Study of the Pan-ERBB Inhibitor Neratinib Given in Combination With Everolimus, Palbociclib or Trametinib in Advanced Cancer Subjects With EGFR Mutation/Amplification, HER2 Mutation/Amplification or HER3/4 Mutation

Conditions:   Malignant Neoplasm of Breast;   Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs;   Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs;   Malignant Neoplasms of Ill-defined Secondary and Unspecified Sites;   Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites;   Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx;   Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue;   Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs;   Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands;   Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract;   Neoplasms of Uncertain or Unknown Behavior
Interventions:   Drug: Neratinib;   Drug: Everolimus;   Drug: Palbociclib;   Drug: Trametinib
Sponsors:   M.D. Anderson Cancer Center;   Pfizer;   Puma Biotechnology, Inc.
Not yet recruiting - verified February 2017

http://ift.tt/2lOor46

Endoscopic Resection Multicenter Registry

Conditions:   Gastrointestinal Neoplasms;   Gastrointestinal Disease;   Gastric Cancer;   Gastric Neoplasm;   Gastric Polyp;   Esophageal Neoplasms;   Duodenal Neoplasms;   Duodenal Polyp;   Stomach Neoplasm;   Stomach Polyp;   Neoplasms;   Colon Polyp;   Colon Neoplasm
Intervention:   Procedure: Endoscopic Resection
Sponsor:   Weill Medical College of Cornell University
Not yet recruiting - verified February 2017

http://ift.tt/2l4CYeB

Study of the CDK4/6 Inhibitor Palbociclib (PD-0332991) in Combination With the PI3K/mTOR Inhibitor Gedatolisib (PF-05212384) for Patients With Advanced Squamous Cell Lung, Pancreatic, Head & Neck and Other Solid Tumors

Conditions:   Lung Cancer Squamous Cell;   Solid Tumors;   Head & Neck Cancer;   Pancreatic Cancer
Interventions:   Drug: Palbociclib;   Drug: Gedatolisib
Sponsors:   Dana-Farber Cancer Institute;   Pfizer
Not yet recruiting - verified February 2017

http://ift.tt/2lOoqNA

Sestamibi Scans In Thyroglobulin Positive Scan Negative Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Patients

Condition:   Thyroid Cancer
Intervention:   Radiation: 99mTc sestamibi
Sponsor:   Washington Hospital Center
Recruiting - verified February 2017

http://ift.tt/2l4MrTn

Trigen InterTAN vs Sliding Hip Screw RCT

Condition:   Hip Fractures
Interventions:   Device: Trigen Intertan;   Other: Post-Surgery Follow Up;   Device: Sliding Hip Screw
Sponsor:   Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG
Recruiting - verified February 2017

http://ift.tt/2lqVFpi

Editorial Board

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Addictive Behaviors, Volume 69





http://ift.tt/2l4wtbN

Enhancement of antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses using a self-assembled biologic nanolipoprotein particle vaccine

Publication date: 13 March 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 11
Author(s): Dina Weilhammer, Alexis D. Dunkle, Craig D. Blanchette, Nicholas O. Fischer, Michele Corzett, Doerte Lehmann, Tyler Boone, Paul Hoeprich, Adam Driks, Amy Rasley
To address the need for vaccine platforms that induce robust cell-mediated immunity, we investigated the potential of utilizing self-assembling biologic nanolipoprotein particles (NLPs) as an antigen and adjuvant delivery system to induce antigen-specific murine T cell responses. We utilized OT-I and OT-II TCR-transgenic mice to investigate the effects of NLP-mediated delivery of the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA) on T cell activation. Delivery of OVA with the TLR4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) in the context of NLPs significantly enhanced the activation of both CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells in vitro compared to co-administration of free OVA and MPLA. Upon intranasal immunization of mice harboring TCR-transgenic cells, NLPs enhanced the adjuvant effects of MPLA and the in vivo delivery of OVA, leading to significantly increased expansion of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells in lung-draining lymph nodes. Therefore, NLPs are a promising vaccine platform for inducing T cell responses following intranasal administration.



http://ift.tt/2mw7BGX

Factors affecting the willingness of nursing students to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination: A large-scale cross-sectional study

Publication date: 13 March 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 11
Author(s): Kin Cheung, Sin Man Simone Ho, Winsome Lam
Nursing students are at high risk of exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases such as seasonal influenza. However, due to the limited number of studies conducted in this area, the prevalence and factors affecting annual seasonal influenza vaccination (ASIV) uptake remain unclear. This was a large-scale cross-sectional survey study conducted among 902 nursing students in different years of study. The questionnaire was developed based on the Health Belief Model (HBM), and logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of ASIV uptake. The results of our study reveal that only 15.2% of nursing students declared having the vaccine in the previous year, and that ASIV uptake was self-reported. ASIV uptake was associated with perceived susceptibility (odds ratio=2.76), perceived seriousness (odds ratio=2.06) and perceived barriers (odds ratio=0.50). The odds of receiving ASIV were 17.96times higher for those participants having had ASIV at least once than those who had not received ASIV in the previous five years. In addition, the odds of receiving ASIV were 4.01times higher for master's than undergraduate students. Our study concludes that the ASIV uptake among nursing students is low. In order to increase vaccination uptake in subsequent years, future studies should promote vaccination based on HBM, focusing on nursing students in undergraduate studies by emphasizing not only vaccination knowledge, but also their social responsibility to protect patients. Influenza vaccination can be viewed as an ethical professional responsibility and a patient safety issue, as well as being an infection control strategy.



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Is Colombia reaching the goals on infant immunization coverage? A quantitative survey from 80 municipalities

Publication date: 13 March 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 11
Author(s): Javier Narváez, May Bibiana Osorio, Carlos Castañeda-Orjuela, Nelson Alvis Zakzuk, Natalia Cediel, Luz Ángela Chocontá-Piraquive, Fernando de La Hoz-Restrepo
ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the coverage of the Colombian Expanded Program on Immunization among children less than 6years old, to evaluate the timeliness of immunization, to assess the coverage of newly introduced vaccines, and to identify factors associated with lack of immunization.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey in 80 municipalities of Colombia, using a two-stage cluster random sampling. We attempted to contact all children less than 6years old living in the sampled blocks, and asked their caregivers to provide immunization record cards. We also collected basic sociodemographic information.ResultsWe reached 81% of the attempted household contacts, identifying 18,232 children; of them, 14,805 (83%) had an immunization record card. Coverage for traditional vaccines was above 90%: BCG (tuberculosis) 95.7% (95%CI: 95.1–96.4), pentavalent vaccine 93.3% (92.4–94.3), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) initial dose 94.5% (93.5–95.6); but it was lower for recently introduced vaccines: rotavirus 80% (77.8–82.1), influenza 48.4% (45.9–50.8). Results for timely vaccination were not equally successful: pentavalent vaccine 44.2% (41.4–47.1), MMR initial dose 71.2% (68.9–73.4). Mother's education was significantly associated with higher immunization odds. Older age, a greater number of siblings, low socioeconomic status, and not having health insurance were significantly associated with lower immunization odds. There was significant heterogeneity in immunization rates by municipality across the country.ConclusionsAlthough absolute immunization coverage for traditional vaccines met the goal of 90% for the 80 municipalities combined, disparities in coverage across municipalities, delayed immunization, and decline of coverage with age, are common problems in Colombia that may result in reduced protection. Newly introduced vaccines require additional efforts to reach the goal. These results highlight the association of health inequities with low immunization coverage and delayed immunization. Identification of vulnerable populations and their missed opportunities for vaccination may help to improve the reach of immunization programs.



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Editorial Board/Aims and Scope

Publication date: 13 March 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 11





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Evaluation of two vaccine education interventions to improve pertussis vaccination among pregnant African American women: A randomized controlled trial

Publication date: 13 March 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 11
Author(s): Jennifer L. Kriss, Paula M. Frew, Marielysse Cortes, Fauzia A. Malik, Allison T. Chamberlain, Katherine Seib, Lisa Flowers, Kevin A. Ault, Penelope P. Howards, Walter A. Orenstein, Saad B. Omer
BackgroundVaccination coverage with tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine in pregnancy or immediately postpartum has been low. Limited data exist on rigorously evaluated interventions to increase maternal vaccination, including Tdap. Tailored messaging based on the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) framework has been successful in improving uptake of some public health interventions. We evaluated the effect of two ELM-based vaccine educational interventions on Tdap vaccination among pregnant African American women, a group of women who tend to have lower vaccine uptake compared with other groups.MethodsWe conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial to pilot test two interventions – an affective messaging video and a cognitive messaging iBook – among pregnant African American women recruited during routine prenatal care visits. We measured Tdap vaccination during the perinatal period (during pregnancy and immediately postpartum), reasons for non-vaccination, and intention to receive Tdap in the next pregnancy.ResultsAmong the enrolled women (n=106), 90% completed follow-up. Tdap vaccination in the perinatal period was 18% in the control group; 50% in the iBook group (Risk Ratio [vs. control group]: 2.83; 95% CI, 1.26–6.37), and 29% in the video group (RR: 1.65; 95% CI, 0.66–4.09). From baseline to follow-up, women's reported intention to receive Tdap during the next pregnancy improved in all three groups. Among unvaccinated women, the most common reason reported for non-vaccination was lack of a recommendation for Tdap by the woman's physician.ConclusionsEducation interventions that provide targeted information for pregnant women in an interactive manner may be useful to improve Tdap vaccination during the perinatal period. However, larger studies including multiple racial and ethnic groups are needed to evaluate robustness of our findings.Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01740310.



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IgA vasculitis (Henoch–Schönlein): Case definition andguidelines for data collection, analysis, and presentation of immunisation safety data

Publication date: 13 March 2017
Source:Vaccine, Volume 35, Issue 11
Author(s): Andreas Woerner, Christoph Rudin, Caterina Bonetto, Carmela Santuccio, Seza Ozen, Robert P. Wise, Rebecca Chandler, Jan Bonhoeffer




http://ift.tt/2mvMF37

Congenital Uterine Arteriovenous Malformation Presenting as Postcoital bleeding: A Rare Presentation of a Rare Clinical Condition

Neha Agarwal, Seema Chopra, Neelam Aggarwal, Ujjwal Gorsi

Journal of Clinical Imaging Science 2017 7(1):11-11

Congenital uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an extremely rare condition with <100 cases documented in literature. We report multiparous women presenting to us with a history of postcoital bleed. Initial Doppler ultrasonography was consistent with features suggestive of AVM. Subsequently, computed tomography (CT) angiography confirmed the diagnosis. Embolization was chosen as the treatment because of the large extension of AVM and the risk of hemorrhage during hysterectomy. The patient was discharged in a stable condition with a plan of repeat embolization in the next setting. At 6 and 12 weeks of follow-up, she did not experience any further episodes of bleed. The purpose of this case report is to highlight the salient clinical features, diagnosis, and the management options available for this rare clinical condition.

