Salmonella Osteomyelitis of Unknown Origin: An Underestimated Infection

Salmonella osteomyelitis is an underdiagnosed pathology with unusual clinical presentations. The patient was a 24-year-old female with no previous medical history who presented to the emergency department with progressive pain in the left arm for several months. She was initially treated unsuccessful with augmentin for 7 days for suspicious cellulites. Standard elbow X-rays described a lesion initially considered as metastatic. Investigations were completed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible with osteomyelitis. Following surgical sampling, salmonella enterica infection was diagnosed. The patient recovered full use of her limb after 8 days of IV antibiotic therapy with third-generation cephalosporin, and she completed 11 weeks of antibiogram-targeted PO fluoroquinolone therapy. Salmonella osteomyelitis could mimic other diseases, making diagnosis difficult.

LEARNING POINTS

A poor response to treatment should raise questions about the initial diagnosis.Isolated metastatic lesions in the upper limbs are rare and require proper clinical and radiological evaluation to arrive at a correct diagnosis.

Insights on the carbon footprint of radiotherapy in France

The French healthcare system is responsible for 8% of the national footprint. Achieving a net zero emissions scenario will require a 4-5 fold decrease of carbon emissions in the coming years. The carbon footprint of radiation therapy has not been specifically studied to date. In this review we summarize the content of the carbon footprint dedicated session at the annual meeting of the French society of radiation oncology (SFRO). We discuss the French healthcare system carbon footprint and its major drivers and our work on the estimation of the carbon footprint of external beam radiation therapy in the French setting. We developed a dedicated methodology to estimate the carbon footprint related to radiation therapies, and describe the main drivers of emissions based on a single centre as an example, namely patient's rides, accelerators acquisition and maintenance and data storage. Based on the carbon footprint calculated in our centres, we propose mitigation strategies and an estimation of their respective potential. Our results may be extrapolated to other occidental settings by adapting emission factors (kilograms of carbon per item or euro) to other national settings. External beam radiation therapy has a major carbon footprint that may be mitigated in many ways that may impact how radiation therapy treatments are delivered, as well as the national organization of the radiotherapy sector. This needs to be taken into account when thinking about the future of radiotherapy.

High-intensity interval training in cardiac rehabilitation (HIIT or MISS UK): A multi-centre randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of international consensus regarding the prescription of high-intensity interval exercise training (HIIT) for people with coronary artery disease (CAD) attending cardiac rehabilitation (CR).

AIM

To assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of low-volume HIIT compared with moderate intensity steady-state (MISS) exercise training for people with CAD.

METHODS

We conducted a multi-centre RCT, recruiting 382 patients from 6 outpatient CR centres. Participants were randomised to twice-weekly HIIT (n = 187) or MISS (n = 195) for 8 weeks. HIIT consisted of 10 × 1-minute intervals of vigorous exercise (>85% maximum capacity) interspersed with 1-minute periods of recovery. MISS was 20-40 minutes of moderate intensity continuous exercise (60-80% maximum capacity). The primary outcome was the change in cardiorespiratory fitness (peak oxygen uptake, VO2 peak) at 8-week follow-up. Secondary outcomes included cardiovascular disease risk markers, cardiac structure and function, adverse events, and health-related quality of life.

RESULTS

At 8 weeks, VO2  peak improved more with HIIT (2.37 mL.kg-1.min-1; SD, 3.11) compared with MISS (1.32 mL.kg-1.min-1; SD, 2.66). After adjusting for age, sex and study site, the difference between arms was 1.04 mL.kg-1.min-1 (95% CI, 0.38 to 1.69; p = 0.002). Only 1 serious adverse event was possibly related to HIIT.

CONCLUSIONS

In stable CAD, low-volume HIIT improved cardiorespiratory fitness more than MISS by a clinically meaningful margin. Low-volume HIIT is a safe, well tolerated, and clinically effective intervention that produces short-term improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness. It should be considered by all CR programmes as an adjunct or alternative to MISS.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02784873. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02784873.

