Molecular Profiling Can ID Cancer Risk in Thyroid Lesions

Molecular Profiling Can ID Cancer Risk in Thyroid Lesions  MedPage TodayFull coverage

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Molecular Profiling Can ID Cancer Risk in Thyroid Lesions

Molecular Profiling Can ID Cancer Risk in Thyroid Lesions  MedPage TodayFull coverage

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With help from family, veteran shares his story

With help from family, veteran shares his story  Chattanooga Times Free PressFull coverage

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Global Head and Neck Cancer Diagnostics Market Forecast by 2023: Top Companies, Growth Factors, Classification ...

Global Head and Neck Cancer Diagnostics Market Forecast by 2023: Top Companies, Growth Factors, Classification ...  The K MinuteFull coverage

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Obesity Not Associated With Worse Outcomes in Thyroid Cancer

Obesity Not Associated With Worse Outcomes in Thyroid Cancer  Endocrinology AdvisorFull coverage

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With help from family, veteran shares his story

With help from family, veteran shares his story  Chattanooga Times Free PressFull coverage

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Global Head and Neck Cancer Diagnostics Market Forecast by 2023: Top Companies, Growth Factors, Classification ...

Global Head and Neck Cancer Diagnostics Market Forecast by 2023: Top Companies, Growth Factors, Classification ...  The K MinuteFull coverage

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Obesity Not Associated With Worse Outcomes in Thyroid Cancer

Obesity Not Associated With Worse Outcomes in Thyroid Cancer  Endocrinology AdvisorFull coverage

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Etomidate in neuroanesthesia for aneurysmal clipping in child with confirmed allergies to general anesthetics.

Conclusion: Etomidate may be a choice for neuroanesthesia in specific group of people. We have good experience with our algorithm for continuous infusion of etomidate, with serum cortisol values in the reference range, if corticosteroids were not given before the surgery. Administration of metilprednisolon may diminish influence of perioperative stress on cortisol synthesis inhibition. PMID: 30386670 [PubMed] (Source: Surgical Neurology International)

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Etomidate in neuroanesthesia for aneurysmal clipping in child with confirmed allergies to general anesthetics.

Conclusion: Etomidate may be a choice for neuroanesthesia in specific group of people. We have good experience with our algorithm for continuous infusion of etomidate, with serum cortisol values in the reference range, if corticosteroids were not given before the surgery. Administration of metilprednisolon may diminish influence of perioperative stress on cortisol synthesis inhibition. PMID: 30386670 [PubMed] (Source: Surgical Neurology International)

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Effect of Progesterone on Expression of MMP7 and MMP13 in Lungs of Female Mice

Gender medicine is a new era of science which focuses on the impact of sex hormones and gender on normal physiology, pathobiology and clinical features of diseases. In this study we investigated the impact of pregnancy doses of progesterone hormone on the expression of a couple of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), which are known to be involved in tissue remodeling of lungs in health and disease, namely MMP7 and 13. Pregnancy maintenance dose of progesterone was administered to female BALB/c mice for 21 and 28 days, the control group received PBS for the same days. After removal of the lungs and RNA extraction, quantitative real-time PCR was done using specific primers for MMP7 and MMP13. We found that progesterone can slightly (not significantly) decrease the expression of MMP13 but had no effect on MMP7. Our results shows that progesterone has minimal effect on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase7 and matrix metalloproteinase 13, but it may still have an effect on corresponding tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) or other components of the Extracellular matrix  which remains to be elucidated. Also, the effect of progesterone on these MMPs can be further studied in a fibrosis model.

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Evaluation of ERAP1 Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in Impressing the Inflammatory Cytokine Profile of Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), an autoinflammatory disease, has been associated with impaired Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase (ERAP) 1 activity, which is involved in priming antigenic peptides. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if the genetic variant of ERAP1 gene could impress the inflammation status of the AS patients. For genotyping, 140 AS cases and 140 healthy controls were enrolled. After isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and DNA extraction, all the subjects were genotyped for rs27044 polymorphism using SSP-PCR assay. Total RNA of PBMCs was isolated, cDNA was synthesized, and quantitative analyses of mRNA expression of cytokines were performed via Real-time PCR using the SYBR Green Gene Expression MasterMix. To measure the concentration of cytokines in serum of subjects, Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used. It was observed that the G allele of rs27044 polymorphism was significantly prevalent in AS patients. Moreover, the GG genotype and the GG+GC dominant model had significantly different distribution between study groups. There was a significant overexpression of mRNAs of IL-17A, IL-6, IL-33, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, while IL-10 was significantly downregulated in AS patients. The ELISA results were in line with that of the gene expression analysis. No significant differences in mRNA expression and concentration of cytokine were identified among AS patients with three genotypes for rs27044 SNP. This study replicated the association of polymorphisms in ERAP1 gene with the risk of AS in a population from Iranian. However, it did not directly determine the inflammatory profile of the AS patients.

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Effects of Viola tricolor Flower Hydroethanolic Extract on Lung Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Chronic Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs driven by T cell activation. Viola tricolor L. as a traditional medical herb could suppress activated T lymphocytes and has been used empirically for asthma remedy. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of Viola tricolor and its underlying mechanism on asthma characteristics induced by ovalbumin (OVA) in mice. BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups: normal control, Ovalbumin (OVA) control, OVA mice treated with Viola tricolor (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) and dexamethasone (3 mg/kg). All mice except normal controls were sensitized and challenged with OVA. Asthmatic mice were treated orally in the last 7 days of OVA challenge. The total and differential leukocyte counts, Interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon (IFN)-γ levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined. H and E staining for lung inflammation was performed. Viola tricolor treatment at 200 mg/kg significantly decreased IL-4 level but did not considerably affect the IFN-γ level. Therefore, it effectively reduced asthma characteristics including infiltration of leukocytes particularly eosinophil and peribronchial inflammation as compared to dexamethasone. However, Viola tricolor at 100 mg/kg had the most prominent inhibitory effect on the IL-4 level and also markedly increased IFN-γ level. As result, it prevented further reduction of inflammatory parameters in this group compared to the Viola tricolor-treated group at 200 mg/kg. Our study demonstrated that Viola tricolor has anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of T-helper type 2 (Th2) cytokine production and validated its empirical usage in traditional medicine.

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Effect of Kaempferol on Cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox2) and Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) Protein Expression in BALB/c Mice

Kaempferol, a phytochemical found in many edible plants, is known to alleviate diseases such as cancer, allergy, and inflammation. The objective of this study was to investigate whether kaempferol could reduce omega-6 and ovalbumin-mediated allergic reactions at lung and trachea in BALB/c mice. Mice were allocated into five groups: 1) control group (CON); 2) positive control group with orally administration of omega-6 (POS); 3) bovine serum albumin (BSA) sensitization group (with BSA injection and ovalbumin inhalation); 4) BSA+K10 group: BSA injection, 10 μg/g of kaempferol administration and ovalbumin inhalation; and 5) BSA+K20 group: BSA injection, 20 μg/g of kaempferol administration and ovalbumin inhalation. Results revealed that serum histamine level was the highest (p<0.01) in BSA group. In lung tissue and trachea, cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox2) expression was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the BSA group compared to that in other groups. However, phosphorylated cytosolic phospholipase A2 (p-cPLA2) expression in the trachea was not significantly different among groups. Taken together, results of this study suggest that kaempferol might be useful for alleviating inflammation reaction associated with Cox2 expression. However, the exact mechanism of action involved in the effect of kaempferol on inflammatory response remains unclear.

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Assessment of the Inhibitory Effects of Ficin-hydrolyzed Gelatin Derived from Squid (Uroteuthis duvauceli) on Breast Cancer Cell Lines and Animal Model

Marine novel natural products have been applied for cancer therapy. Enzyme-digested gelatin hydrolysates have proven to serve as promising sources of potent biologically active peptides. Potential anti-breast cancer properties of the extracted Ficin-digesterd gelatin hydrolysate from Indian squid (Uroteuthis duvauceli) was extensively characterized by cellular and animal models. Gelatin was extracted from squid skin, hydrolyzed by Ficin, and characterized by standard physico-chemical methods. Ficin-digested gelatin hydrolysate was used at various doses of 0-0.1 mg/mL for assessment of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells versus HUVEC normal cells. Cytotoxicity, phase-contrast morphological examination, apoptosis/necrosis, clonal-growth, cell-migration, Matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs) zymography, and Western blotting were used for cellular assessments. For animal studies, breast tumor-induced BALB/c mice received hydrolyzed gelatin regimen, followed by tumor size/growth and immune-histochemical analyses. Significant inhibition of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 with no cytotoxicity on HUVEC cells were detected. Apoptosis was increased in cancer cells, as revealed by elevated ratio of cleaved caspase-3 and PARP. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in both cancer cells were diminished. In mice, gelatin hydrolysate prevented weight loss, decreased tumor size, induced p53, and down-regulated Ki67 levels. These findings suggest that Ficin-digested gelatin hydrolysate could be a beneficial candidate for novel breast cancer therapies.

