Breast Lesions Detected via Molecular Breast Imaging: Physiological Parameters Affecting Interpretation

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Academic Radiology, Volume 25, Issue 12

Author(s): Jason G. Ching, Rachel F. Brem

Rationale and Objectives

To evaluate correlations between molecular breast imaging (MBI) descriptor characteristics and positive predictive value (PPV) in detecting breast cancer.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review was performed on 193 suspicious findings from 153 women (31–81 years) with positive MBI examinations. We assessed associations between (i) lesion pattern (mass vs. nonmass) and PPV; (ii) lesion pattern and suspected likelihood of cancer (low vs. moderate vs. high); (iii) background parenchymal uptake (BPU) (homogeneous vs. heterogeneous) and PPV; (iv) breast density (dense vs. non-dense) and PPV; and (v) BPU and density.

Results

One hundred ten of 153 patients were diagnosed with malignancy or high-risk pathology (PPV1 = 71.9%), and 130/193 biopsies resulted in malignant or high-risk lesions (PPV3 = 67.4%). Biopsies of mass vs. nonmass findings had comparable PPV3 (71.7% vs. 61.3%; P = .0717). Mass findings were correlated with higher suspicion for cancer than nonmass findings (P < .001). There was no significant difference in PPV3 when comparing biopsies from homogeneous vs. heterogeneous BPU (72.5% vs. 60.7%; P = .103). No association was found between patients' BPU and diagnosed cancer or high-risk lesions (P = .513). Biopsies from nondense breasts demonstrated higher PPV3 than biopsies from dense breasts (85.4% vs. 60.6%; P = .0025); patients with nondense breasts were more likely to be diagnosed with cancer or high-risk pathology (PPV1 = 87.8% vs. 66.0%; P = .00844). Dense breasts had a greater association with heterogeneous BPU (P = .0844).

Conclusion

Neither variability in mass or nonmass positive MBI findings, nor variability in BPU on MBI were significant determinants for the probability of malignancy. Dense breasts were associated with lower predictability and heterogeneous BPU on MBI.

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Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Aneurysm: Have You Ever Been Misdiagnosed?

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Academic Radiology, Volume 25, Issue 12

Author(s): Yuan Zhang, Shiqing Sun, Qi Xu, Weihua Feng, Haisong Chen

Rationale and Objectives

The posterior inferior cerebellar artery aneurysm (PICAA), especially distal PICAA, is easily missed by a doctor, leading to misdiagnosis and treatment delays. The objective of this article is to report the computed tomography angiography (CTA) presentations of 30 cases of PICAA proved by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) or surgical operation, and analyze the causes of misdiagnosis of PICAA by CTA.

Materials and Methods

Thirty cases of patients with PICAA that were proved by DSA or surgical operation were included in this study, all of whom underwent CTA before surgical procedure. The relationship between the locations of PICAA and the rates of missed diagnosis by CTA was analyzed. The detection rates of the PICAA by volume rendering (VR) images and original thin axial images of CTA were compared.

Results

Twelve cases (12 of 30, 40%) of aneurysm lied on the proximal end of posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) (border with vertebral artery) and all of them (12 of 12,100%) were clearly displayed on the VR images of CTA and correctly diagnosed by doctors. Eighteen cases (18 of 30, 60%) of aneurysm lied on the distal part of the PICA, whereas only 2 of them (2/18, 11.1%) were displayed on the VR images and correctly diagnosed before surgical procedure. After surgical operation, the respective review of the CTA images demonstrated that all aneurysms (30 of 30, 100%) can be found on the thin axial images after careful observation and are shown on VR images after adjusting the display threshold when the locations of the PICAA through thin axial images were known, including the distal PICAA.

Conclusions

Thin axial CT images are most important and reliable for the detection of distal PICAA. Overdependence on three-dimensional VR images of CTA is the main cause of misdiagnosis.

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A Radiomics Signature in Preoperative Predicting Degree of Tumor Differentiation in Patients with Non–small Cell Lung Cancer

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Academic Radiology, Volume 25, Issue 12

Author(s): Xin Chen, Mengjie Fang, Di Dong, Xinhua Wei, Lingling Liu, Xiangdong Xu, Xinqing Jiang, Jie Tian, Zaiyi Liu

Rationale and Objectives

Poorly differentiated non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) indicated a poor prognosis and well-differentiated NSCLC indicates a noninvasive nature and good prognosis. The purpose of this study was to build and validate a radiomics signature to predict the degree of tumor differentiation (DTD) for patients with NSCLC.

Materials and Methods

A total of 487 patients with pathologically diagnosed NSCLC were retrospectively included in our study. Five hundred ninety-one radiomics features were extracted from each tumor from the contrast-enhanced computed tomography images. A minimum redundancy maximum relevance algorithm and a logistic regression model were used for dimension reduction, feature selection, and radiomics signature building. The performance of the radiomics signature was assessed using receiver operating characteristic analysis, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated to quantify the association between a signature and DTD. An independent validation set contained 184 consecutive patients with NSCLC.

Results

A nine-radiomics-feature-based signature was built and it could differentiate low and high DTDs in the training set (AUC = 0.763, sensitivity = 0.750, specificity = 0.665, and accuracy = 0.687), and the radiomics signature had good discrimination performance in the validation set (AUC = 0.782, sensitivity = 0.608, specificity = 0.752, and accuracy = 0.712).

Conclusions

A radiomics signature based on contrast-enhanced computed tomography imaging is a potentially useful imaging biomarker for differentiating low from high DTD in patients with NSCLC.

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Variability of CT Airways Measurements in COPD Patients Between Morning and Afternoon: Comparisons to Variability of Spirometric Measurements

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Academic Radiology, Volume 25, Issue 12

Author(s): Maxime Hackx, Elodie Gyssels, Tiago Severo Garcia, Isabelle De Meulder, Marie Bruyneel, Alain Van Muylem, Vincent Ninane, Pierre Alain Gevenois

Rationale and Objectives

Computed tomography (CT) airways measurements can be used as surrogates to spirometric measurements for assessing bronchodilation in a particular patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Although spirometric measurements show variations within the opening hours of a hospital department, we aimed to compare the variability of CT airways measurements between morning and afternoon in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to that of spirometric measurements.

Materials and Methods

Twenty patients had pulmonary function tests and CT around 8 am and 4 pm. Luminal area (LA) and wall thickness (WT) of third and fourth generation airways were measured twice by three readers. The percentage of airway area occupied by the wall (WA%) and the square root of wall area at an internal perimeter of 10 mm (√WAPi10) were calculated. The effects of examination time, reader, and measurement session on CT airways measurements were assessed, and the variability of these measurements was compared to that of spirometric measurements.

Results

Variability of LA^3rd and LA^4th was greater than that of spirometric measurements (P values ranging from <.001 to .033). There was no examination time effect on √WAPi10, WT^3rd, LA^4th, or WA%^4th (P values ranging from .102 to .712). There was a reader effect on all CT airways measurements (P values ranging from <.001 to .028), except in WT^3rd (P > .999). There was no effect of measurement session on any CT airway measurement (P values ranging from .535 to >.999).

Conclusion

As the variability of LA^3rd and LA^4th is greater than that of spirometric measurements, clinical studies should include cohorts with larger numbers of patients when considering LA than when considering spirometric measurements as end points.

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It is About "Time": Academic Neuroradiologist Time Distribution for Interpreting Brain MRIs

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Academic Radiology, Volume 25, Issue 12

Author(s): Altaib Al Yassin, Mohammad Salehi Sadaghiani, Suyash Mohan, R. Nick Bryan, Ilya Nasrallah

Rationale and Objectives

Efficiency is central to current radiology practice. Knowledge of report generation timing is essential for workload optimization and departmental staffing decisions. Yet little research evaluates the distribution of activities performed by neuroradiologists in daily work.

Materials and Methods

This observational study tracked radiologists interpreting 358 brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in an academic practice over 9 months. We measured the total duration from study opening to report signing and times for five activities performed during this period: image viewing, report transcription, obtaining clinical data, education, and other. Attendings, fellows, and residents reading studies independently and attendings over-reading trainee-previewed studies were observed.

Results

Ten attendings, 12 fellows, and 13 residents spent a mean of 11, 18, and 16 minutes reading brain MRIs independently. Mean duration was significantly different comparing attendings in all assignments to fellows (18.36 ± 1.05 minutes, p = 0.0001) or residents (16.31 ± 1.11 minutes, p = 0.001) but not between fellows/residents. Mean duration among attendings reading independently versus over-reading trainees was not statistically different. Attendings spent the same time on image viewing (4.07–5.33 minutes) with or without trainees. Attending transcription time was shortest when over-reading trainees (2.24 minutes) and longest when reading independently (4.20 minutes), demonstrating benefit of the draft report. Fellows and Residents spent longer on image viewing (7.14 minutes and 8.06 minutes, respectively) and transcription (7.02 minutes and 5.40 minutes, respectively) than attendings reading independently.

Conclusion

Neuroradiologist time/activity distributions for reading brain MRI studies were measured, setting the stage to establish a benchmark for future reference and suggesting opportunities for greater efficiency. Furthermore, report production time can be decreased when a draft report is available.

