Comparison of Peptidomes Extracted from Healthy Tissue and Tumor Tissue of the Parotid Glands and Saliva Samples.

Salivary gland tumors are highly variable in clinical presentation and histology. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies 22 types of malignant and 11 types of benign tumors of the salivary glands. Diagnosis of salivary gland tumors is based on imaging (ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging) and fine-needle aspiration biopsy, but the final diagnosis is based on histopathological examination of the removed tumor tissue. In this pilot study, we are testing a new approach to identifying peptide biomarkers in saliva that can be used to diagnose salivary gland tumors. The research material for the peptidomic studies was extracts from washings of neoplastic tissues and healthy tissues (control samples). At the same time, saliva samples from patients and healthy individuals were analyzed. The comparison of the peptidome composition of tissue extracts and saliva samples may allow the identification of potential peptide markers of salivary gland tumors in patients' saliva. The peptidome compositions extracted from 18 tumor and 18 healthy tissue samples, patients' saliva samples (11 samples), and healthy saliva samples (8 samples) were analyzed by LC-MS tandem mass spectrometry. A group of 109 peptides was identified that were present only in the tumor tissue extracts and in the patients' saliva samples. Some of the identified peptides were derived from proteins previously suggested as potential biomarkers of salivary gland tumors (ANXA1, BPIFA2, FGB, GAPDH, HSPB1, IGHG1, VIM) or tumors of other tissues or organs (SERPINA1, APOA2, CSTB, GSTP1, S100A8, S100A9, TPI1). Unfortunately, none of the identified peptides were present in all samples analyzed. This may be due to the high heterogeneity of this type of cancer. The surprising result was that extracts from tumor tissue did not contain peptides derived from salivary gland-specific proteins (STATH, SMR3B, HTN1, HTN3). These results could suggest that the developing tumor suppresses the production of proteins that are essential components of saliva.

Proteomic analysis of sialoliths from calcified, lipid and mixed groups as a source of potential biomarkers of deposit formation in the salivary glands.

Salivary stones, also known as sialoliths, are formed in a pathological situation in the salivary glands. So far, neither the mechanism of their formation nor the factors predisposing to their formation are known despite several hypotheses. While they do not directly threaten human life, they significantly deteriorate the patient's quality of life. Although this is not a typical research material, attempts are made to apply various analytical tools to characterise sialoliths and search for the biomarkers in their proteomes. In this work, we used mass spectrometry and SWATH-MS qualitative and quantitative analysis to investigate the composition and select proteins that may contribute to solid deposits in the salivary glands. Twenty sialoliths, previously characterized spectroscopically and divided into the following groups: calcified (CAL), lipid (LIP) and mixed (MIX), were used for the study. Proteins unique for each of the groups were found, including: for the CAL group among them, e.g. proteins from the S100 group (S100 A8/A12 and P), mucin 7 (MUC7), keratins (KRT1/2/4/5/13), elastase (ELANE) or stomatin (STOM); proteins for the LIP group-transthyretin (TTR), lactotransferrin (LTF), matrix Gla protein (MPG), submandibular gland androgen-regulated protein 3 (SMR3A); mixed stones had the fewest unique proteins. Bacterial proteins present in sialoliths have also been identified. The analysis of the results indicates the possible role of bacterial infections, disturbances in calcium metabolism and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the formation of sialoliths.

Assessment of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies level in convalescents plasma.

Despite extensive vaccination, the quantity of patients infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variants continues to grow worldwide. Treating patients with a severe course of COVID-19 is a difficult challenge. One of the generally accepted and specific therapy methods is the use of plasma rich in anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. On the other hand, assessing the antibodies level depending on the time after infection allows for vaccine-decision. The study marked the level of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies in 351 COVID-19 convalescent residents of one geographical region in Poland. The study group included blood donors. The studies were cross-sectional and extended to a questionnaire to determine infection severity. These data were compiled statistically. The study considered epidemiological factors, the time from the end of the infection, and infection severity. The fastest increase of the antibodies level was observed up to 59 days after COVID-19, and it was statistically significantly higher among men. Higher levels of antibodies were found among people above the average age in both men and women. There was an increase in the level of antibodies since the onset of the disease in men, while in women, it decreased. The antibodies level was also found to depend on the severity of the course of COVID-19 infection. The optimal group of plasma donors in the studied geographical region is men and women above 39 years old. after a more severe infection. The titer of antibodies increases with time from the disease.

Mitigation effect of face shield to reduce SARS-CoV-2 airborne transmission risk: Preliminary simulations based on computed tomography.

