Digital vs. analog PET/CT: intra-subject comparison of the SUVmax in target lesions and reference regions

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess whether digital photon counting technology in digital PET/CT influences the quantification of SUVmax in target lesions and regions of reference compared to analog PET/CT before an interchangeable use of either system in follow up studies.

Methods

From January to June of 2018, 100 oncological patients underwent successive PET/CT imaging with digital and analog systems in the same day. Fifty-eight patients underwent analog imaging first and digital imaging thereafter, and 42 patients the other way round. SUVmax was measured in reference regions (liver and mediastinal blood pool) and in the most metabolically active target lesion in each patient. According to the sequence order of PET/CT acquisition, two groups of SUVmax values were obtained, i.e. group 1: analog PET/CT performed first; group 2: digital PET/CT performed first.

Results

Mean SUVmax in the total sample (regardless of the order of PET/CT acquisition) in the target lesions with the analog PET/CT was 8.14 ± 6.39 and the digital 9.97 ± 6.14 (P = 0.000). Total mean SUVmax in the liver with the analog was 4.39 ± 2.59 and the digital 4.46 ± 3.18 (P = 0.477). Total mean SUVmax in the mediastinal blood pool with the analog was 2.30 ± 0.67 and the digital 2.54 ± 0.74 (P = 0.000).

Group 1: mean SUVmax in the target lesions with the analog system was 6.64 ± 4.71 and the digital 9.48 ± 5.60 (P = 0.000). Mean liver SUVmax with the analog was 4.70 ± 2.90 and the digital 4.80 ± 3.72 (P = 0.088). Mediastinal blood pool SUVmax with the analog was 2.33 ± 0.66 and the digital 2.45 ± 0.73 (P = 0.041).

Group 2: mean SUVmax in target lesions with the digital system was 10.63 ± 6.88 and the analog 10.16 ± 7.76 (P = 0.046). Mean liver SUVmax with the digital was 3.99 ± 2.20 and the analog 3.96 ± 2.04 (P = 0.218). Mediastinal blood pool SUVmax with the digital was 2.66 ± 0.75 and the analog 2.27 ± 0.68 (P = 0.000).

No significant differences between both time delays were found.

Conclusions

Improved photon counting technology in the digital PET/CT, and the effect of delayed increased uptake and retention significantly increases SUVmax values. This has to be taken into account before interchangeable use of either system in follow up studies.

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Digital vs. analog PET/CT: intra-subject comparison of the SUVmax in target lesions and reference regions

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess whether digital photon counting technology in digital PET/CT influences the quantification of SUVmax in target lesions and regions of reference compared to analog PET/CT before an interchangeable use of either system in follow up studies.

Methods

From January to June of 2018, 100 oncological patients underwent successive PET/CT imaging with digital and analog systems in the same day. Fifty-eight patients underwent analog imaging first and digital imaging thereafter, and 42 patients the other way round. SUVmax was measured in reference regions (liver and mediastinal blood pool) and in the most metabolically active target lesion in each patient. According to the sequence order of PET/CT acquisition, two groups of SUVmax values were obtained, i.e. group 1: analog PET/CT performed first; group 2: digital PET/CT performed first.

Results

Mean SUVmax in the total sample (regardless of the order of PET/CT acquisition) in the target lesions with the analog PET/CT was 8.14 ± 6.39 and the digital 9.97 ± 6.14 (P = 0.000). Total mean SUVmax in the liver with the analog was 4.39 ± 2.59 and the digital 4.46 ± 3.18 (P = 0.477). Total mean SUVmax in the mediastinal blood pool with the analog was 2.30 ± 0.67 and the digital 2.54 ± 0.74 (P = 0.000).

Group 1: mean SUVmax in the target lesions with the analog system was 6.64 ± 4.71 and the digital 9.48 ± 5.60 (P = 0.000). Mean liver SUVmax with the analog was 4.70 ± 2.90 and the digital 4.80 ± 3.72 (P = 0.088). Mediastinal blood pool SUVmax with the analog was 2.33 ± 0.66 and the digital 2.45 ± 0.73 (P = 0.041).

Group 2: mean SUVmax in target lesions with the digital system was 10.63 ± 6.88 and the analog 10.16 ± 7.76 (P = 0.046). Mean liver SUVmax with the digital was 3.99 ± 2.20 and the analog 3.96 ± 2.04 (P = 0.218). Mediastinal blood pool SUVmax with the digital was 2.66 ± 0.75 and the analog 2.27 ± 0.68 (P = 0.000).

No significant differences between both time delays were found.

Conclusions

Improved photon counting technology in the digital PET/CT, and the effect of delayed increased uptake and retention significantly increases SUVmax values. This has to be taken into account before interchangeable use of either system in follow up studies.

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Improved visualization of peripherally inserted central catheters on chest radiographs of neonates using fractional multiscale image processing

Abstract

Background

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) provide secure intravenous access for the delivery of life-sustaining medications and nutrition. They are commonly used in pediatrics. Confirmation of correct central catheter tip position is crucial. Verification is usually done by a radiograph. The aim of this study is to evaluate the ability of Fractional Multiscale image Processing (FMP) to detect PICC tips on the digital chest radiographs of neonates.

Methods

A total of 94 radiographs of 47 patients were included in the study. 29 patients were male, 18 were female. The mean age of all examined children was 9.2 days (range 0–99 days). In total, six readers (two radiologists, two residents in radiology, one last year medical student, one neonatologist) evaluated 94 unprocessed and catheter-enhanced radiographs using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = poor catheter tip visualization, 5 = excellent catheter tip visualization). Additionally, the two radiologists evaluated the diagnostic confidence for chest pathologies using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = poor diagnostic confidence, 5 = excellent diagnostic confidence). Radiographs were evaluated on a dedicated workstation.

Results

In all cases, the catheter-enhanced radiograph rated higher than (n = 471), or equal (n = 93) to, the unprocessed radiograph when visualizing catheter tips. 87% of the catheter-enhanced radiographs obtained a rating of 4 or higher, while only 42% of unprocessed radiographs received 4 or more points. Regarding diagnostic confidence for chest pathologies one radiologist rated two catheter-enhanced radiographs higher than the unprocessed radiographs, while all other 186 evaluations rated the catheter-enhanced radiographs equal to (n = 78) or lower than (n = 108) the unprocessed radiographs. Only 60% of the catheter-enhanced radiographs yielded a diagnostic confidence of 4 or higher, while 90% of the unprocessed images received 4 or more points.

