A Machine Learning Algorithm to Discriminating Between Bipolar and Major Depressive Disorders Based on Resting EEG Data

Distinguishing major depressive disorder (MDD) from bipolar disorder (BD) is a crucial clinical challenge due to the lack of known biomarkers. Conventional methods of diagnosis rest exclusively on symptomatic presentation, and personal and family history. As a result, BD-depressed episode (BD-DE) is often misdiagnosed as MDD, and inappropriate therapy is given. Electroencephalography (EEG) has been widely studied as a potential source of biomarkers to differentiate these disorders. Previous attempts using machine learning (ML) methods have delivered insufficient sensitivity and specificity for clinical use, likely as a consequence of the small training set size, and inadequate ML methodology. We hope to overcome these limitations by employing a training dataset of resting-state EEG from 71 MDD and 71 BD patients. We introduce a robust 3 steps ML technique: 1) a multi-step preprocessing method is used to improve the quality of the EEG signal 2) symbolic transfer entropy (STE), which is an effective connectivity measure, is applied to the resultant EEG signals 3) the ML algorithm uses the extracted STE features to distinguish MDD from BD patients. Clinical Relevance--- The accuracy of our algorithm, derived from a large sample of patients, suggests that this method may hold significant promise as a clinical tool. The proposed method delivered total accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 84.9%, 83.4%, and 87.1%, respectively.

Are men with larger prostates and bothersome voiding symptoms less likely to have significant prostate cancer?

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Background: Gleason Sum (GS) predicts clinically significant prostate cancer (CAP) and prostate specific antigen (PSA) survival in men undergoing prostatectomy for CAP. BPH can also elevate PSA. Objective: evaluate prostate gland volume (PV) and American Urologic Symptom Score (AUASS) in men undergoing prostate needle biopsy (PNB) to detect CAP. Analysis endpoints: 1) CAP and 2) GS ≥7. Methods: From 1/2000–7/2005, 1,078 men undergoing PNB were prospectively examined. Urinary voiding symptoms were measured by AUASS. All men were examined by 1 surgeon: DRE and Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) were given levels of suspicion (LOS) from 1 = low suspicion (smooth DRE, homogeneous TRUS) to 5 = high suspicion (hard DRE, hypoechoic lesion). LOS ≥3 was abnormal. Prebiopsy parameters: PSA, DRE, age, race, biopsy history, prostate volume (PV), TRUS lesion, and AUASS. All men had 10-core biopsy. 1) Predictors for CAP were evaluated by Univariate (UVA) and multivariate (MVA) analysis (logistic regression) for 1,078 men. 2) Predictors for GS≥7 were evaluated in men with no prior biopsy (NOPB). Results: Median PSA = 5.4 ng/ml (mean 10.4), 38% and 52% had abnormal TRUS & DRE respectively. Mean patient age = 64 years. Mean AUASS = 10.4. Positive biopsy rate = 38%. AUASS: 47% had low symptoms scores (<7), 39% had moderate scores (8–19), and 14% had severe scores (20–35). UVA & MVA (N = 1,078) showed that PSA was not an independent predictor of CAP (p = 0.18), but abnormal DRE, age, low AUASS, no prior biopsy (NOPB), race (AA), abnormal TRUS, and low PV were all independent predictors (p < 0.03). Subset MVA analysis of men in PSA range of 2.5–10 (N = 738), demonstrated that low AUASS (p = 0.05) & low PV (p = 0.00001) were predictors of CAP, while DRE, NOPB, and age were also independent predictors. MVA of men with NOPB (N = 790), indicated that low PV, PSA, DRE, and Age were independent predictors for CAP (p < 0.0001). The multivariate risk of having GS ≥7 on biopsy was independently associate with both low PV (p = 0.001) and abnormal DRE (p = 0.001). The relationship between PV and GS ≥7 showed that for every 1 cc increase in gland volume the risk of GS ≥7 CAP decreases by 2.2%. Conclusions: Men with smaller prostates are more likely to have cancer and are more likely to have significant disease.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Simultaneous detection of Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci in positive blood cultures by real-time PCR with two fluorescence resonance energy transfer probe sets

A real-time PCR assay that uses two fluorescence resonance energy transfer probe sets and targets the tuf gene of staphylococci is described here. One probe set detects the Staphylococcus genus, whereas the other probe set is specific for Staphylococcus aureus. One hundred thirty-eight cultured isolates, which contained 41 isolates of staphylococci representing at least nine species, and 100 positive blood cultures that contained gram-positive cocci in clusters were tested. This assay was 100% sensitive and 100% specific for the detection of the Staphylococcus genus and of S. aureus.

