OtoRhinoLaryngology & Medicine,New Articles,December 1st,2015

Endocrine Reviews

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΕνδοκρινολογίαΠριν από 2 δευτερόλεπτα

Table of Contents Alert Endocrine Reviews-*Volume*: 36, *Number*: 6 (December 2015) ------------------------------ The above issue is now available online at: http://press.endocrine.org/toc/edrv/36/6?ai=s0&ui=26u7&af=H ------------------------------ [image: Endocrine Reviews masthead] ------------------------------ ------------------------------ Endocrine Reviews Home Page Current Issue Past Issues ------------------------------ ------------------------------ ------------------------------ ------------------------------ ReviewsExecutive Summary to EDC-2: The Endocrine Society's Seco... περισσότερα »

Molecular profiling of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 2 δευτερόλεπτα

Molecular profiling of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Abstract Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) exhibits high rates of recurrence, and with few approved targeted agents, novel treatments are needed. We analyzed a molecular profiling database for the distribution of biomarkers predictive of chemotherapies and targeted agents. Methods Seven hundred thirty-five patients with advanced HNSCC (88 with known human papillomavirus [HPV] status), were profiled using multiple platforms (gene sequencing, gene copy number, and protein expression). Results Among the... περισσότερα »

Human papillomavirus and induction chemotherapy versus concurrent chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer: The Dana Farber Experience

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 2 δευτερόλεπτα

Human papillomavirus and induction chemotherapy versus concurrent chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer: The Dana Farber Experience: Abstract Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection indicates favorable prognosis in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The purpose of this study was for us to assess the impact of HPV in patients treated with sequential therapy versus concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Methods Patients with stage III and IVA and B oropharyngeal SCC were reviewed spanning 10 years. Results Among 500 cases, 291 (58%) received CRT ve... περισσότερα »

Management of the cervico-petrous internal carotid artery in class C tympanojugular paragangliomas

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 2 δευτερόλεπτα

Management of the cervico-petrous internal carotid artery in class C tympanojugular paragangliomas: Abstract Background Management of the cervical and petrous internal carotid artery (ICA) is frequently required in Fisch class C tympanojugular paragangliomas (TJPs). The purpose of this study was to discuss the perioperative intervention of the ICA in patients who underwent surgical resection of a TJP. Methods A retrospective study of 237 patients surgically treated for Fisch class C TJPs was done to identify cases that required ICA management. Results Management of the ICA was requir... περισσότερα »

Pretreatment serum xanthophyll concentrations as predictors of head and neck cancer recurrence and survival

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 2 δευτερόλεπτα

Pretreatment serum xanthophyll concentrations as predictors of head and neck cancer recurrence and survival: Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to examine associations of pretreatment serum carotenoids, tocopherols, and quercetin with prognosis in 154 patients newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Methods Pretreatment blood and health surveys were collected. Serum micronutrients were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Data on recurrence and death were collected annually. Cox proportional hazards models measured associations of serum nutrient conc... περισσότερα »

Aberrant activation of Notch signaling inhibits PROX1 activity to enhance the malignant behavior of thyroid cancer cells

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 3 δευτερόλεπτα

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is one of the most common endocrine malignancies associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although multiple studies have contributed to a better understanding of the genetic alterations underlying this frequently arising disease, the downstream molecular effectors that impact PTC pathogenesis remain to be further defined. Here, we report that the regulator of cell fate specification,PROX1, becomes inactivated in PTC through mRNA downregulation and cytoplasmic mislocalization. Expression studies in clinical specimens revealed that aberrant...περισσότερα »

Degree of nephrotoxicity after intermediate- or high-dose cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 6 δευτερόλεπτα

Degree of nephrotoxicity after intermediate- or high-dose cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer: Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to compare the occurrence of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity between concomitant chemoradiotherapy with high versus intermediate-dose cisplatin. Methods One hundred forty-four patients with locally advanced head and neck or nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) were included; 40 patients received cisplatin 100 mg/m2 (high dose) on days 1, 22, and 43, and 104 patients received cisplatin 40 mg/m2 we... περισσότερα »

Continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring in thyroid surgery

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 6 δευτερόλεπτα

Continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring in thyroid surgery: Safety analysis of 400 consecutive electrode probe placements with standardized procedures: ABSTRACT Background Continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring (C-IONM) is a new technology and it is appropriate to analyze its safety. Methods C-IONM was performed according to a standardized technique to control any adverse events and electrode positioning issues. Results Four hundred vagal nerve dissections were analyzed considering vagal nerve diameter, mean time effort for C-IONM probe positioning, and electrode dislocation ra... περισσότερα »

Vertebral artery dissection: an important differential diagnosis of vertigo

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 7 δευτερόλεπτα

Vertebral artery dissection: an important differential diagnosis of vertigo via ScienceDirect Publication: Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology Publication date: Available online 27 November 2015 *Source:*Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology Author(s): Maíra da Rocha, Bruno Higa Nakao, Evandro Maccarini Manoel, Guilherme Figner Moussalem, Fernando Freitas Ganança *[image: Axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the brain with hyperintense ...] [image: Angioresonance showing a filling defect of left vertebral artery, suggestive of ...] [image: Angioresonance demonstrating... περισσότερα »

Static Craniofacial Measurements and Dynamic Airway Collapse Patterns Associated with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Sleep MRI Study

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 11 δευτερόλεπτα

Static Craniofacial Measurements and Dynamic Airway Collapse Patterns Associated with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Sleep MRI Study: Abstract Objectives Using sleep MRI, we aimed to identify static craniofacial measurements and dynamic upper airway collapse patterns associated with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) during natural sleep in age and BMI matched patients. Design Nested case-control study. Setting Sleep MRI images (3.0 Tesla scanner) and synchronized acoustic recording were used to observe patterns of dynamic airway collapse in subjects with mild and severe OSA. Mi... περισσότερα »

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 outcomes for maxillary sinus floor augmentation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 11 δευτερόλεπτα

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 outcomes for maxillary sinus floor augmentation: a systematic review and meta-analysis: Abstract Aims To study the effect of the recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP-2) on sinus volumetric and histometric changes after sinus floor augmentation compared to a conventional approach of non-biologic bone grafting materials. Materials and methods An electronic search of 4 databases (January 1990–February 2015), including PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Central, and a hand search of peer-reviewed journals f... περισσότερα »

Development of a reference method for ventilation rate measurements in a naturally ventilated test facility

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 11 δευτερόλεπτα

Development of a reference method for ventilation rate measurements in a naturally ventilated test facility: Gases produced in animal houses, such as NH3 and CO2, are not only harmful to the animals and farmers, but can also have negative effects on the environment. An optimum has to be found between maintaining a suitable indoor climate and preventing excessive emissions. For indoor climate control and especially emission measurements a reliable estimate of the airflow rate is essential. However, for naturally ventilated animal houses, no generally accepted reference technique exis...περισσότερα »

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 11 δευτερόλεπτα

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels in children with allergic or nonallergic rhinitis Publication date: Available online 26 November 2015 *Source:*International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Author(s): Mahmut Dogru, Ayse Suleyman Objectives The relationship between vitamin D and allergic diseases such as asthma and atopic dermatitis is shown in several studies. But there is a lack of knowledge about vitamin D status in children with allergic rhinitis (AR). We aimed to investigate serum vitamin D levels of children with AR or nonallergic rhinitis (NAR), to compare with normal... περισσότερα »

On a conjecture of R. Brück and some linear differential equations

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 26 δευτερόλεπτα

In this paper, we mainly investigate the Brück conjecture concerning entire function f and its differential polynomial L 1 ( f ) = a k ( z ) f ( k ) + ⋯ + a 0 ( z ) f sharing an entire function α ( z ) with σ ( α ) ≤ σ ( f ) , by using the theory of complex differential equation.Mathematics Subject Classification: 39B32, 30D 35. from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QapLIp via IFTTT

Three drugs vs two drugs first-line chemotherapy regimen in advanced gastric cancer patients: a retrospective analysis

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 26 δευτερόλεπτα

The definition of the standard chemotherapy regimen for advanced gastric cancer is still a matter of debate. Aim of our analysis was to retrospectively assess whether an intensive, three-drugs, front line approach could be comparable to a sequential (two-drugs front line then second line) in terms of RR (response rate), PFS (progression free survival) and OS (overall survival) in advanced gastric cancer patients in the clinical practice. Patients with metastatic gastric cancer who have received a first-line combination chemotherapy with a two or three-drugs regimen were included i... περισσότερα »

The Nobel Prize 2015: The fight against parasitic diseases continues

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 26 δευτερόλεπτα

Artemisinin and Avermectin/Ivermectin – the discoveries that were awarded this year's Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology – have saved millions of lives from malaria, river-blindness and elephantiasis. The fight against the diseases continues – here in Karolinska Institutet's laboratories too. A large percentage of the annual 500,000 estimated victims of malaria are babies; older children and adults in malaria-ridden areas have had time to build up an immunity to the disease. Professor Anna Färnert is studying this immunity. "We've shown that people continuously infected with sev... περισσότερα »

Bacteriophages of Soft Rot Enterobacteriaceae - a mini-review

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 27 δευτερόλεπτα

Soft rot *Enterobacteriaceae* (SRE: *Pectobacterium* spp. and *Dickeya* spp., formerly pectinolytic *Erwinia* spp.) are ubiquitous necrotrophic bacterial pathogens that infect a large number of different plant species worldwide, including economically important crops. Despite the fact that these bacteria have been studied for more than fifty years little is known of their corresponding predators: bacteriophages, both lytic and lysogenic. The aim of this mini-review is to critically summarize recent ecological, biological and molecular research on bacteriophages infecting *Pectobac... περισσότερα »

Teichoic acid is the major polysaccharide present in the Listeria monocytogenes biofilm matrix