Conclusion

Catheter-enhanced digital chest radiographs demonstrate improved visualization of low contrast PICC tips in neonates compared to unprocessed radiographs. Furthermore, they enable detection of accompanying chest pathologies. However, definitive diagnosis of chest pathologies should be made on unprocessed radiographs.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2RyVkUt

Improved visualization of peripherally inserted central catheters on chest radiographs of neonates using fractional multiscale image processing

Abstract

Background

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) provide secure intravenous access for the delivery of life-sustaining medications and nutrition. They are commonly used in pediatrics. Confirmation of correct central catheter tip position is crucial. Verification is usually done by a radiograph. The aim of this study is to evaluate the ability of Fractional Multiscale image Processing (FMP) to detect PICC tips on the digital chest radiographs of neonates.

Methods

A total of 94 radiographs of 47 patients were included in the study. 29 patients were male, 18 were female. The mean age of all examined children was 9.2 days (range 0–99 days). In total, six readers (two radiologists, two residents in radiology, one last year medical student, one neonatologist) evaluated 94 unprocessed and catheter-enhanced radiographs using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = poor catheter tip visualization, 5 = excellent catheter tip visualization). Additionally, the two radiologists evaluated the diagnostic confidence for chest pathologies using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = poor diagnostic confidence, 5 = excellent diagnostic confidence). Radiographs were evaluated on a dedicated workstation.

Results

In all cases, the catheter-enhanced radiograph rated higher than (n = 471), or equal (n = 93) to, the unprocessed radiograph when visualizing catheter tips. 87% of the catheter-enhanced radiographs obtained a rating of 4 or higher, while only 42% of unprocessed radiographs received 4 or more points. Regarding diagnostic confidence for chest pathologies one radiologist rated two catheter-enhanced radiographs higher than the unprocessed radiographs, while all other 186 evaluations rated the catheter-enhanced radiographs equal to (n = 78) or lower than (n = 108) the unprocessed radiographs. Only 60% of the catheter-enhanced radiographs yielded a diagnostic confidence of 4 or higher, while 90% of the unprocessed images received 4 or more points.

Conclusion

Catheter-enhanced digital chest radiographs demonstrate improved visualization of low contrast PICC tips in neonates compared to unprocessed radiographs. Furthermore, they enable detection of accompanying chest pathologies. However, definitive diagnosis of chest pathologies should be made on unprocessed radiographs.

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Biodentine TM versus formocresol pulpotomy technique in primary molars: a 12–month randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background

The objective of this clinical study was to prospectively compare the clinical and radiographic success rates of Biodentine^TM pulpotomies versus formocresol pulpotomies in children vital primary molars.

Methods

A randomized, split–mouth study design was used with a sample of 37 healthy children aged 4– to 8–year–old. A total of 56 pairs (112 teeth) of carious primary teeth, 1 pair per child, were selected for treatment. One tooth from each pair was randomly assigned to either the Biodentine^TM pulpotomy group or the formocresol pulpotomy group. Children were followed–up at 3, 6 and 12 months for clinical evaluation and at 6 and 12 months for radiographic evaluation. Data were collected, tabulated and analyzed using Fisher exact and McNemar tests. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

At 12 months, the clinical success rates of both Biodentine^TM and formocresol groups were 100%, while the radiographic success rates for Biodentine^TM and formocresol groups were 100% and 98.1%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between both groups (P=1). The only observed radiographic failure was furcal radiolucency in the formocresol group at 12–month interval. Pulp canal obliteration was radiographically observed in 10/56 (17.9%) and 7/56 (12.5%) cases in the Biodentine^TM and formocresol groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Both Biodentine^TM and formocresol pulpotomy techniques demonstrated favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes over a 12-month period without any significant difference.

Trial registration

Registered on NCT03779698. Date of Registration: 18 December 2018.

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Biodentine TM versus formocresol pulpotomy technique in primary molars: a 12–month randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background

The objective of this clinical study was to prospectively compare the clinical and radiographic success rates of Biodentine^TM pulpotomies versus formocresol pulpotomies in children vital primary molars.

Methods

A randomized, split–mouth study design was used with a sample of 37 healthy children aged 4– to 8–year–old. A total of 56 pairs (112 teeth) of carious primary teeth, 1 pair per child, were selected for treatment. One tooth from each pair was randomly assigned to either the Biodentine^TM pulpotomy group or the formocresol pulpotomy group. Children were followed–up at 3, 6 and 12 months for clinical evaluation and at 6 and 12 months for radiographic evaluation. Data were collected, tabulated and analyzed using Fisher exact and McNemar tests. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

At 12 months, the clinical success rates of both Biodentine^TM and formocresol groups were 100%, while the radiographic success rates for Biodentine^TM and formocresol groups were 100% and 98.1%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between both groups (P=1). The only observed radiographic failure was furcal radiolucency in the formocresol group at 12–month interval. Pulp canal obliteration was radiographically observed in 10/56 (17.9%) and 7/56 (12.5%) cases in the Biodentine^TM and formocresol groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Both Biodentine^TM and formocresol pulpotomy techniques demonstrated favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes over a 12-month period without any significant difference.

Trial registration

Registered on NCT03779698. Date of Registration: 18 December 2018.

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Single versus double suspension sutures for selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea

To compare the results of expansion pharyngoplasty using bilateral single palatal suspension sutures (SSS) versus double suspension sutures (DSS) for the treatment of selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with retropalatal collapse.

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Successful management of recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma in the deep infratemporal fossa by maxillo-orbito-zygomatic approach

In the case of deep invasion of an infratemporal fossa (ITF) tumor, surgeons find it difficult to gain sufficient visualization and working space by conventional surgical approaches. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a novel surgical technique, maxillo-orbito-zygomatic (MOZ) approach, by combining partial lateral maxillectomy with the conventional orbito-zygomatic approach.

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Single versus double suspension sutures for selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea

To compare the results of expansion pharyngoplasty using bilateral single palatal suspension sutures (SSS) versus double suspension sutures (DSS) for the treatment of selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with retropalatal collapse.