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Molecular biomarkers predictive of sertraline treatment response in young children with fragile X syndrome

Publication date: Available online 24 February 2017
Source:Brain and Development
Author(s): Reem Rafik AlOlaby, Stefan R. Sweha, Marisol Silva, Blythe Durbin-Johnson, Carolyn M. Yrigollen, Dalyir Pretto, Randi J. Hagerman, Flora Tassone
ObjectivesSeveral neurotransmitters involved in brain development are altered in fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Serotonin plays a vital role in synaptogenesis and postnatal brain development. Deficits in serotonin synthesis and abnormal neurogenesis were shown in young children with autism, suggesting that treating within the first years of life with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor might be the most effective time. In this study we aimed to identify molecular biomarkers involved in the serotonergic pathway that could predict the response to sertraline treatment in young children with FXS.MethodsGenotypes were determined for several genes involved in serotonergic pathway in 51 children with FXS, ages 24–72months. Correlations between genotypes and deviations from baseline in primary and secondary outcome measures were modeled using linear regression models.ResultsA significant association was observed between a BDNF polymorphism and improvements for several clinical measures, including the Clinical Global Impression scale (P=0.008) and the cognitive T score (P=0.017) in those treated with sertraline compared to those in the placebo group. Additionally, polymorphisms in the MAOA, Cytochrome P450 2C19 and 2D6, and in the 5-HTTLPR gene showed a significant correlation with some of the secondary measures included in this study.ConclusionThis study shows that polymorphisms of genes involved in the serotonergic pathway could play a potential role in predicting response to sertraline treatment in young children with FXS. Larger studies are warranted to confirm these initial findings.



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Upregulated expression of La ribonucleoprotein domain family member 6 and collagen type I gene following water-filtered broad-spectrum near-infrared irradiation in a 3-dimensional human epidermal tissue culture model as revealed by microarray analysis

Abstract

Background/Objectives

Water-filtered broad-spectrum near-infrared irradiation can induce various biological effects, as our previous clinical, histological, and biochemical investigations have shown. However, few studies that examined the changes thus induced in gene expression. The aim was to investigate the changes in gene expression in a 3-dimensional reconstructed epidermal tissue culture exposed to water-filtered broad-spectrum near-infrared irradiation.

Methods

DNA microarray and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was used to assess gene expression levels in a 3-dimensional reconstructed epidermal model composed of normal human epidermal cells exposed to water-filtered broad-spectrum near-infrared irradiation. The water filter allowed 1000–1800 nm wavelengths and excluded 1400–1500 nm wavelengths, and cells were exposed to 5 or 10 rounds of near-infrared irradiation at 10 J/cm².

Results

A DNA microarray with over 50 000 different probes showed 18 genes that were upregulated or downregulated by at least twofold after irradiation. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that, relative to control cells, the gene encoding La ribonucleoprotein domain family member 6 (LARP6), which regulates collagen expression, was significantly and dose-dependently upregulated (P < 0.05) by water-filtered broad-spectrum near-infrared exposure. Gene encoding transcripts of collagen type I were significantly upregulated compared with controls (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the ability of water-filtered broad-spectrum near-infrared irradiation to stimulate the production of type I collagen.

http://ift.tt/2lqL39M

Quantification of myocardial oxygenation in heart failure using blood-oxygen-level-dependent T2* magnetic resonance imaging: Comparison with cardiopulmonary exercise test

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Volume 39
Author(s): Michinobu Nagao, Yuzo Yamasaki, Satoshi Kawanami, Takeshi Kamitani, Koji Sagiyama, Taiki Higo, Tomomi Ide, Atsushi Takemura, Umiko Ishizaki, Kenji Fukushima, Yuji Watanabe, Hiroshi Honda
PurposeQuantification of myocardial oxygenation (MO) in heart failure (HF) has been less than satisfactory. This has necessitated the use of invasive techniques to measure MO directly or to determine the oxygen demand during exercise using the cardiopulmonary exercise (CPX) test. We propose a new quantification method for MO using blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) myocardial T2* magnetic resonance imaging (M-T2* MRI), and investigate its correlation with CPX results.MethodsThirty patients with refractory HF who underwent cardiac MRI and CPX test for heart transplantation, and 24 healthy, age-matched volunteers as controls were enrolled. M-T2* imaging was performed using a 3-Tesla and multi-echo gradient-echo sequence. M-T2* was calculated by fitting the signal intensity data for the mid-left ventricular septum to a decay curve. M-T2* was measured under room-air (T2*-air) and after inhalation of oxygen for 10min at a flow rate of 10L/min (T2*-oxy). MO was defined as the difference between the two values (ΔT2*). Changes in M-T2* at the two conditions and ΔT2* between the two groups were compared. Correlation between ΔT2* and CPX results was analyzed using the Pearson coefficient.ResultsT2*-oxy was significantly greater than T2*-air in patients with HF (29.9±7.3ms vs. 26.7±6.0ms, p<0.001), whereas no such difference was observed in controls (25.5±4.0ms vs. 25.4±4.4ms). ΔT2* was significantly greater for patients with HF than for controls (3.2±4.5ms vs. -0.1±1.3ms, p<0.001). A significant correlation between ΔT2* and CPX results (peak VO2, r=−0.46, p<0.05; O2 pulse, r=−0.54, p<0.005) was observed.ConclusionΔT2* is increased T2*-oxy is greater in patients with HF, and is correlated with oxygen metabolism during exercise as measured by the CPX test. Hence, ΔT2* can be used as a surrogate marker of MO instead of CPX test.



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Water and lipid diffusion MRI using chemical shift displacement-based separation of lipid tissue (SPLIT)

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Volume 39
Author(s): Naoki Ohno, Hirohito Kan, Tosiaki Miyati, Toshitaka Aoki, Shota Ishida, Toshifumi Gabata
PurposeTo obtain water and lipid diffusion-weighted images (DWIs) simultaneously, we devised a novel method utilizing chemical shift displacement-based separation of lipid tissue (SPLIT) imaging.Materials and methodsSingle-shot diffusion echo-planar imaging without fat suppression was used and the imaging parameters were optimized to separate water and lipid DWIs by chemical shift displacement of the lipid signals along the phase-encoding direction. Using the optimized conditions, transverse DWIs at the maximum diameter of the right calf were scanned with multiple b-values in five healthy subjects. Then, apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were calculated in the tibialis anterior muscle (TA), tibialis bone marrow (TB), and subcutaneous fat (SF), as well as restricted and perfusion-related diffusion coefficients (D and D*, respectively) and the fraction of the perfusion-related diffusion component (F) for TA.ResultsWater and lipid DWIs were separated adequately. The mean ADCs of the TA, TB, and SF were 1.56±0.03mm²/s, 0.01±0.01mm²/s, and 0.06±0.02mm²/s, respectively. The mean D*, D, and F of the TA were 13.7±4.3mm²/s, 1.48±0.05mm²/s, and 4.3±1.6%, respectively.ConclusionSPLIT imaging makes it possible to simply and simultaneously obtain water and lipid DWIs without special pulse sequence and increases the amount of diffusion information of water and lipid tissue.



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Bacterial Inclusion Bodies: Discovering Their Better Half

Publication date: Available online 27 February 2017
Source:Trends in Biochemical Sciences
Author(s): Ursula Rinas, Elena Garcia-Fruitós, José Luis Corchero, Esther Vázquez, Joaquin Seras-Franzoso, Antonio Villaverde
Bacterial inclusion bodies (IBs) are functional, non-toxic amyloids occurring in recombinant bacteria showing analogies with secretory granules of the mammalian endocrine system. The scientific interest in these mesoscale protein aggregates has been historically masked by their status as a hurdle in recombinant protein production. However, progressive understanding of how the cell handles the quality of recombinant polypeptides and the main features of their intriguing molecular organization has stimulated the interest in inclusion bodies and spurred their use in diverse technological fields. The engineering and tailoring of IBs as functional protein particles for materials science and biomedicine is a good example of how formerly undesired bacterial byproducts can be rediscovered as promising functional materials for a broad spectrum of applications.



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210Po distribution after high temperature processes in coal-fired power plants

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 171
Author(s): Wang Chuangao, Liu Ruirui, Li Jinfeng, Huang Zhijun, Pan Jingshun, Luo Zhiping, Chen Ling, Wang Zhongwen, Pan Ziqiang
In this paper, the distribution of ²¹⁰Po after high temperature processes in six units of coal-fired power plants (CFPs) were evaluated. The coal, bottom ashes, fly ashes from electrostatic precipitators (ESP), and flue gases from stacks were sampled from four CFPs and analyzed for ²¹⁰Po contents. The results showed that ²¹⁰Po was mainly captured by the ESP, with little left in the bottom ash, and a small fraction of ²¹⁰Po was directly discharged into the environment through the stacks, accounting for 0.06%–0.6%, which was consistent with the reported data. It was also found that part of the ²¹⁰Po could not be accounted for in the mass balance analysis for the whole combustion process in CFPs, which was also in line with the reported data. The results obtained in this study provided essential basic data for environmental radiological risk analysis for CFPs.



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Soil radon survey to assess NAPL contamination from an ancient spill. Do kerosene vapors affect radon partition ?

