Basic Research and Clinical Application of Pterygoplatione Fossa Projection on Lateral Nasal Wall.

Infection, neoplasms, and tumor-like lesion in pterygoplatione fossa (PPF) are common in Chinese people. Owing to its deep anatomic location, surgery through this region is difficult. Maxillary sinus pathway is widely used, but the obvious disadvantage of destroying maxillary sinus even disfigurement cannot be avoided. This study provides a new method to locate PPF by choosing some landmarks situated at lateral wall of nasal cavity as reference points to obtain credible and detailed information for clinical management. The authors measured the location of anterior wall, posterior wall, and medial wall of PPF in the planes of middle nasal concha osseous extremity, inferior nasal concha osseous extremity, and middle nasal meatus. In addition, the authors measured the distance and the angle between the upper and lower bound of the PPF and the apertura sinus maxillaris. All PPF and landmarks of 196 patients were well demonstrated on computed tomographic angiography images. The new location method is stable and direct. As for the shape of PPF, the line connecting anterior wall in different planes is curve, convex backward, and concave frontward. Pterygoplatione fossa tapers gradually. The authors also found that with the traditional method, after entering the maxillary sinus, the needle should be inserted

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Correction of a Long Face: Simultaneous Reduction of the Upper Lip Using a Modified Endonasal Technique and Le Fort I Osteotomy Superior Impaction.

Background: Although Le Fort I osteotomy superior impaction during bimaxillary surgery is beneficial for patients with a long face, achieving satisfactory results can be challenging due to the redundant upper lip. However, upper-lip reduction has rarely been performed during or following bimaxillary surgery because of the difficulty in estimating the required amount of cutaneous resection needed and the apparent horizontal scars left behind. Therefore, no simultaneous cutaneous upper-lip reduction with orthognathic surgery has been reported. The authors present successful clinical outcomes using a modified endonasal upper-lip reduction technique performed with orthognathic surgery. Methods: A total of 33 patients underwent simultaneous cutaneous upper-lip reduction with orthognathic surgery. Of those, 15 patients were statistically analyzed. The amount of skin excised was individualized depending on the amount of Le Fort I osteotomy superior impaction and the aesthetic goal. Postoperative changes in upper-lip length were assessed with lateral cephalography. Results: Most patients had satisfactory results without serious complications. Overall lip contours, especially lip height, were greatly improved. The scar was hidden intranasally, aside from inconspicuous scarring in the subalar area. Regarding Le Fort I osteotomy, the amount of superior impaction averaged 3.26 mm (range, 0-6.0). The amount of upper-lip reduction averaged 3.42 mm (range, 3.0-6.0). Upper-lip length decreased from 25.27 +/- 0.94 mm preoperatively to 21.22 +/- 0.94 mm postoperatively (P

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Orbitocranial Fibrous Dysplasia: Outcome of Radical Resection and Immediate Reconstruction With Titanium Mesh and Pericranial Flap.

Introduction: Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a non-neoplastic developmental fibro-osseous disease. It represents 2.5% of all bone tumors and 5% to 7% of the benign bone tumors. Orbitocranial region is involved in about 20% of the patients. The main presentations are craniofacial deformity and headache. Loss of vision is the most devastating result of this disease. There is no medical treatment to cure or prevent FD. Radiation therapy is contraindicated. Surgery for the orbitocranial FD is often challenging because of the proximity of neurovascular and ocular structures. Conservative surgical shaving and recontouring is always associated with suboptimal results. Radical excision is potentially curative with no extra morbidity. Orbital hypertelorism, dystopia, or proptosis can be corrected only by radical excision and reconstruction. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of radical excision of the orbitocranial FD and immediate reconstruction using titanium mesh and pericranial flap. Patients and methods: This prospective study had been conducted on 22 patients with orbitocranial FD with age range from 17 to 52 years (mean 29.5). Radical excision of the lesions was done for all patients through transcranial approach. Immediate reconstruction was achieved using titanium mesh and pericranial flap. Results: Intraoperative dural tears and cerebrospinal fluid leak were reported in 2 patients and repaired with galeal graft. Supraorbital anesthesia occurred in 6 patients. Of these, 2 patients were transient, while the remaining 4 patients were permanent. Wound infection was noticed in 1 patient who improved by medical treatment. Temporary postoperative diplopia occurred in 1 patient and temporary postoperative impaired vision in 1 other patient. In all patients, acceptable or good aesthetic results were observed. No recurrence was detected in our series during the follow-up period that ranged from 24 to 58 months (mean 37.5 months). Conclusion: Radical excision of orbitocranial FD is potentially curative with no extra morbidity. It can achieve good aesthetic and functional results with no recurrence. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Subtypes of Maxillomandibular Advancement Surgery for Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery, which is the most effective treatment modality for patients with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea with apparent skeletal discrepancies, has been modified in conjunction with segmental osteotomies, counterclockwise rotation of maxillomandibular complex, and other adjunctive procedures. However, any single type of MMA could not treat or cure all the patients with obstructive sleep apnea showing different dentofacial and pharyngeal patterns. We aimed to suggest critical decision factors for the selective application of MMA subtypes, categorized as straight MMA with genioplasty, rotational MMA, segmental MMA, and segmental-rotational MMA, in the surgical treatment objective process: anteroposterior position of maxilla, upper lip projection, overjet, lower incisor inclination as sagittal factors, and upper incisor exposure and occlusal plane angle as vertical factors. This case series deserves a clinical basis on the way of case-by-case application of the optimal MMA subtype based on the successful treatment outcomes with short-term stability. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Clinical Report: Efficacy of Standard Costochondral Grafting in Patients With Bilateral Craniofacial Microsomia.

Craniofacial microsomia remains the second most common craniofacial deformity after cleft lip and palate. Mandibular pathology has been classically scored from type I to type III by the modified Pruzansky-Kaban classification. The authors report a case of a 5-year-old patient with Goldenhar syndrome and bilateral type III craniofacial macrosomia. The patient had absence of bilateral glenoid fossas, condyles, coronoids, and rami as well as hypoplasia of the symphysis, parasymphysis, and mandibular body. Reconstruction was performed using 2 costochondral rib autografts to reconstruct a ramus and assist in the development of a neo-glenoid fossa at the cranial base. An additional portion of costal rib graft was used to augment the deficient symphysis. The patient was placed in class III occlusion postoperatively using maxillo-mandibular fixation screws and heavy elastics. The bone grafts healed without complications with no evidence of ankylosis, nonunion, or resorption to date. For the most severe forms of craniofacial microsomia, costochondral grafting remains an effective initial technique for lengthening the hypoplastic mandible and providing a foundation for future distraction. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Permanent Quadriplegia Following Replacement of Voice Prosthesis.

The authors presented a patient with quadriplegia caused by cervical spine abscess following voice prosthesis replacement. The authors present the first reported permanent quadriplegia patient caused by voice prosthesis replacement. The authors wanted to emphasize that life-threatening complications may be faced during the replacement of voice prosthesis. Care should be taken during the replacement of voice prosthesis and if some problems have been faced during the procedure patients must be followed closely. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Tick Infestation of the Eyelid and Removal With Forceps and Punch Biopsy.

Ocular tick infestation can occur in any age group or sex with exposure in an endemic setting. All parts of the ocular tissue have been reported to be susceptible to tick infestation. The authors present a rare patient with tick infestation of eyelid. An 88-year-old woman was referred for a yellowish lesion of the right upper eyelid. She had a history of sting 2 days before presentation, and developed eyelid swelling with mucopurulent discharge the next day. Slit lamp examination showed blepharitis and revealed that the lesion was the body of a hard tick, firmly attached to eyelid. First, blunt forceps were used for removal of the tick under a surgical microscope. However, attempted removal resulted in the disembodiement of the parasite and retention of the mouthparts in the skin. The retained tick parts were excised en bloc by skin punch biopsy. The tick was identified as Ixodes nipponensis. Subsequent treatment was given for blepharitis and skin lesion. This case introduces a rare patient with tick infestation of eyelid, and the proper management. Less than 20 documented patients with tick infestation of eyelid have been reported worldwide, and this is the first patient from South Korea in ophthalmological society. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Review of "Ethical Recommendations for Video Recording in the Operating Room" by Prigoff JG, Sherwin M, Divino CM in Ann Surg 264: 34-35, 2016.

No abstract available

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Aberrant Internal Carotid Artery in the Tympanic Cavity.

Objectives: Presence of aberrant internal carotid artery (ICA) in the tympanic cavity is a very rare case and therefore the diagnosis is a challenge. Here, the authors aimed to address the importance of the diagnosis since the intervention to the middle ear and implants is increasing in number and this condition may lead to life-threatening bleeding. Methods: Between 2012 and 2016, among the patients referred to the authors' Radiology Department from the Department of Otolaringology for the evaluation of the temporal region for various indications, the authors reported this anomaly in 6 patients and multidetector computerized tomography of these 6 patients and magnetic resonance imaging of 2 were assessed in detail. Results: The mean age of the 6 patients was 28.8 and aberrant ICA abnormality was observed in 2 patients bilaterally and 4 patients unilaterally on the right side. In 1 patient ICA was not totally regressed and observed as hypoplastic. In one of the patients, dehiscence was evident between ICA and the cochlea. Moreover, in 1 patient the contralateral ICA was not observed. Conclusion: Although rare, aberrant ICA is an abnormality that should be kept in mind by the clinicians and the radiologists, since it leads to abundant bleeding when undiagnosed before the surgical interventions. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to Avoid Blindness From Filler Injection.

The most serious complication of filler or fat injection is blindness. According to a recent systematic review of 98 patients of blindness provoked by filler or fat injection, only 2 patients had the outcome of a complete recovery of vision. In the literature, only 2 papers were found in which hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) was used in ophthalmic artery obstruction. However, no improvement of vision was obtained in either patient. Recently, the authors treated a patient who had central retinal vein occlusion and cilioretinal artery occlusion with HBOT (daily 2-hour sessions at 253 kPa for 14 days), and his visual acuity returned to normal. In central retinal artery obstruction, if the cilioretinal artery is present, it will maintain the thickness of the retina to a variable extent. Though the size of the cilioretinal artery and the area it supplies varies, 36.2% (32.1-40.2%) of people have a cilioretinal artery. Thereafter, HBOT might be applied to patients with central retinal artery occlusion following filler injection. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Postlevator Aponeurosis Fat Pad.

