocyte development, Piebaldism, and Waardenburg syndrome has improved dramatically over the past decade. The diagnosis and classification of Waardenburg syndrome, first proposed in 1992 and based on phenotype, have expanded over the past three decades to include genotype. This review focuses on the current understanding of human melanocyte development and the evaluation and management of Piebaldism and Waardenburg syndrome. Management is often challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13713
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13713
Focal facial dermal dysplasia type 4.Bilateral preauricular scarlike defects surrounded by a hair collar, resembling membranous aplasia cutis congenita.
We present a rare case of focal facial dermal dysplasia type 4 (FFDD4) in an otherwise healthy boy infant, presenting as bilateral preauricular scarlike defects surrounded by a hair collar, resembling membranous aplasia cutis congenita. The presence of a hair collar supports the hypothesis that FFDD is caused by abnormal closure at facial embryonic fusion lines, but unlike midline scalp defects is not associated with neurological compromise. Other types of FFDD occur at different sites and can be associated with cranial dysgraphism. Awareness of this rare condition by dermatologists is imperative to enable prompt recognition and minimize diagnostic delay.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13730
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13730
Bullous pemphigoid in adolescence - Patsatsi - - Pediatric Dermatology - Wiley Online Library
Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most common autoimmune blistering disease affecting the elderly but is quite rare in childhood. The majority of pediatric cases have been reported during early childhood. Adolescence is divided into three phases: early (10‐13 years), middle (14‐17), and late (18‐21). This review aimed to identify BP cases in adolescence and demonstrate their clinical features and course. Our literature search was performed in Medline with the terms "bullous pemphigoid in childhood and adolescence," "childhood bullous pemphigoid," "juvenile bullous pemphigoid," and "autoimmune blistering and autoimmune bullous diseases in childhood." The data extraction for late adolescence was limited by the fact that this age group is included in adult BP registries. We identified nine cases in early adolescence. Mucosa were affected in 5 of 9 cases. Treatment consisted of systemic prednisone (8/9), in combination with dapsone (2/9), azathioprine (2/9), or erythromycin/nicotinamide (1/9). Relapses were reported in 3 of 9 cases. We identified five cases occuring in middle adolescence. Mucosa were not affected. Treatment consisted of systemic prednisone (5/5), in combination with dapsone (3/5), azathioprine (2/5), doxycycline/nicotinamide (1/5), or mycophenolate mofetil (1/5). Relapses were reported in two of five cases. No case of BP in the late adolescence was included in the results, as only one case met the search criteria, and overlapped with pemphigus vulgaris. With only 14 cases found in our review, BP in adolescence appears even rarer than in earlier childhood. Despite its low prevalence, BP should be included in the differential diagnosis of autoimmune blistering diseases in adolescents.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13717
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.13717
RHAMM induces progression of rheumatoid arthritis by enhancing the functions of fibroblast-like synoviocytes
Abstract
Background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and refractory autoimmune joint disease. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) produce inflammatory cytokines and are involved in the migration and invasion of panuus tissue, which leads to the destruction of joints in RA. Receptor for hyaluronan mediated motility (RHAMM), is known to be one of the important receptors for hyaluronic acid. It has the ability to regulate migration of fibrocytes and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Here,we explored the mechanisms of RHAMM in RAFs.
Methods
Quantitative PCR and western blot were performed to test the expression of RHAMM in synoviocytes of RA patients and osteoarthritis (OA) controls. Collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) was used to investigate the RHAMM expression in mouse synovial issues. RHAMM siRNA was used to detect the function of RHAMM in FLS.
Results
RA-FLS has a significantly higher expression of RHAMM than OA-FLS. Expression of RHAMM in joint synovial tissue was markedly increased in the CAIA mice compared with the controls. RHAMM silencing using SiRNA was not only decreased the production of IL-6 and IL-8, but also inhibited the migration and invasion of RA-FLS.
