Tryptophan status in autism spectrum disorder and the influence of supplementation on its level

Abstract

Recent reports show that the worldwide incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is dramatically increasing, although ASD etiology and pathogenesis are still far to be fully elucidated. Some dietary-derived essential compounds, such as the amino acid tryptophan, appear to be impaired in patients with ASD. Tryptophan (Trp) plays a significant role in the human organism and serves as a precursor for a wide range of bioactive compounds, including major neurotransmitters. Research indicates that tryptophan might be deficient in subjects with ASD. Deficiency in the tryptophan level can be retrieved by investigating Trp levels or its major metabolite kynurenine in urines. The purpose of the present study is to quantify tryptophan content in urine samples (n = 236) of ASD patients, who underwent a supplemented dietary panel with B vitamins and magnesium, compared to controls (without this diet regimen). The samples were analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Additionally, the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and the level of this amino acid in urine was accomplished. Basic parameters of urine samples were also evaluated. Statistical evaluations in the concentration of tryptophan in ASD patients with different severity of symptoms were reported. A significant difference in tryptophan levels in all groups was observed. Supplementation with B vitamins and magnesium has an influence on the Trp concentration. Furthermore, no correlation between BMI and tryptophan levels was found. These results assess that the Trp level in ASD subjects is critical and that intake of B vitamins and magnesium with diet might influence its metabolic homeostasis.

http://ift.tt/2r9xfDj

Tryptophan status in autism spectrum disorder and the influence of supplementation on its level

Abstract

Recent reports show that the worldwide incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is dramatically increasing, although ASD etiology and pathogenesis are still far to be fully elucidated. Some dietary-derived essential compounds, such as the amino acid tryptophan, appear to be impaired in patients with ASD. Tryptophan (Trp) plays a significant role in the human organism and serves as a precursor for a wide range of bioactive compounds, including major neurotransmitters. Research indicates that tryptophan might be deficient in subjects with ASD. Deficiency in the tryptophan level can be retrieved by investigating Trp levels or its major metabolite kynurenine in urines. The purpose of the present study is to quantify tryptophan content in urine samples (n = 236) of ASD patients, who underwent a supplemented dietary panel with B vitamins and magnesium, compared to controls (without this diet regimen). The samples were analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Additionally, the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and the level of this amino acid in urine was accomplished. Basic parameters of urine samples were also evaluated. Statistical evaluations in the concentration of tryptophan in ASD patients with different severity of symptoms were reported. A significant difference in tryptophan levels in all groups was observed. Supplementation with B vitamins and magnesium has an influence on the Trp concentration. Furthermore, no correlation between BMI and tryptophan levels was found. These results assess that the Trp level in ASD subjects is critical and that intake of B vitamins and magnesium with diet might influence its metabolic homeostasis.

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Incidence and treatments of DCIS in octogenarians: grade matters

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to better characterize the current incidence and treatment patterns of DCIS in women greater than 80 years of age (>80) and to evaluate the effect of grade on treatment efficacy.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of women diagnosed with single primary DCIS from 2000 to 2012 in SEER. Statistics including incidence, multivariable Cox proportional hazards model and subset analysis were performed.

Results

42,899 female patients with DCIS were identified, 2566 (5.98%) were >80. Incidence of DCIS in the less than 80 (<80) cohort was 8 per 100,000 and 11.7 per 100,000 for >80. >80 patients have a similar incidence of high grade DCIS (9.8%) as compared to <80 cohort (10.7%, P = 0.246). Compared to the <80 population the >80 population received significantly less surgery (97 vs. 92%, P < 0.001) and radiation (22 vs. 47%, P < 0.001). Although on multivariate analysis surgery did not provide a survival benefit for >80 population, it conveyed a survival benefit for high grade DCIS (HR 0.14, 95% CI 02–0.68) that was not observed for low grade DCIS (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.1–2.03).