The aim of this study was to examine the superoinferior extension of the postlevator aponeurosis fat pad in the upper eyelids of Japanese cadavers. Twenty-six upper eyelids (12 right and 14 left) from 15 Japanese cadavers (6 men and 9 women; average age at death, 82.1 years) were used in this experimental anatomical study. After an orbital exenteration, the tissues were cut sagittally through the center of the orbit, and the superoinferior extension of the postlevator aponerosis fat pad was microscopically examined on the sections. Consequently, the fat pad superiorly reached the myotendinous junction between the levator aponeurosis and the levator palpebrae superioris (LPS) muscle in 17 eyelids with the nonbranching LPS muscle. The fat pad extended to the roots of the superior and inferior branches of the LPS muscle in the other 9 eyelids with the branching LPS muscle. Inferiorly, the fat pad was limited to the conjunctival fornix in 13 eyelids, but reached the tarsal plate in the other 13 eyelids. This study showed anatomical variation in the superoinferior extension of the postlevator aponerosis fat pad in Japanese cadavers. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Parry-Romberg Syndrome on a Major French Revolution Leader: Mirabeau, 1791.

No abstract available

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Lipoma of the Tympanic Membrane.

No abstract available

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Nasopalatine Island Advancement Flap.

Background: Anterior maxilla is a high esthetic region of the mouth. Some flaps are introduced for bone graft coverage, mainly based on secondary epithelization of connective tissue-periosteal tissues. This article evaluates the versatility of a new mucoperiosteal flap for reproducible coverage in anterior maxilla. Methods: In 5 mongrel dogs a 5 mm width mucosal defect in labial mucosa was created after extraction of upper jaw incisors. Nasopalatine island advancement flap was used for mucosal replacement. Results: Flap survival and healing was uneventful without necrosis. Conclusion: Nasopalatine island advancement flap is a reliable axial island flap for anterior maxillary reconstruction. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Computer Image-Guided Template for Horizontal Advancement Genioplasty.

Background: Horizontal advancement genioplasty can be extremely rewarding for microgenia. However, it is challenging for even very experienced surgeon to determine the three-dimensional position of the distant bone fragment during the operation. This study aimed to apply and evaluate computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing techniques for horizontal advancement genioplasty to improve surgical accuracy. Methods: Seven patients with microgenia were prospectively enrolled in the study. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography (CT), photographs, and lateral cephalograms were performed. Computer-aided design was done based on preoperative CT data, and then surgical templates (cutting guide templates and fixation templates) were designed accordingly to guide horizontal advancement genioplasty. All surgeries were performed by junior surgeons. The accuracy of the authors' method was evaluated by the relative error (the mean value of discrepancy between postoperative CT and preoperative design at 6 points selected randomly/preoperative design movement x 100%), Pg position error (postoperative Pg Advancement - preoperative CAD Pg Advancement)/preoperative CAD Pg Advancement x 100%), and Me position error (postoperative Me downward movement - preoperative CAD Me downward movement)/preoperative CAD Me downward movement x 100%). They are all calculated by Geomagic automatically. Results: All 7 patients were satisfied with their aesthetic outcomes. The average absolute relative error is 1.8%. The average absolute Pg position error is 1.9% and the average absolute Me position error value is 1.3%. Conclusions: The authors' study showed that applying computer-assisted techniques for horizontal advancement genioplasty provided accurate surgical result. With this technique, best result for horizontal advancement genioplasty could be achieved by even inexperienced surgeons. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Anesthesia Management in Patients With Choanal Atresia.

Background: In this study, the anaesthetic management of newborn and infant patients who underwent surgery for choanal atresia between 2009 and 2016 is discussed in the light of recently published literature. Methods: The diagnoses, demographic data, anaesthetic risk and duration, additional anomalies, airway management, and complications that arose in 41 patients with choanal atresia who were operated on between 2009 and 2016 were evaluated retrospectively by examining their medical and anaesthesia records. Results: The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group I-bilateral choanal atresia and Group II-unilateral choanal atresia. Of the 41 patients included in the study, 24 (58.53%) were in the bilateral group, and 17 (41.46%) were in the unilateral group. Fifteen (34.1%) of the patients were male, and 26 (59.1%) of the patients were female. The mean age of the 24 patients in Group I was 25.86 days (3-72), and the mean age of the 17 patients in Group II was 171.08 days (81-365). Additional congenital anomalies were present in 13 of the patients in the bilateral choanal atresia group and 3 of the patients in the unilateral choanal atresia group. Seven patients from Groups I and 2 patients from Group II were determined to have difficult airways. The laryngoscopic images from these patients were classified as grades 3 and 4 according to the Cormack-Lehane classification system. When the durations of anesthesia in the groups were compared, the duration of anesthesia in Group I was found to be significantly longer (Table 3). Anesthesia-related complications were observed in 9 patients (37.5%) from the bilateral choanal atresia group and in 4 patients (2.3%) from the unilateral atresia group. Steroids were used as prophylactics in these patients. Conclusions: Congenital anomalies and their associated risks, as well as intubation and ventilation problems and the complications that might arise, must be considered in addition to anesthetic management when repairing choanal atresia in newborn and infant patients. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Two-Thirds Lip Defects: A New Combined Reconstructive Technique for Patients With Epithelial Cancer.

Background: The lips are a common site prone to squamous cell carcinomas, which arise in the facial region. There are different techniques to reconstruct the excised lip region, according to dimensions, area, and position of the tumor. The authors describe a new technique of lip reconstruction born from a combination between a nasolabial flap and adipose tissue transplant. Methods: The study was lead in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department of the University of Catanzaro. It includes 10 patients with squamous and basal cell carcinomas that interested lower or upper lip. The authors used a nasolabial flap to reconstruct two-thirds of the excised lip. All patients were staged and resulted free of disease. As a result of surgery, deformities and depressions persisted in 5 patients. This induced the authors to subject them to transplantation of adipose tissue to maximize results. Aesthetic and functional evaluation was performed with the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale v 2.0 and drooling rating scale questionnaires. Moreover, an anthropometric analysis was performed in patients treated with fat transplant. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: All patients had an acceptable aesthetic and functional outcome. Oral competence, sensation, and movements of the area were adequate and aesthetic was good. Adipose tissue transplant compared with surgery alone, determine a real modification of various parameters, that was statistically significant (P = 0.043) to our analysis. Conclusions: The inverted nasolabial flap is versatile and simple. This technique allows to repair large lip defects by maintaining the eurythmia of the face. Autologous fat transplant is a favorable filler. Our data show that surgery alone is unable to restore face eurythmia after a tumor excision. Adipose tissue transplant allows to reach this goal. These 2 techniques, together, may significantly modify the functional and aesthetic result of the lip reconstruction, ensuring an optimal long-term result. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Publication Rates of Studies Presented at the International Society of Craniofacial Surgery Congress.

Background: The proportion of presentations achieving publication in a peer-review journal has been suggested to demonstrate the quality of research presented at a conference. No data is available examining the publication rate of research presented at Craniofacial Surgery meetings. Objective: The aim of the study was to examine the publication rate of abstracts presented at the International Society of Craniofacial Surgery Biennial Congresses from 2003 to 2011. Methods: A search was made of the PubMed database for publication of podium presentations of International Society of Craniofacial Surgery Congresses between 2003 and 2011. Results: Thirty-five percent of podium presentations were published in a peer-reviewed journal. Thirty-one percent of presentations were published within 4 years, and the rate of publication decreased 2 years following presentation. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Minimally Invasive Strip Craniectomy Simplifies Anesthesia Practice in Patients With Isolated Sagittal Synostosis.

Background: Traditional open corrective surgery for isolated sagittal synostosis entails significant blood loss, transfusion rates, morbidity, and a lengthy hospitalization. Minimally invasive strip craniectomy (MISC) was introduced to avoid the disadvantages of open techniques. Objectives: The aim of the study was, first, to compare the anesthesia practice in MISC and open extended strip craniectomy (OESC), and, second, to evaluate the incidence of perioperative complications in both surgical procedures. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted for all consecutive patients receiving either OESC or MISC for nonsyndromic isolated sagittal synostosis between January 2006 and February 2014. The primary endpoints were the volume of blood loss, the volume of infused blood products, the duration of surgery, the anesthesia time, the intubation time, and the length of admission to high care units and the hospital. Results: In MISC, the median duration of surgery (90 versus 178 min.), anesthesia time (178 versus 291 min), and intubation time (153 versus 294 min) were all significantly (P

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Reconstructing a Giant Frontal Osteoma With Porex in a 14-Year-Old Boy.

Osteomas are the most common benign tumors of the paranasal sinuses. They are usually localized in the frontal sinus. Giant osteomas of the frontal sinuses are very rare but readily extend into the intraorbital or intracranial cavity, causing serious complications. This is a report of a 14 year-old boy with a bulging in frontal area and asymptomatic giant osteoma of the frontal sinuses. He had a history of minor trauma that had a bulging after 3 months. However, he referred to a plastic surgeon after 15 months. Computed tomography of the sinuses revealed a 3.5 x 6 cm extremely dense bony mass in the frontal sinus that extended into the left orbit and ethmoid sinus. A bicoronal frontal flap was raised with a V-shaped skin incision starting from the tragus placed 5 cm posterior to the hairline. The osteoma was resected completely in the frontal sinus and the anterior wall of frontal sinus was reconstructed with Porex. The patient has not had any complications until the time of writing this report. Titanium mesh may still be a valuable option, but Medpore Porex has shown to be quite effective in this case. (C) 2016 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Novel mutations in quinolone resistance-determining regions of gyrA , gyrB , parC and parE in Shigella flexneri clinical isolates from eastern Chinese populations between 2001 and 2011

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance and mechanisms of selected fluoroquinolone resistance in Shigella flexneri isolates. A total of 624 S. flexneri strains isolated between 2001 and 2011 in Jiangsu Province of China were analysed for their fluoroquinolone susceptibility. The quinolone resistance-determining region of gyrA, gyrB, parC and parE were amplified and sequenced. In general, 90.5 % of S. flexneri exhibited resistance to nalidixic acid. The mean norfloxacin resistance rate was 22.4 % during the 11 years from 2001 to 2011 (6.4 % from 2001 to 2005 and 36.8 % from 2006 to 2011). Sequencing of gyrA, gyrB, parC and parE genes of all S. flexneri isolates showed that the mutation rate was as high as 93.9 %. In addition, 91.8 % and 92.3 % of S. flexneri harboured mutations in gyrA and parC, respectively. About 35.2 % of S. flexneri isolates susceptible to nalidixic acid contained mutations. Meanwhile, mutations were detected in 91.2 % of norfloxacin-susceptible strains, and almost all S. flexneri isolates resistant to fluoroquinolone contained mutations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the occurrence of point mutations Asn57Lys and His80Pro in gyrA and Ala85Thr, Asp111His and Ser129Pro in parC. Emerging fluoroquinolone resistance with a significantly high mutation rate of the gyrA and parC genes in S. flexneri in Jiangsu Province deserves attention, and monitoring antibiotic susceptibility is important for the effective management of S. flexneri infections.

