Πέμπτη 8 Φεβρουαρίου 2018

Contents Vol. 88, 2017


Folia Primatol 2017;88:I–IV

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A de novo 1q22q23.1 Interstitial Microdeletion in a Girl with Intellectual Disability and Multiple Congenital Anomalies Including Congenital Heart Defect

Many studies have shown that molecular karyotyping is an effective diagnostic tool in individuals with developmental delay/intellectual disability. We report on a de novo interstitial 1q22q23.1 microdeletion, 1.6 Mb in size, detected in a patient with short stature, microcephaly, hypoplastic corpus callosum, cleft palate, minor facial anomalies, congenital heart defect, camptodactyly of the 4-5th fingers, and intellectual disability. Chromosomal microarray analysis revealed a 1.6-Mb deletion in the 1q22q23.1 region, arr[GRCh37] 1q22q23.1(155630752_157193893)×1. Real-time PCR analysis confirmed its de novo origin. The deleted region encompasses 50 protein-coding genes, including the morbid genes APOA1BP, ARHGEF2, LAMTOR2, LMNA, NTRK1, PRCC, RIT1, SEMA4A, and YY1AP1. Although the unique phenotype observed in our patient can arise from the haploinsufficiency of the dosage-sensitive LMNA gene, the dosage imbalance of other genes implicated in the rearrangement could also contribute to the phenotype. Further studies are required for the delineation of the phenotype associated with this rare chromosomal alteration and elucidation of the critical genes for manifestation of the specific clinical features.
Cytogenet Genome Res

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Production and Molecular Cytogenetic Characterization of a Durum Wheat-Thinopyrum elongatum 7E Disomic Addition Line with Resistance to Fusarium Head Blight

Wheatgrass, Thinopyrum elongatum (2n = 2x = 14, EE), is an important wild relative of wheat with many excellent traits, including resistance to Fusarium head blight (FHB), that can be used for durum wheat improvement. Through hybridization of the durum cultivar “Langdon” with the amphiploid 8801 (AABBEE), a disomic alien addition line (2n = 30) with a pair of Th. elongatum 7E chromosomes was obtained and confirmed using chromosome-specific molecular markers of Th. elongatum and genomic in situ hybridization (GISH). This line is meiotically and reproductively stable, generally forming 15 bivalents at meiosis including 14 pairs from Langdon and 1 from Th. elongatum with 2 chiasmata each as revealed by GISH analysis. At the adult growth stages under field conditions, this addition line shows high resistance to FHB, with less than 16% infection on visual observation in 2 years (2014 and 2015). This addition line is shorter in height and has narrower leaves and shorter spikes as compared to its parent Langdon. So the linkage group 7E might be a further source of wheat improvement by targeted introgression approaches.
Cytogenet Genome Res

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An International Genetic Survey of Breed-Specific Diseases in Working Dogs from the United States, Israel, and Poland

Genetic diseases occur in breeds used for law enforcement. As important team members, dogs are expected to operate at peak performance for several years and are significant investments for both the initial purchase and extensive, specialized training. Previous studies have not focused on causes for retirement or euthanasia as genetic (inherited) versus acquired (environmental). We performed direct mutational analysis for breed-specific conditions on samples from 304 dogs including 267 law enforcement (122 US, 87 Israeli, and 58 Polish) and 37 search and rescue dogs. Genetic testing identified 29% (n = 89) of the dogs tested to be carriers of a genetic mutation and 6% (n = 19) to be at risk for a debilitating inherited condition that may eventually impair the dog's ability to work. At-risk dogs included Labrador Retrievers (n = 4) with exercise-induced collapse, Bloodhounds (n = 2) with degenerative myelopathy (DM), and German Shepherd dogs with DM (n = 12) or leukocyte adhesion deficiency, type III (n = 1). A substantial number of working dogs were shown to be at risk for genetic conditions that may shorten the dog's career. The loss of dogs, due to early retirement or euthanasia, as a result of preventable genetic conditions has an emotional cost to handlers and financial cost to service organizations that can be avoided with genetic screening prior to breeding, buying, or training.
Cytogenet Genome Res

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Candice Price's Favorite Theorem

The University of San Diego mathematician tells us about rational tangles and the frozen treat that pairs best with them

-- Read more on ScientificAmerican.com
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Bone mineral density in young adults with Prader-Willi syndrome: a randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over GH trial

Summary

Context

The prevalence of osteoporosis is increased in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). In children with PWS, growth hormone (GH) treatment has beneficial effects on bone mineral density (BMD). BMD might deteriorate after cessation of GH at adult height (AH), while continuing GH might maintain BMD.

Objective

To investigate the effects of GH versus placebo, and furthermore the effects of sex steroid replacement therapy (SSRT), on BMD in GH-treated young adults with PWS who had attained AH.

Design

two-year, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over GH study.

Patients

27 young adults with PWS, stratified for gender and BMI. All patients were randomly and blindly assigned to receive GH (0.67 mg/m2/day) and placebo, both during one year.

Measurements: Bone mineral density of the total body (BMDTB) and lumbar spine (BMDLS) SDS, measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry.

Results

At AH, BMDTBSDS was significantly lower compared to healthy peers (p<0.01), while BMADLSSDS was similar. Both BMDTBSDS and BMADLSSDS were similar during one year of GH versus one year of placebo. In hypogonadal young adults without SSRT, BMDTBSDS and BMADLSSDS decreased during the two-year study (p=0.11 and p=0.01), regardless of GH or placebo, while BMDTBSDS increased in those with SSRT (p<0.01).

Conclusions

Compared to GH treatment, one year of placebo after attainment of AH does not deteriorate BMD SDS in young adults with PWS. In addition, our data suggest that GH is not able to prevent the decline in BMD SDS in hypogonadal young adults with PWS, unless it is combined with SSRT.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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A noble pathological role for alpha-synuclein in triggering neurodegeneration of Parkinson's disease



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New developments in genetic rat models of Parkinson's disease

Abstract

Preclinical research on Parkinson's disease has relied heavily on mouse and rat animal models. Initially, PD animal models were generated primarily by chemical neurotoxins that induce acute loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. On the discovery of genetic mutations causally linked to PD, mice were used more than rats to generate laboratory animals bearing PD-linked mutations because mutagenesis was more difficult in rats. Recent advances in technology for mammalian genome engineering and optimization of viral expression vectors have increased the use of genetic rat models of PD. Emerging research tools include “knockout” rats with disruption of genes in which mutations have been causally linked to PD, including LRRK2, α-synuclein, Parkin, PINK1, and DJ-1. Rats have also been increasingly used for transgenic and viral-mediated overexpression of genes relevant to PD, particularly α-synuclein. It may not be realistic to obtain a single animal model that completely reproduces every feature of a human disease as complex as PD. Nevertheless, compared with mice with the same mutations, many genetic rat animal models of PD better reproduce key aspects of PD including progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, locomotor behavior deficits, and age-dependent formation of abnormal α-synuclein protein aggregates. Here we briefly review new developments in genetic rat models of PD that may have greater potential for identifying underlying mechanisms, for discovering novel therapeutic targets, and for developing greatly needed treatments to slow or halt disease progression. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society



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Association between serum hepcidin level and restless legs syndrome

Abstract

Background: To better understand the role of iron homeostasis dysregulation in restless legs syndrome, we compared serum hepcidin and ferritin levels in drug-free patients with primary restless legs syndrome and healthy controls and studied the relationship between hepcidin level and restless legs syndrome severity.

Methods: One hundred and eight drug-free patients with primary restless legs syndrome (65 women; median age, 61.5 years) and 45 controls (28 women; median age, 53.9 years) were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were: normal ferritin level (>50 ng/mL) and absence of iron disorders, chronic renal or liver failure, and inflammatory or neurological diseases. Each subject underwent a thorough clinical examination and a polysomnography assessment. Serum hepcidin-25 was quantified using a validated mass spectrometry method. Restless legs syndrome severity was evaluated according to the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group.

Results: Despite no group difference between normal ferritin levels and demographic features, serum hepcidin level and hepcidin/ferritin ratio were higher in patients than in controls. Hepcidin level and hepcidin/ferritin ratio, but not ferritin level, were positively correlated with periodic leg movements during sleep and wakefulness in the whole sample. Hepcidin level seem to be associated with restless legs syndrome severity in a complex U-shaped relationship, without relationship with age at restless legs syndrome onset, positive family history, sleep and depressive symptoms, genetic background, and polysomnographic measurements. No relationship was found between ferritin level and restless legs syndrome severity.

Conclusion: In drug-free patients with primary restless legs syndrome, hepcidin level is higher than in controls and may be associated with restless legs syndrome clinical severity. This result emphasizes the complex peripheral iron metabolism deregulation in restless legs syndrome, opening potential perspectives for a personalized approach with a hepcidin antagonist. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society



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At a crossroads: Revisiting mild cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease



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New research including an instructive video of a radical peritonectomy with en bloc resection for treating advanced… https://t.co/QT4uHXpLLc

New research including an instructive video of a radical peritonectomy with en bloc resection for treating advanced… https://t.co/QT4uHXpLLc

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The need for real world clinical trials in #PrecisionMedicine https://t.co/5ZJ2P27sfM

The need for real world clinical trials in #PrecisionMedicine https://t.co/5ZJ2P27sfM

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health technology; +272 new citations

272 new pubmed citations were retrieved for your search. Click on the search hyperlink below to display the complete search results:

health technology

These pubmed results were generated on 2018/02/08

PubMed comprises more than millions of citations for biomedical literature from MEDLINE, life science journals, and online books. Citations may include links to full-text content from PubMed Central and publisher web sites.