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Evaluation of IL-17 Producing Memory Regulatory and Effector T Cells Expressing CD26 Molecule in Patients with Psoriasis

Memory regulatory T cells (Tregs) has been demonstrated to produce IL-17 in Psoriasis. Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) has been demonstrated not to be reliable marker to evaluate Treg cells. Effector CD4⁺T cells also express Foxp3 after activation. Human T helper-17 cells (Th-17) express high level of surface CD26, while regulatory T cells are CD26 negative or low and this phenotype is stable even after activation of Treg cells. In this study, we aimed to analyze IL-17 producing Treg cells using CD26. Memory T cells were isolated from 10 patients with psoriasis and 10 controls. Ex vivo stimulated IL-17 producing regulatory (Forkhead Box P3 (Foxp3)⁺CD25⁺CD26^-/low) and effector (Foxp3⁺CD25⁺CD26^hi) memory T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. IL-23, IL-6, TNFα, TGFβ and IL-17 cytokine levels were also evaluated. No significant difference in IL-17⁺memory regulatory T cells was seen between patients and controls (p=0.19). A significant decrease in the percentage of IL-17 producing CD26^hi effector memory T cells was observed in patients (p=0.04). However, the percentage of these cells was not different between patients with mild or severe form of psoriasis compared to controls (p=0.13). We could not find any significant difference regarding IL-23, IL-6, TNFα, TGFβ and IL-17 cytokine levels in plasma and cell culture supernatant samples between patients and controls. Taken together, our results showed a reduced IL-17 producing effector memory CD26^hi T cells in patients with psoriasis compared to controls. However, IL-17 producing memory regulatory CD4⁺T cells of patients showed no significant difference from that of controls. 

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Genetic Variation in Intergenic and Exonic miRNA Sequence and Risk of Multiple Sclerosis in the Isfahan Patients

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), have been documented to perform a key role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease. Recent studies have shown that single nucleotide polymorphism in the sequence of the miRNA may change their production and expression which can lead to miRNA dysfunction and pathogenicity. Some studies have reported the relationship between miRNA polymorphism and the increased risk of autoimmune disease. This study was conducted to investigate the association between mir155 rs767649, mir196a2 rs11614913 and mir23a rs3745453 polymorphism and the risk of multiple sclerosis in the Iranian MS patients in Isfahan. A population of 80 patients and the same number control were selected. After DNA extraction, genotyping was performed through tetra amplification refractory mutation system-PCR method (T ARMS PCR). The frequencies of TT, TC and CC genotypes of mir23a were 46, 35 and 20% in MS patients and 42, 14 and 24 in healthy subjects respectively. These results showed that individuals carrying the genotypes of rs3745453 TC had a 2.3-fold increased risk of MS (OR=2.3, p=0.048). There was no significant difference between genotypes and allele frequency of mir155 and mir196a2 in patients and healthy controls (p>0.05). Our findings specified that CT heterozygosity in mir23a gene significantly related with risk of MS. Unlike mir155 and mir196a2, mir23a rs3745453 may have contributed to the etiology of MS in Isfahan patients. However, extensive studies are required to gain more reliable and authentic results.

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Increased Total Serum Immunoglobulin E in Children Developing Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related Extra-pulmonary Diseases

Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been recognized to be involved in several extra-pulmonary diseases, but the underlying immunologic mechanisms are still largely unknown. Recently, we observed a significant elevation of serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) in a small group of these children. Here, we assessed total serum IgE levels in children affected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases. We prospectively collected the data of 162 children admitted to the hospital (because of respiratory infections or extra-pulmonary diseases) who were evaluated for Mycoplasma pneumoniae serology and total serum IgE levels, concomitantly. Based upon clinical and serology aspects, 3 groups of children were identified: I) with non-mycoplasma respiratory disease; II) with mycoplasma-related respiratory diseases; III) with extra-pulmonary diseases related to concomitant/recent Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Interestingly, children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases showed a significant elevation of total serum IgE. In particular, patients developing Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases (group III) showed significantly higher level of IgE than both previous groups (p<0.001 vs. group I; p<0.01 vs. group II). In conclusion, hospitalized children diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases resulted to have significantly increased serum IgE compared to children developing respiratory illnesses only.

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Modulation of Macrophage Polarization for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Innate immune cells play a crucial role in bone development and repair. Macrophages are the main effector cells in immune responses to implants and are indispensable for bone healing success. The heterogeneity and plasticity of macrophages make them a prime target for immune system modulation to enhance bone repair and regeneration. It is believed that the polarization of macrophage phenotype towards the anti-inflammatory M2, rather than the inflammatory M1 phenotype, promotes osteogenesis. Tissue-engineered bioimplants are potentially capable of producing signals to modulate macrophage polarization. Therefore, development of smart immunomodulatory bioimplants via manipulation of their properties seem a promising strategy for tuning immune responses to optimize bone repair without any unwanted inflammatory reactions. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the currently available studies performed on the effects of macrophage polarization, especially towards M2 phenotype, both in bone repair and in bioimplant-stimulated osteogenesis. Moreover, this literature highlights the need to focus future studies on the development of smart immunomodulatory implants capable of switching macrophage polarization-enhancing bone implant-host tissue integration.

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Modulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Annexin A2 in Response to 4-(Methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-Butanone -Induced Inflammation via Swimming Training

The nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK; nicotine derived nitrosamine ketone) is one of the strongest carcinogens in tobacco which is involved in induction of lung cancer by changing the stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and annexin A2 expression. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in resting levels of annexin A2 and VEGF in lung tissues of rats exposed NNK after 12 weeks of aerobic submaximal swimming training. For this purpose, 46 Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups consist of training, training + NNK, NNK, saline and control. NNK-induced groups received NNK subcutaneously one day per week at a rate of 12/5 mg per kg body weight and the training groups performed submaximal swimming training for 12 weeks. The levels of VEGF and annexin A2 in lung tissue were measured respectively by ELISA and immunohistochemistry. To analyze the data; ANOVA and Tukey's test were used at a significance level of p<0.05. Findings indicated that 12 weeks submaximal swimming training decreased the levels of VEGF and annexin A2 in lung tissue significantly when compared to NNK group (p<0.001). There was no significant correlation between VEGF and annexin A2 levels in all study groups (p≥0.05). Generally, it could be confirmed that regular submaximal aerobic training plays an important role in inhibition of the effects of lung inflammation induced by NNK via decreased levels of VEGF and annexin A2.

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Sensitization and Geographical Distribution of Main Aeroallergens in Iran

N0 Abstract

 

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Effect of Progesterone on Expression of MMP7 and MMP13 in Lungs of Female Mice

Gender medicine is a new era of science which focuses on the impact of sex hormones and gender on normal physiology, pathobiology and clinical features of diseases. In this study we investigated the impact of pregnancy doses of progesterone hormone on the expression of a couple of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), which are known to be involved in tissue remodeling of lungs in health and disease, namely MMP7 and 13. Pregnancy maintenance dose of progesterone was administered to female BALB/c mice for 21 and 28 days, the control group received PBS for the same days. After removal of the lungs and RNA extraction, quantitative real-time PCR was done using specific primers for MMP7 and MMP13. We found that progesterone can slightly (not significantly) decrease the expression of MMP13 but had no effect on MMP7. Our results shows that progesterone has minimal effect on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase7 and matrix metalloproteinase 13, but it may still have an effect on corresponding tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) or other components of the Extracellular matrix  which remains to be elucidated. Also, the effect of progesterone on these MMPs can be further studied in a fibrosis model.

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Evaluation of ERAP1 Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in Impressing the Inflammatory Cytokine Profile of Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), an autoinflammatory disease, has been associated with impaired Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase (ERAP) 1 activity, which is involved in priming antigenic peptides. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if the genetic variant of ERAP1 gene could impress the inflammation status of the AS patients. For genotyping, 140 AS cases and 140 healthy controls were enrolled. After isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and DNA extraction, all the subjects were genotyped for rs27044 polymorphism using SSP-PCR assay. Total RNA of PBMCs was isolated, cDNA was synthesized, and quantitative analyses of mRNA expression of cytokines were performed via Real-time PCR using the SYBR Green Gene Expression MasterMix. To measure the concentration of cytokines in serum of subjects, Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used. It was observed that the G allele of rs27044 polymorphism was significantly prevalent in AS patients. Moreover, the GG genotype and the GG+GC dominant model had significantly different distribution between study groups. There was a significant overexpression of mRNAs of IL-17A, IL-6, IL-33, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, while IL-10 was significantly downregulated in AS patients. The ELISA results were in line with that of the gene expression analysis. No significant differences in mRNA expression and concentration of cytokine were identified among AS patients with three genotypes for rs27044 SNP. This study replicated the association of polymorphisms in ERAP1 gene with the risk of AS in a population from Iranian. However, it did not directly determine the inflammatory profile of the AS patients.

