3D printed complex tissue construct using stem cell-laden decellularized extracellular matrix bioinks for cardiac repair.

3D printed complex tissue construct using stem cell-laden decellularized extracellular matrix bioinks for cardiac repair.

Biomaterials. 2016 Oct 14;112:264-274

Authors: Jang J, Park HJ, Kim SW, Kim H, Park JY, Na SJ, Kim HJ, Park MN, Choi SH, Park SH, Kim SW, Kwon SM, Kim PJ, Cho DW

Abstract
Stem cell therapy is a promising therapeutic method for the treatment of ischemic heart diseases; however, some challenges prohibit the efficacy after cell delivery due to hostile microenvironment of the injured myocardium. 3D printed pre-vascularized stem cell patch can enhance the therapeutic efficacy for cardiac repair through promotion of rapid vascularization after patch transplantation. In this study, stem cell-laden decellularized extracellular matrix bioinks are used in 3D printing of pre-vascularized and functional multi-material structures. The printed structure composed of spatial patterning of dual stem cells improves cell-to-cell interactions and differentiation capability and promotes functionality for tissue regeneration. The developed stem cell patch promoted strong vascularization and tissue matrix formation in vivo. The patterned patch exhibited enhanced cardiac functions, reduced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, increased migration from patch to the infarct area, neo-muscle and capillary formation along with improvements in cardiac functions. Therefore, pre-vascularized stem cell patch provides cardiac niche-like microenvironment, resulting in beneficial effects on cardiac repair.

PMID: 27770630 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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The potential role of amlodipine on experimentally induced bacterial rhinosinusitis.

The potential role of amlodipine on experimentally induced bacterial rhinosinusitis.

Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Sep 28;:

Authors: Tatar A, Korkmaz M, Yayla M, Polat E, Uslu H, Halici Z, Parlak SN

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: For the treatment of rhinosinusitis antibiotics are used frequently. Concerns have been raised regarding the adverse effects of antibiotics and growing resistance. The lack of discovery of new antibiotic compounds has increased the necessity for exploration of non-antibiotic compounds that have antibacterial activity. Amlodipine is a non-antibiotic compound with anti-inflammatory activity.
OBJECTIVE: In this study we aimed to investigate the potential role of amlodipine in treatment of rhinosinusitis by evaluating its effects on tissue oxidative status, mucosal histology and inflammation.
METHODS: Fifteen adult albino guinea pigs were inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus and treated with saline, cefazolin sodium, or amlodipine for 7 days. The control group was five healthy guinea pigs. Animals were sacrificed after the treatment. Histopathological changes were identified using Hematoxylin-Eosin staining. Inflammation was assessed by Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte (PMNL) infiltration density. Tissue levels of antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, glutathione) and an oxidative product (malondialdehyde) were determined.
RESULTS: In rhinosinusitis induced animals, amlodipine reduced loss of cilia, lamina propria edema and collagen deposition compared to placebo (saline) and although not superior to cefazolin, amlodipine decreased PMNL infiltration. The superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione levels were reduced, whereas the malondialdehyde levels were increased significantly in all three-treatment groups compared to the control group. Amlodipine treated group showed significantly increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione levels and decreased malondialdehyde levels compared to all treatment groups.
CONCLUSION: The non-antibiotic compound amlodipine may have a role in acute rhinosinusitis treatment through tissue protective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

PMID: 27769794 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Shape of Thyroid Cartilage Influences Outcome of Montgomery Medialization Thyroplasty: A Gender Issue.

Shape of Thyroid Cartilage Influences Outcome of Montgomery Medialization Thyroplasty: A Gender Issue.

J Voice. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Desuter G, Henrard S, Van Lith-Bijl JT, Amory A, Duprez T, van Benthem PP, Sjögren E

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine whether the shape of the thyroid cartilage and gender influence voice outcomes after a Montgomery thyroplasty implant system (MTIS).
METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed on 20 consecutive patients who underwent MTIS. Voice outcome variables were the relative decrease in Voice Handicap Index (%) and the absolute increase in maximum phonation time (MPT) (in seconds). Material variables were the angle between the thyroid cartilage laminae (α-angle), the size of the prosthesis, and a combination of both (the α-ratio). Continuous variables were analyzed using medians and were compared between groups using the Mann-Whitney U test. Factors associated with the outcome variables were assessed by multivariable linear regression. A Pearson coefficient was calculated between material variables.
RESULTS: The absolute increase in MPT between the pre- and postoperative period was significantly different between men and women, with a median absolute increase of 11.0 seconds for men and of 1.3 seconds for women (P < 0.001). A strong inverse correlation between the α-ratio and the absolute increase in MPT is observed in all patients, with a Pearson correlation coefficient R = -0.769 (P < 0.001). No factors were significantly associated with the relative Voice Handicap Index decrease in univariable or multivariable analyses. A better Pearson coefficient between the α-angle and the prosthesis size was found for females (0.8 vs 0.71).
CONCLUSION: The MTIS is a good thyroplasty modality for male patients, but inadequate design of MTIS female implants leads to poor MPT outcomes. This represents a gender issue that needs to be further studied and eventually tackled.

PMID: 27769698 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Empowering patients for radiation therapy safety: Results of the EMPATHY study.

Empowering patients for radiation therapy safety: Results of the EMPATHY study.

Cancer Radiother. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Bibault JE, Pernet A, Mollo V, Gourdon L, Martin O, Giraud P

Abstract
PURPOSE: With the increase of treatment complexity, enhancing safety is a key concern in radiation oncology. Beyond the involvement of the healthcare professional, patient involvement and empowerment could play a major role in that setting. We explored how patients perceived and fulfilled that role during their radiation treatment.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A voluntary and anonymous questionnaire was administered to all patients treated in our department between November 2013 and May 2014. The following data were collected: sociodemographic profile; information received and initiatives to search for additional information; behavior when an unusual treatment event was perceived; active involvement in the safety of the treatment; nature and perception of their own involvement. A statistical analysis was performed to assess behavioral predictors.
RESULTS: A total of 155 patients answered the survey. Most of them were treated for prostate (n=58, 37.4%), lung (n=27, 17.4%), head and neck (n=26, 16.8%) and breast (n=25, 16.1%). Only eight patients (5%) had previously received radiation therapy. Ninety-five percent of the patients estimated they had received enough information about their treatment, but 48% would have wanted more. When patients noticed an unusual event during their treatment session, most of them (61%) reported it to the radiation therapist.
CONCLUSION: Patient participation to radiation therapy safety should be encouraged to ensure a cooperative risk management. Healthcare professionals need to inform the patients on the basic technical processes involved in their treatment. Patient empowerment should be added to the verifications made by the radiation therapists and physicians but should not replace them.

PMID: 27769636 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Chondrosarcoma of the hyoid bone - Report of a case and a literature review of the suitable treatment strategy.

Chondrosarcoma of the hyoid bone - Report of a case and a literature review of the suitable treatment strategy.

Auris Nasus Larynx. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Maki D, Mori T, Teshima M, Kobayashi K, Matsumoto F, Sakai A, Okami K, Yoshimoto S

Abstract
Chondrosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor occurring in the trunk and long bones. We present an extremely rare case of chondrosarcoma of the hyoid bone with clinical and pathological correlation and a literature review. We searched all cases of the hyoid chondrosarcoma in PubMed (MEDLINE) between 1990 and 2015. Eighteen cases were analyzed, including the present case. Most of them were low grade type. In 12 cases where intraoperative findings were recorded, no adhesion to the surrounding tissue was observed. Chondrosarcoma of the hyoid bone is usually low grade type, and there may be no invasion to the adjacent structures even if invasion is suspected by imaging findings. In order to preserve swallowing and laryngeal function, total hyoidectomy without laryngectomy should be indicated according to the intraoperative findings. Needle biopsy is an effective diagnostic technique, but open biopsy should be avoided to prevent the dissemination. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first presentation of hyoid bone chondrosarcoma with the investigation of intraoperative findings and pre-operative diagnostic modality.

PMID: 27769535 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Elevated methylation of CMTM3 promoter in the male laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients.

