Abnormal crystallization behavior of high impact polypropylene under shear

Publication date: 31 January 2018
Source:Polymer, Volume 136
Author(s): Di Sun, Peng He, Yanfang Wang, Xingbo Shi, Wei Yu
The crystallization of two high impact polypropylenes (HIPP) was investigated under shear flow by online rheo-Raman spectroscopy. Abnormal retardation of crystallization under shear is observed in one HIPP, but the usual shear accelerated crystallization is observed in the other one. Such abnormal phenomenon was understood by thorough investigations on the phase separation behaviors in two HIPPs by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and rheology. The slowdown of crystallization under shear can be ascribed to the suppression of the interface and fluctuation assisted nucleation under shear, which cannot be compensated by the acceleration effect due to molecular stretching/orientation under shear. The difference between two HIPP comes from the interplay between the suppression and acceleration effect of shear flow, which is determined by the amount of ethylene-propylene segmented copolymer (EPS) and its selective location in isotactic polypropylene (iPP) and ethylene-propylene random copolymer (EPR).

Graphical abstract

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The Ikaros family in lymphocyte development

Beate Heizmann | Philippe Kastner | Susan Chan

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Perturbation of theta-gamma coupling at the temporal lobe hinders verbal declarative memory

Publication date: Available online 25 December 2017
Source:Brain Stimulation
Author(s): Gabriel Amador de Lara, Ivan Alekseichuk, Zsolt Turi, Albert Lehr, Andrea Antal, Walter Paulus
BackgroundPhase-amplitude cross-frequency coupling (PAC) is characterized by the modulation of the power of a fast brain oscillation (e.g., gamma) by the phase of a slow rhythm (e.g., theta). PAC in different sub- and neocortical regions is known to underlie effective neural communications and correlates with successful long-term memory formation.Objective/Hypothesis: The present work aims to extend earlier observational data, by probing the functional role of theta-gamma PAC in the left temporal cortex in humans during verbal long-term memory encoding.MethodsIn three double-blinded, placebo-controlled experiments (n = 72), we employed cross-frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) to externally modulate ongoing PAC during a verbal-associative learning task. Three types of cross-frequency tACS protocols were used: bursts of high gamma tACS were coupled to the peak or trough of the theta tACS cycle, and a control condition where gamma tACS was continuously superimposed at theta tACS cycles.ResultsGamma bursts coupled to the trough of theta tACS induced robust behavioral impairment in memory performance (p < .01), whereas gamma burst coupled to the peak or continuously superimposed with theta tACS had no significant behavioral effects.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate direct evidence regarding the importance of theta-gamma coupling in verbal long-term memory formation.



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Nurse's Cancer Selfie Had Celebrity-Like Impact

In 2015, a nurse from Kentucky boosted skin cancer awareness in a way that rivalled the disease impact of celebrities such as Angelina Jolie and Charlie Sheen, say researchers. It all started with a selfie.
Medscape Medical News

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Neonatal SIRPIDs, a Confusing Eeg Finding

Publication date: Available online 25 December 2017
Source:Pediatric Neurology
Author(s): K.M. Gorman, A. Jeong, A.C. Pardo




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Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with prolonged survival: a case report

Cholangiocarcinoma has poor prognosis and short term-survival. Here, we report the case of a patient with unusually prolonged survival.

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Stem cell-inspired secretome-rich injectable hydrogel to repair injured cardiac tissue

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2017
Source:Acta Biomaterialia
Author(s): Renae Waters, Perwez Alam, Settimio Pacelli, Aparna R. Chakravarti, Rafeeq P.H. Ahmed, Arghya Paul
The objective of this study was to develop an injectable and biocompatible hydrogel that can deliver a cocktail of therapeutic biomolecules (secretome) secreted by human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) to the peri-infarct myocardium. Gelatin and Laponite® were combined to formulate a shear-thinning, nanocomposite hydrogel (nSi Gel) as an injectable carrier of secretome (nSi Gel+). The growth factor composition and the pro-angiogenic activity of the secretome were tested in vitro by evaluating the proliferation, migration and tube formation of human umbilical endothelial cells. The therapeutic efficacy of the nSi Gel+ system was then investigated in vivo in rats by intramyocardial injection into the peri-infarct region. Subsequently, the inflammatory response, angiogenesis, scar formation, and heart function were assessed. Biocompatibility of the developed nSi Gel was confirmed by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemical tests which showed no significant differences in the level of inflammatory genes, microRNAs, and cell marker expression compared to the untreated control group. In addition, the only group that showed a significant increase in capillary density, reduction in scar area and improved cardiac function was treated with the nSi Gel+. Our in vitro and in vivo findings demonstrate the potential of this new secretome-loaded hydrogel as an alternative strategy to treat myocardial infarction.Statement of significanceStem cell based-therapies represent a possible solution to repair damaged myocardial tissue by promoting cardioprotection, angiogenesis, and reduced fibrosis. However, recent evidence indicates that most of the positive outcomes are likely due to the release of paracrine factors (cytokines, growth factors, and exosomes) from the cells and not because of the local engraftment of stem cells. This cocktail of essential growth factors and paracrine signals is known as secretome can be isolated in vitro, and the biomolecule composition can be controlled by varying stem-cell culture conditions. Here, we propose a straightforward strategy to deliver secretome produced from hASCs by using a nanocomposite injectable hydrogel made of gelatin and Laponite®. The designed secretome-loaded hydrogel represents a promising alternative to traditional stem cell therapy for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction.