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 171
Author(s): Gabriele De Simone, Carlo Lucchetti, Francesca Pompilj, Gianfranco Galli, Paola Tuccimei, Pierpaolo Curatolo, Riccardo Giorgi
A soil radon-deficit survey was carried out in a site polluted with kerosene (Rome, Italy) in winter 2016 to assess the contamination due to the NAPL residual component in the vadose zone and to investigate the role of the vapor plume. Radon is indeed more soluble in the residual NAPL than in air or water, but laboratory experiments demonstrated that it is also preferentially partitioned in the NAPL vapors that transport it and may influence soil radon distribution patterns. Specific experimental configurations were designed and applied to a 31-station grid to test this hypothesis; two RAD7 radon monitors were placed in-series and connected to the top of a hollow probe driven up to 80-cm depth; the first instrument was directly attached to the probe and received humid soil gas, which was counted and then conveyed to the second monitor through a desiccant (drierite) cylinder capturing moisture and eventually the NAPL volatile component plus the radon dissolved in vapors. The values from the two instruments were cross-calibrated through specifically designed laboratory experiments and compared. The results are in agreement within the error range, so the presence of significant NAPL vapors, eventually absorbed by drierite, was ruled out. This is in agreement with low concentrations of soil VOCs. Accordingly, the radon-deficit is ascribed to the residual NAPL in the soil pores, as shown very well also by the obtained maps. Preferential areas of radon-deficit were recognised, as in previous surveys. An average estimate of 21 L (17 Kg) of residual NAPL per cubic meter of terrain is provided on the basis of original calculations, developed from published equations. A comparison with direct determination of total hydrocarbon concentration (23 kg per cubic meter of terrain) is provided.



http://ift.tt/2lMC189

Acne necrotica (necrotizing lymphocytic folliculitis): An enigmatic and under-recognised dermatosis

Abstract

Acne necrotica is a disorder of adults of obscure aetiology, featuring repeated cropping of inflammatory papulonodules which rapidly necrotise, leaving varying degrees of superficial scarring with pathological features in early lesions of a necrotising lymphocytic folliculitis. A perceived diminishing interest in this entity in recent years prompted a prospective study of patients presenting to a dermatology practice over a 3-year period to reassess the prevalence of this disorder in general dermatological patients, leading to the identification of 47 patients (35 female) with features of acne necrotica, with histopathology undertaken in atypical cases. We identified the importance of the recognition of primary lesions (1–2 mm umbilicated erythematous papules), often difficult to find in excoriated areas, as being paramount in the diagnosis both clinically and histologically in our study, which reveals a significantly more prevalent and clinically diverse disorder than featured in previous textbook and academic journal descriptions.

http://ift.tt/2lXaSkY

Efficacy of smartphone applications in high-risk pigmented lesions

Abstract

Background/Objectives

Melanoma apps are smartphone applications that assess risk of pigmented lesions using a smartphone camera and underlying algorithm. We aimed to assess the capability of melanoma smartphone applications (apps) in making clinical decisions about risk, compared with lesion assessment by specialist trained dermatologists.

Methods

A prospective study of 3 melanoma apps was conducted between 2015 and 2016, recruiting 30 patients with 57 pigmented lesions. Risk categories assigned by the apps were compared with the clinical decisions of two consultant dermatologists classifying lesions as 'suspicious' or 'benign'.

Results

Of the 42 lesions deemed clinically suspicious to a dermatologist, from 9 to 26 were classified as suspicious by the apps; of the 15 clinically benign lesions 3 to 15 were correctly classified as benign by the apps. The apps' sensitivity and specificity ranged from 21 to 72% and 27 to 100.0%, respectively, when compared with the specialists' decisions. Two apps were unable to analyse 14 and 18% of lesions submitted, respectively. Interrater agreement between dermatologists and apps was poor (κ = −0.01 SE = 0.16; P = 0.97) to slight (κ = 0.16 SE = 0.09; P = 0.12).

Conclusions

None of the melanoma apps tested had high enough agreement with the dermatologist's clinical opinion to be considered to provide additional benefit to patients in assessing their skin for high-risk pigmented lesions. The low sensitivity in detecting lesions that are suspicious to a trained specialist may mean false reassurance is being given to patients. Development of highly sensitive and specific melanoma apps remains a work in progress.

http://ift.tt/2m1V8NP

Factors influencing cardiometabolic risk profile in patients with psoriasis

Abstract

Background

Psoriasis has been associated with metabolic syndrome and with an increased cardiovascular risk especially in patients with severe disease. The goal of this study was to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and other cardiovascular risk factors and its association with the psoriasis severity, sex and age.

Methods

Consecutive patients with psoriasis were enrolled in a prospective study over a 1-year period. Blood samples were collected. Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and body surface area scores and two dermatology quality of life (DQOL) questionnaires were used to evaluate psoriasis severity and the impact of the disease.

Results

Altogether 178 patients were included, of whom 44% had moderate–severe psoriasis. The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 30% (men 34%, women 26%) without significant differences between patients with severe and mild disease. Age and menopause appeared to increase the risk for metabolic syndrome. Patients with severe psoriasis smoked more heavily, were more likely to have diabetes or insulin resistance and had higher homocysteine and lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels than patients with mild psoriasis (P < 0.05). In women, a higher waist circumference was observed. Women had higher HDL-C levels and lower smoking and alcohol consumption rates. In accordance with the systematic coronary risk evaluation system, 18% of the patients had a high 10-year risk of fatal cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions

Psoriasis severity was associated with diabetes, insulin-resistance, smoking habit and higher cardiovascular risk. Metabolic syndrome was related to age and menopause but not to psoriasis severity.

http://ift.tt/2mv6xmX

The tired hippocampus: the molecular impact of sleep deprivation on hippocampal function

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Current Opinion in Neurobiology, Volume 44
Author(s): Robbert Havekes, Ted Abel
Memory consolidation, the process by which information is stored following training, consists of synaptic consolidation and systems consolidation. It is widely acknowledged that sleep deprivation has a profound effect on synaptic consolidation, particularly for memories that require the hippocampus. It is unclear, however, which of the many molecular changes associated with sleep deprivation directly contribute to memory deficits. In this review, we highlight recent studies showing that sleep deprivation impairs hippocampal cAMP and mTOR signaling, and ultimately causes spine loss in CA1 neurons in a cofilin-dependent fashion. Reversing these molecular alterations made memory consolidation resistant to the negative impact of sleep deprivation. Together, these studies have started to identify the molecular underpinnings by which sleep deprivation impairs synaptic consolidation.



http://ift.tt/2mlD027

Characteristics and potential sources of polychlorinated biphenyl pollution in a suburban area of Guangzhou, southern China

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 156
Author(s): Qilu Li, Yan Wang, Chunling Luo, Jun Li, Gan Zhang
In this study, 52 paired gas and particle samples were collected from a suburban field in Guangzhou in 2012 using a high-volume active air sampler; they were then analysed for 30 polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners via gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Total PCB concentrations ranged from 97.4 to 853 pg m⁻³. This was a moderate level compared with other cities, undeveloped areas, and electronic waste disposal sites. Atmospheric concentrations of PCBs did not exhibit notable diurnal or seasonal variations, except for a few high measurement. Tetra- and tri-CBs were the predominant PCB compounds, with an average combined contribution of 81.9%. CB-77 was the dominant congener in the particle phase due to a few samples with extremely high mass fraction of CB-77 and relatively low concentrations of other PCBs. Based on measurements of pollution characteristics including diurnal and seasonal variations, we used correlation analysis, principal component analysis and back trajectory modeling to deduce that electronic manufacturing and recycling activities, pigment/paint production, and waste incineration plants are possible sources of PCBs in Guangzhou. Of these sources, the high observed contributions of CB-77 originated mainly from the pigment/paint industry.

Graphical abstract

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Characterising an intense PM pollution episode in March 2015 in France from multi-site approach and near real time data: Climatology, variabilities, geographical origins and model evaluation

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 155
Author(s): J.-E. Petit, T. Amodeo, F. Meleux, B. Bessagnet, L. Menut, D. Grenier, Y. Pellan, A. Ockler, B. Rocq, V. Gros, J. Sciare, O. Favez
During March 2015, a severe and large-scale particulate matter (PM) pollution episode occurred in France. Measurements in near real-time of the major chemical composition at four different urban background sites across the country (Paris, Creil, Metz and Lyon) allowed the investigation of spatiotemporal variabilities during this episode. A climatology approach showed that all sites experienced clear unusual rain shortage, a pattern that is also found on a longer timescale, highlighting the role of synoptic conditions over Wester-Europe. This episode is characterized by a strong predominance of secondary pollution, and more particularly of ammonium nitrate, which accounted for more than 50% of submicron aerosols at all sites during the most intense period of the episode. Pollution advection is illustrated by similar variabilities in Paris and Creil (distant of around 100 km), as well as trajectory analyses applied on nitrate and sulphate. Local sources, especially wood burning, are however found to contribute to local/regional sub-episodes, notably in Metz. Finally, simulated concentrations from Chemistry-Transport model CHIMERE were compared to observed ones. Results highlighted different patterns depending on the chemical components and the measuring site, reinforcing the need of such exercises over other pollution episodes and sites.



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Designing efficient nitrous oxide sampling strategies in agroecosystems using simulation models

Publication date: April 2017
Source:Atmospheric Environment, Volume 155
Author(s): Debasish Saha, Armen R. Kemanian, Benjamin M. Rau, Paul R. Adler, Felipe Montes
Annual cumulative soil nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions calculated from discrete chamber-based flux measurements have unknown uncertainty. We used outputs from simulations obtained with an agroecosystem model to design sampling strategies that yield accurate cumulative N2O flux estimates with a known uncertainty level. Daily soil N2O fluxes were simulated for Ames, IA (corn-soybean rotation), College Station, TX (corn-vetch rotation), Fort Collins, CO (irrigated corn), and Pullman, WA (winter wheat), representing diverse agro-ecoregions of the United States. Fertilization source, rate, and timing were site-specific. These simulated fluxes surrogated daily measurements in the analysis. We "sampled" the fluxes using a fixed interval (1–32 days) or a rule-based (decision tree-based) sampling method. Two types of decision trees were built: a high-input tree (HI) that included soil inorganic nitrogen (SIN) as a predictor variable, and a low-input tree (LI) that excluded SIN. Other predictor variables were identified with Random Forest. The decision trees were inverted to be used as rules for sampling a representative number of members from each terminal node. The uncertainty of the annual N2O flux estimation increased along with the fixed interval length. A 4- and 8-day fixed sampling interval was required at College Station and Ames, respectively, to yield ±20% accuracy in the flux estimate; a 12-day interval rendered the same accuracy at Fort Collins and Pullman. Both the HI and the LI rule-based methods provided the same accuracy as that of fixed interval method with up to a 60% reduction in sampling events, particularly at locations with greater temporal flux variability. For instance, at Ames, the HI rule-based and the fixed interval methods required 16 and 91 sampling events, respectively, to achieve the same absolute bias of 0.2 kg N ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ in estimating cumulative N2O flux. These results suggest that using simulation models along with decision trees can reduce the cost and improve the accuracy of the estimations of cumulative N2O fluxes using the discrete chamber-based method.

Graphical abstract

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Psoriasis-like inflammation leads to renal dysfunction via upregulation of NADPH oxidases and inducible nitric oxide synthase

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Naif O. Al-Harbi, Ahmed Nadeem, Mushtaq A. Ansari, Mohammed M. Al-Harbi, Moureq R. Alotaibi, Abdulaziz M.S. AlSaad, Sheikh F. Ahmad
Psoriatic patients have systemic inflammation as well as oxidative stress, which are associated with cardiovascular disorders such as atherosclerosis, hypertension myocardial infarction, and stroke. Psoriasis has also been shown to be associated with kidney disease in several studies. Both disorders also have strong component of oxidative stress which usually emanates from NADPH oxidases (NOXs) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). However, whether psoriatic inflammation leads to renal oxidative stress and dysfunction remains unexplored. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriatic inflammation on kidney function and inflammation in a murine model. Mice were topically applied IMQ followed by various analyses in kidney/blood related to inflammation and kidney function. Psoriatic inflammation in mice was associated with kidney dysfunction as reflected by increased serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. Kidney dysfunction was paralleled by upregulation of ROS generating enzymes such as NOX2, NOX4 and iNOS with concomitant oxidative stress. Treatment either with general antioxidant, N-acetyl cysteine or NOX/iNOS inhibitors led to improvement of IMQ-induced renal dysfunction and oxidative stress. On the contrary, buthionine sulfoximine, oxidant inducer further aggravated IMQ-induced renal impairment and oxidant-antioxidant imbalance. Our data suggest that psoriatic inflammation causes kidney dysfunction where NOXs and iNOS play important roles. Treatment with antioxidants may be considered as adjunct therapy in psoriatic patients with kidney disease.