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EmboTrap II Clot Retriever for Acute Ischemic Stroke Cleared in Europe

Neuravi, a company out of Galway, Ireland, won the European CE Mark for its EmboTrap II Revascularization Device to treat acute ischemic stroke. The device is made to trap clots, deliver TICI 2b-3 reperfusion, and consistently grab onto the clot as it's removed from the patient.

Based on the original EmboTrap that came to market in Europe last year, the new device is intended to treat a greater range of clot lengths via a .021″ microcatheter.

"The EmboTrap platform has been a great addition to my clinical practice. In my first nine cases using the device, I was able to get TICI 2b-3 reperfusion in one pass. Now with the EmboTrap II, I've had comparably good results when treating longer occlusions," said Christian Taschner, M.D., professor of Radiology, University of Freiburg, Germany, in a press release. "In fact, in early evaluations of the EmboTrap II 5×33 at six centers, 16 of 17 cases resulted in TICI 2b-3 flow. The open design of the device helps trap clot inside and also makes it quite flexible, which is important when removing clot from the arteries of the brain."

Product page: emboTrap II…

Press release: Neuravi…

This post EmboTrap II Clot Retriever for Acute Ischemic Stroke Cleared in Europe appeared first on Medgadget.

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Baseline morning cortisol level as a predictor of pituitary-adrenal reserve: A comparison across three assays

Abstract

Context

The short ACTH stimulation test (250μg) is the dynamic test most frequently used to assess adrenal function. It is possible that a single basal cortisol could be used to predict the dynamic response, but research has been hampered by the use of different assays and thresholds.

Objective

To propose a morning baseline cortisol criterion of three of the most commonly-used modern cortisol immunoassays - Advia Centaur (Siemens), Architect (Abbott) and the Roche Modular System (Roche) - that could predict adrenal sufficiency.

Design

Observational, retrospective cross-sectional study at two centres.

Patients and Measurements

Retrospective analysis of the results of 1019 SSTs with the Advia Centaur, 449 SSTs with the Architect, and 2050 SSTs with the Roche Modular System assay. Serum cortisol levels were measured prior to injection of 250μg Synacthen and after 30 minutes. Overall, we were able to collate data from a total of 3518 SSTs in 3571 patients.

Results

Using receiver-operator curve analysis, baseline cortisol levels for predicting passing the SST with 100% specificity were 358 nmol/l for Siemens, 336 nmol/l for Abbott and 506 nmol/l for Roche. Utilising these criteria: 589, 158 and 578 SSTs respectively for Siemens, Abbott and Roche immunoassays could have been avoided.

Conclusions

We have defined assay-specific morning cortisol levels that are able to predict the integrity of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. We propose that this represents a valid tool for the initial assessment of adrenal function and has the potential to obviate the need for dynamic testing in a significant number of patients.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Reversal of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in a man with Kallmann syndrome due to SOX10 mutation

Abstract

Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) with either normal olfaction or anosmia (Kallmann syndrome (KS)) is a cause of pubertal failure secondary to pituitary gonadotropin deficiency. It appears during fetal life and persists throughout the postnatal, pre- and post-pubertal periods (1). For many years KS was considered to be a genetic disorder in which CHH persists throughout life, but case series of KS/CHH reported over the past 15 years show that gonadotropin and testicular functions can recover spontaneously, partially or completely (2,3).

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Botulinum toxin injection for contouring shoulder

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Herpesviral-bacterial co-infection in mandibular third molar pericoronitis

Abstract

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the presence of herpesviruses and periodontopathic bacteria and to establish their potential association with pericoronitis.

Materials and methods

Fifty samples obtained with paper points (30 from pericoronitis and 20 controls) were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. A single-stage and nested PCR assays were used to detect herpesviruses: human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and six periodontopathic anaerobic bacteria: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Parvimonas micra, Treponema denticola, and Tannarella forsythia.

Results

Pericoronitis samples harbored HCMV and EBV at significantly higher rates than the control group (70 vs. 40 % and 46.7 vs. 15 %, P = 0.035, P = 0.021, respectively). P. micra and T. forsythia (66.7 vs. 0 %, and 40 vs. 10 %, P = 0.001, P = 0.021, respectively) were significantly more common in pericoronitis compared to the control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of T. forsythia was associated with pericoronitis development (OR 7.3, 95 % CI, 1.2–43.2, P = 0.028).

Conclusion

The occurrence of HCVM and EBV extends our previous knowledge on microbiota in pericoronitis. These PCR-based findings demonstrated that bacterial and viral DNA occurred concomitantly in pericoronitis samples. T. forsythia appeared to be significantly associated with pericoronitis development in the examined sample.

Clinical relevance

Herpesviral-bacterial co-infections might exacerbate the progression of pericoronitis.

http://ift.tt/2cijMld

Herpesviral-bacterial co-infection in mandibular third molar pericoronitis

Abstract

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the presence of herpesviruses and periodontopathic bacteria and to establish their potential association with pericoronitis.

Materials and methods

Fifty samples obtained with paper points (30 from pericoronitis and 20 controls) were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. A single-stage and nested PCR assays were used to detect herpesviruses: human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and six periodontopathic anaerobic bacteria: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Parvimonas micra, Treponema denticola, and Tannarella forsythia.

Results

Pericoronitis samples harbored HCMV and EBV at significantly higher rates than the control group (70 vs. 40 % and 46.7 vs. 15 %, P = 0.035, P = 0.021, respectively). P. micra and T. forsythia (66.7 vs. 0 %, and 40 vs. 10 %, P = 0.001, P = 0.021, respectively) were significantly more common in pericoronitis compared to the control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of T. forsythia was associated with pericoronitis development (OR 7.3, 95 % CI, 1.2–43.2, P = 0.028).

Conclusion

The occurrence of HCVM and EBV extends our previous knowledge on microbiota in pericoronitis. These PCR-based findings demonstrated that bacterial and viral DNA occurred concomitantly in pericoronitis samples. T. forsythia appeared to be significantly associated with pericoronitis development in the examined sample.

Clinical relevance

Herpesviral-bacterial co-infections might exacerbate the progression of pericoronitis.

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Improving and accelerating the differentiation and functional maturation of human stem cell-derived neurons: role of extracellular calcium and GABA

Abstract

Neurons differentiated from pluripotent stem cells using established neural culture conditions often exhibit functional deficits. Recently, we have developed enhanced media which both synchronise the neurogenesis of pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitors and accelerate their functional maturation; together these media are termed SynaptoJuice. This pair of media are pro-synaptogenic and generate authentic, mature synaptic networks of connected forebrain neurons from a variety of induced pluripotent and embryonic stem cell lines. Such enhanced rate and extent of synchronised maturation of pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells generates neurons which are characterised by a relatively hyperpolarized resting membrane potential, higher spontaneous and induced action potential activity, enhanced synaptic activity, more complete development of a mature inhibitory GABA_A receptor phenotype and faster production of electrical network activity when compared to standard differentiation media. This entire process - from pre-patterned neural progenitor to active neuron - takes 3 weeks or less, making it an ideal platform for drug discovery and disease modelling in the fields of human neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, such as Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease or Schizophrenia.

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Regenerative potential of human airway stem cells in lung epithelial engineering

Publication date: November 2016
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 108
Author(s): Sarah E. Gilpin, Jonathan M. Charest, Xi Ren, Luis F. Tapias, Tong Wu, Daniele Evangelista-Leite, Douglas J. Mathisen, Harald C. Ott
Bio-engineered organs for transplantation may ultimately provide a personalized solution for end-stage organ failure, without the risk of rejection. Building upon the process of whole organ perfusion decellularization, we aimed to develop novel, translational methods for the recellularization and regeneration of transplantable lung constructs.We first isolated a proliferative KRT5⁺TP63⁺ basal epithelial stem cell population from human lung tissue and demonstrated expansion capacity in conventional 2D culture. We then repopulated acellular rat scaffolds in ex vivo whole organ culture and observed continued cell proliferation, in combination with primary pulmonary endothelial cells. To show clinical scalability, and to test the regenerative capacity of the basal cell population in a human context, we then recellularized and cultured isolated human lung scaffolds under biomimetic conditions. Analysis of the regenerated tissue constructs confirmed cell viability and sustained metabolic activity over 7 days of culture. Tissue analysis revealed extensive recellularization with organized tissue architecture and morphology, and preserved basal epithelial cell phenotype. The recellularized lung constructs displayed dynamic compliance and rudimentary gas exchange capacity. Our results underline the regenerative potential of patient-derived human airway stem cells in lung tissue engineering. We anticipate these advances to have clinically relevant implications for whole lung bioengineering and ex vivo organ repair.

Graphical abstract

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Bamboo (Acidosasa edulis) shoot shell biochar: Its potential isolation and mechanism to perrhenate as a chemical surrogate for pertechnetate

Publication date: December 2016
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 165
Author(s): Hui Hu, Bangqiang Jiang, Huixiong Wu, Jubin Zhang, Xiaohui Chen
In this work, a biochar was prepared from bamboo (Acidosasa edulis) shoot shell through slow pyrolysis (under 300–700 °C). Characterization with various tools showed that the biochar surface was highly hydrophobic and also had more basic functional groups. Batch sorption experiments showed that the biochar had strong sorption ability to perrhenate (a chemical surrogate for pertechnetate) with maximum sorption capacity of 46.46 mg/g, which was significantly higher than commercial coconut shell activated carbon and some adsorbents reported previously. Desorption experiments showed that more than 94% of total perrhenate adsorbed could be recovered using 0.1 mol/L KOH as a desorption medium. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the recovery of perrhenate by the biochars was mainly through surface adsorption mechanisms involving both high hydrophobicity and high basic sites of biochar surface.