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Successful management of recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma in the deep infratemporal fossa by maxillo-orbito-zygomatic approach

In the case of deep invasion of an infratemporal fossa (ITF) tumor, surgeons find it difficult to gain sufficient visualization and working space by conventional surgical approaches. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a novel surgical technique, maxillo-orbito-zygomatic (MOZ) approach, by combining partial lateral maxillectomy with the conventional orbito-zygomatic approach.

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Towards patient-centred communication: an observational study of supervised audiology student-patient hearing assessments

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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Remote microphone systems for preschool-age children who are hard of hearing: access and utilization

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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Cognitive behavioural therapy for tinnitus-related insomnia: evaluating a new treatment approach

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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In-ear and on-body measurements of impulse-noise exposure

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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Implementation and evaluation of a rural community-based pediatric hearing screening program integrating in-person and tele-diagnostic auditory brainstem response (ABR).

CONCLUSIONS: Non-availability of audiologists and limited infrastructure in rural areas has prevented the establishment of large scale hearing screening programs. In existing programs, considerable challenges with respect to follow-up for diagnostic testing was reported, due to patients being submitted to traveling long distance to access services and potential wage losses during that time. In this program model, integration of a tele-ABR diagnostic follow-up improved follow-up in comparison to in-person follow-up. VHWs were successfully trained to conduct accurate screenings in rural communities. The very low refer rate, and improved follow-up rate reflect the success of this community-based hearing screening program. PMID: 30606168 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Rural Remote Health)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2CSqmPh

Towards patient-centred communication: an observational study of supervised audiology student-patient hearing assessments

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2CRtRVV

Remote microphone systems for preschool-age children who are hard of hearing: access and utilization

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Tv9nb2

Cognitive behavioural therapy for tinnitus-related insomnia: evaluating a new treatment approach

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2CUhhWh

In-ear and on-body measurements of impulse-noise exposure

. (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

MedWorm Message: If you are looking to buy something in the January Sales please visit TheJanuarySales.com for a directory of all the best sales in the UK. Any income gained via affiliate links keeps MedWorm running.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Txdvau

Implementation and evaluation of a rural community-based pediatric hearing screening program integrating in-person and tele-diagnostic auditory brainstem response (ABR).

CONCLUSIONS: Non-availability of audiologists and limited infrastructure in rural areas has prevented the establishment of large scale hearing screening programs. In existing programs, considerable challenges with respect to follow-up for diagnostic testing was reported, due to patients being submitted to traveling long distance to access services and potential wage losses during that time. In this program model, integration of a tele-ABR diagnostic follow-up improved follow-up in comparison to in-person follow-up. VHWs were successfully trained to conduct accurate screenings in rural communities. The very low refer rate, and improved follow-up rate reflect the success of this community-based hearing screening program. PMID: 30606168 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Rural Remote Health)

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Living well with a feeding tube

Source: health.usnews.com Author: Lisa Esposito, Staff Writer Nearyly 450,000 Americans with swallowing or digestive problems manage tube feedings – also called […]

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Living well with a feeding tube

Source: health.usnews.com Author: Lisa Esposito, Staff Writer Nearyly 450,000 Americans with swallowing or digestive problems manage tube feedings – also called […]

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Living well with a feeding tube

Source: health.usnews.com Author: Lisa Esposito, Staff Writer Nearyly 450,000 Americans with swallowing or digestive problems manage tube feedings – also called […]

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2FaU9F1

Living well with a feeding tube

Source: health.usnews.com Author: Lisa Esposito, Staff Writer Nearyly 450,000 Americans with swallowing or digestive problems manage tube feedings – also called […]

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2FaU9F1

Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Dupilumab Monotherapy in Pediatric Patients With Peanut Allergy

Condition:   Peanut Allergy Interventions:   Drug: Dupilumab;   Drug: placebo matching dupilumab Sponsor:   Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Exploring Disease Immunogenicity and the Immunological Effects of Hypomethylating Agents in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Condition:   Acute Myeloid Leukemia Intervention:   Genetic: Immunogenic profile Sponsor:   Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la cura dei Tumori Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Clinical and Immunological Long-term Follow-up of Patients With Pemphigus Included in the " RITUXIMAB 3 " Trial

Condition:   Autoimmune Diseases Interventions:   Drug: Rituximab;   Drug: corticosteroids'therapy Sponsor:   University Hospital, Rouen Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Intestinal Microbiota on Allergy, Growth and Development

Condition:   Pregnancy Intervention:   Sponsor:   Chinese University of Hong Kong Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Multiple Drug Hypersensitivity Syndrome

Condition:   Drug Allergy Intervention:   Sponsor:   University Hospital, Montpellier Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Dose, Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of an HIV-1 Vaccine, VRC-HIVRGP096-00-VP, With Alum in Healthy Adults < TAB >

Condition:   Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Intervention:   Biological: VRC-HIVRGP096-00-VP Sponsor:   National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Prevalence and Incidence of Lassa Virus Infection in Southern Mali

Condition:   Lassa Virus Infection Intervention:   Sponsor:   National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Dupilumab Monotherapy in Pediatric Patients With Peanut Allergy

Condition:   Peanut Allergy Interventions:   Drug: Dupilumab;   Drug: placebo matching dupilumab Sponsor:   Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Exploring Disease Immunogenicity and the Immunological Effects of Hypomethylating Agents in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Condition:   Acute Myeloid Leukemia Intervention:   Genetic: Immunogenic profile Sponsor:   Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la cura dei Tumori Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Clinical and Immunological Long-term Follow-up of Patients With Pemphigus Included in the " RITUXIMAB 3 " Trial

Condition:   Autoimmune Diseases Interventions:   Drug: Rituximab;   Drug: corticosteroids'therapy Sponsor:   University Hospital, Rouen Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Intestinal Microbiota on Allergy, Growth and Development

Condition:   Pregnancy Intervention:   Sponsor:   Chinese University of Hong Kong Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C8Pqjc

Multiple Drug Hypersensitivity Syndrome

Condition:   Drug Allergy Intervention:   Sponsor:   University Hospital, Montpellier Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Dose, Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of an HIV-1 Vaccine, VRC-HIVRGP096-00-VP, With Alum in Healthy Adults < TAB >

Condition:   Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Intervention:   Biological: VRC-HIVRGP096-00-VP Sponsor:   National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Prevalence and Incidence of Lassa Virus Infection in Southern Mali

Condition:   Lassa Virus Infection Intervention:   Sponsor:   National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Medical News Today: How common are food allergies, really?

