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"Crooked Cats: Beastly Encounters in the Anthropocene" by Nayanika Mathur explores the phenomenon of man-eating big cats in India and their connection to the climate crisis. The book challenges the assumption that the big cats are the beasts in these encounters and instead identifies various human actors, such as colonial governments, capitalist industries, and power-hungry politicians, as the true beasts in the Anthropocene. Mathur uses "beastly tales" as a method to blur the line between fact and fiction and to intertwine different categories, stories, and knowledge systems. The book emphasizes the importance of listening to alternate voices and embracing uncertainty in understanding and responding to the climate crisis. [Extracted from the article]

The quality control of wood products is often only checked at the end of the production process so that countermeasures can only be taken with a time delay in the event of fluctuations in product quality. This often leads to unnecessary and cost-intensive rejects. Furthermore, since quality control often requires additional procedural steps to be performed by a skilled worker, testing is time-consuming and costly. While traditional machine learning (ML) methods based on supervised learning have been used in the field with some success, the limited availability of labeled data is the major hurdle for further improving model performance. In the present study, the potential of enhancing the performance of the ML methods random forest (RF) and support vector machines (SVM) for quality classification by using semi-supervised learning (SSL) was investigated. Labeled and unlabeled data were provided by Swiss Wood Solutions AG, which produces densified wood for high-value wood products such as musical instruments. The developed approach includes labeling of the unlabeled data using SSL, training and 10k cross-validation of the ML algorithms RF and SVM, and determining the generalization ability using the hold-out test set. Based on the evaluation indices such as accuracy, F1-score, recall, false-positive-rate and confusion matrices, it was shown that SSL could enhance the prediction performance of the quality classification of ML models compared to the conventional supervised learning method. Despite having a small dataset, the work paves the way for future applications of SSL for wood quality assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image-based local fibre direction data, generated based on the analysis of the medullary spindle pattern, were used to improve the prediction of the tensile strength parallel to the grain of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) boards. An approach to characterise the local fibre orientations in a board using a single numerical grading parameter was further developed. This parameter was used, in combination with the dynamic modulus of elasticity, to develop a regression model providing very good predictions of the experimentally determined tensile strength parallel to the grain (R2 = 0.84). Subsequently, machine-learning techniques were used to improve the strength model. Non-destructive and destructive tests were performed on (N =) 47 boards. A data (sub-) set (n = 36) was used to train different machine-learning techniques (Support-Vector Machines, Decision Tree, Random Forest, and Artificial Neural Network) using a 6-k cross-validation approach. The generalisation ability of the models was then assessed by a hold-out dataset (n = 11). The results showed that all machine-learning models presented good prediction accuracy (R2 up to 0.88 and MAPE below 8%). The support-vector machine and random forest methods showed the best performance. The combination of experimental methods with machine learning allows for a more precise strength grading of timber and, thus, can contribute to a more resource-efficient use of wood and may open new and more demanding fields for high-level timber applications in structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bisphosphonates reduce bone metastases in postmenopausal women with early-stage breast cancer but carry the risk of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ). We describe risk factors for BRONJ and compare BRONJ provoked by infection or trauma with spontaneous lesions, which carry a better prognosis. Methods: SWOG 0307 randomized women with stage I–III breast cancer to receive zoledronic acid (ZA), clodronate (CL), or ibandronate (IB) for 3 years, implemented BRONJ prevention guidelines, and collected information about dental health and development of BRONJ. All statistical tests were two-sided. Results: Of 6018 women, 48 developed BRONJ. Infection was present in 21 (43.8%). Median time to BRONJ was 2.1 years for ZA, 2.0 years for IB, and 3.4 years for clodronate (p = 0.04). BRONJ was associated with bisphosphonate type (28/2231 (1.26%) for ZA, 8/2235 (0.36%) for CL, 12/1552 (0.77%) for IB), dental calculus (OR 2.03), gingivitis (OR 2.11), moderate/severe periodontal disease (OR 2.87), and periodontitis > 4 mm (OR 2.20) (p < 0.05). Of 57 lesions, BRONJ occurred spontaneously in 20 (35.1%) and was provoked by dental extraction in 20 (35.1%), periodontal disease in 14 (24.6%), denture trauma in 6 (10.5%), and dental surgery in 2 (3.5%). Spontaneous BRONJ occurred more frequently at the mylohyoid ridge. There were no differences in dental disease, infection, or bisphosphonate type between spontaneous and provoked BRONJ. Conclusion: ZA and worse dental health were associated with increased incidence of BRONJ, with a trend toward additive risk when combined. BRONJ incidence was lower than in similar studies, with prevention strategies likely linked to this. Clinical trial number: NCT00127205 Registration date: July 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adjuvant bisphosphonates, when given in a low-estrogen environment, can decrease breast cancer recurrence and death. Treatment guidelines include recommendations for adjuvant bisphosphonates in postmenopausal patients. SWOG/Alliance/Canadian Cancer Trials Group/ECOG-ACRIN/NRG Oncology study S0307 compared the efficacy of three bisphosphonates in early-stage breast cancer.Methods: Patients with stage I-III breast cancer were randomly assigned to 3 years of intravenous zoledronic acid, oral clodronate, or oral ibandronate. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (DFS) with overall survival as a secondary outcome. All statistical tests were two-sided.Results: A total of 6097 patients enrolled. Median age was 52.7 years. Prior to being randomly assigned, 73.2% patients indicated preference for oral vs intravenous formulation. DFS did not differ across arms in a log-rank test (P = .49); 5-year DFS was 88.3% (zoledronic acid: 95% confidence interval [CI] = 86.9% to 89.6%), 87.6% (clodronate: 95% CI = 86.1% to 88.9%), and 87.4% (ibandronate: 95% CI = 85.6% to 88.9%). Additionally, 5-year overall survival did not differ between arms (log rank P = .50) and was 92.6% (zoledronic acid: 95% CI = 91.4% to 93.6%), 92.4% (clodronate: 95% CI = 91.2% to 93.5%), and 92.9% (ibandronate: 95% CI = 91.5% to 94.1%). Bone as first site of recurrence did not differ between arms (P = .93). Analyses based on age and tumor subtypes showed no treatment differences. Grade 3/4 toxicity was 8.8% (zoledronic acid), 8.3% (clodronate), and 10.5% (ibandronate). Osteonecrosis of the jaw was highest for zoledronic acid (1.26%) compared with clodronate (0.36%) and ibandronate (0.77%).Conclusions: We found no evidence of differences in efficacy by type of bisphosphonate, either in overall analysis or subgroups. Despite an increased rate of osteonecrosis of the jaw with zoledronic acid, overall toxicity grade differed little across arms. Given that patients expressed preference for oral formulation, efforts to make oral agents available in the United States should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study showed that machine learning can be used to predict the tensile shear strength of bonded beech wood as a function of the composition of polyurethane prepolymers and various pretreatments. A comprehensive experimental data set was used for training and testing the algorithms support vector machines, random forest and artificial neural networks. Within the framework of the experiments, the structure–property relationships of 1C PUR prepolymers were analyzed by systematical variation of the structural parameters urea and urethane group content, cross-link density, ethylene oxide content, and the functionality via isocyanate (NCO) or polyether component. The bonded wood joints were tested according to DIN EN 302-1. Prior to testing, the shear test specimens were pretreated according to procedures A1 and A4, five temperature steps (5, 40, 70, 150 and 200 °C) and two alternating climates. The complete data set (N = 2840) was preprocessed and split into a training set and a test set using tenfold cross-validation. The performance of the algorithms was evaluated with the coefficient of determination (R2), root-mean-square error (RMSE) and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). All machine learning algorithms revealed a high accuracy, but the artificial neural network showed the best performance with R2= 0.92, RMSE = 0.948 and a MAPE of 9.21. The work paves the way for future machine learning applications in the field of adhesive bonding technology and may enable a fast and effective development of new adhesives and enhance the efficiency of their application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: SWOG S0702 was a cohort study of patients with cancer with bone metastases due to any cancer. Using baseline data from S0702, this report characterizes the oral health and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients with advanced cancer.Methods: S0702 case report forms captured dental assessment and patient-reported outcome (PRO) data. This analysis compares PRO dental discomfort with selected clinical assessments of dental health. This analysis focuses on the 2294 patients who underwent baseline dental examination prior to study registration, but also reports on the 1235 patients for whom only OHRQol data are available. Dental characteristics including the number of teeth and the presence of gingivitis and periodontal disease were examined for correlation with PRO of oral pain, interference with eating, smiling, speech, or quality of life.Results: The median age of the study participants was 62. Greater than 60% of the 2294 patients with baseline dental assessments had none to mild plaque, calculus, gingivitis, or periodontal disease, suggesting that most of this cohort had good oral hygiene. However, in each of these same categories, approximately 6% had dental findings classified as severe conditions (poor oral hygiene). There was strong evidence that the presence of periodontal disease, gingivitis, and number of teeth was correlated with lower OHRQoL across multiple domains, including pain (mouth or jaw), interference with eating, smiling and speech, and overall quality of life.Conclusions: This report characterizes the oral health and OHRQoL of patients with advanced bone metastases receiving palliative therapy.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00874211. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess magnitude and characteristics of changes in chemosensory function and quality of life (QOL) for patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).Methods: Patients (aged 18 years and above) scheduled to undergo HSCT at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance were tested for chemosensory function at three time points: pre-transplant (baseline), 30 ± 5 days (day 30), and 80 ± 5 days (day 80) post-HSCT. Gustatory function was assessed following procedures developed at the Monell-Jefferson Taste and Smell Clinic. Olfactory testing was conducted using the National Institute of Health Toolbox Odor Identification test. QOL was also assessed.Results: Twenty-nine patients were enrolled in the study between August 2014 and March 2015. Twenty-three patients were included in the analysis, with 16 tested at all three time points (baseline, day 30, and day 80). The primary finding is decreased taste sensitivity for 0.32 M NaCl, 0.0056 M citric acid, and 0.018 M citric acid on day 30 following HSCT. Increased taste sensitivity for 0.32 M sucrose at day 30 was also observed. Taste sensitivity largely recovered by day 80. Olfactory identification scores were unchanged from baseline to day 30. QOL was reduced at day 30 but was restored to an acceptable level of functioning and symptoms by day 80. However, some areas remain impaired.Conclusions: Alterations in taste perception were confirmed in the early post-transplant period. This was largely resolved within 2.5 months. No obvious impairments were observed in olfactory function. QOL improved by day 80, though some oral symptoms lingered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laccases and laccase-like multi-copper oxidases (LMCOs) are versatile and robust biocatalysts applied in a variety of oxidative processes, and various studies have attempted to improve their catalytic activity. Here we report the engineering of a bacterial LMCO for enhanced oxidation of the lignin-related compound guaiacol by a combination of structure-guided mutagenesis and DNA shuffling. Mutant L9 showed a 1.39mM