Related Articles

Elevated methylation of CMTM3 promoter in the male laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients.

Clin Biochem. 2016 Nov;49(16-17):1278-1282

Authors: Shen Z, Chen X, Li Q, Zhou C, Xu Y, Yu R, Ye H, Li J, Duan S

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain containing 3 (CMTM3), as a tumor suppressor gene, plays an important role in the suppression of cell growth and apoptosis. The goal of our study is to investigate the association between CMTM3 promoter methylation and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC).
DESIGN AND METHODS: Using the bisulfite pyrosequencing technology, DNA methylation levels of seven CpG sites in CMTM3 promoter are measured in tumor tissues and their adjacent tissues of 76 male LSCC patients.
RESULTS: Our results reveal a significantly elevated promoter methylation of CMTM3 in tumor tissues compared with their adjacent tissues (P<0.001). A breakdown analysis by age shows that significant association of CMTM3 promoter methylation with cancer risk is specific to the LSCC patients older than 55years (P<0.001) but not in the younger patients (P=0.305). Moreover, the association is only observed in the LSCC patients with smoking behavior (P=0.001). Breakdown analysis also shows that CMTM3 promoter methylation is associated with cancer risk among patients with stage I LSCC (P<0.001).
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our study indicates that elevated CMTM3 methylation is a risk factor in male LSCC patients, especially in the patients with age over 55years and with smoking behavior.

PMID: 27521994 [PubMed - in process]

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Nuclear p16INK4a expression predicts enhanced radiation response in head and neck cancers.

Related Articles

Nuclear p16INK4a expression predicts enhanced radiation response in head and neck cancers.

Oncotarget. 2016 Jun 21;7(25):38785-38795

Authors: Dok R, Abbasi Asbagh L, Van Limbergen EJ, Sablina A, Nuyts S

Abstract
Immunohistochemistry analysis of p16INK4a in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) tumor samples revealed that 28% of tumors showed nuclear/cytoplasmic p16INK4a localization, while 37% of tumors had cytoplasmic p16INK4a. Our previous study showed that p16INK4a inhibits the DNA repair response independently of its function in the cell cycle, suggesting that p16INK4a subcellular localization should be considered during stratification of HNSCC patients.Using p16INK4a mutants with different localization signals, we found that expression of nuclear p16INK4a, but not cytoplasmic p16INK4a impaired RAD51 foci formation, indicating that nuclear localization of p16INK4a is crucial for its function in DNA repair. We next investigated the role of p16INK4a subcellular localization in radiation response in a retrospective cohort of 261 HNSCC patients treated with chemoradiation. We found that only HNSCC patients expressing nuclear p16INK4a expression showed better outcome, locoregional control and disease free survival, after chemoradiation. In concordance with the patient data, only expression of nuclear p16INK4a increased radiosensitivity of HNSCC cells. These results implicate nuclear p16INK4a expression as a potent marker to predict radiation response of HNSCC patients and should be taken into account in intensification or de-escalation studies.

PMID: 27246975 [PubMed - in process]

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Selective antitumor activity of roscovitine in head and neck cancer.

Related Articles

Selective antitumor activity of roscovitine in head and neck cancer.

Oncotarget. 2016 Jun 21;7(25):38598-38611

Authors: Gary C, Hajek M, Biktasova A, Bellinger G, Yarbrough WG, Issaeva N

Abstract
Radiation and chemotherapy that are commonly used to treat human cancers damage cellular DNA. DNA damage appears to be more toxic to cancer cells than normal cells, most likely due to deregulated checkpoint activation and/or deficiency in DNA repair pathways that are characteristics of many tumors. However, unwanted side effects arise as a result of DNA damage to normal cells during the treatment.Here, we show that roscovitine, a cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor that inhibits CDK-1, CDK-2, CDK-5, CDK-7, and CDK-9 due to competitive binding to the ATP site on the kinases, causes significant DNA damage followed by p53-dependent cell death in human papilloma virus (HPV)-positive, but not in HPV-negative, head and neck cancer cells. Since HPV positivity was a molecular marker for increased sensitivity of cells to roscovitine, we reasoned that systemic roscovitine administration would not be toxic to healthy HPV-negative tissue. Indeed, low roscovitine doses significantly inhibited the growth of HPV-associated xenografted tumors in mice without causing any detectable side effects.Given that inhibition of CDKs has been shown to inhibit replication of several viruses, we suggest that roscovitine treatment may represent a selective and safe targeted therapeutic option against HPV-positive head and neck cancer.

PMID: 27233076 [PubMed - in process]

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Blockade of MCP-1/CCR4 signaling-induced recruitment of activated regulatory cells evokes an antitumor immune response in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Related Articles

Blockade of MCP-1/CCR4 signaling-induced recruitment of activated regulatory cells evokes an antitumor immune response in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Oncotarget. 2016 Jun 21;7(25):37714-37727

Authors: Sun W, Li WJ, Wei FQ, Wong TS, Lei WB, Zhu XL, Li J, Wen WP

Abstract
FoxP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells have diverse functions in the suppression of antitumor immunity. We show that FoxP3hiCD45RA-CD4+ Treg cells [activated Treg (aTreg) cells] are the predominant cell population among tumor-infiltrating FoxP3+ T cells, and that high aTreg cell-infiltrating content is associated with reduced survival in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). In vitro studies have demonstrated that aTreg cells can suppress tumor-associated antigen (TAA) effector T cell immune responses in HNSCC. Moreover, C-C chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4) was specifically expressed by aTreg cells in the peripheral blood of HNSCC patients. Using a RayBiotech human chemokine antibody array, we showed that monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), an endogenous CCR4-binding ligand, was specifically upregulated in the HNSCC microenvironment compared to the other four CCR4-binding ligands. Blocking MCP-1/CCR4 signaling-induced aTreg cell recruitment using a CCR4 antagonist evoked antitumor immunity in mice, and lead to inhibition of tumor growth and prolonged survival. Therefore, blocking aTreg cell trafficking in tumors using CCR4-binding agents may be an effective immunotherapy for HNSCC.

PMID: 27177223 [PubMed - in process]

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health technology; +125 new citations

125 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 2016/10/23

PubMed comprises more than 24 million 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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Socioeconomic outcome of epilepsy surgery: A controlled national study.

Socioeconomic outcome of epilepsy surgery: A controlled national study.

Seizure. 2016 Oct 6;42:52-56

Authors: Jennum P, Sabers A, Christensen J, Ibsen R, Kjellberg J

Abstract
PURPOSE: Epilepsy surgery has been a standard treatment for refractory epilepsies that cannot be controlled by standard medical treatment. We aimed to evaluate the health and social consequences of resective surgery relative to controls from a study of national data.
METHODS: Using the Danish National Patient Registry we identified all subjects with an epilepsy diagnosis between 1996 and 2009 and compared them with a group of patients with an epilepsy diagnosis who had had neither epilepsy surgery nor a vagus stimulation diagnosis by the index date, and who were matched by gender, index year for epilepsy diagnosis, and index year for epilepsy surgery. We considered all the health and social information available in the Danish health, medication and social registers. The duration of follow-up was three years.
RESULTS: 254 epilepsy patients and 989 controls were analyzed. Surgery patients were more severely affected by their disease as indicated by health care use and social impact before the surgical procedure. Patients who underwent epilepsy surgery had a significantly lower costs associated with the use of medication, outpatient services, inpatient admissions, and accident and emergency visits after surgery. The surgical intervention had no significant effects on social status in terms of occupation and educational level.
CONCLUSION: Although epilepsy surgery was followed by a reduction in inpatient and outpatient health care use, medication and use of accident and emergency facilities, suggesting a positive effect on the epileptic disease, there was no significant effect on social outcome measures.

PMID: 27770730 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Menstrual cycle-related variation in autonomic nervous system functioning in women in the early menopausal transition with and without insomnia disorder.

Menstrual cycle-related variation in autonomic nervous system functioning in women in the early menopausal transition with and without insomnia disorder.

Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2016 Oct 14;75:44-51

Authors: de Zambotti M, Trinder J, Colrain IM, Baker FC

Abstract
Insomnia is considered a hyperarousal disorder, in which several psychophysiological domains including the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are over-activated, potentially contributing to increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease. Here, we aimed to determine whether insomnia that develops in the context of the transition to menopause (menopausal transition insomnia, MTI) is similarly characterized by autonomic arousal. We also took into account modulation of the ANS by the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle, a factor that has not previously been considered in studies on insomnia. Twenty one women with insomnia (49.0±3y) and 25 controls (48.8±2.6 y), also in the menopausal transition, had overnight laboratory-based polysomnographic recordings, including electrocardiograph, during the follicular and/or luteal (progesterone≥3ngml(-1)) phases of the menstrual cycle, with 21 women having recordings in both phases. Nocturnal time and frequency-domain heart rate variability (HRV) measures were calculated. Heart rate (HR) was significantly elevated (by ∼4bpm) in MTI compared to controls in both follicular and luteal phases, across hours of the night, including during undisturbed periods of NREM and REM sleep (p<0.05). A higher HR tended to be associated with lower frequency- and time-domain vagal HRV indices in MTI compared with controls. In both groups, HR was significantly higher and total and high frequency HRV measures were lower in the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase (p<0.05). In addition, REM compared to NREM sleep was characterized by increased HR coupled with decreased vagal modulation and increased sympathovagal balance (p<0.01). Insomnia in the menopausal transition is characterized by nocturnal autonomic hyperarousal during both follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, which could be a factor in the etiology of MTI as well as a potential CV risk factor.

PMID: 27770662 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Insomnia and suicide-related behaviors: A multi-study investigation of thwarted belongingness as a distinct explanatory factor.

Insomnia and suicide-related behaviors: A multi-study investigation of thwarted belongingness as a distinct explanatory factor.

J Affect Disord. 2016 Oct 11;208:153-162

Authors: Chu C, Hom MA, Rogers ML, Stanley IH, Ringer-Moberg FB, Podlogar MC, Hirsch JK, Joiner TE

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Insomnia is a robust correlate of suicidal ideation and behavior. Preliminary research has identified thwarted belongingness (c.f. social disconnection) as an explanatory link between insomnia and suicidal ideation.
OBJECTIVES: This study replicates and extends previous findings using both cross-sectional and longitudinal designs in four demographically diverse samples. Additionally, the specificity of thwarted belongingness was evaluated by testing anxiety as a rival mediator.
METHOD: Self-report measures of insomnia symptoms, thwarted belongingness, suicidal ideation and behavior, and anxiety were administered in four adult samples: 469 undergraduate students, 352 psychiatric outpatients, 858 firefighters, and 217 primary care patients.
RESULTS: More severe insomnia was associated with more severe thwarted belongingness and suicidality. Thwarted belongingness significantly accounted for the association between insomnia and suicidality, cross-sectionally and longitudinally, beyond anxiety. Notably, findings supported the specificity of thwarted belongingness: anxiety did not significantly mediate the association between insomnia and suicidality, and insomnia did not mediate the relation between thwarted belongingness and suicidality.
LIMITATIONS: This study relied solely on self-report measures. Future studies incorporating objective sleep measurements are needed.
CONCLUSION: Findings underscore the utility of assessing and addressing sleep disturbances and social disconnection to reduce suicide risk.

PMID: 27770645 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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TONIC INFLUENCE OF NEOCORTEX ON HIPPOCAMPAL SEIZURES.

TONIC INFLUENCE OF NEOCORTEX ON HIPPOCAMPAL SEIZURES.

Georgian Med News. 2016 Sep;(258):19-22

Authors: Saralidze E, Khuchua L, Kobaidze I

Abstract
The interaction between different brain structures could be crucial to predicting seizure occurrence, threshold and spread. Moreover, the sleep-wake cycle and electrical activity of brain structures in different phases of sleep could significantly affect the pattern and extent of seizure spread, and therefore the characteristics of epileptic activity. In this animal model using 15 Wistar rats, we show that the duration of hippocampal seizures, induced by electrical stimulation of the hippocampus, is significantly increased during slow sleep. Moreover, decreasing the electrical activity of the neocortex by cooling of the cortical surface or induction of cortical spreading depression also caused an increase in hippocampal seizure duration. Conversely, warming the cortical surface triggered a remission in spreading depression, in turn restoring the duration of epileptic episodes. Our data suggest that the neocortex probably exerts a tonic inhibitory influence on hippocampal seizures. Thus, cortico-hippocampal interaction could be an important component in the manifestation and generalization of limbic seizures.

PMID: 27770521 [PubMed - in process]

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Prevalence of restless legs syndrome in migraine patients with and without aura: a cross-sectional, case-controlled study.

Prevalence of restless legs syndrome in migraine patients with and without aura: a cross-sectional, case-controlled study.

J Headache Pain. 2016 Dec;17(1):97

Authors: Lin GY, Lin YK, Lee JT, Lee MS, Lin CC, Tsai CK, Ting CH, Yang FC

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although the comorbidity of migraine and restless legs syndrome (RLS) has been well-documented, the association between RLS and migraine frequency has yet to be elucidated. The present study aims to evaluate the prevalence of RLS among individuals who experience low-frequency, high-frequency, or chronic migraine presenting with and without aura.
METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional, case-controlled study involving 505 participants receiving outpatient headache treatment. Standardized questionnaires were administered to collect information on experiences of migraine, RLS, sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and demographics. Participants were categorized into low-frequency (1-8/month), high-frequency (9-14/month), and chronic (≥15/month) headache groups. RLS was diagnosed according to the criteria outlined by the International RLS Study Group (IRLSSG). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were used to assess sleep quality and identify symptoms of anxiety and depression. Associations between migraine frequency and RLS prevalence were investigated using multivariate linear and logistic regression.
RESULTS: Univariate analysis revealed an effect of migraine frequency on RLS prevalence (p = 0.026), though this effect did not persist following adjustment for baseline characteristics (p = 0.256). The trend was robust in patients whose migraines presented with auras (p univariate = 0.002; p multivariate = 0.043) but not in those without auras (p univariate and p multivariate > 0.05). Higher anxiety [odds ratio (OR) = 1.18, p = 0.019] and sleep disturbance (OR = 1.17, p = 0.023) scores were associated with higher RLS prevalence.
CONCLUSIONS: Higher migraine frequency correlates with a higher prevalence of RLS, particularly among patients with auras.

PMID: 27770406 [PubMed - in process]

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Prevalence of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) in Parkinson's disease: a meta and meta-regression analysis.

Prevalence of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) in Parkinson's disease: a meta and meta-regression analysis.

Neurol Sci. 2016 Oct 21;

Authors: Zhang X, Sun X, Wang J, Tang L, Xie A

Abstract
Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is thought to be one of the most frequent preceding symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the prevalence of RBD in PD stated in the published studies is still inconsistent. We conducted a meta and meta-regression analysis in this paper to estimate the pooled prevalence. We searched the electronic databases of PubMed, ScienceDirect, EMBASE and EBSCO up to June 2016 for related articles. STATA 12.0 statistics software was used to calculate the available data from each research. The prevalence of RBD in PD patients in each study was combined to a pooled prevalence with a 95 % confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis were performed to search for the causes of the heterogeneity. A total of 28 studies with 6869 PD cases were deemed eligible and included in our meta-analysis based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of RBD in PD was 42.3 % (95 % CI 37.4-47.1 %). In subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis, we found that the important causes of heterogeneity were the diagnosis criteria of RBD and age of PD patients (P = 0.016, P = 0.019, respectively). The results indicate that nearly half of the PD patients are suffering from RBD. Older age and longer duration are risk factors for RBD in PD. We can use the minimal diagnosis criteria for RBD according to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders to diagnose RBD patients in our daily work if polysomnography is not necessary.