Graphical abstract

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Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts long-term survival in laryngeal cancer.

Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio predicts long-term survival in laryngeal cancer.

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 Dec 23;:

Authors: Mao Y, Fu Y, Gao Y, Yang A, Zhang Q

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Although the survival rate of laryngeal cancer is relatively high, some patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) show the least benefit from laryngectomy, owing to few determining diagnostic tools. We aimed to identify high-risk patients according to a preoperatively determined signature of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) of > 193.55, as an indicator of poor treatment outcome in LSCC patients.
METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 899 patients who underwent laryngectomy for LSCC. The patients were stratified by PLR into three subgroups: low (≤ 119.55), moderate (> 119.55 and ≤ 193.55), and high (> 193.55). Kaplan-Meier curves were plotted to compare the intergroup cancer-specific survival (CSS).
RESULTS: Patients with high PLR had significantly worse survival outcomes (5-year CSS, low vs. moderate vs. high: 75.3 vs. 68.4 vs. 53.9%; 10-year CSS, low vs. moderate vs. high: 65.0 vs. 56.0 vs. 38.6%, P < 0.001). Patients with PLR > 193.55 represented malnutrition and more advanced cancer stage..
CONCLUSION: Patients with PLR > 193.55 experience poor outcomes and represent malnutrition, more advanced cancer stage.

PMID: 29275426 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Oropharyngeal and tongue exercises (myofunctional therapy) for snoring: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Oropharyngeal and tongue exercises (myofunctional therapy) for snoring: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 Dec 23;:

Authors: Camacho M, Guilleminault C, Wei JM, Song SA, Noller MW, Reckley LK, Fernandez-Salvador C, Zaghi S

Abstract
PURPOSE: Oropharyngeal and tongue exercises (myofunctional therapy) have been shown to improve obstructive sleep apnea. However, to our knowledge, a systematic review has not been performed for snoring. The study objective is to perform a systematic review, with a meta-analysis, dedicated to snoring outcomes after myofunctional therapy.
METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE and three other databases were searched through November 25, 2017. Two authors independently searched the literature. Eligibility (1) patients: children or adults with snoring, (2) intervention: oropharyngeal and/or tongue exercises, (3) comparison: pre and post-treatment data for snoring, (4) outcomes: snoring frequency and snoring intensity, (5) study design: publications of all study designs.
RESULTS: A total of 483 articles were screened, 56 were downloaded in their full text form, and nine studies reported outcomes related to snoring. There were a total of 211 patients (all adults) in these studies. The snoring intensity was reduced by 51% in 80 patients from pre-therapy to post-therapy visual analog scale values of 8.2 ± 2.1 (95% CI 7.7, 8.7) to 4.0 ± 3.7 (95% CI 3.2, 4.8). Berlin questionnaire snoring intensity reduced by 36% in 34 patients from 2.5 ± 1.0 (95% CI 2.2, 2.8) to 1.6 ± 0.8 (95% CI 1.3, 1.9). Finally, time spent snoring during sleep was reduced by 31% in 60 patients from 26.3 ± 18.7% (95% CI 21.6, 31.0) to 18.1 ± 20.5% (95% CI 12.9, 23.3) of total sleep time.
CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review demonstrated that myofunctional therapy has reduced snoring in adults based on both subjective questionnaires and objective sleep studies.

PMID: 29275425 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Mechanism of Action of the Anti-Influenza Virus Active Kampo (Traditional Japanese Herbal) Medicine, Hochuekkito.

Mechanism of Action of the Anti-Influenza Virus Active Kampo (Traditional Japanese Herbal) Medicine, Hochuekkito.

Pharmacology. 2017 Dec 22;101(3-4):148-155

Authors: Dan K, Takanashi K, Akiyoshi H, Munakata K, Hasegawa H, Ogawa K, Watanabe K

Abstract
When the Kampo medicine, Hochuekkito (Hochu), was administered to normal mice for 2 weeks, influenza virus titer was reduced. The mechanism of action of Hochu was examined using the plaque assay method. It was suggested that Hochu may either obstruct the first stage of the infection process (adsorption and entry) or may directly target viral particles. Using the plaque assay method, these 2 modes of action could not be differentiated. Virus RNA in the infected cell was verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. An equal inhibition effect was obtained when Hochu was preprocessed for normal cells and when they were made to act simultaneously with virus adsorption. The viral load at the cell surface following UV irradiation was higher in the Hochu-administered group as compared with that of the control. Moreover, the affinity of Hochu for the influenza virus was hundred times higher than its affinity for the host cell. The effect of entry obstruction by Hochu was observed via image analysis, where the amount of virus nucleocapsid protein (NP) invading the cell was visualized with FITC-labeled NP antibody. Hochu does not seem to have an effect on nucleic acid synthesis, viral release from infected cells, and on the subsequent second round of infection. In conclusion, Hochu binds to viral particles and forms complexes that can obstruct the entry of influenza virus into cells.