Graphical abstract

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Chemical fractionation of radium-226 in NORM contaminated soil from oilfields

Publication date: December 2016
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 165
Author(s): Jamal Al Abdullah, Mohammad Said Al-Masri, Yusr Amin, Ibrahim Awad, Zuhair Sheaib
Contamination of soil with ²²⁶Ra is a common problem in the oilfields, leading to costly remediation and disposal programmes. The present study focuses on the chemical fractionation and mobility of ²²⁶Ra in contaminated soils collected from an oilfield using a three-step sequential extraction procedure (BCR). The total activity concentrations of ²²⁶Ra in contaminated soils were measured and found to be in the range from 1030 ± 90 to 7780 ± 530 Bq kg⁻¹, with a mean activity concentration of 2840 ± 1840 Bq kg⁻¹. The correlation between the total concentration of ²²⁶Ra and soil properties, mainly pH, LOI, Corg, clay and Ca, was investigated using the principal component analysis method (PCA). The chemical fractionation of ²²⁶Ra was studied using the sequential extraction method (BCR). The highest fraction of ²²⁶Ra (27–65%) was found to be in the acid-reducible fraction, which suggests that ²²⁶Ra is mainly bound to FeMn oxides. The BCR method showed that high percentages of ²²⁶Ra were found to be in mobile soil phases (between 45 and 99%). Consequently, groundwater contamination could occur due to the remobilization of ²²⁶Ra from soils under normal environmental conditions. However, the obtained results could be useful to reduce the volume of NORM wastes generated from the oilfields and decision-making process for final treatment and disposal of NORM-contaminated soil.



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Studying factors affecting the indoor gamma radiation dose using the MCNP5 simulation software

Publication date: December 2016
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 165
Author(s): M. Orabi
Different factors and parameters affecting the indoor gamma radiation dose are considered and investigated. The change of the dose with different positions inside the room is discussed. The relative doses are also calculated for different changes; with different room dimensions, different wall thicknesses, and different building material densities. Some other factors are also discussed. The study is carried out by executing some models designed by the MCNP version 5 simulation software. The calculations of the dose rates are performed by adopting a simple and convenient calculation model which is based on the obtained relative changes of the dose rates with the different factors.



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Toxins, Vol. 8, Pages 267: Bioactivation and Regioselectivity of Pig Cytochrome P450 3A29 towards Aflatoxin B1

Due to unavoidable contaminations in feedstuff, pigs are easily exposed to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and suffer from poisoning, thus the poisoned products potentially affect human health. Heretofore, the metabolic process of AFB1 in pigs remains to be clarified, especially the principal cytochrome P450 oxidases responsible for its activation. In this study, we cloned CYP3A29 from pig liver and expressed it in Escherichia coli, and its activity has been confirmed with the typical P450 CO-reduced spectral characteristic and nifedipine-oxidizing activity. The reconstituted membrane incubation proved that the recombinant CYP3A29 was able to oxidize AFB1 to form AFB1-exo-8,9-epoxide in vitro. The structural basis for the regioselective epoxidation of AFB1 by CYP3A29 was further addressed. The T309A mutation significantly decreased the production of AFBO, whereas F304A exhibited an enhanced activation towards AFB1. In agreement with the mutagenesis study, the molecular docking simulation suggested that Thr309 played a significant role in stabilization of AFB1 binding in the active center through a hydrogen bond. In addition, the bulk phenyl group of Phe304 potentially imposed steric hindrance on the binding of AFB1. Our study demonstrates the bioactivation of pig CYP3A29 towards AFB1 in vitro, and provides the insight for understanding regioselectivity of CYP3A29 to AFB1.

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Are some agents less likely to deposit gadolinium in the brain?

Publication date: Available online 11 September 2016
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Author(s): Alexander Radbruch
In December 2013, a groundbreaking study by Kanda et al. was published showing that the serial injection of gadolinium based contrast agents (GBCAs) is correlated with a signal intensity increase in the dentate nucleus (DN) and the globus pallidus (GP) on unenhanced T1 weighted MR images. Subsequent studies by Kanda et al. and McDonald et al. on brain tissue from deceased patients provided evidence that the reported signal intensity increase in the brain correlates with gadolinium deposits in the brain tissue. In the following, multiple retrospective patient studies and animal studies assessed the potential of the marketed GBCAs to cause hyperintensities or gadolinium deposits in the brain, respectively. This review summarizes the evidence provided by these studies and additionally takes into account data from in vitro studies on the stability of GBCAs. The author concludes that there is a body of evidence suggesting that the potential of a GBCA to cause hyperintensities or gadolinium deposition in the brain corresponds with its stability and is particularly depending on the group of the specific GBCA as either linear or macrocyclic.



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The American Association for the Surgery of Trauma grading scale for 16 emergency general surgery conditions: Disease-specific criteria characterizing anatomic severity grading

No abstract available

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What is the effectiveness of the negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in patients treated with open abdomen technique? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: The open abdomen technique may be used in critically ill patients to manage abdominal injury, reduce the septic complications, and prevent the abdominal compartment syndrome. Many different techniques have been proposed and multiple studies have been conducted, but the best method of temporary abdominal closure has not been determined yet. Recently, new randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials have been published on this topic. We aimed to perform an up-to-date systematic review on the management of open abdomen, including the most recent published randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials, to compare negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with no NPWT and define if one technique has better outcomes than the other with regard to primary fascial closure, postoperative 30-day mortality and morbidity, enteroatmospheric fistulae, abdominal abscess, bleeding, and length of stay. METHODS: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, an online literature research (until July 1, 2015) was performed on MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Library databases. The MeSH terms and free words used "vacuum assisted closure" "vac;", "open abdomen", "damage control surgery", and "temporary abdominal closure". No language restriction was made. RESULTS: The initial systematic literature search yielded 452 studies. After a careful assessment of the titles and of the full text was obtained, eight articles fulfilled inclusion criteria. We analyzed 1,225 patients, of whom 723 (59%) underwent NPWT and 502 (41%) did not undergo NPWT, and performed four subgroups: VAC versus Bogota bag technique (two studies, 106 participants), VAC versus mesh-foil laparostomy (two studies, 159 participants), VAC versus laparostomy (adhesive impermeable with midline zip) (one study, 106 participants), and NPWT versus no NPWT techniques (three studies, 854 participants) in which it is not possible to perform an analysis of the different types of treatment. Comparing the NPWT group and the group without NPWT, there was no statistically significant difference in fascial closure (63.5% vs 69.5%; odds ratio [OR], 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27–2.06; p = 0.57), postoperative 30-day overall morbidity (p = 0.19), postoperative enteroatmospheric fistulae rate (2.1% vs 5.8%; OR, 0.63; 95% CIs, 0.12–3.15; p = 0.57), in the postoperative bleeding rate (5.7% vs 14.9%; OR, 0.58; 95% CIs, 0.05–6.84; p = 0.87), and postoperative abdominal abscess rate (2.4% vs 5.6%; OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.13–1.34; p = 0.14). On the other hand, statistical significance was found between the NPWT group and the group without NPWT in the postoperative mortality rate (28.5% vs 41.4%; OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.23–0.91; p = 0.03) and in the length of stay in the intensive care unit (mean difference, −4.53; 95% CI, −5.46 to 3.60; p

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FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF FAST MOUTH DISSOLVING CHEWABLE TABLET OF ALBENDAZOLE

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Dr. O. G. Bhusnure*, Shaikh Faisal Ekbal, Mane Jyoti, Sayyed Sarfaraz Ali, Hucche Bhimashankar, Surkute Ganesh.
Fast dissolving tablet format is designed to allow administration of an oral solid dose form in the absence of water or fluid intake. Such tablets readily dissolve or disintegrate in the saliva. Albendazole is anthalmentic agent which is used in disease like worms. As a vermicidal,albendazole causes degenerative alterations in the intestinal cells of the worm by binding to the colchicine-sensitive site of tubulin, thus inhibiting its polymerization or assembly into microtubules. It is a BCS class II drug. It exhibits poor bioavailability of about

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DEVELOPMENT OF VALIDATED SPECTROFLUORIMETRIC METHOD FOR THE ESTIMATION OF BUCLIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE FROM THE TABLET DOSAGE FORM

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
A. Suganthi*, A. Fathimunnisa, S. Sumithra and T.K. Ravi.
Buclizine hydrochloride from its tablet dosage form was estimated by developing a novel validated indirect spectrofluorimetric method. Here the Buclizine hydrochloride was derivatized into nitro compound using nitrating mixture with an aid of heat which showed good fluorescence in water at 446 nm after excited at 350 nm. The calibration graph showed linear over the range 200-1000 ng/ml. The assay of buclizine hydrochloride in marketed formulations was found to be 98.96 ± 0.1586. Recovery values were close to 100% with the % RSD values of 0.432% and 0.673% at 50% and 100% level respectively. From the results of validation it was observed that the method was found to be simple, accurate, sensitive and reproducible. Hence the proposed method can be used for routine quality control analysis.


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FATTY ACID BINDING PROTEIN-1 (FABP-1) OF ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS- A PROMISING VACCINE CANDIDATE- AN IN SILICO ANALYSIS

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Varun Chauhan, Gurjeet Kaur, Naveen, Kapil Goyal, Rakesh Sehgal.
E. granulosus responsible for causing Cystic echinococcosis (CE), a highly pathogenic infection, is causing considerable morbidity and mortality in humans. Fatty Acid Binding Proteins have been suggested to be promising vaccine candidates against several parasitic Platyhelminthes. The present study was thus aimed to identify HLA class I (HLA*A-02:01) restricted T cell epitopes, one of the most common occurring HLA Class I allele in human population, and B cell epitopes by screening of FABP-1 protein of E. granulosus using in-silico approach. The most promising predicted T cell epitopes were docked with HLA-*A 02:01 allele in order to ascertain the binding pattern of the identified peptides and HLA allele. The identified B and T cell epitopes were confirmed by visualizing there locations on the 3D model of FABP-1 protein. We believe that the present study will further help the researchers in better understanding the immune responses generated in an intermediate host in response to FABP protein of the parasite and may provide a platform to facilitate subunit vaccine design.