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Subclinical changes in MRI-determined right ventricular volumes and function in subjects with prediabetes and diabetes

Abstract

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess subclinical changes in right ventricular volumes and function in subjects with prediabetes and diabetes and controls without a history of cardiovascular disease.

Methods

Data from 400 participants in the KORA FF4 study without self-reported cardiovascular disease who underwent 3-T whole-body MRI were obtained. The right ventricle was evaluated using the short axis and a four-chamber view. Diabetes was defined according to WHO criteria. Associations between glucose tolerance and right ventricular parameters were assessed using multivariable adjusted linear regression models.

Results

Data from 337 participants were available for analysis. Of these, 43 (13%) had diabetes, 87 (26%) had prediabetes, and 207 (61%) were normoglycaemic controls. There was a stepwise decrease in right ventricular volumes in men with prediabetes and diabetes in comparison with controls, including right ventricular end-diastolic volume (β = 20.4 and β = 25.6, respectively; p ≤ 0.005), right ventricular end-systolic volume (β = 12.3 and β = 12.7, respectively; p ≤ 0.037) and right ventricular stroke volume (β = 8.1 and β = 13.1, respectively, p ≤ 0.016). We did not observe any association between prediabetes or diabetes and right ventricular volumes in women or between prediabetes or diabetes and right ventricular ejection fraction in men and women.

Conclusions

This study points towards early subclinical changes in right ventricular volumes in men with diabetes and prediabetes.

Key Points

• MRI was used to detect subclinical changes in right ventricular parameters.

• Diabetes mellitus is associated with right ventricular dysfunction.

• Impairment of right ventricular volumes seems to occur predominantly in men.



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Normalized STEAM-based diffusion tensor imaging provides a robust assessment of muscle tears in football players: preliminary results of a new approach to evaluate muscle injuries

Abstract

Objectives

To assess acute muscle tears in professional football players by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and evaluate the impact of normalization of data.

Methods

Eight football players with acute lower limb muscle tears were examined. DTI metrics of the injured muscle and corresponding healthy contralateral muscle and of ROIs drawn in muscle tears (ROItear) in the corresponding healthy contralateral muscle (ROIhc_t) in a healthy area ipsilateral to the injury (ROIhi) and in a corresponding contralateral area (ROIhc_i) were compared. The same comparison was performed for ratios of the injured (ROItear/ROIhi) and contralateral sides (ROIhc_t/ROIhc_i). ANOVA, Bonferroni-corrected post-hoc and Student's t-tests were used.

Results

Analyses of the entire muscle did not show any differences (p>0.05 each) except for axial diffusivity (AD; p=0.048). ROItear showed higher mean diffusivity (MD) and AD than ROIhc_t (p<0.05). Fractional anisotropy (FA) was lower in ROItear than in ROIhi and ROIhc_t (p<0.05). Radial diffusivity (RD) was higher in ROItear than in any other ROI (p<0.05). Ratios revealed higher MD and RD and lower FA and reduced number and length of fibre tracts on the injured side (p<0.05 each).

Conclusions

DTI allowed a robust assessment of muscle tears in athletes especially after normalization to healthy muscle tissue.

Key Points

STEAM-based DTI allows the investigation of muscle tears affecting professional football players.

Fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity differ between injured and healthy muscle areas.

Only normalized data show differences of fibre tracking metrics in muscle tears.

The normalization of DTI-metrics enables a more robust characterization of muscle tears.



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Reply to the letter to the author concerning: ‘Does adenoid hypertrophy affect disease severity in children with allergic rhinitis?’



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In reply to “Commentary to: Endoscopic and clinical benefits of hyaluronic acid in children with chronic adenoiditis and middle ear disease”, by Zhengcai Lou

Abstract

Some considerations will be expressed in consideration of the commentary previously published. In particular, we underline that no other medications were administered to the patients during the study period and any clinical evaluation was postponed in case of acute upper respiratory tract infection in the previous 14 days. We strongly advocate antibiotic treatment during any acute otitis media episode, and we agree that topically administered hyaluronic acid should be considered as a supporting treatment, “complementary to traditional therapies” in children with recurrent disease.



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Ectopic nephrogenic rests in children: A series of 13 cases in a single institution

Abstract

Purpose

Ectopic nephrogenic rests (ENR) are extremely rare, and their diagnosis and treatment have not yet been standardized. Our study aimed to analyze the clinical and pathological features of ENR in children and explore the optimal methods for diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

A retrospective, single-center, case series study of 13 children with ENR was performed. Clinical manifestations, work-up, pathological features, and treatment methods were analyzed, and the postoperative status was evaluated at follow-up.

Results

The study cohort included seven males and six females aged 1/4–19 months, who were divided into two subgroups: group 1 (pure ENR, cases 1–3) and group 2 (ENR associated with teratoma, cases 4–13). The patients commonly presented with a painless mass or an incidental finding in surgery. The ENR were detected in the lumbosacral and sacrococcygeal region (five cases), retroperitoneal area (five cases), testis (one case), gubernaculum testis (one case), and stomach (one case). Radiological findings showed a mixed-density mass or a mixed-signal-intensity lesion in group 2. All the patients underwent surgical resection, and all except two were event-free in a follow-up period of 2–154 months. Case 8 showed recurrence, and extended surgery was performed. Case 7 developed metastases and received chemotherapy.

Conclusions

ENR are rare among children and have no specific clinical manifestations, lab tests, and radiological features. Different treatment strategies may be adopted based on the diagnosis. Complete resection can generally be achieved, and the prognosis is excellent in most cases. However, relapse or metastasis may occur in a small subset of patients. Close follow-up is mandatory to detect recurrence and metastasis early.



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The extraordinary challenge of treating patients with congenital rhabdoid tumors—a collaborative European effort

Abstract

Background

Congenital rhabdoid tumors are rare and highly aggressive malignancies. In general, patients are considered to be incurable and are often treated using an exclusive, primarily palliative approach.

Methods

A prospective and retrospective collection of 42 patients from the European Rhabdoid Registry (EU-RHAB), France and Moscow (2006–2016) diagnosed within the first 28 days of life was evaluated. Genetic and clinical reference evaluation included SMARCB1 and/or SMARCA4 (fluorescence-in-situ-hybridization, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, and sequencing) mutation analysis and immunohistochemistry. Forty-eight percent (20/42) of patients were treated according to the EU-RHAB therapy, 7% (3/42) according to the pilot approach Rhabdoid 2007, 33% (14/42) with individual schedules, and 12% (5/42) received no chemotherapy at all.

Results

Forty point five percent (17/42) of patients presented with extracranial rhabdoid tumors, 33.5% (14/42) with rhabdoid tumors of the central nervous system (atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor), and the remainder 26% (11/42) demonstrated synchronous tumors. Metastases at diagnosis were present in 52% (22/42) of patients. A germline mutation was detected in 66% (25/38) and was associated with a poor prognosis (4.2 ± 4.1% vs. 48 ± 16.4%, P < 0.00005). A gross total resection (GTR) was realized in 17%. A GTR (42.9 ± 18.7% vs. 4.9 ± 4.3%, P = 0.04), therapy according to a standardized approach (20.9 ± 8.7% vs. 7.1 ± 6.9 %, P = 0.0018), and a complete remission (CR) (23.6 ± 9.8% vs. 1.3 ± 3.6%, P = 0.04) were significant prognostic factors.

Conclusions

The management of patients with congenital rhabdoid tumors requires a major multidisciplinary effort. In many instances, cure is not possible and a palliative approach is warranted. Our data indicate a positive impact of standardized therapeutic approaches on survival, making a tailored approach toward affected patients and their families mandatory.



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Children with sickle cell disease migrating to the United States from sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited red blood cell disorder that occurs worldwide and results in significant morbidity and mortality. In addition to affected children who are born in the US, an increasing number of children with SCD are migrating to the US with their families or through international adoption. Children arriving as immigrants or refugees have unique medical and psychosocial challenges that require a multidisciplinary team approach which takes into account the family's primary language, culture, and health beliefs. This review focuses on the special challenges for children with SCD who emigrate from sub-Saharan Africa to the US.



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Perceptions of barriers and facilitators to early integration of pediatric palliative care: A national survey of pediatric oncology providers

Abstract

Objectives

The goal of this study was to assess pediatric oncology providers’ perceptions of palliative care in order to validate previously identified barriers and facilitators to early integration of a pediatric palliative care team (PCT) in the care of children with cancer.

Methods

A 36-question survey based on preliminary, single-institution data was electronically distributed to pediatric oncology physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and social workers nationally. The principal outcomes measured included perceived barriers and facilitators to early integration of pediatric palliative care. Data were analyzed using Rv3.1.2 statistical software.

Results

Most respondents agreed that the PCT does not negatively impact the role of the oncologist; however, there were concerns that optimal patient care may be limited by pediatric oncologists’ need to control all aspects of patient care (P < 0.001). Furthermore, oncologists, more than any provider group, identified that the emotional relationship they form with the patients and families they care for, influences what treatment options are offered and how these options are conveyed (P < 0.01). Education and evidence-based research remain important to all providers. Respondents reached consensus that early integration of a PCT would provide more potential benefits than risks and most would not limit access to palliative care based on prognosis.