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The correlation between inflammatory injury induced by LPS and RAS in EpH4-Ev cells

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Kun Wang, Xiaoqian Liu, Hang Xiao, Huanhuan Wang, Yuanshu Zhang
Renin–angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role of regulating inflammatory injury. However, it is not clear about the correlation between renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and inflammation induced by LPS in mammary gland cells. So immunofluorescence was performed to verify the ACE2 expression in mammary gland cells. MTT assay was performed to detect cell viability. ELISA was performed to detect cytokines in cell supernatant. Western Blot was performed to analyze RAS levels and ACE2 level change was observed by immunofluorescence. The TLR4 level and p65 phosphorylation were detected by Western Blot. The ACE2 protein intensively located on the cell membrane. According to the results of MTT assay and TNF-α level, the injury was evidently induced by high concentration LPS after 9h. The TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, ACE, AT1R and AngII had an increasing expression with the rise of cell injury. In contrast, the MasR, Ang1-7 and ACE2 had a declining expression with the increase of cell injury degree. The TLR4 level and p65 phosphorylation in high concentration LPS group was significantly higher than that of control group. These results suggest that a valid inflammatory injury was induced after the cells were treated by high concentration of LPS for 9h. Meanwhile, the ACE/AngII/AT1R axis was activated and the ACE2/Ang1-7/MasR axis was depressed.



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An inhibitor peptide of toll-like receptor 2 shows therapeutic potential for allergic conjunctivitis

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Cheng Xu, Xiaoqin He, Weihui Liu, Yan Chen, Chunling Zhou, Zilei Duan, Qiumin Lu, Xiuwen Yan, Zhiye Zhang, Ruiqiang Zheng
Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) is an inflammatory disease of the conjunctiva, which is characterized by antigen challenge and toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) activation. Here, a designed small peptide ZY12 was found to contain therapeutic potential in staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB)-induced AC model. ZY12 treatment showed the remission of clinical signs, plasma total IgE levels, number of mast cells and the proportion of degranulated mast cell in AC mice. Levels of Th2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13) in the lymph nodes or spleen were significantly decreased while those of Th1 cytokine (IFN-γ) were increased in ZY12 treated group, suggesting a protective role of ZY12 in AC by mediating the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines. Importantly, ZY12 significantly inhibited TLR2 expression in conjunctival tissue. Combined its therapeutic effects with TLR2 inhibitory function, ZY12 might be an ideal candidate for the development of new therapeutic agent for allergic disease.



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Non-coding RNA: Exosomal microRNAs as novel adipokines

Nature Reviews Genetics. doi:10.1038/nrg.2017.14

Author: Claire Greenhill

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Cancer genomics: ECdetect hunts extrachromosomal DNA

Nature Reviews Genetics. doi:10.1038/nrg.2017.13

Author: Shimona Starling

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Molecular prevalence of Merkel cell polyomavirus in nonmelanoma skin cancer in a Brazilian population

Summary

Background

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a newly described oncogenic virus, has been found in association with tumours other than Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). As yet, little is known about the involvement or influence of MCPyV on the development of these tumours and its prevalence in various populations.

Aim

To assess the prevalence of MCPyV DNA in cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC).

Methods

The prevalence of MCPyV DNA was assessed in 96 cases of NMSC in a Brazilian population comprising 76 subjects, and these results were correlated with epidemiological and demographical data.

Results

MCPyV DNA was detected in 23 of 69 (33.3%) basal cell carcinomas, in 2 of 11 (18%) squamous cell carcinomas, 2 of 4 Bowen disease case, 0 of 1 MCC and 4 of 11 other skin disorders.

Conclusion

Despite the frequent detection of MCPyV DNA in NMSC, its possible role in the development of NMSC still needs further investigation.

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Successful treatment of refractory palmoplantar pustulosis with apremilast

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Multiple, spontaneous, noninflammatory cutaneous atrophic pits on the extremities

Click here for the corresponding questions to this CME article.

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Ecthyma gangrenosum without bacteraemia: evidence in favour of a broader definition

Summary

Ecthyma gangrenosum (EG) is often defined as a cutaneous manifestation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa septicaemia, typically secondary to neutropenia. There is increasing recognition that a broader definition is warranted, as numerous causative organisms and predisposing conditions have been reported. We describe two cases of EG that occurred without bacteraemia. In this atypical subset of cases, the skin is thought to represent the primary inoculation site from which haematogenous spread can occur.

The first case occurred in the context of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, a rarely reported association. The evidence base guiding clinicians on management of EG is very limited, particularly in relation to patients with HIV, in whom recurrence risk may be higher than normal. Recurrent EG is described in our second case, in an individual with Good syndrome, a rare association of thymoma and immunodeficiency.

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Palmar fasciitis and polyarthritis, a rare paraneoplastic syndrome related to ovarian cancer

Summary

Palmar fasciitis and polyarthritis syndrome (PFPAS) is an uncommon disorder characterized by diffuse inflammation of the palmar fascia, tendon sheaths, and joints of the fingers and wrists, which rapidly progresses to flexion contracture of the hands. This paraneoplastic syndrome, originally linked to ovarian carcinoma, has also been associated with multiple different malignancies. As PFPAS usually precedes the detection of cancer, its symptoms should raise the suspicion of an underlying malignancy and should be thoroughly investigated.

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‘Scaly’ tattoo reactions: is treatment mandatory?

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Cutaneous leishmaniasis associated with anti-tumour necrosis factor-α drugs: an emerging disease

Summary

Leishmaniasis is endemic in several geographic areas of the world. In each of these areas, particular species of Leishmania with differing aggressiveness to humans predominate. In the European Mediterranean basin, cutaneous leishmaniasis usually presents with discrete, self-healing skin lesions. Although it is known that tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors may increase the risk of developing infections such as tuberculosis, there is scarce literature on Leishmania infections in patients treated with these drugs. In recent months, we have observed three patients resident in the Catalan coast of Spain who were treated with TNF inhibitors for Crohn disease, and who developed unusually large and persistent cutaneous lesions of leishmaniasis. These lesions responded only to treatment with intravenous liposomal amphotericin B. In countries with a high incidence of infection by aggressive species of Leishmania, serological screening may be indicated to detect a possible latent leishmanial infection before prescription of TNF inhibitors.

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Mutations in AAGAB underlie autosomal dominant punctate palmoplantar keratoderma

Summary

Punctate palmoplantar keratoderma type 1 (PPPK1) is a rare autosomal dominant inherited skin disease, characterized by multiple hyperkeratotic lesions on the palms and soles. The causative gene for PPPK1 has been identified as AAGAB, which encodes α- and γ-adaptin-binding protein p34. We describe the clinical features in three unrelated families with PPPK1, and report three recurrent causative mutations in AAGAB.

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Cutaneous leucocytoclastic vasculitis with anti-EJ autoantibodies: mere coincidence or a manifestation of antisynthetase syndrome?

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Interspersed Distribution of Selectivity to Kinematic Stimulus Features in Supragranular Layers of Mouse Barrel Cortex

<span class="paragraphSection"><div class="boxTitle">Abstract</div>Neurons in the primary sensory regions of neocortex have heterogeneous response properties. The spatial arrangement of neurons with particular response properties is a key aspect of population representations and can shed light on how local circuits are wired. Here, we investigated how neurons with sensitivity to different kinematic features of whisker stimuli are distributed across local circuits in supragranular layers of the barrel cortex. Using 2-photon calcium population imaging in anesthetized mice, we found that nearby neurons represent diverse kinematic features, providing a rich population representation at the local scale. Neurons interspersed in space therefore responded differently to a common stimulus kinematic feature. Conversely, neurons with similar feature selectivity were located no closer to each other than predicted by a random distribution null hypothesis. This finding relied on defining a null hypothesis that was specific for testing the spatial distribution of tuning across neurons. We also measured how neurons sensitive to specific features were distributed relative to barrel boundaries, and found no systematic organization. Our results are compatible with randomly distributed selectivity to kinematic features, with no systematic ordering superimposed upon the whisker map.</span>

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Regeneration of meniscus tissue using adipose mesenchymal stem cells-chondrocytes co-culture on a hybrid scaffold: In vivo study

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Biomaterials, Volume 126
Author(s): Lida Moradi, Mohammad Vasei, Mohammad M. Dehghan, Mohammad Majidi, Saeed Farzad Mohajeri, Shahin Bonakdar
The meniscus has poor intrinsic regenerative capacity and its damage inevitably leads to articular cartilage degeneration. We focused on evaluating the effects of Polyvinyl alcohol/Chitosan (PVA/Ch) scaffold seeded by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ASC) and articular chondrocytes (AC) in meniscus regeneration. The PVA/Ch scaffolds with different molar contents of Ch (Ch1, Ch2, Ch4 and Ch8) were cross-linked by pre-polyurethane chains. By increasing amount of Ch tensile modulus was increased from 83.51 MPa for Ch1 to 110 MPa for Ch8 while toughness showed decrease from 0.33 mJ/mm³ in Ch1 to 0.11 mJ/mm³ in Ch8 constructs. Moreover, swelling ratio and degradation rate increased with an increase in Ch amount. Scanning electron microscopy imaging was performed for pore size measurement and cell attachment. At day 21, Ch4 construct seeded by AC showed the highest expression with 24.3 and 22.64 folds increase in collagen II and aggrecan (p ≤ 0.05), respectively. Since, the mechanical properties, water uptake and degradation rate of Ch4 and Ch8 compositions had no statistically significant differences, Ch4 was selected for in vivo study. New Zealand rabbits were underwent unilateral total medial meniscectomy and AC/scaffold, ASC/scaffold, AC-ASC (co-culture)/scaffold and cell-free scaffold were engrafted. At 7 months post-implantation, macroscopic, histologic, and immunofluorescent studies for regenerated meniscus revealed better results in AC/scaffold group followed by AC-ASC/scaffold and ASC/scaffold groups. In the cell-free scaffold group, there was no obvious meniscus regeneration. Articular cartilages were best preserved in AC/scaffold group. The best histological score was observed in AC/scaffold group. Our results support that Ch4 scaffold seeded by AC alone can successfully regenerate meniscus in tearing injury and ASC has no significant contribution in the healing process.