Evaluation of a whitening gel designed to accelerate whitening

A clinical trial was conducted with 25 subjects to evaluate the effects and safety of Zoom! Take-Home whitening gel, a 6% hydrogen peroxide gel for vital tooth bleaching. Tooth bleaching was accomplished using a tray system overnight for 6 nights. Over the 6 nights, a significant change (from darker to lighter) was seen in tooth shades as demonstrated by 3 assessment methods: VITA Shade Value Oriented Guide, Trubyte Bioform Color Ordered Shade Guide scoring system, and the Chroma Meter CR-321 assessments. VITA Shade scores showed a mean change of -6.49 shades (P = .0001) from baseline to day 4 and a -7.72 shades (P = .0001) from baseline to day 7. The Trubyte scores showed a mean change of -9.31 shades (P = .0001) from baseline to day 4 and a -10.77 shades (P = .0001) from baseline to day 7. The Chroma Meter was used to measure tooth color. Analysis of Chroma Meter data showed a significant change in color (delta E), 13.82 mean score change (P = .0001) from baseline to day 4 and a 7.25 mean score change (P = .0001) from baseline to day 7. At day 4 minor tooth sensitivity was reported, and all tooth sensitivity resolved within a few days after treatment.

Clinical study to compare two in-office (chairside) whitening systems

The objective of this clinical study was to compare the whitening/bleaching efficacy of two marketed in-office whitening systems: Discus Dental Zoom! Chairside System (25% hydrogen peroxide whitening gel) and Opalescence Xtra Boost Kit (38% hydrogen peroxide whitening gel), using the Vita Shade Guide and chromameter measurements. The study was an examiner-blind, parallel group, randomized and controlled clinical trial conducted in a dental setting. All subjects signed a study consent form prior to admission and were given Crest Regular Toothpaste and an Oral-B 40 straight-handle toothbrush to use during the study. Subjects received a supragingival prophylaxis followed by a screening eligibility Vita Shade assessment from which 22 subjects were selected. At baseline, all six maxillary anterior teeth were assessed with the Vita Shade Guide. Chromameter measurements were taken on either the right maxillary central or left maxillary central (tooth No. 8 or tooth No. 9). Subjects were assigned to one of two treatment groups, and had three applications of their assigned product. Following completion of the treatment phase, and on post-treatment Days 2 and 7, a visual examination of the condition of the oral soft tissues, together with a Vita Shade assessment on maxillary anterior teeth, a chromameter reading and a questionnaire regarding tooth sensitivity were completed. At the termination of the study, the statistical analysis of the Vita Shade scores indicated that both products significantly (p < 0.0001) lightened the color of the teeth. The average improvement was between 6 and 9 shade changes. Additionally, the Zoom! Chairside System was significantly better than the Opalescense Xtra Boost Kit at all time points: post-treatment (p < 0.0001); Day 2 (p < 0.004); Day 7 (p < 0.003). This difference was between 1 and 2 shade changes. The chromameter readings showed a significant difference in the overall color change (delta E) to a lighter color for both the Zoom! Chairside System and the Opalescence Xtra Boost Kit. Using delta E, the Zoom! Chairside System was directionally better than the Opalescense Xtra Boost Kit at Day 2 (p < 0.08), and significantly better at Day 7 (p < 0.025). Analysis of the composite parameters of delta E (L*, a*, b*) showed that no differences could be detected in the a* (redness) parameter. Changes were observed in the L* (brightness) and b* (yellow) parameters which paralleled the delta E differences. There were no significant differences in induced sensitivity between whitening systems at any time point.

The effects of sustained release doxycycline on the anaerobic flora and antibiotic-resistant patterns in subgingival plaque and saliva

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of periodontal treatment with a sustained-release, biodegradable gel containing 8.5% doxycycline on the anaerobic flora and on antibiotic susceptibility patterns associated with subgingival plaque and saliva.

METHODS

Forty-five subjects with adult periodontitis were entered into a parallel design, single-blind study of 6 months' duration. The subjects were randomized to receive either doxycycline treatment (n = 23) or oral hygiene instruction/reinforcement (n = 22). Saliva and subgingival plaque samples were collected prior to and at 7, 21, 91, and 182 days after initiation of treatment. The proportion of the cultivable flora resistant to 10 microg doxycycline/ml was determined relative to total anaerobic counts, and the 3 most predominant colony types resistant to doxycycline were individually enumerated. A representative of each was subcultured, identified to genus and species level, and tested for its susceptibilities to 6 antibiotics.

RESULTS

A significant decrease (P <0.01) in total anaerobic counts following doxycycline treatment caused a transient increase in the proportion, but not in the actual counts, of doxycycline-resistant bacteria recovered from both plaque and saliva at 7 and 21 days but not at 91 or 182 days. The same doxycycline-resistant taxa were recovered at all sample periods including baseline. Regardless of treatment, the isolates were similarly distributed and belonged to the same bacterial groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Doxycycline treatment significantly reduced the anaerobic population in plaque but did not result in a change in either the number of resistant bacteria present or the acquisition of antibiotic resistance.