[Emphysematous cystitis: an uncommon cause of abdominal pain]

An 82-year-old woman with a previous medical history of hypertension and hypothyroidism was admitted to the emergency department for abdominal pain, diarrhea, confusion and changes in her overall condition over several days. At the emergency department, the patient was febrile and her blood tests showed elevated C-reactive protein without leukocytosis (8.9 × 10^9/L). In the current context, a nasopharyngeal swab for SARS was performed and was negative. With these results, the initial suspicion was that of an infectious condition of gastrointestinal origin. The urine sample was oul-smelling with presence of leukocytes and nitrites and was sent out for culture. In the setting of probable urinary tract infection, empirical antibiotic treatment was started with a third generation cephalosporin. It was decided to perform a total body scanner in order to evaluate the presence of other infectious foci. The study described the presence of emphysematous cystitis, a rare pathology in a patient without any of the classic risk factors for this entity. Urine and blood cultures were positive for Escherichia coli sensitive to the empiric antibiotic which was continued to complete 7 days. The clinical course was favorable.

[A particular state of shock: spontaneous rupture of a heterotopic pregnancy]

Heterotopic pregnancy is a rare pathology. It is defined as the coexistence of an intrauterine pregnancy and an extrauterine pregnancy, whatever its location. The presence of an intrauterine pregnancy in a woman of childbearing age does not therefore exclude the presence of an associated ectopic pregnancy. Late diagnosis can lead to fatal consequences for the mother, subsequent fertility as well as for the intrauterine pregnancy. We report the case of a 28-year old female patient, without any notion of assisted reproduction, who was admitted to the emergency department for hemorrhagic shock. The diagnosis of ruptured tubal heterotopic pregnancy was made intraoperatively.

[Floating thrombus in the aortic arch, a rare cause of lower limb ischemia]

Acute arterial occlusion of the lower limbs is a medical and surgical emergency due to its morbi-mortality. We present the case of a 59-year-old man admitted to the emergency department for acute and diffuse pain in the left lower limb caused by extensive obstructive clots in the arteries of this limb. Since atheromatous cause was unlikely after angioscopy of the lower limbs, a cardiac origin was suspected. Echocardiogram was normal, however, thoracic angiotomography revealed a floating thrombus in the aortic arch. The patient was treated surgically with placement of an aortic endoprosthesis without complications.

Haemothorax in a Pregnant Woman Secondary to Rupture of a Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation

Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal communications between the arteries and veins of the pulmonary vasculature leading to a right-to-left shunt. We report the case of a pregnant patient who presented with chest pain revealing a haemothorax secondary to the rupture of an arteriovenous malformation. The diagnosis was made during arteriography after simultaneous performance of an urgent caesarean section and thoracic drainage.

Severe Hydrocephalus due to Obstructive Basilar Dolichoectasia of the Third Ventricle

Vertebro-basilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a rare pathology of unknown aetiology. Its clinical presentation is wide and prognosis is generally poor with a high mortality rate. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard for diagnosis.

We report an unusual case of intracranial dolichoectasia. VBD was revealed during investigation of a patient with altered mental status. CT brain imaging demonstrated severe obstructive hydrocephalus secondary to compression of the third ventricle. Management is always challenging and depends on the location and the mode of presentation. Our patient died despite surgical management with placement of an external ventricular shunt.

Variations of coronary sinus tributaries among patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy

BACKGROUND

In cardiac resynchronization therapy, the coronary venous system is used for left ventricular pacing electrode placement. Despite the well-known anatomy of the coronary sinus and its tributaries, heart failure patients' remodeled and enlarged left ventricles may impede the successful lead placement because of acquired anatomical obstacles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-five patients qualified for cardiac resynchronization therapy treatment (CRT) were divided into ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. Forty-four control groups without heart failure underwent dual-source computed tomography (CT). Rendered reconstructions of cardiac coronary systems were compared.

RESULTS

The presence of main tributaries was comparable in all groups. The left marginal vein, small cardiac vein, and oblique vein of the left atrium were present in 63%, 60%, and 51% of the hearts in all the groups. CRT referred CT's had significantly longer distances between posterior and lateral cardiac veins over the left ventricle (p < 0.05), wider angles of tributaries (p = 0.03), and smaller lumen of coronary sinus (p = 0.03). In the non-ischemic group, the posterior interventricular and great cardiac veins are more extensive than in the control group. Age-related analysis of vessel size shows a moderate correlation between age and diminishing mean vessel size in all the groups studied.