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NOVEL RP-HPLC-PDA METHOD FOR THE ESTIMATION OF CHLORPHENIRAMINE MALEATE IN BULK AND DOSAGE FORMS

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Ramya.V, Vijaya Lakshmi .M*, Pravallika .M, Buchi N. Nalluri.
A simple, precise and accurate RP-HPLC-PDA method has been developed and validated for the estimation of Chlorpheniramine Maleate, an antihistaminic in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms. It is a synthetic first generation alkylamine developed for the treatment of allergic conditions. Chromatography was carried out on an Inertsil C18 (250 x4.6mm, 5μm) column with a mobile phase combination of 10mM Ammonium Acetate and Acetonitrile in the ratio of 40:60v/v. The detection wavelength was carried out at 220 nm. The flow rate is 1.2 ml/min. The retention time is 5.122 minutes. The linearity was found in the range of 5-25μg/ml (r=0.999) and percent RSD is less than 2. The mean recoveries obtained for Chlorpheniramine Maleate were in the range of 98.77-99.42%. The LOD and LOQ values were found to be 0.315μg/ml and 0.949μg/ml. The method was validated as per ICH guidelines and can be applied for quality control analysis of Chlorpheniramine Maleate in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms.


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DESIGN AND DOCKING STUDY OF SOME (E)-N'-(SUBSTITUTED-BENZYLIDENE)-2-(2-CHLORO-4-FLUOROPHENYL) ACETOHYDRAZIDE COMPOUNDS FOR ANTI-MICROBIAL ACTIVITY

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Ajit Kumar Mishra*, Neha Singh, Manju Kumari, Binita Kumari, Birendra Kumar, Divya Mishra.
In this work, we collected the three dimensional structure of Enterotoxin B which plays an important role in staphylococcus pathway. The protein structures were collected from PDB data bank. From the 3D structures of the proteins, the targeted derivatives were designed. Docking studies was performed with designed ligands from the drug. The drug derivatives docked to the protein by hydrogen boding interactions and these interactions play an important role in the binding studies. Docking results showed the best compounds among the derivatives.


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IDENTIFICATION OF NATURAL LEAD MOLECULES OF CENTELLA ASIATICA AND AZADIRACHTA INDICA TARGETING CHOLERA TOXIN THROUGH STRUCTURE BASED DRUG DESIGN

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Kishore Sarma, Biswajyoti Borkakoty*, Pratap Parida, Sudipta Sankar Bora, P. K. Mohapatra, Dipanakar Biswas, Jagadish Mahanta.
Vibrio cholerae, the causative organism of cholera, infects the small intestine causing severe diarrhea that can lead to death if untreated. Cholera toxin (CT) is primarily responsible for exhibiting the cholera symptoms. Although in numerous study, anticholera activity of Centella asiatica and Azadirachta indica has been evaluated and proved, the active principles and their modes of action are still elusive. In order to unveil the active principles of Centella asiatica and Azadirachta indica as potential inhibitor of CT, a ligand library of the reported compounds from these two plants was prepared and was used for molecular docking against three putative drug targets of CT. Progressive knowledge of computer aided drug designing approach was employed to screen out novel lead candidates. Comparative molecular docking analysis inferred that kaempferol 7-O-glucoside, a flavonol glucoside of Centella asiatica had the highest binding affinity with two of the selected drug targets and third best binding affinity with the third drug target of CT. In silico ADME/Tox profiling showed least toxicity with low bioavailibility. This study suggested that kaempferol 7-O-glucoside has the highest binding affinity with the identified ligandable sites of active CT and may be considered as a candidate inhibitor of CT in the lumen of gastrointestinal tract. Further clinical trials of kaempferol 7-O-glucoside may lead to a candidate drug molecule to fight against cholera infection.


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FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL EMULGEL OF LANTANA CAMARA LEAVES EXTRACT FOR WOUND HEALING ACTIVITY IN DIABETIC RATS

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Sk. Shaheda Sultana*, G.Swapna, G. Sai Sri Lakshmi, S. Swathi, G. Nirmala Jyothi, A. Seetha Devi.
The main aim of this work was to formulate the leaf extract of Lantana camara in to an emulgel and investigate their excision wound healing activity in Diabetic rats. Ethanolic extract of dried leaves of Lantana camara were subjected to preliminary phytochemical evaluation. Emulgel formulations were prepared using different types of gelling agents: Carbopol 934, Na CMC, HPMC, HPMC K15M, and HEC. The influence of the type of the gelling agent on the drug release from the prepared emulgel was investigated. The prepared emulgel were evaluated for their physical appearance, pH, Viscosity, Spreadability, in-vitro drug release, pharmacological activity and stability. From the results it was found that the formulation EGF2 with 1%w/w Sodium CMC shows better drug release (92.8% at 8 h) and higher pharmacological activity compared to other formulations. Herbal emulgel of ethanolic extract of Lantana camara shows significant improvement in excision wound contraction and hence this is a promising candidate for wound healing in diabetic rats.


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MONITORING OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS (ADR) IN CHRONIC MYELOID LEUKEMIA (CML) PATIENTS TREATED WITH IMATINIB AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Thanmaya S., Geetha K.M*.
Imatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and potently inhibits protein tyrosine kinases which include BCR-ABL which is constitutively active in CML. It targets the ATP binding site of receptors. The present investigation was carried out to monitor the adverse reactions of the drug Imatinib mesylate prescribed for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients of different phases. All subjects defined as per the inclusion criteria were included in the study after obtaining the written informed consent. Detailed histories of the patients were gathered by discussions held with the doctors, nurses and the patient attendees. Disease responses were assessed with respect to BCR-ABL. Patients were then checked for the preexisting adverse reactions and were first treated for that before they were included in the study. Later these patients were treated with Tab Imatinib 400 mg once daily. With regular visit and interaction with the patients and by studying the reports, adverse reactions were recorded with the guidance of doctors. Adverse drug reactions (ADR s) of Imatinib were classified based on various criteria viz. gender, phases of CML, age, hematological and non- hematological adverse events and it was observed that there were no significant correlation with age and phases of CML. Out of 83 patients who were included in the study, it was found that CML is more common in males and between the age group of 30-39 yrs. Most of the patients were diagnosed when they were in chronic phase. The common non- hematological adverse effects that were observed was abdominal pain, head ache, GI disturbances etc. and few patients experienced hematological adverse effects such as thrombocytopenia, anemia etc.


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EVALUATION OF MEDICATION ADHERENCE AND IMPACT OF PATIENT COUNSELING ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS SUFFRING FROM TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Nally Suman Raj, A.J. Rocky, A. Chandrakanth, C. Praneeth, Dr. B.V.S. Lakshmi, Mr. T. Praveen Kumar.
India is the diabetes capital of the world. Diabetes is growing alarmingly in India, home to more than 65.1 million people with the disease, compared to 50.8 million in 2010. Adherence to medication is a crucial part of patient care and indispensable for reaching clinical goals. The WHO, in its 2003 report on medication adherence, states that increasing the effectiveness of adherence interventions may have a far greater impact on the health of the population than any improvement in specific medical treatment. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate medication adherence of patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus and counsel them towards improving of quality of life. This was a prospective observational study, conducted over 6 months period from December 2015 to June 2016, in a tertiary care hospital. A total 300 patients were studies for the evaluation of their medication adherence and were counselled accordingly. Moriskys 8 item medication adherence scale was used to measure the adherence of the subjects. After counselling them KAP questionnaire was used to assess the outcome of the counselling. We found that patient counselling played an important role in the patients adherence towards medication which resulted in better therapeutic outcome which was noticed from their laboratory parameters. Thus, patient counselling plays a major role in medication adherence and therefore in improvement of quality of life.


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MYCOSYNTHESIS OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES BY ALTERNARIA SP ISOLATED FROM BARK PART OF CALOPHYLLUM APETALUM

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
C P Chandrappa, M Govindappa, N Chandrasekar, Sonia Sarkar, Sepuri Ooha, R Channabasava, C P Ramesh.
The present study described the formation of silver nanoparticles by the extract of Alternaria sp. obtained from bark part of Calophyllum apetalum Willd. Alternaria extract have mixed with silver nitrate to synthesize silver nanoparticles. Synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, Scaning electron microscopy and X-Ray diffraction studies. Silver nanoparticles have acquired Surface plasmon reverberation spectra at 425nm and round shapes of the silver nanoparticles have determined by SEM analysis. X-ray diffraction studies confirm that the synthesized nanoparticles by Altenaria extract were crystalline silver. This approach is one of the primary, efficient and rapid strategies to synthesize silver nanoparticles at ambient temperature without application of hazardous agents.