Graphical abstract

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Dosimetric impact of contouring and image registration variability on dynamic 125I prostate brachytherapy

Publication date: Available online 24 February 2017
Source:Brachytherapy
Author(s): Hendrik Westendorp, Kathrin Surmann, Sandrine M.G. van de Pol, Carel J. Hoekstra, Robert A.J. Kattevilder, Tonnis T. Nuver, Marinus A. Moerland, Cornelis H. Slump, André W. Minken
PurposeThe quality of permanent prostate brachytherapy can be increased by addition of imaging modalities in the intraoperative procedure. This addition involves image registration, which inherently has inter- and intraobserver variabilities. We sought to quantify the inter- and intraobserver variabilities in geometry and dosimetry for contouring and image registration and analyze the results for our dynamic ¹²⁵I brachytherapy procedure.Methods and MaterialsFive observers contoured 11 transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) data sets three times and 11 CT data sets one time. The observers registered 11 TRUS and MRI data sets to cone beam CT (CBCT) using fiducial gold markers. Geometrical and dosimetrical inter- and intraobserver variabilities were assessed. For the contouring study, structures were subdivided into three parts along the craniocaudal axis.ResultsWe analyzed 165 observations. Interobserver geometrical variability for prostate was 1.1 mm, resulting in a dosimetric variability of 1.6% for V100 and 9.3% for D90. The geometric intraobserver variability was 0.6 mm with a V100 of 0.7% and D90 of 1.1%. TRUS–CBCT registration showed an interobserver variability in V100 of 2.0% and D90 of 3.1%. Intraobserver variabilities were 0.9% and 1.6%, respectively. For MRI–CBCT registration, V100 and D90 were 1.3% and 2.1%. Intraobserver variabilities were 0.7% and 1.1% for the same.ConclusionsProstate dosimetry is affected by interobserver contouring and registration variability. The observed variability is smaller than underdosages that are adapted during our dynamic brachytherapy procedure.



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Non-coding RNA: Exosomal microRNAs as novel adipokines

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Cancer genomics: ECdetect hunts extrachromosomal DNA

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Ultrasound Image Classification of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) of the Breast: Analysis of 705 DCIS Lesions1

Publication date: Available online 24 February 2017
Source:Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
Author(s): Takanori Watanabe, Takuhiro Yamaguchi, Hiroko Tsunoda, Setsuko Kaoku, Eriko Tohno, Hidemitsu Yasuda, Kanako Ban, Koichi Hirokaga, Kumiko Tanaka, Takeshi Umemoto, Toshitaka Okuno, Yasuhisa Fujimoto, Shuichi Nakatani, Jun Ito, Ei Ueno
The Japan Association of Breast and Thyroid Sonology (JABTS) proposed, in 2003, a conceptual classification system for non-mass abnormalities to be applied in addition to the conventional concept of masses, to facilitate detecting ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) lesions. The aim of this study was to confirm the utility of this system and to clarify the distribution of these findings in DCIS lesions. Data on 705 surgically treated DCIS lesions from 16 institutions in Japan were retrospectively reviewed. All 705 DCIS lesions could be classified according to the JABTS classification system. The most frequent findings were hypo-echoic areas in the mammary gland (48.6%), followed by solid masses (28.0%) and duct abnormalities (10.2%) or mixed masses (8.1%). Distortion (1.3%), clustered microcysts (1.4%) and echogenic foci without a hypo-echoic area (2.5%) were uncommon. These results suggest that the concept of non-mass abnormalities is useful in detecting DCIS lesions.



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Semi-quantitative Strain Ratio Determined Using Different Measurement Methods: Comparison of Strain Ratio Values and Diagnostic Performance Using One- versus Two-Region-of-Interest Measurement

Publication date: Available online 24 February 2017
Source:Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
Author(s): Jung Hyun Yoon, Mi Kyung Song, Eun-Kyung Kim
We evaluated the agreement and diagnostic performance of strain ratio values using measurements made with one and two user-defined regions of interest (ROIs) on breast elastography. Two hundred forty-three breast masses of 226 women (mean age: 48.2 y) were included. Ultrasonography (US) and elastography images of the masses were recorded. Strain ratio was measured twice on the same elastography image; strain ratio 1, applying one ROI at the target mass for measurement, and strain ratio 2, applying one ROI at the target mass and another ROI as reference strain. The two strain ratio measurements were in substantial agreement, with an intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.655 (95% confidence interval: 0.577–0.722). Specificity, positive predictive value and accuracy (cutoffs: 2.66 and 2.35) were significantly improved for US combined with the two strain ratio measurements (all p values < 0.05). Strain ratios measured using one or two user-defined ROIs were in substantial agreement, both contributing to the improved diagnostic performance of breast US.



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Design and Experimental Evaluation of a Quantified Depth Shave Biopsy Device—Proof of Concept

More diagnoses of skin cancer occur than all other cancers combined. The most common method to biopsy a skin lesion is the shave biopsy (SB), because of efficiency afforded to the provider and patient. However, it produces biopsy specimens with unknown and variable thickness. The present study examines an innovative SB prototype that quantifies the depth of specimen harvest at the time of tissue acquisition. Our objective was to design a quantified >1.1 mm depth of skin tissue harvest SB device that was easy to operate.

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Percutaneous needle fasciotomy for Dupuytren’s disease: minimizing morbidity

We read with interest the letter by Nikkhah and Kang in the January issue of the journal (1), describing anecdotal observations derived from a series of 150 patients treated with percutaneous needle fasciotomy (PNF). Nikkhah and Kang perform PNF along the lines described by Foucher et al. (2). Our own PNF practice differs in several significant respects. In particular, we question the requirement for wrist block, and we highlight differences in the positioning of the PNF sites, the gauge of needle and the post-operative splinting regime.

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Patient Experience of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy for Melanoma

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has become an established investigation for assessing microscopic nodal metastasis in melanoma. In a 10-year review of SLNB for melanoma at a single institution, our unit reported a complication rate of 6%1. Despite the widespread use of SLNB for melanoma there are no studies that evaluate patient experience. A method of identifying this information is the study of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), defined by the Food and Drug Administration as a "measurement of any aspect of a patient's health status that comes directly from the patient".

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Is it time for a change in the approach to chemical burns? The role of Diphoterine® in the management of cutaneous and ocular chemical injuries

A multitude of household and occupational compounds have the potential to induce chemical burns to the eye and skin. Without prompt intervention, irreversible visual loss and disfigurement may prevail. Diphoterine® and Hexafluorine® are amphoteric, hypertonic, chelating solutions used in the management of general chemical and hydrofluoric acid burns respectively. They rapidly neutralise both acid and alkali agents without heat release and limit diffusion, making them superior to water irrigation alone.

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Graphical Abstracts

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Meet Our Editorial Board Member

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COMMENTARY: Magnetic Resonance Techniques Applied to Parkinson’s Disease

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Editorial: Brain Imaging and Automatic Analysis in Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases - Part II

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Detection of Dendritic Spines Using Wavelet Packet Entropy and Fuzzy Support Vector Machine

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Detection of Unilateral Hearing Loss by Stationary Wavelet Entropy

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Brain Tumor Segmentation Using Deep Belief Networks and Pathological Knowledge

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Stationary Wavelet Transform and AdaBoost with SVM Based Pathological Brain Detection in MRI Scanning

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Coarse Classification to Region-Scalable Refining for White Matter Lesions Segmentation in Multi-Channel MRI

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Differentiation of Glioblastoma and Lymphoma Using Feature Extraction and Support Vector Machine

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Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Bipolar Disorder: Effect of the Disease and Pharmacotherapy

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Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Bipolar Disorder: Effect of the Disease and Pharmacotherapy

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Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Bipolar Disorder: Effect of the Disease and Pharmacotherapy

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Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of the Antidepressant and Anticonvulsant Activities of Triazole-Containing Benzo[d]oxazoles

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Multitarget Therapeutic Effect of Fasudil in APP/PS1transgenic Mice

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Antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects of sodium hypochlorite against Staphylococcus aureus isolates derived from patients with atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Introduction

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterised by an increased susceptibility for skin infections. Staphylococcus aureus is reported to dominate in AD lesions and reports have revealed the presence of staphylococcal biofilms. These infections contribute to aggravating the eczema. Sodium hypochlorite is known to reduce bacterial load of skin lesions as well as disease severity in AD patients but the effect on biofilms is unknown.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects of sodium hypochlorite against S. aureus isolates derived from patients with AD.

Materials and Methods

Skin biopsy derived from infected AD patient was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Using radial diffusion assays, biofilm assays and confocal laser scanning microscopy, we assessed the effect of sodium hypochlorite on S. aureus isolates derived from lesional skin of AD patients.

Results

SEM revealed clusters of coccoid bacteria embedded in fibrin and extracellular substances at the skin of a patient with infected AD. At concentrations of 0.01-0.08%, sodium hypochlorite showed antibacterial effects against planktonic cells. Eradication of S. aureus biofilms in vitro was observed in concentrations ranging from 0.01% to 0.16%. Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed these results. Finally, when human AD skin was subjected to sodium hypochlorite in an ex vivo model, a dose of 0.04% reduced the bacteria derived from AD skin.

Conclusions

Sodium hypochlorite has antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects against clinical S. aureus isolates. Our findings suggest usage of a higher concentration than currently used in bleach baths of skin-infected AD patients.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Correlation between pre-ramadan glycemic control and subsequent glucose fluctuation during fasting in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Background

Even though patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are exempted from fasting, the vast majority elect to fast against the advice of their healthcare providers. We have previously reported the incidence of wide fluctuations in blood glucose (BG) along with "unrecognized" severe hypoglycemia during Ramadan fasting in adolescents with T1DM. This report compares the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data during fasting in adolescents with T1DM according to their Pre-Ramadan diabetes control.

Methods

Children and adolescents with T1DM who intended to fast the month of Ramadan were asked to wear the CGM during fasting for a minimum of 3 days. Hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and severe hyperglycemia were identified as BG <70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), BG 201–300 mg/dL (11.2–16.7 mmol/L), or BG >300 mg/dL (16.7 mmol/L) respectively, while normoglycemia was identified as BG 70–200 mg/dL (3.9–11.1 mmol/L). Patients were categorized as well-controlled (Group 1) and poorly controlled (Group 2) if the pre-fasting HbA1C was ≤8% (64 mmol/mol) and >8%, respectively. We compared the mean BG and the percentages of time spent in hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and severe hyperglycemia between the two groups using Chi-square (significant difference when P value was <0.05).

