Application of iPDMS protein microarray in screening of tumor-associated antigen autoantibodies / 生物工程学报

The rapid screening of tumor markers is a challenging task for early diagnosis of cancer. This study aims to use highly sensitive chemiluminescent protein microarray technology to efficiently screen a variety of low abundance tumor related markers. A new material, termed integrated polydimethylsiloxane modified silica gel (iPDMS), was obtained by adding a surface polymerization initiator with olefin end to the conventional polydimethylsiloxane, and fixing into the three-dimensional structure of polydimethylsiloxane by thermal crosslinking through silicon hydrogen bonding. In order to make the iPDMS material resistant to non-specific protein adsorption, a poly(OEGMA) polymer brush was synthesized by surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization at the active initiation site. Finally, 20 tumor-related antigens were printed into the specific areas of the microarray by high-throughput spray printing technology, and assembled into 48-well detection microtiterplates of the iPDMS microarray. It was found the VEGFR and VEGF121 autoantibodies that obtained from 8 common tumors (breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer, leukemia, lymphoma and ovarian cancer) can be used as potential tumor markers. The chemiluminescence labeled iPDMS protein microarray can be used for the screening of tumor autoantibodies at early stage.

Efficacy and safety of dimeticones in the treatment of epidermal parasitic skin diseases with special emphasis on tungiasis: an evidence-based critical review

ABSTRACT Epidermal parasitic skin diseases encompass scabies, pediculosis, cutaneous larva migrans, myiasis, and tungiasis. Tungiasis is probably the most neglected of all Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD). It occurs in South America, the Caribbean and Sub-Saharan Africa and affects marginalized populations where people live in extreme poverty. In endemic communities the prevalence can be up to 30% in general population and 85% in children. Over time, chronic pathology develops characterized by hyperkeratosis, edema around the nail rim, fissures, ulcers, deformation and loss of nails. This leads to a pattern of disabilities, eventually resulting in impairment of mobility.Dimeticones are a family of silicon oils with a potential to kill parasites located on top or inside the epidermis by a physical mode of action. They are considered the treatment of choice for pediculosis capitis and pediculosis pubis. With regard to tungiasis, the so called rear abdominal cone of the parasites has been identified as a target for treatment with dimeticones. NYDA®, a mixture of two dimeticones with different viscosity, is the only dimeticone product for which data on the mode of action, efficacy and safety with regard to tungiasis exists. The product has been shown highly effective against embedded sand fleas, even in very intense infection with more than 500 parasites situated on top of each other. A randomized controlled trial showed that seven days after a targeted application of NYDA® 97% (95% CI 94-99%) of the embedded sand fleas had lost all signs of viability.Comprehensive toxicological investigations on the dimeticones contained in NYDA® showed that there is practically no risk of embryotoxicity, fetotoxicity, teratogenicity, and other toxicity. The safety of dimeticones was also demonstrated in clinical trials with a total of 106 participants with tungiasis, in which not a single adverse event was observed.

Macroplastique for women with stress urinary incontinence secondary to intrinsic sphincter deficiency

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the subjective and objective outcomes of Macroplastique® (MPQ) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) secondary to intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD). Materials and Methods Following Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, charts of non-neurogenic women with SUI secondary to ISD who underwent MPQ injection and had 6 months minimum follow-up were reviewed from a prospectively maintained database. Patients were divided into 3 groups: Naïve (Group I), Prior Anti-Incontinence Surgery (Group II), and combined Prior Bulking Agent and Anti-Incontinence Surgery (Group III). Data collected included SUI self-report, Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) Question 3, and VAS Quality of Life (QoL) Questionnaire scores at baseline and in follow-up. Three-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) evaluated volume/configuration of MPQ. Success was defined after the last MPQ injection as a UDI-6 Question 3 score of 0 (dry) or 1, and no reoperation for SUI. Results From 2011-2017, 106 of 142 women met study criteria. At a median follow-up of 20 months (mean=26 months; range: 6-71), success rate was 41% for Group I, 40% for Group II, and 65% for Group III (p = 0.22). QoL scores were significantly improved over baseline in all groups. There was no significant difference in clinical outcome between the asymmetrical and symmetrical group on 3DUS. The completely dry rate was highest in Group III at 29%, compared to 4% for Group I and 15% for Group II (p = 0.05). Conclusion Macroplastique® improved subjective and objective outcome measures for SUI secondary to ISD as both a primary and secondary treatment option in women.