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The Impact of Interruptions on Chest Radiograph Interpretation: Effects on Reading Time and Accuracy

Publication date: December 2018

Source: Academic Radiology, Volume 25, Issue 12

Author(s): Rachel M. Wynn, Jessica L. Howe, Linda C. Kelahan, Allan Fong, Ross W. Filice, Raj M. Ratwani

Rationale and Objectives

The objective of this study was to experimentally test the effect of interruptions on image interpretation by comparing reading time and response accuracy of interrupted case reads to uninterrupted case reads in resident and attending radiologists.

Materials and Methods

Institutional review board approval was obtained before participant recruitment from an urban academic health-care system during January 2016–March 2016. Eleven resident and 12 attending radiologists examined 30 chest radiographs, rating their confidence regarding the presence or the absence of a pneumothorax. Ten cases were normal (ie, no pneumothorax present), 10 cases had an unsubtle pneumothorax (ie, readily perceivable by a nonexpert), and 10 cases had a subtle pneumothorax. During three reads of each case type, the participants were interrupted with 30 seconds of a secondary task. The total reading time and the accuracy of interrupted and uninterrupted cases were compared. A mixed-factors analysis of variance was run on reading time and accuracy with experience (resident vs attending) as a between-subjects factor and case type (normal, unsubtle, or subtle) and interruption (interruption vs no interruption) as within-subjects factors.

Results

Interrupted tasks had significantly longer reading times than uninterrupted cases (P = .032). During subtle cases, interruptions reduced accuracy (P = .034), but during normal cases, interruptions increased accuracy (P = .038).

Conclusions

Interruptions increased reading times and increased the tendency for a radiologist to conclude that a case is normal for both resident and attending radiologists, demonstrating that interruptions reduce efficiency and introduce patient safety concerns during reads of abnormal cases.

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When Residents Hear the Bell Toll

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Academic Radiology

Author(s): Jared R Shields, Richard B Gunderman

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Machine Learning Algorithms Utilizing Functional Respiratory Imaging May Predict COPD Exacerbations

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Academic Radiology

Author(s): Maarten Lanclus, Johan Clukers, Cedric Van Holsbeke, Wim Vos, Glenn Leemans, Birgit Holbrechts, Katherine Barboza, Wilfried De Backer, Jan De Backer

Rationale and Objectives

Acute chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations (AECOPD) have a significant negative impact on the quality of life and accelerate progression of the disease. Functional respiratory imaging (FRI) has the potential to better characterize this disease. The purpose of this study was to identify FRI parameters specific to AECOPD and assess their ability to predict future AECOPD, by use of machine learning algorithms, enabling a better understanding and quantification of disease manifestation and progression.

Materials and Methods

A multicenter cohort of 62 patients with COPD was analyzed. FRI obtained from baseline high resolution CT data (unenhanced and volume gated), clinical, and pulmonary function test were analyzed and incorporated into machine learning algorithms.

Results

A total of 11 baseline FRI parameters could significantly distinguish ( p < 0.05) the development of AECOPD from a stable period. In contrast, no baseline clinical or pulmonary function test parameters allowed significant classification. Furthermore, using Support Vector Machines, an accuracy of 80.65% and positive predictive value of 82.35% could be obtained by combining baseline FRI features such as total specific image-based airway volume and total specific image-based airway resistance, measured at functional residual capacity. Patients who developed an AECOPD, showed significantly smaller airway volumes and (hence) significantly higher airway resistances at baseline.

Conclusion

This study indicates that FRI is a sensitive tool (PPV 82.35%) for predicting future AECOPD on a patient specific level in contrast to classical clinical parameters.

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Dining out with food allergies may be safer with at least 15 precautions

(Reuters Health) - A survey of people with food allergies who dine out successfully has found they employ quite a few strategies. (Source: Reuters: Health)

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

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Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis complicating COPD is associated with a higher exacerbation rate and a distinct pattern on chest CT scan compared to COPD

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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Changes in total IgE levels predict pulmonary outcome in cystic fibrosis related allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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IgE immunadsorption in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: A pilot study

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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Serum level directed itraconazole therapy in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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Dining out with food allergies may be safer with at least 15 precautions

(Reuters Health) - A survey of people with food allergies who dine out successfully has found they employ quite a few strategies. (Source: Reuters: Health)

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

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Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis complicating COPD is associated with a higher exacerbation rate and a distinct pattern on chest CT scan compared to COPD

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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Changes in total IgE levels predict pulmonary outcome in cystic fibrosis related allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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IgE immunadsorption in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: A pilot study

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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Serum level directed itraconazole therapy in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis

Conference abstracts (Source: The Aspergillus Website - updates)

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How the brain makes sense beyond the processing of single words – An MEG study

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Annika Hultén, Jan-Mathijs Schoffelen, Julia Uddén, Nietzsche H.L. Lam, Peter Hagoort

Abstract

Human language processing involves combinatorial operations that make human communication stand out in the animal kingdom. These operations rely on a dynamic interplay between the inferior frontal and the posterior temporal cortices. Using source reconstructed magnetoencephalography, we tracked language processing in the brain, in order to investigate how individual words are interpreted when part of sentence context. The large sample size in this study (n = 68) allowed us to assess how event-related activity is associated across distinct cortical areas, by means of inter-areal co-modulation within an individual. We showed that, within 500 ms of seeing a word, the word's lexical information has been retrieved and unified with the sentence context. This does not happen in a strictly feed-forward manner, but by means of co-modulation between the left posterior temporal cortex (LPTC) and left inferior frontal cortex (LIFC), for each individual word. The co-modulation of LIFC and LPTC occurs around 400 ms after the onset of each word, across the progression of a sentence. Moreover, these core language areas are supported early on by the attentional network. The results provide a detailed description of the temporal orchestration related to single word processing in the context of ongoing language.

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Detrended connectometry analysis to assess white matter correlates of performance in childhood

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Brady J. Williamson, Mekibib Altaye, Darren S. Kadis

Abstract

The white matter of the brain develops in a robust, regionally-variant, nonlinear manner during childhood. To relate white matter connectivity to performance, these regional nonlinear effects of age must be accounted for. Here, we identify white matter correlates of gross intellectual functioning using cutting-edge diffusion analyses inside a data-driven two-step regression framework. A total of 98 participants, ages 3–18 years, were included in the analyses. First, white matter connectivity was modeled as a function of age for each fiber direction at each voxel, extracted from the spin distribution function, using a 6^th-order B-spline. The smoothing parameter for each direction was chosen by minimizing generalized cross-validation (GCV), which prevents overfitting while remaining sensitive to potentially nonlinear effects of age. In the second step, the resulting Gaussian residuals were modeled as a function of either full-scale IQ (FSIQ), or of verbal IQ (VIQ) and performance IQ (PIQ), using a linear regression framework (connectometry). Graph theoretical analyses were also performed to assess how each predictor relates to global topological changes, including average clustering coefficient, characteristic path length, global efficiency, average local efficiency, and small worldness. Analyses revealed widespread positive associations between white matter connectivity and FSIQ, including regions of the corpus callosum, fornix, and corticothalamic tracts (FDRq < .05). A separate regression model revealed a selective positive relationship between VIQ and white matter connectivity in predominately frontal tracts (e.g., anterior corticothalamic radiations, fornix, anterior corpus callosum, frontopontine tracts); in contrast, PIQ predicted white matter connectivity in the posterior brain (e.g. parietopontine tracts, posterior corticothalamic radiations, posterior corticostriatal projections), (FDRq < .05). No negative correlations were observed. Graph analyses revealed FSIQ, VIQ while controlling for PIQ, and PIQ while controlling for VIQ increase clustering coefficient, global efficiency, local efficiency, and small worldness, and decrease characteristic path length of the network. Results indicate regional white matter changes related to cognitive skills in childhood, independent of age.

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Neural activity in human visual cortex is transformed by learning real world size

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Marc N. Coutanche, Sharon L. Thompson-Schill

Abstract

The way that our brain processes visual information is directly affected by our experience. Repeated exposure to a visual stimulus triggers experience-dependent plasticity in the visual cortex of many species. Humans also have the unique ability to acquire visual knowledge through instruction. We introduced human participants to the real-world size of previously unfamiliar species, and to the functional motion of novel tools, during a functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Using machine learning, we compared activity patterns evoked by images of the new items, before and after participants learned the animals' real-world size or tools' motion. We found that, after acquiring size information, participants' visual activity patterns for the new animals became more confusable with activity patterns evoked by similar-sized known animals in early visual cortex, but not in ventral temporal cortex, reflecting an influence of new size knowledge on posterior, but not anterior, components of the ventral stream. Learning the functional motion of new tools did not lead to an equivalent change in activity. Finally, time-points marked by evidence of new size information in early visual cortex were more likely to show size information and greater activation in the right angular gyrus, a key hub of semantic knowledge and spatial cognition. Overall, these findings suggest that learning an item's real-world size by instruction influences subsequent activity in visual cortex and a region that is central to semantic and spatial brain systems.