Conclusions
RHAMM has an important role in the FLS induced modulation of inflammation and destruction of joints in RA.
http://bit.ly/2SkB0Dx
Biomechanical considerations in the design of patient-specific fixation plates for the distal radius
Abstract
Use of patient-specific fixation plates is promising in corrective osteotomy of the distal radius. So far, custom plates were mostly shaped to closely fit onto the bone surface and ensure accurate positioning of bone segments, however, without considering the biomechanical needs for bone healing. In this study, we investigated how custom plates can be optimized to stimulate callus formation under daily loading conditions. We calculated implant stress distributions, axial screw forces, and interfragmentary strains via finite element analysis (FEA) and compared these parameters for a corrective distal radius osteotomy model fixated by standard and custom plates. We then evaluated these parameters in a modified custom plate design with alternative screw configuration, plate size, and thickness on 5 radii models. Compared to initial design, in the modified custom plate, the maximum stress was reduced, especially under torsional load (− 31%). Under bending load, implants with 1.9-mm thickness induced an average strain (median = 2.14%, IQR = 0.2) in the recommended range (2–10%) to promote callus formation. Optimizing the plate shape, width, and thickness in order to keep the fixation stable while guaranteeing sufficient strain to enhance callus formation can be considered as a design criteria for future, less invasive, custom distal radius plates.
Graphical abstract
ᅟ
http://bit.ly/2Cz7ggG
Feasibility study of intelligent autonomous determination of the bladder voiding need to treat bedwetting using ultrasound and smartphone ML techniques
Abstract
Unsatisfactory cure rates for the treatment of nocturnal enuresis (NE), i.e. bed-wetting, have led to the need to explore alternative modalities. New treatment methods that focus on preventing enuretic episodes by means of a pre-void alerting system could improve outcomes for children with NE in many aspects. No such technology exists currently to monitor the bladder to alarm before bed-wetting. The aim of this study is to carry out the feasibility of building, refining and evaluating a new, safe, comfortable and non-invasive wearable autonomous intelligent electronic device to monitor the bladder using a single-element low-powered low-frequency ultrasound with the help of Machine Learning techniques and to treat NE by warning the patient at the pre-void stage, enhancing quality of life for these children starting from the first use. The sensitivity and specificity values are 0.89 and 0.93 respectively for determining imminent voiding need. The results indicate that customised imminent voiding need based on the expansion of the bladder can be determined by applying a single-element transducer on a bladder in intermittent manner. The acquired results can be improved further with a comfortable non-invasive device by adding several more features to the current features employed in this pilot study.
Graphical Abstract
Ultrasound device design: echoed US pulses reflected from the bladder and related tissues around the bladder is detected. These pulses are analysed, and an alarm is triggered when needed to treat nocturnal enuresis.
http://bit.ly/2Q543ci
The ion channels and synapses responsible for the physiological diversity of mammalian lower brainstem auditory neurons
Publication date: Available online 26 December 2018
Source: Hearing Research
Author(s): Ricardo M. Leão
Abstract
The auditory part of the brainstem is composed of several nuclei specialized in the computation of the different spectral and temporal features of the sound before it reaches the higher auditory regions. There are a high diversity of neuronal types in these nuclei, many with remarkable electrophysiological and synaptic properties unique to these structures. This diversity reflects specializations necessary to process the different auditory signals in order to extract precisely the acoustic information necessary for the auditory perception by the animal. Low threshold Kv1 channels and HCN channels are expressed in neurons that use timing clues for auditory processing, like Bushy and octopus cells, in order to restrict action potential firing and reduce input resistance and membrane time constant. Kv3 channels allow principal neurons of the MNTB and pyramidal DCN neurons to fire fast trains of action potentials. Calcium channels on cartwheel DCN neurons produce complex spikes characteristic of these neurons. Calyceal synapses compensate the low input resistance of several of Bushy and principal neurons of the MNTB by releasing hundreds of glutamate vesicles resulting in large EPSCs acting in fast ionotropic glutamate receptors, in order to reduce temporal summation of synaptic potentials, allowing more precise correspondence of pre- and post-synaptic potentials, and phase-locking. Pre-synaptic calyceal sodium channels have fast recovery from inactivation allowing extremely fast trains of action potential firing, and persistent sodium channels produce spontaneous activity of fusiform neurons at rest, which expands the dynamic range of these neurons. The unique combinations of different ion channels, ionotropic receptors and synaptic structures create a unique functional diversity of neurons extremely adapted to their complex functions in the auditory processing.