Results

A total of 21 patients were enrolled (15 females), age 15 ± 4 years, duration of diabetes 6 ± 3 years, and HbA1C 8.5 ± 1.0% (70 mmol/mol). There were 7 subjects in Group 1, mean HbA1C 7.5 ± 0.4, and 14 subjects in Group 2, mean HbA1C 9.1 ± 0.9. The mean ± SD BG was 174 ± 76 mg/dL versus 199 ± 98, (P < 0.05) in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. The percentages of hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and severe hyperglycemia were significantly higher in Group 2, while there was a higher percentage of normoglycemia in Group 1. The overall durations of hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and severe hyperglycemia in Group 2 were longer by 30, 14, and 135%, respectively, than those in Group 1.

Conclusions

Glycemic control before Ramadan in adolescents with T1 DM appears to correlate with blood glucose profile during Ramadan fasting. Our data suggest that optimal glycemic control before Ramadan may reduce the potential risks associated with fasting and minimize glucose fluctuation.

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Biodegradation of pentachloronitrobenzene by Cupriavidus sp. YNS-85 and its potential for remediation of contaminated soils

Abstract

Pentachloronitrobenzene (PCNB) is a toxic chlorinated nitroaromatic compound. However, only a few bacteria have been reported to be able to utilize PCNB. In the present study, one pentachloronitrobenzene (PCNB)-degrading bacterium, Cupriavidus sp. YNS-85, was isolated from a contaminated Panax notoginseng plantation. The strain co-metabolized 200 mg L⁻¹ PCNB in aqueous solution with a removal rate of 73.8% after 5 days. The bacterium also degraded PCNB effectively under acid conditions (pH 4–6) and showed resistance to toxic trace elements (arsenic, copper, and cadmium). Its ability to utilize proposed PCNB intermediates as sole carbon sources was also confirmed. The soil microcosm experiment further demonstrated that bacterial bioaugmentation enhanced the removal of PCNB (37.8%) from soil and the accumulation of pentachloroaniline (89.3%) after 30 days. Soil enzyme activity and microbial community functional diversity were positively influenced after bioremediation. These findings indicate that Cupriavidus sp. YNS-85 may be a suitable inoculant for in situ bioremediation of PCNB-polluted sites, especially those with acid soils co-contaminated with heavy metal(loid)s.

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Axial propeller flaps: a proposal for update of the “Tokyo consensus on propeller flaps”

With this communication, we would like to propose an update to the classification of propeller flaps, since after its publication, new flaps have been described that need to be included.

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Permanent Implants for Lip Augmentation: results from a retrospective study and presentation of tips and tricks

The request for lip augmentation is increasing due to expanding media exposure and consumer needs. Temporary effects can be obtained with several techniques but a recent procedure, consisting of lip prosthesis implantation, offering a permanent result, is emerging. Accordingly, the implant of solid lip prosthesis represents an innovation in the field of aesthetic medicine and surgery.

http://ift.tt/2lIowWR

Conversion from weight to volume of mastectomy specimen: Convenient equations

Accurate restoration of the volume lost during breast removal is the key to achieving beautiful, symmetric breasts. This study aimed to devise a simpler and more accurate method of measuring breast tissue volume by studying the relationship between weight and volume of excised tissue according to density. Mammograms of 276 women who were advised to undergo breast reconstruction surgery were divided into 4 different groups according to tissue densities. The correlation between weight and volume was studied for each group.

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Should we consider the hemi-tip as a proper aesthetic subunit in nasal reconstruction?

Defects involving several aesthetic subunits (ASU) or lying at the junction of an ASU are challenging and require a complex reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to describe the hemi-tip as a new ASU.

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Eponychial flap refinement for the treatment of “hook-nail” deformity

"Hook-nail" deformity mainly occurs after a fingertip injury. Loss of bony support under the nail bed leads to curving of the matrix in a volar direction resulting in aesthetic and functional impairment.1 Surgical procedures proposed have a significant failure rate.

http://ift.tt/2lXq9T4

Phase I study of pazopanib plus TH-302 in advanced solid tumors

Abstract

Purpose

To define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), recommended phase II dose (RPTD), and assess safety and tolerability for the combination of pazopanib plus TH-302, an investigational hypoxia-activated prodrug (HAP), in adult patients with advanced solid tumors.

Methods

This was an open-label, non-randomized, single-center, phase I trial consisting 2 stages. Stage 1 was a standard "3 + 3" dose escalation design to determine safety and the RPTD for TH-302 plus pazopanib combination. Stage 2 was an expanded cohort to better describe the tolerability and toxicity profile at the MTD. Pazopanib was orally dosed at 800 mg daily on days 1–28 for all cohorts. TH-302 was administered intravenously on days 1, 8 and 15 of a 28-day cycle at doses of 340 mg/m² (cohort 1) or 480 mg/m² (cohort 2). Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) was assessed in the first 28-day cycle. Efficacy was assessed every 2 cycles.

Results

Thirty patients were enrolled between December 2011 and September 2013. In the dose escalation stage, 7 patients were enrolled in the 340 mg/m² TH-302 cohort and 6 patients in the 480 mg/m² TH-302 cohort. Ten patients were evaluable for DLT. DLTs included grade 2 intolerable esophagitis (n = 1) in the 340 mg/m² TH-302 cohort, and grade 3 vaginal inflammation (n = 1) and grade 3 neutropenia with grade 3 thrombocytopenia (n = 1, same patient) in the 480 mg/m² TH-302 cohort. The 340 mg/m² TH-302 cohort was determined to be MTD and RPTD. The most common treatment-related adverse events were hematologic (anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia), nausea/vomiting, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, constipation, fatigue, mucositis, anorexia, pain, and hypertension. Partial response (PR) was observed in 10% (n = 3) of patients, stable disease (SD) in 57% (n = 17), and progressive disease (PD) in 23% (n = 7). Due to toxicity, 3 patients were discontinued from study drug prior to first radiographic assessment but were included in these calculations. Disease control ≥6 months was observed in 37% of patients (n = 11).

Conclusions

The RPTD for this novel combination is pazopanib 800 mg daily on days 1–28 plus TH-302 340 mg/m² on days 1, 8 and 15 of each 28-day cycle. Preliminary activity was seen in treatment-refractory cancers and supports potential value of co-targeting tumor angiogenesis and tumor hypoxia.

http://ift.tt/2lbqkFU

Concise review of the management of iatrogenic emesis using cannabinoids: emphasis on nabilone for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a prevalent, distressing, and burdensome side effect of cancer chemotherapy. It is estimated to affect the majority of patients receiving certain anti-cancer drug regimens and can be treatment-limiting, even for life-saving medications. Despite seemingly numerous options, such as antimuscarinic anticholinergics, antihistamines, 5-HT₃ receptor antagonists, dopamine receptor antagonists, and neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists, preventative therapies are often inadequately effective, particularly for "delayed CINV"—leaving an important unmet clinical need. Cannabinoid receptor agonists, by virtue of their unique mechanism of action and efficacy and safety data reported in clinical trials, appear to offer a useful additional option. The mechanistic value of cannabinoids has been well known for many years, but these agents may have been underutilized in the past because of the notoriety and legal status of marijuana. While botanical marijuana contains nearly 500 components, including the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), nabilone is an established, single-entity synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist that has become the focus of renewed interest. We review the basic pharmacology and clinical trial data of nabilone for use in prophylaxis and treatment of CINV.

http://ift.tt/2lRqYwt

The effect of parathyroid hormone (1–84) treatment on serum bone morphogenetic protein 4 and vascular endothelial growth factor in postmenopausal women with established osteoporosis

Abstract

Purpose

To investigate the effect of 18 months' parathyroid hormone 1–84 (PTH 1–84) treatment on serum levels of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), in postmenopausal women with established osteoporosis.

Methods

Thirty-seven postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (mean age 72.9 ± 8.1 years old) and 23 healthy controls (mean age 68.9 ± 9.9 years old) were enrolled. Patients were treated with daily subcutaneous injections of PTH (1–84) 100 mcg for 18 months, plus calcium 1 gr and vitamin D 800 IU per os daily. Blood samples were taken every 6 months during the study.

Results

At baseline, there were no differences considering anthropometric parameters, co-morbidities, current medications used between patients and controls. Mean serum VEGF levels were significantly higher in osteoporotic patients compared to controls (436.7 ± 259.7 vs. 260.3 ± 184.3 pg/ml, p = 0.006), while there were no differences in mean serum values of BMP4 (5.3 ± 1.7 vs. 5.7 ± 1.6 pg/ml, p = 0.40). Serum VEGF levels increased by approximately 20% after 12 months of PTH (1–84) treatment compared to baseline (p = 0.03) and by 22% after 18 months (p = 0.01). A significant increase of 10% in mean serum BMP4 levels was observed after 18 months of PTH (1–84) treatment compared to baseline (p = 0.02). In the control group we found no differences after 18 months compared to baseline in BMP4 (5.7 ± 1.6 vs. 6.0 ± 1.5 pg/ml, p = 0.53) and VEGF (260.3 ± 184.3 vs. 257.4 ± 107.1 pg/ml, p = 0.94).

Conclusions

PTH (1–84) treatment increased serum levels of VEGF and BMP4 in postmenopausal women with severe osteoporosis.

http://ift.tt/2lSlCkm

Challenges in assessing personality of individuals with Gender Dysphoria with the SWAP-200

Abstract

Background

Personality assessment can be useful to better understand the complexity of transgender and transsexual people. In particular, the Shedler Westen Assessment Procedure-200 (SWAP-200) is a measure that provides an accurate dimensional evaluation of personality. When assessing gender non-conforming people, however, clinicians can encounter some difficulties in giving appropriate ratings to all the items.

Purpose of the review

A brief guide to the use of SWAP-200 with transgender patients is provided, taking into account three areas of psychological functioning: identity, relationships and sexuality. The authors review, one by one, the SWAP-200 items related to these areas, and, relying on their clinical experience and on scientific literature on Gender Dysphoria, they propose recommendations for making personality diagnoses meaningful.