Conclusions

Patients over 80 years of age have a relatively high incidence of DCIS and receive low relative rates of treatment. Although surgery does not provide a survival benefit for all patients over 80, it does provide a significant survival benefit for patients with high grade DCIS. Our results suggest that perhaps the biology of the DCIS, not the age of the patient should direct who warrants treatment.

http://ift.tt/2s1jJmB

Perioperative goal-directed therapy with uncalibrated pulse contour methods: impact on fluid management and postoperative outcome

Abstract

Previous meta-analyses suggest that perioperative goal-directed therapy (GDT) is useful to decrease postoperative morbidity. Most GDT studies analysed were done with pulmonary artery catheters, oesophageal Doppler and calibrated pulse contour methods. Uncalibrated pulse contour (uPC) techniques are an appealing alternative but their accuracy has been questioned. The effects of GDT on fluid management (volumes and volume variability) remain unclear. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of GDT with uPC methods on postoperative outcome. The primary endpoint was postoperative morbidity. Fluid volumes and fluid volume variability (standard deviation/mean) over the GDT period were also studied. Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria (2159 patients). Postoperative morbidity was reduced with GDT (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.30–0.70, P<0.001). The volume of colloids was higher [weighted mean difference (WMD) +345 ml, 95% CI 148–541 ml, P<0.001] and the volume of crystalloids was lower (WMD –429 ml, 95% CI –634 to –224 ml, P<0.01) in the GDT group than in the control group. However, the total volume of fluid (WMD –220 ml, 95% CI –590 to 150 ml, P=0.25) and the variability of fluid volume (34% vs 33%, P=0.98) were not affected by GDT. The use of GDT with uPC techniques was associated with a decrease in postoperative morbidity. It was not associated with an increase in total fluid volume nor with a decrease in fluid volume variability.

http://ift.tt/2r9IpZ1

Modified Frailty Index Score and Perioperative Risk in Laryngectomy : The 11 Variables Included in Modified Frailty Index Assessment : History of diabetes Functional status (not independent at baseline) History of pneumonia or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease History of congestive cardiac failure History of myocardial infarction History of percutaneous coronary intervention, stent placement, or angina History of hypertension (requiring medical treatment) History of peripheral vascular disease or ischemic rest pain History of impaired sensorium History of transient ischemic attack or cerebrovascular accident History of cerebrovascular accident with neurologic deficit

http://orlhealth.blogspot.com/2017/06/modified-frailty-index-score-and.html

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Barking Cough

https://youtu.be/IgZuVo81298?t=33

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Bovine cough

http://orlhealth.blogspot.com/2017/06/hoarse-voice-and-bovine-cough.html

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pLzezVufJ1o" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Disparities in abnormal mammogram follow-up time for Asian women compared with non-Hispanic white women and between Asian ethnic groups

BACKGROUND

Delays in abnormal mammogram follow-up contribute to poor outcomes. In the current study, the authors examined differences in abnormal screening mammogram follow-up between non-Hispanic white (NHW) and Asian women.

METHODS

The authors used a prospective cohort of NHW and Asian women with a Breast Imaging, Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) abnormal result of category 0 or 3-plus in the San Francisco Mammography Registry between 2000 and 2010. Kaplan-Meier estimation for the median number of days to follow-up with a diagnostic radiologic test was performed, and the authors compared the percentage of women with follow-up at 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days and no follow-up at 1 year for Asian women overall (and Asian ethnic groups) and NHW women. In addition, the authors assessed the relationship between race/ethnicity and time to follow-up with adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Among Asian women, Vietnamese and Filipina women had the longest, and Japanese women the shortest, median follow-up (32 days, 28 days, and 19 days, respectively) compared with NHW women (15 days). The percentage of women receiving follow-up at 30 days was lower for Asians versus NHWs (57% vs 77%; P<.0001), and these disparities persisted at 60 days and 90 days for all Asian ethnic groups except Japanese. Asian women had a reduced hazard of follow-up compared with NHW women (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.72). Asian women also had a higher rate of receiving no follow-up compared with NHW women (15% vs 10%; P<.001); among Asian ethnic groups, Filipinas were found to have the highest percentage of women with no follow-up (18.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Asian women, particularly Filipina and Vietnamese women, were less likely than NHW women to receive timely follow-up after an abnormal screening mammogram. Research should disaggregate Asian ethnicity to better understand and address barriers to effective cancer prevention. Cancer 2017. © 2017 American Cancer Society.

http://ift.tt/2sdvCrz

Disparities in abnormal mammogram follow-up time for Asian women compared with non-Hispanic white women and between Asian ethnic groups

BACKGROUND

Delays in abnormal mammogram follow-up contribute to poor outcomes. In the current study, the authors examined differences in abnormal screening mammogram follow-up between non-Hispanic white (NHW) and Asian women.