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The ion channels and synapses responsible for the physiological diversity of mammalian lower brainstem auditory neurons
Publication date: Available online 26 December 2018
Source: Hearing Research
Author(s): Ricardo M. Leão
Abstract
The auditory part of the brainstem is composed of several nuclei specialized in the computation of the different spectral and temporal features of the sound before it reaches the higher auditory regions. There are a high diversity of neuronal types in these nuclei, many with remarkable electrophysiological and synaptic properties unique to these structures. This diversity reflects specializations necessary to process the different auditory signals in order to extract precisely the acoustic information necessary for the auditory perception by the animal. Low threshold Kv1 channels and HCN channels are expressed in neurons that use timing clues for auditory processing, like Bushy and octopus cells, in order to restrict action potential firing and reduce input resistance and membrane time constant. Kv3 channels allow principal neurons of the MNTB and pyramidal DCN neurons to fire fast trains of action potentials. Calcium channels on cartwheel DCN neurons produce complex spikes characteristic of these neurons. Calyceal synapses compensate the low input resistance of several of Bushy and principal neurons of the MNTB by releasing hundreds of glutamate vesicles resulting in large EPSCs acting in fast ionotropic glutamate receptors, in order to reduce temporal summation of synaptic potentials, allowing more precise correspondence of pre- and post-synaptic potentials, and phase-locking. Pre-synaptic calyceal sodium channels have fast recovery from inactivation allowing extremely fast trains of action potential firing, and persistent sodium channels produce spontaneous activity of fusiform neurons at rest, which expands the dynamic range of these neurons. The unique combinations of different ion channels, ionotropic receptors and synaptic structures create a unique functional diversity of neurons extremely adapted to their complex functions in the auditory processing.
from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2LAx8vB
via IFTTT
The ion channels and synapses responsible for the physiological diversity of mammalian lower brainstem auditory neurons
Publication date: Available online 26 December 2018
Source: Hearing Research
Author(s): Ricardo M. Leão
Abstract
The auditory part of the brainstem is composed of several nuclei specialized in the computation of the different spectral and temporal features of the sound before it reaches the higher auditory regions. There are a high diversity of neuronal types in these nuclei, many with remarkable electrophysiological and synaptic properties unique to these structures. This diversity reflects specializations necessary to process the different auditory signals in order to extract precisely the acoustic information necessary for the auditory perception by the animal. Low threshold Kv1 channels and HCN channels are expressed in neurons that use timing clues for auditory processing, like Bushy and octopus cells, in order to restrict action potential firing and reduce input resistance and membrane time constant. Kv3 channels allow principal neurons of the MNTB and pyramidal DCN neurons to fire fast trains of action potentials. Calcium channels on cartwheel DCN neurons produce complex spikes characteristic of these neurons. Calyceal synapses compensate the low input resistance of several of Bushy and principal neurons of the MNTB by releasing hundreds of glutamate vesicles resulting in large EPSCs acting in fast ionotropic glutamate receptors, in order to reduce temporal summation of synaptic potentials, allowing more precise correspondence of pre- and post-synaptic potentials, and phase-locking. Pre-synaptic calyceal sodium channels have fast recovery from inactivation allowing extremely fast trains of action potential firing, and persistent sodium channels produce spontaneous activity of fusiform neurons at rest, which expands the dynamic range of these neurons. The unique combinations of different ion channels, ionotropic receptors and synaptic structures create a unique functional diversity of neurons extremely adapted to their complex functions in the auditory processing.