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 27 δευτερόλεπτα

The aim of this study was to characterize the *Listeria monocytogenes* biofilm and particularly the nature of the carbohydrates in the biofilm extracellular matrix and culture supernatant versus to cell wall carbohydrates. *L. monocytogenes* serotype 1/2a and 4b strains were able to form complex biofilms embedded in an extracellular matrix. The soluble carbohydrates from biofilm extracellular matrix and culture supernatant were identified as teichoic acids, structurally identical to cell wall teichoic acids. In addition, the DSS 1130 BFA2 strain had a serotype 1/2a teichoic acid l...περισσότερα »

How welcome do Iranian-Americans feel in their homeland? Perceptions of social distance among Muslim, Jewish, and Non-Religious Iranian-American adults

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Recent political events in the United States have created a political climate that promotes prejudice against Middle Eastern, Iranian, and Muslim people. In this study, we were interested in investigating two questions: (1) How welcome do Iranian-American men and women from various religious backgrounds (Muslim, Jewish, or no religious affiliation) feel in their new homeland (specifically, how much social distance (affective distance) do they think their Euro-American neighbors feel toward them? and (2) to what extent does the possession of stereotypical Middle Eastern, Iranian, or... περισσότερα »

Multi technique amalgamation for enhanced information identification with content based image data

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Image data has emerged as a resourceful foundation for information with proliferation of image capturing devices and social media. Diverse applications of images in areas including biomedicine, military, commerce, education have resulted in huge image repositories. Semantically analogous images can be fruitfully recognized by means of content based image identification. However, the success of the technique has been largely dependent on extraction of robust feature vectors from the image content. The paper has introduced three different techniques of content based feature extracti... περισσότερα »

Cloning and transcriptional expression of a novel gene during sex inversion of the rice field eel (Monopterus albus)

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

We performed annealing control primer (ACP)-based differential-display reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (DDRT-PCR) to isolate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the stage IV ovary and ovotestis of the rice field eel, Monopterus albus. Using 20 arbitrary ACP primers, 14 DEG expressed-sequence tags were identified and sequenced. The transcriptional expression of one DEG, G2, was significantly greater in the ovotestis than the stage IV ovary. To understand the role of G2 in sex inversion, G2 cDNA was cloned and semi-RT-PCR, real time PCR were performed during g...περισσότερα »

On a conjecture of R. Brück and some linear differential equations

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

In this paper, we mainly investigate the Brück conjecture concerning entire function f and its differential polynomial L 1 ( f ) = a k ( z ) f ( k ) + ⋯ + a 0 ( z ) f sharing an entire function α ( z ) with σ ( α ) ≤ σ ( f ) , by using the theory of complex differential equation.Mathematics Subject Classification: 39B32, 30D 35. from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QapLIp via IFTTT

Three drugs vs two drugs first-line chemotherapy regimen in advanced gastric cancer patients: a retrospective analysis

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

The definition of the standard chemotherapy regimen for advanced gastric cancer is still a matter of debate. Aim of our analysis was to retrospectively assess whether an intensive, three-drugs, front line approach could be comparable to a sequential (two-drugs front line then second line) in terms of RR (response rate), PFS (progression free survival) and OS (overall survival) in advanced gastric cancer patients in the clinical practice. Patients with metastatic gastric cancer who have received a first-line combination chemotherapy with a two or three-drugs regimen were included i... περισσότερα »

The Nobel Prize 2015: The fight against parasitic diseases continues

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Artemisinin and Avermectin/Ivermectin – the discoveries that were awarded this year's Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology – have saved millions of lives from malaria, river-blindness and elephantiasis. The fight against the diseases continues – here in Karolinska Institutet's laboratories too. A large percentage of the annual 500,000 estimated victims of malaria are babies; older children and adults in malaria-ridden areas have had time to build up an immunity to the disease. Professor Anna Färnert is studying this immunity. "We've shown that people continuously infected with sev... περισσότερα »

Major advances in physiology: celebrating a centenary of contributions by women

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1PqifdG via IFTTT

Factoring in weather variation to capture the influence of urban design and built environment on globally recommended levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity in children

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives In curbing physical inactivity, as behavioural interventions directed at individuals have not produced a population-level change, an ecological perspective called active living research has gained prominence. However, active living research consistently underexplores the role played by a perennial phenomenon encompassing all other environmental exposures—variation in weather. After factoring in weather variation, this study investigated the influence of diverse environmental exposures (including urban design and built environment) on the accumulation of globally recom... περισσότερα »

Recorded gonorrhoea rates in Denmark, 1900-2010: the impact of clinical testing activity and laboratory diagnostic procedures

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives Assessment of the relations between recorded gonorrhoea rates and clinical testing activity and disposable diagnostic tests. Methods In Denmark, two sources of information on the epidemiology of gonorrhoea are available: (1) a mandatory clinical notification system (since 1867) comprising summary information about geographic distribution, season, age group and gender; in 1994, more detailed anonymous individualised epidemiological information was included; (2) a voluntary countrywide laboratory surveillance system for culture-confirmed cases (since 1957) comprising i... περισσότερα »

Depression and anxiety in ovarian cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence rates

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives To systematically review the literature pertaining to the prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients with ovarian cancer as a function of treatment stage. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Participants 3623 patients with ovarian cancer from primary research investigations. Primary outcome measure The prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients with ovarian cancer as a function of treatment stage. Results We identified 24 full journal articles that met the inclusion criteria for entry into the meta-analysis resulting in a pooled sample size of ... περισσότερα »

Incidence of knee cartilage surgery in Norway, 2008-2011

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective A systematic and long-term data collection on the treatment of focal cartilage defects (FCDs) of the knee is needed. This can be achieved through the foundation of a National Knee Cartilage Defect Registry. The aim of this study was to establish the nationwide burden of knee cartilage surgery, defined as knee surgery in patients with an FCD. We also aimed to identify any geographical differences in incidence rates, patient demographics or trends within this type of surgery. Setting A population-based study with retrospective identification of patients undergoing knee ... περισσότερα »

Vitamin D status and associated metabolic risk factors among North Korean refugees in South Korea: a cross-sectional study

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective Vitamin D deficiency is now recognised as a common health problem associated with various chronic diseases; however, it has not been fully elucidated among the minority groups. Here, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated metabolic risk factors among North Korean refugees living in South Korea. Design Cross-sectional analysis from the longitudinal cohort, the North Korean refugee health in South Korea (NORNS) study. Participants A total of 386 North Korean refugees aged ≥30 years, who measured serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(... περισσότερα »

Organisation and function of the primary motor cortex in chronic pain: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Introduction Primary motor cortical (M1) adaptation in the form of altered organisation and function is hypothesised to underpin motor dysfunction observed in chronic pain. The aim of this review is to assess the evidence for altered M1 organisation and function in chronic pain. Methods and analysis Systematic review and meta-analysis. We will search electronic databases with predetermined search terms to identify relevant studies and evaluate the studies for inclusion and risks of bias. Two independent reviewers will extract data. Any disagreement will be resolved through a thi... περισσότερα »

Identification of antithrombotic drugs related to total joint replacement using anonymised free-text notes: a search strategy in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives We aimed to design and test a method to extract information on antithrombotic therapy from anonymised free-text notes in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD). Setting General practice database representative of the UK. Participants All patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR, n=25 898) or total knee replacement (TKR, n=22 231) between January 2008 and October 2012 were included. Antithrombotic drug use related to THR or TKR was identified using anonymised free text and prescription data. Primary and secondary outcome measures Internal validity of o... περισσότερα »

Patient experience of computerised therapy for depression in primary care

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective To explore patient experience of computerised cognitive behaviour therapy (cCBT) for depression in a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (Randomised Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Acceptability of Computerised Therapy, REEACT). Design Qualitative semistructured interviews with 36 participants. Participants Depressed patients with a Patient Health Questionnaire 9 of 10 or above recruited into the REEACT randomised controlled trial. Setting Primary care settings in England. Results Participant experience was on a continuum, with some patients unable or unwill... περισσότερα »

Home oxygen therapy reduces risk of hospitalisation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a population-based retrospective cohort study, 2005-2012

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective This study evaluated the effect of home oxygen therapy (HOT) on hospital admissions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Design and setting Using nationwide health insurance claims from 2002–2012, we conducted a longitudinal population-based retrospective cohort study. Participants Individuals who were aged 40 years or above and newly diagnosed with COPD in 2005. Outcome measures The primary outcome was total number of hospitalisations during the study period. Participants were matched using HOT propensity scores and were stratified by respirato... περισσότερα »

Association between sleeping hours and cardiometabolic risk factors for metabolic syndrome in a Saudi Arabian population

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 28 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives Epidemiological and molecular studies have shown that sleep duration is associated with metabolic syndrome (MtS), a disease that is on the rise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We aim to investigate the association between sleep duration and selected cardiometabolic risk factors of MtS in a Saudi Arabian population. Setting Secondary care was given to the participants. There were 2 participating centres, shopping malls in North and South Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Participants We recruited 2686 participants over a 1-year study period. Participants were selected based on t...περισσότερα »

Editorial Board

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1PqihCy via IFTTT

Major advances in physiology: celebrating a centenary of contributions by women

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1PqifdG via IFTTT

Factoring in weather variation to capture the influence of urban design and built environment on globally recommended levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity in children

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives In curbing physical inactivity, as behavioural interventions directed at individuals have not produced a population-level change, an ecological perspective called active living research has gained prominence. However, active living research consistently underexplores the role played by a perennial phenomenon encompassing all other environmental exposures—variation in weather. After factoring in weather variation, this study investigated the influence of diverse environmental exposures (including urban design and built environment) on the accumulation of globally recom... περισσότερα »

Recorded gonorrhoea rates in Denmark, 1900-2010: the impact of clinical testing activity and laboratory diagnostic procedures