METHODS

The authors used a prospective cohort of NHW and Asian women with a Breast Imaging, Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) abnormal result of category 0 or 3-plus in the San Francisco Mammography Registry between 2000 and 2010. Kaplan-Meier estimation for the median number of days to follow-up with a diagnostic radiologic test was performed, and the authors compared the percentage of women with follow-up at 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days and no follow-up at 1 year for Asian women overall (and Asian ethnic groups) and NHW women. In addition, the authors assessed the relationship between race/ethnicity and time to follow-up with adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Among Asian women, Vietnamese and Filipina women had the longest, and Japanese women the shortest, median follow-up (32 days, 28 days, and 19 days, respectively) compared with NHW women (15 days). The percentage of women receiving follow-up at 30 days was lower for Asians versus NHWs (57% vs 77%; P<.0001), and these disparities persisted at 60 days and 90 days for all Asian ethnic groups except Japanese. Asian women had a reduced hazard of follow-up compared with NHW women (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.72). Asian women also had a higher rate of receiving no follow-up compared with NHW women (15% vs 10%; P<.001); among Asian ethnic groups, Filipinas were found to have the highest percentage of women with no follow-up (18.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Asian women, particularly Filipina and Vietnamese women, were less likely than NHW women to receive timely follow-up after an abnormal screening mammogram. Research should disaggregate Asian ethnicity to better understand and address barriers to effective cancer prevention. Cancer 2017. © 2017 American Cancer Society.

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Hyperspectral X-ray transmission imaging................................3D chemical imaging

http://orlhealth.blogspot.com/2017/06/hyperspectral-x-ray-transmission.html

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Depression profile in cancer patients and patients without a chronic somatic disease

Abstract

Objective

To investigate whether depressed oncology patients show a specific depressive symptom profile, we compared depression symptoms in depressed cancer patients (CANCER-DEP) and depressed patients without a chronic somatic disease (NONCANCER-DEP).

Methods

Of a total of 2493 outpatients from a comprehensive cancer center and a center for psychosocial medicine, 1054 (42.3%) met the DSM-5 criteria for depression, measured with the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9). Based on the PHQ-9 scores, differences in severity of each of the nine individual DSM-5 depression symptoms between CANCER-DEP (n = 542) and NONCANCER-DEP (n = 512) were examined. Non-depressed cancer patients (CANCER-NONDEP; n = 1216) served as a comparison group for somatic symptoms independent of depression in cancer. To control for depression severity, group comparisons were performed separately for patients with major depression and any depressive disorders.

Results

CANCER-DEP reported significantly lower levels of the cognitive-emotional depression symptoms 'worthlessness' and 'suicidal thoughts' than NONCANCER-DEP. Only one out of five somatic depression symptoms ('changes in appetite') was more pronounced in CANCER-DEP than in NONCANCER-DEP. Confirming previous research, somatic depression symptoms occurred more frequently in CANCER-DEP than in CANCER-NONDEP.

Conclusions

The lower level of cognitive-emotional symptoms in CANCER-DEP than in NONCANCER-DEP is discussed in relation to different psychosocial phenomena. Our results indicate that somatic depression symptoms are similarly pronounced in CANCER-DEP and NONCANCER-DEP, and that CANCER-DEP show greater somatic depression symptoms than CANCER-NONDEP. The presence of high levels of somatic symptoms should alert clinicians to investigate for a potential co-morbid depression in cancer patients.

http://ift.tt/2sdwjS0

Patients’ and family caregivers’ understanding of the cancer stage, treatment goal, and chance of cure: a study with patient-caregiver-physician triad.

Abstract

Background

Accurate understanding of the extent of disease, treatment goal, and prognosis is a prerequisite for the patients with cancer and their caregivers to make informed decision. We sought to evaluate patients' and family caregivers' understanding of the cancer stage, treatment goal, and chance of cure taking their own physician's evaluation as reference.

Methods

A national survey was performed with 750 patient-caregiver dyads (75.5% participation rate) recruited by 134 oncologists in 13 cancer centers (93% participation rate) in Korea. Both patients and caregivers were asked to report their knowledge of patient's cancer stage, treatment goal, and chance of cure. Concordance was evaluated with percentage agreement and weighted κ, and predictors of discordance of patient and caregiver's response with that of physician's were explored by multivariate regression analyses with mixed effect model.

Results

The agreement rates between patient-physician and caregiver-physician were 63.0% and 65.9% for disease stage, 69.0% and 70.0% for treatment goal, and 41.4% and 45.1% for chance of cure. When discordance occurs, patients and caregivers often had optimistic view. Distant stage, older age, female sex, and absence of depression were associated with optimistic view of patients, and there was significant between-physician variance for all three outcomes.