Characterization of vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial growth factor receptors on mononuclear phagocytes

Vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (VPF/VEGF) is a polypeptide mediator, elaborated by certain tumors and other cell types, that exerts multiple effects on endothelium via interaction with a class of high-affinity binding sites. In this report, the interaction of VPF/VEGF with human mononuclear phagocytes (MPs) is characterized. Radioligand binding studies at 4 degrees C showed the presence of a single class of binding sites, kd approximately 300 to 500 pmol/L (approximately 20 times lower affinity than the high-affinity binding site on endothelial cells [ECs]), the occupancy of which correlated with VPF/VEGF-induced MP migration and expression of tissue factor. These binding results were paralleled by functional experiments which indicated that the same VPF/VEGF preparations were about an order of magnitude less effective in stimulating MP chemotaxis than in inducing EC proliferation. When MPs with surface-bound 125I-VPF/VEGF were warmed to 37 degrees C, endocytosis and degradation occurred. Occupancy of VPF/VEGF binding site resulted in subsequent activation of intracellular signal transduction mechanisms, as shown by an increase in MP intracellular calcium concentration. Cross-linking studies with 125I-VPF/VEGF showed a new high-molecular weight band (corresponding to putative 125I-VPF/VEGF-receptor complex), the appearance of which was blocked by excess unlabeled VPF/VEGF. Consistent with these results, immunoprecipitation of 32PO4-labeled MPs exposed to VPF/VEGF showed a single band of similar mobility, not seen in untreated controls. These results demonstrate that the interaction of VPF/VEGF with MPs, though of lower affinity than that observed with ECs, also results from interaction of the polypeptide with a specific cell-surface protein and leads to activation of intracellular transduction mechanisms.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors and elective surgery

Monoamine oxidase inhibitor use is considered a contraindication for elective surgery. We reviewed 32 patients on a regimen of isocarboxazid 10 mg daily who underwent elective surgery. Their anesthetic management, postanesthesia outcome, and pharmacology are described.

Spontaneous regression of histologically proved pulmonary metastases from renal cell carcinoma: a case with 5-year followup

Spontaneous regression of biopsy proved metastatic renal cell carcinoma is rare. We describe a 39-year-old man who had histologically proved metastatic disease to the lungs after nephrectomy. The lesions had spontaneously regressed 3 months later. The patient remained without evidence of recurrence 5 years after diagnosis.

The effects of permeation enhancers on the surface morphology of the rat nasal mucosa: a scanning electron microscopy study

A rat model has been developed to compare relative morphological changes in the nasal mucosa after exposure to potential membrane permeation enhancers. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize gross structural and specific cellular changes following exposure. Micrographs of the rat nasal mucosa were scored in four categories: (1) mucosal surface integrity, (2) ciliary morphology, (3) mucus/extracellular debris, and (4) presence of red blood cells. The order of increasing morphological damage resulting from a 5-min exposure to each surfactant was 0.5% Solulan C-24 congruent to 0.5% Solulan C-24/0.5% sodium tauro-24,25-dihydrofusidate (STDHF) less than 0.5% STDHF less than 1.0% STDHF much less than 1.0% Laureth-9 less than 1.0% sodium taurodeoxycholate congruent to 1.0% sodium deoxycholate. The changes observed in the mucosal morphology after exposure to the various surfactants are in general agreement with data in the literature. This model is able to compare rapidly the relative morphological effects on the mucosal membrane of different nasal formulations.

The role of the polymorphonuclear leukocyte in hyperalgesia

The results of recent studies of the mechanism of leukotriene B4-induced hyperalgesia suggest a dependence on polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs). In this study, we addressed the contribution of PMNLs to hyperalgesia evoked by the peptide chemotactic factors N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) and the anaphylatoxin fragment of the fifth component of the complement pathway (C5a). Local injection of glycogen, which attracts but does not activate PMNLs, produced a marked shift to the left (toward lower concentrations) in the concentration dependence curve of fMLP-induced hyperalgesia. In addition, PMNL repletion by transfusion with syngeneic PMNLs reestablished fMLP-induced hyperalgesia in PMNL-depleted rats. Finally, supernatants from rat and human PMNLs, that had been stimulated with fMLP in vitro, produced hyperalgesia in PMNL-depleted rats. Preliminary characterization of the hyperalgesia-inducing activity released by stimulated PMNLs indicated that it is lipid in nature. The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory indomethacin did not attenuate C5a and fMLP-induced hyperalgesia. Thus, the hyperalgesia produced by fMLP and C5a is similar to that produced by leukotriene B4 in that it is dependent on PMNLs and independent of the cyclo-oxygenation of arachidonic acid. Taken together, these data suggest that structurally diverse PMNL-chemotactic factors produce hyperalgesia by a novel mechanism, involving PMNL-derived factors.