Km for guaiacol and a 2.5-fold increase in turnover rate (kcat/Km = 2.85·104 M-1s-1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contact with soil, copper (Cu) formulations as preservatives are expected to inhibit wood decay by fungi and other soil-borne microorganisms. However, Curesistant brown-rot (BR) fungi lead to premature failures of utility poles at some sites. In this study, the service lives of 111 utility poles of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst) (73 from Switzerland and 38 from Germany) impregnated with Cu-based wood preservatives were investigated. Three segments of each utility pole were analyzed. The severity of decay was dependent on the preservative formulation. BR fungi and in particular Antrodia species were predominantly isolated from utility poles that were not treated with a co-biocide, e.g. boron (B). Cu-sensitivity of several isolated BR fungi was confirmed in studies on Cu-amended medium and in Cu-treated wood. Isolates of Fibroporia vaillantii and Serpula himantioides showed a higher Cu-tolerance than the highly Cu-tolerant Empa isolate Rhodonia placenta (Empa 45) or Antrodia serialis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracing heavy metals is a crucial issue in both environmental and medical samples. In this work, a sensing biomolecule, the cyanobacterial C-phycocyanin (CPC), is integrated into a nanocellulose matrix, and with this, a biosensor for copper ions is developed. The assembly of CPC-functionalized nanocellulose into a red-fluorescent, copper-sensitive hybrid film 'CySense', enhances protein stability and facilitates the reuse and the regeneration of the sensor for several cycles over 7 days. CySense is suitable for the analysis of complex medical samples such as human serum filtrate. The reported biosensor reliably detects copper ion contents with a lower detection limit of 200 × 10−9 m and an IC50 of 4.9 × 10−6 m as changes in fluorescence emission intensity that can be measured with a fluorimeter or a microarray laser scanner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The North American wood decking market mostly relies on easily treatable Southern yellow pine (SYP), which is being impregnated with micronized copper (MC) wood preservatives since 2006. These formulations are composed of copper (Cu) carbonate particles (CuCO3·Cu(OH)2), with sizes ranging from 1 nm to 250 μm, according to manufacturers. MC-treated SYP wood is protected against decay by solubilized Cu2+ ions and unreacted CuCO3·Cu(OH)2 particles that successively release Cu2+ ions (reservoir effect). The wood species used for the European wood decking market differ from the North American SYP. One of the most common species is Norway spruce wood, which is poorly treatable i.e. refractory due to the anatomical properties, like pore size and structure, and chemical composition, like pit membrane components or presence of wood extractives. Therefore, MC formulations may not suitable for refractory wood species common in the European market, despite their good performance in SYP. We evaluated the penetration effectiveness of MC azole (MCA) in easily treatable Scots pine and in refractory Norway spruce wood. We assessed the effectiveness against the Cu-tolerant wood-destroying fungus Rhodonia placenta. Our findings show that MCA cannot easily penetrate refractory wood species and could not confirm the presence of a reservoir effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years oral mucosal injury has been increasingly recognized as an important toxicity associated with mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors, including in patients with breast cancer who are receiving everolimus. This review addresses the state-of-the-science regarding mTOR inhibitor-associated stomatitis (mIAS), and delineates its clinical characteristics and management. Given the clinically impactful pain associated with mIAS, this review also specifically highlights new research focusing on the study of the molecular basis of pain. The incidence of mIAS varies widely (2-78%). As reported across multiple mTOR inhibitor clinical trials, grade 3/4 toxicity occurs in up to 9% of patients. Managing mTOR-associated oral lesions with topical oral, intralesional, and/or systemic steroids can be beneficial, in contrast to the lack of evidence supporting steroid treatment of oral mucositis caused by high-dose chemotherapy or radiation. However, steroid management is not uniformly efficacious in all patients receiving mTOR inhibitors. Furthermore, technology does not presently exist to permit clinicians to predict a priori which of their patients will develop these lesions. There thus remains a strategic need to define the pathobiology of mIAS, the molecular basis of pain, and risk prediction relative to development of the clinical lesion. This knowledge could lead to novel future interventions designed to more effectively prevent mIAS and improve pain management if clinically significant mIAS lesions develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is a large body of evidence supporting the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT), more recently termed photobiomodulation (PBM) for the management of oral mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC). Recent advances in PBM technology, together with a better understanding of mechanisms involved and dosimetric parameters may lead to the management of a broader range of complications associated with HNC treatment. This could enhance patient adherence to cancer therapy, and improve quality of life and treatment outcomes. The mechanisms of action, dosimetric, and safety considerations for PBM have been reviewed in part 1. Part 2 discusses the head and neck treatment side effects for which PBM may prove to be effective. In addition, PBM parameters for each of these complications are suggested and future research directions are discussed.Methods: Narrative review and presentation of PBM parameters are based on current evidence and expert opinion.Results: PBM may have potential applications in the management of a broad range of side effects of (chemo)radiation therapy (CRT) in patients being treated for HNC. For OM management, optimal PBM parameters identified were as follows: wavelength, typically between 633 and 685 nm or 780-830 nm; energy density, laser or light-emitting diode (LED) output between 10 and 150 mW; dose, 2-3 J (J/cm(2)), and no more than 6 J/cm(2) on the tissue surface treated; treatment schedule, two to three times a week up to daily; emission type, pulsed (<100 Hz); and route of delivery, intraorally and/or transcutaneously. To facilitate further studies, we propose potentially effective PBM parameters for