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Advances in gradient echo myelin water imaging at 3T and 7T

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Hyeong-Geol Shin, Se-Hong Oh, Masaki Fukunaga, Yoonho Nam, Doohee Lee, Woojin Jung, Minju Jo, Sooyeon Ji, Joon Yul Choi, Jongho Lee

Abstract

Gradient echo myelin water imaging (GRE-MWI) is an MRI technique to measure myelin concentration and involves the analysis of signal decay characteristics of the multi-echo gradient echo data. The method provides a myelin water fraction as a quantitative biomarker for myelin. In this work, a new sequence and post-processing methods were proposed to generate high quality GRE-MWI images at 3T and 7T. In order to capture the rapidly decaying myelin water signals, a bipolar readout GRE sequence was designed with "gradient pairing," compensating for the eddy current effects. The flip angle dependency from the multi-compartmental T₁ effects was explored and avoided using a 2D multi-slice acquisition with a long TR. Additionally, the sequence was tested for the effects of inflow and magnetization transfer and demonstrated robustness to these error sources. Lastly, the temporal and spatial B₀ inhomogeneity effects were mitigated by using the B₀ navigator and field inhomogeneity corrections. Using the method, high-quality myelin water images were successfully generated for the in-vivo human brain at both field strengths. When the myelin water fraction at 3T and 7T were compared, they showed a good correlation (R²≥ 0.88; p < 0.001) with a larger myelin water fraction at 7T. The proposed method also opens the possibility of high resolution (isotropic 1.5 mm resolution) myelin water mapping at 7T.

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Patterns in the social representation of “hearing loss” across countries: how do demographic factors influence this representation?

Volume 57, Issue 12, December 2018, Page 925-932 . (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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How the brain makes sense beyond the processing of single words – An MEG study

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Annika Hultén, Jan-Mathijs Schoffelen, Julia Uddén, Nietzsche H.L. Lam, Peter Hagoort

Abstract

Human language processing involves combinatorial operations that make human communication stand out in the animal kingdom. These operations rely on a dynamic interplay between the inferior frontal and the posterior temporal cortices. Using source reconstructed magnetoencephalography, we tracked language processing in the brain, in order to investigate how individual words are interpreted when part of sentence context. The large sample size in this study (n = 68) allowed us to assess how event-related activity is associated across distinct cortical areas, by means of inter-areal co-modulation within an individual. We showed that, within 500 ms of seeing a word, the word's lexical information has been retrieved and unified with the sentence context. This does not happen in a strictly feed-forward manner, but by means of co-modulation between the left posterior temporal cortex (LPTC) and left inferior frontal cortex (LIFC), for each individual word. The co-modulation of LIFC and LPTC occurs around 400 ms after the onset of each word, across the progression of a sentence. Moreover, these core language areas are supported early on by the attentional network. The results provide a detailed description of the temporal orchestration related to single word processing in the context of ongoing language.

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Detrended connectometry analysis to assess white matter correlates of performance in childhood

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Brady J. Williamson, Mekibib Altaye, Darren S. Kadis

Abstract

The white matter of the brain develops in a robust, regionally-variant, nonlinear manner during childhood. To relate white matter connectivity to performance, these regional nonlinear effects of age must be accounted for. Here, we identify white matter correlates of gross intellectual functioning using cutting-edge diffusion analyses inside a data-driven two-step regression framework. A total of 98 participants, ages 3–18 years, were included in the analyses. First, white matter connectivity was modeled as a function of age for each fiber direction at each voxel, extracted from the spin distribution function, using a 6^th-order B-spline. The smoothing parameter for each direction was chosen by minimizing generalized cross-validation (GCV), which prevents overfitting while remaining sensitive to potentially nonlinear effects of age. In the second step, the resulting Gaussian residuals were modeled as a function of either full-scale IQ (FSIQ), or of verbal IQ (VIQ) and performance IQ (PIQ), using a linear regression framework (connectometry). Graph theoretical analyses were also performed to assess how each predictor relates to global topological changes, including average clustering coefficient, characteristic path length, global efficiency, average local efficiency, and small worldness. Analyses revealed widespread positive associations between white matter connectivity and FSIQ, including regions of the corpus callosum, fornix, and corticothalamic tracts (FDRq < .05). A separate regression model revealed a selective positive relationship between VIQ and white matter connectivity in predominately frontal tracts (e.g., anterior corticothalamic radiations, fornix, anterior corpus callosum, frontopontine tracts); in contrast, PIQ predicted white matter connectivity in the posterior brain (e.g. parietopontine tracts, posterior corticothalamic radiations, posterior corticostriatal projections), (FDRq < .05). No negative correlations were observed. Graph analyses revealed FSIQ, VIQ while controlling for PIQ, and PIQ while controlling for VIQ increase clustering coefficient, global efficiency, local efficiency, and small worldness, and decrease characteristic path length of the network. Results indicate regional white matter changes related to cognitive skills in childhood, independent of age.

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Neural activity in human visual cortex is transformed by learning real world size

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Marc N. Coutanche, Sharon L. Thompson-Schill

Abstract

The way that our brain processes visual information is directly affected by our experience. Repeated exposure to a visual stimulus triggers experience-dependent plasticity in the visual cortex of many species. Humans also have the unique ability to acquire visual knowledge through instruction. We introduced human participants to the real-world size of previously unfamiliar species, and to the functional motion of novel tools, during a functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Using machine learning, we compared activity patterns evoked by images of the new items, before and after participants learned the animals' real-world size or tools' motion. We found that, after acquiring size information, participants' visual activity patterns for the new animals became more confusable with activity patterns evoked by similar-sized known animals in early visual cortex, but not in ventral temporal cortex, reflecting an influence of new size knowledge on posterior, but not anterior, components of the ventral stream. Learning the functional motion of new tools did not lead to an equivalent change in activity. Finally, time-points marked by evidence of new size information in early visual cortex were more likely to show size information and greater activation in the right angular gyrus, a key hub of semantic knowledge and spatial cognition. Overall, these findings suggest that learning an item's real-world size by instruction influences subsequent activity in visual cortex and a region that is central to semantic and spatial brain systems.

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Advances in gradient echo myelin water imaging at 3T and 7T

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: NeuroImage

Author(s): Hyeong-Geol Shin, Se-Hong Oh, Masaki Fukunaga, Yoonho Nam, Doohee Lee, Woojin Jung, Minju Jo, Sooyeon Ji, Joon Yul Choi, Jongho Lee

Abstract

Gradient echo myelin water imaging (GRE-MWI) is an MRI technique to measure myelin concentration and involves the analysis of signal decay characteristics of the multi-echo gradient echo data. The method provides a myelin water fraction as a quantitative biomarker for myelin. In this work, a new sequence and post-processing methods were proposed to generate high quality GRE-MWI images at 3T and 7T. In order to capture the rapidly decaying myelin water signals, a bipolar readout GRE sequence was designed with "gradient pairing," compensating for the eddy current effects. The flip angle dependency from the multi-compartmental T₁ effects was explored and avoided using a 2D multi-slice acquisition with a long TR. Additionally, the sequence was tested for the effects of inflow and magnetization transfer and demonstrated robustness to these error sources. Lastly, the temporal and spatial B₀ inhomogeneity effects were mitigated by using the B₀ navigator and field inhomogeneity corrections. Using the method, high-quality myelin water images were successfully generated for the in-vivo human brain at both field strengths. When the myelin water fraction at 3T and 7T were compared, they showed a good correlation (R²≥ 0.88; p < 0.001) with a larger myelin water fraction at 7T. The proposed method also opens the possibility of high resolution (isotropic 1.5 mm resolution) myelin water mapping at 7T.

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Patterns in the social representation of “hearing loss” across countries: how do demographic factors influence this representation?

Volume 57, Issue 12, December 2018, Page 925-932 . (Source: International Journal of Audiology)

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Dimensions of impulsive behavior: Predicting contingency management treatment outcomes for adolescent smokers

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): Arit M. Harvanko, Justin C. Strickland, Stacey A. Slone, Brent J. Shelton, Brady A. Reynolds

Abstract

Background

Behavioral measures of impulsive behavior include the dimensions of behavioral disinhibition, decision-making, and lapses of attention. These behaviors are associated with a range of risky activities during adolescence, including cigarette smoking; however, few studies have evaluated their associations with tobacco treatment outcomes. The current study examined the relationship between impulsive behavior and contingency management treatment outcomes for adolescent smokers.

Methods

Data from two contingency management smoking cessation trials were combined (N = 189 adolescents). Participants provided breath carbon monoxide (CO) samples with incentives delivered contingent (i.e., active treatment [AT] condition) or non-contingent (i.e., control treatment [CT] condition) on CO level. Dimensions of impulsive behavior were assessed pre- and post-treatment using the Go/Stop Task, a measure of delay discounting, a continuous performance task, while self-reported impulsivity was assessed with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-Adolescent. Relationships between impulsive behavior and treatment outcomes (efficacy and adherence) were assessed using linear mixed effects models.

Results

Participants in the AT condition had significantly lower program CO levels at each treatment phase. Delay discounting in the AT condition predicted CO levels, with those discounting the most lowering their breath CO levels the least. Delay discounting also predicted program adherence across both conditions.

Conclusions

Delay discounting may be the most relevant dimension of impulsive behavior to predict outcomes for adolescent smokers completing CM programs, both in terms of successful reductions in smoking and program adherence. Suggestions are made to reduce the effects of delay discounting for adolescent smokers using this treatment approach.