CONCLUSIONS

The general structure of the coronary heart system is consistent in patients with and without heart failure. The variance of the general structure, or the presence of adequate veins, is an individual variation. The use of CT and analysis of the coronary veins allow better planning of the CRT-D implantation procedure and may reduce the risk of ineffective left ventricular electrode implantation.

Spinal Cord Compression Secondary to a Spontaneous Cervical Epidural Haematoma

We report the case of an 86-year-old female patient with chronic neck pain who presented with an initial misleading clinical picture suggesting an ischaemic stroke. No recent or previous anticoagulation treatment or fall history was reported. The patient developed a paraplegia of the upper limbs needing magnetic resonance imaging which revealed a compressive cervical haematoma. The patient benefitted from cervical laminectomy and evacuation of the cervical haematoma. Motricity in upper extremities was recovered but paresis in the lower extremities persisted 1 week after surgical intervention.

LEARNING POINTS

Insidious spontaneous cervical haematoma can mimic ischaemic stroke.Early recognition and treatment of cervical haematoma can improve prognosis.

[Fatal serotonin syndrome induced by ecstasy consumption]

The use of amphetamines and amphetamine derivatives such as ecstasy can cause serotonin toxic syndrome, an uncommon but potentially serious adverse effect. Although most of the reported cases evolve spontaneously and favourably, in rare cases, serious complications can occur leading to the death of the patient. We report the case of a 27-year-old man admitted to our emergency department for altered consciousness with hyperthermia at 42°C after illicit drug use. The patient developed severe multivisceral failure and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy despite maximalist management focused on cooling and multiorgan supportive therapy. The patient died within hours of admission. The diagnosis is essentially based on the patient history and clinical examination. The first treatment is to stop the toxic and then, to treat the symptoms and support possible organ failures.

Intervention for Cognitive Reserve Enhancement in Delaying the Onset of Alzheimer’s Symptomatic Expression (INCREASE) Study: Results from a Randomized Controlled Study of Medication Therapy Management Targeting a Delay in Prodromal Dementia Symptom Progression

Background

Cognitive reserve has been hypothesized as a mechanism to explain differences in individual risk for symptomatic expression of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Inappropriate medications may diminish cognitive reserve, precipitating the transition from preclinical AD (pAD) to a symptomatic state. To date, there is limited data on the potential impact of medication optimization as a potential tool for slowing the symptomatic expression of AD.

Objectives

(1) To test the efficacy of a medication therapy management intervention designed to bolster cognitive reserve in community-dwelling older adults without dementia. (2) To evaluate the efficacy of intervention by baseline pAD status.

Design

A 1-year randomized controlled trial was conducted in community-dwelling older adults without dementia. Randomization was stratified by amyloid β positron emission tomography levels.

Setting

Community-based, Lexington, Kentucky.

Participants

Adults 65 years or older with no evidence of dementia and reporting at least one potentially inappropriate medication as listed in the Beers 2015 criteria were recruited. The study aimed to enroll 90 participants based on the a priori sample size calculation.

Intervention

Medication therapy management versus standard of care.

Measurements

Primary outcomes were: (1) one-year changes in the Medication Appropriateness Index; (2) one-year changes in Trail Making Test B under scopolamine challenge.

Results

The medication therapy management intervention resulted in significant improvement in Medication Appropriateness Index scores. Overall, there was no beneficial effect of the medication therapy management on Trail Making Test B scores, however stratified analysis demonstrated improvement in Trail Making Test B challenged scores associated with the medication therapy management for those with elevated amyloid β positron emission tomography levels consistent with pAD.

Conclusions

Medication therapy management can reduce inappropriate medication use in older adults at risk for AD. Our study indicated beneficial cognitive effects in those with preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease. No statistically significant effects were evident in the study group as a whole, or in those without preclinical cerebral amyloidosis. Further work designed to improve the effectiveness of the medication therapy management approach and defining other preclinical pathologic states that may benefit from medication optimization are readily achievable goals for promoting improved cognitive health and potentially delaying the onset of symptomatic AD.

An Unusual Case of Acute Dyspnoea: Acute Intrathoracic Gastric Volvulus with Probable Tension Gastrothorax

Acute gastric volvulus is a rare complication affecting 4% of hiatal hernias. It is described as an abnormal rotation of the stomach around a transverse or longitudinal axis and can be intra-abdominal or intrathoracic. Intrathoracic gastric volvulus can lead to tension gastrothorax, which is defined as the presence of a massive gastric distension in the chest cavity causing a mediastinal shift with haemodynamic instability and a risk of cardiorespiratory arrest. We report a case of intrathoracic gastric volvulus with probable tension gastrothorax. Early diagnosis of gastrothorax with computed tomography and immediate insertion of a nasogastric tube resulted in rapid clinical improvement. Surgical intervention is the treatment of choice.