Millions of adults in the United States believe that they have a food allergy, but new research suggests that only around half of them actually do. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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19% Of Adults Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

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Medical News Today: How common are food allergies, really?

Millions of adults in the United States believe that they have a food allergy, but new research suggests that only around half of them actually do. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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19% Of Adults Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C7WYmC

Medical News Today: How common are food allergies, really?

Millions of adults in the United States believe that they have a food allergy, but new research suggests that only around half of them actually do. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2TyF2IQ

19% Of Adults Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C7WYmC

Medical News Today: How common are food allergies, really?

Millions of adults in the United States believe that they have a food allergy, but new research suggests that only around half of them actually do. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2TyF2IQ

19% Of Adults Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C7WYmC

Clinical investigation of gustatory and neurosensory alterations following mandibular third molar surgery: an observational prospective study

Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to prospectively observe gustatory and neurosensory alterations following surgical removal of mandibular third molars.

Material and methods

A prospective clinical study was conducted with patients who required mandibular third molar extraction, recruited from the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Federal University of Ceará (Brazil). Age, sex, and radiographic signs were recorded. The outcome variables were the presence or absence of gustatory and neurosensory alterations. The patients were observed preoperatively and at 7, 30, 90, and 180 days postoperatively by using gustatory and neurosensory tests.

Results

The response to sweet (p = 0.509) and sour (p = 0.078) stimulus did not alter significantly over time. The salty threshold significantly increased from the preoperative to 7- and 30-day postoperative periods, returning to baseline values at 90 days postoperatively (p = 0.038). The bitter threshold increased significantly from the preoperative to 7-day postoperative period, returning to baseline values at 30 days after surgery (p < 0.001). Regarding neurosensory evaluation, there was an altered response to stimulus at 7 days postoperatively in specific studied areas, returning to baseline values 30 days after surgery (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The present study shows that mandibular third molar removal was associated with slight sensory disturbances related to mechanical, tactile, and gustatory perception. Regarding the recovery period, all patients returned to normal function without intervention, over a period ranging from 30 to 90 days.

Clinical relevance

This study highlighted the importance of a sensory evaluation following removal of third molars, notably regarding mechanical perception and gustatory threshold assessment.

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Clinical investigation of gustatory and neurosensory alterations following mandibular third molar surgery: an observational prospective study

Abstract

Objective

This study aimed to prospectively observe gustatory and neurosensory alterations following surgical removal of mandibular third molars.

Material and methods

A prospective clinical study was conducted with patients who required mandibular third molar extraction, recruited from the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Federal University of Ceará (Brazil). Age, sex, and radiographic signs were recorded. The outcome variables were the presence or absence of gustatory and neurosensory alterations. The patients were observed preoperatively and at 7, 30, 90, and 180 days postoperatively by using gustatory and neurosensory tests.

Results

The response to sweet (p = 0.509) and sour (p = 0.078) stimulus did not alter significantly over time. The salty threshold significantly increased from the preoperative to 7- and 30-day postoperative periods, returning to baseline values at 90 days postoperatively (p = 0.038). The bitter threshold increased significantly from the preoperative to 7-day postoperative period, returning to baseline values at 30 days after surgery (p < 0.001). Regarding neurosensory evaluation, there was an altered response to stimulus at 7 days postoperatively in specific studied areas, returning to baseline values 30 days after surgery (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The present study shows that mandibular third molar removal was associated with slight sensory disturbances related to mechanical, tactile, and gustatory perception. Regarding the recovery period, all patients returned to normal function without intervention, over a period ranging from 30 to 90 days.

Clinical relevance

This study highlighted the importance of a sensory evaluation following removal of third molars, notably regarding mechanical perception and gustatory threshold assessment.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Azi4dA

High resolution MRI of nail tumors and tumor-like conditions

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: European Journal of Radiology

Author(s): Pravin Mundada, Minerva Becker, Vincent Lenoir, Salvatore Stefanelli, Anne-Laure Rougemont, Jean Yves Beaulieu, Sana Boudabbous

Abstract

Although the nail is a small anatomical structure, it can be affected by various tumors and tumor-like conditions. Because of the distinctive nail anatomy, the clinical presentation of tumors is modified, thus rendering the diagnosis challenging. As nail biopsy and surgery are painful procedures associated with an increased risk of permanent onychodystrophy, pre-operative diagnosis is desirable. Although conventional radiographs are still the first-line radiologic examination for the assessment of bony structures beneath the nail matrix, they do not allow detailed evaluation of the phalangeal soft tissues. High resolution MRI allows accurate detection and mapping of nail lesions and can suggest a specific diagnosis. This review focuses on high resolution MRI of nail tumors and tumor-like lesions. We review the nail anatomy and the optimal MRI protocol. We then discuss a variety of tumors and tumor-like lesions in relation to the clinical presentation, anatomic location, histological features and imaging characteristics. We herewith describe common benign tumors (glomus tumor, onychomatricoma, keratoakanthoma, fibroma, subungual exostosis, hemangioma, chondroma, pyogenic granuloma), malignant tumors (subungual melanoma, subungual squamous cell carcinoma), as well as tumor mimics (mucoid cyst, epidermoid cyst). Although not entirely specific, MRI is a valuable tool in treatment planning of these tumors.

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Wide-neck aneurysms: which technique should we use?

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High resolution MRI of nail tumors and tumor-like conditions

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: European Journal of Radiology

Author(s): Pravin Mundada, Minerva Becker, Vincent Lenoir, Salvatore Stefanelli, Anne-Laure Rougemont, Jean Yves Beaulieu, Sana Boudabbous

Abstract

Although the nail is a small anatomical structure, it can be affected by various tumors and tumor-like conditions. Because of the distinctive nail anatomy, the clinical presentation of tumors is modified, thus rendering the diagnosis challenging. As nail biopsy and surgery are painful procedures associated with an increased risk of permanent onychodystrophy, pre-operative diagnosis is desirable. Although conventional radiographs are still the first-line radiologic examination for the assessment of bony structures beneath the nail matrix, they do not allow detailed evaluation of the phalangeal soft tissues. High resolution MRI allows accurate detection and mapping of nail lesions and can suggest a specific diagnosis. This review focuses on high resolution MRI of nail tumors and tumor-like lesions. We review the nail anatomy and the optimal MRI protocol. We then discuss a variety of tumors and tumor-like lesions in relation to the clinical presentation, anatomic location, histological features and imaging characteristics. We herewith describe common benign tumors (glomus tumor, onychomatricoma, keratoakanthoma, fibroma, subungual exostosis, hemangioma, chondroma, pyogenic granuloma), malignant tumors (subungual melanoma, subungual squamous cell carcinoma), as well as tumor mimics (mucoid cyst, epidermoid cyst). Although not entirely specific, MRI is a valuable tool in treatment planning of these tumors.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2RwHHFC

Wide-neck aneurysms: which technique should we use?