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Investigating associations between caffeinated beverage consumption and later alcohol consumption among early adolescents

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): Naomi R. Marmorstein

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that caffeinated beverage consumption predicts alcohol consumption among early adolescents. This study aimed to investigate this association in two ways: (1) by examining if this association remained significant once other established risk factors for alcohol were adjusted for statistically; and (2) by considering three possible moderators of this association: gender, sensation-seeking, and parental monitoring. Data from the Camden Youth Development Study, a longitudinal, community-based study of middle-school students, were used. Youth were initially assessed in 6th and 7th grade and followed-up 16 months later. Self-reports of frequency of energy drink, coffee, and alcohol consumption, as well as sensation-seeking, perceived peer and best friend alcohol use, alcohol expectancies, and parental monitoring, were used. Results indicated that both energy drink and coffee consumption predicted later alcohol consumption, even after adjusting for other risk factors for alcohol consumption. Parental monitoring was a significant moderator of this link, such that youth who consumed energy drinks and reported low parental monitoring were particularly at risk for later alcohol consumption. These findings indicate that the link between earlier caffeine consumption and later alcohol consumption is not simply due to the co-occurrence of caffeine consumption with other risk factors for alcohol use. In addition, risk associated with early energy drink consumption appears to be particularly pronounced for youth in families characterized by low parental monitoring.

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Chest radiography or chest CT plus head and neck CT versus 18F-FDG PET/CT for detection of distant metastasis and synchronous cancer in patients with head and neck cancer

Publication date: January 2019

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 88

Author(s): Yehree Kim, Jong-Lyel Roh, Jae Seung Kim, Jeong Hyun Lee, Seung-Ho Choi, Soon Yuhl Nam, Sang Yoon Kim

Abstract

Objectives

Current guidelines recommend chest computed tomography (CT) with locoregional CT/magnetic resonance imaging for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron-emission tomography (PET)/CT is suggested for stage III–IV patients. However, whole body screening with ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT may provide better detection of distant metastases and synchronous cancer than conventional imaging. We evaluated the utility of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in detecting distant metastasis and synchronous cancer.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled 740 consecutive patients with previously untreated HNSCC diagnosed between September 2010 and December 2015. Synchronous cancer was histologically confirmed and distant metastases were confirmed by biopsy or serial imaging follow-ups. McNemar test was used to compare the true-positive detection rates of chest radiography (CXR) + head and neck CT (hnCT) (A) versus ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT (C) and chest CT + hnCT (B) versus ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT.

Results

Distant metastases and synchronous cancer were found in 23 (3.1%) and 55 (7.4%) patients, respectively. A, B, and C detected distant metastases in 10 (1.3%), 19 (2.6%), and 21 (2.8%) patients, respectively. The absolute differences were 1.5% (A versus C, P = 0.003) and 0.3% (B versus C, P = 0.687). A, B, and C detected synchronous cancer in 15 (2.0%), 22 (2.9%), and 36 (4.9%) patients, respectively. The absolute differences were 2.8% (A versus C, P < 0.001) and 1.4% (B versus C, P = 0.013).

Conclusions

¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT detected more distant metastases and synchronous cancer than CXR + hnCT and more synchronous cancer than chest CT + hnCT.

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Reproductive history and risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A population-based case–control study in southern China

Publication date: January 2019

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 88

Author(s): Rui-Mei Feng, Ellen T. Chang, Zhiwei Liu, Qing Liu, Yonglin Cai, Zhe Zhang, Guomin Chen, Qi-Hong Huang, Shang-Hang Xie, Su-Mei Cao, Yu Zhang, Jingping Yun, Wei-Hua Jia, Yuming Zheng, Jian Liao, Yufeng Chen, Longde Lin, Ingemar Ernberg, Guangwu Huang, Yi Zeng

Abstract

Objects

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) incidence exhibits a remarkable sex disparity, with higher risk among males. Whether this pattern can be partly explained by female reproductive history is unclear.

Methods

A population-based case–control study of NPC was conducted in southern China between 2010 and 2014, including 674 histopathologically verified female NPC cases and 690 female controls randomly selected from population-based registries. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using logistic regression after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Women who had 3, 4, or ≥5 pregnancies compared with 2 pregnancies were at significantly increased risk for NPC (ORs 1.56, 1.45 and 1.88, respectively). History of deliveries was similarly associated with a greater risk of NPC. These positive associations were more prominent in women who were younger than 50 years, had less than 10 years of education, or were white-collar workers. Increasing time since menopause was associated with a diminished NPC risk (P_trend = 0.010). Women more than 15 years after menopause had a 0.35-fold (95% CI: 0.16–0.75) NPC risk compared with those 0–3 years after menopause.

Conclusion

Contrary to our hypothesis, a history of pregnancy or delivery increased the risk of NPC and the risk decreased with increasing time since menopause. However, the non-linear relationship and no consistent risk patterns across strata indicate that the observed associations are unlikely to be causal, and may at least partially be ascribed to residual confounding by socioeconomic factors.

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Immune microenvironment and evasion mechanisms in adenoid cystic carcinomas of salivary glands

Publication date: January 2019

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 88

Author(s): Carla Mosconi, José Alcides Almeida de Arruda, Ana Caroline Rodrigues de Faria, Gabriella Alves Quixabeira Oliveira, Henrique Moura de Paula, Felipe Paiva Fonseca, Ricardo Alves Mesquita, Tarcília Aparecida Silva, Elismauro Francisco Mendonça, Aline Carvalho Batista

Abstract

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to investigate the expression of immune checkpoints (PD-L1, PD-L2, PD-1 and CTLA-4), immune inhibitory molecule HLA-G, markers of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and dendritic cells (DC), as well as its association with clinicopathological features of adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC) of the salivary glands.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six samples from patients with ACC were analyzed immunohistochemically for the expression of PD-L1, PD-L2, PD-1, CTLA-4, HLA-G, CD8, GrB, CD1a and CD83. Positivity of HLA-G, PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression was defined by cut-offs values. CD8⁺ TIL was measured semiquantitatively and also using cut-off values obtained by the ROC curve considering recurrence of the lesion.

Results

ACC showed low CD8⁺, GrB⁺  TIL, CD1a and CD83 populations, as well as scarce positivity for CTLA-4 and PD-1. In contrast, PD-L2 and HLA-G expression was increased, while no PD-L1 expression was detected. Interestingly, cases with lower CD8⁺ TIL density presented greater recurrence rates.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the ACC microenvironment exhibits low immunogenicity, represented by low TIL and DC density. Moreover, there seems to be activation of the immune inhibitory proteins/PD-L2 and HLA-G, a scenario that may favor tumor escape from the immune system and partially explain the poor prognosis of ACC.

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Dimensions of impulsive behavior: Predicting contingency management treatment outcomes for adolescent smokers

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): Arit M. Harvanko, Justin C. Strickland, Stacey A. Slone, Brent J. Shelton, Brady A. Reynolds

Abstract

Background

Behavioral measures of impulsive behavior include the dimensions of behavioral disinhibition, decision-making, and lapses of attention. These behaviors are associated with a range of risky activities during adolescence, including cigarette smoking; however, few studies have evaluated their associations with tobacco treatment outcomes. The current study examined the relationship between impulsive behavior and contingency management treatment outcomes for adolescent smokers.

Methods

Data from two contingency management smoking cessation trials were combined (N = 189 adolescents). Participants provided breath carbon monoxide (CO) samples with incentives delivered contingent (i.e., active treatment [AT] condition) or non-contingent (i.e., control treatment [CT] condition) on CO level. Dimensions of impulsive behavior were assessed pre- and post-treatment using the Go/Stop Task, a measure of delay discounting, a continuous performance task, while self-reported impulsivity was assessed with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-Adolescent. Relationships between impulsive behavior and treatment outcomes (efficacy and adherence) were assessed using linear mixed effects models.

Results

Participants in the AT condition had significantly lower program CO levels at each treatment phase. Delay discounting in the AT condition predicted CO levels, with those discounting the most lowering their breath CO levels the least. Delay discounting also predicted program adherence across both conditions.

Conclusions

Delay discounting may be the most relevant dimension of impulsive behavior to predict outcomes for adolescent smokers completing CM programs, both in terms of successful reductions in smoking and program adherence. Suggestions are made to reduce the effects of delay discounting for adolescent smokers using this treatment approach.

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

Investigating associations between caffeinated beverage consumption and later alcohol consumption among early adolescents

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Addictive Behaviors

Author(s): Naomi R. Marmorstein

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that caffeinated beverage consumption predicts alcohol consumption among early adolescents. This study aimed to investigate this association in two ways: (1) by examining if this association remained significant once other established risk factors for alcohol were adjusted for statistically; and (2) by considering three possible moderators of this association: gender, sensation-seeking, and parental monitoring. Data from the Camden Youth Development Study, a longitudinal, community-based study of middle-school students, were used. Youth were initially assessed in 6th and 7th grade and followed-up 16 months later. Self-reports of frequency of energy drink, coffee, and alcohol consumption, as well as sensation-seeking, perceived peer and best friend alcohol use, alcohol expectancies, and parental monitoring, were used. Results indicated that both energy drink and coffee consumption predicted later alcohol consumption, even after adjusting for other risk factors for alcohol consumption. Parental monitoring was a significant moderator of this link, such that youth who consumed energy drinks and reported low parental monitoring were particularly at risk for later alcohol consumption. These findings indicate that the link between earlier caffeine consumption and later alcohol consumption is not simply due to the co-occurrence of caffeine consumption with other risk factors for alcohol use. In addition, risk associated with early energy drink consumption appears to be particularly pronounced for youth in families characterized by low parental monitoring.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2OYB2yt

Chest radiography or chest CT plus head and neck CT versus 18F-FDG PET/CT for detection of distant metastasis and synchronous cancer in patients with head and neck cancer

Publication date: January 2019

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 88

Author(s): Yehree Kim, Jong-Lyel Roh, Jae Seung Kim, Jeong Hyun Lee, Seung-Ho Choi, Soon Yuhl Nam, Sang Yoon Kim

Abstract

Objectives

Current guidelines recommend chest computed tomography (CT) with locoregional CT/magnetic resonance imaging for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron-emission tomography (PET)/CT is suggested for stage III–IV patients. However, whole body screening with ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT may provide better detection of distant metastases and synchronous cancer than conventional imaging. We evaluated the utility of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT in detecting distant metastasis and synchronous cancer.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled 740 consecutive patients with previously untreated HNSCC diagnosed between September 2010 and December 2015. Synchronous cancer was histologically confirmed and distant metastases were confirmed by biopsy or serial imaging follow-ups. McNemar test was used to compare the true-positive detection rates of chest radiography (CXR) + head and neck CT (hnCT) (A) versus ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT (C) and chest CT + hnCT (B) versus ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT.