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives Assessment of the relations between recorded gonorrhoea rates and clinical testing activity and disposable diagnostic tests. Methods In Denmark, two sources of information on the epidemiology of gonorrhoea are available: (1) a mandatory clinical notification system (since 1867) comprising summary information about geographic distribution, season, age group and gender; in 1994, more detailed anonymous individualised epidemiological information was included; (2) a voluntary countrywide laboratory surveillance system for culture-confirmed cases (since 1957) comprising i... περισσότερα »

Depression and anxiety in ovarian cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence rates

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives To systematically review the literature pertaining to the prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients with ovarian cancer as a function of treatment stage. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Participants 3623 patients with ovarian cancer from primary research investigations. Primary outcome measure The prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients with ovarian cancer as a function of treatment stage. Results We identified 24 full journal articles that met the inclusion criteria for entry into the meta-analysis resulting in a pooled sample size of ... περισσότερα »

Incidence of knee cartilage surgery in Norway, 2008-2011

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective A systematic and long-term data collection on the treatment of focal cartilage defects (FCDs) of the knee is needed. This can be achieved through the foundation of a National Knee Cartilage Defect Registry. The aim of this study was to establish the nationwide burden of knee cartilage surgery, defined as knee surgery in patients with an FCD. We also aimed to identify any geographical differences in incidence rates, patient demographics or trends within this type of surgery. Setting A population-based study with retrospective identification of patients undergoing knee ... περισσότερα »

Vitamin D status and associated metabolic risk factors among North Korean refugees in South Korea: a cross-sectional study

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective Vitamin D deficiency is now recognised as a common health problem associated with various chronic diseases; however, it has not been fully elucidated among the minority groups. Here, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated metabolic risk factors among North Korean refugees living in South Korea. Design Cross-sectional analysis from the longitudinal cohort, the North Korean refugee health in South Korea (NORNS) study. Participants A total of 386 North Korean refugees aged ≥30 years, who measured serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(... περισσότερα »

Organisation and function of the primary motor cortex in chronic pain: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Introduction Primary motor cortical (M1) adaptation in the form of altered organisation and function is hypothesised to underpin motor dysfunction observed in chronic pain. The aim of this review is to assess the evidence for altered M1 organisation and function in chronic pain. Methods and analysis Systematic review and meta-analysis. We will search electronic databases with predetermined search terms to identify relevant studies and evaluate the studies for inclusion and risks of bias. Two independent reviewers will extract data. Any disagreement will be resolved through a thi... περισσότερα »

Identification of antithrombotic drugs related to total joint replacement using anonymised free-text notes: a search strategy in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives We aimed to design and test a method to extract information on antithrombotic therapy from anonymised free-text notes in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD). Setting General practice database representative of the UK. Participants All patients undergoing total hip replacement (THR, n=25 898) or total knee replacement (TKR, n=22 231) between January 2008 and October 2012 were included. Antithrombotic drug use related to THR or TKR was identified using anonymised free text and prescription data. Primary and secondary outcome measures Internal validity of o... περισσότερα »

Patient experience of computerised therapy for depression in primary care

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective To explore patient experience of computerised cognitive behaviour therapy (cCBT) for depression in a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (Randomised Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Acceptability of Computerised Therapy, REEACT). Design Qualitative semistructured interviews with 36 participants. Participants Depressed patients with a Patient Health Questionnaire 9 of 10 or above recruited into the REEACT randomised controlled trial. Setting Primary care settings in England. Results Participant experience was on a continuum, with some patients unable or unwill... περισσότερα »

Home oxygen therapy reduces risk of hospitalisation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a population-based retrospective cohort study, 2005-2012

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objective This study evaluated the effect of home oxygen therapy (HOT) on hospital admissions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Design and setting Using nationwide health insurance claims from 2002–2012, we conducted a longitudinal population-based retrospective cohort study. Participants Individuals who were aged 40 years or above and newly diagnosed with COPD in 2005. Outcome measures The primary outcome was total number of hospitalisations during the study period. Participants were matched using HOT propensity scores and were stratified by respirato... περισσότερα »

Association between sleeping hours and cardiometabolic risk factors for metabolic syndrome in a Saudi Arabian population

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Objectives Epidemiological and molecular studies have shown that sleep duration is associated with metabolic syndrome (MtS), a disease that is on the rise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We aim to investigate the association between sleep duration and selected cardiometabolic risk factors of MtS in a Saudi Arabian population. Setting Secondary care was given to the participants. There were 2 participating centres, shopping malls in North and South Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Participants We recruited 2686 participants over a 1-year study period. Participants were selected based on t...περισσότερα »

Preventing obesity in infants: the Growing healthy feasibility trial protocol

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Introduction Early childhood is an important period for establishing behaviours that will affect weight gain and health across the life course. Early feeding choices, including breast and/or formula, timing of introduction of solids, physical activity and electronic media use among infants and young children are considered likely determinants of childhood obesity. Parents play a primary role in shaping these behaviours through parental modelling, feeding styles, and the food and physical activity environments provided. Children from low socio-economic backgrounds have higher rate... περισσότερα »

Nutrition interventions for children aged less than 5 years following natural disasters: a systematic review protocol

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Introduction Malnutrition among children is a serious public health problem in the aftermath of any natural disaster. We will review the various nutrition interventions for children aged <5 years in countries where natural disasters occurred and analyse the effect on nutrition-related outcomes. Methods and analysis We will conduct a systematic review on nutrition intervention studies following natural disasters that were published between January 2000 and December 2015. Study selection will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) gu... περισσότερα »

Gene expression signatures, pathways and networks in carotid atherosclerosis

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Abstract Background Embolism from unstable atheromas in the carotid bifurcation is a major cause of stroke. Here, we analysed gene expression in endarterectomies from patients with symptomatic (S) and asymptomatic (AS) carotid stenosis to identify pathways linked to plaque instability. Methods Microarrays were prepared from plaques (*n* = 127) and peripheral blood samples (*n* = 96) of S and AS patients. Gene set enrichment, pathway mapping and network analyses of differentially expressed genes were performed. Results These studies revealed upregulation of haemoglobin metabolis...περισσότερα »

Platelet transfusions in cancer patients with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia in the intensive care unit

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 37 δευτερόλεπτα

Background: Thrombocytopenia is a frequent finding in critically ill cancer patients for whom indications of platelet transfusions are unclear. We herein addressed the current practices in platelet transfusion and the risk of bleeding in cancer patients with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: A retrospective monocenter study over a 7-year period was conducted in a medical ICU. Adult patients with malignancies and hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia, and who received at least one platelet concentrate during their ICU stay, were included. Re...περισσότερα »

EGFR Exon 18 Mutations in Lung Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

*Purpose:* Lung cancers harboring common *EGFR* mutations respond to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), whereas exon 20 insertions (Ins20) are resistant to them. However, little is known about mutations in exon 18. *Experimental Design:* Mutational status of lung cancers between 2001 and 2015 was reviewed. Three representative mutations in exon 18, G719A, E709K, and exon 18 deletion (Del18: delE709_T710insD) were retrovirally introduced into Ba/F3 and NIH/3T3 cells. The 90% inhibitory concentrations (IC90s) of first-generation (1G; gefitinib and erlotinib), second-generation (2...περισσότερα »

New Strategies: SABR for Oligometastases

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

Patients with metastatic solid tumors are usually treated with palliative intent. Systemic therapy and palliative radiation are often used, with the goals of prolonging survival or maintaining quality of life, but not of cure. In contrast to this paradigm, the theory of oligometastasis suggests that some patients who have a small number of metastases may be amenable to cure if all lesions can be eradicated. Aggressive treatment of patients with oligometastases, using either surgery or radiotherapy, has become more common in the past decade, yet in most situations, no randomized evi... περισσότερα »

Aspirin Suppresses Osteosarcoma through the NF-{kappa}B Pathway

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

*Purpose:* Aspirin has recently been reported to reduce both the incidence and the risk of metastasis in colon cancer. However, there is no evidence at the cellular levels or in the animal models for such an effect of aspirin on cancer metastasis. *Experimental Design:* MTT assay, colony formation assay, and apoptosis assay were employed to analyze the effects of aspirin on the osteosarcoma cell viability *in vitro*. The NF-B activity was measured by the NF-B p65 luciferase reporter. Western blotting was used to analyze the proteins in cells. The migration and invasion abilities o... περισσότερα »

FDA Approval of Lenvatinib for Thyroid Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

The FDA approved lenvatinib (Lenvima, Eisai Inc.) for the treatment of patients with locally recurrent or metastatic, progressive, radioactive iodine-refractory (RAI-refractory) differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). In an international, multicenter, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial (E7080-G000-303), 392 patients with locally recurrent or metastatic RAI-refractory DTC and radiographic evidence of disease progression within 12 months prior to randomization were randomly allocated (2:1) to receive either lenvatinib 24 mg orally per day (*n* = 261) or matching placebo (*n* = 13... περισσότερα »

E2F1-EZH2-SUZ12 Prognosis Marker in Bladder Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

*Purpose:* Previous study identified *E2F1* as a key mediator of non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) progression. The aim of this study was to identify the *E2F1*-related genes associated with poor prognosis and aggressive characteristics of bladder cancer. *Experimental Design:* Microarray analysis was performed to find *E2F1*-related genes associated with tumor progression and aggressiveness in the gene expression data from 165 primary patients with bladder cancer. The biologic activity of *E2F1*-related genes in tumor progression and aggressiveness was confirmed with exp...περισσότερα »

Targeting Cytoskeletal Balance in Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

The dynamic balance between microtubule extension and actin contraction regulates mammalian cell shape, division, and motility, which has made the cytoskeleton an attractive and very successful target for cancer drugs. Numerous compounds in clinical use to reduce tumor growth cause microtubule breakdown (vinca alkaloids, colchicine-site, and halichondrins) or hyperstabilization of microtubules (taxanes and epothilones). However, both of these strategies indiscriminately alter the assembly and dynamics of all microtubules, which causes significant dose-limiting toxicities on normal ... περισσότερα »