prophylactic and therapeutic use in supportive care for dermatitis, dysphagia, dry mouth, dysgeusia, trismus, necrosis, lymphedema, and voice/speech alterations.Conclusion: PBM may have a role in supportive care for a broad range of complications associated with the treatment of HNC with CRT. The suggested PBM irradiation and dosimetric parameters, which are potentially effective for these complications, are intended to provide guidance for well-designed future studies. It is imperative that such studies include elucidating the effects of PBM on oncology treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is a large body of evidence supporting the efficacy of low level laser therapy (LLLT), more recently termed photobiomodulation (PBM), for the management of oral mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC). Recent advances in PBM technology, together with a better understanding of mechanisms involved, may expand the applications for PBM in the management of other complications associated with HNC treatment. This article (part 1) describes PBM mechanisms of action, dosimetry, and safety aspects and, in doing so, provides a basis for a companion paper (part 2) which describes the potential breadth of potential applications of PBM in the management of side-effects of (chemo)radiation therapy in patients being treated for HNC and proposes PBM parameters.Methods: This study is a narrative non-systematic review.Results: We review PBM mechanisms of action and dosimetric considerations. Virtually, all conditions modulated by PBM (e.g., ulceration, inflammation, lymphedema, pain, fibrosis, neurological and muscular injury) are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of (chemo)radiation therapy-induced complications in patients treated for HNC. The impact of PBM on tumor behavior and tumor response to treatment has been insufficiently studied. In vitro studies assessing the effect of PBM on tumor cells report conflicting results, perhaps attributable to inconsistencies of PBM power and dose. Nonetheless, the biological bases for the broad clinical activities ascribed to PBM have also been noted to be similar to those activities and pathways associated with negative tumor behaviors and impeded response to treatment. While there are no anecdotal descriptions of poor tumor outcomes in patients treated with PBM, confirming its neutrality with respect to cancer responsiveness is a critical priority.Conclusion: Based on its therapeutic effects, PBM may have utility in a broad range of oral, oropharyngeal, facial, and neck complications of HNC treatment. Although evidence suggests that PBM using LLLT is safe in HNC patients, more research is imperative and vigilance remains warranted to detect any potential adverse effects of PBM on cancer treatment outcomes and survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently introduced micronized copper (MC) formulations, consisting of a nanosized fraction of basic copper (Cu) carbonate (CuCO3·Cu(OH)2) nanoparticles (NPs), were introduced to the market for wood protection. Cu NPs may presumably be more effective against wood-destroying fungi than bulk or ionic Cu compounds. In particular, Cu- tolerant wood-destroying fungi may not recognize NPs, which may penetrate into fungal cell walls and membranes and exert their impact. The objective of this study was to assess if MC wood preservative formulations have a superior efficacy against Cu-tolerant wood-destroying fungi due to nano effects than conventional Cu biocides. After screening a range of wood-destroying fungi for their resistance to Cu, we investigated fungal growth of the Cu-tolerant fungus Rhodonia placenta in solid and liquid media and on wood treated with MC azole (MCA). In liquid cultures we evaluated the fungal response to ion, nano and bulk Cu distinguishing the ionic and particle effects by means of the Cu2+ chelator ammonium tetrathiomolybdate (TTM) and measuring fungal biomass, oxalic acid production and laccase activity of R. placenta. Our results do not support the presence of particular nano effects of MCA against R. placenta that would account for an increased antifungal efficacy, but provide evidence that attribute the main effectiveness of MCA to azoles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-density wood fiber insulation boards are traditionally manufactured in a wet process using a closed water circuit (process water). The water of these industrial processes contains natural phenolic extractives, aside from small amounts of admixtures (e.g., binders and paraffin). The suitability of two fungal laccases and one bacterial laccase was determined by biochemical characterization considering stability and substrate spectra. In a series of laboratory scale experiments, the selected commercial laccase from Myceliophtora thermophila was used to catalyze the surface modification of thermo-mechanical pulp (TMP) using process water. The laccase catalyzed the covalent binding of the phenolic compounds of the process water onto the wood fiber surface and led to change of the surface chemistry directly via crosslinking of lignin moieties. Although a complete substitution of the binder was not accomplished by laccase, the combined use of laccase and latex significantly improved the mechanical strength properties of wood fiber boards. The enzymatically-treated TMP showed better interactions with the synthetic binder, as shown by FTIR-analysis. Moreover, the enzyme is extensively stable in the process water and the approach requires no fresh water as well as no cost-intensive mediator. By applying a second-order polynomial model in combination with the genetic algorithm (GA), the required amount of laccase and synthetic latex could be optimized enabling the reduction of the binder by 40%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The oral cavity is frequently affected in chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), with variable clinical presentations. The literature on the effective management of patients suffering from oral cGVHD is limited. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the clinical approaches used in the diagnosis and treatment of cGVHD in a group of health-care providers specialized in the oral care of oncology patients. The secondary objective was to assess the level of implementation of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines for cGVHD patients. Methods: One hundred twenty questionnaires were sent to the members of the Oral Care Study Group (OCSG) of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO). The questionnaire included 50 questions about the responder's demographics, level of exposure to cGVHD patients, diagnostic and evaluation methods in their practice, preferred treatment strategies for mucosal and salivary gland involvement, and preventive measures. Results: Twelve responders, representing 12 sites, stated that they treat oral cGVHD patients on a regular basis. This fraction of responders was confirmed by another online survey. Eleven out of the 12 providers were dentists. Seventy-five percent of the providers did not use biopsy in order to diagnose oral cGVHD. The NIH scale for the clinical assessment was used sporadically. The first-line topical treatment for oral mucosal cGVHD was predominantly steroids (91.7 %), and the second preferred treatment was tacrolimus (41.7 %). The preferred treatment for hyposalivation was pilocarpine (41.7 %). The recommended frequency of oral cancer screening varied; half of the providers suggest a follow-up every 6 months. Conclusions: The responses described the common practices for oral cGVHD in several specialized centers across the world. The choice of topical treatments was influenced by the availability of medications in the provider's country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light microscopy and electron microscopy are the most common methods for analyzing wood-decay fungi. However, the 3D visualization and quantification of the filamentous structure of fungi in wood is difficult to realize by means of these traditional techniques. In the present work, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was further developed for the quantitative imaging of the 3D microscopic hyphal growth of Physisporinus vitreus, a versatile fungus for engineering value-added wood products. To this purpose, the fungus was stained with a fluorescent dye Alexa Fluor. The 3D information obtained by CLSM has a high potential as a basis for the development of mathematical models for a more precise observation of the growth behavior of wood-decay fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodine is a well known antimicrobial compound. Laccase, an oxidoreductase which couples the one electron oxidation of diverse phenolic and non-phenolic substrates to the reduction of oxygen to water, is capable of oxidizing unreactive iodide to reactive iodine. We have shown previously that laccase-iodide treatment of spruce wood results in a wash-out resistant antimicrobial surface. In this study, we investigated whether phenolic compounds such as vanillin, which resembles sub-structures of softwood lignin, can be directly iodinated by reacting with laccase and iodide, resulting in compounds with antifungal activity. HPLC-MS analysis showed that vanillin was converted to iodovanillin by laccase catalysis at an excess of potassium iodide. No conversion of vanillin occurred in the absence of enzyme. The addition of redox mediators in catalytic concentrations increased the rate of iodide oxidation ten-fold and the yield of iodovanillin by 50%. Iodinated phenolic products were also detected when o-vanillin, ethyl vanillin, acetovanillone and methyl vanillate were incubated with laccase and iodide. At an increased educt concentration of 0.1 M an almost one to one molar ratio of iodide to vanillin could be used without compromising conversion rate, and the insoluble iodovanillin product could be recovered by simple centrifugation. The novel enzymatic synthesis procedure fulfills key criteria of green chemistry. Biocatalytically produced iodovanillin and iodo-ethyl vanillin had significant growth inhibitory effects on several wood degrading fungal species. For Trametes versicolor, a species causing white rot of wood, almost complete growth inhibition and a partial biocidal effect was observed on agar plates. Enzymatic tests indicated that the iodinated compounds acted as enzyme responsive, antimicrobial materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to review the available literature and define clinical practice guidelines for the use of laser and other light therapies for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis. Methods: A systematic review was conducted by the Mucositis Study Group of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/International Society of Oral Oncology. The body of evidence for each intervention, in each cancer treatment setting, was assigned an evidence level. Based on the evidence level, one of the following three guideline determinations was possible: recommendation, suggestion, and no guideline possible. Results: A new recommendation was made for low-level laser (wavelength at 650 nm, power of 40 mW, and each square centimeter treated with the required time to a tissue energy dose of 2 J/cm (2 s/point)) for the prevention of oral mucositis in adult patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation conditioned with high-dose chemotherapy, with or without total body irradiation. A new suggestion was made for low-level laser (wavelength around 632.8 nm) for the prevention of oral mucositis in patients undergoing radiotherapy, without concomitant chemotherapy, for head and neck cancer. No guideline was possible in other populations and for other light sources due to insufficient evidence. Conclusions: The increasing evidence in favor of low-level laser therapy allowed for the development of two new guidelines supporting this modality in the populations listed above. Evidence for other populations was also generally encouraging over a range of wavelengths and intensities. However, additional well-designed research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of laser and other light therapies in various cancer treatment settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Misoprostol, a synthetic analog of prostaglandin E1, has anti-inflammatory and mucosa-protecting properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of misoprostol oral rinse in reducing the severity of oral mucosal injury caused by high-dose chemotherapy. Methods: The study used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group design. Oncology patients receiving myeloablative high-dose chemotherapy, in preparation for a hematopoietic stem cell transplant, were randomized to misoprostol or placebo rinse. The primary outcome measure was the severity of oral mucositis, measured using the modified Oral Mucositis Index. Additional outcome measures included the severity of mouth pain (measured using a Visual Analog Scale and the Pain Affect Faces Scale), duration of hospital stay, and days on total parenteral nutrition. Results: This study was originally planned to accrue 160 subjects but was terminated early due to revised sponsor research priorities. The intent-to-treat population consisted of 22 subjects randomized to misoprostol rinse and 26 subjects randomized to placebo