from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2LAx8vB
Modelling Low-Salinity Oil Recovery Mechanisms Using an Ion Dissociation Model
Abstract
Experimental evidence shows that injecting low-salinity water during the oil recovery process can lead to an increase in the amount of oil recovered. Numerous mechanisms have been proposed to explain this effect, and, in recent years, two which have gained notable support are multicomponent ionic exchange (MIE) and pH increase. Both mechanisms involve ion exchange reactions within the thin film of water separating the oil in a reservoir from the clay minerals on the surface of the reservoir rock. Since the reactions occur on the molecular scale, an upscaled model is required in order to accurately determine the dominant mechanism using centimetre-scale experiments. In this paper, we develop the first stages of this upscaling process by modelling the pore-scale motion of an oil slug through a clay pore throat. We use a law-of-mass-action approach to model the exchange reactions occurring on the oil–water and clay–water interfaces in order to derive expressions for the surface charges as functions of the salinity. By balancing the disjoining pressure in the water film with the capillary pressure across the oil–water interface, we derive an expression for the salinity-dependent film thickness. We compare the two mechanisms by modifying an existing model for the velocity of an oil slug through a pore throat. Numerical results show that the velocity increases as the salinity decreases. The percentage increase is larger for the MIE mechanism, suggesting that MIE may be the dominant causal mechanism; however, this will vary depending on the particular clay and oil being studied.
http://bit.ly/2CzNWQy
Introduction of polysulfide anions to increase the loading quantity of PbS quantum-dots for efficient solid-state quantum-dot sensitized TiO 2 nanorod array solar cells
Abstract
To increase the loading quantity of PbS quantum-dots, the polysulfide anion (S22−) was firstly introduced in successive ionic layer absorption and reaction process to prepare PbS quantum-dot thin films on TiO2 nanorod arrays. The influence of polysulfide anion (S22−) concentrations in the precursor solution on the deposition of PbS quantum-dot thin films was systematically investigated and the photovoltaic performance of the corresponding solid-state PbS quantum-dot sensitized solar cells with spiro-OMeTAD was evaluated. The loading quantity and crystallinity of PbS quantum-dots increased with the increase of polysulfide anion (S22−) concentrations from 0 to 1 mM and 2 mM. When the polysulfide anion (S22−) concentration was 1 mM and the surface of TiO2 nanorod arrays was modified by 3-mercaptopropionic acid, the optimal photoelectric conversion efficiency of 4.75% was achieved, along with the open-circuit voltage of 0.56 V, short-circuit photocurrent density of 13.00 mA cm−2 and fill factor of 64.8%. The photoelectric conversion efficiency of 4.75% was relatively high in solid-state PbS quantum-dot sensitized solar cells using successive ionic layer absorption and reactions.
Graphical abstract
To increase the loading quantity of PbS quantum-dots, the polysulfide anion (S22−) was firstly introduced in successive ionic layer absorption and reaction process to prepare PbS quantum-dot thin films on TiO2 nanorod arrays. The optimal photoelectric conversion efficiency of 4.75% was achieved, along with the open-circuit voltage of 0.56 V, short-circuit photocurrent density of 13.00 mA cm−2 and fill factor of 64.8%.
http://bit.ly/2TehZ5X
Fabrication of highly fluorescent multiple Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles core-silica shell nanoparticles
Abstract
The synthesis of hybrid nanoparticles with multiple functions from the economical and scalable perspective is an important issue in nanoparticle engineering. Herein, we report a representative example of multi-functional nanosystems simultaneously possessing fluorescence and magnetism as well as the excellent structural properties of nanosilica. Highly fluorescent multiple Fe3O4 nanoparticles core-silica shell nanoparticles (FL multi-Fe3O4@SiO2 NPs) are successfully synthesized and fully characterized. The multiple Fe3O4 nanoparticles can be uniformly and collectively encapsulated within a silica matrix using a reverse microemulsion (RM) method. Fluorescent dyes are successfully functionalized through the sequential hydrolysis and condensation of tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and 3-(aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES). Both organic (fluorescein) and inorganic (Rubpy) dyes can be used to generate the FL multi-Fe3O4@SiO2 NPs. These synthetic paradigms for multi-functional nanoparticles can significantly facilitate the fabrications of unique nanomaterials widely applied in a variety of areas.