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Cross-linguistic Influences on Sentence Accent Detection in Background Noise.

Authors: Scharenborg O, Kakouros S, Post B, Meunier F Abstract This paper investigates whether sentence accent detection in a non-native language is dependent on (relative) similarity between prosodic cues to accent between the non-native and the native language, and whether cross-linguistic differences in the use of local and more widely distributed (i.e., non-local) cues to sentence accent detection lead to differential effects of the presence of background noise on sentence accent detection in a non-native language. We compared Dutch, Finnish, and French non-native listeners of English, whose cueing and use of prosodic prominence is gradually further removed from English, and compared their results on a phoneme monitoring task in different levels of noise and a quiet condition t...

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2AxAY4l

Cross-linguistic Influences on Sentence Accent Detection in Background Noise.

Authors: Scharenborg O, Kakouros S, Post B, Meunier F Abstract This paper investigates whether sentence accent detection in a non-native language is dependent on (relative) similarity between prosodic cues to accent between the non-native and the native language, and whether cross-linguistic differences in the use of local and more widely distributed (i.e., non-local) cues to sentence accent detection lead to differential effects of the presence of background noise on sentence accent detection in a non-native language. We compared Dutch, Finnish, and French non-native listeners of English, whose cueing and use of prosodic prominence is gradually further removed from English, and compared their results on a phoneme monitoring task in different levels of noise and a quiet condition t...

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Imaging of central lymphatic abnormalities in Noonan syndrome

Abstract

Background

Children with Noonan syndrome are known to have increased risk for lymphatic disorders, the extent and nature of which are poorly understood.

Objective

Our objective was to describe the imaging findings of the central lymphatic abnormalities in children with Noonan syndrome who underwent central lymphatic imaging.

Materials and methods

We conducted a single-center retrospective review of all children with a confirmed history of Noonan syndrome who presented for lymphatic imaging over a 5-year period. Imaging evaluation was performed on unenhanced T2-weighted (T2-W) imaging, dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography or conventional lymphangiography. Two readers evaluated the imaging in consensus for the distribution of fluid on T2-W imaging and for lymphatic flow of intranodal contrast agent and thoracic duct abnormalities on dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography and conventional lymphangiography. We performed a chart review for clinical history and outcomes.

Results

We identified a total of 10 children, all but one of whom had congenital heart disease. Presenting symptoms included chylothorax (n=9) and ascites (n=1). Nine had T2-W imaging, seven had dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography, and seven had conventional lymphangiography. All with T2-W imaging had pleural effusions. On both dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography and conventional lymphangiography, perfusion to the lung was seen (n=6), with intercostal flow also seen on dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography (n=6). The thoracic duct was not present in three children and the central thoracic duct was not present in three. A double thoracic duct was seen in two children.

Conclusion

Children with Noonan syndrome and clinical evidence of lymphatic dysfunction have central lymphatic abnormalities characterized by retrograde intercostal flow, pulmonary lymphatic perfusion, and thoracic duct abnormalities.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Vzdjcz

Imaging of central lymphatic abnormalities in Noonan syndrome

Abstract

Background

Children with Noonan syndrome are known to have increased risk for lymphatic disorders, the extent and nature of which are poorly understood.

Objective

Our objective was to describe the imaging findings of the central lymphatic abnormalities in children with Noonan syndrome who underwent central lymphatic imaging.

Materials and methods

We conducted a single-center retrospective review of all children with a confirmed history of Noonan syndrome who presented for lymphatic imaging over a 5-year period. Imaging evaluation was performed on unenhanced T2-weighted (T2-W) imaging, dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography or conventional lymphangiography. Two readers evaluated the imaging in consensus for the distribution of fluid on T2-W imaging and for lymphatic flow of intranodal contrast agent and thoracic duct abnormalities on dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography and conventional lymphangiography. We performed a chart review for clinical history and outcomes.

Results

We identified a total of 10 children, all but one of whom had congenital heart disease. Presenting symptoms included chylothorax (n=9) and ascites (n=1). Nine had T2-W imaging, seven had dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography, and seven had conventional lymphangiography. All with T2-W imaging had pleural effusions. On both dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography and conventional lymphangiography, perfusion to the lung was seen (n=6), with intercostal flow also seen on dynamic-contrast MR lymphangiography (n=6). The thoracic duct was not present in three children and the central thoracic duct was not present in three. A double thoracic duct was seen in two children.

Conclusion

Children with Noonan syndrome and clinical evidence of lymphatic dysfunction have central lymphatic abnormalities characterized by retrograde intercostal flow, pulmonary lymphatic perfusion, and thoracic duct abnormalities.

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Ethno-survey of Traditional Use of Plants as Aphrodisiacs in Kashmir Himalaya, India

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Journal of Herbal Medicine

Author(s): Aijaz Hassan Ganie, Bilal A. Tali, Gowhar. A. Shapoo, Irshad A. Nawchoo, Anzar A. Khuroo

Abstract

Documenting traditional use of biodiversity has assumed priority in conservation and sustainable use of this precious knowledge base. Of the various traditional uses of biodiversity, the utilization of plants to treat sexual disorders has a long history. Thus, the present study was carried out to survey and document the traditional use of plant species as aphrodisiacs in Kashmir Himalaya, India. It was discovered that 78 plant species growing in this Himalayan region have been attributed aphrodisiac properties. For each species, the present study provides the scientific name, voucher number, vernacular name, English name, family, life-form, plant part used, medicinal use, method of preparation and dosage. The paper also highlights the crucial role of baseline information gathered during the present study, which can prove helpful for the development of new aphrodisiac formulations and sustainable use of this plant wealth in this biodiversity-rich Himalayan region.