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Effects of Viola tricolor Flower Hydroethanolic Extract on Lung Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Chronic Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs driven by T cell activation. Viola tricolor L. as a traditional medical herb could suppress activated T lymphocytes and has been used empirically for asthma remedy. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of Viola tricolor and its underlying mechanism on asthma characteristics induced by ovalbumin (OVA) in mice. BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups: normal control, Ovalbumin (OVA) control, OVA mice treated with Viola tricolor (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) and dexamethasone (3 mg/kg). All mice except normal controls were sensitized and challenged with OVA. Asthmatic mice were treated orally in the last 7 days of OVA challenge. The total and differential leukocyte counts, Interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon (IFN)-γ levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined. H and E staining for lung inflammation was performed. Viola tricolor treatment at 200 mg/kg significantly decreased IL-4 level but did not considerably affect the IFN-γ level. Therefore, it effectively reduced asthma characteristics including infiltration of leukocytes particularly eosinophil and peribronchial inflammation as compared to dexamethasone. However, Viola tricolor at 100 mg/kg had the most prominent inhibitory effect on the IL-4 level and also markedly increased IFN-γ level. As result, it prevented further reduction of inflammatory parameters in this group compared to the Viola tricolor-treated group at 200 mg/kg. Our study demonstrated that Viola tricolor has anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of T-helper type 2 (Th2) cytokine production and validated its empirical usage in traditional medicine.

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Effect of Kaempferol on Cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox2) and Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) Protein Expression in BALB/c Mice

Kaempferol, a phytochemical found in many edible plants, is known to alleviate diseases such as cancer, allergy, and inflammation. The objective of this study was to investigate whether kaempferol could reduce omega-6 and ovalbumin-mediated allergic reactions at lung and trachea in BALB/c mice. Mice were allocated into five groups: 1) control group (CON); 2) positive control group with orally administration of omega-6 (POS); 3) bovine serum albumin (BSA) sensitization group (with BSA injection and ovalbumin inhalation); 4) BSA+K10 group: BSA injection, 10 μg/g of kaempferol administration and ovalbumin inhalation; and 5) BSA+K20 group: BSA injection, 20 μg/g of kaempferol administration and ovalbumin inhalation. Results revealed that serum histamine level was the highest (p<0.01) in BSA group. In lung tissue and trachea, cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox2) expression was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the BSA group compared to that in other groups. However, phosphorylated cytosolic phospholipase A2 (p-cPLA2) expression in the trachea was not significantly different among groups. Taken together, results of this study suggest that kaempferol might be useful for alleviating inflammation reaction associated with Cox2 expression. However, the exact mechanism of action involved in the effect of kaempferol on inflammatory response remains unclear.

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Assessment of the Inhibitory Effects of Ficin-hydrolyzed Gelatin Derived from Squid (Uroteuthis duvauceli) on Breast Cancer Cell Lines and Animal Model

Marine novel natural products have been applied for cancer therapy. Enzyme-digested gelatin hydrolysates have proven to serve as promising sources of potent biologically active peptides. Potential anti-breast cancer properties of the extracted Ficin-digesterd gelatin hydrolysate from Indian squid (Uroteuthis duvauceli) was extensively characterized by cellular and animal models. Gelatin was extracted from squid skin, hydrolyzed by Ficin, and characterized by standard physico-chemical methods. Ficin-digested gelatin hydrolysate was used at various doses of 0-0.1 mg/mL for assessment of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells versus HUVEC normal cells. Cytotoxicity, phase-contrast morphological examination, apoptosis/necrosis, clonal-growth, cell-migration, Matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs) zymography, and Western blotting were used for cellular assessments. For animal studies, breast tumor-induced BALB/c mice received hydrolyzed gelatin regimen, followed by tumor size/growth and immune-histochemical analyses. Significant inhibition of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 with no cytotoxicity on HUVEC cells were detected. Apoptosis was increased in cancer cells, as revealed by elevated ratio of cleaved caspase-3 and PARP. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in both cancer cells were diminished. In mice, gelatin hydrolysate prevented weight loss, decreased tumor size, induced p53, and down-regulated Ki67 levels. These findings suggest that Ficin-digested gelatin hydrolysate could be a beneficial candidate for novel breast cancer therapies.

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Genetic Variation in Intergenic and Exonic miRNA Sequence and Risk of Multiple Sclerosis in the Isfahan Patients

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), have been documented to perform a key role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease. Recent studies have shown that single nucleotide polymorphism in the sequence of the miRNA may change their production and expression which can lead to miRNA dysfunction and pathogenicity. Some studies have reported the relationship between miRNA polymorphism and the increased risk of autoimmune disease. This study was conducted to investigate the association between mir155 rs767649, mir196a2 rs11614913 and mir23a rs3745453 polymorphism and the risk of multiple sclerosis in the Iranian MS patients in Isfahan. A population of 80 patients and the same number control were selected. After DNA extraction, genotyping was performed through tetra amplification refractory mutation system-PCR method (T ARMS PCR). The frequencies of TT, TC and CC genotypes of mir23a were 46, 35 and 20% in MS patients and 42, 14 and 24 in healthy subjects respectively. These results showed that individuals carrying the genotypes of rs3745453 TC had a 2.3-fold increased risk of MS (OR=2.3, p=0.048). There was no significant difference between genotypes and allele frequency of mir155 and mir196a2 in patients and healthy controls (p>0.05). Our findings specified that CT heterozygosity in mir23a gene significantly related with risk of MS. Unlike mir155 and mir196a2, mir23a rs3745453 may have contributed to the etiology of MS in Isfahan patients. However, extensive studies are required to gain more reliable and authentic results.

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Increased Total Serum Immunoglobulin E in Children Developing Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related Extra-pulmonary Diseases

Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been recognized to be involved in several extra-pulmonary diseases, but the underlying immunologic mechanisms are still largely unknown. Recently, we observed a significant elevation of serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) in a small group of these children. Here, we assessed total serum IgE levels in children affected with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases. We prospectively collected the data of 162 children admitted to the hospital (because of respiratory infections or extra-pulmonary diseases) who were evaluated for Mycoplasma pneumoniae serology and total serum IgE levels, concomitantly. Based upon clinical and serology aspects, 3 groups of children were identified: I) with non-mycoplasma respiratory disease; II) with mycoplasma-related respiratory diseases; III) with extra-pulmonary diseases related to concomitant/recent Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. Interestingly, children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases showed a significant elevation of total serum IgE. In particular, patients developing Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases (group III) showed significantly higher level of IgE than both previous groups (p<0.001 vs. group I; p<0.01 vs. group II). In conclusion, hospitalized children diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae-related extra-pulmonary diseases resulted to have significantly increased serum IgE compared to children developing respiratory illnesses only.

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Modulation of Macrophage Polarization for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Innate immune cells play a crucial role in bone development and repair. Macrophages are the main effector cells in immune responses to implants and are indispensable for bone healing success. The heterogeneity and plasticity of macrophages make them a prime target for immune system modulation to enhance bone repair and regeneration. It is believed that the polarization of macrophage phenotype towards the anti-inflammatory M2, rather than the inflammatory M1 phenotype, promotes osteogenesis. Tissue-engineered bioimplants are potentially capable of producing signals to modulate macrophage polarization. Therefore, development of smart immunomodulatory bioimplants via manipulation of their properties seem a promising strategy for tuning immune responses to optimize bone repair without any unwanted inflammatory reactions. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the currently available studies performed on the effects of macrophage polarization, especially towards M2 phenotype, both in bone repair and in bioimplant-stimulated osteogenesis. Moreover, this literature highlights the need to focus future studies on the development of smart immunomodulatory implants capable of switching macrophage polarization-enhancing bone implant-host tissue integration.

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Modulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Annexin A2 in Response to 4-(Methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-Butanone -Induced Inflammation via Swimming Training

The nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK; nicotine derived nitrosamine ketone) is one of the strongest carcinogens in tobacco which is involved in induction of lung cancer by changing the stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and annexin A2 expression. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in resting levels of annexin A2 and VEGF in lung tissues of rats exposed NNK after 12 weeks of aerobic submaximal swimming training. For this purpose, 46 Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups consist of training, training + NNK, NNK, saline and control. NNK-induced groups received NNK subcutaneously one day per week at a rate of 12/5 mg per kg body weight and the training groups performed submaximal swimming training for 12 weeks. The levels of VEGF and annexin A2 in lung tissue were measured respectively by ELISA and immunohistochemistry. To analyze the data; ANOVA and Tukey's test were used at a significance level of p<0.05. Findings indicated that 12 weeks submaximal swimming training decreased the levels of VEGF and annexin A2 in lung tissue significantly when compared to NNK group (p<0.001). There was no significant correlation between VEGF and annexin A2 levels in all study groups (p≥0.05). Generally, it could be confirmed that regular submaximal aerobic training plays an important role in inhibition of the effects of lung inflammation induced by NNK via decreased levels of VEGF and annexin A2.

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Sensitization and Geographical Distribution of Main Aeroallergens in Iran

N0 Abstract

 

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Susceptibility-weighted imaging of retinal hemorrhages in abusive head trauma

Abstract

Background

Retinal hemorrhages are one of the most important supportive evidences for abusive head trauma (AHT). Susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) is highly suited to identify various forms of intracranial hemorrhage in AHT. However its utility in imaging retinal hemorrhage is not well established.

Objective

SWI is a sensitive sequence for identifying retinal hemorrhage on MRI.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective analysis, 26 consecutive infants and young children with a suspected admission diagnosis of AHT underwent indirect ophthalmoscopy and brain MRI protocol for AHT along with SWI. Brain susceptibility-weighted images of 14 age-matched children were used as controls. For detecting retinal hemorrhage, susceptibility-weighted images of patients and controls were reviewed randomly and independently by two neuroradiologists who were blinded to the history and ophthalmology findings. A pediatric ophthalmologist graded the indirect ophthalmoscopy images.