LEARNING POINTS

Tension gastrothorax should be suspected in the presence of abdominal and chest pain, vomiting and haemodynamic instability.Prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) pathophysiology study (IDENTIFY-HF): rise in arterial stiffness associates with HFpEF with increase in comorbidities

Background

There has been a shift in paradigm proposing that comorbidities play a significant role towards the pathophysiology of the heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) syndrome. Further, HFpEF patients have abnormal macrovascular function, potentially contributing significantly in altered ventricular-vascular coupling in these patients. However, our full understanding of the role of comorbidities, arterial stiffness and it relationship with HFpEF remains incomplete.

Purpose

The IDENTIFY-HF study aims to shed light on the HFpEF pathophysiology and investigates whether gradually increase in arterial stiffness (in addition to ageing) due to increasing common comorbidities, such as hypertension and diabetes, is associated with HFpEF.

Methods

Arterial compliance was assessed in five groups (Groups A to E) matched for age, (≥70 years), sex and renal function: Group A; normal healthy volunteers without major comorbidities (control). Group B; patients with hypertension only. Group C; patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus only. Group D; patients with HFpEF. Group E; patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF); the parallel group. Arterial compliance was assessed using pulse wave velocity (PWV), as the primary outcome measure and was compared between Group A to D. A separate comparison was made between Groups D and E. To avoid confounding factors, participants were asked to omit their morning blood pressure medication and abstain from caffeine for 12 hours prior to the study.

Results

From the 95 volunteers recruited, PWV was obtained in 94 subjects. The mean PWV in group A, B, C, D and E was 10.2-, 12.2-, 13.0-, 13.7- and 10.0 m/s respectively. After adjusting for covariance (age, sex, BMI and renal function), the mean difference between Group A (healthy volunteers) and D (HFpEF) was 2.14 m/s (p=0.023). Whilst the mean difference between the HFpEF and HFrEF group D and E respectively was 2.68 m/s (p=0.003).

Conclusion

Rise in comorbidities increases arterial stiffness, as measured by pulse wave velocity, which in turn significantly associates with HFpEF (p=0.023). It is therefore possible that the HFpEF syndrome may not be due to a primary cardiac pathology but rather an end-result of non-cardiac comorbidities affecting vascular resistance with perhaps some secondary cardiac involvement.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): 1)West Midlands Clinical Research Network, National Institute of Health Research, UK2)Research, Development & Innovation department of the University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust (RDI, UHCW), UK.

Sesamol induces cytotoxicity via mitochondrial apoptosis in SCC-25 cells

Sesamol is the main constituent of sesame seed oil and is obtained from Sesamum indicum. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common neoplasms affecting the oral cavity. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic potentials of sesamol on human oral squamous carcinoma (SCC-25) cells. Human oral squamous carcinoma cells were treated with different concentrations (62.5, 125, and 250 μM/mL) of sesamol for 24 h. Cytotoxicity was analyzed by 3- (4, 5- dimethylthiazol -2- yl) -2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression was investigated by dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate assay. Apoptosis-related morphology was analyzed by acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. Caspase-9 expression was analyzed by confocal microscopic double immunofluorescence staining. Mitochondrial apoptosis-related markers are analyzed using qPCR. Sesamol treatment caused a significant cytotoxic effect in OSCC cells. Sesamol-induced cytotoxic effect was associated with intracellular ROS generation. Sesamol treatments induced a significant increase in the early and late apoptotic cells. This treatment also induced caspase-9 expression in OSCC cells. Sesamol treatments caused downregulation of Harvey rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (HRAS) expression at protein and gene levels. Sesamol treatment modulates intrinsic apoptotic marker gene expression in OSCC cells. Overall results confirm the anti-cancer potential of sesamol and it seems to be a promising candidate for OSCC.

[Central nervous system tuberculosis : don't miss the diagnosis !]