Results

Distant metastases and synchronous cancer were found in 23 (3.1%) and 55 (7.4%) patients, respectively. A, B, and C detected distant metastases in 10 (1.3%), 19 (2.6%), and 21 (2.8%) patients, respectively. The absolute differences were 1.5% (A versus C, P = 0.003) and 0.3% (B versus C, P = 0.687). A, B, and C detected synchronous cancer in 15 (2.0%), 22 (2.9%), and 36 (4.9%) patients, respectively. The absolute differences were 2.8% (A versus C, P < 0.001) and 1.4% (B versus C, P = 0.013).

Conclusions

¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT detected more distant metastases and synchronous cancer than CXR + hnCT and more synchronous cancer than chest CT + hnCT.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2zn2vFi

Reproductive history and risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A population-based case–control study in southern China

Publication date: January 2019

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 88

Author(s): Rui-Mei Feng, Ellen T. Chang, Zhiwei Liu, Qing Liu, Yonglin Cai, Zhe Zhang, Guomin Chen, Qi-Hong Huang, Shang-Hang Xie, Su-Mei Cao, Yu Zhang, Jingping Yun, Wei-Hua Jia, Yuming Zheng, Jian Liao, Yufeng Chen, Longde Lin, Ingemar Ernberg, Guangwu Huang, Yi Zeng

Abstract

Objects

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) incidence exhibits a remarkable sex disparity, with higher risk among males. Whether this pattern can be partly explained by female reproductive history is unclear.

Methods

A population-based case–control study of NPC was conducted in southern China between 2010 and 2014, including 674 histopathologically verified female NPC cases and 690 female controls randomly selected from population-based registries. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using logistic regression after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Women who had 3, 4, or ≥5 pregnancies compared with 2 pregnancies were at significantly increased risk for NPC (ORs 1.56, 1.45 and 1.88, respectively). History of deliveries was similarly associated with a greater risk of NPC. These positive associations were more prominent in women who were younger than 50 years, had less than 10 years of education, or were white-collar workers. Increasing time since menopause was associated with a diminished NPC risk (P_trend = 0.010). Women more than 15 years after menopause had a 0.35-fold (95% CI: 0.16–0.75) NPC risk compared with those 0–3 years after menopause.

Conclusion

Contrary to our hypothesis, a history of pregnancy or delivery increased the risk of NPC and the risk decreased with increasing time since menopause. However, the non-linear relationship and no consistent risk patterns across strata indicate that the observed associations are unlikely to be causal, and may at least partially be ascribed to residual confounding by socioeconomic factors.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2P1eZY7

Immune microenvironment and evasion mechanisms in adenoid cystic carcinomas of salivary glands

Publication date: January 2019

Source: Oral Oncology, Volume 88

Author(s): Carla Mosconi, José Alcides Almeida de Arruda, Ana Caroline Rodrigues de Faria, Gabriella Alves Quixabeira Oliveira, Henrique Moura de Paula, Felipe Paiva Fonseca, Ricardo Alves Mesquita, Tarcília Aparecida Silva, Elismauro Francisco Mendonça, Aline Carvalho Batista

Abstract

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to investigate the expression of immune checkpoints (PD-L1, PD-L2, PD-1 and CTLA-4), immune inhibitory molecule HLA-G, markers of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and dendritic cells (DC), as well as its association with clinicopathological features of adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC) of the salivary glands.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six samples from patients with ACC were analyzed immunohistochemically for the expression of PD-L1, PD-L2, PD-1, CTLA-4, HLA-G, CD8, GrB, CD1a and CD83. Positivity of HLA-G, PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression was defined by cut-offs values. CD8⁺ TIL was measured semiquantitatively and also using cut-off values obtained by the ROC curve considering recurrence of the lesion.

Results

ACC showed low CD8⁺, GrB⁺  TIL, CD1a and CD83 populations, as well as scarce positivity for CTLA-4 and PD-1. In contrast, PD-L2 and HLA-G expression was increased, while no PD-L1 expression was detected. Interestingly, cases with lower CD8⁺ TIL density presented greater recurrence rates.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the ACC microenvironment exhibits low immunogenicity, represented by low TIL and DC density. Moreover, there seems to be activation of the immune inhibitory proteins/PD-L2 and HLA-G, a scenario that may favor tumor escape from the immune system and partially explain the poor prognosis of ACC.

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Impact of abdominal visceral adiposity on adult asthma symptoms

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

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

Author(s): Houman Goudarzi, Satoshi Konno, Hirokazu Kimura, Hironi Makita, Munehiro Matsumoto, Nozomu Takei, Hiroki Kimura, Kaoruko Shimizu, Masaru Suzuki, Yoichi M. Ito, Masaharu Nishimura, HiCARAT investigators

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have shown the association of anthropometric measures with poor asthma symptoms, especially among women. However, the potential influence of visceral adiposity on asthma symptoms has not been investigated well.

Objective

In this study, we have evaluated whether visceral adiposity is related to poor adult asthma symptoms independent of anthropometric measures and sex. If this relationship presented, we investigated whether it is explained by influence on pulmonary functions and/or obesity-related comorbidities.

Methods

We analyzed data from 206 asthmatic subjects from Japan. In addition to anthropometric measures (BMI and waist circumference), abdominal visceral and subcutaneous fat were assessed by computed tomography (CT) scan. Quality of life was assessed using the Japanese version of the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ).

Results

All obesity indices had inverse association with reduced asthma quality of life among females. However, only the visceral fat area showed a statistical inverse association with AQLQ in males. Only abdominal visceral fat was associated with higher gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and depression scores. Although all obesity indices showed inverse association with functional residual capacity, only visceral fat area had a significant inverse association with FEV₁ % predicted, independent of other obesity indices.

Conclusion

Regardless of sex, abdominal visceral fat was associated with reduced asthma quality of life independent of other obesity indices, and this may be explained by the impact of abdominal visceral fat on reduced FEV₁ % predicted and higher risk for GERD and depression. Therefore, visceral adiposity may have more clinical influence on asthma symptoms than any other obesity indices.

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Emergency Management of Anaphylaxis due to an Unknown Trigger: An 8-year follow-up study in Canada

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

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

Author(s): Michelle Le, Sofianne Gabrielli, Ann Clarke, Harley Eisman, Judy Morris, Jocelyn Gravel, Edmond S. Chan, Rod Lim, Andrew O'Keefe, Greg Shand, Moshe Ben-Shoshan

Abstract

Background

Anaphylaxis due to Unknown Trigger (AUT) is anaphylaxis not explained by a proved or presumptive cause or stimulus at the time of the reaction. Research describing the management and follow-up of AUT is limited.

Objective

This study assesses and compares the demographics, clinical characteristics and management of adult and pediatric AUT cases across Canada.

Methods

Participants were identified between 2011 and 2018 in emergency departments at eight centers across Canada as part of the Cross-Canada Anaphylaxis Registry. A standardized form documenting the reaction and management in children and adults was completed. Patients were contacted for follow-up to determine assessment by an allergist.

Results

A total of 295 (7.5%) AUT cases were recruited among 3,922 cases of anaphylaxis. In the pre-hospital setting, children (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 1.20 [95%CI: 1.05, 1.37]) and those with a known food allergy (aOR: 1.14 [95%CI: 1.02, 1.28]) were more likely to receive treatment with epinephrine. Children were also more likely to be assessed by an allergist following their reaction (aOR:1.43 [95%CI: 1.13, 1.81]) and were more likely to have an identified trigger for their reaction (aOR:1.35 [95%CI: 1.07, 1.70]). Among patients contacted for follow-up, food was identified as the cause of reaction in 11 of 76 patients. A new food allergy was diagnosed in four patients (2 children and 2 adults).

Conclusions

Our findings highlight important differences between management and follow-up of adult and pediatric AUT cases. It is crucial to follow up all cases of AUT and establish appropriate treatment and management guidelines.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2KuMa5N

Impact of abdominal visceral adiposity on adult asthma symptoms

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

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

Author(s): Houman Goudarzi, Satoshi Konno, Hirokazu Kimura, Hironi Makita, Munehiro Matsumoto, Nozomu Takei, Hiroki Kimura, Kaoruko Shimizu, Masaru Suzuki, Yoichi M. Ito, Masaharu Nishimura, HiCARAT investigators

Abstract

Background

Previous studies have shown the association of anthropometric measures with poor asthma symptoms, especially among women. However, the potential influence of visceral adiposity on asthma symptoms has not been investigated well.

Objective

In this study, we have evaluated whether visceral adiposity is related to poor adult asthma symptoms independent of anthropometric measures and sex. If this relationship presented, we investigated whether it is explained by influence on pulmonary functions and/or obesity-related comorbidities.