Results

A diagnosis of AHT was confirmed in all 26 cases from a multidisciplinary meeting. Indirect ophthalmoscopy images were available in 21 cases. Ophthalmoscopy was positive for retinal hemorrhage in the right eye in 18 cases (85.7%) and in the left eye in 16 cases (76.2%). On SWI, retinal hemorrhage was identified in the right eye in 9/21 cases (42.8%) and in the left eye in 8/21 cases (38.1%) of AHT. Analysis of SWI in 21 cases of AHT demonstrated a sensitivity of 50%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100% and negative predictive value of 32% for detecting retinal hemorrhage.

Conclusion

SWI is moderately sensitive and highly specific for identifying retinal hemorrhage in AHT. Further studies are needed to identify steps to improve the efficiency of SWI in detecting retinal hemorrhage.

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Susceptibility-weighted imaging of retinal hemorrhages in abusive head trauma

Abstract

Background

Retinal hemorrhages are one of the most important supportive evidences for abusive head trauma (AHT). Susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) is highly suited to identify various forms of intracranial hemorrhage in AHT. However its utility in imaging retinal hemorrhage is not well established.

Objective

SWI is a sensitive sequence for identifying retinal hemorrhage on MRI.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective analysis, 26 consecutive infants and young children with a suspected admission diagnosis of AHT underwent indirect ophthalmoscopy and brain MRI protocol for AHT along with SWI. Brain susceptibility-weighted images of 14 age-matched children were used as controls. For detecting retinal hemorrhage, susceptibility-weighted images of patients and controls were reviewed randomly and independently by two neuroradiologists who were blinded to the history and ophthalmology findings. A pediatric ophthalmologist graded the indirect ophthalmoscopy images.

Results

A diagnosis of AHT was confirmed in all 26 cases from a multidisciplinary meeting. Indirect ophthalmoscopy images were available in 21 cases. Ophthalmoscopy was positive for retinal hemorrhage in the right eye in 18 cases (85.7%) and in the left eye in 16 cases (76.2%). On SWI, retinal hemorrhage was identified in the right eye in 9/21 cases (42.8%) and in the left eye in 8/21 cases (38.1%) of AHT. Analysis of SWI in 21 cases of AHT demonstrated a sensitivity of 50%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100% and negative predictive value of 32% for detecting retinal hemorrhage.

Conclusion

SWI is moderately sensitive and highly specific for identifying retinal hemorrhage in AHT. Further studies are needed to identify steps to improve the efficiency of SWI in detecting retinal hemorrhage.

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Clinical immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of head and neck cancer

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide, accounting for more than 550,000 cases and 380,000 deaths annually. The primary risk factors associated with HNSCC are tobacco use and alcohol consumption; nevertheless genetic predisposition and oncogenic viruses also play important roles in the development of these malignancies. The current treatments for HNSCC patients include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and cetuximab, and combinations of these.

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Clinical immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of head and neck cancer

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide, accounting for more than 550,000 cases and 380,000 deaths annually. The primary risk factors associated with HNSCC are tobacco use and alcohol consumption; nevertheless genetic predisposition and oncogenic viruses also play important roles in the development of these malignancies. The current treatments for HNSCC patients include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and cetuximab, and combinations of these.

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Fungal vaccines, mechanism of actions and immunology: A comprehensive review

Publication date: January 2019Source: Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 109Author(s): Sanam Nami, Rasoul Mohammadi, Mahshid Vakili, Kimia Khezripour, Hamed Mirzaei, Hamid MorovatiAbstractFungal infections include a wide range of opportunistic and invasive diseases. Two of four major fatal diseases in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are related to the fungal infections, cryptococcosis, and pneumocystosis. Disseminated candidiasis and different clinical forms of aspergillosis annually impose expensive medical costs to governments and hospitalized patients and ultimately lead to high mortality rates. Therefore, urgent implementations are necessary to prevent the expansion of these diseases. Designing an effective vaccine is one of the most important approaches i...

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Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment in smokers: a randomized clinical trial

ConclusionPeriodontal treatment with SRP  + aPDT in multiples episodes was not able to promote additional clinical, immunological, and microbiological benefits in smokers when compared SRP alone in patients with chronic periodontitis.Clinical relevanceMultiple episodes of aPDT adjunctive to non-surgical treatment did not improve significantly the clinical, immunological, and microbiological parameters when compared with SRP alone. More randomized clinical trials are needed to evaluate adjuvant therapies for scaling and root planning in smokers with chronic periodontitis.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03039244 (Source: Clinical Oral Investigations)

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Fungal vaccines, mechanism of actions and immunology: A comprehensive review

Publication date: January 2019Source: Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 109Author(s): Sanam Nami, Rasoul Mohammadi, Mahshid Vakili, Kimia Khezripour, Hamed Mirzaei, Hamid MorovatiAbstractFungal infections include a wide range of opportunistic and invasive diseases. Two of four major fatal diseases in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are related to the fungal infections, cryptococcosis, and pneumocystosis. Disseminated candidiasis and different clinical forms of aspergillosis annually impose expensive medical costs to governments and hospitalized patients and ultimately lead to high mortality rates. Therefore, urgent implementations are necessary to prevent the expansion of these diseases. Designing an effective vaccine is one of the most important approaches i...

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Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment in smokers: a randomized clinical trial

ConclusionPeriodontal treatment with SRP  + aPDT in multiples episodes was not able to promote additional clinical, immunological, and microbiological benefits in smokers when compared SRP alone in patients with chronic periodontitis.Clinical relevanceMultiple episodes of aPDT adjunctive to non-surgical treatment did not improve significantly the clinical, immunological, and microbiological parameters when compared with SRP alone. More randomized clinical trials are needed to evaluate adjuvant therapies for scaling and root planning in smokers with chronic periodontitis.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03039244 (Source: Clinical Oral Investigations)

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A one-day, 90-minute aspirin challenge and desensitization protocol in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease

ConclusionsPatients with AERD on a stable asthma regimen and with a baseline FEV1 >70% can be safely desensitized to aspirin using a 90-minute dose escalation protocol, starting at a dose of 40.5mg, and defining desensitization as tolerance of the repeated provocation dose and at least one subsequent aspirin dose, bringing total cumulative daily dose to ≥325mg. This protocol can routinely be completed in one day.Updating the current aspirin challenge and desensitization guidelines to include these three key elements will allow for maintaining an exceptional safety profile while increasing efficiency of this procedure. (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma induced by Boxelder Bug Sensitization

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Jamie Zussman, Gerald J. Gleich (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Anxiety and non-eosinophilic asthma among adults in the United States

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Yueh-Ying Han, Erick Forno, Juan C. Celedón (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Practice Patterns Among Allergists on the Early Introduction of Peanut

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Kara B. McNamara, Brian C. Schroer, Jaclyn Bjelac (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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A Systematic Review of Patient and Family-Level Inhaled Corticosteroid Adherence Interventions in Adult African-Americans

ConclusionFew studies assessing asthma adherence interventions focused on adult African-American populations. No RCTs demonstrated improved ICS adherence in participants. Future studies are needed that are informed by behavior change theory and stakeholder engagement. (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as treatment for patients with DOCK8 deficiency

ConclusionHSCT is curative in most DOCK8 deficient patients, confirming this approach as the treatment of choice. HSCT using a reduced toxicity regimen may offer the best chance for survival. (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Canine primary jejunal and colonic epithelial cells predominantly express TLR5 and TLR9 but do not change TLR expression pattern after stimulation with certain Toll-like receptor ligands

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: Veterinary Immunology and ImmunopathologyAuthor(s): Wencke Reineking, Johannes Junginger, Reinhard Mischke, Marion Hewicker-TrautweinAbstractThe intestinal mucosa is in contact with abundant luminal antigens and coordinates immune responses to differentiate commensals from pathogens. Intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) not only represent a physical barrier but also an immunologically important cell type that recognizes microbe-associated molecular patterns via Toll-like receptors (TLR). The importance of TLR expression has been elucidated for intestinal disorders in humans, mice and dogs. However, as knowledge about canine intestinal TLRs is mainly limited to the transcriptional level, the present study analyzed the protein expressio...

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Compatibility between a rabies vaccine and a combined vaccine against canine distemper, adenovirosis, parvovirosis, parainfluenza virus and leptospirosis

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018Source: Veterinary Immunology and ImmunopathologyAuthor(s): J. Bouvet, C. Cariou, A. Poulard, F. Oberli, L. Cupillard, P.M. GuigalAbstractIn many cicumstances, veterinarians are requiring to be able to administer rabies vaccine in dogs at the same time as vaccinating against canine distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza virus and leptospirosis. The aim of this study was to assess the compatibility between a multivalent vaccine and a rabies vaccine when injected at two separate sites. Lack of interference was assessed by comparing serological response to viral components during one year following primary vaccination with vaccines administered alone or concomitantly. Antibody response to all tested components was comparable, irrespe...

