Gemcitabine–erlotinib versus gemcitabine–erlotinib–capecitabine in the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer: Efficacy and safety results of a phase IIb randomised study from the Spanish TTD Collaborative Group

Publication date: April 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 75
Author(s): Antonio Irigoyen, Javier Gallego, Carmen Guillén Ponce, Ruth Vera, Vega Iranzo, Inmaculada Ales, Sara Arévalo, Aleydis Pisa, Marta Martín, Antonieta Salud, Esther Falcó, Alberto Sáenz, José Luis Manzano Mozo, Gema Pulido, Joaquina Martínez Galán, Roberto Pazo-Cid, Fernando Rivera, Teresa García García, Olbia Serra, Eva M Fernández Parra, Alicia Hurtado, M José Gómez Reina, Luis Jesús López Gomez, Esther Martínez Ortega, Manuel Benavides, Enrique Aranda
BackgroundGemcitabine and erlotinib have shown a survival benefit in the first-line setting in metastatic pancreatic cancer (mPC). The aim of this study was to assess whether combining capecitabine (C) with gemcitabine + erlotinib (GE) was safe and effective versus GE in patients with mPC.Patients and methodsPreviously untreated mPC patients were randomised to receive G (1000 mg/m², days 1, 8, 15) + E (100 mg/day, days 1–28) + C (1660 mg/m², days 1–21) or GE, q4 weeks, until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Primary end-point: progression-free survival (PFS); secondary end-points: overall survival (OS), response rate, relationship of rash with PFS/OS and safety.Results120 patients were randomised, median age 63 years, ECOG status 0/1/2 33%/58%/8%; median follow-up 16.5 months. Median PFS in the gemcitabine–erlotinib–capecitabine (GEC) and GE arms was 4.3 and 3.8 months, respectively (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.58–1.31; p = 0.52). Median OS in the GEC and GE arms was 6.8 and 7.7 months, respectively (HR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.72–1.63; p = 0.69). Grade 3/4 neutropenia (GEC 43% versus GE 15%; p = 0.0008) and mucositis (GEC 9% versus GE 0%; p = 0.03) were the only statistically significant differences in grade 3/4 adverse events. PFS and OS were significantly longer in patients with rash (grade ≥1) versus no rash (grade = 0): PFS 5.5 versus 2.0 months (HR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.26–0.6; p < 0.0001) and OS: 9.5 versus 4.0 months (HR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.33–0.77; p = 0.0014).ConclusionPFS with GEC was not significantly different to that with GE in patients with mPC. Skin rash strongly predicted erlotinib efficacy.The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01303029.



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Impact of lymphopenia on prognosis of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma

Publication date: April 2017
Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 75
Author(s): Enrico Schalk, Vanja Zeremski, Thomas Fischer




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The effect of Gd and Zn additions on microstructures and mechanical properties of Mg-4Sm-3Nd-Zr alloy

Publication date: 5 June 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 706
Author(s): Chaojie Che, Liren Cheng, Libo Tong, Zhongyi Cai, Hongjie Zhang
The effect of gadolinium (Gd, 1 wt%) and zinc (Zn, 1 wt%) additions on microstructures and mechanical properties of Mg-4Sm-3Nd-Zr alloy have been investigated by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The additions of Gd and Zn changed the kinds of precipitates in the T6-state alloy, leading to improvement of tensile properties. The prismatic precipitated phases β′ and β″ existed in the peak-aged Mg-4Sm-3Nd-Zr alloy, while β′ phase and γ phase were dominant precipitates in peak-aged Mg-4Sm-3Nd-Gd-Zn-Zr alloy, and the strip-shaped ZrZn phase could also be observed after solution treatment at 798 K for 8 h. The peak-aged Mg-4Sm-3Nd-Gd-Zn-Zr alloy exhibited good heat resistance with ultimate tensile properties 213 MPa and elongation 8.6% at 573 K, which was attributed to β′ phase, γ phase and ZrZn phase hindering dislocation and grain boundary motions.



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Different valence Sn doping – A simple way to detect oxygen concentration variation of ZnO quantum dots synthesized under ultrasonic irradiation

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, Volume 38
Author(s): Weimin Yang, Bing Zhang, Qitu Zhang, Lixi Wang, Bo Song, Fan Wu, C.P. Wong
An ultrasonic method is employed to synthesize the Sn doped Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots with green light emission. Sn²⁺ and Sn⁴⁺ ions are used to create different optical defects inside Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots and the changing trend of oxygen concentration under different ultrasonic irradiation power are investigated. The photoluminescence spectra are employed to characterize the optical defects of Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots. The UV–vis spectra are used to study the band gap of Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots, which is influenced by their sizes. The results indicate that ultrasonic power would influence the size of Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots as well as the type and quantity of defects in ZnO quantum dots. Changing trends in size of Sn²⁺ and Sn⁴⁺ doped Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots are quite similar with each other, while the changing trends in optical defects types and concentration of Sn²⁺ and Sn⁴⁺ doped Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots are different. The difference of the optical defects concentration changing between Sn²⁺ doped Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots (VO defects) and Sn⁴⁺ doped Zn0.95Sn0.05O quantum dots (OZn and Oi defects) shows that the formation process of ZnO under ultrasonic irradiation wiped oxygen out.



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The influence of structural factors on the composition, spectral-luminescent properties and thermal stability of zinc(II) bis(dipyrromethenate)s crystal solvates with aromatic hydrocarbons

Publication date: July 2017
Source:Journal of Luminescence, Volume 187
Author(s): Alexander A. Ksenofontov, Galina B. Guseva, Elena V. Antinа
It was found that methylsubstituted zinc(II) bis(dipyrromethenate)s ([Zn2L2]) form stable supramolecular π-π-complexes [Zn2L2Xn] (n=1, or 2) with aromatic hydrocarbons (Х) (X - benzene (B), toluene (T), m-xylene (mX), p-xylene (pX), and o-xylene (oX)). The [Zn2L2Xn] solid samples were obtained by the slow crystallization from the [Zn2L2] saturated solutions in X at the temperature about 300K. Composition, stability, and spectral-luminescent properties of the [Zn2L2Xn] crystal solvates were studied by means of FT-IR, PXRD, thermal, mass spectral, quantum chemical, absorption, and fluorescence analyses. Spectroscopic studies showed that the quantum yields (φ) of [Zn2L2Хn] are lower (to ~1.2–3.9 times) than quantum yields (φо) of [Zn2L2] in cyclohexane. It was shown that fluorescence quenching efficiencies of helicates increase with decreasing the molecular ligands aromaticity. The thermal dissociation processes of [Zn2L2Xn] have been investigated in argon atmosphere. Crystal solvates are stable up to the temperature ~369–477K. The [Zn2L2Xn] solvates stabilities increase with decreasing the number of alkyl substituents in pyrrole rings of complex domains. It was demonstrated that high values of energy of π-π-intermolecular interactions in [Zn2L2Xn] are the main cause of the fluorescence quenching of [Zn2L2] in the aromatic hydrocarbons presence.

Graphical abstract

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Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, quantum mechanical study and spectroscopic characterization of the non-centrosymmetric coordination compound bis(4-fluoroaniline)dichloridozincate

Publication date: 15 June 2017
Source:Journal of Molecular Structure, Volume 1138
Author(s): M. Ben Nasr, S. Soudani, F. Lefebvre, C. Jelsch, C. Ben Nasr
The Zn(II) complex with the monodentate ligand 4-fluoroaniline, ZnCl2(C6H4FNH2)2, has been prepared and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, solid state nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The Zn(II) ion is tetracoordinated by two nitrogen atoms of two monodentate 4-fluoroaniline ligands and two chlorine atoms. In the molecular arrangement, the ZnCl2(C6H4FNH2)2 entities are interconnected via NH⋯Cl hydrogen bonds to form layers parallel to the (a, b) plane. The nature and proportion of contacts in the crystal packing were investigated through the Hirshfeld surfaces. The crystal is mainly maintained by electrostatic attractions Cl⁻ … HN and by extensive hydrophobic contacts as revealed by the Hirshfeld 2D fingerprint plots and statistical analysis. The¹³C and ¹⁹F CP-MAS NMR spectra are in agreement with the X-ray structure and confirm the phase purity of the crystalline sample. The vibrational absorption bands were identified by infrared spectroscopy. A calorimetric study shows that the title compound is stable until 262.5 °C.

Graphical abstract

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Investigation on impedance response and dielectric relaxation of Ni-Zn ferrites prepared by self-combustion technique

Publication date: 5 June 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 706
Author(s): M.K. Anupama, B. Rudraswamy, N. Dhananjaya
Nanocrystalline mixed Ni1-xZnx Fe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1) have been achieved by low temperature self-combustion technique using oxylyldehydrazide (ODH) as fuel. The structural, morphological and dielectric properties were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy and frequency dependant impedance spectroscopy with frequency range from 1 Hz to 10⁷ Hz. The XRD analyses of as prepared samples show single phase cubic spinel structure with Fd-3m space group. The average crystallite size was estimated using Debye-Scherer's formula and was found to be in the range 15–30 nm. FTIR spectra shows two prominent absorption bands, the higher band at tetrahedral (A) sites and the lower band at octahedral (B) site. The Raman peaks above 600 cm⁻¹ correspond to A1g type, involving motions of O atoms in the tetrahedral group (A-site) and the other low frequency peak 241, 335 and 480 represent the characteristics of the octahedral group (B-site) of ferrites. SEM images shows that all the samples have nano crystalline behavior with spherical shape. EDX confirms the constitutional distribution of prepared samples. The dielectric properties such as dielectric constant ε′, dielectric loss tangent and ac conductivity were found to be lowest for x = 0.8. The grain and grain boundary contributions in nano ferrites have been explained using Nyquist plot. The prepared mixed ferrites are good material for frequency dependent applications.

Graphical abstract

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Flower-like nickel-zinc-cobalt mixed metal oxide nanowire arrays for electrochemical capacitor applications

Publication date: 25 June 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 708
Author(s): Wei Hu, Hongyun Wei, Yin She, Xiaosheng Tang, Miao Zhou, Zhigang Zang, Jihe Du, Chao Gao, Yongcai Guo, Dinghua Bao
The flower-like nickel-zinc-cobalt (Ni-Zn-Co) mixed metal oxide nanowire arrays have been directly synthesized on nickel foam by using a simple hydrothermal method and subsequent thermal treatment. According to the electrochemical characterization, it is demonstrated that the flower-like Ni-Zn-Co oxide nanowire arrays manifest high specific capacitance (776 F g⁻¹) and areal capacitance (1.16 F cm⁻²) at a current density of 2 A g⁻¹. It should also be noted that the Ni-Zn-Co oxide nanowire arrays exhibit long cycle stability (88.9% of the maximum value after 10000 cycles) and good rate capability (retention of 73.8% at 32 A g⁻¹). The assembled aqueous asymmetric supercapacitor shows an energy density of 44.5 Wh kg⁻¹ at a power density of 880 W kg⁻¹. Furthermore, in terms of the analysis results of material characterization and electrochemical performance, the excellent pseudocapacitive performance could be ascribed to the unique flower-like nanowire architecture with high surface areas, rich redox reaction sites, good mechanical and electrical contacts, as well as high conductivities and transport rates for both electrolyte ions and electrons. This study indicates that the flower-like Ni-Zn-Co oxide nanowire arrays could find opportunities in supercapacitor applications.