PMID: 29275416 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Maxillary chondrosarcoma mimicking torus palatinus.

Maxillary chondrosarcoma mimicking torus palatinus.

BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Dec 22;2017:

Authors: Brimioulle M, Bowles PF, Pelser A

PMID: 29275381 [PubMed - in process]

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Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) of the head and neck: A French multicenter study.

Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) of the head and neck: A French multicenter study.

J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2017 Dec 12;:

Authors: Moreau A, Galmiche L, Minard-Colin V, Rachwalski M, Belhous K, Orbach D, Joly A, Picard A, Kadlub N

Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) of the head and neck is a rare entity with uncertain clinical behavior. Radical surgical resection is the current recommended treatment, however this can cause severe aesthetic and functional sequelae. The aim of this study was to clinically characterize MNTIs and to stratify risk factors that may influence locoregional recurrence.
METHODS: A retrospective multicenter study, including 11 patients from eight centers with a confirmed diagnosis of MNTI, was conducted. Epidemiological, clinical, radiological, pathological, and immunohistochemical examinations were reviewed. A statistical analysis using a t-test was conducted to calculate parameters correlating with tumor recurrence.
RESULTS: MNTIs mainly occurred in the maxilla, with a mean age at diagnosis of 3.18 months (range: 0-6 months). Primary surgery was performed on 10 patients, with a clear margin resection on two patients. Overall recurrence rate was 27% with a survival of 100% at time of follow-up. No statistical correlation between recurrence rate, age at diagnosis, localization, resection margins, and pathological and immunohistochemical characteristics could be established.
CONCLUSION: In our study, locoregional tumor recurrence did not seem to correlate with resection margins, so a conservative surgical approach may need to be considered to avoid functional and aesthetic sequelae.

PMID: 29275074 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Comparison of Video Head Impulse Test and Caloric Reflex Test in advanced unilateral definite Menière's disease.

Comparison of Video Head Impulse Test and Caloric Reflex Test in advanced unilateral definite Menière's disease.

Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis. 2017 Dec 20;:

Authors: Rubin F, Simon F, Verillaud B, Herman P, Kania R, Hautefort C

Abstract
AIMS: There have been very few studies of the Video Head Impulse Test (VHIT) in patients with Menière's Disease (MD). Some reported 100% normal VHIT results, others not. These discrepancies may be due to differences in severity. The present study compared VHIT and caloric reflex test results in advanced unilateral definite MD.
MATERIAL AND METHOD: A prospective study included 37 consecutive patients, with a mean age of 56±12 years. Mean hearing loss was 59±18dB HL; 12 patients were subject to Tumarkin's otolithic crises. Abnormal caloric reflex was defined as ≥20% deficit, and abnormal VHIT as presence of saccades or <0.64 gain in vertical semicircular canals and <0.78 in horizontal canals.
RESULTS: All patients had normal VHIT results, and 3 had normal caloric reflex; mean caloric reflex deficit was 45%.
CONCLUSION: The present study is the only one to use the August 2015 updated definition of MD. The results showed that, outside of episodes of crisis, VHIT was normal during advanced unilateral definite MD, in contrast to abnormal caloric reflex. This feature could help distinguish MD from other inner ear diseases, and it would be interesting to try to confirm this hypothesis by studying MD patients.

PMID: 29274769 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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The role of craving in emotional and uncontrolled eating

Publication date: 1 April 2018
Source:Appetite, Volume 123
Author(s): Christina L. Verzijl, Erica Ahlich, Robert C. Schlauch, Diana Rancourt
This study presents a novel application of the cognitive processing model of alcohol craving (CPMA) from the addictions field to the role of food craving in the well-established restrained eating–overeating relationship associated with binge eating disorder (BED). A community sample (N = 1058, ages 18-66) completed an online survey assessing four core domains: restrained eating, trait food craving, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating. In accordance with the CPMA, food craving emerged as a significant indirect effect of the association between restrained eating and both uncontrolled and emotional eating. Gender did not significantly moderate any direct or indirect associations, suggesting that gender may not change the pattern of association between restrained eating and different facets of overeating. Results suggest that treatments targeting binge eating behaviors may benefit from 1) explicitly addressing the activation of food craving rather than concentrating on reducing restrained eating and 2) recognizing that food craving may be an important gender-neutral target with the potential to reduce binge and overeating behaviors. Future research should extend these preliminary findings by examining the application of the CPMA to eating behaviors while jointly investigating antecedents and contextual factors.



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