89Zr-J591 ImmunoPET in Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

*Purpose:* Standard imaging for assessing osseous metastases in advanced prostate cancer remains focused on altered bone metabolism and is inadequate for diagnostic, prognostic, or predictive purposes. We performed a first-in-human phase I/II study of 89Zr-DFO-huJ591 (89Zr-J591) PET/CT immunoscintigraphy to assess performance characteristics for detecting metastases compared with conventional imaging modalities (CIM) and pathology. *Experimental Design:* Fifty patients with progressive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancers were injected with 5 mCi of 89Zr-J591. Whole-b... περισσότερα »

The Impact of Enhanced Screening and Treatment on Hepatitis C in the United States

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 52 δευτερόλεπτα

Hepatitis C virus treatment with interferon-free direct-acting antivirals could reduce prevalence by more than 80% within a decade. Even further reductions in prevalence and transmission are achievable but require targeted interventions that expand both screening and treatment of high-risk populations. from #Infections via alexandrossfakianakis on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1NZFaqt via IFTTT

Bacterial community and proteome analysis of fresh-cut lettuce as affected by packaging

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

With the growing demand of fresh-cut vegetables, a variety of packaging films are produced specifically to improve safety and quality of the fresh vegetables over the storage period. The aim of our work was to evaluate the influence of different packaging films on the quality of fresh-cut lettuce analyzing changes in bacterial community composition and modifications at the proteome level, by means of culture-dependent/culture-independent methods and differential gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry analysis. Total viable counts indicated the presence of a highly var... περισσότερα »

Constitutive expression of the DUR1,2 gene in an industrial yeast strain to minimize ethyl carbamate production during Chinese rice wine fermentation

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Urea and ethanol are the main precursors of ethyl carbamate (EC) in Chinese rice wine. During fermentation, urea is generated from arginine by arginase in *Saccharomyces cerevisiae*, and subsequently cleaved by urea amidolyase or directly transported out of the cell into the fermentation liquor, where it reacts with ethanol to form EC. To reduce the amount of EC in Chinese rice wine, we metabolically engineered two yeast strains, N85DUR1,2 and N85 DUR1,2-c, from the wild-type Chinese rice wine yeast strain N85. Both new strains were capable of constitutively expressing *DUR1,2* (enc...περισσότερα »

Identification of an antibacterial protein by functional screening of a human oral metagenomic library

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

from #Infections via alexandrossfakianakis on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1QaevMb via IFTTT

Prognostic value of nutritional and hematologic markers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated by chemoradiotherapy

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΘεραπείαΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

[image: gr1.sml] Malnutrition and systemic lymphopenia are common in many cancers and are associated with tumor progression. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic values of nutritional and hematologic markers in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). from Rathiotherapy via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1Ri0AVc via IFTTT

The PSA-response to salvage radiotherapy after radical prostatectomy correlates with freedom from progression and overall survival

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΘεραπείαΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

[image: gr1.sml] In a retrospective analysis, we examined factors influencing the outcome of prostate cancer (PCa) patients receiving salvage radiotherapy (SRT) for PSA recurrence after radical prostatectomy (RP). from Rathiotherapy via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1YEHqe7 via IFTTT

Marrow damage and hematopoietic recovery following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation for acute leukemias: Effect of radiation dose and conditioning regimen

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΘεραπείαΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

[image: gr1.sml] Total body irradiation (TBI) is a common component of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) conditioning regimens. Preclinical studies suggest prolonged bone marrow (BM) injury after TBI could contribute to impaired engraftment and poor hematopoietic function. from Rathiotherapy via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1Ri0xbP via IFTTT

Prospective short term comparison of outcomes after single or double puncture arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOroFacial Medicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: Available online 30 November 2015 *Source:*British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Author(s): Mehmet Fatih Şentürk, Ayşegül Mine Tüzüner-Öncül, Mine Cambazoğlu Our aim was to compare the single puncture technique for arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with the double puncture technique and to evaluate the short-term effects of a single puncture. Forty patients were randomly divided into two groups: the first was treated by single puncture, and the second with double puncture, arthrocentesis. During the one-month follow-up period the visual...περισσότερα »

A novel silicone impression technique for securing Full Thickness Skin Grafts to difficult sites on the face

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOroFacial Medicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: Available online 30 November 2015 *Source:*British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Author(s): Andrew Rennie, Victoria King, Liviu M. Hanu-Cernat from OroFacial Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1XDpGgQ via IFTTT

A novel silicone impression technique for securing Full Thickness Skin Grafts to difficult sites on the face

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOroFacial Medicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

It is now routine to use full thickness skin grafts on the head and neck when local flaps are neither possible nor indicated. from OroFacial Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1PX6iwb via IFTTT

Prospective short term comparison of outcomes after single or double puncture arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOroFacial Medicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Our aim was to compare the single puncture technique for arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with the double puncture technique and to evaluate the short-term effects of a single puncture. Forty patients were randomly divided into two groups: the first was treated by single puncture, and the second with double puncture, arthrocentesis. During the one-month follow-up period the visual analogue and verbal scales for pain, maximal mouth opening, and satisfaction were evaluated within each group and between the two groups. from OroFacial Medicine via ola Kala on Inorea... περισσότερα »

Cuff depth and continuous chest auscultation method for determination of tracheal tube insertion depth in nasal intubation: observational study

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Abstract Background Incorrect endobronchial placement of the tracheal tube can lead to serious complications. Hence, it is necessary to determine the accuracy of tracheal tube positioning. Markers are included on tracheal tubes, in the process of their manufacture, as indicators of approximate intubation depth. In addition, continuous chest auscultation has been used for determining the proper position of the tube. We examined insertion depth using the cuff depth and continuous chest auscultation method (CC method), compared with insertion depth determined by the marker method, to ... περισσότερα »

Value-Based Care

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Lee A. Fleisher from Anaesthesia via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1Xtiedv via IFTTT

Value—The Current Cure for Health Care's Ailments?

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Lee A. Fleisher from Anaesthesia via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1jvEZe0 via IFTTT

Perioperative Medicine: The Value Proposition for Anesthesia?

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Michael P.W. Grocott, Michael G. Mythen Teaser Perioperative medicine describes the practice of patient centered, multidisciplinary, and integrated medical care of patients from the moment of contemplation of surgery until full recovery. The value proposition for perioperative medicine rests on defining benefits that outweigh the costs of change. This article discusses the concept of value in the context of healthcare and highlights a number of reasons for relative market failure. Five ke... περισσότερα »

Demonstrating Value

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Arvind Chandrakantan, Tong Joo Gan Teaser An enhanced recovery after surgery strategy will be increasingly adopted in the era of value-based care. The various elements in each enhanced recovery after surgery protocol are likely to add value to the overall patient surgical journey. Although the evidence varies considerably based on type of surgery and patient group, the team-based approach of care should be universally applied to patient care. This article provides an overview of up-to-dat... περισσότερα »

Value from the Patients’ and Payers’ Perspectives

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Joshua H. Atkins, Lee A. Fleisher Teaser Health care costs continue to increase, and the approach of countries and insurers is to focus on the value of the care delivered. Value is a function of quality in relation to costs. The perspective of the individual measuring value is important. Calculation of costs may include return to work if the employer's perspective is taken. The patients' perspectives include out-of-pocket expenses and work lost for both patients and potentially caregivers... περισσότερα »

“What Have We Done for Us Lately?” – Defining Performance and Value at the Individual Clinician Level

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 53 δευτερόλεπτα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Katherine H. Dobie, Vikram Tiwari, Warren S. Sandberg Teaser Consolidation in anesthesiology practice and the rest of health care creates pressure to improve the product offered by anesthesia professionals. Anesthesia professionals must offer more than a reliable stream of anesthetized, operated, and recovered patients to remain competitive. By pooling resources and application of leadership effort, large departments and group practices can conduct individual-level value assessments of cl...περισσότερα »

Reducing The Cost of Transport and Increasing Walking Distance After Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial on Fast Locomotor Training Combined With Functional Electrical Stimulation

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοRehabilitation,Sports and Exercise Medicine by Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 56 δευτερόλεπτα

*Background*. Neurorehabilitation efforts have been limited in their ability to restore walking function after stroke. Recent work has demonstrated proof-of-concept for a functional electrical stimulation (FES)–based combination therapy designed to improve poststroke walking by targeting deficits in paretic propulsion. *Objectives*. To determine the effects on the energy cost of walking (EC) and long-distance walking ability of locomotor training that combines fast walking with FES to the paretic ankle musculature (FastFES). *Methods*. Fifty participants >6 months poststroke were ... περισσότερα »

Risk factors for granuloma formation in children induced by tracheobronchial foreign bodies

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Risk factors for granuloma formation in children induced by tracheobronchial foreign bodies via Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology *Source:*International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Author(s): Zhenghua Huang, Ai Zhou, Jianya Zhang, Lisheng Xie, Qi Li ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyze the risk factors for granuloma formation caused by plant-based tracheobronchial foreign bodies in children, and investigate the underlying pathogenesis.MethodIn this retrospective analysis of 153 cases with tracheobronchial foreign bodies (peanuts and watermelon seeds), 35 cases of gra... περισσότερα »

MMP-9 was up-regulated in juvenile parotitis saliva, suggesting that MMP-9 may play a destructive role in juvenile parotitis, as others have suggested. The present novel findings reveal a decreased salivary MMP-8 concentration, suggesting that MMP-8 may reflect in juvenile parotitis down-regulated or anti-inflammatory immune characteristics.