Methods

We analyzed data from 206 asthmatic subjects from Japan. In addition to anthropometric measures (BMI and waist circumference), abdominal visceral and subcutaneous fat were assessed by computed tomography (CT) scan. Quality of life was assessed using the Japanese version of the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ).

Results

All obesity indices had inverse association with reduced asthma quality of life among females. However, only the visceral fat area showed a statistical inverse association with AQLQ in males. Only abdominal visceral fat was associated with higher gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and depression scores. Although all obesity indices showed inverse association with functional residual capacity, only visceral fat area had a significant inverse association with FEV₁ % predicted, independent of other obesity indices.

Conclusion

Regardless of sex, abdominal visceral fat was associated with reduced asthma quality of life independent of other obesity indices, and this may be explained by the impact of abdominal visceral fat on reduced FEV₁ % predicted and higher risk for GERD and depression. Therefore, visceral adiposity may have more clinical influence on asthma symptoms than any other obesity indices.

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Bu5JZ5

Emergency Management of Anaphylaxis due to an Unknown Trigger: An 8-year follow-up study in Canada

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

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

Author(s): Michelle Le, Sofianne Gabrielli, Ann Clarke, Harley Eisman, Judy Morris, Jocelyn Gravel, Edmond S. Chan, Rod Lim, Andrew O'Keefe, Greg Shand, Moshe Ben-Shoshan

Abstract

Background

Anaphylaxis due to Unknown Trigger (AUT) is anaphylaxis not explained by a proved or presumptive cause or stimulus at the time of the reaction. Research describing the management and follow-up of AUT is limited.

Objective

This study assesses and compares the demographics, clinical characteristics and management of adult and pediatric AUT cases across Canada.

Methods

Participants were identified between 2011 and 2018 in emergency departments at eight centers across Canada as part of the Cross-Canada Anaphylaxis Registry. A standardized form documenting the reaction and management in children and adults was completed. Patients were contacted for follow-up to determine assessment by an allergist.

Results

A total of 295 (7.5%) AUT cases were recruited among 3,922 cases of anaphylaxis. In the pre-hospital setting, children (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 1.20 [95%CI: 1.05, 1.37]) and those with a known food allergy (aOR: 1.14 [95%CI: 1.02, 1.28]) were more likely to receive treatment with epinephrine. Children were also more likely to be assessed by an allergist following their reaction (aOR:1.43 [95%CI: 1.13, 1.81]) and were more likely to have an identified trigger for their reaction (aOR:1.35 [95%CI: 1.07, 1.70]). Among patients contacted for follow-up, food was identified as the cause of reaction in 11 of 76 patients. A new food allergy was diagnosed in four patients (2 children and 2 adults).

Conclusions

Our findings highlight important differences between management and follow-up of adult and pediatric AUT cases. It is crucial to follow up all cases of AUT and establish appropriate treatment and management guidelines.

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Development of a Pediatric Asthma Predictive Index for Hospitalization

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Author(s): Tiffany Jean, Su-Jau Yang, William W. Crawford, Scott H. Takahashi, Javed Sheikh

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Measurement of exhaled nitric oxide in young children with NIOX VERO

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Author(s): Kathleen Rickard, Margot MacDonald-Berko, Robert Anolik, Neal Jain, Craig La Force, Richard L. Wasserman

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Development of a Pediatric Asthma Predictive Index for Hospitalization

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Author(s): Tiffany Jean, Su-Jau Yang, William W. Crawford, Scott H. Takahashi, Javed Sheikh

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Measurement of exhaled nitric oxide in young children with NIOX VERO

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Author(s): Kathleen Rickard, Margot MacDonald-Berko, Robert Anolik, Neal Jain, Craig La Force, Richard L. Wasserman

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Apolipoprotein E, periodontal disease and the risk for atherosclerosis: a review

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): L.C. Pereira, J.C.R Nascimento, J.M.C. Rêgo, K.M. Canuto, M.E. Crespo-Lopez, J.I. Alvarez Leite, A. Baysan, R.B. Oriá

Abstract

The association between cardiovascular and periodontal diseases is characterized by chronic inflammatory processes, with a high prevalence worldwide and complex genetic-environment interactions. Although apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4), one of the isoforms coded by a polymorphic APOE gene, has been widely recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and as an immunoinflammatory factor, but less is known regarding how ApoE4 affects atherosclerosis in periodontitis patients. The aim of this review was to investigate the potential underlying mechanisms related to APOE4 that could increase the risk of periodontal disease and, ultimately, of atherosclerosis. There have only been a few studies addressing apoE polymorphisms in patients with chronic periodontitis. To date, no studies have been performed that have assessed how ApoE4 affects atherosclerotic disease in chronic periodontitis patients. Although clinical studies are warranted, experimental studies have consistently documented the presence of periodontal pathogens, which are usually found in the oral cavity and saliva, in the atherosclerotic plaques of ApoE-deficient mice. In addition, in this review, the potential role of the APOE4 allele as an example of antagonistic pleiotropy during human evolution and its relation to oral health is discussed.

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Apolipoprotein E, periodontal disease and the risk for atherosclerosis: a review

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Archives of Oral Biology

Author(s): L.C. Pereira, J.C.R Nascimento, J.M.C. Rêgo, K.M. Canuto, M.E. Crespo-Lopez, J.I. Alvarez Leite, A. Baysan, R.B. Oriá

Abstract

The association between cardiovascular and periodontal diseases is characterized by chronic inflammatory processes, with a high prevalence worldwide and complex genetic-environment interactions. Although apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4), one of the isoforms coded by a polymorphic APOE gene, has been widely recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and as an immunoinflammatory factor, but less is known regarding how ApoE4 affects atherosclerosis in periodontitis patients. The aim of this review was to investigate the potential underlying mechanisms related to APOE4 that could increase the risk of periodontal disease and, ultimately, of atherosclerosis. There have only been a few studies addressing apoE polymorphisms in patients with chronic periodontitis. To date, no studies have been performed that have assessed how ApoE4 affects atherosclerotic disease in chronic periodontitis patients. Although clinical studies are warranted, experimental studies have consistently documented the presence of periodontal pathogens, which are usually found in the oral cavity and saliva, in the atherosclerotic plaques of ApoE-deficient mice. In addition, in this review, the potential role of the APOE4 allele as an example of antagonistic pleiotropy during human evolution and its relation to oral health is discussed.

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Alpha particle autoradiography for high spatial resolution mapping of radionuclides

Publication date: February 2019

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 197

Author(s): Christopher A.G. Kalnins, Nigel A. Spooner, Michael J.P. Clarke, David Ottaway

Abstract

An autoradiographic technique capable of determining the spatial location of radioactive isotopes within materials on the scale of micrometers is demonstrated in low-activity mineral samples, where the concentrations of radionuclides with short half lives is small and below the detection limits of current measurement techniques. The location of certain radionuclide species within samples with complex structures on the micron scale can yield valuable information, however current methods do not have the spatial resolution required for this purpose.

We demonstrate the use of an autoradiographic emulsion to directly image alpha particle events in samples with low radionuclide concentrations, allowing spatial resolution of radionuclide locations on the order of several microns. Exposure over a long time period allows sufficient integration of decay events enabling analysis of samples with low activity but large area, (less than 1×10−4 Bq/mm²). The use of polarising filters to increase contrast between the alpha particle tracks and the substrate during imaging demonstrates the viability of the technique on samples with a complex structure.

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Alpha particle autoradiography for high spatial resolution mapping of radionuclides

Publication date: February 2019

Source: Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 197

Author(s): Christopher A.G. Kalnins, Nigel A. Spooner, Michael J.P. Clarke, David Ottaway

Abstract

An autoradiographic technique capable of determining the spatial location of radioactive isotopes within materials on the scale of micrometers is demonstrated in low-activity mineral samples, where the concentrations of radionuclides with short half lives is small and below the detection limits of current measurement techniques. The location of certain radionuclide species within samples with complex structures on the micron scale can yield valuable information, however current methods do not have the spatial resolution required for this purpose.

We demonstrate the use of an autoradiographic emulsion to directly image alpha particle events in samples with low radionuclide concentrations, allowing spatial resolution of radionuclide locations on the order of several microns. Exposure over a long time period allows sufficient integration of decay events enabling analysis of samples with low activity but large area, (less than 1×10−4 Bq/mm²). The use of polarising filters to increase contrast between the alpha particle tracks and the substrate during imaging demonstrates the viability of the technique on samples with a complex structure.

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The Microbiome in Atopic Dermatitis

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Author(s): Amy S. Paller, Heidi H. Kong, Patrick Seed, Shruti Naik, Tiffany C. Scharschmidt, Richard L. Gallo, Thomas Luger, Alan D. Irvine

Abstract

As an interface with the environment, the skin is a complex ecosystem, colonized by many microorganisms that coexist in an established balance. The cutaneous microbiome inhibits colonization with pathogens such as S. aureus and is a crucial component for function of the epidermal barrier. Moreover, crosstalk between commensals and the immune system is now recognized, as microorganisms can modulate innate, as well as adaptive, immune responses. Host-commensal interactions also have an impact on the developing immune system in infants and subsequently the occurrence of diseases such as asthma and atopic dermatitis. Later in life, the cutaneous microbiome contributes to the development and course of skin disease. Accordingly, in patients with atopic dermatitis, a decrease in microbiome diversity correlates with disease severity and increased colonization with pathogenic bacteria such as S. aureus. Early clinical studies suggest that topical application of commensal organisms (e.g., S. hominis or R. mucosa) reduces atopic dermatitis severity and support an important role for commensals in decreasing S. aureus colonization in patients with atopic dermatitis. Advancing knowledge of the cutaneous microbiome and its function in modulating the course of skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis may result in novel therapeutic strategies.