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TRANSDERMAL UNANI FEMALE CONTRACEPTIVE FORMULATION: DESIGNING AND IN-VITRO TRANSDERMAL ACTIVITY EVALUATION

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Tarannum*, Mohammad Idris.
The transdermal drug delivery system has an important place in the medical field. This delivery system has several advantages over the oral and parental route of drug administration. The concept of transdermal drug delivery system was already exists in the Unani system of medicine. Several dosage forms for transdermal drug delivery system in single as well as in compound formulation were mentioned in the classical literature of Unani system. Unani medicine is enriched with several drugs honored to possess antifertility property. Unani antifertility agents are recommended for both- male and female as oral and/or local application. Several single drugs as well as compound formulations are mentioned in Unani classical literature to control the fertility. With this background an effort was made with two objectives. First was to design a transdermal Unani female contraceptive formulation (TUFCF) based on four ingredients i.e. Leaves of Henna (Lawsonia inermis), rhizome of Pakhanbed (Bergenia ciliata), Sibr (Latex of Aloe barbadensis) and Khar-e-Chirchita (Achyranthes aspera). Secondly to evaluate in-vitro transdermal penetration potential of the TUFCF by Franz diffusion cell method, qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitatively the test formulation reveals significant presence of phytochemicals by chemical test method. Quantitatively it showed 35.07% release across the membrane. Hence, it was concluded that the test formulation possessed the transdermal activity.


http://ift.tt/2cSzxDj

LOCAL INFILTRATION TECHNIQUE IN UNILATERAL TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Ardeshna A Nishita, Bashwanth Pasupulati, Dr. Basavaraj CM, Dr. Vinay Pawar.
INTRODUCTION: The most effective treatment for osteoarthritis is TKR and THR but sizeable patient experience chronic pain causing discomfort. There has been shift in the usage of local anesthesia technique (LIA) over the general anesthesia in orthopedic surgeries mainly TKR. Pain control is important post surgery which includes opioid use, and other analgesics. LIA technique has taken increased focus due to early rehabilitation in patients with TKR and THR. METHOD: It was prospective, non-interventional and observational study. RESULTS: Outcomes were assessed with regards to the pain score and analgesic use post LIA. Patients with this technique experienced early mobilization and better pain control after surgery. There was decreased in the opioid usage and increased patient satisfaction. Break-through pain was also found to have decreased with LIA comparatively with only analgesic usage. CONCLUSION: The use of preoperative patient education as an important component in their fast-track recovery program. LIA protocol can achieve meaningful results and can be easily implemented both in tertiary care centers & community hospitals.


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“EVALUATION OF ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY OF RUTIN AND BERBERINE”

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
S. Viswanth Reddy*, Kappera Swetha, G. Avinash.
The aim of study is to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activity of natural compounds like Rutin (bioflavonoid) and Berberine (isoquinoline alkaloid) by using disc diffusion method. Antibacterial activity was determined using two gram positive cultures (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus) and two gram negative cultures (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli). Antifungal activity was evaluated against Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium verticillioides fungal cultures. Both Rutin and Berberine were tested at concentration of 50 μg/ml and 100 μg/ml. The isoquinoline alkaloid Berberine at 50μg/ml has significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. At 100 μg/ml it has highly significant antibacterial activity against all cultures compared to control group. Rutin has no significant antibacterial activity at 50 μg/ml however at 100 μg/ml it has shown significant activity against Bacillus subtilis. Rutin has no significant antifungal activity at both the doses. Berberine at 50 μg/ml did not show any significant activity against Aspergillus flavus but it was shown lower significant activity against Fusarium verticillioides however at higher concentration (100 μg/ml) it has shown highly significant activity against both the cultures. Berberine has shown higher anti-bacterial and antifungal against all cultures and the activity was better when compared to Rutin. It was concluded that the antibacterial and antifungal potential of these natural products might be due to interference of microbial protein synthesis, so these natural compounds might be better therapeutic targets for bacteria and fungi clinically for development of safe and efficacious antimicrobials.


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“EVALUATION OF ANTIDEPRESSANT ACTIVITY OF RUTIN AND BERBERINE IN DIFFERENT BEHAVIORAL MODELS”

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
S. Viswanth Reddy*, Kappera Swetha.
Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders reported in all the parts of Globe. The existing pharmacological therapy with N-methyl D-aspartate antagonists and tricyclic antidepressants has shown good efficacy in increasing neurotransmission in the brain but they are also associated with various unwanted effects. Hence, alternative therapeutics such as nutraceuticals with low side effect profile were investigated as new safe antidepressant agents. In the present study nutraceutical products Rutin and Berberine were screened for in vitro antioxidant activity by DPPH free radical scavenging assay and NBT superoxide scavenging assay. These compounds have shown good inhibitory activity in all in vitro assays, based on these results in vivo studies were conducted. Antidepressant activity of Rutin and Berberine was evaluated by using forced swim test in mice, tail suspension test in rats. These compounds (250, 500 mg/kg bd. wt.) decreased the immobility periods in dose dependent manner in both tail suspension test (TST) and forced swim test (FST). The expected mechanism of action the activity probably through increased monoamine transmission in the brain. From the results it was found that Rutin and Berberine have significant antidepressant activity.


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GASTRORETENTIVE IN SITU GEL FORMULATION SYSTEM

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Mrs. Sushma Singh, Ragini L. Tandle*.
The design of controlled drug delivery systems (DDS) should be primarily subjected to aim and to achieve more predictable and increased bioavailability. In-situ gel refers to polymer solution which can be administered as liquid & undergoes a phase transition to semisolid gel upon exposure to physiological environment. The oral gastro-retentive in-situ gel forming polymeric drug delivery systems are designed with an objective to retain in stomach for an extended time period and also for achieving systemic drug effects over than other pharmaceutical dosage forms. The formulation is introduced to overcome the rapidly increasing cost and to reduce the time required in the development works over than the other pharmaceutical dosage forms. Many natural, biodegradable, biocompatible and synthetic polymers like alginic acid, pluronic F127, xyloglucan, gellan gum, carbopol, pectin, chitosan, poly (DL lactic acid), poly (DL-lactide-coglycolide) and poly-caprolactone etc. are used in the preparation of in situ gelling system. The present study was based on the development of stomach specific drug delivery systems using various approaches like gastro-retentive oral in-situ gel formulation. [1, 2]


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ABC –VED ANALYSIS OF DRUG STORE IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL FOR YEAR 2013-14

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Dr. Amrita Singam, Dr. S. Dudhgaonkar, Dr.Abhishek Mamarde* Dr.Kartik J Salwe*, Dr. Huma Khan*.
Introduction- In government hospital, about one-third of the annual budget is spent on buying medicines. Effective inventory management is required to balance inventory expenditure against demands for medicines. In hospital inventory management, VED analysis has been commonly used together with ABC analysis. So our aim is to analyze the annual drug expenditure (ADE) & Identification of the drug categories requiring greater supervisory monitoring using ABC and VED analysis. Material and Method-Study was conducted in Indira Gandhi Government Medical Collage and Hospital Nagpur of central India, a 594 bed tertiary care hospital. The data of annual consumption and cost on each drug from Medical store, for financial year 2013- 2014 was obtained. ABC analysis done. The data was arranged in Excel sheet. The ABC-VED matrix (combination) was formed by cross tabulating ABC and VED. Results are expressed as %. Result- On ABC analysis it was found that category A consisted 26 drugs i.e.(13.19%) similarly we calculated for categories B and C which came out as, in category B 36 drugs i.e. (18.2%) and for category C 135 drugs i.e.(68.52%).On VED analysis it was found that ,Vital drugs (V)were 60 i.e. (30.96%), Essential drugs (E) were 79 that was (39.08%) and Desirable drugs(D) were 58 (29.94%) were found out of 197 total drugs. On vital drugs (V) the expenditure was 1,07,75,813 (61.63%),Essential drugs (E) expenditure was 51,64,273.52 (29.53%)and on Desirable (D) expenditure was 1544434.03 (8.83%) of the total budget. Conclusion From present study we may conclude that there is a need for conducting such analysis regularly, and applying the inventory management tools for effective and efficient management of the medical stores.


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PHYSIO CHEMICAL STANDARDIZATION OF THE SIDDHA HERBO MINERAL DRUG – AMIRTHARASA MATHIRAI

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Kumar S., Paechiyammal. S. Maanickha chelvi K S.
The standardization of any drug before administration to human beings is mandatory in nowadays Amirtharasa mathirai (AM) is one of the drug belongs to siddha system of medicine which is made up of herbals and metals. The aim of the study is to standardize this preparation. The physio chemical properties are black colour solid material, Total ash value is 9.73%w/w , moisture content is 8.82%w/w and pH value is 7.7% which yield 45%w/w. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) revealed that toxic metals like mercury, arsenic, cadmium and lead were below detective limit.(BDL). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis shows that particles of size 0.25 -0.50μm.


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KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TOWARDS SAFE INDUCED ABORTION IN PUBLIC HEALTH FACILITIES IN ILU ABABORA ZONE, OROMIYA, ETHIOPIA

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Ebissa Negera.
Background: In Ethiopia, in 2005, even though, abortion law has been revised to include provision for conducting abortion, it remained in accessible for large majority of women. Provider attitude, stigma and passive resistance remain insidious barriers to the full realization of reproductive equality. Objective: To assess knowledge and attitude of health professionals towards safe induced abortion at public health facilities of Ilu Ababora zone. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 15, 2011- February 29, 2012. A total of 395 health professionals (General practitioners, mid-wifery, health officers and nurses) selected by simple random sampling method were involved in the study. Data were collected using structured Afan Oromo Version self administered questionnaire. Analysis was done using bivariate and multi-variate techniques. Results: The proportions of health professionals knowledgeable about safe induced abortion were (58%) and fifty one percent (51%) had favorable attitude towards safe induced abortion. Only (28.4%) of health professionals were trained on safe termination of pregnancy. Knowledge about safe induced abortion was significantly associated with marital status (OR= 1.73; 95% CI 1.07-2.8) and training on safe induced abortion (OR=0.31; 95% CI 0.17-0.5). Attitude towards safe induced abortion was significantly associated with sex (OR=0.32; 95% CI 0.2-0.53), marital status (OR=2.32; 95% CI 1.4-3.88) and training on safe induced abortion (OR=0.26; 95% CI 0.14-0.4). Conclusion: The present study revealed that, while overall awareness on safe induced abortion was high (81.8%), the actual knowledge and attitude towards safe induced abortion is low among health professionals in Ilu Ababora zone.


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INTEGRATION OF FAMILY PLANING SERVICES WITH ABORTION CARE AT PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HEALTH FACILITIES IN METTU TOWN, SOUTH WEST ETHIOPIA

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Ebissa Negera, Geremew Tolesa.
Complications of unsafe abortion contribute to 13% of global maternal mortality and have received less attention than other obstetric emergencies discourses. Timely and appropriate treatment of unsafe abortions and incomplete spontaneous abortions can prevent maternal death and morbidity. Counseling post-abortion care patients on family planning and facilitating their access to family planning methods help to prevent unwanted pregnancies and repeat abortions. The objective of this study was to assess the integration of Family planning services with abortion care at public and private health facilities that provided abortion care service in Mettu town. Facility based cross sectional study was employed. The study was conducted at public and private health facilities those providing abortion care service in Mettu town from February to March 2014. A total of 274 women who got services were interviewed. The response rate was 94.2%. One hundred ninety three (70.44%) of the respondents reported that they have got contraceptive counseling/ information from the service providers .Among them 113 (41.24%) left the health facility with contraceptive methods. Significant proportion of women who got abortion services left the health facility without getting family planning counseling and contraceptive methods. Due attention should be given the ways to integrating women who got abortion services at each health facilities.