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Fecal microbiota transplantation as a tool to treat and reduce susceptibility to disease in animals

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: Veterinary Immunology and ImmunopathologyAuthor(s): Megan C. NiederwerderAbstractFecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is the process by which fecal microbiota are donated from a healthy individual and subsequently transplanted into a diseased or young individual. The mechanism by which FMT is effective is believed to be due to enhanced beneficial microbes, increased microbiome diversity, and restored normal flora. Beneficial gut microorganisms not only play a role in maintaining an intestinal barrier and metabolizing nutrients, but importantly, these microbes help regulate local and systemic immune function. Although FMT has been described for several centuries, only recently has it been utilized as a mainstream therapy in humans ...

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A systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the effectiveness of alternative listening devices to conventional hearing aids in adults with hearing loss

Volume 57, Issue 10, October 2018, Page 721-729 . (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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Patient preferences in tinnitus outcomes and treatments: a qualitative study

Volume 57, Issue 10, October 2018, Page 784-790 . (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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Wideband Absorbance and 226-Hz Tympanometry in the Prediction of Optimal Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission Primary Tone Levels.

Conclusion: Incorporation of a wideband absorbance measure into a primary tone level optimization formula resulted in a minor average improvement in L1OPT prediction accuracy when compared with a traditional univariate optimization formula. Further research is needed to identify characteristics of ears that might disproportionately benefit from the additional measure. PMID: 30383179 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Audiology)

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Comparing the Effect of Different Hearing Aid Fitting Methods in Bimodal Cochlear Implant Users.

Conclusion: Our results confirm that cochlear implant users with residual hearing in the contralateral ear substantially benefit from bimodal stimulation. However, on average, no differences were found between different types of fitting methods, varying in prescription rule and loudness balancing method. PMID: 30383163 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Audiology)

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A one-day, 90-minute aspirin challenge and desensitization protocol in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease

ConclusionsPatients with AERD on a stable asthma regimen and with a baseline FEV1 >70% can be safely desensitized to aspirin using a 90-minute dose escalation protocol, starting at a dose of 40.5mg, and defining desensitization as tolerance of the repeated provocation dose and at least one subsequent aspirin dose, bringing total cumulative daily dose to ≥325mg. This protocol can routinely be completed in one day.Updating the current aspirin challenge and desensitization guidelines to include these three key elements will allow for maintaining an exceptional safety profile while increasing efficiency of this procedure. (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Adolescent Patients with Chronic Granulomatous Disease

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Danielle E. Arnold, Alix E. Seif, Soma Jyonouchi, Kathleen E. Sullivan, Nancy J. Bunin, Jennifer R. Heimall (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma induced by Boxelder Bug Sensitization

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Jamie Zussman, Gerald J. Gleich (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2SJ2ymO

Anxiety and non-eosinophilic asthma among adults in the United States

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Yueh-Ying Han, Erick Forno, Juan C. Celedón (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Practice Patterns Among Allergists on the Early Introduction of Peanut

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In PracticeAuthor(s): Kara B. McNamara, Brian C. Schroer, Jaclyn Bjelac (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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.

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A Systematic Review of Patient and Family-Level Inhaled Corticosteroid Adherence Interventions in Adult African-Americans

ConclusionFew studies assessing asthma adherence interventions focused on adult African-American populations. No RCTs demonstrated improved ICS adherence in participants. Future studies are needed that are informed by behavior change theory and stakeholder engagement. (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as treatment for patients with DOCK8 deficiency

ConclusionHSCT is curative in most DOCK8 deficient patients, confirming this approach as the treatment of choice. HSCT using a reduced toxicity regimen may offer the best chance for survival. (Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice)

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Compatibility between a rabies vaccine and a combined vaccine against canine distemper, adenovirosis, parvovirosis, parainfluenza virus and leptospirosis

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018Source: Veterinary Immunology and ImmunopathologyAuthor(s): J. Bouvet, C. Cariou, A. Poulard, F. Oberli, L. Cupillard, P.M. GuigalAbstractIn many cicumstances, veterinarians are requiring to be able to administer rabies vaccine in dogs at the same time as vaccinating against canine distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza virus and leptospirosis. The aim of this study was to assess the compatibility between a multivalent vaccine and a rabies vaccine when injected at two separate sites. Lack of interference was assessed by comparing serological response to viral components during one year following primary vaccination with vaccines administered alone or concomitantly. Antibody response to all tested components was comparable, irrespe...

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2SH43Si

Fecal microbiota transplantation as a tool to treat and reduce susceptibility to disease in animals

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018Source: Veterinary Immunology and ImmunopathologyAuthor(s): Megan C. NiederwerderAbstractFecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is the process by which fecal microbiota are donated from a healthy individual and subsequently transplanted into a diseased or young individual. The mechanism by which FMT is effective is believed to be due to enhanced beneficial microbes, increased microbiome diversity, and restored normal flora. Beneficial gut microorganisms not only play a role in maintaining an intestinal barrier and metabolizing nutrients, but importantly, these microbes help regulate local and systemic immune function. Although FMT has been described for several centuries, only recently has it been utilized as a mainstream therapy in humans ...

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zp2v6S

A systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the effectiveness of alternative listening devices to conventional hearing aids in adults with hearing loss

Volume 57, Issue 10, October 2018, Page 721-729 . (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2SLzwTk

Patient preferences in tinnitus outcomes and treatments: a qualitative study

Volume 57, Issue 10, October 2018, Page 784-790 . (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zo22lp

Wideband Absorbance and 226-Hz Tympanometry in the Prediction of Optimal Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission Primary Tone Levels.

Conclusion: Incorporation of a wideband absorbance measure into a primary tone level optimization formula resulted in a minor average improvement in L1OPT prediction accuracy when compared with a traditional univariate optimization formula. Further research is needed to identify characteristics of ears that might disproportionately benefit from the additional measure. PMID: 30383179 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Audiology)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2SIGgS7

Comparing the Effect of Different Hearing Aid Fitting Methods in Bimodal Cochlear Implant Users.

Conclusion: Our results confirm that cochlear implant users with residual hearing in the contralateral ear substantially benefit from bimodal stimulation. However, on average, no differences were found between different types of fitting methods, varying in prescription rule and loudness balancing method. PMID: 30383163 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Audiology)

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25-hydroxycholesterol down-regulates oxysterol binding protein like 2 (OSBPL2) via the p53/SREBF2/NFYA signaling pathway

This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of 25-OHC regulating the expression of OSBPL2. Using dual-luciferase reporter assay, we found a decrease of nuclear transcription factor Y subunit alpha (NFYA) bound with OSBPL2 promoter when HeLa cells were treated with by 25-OHC. Furthermore, transcriptome sequencing and RNA interference results revealed that the p53/sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 2 (SREBF2) signaling pathway was involved in the NFYA-dependent transcription of OSBPL2 induced by 25-OHC. Based on these results, we concluded that pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) and NFYA participated in the basal transcription of OSBPL2 and that 25-OHC decreased the transcription of OSBPL2 via the p53/SREBF2/NFYA pathway. 25-OHC will accumulate over time in OSBPL2...

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25-hydroxycholesterol down-regulates oxysterol binding protein like 2 (OSBPL2) via the p53/SREBF2/NFYA signaling pathway

This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of 25-OHC regulating the expression of OSBPL2. Using dual-luciferase reporter assay, we found a decrease of nuclear transcription factor Y subunit alpha (NFYA) bound with OSBPL2 promoter when HeLa cells were treated with by 25-OHC. Furthermore, transcriptome sequencing and RNA interference results revealed that the p53/sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 2 (SREBF2) signaling pathway was involved in the NFYA-dependent transcription of OSBPL2 induced by 25-OHC. Based on these results, we concluded that pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) and NFYA participated in the basal transcription of OSBPL2 and that 25-OHC decreased the transcription of OSBPL2 via the p53/SREBF2/NFYA pathway. 25-OHC will accumulate over time in OSBPL2...

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Clinical profiles and risk assessment in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies.

Authors: Kato M, Hisada R, Atsumi T Abstract INTRODUCTION: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune thrombophilia associated with the presence of persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. Owing to recent studies, not only APS patients but also incidentally-identified, asymptomatic antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) carriers are able to be stratified in terms of the risk of future thrombotic events, according to the variety and the titer of positive aPL tests and to the non-thrombotic, aPL-associated clinical manifestations. Areas covered: Here, we critically review (a) criteria manifestations of APS, (b) non-criteria manifestations of APS, (c) risk assessment in patients with APS and in aPL carriers, and (d) the potential role of primary thrombosis prophylaxis in aPL ca...

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New DiaP277 analogue shifts DCs to tolerogenic, and modulates NF-K β1 to suppress autoreactive T lymphocytes in the type 1 diabetic mice.

In conclusion, VP showed promising immune potential to modulate immune regulatory responses and shifts DCs to suppress autoreactive Th1 cells which ameliorated immunosuppressive potency in the type1 diabetic mice. PMID: 30382756 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Autoimmunity)

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The relationship between smoking, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Authors: Pezzolo E, Naldi L Abstract INTRODUCTION: Smoking is the single most important cause of preventable mortality worldwide. Besides being associated with major cardiovascular and bronchopulmonary diseases, and several cancers, it has been linked with a number of immune-related conditions, including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), with an effect on disease development, which may differ according to the condition considered. We aimed to summarise data on the role of smoking in the development and prognosis of psoriasis and PsA, pointing to the consequences in terms of disease management. Areas covered: Mechanisms, clinical manifestations and comorbidities associated with smoking in psoriasis and PsA were reviewed by searching Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library databa...