PMID: 27770275 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Overnight Changes in Lung Function of Obese Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

Overnight Changes in Lung Function of Obese Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

Lung. 2016 Oct 21;

Authors: Kunos L, Lazar Z, Martinovszky F, Tarnoki AD, Tarnoki DL, Kovacs D, Forgo B, Horvath P, Losonczy G, Bikov A

Abstract
PURPOSE: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder, characterised by collapse of the upper airways during sleep. The impact of sleep-disordered breathing on pulmonary function indices is however currently not well described. The aim of the study was to evaluate diurnal change in lung function indices in a cohort of patients with OSA and relate pulmonary function changes to disease severity.
METHODS: 42 patients with OSA and 73 healthy control subjects participated in the study. Asthma and COPD were excluded in all volunteers following a clinical and spirometric assessment. Spirometry was then performed in all subjects in the evening and the morning following a polysomnography study.
RESULTS: There was no difference in evening or morning FEV1 or FVC between patients and control subjects (p > 0.05). Neither FEV1 nor FVC changed in control subjects overnight (p > 0.05). In contrast, FEV1 significantly increased from evening (2.18/1.54-4.46/L) to morning measurement (2.26/1.42-4.63/L) in OSA without any change in FVC. The FEV1 increase in OSA was related to male gender, obesity and the lack of treatment with statins or β-blockers (all p < 0.05). A tendency for a direct correlation was apparent between overnight FEV1 change and RDI (p = 0.05, r = 0.30).
CONCLUSIONS: Diurnal variations in spirometric indices occur in patients with OSA and FEV1 appears to increase in subjects with OSA overnight. These changes occur in the absence of change in FVC and are directly related to the severity of OSA. These findings dictate a need to consider time of lung function measurement.

PMID: 27770204 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Refining duration and frequency thresholds of restless legs syndrome diagnosis criteria.

Refining duration and frequency thresholds of restless legs syndrome diagnosis criteria.

Neurology. 2016 Oct 21;:

Authors: Ohayon MM, Bagai K, Roberts LW, Walters AS, Milesi C

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study assesses the prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) using DSM-5 criteria and determines what is the most appropriate threshold for the frequency and duration of RLS symptoms.
METHODS: The Sleep-EVAL knowledge base system queried the interviewed subjects on life, sleeping habits, and health. Questions on sleep and mental and organic disorders (DSM-5, ICD-10) were also asked. A representative sample of 19,136 noninstitutionalized individuals older than 18 years living in the United States was interviewed through a cross-sectional telephone survey. The participation rate was 83.2%.
RESULTS: The prevalence of the 4 leg symptoms describing RLS occurring at least 1 d/wk varied between 5.7% and 12.3%. When the frequency was set to at least 3 d/wk, the prevalence dropped and varied between 1.8% and 4.5% for the 4 leg symptoms. Higher frequency of leg symptoms was associated with greater distress and impairment with a marked increase at 3 d/wk. Symptoms were mostly chronic, lasting for more than 3 months in about 97% of the cases. The prevalence of RLS according to DSM-5 was 1.6% (95% confidence interval 1.4%-1.8%) when frequency was set at 3 d/wk. Stricter criteria for frequency of restless legs symptoms resulted in a reduction of prevalence of the disorder. The prevalence was further reduced when clinical impact was taken into consideration.
CONCLUSIONS: In order to avoid inflation of case rates and to identify patients in whom treatment is truly warranted, using a more conservative threshold of 3 times or greater per week appears the most appropriate.

PMID: 27770066 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Effects of continuous positive airway pressure on energy intake in obstructive sleep apnea: A pilot sham-controlled study.

Effects of continuous positive airway pressure on energy intake in obstructive sleep apnea: A pilot sham-controlled study.

Physiol Behav. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Shechter A, Kovtun K, St-Onge MP

Abstract
Obesity is among the leading risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A reciprocal relationship between obesity and OSA has been proposed, which may be due to excessive food intake. We conducted a pilot study to test the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on energy intake (EI) in OSA patients using a sham-controlled crossover design. In-laboratory total daily EI was assessed after 2mo of active and sham CPAP. Four men were enrolled (age±SEM: 51.8±2.1y; body mass index: 31.5±1.5kg/m(2)). All received active treatment first. Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack) were served in excess portions at fixed times and additional palatable snacks were freely available throughout the day. Total EI was lower after active (3744±511kcal/d) vs. sham (4030±456kcal/d) CPAP but this difference was not significant (p=0.51) due to variability in the free snack intake. When only fixed eating occasions were considered, daily EI was significantly lower in the active (3105±513kcal/d) vs. sham (3559±420kcal/d) condition (p=0.006). This small pilot and feasibility study is the first to utilize a sham-controlled design to investigate the effects of CPAP treatment on objective measures of EI. Findings suggest that CPAP may cause a reduction in total daily food intake. In demonstrating feasibility of study methodology, our study also suggests a larger randomized sham-controlled trial be conducted to fully characterize the effects of CPAP treatment on EI and energy balance overall.

PMID: 27769851 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Challenges of up-scaling lentivirus production and processing.

Challenges of up-scaling lentivirus production and processing.

J Biotechnol. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: McCarron A, Donnelley M, McIntyre C, Parsons D

Abstract
Lentiviruses are becoming an increasingly popular choice of gene transfer vehicle for use in the treatment of a variety of genetic and acquired human diseases. As research progresses from basic studies into pre-clinical and clinical phases, there is a growing demand for large volumes of high purity, concentrated vector, and accordingly, the means to produce such quantities. Unlike other viral vectors, lentiviruses are difficult to produce using stable cell lines, therefore transient transfection of adherent cell lines is conventionally used, and this method has proven challenging to up-scale. Furthermore, with the required increases in the volume of vector needed for larger animal and human use, comes the need for more efficient and sophisticated supernatant purification and concentration techniques. This review presents the challenges of up-scaling lentivirus production and processing approaches, novel systems for overcoming these issues, and the quality assessments recommended for producing a clinical grade lentiviral gene therapy product.

PMID: 27769802 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Stylet Usage Does Not Improve Diagnostic Outcomes in Endobronchial Ultrasound Transbronchial Needle Aspiration: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Stylet Usage Does Not Improve Diagnostic Outcomes in Endobronchial Ultrasound Transbronchial Needle Aspiration: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Chest. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Scholten EL, Semaan R, Illei P, Mallow C, Arias S, Feller-Kopman D, Oakjones-Burgess K, Frimpong B, Ortiz R, Lee H, Yarmus L

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) of thoracic structures is a commonly performed tissue sampling technique. The usage of an inner-stylet in the EBUS needle has never been rigorously evaluated, and may be unnecessary.
METHODS: In a prospective randomized single blinded controlled clinical trial, patients with a clinical indication for EBUS-TBNA underwent lymph node sampling using both with-stylet and without-stylet techniques. Sample adequacy, diagnostic yield, and various cytological quality measures were compared.
RESULTS: 121 patients were enrolled with 194 lymph nodes sampled each using both with-stylet and without-stylet techniques. There was no significant difference in sample adequacy or diagnostic yield between techniques. The without-stylet technique resulted in adequate samples in 87% of the 194 study lymph nodes, which was no different than the with-stylet adequacy rate (82%, P =0.371). The with-stylet technique resulted in a diagnosis in 50/194 samples (25.7%) similar to the without-stylet group (49/194, 25.2%, P =0.740). There was a high degree of concordance in the determination of adequacy (84.0%, 95% CI (78.1-88.9)) and diagnostic sample generation (95.4%, 95% CI (91.2-97.9)) between the two techniques. A similar qualitative amount of lymphocytes, malignant cells and bronchial respiratory epithelium were recovered using each technique.
CONCLUSIONS: Omitting stylet usages during EBUS-TBNA does not affect diagnostic outcomes and reduces procedural complexity.

PMID: 27769775 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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The Prospective Association Between Sleep and Initiation of Substance Use in Young Adolescents.

The Prospective Association Between Sleep and Initiation of Substance Use in Young Adolescents.