Effect of sonic and ultrasonic activation on physicochemical properties of root canal sealers

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effect of ultrasonic and sonic activation on physicochemical properties of AH Plus, MTA Fillapex, ADSeal, GuttaFlow Bioseal, and GuttaFlow 2 sealers. Methodology: Three experimental groups were formed: no activation (NA), ultrasonic activation (UA), and sonic activation (SA). The sealers were manipulated according to the manufacturers' instructions. A 3-mL syringe was adapted to receive 1 mL of sealer. Activation was performed with a 20/.01 ultrasonic insert (20 s/1W) in the UA group. A size 35.04 sonic tip was used (20 s/10,000 cycles/min-1) in the SA group. The molds for physicochemical analysis were filled and evaluated according to ANSI/ADA specification no. 57: setting time (ST), flow (FL), dimensional change (DC), solubility (SB), and radiopacity (RD). Statistical analysis was performed by Kruskal-Wallis, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey's tests (P<0.05). Results: Regarding ST, only AH Plus and GuttaFlow 2 in the NA group met the ANSI/ADA standards. All FL values were greater than 20 mm in diameter, as determined by ANSI/ADA. The tested sealers and protocols did not comply with the ANSI/ADA standards for DC. As for SB, only MTA Fillapex, regardless of the activation protocol, did not follow the ANSI/ADA standards. All of the investigated sealers, regardless of the activation protocol, presented radiographic density higher than 3 mm Al, as proposed by ANSI/ADA. Conclusions: UA and SA promoted changes in the physicochemical properties of the evaluated root canal sealers, mainly in ST and F. Thus, it is important to evaluate the physicochemical properties of endodontic sealers associated with activation techniques prior to clinical application in order to determine whether the properties follow the parameters set by ANSI/ADA, ensuring safety and quality of root canal filling.

Evaluation of the physicochemical properties of silicone- and epoxy resin-based root canal sealers

Abstract To assess the physicochemical properties of AH Plus, GuttaFlow 2, GuttaFlow BioSeal, and MM Seal, five samples of each root canal sealer were evaluated to determine their setting time (ST), dimensional change (DC), solubility (SL), flow (FL), and radiopacity (RD) according to American National Standards Institute/American Dental Association (ANSI/ADA) Specification 57. The distilled and deionized water obtained from the SL test were subjected to atomic absorption spectrometry to observe the presence of Ca2+, K+, and Na+ ions. Statistical analysis was performed by using one-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer tests (p < 0.05). The following results were obtained: ST (min) (AH Plus 463.6 ± 13.22; GuttaFlow 2 24.35 ± 2.78; GuttaFlow Bioseal 17.4 ± 0.55; MM Seal 47.60 ± 4.39), DC (%) (AH Plus 0.06 ± 0.12; GuttaFlow 2 −26.06 ± 1.24; GuttaFlow Bioseal 2.10 ± 1.47; MM Seal 8.47 ± 2.41), SL (%) (AH Plus 0.41 ± 0.21; GuttaFlow 2 5.13 ± 4.11; GuttaFlow Bioseal 3.03 ± 1.05; MM Seal 0.94 ± 0.17), FL (mm) (AH Plus 36.42 ± 0.40; GuttaFlow 2 36.44 ± 0.05; GuttaFlow Bioseal 35.4 ± 0.03; MM Seal 52.75 ± 0.60), and RD (mmAl) (AH Plus 7.52 ± 1.59; GuttaFlow 2 6.85 ± 0.14; GuttaFlow Bioseal 7.02 ± 0.18; MM Seal 3.32 ± 0.90). ST, DC, SL, FL, and RD showed statistical differences among the root canal sealers (p < 0.05). As AH Plus showed the lowest DC and SL values (p < 0.05), the findings indicate that this sample is the only sealer conforming to ANSI/ADA standards.