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Clinical profiles and risk assessment in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies.

Authors: Kato M, Hisada R, Atsumi T Abstract INTRODUCTION: Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired autoimmune thrombophilia associated with the presence of persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. Owing to recent studies, not only APS patients but also incidentally-identified, asymptomatic antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) carriers are able to be stratified in terms of the risk of future thrombotic events, according to the variety and the titer of positive aPL tests and to the non-thrombotic, aPL-associated clinical manifestations. Areas covered: Here, we critically review (a) criteria manifestations of APS, (b) non-criteria manifestations of APS, (c) risk assessment in patients with APS and in aPL carriers, and (d) the potential role of primary thrombosis prophylaxis in aPL ca...

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2SNQvVo

New DiaP277 analogue shifts DCs to tolerogenic, and modulates NF-K β1 to suppress autoreactive T lymphocytes in the type 1 diabetic mice.

In conclusion, VP showed promising immune potential to modulate immune regulatory responses and shifts DCs to suppress autoreactive Th1 cells which ameliorated immunosuppressive potency in the type1 diabetic mice. PMID: 30382756 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Autoimmunity)

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Radial scars/complex sclerosing lesions of the breast: radiologic and clinicopathologic correlation

Abstract

Background

We investigated the radiologic and clinical findings of radial scar and complex sclerosing lesions, and evaluated the rate of pathologic upgrade and predicting factors.

Methods

From review of our institution's database from January 2006 to December 2012, we enrolled 82 radial scars/complex sclerosing lesions in 80 women; 51 by ultrasound guided core needle biopsy, 1 by mammography-guided stereotactic biopsy, and 38 by surgical excision. The initial biopsy pathology revealed that 53 lesions were without high risk lesions and 29 were with high risk lesions. Radiologic, clinical and pathological results were analyzed statistically and upgrade rates were calculated.

Results

Of the 82 lesions, 64 (78.0%) were surgically excised. After surgical excision, two were upgraded to DCIS and two were upgraded to lesions with high risk lesions. The rate of radial scar with high risk lesions was significantly higher in the surgical excision group (11.1% vs. 42.2%, p = 0.015), which also demonstrated larger lesion size (10.7 ± 6.5 vs. 7.1 ± 2.6 mm, p = 0.001). The diagnoses with high risk lesions on final pathological results showed older age (52.9 ± 6.0 years vs. 48.4 ± 6.7 years, p = 0.018).

Conclusions

Radial scars with and without high risk lesions showed no statistically significant differences in imaging, and gave relatively low cancer upgrade rates.

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Radial scars/complex sclerosing lesions of the breast: radiologic and clinicopathologic correlation

Abstract

Background

We investigated the radiologic and clinical findings of radial scar and complex sclerosing lesions, and evaluated the rate of pathologic upgrade and predicting factors.

Methods

From review of our institution's database from January 2006 to December 2012, we enrolled 82 radial scars/complex sclerosing lesions in 80 women; 51 by ultrasound guided core needle biopsy, 1 by mammography-guided stereotactic biopsy, and 38 by surgical excision. The initial biopsy pathology revealed that 53 lesions were without high risk lesions and 29 were with high risk lesions. Radiologic, clinical and pathological results were analyzed statistically and upgrade rates were calculated.

Results

Of the 82 lesions, 64 (78.0%) were surgically excised. After surgical excision, two were upgraded to DCIS and two were upgraded to lesions with high risk lesions. The rate of radial scar with high risk lesions was significantly higher in the surgical excision group (11.1% vs. 42.2%, p = 0.015), which also demonstrated larger lesion size (10.7 ± 6.5 vs. 7.1 ± 2.6 mm, p = 0.001). The diagnoses with high risk lesions on final pathological results showed older age (52.9 ± 6.0 years vs. 48.4 ± 6.7 years, p = 0.018).

Conclusions

Radial scars with and without high risk lesions showed no statistically significant differences in imaging, and gave relatively low cancer upgrade rates.

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How Gender Stereotypes May Limit Female Faculty Advancement in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Conclusions: Cultural stereotypes about men and women lead to implicit gender bias that may have real consequences for female faculty advancement in CSD. Such implicit bias can influence career selection and outcomes within the field in multiple ways. To ensure that CSD continues to attract top talent and maintain a robust pipeline of future faculty in doctoral training programs, the field must recognize the existence of implicit gender bias and implement evidence-based strategies to minimize its potentially damaging effects on the future of the profession. PMID: 30383189 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology)

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How Gender Stereotypes May Limit Female Faculty Advancement in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Conclusions: Cultural stereotypes about men and women lead to implicit gender bias that may have real consequences for female faculty advancement in CSD. Such implicit bias can influence career selection and outcomes within the field in multiple ways. To ensure that CSD continues to attract top talent and maintain a robust pipeline of future faculty in doctoral training programs, the field must recognize the existence of implicit gender bias and implement evidence-based strategies to minimize its potentially damaging effects on the future of the profession. PMID: 30383189 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology)

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Are electronic cigarettes a healthier alternative to conventional tobacco smoking?

Abstract

Electronic cigarettes (EC) with and without nicotine are used by more and more consumers within the last decade. The long-term risks of vapor inhalation are unknown. This study should describe the state of the art of knowledge with respect to the following four items: (1) ingredients of the vapor and their potential risks, the influence of EC on smoking of combustible tobacco to (2) adults and (3) the youth, and (4) the side effects of passive vaping. The vapor of EC contains, in comparison to tobacco smoke, less harmful substances, qualitatively and quantitatively. But, due to failing standardization of EC, this comparison is difficult. Adults are often using both, EC and combustible cigarettes dually. In addition, EC were used for supporting smoke-quitting. Unfortunately, consuming EC with and without nicotine due later to a higher risk of conventional tobacco smoking for the user. In general, the effects of passive vaporing are unknown. Although the vapor of EC is less harmful than tobacco smoke, EC are not hazard-free lifestyle products. Technical standardization should be desirable. Adult smoker's benefit using EC is given by completely change to EC only. The rates of success using EC for smoke quitting are not well evaluated. Children and their parents should be informed on the risks of EC use as a precursor of combustible smoking mandatorily. Internet selling EC to any non-adult should be forbidden by law. EC ought not to be allowed to weaken non-smoker's rights, and third persons should be protected by the potential hazards of EC vaporing.

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Are electronic cigarettes a healthier alternative to conventional tobacco smoking?

Abstract

Electronic cigarettes (EC) with and without nicotine are used by more and more consumers within the last decade. The long-term risks of vapor inhalation are unknown. This study should describe the state of the art of knowledge with respect to the following four items: (1) ingredients of the vapor and their potential risks, the influence of EC on smoking of combustible tobacco to (2) adults and (3) the youth, and (4) the side effects of passive vaping. The vapor of EC contains, in comparison to tobacco smoke, less harmful substances, qualitatively and quantitatively. But, due to failing standardization of EC, this comparison is difficult. Adults are often using both, EC and combustible cigarettes dually. In addition, EC were used for supporting smoke-quitting. Unfortunately, consuming EC with and without nicotine due later to a higher risk of conventional tobacco smoking for the user. In general, the effects of passive vaporing are unknown. Although the vapor of EC is less harmful than tobacco smoke, EC are not hazard-free lifestyle products. Technical standardization should be desirable. Adult smoker's benefit using EC is given by completely change to EC only. The rates of success using EC for smoke quitting are not well evaluated. Children and their parents should be informed on the risks of EC use as a precursor of combustible smoking mandatorily. Internet selling EC to any non-adult should be forbidden by law. EC ought not to be allowed to weaken non-smoker's rights, and third persons should be protected by the potential hazards of EC vaporing.

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Evaluation of Hot Nodules of Thyroid Gland Using Tc-99m Pertechnetate: a Novel Approach Using Quantitative Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography

Abstract

Planar scintigraphy using Tc-99m pertechnetate is useful for snapshot evaluation of hot thyroid nodules, which are pathologically follicular adenoma and seldom, if ever, malignant. The autonomy of the hot nodules has been demonstrated by the presence of thyroid-stimulating hormone-dependent extra-nodular thyroid tissue besides the hot nodules. Here, we present two cases of hot thyroid nodules in patients who underwent quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT). In addition to the nodules, contralateral normal thyroid parenchyma was evaluated based on standardized uptake values. One patient had a traditional follicular adenoma suppressing other thyroid tissue, whereas the other patient seemed to have a nodule erupting from underlying hyperfunctioning, not suppressed, thyroid tissue. This novel approach using quantitative SPECT/CT unveils a new pathology of hot thyroid nodule that does not suppress, but coincides with hyperfunctioning thyroid tissue.