Graphical abstract
http://bit.ly/2CyeB0e
18 F-FDG and 11 C-choline uptake in proliferating tumor cells is dependent on the cell cycle in vitro
Abstract
Objective
Among different PET tracers, 18F-fludeoxyglucose (FDG) and 11C-choline are known to have a high tumor uptake correlated with a high mitotic index of tumor cells. Thus, the uptake of 18F-FDG and 11C-choline may be dependent on the cell cycle. In the present study, we examined the uptake of 18F-FDG and 11C-choline in cancer cell lines by cell cycle synchronization to clarify the biological properties of cancer cells with respect to each tracer.
Methods
HeLa S3 Cells were synchronized by the double thymidine (TdR) block methods. 18F-FDG and 11C-choline were administered to synchronized cells, and the radioactivity per cell was measured to compare the cellular uptake of the tracers during S, G2/M, and G1 phases. Flow cytometry (FCM) was performed to measure the proportion of cells in G1, S, and G2/M phases. Furthermore, the levels of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and choline transporter-like protein 1 (CTL1) in the cell were evaluated by FCM.
Results
The uptake of 18F-FDG was the highest in S to G2/M phases, and markedly decreased in G1 phase. The uptake of 11C-choline reached its peak in G2/M, and decreased in G1 phase. The level of GLUT1 expression was similar to that of 18F-FDG uptake during the cell cycle, and the level of CTL1 expression was similar to that of 11C-choline uptake throughout the cell cycle.
Conclusions
In this in vitro study, we demonstrated that 18F-FDG and 11C-choline had the highest uptake in S to G2/M phases and in G2/M phase, respectively, with a rapid decrease in G1 phase. These findings suggest that 18F-FDG and 11C-choline have a high accumulation in tumor cells with a high mitotic index. Furthermore, our study suggests that the expression of GLUT1 and CTL1 has cell cycle dependence, and the changes of 18F-FDG and 11C-choline accumulation seem to be caused by the above properties of these transporters.
http://bit.ly/2LBugyu
Rate of torque development is the primary contributor to quadriceps avoidance gait following total knee arthroplasty
Publication date: February 2019
Source: Gait & Posture, Volume 68
Author(s): Paul W. Kline, Cale A. Jacobs, Stephen T. Duncan, Brian Noehren
Abstract
Background
Following rehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty, “quadriceps avoidance gait”, defined by limited knee flexion angle excursion during walking, persists and contributes to poor long-term outcomes. Given the presence of several post-surgical impairments, identifying the contribution of multiple factors to knee flexion angle excursion is important to developing targeted interventions to improve recovery after total knee arthroplasty.
Research questions
Which outcomes continue to improve following rehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty? What are the primary contributors to impaired knee flexion angle excursion during walking following total knee arthroplasty?
Methods
Peak muscle strength and rate of torque development of the quadriceps, hip abductors, and hip external rotators, five-time sit-to-stand test, Knee Injury & Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and gait mechanics were assessed in 24 participants at three and six months post-surgery. Paired sample t-tests or Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests were used to compare outcomes between assessments. Stepwise multiple linear regression were used to assess the contribution of each measure to knee flexion angle excursion.