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The Microbiome in Atopic Dermatitis

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Author(s): Amy S. Paller, Heidi H. Kong, Patrick Seed, Shruti Naik, Tiffany C. Scharschmidt, Richard L. Gallo, Thomas Luger, Alan D. Irvine

Abstract

As an interface with the environment, the skin is a complex ecosystem, colonized by many microorganisms that coexist in an established balance. The cutaneous microbiome inhibits colonization with pathogens such as S. aureus and is a crucial component for function of the epidermal barrier. Moreover, crosstalk between commensals and the immune system is now recognized, as microorganisms can modulate innate, as well as adaptive, immune responses. Host-commensal interactions also have an impact on the developing immune system in infants and subsequently the occurrence of diseases such as asthma and atopic dermatitis. Later in life, the cutaneous microbiome contributes to the development and course of skin disease. Accordingly, in patients with atopic dermatitis, a decrease in microbiome diversity correlates with disease severity and increased colonization with pathogenic bacteria such as S. aureus. Early clinical studies suggest that topical application of commensal organisms (e.g., S. hominis or R. mucosa) reduces atopic dermatitis severity and support an important role for commensals in decreasing S. aureus colonization in patients with atopic dermatitis. Advancing knowledge of the cutaneous microbiome and its function in modulating the course of skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis may result in novel therapeutic strategies.

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Novel mutations in MYTH4-FERM domains of myosin 15 are associated with autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Hoda Mehregan, Marzieh Mohseni, Khadijeh Jalalvand, Sanaz Arzhangi, Nooshin Nikzat, Sussan Banihashemi, Kimia Kahrizi, Hossein Najmabadi

Abstract

Objective

Hereditary hearing loss is the most common neurosensory disorder in humans caused by myriad mutations in numerous genes. Autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) accounts for 80% of hearing impairments of genetic origin and is quite prevalent in societies with a high rate of consanguinity. In the current study, we investigated the causes of sensorineural hearing loss in 24 unrelated Iranian families who were mainly consanguineous and had at least two affected children.

Methods

All probands were initially screened for GJB2 mutations, as the most common causes of ARNSHL in Iran. Verified GJB2-negative samples were subsequently subjected to whole exome sequencing (WES) to identify the underlying causes of hearing impairment, and the variants identified in each family were further confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Results

WES revealed three previously unreported mutations in MYO15A, the gene encoding the unconventional myosin 15 (Myo15). All variants identified, c.C6436T (p.R2146W), c.C9584G (p.P3195R) and c.G10266C (p.Q3422H), reside in the MYTH4 (myosin tail homology) and FERM (4.1 ezrin, radixin, moesin) domains of the protein.

Conclusion

Globally, mutations in MYO15A are considered to be among the most prevalent genetic causes of ARNSHL, and they rank as the third leading cause of hearing loss in the Iranian population, below GJB2 and SLC26A4. Yet again, these results endorse the importance of MYO15 screening in hearing impaired populations, particularly in Iran.

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The misplaced cochlear implant electrode array

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Ahmed Mohamed Mehanna, Omneya A. Gamaleldin, Mohamed Fawzi Fathala

Abstract


Objectives

/Hypothesis— Evaluation of the clinical, electrophysiologic findings, the management plans of the misplaced cochlear implant electrode array and the possible causes of misplacement. Also to provide recommendations to prevent a repeat of cochlear implant electrode misplacement into abnormal sites.

Study Design

—Retrospective study.

Methods

—Pediatric cochlear implant recipients implanted from January 2012 till January 2018 whose electrode arrays were misplaced outside the cochlea into the surrounding structures.

Results

—Eight pediatric cochlear implant recipients, were identified to have a misplaced cochlear implant electrode array. Different sites of improper placement included one case in the eustachian tube, another one in the vestibule, one electrode array was found to be in the petrous apex lateral to the internal carotid canal, and another one in the internal auditory canal (IAC), and in three cases the electrode arrays were packed in the hypotympanum, and lastly an electrode array recoiled after perfect insertion and was found to be in the facial recess. Six cases were initially identified immediate because of their poor intraoperative implant testing which prompted imaging while in two cases, the one found in the petrous apex and the other one in the internal auditory canal (IAC) were diagnosed several months after surgery due to unsatisfactory auditory skills development or absent behavioral responses following implantation.

Conclusions

—Electrode array misplacement may be due to either failure to identify the anatomical landmarks during surgery specially the infracochlear air cell track or unidentified inner ear malformation. The routine use of intraoperative electrophysiologic testing and postoperative imaging should help to avoid such complications. Misplacement is a rare but still correctable complication after cochlear implant surgery. The diagnosis of misplacement can be delayed for years and in this occasion, it is suspected when benefit from the implant is limited or absent. Once misplacement is diagnosed revision surgery has to be done.

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Novel mutations in MYTH4-FERM domains of myosin 15 are associated with autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Hoda Mehregan, Marzieh Mohseni, Khadijeh Jalalvand, Sanaz Arzhangi, Nooshin Nikzat, Sussan Banihashemi, Kimia Kahrizi, Hossein Najmabadi

Abstract

Objective

Hereditary hearing loss is the most common neurosensory disorder in humans caused by myriad mutations in numerous genes. Autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (ARNSHL) accounts for 80% of hearing impairments of genetic origin and is quite prevalent in societies with a high rate of consanguinity. In the current study, we investigated the causes of sensorineural hearing loss in 24 unrelated Iranian families who were mainly consanguineous and had at least two affected children.

Methods

All probands were initially screened for GJB2 mutations, as the most common causes of ARNSHL in Iran. Verified GJB2-negative samples were subsequently subjected to whole exome sequencing (WES) to identify the underlying causes of hearing impairment, and the variants identified in each family were further confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Results

WES revealed three previously unreported mutations in MYO15A, the gene encoding the unconventional myosin 15 (Myo15). All variants identified, c.C6436T (p.R2146W), c.C9584G (p.P3195R) and c.G10266C (p.Q3422H), reside in the MYTH4 (myosin tail homology) and FERM (4.1 ezrin, radixin, moesin) domains of the protein.

Conclusion

Globally, mutations in MYO15A are considered to be among the most prevalent genetic causes of ARNSHL, and they rank as the third leading cause of hearing loss in the Iranian population, below GJB2 and SLC26A4. Yet again, these results endorse the importance of MYO15 screening in hearing impaired populations, particularly in Iran.

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

The misplaced cochlear implant electrode array

Publication date: Available online 23 November 2018

Source: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Author(s): Ahmed Mohamed Mehanna, Omneya A. Gamaleldin, Mohamed Fawzi Fathala

Abstract


Objectives

/Hypothesis— Evaluation of the clinical, electrophysiologic findings, the management plans of the misplaced cochlear implant electrode array and the possible causes of misplacement. Also to provide recommendations to prevent a repeat of cochlear implant electrode misplacement into abnormal sites.

Study Design

—Retrospective study.

Methods

—Pediatric cochlear implant recipients implanted from January 2012 till January 2018 whose electrode arrays were misplaced outside the cochlea into the surrounding structures.

Results

—Eight pediatric cochlear implant recipients, were identified to have a misplaced cochlear implant electrode array. Different sites of improper placement included one case in the eustachian tube, another one in the vestibule, one electrode array was found to be in the petrous apex lateral to the internal carotid canal, and another one in the internal auditory canal (IAC), and in three cases the electrode arrays were packed in the hypotympanum, and lastly an electrode array recoiled after perfect insertion and was found to be in the facial recess. Six cases were initially identified immediate because of their poor intraoperative implant testing which prompted imaging while in two cases, the one found in the petrous apex and the other one in the internal auditory canal (IAC) were diagnosed several months after surgery due to unsatisfactory auditory skills development or absent behavioral responses following implantation.

Conclusions

—Electrode array misplacement may be due to either failure to identify the anatomical landmarks during surgery specially the infracochlear air cell track or unidentified inner ear malformation. The routine use of intraoperative electrophysiologic testing and postoperative imaging should help to avoid such complications. Misplacement is a rare but still correctable complication after cochlear implant surgery. The diagnosis of misplacement can be delayed for years and in this occasion, it is suspected when benefit from the implant is limited or absent. Once misplacement is diagnosed revision surgery has to be done.

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Evaluation of serum and salivary interferon-gamma levels in oral lichen planus patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control studies

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology

Author(s): Hamid Reza Mozaffari, Roohollah Sharifi, Mina Hayati, Mohammad Moslem Imani, Pia Lopez Jornet, Amin Golshah, Hedaiat Moradpoor, Razieh Rezaei, Masoud Sadeghi

Objective

Cytokines have regulatory and leading roles in immunopathogenesis of OLP. Herein, the present meta-analysis evaluates the serum and salivary interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels in the OLP patients compared with the controls as well as the correlation of this cytokine with the progression of OLP.

Study design

Four databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched from their start date to November 2017. The studies on the effect of oral lichen planus on salivary and serum IFN-γ were searched without language restriction.