Graphical abstract

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Enhancement of structural & opt- electronic properties of vacuum processed Cu2ZnSnS4 thin film by thiourea treatment

Publication date: 25 June 2017
Source:Journal of Alloys and Compounds, Volume 708
Author(s): Bhagyashree Pani, Subhashree Swain, Sidharth Kumar Pradhan, Udai P. Singh
In the present work, Cu-Zn-Sn-S precursor films were deposited by co-evaporation using elemental precursors. Prior to sulfurization, the precursor films were divided into three sets. Set1- Cu-Zn-Sn-S precursor directly sulfurized without any pre treatment, Set 2- Cu-Zn-Sn-S precursor film with an additional SnS layer deposited by thermal evaporation & sulfurized & Set 3 Precursor Cu-Zn-Sn-S film was treated with thiourea solution before sulfurization. From combined X-ray diffraction and Raman scattering analysis, CZTS phase formation was revealed for all three sets. Set 1 & Set 2 CZTS films exhibited SnS and CuS compounds as secondary phases while the set 3 film was found to have pure kesterite phase. Highly compact and uniform films were formed for all the three CZTS sets. Compositional analysis showed that the CZTS-TU film exhibit Cu-poor and Zn rich ratios while the rest two films showed slight deviations from ideal values. By employing glancing angle XRD technique, penetration depth values were calculated at four different incident angles. Phase, crystalline nature and micro structural parameters were evaluated for CZTS films at various incident angles. Best crystalline structure, morphology, compositions was obtained for the thiourea treated CZTS film.

Graphical abstract

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Integrated hazard, risk and impact assessment of tropical marine sediments from Tema Harbour (Ghana)

Publication date: June 2017
Source:Chemosphere, Volume 177
Author(s): Benjamin O. Botwe, Kristine De Schamphelaere, Cor A. Schipper, Johannes Teuchies, Ronny Blust, Elvis Nyarko, Piet N.L. Lens
The potential ecological hazard, risk and impact of tropical marine sediments from the Tema Harbour (Greater Accra, Ghana) was investigated by integrating Corophium volutator and Hediste diversicolor whole-sediment toxicity bioassays with data on the metals (Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn and As) concentrations of the sediments. The whole-sediment toxicity bioassay results showed that sediments of the Tema Harbour are potentially hazardous to marine benthic invertebrates. C. volutator exhibited a higher vulnerability to the sediment toxicity than H. diversicolor, although the latter showed higher biota-sediment accumulation factors for the investigated metals. Statistically significant correlations were observed between C. volutator mortality and sediment Cd concentration (r = 0.84, p < 0.05; n = 6) and between H. diversicolor mortality and sediment Cu concentration (r = 0.94, p < 0.05; n = 5). Comparison of metal concentrations with international action levels for contaminated sediment disposal indicates that the Tema Harbour sediments contain potentially hazardous concentrations of Cu and Zn. This study shows that sediments from the Tema Harbour are not suitable for disposal at sea without remediation. There is, therefore, a need to improve environmental management and regulate the disposal of dredged material originating from the Tema Harbour.



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Self-healing efficiency of ferrite-filled asphalt mixture after microwave irradiation

Publication date: 15 June 2017
Source:Construction and Building Materials, Volume 141
Author(s): Xingyi Zhu, Yongsheng Cai, Sheng Zhong, Jun Zhu, Hongduo Zhao
Asphalt-based composites have the ability to heal themselves. Under certain conditions, strength and stiffness modulus can be restored so that the fatigue life can be extended. However, without the aid of external influences (energy supply or material supplement), the self-healing ability of asphalt mixture is quite limited. In this paper, the efficiency of self-healing of asphalt mixture with Ni-Zn ferrite powders was analyzed based on the concept of microwave heating. The recovery rate of stiffness modulus and the fatigue life extension ratio were adopted to evaluate the self-healing efficiency of asphalt mixture. Different influence factors, such as heating temperature, healing time and damage level, were analyzed in this study. The analysis results proved that Ni-Zn ferrite powders can promote the self-healing ability of asphalt mixture significantly. It is found that when the asphalt mixture is filled with 80% ferrite powders (volume fraction of mineral powders), under the condition of healing for 3h after heating to 55°C by microwave, the fatigue life extension ratio of 50% damaged ferrite-filled asphalt mixture can reach 1.33.



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Presence, distribution and molecular epidemiology of multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli from medical personnel of intensive care units in Tianjin, China, 2007-2015.

Presence, distribution and molecular epidemiology of multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli from medical personnel of intensive care units in Tianjin, China, 2007-2015.

J Hosp Infect. 2017 Jan 28;:

Authors: Liu H, Fei CN, Zhang Y, Liu GW, Liu J, Dong J

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDRGNB) have become an important cause of nosocomial infection in intensive care units (ICUs).
AIMS: To investigate the molecular epidemiology of MDRGNB isolated from medical personnel (MP) and non-medical personnel (NMP) at 69 ICUs in Tianjin, China.
METHODS: From April 2007 to October 2015, 2636 nasal and hand swab samples from 1185 MP and 133 NMP were cultured for GNB (including MDRGNB), meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The susceptibilities of GNB to 14 antimicrobial agents were determined, and 80 MDRGNB were characterized using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and dendrogram analysis.
FINDINGS: In total, 301 GNB were identified in 269 MP, including 109 MDRGNB isolates in 104 MP. Forty-two GNB were isolated from 39 NMP, which included 20 NMP with MDRGNB. Overall, 8.8% of MP were colonized with MDRGNB, which greatly exceeded colonization rates with MRSA (0.9%) and VRE (0.1%). Three pairs of Klebsiella pneumoniae and one pair of Enterobacter aerogenes were indistinguishable from each other, but the majority of isolate tests had distinct PFGE profiles.
CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of MDRGNB was high among ICU MP in Tianjin, and greatly exceeded that of VRE and MRSA. There was no difference in the rates of nasal carriage of MDRGNB between MP and NMP, but NMP were significantly more likely to have hand colonization with MDRGNB. PFGE profiles showed that there was only limited sharing of strains of MDR E .aerogenes and K. pneumoniae between personnel.

PMID: 28268024 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Prevention of Biomaterial Infection by Pre-Operative Incubation with Human Cells.

Prevention of Biomaterial Infection by Pre-Operative Incubation with Human Cells.

Surg Infect (Larchmt). 2017 Mar 07;:

Authors: Pérez-Tanoira R, Aarnisalo AA, Eklund KK, Han X, Soininen A, Tiainen VM, Esteban J, Kinnari TJ

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cells of tissues and biofilm forming bacteria compete for the living space on the surface of an implant. We hypothesized the incubation of the implant (titanium, polydimethylsiloxane, and polystyrene surface) with human cells before implantation as a strategy to prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.
METHODS: After 24 hours of incubation with human osteogenic sarcoma SaOS-2 cells (1 × 10(5) cells/mL), the materials were incubated for 4.5 hours or two days with Staphylococcus aureus in serial 1:10 dilutions of 10(8) colony-forming units/mL. The bacterial adherence and biofilm biomass on materials pre-incubated with SaOS-2 cells were compared with our previous results on materials incubated only with bacteria or in simultaneous co-culture of SaOS-2 cells and S. aureus. Fluorescent microscopy and crystal violet stain were used. The number of viable SaOS-2 and bacterial cells present was tested using colorimetric methods (MTT, LDH) and drop plate method, respectively.
RESULTS: The pre-treatment with human cells was associated with a reduction of bacterial colonization of the biomaterial at 4.5 hours and 48 hours compared with the non-pre-treated materials. The presence of bacteria decreased the number of viable human cells on all materials. ( Supplementary Fig. 1 ; see online supplementary materials at http://ift.tt/2ml6Su7 ).
CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the pre-operative incubation of prostheses with host cells could prevent infection of biomaterials.

PMID: 28267427 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Psychomotor Testing for Orthopedic Residency Applicants: A Pilot Study

Publication date: Available online 7 March 2017
Source:Journal of Surgical Education
Author(s): Johnathan F. Williams, Shawna L. Watson, Dustin K. Baker, Brent A. Ponce, Gerald McGwin, Shawn R. Gilbert, Joseph G. Khoury
ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to develop an objective motor skills testing system to aid in the evaluation of potential orthopedic residents.DesignParticipants attempted a battery of 5 motor skills tests (4 novel tests and the Grooved Pegboard [GPT] Test) in one 10-minute session. A percentile-based scoring system was created for each test based on raw scores. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare testing scores among 3 cohorts. Each novel test and overall scores were compared with GPT scores as a relative measure of validity.SettingThe 2015 orthopedic surgery residency interview season at an academic institution.ParticipantsThirty orthopedic residents and 72 nonresidents (15 community volunteers and 57 orthopedic surgery residency applicants).ResultsOverall, residents performed better than nonresidents (p < 0.0001) and applicants performed worse than residents or volunteers (p < 0.0001). There were positive correlations between the GPT score and overall battery score (r = 0.63), screw and nut test (r = 0.40), and mimic a structure test (r = 0.26). The fracture reduction test and drilling test scores did not correlate to performance on the GPT.ConclusionsPsychomotor testing for surgical applicants is an area in need of study. This investigation successfully piloted a novel battery of tests, which is easily reproducible and thus may be feasible for use in the orthopedic surgery residency interview setting. Longitudinal evaluation is required to explore correlation with future operative skill.



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Making the Most of In Vitro Tests to Diagnose Food Allergy

Publication date: March–April 2017
Source:The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, Volume 5, Issue 2
Author(s): Alexandra F. Santos, Helen A. Brough
Various in vitro tests assess different aspects of the underlying immune mechanism of IgE-mediated food allergy. Some can be used for diagnostic purposes; specific IgE to allergen extracts is widely available; specific IgE to allergen components is used in most specialist centers, and the basophil activation test is becoming increasingly used clinically. IgE to allergen peptides, T-cell assays, allergen-specific/total IgE ratios, and allergen-specific IgG4/IgE ratios are currently reserved for research. Different factors can modulate the likelihood of IgE-mediated food allergy of a given allergy test result, namely, the patients' age, ethnicity, previous allergic reaction to the identified food, concomitant atopic conditions, and geographical location, and need to be taken into account when interpreting the allergy test results in the clinic. The importance of the specific food, the clinical resources available, and patient preferences are additional aspects that need to be considered when deciding whether an oral food challenge is required to reach an accurate diagnosis of IgE-mediated food allergy.