Conclusion

The discordance revealed our study suggests the need for better communication between physician and patients, as well as the caregivers. Research is needed to develop a comprehensive strategy to improve the understanding of the patients and family so that treatment decisions are made based on realistic estimation.

http://ift.tt/2tb3K4X

Persistent lesion hyperintensity on brain diffusion-weighted MRI

http://orlhealth.blogspot.com/2017/06/persistent-lesion-hyperintensity-on.html

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Depression profile in cancer patients and patients without a chronic somatic disease

Abstract

Objective

To investigate whether depressed oncology patients show a specific depressive symptom profile, we compared depression symptoms in depressed cancer patients (CANCER-DEP) and depressed patients without a chronic somatic disease (NONCANCER-DEP).

Methods

Of a total of 2493 outpatients from a comprehensive cancer center and a center for psychosocial medicine, 1054 (42.3%) met the DSM-5 criteria for depression, measured with the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9). Based on the PHQ-9 scores, differences in severity of each of the nine individual DSM-5 depression symptoms between CANCER-DEP (n = 542) and NONCANCER-DEP (n = 512) were examined. Non-depressed cancer patients (CANCER-NONDEP; n = 1216) served as a comparison group for somatic symptoms independent of depression in cancer. To control for depression severity, group comparisons were performed separately for patients with major depression and any depressive disorders.

Results

CANCER-DEP reported significantly lower levels of the cognitive-emotional depression symptoms 'worthlessness' and 'suicidal thoughts' than NONCANCER-DEP. Only one out of five somatic depression symptoms ('changes in appetite') was more pronounced in CANCER-DEP than in NONCANCER-DEP. Confirming previous research, somatic depression symptoms occurred more frequently in CANCER-DEP than in CANCER-NONDEP.

Conclusions

The lower level of cognitive-emotional symptoms in CANCER-DEP than in NONCANCER-DEP is discussed in relation to different psychosocial phenomena. Our results indicate that somatic depression symptoms are similarly pronounced in CANCER-DEP and NONCANCER-DEP, and that CANCER-DEP show greater somatic depression symptoms than CANCER-NONDEP. The presence of high levels of somatic symptoms should alert clinicians to investigate for a potential co-morbid depression in cancer patients.

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via IFTTT

Patients’ and family caregivers’ understanding of the cancer stage, treatment goal, and chance of cure: a study with patient-caregiver-physician triad.

Abstract

Background

Accurate understanding of the extent of disease, treatment goal, and prognosis is a prerequisite for the patients with cancer and their caregivers to make informed decision. We sought to evaluate patients' and family caregivers' understanding of the cancer stage, treatment goal, and chance of cure taking their own physician's evaluation as reference.

Methods

A national survey was performed with 750 patient-caregiver dyads (75.5% participation rate) recruited by 134 oncologists in 13 cancer centers (93% participation rate) in Korea. Both patients and caregivers were asked to report their knowledge of patient's cancer stage, treatment goal, and chance of cure. Concordance was evaluated with percentage agreement and weighted κ, and predictors of discordance of patient and caregiver's response with that of physician's were explored by multivariate regression analyses with mixed effect model.

Results

The agreement rates between patient-physician and caregiver-physician were 63.0% and 65.9% for disease stage, 69.0% and 70.0% for treatment goal, and 41.4% and 45.1% for chance of cure. When discordance occurs, patients and caregivers often had optimistic view. Distant stage, older age, female sex, and absence of depression were associated with optimistic view of patients, and there was significant between-physician variance for all three outcomes.

Conclusion

The discordance revealed our study suggests the need for better communication between physician and patients, as well as the caregivers. Research is needed to develop a comprehensive strategy to improve the understanding of the patients and family so that treatment decisions are made based on realistic estimation.

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via IFTTT

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and oliguria : haemoglobin =12.7 g/dL, indirect bilirubin =2.0 mg/dL, haptoglobin ≤6 mg/dL, platelet count =121 000/μL and schistocytes on peripheral smear.

http://orlhealth.blogspot.com/2017/06/nausea-vomiting-loss-of-appetite-and.html

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Ischemic stroke complicating thrombolytic therapy with tenecteplase for ST elevation myocardial infarction: two case reports

Hemorrhagic complications are quite common in the rare cases where thrombolysis is performed. Ischemic stroke in the aftermath of thrombolysis for a ST elevation myocardial infarction is a very rare and parado...

http://ift.tt/2reAr4T