J Adolesc Health. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Miller MB, Janssen T, Jackson KM

Abstract
PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine the unique utility of poor sleep health in predicting the onset of substance use in adolescents.
METHODS: Middle school students (N = 829, mean (M)age = 12.6 years, 52% female, 73% white) who participated in an ongoing prospective study of alcohol onset and progression completed a set of Web-based health behavior surveys over a 4-year period, with recruitment beginning in 2009. Surveys included assessments of alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana use as well as sleep duration, bedtime delay (from weekdays to weekends), and daytime sleepiness. Data were analyzed using discrete-time Cox Proportional hazard's regression.
RESULTS: Controlling for participant age at sleep assessment, gender, and internalizing and externalizing behaviors, shorter sleep duration and greater daytime sleepiness in year 1 were associated with increased odds of having had a full drink of alcohol, having engaged in heavy episodic drinking, and having experienced alcohol-related consequences by year 4. Shorter sleep duration was also associated with increased odds of marijuana use by year 4. No sleep parameter was uniquely associated with increased odds of cigarette use (first puff or first full cigarette). Effects were evident for both males and females. Age at sleep assessment did not moderate effects.
CONCLUSIONS: Sleep health is a prospective predictor of the onset of alcohol and marijuana use among adolescents. Increased efforts to prevent and intervene in sleep problems among adolescents are warranted.

PMID: 27769761 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Sleep duration, life satisfaction and disability.

Sleep duration, life satisfaction and disability.

Disabil Health J. 2016 Oct 11;:

Authors: Pagan R

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although sleep is considered an essential part of individuals' lives, there are no previous studies analysing how sleep duration affects the levels of life satisfaction reported by males and females with disabilities.
OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS: To analyse and compare the impact of hours of sleep on life satisfaction scores reported by people without and with disabilities (stratified by sex) in Germany.
METHODS: Using data taken from the German Socio-Economic Panel for the period 2008-2013, we estimate life satisfaction equations for males and females (running a fixed-effects model) which include a set of variables measuring the number of sleep hours on workdays and weekends.
RESULTS: A higher number of sleep hours on workdays increase life satisfaction for all males and females. However, the contribution of each hour of sleep on workdays is greater for males with disabilities in terms of life satisfaction, whereas for females no significant differences by disability status have been found. Although sleep hours on weekends also increase life satisfaction, the magnitude of the coefficients is relatively higher than that found for the corresponding hours of sleep on workdays, but only for the male sample (disabled or not).
CONCLUSIONS: The participation and commitment of policymakers, governments, trade unions, employers, and health care professionals are key aspects for developing and formulating new guidelines and specific measures that promote a healthy lifestyle and increase sleep duration. Such guidelines and measures are of essence for people with disabilities who are employed (e.g. using brief sleep opportunities during prolonged work periods, which can contribute to reducing fatigue, stress and anxiety).

PMID: 27769759 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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SLEEP-WAKEFULNESS CYCLE AND BEHAVIOR IN PANNEXIN1 KNOCKOUT MICE.

SLEEP-WAKEFULNESS CYCLE AND BEHAVIOR IN PANNEXIN1 KNOCKOUT MICE.

Behav Brain Res. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Kovalzon VM, Moiseenko LS, Ambaryan AV, Kurtenbach S, Shestopalov VI, Panchin YV

Abstract
Pannexins are membrane channel proteins that play a role in a number of critical biological processes (Panchin et al., 2000; Shestopalov, Panchin, 2008). Among other cellular functions, pannexin hemichannels serve as purine nucleoside conduits providing ATP efflux into the extracellular space (Dahl, 2015), where it is rapidly degraded to adenosine. Pannexin1 (Panx1) is abundantly expressed in the brain and has been shown to contribute to adenosine signaling in nervous system tissues (Prochnow et.al., 2012). We hypothesized that pannexin1 may contribute to sleep-wake cycle regulation through extracellular adenosine, a well-established paracrine factor in slow wave sleep. To investigate this link, EEG and movement activity throughout the light/dark cycle were compared in Panx1(-/-) and Panx1(+/+) mice. We found a significant increase in waking and a correspondent decrease in slow wave sleep percentages in the Panx1(-/-) animals. These changes were especially pronounced during the dark period. Furthermore, we found a significant increase in movement activity of Panx1(-/-) mice. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that extracellular adenosine is relatively depleted in Panx1(-/-) animals due to the absence of the ATP-permeable hemichannels. At the same time, sleep rebound after a 6-hr sleep deprivation remained unchanged in Panx1(-/-) mice as compared to the control animals. Behavioral tests revealed that Panx1(-/-) mice were significantly faster during their descent along the vertical pole but more sluggish during their run through the horizontal pole as compared to the control mice.

PMID: 27769744 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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[Obesity and obstructive sleep apnea in children].

[Obesity and obstructive sleep apnea in children].

Arch Pediatr. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Amaddeo A, de Sanctis L, Olmo Arroyo J, Giordanella JP, Monteyrol PJ, Fauroux B

Abstract
Obesity, along with hypertrophy of the adenoids and the tonsils, represents one of the major risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children. Obesity is associated with an increase in the prevalence and the severity of OSA and is a major factor in the persistence and aggravation of OSA over time. Neurocognitive dysfunction and abnormal behavior are the most important and frequent end-organ morbidities associated with OSA in children. Other deleterious consequences such as cardiovascular stress and metabolic syndrome are less common in children than in adults with OSA. Defining the exact role of obesity in OSA-associated end-organ morbidity in children is difficult because of the complex and multidimensional interactions between sleep in general, OSA, obesity, and metabolic dysregulation. This may explain why obesity itself has not been shown to be associated with a significant increase in OSA-associated end-organ morbidity. Obesity is linked to a decreased treatment efficacy and, in particular, of adenotonsillectomy. Peri- and postoperative complications are more common and more severe in obese children as compared with normal-weight controls. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is frequently needed, but compliance with CPAP is less optimal in obese children than in non-obese children. In conclusion, obesity represents a major public health problem worldwide; its prevention is one of the most efficient tools for decreasing the incidence and the morbidity associated with OSA in children.

PMID: 27769628 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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[Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome in children: Clinical diagnosis].

[Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome in children: Clinical diagnosis].

Arch Pediatr. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Aubertin G, Schröder C, Sevin F, Clouteau F, Lamblin MD, Vecchierini MF

Abstract
The French Society of Research and Sleep Medicine (SFRMS) organized a meeting on obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children. A multidisciplinary group of specialists (pulmonologist, ENT surgeons, pediatricians, orofacial myofunctional therapists, neurophysiologists, and sleep specialists) reached a consensus on the value of isolated or clustered clinical symptoms and of questionnaires completed by parents in the clinical diagnosis and in assessing the severity of OSAS. Are clinical history with validated questionnaires and a rigorous physical examination sufficient to suspect OSAS, to appreciate its severity, and finally to confirm the diagnosis? Usually, a sleep recording of respiratory parameters remains mandatory for the diagnosis of OSAS to be made. However, clinical symptoms are very useful for estimating the probability of the diagnosis and the severity of the disease, and therefore for classifying which children will benefit form polysomnography and for proposing an adapted follow-up after OSAS therapy. Even if they are not able to ascertain the diagnosis of OSAS in children, clinical history, questionnaires, and physical examination are very important. Finally, we propose a classification of the indications for polysomnography in children suspected of having OSAS.

PMID: 27769627 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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[Diagnosing the hyperactive child who snores].

[Diagnosing the hyperactive child who snores].

Arch Pediatr. 2016 Oct 18;:

Authors: Bioulac S, Chalumeau F, Lode-Kolz K

Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common disorder, often associated with sleep disorders. Patients with primary sleep disorders often present hyperactivity and/or attention deficit symptoms. Indeed, obstructive sleep disorder breathing (snoring, hypoventilation disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome) with poor sleep quality can mimic ADHD in children. In this case, inattention and hyperactivity behavior are induced by sleep disorders but do not constitute a clinical diagnosis of ADHD. Therefore, it can sometimes be difficult for the clinician to distinguish between a diagnosis of ADHD with comorbid sleep disorder and a sleep disorder that mimics ADHD symptoms. The objective of this article is to review the relations between ADHD and obstructive sleep disorder breathing and propose a decision tree to help diagnosis.