We aimed to develop a model to quantitatively assess the potential effectiveness of face shield (visor) in reducing airborne transmission risk of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 during the current COVID-19 pandemic using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. The studies with and without face shield in both an infected and healthy person have been considered in indoor environment simulation. In addition to the influence of the face shield and the synchronization of the breathing process while using the device, we also simulated the effect of small air movements on the SARS-CoV-2 infection rate (outdoor environment simulation). The contact with infectious particles in the case without a face shield was 12-20 s (s), in the presence of at least one person who was positive for SARS-CoV-2. If the infected person wore a face shield, no contact with contaminated air was observed during the entire simulation time (80 s). The time of contact with contaminated air (infection time) decreases to about 11 s when the surrounding air is still and begins to move at a low speed. Qualitative differences between simulations performed on the patients with and without the face shield are clearly visible. The maximum prevention of contagion is probably a consequence of wearing a face shield by an infected person. Our results suggest that it is possible to determine contact with air contaminated by SARS-CoV-2 using the CFD method under realistic conditions for virtually any situation and configuration. The proposed method is probably the fastest and most reliable among those based on CFD-based techniques.

Classification of submandibular salivary stones based on ultrastructural studies.

INTRODUCTION: Sialolithiasis remains a clinical problem with unclear etiopathogenesis, lack of prevention methods, and only surgical treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An ultrastructure examination of submandibular sialoliths obtained from patients with chronic sialolithiasis was conducted using a scanning electron microscope and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. RESULTS: Based on the results, we divided sialoliths into three types: calcified (CAL), organic/lipid (LIP), and mixed (MIX). The core structure of the CAL and MIX is very similar. The core of the LIP has a prevalence of organic components. The intermediate layers' structure of the CAL is different from LIP and MIX. In LIP and MIX, the organic component begins to increase in intermediate layers rapidly. The structure of the superficial layers for all types of sialoliths is similar. CONCLUSIONS: We introduced a new classification of the submandibular salivary gland stones. Based on the results, it can be said that sialoliths type CAL and LIP have their separate path of origin and development, while MIX is formed as CAL stone, and the further pathway of their growth passes as LIP stones. Organic components were much more than inorganic in all layers of salivary gland stones, which highly prevents their dissolution in the patient's salivary gland duct.

Three-dimensional modeling and automatic analysis of the human nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses using the computational fluid dynamics method.

PURPOSE: The goal of this study was to develop a complete workflow allowing for conducting computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of airflow through the upper airways based on computed tomography (CT) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) studies of individual adult patients. METHODS: This study is based on CT images of 16 patients. Image processing and model generation of the human nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses were performed using open-source and freeware software. 3-D Slicer was used primarily for segmentation and new surface model generation. Further processing was done using Autodesk® Meshmixer TM. The governing equations are discretized by means of the finite volume method. Subsequently, the corresponding algebraic equation systems were solved by OpenFOAM software. RESULTS: We described the protocol for the preparation of a 3-D model of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses and highlighted several problems that the future researcher may encounter. The CFD results were presented based on examples of 3-D models of the patient 1 (norm) and patient 2 (pathological changes). CONCLUSION: The short training time for new user without a prior experience in image segmentation and 3-D mesh editing is an important advantage of this type of research. Both CBCT and CT are useful for model building. However, CBCT may have limitations. The Q criterion in CFD illustrates the considerable complication of the nasal flow and allows for direct evaluation and quantitative comparison of various flows and can be used for the assessment of nasal airflow.

Trial Proteomic Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of the Protein Matrix of Submandibular Sialoliths.

Our studies aimed to explore the protein components of the matrix of human submandibular gland sialoliths. A qualitative analysis was carried out based on the filter aided sample preparation (FASP) methodology. In the protein extraction process, we evaluated the applicability of the standard demineralization step and the use of a lysis buffer containing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and dithiothreitol (DTT). The analysis of fragmentation spectra based on the human database allowed for the identification of 254 human proteins present in the deposits. In addition, the use of multi-round search in the PEAKS Studio program against the bacterial base allowed for the identification of 393 proteins of bacterial origin present in the extract obtained from sialolith, which so far has not been carried out for this biological material. Furthermore, we successfully applied the SWATH methodology, allowing for a relative quantitative analysis of human proteins present in deposits. The obtained results correlate with the classification of sialoliths proposed by Tretiakow. The performed functional analysis allowed for the first time the selection of proteins, the levels of which differ between the tested samples, which may suggest the role of these proteins in the calcification process in different types of sialoliths. These are preliminary studies, and drawing specific conclusions requires research on a larger group, but it provides us the basis for the continuation of the work that has already begun.

Ultrastructural analysis of the submandibular sialoliths: Raman spectroscopy and electron back-scatter studies.

The aim of work was the epidemiological analysis of the occurrence of sialolithiasis of the submandibular gland in adults and the evaluation of the ultrastructure of salivary stones. The study sample consisted of 44 sialoliths. Analysis of the structure and chemical composition of sialoliths was performed using a Scanning Electron Microscope and Raman Spectroscopy. Comparing our results with the literature we can say that the epidemiology of sialolithiasis has not changed significantly over the past 50 years. A wide variety of sialoliths structure was observed. In 75% (33) cases a layered structure of salivary stones was observed, while in 25% (11) - homogeneous structure. The various distribution of organic and inorganic components was observed among all the analyzed sialoliths. Raman spectroscopy allows for preliminary analysis of the sialoliths structure with only a qualitative assessment of their composition, which significantly reduces the research value of this method. The presence of organic and inorganic compounds in the core and inner layers of the salivary glands stones confirms 2 basic theories of the formation of sialoliths: inflammation and deposition of the inorganic component as a result of disruption of saliva flow in the salivary glands.