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FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THEOPHYLLINE HYDRO GELS USING FREEZE THAW AND CHEMICAL POLYMERIZATION METHODS

2016-09-12T01-57-19Z
Source: Indo American Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Nagamani Bolla*, V. Ramalingeswa Rao, GSN Koteswara Rao T. Amruta Rai, P. Uma Devi.
The development of topical formulations has been a challenge to formulation scientists because solubility, permeability, half life of the drug etc governs the absorption of the drug. Hydrogels are three-dimensional, hydrophilic, polymeric networks capable of imbibing large amounts of water or biological fluids and are held together by chemical or physical bonds. Theophylline is used as a bronchodilator but in lower concentrations it can be used as an analgesic. Theophylline hydrogels were formulated using two different techniques, Chemical Polymerization (crosslinking agent - borax in different concentrations) and Freeze thaw technique. Sodium hyaluronate and polyvinyl alcohol as polymers with gelatin base and PEG 600 as a permeation enhancer. This was the first report on Theophylline anti inflammatory hydrogels formulated using sodium hyaluronate using different methods, Sodium hyaluronate, one of the polymers which is a safer polymer present in the connective tissue of human body and can be used without causing any toxic effect to the skin.


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Evidence for feasibility of fetal trophoblastic cell-based noninvasive prenatal testing

Abstract

Objective

The goal was to develop methods for detection of chromosomal and subchromosomal abnormalities in fetal cells in the mother's circulation at 10-16 weeks gestation using analysis by array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and/or next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Method

Nucleated cells from 30 ml of blood collected at 10-16 weeks gestation were separated from red cells by density fractionation and then immunostained to identify cytokeratin positive and CD45 negative trophoblasts. Individual cells were picked and subjected to whole genome amplification, genotyping, and analysis by array CGH and NGS.

Results

Fetal cells were recovered from most samples as documented by Y chromosome PCR, short tandem repeat analysis, array CGH, and NGS including over 30 normal male cells, one 47,XXY cell from an affected fetus, one trisomy 18 cell from an affected fetus, nine cells from a trisomy 21 case, three normal and one trisomy 13 cells from a case with confined placental mosaicism, and two chromosome 15 deletion cells from a case known by CVS to have a 2.7 Mb de novo deletion.

Conclusion

We believe that this is the first report of using array CGH and NGS whole genome sequencing to detect chromosomal abnormalities in fetal trophoblastic cells from maternal blood. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Markers associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are present in Mexico City children chronically exposed to concentrations of fine particulate matter PM2.5 above the current EPA USA standards

Mexico City (MC) children have lifetime exposures to concentrations of air pollutants above the current USA standards, including fine particulate matter (PM 2.5). Metropolitan Mexico City is an example of extreme urban growth and serious environmental pollution including high exposures to PM 2.5, ozone, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), metals, endotoxins, tobacco smog, open waste dumps, highly polluting heavy duty trucks (not subjected to any pollution controls), etc., resulting in millions of children involuntarily exposed to harmful air neurotoxic substances every day since conception.

The results of this study including the significantly low concentrations of Aβ 1-42 and Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in MC children versus controls, suggests that major changes in key neural proteins playing major roles in neurotoxicity, cell survival, axonal and dendritic growth, and synaptic plasticity are evolving in urban MC children. Decreased levels of BDNF are associated with the development of obesity, depression, mood disorders, and neurodegeneration. Interestingly, Mexico City children increased their levels of total prion protein (TPrP) with cumulative PM2.5 up to 5 μg/m3 and then decreased, regardless of cumulative value or age. The low values of this key protein are likely detrimental given its protective effects against oxidative stress and its role in cell signaling, metal interactions, memory, myelin maintenance, axonal growth and neuronal development. Total synuclein showed an increment in childhood years related to cumulated PM2.5, followed by a decrease after age 12 years, while the abnormal synuclein associated with Parkinson's disease exhibited a tendency to increase with cumulated PM2.5.

Mexico City children, teens, and young adults have shown a key marker of Alzheimer disease (AD): hyperphosphorylated tau along significant brain and intrathecal neuroinflammation, dysregulated immune responses, breakdown of epithelial and endothelial barriers, damage to the neurovascular unit, and brain accumulation of metals associated with combustion. Moreover, seemingly healthy children in Mexico City have olfaction deficits, dysregulation of feeding regulatory hormones, deficiencies in attention and short-term memory, and below-average scores in Verbal and Full Scale IQ compared to low air pollution children.

"Researchers are very concerned young Mexico City urbanites exhibit evidence of spectral markers of neurodegeneration that are often seen in adults with mild cognitive impairment, in Alzheimer patients and in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease" said Dr. Lilian Calderón-Garcidueňas.

"Our concern about Parkinson's disease is also increased when we observed children and teens with early autonomic dysfunction and in brainstem materials, extensive accumulation of α- synuclein in key nuclei including auditory nuclei and the dorsal nucleus of the vagus" said authors.

"These results add to growing data from our laboratory and others, suggesting urban residents with chronic high exposures to ozone and fine particulate matter have a higher risk for developing Alzheimer's disease (Jung et al., J Alzheimers Dis, 44, 573-584, 2015) and the potential key role of environmental magnetite nanoparticles in the brains of Mexico City residents (Maher et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, early edition) commented Dr. Calderón-Garcidueňas.

Air pollution is a serious public health issue and exposures to concentrations of air pollutants at or above the current standards have been clearly linked to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.

There is an urgent need for studying air pollution interactions impacting children's brains and their responses, which could provide new avenues for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease prevention.

The authors concluded: "We have a 50-year window of opportunity between the time urban children experience the detrimental effects we are describing here and when they will present with mild cognitive impairment, dementia, tremor or all of the above. Our efforts should be aimed to identify and mitigate environmental factors influencing the early development of neurodegenerative diseases and to neuroprotect high risk children. Unfortunately, to date there has been no support for studying the detrimental neurodegenerative effects of air pollution on the pediatric brain."

# # #

Contact:
Lilian Calderón-Garcidueňas, MA, MD, PhD
Biomedical Sciences
University of Montana
+1 406 243 4785
lilian.calderon-garciduenas@umontana.edu

NOTES FOR EDITORS
"Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers in highly exposed PM2.5 urbanites: The risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases in young Mexico City residents" by Lilian Calderón-Garcidueňas, José Avila-Ramírez, Ana Calderón-Garcidueñas, Tonatiuh González-Heredia, Hilda Acuña-Ayala, Chih-kai Chao, Charles Thompson, Rubén Ruiz- Ramos, Victor Cortés-González, Luz Martínez-Martínez, Mario Alberto García-Pérez, Jacques Reis, Partha S. Mukherjee, Ricardo Torres-Jardón, Ingolf Lachmann, J Alzheimers Dis 54, 597-613, 2016.

ABOUT THE JOURNAL OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE (JAD)
The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease is an international multidisciplinary journal to facilitate progress in understanding the etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, genetics, behavior, treatment and psychology of Alzheimer's disease. The journal publishes research reports, reviews, short communications, book reviews, and letters-to-the-editor. Published by IOS Press.

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Efficacy and Safety of Crocus Sativus L in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: One Year Single-Blind Randomized, with Parallel Groups, Clinical Trial

Scientists from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), the Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD) and the Centre for Research and Technology Hellas/Information Technologies Institute (CERTH/ITI) have succeeded in making the shift to MCI therapy via robust natural remedies that can be used in order to forestall cognitive deterioration. In an article published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, the researchers have indicated that 0,125 gr/ per day lead to better cognitive performance after 12 months as revealed in neuropsychological assessment, ERP response, and 3 Tesla MRI. P300 latency was measured by a HD-EEG [EGI 300 Geodesic EEG system (GES 300) using a 256-channel HydroCel Geodesic Sensor Net (HCGSN)]. A small volume increase on the left inferior temporal gyrus, an area close to medial temporal lobe (MTL) and hippocampus, was found in experimental group. Thus, this study highlighted how Crocus can change brain activation, striatal volume of specific brain regions, neuropsychological performance and cognitive processing in aMCI patients whereas control group exhibited worse performance after 12 months. Consequently, patients with MCI can hopefully have better cognitive functioning by taking Crocus Sativus L. on a daily basis.

It is widely known that no conventional or alternative therapy is currently available and approved to treat MCI patients. Current therapeutic strategies for cognitive impairment in AD, is symptomatic with cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) including donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine, and the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist memantine. The discovery of new natural compounds with neuroactive properties for the management of Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) has gained much attention recently. Since no drug treatment is available to prevent the development of NDs, studies have shown that diet or plant-based extracts with antioxidant properties may have beneficial effects on improving brain function in NDs.

Nevertheless, preclinical and clinical pharmacological studies have demonstrated that Crocus sativus crude extracts and purified chemicals of it have anti-tumor effects, radical scavenging activity, anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties, inhibitory activity on Amyloid beta aggregation, reduce atherosclerosis and hepatic damage, counteract hyperlipidemia, protect from myocardial injury, display antihypertensive action, and finally it is safe and effective in mild to moderate AD as revealed from this study. More specifically, crocins and crocetin (molecules of Crocus sativus L.) have a wide range of activities including antioxidant effects, neuroprotective activities in memory impairment and antioxidant capacities. Also, crocin acts on NMDA receptors and on tracheal muscles β2-adrenoceptors, with a possible inhibitory effect on histamine (H1) receptors. More specifically, in vitro and in silico studies also suggest that crocetin can inhibit acetylcholinesterase, a main AD medicinal target.

Our study revealed in all measures we used better performance of treatment group compared with control group in the second assessment after 12 months of follow-up. Until today there is no other study which has proved that any kind of medication can be considered as an effective solution for patients with MCI. The same organizations are also focused on developing other novel pharmaceutical natural compounds that respond to a number of clinical needs in the effort against neurocognitive disorders.