PMID: 27769626 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Effects of oily fish intake on cardiovascular risk markers, cognitive function, and behavior in school-aged children: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Effects of oily fish intake on cardiovascular risk markers, cognitive function, and behavior in school-aged children: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Trials. 2016 Oct 21;17(1):510

Authors: Damsgaard CT, Lauritzen L, Hauger H, Vuholm S, Teisen MN, Ritz C, Hansen M, Niclasen J, Mølgaard C

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Most children in Western populations do not meet recommendations for fish consumption. Oily fish is an important source of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA), which reduce blood pressure and plasma triacylglycerol in adults and may affect cognitive development and behavior. However, to our knowledge, the potential effects of oily fish on cardiometabolic health, cognitive function, and behavior in children have not been investigated. The aim of the FiSK Junior study is to investigate the effects of oily fish consumption on cardiovascular risk markers, cognitive function, and behavior in healthy children.
METHODS/DESIGN: We are conducting a randomized controlled trial with 8- to 9-year-old Danish children, comparing the effect of consuming 300 g/week of oily fish with poultry (control) for 12 weeks between August 2016 and June 2017. The primary outcomes are blood pressure and fasting plasma triacylglycerol, which will be measured at baseline and endpoint. In addition, we will assess erythrocyte fatty acid composition (compliance), heart rate, plasma cholesterol, markers of glucose homeostasis, growth and body composition, dietary intake, and physical activity and sleep. We will also examine effects on cognitive function (attention, memory, and executive functions) by using standardized tests, behavior and emotions by administering parent-rated questionnaires and child interviews, and we will measure physiological stress response and cortisol levels. We need 150 children to complete the trial to detect a between-groups difference of 2.7 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure and 0.13 mmol/L in plasma triacylglycerol; thus, we aim to recruit 200 children. All outcomes will be analyzed in completer analysis supplemented with sensitivity analyses for the primary outcomes, and attention will be given to potential sex and genotype specificity.
DISCUSSION: The results of the FiSK Junior study are expected to fill important gaps in the current knowledge about the importance of dietary fish and n-3 LCPUFA for children's health and development, and may be used when setting dietary recommendations.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02809508 . Registered on 22 June 2016.

PMID: 27769289 [PubMed - in process]

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In vivo sedative activity of methanolic extract of Stericulia villosa Roxb. leaves.

In vivo sedative activity of methanolic extract of Stericulia villosa Roxb. leaves.

BMC Complement Altern Med. 2016 Oct 21;16(1):398

Authors: Hossain MF, Talukder B, Rana MN, Tasnim R, Nipun TS, Uddin SM, Hossen SM

Abstract
BACKGROUND: This plant is very popular ingredient of local made drinks during hot summer. After drinking this drink people feels fresh, relaxed and can enjoy sound sleep. Present study was aimed to assess the sedative properties of a plant Sterculia villosa leaves. Therefore, we tried to find out the methanolic extract from the leaves of Sterculia villosa leaves having any sedative activity or not.
METHODS: The extract were subjected to various in vivo methods like hole cross test, open field test, elevated plus-maze (EPM) test, thiopental sodium induced sleeping time test. Diazepam was used as the standard drug.
RESULTS: From the study, it is clear that the extract has excellent CNS depressant activity by reducing locomotors activity of mice in every cases of hole cross test, open field test, elevated plus-maze (EPM) test compared to the standard diazepam. In addition, the extract prolong the sleeping time (230 min) with quick onset of action (9 min) in contrast to the standard and control group.
CONCLUSIONS: From the present study it can be conclude that the extract posses significant a sedative property that may lead to new drug development and further investigation is necessary to understand the underlying mechanisms and to isolate the active principles.

PMID: 27769218 [PubMed - in process]

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Reactivation of Pulmonary Tuberculosis following Treatment of Myelofibrosis with Ruxolitinib

Ruxolitinib is widely in use for treatment of myeloproliferative disorders. It causes inhibition of the Janus kinase (JAK) signal transducer and activation of transcription (STAT) pathway, which plays a key role in the underlying pathophysiology of myeloproliferative diseases. We describe a case of reactivation pulmonary tuberculosis in a retired physician while on treatment with ruxolitinib. We also review the literature on opportunistic infections following use of ruxolitinib. Our case highlights the importance of screening for latent tuberculosis in patients from highly endemic areas prior to start of therapy with ruxolitinib.

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Study on the AFM Force Curve Common Errors and Their Effects on the Calculated Nanomechanical Properties of Materials

The atomic force microscope (AFM) force curve has been widely used for determining the mechanical properties of materials due to its high resolution, whereby very low (piconewton) forces and distances as small as nanometers can be measured. However, sometimes the resultant force curve obtained from AFM is slightly different from those obtained from a more typical nanoindentation force curve due to the AFM piezo’s hysteresis. In this study the nanomechanical properties of either a sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK) treated layer or bare polyether ether ketone (PEEK) were evaluated via AFM nanoindentation and a nanomechanical test system to probe the possible error of the calculated nanomechanical properties due to the AFM piezo’s hysteresis. The results showed that AFM piezo’s hysteresis caused the error in the calculated nanomechanical properties of the materials.

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Granulovacuolar Degeneration in Hippocampus of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Quantitative Study

Background. Granulovacuolar degeneration (GVD) is one of the pathological features long associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and normal aging. Aim. We investigate the frequency of GVDs in AD, other neurodegenerative diseases, and normal aging, with attempt to determine whether the GVD has preponderance in any particular neurodegenerative disease other than AD. Materials and Methods. A retrospective review of 111 autopsied cases with a variety of neurodegenerative diseases and 70 control cases without pathological evidence of neurodegeneration was evaluated quantitatively. The microscopic examination was applied on coronal sections of hippocampi using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Bielschowsky silver impregnation. The mean percentage of neurons with GVDs was calculated through all sectors of Ammon’s horn for each case. Result. We found that neurons with GVD, in cases with or without neurodegenerative diseases, were found predominantly in CA1 and CA2 sectors of hippocampus. The GVD count in AD was significantly increased in CA1 and CA2 compared to other neurodegenerative cases as well as normal aging controls. In AD/LBD there was a significant increase in GVD in CA1 whereas in LBD there was no significant change in GVD. Conclusions. The frequency of GVD in AD is due to the disease process and attributes the increase for AD/LBD to the AD component.

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Rare Case of Leiomyoma and Adenomyosis in Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Syndrome

We report a case of adenomyosis which developed from a hypoplastic uterus and leiomyoma in a patient with MRKH syndrome. A 45-year-old Malay female with primary amenorrhoea and primary infertility presented with abdominal mass and abdominal pain. She is phenotypically female, has well developed secondary sexual characteristics, and has normal female external genitalia with shallow vagina dimple. Transabdominal ultrasonography showed a homogenous adnexal mass of 10 × 8 cm, uterus sized 5 × 4 cm, and normal kidneys. A complex mass of right adnexa was demonstrated by CT scan. Exploratory laparotomy showed torsion of right adnexal mass and rudimentary uterus with fibroid but no endometrial tissue and blind end with absent cervix. The normal right ovary and tube were not visualized. The left fallopian tube and ovary were normal. It is also complicated by vaginal agenesis. Removal of right adnexal mass and rudimentary uterus was done with preservation of left ovary. The histologic diagnosis was uterine adenomyosis and leiomyoma arising from the right adnexa, possibly from the broad ligament.

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A Dog Is a Doctor’s Best Friend: The Use of a Service Dog as a Perioperative Assistant

Service dogs are beneficial in providing assistance to people with multiple types of disabilities and medical disorders including visual impairment, physical disabilities, seizure disorders, diabetes, and mental illness. Some service animals have been trained as a screening tool for cancer. We review a case involving a 6-year-old female with a history of mast cell mediator release and immediate hypersensitivity due to the urticaria pigmentosa variant of cutaneous mastocytosis who underwent a cystourethroscopy. Her service dog, JJ, who would alert to mast cell mediator release, was used throughout the perioperative course as a means of anxiolysis and comfort and to monitor for mast cell mediator release. This case presents an example of a service dog used in a family-care model in the field of anesthesiology and provides a unique example of using a service dog as an additional monitor to alert the care team for impending mast cell mediator release.