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Decreased salivary matrix metalloproteinase-8 reflecting a defensive potential in juvenile parotitis via Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology *Source:*International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Author(s): Saarinen Riitta, Pitkäranta Anne, Kolho Kaija-Leena, Tervahartiala Taina, Sorsa Timo, Lauhio Anneli ObjectiveMatrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 have been associated with juvenile parotitis. However, the role of MMP-8 has not been addressed previously. This work focuses on salivary MMP-8 and -9 levels in juvenile parotitis.MethodsDuring a five-year period at Helsinki Unive...περισσότερα »

Transcanal CO2 laser-enabled ablation and resection (CLEAR) for intratympanic membrane congenital cholesteatoma

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Transcanal CO2 laser-enabled ablation and resection (CLEAR) for intratympanic membrane congenital cholesteatoma via Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology *Source:*International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Author(s): Chang-Ho Lee, Ji Yoon Kim, Young Ju Kim, Chan Kee Yoo, Hyoung-Mi Kim, Jae-Cheul Ahn ObjectivesCholesteatoma in the tympanic membrane is frequently regarded as congenital but there has been no case series review or comparison study with typical pediatric congenital cholesteatoma (CC).MethodsAll pediatric CC cases from 2009 to 2014 were collected, and a total of 10 case... περισσότερα »

Fetal distress and circulatory disturbance in monochorionic twins: Possible risk factors for sialadenitis?

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Fetal distress and circulatory disturbance in monochorionic twins: Possible risk factors for sialadenitis? via Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology *Source:*International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Author(s): Peter Korček, Zbyněk Straňák [image: Multilocular abscess cavity in the submandibular gland on ultrasound scan.] Neonatal sialadenitis is a rare condition. The vast majority of cases are caused by Staphylococcus aureus with predominant involvement of the parotid gland and need for long-term antimicrobial therapy. We reviewed three distinct cases of submandibular sialadenit...περισσότερα »

Most Closely HLA-Matched CTLs for Relapsed Epstein Barr Virus(EBV)-Associated Diseases

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Most Closely HLA-Matched CTLs for Relapsed Epstein Barr Virus(EBV)-Associated Diseases: *Conditions*: Hodgkin Lymphoma; Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Lymphoproliferative Disorder; Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma; Leiomyosarcoma; Severe Chronic Active EBV (SCAEBV) *Intervention*: Biological: LMP specific T cells *Sponsors*: Baylor College of Medicine; Texas Children's Hospital; The Methodist Hospital System; Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine Patients have a type of a lymph node cancer called lymphoma, a tumor of the nasal passages called nasophar...περισσότερα »

Early Detection of Tumors of the Digestive Tract by Confocal Endomicroscopy

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Early Detection of Tumors of the Digestive Tract by Confocal Endomicroscopy: *Conditions*: Barrett Esophagus; Gastric Antrectomy Partial; Biliary Duct Stricture; Pancreatic Duct Stricture; Colorectal Polyps; Esophageal Epidermoid Cancer in Pts With Head and Neck Cancer *Intervention*: Procedure: Confocal endomicroscopy *Sponsor*: Fauze Maluf Filho Confocal endomicroscopy is an emerging technique that allows in vivo imaging of cells and tissue structures of the gastrointestinal mucosa, with a magnification of about 1000 times, guiding optical biopsies in real time. ... περισσότερα »

Effect of Goal-directed Fluid Therapy Using Stroke Volume Variation in Patients Undergoing Free Flap Reconstruction After Head and Neck Cancer Resection

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Effect of Goal-directed Fluid Therapy Using Stroke Volume Variation in Patients Undergoing Free Flap Reconstruction After Head and Neck Cancer Resection: *Condition*: General Anesthesia *Interventions*: Procedure: Standard fluid therapy; Procedure: Conservative fluid therapy *Sponsor*: Yonsei University ArmsAssigned InterventionsExperimental: StandardProcedure: Standard fluid therapy In Standard fluid therapy group, the administration of fluid will be guided to maintain mean blood pressure more than 65 mmHg, urine output more than 0.5 ml/kg/hr, and central venous pressure...περισσότερα »

Effects of Sacrificing Tensor Tympani Muscle Tendon When Manubrium of Malleus Is Foreshortened in Type I Tympanoplasty

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Effects of Sacrificing Tensor Tympani Muscle Tendon When Manubrium of Malleus Is Foreshortened in Type I Tympanoplasty: The current study aims at observing effects of sacrificing the tensor tympani tendon when manubrium of malleus is foreshortened or retracted on graft uptake, hearing improvement, and occurrence of complications if any during type I tympanoplasty surgery for central perforations. 42 patients were included in group A where the tensor tendon was sectioned and 42 patients were included in group B where the tensor tympani tendon was retained and kept intact. Graft uptak... περισσότερα »

The Correlation of the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory with Depression and Anxiety

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

The Correlation of the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory with Depression and Anxiety in Veterans with Tinnitus: Objective. The mechanisms of tinnitus are known to alter neuronal circuits in the brainstem and cortex, which are common to several comorbid conditions. This study examines the relationship between tinnitus and anxiety/depression. Subjects and Methods. Ninety-one male veterans with subjective tinnitus were enrolled in a Veterans Affairs Tinnitus Clinic. The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) was used to assess tinnitus severity. ICD-9 codes for anxiety/depression were used to det... περισσότερα »

Life after Tracheostomy

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Life after Tracheostomy: Patient and Family Perspectives on Teaching, Transitions, and Multidisciplinary Teams: Objective To report patient/family experiences and outcomes after tracheostomy Study Design International survey of patients and families with tracheostomy. Setting Collaboration of the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Committee of the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery and the Global Tracheostomy Collaborative. Methods A 50-item survey was developed with multistakeholder collaboration. The survey was disseminated via international social net...περισσότερα »

Tracheostomy Complications as a Trigger for an Airway Rapid Response

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Tracheostomy Complications as a Trigger for an Airway Rapid Response: Analysis and Quality Improvement Considerations: Objective To analyze the subset of airway rapid response (ARR) calls related to tracheostomy identified over a 46-month period from August 2011 to May 2015 to determine proximate cause, intervention, and outcome and to develop process improvement initiatives. Design Single-institution multidisciplinary retrospective cohort study. Setting Tertiary care academic medical center in a large urban setting. Subjects Hospital inpatients with an in situ tracheostomy or la...περισσότερα »

Antihistamine Use for Otitis Media with Effusion

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Antihistamine Use for Otitis Media with Effusion: Ongoing Opportunities for Quality Improvement: Objectives The otitis media with effusion (OME) clinical practice guideline endorsed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends against using antihistamines. Avoiding antihistamines was previously endorsed as a performance measure by the National Quality Foundation, but data regarding current practice patterns are lacking. Thus, our objectives were to evaluate (1)...περισσότερα »

The Effects of Preoperative Embolization on Carotid Body Paraganglioma Surgery

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

The Effects of Preoperative Embolization on Carotid Body Paraganglioma Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Objective There is no definitive consensus on the impact of preoperative embolization on carotid body paraganglioma management. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of preoperative embolization on carotid body paraganglioma excision. Data Sources A systematic search was conducted without limits, and it included studies published on or before July 2013 from PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Library. Relevant synonyms for the search te... περισσότερα »

Reduction of Pharyngocutaneous Fistulae in Laryngectomy Patients by a Comprehensive Performance Improvement Intervention

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Reduction of Pharyngocutaneous Fistulae in Laryngectomy Patients by a Comprehensive Performance Improvement Intervention: Objective Pharyngocutaneous fistula is a common complication in laryngectomy patients, particularly in previously irradiated cases. We initiated a comprehensive performance improvement intervention in all head and neck surgery patients intended to reduce postoperative infection and fistulae rates. We report our review of outcomes within laryngectomy patients. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Academic tertiary referral center. Subjects Ninet... περισσότερα »

Baseball-Related Injuries of the Face

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

"Beaned": A 5-Year Analysis of Baseball-Related Injuries of the Face: Objectives Baseball remains one of the most popular and safest games played by children and adults in America and worldwide. Rules and equipment changes have continued to make the game safer. For youth leagues, pitching restrictions, safety balls, helmets, and face mask equipment continue to make the game safer. With increased utilization of safety equipment, the objective was to analyze recent trends in baseball-related facial injuries. Study Design Cross-sectional analysis of a national database. Methods The ... περισσότερα »

Abnormal Sleep Duration Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Accidental Injury

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Abnormal Sleep Duration Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Accidental Injury: Objective Develop normative data for adult sleep duration and determine if nonstandard sleep time relates to the likelihood of accidental injury. Study Design Cross-sectional analysis. Setting National health information database. Methods The National Health Interview Survey, 2004-2013, was examined for adult sleep time and accidental injury within the past 3 months. The mean hours slept per night was determined. The relationship between sleep time and incidence of accidental injury was determined for... περισσότερα »

Radiofrequency Ablation Turbinoplasty versus Microdebrider-Assisted Turbinoplasty

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Radiofrequency Ablation Turbinoplasty versus Microdebrider-Assisted Turbinoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Objective To critically review published literature for treatment-related outcomes for bilateral inferior turbinate reduction (IFTR) via either microdebrider-assisted turbinoplasty (MAT) or radiofrequency turbinoplasty. The primary outcomes were relief of nasal obstruction according to visual analog scale and nasal airflow, volume, and resistance measures based on acoustic rhinomanometry. Data Sources MEDLINE, EMBASE, The Cochrane Catalog, and CINAHL. Review Me... περισσότερα »

Laryngeal Neuroendocrine Carcinoma (LNEC)

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Laryngeal Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: A Population-Based Analysis of Incidence and Survival: Objective Laryngeal neuroendocrine carcinoma (LNEC) is a rare malignancy with various subtypes, each with different characteristics. Classification of these subtypes is used to delineate treatment and management, as most are clinically aggressive with poor prognosis. This study analyzes the characteristics and survival outcomes of LNEC using population-based data. Study Design Analysis of a population-based tumor registry. Setting Academic medical center. Subjects and Methods The Surveilla... περισσότερα »