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Editorial Board

Publication date: March 2017
Source:Clinical Immunology, Volume 176





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The Effect of Simultaneous Text on the Recall of Noise-Degraded Speech.

Author: Grossman, Irina; Rajan, Ramesh

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000360

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2lXjMeG

Auditory Spectral Versus Spatial Temporal Order Judgment: Threshold Distribution Analysis.

Author: Fostick, Leah; Babkoff, Harvey

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000359

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mAvGiC

Training the Face: Strategic Practice as a Means to Regulate Affect-Induced Facial Muscle Contractions.

Author: Kozlik, Julia; Neumann, Roland

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000364

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2lXlZ9D

Individual Differences in Automatic Semantic Priming.

Author: Andrews, Sally; Lo, Steson; Xia, Violet

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000372

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mAH0uP

Predicted Action Consequences Are Perceptually Facilitated Before Cancellation.

Author: Yon, Daniel; Press, Clare

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000385

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2lXllsO

Out of Your Sight, Out of My Mind: Knowledge About Another Person's Visual Access Modulates Spontaneous Visuospatial Perspective-Taking.

Author: Freundlieb, Martin; Sebanz, Natalie; Kovacs, Agnes M.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000379

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mArQG1

Recent Is More: A Negative Time-Order Effect in Nonsymbolic Numerical Judgment.

Author: van den Berg, Ronald; Lindskog, Marcus; Poom, Leo; Winman, Anders

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000387

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2lXnzZ9

The Stroop Incongruity Effect: Congruity Relationship Reaches Beyond the Stroop Task.

Author: Hatukai, Tatiana; Algom, Daniel

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000381

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

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Action Properties of Object Images Facilitate Visual Search.

Author: Gomez, Michael A.; Snow, Jacqueline C.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000390

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

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What Have We Learned From Two Decades of Object-Substitution Masking? Time to Update: Object Individuation Prevails Over Substitution.

Author: Goodhew, Stephanie C.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000395

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

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Predisposition to Out-of-Body Experience (OBE) is Associated With Aberrations in Multisensory Integration: Psychophysiological Support From a "Rubber Hand Illusion" Study.

Author: Braithwaite, Jason J.; Watson, Derrick G.; Dewe, Hayley

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000406

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

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Auditory Hindsight Bias: Fluency Misattribution Versus Memory Reconstruction.

Author: Higham, Philip A.; Neil, Greg J.; Bernstein, Daniel M.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000405

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mAsjYE

Frozen in Time: Concurrent Task Performance Interferes With Temporal Shifts of Attention.

Author: Visser, Troy A. W.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000409

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2lXnzbB

Global Ensemble Texture Representations are Critical to Rapid Scene Perception.

Author: Brady, Timothy F.; Shafer-Skelton, Anna; Alvarez, George A.

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000399

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mApirv

Articulatory Information Helps Encode Lexical Contrasts in a Second Language.

Author: Llompart, Miquel; Reinisch, Eva

DOI: 10.1037/xhp0000383

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2lXeAay

Lung and Heart Dose Variability during Radiotherapy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Publication date: Available online 8 March 2017
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Nuzhat Jan, Christopher Guy, Leonid B. Reshko, Geoffrey D. Hugo, Elisabeth Weiss
Purpose/ObjectivesThe risk for lung and heart toxicity is typically assessed based on dose parameters during initial treatment planning. This study investigates volume and dose variability during radiotherapy.Material/MethodsIn this longitudinal investigation, variations in lung and heart volumes and standard dose parameters of mean lung dose (MLD), lung V20Gy, mean heart dose (MHD), and heart V40Gy were analyzed on weekly 4D CTs of 15 lung cancer patients during conventionally fractionated radiochemotherapy. Tumor, individual lung lobes and heart were delineated on the mid-ventilation phase of weekly 4D CTs. Lung lobes and heart were contoured also on individual breathing phases of pre-, mid- and post-treatment scans. Planning dose was transferred to consecutive scans via rigid registration. Volume and dose variations were assessed relative to the initial planning scan.ResultsInterfraction lung volume variability relative to week 0 was twice as large as tidal volume variability (8.0% ± 5.3% vs. 4.0% ± 3.3%, p=0.003). Interfraction lung volume variation ranged between 0.8% and 17.1% for individual patient means. Lower lung lobes had larger volume variability compared to upper lobes (13.5% ± 8.1% vs. 7.0% ± 5.0%, p<0.00001). Average MLD variation was 0.5 Gy (range 0.2 Gy to 1.0 Gy for individual patient means) and average lung V20Gy variation 0.9% (range 0.2% to 1.6%). Average heart volume variation was 7.2% (range 3.4% to 12.6%). Average MHD variation was 1.2 Gy (range 0.1 Gy to 3.0 Gy) and average heart V40Gy variation 1.4% (range 0% to 4.2%).ConclusionsAnatomical and positional variations during radiotherapy induce changes in radiation doses to lung and heart. Repeated lung and heart dose assessment will provide a better estimate of the actually delivered dose and will improve prediction models for normal tissue toxicity, if assessed in larger cohorts.

Teaser

The risk for lung and heart toxicity is typically assessed based on dose parameters during initial treatment planning. The present analysis shows that anatomical variations during radiotherapy induce potentially relevant changes in radiation dose to lungs and heart. Repeated lung and heart dose assessment will provide a better estimate of the actually delivered dose.


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Survival patterns in elderly head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients treated with definitive radiotherapy

Publication date: Available online 6 March 2017
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Linda W. Sommers, Roel J.H.M. Steenbakkers, Henk P. Bijl, Johanna G.M. Vemer-van den Hoek, Jan L.N. Roodenburg, Sjoukje F. Oosting, Gyorgy B. Halmos, Sophia E. de Rooij, Johannes A. Langendijk
PurposeTo assess the effect of age on overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and non-cancer related death (NCRD) of elderly (≥70 years) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients treated with definitive radiotherapy. The results were compared to those of younger patients, and the most important prognostic factors for survival endpoints were determined. Treatments may be better justified based on identification of the main differences in survival between young and elderly patients.Methods and materialsData were analyzed from all consecutive HNSCC patients treated with definitive radiotherapy (66-70 Gy) at our department between April 2007 and December 2014. A total of 674 patients, including 168 elderly patients (24.9%), were included in the study. Multivariable association models were constructed to assess the effect of age on survival endpoints. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify potential prognostic factors for survival in elderly patients.ResultsA total of 674 consecutive patients, including 168 elderly patients were analyzed. Five-year OS and NCRD rates were significantly worse for elderly patients than for the young patients, 45.5% vs. 58.2% (p=0.007) and 39.0% vs. 20.7% (p<0.001) respectively. In the multivariable association analysis on the relationship between age and OS, lymph node involvement and worse WHO performance status were identified as significant confounders. Multivariable association analysis between age and NCRD identified UICC stage as a significant confounder. After correction for confounders, the effect of age on OS and NCRD increased. Worse WHO performance status, lymph node involvement and specific tumor site were independent prognostic factors for OS and CSS in the elderly patient group. Eighty elderly patients (47%) died during follow-up, of which 45% were subscribed to the index tumor. For elderly patients, radiotherapy combined with systemic forms of treatment was significantly associated with adverse NCRD (HR: 8.02; 95%-CI: 2.36 – 27.2; p=0.001) after performing a multivariable association analysis.ConclusionElderly HNSCC patients have worse survival outcomes than younger HNSCC patients. Age is an independent prognostic factor for OS, mainly due to an increase in non-cancer related mortality and comorbid diseases. The differences in CSS between young and elderly patients are negligible.

Teaser

The aim of this study is to investigate overall survival, cancer-specific survival and non-cancer related death in elderly head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients compared to young patients. We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of all consecutive patients treated between April 2007 and December 2014. Age is a prognostic factor for overall survival, mainly due to an increase in non-cancer related mortality rather than to causes related to the index tumor.


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Cognitive Function in Patients with Prostate Cancer on Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogues: A Prospective Observational Multicentric Study

Publication date: Available online 6 March 2017
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Juan Morote, Ángel José Tabernero, José Luis Álvarez Ossorio, Juan Pablo Ciria, José Luis Domínguez-Escrig, Fernando Vázquez, Javier Angulo, Francisco J. López, Ramón de La Iglesia, Jesús Romero
PurposeThe effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on cognitive performance (CP) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients is not well-understood. We evaluated changes in CP after 6 months of medical castration with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogues.Material and MethodsProspective, observational, multicentre, open-label study of PCa patients scheduled to receive LHRH analogues for ≥ 6 months. We assessed four domains of CP at baseline and after 6 months of ADT: 1) Working memory: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale III (WAIS III) Digit Span Subtest (WAIS III-Digit); 2) Visual memory: ad hoc visual memory test; 3) Visuospatial ability: Judgement of Line Orientation (JLO) and Mental Rotation of Three-Dimensional Objects (3D-Rotation); and 4) Nonverbal analytical reasoning: WAIS III Matrix Reasoning Test (WAIS III-MRT). Changes outside the baseline 95% confidence intervals were considered significant.ResultsA total of 308 patients completed the study. Of these, 245 (79.6%) experienced no statistically significant changes on any test and 63 patients (20.4%) experienced significant changes in ≥1 test. Of these, most presented a change in only one test, distributed evenly between improvements (58 patients; 18.8%) and worsening (56 patients; 18.2%). For individual tests, most patients (87.8% to 91.8%) had no change from baseline; however, the significant changes (improvement vs. deterioration, respectively) were as follows: WAIS III-Digit (6.3% vs. 5.9%); visual memory (5.3% vs. 5.7%); JLO (5.3% vs. 4.5%); 3D-Rotation (4.1% vs. 4.1%); and WAIS III-MRT (4.8% vs. 5.8%).ConclusionsCP in patients with PCa does not appear to be adversely affected by 6 months of LHRH analogue administration.

Teaser

The effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on cognitive performance (CP) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients is not well-understood. We evaluated changes in five neuropsychological measures of CP after 6 months of ADT. Six months of ADT with LHRH analogues does not appear to significantly affect CP in patients with PCa.