rinse. There was no significant difference between the two groups in mucositis or pain severity. In both groups, duration of hospital stay was approximately 19 days, and number of days on total parenteral nutrition was 17-18 days. There were no serious adverse events attributable to misoprostol rinse. Conclusions: Although this study did not find a beneficial effect of a misoprostol rinse in mucositis secondary to high-dose chemotherapy, the small sample size limits the strength of this conclusion. Given the proposed importance of the prostaglandin pathway in the pathogenesis of oral mucositis, additional studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The credo of every scientist working in the field of applied science is to transfer knowledge 'from science to market,' a process that combines (1) science (fundamental discoveries and basic research) with (2) technology development (performance assessment and optimization) and (3) technology transfer (industrial application). Over the past 7 years, we have intensively investigated the potential of the white rot fungus, Physisporinus vitreus, for engineering value-added wood products. Because of its exceptional wood degradation pattern, i.e., selective lignification without significant wood strength losses and a preferential degradation of bordered pit membranes, it is possible to use this fungus under controlled conditions to improve the acoustic properties of tonewood (i.e., 'mycowood') as well as to enhance the uptake of preservatives and wood modification substances in refractory wood species (e.g., Norway spruce), a process known as 'bioincising.' This minireview summarizes the research that we have performed with P. vitreus and critically discusses the challenges encountered during the development of two distinct processes for engineering value-added wood products. Finally, we peep into the future potential of the bioincising and mycowood processes for additional applications in the forest and wood industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent reports have attempted to redefine the accepted diagnostic criteria for allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS), a form of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps. As a result, the existence of AFRS as a distinct entity has been questioned, suggesting that allergy has no role in CRS with sinonasal eosinophilia, and the condition should be referred to as eosinophilic fungal rhinosinusitis. The purpose of the study was to differentiate between AFRS and CRS by studying antibody responses in these two clearly defined patient groups. Methods: Ninety-nine patients were enrolled and classified as AFRS or CRS (without AFRS). Serum total IgE, IgG anti-Alternaria-specific antibodies (UniCAP 100), and IgE antifungal antibodies (immunoblotting) were compared between the groups. Results: Sixty-four patients fit the traditional criteria for AFRS, with 35 as CRS. Mean serum total IgE and mean IgG anti-Alternaria-specific antibodies were statistically significantly increased in AFRS over CRS patients. There was also a statistically significant increase in the mean number of IgE antifungal bands from AFRS compared with CRS patients. Conclusion: We have shown a clear immunologic difference between AFRS and CRS patients. The overwhelming evidence of increased total IgE and fungal-specific IgE in AFRS supports an allergic component in AFRS. IgG anti-Alternaria-specific antibodies also point to an exaggerated fungal immune response in these patients. These results support the existence of AFRS as a separate, distinct entity of CRS. It is important to recognize AFRS to ensure proper treatment in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A radial basis function (RBF) neural network was developed and compared against a quadratic response surface (RS) model for predicting the specific growth rates of the biotechnologically important basidiomycetous fungi, Physisporinus vitreus and Neolentinus lepideus, under three environmental conditions: temperature (10–30 °C), water activity (0.950–9.998), and pH (4–6). Both the RBF network and polynomial RS model were mathematically evaluated against experimental data using graphical plots and several statistical indices. The evaluation showed that both models gave reasonably good predictions, but the performance of the RBF neural network was superior to that of the classical statistical method for all three data sets used (training, testing, full). Sensitivity analysis revealed that of the three experimental factors the most influential on the growth rate of P. vitreus was water activity, followed by temperature and pH to a lesser extent. In contrast, temperature in particular and then water activity were the key determinants of the development of N. lepideus. RBF neural networks could be a powerful technique for modeling fungal growth behavior under certain parameters and an alternative to time-consuming, traditional microbiological techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) is a noninvasive form of fungal rhinosinusitis with an incidence of between 6 and 9% of all rhinosinusitis requiring surgery. Regional variation in incidence has been reported, with the southern and southwestern US particularly endemic. Patients with AFS commonly present with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, inhalant atopy, elevated total serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), and sinus-obstructing inspissates of a characteristic extramucosal 'peanut buttery' visco-elastic eosinophil-rich material called 'allergic mucin' that contains sparse numbers of fungal hyphae. Sinus CT is always abnormal, showing findings of chronic rhinosinusitis that often include central areas of increased contrast ('hyperattenuation') within abnormal paranasal sinuses that represent the presence of fungal-containing allergic mucin. AFS has been found to be analogous in several ways to allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). Both are chronic inflammatory respiratory tract disorders that are driven by hypersensitivity responses to the presence of small numbers of extramucosal fungi found growing within airway-impacting allergic mucin. AFS allergic mucin typically cultures positive for either dematiaceous fungi such as Bipolaris spicifera or Curvularia lunata, or Aspergillus species such as A. fumigatus, A. flavus or A. niger. As with ABPA, patients have type I immediate hypersensitivity to the etiologic mold in AFS. Further, both AFS and ABPA have been found to have association with specific class II major histocompatibility alleles. Proper diagnosis of AFS and differentiation from the other forms of both noninvasive and invasive fungal rhinosinusitis