Incidence and Risk Factors of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Postadenotonsillectomy

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Incidence and Risk Factors of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Postadenotonsillectomy: Objectives To evaluate the incidence and risk factors of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) postadenoidectomy, posttonsillectomy, and postadenotonsillectomy. Study Design Retrospective chart review. Setting Academic tertiary care center (2007-2014). Subjects and Methods Retrospective review of patients who underwent adenoidectomies, tonsillectomies, or adenotonsillectomies by 1 pediatric otolaryngologist. Patient’s age, sex, type of surgery, indication for surgery, medical syndromes, tonsil grade,... περισσότερα »

Intranasal Midazolam and Chloral Hydrate for Procedural Sedation in Children

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Intranasal Midazolam and Chloral Hydrate for Procedural Sedation in Children: Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intranasal midazolam and chloral hydrate syrup for procedural sedation in children. Study Design Prospective randomized placebo-controlled trial (double blind, double dummy). Setting Tertiary care hospital over 18 months. Subjects and Methods Eighty-two children, 1 to 6 years old, undergoing auditory brainstem response testing were randomized to receive either intranasal midazolam with oral placebo or chloral hydr... περισσότερα »

Pediatric Deep Neck Space Infections

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

The Public Health Impact of Pediatric Deep Neck Space Infections: Objective There is little consensus about the best management of pediatric deep neck space infections (DNSIs) and limited information about the national disease burden. The purpose of this study is to examine the health care burden, management, and complications of DNSIs from a national perspective. Study Design Retrospective administrative data set review. Setting National pediatric admission database. Subjects and Methods Pediatric patients diagnosed with a parapharyngeal space and/or retropharyngeal abscess were...περισσότερα »

Is MRI Necessary in the Evaluation of Pediatric Central Sleep Apnea?

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Is MRI Necessary in the Evaluation of Pediatric Central Sleep Apnea?: Objectives (1) To determine the prevalence of central nervous system (CNS) pathology identified on head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans in children with central sleep apnea (CSA); (2) to assess the yield of MRI in evaluation of CSA; and (3) to identify factors that predict CNS pathology in children with CSA. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Tertiary children’s hospital. Subjects and Methods A chart review was conducted over 12 years. Patients 6 months to 18 years of age who underwent... περισσότερα »

Expression of Apoptotic vs Antiapoptotic Proteins in Middle Ear Cholesteatoma

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Expression of Apoptotic vs Antiapoptotic Proteins in Middle Ear Cholesteatoma: Objectives To explore the role of antiapoptotic and apoptotic processes in the development of cholesteatoma by investigating the expression of an antiapoptotic (c-FLIP) and apoptotic (p53) protein relative to the expression of a proliferation marker (Ki-67). Study Design Basic science study. Setting Tertiary referral center. Subjects and Methods An immunohistochemical investigation was performed on 35 cholesteatoma specimens (21 acquired, 14 congenital) and 10 normal retroauricular skins to evaluate ...περισσότερα »

Stapedectomy Effects on Tinnitus

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Stapedectomy Effects on Tinnitus: Relationship of Change in Loudness to Change in Severity: Objective To relate poststapedectomy change in tinnitus loudness to change in tinnitus severity. Study Design Prospective, within-subjects. Setting A single otology and neurotology subspecialty referral practice. Subjects and Methods Forty-nine subjects undergoing stapedectomy completed the study between January 2012 and October 2013. Tinnitus instruments, audiometric data, and demographic information were collected prior to and 1 and 6 months after surgery. Tinnitus loudness was assessed... περισσότερα »

Transverse Retropalatal Collapsibility Is Associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Severity and Outcome of Relocation Pharyngoplasty

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Transverse Retropalatal Collapsibility Is Associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Severity and Outcome of Relocation Pharyngoplasty: Objective The aim of this study was to investigate whether the retropalatal airway shape and collapsibility defined by awake nasopharyngoscopy with Müller’s maneuver were associated with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), positional dependency, and surgical outcome of relocation pharyngoplasty in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Study Design Case series with planned data collection. Setting Tertiary referral center. Subjects and Methods A total of ... περισσότερα »

Irritant-Induced Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion Disorder

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Irritant-Induced Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion Disorder: Diagnosis and Management: Objectives To review our experience with the diagnosis and treatment of irritant-induced paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder (IPVFMD). Study Design Retrospective chart review. Setting Tertiary academic referral center. Subjects and Methods Thirty-four cases that met IPVFMD criteria and 76 cases of non-IPVFMD were selected from a database of patients with paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder—the diagnosis of which was made on the basis of flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy and augmented by an od...περισσότερα »

Prognostic Factors and Treatment Outcomes of Parotid Gland Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Prognostic Factors and Treatment Outcomes of Parotid Gland Cancer: A 10-Year Single-Center Experience: Objective To investigate the treatment outcomes of parotid gland cancer at a single center over a 10-year period and to evaluate the prognostic significance of maximum standardized uptake value. Study Design Retrospective case series with chart review. Setting Academic care center. Subjects and Methods Ninety-eight patients with primary parotid gland cancer who were surgically treated at Yonsei University Head & Neck Cancer Clinic between January 1999 and December 2008 were ana... περισσότερα »

3-dimensionally Printed, Tissue-Engineered Graft for Airway Reconstruction: A Pilot Study

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Introducing a 3-dimensionally Printed, Tissue-Engineered Graft for Airway Reconstruction: A Pilot Study: Objective: To use 3-dimensional (3D) printing and tissue engineering to create a graft for laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR). Study Design: In vitro and in vivo pilot animal study. Setting: Large tertiary care academic medical center. Subjects and Methods: A 3D computer model of an anterior LTR graft was designed. That design was printed with polylactic acid on a commercially available 3D printer. The scaffolds were seeded with mature chondrocytes and collagen gel and cult... περισσότερα »

Spindle Cell Carcinoma (SpCC),a rare variant of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Disease-Specific Survival with Spindle Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: Objectives (1) Determine factors influencing survival in patients diagnosed with spindle cell carcinoma (SpCC), a rare variant of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). (2) Compare survival of patients with SpCC to those with conventional SCC. Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 18 database (years 2004-2009). Subjects and Methods Among patients receiving treatment for a single primary in the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx, 11... περισσότερα »

Bedside Injection Medialization Laryngoplasty in Immediate Postoperative Patients

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Bedside Injection Medialization Laryngoplasty in Immediate Postoperative Patients: Objectives The morbidity of glottic insufficiency resulting from unilateral vocal fold immobility may significantly compromise postoperative recovery in patients with decreased pulmonary reserve or inability to protect their airway. Injection medialization laryngoplasty is an effective means of treating glottic insufficiency due to unilateral vocal fold immobility. The purpose of this study is to present our experience with bedside transoral injection medialization laryngoplasty in the immediate posto... περισσότερα »

Hearing Outcomes after Revision Stapedectomy Managed with Total Ossicular Prostheses

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Hearing Outcomes after Revision Stapedectomy Managed with Total Ossicular Prostheses: Objectives (1) To describe the use of total ossicular prostheses (TOPs) in the setting of stapedectomy requiring an incus bypass procedure. (2) To analyze the short- and long-term audiometric results of TOP utilization in the setting of stapedectomy for an incus bypass procedure. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Tertiary neurotologic referral center. Subjects and Methods Seventeen cases of TOP reconstruction after stapedectomy were performed due to advanced incus erosion. The... περισσότερα »

2015 American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC)

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

AHA CPR guidelines: Get in step with the 2015 updates: In October of 2015, the American Heart Association released the *2015 American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines Update for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC)*. This publication represents the most current recommendations for improving survival from cardiac arrest. In many cases, the AHA did not significantly change previous recommendations but simply clarified meanings. However, in other cases, the AHA made recommendations that did not previously exist. *Chain of Survival: Affirmed yet... περισσότερα »

Adenoid hypertrophy and Chronic rhinosinusitis: Helicobacter pylori on antral lavages, Adenoid tissue and Salival inmunoglobuline A on paediatric patients

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Adenoid hypertrophy and Chronic rhinosinusitis: Helicobacter pylori on antral lavages, Adenoid tissue and Salival inmunoglobuline A on paediatric patients: To determine H. pylori presence on antral lavages, adenoids and saliva Inmunoglobuline A on paediatric patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and Adenoid Hypertrophy. SummaryObjective To determine H. pylori presence on antral lavages, adenoids and saliva Inmunoglobuline A on paediatric patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and Adenoid Hypertrophy. Methods Adenoid tissue, ... περισσότερα »

The Global Tracheostomy Collaborative

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

The Global Tracheostomy Collaborative: One Institution's Experience with a New Quality Improvement Initiative: Given the low frequency of adverse events after tracheostomy, individual institutions struggle to collect outcomes data to generate effective quality improvement protocols. The Global Tracheostomy Collaborative (GTC) is a multi-institutional, multidisciplinary organization that utilizes a prospective database to collect data on patients undergoing tracheostomy. We describe our institution's preliminary experience with this Collaborative. It was hypothesized that entry into ... περισσότερα »

Radioactive Iodine-Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Treatments

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Patient Benefit-Risk Tradeoffs for Radioactive Iodine-Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Treatments: Background. The aims of this study were to assess patients’ preferences to wait or start systemic treatment and understand how patients would make tradeoffs between certain severe adverse events (AEs) and additional months of progression-free survival (PFS). Materials and Methods. Adults in France, Germany, and Spain with a diagnosis of DTC and who have had at least one RAI treatment completed a direct-elicitation question and a discrete-choice experiment (DCE) online. The dire... περισσότερα »