Conclusions

Overall, providers endorse early integration of the PCT for children with cancer. There remains a continued emphasis on provider and patient education. Palliative care is generally accepted as providing a benefit to children with cancer, though barriers persist and vary among provider groups.



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Acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma in adolescents and young adults

Abstract

Compared to younger and older age groups, the incidence of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) has increased more in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population, the cause of which is unknown. As of the last decade, only half of the AYA patients with these diseases were surviving 10 years. Strong evidence exists that favors “pediatric” treatment regimens for AYAs compared to “adult” treatment regimens in terms of survival rates, hospitalization time, toxicities, late effects, and quality of life both during and after treatment. Targeted agents are clinically accessible for certain subsets of patients with Philadelphia-like ALL, the incidence of which peaks in AYAs. Treatment teams must appreciate the complex psychosocial underpinnings in these patients in order to maximize compliance with the prolonged and complex treatment plans during the AYA years.



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The Not-So-Simple Secret World of Song Sparrows

....or BOOF, the bird who did everything wrong

-- Read more on ScientificAmerican.com
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Predictive factors of outcome in poorly differentiated thyroid carcinomas.

Predictive factors of outcome in poorly differentiated thyroid carcinomas.

Eur J Cancer. 2018 Feb 02;92:40-47

Authors: de la Fouchardière C, Decaussin-Petrucci M, Berthiller J, Descotes F, Lopez J, Lifante JC, Peix JL, Giraudet AL, Delahaye A, Masson S, Bournaud-Salinas C, Borson Chazot F

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The prognosis of poorly differentiated thyroid carcinomas (PDTC) is heterogeneous though generally poor. The objectives of this study were to identify clinical and molecular factors of poor prognosis.
METHODS: One hundred four consecutive patients treated for a PDTC between 01/01/2000 and 31/12/2010 were included in this study. A pathological review was done for all cases (blinded to clinical data and outcome).
RESULTS: All patients underwent thyroidectomy. Adjuvant radioactive-iodine was administered in 95.2% of them. Tumours were pT3 or pT4 in 68.3% of cases and metastatic in 38.5% of patients. Extrathyroidal extension (ETE) was observed in 40% of patients. At the end of the initial treatment, only 37% of patients were considered in remission. Fifty-two patients (50%) became refractory to radioiodine during follow-up. The 5-year overall survival was 72.8% and the 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 45.3%. Remission after initial treatment was an independent factor of RFS (HR = 0.22; [0.10-0.49]). ETE was the only significant parameter influencing the overall survival in multivariate analysis. TERT promoter mutations at positions -124 (C228T) and -146 (C250T) were present in 38.1% of analysed patients and significantly associated with radioiodine resistance but not with overall survival. Half of TERT promoter mutant tumours harboured also RAS or BRAF mutations.
CONCLUSION: PDTC form a heterogeneous group of patients with usual late-stage diagnosis, low radioactive iodine avidity and frequent metastatic spread. TERT promoter mutations could help to identify patients with high risk of radio-iodine refractoriness.

PMID: 29413688 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Long-term biodistribution study of HPMA-ran-LMA copolymers in vivo by means of 131I-labeling.

Long-term biodistribution study of HPMA-ran-LMA copolymers in vivo by means of 131I-labeling.

Nucl Med Biol. 2017 Dec 16;58:59-66

Authors: Wagener K, Moderegger D, Allmeroth M, Reibel A, Kramer S, Biesalski B, Bausbacher N, Zentel R, Thews O, Rösch F

Abstract
BACKGROUND: For the evaluation of macromolecular drug delivery systems suitable pre-clinical monitoring of potential nanocarrier systems is needed. In this regard, both short-term as well as long-term in vivo tracking is crucial to understand structure-property relationships of polymer carrier systems and their resulting pharmacokinetic profile. Based on former studies revealing favorable in vivo characteristics for 18F-labeled random (ran) copolymers consisting of N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA) and lauryl methacrylate (LMA) - including prolonged plasma half-life as well as enhanced tumor accumulation - the presented work focuses on their long-term investigation in the living organism.
METHODS: In this respect, four different HPMA-based polymers (homopolymers as well as random copolymers with LMA as hydrophobic segment) were synthesized and subsequent radioactive labeling was accomplished via the longer-lived radioisotope 131I. In vivo results, concentrating on the pharmacokinetics of a high molecular weight HPMA-ran-LMA copolymer, were obtained by means of biodistribution and metabolism studies in the Walker 256 mammary carcinoma model over a time-span of up to three days. Besides, a direct comparison with the 18F-radiolabeled polymer was drawn. To consider physico-chemical differences between the differently labeled polymer (18F or 131I) on the critical micelle concentration (CMC) and the size of the polymeric micelles, those properties were determined using the 19F- or 127I-functionalized polymer. Special emphasis was laid on the time-dependent correlation between blood circulation properties and corresponding tumor accumulation, particularly regarding the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect.
RESULTS: Studies revealed, at first, differences in the short time (2h) body distribution, despite the very similar properties (molecular structure, CMC and size of the micellar aggregates) of the non-radioactive 19F- and 127I-functionalized polymers. Long-term investigations with the 131I-labeled polymer demonstrated that, despite a polymer clearance from the blood within 72h, there was still an increase in tumor uptake observed over time. Regarding the stability of the 131I-label, ex vivo biodistribution experiments, considering the uptake in the thyroid, indicated low metabolism rates.
CONCLUSION: The observed in vivo characteristics strongly underline the EPR effect. The findings illustrate the need to combine information of different labeling approaches and in vivo evaluation techniques to generate an overall pharmacokinetic picture of potential nanocarriers in the pre-clinical setting.
ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PATIENTS: The in vivo behavior of the investigated HPMA-ran-LMA copolymer demonstrates great potential in terms of an effective accumulation in the tumor.

PMID: 29413458 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Coexistence of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma in a patient affected by Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Coexistence of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma in a patient affected by Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2017 Dec;61(6):643-646

Authors: Trovato M, Giuffrida G, Seminara A, Fogliani S, Cavallari V, Ruggeri RM, Campennì A

Abstract
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer. On the contrary, primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL) is a rare disease, accounting for 2% to 5% of all thyroid malignancies. Despite several cases in which both PTC and PTL arise in the setting of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), the coexistence of both tumors in HT patients is very rare. Herein we report the case of a 66-year-old woman with long-standing nodular HT under replacement therapy, who presented with a fast, painless enlargement in the right anterior side of the neck. Thyroid ultrasonography demonstrated increased growth of a hypoechoic nodule in the right lobe measuring 32 × 20 mm. A total thyroidectomy was performed, and histology revealed a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) on a background of florid HT. Moreover, a unifocal papillary microcarcinoma, classical variant (7 mm, pT1aNxMx), was discovered. The patient was then treated with chemotherapy for the PTL, but she did not undergo radioactive iodine ablation treatment for the microPTC as per guidelines. Two years after surgery, the patient had no evidence of recurrence of either malignancy. This rare case highlights the importance of monitoring HT patients with nodular lesions, especially if they have long-standing disease. In addition, PTL should be considered for differential diagnosis in elder HT patients who present with sudden thyroid enlargement.

PMID: 29412392 [PubMed - in process]



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Thyroglobulin levels before radioactive iodine therapy and dynamic risk stratification after 1 year in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer.

Thyroglobulin levels before radioactive iodine therapy and dynamic risk stratification after 1 year in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer.

Arch Endocrinol Metab. 2017 Dec;61(6):590-599

Authors: Bandeira L, Padovani RDP, Ticly AL, Cury AN, Scalissi NM, Marone MMS, Ferraz C

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: We sought to assess the relationship between stimulated thyroglobulin (sTg) before radioactive iodine therapy (RIT), and the dynamic risk stratification 1 year after treatment, and to establish the utility of the sTg as a predictor of response to therapy in these patients. A retrospective chart review of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) who underwent RIT after surgery and were followed for at least 1 year, was carried out.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Patients were classified according to the dynamic risk stratification 1 year after initial treatment. The sTg values before RIT were compared among the groups. ROC curve analysis was performed.
RESULTS: Fifty-six patients were enrolled (mean age 44.7 ± 14.4 years, 80.7% had papillary carcinoma). Patients with excellent response had sTg = 2.1 ± 3.3 ng/mL, those with indeterminate response had sTg = 8.2 ± 9.2 ng/mL and those with incomplete response had sTg = 22.4 ± 28.3 ng/mL before RIT (p = 0.01). There was a difference in sTg between excellent and incomplete response groups (p = 0.009) while no difference was found between indeterminate and either excellent or incomplete groups. The ROC curve showed an area under the curve of 0.779 assuming a sTg value of 3.75 ng/mL.
CONCLUSION: Our study results suggest that the higher the sTg before RIT, the greater the likelihood of an incomplete response to initial treatment. A sTg cut-off of 3.75 ng/mL was found to be a good predictor of response to initial treatment in patients with DTC.

PMID: 29412384 [PubMed - in process]



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Solving treatment resistance in common breast cancers

Researchers dedicated to understanding treatment resistance in the most common form of breast cancer have identified a new genetic change in the oestrogen receptor (ER) that contributes to therapy resistance. ER-positive breast cancer, diagnosed in...