*****

NOTES FOR EDITORS:
Efficacy and Safety of Crocus sativus L. in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment: One Year Single-Blind Randomized, with Parallel Groups, Clinical Trial. Tsolaki M, Karathanasi E, Lazarou I, Dovas K, Verykouki E, Karacostas A, Georgiadis K, Tsolaki A, Adam K, Kompatsiaris I, Sinakos Z. J Alzheimers Dis. 2016 Jul 27;54(1):129-33. doi: 10.3233/JAD-160304. PMID: 27472878

Contact-Principal Investigator:
Magda Tsolaki
Professor of 3rd Department of Neurology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
Chair of Greek Federation of Alzheimer's disease in Greece
Scientific Director of Daily Alzheimer's centers in Thessaloniki, Greece
E-mail: tsolakim1@gmail.com
Tel: +306942918933, +302310234239
Fax: +30 2313 307332

About the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH)
The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is the largest university in Greece. It comprises 7 faculties that consist of 33 schools, 5 faculties that consist of one school each, as well as 4 independent schools. About 81,500 students study at the Aristotle University (72,140 in undergraduate programs and 8,360 in postgraduate programs). There are 2,150 faculty members: 739 professors, 435 associate professors, 634 assistant professors, and 342 lecturers. There are also 11 teaching assistants, 58 research fellows, 248 members of the Special Laboratory Teaching Personnel (S.L.T.P.), as well as 15 foreign language teachers and 4 foreign instructors. Faculty members are also assisted by 213 members of the Special Technical Laboratory Personnel (S.T.L.P.).

The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki conducts research projects, participates in European research programs, cooperates with international institutions and organizations and attracts outstanding researchers from within Greece and abroad. The Aristotle University supports research projects in a wide variety of disciplines related to the environment (natural and built), computing, new technologies and nanotechnology, telecommunications, industrial technologies, transport, biotechnology, biomedicine and health, agriculture, forestry and fishery, education and language, history and archaeology, social studies and economics.

About the Greek Association of Alzheimer's disease and Related Disorders (GAADRD)
The Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1995 by relatives of patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease, doctors of all specialties (mainly neurologists and psychiatrists) and other experts (such as psychologists, social workers, physiotherapists, etc.) who deal with the problems caused by this disease and other types of dementia. The Association operates 2 day centers in Thessaloniki and has over 4.000 members. It is a member of Alzheimer Europe and Alzheimer's disease International (ADI) and has successfully participated in various national and European research projects producing new scientific knowledge and innovative interventions for cognitive disorders.

The aim of the Association is to offer information and advice concerning the care of patients with cognitive disorders and provide services for patients and their families. It also strives to offer help and support to caregivers in order to reduce the social, economic and emotional burden deriving from the long term care of people suffering from dementia. Lastly, the Association attempts to publicize the social needs of the affected population and inform the public on issues related to dementia and cognitive disorders in general.

About the Information Technologies Institute (ITI)-Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH)
The Information Technologies Institute, formerly Informatics and Telematics Institute, was established in 1998 in Thessaloniki as a non-profit research organization under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Research and Technology (GSRT) of the Greek Ministry of Development. Since 2000, ITI has joined the Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH). The main objective of the Institute is to be a research institution of excellence, identifying promising fields for the future and creating an environment that will allow the transfer of basic, applied and technological research in the growth of the digital economy of the 21st century. CERTH/ITI has developed spheres of excellence and critical mass in research and technology in several strategically important fields in a number of areas: Image and Signal Processing, Computer Vision, Human Computer Interaction, Virtual and Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Security and Surveillance, Biomedicine – Bioinformatics, Robotics, ICT for Environment Monitoring, Geosciences and Remote Sensing, Social Network Analysis, Networks and Communications, Cultural and Educational Technology.

About Journal of Alzheimer's disease (JAD)
The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease is an international multidisciplinary journal to facilitate progress in understanding the etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, genetics, behavior, treatment and psychology of Alzheimer's disease. The journal publishes research reports, reviews, short communications, book reviews, and letters-to-the-editor. Groundbreaking research that has appeared in the journal includes novel therapeutic targets, mechanisms of disease and clinical trial outcomes. The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease has an Impact Factor of 4.151 according to Thomson Reuters' 2014 Journal Citation Reports. The Journal is published by IOS Press.

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References
[1] Pitsikas N (2015) The effect of Crocus sativus L. and its constituents on memory: basic studies and clinical applications. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2015, 926284.
[2] Howe AS, Bani-Fatemi A, De Luca V (2014) The clinical utility of the auditory P300 latency subcomponent event-related potential in preclinical diagnosis of patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Brain Cogn 86, 64–74.

http://ift.tt/2cdEyYs

Midlife physical activity is associated with better cognition in old age

The association was studied first in all individuals of the cohort, and then by comparing later cognition in pairs where one twin was more physically active than the other.

Increasing the volume of physical activity was not, however, associated with increased memory-protecting benefits. Instead, quite a moderate amount of physical activity was found to be sufficient for memory-protecting benefits, and only the most inactive group of twins stood out with a significantly higher risk for cognitive impairment.

Overall, the study shows that moderately vigorous physical activity, meaning more strenuous than walking, is associated with better cognition after an average of 25 years.

This finding is in accordance with earlier animal model studies, which have shown that physical activity increases the amount of growth factors in the brain and improves synaptic plasticity.

The prevalence of dementia has increased with aging populations both in Finland and globally. Although the incidence of dementia seems to have decreased in less senior generations, the total prevalence of dementia is still expected to rise. No cure for dementia exists, but during the last decade research has produced an abundance of new information on dementia prevention. The traditional vascular risk factors (elevated blood pressure, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, diabetes and lack of exercise) have also been associated with dementia risk. However, few long-term, high-quality, follow-up studies on physical activity and cognition have been published, and it has remained unclear what type and amount of exercise is needed to safeguard cognition.

The study was conducted by scientists at the universities of Helsinki, Jyväskylä and Turku. The twins provided information on physical activity through questionnaire surveys from 1975 and 1981 (mean age in 1981: 49 years), while cognition was assessed by validated telephone interviews conducted between 1999 and 2015.

An early online version of this paper detailing the findings has been published. The full article is scheduled for publication in the 54(4) issue of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (Journal of Alzheimer's Disease 2016; 54(4), DOI 10.3233/JAD-160377).

Iso-Markku P, Waller K, Vuoksimaa E, Heikkilä K, Rinne J, Kaprio J, Kujala UM (2016) Midlife Physical Activity and Cognition Later in Life: A Prospective Twin Study. J Alzheimers Dis, DOI 10.3233/JAD-160377

Further information:
Researcher, M.D. Paula Iso-Markku, paula.iso-markku@helsinki.fi, tel. +358 50 428 4611
Professor Urho Kujala, urho.m.kujala@jyu.fi, tel. +358 40 805 3567

http://ift.tt/2cl6QwS

Dapsone treatment for eosinophilic anular erythema

http://ift.tt/2c3cEZ6

ROLE OF MIRNA-122 AND MIRNA-200B IN INTRATUMOR HETEROGENEITY FORMATION AND HUMAN BREAST CANCER PROGNOSIS

2016-09-12T01-16-32Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
Lukianova N., Borikun T., Yalovenko T., Chekhun V..
Aim: To determine the features of miR-122 and -200b expression signature in BC patients due to major clinical-pathological characteristics of the disease. Methodology: The expression levels of miR-122 and -200b and ER, PR, Her2/neu, Ki-67, E-cadh, N-cadh, FTH1, Hepc were analyzed in cancer tissue and sera of BC patients. Relative expression levels of the miR-122 and -200b were examined using qRT-PCR (Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR), protein expression was measured by immunohistochemical analysis. Results: Correlation between miR-122 and -200b expression clinical-pathological characteristics of BC was established. Prognostic value of miR-122 and -200b was estimated. Discussion and Conclusion: Changes of miR-122 and -200b expression in tumor tissue and sera of BC patients provide information about major clinical-pathological characteristics of BC.


http://ift.tt/2c996Ig

STUDY OF LABORATORY PARAMETERS IN HEMOPHILIA PATIENTS

2016-09-12T01-16-32Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
T. B. Sadaria, H. M. Goswami, Safal Patel.
Introduction: Haemophilia is X- linked congenital bleeding disorder with a frequency of about one in 10,000 births. Haemophilia is caused by deficiency of coagulation factor VIII (haemophilia A) or factor IX (haemophilia B) related to mutations of clotting factor gene. Objectives: To check effectiveness of various screening and confirmatory tests for diagnosis of haemophilia. Methods: Retrospective study of laboratory diagnosis of haemophilia was conducted in our haematology section of pathology department of Tertiary Care Teaching Centre from 1 August 2014 to 30 July 2016. Patients in the age group of 0 year to 55 years with factor VIII and factor IX level below 50% of normal were included in the study. Routine haematological tests like haemoglobin and platelet count and coagulation profile of patient for prothrombin time, activated partial prothrombin time, factor VIII and factor IX level were analysed. Results: Out of 122 cases, 97 cases were of haemophilia A while 25 cases were of haemophilia B. Haemoglobin count of patients ranged from6gm% to 14.2 gm%. Platelet count and PT (prothrombin time)of patients were within normal limits. APTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) was prolonged (41.6 sec. to 124 sec) in all patients. Factor VIII level was reduced (


http://ift.tt/2coutm7

AN ANTHROPOMETRIC STUDY OF STATURE ESTIMATION AMONG MALES FROM THE MEASUREMENTS OF FEET IN UDAIPUR DISTRICT OF RAJASTHAN

2016-09-12T01-16-32Z
Source: International Journal of Current Research and Review
Charu Taneja, Hitesh Babel, L.K. Jain.
Background: Estimation of stature has a very significant role to play in forensic anthropometry for personal identification. Objective: To discover out the correlation among proportions of feet with stature in tribals of Udaipur district in Rajasthan (India). Material and Methods: The present study was conducted on a total number of 481 male tribals of Udaipur district by using standard anthropometric techniques. Results: There was a high correlation between height and right (0.184) foot length & left (0.186) Foot Length in males. Conclusion: Linear regression equations were deduced in males out of which lowest standard error of estimate was experienced in combined foot length of males.


http://ift.tt/2c9a6Mf