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Erratum to: Occurrence of heavy metals and radionuclides in sediments and seawater in mangrove ecosystems in Pattani Bay, Thailand

http://ift.tt/2ndBefV

Interleukin-23 mediates the pathogenesis of LPS/GalN-induced liver injury in mice

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Suxia Bao, Qiang Zhao, Jianming Zheng, Ning Li, Chong Huang, Mingquan Chen, Qi Cheng, Mengqi Zhu, Kangkang Yu, Chenghai Liu, Guangfeng Shi
BackgroundInterleukin-23 (IL-23) is required for T helper 17 (Th17) cell responses and IL-17 production in hepatitis B virus infection. A previous study showed that the IL-23/IL-17 axis aggravates immune injury in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection. However, the role of IL-23 in acute liver injury remains unclear.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine the role of the inflammatory cytokine IL-23 in lipopolysaccharide/d-galactosamine (LPS/GalN)-induced acute liver injury in mice.MethodsSerum IL-23 from patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB), acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and healthy individuals who served as healthy controls (HCs) was measured by ELISA. An IL-23p19 neutralizing antibody or an IL-23p40 neutralizing antibody was administered intravenously at the time of challenge with LPS (10μg/kg) and GalN (400mg/kg) in C57BL/6 mice. Hepatic pathology and the expression of Th17-related cytokines, including IL-17 and TNF-α; neutrophil chemoattractants, including Cxcl1, Cxcl2, Cxcl9, and Cxcl10; and the stabilization factor Csf3 were assessed in liver tissue.ResultsSerum IL-23 was significantly upregulated in ACLF patients compared with CHB patients and HCs (P<0.05 for both). Serum IL-23 was significantly upregulated in the non-survival group compared with the survival group of ACLF patients, which was consistent with LPS/GalN-induced acute hepatic injury in mice (P<0.05 for both). Moreover, after treatment, serum IL-23 was downregulated in the survival group of ACLF patients (P<0.001). Compared with LPS/GalN mice, mice treated with either an IL-23p19 neutralizing antibody or an IL-23p40 neutralizing antibody showed less severe liver tissue histopathology and significant reductions in the expression of Th17-related inflammatory cytokine, including IL-17 and TNF-α; neutrophil chemoattractants, including Cxcl1, Cxcl2, Cxcl9, and Cxcl10; and stabilization factors Csf3 within the liver tissue compared with LPS/GalN mice (P<0.05 for all).ConclusionHigh serum IL-23 was associated with mortality in ACLF patients and LPS/GalN-induced acute liver injury in mice. IL-23 neutralizing antibodies attenuated liver injury by reducing the expression of Th17-related inflammatory cytokines, neutrophil chemoattractants and stabilization factors within the liver tissue, which indicated that IL-23 likely functions upstream of Th17-related cytokine and chemokine expression to recruit inflammatory cells into the liver.



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Long-term effectiveness and safety of natalizumab in a Portuguese population

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): I Correia, S Batista, O Galego, IB Marques, J Jesus-Ribeiro, AI Martins, C Nunes, MC Macário, L Cunha, L Sousa
ObjectivesNatalizumab long-term effectiveness data in real-world relapsing­remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is needed. Our objective is to report the long­term effectiveness and safety of natalizumab in a cohort of RRMS patients.MethodsThis is a retrospective study of natalizumab treatment for two years or longer in RRMS. Annualized relapse rate, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), brain magnetic resonance imaging T2 lesion volume, JC virus antibody status, previous treatments and adverse events were analysed.ResultsSeventy-one patients were included with a mean treatment duration of 44.86±17.39months. Over the treatment duration there was a significant decrease in annualized relapse rate (88.37%) and EDSS (28.57%); no evidence of clinical disease activity in 73.24% and 61.97% after one and two-years respectively; and brain magnetic resonance imaging T2 lesion volume remained stable. Forty patients suspended natalizumab, in 85% due to high risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The major complication was PML (n=3).ConclusionsNatalizumab showed effectiveness in the long-term follow up period of our cohort, with reduction of ARR, EDSS, and MRI lesion load stabilization. PML was the major complication.



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Sorafenib combined with HER-2 targeted vaccination can promote effective T cell immunity in vivo

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Melek M.E. Sunay, Jeremy B. Foote, James M. Leatherman, Justin P. Edwards, Todd D. Armstrong, Christopher J. Nirschl, Jessica Hicks, Leisha A. Emens
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is established and maintained through complex interactions between tumor cells and host stromal elements. Therefore, therapies that target multiple cellular components of the tumor may be most effective. Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, alters signaling pathways in both tumor cells and host stromal cells. Thus, we explored the potential immune-modulating effects of sorafenib in a murine HER-2-(neu) overexpressing breast tumor model alone and in combination with a HER-2 targeted granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-secreting vaccine (3T3neuGM). In vitro, sorafenib inhibited the growth of HER-2 overexpressing NT2.5 tumor cells, inducing apoptosis. Sorafenib also interfered with ERK MAPK, p38 MAPK, and STAT3 signaling, as well as cyclin D expression, but did not affect HER-2 or AKT signaling. In vivo, single agent sorafenib disrupted the tumor-associated vasculature and induced tumor cell apoptosis, effectively inducing the regression of established NT2.5 tumors in immune competent FVB/N mice. Immune depletion studies demonstrated that both CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells were required for tumor regression. Sorafenib treatment did not impact the rate of tumor clearance induced by vaccination with 3T3neuGM in tumor-bearing FVB/N mice relative to either sorafenib treatment or vaccination alone. In vivo studies further demonstrated that sorafenib enhanced the accumulation of both CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells into the TME of vaccinated mice. Together, these findings suggest that GM-CSF-secreting cellular immunotherapy may be integrated with sorafenib without impairing vaccine-based immune responses.



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Antioxidation, anti-inflammation and anti-apoptosis by paeonol in LPS/d-GalN-induced acute liver failure in mice

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Xiaobao Gong, You Yang, Ligua Huang, Qingyan Zhang, Rong-Zhen Wan, Peng Zhang, Baoshun Zhang
To evaluate the hepatoprotective effects and potential mechanisms of paeonol (Pae) against acute liver failure (ALF) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/d-galactosamine (d-GalN) in mice, we examined anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities of Pae. We found that Pae pretreatment markedly reduced the activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase as well as the histopathological changes induced by LPS/d-GalN. Catalase, glutathione and superoxide dismutase activities increased and reactive oxygen species activity decreased after Pae treatment compared with LPS/d-GalN treatment. Pretreatment with Pae also significantly inhibited the expression levels of iNOS, nitric oxide (NO), COX-2 and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In addition, Pae administration prevented the phosphorylated expression of IκB kinase, inhibitor kappa B in the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, and suppressed the phosphorylated expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-jun-N-terminal kinase and p38 in the MAPK signaling pathway. Pretreatment with Pae also inhibited hepatocyte apoptosis by reducing the expression of caspases 3, 8, 9, and Bax, and increasing Bcl-2. In total, protective effects of Pae against LPS/d-GalN-induced ALF in mice are attributed to its antioxidative effect, inflammatory suppression in NF-κB and MARK signaling pathways, and inhibition of hepatocyte apoptosis inhibition. Therefore, Pae can be a potential therapeutic agent in attenuating LPS/d-GalN-induced ALF in the future.

Graphical abstract

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Therapeutic efficacy of a co-blockade of IL-13 and IL-25 on airway inflammation and remodeling in a mouse model of asthma

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Fang-Qi Zhang, Xin-Peng Han, Fang Zhang, Xuan Ma, Dong Xiang, Xue-Min Yang, Hai-Feng Ou-Yang, Zhikui Li
Repeated airway inflammation and unremitting remodeling provoke irreversible pulmonary dysfunction and resistance to current drugs in patients with chronic bronchial asthma. Interleukin (IL)-13 and IL-25 play an important role in airway inflammation and remodeling in asthma. We aimed to investigate whether co-inhibiting IL-13 and IL-25 can effectively down-regulate allergen-induced airway inflammation and remodeling in mice. Mice with asthma induced by chronic exposure to ovalbumin (OVA) were given soluble IL-13 receptor α2 (sIL-13R) or soluble IL-25 receptor (sIL-25R) protein alone and in combination to neutralize the bioactivity of IL-13 and IL-25, and relevant airway inflammation and remodeling experiments were performed. We found that the co-blockade of IL-13 and IL-25 with sIL-13R and sIL-25R was more effective than either agent alone at decreasing inflammatory cell infiltration, airway hyperresponsiveness (AhR) and airway remodeling including mucus production, extracellular collagen deposition, smooth muscle cell hyperplasia and angiogenesis in mice exposed to OVA. These results suggest that the combined inhibition of IL-13 and IL-25 may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for asthma, especially for patients who are resistant to current treatments.



http://ift.tt/2mAot21

Aberrant methylation patterns affect the molecular pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

Publication date: May 2017
Source:International Immunopharmacology, Volume 46
Author(s): Yang Lin, Zhengqiang Luo
This study aims to investigate DNA methylation signatures in fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to explore the relationship with transcription factors (TFs) that help to distinguish RA from osteoarthritis (OA). Microarray dataset of GSE46346, including six FLS samples from patients with RA and five FLS samples from patients with OA, was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. RA and OA samples were screened for differentially methylated loci (DMLs). The corresponding differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were identified, followed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. A transcriptional regulatory network was built with TFs and their corresponding DMGs. Overall, 280 hypomethylated loci and 561 hypermethylated loci were screened. Genes containing hypermethylated loci were enriched in pathways in cancer, ECM-receptor interaction, focal adhesion and neurotrophin signaling pathways. Genes containing hypomethylated loci were enriched in the neurotrophin signaling pathway. Moreover, we found that CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF), Yin Yang 1 (YY1), v-myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (c-MYC), and early growth response 1 (EGR1) were important TFs in the transcriptional regulatory network. Therefore, DMGs might participate in the neurotrophin signaling pathway, pathways in cancer, ECM-receptor interaction and focal adhesion pathways in RA. Furthermore, CTCF, c-MYC, YY1, and EGR1 may play important roles in RA through regulating DMGs.



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Study of γ-H2AX as DNA double strand break biomarker in resident living in high natural radiation area of Mamuju, West Sulawesi

Publication date: May 2017
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volume 171
Author(s): Iin Kurnia Hasan Basri, Darlina Yusuf, Tur Rahardjo, Siti Nurhayati, Devita Tetriana, Dwi Ramadhani, Zubaidah Alatas, Sofiati Purnami, Teja Kisnanto, Yanti Lusiyanti, Mukh Syaifudin
High expression of phospho histone γ-H2AX, a sensitive marker of double stranded DNA damage, is believed to be an indication of defective DNA repair pathway or genomic instability that may cause mutations and ultimately cancer. DNA damage can be caused by ionizing radiation exposure. Beside in medical treatment/diagnosis or industry, ionizing radiation exposure can also be found in naturally in regions of high natural back ground radiation. In this study we collect the blood from 45 volunteers living in Mamuju, a region with highest natural radiation in Indonesia (dose of ∼7 mSv/year). Subjects were grouped as high natural background area (HNBA) (n = 37) and control area (n = 8). The expression γ-H2AX foci were evaluated by one of researcher fluorescence microscope examination. Our results show that the average foci numbers per cell were in the normal range. While not statistical different, the average of γ-H2AX foci in exposed area higher in the exposed compared to the control area, 0.31 versus 0.13 (p > 0.05), respectively. Moreover, there was also no statistical difference of average γ-H2AX foci between man and woman, old and young people in exposed and control area (p > 0.05). In this preliminary study we find that γ-H2AX foci (and thus DNA double strand break) frequency in residents living in the HNBA of Mamuju, West Sulawesi, show a trend towards higher (albeit not significant) average values relative to the control area. More research is needed to further scrutinize these observations.