We are presented a 35-year-old patient with no previous relevant medical history who was admitted to the emergency department for fever, altered mental status and diffuse abdominal pain. Initial evaluation failed to the demonstrated the presence of thoracic or abdominal deep infection. The clinical course was marked by a deterioration of the neurological condition. The cerebral MRI showed diffuse and extensive involvement of the brainstem and cerebellar hemispheres associated with hydrocephalus consistent with tuberculous meningoencephalitis. Antituberculous therapy was started with some delay but no clinical improvement was achieved and the patient died.

[Complication of a successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation]

A case of bilateral extensive subcutaneous emphysema secondary to external cardiac massage is reported. This is a rare complication. It occurs with a pneumothorax after resuscitation maneuvers. The diagnosis is based on a bundle of anamnestic, clinical and radiological arguments. This case demonstrates the importance of performing a simple prehospital thoracostomy on the finger without chest tube placement and demonstrates the need for systematic investigation of possible complications in any patient who has undergone external cardiac massage.

[Postpartum cerebral thrombophlebitis : a diagnosis not to be missed]

Cerebral thrombophlebitis is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy and postpartum. This condition is characterized by a misleading symptomatology. It must be systematically discussed in case of the persistence of a headache in the aftermath of childbirth and the diagnosis must be confirmed early with the help of computed tomography and cerebral magnetic resonance. NMR is the reference examination. The treatment is essentially based on anticoagulants. The functional prognosis remains good if the diagnosis is made in time and the treatment is initiated early. We report the case of a young 25-year-old woman who presented postpartum cerebral thrombophlebitis with a late diagnosis. The evolution was marked by severe neurological sequelae. This is why we emphasize the interest of imaging in the early diagnosis of this pathology.

Measles-induced Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis in a Non-vaccinated Patient

We reported a case of measles-induced acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) in a 40-year-old immunocompetent adult. The patient presented a week after the development of respiratory symptoms and a cutaneous rash, and was admitted to hospital for altered mental status. Blood tests showed hyperleukocytosis, thrombopenia and cytolysis. A lumbar puncture was consistent with acute meningitis and the patient was initially treated with antiviral and wide broad-spectrum antibiotics. Serology and PCR for measles came back positive.

LEARNING POINTS

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) associated with measles infection is not uncommon.Clinical suspicion must be based on the presence of measles infection or recent vaccination.A normal CT scan does not rule out the disease but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not required to confirm the diagnosis.

Antibacterial effect of silver nanoparticles on antibiotic resistant E. coli O157:H7 isolated from some dairy products

Food safety is a worldwide health goal so foodborne diseases are a main health concern. A total 150 of dairy products samples (locally made yoghurt, ice cream and Talaga cheese) (50 for each type) were examined for E.coli O157:H7 detection and PCR confirmation using fliCH7 gene. E. coli O157:H7 was detected at 18%, 4%, 8% respectively, in samples. The isolates showed broad antibiotic resistance against vancomycin (84.6%), penicillin G (76.9%), cloxacillin (69.2%) and tetracycline (61.5%). Because of increasing number of microorganisms that are resistant to multiple antibiotics causing continuing economic losses in dairy manufacturing, there is an urgent need for development of alternative, cost-effective, and efficient antimicrobial agents to overcome antimicrobial resistance. Here, silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) solution was prepared, identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with an average size 26.5 nm and examined for bactericidal activity against E. coli O157:H7 by using well diffusion assay. The mean inhibition zones of 25 and 50 µg/ml concentrations of Ag-NPs were 15.0±1.2 and 20.9±1.4 mm, respectively. In addition, the statistical analysis showed highly significant differences in the bactericidal effect of different Ag-NPs concentrations on E. coli O157:H7 strains. Bacterial sensitivity to nanoparticles is a key factor in manufacture, so nanoparticles were considered suitable for long life application in food packaging and food safety.

[Mediastinal hydatid cyst]

Mediastinal hydatid cyst is an exceptional pathology that poses a problem of diagnosis with the other cystic lesions of the mediastinum. Diagnosis is suspected on ultrasound and CT exams and confirmed by surgical findings and histopathological characteristics.