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Insight into chromatin therapies for breast cancer could aid personalised medicine

Most traditional chemotherapy for cancer has dangerous side effects, but new research is finding ways to develop 'targeted agents' that reduce the side effects and are better tailored to individual patient needs. While these innovations are exciting, a...

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Improved Detection of Foreign Bodies on Radiographs Using X-ray Dark-Field and Phase-Contrast Imaging

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate whether the detection of foreign bodies can be improved using dark-field and phase-contrast radiography compared with conventional (transmission) radiographs. Materials and Methods Experiments were performed using ex vivo pig paws, which were prepared with differently sized foreign bodies of metal, wood, and glass (n = 10 each). Paws without foreign bodies served as controls (n = 30). All images were acquired using an experimental grating-based large object radiography system. Five blinded readers (second- to fourth-year radiology residents) were asked to assess the presence or absence of any foreign body. Sensitivity and specificity for the detection of metal, wood, glass, and any foreign body were calculated and compared using McNemar test and generalized linear mixed models. Results Sensitivity for the detection of metal foreign bodies was 100% for all readers and image combinations. The sensitivity for the detection of wooden foreign bodies increased from 2% for transmission images to 78% when dark-field images were added (P

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Texture Analysis and Machine Learning for Detecting Myocardial Infarction in Noncontrast Low-Dose Computed Tomography: Unveiling the Invisible

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Objectives The aim of this study was to test whether texture analysis and machine learning enable the detection of myocardial infarction (MI) on non–contrast-enhanced low radiation dose cardiac computed tomography (CCT) images. Materials and Methods In this institutional review board–approved retrospective study, we included non–contrast-enhanced electrocardiography-gated low radiation dose CCT image data (effective dose, 0.5 mSv) acquired for the purpose of calcium scoring of 27 patients with acute MI (9 female patients; mean age, 60 ± 12 years), 30 patients with chronic MI (8 female patients; mean age, 68 ± 13 years), and in 30 subjects (9 female patients; mean age, 44 ± 6 years) without cardiac abnormality, hereafter termed controls. Texture analysis of the left ventricle was performed using free-hand regions of interest, and texture features were classified twice (Model I: controls versus acute MI versus chronic MI; Model II: controls versus acute and chronic MI). For both classifications, 6 commonly used machine learning classifiers were used: decision tree C4.5 (J48), k-nearest neighbors, locally weighted learning, RandomForest, sequential minimal optimization, and an artificial neural network employing deep learning. In addition, 2 blinded, independent readers visually assessed noncontrast CCT images for the presence or absence of MI. Results In Model I, best classification results were obtained using the k-nearest neighbors classifier (sensitivity, 69%; specificity, 85%; false-positive rate, 0.15). In Model II, the best classification results were found with the locally weighted learning classification (sensitivity, 86%; specificity, 81%; false-positive rate, 0.19) with an area under the curve from receiver operating characteristics analysis of 0.78. In comparison, both readers were not able to identify MI in any of the noncontrast, low radiation dose CCT images. Conclusions This study indicates the ability of texture analysis and machine learning in detecting MI on noncontrast low radiation dose CCT images being not visible for the radiologists' eye. Received for publication October 25, 2017; and accepted for publication, after revision, December 19, 2017. Correspondence to: Hatem Alkadhi, MD, MPH, EBCR, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, Raemistr. 100, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland. E-mail: hatem.alkadhi@usz.ch. Supplemental digital contents are available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal's Web site (http://ift.tt/2kq7jVD). Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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HLA coeliac haplotypes and Primary Autoimmune Hypophysitis in Caucasian patients

Summary

Purpose

Primary hypophysitis is a rare disease, with an autoimmune etiology. As few papers have investigated its genetic, our aim was to evaluate HLA status in a single-center series of patients.

Patients and method

A retrospective, longitudinal and cross-sectional study was conducted. Consecutive Caucasian patients, with clinical or histological diagnosis of primary autoimmune hypophysitis (PAH), the HLA genotype having been determined, anti-pituitary and anti-hypothalamus auto-antibodies were included. This cohort was compared with a control group.

Results

16 patients were enrolled. Fourteen patients were female (87.5%). According to HLA-DR status, we found the following 9 out of 16 patients (56.3%) haplotypes that were associated to celiac disease (CD). Among these, 5 carried the DR7-DQ2 heterozygote haplotype (55.5%) while the remaining ones only the following haplotypes: DR3-DQ2 homozygote (25%), DR4-DQ2 heterozygote (25%), DR4-DQ8 heterozygote (50%), DR4-DQ8 homozygote (25%), respectively. A total of 12 CD-associated haplotypes were identified. In PAH, we found a significantly higher frequency of patients carrying CD-associated HLA-haplotypes as compared to the control group (respectively 75% vs 48% p=0.03; OR: 3.25 95%IC:1.1-10.3), particularly, for DQ2 and DQ8 haplotypes. DQ2 haplotype was detected in 50% of PAH and 38.4% of the control group (p=0.3), while DQ8 haplotype in 25% of PAH and 7.2% of the control group (p=0.01 OR:4.3 95%IC:1.3-14.7).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that PAH and CD share some HLA haplotypes, reinforcing the knowledge of their association. HLA haplotypes, particularly DQ8, may play a role in PAH management and diagnosis, also suggesting the predisposition to other autoimmune diseases.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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New research shows that adverse events are substantially under-reported across the whole spectrum of UK oncology he… https://t.co/gWFJfZb5GZ

New research shows that adverse events are substantially under-reported across the whole spectrum of UK oncology he… https://t.co/gWFJfZb5GZ

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What are limits of precision oncology? @IFOMresearch #PrecisionMedicine https://t.co/Iv3FH5Paea

What are limits of precision oncology? @IFOMresearch #PrecisionMedicine https://t.co/Iv3FH5Paea

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health technology; +272 new citations

272 new pubmed citations were retrieved for your search. Click on the search hyperlink below to display the complete search results:

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These pubmed results were generated on 2018/02/08

PubMed comprises more than millions of citations for biomedical literature from MEDLINE, life science journals, and online books. Citations may include links to full-text content from PubMed Central and publisher web sites.



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Editorial: 40th Anniversary of UKEMS

2017 marks the 40th anniversary of the United Kingdom Environmental Mutagen Society (UKEMS) (http://www.ukems. org.uk/).

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Abstracts of the 40th Annual Meeting of the United Kingdom Environmental Mutagen Society, 25th–28th June 2017 at the Park Inn Hotel, Leuven, Belgium



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Abstracts of the 12th International Comet Assay Workshop held at the University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain, 29–31 August 2017 (https://icaw.vito.be/)



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Professor Adayapalam Tyagarajan Natarajan (1928–2017): a tribute



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Novel mutations in the lipase H gene lead to secretion defects of LIPH in Chinese patients with autosomal recessive woolly hair/hypotrichosis (ARWH/HT)

Abstract
Autosomal recessive woolly hair/hypotrichosis (ARWH/HT: OMIM #278150/604379) is a rare hereditary hair disease characterized by tightly curled hair at birth which can lead to sparse hair later in life. The mutations in both LIPH and LPAR6/P2RY5 are responsible for autosomal recessive woolly hair with or without hypotrichosis (ARWH/HT). To conduct clinical and genetic investigations in four patients from three unrelated Chinese Han families with ARWH/HT, we performed mutation screening of LIPH and LPAR6/P2RY5 gene and identified four mutations in LIPH: c.454G>A, c.614A>G, c.736T>A, c.742C>A. c.736T>A and c.742C>A mutations were reported in previous studies, and c.454G>A, c.614A>G were identified for the first time. We carried out functional studies of the two mutants with c.454G>A (p.Gly152Arg, G152R) or c.614A>G (p.His205Arg, H205R). Interestingly, both of them lead to secretion defects of LIPH, which are involved in the pathogenesis of ARWH/HT.

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Influence of dispersion medium on nanomaterial-induced pulmonary inflammation and DNA strand breaks: investigation of carbon black, carbon nanotubes and three titanium dioxide nanoparticles

Abstract
Intratracheal instillation serves as a model for inhalation exposure. However, for this, materials are dispersed in appropriate media that may influence toxicity. We tested whether different intratracheal instillation dispersion media influence the pulmonary toxicity of different nanomaterials. Rodents were intratracheally instilled with 162 µg/mouse/1620 µg/rat carbon black (CB), 67 µg/mouse titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2) or 54 µg/mouse carbon nanotubes (CNT). The dispersion media were as follows: water (CB, TiO2); 2% serum in water (CB, CNT, TiO2); 0.05% serum albumin in water (CB, CNT, TiO2); 10% bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in 0.9% NaCl (CB), 10% bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in water (CB) or 0.1% Tween-80 in water (CB). Inflammation was measured as pulmonary influx of neutrophils into bronchoalveolar fluid, and DNA damage as DNA strand breaks in BAL cells by comet assay. Inflammation was observed for all nanomaterials (except 38-nm TiO2) in all dispersion media. For CB, inflammation was dispersion medium dependent. Increased levels of DNA strand breaks for CB were observed only in water, 2% serum and 10% BAL fluid in 0.9% NaCl. No dispersion medium-dependent effects on genotoxicity were observed for TiO2, whereas CNT in 2% serum induced higher DNA strand break levels than in 0.05% serum albumin. In conclusion, the dispersion medium was a determinant of CB-induced inflammation and genotoxicity. Water seemed to be the best dispersion medium to mimic CB inhalation, exhibiting DNA strand breaks with only limited inflammation. The influence of dispersion media on nanomaterial toxicity should be considered in the planning of intratracheal investigations.