Adjuvant Radioactive iodine 133 ablation in papillary microcarcinoma of thyroid

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

“Adjuvant Radioactive iodine 133 ablation in papillary microcarcinoma of thyroid: Saudi Arabian experience”: Background: Papillary Microcarcinoma (PMC) of thyroid is a rare type of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), which according to the World Health Organization measures 1.0 cm or less. The gold standard of treatment of PMC is still controversy. Our aim was to contribute in resolving the debate on the therapeutic choices of the surgical and adjuvant I-131 (RAI) treatment in PMC. Methods: From 2000 to 2012, 326 patients were found to have PMC and were retrospectively reviewed for ... περισσότερα »

Local molecular analysis of indeterminate thyroid nodules

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Local molecular analysis of indeterminate thyroid nodules: Background: Thyroid nodules are common but only a minority are malignant. Molecular testing can assist in helping determine whether indeterminate nodules are suspicious for malignancy or benign. The objective of the study was to determine if the analysis of mutations (BRAF, NRAS, KRAS and HRAS) using readily available molecular techniques can help better classify indeterminate thyroid nodules. Methods: A retrospective cohort of consecutive patients undergoing diagnostic thyroid surgery were analyzed for the presence or absence...περισσότερα »

BRAF Inhibitors and GI Polyps

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 1 ώρα

*Purpose:* BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) extend survival in BRAF-mutant melanoma but can promote the growth of Ras-mutant neoplasms. This study determined if gastrointestinal polyps found in BRAFi-treated patients harbored Ras mutations. *Experimental Design:* Colonic and gastric polyps were identified and resected from BRAFi-treated melanoma patients. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on polyps. The ability of BRAFi to promote polyp formation was functionally characterized in *Apc Min+/–* mice. MAPK and β-catenin pathway activity was assessed by immunohistochemistry in mou... περισσότερα »

Prognosis of BRAF and KRAS Mutations by Colon Cancer Site

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 1 ώρα

*Purpose:* To determine the frequency and prognostic association of molecular markers by anatomic tumor site in patients with stage III colon carcinomas. *Experimental Design:* In a randomized trial of adjuvant FOLFOX ± cetuximab, *BRAF*V600E and *KRAS* (exon 2) mutations and DNA mismatch repair (MMR) proteins were analyzed in tumors (*N* = 3,018) in relationship to tumor location, including subsite. Cox models were used to assess clinical outcome, including overall survival (OS). *Results:* *KRAS* codon 12 mutations were most frequent at the splenic flexure and cecum; codon 13 m... περισσότερα »

Clinical Response of CML to MEK Inhibition

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 1 ώρα

*Purpose:* Targeted MEK inhibition is an emerging therapy in a number of solid tumors. It holds particular promise in BRAF V600E mutation–positive malignant melanoma, where constitutive activation and cell growth through the MAP kinase (MAPK) pathway is well established. *In vitro* and preclinical research indicates that MAPK pathway activation is important in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) leukemogenesis; however, the potential of MEK inhibition has not yet been investigated clinically in the setting of such hematologic malignancies. *Experimental Design:* We report a case of com... περισσότερα »

F14512 Dose-Escalation Trial in Spontaneous Canine Lymphoma

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 1 ώρα

*Purpose:* F14512 is a new topoisomerase II inhibitor containing a spermine moiety that facilitates selective uptake by tumor cells and increases topoisomerase II poisoning. F14512 is currently in a phase I/II clinical trial in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. The aim of this study was to investigate F14512 potential in a new clinical indication. Because of the many similarities between human and dog lymphomas, we sought to determine the tolerance, efficacy, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship of F14512 in this indication, and potential biomarkers that could ...περισσότερα »

Phase I Trial of Ridaforolimus plus MK-2206 in Advanced Cancer

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΟγκολογίαΠριν από 1 ώρα

*Purpose:* The PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway is aberrantly activated in many cancers. Combining ridaforolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, with MK-2206, an Akt inhibitor, may more completely block the PI3K pathway and inhibit tumor growth. *Experimental Design:* This phase I study assessed dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for the combination of oral ridaforolimus plus oral MK-2206 in patients with advanced solid tumors. Efficacy was evaluated in patients with biomarker-identified estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer (low RAS gene signature and high Ki67...περισσότερα »

Development of a murine colonoscopic polypectomy model (with videos)

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΕνδοκρινολογίαΠριν από 1 ώρα

Colonoscopy provides a means for screening and removal of colonic adenomas, preventing such lesions from progressing to late-stage carcinoma. No preclinical model currently exists that closely parallels the clinical scenario with respect to polyp resection and recovery post-endoscopy. from Endocrinology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1RhW7BG via IFTTT

Infective endocarditis requiring ICU admission: epidemiology and prognosis

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Background: Very few studies focused on patients with severe infective endocarditis (IE) and multiple complications leading to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. Studied primary outcomes depended on the series and multiple prognostic factors have been identified. Our goal was to determinate characteristics of patients, in-hospital mortality and independent prognostic factors in an overall population of patients admitted to ICU for a left-sided, definite, active and severe IE. Methods: Retrospective study performed in 9 ICUs during an 11-year period. Results: Data of 248 patients... περισσότερα »

Bounding the per-protocol effect in randomized trials: an application to colorectal cancer screening

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Background: The per-protocol effect is the effect that would have been observed in a randomized trial had everybody followed the protocol. Though obtaining a valid point estimate for the per-protocol effect requires assumptions that are unverifiable and often implausible, lower and upper bounds for the per-protocol effect may be estimated under more plausible assumptions. Strategies for obtaining bounds, known as "partial identification" methods, are especially promising in randomized trials. Results: We estimated bounds for the per-protocol effect of colorectal cancer screening i... περισσότερα »

Multi Tonal Tinnitus

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Many people experience the periodic sensation of ringing in the ears as well as other transient noises that usually only last a few minutes. The pitch of these sounds can range from high to low tones. Tinnitus is the primary reason for phantom ringing, roaring, hissing or buzzing sounds that do not get better or go away. The condition is defined as audible noises not caused by outside stimulus. Symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually over time. You may experience single or multi tonal tinnitus in one or both ears. The noises may be low and intermittent or loud and continuous. Mul... περισσότερα »

Improving the organisation of maternal health service delivery and optimising childbirth by increasing vaginal birth after caesarean section through enhanced women-centred care (OptiBIRTH trial): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (ISRCTN10612254)

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοNews in OtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Background: The proportion of pregnant women who have a caesarean section shows a wide variation across Europe, and concern exists that these proportions are increasing. Much of the increase in caesarean sections in recent years is due to a cascade effect in which a woman who has had one caesarean section is much more likely to have one again if she has another baby. In some places, it has become common practice for a woman who has had a caesarean section to have this procedure again as a matter of routine. The alternative, vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC), which has been wide...περισσότερα »

Monthly News Roundup - November 2015

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΘεραπείαΠριν από 1 ώρα

Lilly's Portrazza FDA-Approved for Advanced Lung Cancer Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both U.S. men and women. The FDA has approved Eli Lilly's Portrazza (necitumumab), an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)... from Pharmacology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1l3Jj5Y via IFTTT

Performance Measurement to Demonstrate Value

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 1 ώρα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Joseph A. Hyder, James R. Hebl Teaser Anesthesiologists are obligated to demonstrate the value of the care they provide. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has multiple performance-based payment programs to drive high-value care and motivate integrated care for surgical patients and hospitalized patients. These programs rely on diverse arrays of performance measures and complex reporting rules. Among all specialties, anesthesiology has tremendous potential to effect wide-rangi... περισσότερα »

Optimizing Operating Room Scheduling

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 1 ώρα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Wilton C. Levine, Peter F. Dunn Teaser This article reviews the management of an operating room (OR) schedule and use of the schedule to add value to an organization. We review the methodology of an OR block schedule, daily OR schedule management, and post anesthesia care unit patient flow. We discuss the importance of a well-managed OR schedule to ensure smooth patient care, not only in the OR, but throughout the entire hospital. from Anaesthesia via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/...περισσότερα »

Lean Strategies in the Operating Room

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 1 ώρα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Stephen T. Robinson, Jeffrey R. Kirsch Teaser Lean strategies can be readily applied to health care in general and operating rooms specifically. The emphasis is on the patient as the customer, respect and engagement of all providers, and leadership from management. The strategy of lean is to use continuous improvement to eliminate waste from the care process, leaving only value-added activities. This iterative process progressively adds the steps of identifying the 7 common forms of waste...περισσότερα »

Providing Value in Ambulatory Anesthesia in 2015

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοAnaesthesiologyΠριν από 1 ώρα

Publication date: December 2015 *Source:*Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 33, Issue 4 Author(s): Caroline D. Fosnot, Lee A. Fleisher, John Keogh Teaser Ambulatory anesthesia's popularity continues to increase and techniques continue to adapt to the needs of patients. Alterations in existing medications are promising. Postoperative nausea and vomiting, pain, obstructive sleep apnea, and chronic comorbidities are concerns in ambulatory settings. Regional anesthesia has multiple advantages over general anesthesia. The implementation of the Affordable Health Care Act specifically affects...περισσότερα »

Inhibition of the hemolytic activity caused by Staphylococcus aureus alpha-hemolysin through isatin-Schiff copper(II) complexes

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

A great number of pathogens secrete pore-forming proteins during infection. Such molecules, from either bacterial or viral origin, are considered important virulence factors, which makes them attractive targets in the study of new therapeutic agents. Thus, the inhibitory activity of isatin-Schiff base copper(II) complexes was evaluated against membrane damage activity of *Staphylococcus aureus α*-hemolysin (*α*-HL). For this purpose, a standard hemolysis assay with rabbit erythrocytes and micromolar concentrations of the compounds was employed. Additionally, planar artificial lipi...περισσότερα »

Spontaneous release of fluoride during the dioxygenolytic cleavage of 5-fluorosalicylate by the salicylate 1,2-dioxygenase from Pseudaminobacter salicylatoxidans BN12