Abrupt Severe Chest Pain and Vomiting: Remember to Think of a Ruptured Oesophagus (Boerhaave Syndrome)

Boerhaave syndrome or spontaneous rupture of the oesophagus is a severe condition commonly misdiagnosed or unrecognized. Prognosis is poor even if the diagnosis is made promptly. We describe a case of Boerhaave syndrome diagnosed after the development of pneumomediastinum and cardiac arrest. Unfortunately, the patient died 48 hours after admission to the Intensive Care Unit. This entity requires a multidisciplinary management approach which may include conservative, surgical or endoscopic procedures.

[Hypoxemic measles pneumonitis in an immunocompetent adult]

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and one of the biggest causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Transmission occurs from person to person through direct contact or by aerosolization of pharyngeal secretions. It can be responsible for severe respiratory and neurological complications. The diagnosis is clinical, confirmed by serology, PCR or culture of the measles virus. Treatment is symptomatic and prevention is based on a well conducted vaccination. In severe cases, the use of vitamin A is recommended by the World Health Organization, at least in chidren. Antivirals (ribavirin) have not been shown to be effective in clinical practice. We present a severe respiratory form of measles, affecting a young immunocompetent adult.

A Rare Case of Adult Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis Associated with Primary Epstein-Barr Virus Infection

We report a rare case of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) secondary to a primary Epstein-Barr (EBV) infection, in a 22-year-old male. Symptomatic infectious mononucleosis and ADEM are both quite uncommon conditions in this age group.

Dose- and duration-dependent cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in human hepato carcinoma cells due to CdTe QDs exposure

Nanotechnology has achieved more commercial attention over recent years, and its application has increased concerns about its discharge in the environment. In this study, we have chosen human hepatic carcinoma (HuH-7) cells because liver tissue has played an important role in human metabolism. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine DNA damaging and apoptotic potential of cadmium telluride quantum dots (CdTe QDs; average particle size (APS) 10 nm, 1-25 µg/ml) on HuH-7 cells and the basic molecular mechanism of its cellular toxicity. Cytotoxicity of different concentrations of CdTe QDs on HuH-7 cells was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium (MTS) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) tests. Moreover, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA damage, and Hoechst 33342 fluorescent staining morphological analysis of necrotic/apoptotic cells were detected; cellular impairment in mitochondria and DNA was confirmed by JC-1 and comet assay, respectively. A dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity effect of CdTe QDs exposure was observed HuH-7 cells; the significant (p < 0.05) cytotoxicity was found at 25 μg/ml of CdTe QDs exposure. The percentage of cytotoxicity of CdTe QDs (25 μg/ml) in HuH-7 cells reached 62% in 48 h. CdTe QDs elicited intracellular ROS generation and mitochondrial depolarization, and DNA integrity cells collectively advocated the apoptotic cell death at higher concentration. DNA damage was observed in cells due to CdTe QDs exposure, which was mediated by oxidative stress. This study exploring the effects of CdTe QDs in HuH-7 cells has provided valuable insights into the mechanism of toxicity induced by CdTe QDs.

Long-term treatment with finasteride induces apoptosis and pathological changes in female mice

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of alopecia, and it affects humans of both genders. Finasteride is a type II selective 5α-reductase inhibitor that is administered orally to treat androgenetic alopecia and benign prostatic hyperplasia in human males. However, its effect on the vital organs of females is unknown. This study was designed to investigate the effects of finasteride on the vital organs such as liver, kidney, and heart of female mice. To study the prospective effects of finasteride, female mice were orally administered two doses of finasteride (0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg) once daily for 35 days, and serum levels of various biochemical parameters and histopathology of various organs were examined. The results showed that serum levels of alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased by both high- and low-dose finasteride, whereas cholesterol was significantly increased by the high dose only. Creatine kinase was significantly increased by the high and low doses, whereas glucose was significantly decreased by both doses. Histopathological analysis and DNA damage assays showed that finasteride has adverse effects within both the short and the long periods in female mice. In addition, the proapoptotic genes Bax and caspase-3 were significantly increased by high dose finasteride, whereas the antiapoptotic gene Bcl-2 was significantly decreased by the low and high doses. In conclusion, finasteride is not currently approved for therapeutic use in females, and the findings in this study suggest caution in any future consideration of such use.