Results

Eleven studies were included and analyzed in this meta-analysis. The pooled mean difference (MD) values were estimated to be 3.60 pg/ml (P=0.23) and -0.02 pg/ml (P=1.00) for serum and salivary levels of IFN-γ in the OLP patients compared to the controls, respectively. The pooled MD values were -2.52 pg/ml (P=0.03) and -2.01 pg/ml (P=0.20) for serum and salivary IFN-γ levels in the erosive type compared with the nonerosive type, respectively.

Conclusion

According to the result of meta-analysis, there was no statistically significant difference of IFN-γ between the OLP patients and the control group both in serum and salivary levels and also between erosive and nonerosive types of OLP in the salivary level; so this cytokine is not considered to have an important role in the pathogenesis or severity of OLP.

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Evaluation of serum and salivary interferon-gamma levels in oral lichen planus patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control studies

Publication date: Available online 24 November 2018

Source: Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology

Author(s): Hamid Reza Mozaffari, Roohollah Sharifi, Mina Hayati, Mohammad Moslem Imani, Pia Lopez Jornet, Amin Golshah, Hedaiat Moradpoor, Razieh Rezaei, Masoud Sadeghi

Objective

Cytokines have regulatory and leading roles in immunopathogenesis of OLP. Herein, the present meta-analysis evaluates the serum and salivary interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels in the OLP patients compared with the controls as well as the correlation of this cytokine with the progression of OLP.

Study design

Four databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched from their start date to November 2017. The studies on the effect of oral lichen planus on salivary and serum IFN-γ were searched without language restriction.

Results

Eleven studies were included and analyzed in this meta-analysis. The pooled mean difference (MD) values were estimated to be 3.60 pg/ml (P=0.23) and -0.02 pg/ml (P=1.00) for serum and salivary levels of IFN-γ in the OLP patients compared to the controls, respectively. The pooled MD values were -2.52 pg/ml (P=0.03) and -2.01 pg/ml (P=0.20) for serum and salivary IFN-γ levels in the erosive type compared with the nonerosive type, respectively.

Conclusion

According to the result of meta-analysis, there was no statistically significant difference of IFN-γ between the OLP patients and the control group both in serum and salivary levels and also between erosive and nonerosive types of OLP in the salivary level; so this cytokine is not considered to have an important role in the pathogenesis or severity of OLP.

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Single dose β-aminobutyric acid irrigation modifies tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaf acclimation to consecutive UV-B treatment

Photochem. Photobiol. Sci., 2018, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/C8PP00437D, Paper

Anikó Mátai, Gábor Jakab, Eva Hideg
The β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) pre-treatment has been shown to alter both biotic and abiotic stress responses. The present study extends this observation to acclimative UV-B-response, which has not been explored...
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry

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Single dose β-aminobutyric acid irrigation modifies tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaf acclimation to consecutive UV-B treatment

Photochem. Photobiol. Sci., 2018, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/C8PP00437D, Paper

Anikó Mátai, Gábor Jakab, Eva Hideg
The β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) pre-treatment has been shown to alter both biotic and abiotic stress responses. The present study extends this observation to acclimative UV-B-response, which has not been explored...
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry

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Investigation of maxillary sinus volume relationships with nasal septal deviation, concha bullosa, and impacted or missing teeth using cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the correlations of maxillary sinus volume with nasal septal deviation, concha bullosa, impacted teeth, and missing teeth in the maxillary posterior region on maxillary sinus volume using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.

Methods

The study cohort comprised 252 CBCT images of 252 patients retrospectively selected from the records in our CBCT archive. All CBCT images were exported to 3D modeling software for calculation of maxillary sinus volumes. Nasal septal deviation cases were grouped as mild, moderate, and severe. Concha bullosa was classified as lamellar, bulbous, and extensive. Maxillary sinus volume differences were evaluated by comparing the bilateral sinus volumes in patients with nasal septal deviation, unilateral concha bullosa, and unilateral impacted or missing maxillary posterior teeth.

Results

The findings revealed that males had a significantly higher mean sinus volume than females (p < 0.01) and that sinus volume tended to decrease with age (p < 0.05). In moderate and severe nasal septal deviation cases, the maxillary sinus volume was significantly smaller on the same side as the deviation than on the contralateral side (p < 0.05). There were no significant correlations between maxillary sinus volume and concha bullosa, unilateral impacted teeth, or unilateral missing teeth (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that maxillary sinus volume is smaller on the same side as the deviation in moderate and severe septal deviation cases and that the maxillary sinus volume tends to decrease with increasing age.

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Investigation of maxillary sinus volume relationships with nasal septal deviation, concha bullosa, and impacted or missing teeth using cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the correlations of maxillary sinus volume with nasal septal deviation, concha bullosa, impacted teeth, and missing teeth in the maxillary posterior region on maxillary sinus volume using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.

Methods

The study cohort comprised 252 CBCT images of 252 patients retrospectively selected from the records in our CBCT archive. All CBCT images were exported to 3D modeling software for calculation of maxillary sinus volumes. Nasal septal deviation cases were grouped as mild, moderate, and severe. Concha bullosa was classified as lamellar, bulbous, and extensive. Maxillary sinus volume differences were evaluated by comparing the bilateral sinus volumes in patients with nasal septal deviation, unilateral concha bullosa, and unilateral impacted or missing maxillary posterior teeth.

Results

The findings revealed that males had a significantly higher mean sinus volume than females (p < 0.01) and that sinus volume tended to decrease with age (p < 0.05). In moderate and severe nasal septal deviation cases, the maxillary sinus volume was significantly smaller on the same side as the deviation than on the contralateral side (p < 0.05). There were no significant correlations between maxillary sinus volume and concha bullosa, unilateral impacted teeth, or unilateral missing teeth (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that maxillary sinus volume is smaller on the same side as the deviation in moderate and severe septal deviation cases and that the maxillary sinus volume tends to decrease with increasing age.

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N.I.S of AIT in Adult Patients With House Dust Mite Allergy in Real Practice in France

Conditions:   Allergic Rhinitis Due to House Dust Mite;   Allergic Asthma Due to Dermatophagoides Farinae;   Allergic Asthma Due to Dermatophagoides Pteronyssinus Intervention:   Drug: Tablet, Dispersible Sponsors:   ALK-Abelló A/S;   ITEC Services Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Seal, Stopping Atopic Dermatitis and Allergy Study

Conditions:   Eczema, Infantile;   Eczema;   Atopic Dermatitis Eczema;   Atopic Dermatitis Interventions:   Combination Product: Tri-lipid skin barrier cream (Epiceram);   Combination Product: Fluticasone propionate Cream 0.05% Sponsors:   Stanford University;   King's College London;   National Jewish Health Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Cochlear Implantation After Gamma Knife Radiosurgery With eABR and Correlation to Postoperative Hearing Results - a Pilot Study

Conditions:   Vestibular Schwannoma;   Hearing Loss Intervention:   Other: eABR Sponsor:   Christoph Arnoldner Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Audiological Benefit and Quality of Life With Two Bone Conduction Systems: ADHEAR vs. Contact Mini

Condition:   Conductive Hearing Loss Interventions:   Device: Adhear;   Device: Contact Mini (CM) Sponsor:   Dominik Riss Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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Simultaneous Translabyrinthine Surgery of Vestibular Schwannoma and Cochlear Implantation With Intraoperative eBERA and Correlation to Hearing Results

Conditions:   Vestibular Schwannoma;   Hearing Loss Intervention:   Sponsor:   Christoph Arnoldner Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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N.I.S of AIT in Adult Patients With House Dust Mite Allergy in Real Practice in France

Conditions:   Allergic Rhinitis Due to House Dust Mite;   Allergic Asthma Due to Dermatophagoides Farinae;   Allergic Asthma Due to Dermatophagoides Pteronyssinus Intervention:   Drug: Tablet, Dispersible Sponsors:   ALK-Abelló A/S;   ITEC Services Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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

Seal, Stopping Atopic Dermatitis and Allergy Study

Conditions:   Eczema, Infantile;   Eczema;   Atopic Dermatitis Eczema;   Atopic Dermatitis Interventions:   Combination Product: Tri-lipid skin barrier cream (Epiceram);   Combination Product: Fluticasone propionate Cream 0.05% Sponsors:   Stanford University;   King's College London;   National Jewish Health Not yet recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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

Cochlear Implantation After Gamma Knife Radiosurgery With eABR and Correlation to Postoperative Hearing Results - a Pilot Study

Conditions:   Vestibular Schwannoma;   Hearing Loss Intervention:   Other: eABR Sponsor:   Christoph Arnoldner Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

from #Head and Neck by Sfakianakis via simeraentaxei on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2TD1ktG

Audiological Benefit and Quality of Life With Two Bone Conduction Systems: ADHEAR vs. Contact Mini

Condition:   Conductive Hearing Loss Interventions:   Device: Adhear;   Device: Contact Mini (CM) Sponsor:   Dominik Riss Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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

Simultaneous Translabyrinthine Surgery of Vestibular Schwannoma and Cochlear Implantation With Intraoperative eBERA and Correlation to Hearing Results

Conditions:   Vestibular Schwannoma;   Hearing Loss Intervention:   Sponsor:   Christoph Arnoldner Recruiting (Source: ClinicalTrials.gov)

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COLD OR ALLERGY Pellet [Natural Health Supply]

Updated Date: Nov 15, 2018 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates)

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

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COLD OR ALLERGY Pellet [Natural Health Supply]

Updated Date: Nov 15, 2018 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates)

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

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