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Multiscale Fluctuation Features of the Dynamic Correlation between Bivariate Time Series

The fluctuation of the dynamic correlation between bivariate time series has some special features on the time-frequency domain. In order to study these fluctuation features, this paper built the dynamic correlation network models using two kinds of time series as sample data. After studying the dynamic correlation networks at different time-scales, we found that the correlation between time series is a dynamic process. The correlation is strong and stable in the long term, but it is weak and unstable in the short and medium term. There are key correlation modes which can effectively indicate the trend of the correlation. The transmission characteristics of correlation modes show that it is easier to judge the trend of the fluctuation of the correlation between time series from the short term to long term. The evolution of media capability of the correlation modes shows that the transmission media in the long term have higher value to predict the trend of correlation. This work does not only propose a new perspective to analyze the correlation between time series but also provide important information for investors and decision makers.

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Real-Time Multifault Rush Repairing Strategy Based on Utility Theory and Multiagent System in Distribution Networks

The problem of multifault rush repair in distribution networks (DNs) is a multiobjective dynamic combinatorial problem with topology constraints. The problem consists of archiving an optimal faults’ allocation strategy to squads and an admissible multifault rush repairing strategy with coordinating switch operations. In this article, the utility theory is introduced to solve the first problem and a new discrete bacterial colony chemotaxis (DBCC) algorithm is proposed for the second problem to determine the optimal sequence for each squad to repair faults and the corresponding switch operations. The above solution is called the two-stage approach. Additionally, a double mathematical optimization model based on the fault level is proposed in the second stage to minimize the outage loss and total repairing time. The real-time adjustment multiagent system (RA-MAS) is proposed to provide facility to achieve online multifault rush repairing strategy in DNs when there are emergencies after natural disasters. The two-stage approach is illustrated with an example from a real urban distribution network and the simulation results show the effectiveness of the two-stage approach.

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Metastatic Prostate Cancer of Hand

Soft tissue metastases of prostate cancer to other sites are extremely rare, and, to our best knowledge, there have been no reports of metastasis to soft tissue of the hand. A 63-year-old man was diagnosed with prostatic cancer. During treatment, bone and soft tissue metastases to the right hand, appearing in the first web space, were observed. The tumor was resected, along with both the first and second metacarpal bones. The thumb was reconstructed by pollicization of the remaining index finger, enabling the patient to use the pollicized thumb for activities of daily living. This is the first case report of prostate cancer metastasizing to the soft tissue in hand. After wide resection, pollicization was able to reconstruct a functional hand and thumb.

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NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in the Brain after Global Cerebral Ischemia and Regulation by 17β-Estradiol

17β-Estradiol (E2) is a well-known neuroprotective factor in the brain. Recently, our lab demonstrated that the neuroprotective and cognitive effects of E2 require mediation by the estrogen receptor (ER) coregulator protein and proline-, glutamic acid-, and leucine-rich protein 1 (PELP1). In the current study, we examined whether E2, acting via PELP1, can exert anti-inflammatory effects in the ovariectomized rat and mouse hippocampus to regulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation after global cerebral ischemia (GCI). Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and expression of its downstream products, cleaved caspase-1 and IL-1β, were robustly increased in the hippocampus after GCI, with peak levels observed at 6-7 days. Expression of P2X7 receptor, an upstream regulator of NLRP3, was also increased after GCI. E2 markedly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome pathway activation, caspase-1, and proinflammatory cytokine production, as well as P2X7 receptor expression after GCI (at both the mRNA and protein level). Intriguingly, the ability of E2 to exert these anti-inflammatory effects was lost in PELP1 forebrain-specific knockout mice, indicating a key role for PELP1 in E2 anti-inflammatory signaling. Collectively, our study demonstrates that NLRP3 inflammasome activation and proinflammatory cytokine production are markedly increased in the hippocampus after GCI, and that E2 signaling via PELP1 can profoundly inhibit these proinflammatory effects.

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Morphological Study and Dielectric Behavior of Nonisothermally Crystallized Poly(ethylene naphthalate) Nanocomposites as a Function of Graphene Content

Morphological evolution and dielectric properties of poly(ethylene naphthalate)- (PEN-) graphene nanocomposites nonisothermally crystallized have been investigated. PEN-graphene nanocomposites containing 0.01, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, and 0.1 wt% of graphene were prepared by melt blending in a mini twin screw extruder. The results showed that graphene exhibited a superior influence on morphological and conformational structure of PEN during nonisothermal crystallization at low graphene contents. Crystallization temperature () was found to be increased up to 18°C supporting the high nucleating activity of graphene layers. Wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated that graphene modifies the conformation of PEN chains promoting crystallinity and favoring the evolution from to crystalline form with homogeneous lamellar thickness. It may be attributed to the structural similarity between naphthalene rings and graphene structure and to - interactions during nucleation. Dielectric behavior was found to be a function of graphene content where the nanocomposites changed from dielectric to low conducting material when passing from 0.075 to 0.1 wt% of graphene content. This phenomenon permits having a wide range of properties to fit a wide variety of applications required to store electrical energy of low voltage.

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On the Modelling of Context-Aware Security for Mobile Devices

Security management in wireless networks has to deal with the changing character of the environment, which can further lead to decision making problem for unexpected events. Among a huge list of devices, the mobile ones are especially vulnerable to this situation. The solution for adapting systems and applications to dynamic environments can be context-aware description of the user actions, which gives a possibility to take into account the factors that influence these actions. In the article, we propose a context-aware security adjusting model, which is based on proposition logic and incorporates mechanisms that assist in the reasoning process. The main benefits that differentiate our approach from similar ones are a formal representation of the model, the usage of the whole spectrum of context attributes, the detection and analysis of contextual data integrity, and conflicting rules’ eradication capability. All these traits transcribe into a more effective way of adjusting security measures in accordance with existing circumstances. To illustrate the proposed approach, we present the case study of context-aware security management for mobile devices.

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Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of N-(6-Carboxyl Cyclohex-3-ene Carbonyl) Chitosan with Different Degrees of Substitution

Five products of -(6-carboxyl cyclohex-3-ene carbonyl) chitosan as antimicrobial agents were prepared by reaction of chitosan with tetrahydrophthalic anhydride (THPA) at different degrees of substitution (DS). The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against four plant bacteria and eight fungi. The results proved that the inhibitory property and water solubility of the synthesized chitosan derivatives, with increase of the DS, exhibited a remarkable improvement over chitosan. The product with a DS of 0.40 was the most active one with MIC of 510, 735, 240, and 385 mg/L against Erwinia carotovora, Ralstonia solanacearum, Rhodococcus fascians, and Rhizobium radiobacter, respectively, and also in mycelial growth inhibition against Alternaria alternata (EC50 = 683 mg/L), Botrytis cinerea (EC50 = 774 mg/L), Botryodiplodia theobromae (EC50 = 501 mg/L), Fusarium oxysporum (EC50 = 500 mg/L), F. solani (EC50 = 260 mg/L), Penicillium digitatum (EC50 = 417 mg/L), Phytophthora infestans (EC50 = 298 mg/L), and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (EC50 = 763 mg/L). These compounds based on a biodegradable and biocompatible chitosan could be used as potentially antimicrobial agents in crop protection instead of hazardous synthetic pesticides.

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Congenital Vitelline Band Causing Intestinal Obstruction in an Adult with a Double Inferior Vena Cava

Introduction. Vitelline artery remnants are rare causes of intra-abdominal bands leading to bowel obstruction. These bands may be associated with Meckel’s diverticulum. Double inferior vena cava (IVC) is a rare presentation and is usually identified incidentally. Case Presentation. A sixty-year-old male presented with progressive vomiting for five days and he was clinically diagnosed with intestinal obstruction. Plain X-ray abdomen showed evidence of small bowel obstruction. CT scan of the abdomen revealed dilated small bowel loops with a small outpouching in the distal ileum with a band like structure attached to it. In the CT, left sided patent IVC draining into the left renal vein was identified. Left external iliac vein was in continuity with the left IVC. Left internal iliac vein was draining into the right IVC. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a Meckel’s diverticulum with a band identified as the vitelline remnant attached to its apex and inserting at the anterior abdominal wall near the umbilicus. Discussion. Meckel’s diverticulum with vitelline bands, although rare, should be borne in mind in adult patients with intestinal obstruction. Identification of this anomaly can be difficult in imaging studies. Presence of double IVC should be mentioned in the imaging findings to prevent possible catastrophic complications during surgery.