Results
Significant improvements were noted in all outcomes except hip external rotation rate of torque development, gait speed, and knee flexion angle excursion. Quadriceps rate of torque development and knee pain significantly contributed to knee flexion angle excursion at three months (Adjusted R2 = 0.342), while quadriceps rate of torque development and peak hip external rotation strength significantly contributed at six months (Adjusted R2 = 0.436).
Significance
While higher pain levels at three months and greater peak hip external rotation muscle strength at six months contribute to impaired knee flexion angle excursion, quadriceps rate of torque development was the primary contributor to knee flexion angle excursion at both three and six months after surgery. Implementing strategies to maximize quadriceps rate of torque development during rehabilitation may help to reduce quadriceps avoidance gait after total knee arthroplasty.
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Rate of torque development is the primary contributor to quadriceps avoidance gait following total knee arthroplasty
Publication date: February 2019
Source: Gait & Posture, Volume 68
Author(s): Paul W. Kline, Cale A. Jacobs, Stephen T. Duncan, Brian Noehren
Abstract
Background
Following rehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty, “quadriceps avoidance gait”, defined by limited knee flexion angle excursion during walking, persists and contributes to poor long-term outcomes. Given the presence of several post-surgical impairments, identifying the contribution of multiple factors to knee flexion angle excursion is important to developing targeted interventions to improve recovery after total knee arthroplasty.
Research questions
Which outcomes continue to improve following rehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty? What are the primary contributors to impaired knee flexion angle excursion during walking following total knee arthroplasty?
Methods
Peak muscle strength and rate of torque development of the quadriceps, hip abductors, and hip external rotators, five-time sit-to-stand test, Knee Injury & Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and gait mechanics were assessed in 24 participants at three and six months post-surgery. Paired sample t-tests or Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests were used to compare outcomes between assessments. Stepwise multiple linear regression were used to assess the contribution of each measure to knee flexion angle excursion.
Results
Significant improvements were noted in all outcomes except hip external rotation rate of torque development, gait speed, and knee flexion angle excursion. Quadriceps rate of torque development and knee pain significantly contributed to knee flexion angle excursion at three months (Adjusted R2 = 0.342), while quadriceps rate of torque development and peak hip external rotation strength significantly contributed at six months (Adjusted R2 = 0.436).
Significance
While higher pain levels at three months and greater peak hip external rotation muscle strength at six months contribute to impaired knee flexion angle excursion, quadriceps rate of torque development was the primary contributor to knee flexion angle excursion at both three and six months after surgery. Implementing strategies to maximize quadriceps rate of torque development during rehabilitation may help to reduce quadriceps avoidance gait after total knee arthroplasty.
from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2GGolJS
via IFTTT
Rate of torque development is the primary contributor to quadriceps avoidance gait following total knee arthroplasty
Publication date: February 2019
Source: Gait & Posture, Volume 68
Author(s): Paul W. Kline, Cale A. Jacobs, Stephen T. Duncan, Brian Noehren
Abstract
Background
Following rehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty, "quadriceps avoidance gait", defined by limited knee flexion angle excursion during walking, persists and contributes to poor long-term outcomes. Given the presence of several post-surgical impairments, identifying the contribution of multiple factors to knee flexion angle excursion is important to developing targeted interventions to improve recovery after total knee arthroplasty.
Research questions
Which outcomes continue to improve following rehabilitation for total knee arthroplasty? What are the primary contributors to impaired knee flexion angle excursion during walking following total knee arthroplasty?
Methods
Peak muscle strength and rate of torque development of the quadriceps, hip abductors, and hip external rotators, five-time sit-to-stand test, Knee Injury & Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and gait mechanics were assessed in 24 participants at three and six months post-surgery. Paired sample t-tests or Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests were used to compare outcomes between assessments. Stepwise multiple linear regression were used to assess the contribution of each measure to knee flexion angle excursion.
Results
Significant improvements were noted in all outcomes except hip external rotation rate of torque development, gait speed, and knee flexion angle excursion. Quadriceps rate of torque development and knee pain significantly contributed to knee flexion angle excursion at three months (Adjusted R2 = 0.342), while quadriceps rate of torque development and peak hip external rotation strength significantly contributed at six months (Adjusted R2 = 0.436).