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Evaluation of Hot Nodules of Thyroid Gland Using Tc-99m Pertechnetate: a Novel Approach Using Quantitative Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography

Abstract

Planar scintigraphy using Tc-99m pertechnetate is useful for snapshot evaluation of hot thyroid nodules, which are pathologically follicular adenoma and seldom, if ever, malignant. The autonomy of the hot nodules has been demonstrated by the presence of thyroid-stimulating hormone-dependent extra-nodular thyroid tissue besides the hot nodules. Here, we present two cases of hot thyroid nodules in patients who underwent quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT). In addition to the nodules, contralateral normal thyroid parenchyma was evaluated based on standardized uptake values. One patient had a traditional follicular adenoma suppressing other thyroid tissue, whereas the other patient seemed to have a nodule erupting from underlying hyperfunctioning, not suppressed, thyroid tissue. This novel approach using quantitative SPECT/CT unveils a new pathology of hot thyroid nodule that does not suppress, but coincides with hyperfunctioning thyroid tissue.

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First-reported pediatric cases of American ginseng anaphylaxis and allergy

Abstract

Background

Ginseng is a perennial herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, which has become increasingly popular world-wide due to its proposed medicinal effects. There are two major species of ginseng, Panax ginseng (Korean or Asian ginseng), and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng). Although cases of allergy due to Korean ginseng have been reported in adults, there are no reported cases of allergy to American ginseng, and no reported cases of ginseng allergy in pediatric patients.

Case presentation

We present two unique cases of pediatric patients with suspected allergic reactions to American ginseng. The first patient is a 6-year-old girl who presented to the emergency department in anaphylaxis (urticaria and respiratory symptoms) minutes after inhaling powdered American ginseng. There was evidence of sensitization to American ginseng on skin prick testing (SPT) (13 × 12 mm wheal) and evidence of allergy to American ginseng on basophil activation testing, with a dose-dependent increase in expression of CD63 on basophils in response to American ginseng extract. The second patient is a 3-year-old boy who presented with recurrent allergic conjunctivitis upon exposure to aerosolized powdered ginseng, with evidence of sensitization to American ginseng on SPT (13 × 7 mm wheal), but with no evidence of IgE-mediated allergic reaction during oral challenge with American ginseng powder.

Conclusions

These cases highlight two different allergic responses to American ginseng in pediatric patients. To our knowledge, these are the first reported cases of allergy to American ginseng, in addition to the first reported cases of allergy to ginseng in pediatric patients.

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First-reported pediatric cases of American ginseng anaphylaxis and allergy

Abstract

Background

Ginseng is a perennial herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, which has become increasingly popular world-wide due to its proposed medicinal effects. There are two major species of ginseng, Panax ginseng (Korean or Asian ginseng), and Panax quinquefolius (American ginseng). Although cases of allergy due to Korean ginseng have been reported in adults, there are no reported cases of allergy to American ginseng, and no reported cases of ginseng allergy in pediatric patients.

Case presentation

We present two unique cases of pediatric patients with suspected allergic reactions to American ginseng. The first patient is a 6-year-old girl who presented to the emergency department in anaphylaxis (urticaria and respiratory symptoms) minutes after inhaling powdered American ginseng. There was evidence of sensitization to American ginseng on skin prick testing (SPT) (13 × 12 mm wheal) and evidence of allergy to American ginseng on basophil activation testing, with a dose-dependent increase in expression of CD63 on basophils in response to American ginseng extract. The second patient is a 3-year-old boy who presented with recurrent allergic conjunctivitis upon exposure to aerosolized powdered ginseng, with evidence of sensitization to American ginseng on SPT (13 × 7 mm wheal), but with no evidence of IgE-mediated allergic reaction during oral challenge with American ginseng powder.

Conclusions

These cases highlight two different allergic responses to American ginseng in pediatric patients. To our knowledge, these are the first reported cases of allergy to American ginseng, in addition to the first reported cases of allergy to ginseng in pediatric patients.

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Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging Services are Significant Sources of Medicare Revenue for Highly-Reimbursed Non-Radiologist Providers

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology

Author(s): Andrew J Degnan, Paul H. Yi, Nathan Kim, John Swietlik, Eric Huh, Jie C. Nguyen

Abstract

Introduction

Non-radiologist providers increasingly perform diagnostic imaging examinations and imaging-guided interventions traditionally performed by radiologists, which have raised concerns regarding appropriate utilization and self-referral. The purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of imaging studies to Medicare reimbursements for highly-compensated non-radiologist providers in specialties often performing imaging studies.

Methods

The Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Database was queried for provider information regarding overall reimbursement for providers in anesthesiology, cardiology, emergency medicine, neurology, obstetrics & gynecology, orthopedic surgery, neurology and vascular surgery. Information regarding imaging studies reported and payment amounts were extracted for the 25 highest-reimbursed providers. Data was analyzed for relative contribution of imaging payments to overall medical Medicare payments.

Results

Significant differences between numbers of imaging studies, types of imaging, and payment amounts were noted based on provider specialty (p<0.001). Highest-reimbursed cardiologists received the greatest percentage of Medicare payments from imaging (18.3%) followed by vascular surgery (11.6%), obstetrics & gynecology (10.9%), orthopedic surgery (9.6%), emergency medicine (8.7%), neurology (7.8%) and anesthesiology (3.2%) providers. Mean imaging payments amongst highly-reimbursed non-radiologists were greatest for cardiology ($578,265), vascular surgery ($363,912) and orthopedic surgery ($113,634). Amongst highly-reimbursed specialists, most common non-radiologist imaging payments were from ultrasound (45%) and cardiac nuclear medicine studies (40%).

Conclusions

Non-radiologist performed imaging payments comprised substantial proportions of overall Medicare reimbursement for highly-reimbursed physicians in several specialties, especially cardiology, vascular surgery and orthopedic surgery. Further investigation is needed to better understand the wider economic implications of non-radiologist imaging study performance and self-referral beyond the Medicare population.

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Pulmonary hemorrhage following percutaneous CT-guided lung biopsy: Retrospective review of risk factors, including aspirin usage

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology

Author(s): Brigid A. Bingham, Steven Y. Huang, Pamela L. Chien, Joe E. Ensor, Sanjay Gupta

Abstract

Background

To evaluate the significance of aspirin, as well as, other potential confounding risk factors, on the incidence and volume of pulmonary hemorrhage in patients undergoing percutaneous CT-guided lung biopsy.

Methods

This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board. Between September 2013 and December 2014, 252 patients taking aspirin underwent transthoracic CT-guided lung biopsy. Patient, technical, and lesion-related risk factors were evaluated. Univariate analysis was performed with a Student's t-test, chi-square test, or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate followed by multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of 252 patients, 49 (19.4%) continued or stopped aspirin ≤ 4 days prior to biopsy and 203 (80.6%) patients stopped aspirin ≥ 5 days prior to biopsy. Pulmonary hemorrhage occurred in 174 cases (69.0 %). The median volume of hemorrhage was 3.74 cm³ (range, 0 cm³ to 163.5 cm³). Multivariate analysis revealed that lesion size (p<0.0001) and lesion depth (p<0.0001) were independent risk factors for the incidence of pulmonary hemorrhage, while lesion size (p=0.0035), transgression of intraparenchymal vessels (p<0.0001), and lesion depth (p=0.0047) were independent risk factors for severity of hemorrhage. Aspirin stopped ≤ 4 days from a percutaneous lung biopsy was not associated with pulmonary hemorrhage.

Conclusion

Aspirin taken concurrently or stopped within four days of transthoracic lung biopsy is not an independent risk factor for pulmonary hemorrhage. The incidence of hemorrhage following lung biopsy is associated with lesion size and depth, while the severity of hemorrhage is associated with lesion size, depth, as well as traversal of intraparenchymal vessels.

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Impact of Overlying Personal Items on CT Dose with Use of Automated Tube Current Modulation – Pilot Investigation

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology

Author(s): Thomas R. Mulvey, Xiangyang Tang, Elizabeth A. Krupinski, Pardeep K. Mittal, Courtney C. Moreno

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Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging Services are Significant Sources of Medicare Revenue for Highly-Reimbursed Non-Radiologist Providers

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology

Author(s): Andrew J Degnan, Paul H. Yi, Nathan Kim, John Swietlik, Eric Huh, Jie C. Nguyen

Abstract

Introduction

Non-radiologist providers increasingly perform diagnostic imaging examinations and imaging-guided interventions traditionally performed by radiologists, which have raised concerns regarding appropriate utilization and self-referral. The purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of imaging studies to Medicare reimbursements for highly-compensated non-radiologist providers in specialties often performing imaging studies.

Methods

The Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Database was queried for provider information regarding overall reimbursement for providers in anesthesiology, cardiology, emergency medicine, neurology, obstetrics & gynecology, orthopedic surgery, neurology and vascular surgery. Information regarding imaging studies reported and payment amounts were extracted for the 25 highest-reimbursed providers. Data was analyzed for relative contribution of imaging payments to overall medical Medicare payments.