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Materia medica chests: investigating the 19th century use of botanicals by different medical professions

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Journal of Herbal Medicine

Author(s): Marion Mackonochie, Michael Heinrich

Abstract

The use of herbal substances was an element of everyday medicine until the advent of synthetic medicines from the late 19th Century onwards. Medicinal chests were used as teaching and examination tools for apothecaries and pharmacists. The contents of two 19th Century materia medica chests that are owned by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries in London (LSA) were analysed and compared with written texts from the time in order to understand botanical drug knowledge in 19th Century Britain. The samples in the chests and any associated information was documented and analysed.

The pharmacists' examination chest contained 84 botanical drug samples, while 94 botanical drugs could be identified in the apothecaries' chest; 45 of these were present in both chests. Minimal changes in herb use over the 19th Century and limited variation of the botanical drugs used by different medical professionals were found. There are some differences in respect to the therapeutic areas which were of importance - the pharmacists' chest contained some potent purgatives and toxic drugs, while botanical drugs unique to the apothecaries' chest were gentle digestives and tonic herbs. Comparison of the chest contents with texts from the 19th Century has indicated that no single historical source provides a complete picture of botanical drug use at the time.

This is a pilot study highlighting the potential of such chests in research on the history of European herbal medicine, and a more systematic study including research on the botanical drugs' chemical composition and authenticity is warranted.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C1Krkj

Ethno-survey of Traditional Use of Plants as Aphrodisiacs in Kashmir Himalaya, India

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Journal of Herbal Medicine

Author(s): Aijaz Hassan Ganie, Bilal A. Tali, Gowhar. A. Shapoo, Irshad A. Nawchoo, Anzar A. Khuroo

Abstract

Documenting traditional use of biodiversity has assumed priority in conservation and sustainable use of this precious knowledge base. Of the various traditional uses of biodiversity, the utilization of plants to treat sexual disorders has a long history. Thus, the present study was carried out to survey and document the traditional use of plant species as aphrodisiacs in Kashmir Himalaya, India. It was discovered that 78 plant species growing in this Himalayan region have been attributed aphrodisiac properties. For each species, the present study provides the scientific name, voucher number, vernacular name, English name, family, life-form, plant part used, medicinal use, method of preparation and dosage. The paper also highlights the crucial role of baseline information gathered during the present study, which can prove helpful for the development of new aphrodisiac formulations and sustainable use of this plant wealth in this biodiversity-rich Himalayan region.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2R8WDu5

Materia medica chests: investigating the 19th century use of botanicals by different medical professions

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Journal of Herbal Medicine

Author(s): Marion Mackonochie, Michael Heinrich

Abstract

The use of herbal substances was an element of everyday medicine until the advent of synthetic medicines from the late 19th Century onwards. Medicinal chests were used as teaching and examination tools for apothecaries and pharmacists. The contents of two 19th Century materia medica chests that are owned by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries in London (LSA) were analysed and compared with written texts from the time in order to understand botanical drug knowledge in 19th Century Britain. The samples in the chests and any associated information was documented and analysed.

The pharmacists' examination chest contained 84 botanical drug samples, while 94 botanical drugs could be identified in the apothecaries' chest; 45 of these were present in both chests. Minimal changes in herb use over the 19th Century and limited variation of the botanical drugs used by different medical professionals were found. There are some differences in respect to the therapeutic areas which were of importance - the pharmacists' chest contained some potent purgatives and toxic drugs, while botanical drugs unique to the apothecaries' chest were gentle digestives and tonic herbs. Comparison of the chest contents with texts from the 19th Century has indicated that no single historical source provides a complete picture of botanical drug use at the time.

This is a pilot study highlighting the potential of such chests in research on the history of European herbal medicine, and a more systematic study including research on the botanical drugs' chemical composition and authenticity is warranted.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C1Krkj

Regional measurements of radio-density in the right atrium do not show differences between salt-water or fresh-water drowned or control decedents.

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Journal of Forensic Radiology and Imaging

Author(s): Chetan Julka, Richard Bassed, Matthew Dimmock, Michael Farrell, Chris O Donnell, Linda Iles

Abstract

Purpose

To determine whether the use of post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) measurements of blood radio-density within the right atrium could differentiate decedents grouped according to cause of death as controls, fresh-water or salt-water drowning.

Methods

PMCT images from drowning cases comprising fresh-water (n = 34) and salt-water (n = 30) incidents and also controls (n = 48) were selected from a forensic database. Four regions of interest (ROIs) were placed within the right atrium of the heart using a standardised procedure that accounted for sedimentation effects. Statistical analysis was undertaken using a two-way random effect inter-class correlation (ICC) test set for absolute agreement and then a repeated measures ANOVA test.

Results

ICC tests demonstrated very good agreement for the readings for all ROIs (ICC ≥ .90). A statistically significant sedimentation effect was observed across the anterior middle and posterior regions of the right atrium (F(2,218) = 212, p < .001). There was no significant effect of Group (F(2,109) = .481, p = .620), nor was there a significant interaction between group and Region (F(4,218) = 2.09, p = .083).

Conclusions

Aspiration of fluid while drowning may cause changes in blood concentration. Blood concentration is measured using radio-density on PMCT images. PMCT radio-density data extracted from regional ROIs demonstrates the presence of the sedimentation effect but is not supportive of classification of drowning. There was good agreement between readers in the performance of this task.

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Food allergies reported by a 'high' rate of U.S. adults

Nearly half of adults with a food allergy developed it during adulthood, researchers say. (Source: CBC | Health)

MedWorm Message: Have you tried our new medical search engine? More powerful than before. Log on with your social media account. 100% free.

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Not getting high with a little help from your friends: Social versus drug network correlates of marijuana use among YMSM

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): Patrick Janulis, Michelle Birkett, Gregory Phillips II, Brian Mustanski

Abstract

Substantial evidence has documented the importance of social connections in shaping health and drug use behaviors among adolescents and young adults. The current study extends previous research into the associations between network characteristics and drug use behavior among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) by 1) examining multiple network characteristics, 2) simultaneously assessing multiple network types (i.e., social and drug use), and 3) examining change in network characteristics and drug use behavior over time. Data for the current study comes from RADAR, a longitudinal cohort study of YMSM. Latent growth curve models examined the change in frequency of marijuana use across four observations and individual and network correlates of this change including: demographics, drug network size, drug network density, social network size, and social network density. Baseline frequency of marijuana use was positively associated with drug network size and density, while it was inversely related to social network size and density. In addition, increasing frequency of marijuana use was associated with increases in drug network size and density, while it was associated with decreases in social network size. These findings highlight the complexity of multiple network types (e.g., drug and social) and network structures (e.g., size and density) in understanding drug use behavior among YMSM. Furthermore, as changes in drug and social networks may be indicative of changes in marijuana use, peer relationships may be especially important in understanding an individual's trajectories of marijuana use.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Ty2RjX

Regional measurements of radio-density in the right atrium do not show differences between salt-water or fresh-water drowned or control decedents.