requires strict adherence to published diagnostic criteria. Medical treatment of AFS has been modeled to an extent after treatment approaches for ABPA that includes the use of postoperative oral corticosteroids and aggressive antiallergic inflammation therapy. The use of follow-up measurements of total serum IgE during treatment of both AFS and ABPA patients can help to monitor disease activity. Future AFS research will lead to further insights into pathogenesis, improved treatments, and ultimately decreases in surgical recurrence rates for this highly recurrent hypertrophic rhinosinusitis disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously demonstrated that high external [Ca2+] activated two Ca2+ currents in human gingival keratinocytes (HGKs): an initial small ICRAC-like current and a second large nonspecific cation current (Fatherazi S, Belton CM, Cai S, Zarif S, Goodwin PC, Lamont RJ, Izutsu KT; Pflugers Arch 448:93–104, ). It was recently shown that TRPC1, a member of the transient receptor potential protein family, is a component of the store-operated calcium entry mechanism in keratinocytes. To further elucidate the molecular identity of these channels, we investigated the expression of TRPC4 in gingival tissue and in cultured keratinocytes, and the effect of knockdown of TRPC4 expression on the Ca2+ currents and influx. Immunohistochemistry showed TRPC4 was present in gingival epithelium as well as in HGKs cultured in different [Ca2+]s. Results from tissue and cultured HGKs demonstrated TRPC4 expression decreased with differentiation. Knockdown of TRPC4 in proliferating HGKs with antisense oligonucleotides significantly reduced the intracellular [Ca2+] increase obtained upon exposure to high external [Ca2+]. Antisense knockdown of TRPC4 expression was confirmed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence microscopy of transfected HGKs. Immunofluorescence microscopy and patch clamp measurements in Lucifer-yellow-tagged, antisense-treated HGKs showed attenuation of TRPC4 expression levels as well as attenuation of the ICRAC-like current in the same cell, whereas the large nonspecific cation current was unchanged but significantly delayed. Cells transfected with a scrambled TRPC4 oligonucleotide showed no change in either the ICRAC-like or nonspecific currents. The results indicate that TRPC4 is an important component of the ICRAC-like channel in HGKs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erythroplakia is considered to represent a pre-malignant condition and is felt to be at high risk to progress to oral cancer development. When the lesion presents with red and white mucosal alterations concomitantly, the term erythroleukoplakia is used. However, in erythroleukoplakia lesions, the red or erythroplakia areas have been shown to be most likely to demonstrate dysplastic changes compared to the white hyperkeratotic areas. We present a case of patient with erythroleukoplakia involving the lower lip that was treating with carbon dioxide laser radiation (CO2) with 0.8 mm focus, 5 W, power density of 2.5 W/cm² in continuous. After the surgery, the vaporized surface was protected with a fibrinolisine + chloramphenicol cream. To date, after 6 months, there has been no clinically evident recurrence on the vermilion area. The functional and esthetic results observed were judged to be excellent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External calcium ion concentration is a major regulator of epidermal keratinocyte differentiation in vitro and probably also in vivo. Regulation of calcium-induced differentiation changes is proposed to occur via an external calcium-sensing, signaling pathway that utilizes increases in intracellular calcium ion concentration to activate differentiation-related gene expression. Calcium ion release from intracellular stores and calcium ion influx via store-operated calcium-permeable channels are key elements in this proposed signaling pathway; however, the channels involved have not yet been identified. The present report shows that human gingival keratinocytes (HGKs) also undergo calcium-induced differentiation in vitro as indicated by involucrin expression and morphological changes. Moreover, TRPC1, which functions as a store-operated calcium channel in a number of cell types, including epidermal keratinocytes, is expressed in both proliferating and differentiating HGKs. Transfection of HGKs with TRPC1 siRNA disrupted expression of TRPC1 mRNA and protein compared with transfection with scrambled TRPC1 siRNA. Cells with disrupted TRPC1 expression showed decreased calcium-induced differentiation as measured by involucrin expression or morphological changes, as well as decreased thapsigargin-induced calcium ion influx, and a decreased rate of store calcium release. These results indicate that TRPC1 is involved in calcium-induced differentiation of HGKs likely by supporting a store-operated calcium ion influx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A woman with neutropenia developed gingival hyperplasia. Biopsy showed invasion of gingival tissue with mats of illamentous organisms, and molecular analysis by polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed Capuocytoplusga sputigena, Leptotrichia species, and Fuso-bacterium nucleatum. Oral bacterial flora may cause invasive gingival disease with hyperplasia in immunocompromised patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the exception of the cleft lip, developmental defects (DD) of the lip are rare. The upper lip originates from the ectomesenchyme and is formed by the merging of the nasal medial and lateral processes with the maxillary process. Disturbances during this formation period can cause DD with functional and/or esthetic repercussions. We present a case of DD of the upper lip in a patient with a history of progressive growth of the left lateral portion of the upper lip that occurred from the time of birth until the age of 22 years. Clinical examination revealed hypertrophy of the area from the left philtral columns to the left commissure of the lip, extending the portion of the surface mucosa creating a flaccid and asymptomatic tissue mass. All other buccal structures appeared to be within normal limits and without any evidence of defects or deformities. In the surgical planning we decided to carry out corrective surgery in two phases. The first phase accomplished a conservative excision of the total abnormal labial tissue mass with a CO2 laser radiation (5 W in continuous mode, bunch diameter Φ=0.6 mm with a power, density of 768 W/cm² and fluency of 0.231 J/cm²) being careful to preserve the vermilion portion of the lip. Postsurgical clinical evaluations were done every three