Significance
While higher pain levels at three months and greater peak hip external rotation muscle strength at six months contribute to impaired knee flexion angle excursion, quadriceps rate of torque development was the primary contributor to knee flexion angle excursion at both three and six months after surgery. Implementing strategies to maximize quadriceps rate of torque development during rehabilitation may help to reduce quadriceps avoidance gait after total knee arthroplasty.
from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2GGolJS
Recent Developments in Male Contraception
Abstract
Unplanned pregnancies are an ongoing global burden, posing health and economic risks for women, children, and families. Advances in male contraception have been historically stymied by concerning failure rates, problematic side effects, and perceived market limitations. However, increased interest in reliable and reversible options for male contraception have resulted in resurgent efforts to introduce novel contraceptives for men. Hormonal male contraception relies on exogenous androgens and progestogens that suppress gonadotropin production, thereby suppressing testicular testosterone and sperm production. In many men, effective suppression of spermatogenesis can be achieved by androgen-progestin combination therapy. Small-scale contraceptive efficacy studies in couples have demonstrated effectiveness and reversibility with male hormonal methods, but side effects related to mood, sexual desire and cholesterol remain concerning. A number of novel androgens have reached clinical testing as potential contraceptive agents; many of these have both androgenic and progestogenic action in a single, modified steroid, thereby holding promise as single-agent contraceptives. Currently, these novel steroids hold promise as both a "male pill" and long-acting injections. Among non-hormonal methods, studies of reversible vaso-occlusive methods (polymers that block transport of sperm through the vas deferens) are ongoing, but reliable reversibility and long-term safety in men have not been established. Proteins involved in sperm maturation and motility are attractive targets, but to date both specificity and biologic redundancy have been challenges for drug development. In this review, we aim to summarize landmark studies on male contraception, highlight the most recent advances and future development in this important field of public health and medicine.
http://bit.ly/2AfUulG
Current and Emerging Therapies for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the developed world and commonly associated with metabolic comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis is an aggressive form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, associated with an increased risk of liver and non-liver-related mortality. Currently there are no approved therapies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and standard-of-care lifestyle advice is rarely effective. This has spurned intense drug development efforts and several agents are in clinical trials to address this major gap in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Drug development efforts have focused on pathogenic mechanisms including pathways involving lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis. This review presents the overview of the trials and agents in the pipeline of emerging therapies for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
http://bit.ly/2SmDh0Y
Functional implications of single nucleotide polymorphisms rs662 and rs854860 on the antioxidative activity of paraoxonase1 (PON1) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Abstract
Background
Atherosclerosis leading to cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Paraoxonase1 (PON1) is the best understood member of plasma paraoxonases with anti-atherogenic properties.
Patients and methods
Spanish RA (n = 549) consecutively recruited from 1 single center and 477 ethnically matched healthy controls were included in a case-control study. The concentration of PON1 was evaluated by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent sssay (ELISA). An arylesterase/paraoxonase assay kit was used to evaluate PON1 activity. Sample genotyping was performed by using TaqMan assays-on-demand. All results were expressed as medians ± interquartile range. One-way ANOVA comparisons were done using a nonparametric Kruskall-Wallis test. P values under 0.05 were considered to be significant.
Results
The concentration of PON1 in the RA group was higher than in control group (p = 0.0003), although the differences were not significant when PON1 activities were compared between both groups. No significant differences were found related to distributions of rs662 genotypes in RA patients compared to healthy controls. Among rs854860 polymorphisms, overall genotype was widely distributed between RA patients and controls. Overall PON1 concentration in plasma was not significantly different between individuals carrying any of rs662 (p = 0.8501) or rs854860 (p = 0.2741) polymorphisms. Although PON1 levels were not associated with any of the SNPs in the study, differences appear when enzyme activities are compared for each SNP separately. CVD in RA patients correlate with increased PON1 levels and lower PON1 activity.