Results

Significant differences between numbers of imaging studies, types of imaging, and payment amounts were noted based on provider specialty (p<0.001). Highest-reimbursed cardiologists received the greatest percentage of Medicare payments from imaging (18.3%) followed by vascular surgery (11.6%), obstetrics & gynecology (10.9%), orthopedic surgery (9.6%), emergency medicine (8.7%), neurology (7.8%) and anesthesiology (3.2%) providers. Mean imaging payments amongst highly-reimbursed non-radiologists were greatest for cardiology ($578,265), vascular surgery ($363,912) and orthopedic surgery ($113,634). Amongst highly-reimbursed specialists, most common non-radiologist imaging payments were from ultrasound (45%) and cardiac nuclear medicine studies (40%).

Conclusions

Non-radiologist performed imaging payments comprised substantial proportions of overall Medicare reimbursement for highly-reimbursed physicians in several specialties, especially cardiology, vascular surgery and orthopedic surgery. Further investigation is needed to better understand the wider economic implications of non-radiologist imaging study performance and self-referral beyond the Medicare population.

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Pulmonary hemorrhage following percutaneous CT-guided lung biopsy: Retrospective review of risk factors, including aspirin usage

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology

Author(s): Brigid A. Bingham, Steven Y. Huang, Pamela L. Chien, Joe E. Ensor, Sanjay Gupta

Abstract

Background

To evaluate the significance of aspirin, as well as, other potential confounding risk factors, on the incidence and volume of pulmonary hemorrhage in patients undergoing percutaneous CT-guided lung biopsy.

Methods

This retrospective study was approved by the institutional review board. Between September 2013 and December 2014, 252 patients taking aspirin underwent transthoracic CT-guided lung biopsy. Patient, technical, and lesion-related risk factors were evaluated. Univariate analysis was performed with a Student's t-test, chi-square test, or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate followed by multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of 252 patients, 49 (19.4%) continued or stopped aspirin ≤ 4 days prior to biopsy and 203 (80.6%) patients stopped aspirin ≥ 5 days prior to biopsy. Pulmonary hemorrhage occurred in 174 cases (69.0 %). The median volume of hemorrhage was 3.74 cm³ (range, 0 cm³ to 163.5 cm³). Multivariate analysis revealed that lesion size (p<0.0001) and lesion depth (p<0.0001) were independent risk factors for the incidence of pulmonary hemorrhage, while lesion size (p=0.0035), transgression of intraparenchymal vessels (p<0.0001), and lesion depth (p=0.0047) were independent risk factors for severity of hemorrhage. Aspirin stopped ≤ 4 days from a percutaneous lung biopsy was not associated with pulmonary hemorrhage.

Conclusion

Aspirin taken concurrently or stopped within four days of transthoracic lung biopsy is not an independent risk factor for pulmonary hemorrhage. The incidence of hemorrhage following lung biopsy is associated with lesion size and depth, while the severity of hemorrhage is associated with lesion size, depth, as well as traversal of intraparenchymal vessels.

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Impact of Overlying Personal Items on CT Dose with Use of Automated Tube Current Modulation – Pilot Investigation

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology

Author(s): Thomas R. Mulvey, Xiangyang Tang, Elizabeth A. Krupinski, Pardeep K. Mittal, Courtney C. Moreno

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Background parenchymal enhancement and fibroglandular tissue on breast MRI in women with high genetic risk: are changes before and after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy associated with breast cancer risk?

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: European Journal of Radiology

Author(s): Cécile Bermot, Caroline Saint-Martin, Caroline Malhaire, Delphine Sebbag-Sfez, Emmanuelle Mouret-Fourme, Matthieu Carton, Fabienne E. Thibault

Abstract

Background

Parenchymal enhancement and fibroglandular tissue on breast MRI in women with high genetic risk: are changes before and after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy associated with breast cancer risk?

Objective

To evaluate changes in the level of background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) and amount of fibroglandular tissue (FGT) on breast MRI before and after risk-reducing oophorectomy (RRSO), and to determine whether these changes correlate with ultimate breast cancer risk.

Materials and Methods

The cohort included 146 women with high genetic risk who had undergone pre- and post-RRSO breast MRI. BPE level and FGT amount were retrospectively graded according to BI-RADS classification. Initial values and changes were compared in women with or without later breast cancer after RRSO. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated using Cox univariate models.

Results

Patients with initial moderate (BI-RADS C category) BPE had a higher risk of subsequent breast cancer of HR = 3.9 (95% CI [1.1-14.3]; p = 0.04) compared to patients with initial minimal (BI-RADS A) BPE. A categorical BPE decrease after RRSO, versus no change, was associated with a higher cancer risk (HR 2.2, 95% CI [1.04-4.8]; p = 0.04). Initially dense (BI-RADS 3 category) FGT correlated with an increased cancer risk compared to fatty (BI-RADS 1 category) parenchyma (HR 8.3, 95% CI [1.1-64]; p = 0.04). After RRSO, there was a trend for higher cancer risk related to a categorical FGT decrease (HR 2.3, 95% CI [0.9-35.4]; p = 0.06).

Conclusion

Patients in whom BPE decreases after RRSO might be at higher risk of subsequent breast cancer compared to patients with stable BPE. This finding is consistent with the concept of increased risk associated with high initial BPE, which could be of higher clinical relevance than post-RRSO BPE reduction. A similar trend was observed with high initial FGT.

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Editorial Board

Publication date: November 2018

Source: European Journal of Radiology, Volume 108

Author(s):

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The irradiated human mandible: A quantitative study on bone vascularity

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 87

Author(s): H. Dekker, N. Bravenboer, D. van Dijk, E. Bloemena, D.H.F. Rietveld, Chr.M. ten Bruggenkate, E.A.J.M. Schulten

Abstract

Objectives

Hypovascularisation is thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of osteoradionecrosis. The objective of this study was to assess the microvascular system in the irradiated mandibular bone marrow.

Materials and methods

Mandibular bone biopsies were taken from 20 irradiated patients and 24 controls. Blood vessels were visualized using CD34 antibody stain to detect endothelial cells. The vascular density (VD) and vascular area fraction (VAF) were measured. Mean vessel lumen area, perimeter and diameter of the vessels were calculated for each vessel. A distinction was made between large and small vessels (cut-off point <400 µm²).

Results

Vascular density and vascular area fraction were lower in the irradiated group. The mean vascular perimeter and mean vascular diameter were higher in samples with a local radiation dose of ≥50 Gy, whereas the percentage of small vessels was lower. Larger vessel perimeter is associated with higher radiation dose. A longer interval between biopsy and radiotherapy is associated with a larger mean vessel perimeter and a lower percentage of small vessels.

Conclusions

Radiation dosages higher than 50 Gy mainly affect the smaller vessels. With increased time after irradiation, the share of smaller vessels in the mandibular bone marrow seems to decrease. In search of the exact mechanisms of irradiation damage and osteoradionecrosis of the mandible, the role of the microvascular system in the mandibular bone marrow should be further explored.

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The diverse cutoff of PD-L1 positivity and negativity in studies regarding head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Publication date: Available online 3 November 2018

Source: Oral Oncology

Author(s): Wei Liu, Shengkai Chen, Wenbin Yang

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Delineation of organs at risk in the head and neck region

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: Oral Oncology

Author(s): Francesca De Felice, Vincenzo Tombolini

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Background parenchymal enhancement and fibroglandular tissue on breast MRI in women with high genetic risk: are changes before and after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy associated with breast cancer risk?

Publication date: Available online 2 November 2018

Source: European Journal of Radiology

Author(s): Cécile Bermot, Caroline Saint-Martin, Caroline Malhaire, Delphine Sebbag-Sfez, Emmanuelle Mouret-Fourme, Matthieu Carton, Fabienne E. Thibault

Abstract

Background

Parenchymal enhancement and fibroglandular tissue on breast MRI in women with high genetic risk: are changes before and after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy associated with breast cancer risk?

Objective

To evaluate changes in the level of background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) and amount of fibroglandular tissue (FGT) on breast MRI before and after risk-reducing oophorectomy (RRSO), and to determine whether these changes correlate with ultimate breast cancer risk.

Materials and Methods

The cohort included 146 women with high genetic risk who had undergone pre- and post-RRSO breast MRI. BPE level and FGT amount were retrospectively graded according to BI-RADS classification. Initial values and changes were compared in women with or without later breast cancer after RRSO. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated using Cox univariate models.

Results

Patients with initial moderate (BI-RADS C category) BPE had a higher risk of subsequent breast cancer of HR = 3.9 (95% CI [1.1-14.3]; p = 0.04) compared to patients with initial minimal (BI-RADS A) BPE. A categorical BPE decrease after RRSO, versus no change, was associated with a higher cancer risk (HR 2.2, 95% CI [1.04-4.8]; p = 0.04). Initially dense (BI-RADS 3 category) FGT correlated with an increased cancer risk compared to fatty (BI-RADS 1 category) parenchyma (HR 8.3, 95% CI [1.1-64]; p = 0.04). After RRSO, there was a trend for higher cancer risk related to a categorical FGT decrease (HR 2.3, 95% CI [0.9-35.4]; p = 0.06).

Conclusion

Patients in whom BPE decreases after RRSO might be at higher risk of subsequent breast cancer compared to patients with stable BPE. This finding is consistent with the concept of increased risk associated with high initial BPE, which could be of higher clinical relevance than post-RRSO BPE reduction. A similar trend was observed with high initial FGT.

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