Conclusion

This paper facilitates a better clinical understanding of transgender people, and help clinicians to be more knowledgeable in the assessment of this heterogeneous population.

http://ift.tt/2mxblaD

Tough and ultrastretchable hydrogels reinforced by poly(butyl acrylate-co-acrylonitrile) latex microspheres as crosslinking centers for hydrophobic association

Publication date: 10 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 112
Author(s): Wei Zhao, Lijie Duan, Baoyuan Zhang, Xiuyan Ren, Guang Hui Gao
In our previous work, poly(butyl acrylate) (PBA) latex microspheres (LMs) were embedded within hydrogels to enhance their mechanical strength. Herein, acrylonitrile (AN) components were added to the latex system to prepare novel poly(butyl acrylate-acrylonitrile) (P(BA-AN)) LMs. LMs were able to adsorb hydrophobic hexadecyl methacrylate (HMA) due to hydrophobic interactions, stabilized by using sodium dodecyl sulfate as a surfactants. The HMA could occur radical copolymerization with acrylamide (AAm) under the redox initiators to form P(HMA-AAm)-P(BA-AN) hydrogels. The intra and interchain non-permanent binding could be promoted in P(BA-AN) LMs due to the dipole-dipole interactions of -CN groups from acrylonitrile. As a result, P(BA-AN) LMs were utilized to fabricate tough hydrogels as crosslinking centers for hydrophobic association. The mechanical properties of the hydrogels exhibited a fracture stress of 775 KPa, an ultrastretchable strain of 3600% and a fracture energy of approximately 7600 KJ/m³. This innovative design strategy for LMs capable of strong physicochemical interactions, including electrostatic and hydrogen-bond interactions and coordination effects, may open a novel direction for the production of tough hydrogels.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miTp7C

Viscoelastic and electrical behavior of poly(methyl methacrylate)/carbon black composites prior to and after annealing

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Yamin Pan, Xianhu Liu, Joachim Kaschta, Xiaoqiong Hao, Chuntai Liu, Dirk W. Schubert
In this letter, both the viscoelastic and electrical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)/carbon black (PMMA/CB) nanocomposites with different CB concentrations prior to and after annealing were investigated. The linear steady-state recoverable compliance of pure PMMA is independent of annealing as it reflects only polymer-polymer interactions. While the conductivity of PMMA/CB nanocomposites increases gradually with annealing, and the viscoelastic properties show different regions of response depending on the CB concentration. At CB contents below the percolation threshold the recoverable compliances increase after annealing, whereas the reverse trend is found at CB contents above the percolation threshold. This behavior is related to the interplay between network formation and particle-particle interactions.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miUH2k

Interfacial molecular dynamics of styrenic block copolymer-based nanocomposites with controlled spatial distribution

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): E. Helal, L.G. Amurin, D.J. Carastan, R.R. de Sousa, E. David, M. Fréchette, N.R. Demarquette
The dielectric properties of nanocomposites of polystyrene-b-poly (ethylene-co-butylene)-b-polystyrene (SEBS) triblock copolymers containing organically modified clay nanoparticles featuring controlled spatial orientation at the nanoscale: isotropic, totally oriented and partially oriented, have been investigated and correlated with the nanocomposite morphologies. A slow dielectric relaxation process attributed to elastomer chains with reduced mobility confined at nanoparticle/polymer interphase was observed in all the nanocomposites and was found to be dependent on the orientation of nanoclay and polystyrene (PS) domains, the location of clay tactoids as well as the PS block fraction. A dielectric "interfacial" glass transition temperature Tgi assigned to this characteristic relaxation was estimated to occur at temperatures ranging between 6 °C and 35 °C depending on the nanocomposite, which is much higher than the bulk rubber phase glass transition temperature, normally lower than −40 °C for the studied block copolymers. Interestingly, the highest Tgi were associated with the nanocomposites featuring random or partial orientation and/or selective location of nanoparticles in the rubber phase.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miHYfV

Molecular confinement of solid and gaseous phases of self-standing bulk nanoporous polymers inducing enhanced and unexpected physical properties

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Javier Pinto, Belen Notario, Raquel Verdejo, Michel Dumon, Stephane Costeux, Miguel Angel Rodriguez-Perez
In this work it is provided the first evidence of the polymer chains confinement within self-standing pore walls of nanoporous materials based on poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). This was made possible by producing a series of porous samples with a wide range of pore sizes between 90 nm and 3 μm using processes combining CO2 sorption, selective block copolymer swelling or homogeneous physical foaming. Mobility restrictions of the PMMA chains in the porous samples with pore size below 200 nm was consistently demonstrated with several experimental techniques, including differential scanning calorimetry, Raman spectroscopy, and broadband dielectric spectroscopy.In addition, several scale-reduction phenomena related to the constitutive elements of the porous materials, both in the polymeric and gaseous phases, and to the porous architecture are identified. The significance of these phenomena on macroscopic electrical conductivity and permittivity of the nanoporous materials is demonstrated, and the presented observations support previous explanations of improved mechanical properties and thermal insulation of this type of nano-materials.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miRrnG

Protein-polyelectrolyte complexes: Molecular dynamics simulations and experimental study

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Alina A. Sofronova, Diana B. Evstafyeva, Vladimir A. Izumrudov, Vladimir I. Muronetz, Pavel I. Semenyuk
Despite use of polyelectrolytes is considered to be a prospective approach of protein aggregation suppression, owing to formation of soluble protein-polyelectrolyte complexes, the structure of the complexes and mechanism of their formation are not sufficiently understood. The aim of this work was to study the influence of degree of polymerization on the structure and properties of formed complexes. We carried out molecular dynamics simulations of complexes of cationic protein lysozyme with highly charged polyanions – poly(styrene sulfonate) and polyphosphate – of different degree of polymerization. It has been shown that the short charged chains are bound with the protein via a great majority of repeat units, while the long chains have unbound fragments that form charged loops and tails around the protein surface. These loops were earlier suggested to provide stability of the complex. Furthermore, the charge of the complex increased with increasing length of chain. These findings are consistent with the experimentally measured zeta potential. The obtained results help to explain why polyanion protective efficiency against protein aggregation increases with increase of the degree of polymerization.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miVa4z

Hybrid triazolium and ammonium ions-contained hyperbranched polymer with enhanced ionic conductivity

Publication date: 10 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 112
Author(s): Hongfei Li, Cuifang Wang, Xiaojuan Liao, Meiran Xie, Ruyi Sun
Hyperbranched poly(triazole) with tertiary amine moiety and longer flexible polyethylene glycol (PEG) terminal group (hb-PTA-PEG) was synthesized by successive Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition polymerization, and the corresponding hyperbranched poly(triazolium)s containing hybrid quaternary ammonium ion, [hb-PTA-PEG]⁺[I]⁻ and [hb-PTA-PEG]⁺[TFSI]⁻, were obtained after N-alkylation and anion exchange reactions. These hyperbranched polymers presented broad electrochemical stability window of above 6.0 V versus Ag⁺/Ag and 5.3 V versus Li⁺/Li, and displayed low glass transition temperature in the range of −13 to −37 °C, owing to the hyperbranched structure combined with the hybrid ionic moiety and longer flexible PEG end-group. The ionic [hb-PTA-PEG]⁺[TFSI]⁻ showed superior ionic conductivity, which was above 10⁻⁵ S cm⁻¹ at 30 °C.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miVYXd

Facile synthesis and hierarchical assembly of polystyrene-block- poly (perfluorooctylethyl acrylates)

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Hui Dai, Guang-Zhong Yin, Fang-Jia Zhao, Zhong-Xuan Bian, Yu-Jie Xu, Wen-Bin Zhang, Xia-Ran Miao, Hui Li
Hierarchical assembly of macromolecules has been central in creating complex nanostructures. In this work, polystyrene-block-poly (perfluorooctylethyl acrylates) (PS-b-PFOA) diblock copolymers were synthesized by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and shown to assemble into hierarchical structures in bulk with the interplay of nanophase separation and crystallization. The molecular weights were determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and ¹H NMR spectra. The phase-separated nanostructures of these block copolymers were investigated via small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) in reciprocal space and by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in real space. The results showed that well-ordered lamellar morphologies were formed in the bulk of samples with volume fraction of PFOA (fPFOA) around 0.390–0.538. Within the PFOA layers, the side chains were found to further crystallize, forming crystalline layers with thicknesses about twice that of the length of fluorinated side-chains. The SAXS patterns from sheared samples further show that the orientation of crystalline layers was perpendicular to the lamellar layers formed by micro-phase separation.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miNEqi

Crystalline microstructure and dielectric properties of oriented poly(ethylene-co-tetrafluoroethylene)

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Yun Huang, Daniel F. Miranda, Ciprian Iacob, Shihai Zhang, James Runt
In the present investigation, we explore the influence of uniaxial orientation and subsequent thermal annealing on semi-crystalline poly(ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene) (ETFE) microstructure and dynamics, and the connection to dielectric breakdown strength. Understanding the influence of crystalline microstructure on dynamics and breakdown, and in turn how processing influences microstructure, is critical for establishing rational design of polymer dielectrics. When drawn below the glass transition temperature (Tg), the Weibull breakdown strength decreases compared to that of the undrawn precursor film, but increases on thermal annealing near or above Tg. This behavior is associated with the formation and elimination of drawing-induced microvoids, respectively. When drawn above Tg, the breakdown strength increases to ∼870 MV/cm, dominated by orientation of amorphous segments, and decreases on thermal annealing above Tg to near that of the undrawn film.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miNGhU

Noncovalent azopoly(ester imide)s: Experimental study on structure-property relations and theoretical approach for prediction of glass transition temperature and hydrogen bond formation

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Jolanta Konieczkowska, Henryk Janeczek, Jan Małecki, Barbara Trzebicka, Dariusz Szmigiel, Anna Kozanecka-Szmigiel, Ewa Schab-Balcerzak
Novel azosystems possessing chemical architecture that allows for noncovalent attachment of the azobenzene or azopyridine chromophores to poly(ester imide) matrix via hydrogen bonding were fabricated. Chosen physicochemical properties including the ability of the chromophores to realign upon linearly polarized light were determined and discussed in relation to details of the materials structure. Calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) were employed to understand and explain a structural reason affecting hydrogen bond formation ability and photoresponsive behavior of the studied azosystems. For the first time, the Fox equation was shown to be applicable for calculating the glass transition temperature of hydrogen-bonded azopolymers. Moreover, it was demonstrated that azopyridine polymers may exhibit a very efficient molecular photo-orientation provided that they possess a proper structural design.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miTfNi

Generation effect of Newkome dendrimers on cellular uptake

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Elizabeth A. Kaufman, Rossella Tarallo, Annarita Falanga, Stefania Galdiero, Marcus Weck
Poly(amide)-based dendrimers can be used as delivery scaffolds in conjunction with the cell-penetrating peptide gH625 derived from the glycoprotein of the Herpes Simplex virus type 1. In this contribution, we aim to isolate the optimal dendrimer generation for cellular uptake for Newkome type dendrimers conjugated with gH625. For this study, we synthesized generations zero to three of the Newkome dendrimer-gH625 bioconjugate. Fluorescent microscopy experiments showed that the second and third generations are the most efficient for cellular uptake with the second generation having the synthetic advantage. The optimal second generation can be used as an improved material for a dendrimer based delivery scaffold for peptide therapeutics.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miSkN5