Rare Case of Ischaemic Stroke Following Cervical Transforaminal Injection

We report a case of brainstem infarction following a C5–C6 cervical transforaminal injection, a rare and serious neurological complication of this procedure. Cervical transforaminal steroid injection is a common therapy for patients with persistent cervical radiculopathy not relieved by conservative treatment, and is effective in 65–70% of cases. Unfortunately, this procedure may lead to serious complications such as neurological damage. These complications are rare but potentially fatal, as reported in our case. Complications could be due to three mechanisms: the technique itself, the cervical vascular anatomy and the properties of the product (corticoids). The neurological complications can be diagnosed through brain MRI. This case report focuses on the importance of a risk/benefit evaluation when performing this medical procedure.

[Upper extremity deep venous effort thrombosis : management of the Paget-Schroetter syndrome in the emergency department]

We report a case of upper extremity deep venous effort thrombosis complicating a thoracic outlet syndrome in a 44-year-old patient. The appearance of this complication was sudden. A clinical examination followed by imaging with phlebography leads to a quick diagnosis. Effort thrombosis is a classic example of an entity which, if treated correctly, has minimal long-term sequelae but, if ignored, is associated with significant long-term morbidity. An appropriate medical and interventional care has been implemented as soon as possible. Once primary thrombosis is recognized, catheter-directed thrombolytic therapy is usually successful if initiated early, but often unmasks an underlying problem.

Characterization of Leucaena (

For the first time, we report the characterization of triacylglycerols and fatty acids in Leucaena (Leucaena leucephala) oil [LUCO], an unexplored nontraditional non-medicinal plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. LUCO was converted to fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs). We analyzed the triacylglycerols (TAGs) of pure LUCO and their FAMEs by time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS) followed by multivariate analysis for discrimination among the FAMEs. Our investigations for the analysis of LUCO samples represent noble features of glycerides. A new type of ion source, coupled with high-resolution TOF-MS was applied for the comprehensive analysis of triacylglycerols. The composition of fatty acid based LUCO oil was studied using Gas Chromatography (GC-FID). The major fatty acid components of LUCO oil are linoleic acid (52.08%) oleic acid (21.26%), palmitic acid (7.91%) and stearic acid (6.01%). A metal analysis in LUCO was done by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The structural elucidation and thermal stability of LUCO were studied by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR spectroscopic techniques and TGA-DSC, respectively. We also measured the cytotoxicity of LUCO.

Verneuil's disease, innate immunity and vitamin D: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Verneuil's disease is a chronic inflammatory skin disease of the follicles in apocrine glands rich area of the skin (axillary, inguinal, anogenital) and is associated with a deficient skin innate immunity. It is characterized by the occurrence of nodules, abscesses, fistulas, scars. Recently, vitamin D has been shown to stimulate skin innate immunity.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of the study was to assess whether Verneuil's disease was associated with vitamin D deficiency. The secondary objective was to determine whether vitamin D supplementation could improve inflammatory lesions.

METHODS

First, 25(OH) vitamin D3 serum levels in patients with Verneuil's disease followed at Nantes University Hospital were compared to those of healthy donors from the French Blood Bank. Then, a pilot study was conducted in 14 patients supplemented with vitamin D according to their vitamin D level at baseline at months 3 and 6. The endpoints at 6 months were decreased by at least 20% in the number of nodules and in the frequency of flare-ups.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (100%) had vitamin D deficiency (level <30 ng/mL) of whom 36% were severely deficient (level <10 ng/mL), having correlation with the disease severity (P = 0.03268) vs. 20 controls with vitamin D deficiency (91%) of whom 14% were severely deficient. In 14 patients, the supplementation significantly decreased the number of nodules at 6 months (P = 0.01133), and the endpoints were achieved in 79% of these patients. A correlation between the therapeutic success and the importance of the increase in vitamin D level after supplementation was observed (P = 0.01099).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that Verneuil's disease is associated with a major vitamin D deficiency, correlated with the disease severity. It suggests that vitamin D could significantly improve the inflammatory nodules, probably by stimulating the skin innate immunity. A larger randomized study is needed to confirm these findings.

microRNA-320/RUNX2 axis regulates adipocytic differentiation of human mesenchymal (skeletal) stem cells