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Penn physician pioneers new reconstructive surgery for female genital mutilation

There is new hope for the hundreds of millions of women worldwide who have been subjected to genital mutilation.

http://ift.tt/2mkEpVe

Microfluidic reactors for the size-controlled synthesis of ZIF-8 crystals in aqueous phase

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 122
Author(s): Oleksii Kolmykov, Jean-Marc Commenge, Halima Alem, Emilien Girot, Kevin Mozet, Ghouti Medjahdi, Raphaël Schneider
Zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) crystals can be produced effectively via continuous processes using either a single water phase or a biphasic water/alkane flow in a three-dimensional microchannel. ZIF-8 particles were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, BET and Raman spectroscopy. The microfluidic technology developed allows the fast synthesis (10min) of ZIF-8 crystals over a wide size range (from ca. 300 to 900nm) simply by varying the experimental parameters (flow rates, temperature, …), while maintaining the high specific surface of this material (ca. 1700m²·g⁻¹) and the sodalite crystalline structure. The microfluidic processes developed operate in water between 25 and 100°C and at atmospheric pressure and are therefore valuable alternatives for the environmentally friendly preparation of ZIF-8 particles.

Graphical abstract

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ZnO-embedded BiOI hybrid nanoflakes: Synthesis, characterization, and improved photocatalytic properties

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 122
Author(s): Yanhua Tong, Chu Zheng, Wenjing Lang, Fan Wu, Tao Wu, Wenqin Luo, Haifeng Chen
BiOI-based p–n heterostructures with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity have been investigated in detail. However, photocatalytic activity of most of heterostructures usually drops step by step with increasing irradiation time. The main reason for this deactivation is the instability of the loaded heterostructures. In this study, ZnO-embedded BiOI hybrid nanoflakes were fabricated using Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6 ultrathin nanosheets for BiOI deposition followed by calcination. This embedded hybridized nanostructure showed strong coupling between ZnO and BiOI, different from those of ZnO-loaded BiOI heterostructures. The visible-light photodegradation experiments demonstrate that the ZnO-embedded BiOI hybrid nanoflakes not only exhibited remarkably enhanced and sustainable photocatalytic activity, but also showed good recyclability, comparing with the pristine ZnO, BiOI and ZnO/BiOI heterostructures. Integrated measurements of electrochemistry and photoelectrochemistry, photoluminescence and reactive species during the photodegradation process, substantial enhancement of photocatalytic activity for ZnO-embedded BiOI hybrid nanoflakes is probably attributed to the raised potential of valence-band edge, good conductivity, and quenching of deep-level defects. This study provides an embeddedly hybridized route to enhance photocatalytic activity and simultaneously improve their sustainability and recyclability.

Graphical abstract

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Chemically and morphologically distinct grain boundaries in Ge-doped Cu2ZnSnSe4 solar cells revealed with STEM-EELS

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 122
Author(s): Thomas Thersleff, Sergio Giraldo, Markus Neuschitzer, Paul Pistor, Edgardo Saucedo, Klaus Leifer
Critical to the future development of Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) materials is a comprehensive understanding of the underlying nanoscale mechanisms responsible for reduced performance. Investigating these mechanisms is challenging since they arise on the nanoscale, yet manifest themselves over macroscopic regions. Here, we present an analytical study combining Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), sample preparation, and hyperspectral Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) mapping techniques to meet this challenge. We apply our method to a Ge-doped CZTSe sample with a measured efficiency of 10.1%, revealing that its microstructure is dominated by two distinct types of grain boundaries. The first type appears in the upper half of the absorber separating large grains. These are Cu-enriched, Se-poor, and have varying amounts of O. The second type of grain boundary is largely parallel to the substrate and appears predominately in the lower half of the absorber where the Cu/Zn ratio of the kesterite material is slightly lower. These grain boundaries contain voids and Sn oxide nanoparticles, exhibit high concentrations of Na, Cd, and S, and Cu assumes a higher valence state. We conclude with a discussion on the nature of and possible technological implications of these grain boundaries in this system.

Graphical abstract

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Synthesis of self-assembled and hierarchical palladium-CNTs-reduced graphene oxide composites for enhanced field emission properties

Publication date: 15 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 122
Author(s): Rajesh Kumar, Rajesh K. Singh, Dinesh P. Singh, Alfredo R. Vaz, Raja R. Yadav, Chandra S. Rout, Stanislav A. Moshkalev
We report the synthesis of palladium-graphene oxide based (Pd-rGO) composite and its enhanced electron field emission studies. The palladium nanoparticles decorated reduced graphene oxide (Pd-NPs-rGO) and Pd catalyst assisted grown CNTs on reduced graphene oxide (Pd-CNTs-rGO) composite have been synthesized employing microwave. The hierarchical Pd-CNTs-rGO composite shows enhanced field emission performance due to the synergestic effect of Pd catalyst assisted grown CNTs on rGO nanosheets (rGO-NSs) and its proper contact on rGO surfaces. The enhanced field emission behavior of Pd-CNTs-rGO composite is attributed to the easy electron tunneling from the one-dimensional CNTs, which increases the emission sites and hence the field emission current density. The Pd-CNTs-rGO composite exhibits lower turn-on field, lower threshold field, larger field enhancement factor and high emission current stability as compared to Pd-NPs-rGO composite.

Graphical abstract

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Sample geometry dependency on the measured tensile properties of cellulose nanopapers

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 121
Author(s): Martin Hervy, Alba Santmarti, Panu Lahtinen, Tekla Tammelin, Koon-Yang Lee
Miniaturised test specimens are often used for the tensile testing of cellulose nanopapers as there are currently no standardised test geometries to evaluate their tensile properties. In this work, we report the influence of test specimen geometries on the measured tensile properties of plant-derived cellulose nanofibres (CNF) and microbially synthesised bacterial cellulose (BC) nanopapers. Four test specimen geometries were studied: (i) miniaturised dog bone specimen with 2 mm width, (ii) miniaturised rectangular specimen with 5 mm width, (iii) standard dog bone specimen with 5 mm width and (iv) standard rectangular specimen with 15 mm width. It was found that the tensile moduli of both CNF and BC nanopapers were not significantly influenced by the test specimen geometries if an independent strain measurement system (video extensometer) was employed. The average tensile strength of the cellulose nanopapers is also influenced by test specimen geometries. It was observed that the smaller the test specimen width, the higher the average tensile strength of the cellulose nanopapers. This can be described by the weakest link theory, whereby the probability of defects present in the cellulose nanopapers increases with increasing test specimen width. The Poisson's ratio and fracture resistance of CNF and BC nanopapers are also discussed.

Graphical abstract

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Soft blasting of fluorinated polymers: The easy way to superhydrophobicity

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 121
Author(s): Nicola Menga, Rosa Di Mundo, Giuseppe Carbone
In this paper, we propose a new method for fabricating superhydrophobic surfaces. We use polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as representative fluorinated polymer, and show that a few seconds blasting treatment of this material, with sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) grit, can lead to superhydrophobicity with optimum sliding performances. Such a wetting behavior is correlated to the multi-scale random roughness of the surface, generated by abrasion and tearing of polymer fibers during the blasting process.This method, compared to other techniques generating superhydrophobic surfaces, turns out simpler, much more cost-effective, and directly suitable for large-scale applications.

Graphical abstract

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Effect of volume fraction of LPSO phases on corrosion and mechanical properties of Mg-Zn-Y alloys

Publication date: 5 May 2017
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 121
Author(s): C.Q. Li, D.K. Xu, Z.R. Zeng, B.J. Wang, L.Y. Sheng, X.-B. Chen, E.H. Han
Microstructural evolution, corrosion behavior and mechanical properties of cast Mg-Zn-Y alloys as a function of volume fraction of long period stacking ordered (LPSO) phases were investigated. Results revealed that 18R-LPSO phase was formed in Mg-0.9%Zn-1.6%Y (ZW12), Mg-2.1%Zn-5.2%Y (ZW25) and Mg-3.1%Zn-7.6%Y (ZW38) alloys. LPSO phases in these alloys acted as micro-cathode to accelerate corrosion progress due to their nobler nature than that of α-Mg matrix. The galvanic-couple effect between LPSO phases and α-Mg matrix dominated the corrosion rate of the cast Mg-Zn-Y alloys in the long-term corrosion process. As a result, ZW12 alloy displayed the best corrosion resistance due to the least volume fraction of micro-cathodes (i.e. LPSO phases). In addition, compared with ZW25 alloy, the compact and thick LPSO phases in ZW38 alloy hindered the corrosion progress to a small degree since it was not preferentially oriented against corrosion front. The shape of corrosion pits was correlated to the shape of Mg dendrites that was a result of the volume fraction and distribution of LPSO phases. LPSO phases could enhance mechanical strength, but the increment was slight when the volume fraction of LPSO phases reached up to 20.3%.