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Spectrum of Pig-a mutations in T lymphocytes of rats treated with procarbazine

Abstract
Procarbazine is a primary component of antineoplastic combination chemotherapy often used for the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is believed that cytostatic and cytotoxic properties of procarbazine are mediated via its interaction with genomic DNA. Procarbazine is a carcinogen in animal models; it is classified as Group 2A compound by IARC. Also it is known as an in vitro and in vivo mutagen and genotoxicant. However, the molecular mechanism by which procarbazine induces mutations is not thoroughly understood and the spectrum of procarbazine-induced in vivo mutations is described insufficiently. We employed flow cytometry-based erythrocyte and T lymphocyte assays in order to quantify the frequencies of cells deficient in glycosylphosphatidyl inositol-anchored surface markers CD59 and CD48 (presumed mutants in the endogenous X-linked Pig-a gene) in rats. The rats were treated once daily with 100 mg/kg procarbazine HCl for 3 days. In addition, we sorted mutant-phenotype spleen T cells and immediately analysed their Pig-a gene using next generation sequencing of dual-indexed multiplex libraries and error-correcting data filtering. More than 100-fold increase in the frequencies of CD59-deficient RBCs was observed at Day 29 after the last administration, and a 10-fold increase in the frequency of CD48-deficient T cells was observed at Days 45 to 50. Sequencing revealed that, in T cells from procarbazine-treated rats, mutations in the Pig-a gene occurred predominantly at A:T basepairs when A was located on the non-transcribed DNA strand. A→T transversion was the most common mutation. Our results suggest that, at least for the transcribed X-linked Pig-a gene, in vivo methyl guanine adducts are not the major contributors to mutations induced by procarbazine.

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Pyridylhydroxybutyl and pyridyloxobutyl DNA phosphate adduct formation in rats treated chronically with enantiomers of the tobacco-specific nitrosamine metabolite 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol

Abstract
The tobacco-specific lung carcinogen 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) is metabolically converted to 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL) in a reaction which is both stereoselective and reversible. NNAL is also a lung carcinogen, with both (R)-NNAL and (S)-NNAL inducing a high incidence of lung tumours in rats. Both NNAL and NNK undergo metabolic activation to intermediates which react with DNA to form pyridylhydroxybutyl and pyridyloxobutyl DNA adducts, respectively. DNA adduct formation by NNAL and NNK is an important step in their mechanisms of carcinogenesis. In this study, we quantified both pyridylhydroxybutyl and pyridyloxobutyl DNA phosphate adducts in the lung of rats treated with 5 ppm of (R)-NNAL or (S)-NNAL in drinking water for 10, 30, 50 and 70 weeks. In (R)-NNAL-treated rats, the pyridylhydroxybutyl and pyridyloxobutyl phosphate adducts were 4530–6920 fmol/mg DNA and 46–175 fmol/mg DNA, accounting for 45–51% and 0.3–1% of the total measured DNA phosphate and base adducts, respectively. In (S)-NNAL-treated rats, the two types of phosphate adducts were 3480–4180 fmol/mg DNA and 1180–4650 fmol/mg DNA, accounting for 30–36% and 11–38% of the total adducts, respectively. Distinct patterns of adduct formation were observed, with higher levels of NNAL-derived pyridylhydroxybutyl phosphate adducts and lower levels of NNK-derived pyridyloxobutyl phosphate adducts in the (R)-NNAL treatment group than the (S)-NNAL group. The persistence and increase over time of certain pyridylhydroxybutyl phosphate adducts over the course of the study suggest that these adducts could be useful biomarkers of chronic exposure to NNAL and NNK. The results of this study provide important new information regarding DNA damage by NNAL and NNK, and contribute to understanding mechanisms of tobacco-related carcinogenesis.

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Folate deficiency induces mitotic aberrations and chromosomal instability by compromising the spindle assembly checkpoint in cultured human colon cells

Abstract
Folates comprise the essential B9 vitamin that act as cofactors and cosubstrates in one-carbon metabolism for both biosynthesis and methylation of DNA and RNA. Folate deficiency (FD) has been shown to induce chromosomal instability (CIN), yet the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we used human NCM460 colon mucosal cells as a model to investigate the effect of FD on spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), a cell-cycle regulatory pathway preventing CIN during mitosis. Cells were maintained in medium containing 1.36 (FD) and 2260 nM (control, FC) folate for 21 days. CIN was measured by cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay; mitotic infidelity was determined by aberrant mitosis analysis; SAC activity was assessed by nocodazole-challenge assay, and the expression of core SAC genes was examined by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). We found that, relative to FC, FD significantly induced CIN in a time-dependent way (P < 0.01). Mitotic cells cultured in FD medium had significant higher frequencies of misalignment, misegregation and spindle multipolarity than those cultured in FC medium (P < 0.01). FD-induced SAC impairment and overriding, resulting premature mitotic exit and cell multinucleation (P < 0.05). Moreover, FD deregulated the expression of several key SAC genes (P < 0.01). Overall, these data are the first to demonstrate that FD substantially compromises SAC network which predisposes cells to mitotic aberrations and CIN. These results establish a new link between folate metabolism and SAC signalling, two pathways that are highly relevant for tumorigenesis.

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The evolution of the epidemiological landscape of head and neck cancer in Italy: Is there evidence for an increase in the incidence of potentially HPV-related carcinomas?

The evolution of the epidemiological landscape of head and neck cancer in Italy: Is there evidence for an increase in the incidence of potentially HPV-related carcinomas?

PLoS One. 2018;13(2):e0192621

Authors: Boscolo-Rizzo P, Zorzi M, Del Mistro A, Da Mosto MC, Tirelli G, Buzzoni C, Rugge M, Polesel J, Guzzinati S, AIRTUM Working Group

Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the incidence and survival patterns of HNSCCs arising from different anatomic sites, potentially related (the oropharynx) or unrelated (the oral cavity, the larynx/hypopharynx) to HPV, to provide clues on possible growing impact of HPV in the epidemiology of HNSCC in Italy. Epidemiological data were retrieved from ten long-term Cancer Registries covering a population of 7.8 million inhabitants. Trends were described by means of the estimated annual percent change (APC) stratified by age and gender, and compared between HPV-related and HPV-unrelated anatomical sites. The data regarding 28,295 HNSCCs diagnosed in Italy between 1988 and 2012 were analyzed. In males, the incidence rate (IR) of cancers arising from sites unrelated to HPV infection significantly decreased in all age groups (APC:-3.31 for larynx/hypopharynx; APC:-1.77 for oral cavity), whereas stable IR were observed for cancers arising from sites related to HPV infection. In females, IR for cancers from HPV-related sites increased significantly over the observed period; the largest increment was noted in those over 60 (APC:2.92%) who also showed a significantly lower number of HNSCCs from the larynx/hypopharynx (APC:- 0.84) and a significantly higher number of oral cavity tumors (APC = 2.15). The five-year relative survival remained largely unchanged in the patients with laryngeal/hypopharyngeal SCC and, conversely, significantly improved in the patients with SCC at HPV-related sites. The trends observed suggest a potential increasing impact of HPV infection on the epidemiology of HNSCC in Italy, but to a lesser extent and with a different pattern from that observed in other Western countries.

PMID: 29415020 [PubMed - in process]



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Atypical 18F-FDG PET-CT uptake in the head and neck; a case-based pictorial review.

Atypical 18F-FDG PET-CT uptake in the head and neck; a case-based pictorial review.

Clin Imaging. 2018 Jan 10;49:136-143

Authors: Childs L, Thompson A, Jones H, Hameeduddin A, Ghufoor K, Adams A

Abstract
Positron emission tomography - computed tomography (PET-CT) with fluorine-18-fluorodeoxy-d-glucose (18F-FDG) has an increasing role in head and neck imaging. Interpretation of 18F-FDG-tracer uptake in the head and neck requires an understanding of normal physiological patterns of tracer uptake, as well as knowledge of potential pitfalls and atypical patterns. This article presents a select series of unusual patterns of 18F-FDG uptake on PET-CT imaging of the head and neck.

PMID: 29414508 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Antrochoanal polyp concomitant with turbinoethmoidal osteoma: A case report.

Antrochoanal polyp concomitant with turbinoethmoidal osteoma: A case report.

Int J Surg Case Rep. 2018 Jan 28;43:1-3

Authors: Lee YW, Kim YM

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) have several unique features that distinguish them from other nasal polyps. Despite many investigations, the pathogenesis of ACP has not yet been elucidated. Sinonasal osteoma is the most common type of tumor of the sinonasal tract and can be caused by trauma, infection and developmental anomaly.
PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report the case of a 35-year-old man with left nasal obstruction for more than 20 years. Examination revealed ACP concomitant with an osteoma that arose from the middle turbinate and ethmoid sinus. The osteoma had an air cell in its anterosuperior area and was in a position of being pulled downward. The intranasal part of the ACP covered the posterior area of the osteoma.
DISCUSSION: Considering the radiological and surgical findings, the intranasal part of the ACP seems to have affected the turbinoethmoidal osteoma during its growth.
CONCLUSION: The authors describe a very rare condition in which an ACP was connected with a turbinoethmoidal osteoma.