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Journal of Forensic Radiology and Imaging

Author(s): Chetan Julka, Richard Bassed, Matthew Dimmock, Michael Farrell, Chris O Donnell, Linda Iles

Abstract

Purpose

To determine whether the use of post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) measurements of blood radio-density within the right atrium could differentiate decedents grouped according to cause of death as controls, fresh-water or salt-water drowning.

Methods

PMCT images from drowning cases comprising fresh-water (n = 34) and salt-water (n = 30) incidents and also controls (n = 48) were selected from a forensic database. Four regions of interest (ROIs) were placed within the right atrium of the heart using a standardised procedure that accounted for sedimentation effects. Statistical analysis was undertaken using a two-way random effect inter-class correlation (ICC) test set for absolute agreement and then a repeated measures ANOVA test.

Results

ICC tests demonstrated very good agreement for the readings for all ROIs (ICC ≥ .90). A statistically significant sedimentation effect was observed across the anterior middle and posterior regions of the right atrium (F(2,218) = 212, p < .001). There was no significant effect of Group (F(2,109) = .481, p = .620), nor was there a significant interaction between group and Region (F(4,218) = 2.09, p = .083).

Conclusions

Aspiration of fluid while drowning may cause changes in blood concentration. Blood concentration is measured using radio-density on PMCT images. PMCT radio-density data extracted from regional ROIs demonstrates the presence of the sedimentation effect but is not supportive of classification of drowning. There was good agreement between readers in the performance of this task.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2SA3CIZ

Food allergies reported by a 'high' rate of U.S. adults

Nearly half of adults with a food allergy developed it during adulthood, researchers say. (Source: CBC | Health)

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from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2AA9viv

Not getting high with a little help from your friends: Social versus drug network correlates of marijuana use among YMSM

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): Patrick Janulis, Michelle Birkett, Gregory Phillips II, Brian Mustanski

Abstract

Substantial evidence has documented the importance of social connections in shaping health and drug use behaviors among adolescents and young adults. The current study extends previous research into the associations between network characteristics and drug use behavior among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) by 1) examining multiple network characteristics, 2) simultaneously assessing multiple network types (i.e., social and drug use), and 3) examining change in network characteristics and drug use behavior over time. Data for the current study comes from RADAR, a longitudinal cohort study of YMSM. Latent growth curve models examined the change in frequency of marijuana use across four observations and individual and network correlates of this change including: demographics, drug network size, drug network density, social network size, and social network density. Baseline frequency of marijuana use was positively associated with drug network size and density, while it was inversely related to social network size and density. In addition, increasing frequency of marijuana use was associated with increases in drug network size and density, while it was associated with decreases in social network size. These findings highlight the complexity of multiple network types (e.g., drug and social) and network structures (e.g., size and density) in understanding drug use behavior among YMSM. Furthermore, as changes in drug and social networks may be indicative of changes in marijuana use, peer relationships may be especially important in understanding an individual's trajectories of marijuana use.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2Ty2RjX

Successful management of recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma in the deep infratemporal fossa by maxillo-orbito-zygomatic approach

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Auris Nasus Larynx

Author(s): Takahiro Hongo, Junichi Fukushima, Yoshinori Uchida, Fumihide Rikimaru, Satoshi Toh, Yuichiro Higaki, Muneyuki Masuda

Abstract

Objective

In the case of deep invasion of an infratemporal fossa (ITF) tumor, surgeons find it difficult to gain sufficient visualization and working space by conventional surgical approaches. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a novel surgical technique, maxillo-orbito-zygomatic (MOZ) approach, by combining partial lateral maxillectomy with the conventional orbito-zygomatic approach.

Methods

A 63-year-old male presented with the fifth recurrent adenoid-cystic carcinoma in the right deep ITF. Using a Weber–Ferguson-type incision and partial dismasking, we elevated the skin and scalp flap, while preserving the facial nerve and orbicularis oculi muscle intact in the flap. Then, we performed MOZ osteotomy using three cut lines, the zygomatic arch, the frontozygomatic suture, and from the inferior orbital fissure to the anterolateral wall of the maxilla. Following this, we temporarily elevated the bone flap by partially opening the lateral maxillary sinus. We obtained an excellent surgical view of the ITF, middle skull base, and pterygopalatine fossa with this technique, which facilitated the safe removal of the tumor.

Results

The postoperative course remained almost uneventful, and we obtained favorable cosmetic results.

Conclusions

Our novel MOZ approach could be a robust approach to remove deep ITF tumors.

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Single versus double suspension sutures for selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Auris Nasus Larynx

Author(s): Mohammad Waheed El-Anwar, Sherif Askar, Amr Hassan El-Sinbawy, Ahmed Mohamed Hassan Salem

Abstract

Objective

To compare the results of expansion pharyngoplasty using bilateral single palatal suspension sutures (SSS) versus double suspension sutures (DSS) for the treatment of selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with retropalatal collapse.

Methods

Patients were randomly categorized into two groups: the first group for whom bilateral SSS were performed and a second group for whom bilateral DSS were done. Snoring on the basis of the visual analog scale (VAS), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), apnea hypopnea index (AHI), lowest O₂ saturation were assessed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively in all patients.

Results

DSS provided significantly more retroplatal space (p = 0.0137) and less snoring score (p = 0.0005). While no significance difference between SSS and DSS as regard inter pillar distance (p = 0.0985), AHI (p = 0.1677), ESS (p = 0.4094), and lowest O₂ saturation (p = 0.0839).

Conclusion

Both SSS and DSS are simple, rapid, bloodless and effective procedures for treating OSA (in patients with retropalatal collapse) with no temporary or persistent postoperative complications. Adding the second suture in DSS could significantly enlarge more retropalatal space and reduce more snoring scale than SSS.