Effect of fused layer modeling (FLM) processing parameters on impact strength of cellular polypropylene

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Lu Wang, Douglas J. Gardner
Fused layer modeling (FLM) or fused deposition modeling (FDM) can be used to produce polymer components with a cellular structure. The existence of cells (voids) in FLM parts degrades mechanical properties. This study was done to understand the influence of two printing parameters, layer height (0.1 mm and 0.3 mm) and extrusion temperature (200 °C and 250 °C), on the Izod impact strength of polypropylene (PP). Morphological analysis showed that smaller layer height and higher extrusion temperature generally resulted in smaller cell size but larger cell density. Printed PP components were lighter than injection molded PP parts. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed that both α and β type crystals existed in printed PP. PP printed at 250 °C had lower impact strength while components printed at 200 °C had similar impact strength to injection molded PP.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miRsYM

Polylactic acid organogel as versatile scaffolding technique

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Xavier Punet, Riccardo Levato, Isabelle Bataille, Didier Letourneur, Elisabeth Engel, Miguel A. Mateos-Timoneda
Tissue engineering requires scaffolding techniques based on non-toxic processes that permits the fabrication of constructs with tailored properties. Here, a two-step methodology based on the gelation and precipitation of the poly(lactic) acid/ethyl lactate organogel system is presented. With this technique nanofibrous matrices that resemble natural extracellular matrix can be easily obtained, while allowing control over the mechanical properties of the device. Gelation temperature and the dynamics of the gelation of the organogel system are characterized, and the final mechanical and viscoelastic properties, as well as porosity, as function of the initial polymer concentration are described. We show that gelation temperature of the system is concentration independent and below 44.5 °C, which permits gelation at room temperature. Furthermore, mechanical properties are found in the range of the soft organic tissues, and the obtained micro-network architecture gives place to a flexible structure. Such structure presents tuneable elastic modulus and viscoelastic properties as function of nanofibers density. Moreover, centimetre-long tubular scaffolds with the diameter of medium-caliber blood vessels were produced. The fibrous nano-architecture mimics the native extracellular matrix fibres diameter and morphology was proven to be suitable to support endothelialization of the lumen of the tube. Thus, this strategy, based on biocompatible green compound might be promising for the fabrication of large 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering applications.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miTJD3

Unveiling the impact of nanoparticle size dispersity on the behavior of polymer nanocomposites

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): J. Javier Burgos-Mármol, Alessandro Patti
Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs), a class of polymer materials incorporating nano-sized particles (NPs), have tremendous potential in industrial formulations and technological applications, such as protective coatings and food packaging. In this work, we perform Molecular Dynamics simulations to unveil the impact of NP size dispersity on a variety of properties that characterize the response of PNCs at the nano and macro scales. In particular, at the nano scale, we investigate the space distribution of small and large polydisperse NPs and their ability to diffuse through a dense isotropic distribution of unentangled polymer chains. We find very interesting scaling laws relating the average size and polydispersity index of NPs with their diffusion coefficients, generally underestimated by existing theoretical models. These theories are here adapted to include the effect of NP size dispersity and their predictions, confirming the relevance of incorporating such contributions, are validated against our simulation results. We also analyze the diffusivity of the polymer chains as a function of the interparticle distance for a spectrum of NP diameters and confirmed the existence of a single master curve as recently observed experimentally (S. Gam et al., Soft Matter, 2012, 8, 6512). To assess the effect of NP size dispersity on the macroscopic response of our model PNC, we evaluate two key transport properties, shear viscosity and thermal conductivity, which are found to display an intriguing universal behavior when plotted against the polymer/NP specific interface area and the inverse of the NP's mass, respectively.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miJBdM

A new approach to fabricate polypropylene alloy with excellent low-temperature toughness and balanced toughness-rigidity through unmatched thermal expansion coefficients between components

Publication date: 10 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 112
Author(s): Yonggang Shangguan, Feng Chen, Jie Yang, Erwen Jia, Qiang Zheng
A new strategy for fabricating polypropylene alloy with good low-temperature toughness was reported. Glass transition temperature (Tg) of rubber phase in polypropylene/ethylene-propylene rubber/poly(styrene-b-ethylene/propylene) diblock copolymer (PP/EPR/SEP) blend was continuously reduced through strengthening the interfacial tensile force on rubber phase by using the concept of mismatched thermal expansion coefficient. As a result, the brittle-tough transition (BTT) of PP alloy shifted to lower temperature and subsequently excellent impact strength at low temperature was achieved. Through qualitative analysis of impact force, it was found that the theoretical temperature at which BTT occurred was close to that obtained by experiment, indicating BTT of rubber toughened plastic system is indeed controlled by rubber's Tg at impact instant. Furthermore, the PP alloy with excellent low-temperature toughness shows balanced toughness-rigidity, on the contrary, the blends presents poor rigidity when SEP or EPR is used to toughen PP alone.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miVhgi

Pressure-sensitive behaviors, mechanisms and model of field assisted quantum tunneling composites

Publication date: 24 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 113
Author(s): Siqi Ding, Baoguo Han, Xufeng Dong, Xun Yu, Yiqing Ni, Qiaofeng Zheng, Jinping Ou
Field assisted quantum tunneling composite (FAQTC) is a unique pressure-sensitive material with the advantages of large resistance change range under external force, easy preparation and excellent mechanical properties. In this paper, with attentions to the pressure-sensitivity of the FAQTCs, the effects of silicon rubber matrix, diameter and dosage of nickel particles as well as magnetic field treatment are systematically investigated. The reproducibility of the pressure-sensitivity of the FAQTCs under cyclic load is explored. Based on Cotton's equation and Burger's model, the descriptions of stress relaxation behavior and electrical resistance relaxation behavior of the composites under static compressive loading are given respectively. The results show that external magnetic field during curing process allows better adjustment of the pressure-sensitivity of the FAQTCs with fewer nickel particles. The increase of the dosage of nickel particles can improve the stability and reproducibility of the pressure-sensitivity of the composites. Electrical resistance relaxation behavior of the composites is partly controlled by the stress relaxation behavior. Moreover, based on the theory of percolation conduction, the mechanism of the pressure-sensitivity of the FAQTCs under uniaxial load is discussed and further qualitatively explained by adopting effective conducting path model. Finally, on the basis of this model combined with quantum tunneling effect, a mathematical model describing the pressure-sensitivity of the composites is established, which can well describe the pressure-sensitivity of the composites.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miUJat

Polyaniline film-based wireless photo reactor for hydrogen generation through exciton mediated proton reduction

Publication date: 10 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 112
Author(s): Smita Masid Roy, Nageswara N. Rao, Alexandre Herissan, Christophe Colbeau-Justin
The unique light absorption property of semiconductors has been exploited to build photovoltaic (PV), photo electrochemical solar cells (PESC) and photocatalytic (PC) reactors that not only convert sunlight into electrical energy but also drive useful chemical reactions. Hydrogen, the clean fuel of 21st century has been targeted for several decades. However, the above systems possess complex architecture with two or more semiconductor-solution interfaces that are often plagued with material instability and show poor photon conversion efficiency. Here we demonstrate a simple pristine polyaniline (PANI) film based photo H2 generating system. The 'wireless' system with only one PANI/solution interface, utilizes internal redox chemistry in the conjugated polymer for 'photo exciton' formation and charge separation. The electrons migrate to the PANI/aq. H2SO4 interface and reduce H⁺ to produce H2. The polymer film is light weight, flexible, and solution-processable. The reported system is simple and scalable for high volume production of hydrogen.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miVjou

Crosslinked membranes of poly(vinyl ether)s having oxyethylene side chains: The effects of the side chain length and the crosslinkable group on CO2 permeability

Publication date: 10 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 112
Author(s): Toshikazu Sakaguchi, Shinya Yamazaki, Tamotsu Hashimoto
Living cationic copolymerization of vinyl ethers having oxyethylene side chains (MOEO3VE and MOEO4VE) with vinyl ethers having thermal-crosslinkable groups (VEEM and VEEA) provided the random-like copolymers [poly (MOEO3VE-VEEM), poly (MOEO4VE-VEEM), poly (MOEO3VE-VEEA), and poly (MOEO4VE-VEEA)]. The obtained copolymer compositions were almost the same as those of the feed ratios, and the copolymers with various composition ratios were synthesized ([MOEO3VE or MOEO4VE]/[VEEM or VEEA] = 2:1, 4:1, 6:1, 10:1, and 14:1). All the copolymers are sticky liquid before crosslinking, but the relatively tough porous Teflon film-based composite membranes were obtained by thermal crosslinking via mathacrylate groups or acrylate groups. All the membranes showed high CO2 permselectivity (PCO2/PN2 = 40–51) due to the high CO2 solubility selectivity (SCO2/SN2 = 44–61). The CO2 permeability increased as the composition ratios of VEEM and VEEA decreased because the gas diffusivity enhanced by the decrement of crosslinking points. Given the same composition ratio, the increased oxyethylene side chain length is beneficial in enhancing CO2 permeability. The effects of crosslinkable groups on gas permeability were not observed. Poly (MOEO4VE-VEEM) and poly (MOEO4VE-VEEA) showed the excellent performance for CO2 separation (PCO2 = 440 and 460 barrer, PCO2/PN2 = 51).

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miHZAv

Sustainable poly(ε-decalactone)−poly(l-lactide) multiarm star copolymer architectures for thermoplastic elastomers with fixed molar mass and block ratio

Publication date: 10 March 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 112
Author(s): Sangjun Lee, Kyungchan Lee, Jeongmin Jang, Ji Sun Choung, Woo Jin Choi, Geon-Joong Kim, Young-Wun Kim, Jihoon Shin
To improve the thermal and mechanical properties of thermoplastic elastomers derived from plant-based monomers, a series of well-defined multiarm star block copolymers was investigated. Controlled bulk ring-opening polymerization of ε-decalactone (DL) with multiarm initiators yielded hydroxyl-terminated (PDL−OH)n, which were subsequently converted to (PDL−PLLA)n using l-lactide (LLA) through a one-pot, two-step process. The multiarm copolymers were designed for targeting on Mn,NMR and fPLLA of 180 kg mol⁻¹ and 0.27, respectively. Structural analysis proved that PLLA hard domains were thinner, and thus, more compact microphase-separated structures with hexagonally packed cylinders were induced by increasing n. Thermal and tensile property measurement demonstrated that, although the copolymers had a lower crystallinity in PLLA due to the shorter chain length, the thermal degradation stability and mechanical strength were enhanced, which was caused by to an amplified pinning effect caused by the more closed packed PLLA domains, in addition to chemical crosslinking of the PDL strands.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2miH1Ey