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Differential Gene Expression during Larval Metamorphic Development in the Pearl Oyster, Pinctada fucata, Based on Transcriptome Analysis

P. fucata experiences a series of transformations in appearance, from swimming larvae to sessile juveniles, during which significant changes in gene expression likely occur. Thus, P. fucata could be an ideal model in which to study the molecular mechanisms of larval metamorphosis during development in invertebrates. To study the molecular driving force behind metamorphic development in larvae of P. fucata, transcriptomes of five larval stages (trochophore, D-shape, umbonal, eyespots, and spats) were sequenced using an Illumina HiSeq™ 2000 system and assembled and characterized with the transcripts of six tissues. As a result, a total of 174,126 unique transcripts were assembled and 60,999 were annotated. The number of unigenes varied among the five larval stages. Expression profiles were distinctly different between trochophore, D-shape, umbonal, eyespots, and spats larvae. As a result, 29 expression trends were sorted, of which eight were significant. Among others, 80 development-related, differentially expressed unigenes (DEGs) were identified, of which the majority were homeobox-containing genes. Most DEGs occurred among trochophore, D-shaped, and UES (umbonal, eyespots, and spats) larvae as verified by qPCR. Principal component analysis (PCA) also revealed significant differences in expression among trochophore, D-shaped, and UES larvae with ten transcripts identified but no matching annotations.

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Studying Maximum Plantar Stress per Insole Design Using Foot CT-Scan Images of Hyperelastic Soft Tissues

The insole shape and the resulting plantar stress distribution have a pivotal impact on overall health. In this paper, by Finite Element Method, maximum stress value and stress distribution of plantar were studied for different insoles designs, which are the flat surface and the custom-molded (conformal) surface. Moreover, insole thickness, heel’s height, and different materials were used to minimize the maximum stress and achieve the most uniform stress distribution. The foot shape and its details used in this paper were imported from online CT-Scan images. Results show that the custom-molded insole reduced maximum stress 40% more than the flat surface insole. Upon increase of thickness in both insole types, stress distribution becomes more uniform and maximum stress value decreases up to 10%; however, increase of thickness becomes ineffective above a threshold of 1 cm. By increasing heel height (degree of insole), maximum stress moves from heel to toes and becomes more uniform. Therefore, this scenario is very helpful for control of stress in 0.2° to 0.4° degrees for custom-molded insole and over 1° for flat insole. By changing the material of the insole, the value of maximum stress remains nearly constant. The custom-molded (conformal) insole which has 0.5 to 1 cm thickness and 0.2° to 0.4° degrees is found to be the most compatible form for foot.

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Performance of Seismic Restrainer with SMA Springs for Sliding Isolation of Single-Layer Spherical Lattice Shells

The seismic response of a single-layer spherical lattice shell controlled by restorable sliding isolator is studied under different seismic excitations. The isolation system consists of flat steel-Teflon sliding isolators and superelastic SMA spring restrainers. The NiTi-SMA is used to fabricate helical spring for recentering control of the isolation system. In the first step of this investigation, the configuration scheme and functioning mechanism of a novel SMA spring restrainer are introduced briefly. Then, realistic mechanical behavior of large-scale superelastic NiTi helical spring is studied through a set of cyclic experimental tests. According to the obtained hysteresis loops, a mechanical model combining multilinear model and hysteresis model is developed to simulate the overall response of the SMA-based seismic restrainer. Besides, the sliding isolator is evaluated using a bilinear force-displacement hysteresis model. Finally, a 60 m span single-layer spherical lattice shell with substructure is modeled with finite element program. Nonlinear time history analyses of the controlled and uncontrolled lattice shell are performed considering multidimensional seismic inputs. The study shows that the seismic response of the controlled lattice shell can be effectively reduced by using isolation and control devices. Furthermore, the seismic response of the isolation system such as peak displacement and residual displacement can be effectively controlled by using the developed SMA spring restrainers.

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Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm Involving the Endometrium and Presenting with Mucinous Vaginal Discharge

Primary appendiceal mucinous lesions are uncommon and represent a spectrum from nonneoplastic mucous retention cysts to invasive adenocarcinoma. Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMNs) represent an intermediate category on this spectrum and can be classified according to whether or not they are confined to the appendix. Although LAMNs are frequently confined to the appendix, they can also spread to the peritoneum and clinically progress as pseudomyxoma peritonei (i.e., mucinous ascites). Thus, the appropriate classification of appendiceal primary neoplasia is essential for prognosis and influences clinical management. In addition, the precise classification, management, and clinical outcome of patients with disseminated peritoneal disease remain controversial. Here, we report an unusual case of LAMN with pseudomyxoma peritonei that initially presented with mucinous and bloody vaginal discharge. Pathological evaluation revealed low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm with secondary involvement of the peritoneum, ovaries, and endometrial surface. Therefore, LAMN should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mucinous vaginal discharge.

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Color-Matching and Blending-Effect of Universal Shade Bulk-Fill-Resin-Composite in Resin-Composite-Models and Natural Teeth

Objectives. To assess visually color-matching and blending-effect (BE) of a universal shade bulk-fill-resin-composite placed in resin-composite-models with different shades and cavity sizes and in natural teeth (extracted and patients’ teeth). Materials and Methods. Resin-composite-discs (10 mm × 1 mm) were prepared of universal shade composite and resin-composite of shades: A1, A2, A3, A3.5, and A4. Spectrophotometric-color-measurement was performed to calculate color-difference () between the universal shade and shaded-resin-composites discs and determine their translucency-parameter (TP). Visual assessment was performed by seven normal-color-vision-observers to determine the color-matching between the universal shade and each shade, under Illuminant D65. Color-matching visual scoring (VS) values were expressed numerically (1–5): 1: mismatch/totally unacceptable, 2: Poor-Match/hardly acceptable, 3: Good-Match/acceptable, 4: Close-Match/small-difference, and 5: Exact-Match/no-color-difference. Occlusal cavities of different sizes were prepared in teeth-like resin-composite-models with shades A1, A2, A3, A3.5, and A4. The cavities were filled by the universal shade composite. The same scale was used to score color-matching between the fillings and composite-models. BE was calculated as difference in mean-visual-scores in models and that of discs. Extracted teeth with two different class I-cavity sizes as well as ten patients’ lower posterior molars with occlusal caries were prepared, filled by universal shade composite, and assessed similarly. Results. In models, the universal shade composite showed close matching in the different cavity sizes and surrounding shades () (BE = 0.6–2.9 in small cavities and 0.5–2.8 in large cavities). In extracted teeth, there was good-to-close color-matching (VS = 3.7–4.4 in small cavities, BE = 2.5–3.2) (VS = 3–3.5, BE = 1.8–2.3 in large cavities). In patients’ molars, the universal shade composite showed good-matching (VS = 3–3.3, BE = −0.9–2.1). Conclusions. Color-matching of universal shade resin-composite was satisfactory rather than perfect in patients’ teeth.

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5.5 lakh head and neck cancer cases every year in India: Experts - The News Minute

The News Minute

5.5 lakh head and neck cancer cases every year in India: Experts The News Minute Quoting the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the experts said approximately eight lakh cases are diagnosed each year, out of which 5.5 lakh cases are of head and neck cancer. "Primarily a lifestyle-related disease, such cancer is highly ... Health experts urge Centre to frame policy on tobacco saleThe Asian Age Chewable tobacco major health threat, needs regulation:DoctorsThe Siasat Daily Huge shortage of trained oncologists in IndiaDeccan Chronicle India Today -New Kerala -Newsx all 18 news articles »

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