Graphical abstract

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Vulvar Varicosities: A Review

BACKGROUND: Vulvar varicosities (VV) are dilated and tortuous veins occurring within the external female genitalia. Patients may seek treatment of these varices for both medical and cosmetic purposes. In some patients, VV may be associated with a chronic pelvic pain syndrome called pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). OBJECTIVE: To review the English language literature on VV in both pregnant and nonpregnant women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A literature search pertaining to vulvar varicosities and PCS was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. RESULTS: There is an overall paucity of literature discussing VV, particularly in nonpregnant women without PCS. Management options for VV include compression, sclerotherapy, embolization, and surgical ligation. Treatment can be dependent on the coexistence of pelvic or leg varicosities and may require referral to a vein specialist for advanced imaging techniques and procedures. Direct sclerotherapy to VV may not provide adequate treatment if pelvic or leg varices are also present. CONCLUSION: In women with persistent VV, imaging studies should be obtained before treatment to evaluate the surrounding venous anatomy of the pelvis and leg, as the results often affect the treatment approach. Patients presenting with VV and chronic pelvic pain should be evaluated for PCS.

http://ift.tt/2m1r9Cr

Nontraditional Methods to Evaluate Wound Healing

BACKGROUND: Traditional evaluation of wound healing is sometimes subjective. It is necessary to develop qualitative and quantitative methods to enable more efficient and accurate evaluation of wounds. Recently, new techniques have been introduced and the correspondence between these techniques and clinician judgment is critical. OBJECTIVE: Some nontraditional techniques that analyze wound healing were reviewed, which include measurements of the wound area, tissue color, skin barrier function, skin humidity, and keratinocyte morphology. METHODS: This review article is based on medical research that focuses on the evaluation of wound healing. RESULTS: Software-based and advanced device-based techniques generally provide more accurate and precise results than traditional ones, such as the ruler-based technique. Measurement of tissue color can also help to identify the type of tissue. Evaluation of skin barrier function can assist clinicians to analyze functional restoration of skin, whereas skin humidity demonstrates the exudate production status of the wound. In addition, keratinocyte morphology in the wound bed indicates quality of wound healing and side effects of treatment. CONCLUSION: There is no gold standard method for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of wound healing. It is important to understand the type of wound, sample size, results obtained, advantages, and limitations of each technique.

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LN2, CD10, and Ezrin Do Not Distinguish Between Atypical Fibroxanthoma and Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma or Predict Clinical Outcome

BACKGROUND: Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) is a rare cutaneous spindled cell neoplasm. For both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, it is important to distinguish AFX from other poorly differentiated tumors, including undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS). OBJECTIVE: The authors aimed to identify the clinical, histologic, and immunohistochemical expression of LN2, ezrin, and CD10 in AFX and UPS tumors. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The authors retrospectively examined the charts of patients with AFX and UPS treated with Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) at 2 academic institutions. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and clinical course data were collected. Immunohistochemical stains were performed on primary and recurrent AFX and UPS tumors with monoclonal antibodies against the B-cell marker LN2 (CD74), CD10, and ezrin. RESULTS: In the series of 169 patients with AFX included in this study, local recurrence was rare at 3%. In contrast, the seven patients with UPS had an aggressive clinical course with 1 local recurrence and 2 distant metastases. Immunohistochemistry staining for ezrin, LN2, and CD10 were similar in AFX and UPS tumors. CONCLUSION: AFX can be treated with MMS with rare instances of recurrence. Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma has a more aggressive clinical course with increased risk for recurrence and metastasis. Staining with ezrin, LN2, and CD10 did not differentiate AFX or UPS tumors.

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Commentary on Microneedling

No abstract available

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Following Changes in the Axillary Secretions of Two Patients Before and After Bromhidrosis Surgery Using Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry

No abstract available

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Umbilical Skin Endometriosis: Treatment, Reconstruction, and Differential Diagnosis

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2m0UUna

Inexpensive Device and App for Monitoring Temperature of Neuromodulator Storage

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2m1jDaL

Laser Safety in Isotretinoin Use: A Survey of Expert Opinion and Practice

BACKGROUND: Reports of poor wound healing in the setting of isotretinoin treatment have created a conservative standard of care in which laser and phototherapy treatment of patients receiving isotretinoin is relatively contraindicated. OBJECTIVE: A survey of 220 nationally recognized experts in cutaneous laser surgery was conducted to evaluate physician experience and opinion pertaining to laser and light procedures in patients treated with isotretinoin, including perceived risk and actual complications. RESULTS: There was a 42% response rate. Seventy-six percent of respondents have never seen in their own clinical practices any cases of complications arising in patients treated with laser while receiving isotretinoin or within 6 months of completing a course of therapy. Almost half of respondents have treated patients in this subpopulation with laser, although only a small minority have done so with ablative devices. Common concerns among respondents regarding isotretinoin patients are the risks of poor wound healing and scarring, but the most often reported concern is medicolegal risk (74%). CONCLUSION: It would seem that the risk of performing laser procedures on patients receiving isotretinoin or having recently completed a course, as estimated and observed by cutaneous laser experts, is lower than the currently perceived risk among the general medical community.

http://ift.tt/2m1fSSx

Repair of a Complex Forehead Defect Involving the Brow

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2m1dwDp

Commentary on Laser Safety in Isotretinoin Use

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2mWSQ3H

A Recalcitrant Keloid Successfully Treated With CO2 Laser and Indocyanine Green Photodynamic Therapy

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2mWQFNg

Successful Treatment of Classic Kaposi Sarcoma With Long-Pulse Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser: A Preliminary Study

BACKGROUND: Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a systemic disease that can present with cutaneous lesions with or without internal involvement, mostly caused by infection with human herpesvirus-8. The treatment options include surgical excision, cryotherapy, radiotherapy, intralesional chemotherapy, laser, and elastic stockings for the prevention of lymphedema. OBJECTIVE: This article presents 7 cases with classic KS treated with the long-pulse neodymium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. METHODS: Forty-nine lesions of 7 KS patients (5 stage 1, 2 stage 2A) were treated with Nd:YAG laser with a spot size of 4 to 6 mm and a fluence of 180 J/cm2 increased by 10 J/cm2 in the neighboring area to a maximum of 260 J/cm2. The pulse sequencing was 1.5, and delay time was 5 milliseconds. Sessions were continued at 4-week intervals for 2 to 4 sessions. RESULTS: All patients exhibited clinical and histological improvement. One session was sufficient for small lesions, whereas coalescing and multicentric lesions required up to 4 sessions. All the lesions healed in 2 to 4 weeks, with the only complication being mild atrophic scars. CONCLUSION: With the advantage of penetrating into deeper sites than other lasers, long-pulse Nd:YAG is an efficient and safe local treatment alternative especially for papulonodular and deeper lesions located on bony structures.

http://ift.tt/2mX00VF

Arterial Penetration With Blunt-Tipped Cannulas Using Injectables: A False Sense of Safety?

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2mWziwa

The Efficacy and Safety of 660 nm and 411 to 777 nm Light-Emitting Devices for Treating Wrinkles

BACKGROUND: Low-level light therapy (LLLT) using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is considered to be helpful for skin regeneration and anti-inflammation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2 types of LLLTs using 660 nm–emitting red LEDs and 411 to 777 nm–emitting white LEDs in the treatment of facial wrinkles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, comparative clinical trial involving 52 adult female subjects was performed. The faces of the subjects were irradiated daily with 5.17 J of red or white LEDs for 12 weeks. RESULTS: In both groups treated with red and white LEDs, the wrinkle measurement from skin replica improved significantly from baseline at Week 12. The red LED group showed slightly better improvement, but there were no statistical differences. In assessments by blinded dermatologists, no significant differences were observed in both groups. In the global assessment of the subjects, the mean improvement score of the red LED group was higher than that of the white LED group. CONCLUSION: Low-level light therapy using 660 nm LEDs or 411 to 777 nm LEDs significantly improved periocular wrinkles. Especially, 660 nm LEDs could be an effective and tolerable treatment option for wrinkles.

http://ift.tt/2mWOWaQ

Microneedling: A Comprehensive Review

BACKGROUND: Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses fine needles to puncture the epidermis. The microwounds created stimulate the release of growth factors and induce collagen production. The epidermis remains relatively intact, therefore helping to limit adverse events. The indications for microneedling therapy have grown significantly, and it is becoming a more widely used treatment in dermatology. OBJECTIVE: A comprehensive review of microneedling in human subjects and its applications in dermatology. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A search was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE and Science Direct databases. Search terms included "microneedling," "needling," and "percutaneous collagen induction." All available studies involving human subjects were included in the discussion, with priority given to prospective, randomized trials. RESULTS: Studies demonstrate microneedling efficacy and safety for the treatment of scars, acne, melasma, photodamage, skin rejuvenation, hyperhidrosis and alopecia and for facilitation of transdermal drug delivery. While permanent adverse events are uncommon, transient erythema and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation are more commonly reported. CONCLUSION: Microneedling appears to be an overall effective and safe therapeutic option for numerous dermatologic conditions. Larger and more randomized controlled trials are needed to provide greater data on the use of microneedling for different dermatologic conditions in different skin types.

http://ift.tt/2mWQAJs

Periorbital Syringomas Treated With an Externally Used 1,444 nm Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser

BACKGROUND: The 1,444 nm wavelength is also well absorbed in water making it a possible setting for treatment of cystic lesions such as eccrine hydrocystomas and syringomas. OBJECTIVE: The authors aimed to investigate the efficacy of an externally used 1,444 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for the treatment of periorbital syringomas. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Nineteen patients with periorbital syringomas were treated twice with the externally used 1,444 nm Nd:YAG laser at 2-month intervals. Laser fluences were delivered to each papule with pulse energy of 160 mJ, 1.6 W of power, and at a 10 Hz pulse rate. Clinical improvement and patient satisfaction were assessed at 2 and 6 months after each treatment. Side effects were also examined. RESULTS: Clinical improvement of >50% was observed in 68.4% of individuals at 2 months after first treatment (2FT) and in all patients at 6 months after second treatment (6ST). Patient satisfaction of no less than "satisfied" was recorded for 63.2% of patients at 2FT, and in 89.5% of patients at 6ST. Erythema was observed in 63.2% of patients but only at 2FT. CONCLUSION: Externally used 1,444 nm Nd:YAG laser treatment may represent an effective and safe approach for the treatment of periorbital syringomas, resulting in good satisfaction and minimal side effects.

http://ift.tt/2mWDEU6

Perception and Acceptability of Medical Photography in Chinese Dermatologic Patients: A Questionnaire Survey

BACKGROUND: Medical photography is increasingly used by physicians, but studies assessing the perception and acceptability of medical photography by Chinese dermatologic patients are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To assess the perception and acceptability of medical photography in Chinese dermatologic patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From July to December 2014, adult patients visiting the Dermatology Clinic of The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University were included in this study. They were required to fill an anonymous questionnaire regarding perception and acceptability of medical photography. RESULTS: A total of 509 consecutive patients completed the questionnaire, with 35 and 474 declining and undergoing medical photography, respectively. Meanwhile, 81.0% of the patients preferred to be photographed by attending physicians; 63.3% favored clinic-owned cameras, and 81.0% would rather have their photographs stored in the department's database. Besides, most patients allowed their photographs to be used in case studies (92.8%) or medical record keeping (90.3%). CONCLUSION: Most Chinese dermatologic patients accept medical photography. However, the principles of privacy protection and informed consent should be strictly enforced in clinical practice, and appropriate photographic devices and storage methods should be used, for better acceptance.

http://ift.tt/2mWODgn

A 12-Month Follow-up, Randomized Comparison of Effectiveness and Safety of Two Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for Treatment of Severe Nasolabial Folds

BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) filler injection is an increasingly popular aesthetic procedure. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness and safety of two HA fillers (HAED and HAPER) for the treatment of severe nasolabial folds (NLFs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was an evaluator-blinded and subject-blinded split-face study. At baseline, HAED or HAPER was randomly assigned to the left or right NLF. The follow-up period was 12 months. Effectiveness was assessed using the wrinkle severity rating scale (WSRS) and subject preference. Safety was assessed by adverse events and local tolerability symptoms recorded by subjects during 3 weeks after the treatment. RESULTS: At 6 months, HAED was noninferior to HAPER (assessed by mean change from baseline in WSRS score). There was a significant difference in mean WSRS score change from baseline in favor of HAED at 3 to 12 months, and a majority of subjects preferred HAED over HAPER at 12 months. However, the overall responder rate was similar between products, and it remained high throughout the study. At 12 months, approximately 80% of subjects were still responders. Both products were well tolerated and associated with a few treatment-related adverse events. CONCLUSION: To conclude, HAED was at least as effective and well tolerated for the treatment of severe NLFs as HAPER.

http://ift.tt/2mWZUgL

Modified Slow Mohs Technique for Treatment of Cellular Neurothekeoma of the Lip in a Pediatric Patient

No abstract available

http://ift.tt/2mWLIUK

Safety and Effectiveness of VYC-15L, a Hyaluronic Acid Filler for Lip and Perioral Enhancement: One-Year Results From a Randomized, Controlled Study

BACKGROUND: VYC-15L (Juvéderm Volbella XC) is a nonanimal crosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel with lidocaine. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of VYC-15L for lip and perioral enhancement versus a nonanimal stabilized HA with lidocaine (Restylane-L; NASHA). METHODS: This prospective multicenter study randomized 225 adults with minimal, mild, or moderate lip fullness on the validated 5-point Allergan Lip Fullness Scale (LFS) to treatment with VYC-15L or NASHA; optional touch-up was administered 30 days later. Subjects were followed for 1 year. The primary effectiveness end point was noninferiority of VYC-15L versus NASHA by mean change in LFS score from baseline to Month 3. RESULTS: The primary end point was met. At Month 3, LFS responder rates were 80.3% for VYC-15L versus 70.8% for NASHA. LFS responder rates exceeded 60% through 1 year with VYC-15L. Perioral lines severity improved for 65.4% and 66.2% of VYC-15L subjects at Month 3 and Year 1, respectively. At Month 3, 96.1% and 88.2% of subjects reported improvement in FACE-Q Satisfaction With Lips and Satisfaction With Lip Lines, respectively. Severe injection site responses were reported less frequently with VYC-15L than NASHA. CONCLUSION: VYC-15L was safe and effective for lip and perioral enhancement, with treatment effects lasting through 1 year.

http://ift.tt/2mWQotT

Role of human lipocalin proteins in abdominal obesity after acute pancreatitis

Publication date: Available online 7 March 2017
Source:Peptides
Author(s): Ruma G. Singh, Sayali A. Pendharkar, Lindsay D. Plank, Maxim S. Petrov
Lipocalin proteins are small regulatory peptides implicated in metabolism, inflammation, and immunity. Although lipocalin proteins have been linked to various clinical conditions, their role in the acute inflammatory setting, such as acute pancreatitis (AP), has only been sparsely investigated. Two members of the lipocalin family, lipocalin-2 (LCN-2) and retinol binding protein −4 (RBP-4), play an important role in obesity and insulin resistance. In this study, we analysed circulating levels of LCN-2 and RBP-4 in 92 individuals after AP, of whom 41 individuals had abdominal obesity and 51 did not. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to determine whether abdominal obesity was associated with the two lipocalin proteins. Lipocalin-2 was significantly associated with abdominal obesity in the unadjusted model (Odds ratio (OR)=1.014 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.000, 1.028], P=0.05) and after adjusting for patient related (age, ethnicity, and diabetes mellitus) and pancreatitis related (aetiology, severity, recurrence, and duration of AP) characteristics (OR=1.018 [95% CI: 1.001, 1.036], p=0.04). Further, the association of LCN-2 with waist circumference was significant in individuals with alcohol aetiology of AP (β=1.082 [95% CI: 1.011, 1.158], p=0.02]. The association between RBP-4 and abdominal obesity was not significant in both unadjusted and adjusted models. These findings indicate that circulating levels of LCN-2 in patients after AP may play a role in chronic low grade inflammation associated with abdominal adiposity and that alcohol consumption may further exacerbate adipose tissue dysfunction.



http://ift.tt/2mEowds

A Cross-sectional and Longitudinal Study of Endodontic and Periapical Status in an Australian Population

Abstract

Background

This study described the cross-sectional and longitudinal data of endodontic and periapical status of new patients presenting to a major dental hospital, and assessed the relationships between tooth-related variables with apical periodontitis.

Methods

The records of 695 patients were randomly selected and the orthopantomograms of these patients up to 31^st October 2014 were reviewed by two endodontists. The periapical status of teeth was recorded using the Periapical Index. The presence and quality of root fillings and coronal restorations were recorded. Statistical analysis included Fleiss' Kappa, Cohen's Kappa, and logistic regression with P < 0.05.

Results

Of 695 patient records and 16,936 teeth examined, 138 (19.9%) patients or 284 (1.7%) teeth had root fillings and 179 (25.8%) patients or 325 (1.9%) teeth had apical periodontitis. Root fillings and coronal restorations were adequate in 34.6% and 69.4% teeth respectively. A high proportion (%) of teeth with apical periodontitis remained unchanged in subsequent orthopantomograms.

Conclusions

There was lower prevalence of root filled teeth or apical periodontitis in the present study compared with international studies. The frequency of adequate root fillings must be considered unacceptably low. Teeth with apical periodontitis may remain quiescent in the absence of caries or restorative breakdown.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Population genetic structure of Helicobacter pylori strains from Portuguese-speaking countries

Abstract

Background

The human gastric colonizer Helicobacter pylori is useful to track human migrations given the agreement between the bacterium phylogeographic distribution and human migrations. As Portugal was an African and Brazilian colonizer for over 400 years, we hypothesized that Portuguese isolates were likely genetically closer with those from countries colonized by Portuguese in the past. We aimed to characterize the population structure of several Portuguese-speaking countries, including Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Cape Verde.

Materials and Methods

We included strains isolated in Portugal from Portuguese and from former Portuguese colonies. These strains were typed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) for seven housekeeping genes. We also retrieved from Multi Locus Sequence Typing Web site additional housekeeping gene sequences, namely from Angola and Brazil.

Results

We provided evidence that strains from Portuguese belong to hpEurope and that the introgression of hpEurope in non-European countries that speak Portuguese is low, except for Brazil and Cape Verde, where hpEurope accounted for one quarter and one half of the population, respectively. We found genetic similarity for all strains from Portuguese-speaking countries that belong to hpEurope population. Moreover, these strains showed a predominance of ancestral Europe 2 (AE2) over ancestral Europe 1 (AE1), followed by ancestral Africa 1.

Conclusions

H. pylori is a useful marker even for relative recent human migration events and may become rapidly differentiated from founder populations. H. pylori from Portuguese-speaking countries assigned to hpEurope appears to be a hybrid population resulting from the admixture of AE1, AE2 and ancestral hpAfrica1.

http://ift.tt/2mA8Qro

Three-dimensional characterization and distribution of fabrication defects in bilayered lithium disilicate glass-ceramic molar crowns

Publication date: Available online 6 March 2017
Source:Dental Materials
Author(s): Yutao Jian, Zi-hua He, Li Dao, Michael V. Swain, Xin-ping Zhang, Ke Zhao
ObjectiveTo investigate and characterize the distribution of fabrication defects in bilayered lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (LDG) crowns using micro-CT and 3D reconstruction.MethodsTen standardized molar crowns (IPS e.max Press; Ivoclar Vivadent) were fabricated by heat-pressing on a core and subsequent manual veneering. All crowns were scanned by micro-CT and 3D reconstructed. Volume, position and sphericity of each defect was measured in every crown. Each crown was divided into four regions—central fossa (CF), occlusal fossa (OF), cusp (C) and axial wall (AW). Porosity and number density of each region were calculated. Statistical analyses were performed using Welch two sample t-test, Friedman one-way rank sum test and Nemenyi post-hoc test. The defect volume distribution type was determined based on Akaike information criterion (AIC).ResultsThe core ceramic contained fewer defects (p<0.001) than the veneer layer. The size of smaller defects, which were 95% of the total, obeyed a logarithmic normal distribution. Region CF showed higher porosity (p<0.001) than the other regions. Defect number density of region CF was higher than region C (p<0.001) and region AW (p=0.029), but no difference was found between region CF and OF (p>0.05). Four of ten specimens contained the largest pores in region CF, while for the remaining six specimens the largest pore was in region OF.SignificanceLDG core ceramic contained fewer defects than the veneer ceramic. LDG strength estimated from pore size was comparable to literature values. Large defects were more likely to appear at the core–veneer interface of occlusal fossa, while small defects also distributed in every region of the crowns but tended to aggregate in the central fossa region. Size distribution of small defects in veneer obeyed a logarithmic normal distribution.



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Re-mineralizing dentin using an experimental tricalcium silicate cement with biomimetic analogs

Publication date: Available online 6 March 2017
Source:Dental Materials
Author(s): Xin Li, Jan De Munck, Kumiko Yoshihara, Mariano Pedano, Kirsten Van Landuyt, Zhi Chen, Bart Van Meerbeek
ObjectivesTo characterize the re-mineralization potential of an experimental zirconium oxide (ZrO2) containing tricalcium silicate (TCS) cement, TCS 50, with the incorporation of biomimetic analogs at demineralized dentin.MethodsClass-I cavities were prepared in non- carious human third molars. The dentin cavities were demineralized using a pH-cycling protocol, involving 50 cyclic immersions in pH-4.8 and pH-7 baths for 0.5h and 2.5h, successively. The cavities were filled with TCS 50 with/without biomimetic analogs (3% polyacrylic acid, 8% sodium trimetaphosphate) being added to the mixed TCS 50 cement prior to application. The commercial hCSCs Biodentine (Septodont) and ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Sirona) served as controls. After 1 and 6 weeks storage in simulated body fluid (SBF), the polished specimen cross-sections were chemically characterized using a field-emission-gun Electron Probe Micro-Analysis (Feg- EPMA).ResultsEPMA line-scans and elemental mappings confirmed early re-mineralization induced by TCS 50 at 1 week. When biomimetic analogs were added to TCS 50, re-mineralization was more efficient after 6 weeks; the relative depth and intensity of re-mineralization were 79.7% and 76.6%, respectively, being significantly greater than at 1 week (pSignificance: The experimental TCS-based cement, TCS 50, proved to be capable of re-mineralizing artificially demineralized dentin. The incorporation of biomimetic analogs promoted re- mineralization upon 6-week SBF storage. However, re-mineralization appeared incomplete, this even for TCS 50 to which biomimetic analogs were added and upon 6-week SBF storage.