Conclusions
Although protective role of PON1 against oxidative damage in vivo could be related to other activities, in our study arylesterase activity was useful to identify phenotypic differences with emphasis placed on two SNPs coding for nonconservative amino acid changes in the functional protein.
http://bit.ly/2QOG4DJ
Axial spondyloarthritis in the USA: diagnostic challenges and missed opportunities
Abstract
Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease that primarily affects the sacroiliac joints and spine. Delayed or inadequate treatment may decrease quality of life and lead to poor long-term outcomes, including irreversible loss of spinal function. In this review, we discuss clinical practice related to axSpA within the USA, including prevalence, diagnosis, reasons for delayed/missed diagnosis, and suggestions for making early diagnosis. The US population prevalence of axSpA (0.9–1.4%) is higher than the diagnostic prevalence (0.2–0.7%). Although the estimated diagnostic delay for axSpA is 14 years in the USA, the disease can be identified earlier if appropriately preselected patients are quickly referred to rheumatologists. Only 37% of patients with ankylosing spondylitis in the USA are diagnosed by rheumatologists; the remaining 63% are diagnosed by primary care (26%), chiropractic/physical therapy (7%), orthopedic surgery (4%), pain clinics (4%), acute care (3%), and other settings (19%). To help reduce diagnostic delay, non–rheumatologist-healthcare professionals are urged to refer patients with back pain and ≥ 1 of 3 SpA features (HLA-B27 positivity, current inflammatory back pain, or x-ray/MRI evidence of sacroiliitis) to a rheumatologist. Prevalence and diagnosis rates of axSpA are disparate in the USA due to the lack of awareness and knowledge among non-rheumatologists. Progress has been made in identifying hurdles causing diagnostic delays. Public health initiatives are needed to guide primary care physicians, physical therapists, chiropractors, and other specialists seeing patients with chronic back pain on methods for suspecting or identifying axSpA and early referral to rheumatologists.
http://bit.ly/2BCwxFc
Functional ultrastructure and cytochemistry of vitellogenesis and mature vitellocytes of the digenean Cainocreadium labracis (Dujardin, 1845), parasite of Dicentrarchus labrax (L., 1758)
Abstract
Vitellogenesis and vitellocytes of Cainocreadium labracis were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and TEM cytochemistry. Four developmental stages were distinguished during vitellogenesis: (I) stem cell of high nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio; (II) early differentiation with chief activity focused on the beginning of protein synthesis and shell globule formation; (III) advanced differentiation with rapid intensification of protein synthesis, progressive fusion of single shell globules into large globule clusters, and formation of unsaturated lipid droplets surrounded by β-glycogen particles; and (IV) mature vitellocyte. Early vitellogenesis with vitellocyte maturation consists of: (1) increase in cell volume; (2) increased development of large, parallel cisternae of GER with production of proteinaceous granules; (3) development of small Golgi complexes that package granules; and (4) within vacuoles, progressive enlargement of proteinaceous granules into shell globule clusters formed during vitellogenesis. Three types of inclusions accumulate in large amounts in mature vitelline cells: (1) shell globule clusters, important component in the formation of egg shell; (2) numerous unsaturated lipid droplets. Though fewer, there are also diphasic droplets consisting of saturated and unsaturated lipids in the same droplet, and (3) a relatively small amount of β-glycogen particles, usually surround a few groups of lipid droplets. The β-glycogen and lipid droplets are nutritive reserves for embryogenesis. General pattern and functional ultrastructure of vitellogenesis greatly resemble those observed in some lower cestodes, such as bothriocephalideans and diphyllobothrideans. Variations and differences in the amount of lipids and of glycogen during vitellogenesis in lower cestodes and other trematodes are compared and discussed.
http://bit.ly/2V98SVI
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