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Food allergies reported by a 'high' rate of U.S. adults

Nearly half of adults with a food allergy developed it during adulthood, researchers say. (Source: CBC | Health)

MedWorm Message: Have you tried our new medical search engine? More powerful than before. Log on with your social media account. 100% free.

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Study: 19% Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

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Successful management of recurrent adenoid cystic carcinoma in the deep infratemporal fossa by maxillo-orbito-zygomatic approach

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Auris Nasus Larynx

Author(s): Takahiro Hongo, Junichi Fukushima, Yoshinori Uchida, Fumihide Rikimaru, Satoshi Toh, Yuichiro Higaki, Muneyuki Masuda

Abstract

Objective

In the case of deep invasion of an infratemporal fossa (ITF) tumor, surgeons find it difficult to gain sufficient visualization and working space by conventional surgical approaches. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a novel surgical technique, maxillo-orbito-zygomatic (MOZ) approach, by combining partial lateral maxillectomy with the conventional orbito-zygomatic approach.

Methods

A 63-year-old male presented with the fifth recurrent adenoid-cystic carcinoma in the right deep ITF. Using a Weber–Ferguson-type incision and partial dismasking, we elevated the skin and scalp flap, while preserving the facial nerve and orbicularis oculi muscle intact in the flap. Then, we performed MOZ osteotomy using three cut lines, the zygomatic arch, the frontozygomatic suture, and from the inferior orbital fissure to the anterolateral wall of the maxilla. Following this, we temporarily elevated the bone flap by partially opening the lateral maxillary sinus. We obtained an excellent surgical view of the ITF, middle skull base, and pterygopalatine fossa with this technique, which facilitated the safe removal of the tumor.

Results

The postoperative course remained almost uneventful, and we obtained favorable cosmetic results.

Conclusions

Our novel MOZ approach could be a robust approach to remove deep ITF tumors.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2AHy3X9

Single versus double suspension sutures for selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: Auris Nasus Larynx

Author(s): Mohammad Waheed El-Anwar, Sherif Askar, Amr Hassan El-Sinbawy, Ahmed Mohamed Hassan Salem

Abstract

Objective

To compare the results of expansion pharyngoplasty using bilateral single palatal suspension sutures (SSS) versus double suspension sutures (DSS) for the treatment of selected cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with retropalatal collapse.

Methods

Patients were randomly categorized into two groups: the first group for whom bilateral SSS were performed and a second group for whom bilateral DSS were done. Snoring on the basis of the visual analog scale (VAS), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), apnea hypopnea index (AHI), lowest O₂ saturation were assessed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively in all patients.

Results

DSS provided significantly more retroplatal space (p = 0.0137) and less snoring score (p = 0.0005). While no significance difference between SSS and DSS as regard inter pillar distance (p = 0.0985), AHI (p = 0.1677), ESS (p = 0.4094), and lowest O₂ saturation (p = 0.0839).

Conclusion

Both SSS and DSS are simple, rapid, bloodless and effective procedures for treating OSA (in patients with retropalatal collapse) with no temporary or persistent postoperative complications. Adding the second suture in DSS could significantly enlarge more retropalatal space and reduce more snoring scale than SSS.

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Food allergies reported by a 'high' rate of U.S. adults

Nearly half of adults with a food allergy developed it during adulthood, researchers say. (Source: CBC | Health)

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Study: 19% Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

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Safety of Long-Acting Beta-Agonists in Asthma

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice

Author(s): Samantha M. Knox, Brian C. Schroer

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Safety of Long-Acting Beta-Agonists in Asthma

Publication date: Available online 6 January 2019

Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice

Author(s): Samantha M. Knox, Brian C. Schroer

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Modifications in the gamma dose rate in air due to downward and lateral mobility of 137Cs in the soil

Publication date: March 2019

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 198

Author(s): H. Velasco

Abstract

¹³⁷Cs can be an important environmental contaminant due to fallout from nuclear reactor accidents and atomic weapons testing. Its contribution to the air gamma dose rate at 1 m height above contaminated ground depends on the soil inventory, the migration processes along the soil profile and possible modifications in the spatial distribution. In this paper the diffusion-convection equation is used to approach the ¹³⁷Cs soil vertical migration transport and standard dose rate factors are jointly applied for estimating the air dose rate. In order to calculate the temporal reduction of the external radiation, an empirical attenuation factor is used and its coefficients are analyzed in terms of the effective diffusion coefficient and downward migration rates. Additionally, it is analyze the corrections that should be introduced in dose rate values attributable to soil redistribution processes. If these processes, natural or as a consequence of human activities, are not taken into account, both the air dose rate values and the attenuation period can be noticeably under or overestimated.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C2awQq

Modifications in the gamma dose rate in air due to downward and lateral mobility of 137Cs in the soil

Publication date: March 2019

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 198

Author(s): H. Velasco

Abstract

¹³⁷Cs can be an important environmental contaminant due to fallout from nuclear reactor accidents and atomic weapons testing. Its contribution to the air gamma dose rate at 1 m height above contaminated ground depends on the soil inventory, the migration processes along the soil profile and possible modifications in the spatial distribution. In this paper the diffusion-convection equation is used to approach the ¹³⁷Cs soil vertical migration transport and standard dose rate factors are jointly applied for estimating the air dose rate. In order to calculate the temporal reduction of the external radiation, an empirical attenuation factor is used and its coefficients are analyzed in terms of the effective diffusion coefficient and downward migration rates. Additionally, it is analyze the corrections that should be introduced in dose rate values attributable to soil redistribution processes. If these processes, natural or as a consequence of human activities, are not taken into account, both the air dose rate values and the attenuation period can be noticeably under or overestimated.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2C2awQq

When Are Children Flourishing? How Do We Find Out?

No abstract available

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When Are Children Flourishing? How Do We Find Out?

No abstract available

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Study: 19% Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

MedWorm Message: Have you tried our new medical search engine? More powerful than before. Log on with your social media account. 100% free.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2CRt5Iy

Study: 19% Think They Have Food Allergies, How Many Really Do?

Food allergies remain very misunderstood and potentially " misunderestimated " and " misoverestimated " at the same time. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

MedWorm Message: Have you tried our new medical search engine? More powerful than before. Log on with your social media account. 100% free.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader http://bit.ly/2CRt5Iy