The efficacy and safety of urethral injection therapy for urinary incontinence in women: a systematic review

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of different bulking agents for treating urinary incontinence in women, a systematic review including only randomized controlled trials was performed. The subjects were women with urinary incontinence. The primary outcomes were clinical and urodynamic parameters. The results were presented as a weighted mean difference for non-continuous variables and as relative risk for continuous variables, both with 95% confidence intervals. Initially, 942 studies were identified. However, only fourteen eligible trials fulfilled the prerequisites. Altogether, the review included 1814 patients in trials of eight different types of bulking agents, and all studies were described and analyzed. The measured outcomes were evaluated using a large variety of instruments. The most common complications of the bulking agents were urinary retention and urinary tract infection. Additionally, there were certain major complications, such as one case of death after use of autologous fat. However, the lack of adequate studies, the heterogeneous populations studied, the wide variety of materials used and the lack of long-term follow-up limit guidance of practice. To determine which substance is the most suitable, there is a need for more randomized clinical trials that compare existing bulking agents based on standardized clinical outcomes.

Intraocular Pressure Sensor Based on a Contact Lens / 生物医学工程学杂志

Intraocular pressure detection has a great significance for understanding the status of eye health, prevention and treatment of diseases such as glaucoma. Traditional intraocular pressure detection needs to be held in the hospital. It is not only time-consuming to doctors and patients, but also difficult to achieve 24 hour-continuous detection. Microminiaturization of the intraocular pressure sensor and wearing it as a contact lens, which is convenient, comfortable and noninvasive, can solve this problem because the soft contact lens with an embedded micro fabricated strain gauge allows the measurement of changes in corneal curvature to correlate to variations of intraocular pressure. We fabricated a strain gauge using micro-electron mechanical systems, and integrated with the contact lens made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) using injection molding. The experimental results showed that the sensitivity was 100. 7 µV/µm. When attached to the corneal surface, the average sensitivity of sensor response of intraocular pressure can be 125.8 µV/mm Hg under the ideal condition.

In vitro antibacterial activity of a silicone-based endodontic sealer and two conventional sealers

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the modification in the silver component is capable of providing GuttaFlow 2 with antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis compared with epoxy resin-based (AH Plus) and zinc oxide and eugenol-based (Endofill) sealers. The antibacterial activity was evaluated using a reference strain of E. faecalis (ATCC 29212). Freshly mixed sealers were subjected to the agar diffusion test (ADT), while the direct contact test (DCT) was performed after materials setting. ADT results were obtained through measurements, in millimeters, of the inhibition zones promoted by the materials, using a digital caliper. In DCT, values of CFU/mL promoted by the three sealers were compared in three experimental periods (1 min, 1 h, and 24 h). The data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn post-hoc tests (p < 0.05). In both ADT and DCT, GuttaFlow 2 presented no effect against E. faecalis, while Endofill and AH Plus showed similar inhibition zones. Endofill was the only material capable of reducing bacterial growth in DCT. In conclusion, modifications in the silver particle of GuttaFlow 2 did not result in a sealer with antibacterial effect against E. faecalis.

Cardiac troponin and C-reactive protein for predicting all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease: A meta-analysis

Elevated serum levels of cardiac troponin and C-reactive protein are associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease. However, the relationship between these two biomarker levels and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease remains unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis to quantify the association of cardiac troponin and C-reactive protein levels with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease. Relevant studies were identified by searching the MEDLINE database through November 2013. Studies were included in the meta-analysis if they reported the long-term all-cause or cardiovascular mortality of chronic kidney disease patients with abnormally elevated serum levels of cardiac troponin or C-reactive protein. Summary estimates of association were obtained using a random-effects model. Thirty-two studies met our inclusion criteria. From the pooled analysis, cardiac troponin and C-reactive protein were significantly associated with all-cause (HR 2.93, 95% CI 1.97-4.33 and HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.14-1.29, respectively) and cardiovascular (HR 3.27, 95% CI 1.67-6.41 and HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.10-1.28, respectively) mortality. In the subgroup analysis of cardiac troponin and C-reactive protein, significant heterogeneities were found among the subgroups of population for renal replacement therapy and for the proportion of smokers and the C-reactive protein analysis method. Elevated serum levels of cardiac troponin and C-reactive protein are significant associated with higher risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease. Further studies are warranted to explore the risk stratification in chronic kidney disease patients.