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

The alpha-Proteobacterium *Pseudaminobacter salicylatoxidans* BN12 forms a peculiar gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (SDO) that oxidatively cleaves gentisate (2,5-dihydroxybenzoate) and additionally 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoate, salicylate and various amino-, chloro-, fluoro-, hydroxy- and methylsalicylates. In the present study, the conversion of 5-fluorosalicylate by this enzyme was analysed using various analytical techniques. Spectrophotometric assays showed that the conversion of 5-fluorosalicylate by the purified enzyme resulted in the formation of a new unstable intermediate showing an ... περισσότερα »

Natural mummification of the human gut preserves bacteriophage DNA

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

The natural mummification process of the human gut represents a unique opportunity to study the resulting microbial community structure and composition. While results are providing insights into the preservation of bacteria, fungi, pathogenic eukaryotes and eukaryotic viruses, no studies have demonstrated that the process of natural mummification also results in the preservation of bacteriophage DNA. We characterized the gut microbiome of three pre-Columbian Andean mummies, namely FI3, FI9 and FI12, and found sequences homologous to viruses. From the sequences attributable to viru... περισσότερα »

Transmission of HIV drug resistance and the predicted effect on current first-line regimens in Europe

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

Transmitted HIV drug resistance in Europe is stable at around 8%. The impact of baseline mutation patterns on susceptibility to antiretroviral drugs should be addressed using clinical guidelines. The impact on baseline susceptibility is largest for non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. from #Infections via alexandrossfakianakis on Inoreader http://ift.tt/21qqudP via IFTTT

Preventing obesity in infants: the Growing healthy feasibility trial protocol

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Introduction Early childhood is an important period for establishing behaviours that will affect weight gain and health across the life course. Early feeding choices, including breast and/or formula, timing of introduction of solids, physical activity and electronic media use among infants and young children are considered likely determinants of childhood obesity. Parents play a primary role in shaping these behaviours through parental modelling, feeding styles, and the food and physical activity environments provided. Children from low socio-economic backgrounds have higher rate... περισσότερα »

Nutrition interventions for children aged less than 5 years following natural disasters: a systematic review protocol

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Introduction Malnutrition among children is a serious public health problem in the aftermath of any natural disaster. We will review the various nutrition interventions for children aged <5 years in countries where natural disasters occurred and analyse the effect on nutrition-related outcomes. Methods and analysis We will conduct a systematic review on nutrition intervention studies following natural disasters that were published between January 2000 and December 2015. Study selection will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) gu... περισσότερα »

Gene expression signatures, pathways and networks in carotid atherosclerosis

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Abstract Background Embolism from unstable atheromas in the carotid bifurcation is a major cause of stroke. Here, we analysed gene expression in endarterectomies from patients with symptomatic (S) and asymptomatic (AS) carotid stenosis to identify pathways linked to plaque instability. Methods Microarrays were prepared from plaques (*n* = 127) and peripheral blood samples (*n* = 96) of S and AS patients. Gene set enrichment, pathway mapping and network analyses of differentially expressed genes were performed. Results These studies revealed upregulation of haemoglobin metabolis...περισσότερα »

Platelet transfusions in cancer patients with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia in the intensive care unit

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Background: Thrombocytopenia is a frequent finding in critically ill cancer patients for whom indications of platelet transfusions are unclear. We herein addressed the current practices in platelet transfusion and the risk of bleeding in cancer patients with hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: A retrospective monocenter study over a 7-year period was conducted in a medical ICU. Adult patients with malignancies and hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia, and who received at least one platelet concentrate during their ICU stay, were included. Re...περισσότερα »

Infective endocarditis requiring ICU admission: epidemiology and prognosis

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Background: Very few studies focused on patients with severe infective endocarditis (IE) and multiple complications leading to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. Studied primary outcomes depended on the series and multiple prognostic factors have been identified. Our goal was to determinate characteristics of patients, in-hospital mortality and independent prognostic factors in an overall population of patients admitted to ICU for a left-sided, definite, active and severe IE. Methods: Retrospective study performed in 9 ICUs during an 11-year period. Results: Data of 248 patients... περισσότερα »

Bounding the per-protocol effect in randomized trials: an application to colorectal cancer screening

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Background: The per-protocol effect is the effect that would have been observed in a randomized trial had everybody followed the protocol. Though obtaining a valid point estimate for the per-protocol effect requires assumptions that are unverifiable and often implausible, lower and upper bounds for the per-protocol effect may be estimated under more plausible assumptions. Strategies for obtaining bounds, known as "partial identification" methods, are especially promising in randomized trials. Results: We estimated bounds for the per-protocol effect of colorectal cancer screening i... περισσότερα »

Multi Tonal Tinnitus

Αλέξανδρος ΣφακιανάκηςστοMedicine by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Many people experience the periodic sensation of ringing in the ears as well as other transient noises that usually only last a few minutes. The pitch of these sounds can range from high to low tones. Tinnitus is the primary reason for phantom ringing, roaring, hissing or buzzing sounds that do not get better or go away. The condition is defined as audible noises not caused by outside stimulus. Symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually over time. You may experience single or multi tonal tinnitus in one or both ears. The noises may be low and intermittent or loud and continuous. Mul... περισσότερα »

Multi Tonal Tinnitus

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOtoRhinoLaryngology - Alexandros G. SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

Multi Tonal Tinnitus: Many people experience the periodic sensation of ringing in the ears as well as other transient noises that usually only last a few minutes. The pitch of these sounds can range from high to low tones. Tinnitus is the primary reason for phantom ringing, roaring, hissing or buzzing sounds that do not get better or go away. The condition is defined as audible noises not caused by outside stimulus. Symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually over time. You may experience single or multi tonal tinnitus in one or both ears. The noises may be low and intermittent or lo... περισσότερα »

Intensive Care Medicine, Vol. 42, Issue 1 - New Issue Alert

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοOnline Medical Journals by Alexandros G.SfakianakisΠριν από 1 ώρα

If this email is not displayed correctly, please click here to read this table of contents online. New Issue Alert 12/01/2015 Dear Alexandros Sfakianakis, We are pleased to deliver your requested table of contents alert for *Intensive Care Medicine*. Volume 42 Number 1 is now available online. Important news Hospitalized patients at risk of dying - call for manuscripts Call for manuscripts on the topic of hospitalized patients at risk of dying. This new call is aimed at both medical and surgical researchers and is open to all specialties. We can fast-track these manuscripts, wi... περισσότερα »

Bacterial community and proteome analysis of fresh-cut lettuce as affected by packaging

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

With the growing demand of fresh-cut vegetables, a variety of packaging films are produced specifically to improve safety and quality of the fresh vegetables over the storage period. The aim of our work was to evaluate the influence of different packaging films on the quality of fresh-cut lettuce analyzing changes in bacterial community composition and modifications at the proteome level, by means of culture-dependent/culture-independent methods and differential gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry analysis. Total viable counts indicated the presence of a highly var... περισσότερα »

Constitutive expression of the DUR1,2 gene in an industrial yeast strain to minimize ethyl carbamate production during Chinese rice wine fermentation

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

Urea and ethanol are the main precursors of ethyl carbamate (EC) in Chinese rice wine. During fermentation, urea is generated from arginine by arginase in *Saccharomyces cerevisiae*, and subsequently cleaved by urea amidolyase or directly transported out of the cell into the fermentation liquor, where it reacts with ethanol to form EC. To reduce the amount of EC in Chinese rice wine, we metabolically engineered two yeast strains, N85DUR1,2 and N85 DUR1,2-c, from the wild-type Chinese rice wine yeast strain N85. Both new strains were capable of constitutively expressing *DUR1,2* (enc...περισσότερα »

Identification of an antibacterial protein by functional screening of a human oral metagenomic library

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

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Inhibition of the hemolytic activity caused by Staphylococcus aureus alpha-hemolysin through isatin-Schiff copper(II) complexes

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

A great number of pathogens secrete pore-forming proteins during infection. Such molecules, from either bacterial or viral origin, are considered important virulence factors, which makes them attractive targets in the study of new therapeutic agents. Thus, the inhibitory activity of isatin-Schiff base copper(II) complexes was evaluated against membrane damage activity of *Staphylococcus aureus α*-hemolysin (*α*-HL). For this purpose, a standard hemolysis assay with rabbit erythrocytes and micromolar concentrations of the compounds was employed. Additionally, planar artificial lipi...περισσότερα »

Spontaneous release of fluoride during the dioxygenolytic cleavage of 5-fluorosalicylate by the salicylate 1,2-dioxygenase from Pseudaminobacter salicylatoxidans BN12

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

The alpha-Proteobacterium *Pseudaminobacter salicylatoxidans* BN12 forms a peculiar gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (SDO) that oxidatively cleaves gentisate (2,5-dihydroxybenzoate) and additionally 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoate, salicylate and various amino-, chloro-, fluoro-, hydroxy- and methylsalicylates. In the present study, the conversion of 5-fluorosalicylate by this enzyme was analysed using various analytical techniques. Spectrophotometric assays showed that the conversion of 5-fluorosalicylate by the purified enzyme resulted in the formation of a new unstable intermediate showing an ... περισσότερα »

Natural mummification of the human gut preserves bacteriophage DNA

Alexandros G. SfakianakisστοΛοίμωξηΠριν από 1 ώρα

The natural mummification process of the human gut represents a unique opportunity to study the resulting microbial community structure and composition. While results are providing insights into the preservation of bacteria, fungi, pathogenic eukaryotes and eukaryotic viruses, no studies have demonstrated that the process of natural mummification also results in the preservation of bacteriophage DNA. We characterized the gut microbiome of three pre-Columbian Andean mummies, namely FI3, FI9 and FI12, and found sequences homologous to viruses. From the sequences attributable to viru... περισσότερα »