PMID: 29414499 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma: A report of five cases with primary cutaneous involvement and review of the literature.

Primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma: A report of five cases with primary cutaneous involvement and review of the literature.

Ann Diagn Pathol. 2018 Feb;32:56-62

Authors: Magro CM, Kazi N, Sisinger AE

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Histiocytic sarcoma is an extremely rare hematologic malignancy of histiocytic origin. Five cases of primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma are presented.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cases of primary cutaneous histiocytic sarcoma were identified using a natural language search from the dermatopathology data base of Cornell University.
RESULTS: There was a male predominance (4 males and 1 female) ranging in age from 33years to 92years (mean age of 73years); all presented with a solitary nodule which involved the head and neck area in four and thigh in one. The 73-year-old male had chronic myeloproliferative disorder. Biopsies showed a nonepitheliotropic dermal-based atypical large cell histiocytoid appearing infiltrate dermis showing positivity for common leukocyte antigen, CD4, CD14, CD68, CD163, CD2, CD11c, and lysozyme. Markers of terminal histiocytic differentiation such as S100, langerin, MXA, and CD83 were not seen. In two of the cases there was evidence of extracutaneous dissemination. The treatment in three of the cases was wide excision; there was no evidence of recurrent or metastatic disease. One case was given palliative radiation; the patient died. The other patient with underlying myelodysplastic syndrome died within a few weeks of initial cutaneous presentation.
CONCLUSION: HS must be differentiated from other malignant histiocytoid lesions. Staining for common leukocyte antigen and CD163 are the most reliable markers allowing this distinction. Patients who present with primary involvement of the skin may have a favorable outcome but only if treated relatively early in the course of the disease with complete excision.

PMID: 29414400 [PubMed - in process]



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Hypo-fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy of five fractions with linear accelerator for vestibular schwannomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Hypo-fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy of five fractions with linear accelerator for vestibular schwannomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2018 Jan 12;166:116-123

Authors: Nguyen T, Duong C, Sheppard JP, Lee SJ, Kishan AU, Lee P, Tenn S, Chin R, Kaprealian TB, Yang I

Abstract
Vestibular schwannomas (VS) are benign tumors stemming from the eighth cranial nerve. Treatment options for VS include conservative management, microsurgery, stereotactic radiosurgery, and fractionated radiotherapy. Though microsurgery has been the standard of care for larger lesions, hypo-fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (hypo-FSRT) is an emerging modality. However, its clinical efficacy and safety have yet to be established. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of manuscripts indexed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases reporting outcomes of VS cases treated with hypo-FSRT. Five studies representing a total of 228 patients were identified. Across studies, the pooled rates of tumor control, hearing, facial nerve, and trigeminal nerve preservation were 95%, 37%, 97%, and 98%. No instances of malignant induction were observed at median follow-up of 34.8 months. Complications included trigeminal neuropathy (n = 3), maxillary paresthesia (n = 1), neuralgia (n = 1), vestibular dysfunction (n = 1), radionecrosis (n = 1), and hydrocephalus (n = 1). Hypo-FSRT may be another useful approach to manage VS, but studies with extended follow-up times are required to establish long-term safety.

PMID: 29414150 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Erratum to the article "Write your first article, but …" Published in the issue (2017;134(6):371-72), in European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck diseases. http://ift.tt/2GHZ5yG.

Erratum to the article "Write your first article, but …" Published in the issue (2017;134(6):371-72), in European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck diseases. http://ift.tt/2GHZ5yG.

Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis. 2018 Feb;135(1):87

Authors:

PMID: 29413877 [PubMed - in process]



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Comparison of Two Mathematical Models of Cellularity Calculation.

Comparison of Two Mathematical Models of Cellularity Calculation.

Transl Oncol. 2018 Feb 02;11(2):307-310

Authors: Meyer HJ, Garnov N, Surov A

Abstract
OBJECT: Nowadays, there is increasing evidence that functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities, namely, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and dynamic-contrast enhanced MRI (DCE MRI), can characterize tumor architecture like cellularity and vascularity. Previously, two formulas based on a logistic tumor growth model were proposed to predict tumor cellularity with DWI and DCE. The purpose of this study was to proof these formulas.
METHODS: 16 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas were included into the study. There were 2 women and 14 men with a mean age of 57.0 ± 7.5 years. In every case, tumor cellularity was calculated using the proposed formulas by Atuegwu et al. In every case, also tumor cell count was estimated on histopathological specimens as an average cell count per 2 to 5 high-power fields.
RESULTS: There was no significant correlation between the calculated cellularity and histopathologically estimated cell count by using the formula based on apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values. A moderate positive correlation (r=0.515, P=.041) could be identified by using the formula including ADC and Ve values.
CONCLUSIONS: The formula including ADC and Ve values is more sensitive to predict tumor cellularity than the formula including ADC values only.

PMID: 29413764 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Human epidermal receptor family inhibitors in patients with ERBB3 mutated cancers: Entering the back door.

Human epidermal receptor family inhibitors in patients with ERBB3 mutated cancers: Entering the back door.

Eur J Cancer. 2018 Jan 27;92:1-10

Authors: Verlingue L, Hollebecque A, Lacroix L, Postel-Vinay S, Varga A, El Dakdouki Y, Baldini C, Balheda R, Gazzah A, Michot JM, Marabelle A, Mir O, Arnedos M, Rouleau E, Solary E, De Baere T, Angevin E, Armand JP, Michiels S, André F, Deutsch E, Scoazec JY, Soria JC, Massard C

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Therapeutic inhibition of the human epidermal receptor 3 (ERBB3, HER3) has been challenged by the low frequency of ERBB3 somatic alterations across cancer types. We have evaluated the clinical utility to use available inhibitors of the HER family in the context of ERBB3 mutations.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this study, we have selected patients with somatic ERBB3 alterations detected in their tumours from the molecular screening programs running at our institution. Techniques used for molecular screening were targeted next generation sequencing, comparative genomic hybridisation and/or whole exome sequencing on fresh frozen tumour biopsies.
RESULTS: On the 844 patients with a molecular portrait of their tumours, 31 (3.7%) had a somatic mutation of ERBB3. Overall, 9 patients received available inhibitors of HER family, including trastuzumab and/or lapatinib or afatinib. Sixteen patients received other molecularly targeted agents, including the Mammalian Target Of Rapamycin (mTOR), the Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate 3-Kinase (PI3K) or NOTCH inhibitors or chemotherapy, and 4 patients failed being treated. Thirteen different histological subtypes were affected by ERBB3 mutations; top ones were colorectal carcinomas (6 patients), non-small cell lung cancers (4 patients, including a squamous cell carcinoma), head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (3 patients) and breast carcinomas (3 patients). The presence of a mutation in the tyrosine kinase domain of the ERBB3/HER3 protein detected in four patients' tumours was significantly related to good progression-free survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.18, p value = 0.022) and overall survival (HR = 0.19, p value = 0.03) in univariate analysis. Treatment of these four patients included at least a tyrosine kinase inhibitor lapatinib or afatinib.
CONCLUSION: Our exploratory analysis suggests that mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the HER3 protein are related to a favourable outcome under HER family inhibitors.

PMID: 29413684 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Basophils from allergic rhinitis patients show allergen-specific upregulation of thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor.

Basophils from allergic rhinitis patients show allergen-specific upregulation of thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor.

Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018 Feb;120(2):155-163

Authors: Arai T, Sakurai D, Iinuma T, Nakagawa T, Yonekura S, Okamoto Y

Abstract
BACKGROUND: An allergic rhinitis (AR) diagnosis is based on typical nasal symptoms and allergen sensitization testing. However, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish AR from non-AR, and it is especially difficult to identify the causal allergen for immunotherapy of patients with AR.
OBJECTIVE: To identify differences among patients with AR, subjects with asymptomatic sensitization (AS), and subjects without sensitization (NS) that could facilitate the diagnosis of AR.
METHODS: We used RNA sequencing to examine differential gene expression in unstimulated and allergen-stimulated peripheral basophils from participants with NS, AS, and AR. We selected genes that were upregulated after allergen stimulation and showed differences in expression in patients with AR compared with subjects with AS and NS. Basophil surface expression of 1 gene product was examined by flow cytometry. The usefulness of gene expression in the diagnosis of AR was examined with receiver operating characteristic curves.
RESULTS: Expression of cytokine receptor-like factor 2 and its product, thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor (TSLPR), was significantly increased in basophils of patients with AR after allergen stimulation. A significantly larger percentage of TSLPR-positive cells was observed after allergen-specific stimulation of basophils from patients with AR compared with subjects with AS. Basophil TSLPR expression was as good as or better than CD203c expression in discriminating between patients with AR and subjects with AS, as judged by receiver operating characteristic curves.
CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that TSLPR expression on basophils was specifically upregulated by allergen stimulation and might be useful for the identification of the causative allergen in patients with AR.

PMID: 29413340 [PubMed - in process]



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Multicenter Study of Carbon-Ion Radiation Therapy for Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: Subanalysis of the Japan Carbon-Ion Radiation Oncology Study Group (J-CROS) Study (1402 HN).

Multicenter Study of Carbon-Ion Radiation Therapy for Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: Subanalysis of the Japan Carbon-Ion Radiation Oncology Study Group (J-CROS) Study (1402 HN).

Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2018 Mar 01;100(3):639-646

Authors: Sulaiman NS, Demizu Y, Koto M, Saitoh JI, Suefuji H, Tsuji H, Ohno T, Shioyama Y, Okimoto T, Daimon T, Nemoto K, Nakano T, Kamada T, Japan Carbon-Ion Radiation Oncology Study Group

Abstract
PURPOSE: To retrospectively analyze the treatment outcomes of carbon-ion radiation therapy for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the head and neck at 4 active carbon-ion facilities in Japan.
METHODS AND MATERIALS: A total of 289 patients who underwent carbon-ion radiation therapy for histology-proven ACC of the head and neck at 4 institutions in Japan between November 2003 and December 2014 were included in this study.
RESULTS: Median patient age was 58 years (range, 12-83 years). Tumor sites included the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (42%), nasopharynx and oropharynx (19%), oral cavity (12%), major salivary glands (12%), and others (15%). Tumor classifications were T4 in 200 (69%) patients, T3 in 45 (16%), T2 in 22 (8%), T1 in 15 (5%), and unclassified in 7 (2%). The median total dose was 64 Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]; range, 55.2-70.4 Gy [RBE]) in 16 fractions (range, 12-32 fractions). Median follow-up time was 30 months (range, 2-118 months). The 2-year overall survival, progression-free survival, and local control rates were 94%, 68%, and 88%, respectively. Estimated 5-year overall survival, progression-free survival, and local control rates were 74%, 44%, and 68%, respectively. In all, 43 patients (15%) experienced grade ≥3 late toxicity, of which osteonecrosis of the jaw bone was the most common. Two patients treated for nasopharyngeal ACC died from a bleeding ulcer at the tumor site (grade 5 toxicity).
CONCLUSIONS: Carbon-ion radiation therapy seems to be a promising treatment for ACC of the head and neck.

PMID: 29413278 [PubMed - in process]



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Reirradiation for Head and Neck Cancer: The Who and the How.

Reirradiation for Head and Neck Cancer: The Who and the How.

Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2018 Mar 01;100(3):618-620

Authors: Margalit DN, Wong SJ

PMID: 29413275 [PubMed - in process]



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Volume, Dose, and Fractionation Considerations for IMRT-based Reirradiation in Head and Neck Cancer: A Multi-institution Analysis.

Volume, Dose, and Fractionation Considerations for IMRT-based Reirradiation in Head and Neck Cancer: A Multi-institution Analysis.

Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2018 Mar 01;100(3):606-617

Authors: Caudell JJ, Ward MC, Riaz N, Zakem SJ, Awan MJ, Dunlap NE, Isrow D, Hassanzadeh C, Vargo JA, Heron DE, Marcrom S, Boggs DH, Reddy CA, Dault J, Bonner JA, Higgins KA, Beitler JJ, Koyfman SA, Machtay M, Yao M, Trotti AM, Siddiqui F, Lee NY, Multi-Institution Reirradiation (MIRI) Collaborative

Abstract
PURPOSE: Limited data exist to guide the treatment technique for reirradiation of recurrent or second primary squamous carcinoma of the head and neck. We performed a multi-institution retrospective cohort study to investigate the effect of the elective treatment volume, dose, and fractionation on outcomes and toxicity.
METHODS AND MATERIALS: Patients with recurrent or second primary squamous carcinoma originating in a previously irradiated field (≥40 Gy) who had undergone reirradiation with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT); (≥40 Gy re-IMRT) were included. The effect of elective nodal treatment, dose, and fractionation on overall survival (OS), locoregional control, and acute and late toxicity were assessed. The Kaplan-Meier and Gray's competing risks methods were used for actuarial endpoints.
RESULTS: From 8 institutions, 505 patients were included in the present updated analysis. The elective neck was not treated in 56.4% of patients. The median dose of re-IMRT was 60 Gy (range 39.6-79.2). Hyperfractionation was used in 20.2%. Systemic therapy was integrated for 77.4% of patients. Elective nodal radiation therapy did not appear to decrease the risk of locoregional failure (LRF) or improve the OS rate. Doses of ≥66 Gy were associated with improvements in both LRF and OS in the definitive re-IMRT setting. However, dose did not obviously affect LRF or OS in the postoperative re-IMRT setting. Hyperfractionation was not associated with improved LRF or OS. The rate of acute grade ≥3 toxicity was 22.1% overall. On multivariable logistic regression, elective neck irradiation was associated with increased acute toxicity in the postoperative setting. The rate of overall late grade ≥3 toxicity was 16.7%, with patients treated postoperatively with hyperfractionation experiencing the highest rates.
CONCLUSIONS: Doses of ≥66 Gy might be associated with improved outcomes in high-performance patients undergoing definitive re-IMRT. Postoperatively, doses of 50 to 66 Gy appear adequate after removal of gross disease. Hyperfractionation and elective neck irradiation were not associated with an obvious benefit and might increase toxicity.

PMID: 29413274 [PubMed - in process]



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The Long Noncoding RNA TP73-AS1 Interacted with miR-124 to Modulate Glioma Growth by Targeting Inhibitor of Apoptosis-Stimulating Protein of p53.

The Long Noncoding RNA TP73-AS1 Interacted with miR-124 to Modulate Glioma Growth by Targeting Inhibitor of Apoptosis-Stimulating Protein of p53.

DNA Cell Biol. 2018 Feb;37(2):117-125

Authors: Xiao S, Wang R, Wu X, Liu W, Ma S

Abstract
P73 antisense RNA 1T (non-protein coding), known as TP73-AS1 or PDAM, is a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), which may regulate apoptosis by regulation of p53-dependent antiapoptotic genes. An abnormal change of TP73-AS1 expression was noticed in cancers. The effects of TP73-AS1 in brain glioma growth and the underlying mechanism remain unclear so far. In this study, the effect of TP73-AS1 in human brain glioma cell lines and clinical tumor samples was detected so as to reveal its role and function. In this study, TP73-AS1 was specifically upregulated in brain glioma cell lines and promoted glioma cell growth through targeting miR-124. TP73-AS1 knocking down suppressed human brain glioma cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in vitro. The inhibitory effect of TP73-AS1 knocking down on glioma cell proliferation and invasion could partly be restored by miR-124 inhibition. In addition, miR-124-dependent inhibitor of apoptosis-stimulating protein of p53 (iASPP) regulation was required in TP73-AS1-induced brain glioma cell growth. Data from this study revealed that TP73-AS1 inhibited the brain glioma growth and metastasis as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) through miR-124-dependent iASPP regulation. In conclusion, we regarded TP73-AS1 as an oncogenic lncRNA promoting brain glioma proliferation and metastasis and a potential target for human brain glioma treatment.

PMID: 29412778 [PubMed - in process]



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Otolaryngologist adherence to the AAO-HNSF Allergic Rhinitis Clinical Practice Guideline.

Otolaryngologist adherence to the AAO-HNSF Allergic Rhinitis Clinical Practice Guideline.

Int Forum Allergy Rhinol. 2018 Feb 07;:

Authors: Honeybrook A, Ellison M, Puscas L, Raynor E

Abstract
BACKGROUND: In February 2015, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNSF) published the Allergic Rhinitis Clinical Practice Guideline (AR-CPG). The objective of this study was to assess otolaryngologists' perception of the accuracy and adherence to the AR-CPG.
METHODS: A survey was distributed to fellows of the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy and members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. A total of 601 otolaryngologists responded. The survey evaluated otolaryngologists' demographic data, perception of the accuracy of the guideline, and adherence to the guideline action statements.
RESULTS: The majority of respondents were actively practicing (544 [90.5%]), for a duration of 11-30 years (308 [51.2%]), in a private practice setting (387 [64.4%]). The cohort was largely fellowship trained (348 [57.9%]) and had reviewed the guideline (428 [71.2%]). Most respondents perceived the guideline as being correct "a great deal" (295 [69.7%]) and deviated from the guideline "only a little" (302 [71.6%]). High rates of adherence to the strong guideline recommendations were observed. Respondents "always/most of the time" recommended intranasal steroids (581 [97.6%]), and oral antihistamines (439 [74%]) as primary therapy. Otolaryngologists in practice for longer were more likely to deviate from the guideline recommendations by obtaining sinonasal imaging (p = 0.007) and recommending oral leukotriene receptor antagonists as primary therapy (p = 0.0001).
CONCLUSION: Overall perception of the correctness of and adherence to the AR-CPG was high in this cohort. Targeted education resources should be provided to otolaryngologists in practice for longer in efforts to reduce harmful or unnecessary variations in care.

PMID: 29412510 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Evaluation of treatment outcomes in patients with supraglottic laryngeal cancer in Ontario, Canada: A population-based study.

Evaluation of treatment outcomes in patients with supraglottic laryngeal cancer in Ontario, Canada: A population-based study.