The molecular mechanisms promoting lineage-specific commitment of human mesenchymal (skeletal or stromal) stem cells (hMSCs) into adipocytes (ADs) are not fully understood. Thus, we performed global microRNA (miRNA) and gene expression profiling during adipocytic differentiation of hMSC, and utilized bioinformatics as well as functional and biochemical assays, and identified several novel miRNAs differentially expressed during adipogenesis. Among these, miR-320 family (miR-320a, 320b, 320c, 320d and 320e) were ~2.2–3.0-fold upregulated. Overexpression of miR-320c in hMSC enhanced adipocytic differentiation and accelerated formation of mature ADs in ex vivo cultures. Integrated analysis of bioinformatics and global gene expression profiling in miR-320c overexpressing cells and during adipocytic differentiation of hMSC identified several biologically relevant gene targets for miR-320c including RUNX2, MIB1 (mindbomb E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1), PAX6 (paired box 6), YWHAH and ZWILCH. siRNA-mediated silencing of those genes enhanced adipocytic differentiation of hMSC, thus corroborating an important role for those genes in miR-320c-mediated adipogenesis. Concordant with that, lentiviral-mediated stable expression of miR-320c at physiological levels (~1.5-fold) promoted adipocytic and suppressed osteogenic differentiation of hMSC. Luciferase assay validated RUNX2 (Runt-related transcription factor 2) as a bona fide target for miR-320 family. Therefore, our data suggest miR-320 family as possible molecular switch promoting adipocytic differentiation of hMSC. Targeting miR-320 may have therapeutic potential in vivo through regulation of bone marrow adipogenesis.

Factors associated with self-reported HIV testing among men in Uganda

This study examined rates and predictors of self-reported HIV testing and willingness to test among married men aged 15-59 in Uganda. The data are nationally representative and drawn from the 2000-01 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey. The results of multiple regression analyses indicate that knowledge about AIDS, a history of paying for sex, spousal communication about HIV prevention, secondary or higher education, household wealth, and neighbourhood knowledge of a test site are associated with an increased likelihood of HIV testing. The higher the frequency of injection use in the past 3 months and the greater the level of interest in learning how to help one's partner have a safe pregnancy, the higher was the likelihood of willingness to test for HIV. Findings suggest that voluntary counselling and testing programmes need to target older married men aged 30-59 and expand services to the Northern region, where previously untested men indicated significantly higher desires of HIV testing.

[IMRT combined to IGRT: increase of the irradiated volume. Consequences?]

Image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) combined or not with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) are new and very useful techniques. However, these new techniques are responsible of irradiation at low dose in large volumes. The control of alignment, realignment of the patient and target positioning in external beam radiotherapy are increasingly performed by radiological imaging devices. The management of this medical imaging depends on the practice of each radiotherapy centre. The physical doses due to the IGRT are however quantifiable and traceable. In one hand, these doses appear justified for a better targeting and could be considered negligible in the context of radiotherapy. On the other hand, the potential impact of these low doses should deserve the consideration of professionals. It appears important therefore to report and consider not only doses in target volumes and in "standard" organs at risk, but also the volume of all tissue receiving low doses of radiation. The recent development of IMRT launches the same issue concerning the effects of low doses of radiation. Indeed, IMRT increases the volume of healthy tissue exposed to radiation. At low dose (<100mGy), many parameters have to be considered for health risk estimations: the induction of genes and activation of proteins, bystander effect, radio-adaptation, the specific low-dose radio-hypersensitivity and individual radiation sensitivity. With the exception of the latter, the contribution of these parameters is generally protective in terms of carcinogenesis. An analysis of secondary cancers arising out of field appears to confirm such notion. The risk of secondary tumours is not well known in these conditions of treatment associating IMRT and IGRT. It is therefore recommended that the dose due to imaging during therapeutic irradiation be reported.

Treatment of the primary tumor in breast cancer patients with synchronous metastases

Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program and the European Concerted Action on survival and Care of Cancer Patients (EUROCARE) project indicate that approximately 6% of women newly diagnosed with breast cancer have stage IV disease, representing approximately 12 600 new cases per year in the United States in 2005. Historically, local therapy of the primary tumor in this setting has been aimed solely at symptom palliation. However, several studies suggest that surgical excision or exclusive irradiation of the primary tumor can prolong these patients' survival. In contrast, the impact of surgical dissection of regional lymph nodes and postoperative radiotherapy is poorly documented, and the patient subgroups most likely to benefit from treatment of the primary tumor remain to be identified. Two prospective studies are currently examining the benefits of locoregional therapy compared with systemic therapy alone in this setting. Here, we discuss current issues regarding treatment of the primary tumor in breast cancer patients with synchronous metastases.