Facial nerve grading after parotidectomy.

Dysfunction of the facial nerve is a common complication of parotidectomy. The functional deficit may be total or partial, and may include all or a single branch of the nerve. Despite a wide variety of the facial nerve grading systems, most of them have a limited utility in patients after parotidectomy. Therefore, existing scales assessing facial nerve function are compared to describe facial nerve outcomes after parotidectomy. The regional House-Brackmann, Sydney, and Yanagihara classification systems were utilized. The post-parotidectomy facial nerve grading system (PPFNGS) was created based on these three grading systems and also used for this study. The facial nerve function was assessed and recorded on the first postoperative day following conservative parotidectomy in 200 patients using all 4 scales by 3 otolaryngologists. The validity of the PPFNGS and existing facial nerve grading systems was examined by assessment of interrater agreement, intraclass correlation coefficient, internal consistency and construct validity. A deficit in the facial nerve function was found in 54 patients (27 %). Although results were consistent in all tested scales, the PPFNGS had a higher interrater agreement than the other three scales. PPFNGS is a new grading system designed for assessing the facial nerve function after parotidectomy in a quantitative and qualitative way and has a higher interrater agreement than other scales used to examine function of the 7th nerve.

Current trends in the monitoring and treatment of diabetic retinopathy in young adults.

The diagnosis and treatment of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in young adults have significantly improved in recent years. Research methods have widened significantly, for example, by introducing spectral optical tomography of the eye. Invasive diagnostics, for example, fluorescein angiography, are done less frequently. The early introduction of an insulin pump to improve the administration of insulin is likely to delay the development of diabetic retinopathy, which is particularly important for young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The first years of diabetes occurring during childhood and youth are the most appropriate to introduce proper therapeutic intervention before any irreversible changes in the eyes appear. The treatment of DR includes increased metabolic control, laserotherapy, pharmacological treatment (antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory treatment, enzymatic vitreolysis, and intravitreal injections), and surgery. This paper summarizes the up-to-date developments in the diagnostics and treatment of DR. In the literature search, authors used online databases, PubMed, and clinitrials.gov and browsed through individual ophthalmology journals, books, and leading pharmaceutical company websites.

Personal experience in transnasal endoscopic resection of the olfactory groove meningiomas. What can an otolaryngologist offer to a neurosurgeon?

Olfactory groove meningioma is a demanding therapeutic problem involving two medical specialties, otolaryngology and neurosurgery. The use of transnasal endoscopic (TNE) approach to the tumour has been proved effective in many publications. Three patients with meningiomas localized in olfactory groove were treated in 2011 and 2012 by the otolaryngologist-neurosurgeon team using TNE approach and neuronavigation. The diagnosis was based on MR and CT images. In all patients after tumour removal an endoscopic anterior cranial fossa floor reconstruction was performed using homogeneous cartilage or titanium mesh and Hadad-Bassagasteguy flap. During postoperative period in all patients lumbar drainage was used. There were no cerebrospinal fluid leakage episodes. No recurrence was observed in 22, 12 and 8 months of follow-up, respectively. The authors describe otolaryngological and neurosurgical aspects of TNE approach to anterior cranial fossa with special regard to possible radical resection (according to Simpson) and reconstruction of the bony postoperative defect. TNE is a feasible operative method in olfactory groove meningioma management due to good tumour visibility, lack of brain traction, limited neurovascular structure manipulation and acceptable risk of neurological deficiencies when compared to open approach. Cosmetic aspect and short hospitalization is also of great importance.

Correlation of ENT Symptoms with Age, Sex, and Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Titer in Plasma.

Our objective is to evaluate the correlation between ENT symptom occurrence and antibody titer in convalescent plasma, as well as the influence of age and gender on ENT manifestations of COVID-19. We measured the levels of antibodies in 346 blood donors, who had PCR-confirmed previous infection and met the study inclusion criteria. We recorded otolaryngological symptoms during infection: dry cough, dyspnea, sore throat, smell/taste disturbances, vertigo, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, sudden unilateral loss of hearing, progressive loss of hearing, and tinnitus. In addition, we statistically analyzed the correlation between patients' antibody levels, symptoms, age, and gender using a chi-square test or Fisher exact test. A p-value less than 0.05 determined statistical significance. The mean age of the convalescents was 39.8 ± 9.56 SD and the median of the measured anti-SARS-CoV2 plasma antibodies was 1:368.5. The most common ENT symptoms were smell/taste disturbances (62.43%), dry cough (40.46%), sore throat (24.86%), and dyspnea (23.7%). Smell and taste disturbances were more frequent in younger patients and the marked antibody titer was lower, which was contrary to a higher antibody titer associated with dry cough, dyspnea, and dizziness. Occurrence of sore throat was not correlated with age, sex, or antibody level. There were no significant differences in otological symptoms in female patients. Gender does not affect the occurrence of ENT symptoms. The symptomatic course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is not always associated with higher levels of antibodies in the blood. The age of the infected patients, unlike gender, affects the occurrence of some ENT symptoms.