Head Neck. 2018 Feb 07;:

Authors: Hall SF, Griffiths RJ

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Supraglottic laryngeal carcinoma has an entirely different etiology, clinical presentation, and prognosis compared to glottis cancer but the only evidence for the use of concurrent chemotherapy with radiotherapy (CRT) is the 5.4% 5-year improvement in overall survival (OS) for the combined laryngeal site.
METHOD: We conducted a retrospective population-based study using administrative data to compare OS, disease-specific survival (DSS), laryngectomy-free survival, and laryngoesophageal dysfunction-free survival over time and by treatment for all patients with supraglottic laryngeal carcinoma diagnosed between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2014, in Ontario, Canada.
RESULTS: There was no improvement over time in OS (hazard ratio [HR] 1.006; P = .90), DSS (HR 1.031; P = .65), or laryngoesophageal dysfunction-free survival (P = .39). The patients selected for CRT had similar OS (HR 1.04; P = .66), laryngectomy-free survival (HR 0.95; P = .23), and laryngoesophageal dysfunction-free survival (P = .79) compared with patients undergoing radiotherapy.
CONCLUSION: The addition of CRT by head and neck oncologists in Ontario, Canada, did not improve outcomes for the "real world" patients with supraglottic laryngeal carcinoma.

PMID: 29412495 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Construction and validation of clinical contents for development of learning objects.

Construction and validation of clinical contents for development of learning objects.

Rev Bras Enferm. 2018 Mar-Apr;71(2):306-313

Authors: Hortense FTP, Bergerot CD, Domenico EBL

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: to describe the process of construction and validation of clinical contents for health learning objects, aimed at patients in the treatment of head and neck cancer.
METHOD: descriptive, methodological study. The development of the script and the storyboard were based on scientific evidence and submitted to the appreciation of specialists for validation of content. The agreement index was checked quantitatively and the suggestions were qualitatively evaluated.
RESULTS: The items described in the roadmap were approved by 99% of expert experts. The suggestions for adjustments were inserted in their entirety in the final version. The free-marginal kappa statistical test, for multiple evaluators, presented value equal to 0.68%, granting a substantial agreement.
CONCLUSION: The steps taken in the construction and validation of the content for the production of educational material for patients with head and neck cancer were adequate, relevant and suitable for use in other subjects.

PMID: 29412287 [PubMed - in process]



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Leadership in crisis situations: merging the interdisciplinary silos.

Leadership in crisis situations: merging the interdisciplinary silos.

Leadersh Health Serv (Bradf Engl). 2018 Feb 05;31(1):110-128

Authors: Paquin H, Bank I, Young M, Nguyen LHP, Fisher R, Nugus P

Abstract
Purpose Complex clinical situations, involving multiple medical specialists, create potential for tension or lack of clarity over leadership roles and may result in miscommunication, errors and poor patient outcomes. Even though copresence has been shown to overcome some differences among team members, the coordination literature provides little guidance on the relationship between coordination and leadership in highly specialized health settings. The purpose of this paper is to determine how different specialties involved in critical medical situations perceive the role of a leader and its contribution to effective crisis management, to better define leadership and improve interdisciplinary leadership and education. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative study was conducted featuring purposively sampled, semi-structured interviews with 27 physicians, from three different specialties involved in crisis resource management in pediatric centers across Canada: Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Otolaryngology and Anesthesia. A total of three researchers independently organized participant responses into categories. The categories were further refined into conceptual themes through iterative negotiation among the researchers. Findings Relatively "structured" (predictable) cases were amenable to concrete distributed leadership - the performance by micro-teams of specialized tasks with relative independence from each other. In contrast, relatively "unstructured" (unpredictable) cases required higher-level coordinative leadership - the overall management of the context and allocations of priorities by a designated individual. Originality/value Crisis medicine relies on designated leadership over highly differentiated personnel and unpredictable events. This challenges the notion of organic coordination and upholds the validity of a concept of leadership for crisis medicine that is not reducible to simple coordination. The intersection of predictability of cases with types of leadership can be incorporated into medical simulation training to develop non-technical skills crisis management and adaptive leaderships skills.

PMID: 29412098 [PubMed - in process]



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Subtraction CT angiography in head and neck with low radiation and contrast dose dual-energy Spectral CT using rapid kV-switching technique.

Subtraction CT angiography in head and neck with low radiation and contrast dose dual-energy Spectral CT using rapid kV-switching technique.

Br J Radiol. 2018 Feb 07;:20170631

Authors: Ma G, Yu Y, Duan H, Dou Y, Jia Y, Zhang X, Yang C, Chen X, Han D, Guo C, He T

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the application of low radiation and contrast dose Spectral CT angiology (CTA) using rapid kV-switching technique in the head and neck with subtraction method for bone removal.
METHODS: This prospective study was approved by the local ethics committee. 64 cases for head and neck CTA were randomly divided into groups A (n=32) and B (n=32). Group A underwent unenhanced CT with 100kVp, 200mA and contrast-enhanced CT with Spectral CT mode with BMI-dependent low dose protocols. Group B used conventional helical scanning with 120kVp, auto mA for noise index of 12HU for both the unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT. Subtraction images were formed by subtracting the unenhanced images from enhanced images (with the 65keV enhanced Spectral CT image in group A). CT numbers and their standard deviations (SD) in aortic arch, carotid arteries, middle cerebral artery and air were measured in the subtraction images. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for the common and internal carotid arteries and middle cerebral artery were calculated. Image quality in terms of bone removal effect was evaluated by two experienced radiologists independently and blindly using a 4-point system. Radiation dose and total iodine load were recorded. Measurements were statistically compared between the two groups.
RESULTS: The two groups had same demographic results. There was no difference in the CT number, SNR and CNR values for carotid arteries and middle cerebral artery in the subtraction images between the two groups (p>0.05). However, the bone removal effect score (median (min-max)) in group A (4 (3-4)) was rated better than in group B (3 (2-4)) (p<0.001), with excellent agreement between the two observers (Kappa>0.80). The radiation dose in group A (average of 2.64mSv) was 57% lower than the 6.18 mSv in group B (p<0.001). The total iodine intake in group A was 13.5g, 36% lower than the 21g in group B.
CONCLUSION: Spectral CT imaging with rapid kV-switching in the Subtraction angiography in head and neck provides better bone removal with significantly reduced radiation and contrast dose compared with conventional subtraction method. Advances in knowledge: This novel method provides better bone removal with significant radiation and contrast dose reduction compared with the conventional subtraction CT, and maybe used clinically to protect the thyroid gland and ocular lenses from unnecessary high radiation.

PMID: 29412008 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Salivary gland ultrasonography findings are associated with clinical, histological, and serologic features of Sjögren's syndrome.

Salivary gland ultrasonography findings are associated with clinical, histological, and serologic features of Sjögren's syndrome.

Scand J Rheumatol. 2018 Feb 07;:1-8

Authors: Kim JW, Lee H, Park SH, Kim SK, Choe JY, Kim JK

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Salivary gland ultrasonography (SGUS) has been applied in the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome (SS). The aim of this study is to investigate the association of SGUS findings with clinical, histological, and serologic features of SS.
METHODS: A total of 104 patients with suspected SS underwent SGUS for evaluation of salivary gland involvement. Patients with primary SS were determined according to the classification criteria for SS. The parenchymal inhomogeneity of bilateral parotid and submandibular glands was graded from 0 (homogeneity) to 4 (gross inhomogeneity). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to compare the diagnostic performance of different SGUS scoring methods. Clinical and serologic features were compared between groups classified by SGUS score. The association between SGUS and these features of SS was explored by multivariable linear regression analysis.
RESULTS: Study participants were predominantly women (96.2%) and had a mean age of 54.1 years. Eighty-seven patients and 88 patients with primary SS were identified based on AECG criteria and ACR/EULAR classification criteria for SS, respectively. Among the different scoring methods, the sum of the grades of four salivary glands (range 0-16) had the best diagnostic performance, with sensitivity of 77.3% and specificity of 87.5% (cutoff value, 7) for distinguishing primary SS from sicca non-SS. SGUS score was associated with focus score in labial salivary gland biopsy (β = 0.240, p = 0.033) and anti-Ro/SSA serology (β = 0.283, p = 0.016) and inversely associated with unstimulated whole salivary flow (β = -0.298, p = 0.011).
CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography of major salivary glands is associated with histopathology of minor salivary glands, serology of SS, and salivary gland function.

PMID: 29411664 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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Comparison of 2 and 4 Intratympanic Steroid Injections in the Treatment of Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss.

Comparison of 2 and 4 Intratympanic Steroid Injections in the Treatment of Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss.

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2018 Feb 01;:3489418755406

Authors: Suzuki H, Wakasugi T, Kitamura T, Koizumi H, Do BH, Ohbuchi T

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: We studied the effect of intratympanic steroid administration with different total injection times on hearing outcomes in patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL).
METHODS: The subjects were 191 consecutive patients (192 ears) with ISSNHL (hearing level ≥40 dB, interval between onset and treatment ≤30 days). They received systemic prednisolone (100 mg followed by tapered doses) combined with intratympanic injection of dexamethasone (4 mg/ml). Intratympanic injection was performed 4 times (days 1, 2, 4, and 7) in 92 patients (92 ears) or 2 times (days 1 and 2) in 99 patients (100 ears). The hearing outcomes were evaluated at 1 week from the start of treatment and 1 to 2 months after the completion of treatment.
RESULTS: There was no significant difference in hearing outcomes between the 4- and 2-injection groups at either time point. Multiple regression analysis also showed that the hearing level after treatment did not depend on the total number of intratympanic steroid injections.
CONCLUSION: These results indicate that a protocol using only 2 intratympanic steroid injections exerts a sufficient effect on the hearing outcomes of ISSNHL. This simplified treatment protocol would be greatly beneficial to relieve the physical and mental stress of patients.

PMID: 29411622 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]



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