http://ift.tt/2lCTpz7

Characterisation of nanovoiding in dental porcelain using small angle neutron scattering and transmission electron microscopy

Publication date: Available online 6 March 2017
Source:Dental Materials
Author(s): Alexander Lunt, Ann Terry, Siqi Ying, Nikolaos Baimpas, Tan Sui, Saurabh Kabra, Joe Kelleher, Stephen King, Neo Tee Khin, Alexander M. Korsunsky
ObjectivesRecent studies of the yttria partially stabilised zirconia–porcelain interface have revealed the presence of near-interface porcelain nanovoiding which reduces toughness and leads to component failure. One potential explanation for these nanoscale features is thermal creep which is induced by the combination of the residual stresses at the interface and sintering temperatures applied during manufacture. The present study provides improved understanding of this important phenomenon.MethodsTransmission electron microscopy and small angle neutron scattering were applied to a sample which was crept at 750°C and 100MPa (sample C), a second which was exposed to an identical heat treatment schedule in the absence of applied stress (sample H), and a reference sample in the as-machined state (sample A).ResultsThe complementary insights provided by the two techniques were in good agreement and log-normal void size distributions were found in all samples. The void number density was found to be 1.61μm⁻², 25.4μm⁻² and 98.6μm⁻² in samples A, H and C respectively. The average void diameter in sample A (27.1nm) was found to be more than twice as large as in samples H (10.2nm) and C (11.6nm). The crept data showed the highest skewness parameter (2.35), indicating stress-induced growth of larger voids and void coalescence that has not been previously observed.SignificanceThe improved insight presented in this study can be integrated into existing models of dental prostheses in order to optimise manufacturing routes and thereby reduce the significant detrimental impact of this nanostructural phenomenon.

Graphical abstract

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Cell responses to cariogenic microorganisms and dental resin materials—Crosstalk at the dentin-pulp interface?

Publication date: Available online 7 March 2017
Source:Dental Materials
Author(s): Helmut Schweikl, Wolfgang Buchalla, Stephanie Krifka
ObjectiveResin monomers released from unpolymerized dental adhesives or composites and bacterial products like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or lipoteichoic (LTA) are simultaneously present in specific applications following treatment of deep caries lesions. This review is focused on evidence concerning cell responses as a result of the interactions between adaptive mechanisms activated by resin monomers and signaling pathways of the immune response triggered by LPS or LTA originating from cariogenic microorganisms.MethodsCurrent understanding of dental caries progression and pathways in eukaryotic cells in response to LPS stimulation in a clinical situation as well as cell reactions to oxidative stress caused by resin monomers is analyzed based on publications available through online databases.ResultsLPS and LTA activate the redox-sensitive transcription factor NF-κB as a major regulator in immunocompetent dental pulp cells. Cell reactions to LPS/LTA associated with oxidative stress are downregulated by the redox-sensitive transcription factor Nrf2. Thus, activation of Nrf2 through resin monomer-induced oxidative stress due to the increased formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) could be a molecular mechanism underlying the inhibition of LPS-stimulated responses such as the release of pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokines. Likewise, crosslinking of NF-κB and Nrf2-regulated biocompatibility pathways regulates cell death induced by the interaction of LPS and resin monomers.SignificanceA multidimensional scenario through independent but linked NF-κB- and Nrf2-regulated pathways is activated in the clinical situation of caries treatment. Unfavorable or beneficial consequences strictly depend on a wide range of combinations and concentrations of bacterial products and resin monomers.



http://ift.tt/2lWHho3

The Role of Attention in Item-Item Binding in Visual Working Memory.

Author: Peterson, Dwight J.; Naveh-Benjamin, Moshe

DOI: 10.1037/xlm0000386

Publication Date: POST AUTHOR CORRECTIONS, 6 March 2017

http://ift.tt/2mA3lc1

Prostaglandin E1 Increases Microcirculation in Random Pattern Flaps on Rats Measured with Laser Doppler Perfusion Imaging

Background: Reconstructive procedures with pedicled and free flaps are associated with a risk of ischemia. Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is a hormone-like substance with known antiischemic and tissue-protective effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of PGE1 on the microcirculation in random pattern skin flaps on rats. Methods: Twenty-four rats were divided into 2 groups: an intervention group given PGE1 for 6 hours and a control group given saline. The flap (2 × 10 cm) was created on the back of the rats, and the microcirculation was monitored with laser Doppler perfusion imaging in 5 different zones (1, proximal; 5, distal) before surgery and after 60, 180, and 360 minutes postoperatively. Results: Before surgery, there was no difference in the perfusion in any zones between the intervention group and the control group. The mean perfusion values in zone 1 in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group at 60, 180, and 360 minutes postoperatively (P = 0.02, P = 0.05, and P = 0.04, respectively). At 360 minutes, we also found significantly higher levels of perfusion in the intervention group in zones 4 and 5 (P = 0.05 and P = 0.03, respectively) compared with the controls. Comparing the perfusion at 360 to 60 minutes in the intervention group, we found a significant increase in microcirculation in all zones, which were not seen in the control group. Conclusion: PGE1 increased perfusion in the dermal random pattern flaps on rats.

http://ift.tt/2lWQXiv

Deltoid Compartment Syndrome: A Rare Complication after Humeral Intraosseous Access

Summary: We present a case of a 65-year-old woman who developed a delayed deltoid compartment syndrome after resuscitation via humeral intraosseous access. Initially she was treated conservatively but then was taken emergently for a fasciotomy. After confirming the diagnosis with compartment pressures, a 2-incision approach was employed and a large hematoma was evacuated from the inferior margin of the anterior deltoid. The rest of the deltoid was inspected and debrided to healthy bleeding tissue. Her fasciotomy wounds were left open to heal on their own due to her tenuous clinical condition. At most recent follow-up, she had full range of motion in her shoulder and no residual pain. Our unique case study is the first documented incidence of upper extremity compartment syndrome after intraosseous access. Additionally, our case supports using humeral access only as a second-line option if lower extremity access is not available and prolonged vigilant monitoring after discontinuing intraosseous access to prevent disastrous late complications.

http://ift.tt/2lWTKYH

Sandwich Fascial Anterolateral Thigh Flap in Head and Neck Reconstruction: Evolution or Revolution?

Introduction: The anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALT) represents the workhorse for most reconstructive efforts in the head and neck regions. The main advantages of this flap are its versatility, the length of the pedicle, and the low morbidity of the donor site. The major drawback is the bulkiness of this flap with the frequent need for secondary revisions. To overcome this, we have developed a novel way to harvest and inset the ALT, called the sandwich fascial ALT flap (SALT). Methods: All patients undergoing head and neck reconstruction using the SALT flap from January 2013 to March 2016 were included in this retrospective analysis. The SALT flap was harvested as a composite flap including the superficial fascia, the subscarpal fat, and the deep fascia. At the recipient site, the flap was inset with the deep fascia facing out. A split thickness skin graft (± dermal substitute) was used to cover the deep fascia and the pedicle. Results: Eleven patients were included: 8 cases of orbital exenteration, 1 case of forehead reconstruction, and 2 cases of palatal reconstruction after radical maxillectomy. Flap survival was 100%. One patient required an early take back for venous thrombosis. The reconstruction was effective in all cases, allowing a prosthetic rehabilitation when required. Donor-site morbidity was minimal. Conclusions: The reconstruction of head and neck defects with a bulky fasciocutaneous ALT flap might not be the best option in every case. The SALT flap could represent a valid alternative for selected cases, with encouraging functional and cosmetic outcomes.

http://ift.tt/2kGf31Z

Curvilinear Segmental Mandibular Reconstruction Utilizing Distraction Osteogenesis and Early Open Callus Manipulation

Summary: The authors present a new technique for reconstruction of large curvilinear mandibular defects with distraction osteogenesis and early open callus manipulation. In phase 1, transport disks are created from mandibular bone and distracted across the entire length of the defect, without the restriction from a mandible plate fixation. This allows for full-length distraction until enough regenerate is obtained to reconstruct the defect without the need for additional bone grafts. Taking advantage of the soft moldable regenerate, the second and final operative procedure allows for the manipulation, repositioning, and fixation of the transported segments in the ideal position creating perfect tridimensional form and symmetry of the mandible arch. In addition, the consolidation phase is shortened by the early removal of distractors, substantially reducing the total length of treatment. This article describes 2 clinical cases treated according to this technique, one with a 6-cm mandibular defect where a sagittal plane manipulation was performed, and the other with a 7-cm defect and axial plane manipulation. Five years postsurgery, both patients had achieved full stable reconstruction without the need for bone grafting, and had obtained good facial symmetry, with no recorded complications. This technique serves to establish bone transport as a valuable alternative to bone free flaps in the reconstruction of large curvilinear segmental mandibular defects.

http://ift.tt/2lWNSPp

Robotic-Assisted Upper Face Rejuvenation

Summary: Robotic-assisted technology has not been used in aesthetic surgery so far. The authors examined the feasibility and potential advantages of robotic-assisted technology in upper face rejuvenation surgery, as well as utility of the tools available in the market. Forehead lift was performed along with blepharoplasty in 4 patients. Robotic da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Inc.) was used at the stage of dissection. The stereo endoscope 30 degrees, 12 mm and later 8.5 mm in diameter, and the set of tools, 8 mm and later 5 mm in diameter, were used. Overall results appeared to be essentially the same as after usual endoscope-assisted brow lift. The advantages of the robotic-assisted surgery were as follows: the best possible display, scalability of the picture; lack of tremor, scalability of the movements' amplitude; high degree of freedom of movements exceeding human capabilities; quick and easy switch between the endoscope and any of the 3 manipulating arms; and enhanced comfort for a surgeon. The drawbacks noted were as follows: cost, steep learning curve, lack of tactile feedback, and absence of instruments specially adjusted for aesthetic surgery. The authors conclude that robots will enter the field of aesthetic plastic surgery in the same way as endoscopy, the proviso being to adjust tools to the specific needs.

http://ift.tt/2lWOUei

Customized Titanium Implant for Chest Wall Reconstruction in Complex Poland Syndrome

Summary: This report describes a new method for the surgical repair of the chest wall deformity encountered in complex Poland's syndrome. In this report, we describe the use of a customized titanium implant that was used to replace the missing second through fifth ribs and to provide chest wall stabilization before breast reconstruction. This approach might be considered an alternative to autologous rib grafting in patients who have reached skeletal maturity. It avoids the morbidity and risk associated with rib grafts and improves chest wall symmetry.

http://ift.tt/2lWRSiB