days until the skin sutures were removed and then every seven days until two months post surgery. While the entire mass of excessive tissue could not be completely removed, the removal of the excessive mucosal tissue produced a very good outcome relative to lip function, with a good esthetic result without scarring, and good tissue mobility. The results showed that the CO2 laser is an extremely useful instrument that can provide excellent control of the surgical field and allow for healing that produces excellent functional and esthetic results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) is a noninvasive form of highly recurrent chronic allergic hypertrophic rhinosinusitis that can be distinguished clinically, histopathologically and prognostically from the other forms of chronic fungal rhinosinusitis. There are three invasive (acute necrotising, chronic invasive and granulomatous invasive) and two noninvasive (fungal ball and allergic fungal) forms of fungal rhinosinusitis currently recognised. Confusion in differentiating between the various forms of fungal rhinosinusitis and between other forms of chronic hypertrophic sinus disease (HSD) can be eliminated by adhering to strict diagnostic criteria. Although there are characteristic presenting clinical history and physical examination findings, laboratory test results, including elevated total serum IgE and positive inhalant allergy skin tests, and sinus computed tomography scans showing chronic rhinosinusitis (often with the presence of hyperattenuating sinus contents) diagnosis of AFS is essentially based on histopathology obtained from sinus surgery. Histopathology shows the presence of eosinophilic-lymphocytic sinus mucosal inflammation, extramucosal allergic mucin (that is also seen grossly at surgery as a characteristic ‘peanut-buttery’ material), and scattered silver stain positive fungal hyphae within the allergic mucin but not in the mucosa. Treatment and follow up of AFS has been based on its immunopathological analogy to allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, a similar noninvasive fungal hypersensitivity disorder of the lung, and its clinical and pathophysiological relationship to other forms of HSD and asthma. Treatment involves aggressive sinus surgery followed by medical management that includes allergen immunotherapy, topical and systemic corticosteroids, antihistamines and antileukotrienes. Total serum IgE levels should be followed postoperatively as they can be prognostic for recurrent disease. Close follow up and coordination of treatment by both medical and surgical physicians as a team leads to the best clinical outcomes. Ongoing studies are being directed at furthering our understanding of the pathophysiological relationships and treatment options for AFS, and other common forms of chronic hypertrophic rhinosinusitis disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of electronics, sensors, actuators, and microprocessor technology into manufacturing processes and consumer products is requiring engineers to possess greater mechatronics knowledge. Students must be encouraged to embrace a mechatronics perspective through combined classroom and "hands-on" laboratory activities to develop critical systems skills for multidisciplinary teams. In this letter, laboratory experiments and their accompanying learning objectives are introduced and discussed which highlight key industrial technologies and establish a foundation for skill achievement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precise quantification of oral complications in cancer patients receiving bone marrow and stem cell transplantation is essential when testing new treatment strategies for mucositis. Using 133 adult transplant patients, the authors evaluated the 20 item oral mucositis index (OMI), adapted from the 34 item OMI, to facilitate use by nondental health professionals. The OMI-20 consists of nine items measuring erythema, nine measuring ulceration, one measuring atrophy, and one measuring edema; all are scored from 0=none to 3=severe and summed for a total possible score of 0–60. The two sets of nine items measuring erythema and ulceration can also be summed separately to produce subscale scores ranging from 0 to 27. Results demonstrated internal consistency, test–retest, and inter-rater reliability, and strong evidence of construct validity. Provided that clinical examiners have appropriate training and experience, the OMI-20 can be used as a reliable, valid, and quantifiable measure of mucositis in clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal rhinosinusitis presents in five clinicopathologic forms, each with distinct diagnostic criteria, treatment, and prognosis. The invasive forms are acute fulminant, chronic, and granulomatous ("indolent") invasive fungal sinusitis. The noninvasive forms are fungal ball ("sinus mycetoma") and allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS). AFS is the most common form of fungal rhinosinusitis. Patients with AFS are atopic to aeroallergens including the involved fungal organism, immunocompetent, have nasal polyps and chronic allergic rhinosinusitis, often produce nasal casts, and may occasionally present with proptosis from orbital extension of disease. Sinus CT shows sinus mucosal hypertrophy and often hyperattenuation of sinus contents. Diagnosis is made from surgical histopathology with or without an associated positive surgical sinus fungal culture. The histopathology shows extramucosal allergic mucin that stains positive for scattered fungal hyphae and eosinophilic-lymphocytic sinus mucosal inflammation. Bipolaris spicifera is the most common fungus cultured. The immunopathology of AFS has been shown to be analogous to allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Treatment requires surgery and aggressive postoperative medical management with close follow-up. Medical treatment includes allergy medications, allergen immunotherapy, and in many cases the addition of oral corticosteroids. Although medical management clearly improves patient outcomes, more studies are needed because AFS recurrence rates remain high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solid phase immunofluorescence assay which can be used to measure immunoglobulin and albumin levels in whole saliva, as well as in duct collected saliva samples, is described. This method is about an order of magnitude more sensitive than the conventional radial immunodiffusion method, allowing its use in situations involving large numbers of samples or restricted sample volumes. The relative precision and accuracy of this method are comparable to those of radial immunodiffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]