J Formos Med Assoc
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Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene are associated with allergic diseases in different populations. This study aimed to determine the distribution of two SNPs at -1082A/G and -592A/C (rs1800896 and rs1800872, respectively) in the IL-10 gene promoter of Taiwanese food allergy (FA) patients, and also to compare the serum IL-10 levels between patients with (FA) and controls. ⋯ The two SNPs at -1082A/G and -592A/C of IL-10 were associated with FA in our Taiwanese population, and FA patients with the genotype AA/AA haplotype homozygotes had lower serum IL-10 levels. This suggests that IL-10 might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of FA. We suggest that it may be practicable to evaluate the serum IL-10 levels of FA patients and to predict the possibility of FA if genotypes and haplotypes are checked regularly.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Comparison of quadriceps-sparing minimally invasive and medial parapatellar total knee arthroplasty: a 2-year follow-up study.
Quadriceps-sparing minimally invasive total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been proposed to limit surgical dissection without compromising surgical outcome. We conducted a prospective and randomized study to compare the outcomes of patients who underwent quadriceps-sparing TKA with the outcomes of those who underwent standard medial parapatellar TKA, after a 2-year follow-up period. ⋯ Patients undergoing quadriceps-sparing and standard medial parapatellar TKA had comparable outcomes for quadriceps muscle strength, hamstring-quadriceps balance, and knee function; however, the quadriceps-sparing TKA was more time consuming surgically and resulted in a less accurate prosthesis position.
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Although exact statistics are lacking, body modifications for cosmetic purposes are performed in many countries. The commonest forms include tattooing, body piercing, and breast and facial augmentation using implants or injectable fillers. Liposuction and, to a lesser extent, mesotherapy are also practiced in many countries. ⋯ Outbreaks of infection are commonly reported. We hereby review the current knowledge of the topic with specific focus on infections associated with tattooing, body piercing, breast augmentation, mesotherapy, liposuction, and tissue filler injections. Greater awareness among consumers and health-care professionals, as well as more stringent regulations by the health authorities, is essential to minimize the health risks arising from these procedures.