Comparação do uso de implante de Silastic(r) com titânio pré-fabricado na tireoplastia tipo I / Comparison of the use of silastic with titanium prefabricated implant in type I thyroplasty

Introdução: A tireoplastia tipo I é o tratamento de escolha nas paralisias unilaterais das pregas Análise de custo-bene-vocais que não se recuperam espontaneamente. fício. Objetivos: Comparar o uso de implante de Silastic® com o uso de titânio pré-fabricado TVFMI® (Titanium Vocal Fold Medializing Implant) na tireoplastia tipo I para o tratamento da paralisia unilateral das pregas vocais com relação à melhora subjetiva e objetiva da voz, às alterações endoscópicas nas pregas vocais, ao tempo de cirurgia e à relação custo-benefício. Método: Trata-se de um estudo prospectivo com 40 pacientes portadores de paralisia unilateral das pregas vocais submetidos à tireoplastia tipo I com implante de silastic® ou TVFMI®. A avaliação e comparação estatística foram realizadas antes e quatro semanas depois da cirurgia por meio de videolaringoscopia, estroboscopia, análise perceptiva (escala GRBAS-Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain) e subjetiva (IDV-índice de desvantagem vocal) da voz e avaliação eletroglotográfica e avaliação acústica computadorizada. Também foram observados o tempo de cirurgia e o custo do implante. Resultados: Embora os dois implantes mostrem melhora na qualidade da voz após a tireoplastia, o TVFMI® teve um resultado ligeiramente melhor na análise objetiva da voz. O TVFMI® levou menos tempo de cirurgia para ser inserido, porém foi mais caro. Conclusão: O TVFMI® poderá ser preferencial na tireoplastia de medialização, já que possui melhores resultados vocais e leva menos tempo de cirurgia, porém é mais caro que o implante de Silastic®. .

Introduction: Type I thyroplasty is the treatment of choice for unilateral vocal cord palsy with no spontaneous recovery. Objectives: To compare the use of silastic implant with titanium vocal fold medializing implant (TVFMI®) in type I thyroplasty for unilateral vocal cord palsy with respect to subjective and objective improvement in voice, endoscopic changes in vocal cords, surgical time, and cost effectiveness. Methodology: This was a prospective study conducted on 40 patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis who underwent type I thyroplasty with either silastic implant or TVFMI®. Pre-operative and four-week post-operative assessment and statistical comparison were performed by videolaryngoscopy, stroboscopy, perceptual assessment (GRBAS), subjective (voice handicap index) analysis of voice, and computer-assisted acoustic and electroglottographic assessment. The duration of surgery and cost of implant were also recorded. Results: Although both implants showed improvement in quality of voice following thyroplasty, TVFMI® presents slightly better results in objective voice analysis. The surgery time for TVFMI®insertion was shorter, but the costs were higher. Conclusion: TVFMI® may be preferred for medialization thyroplasty as it presents better voice results and demands less surgical time; however, it is costlier than silastic implant. .

Sequela de injeção de silicone em lábio inferior: correção cirúrgica pela técnica do biquíni modificada / Sequelae of inferior lip silicone injection: surgical correction using the modified "bikini" technique

Pacientes portadores de sequelas devido a injeções de substâncias inabsorvíveis tem se tornado cada vez mais frequentes. O silicone injetável ou polidimetilsiloxano fluido é um polímero manufaturado que contém silicone elementar. As complicações consequentes ao uso desta substância podem ser precoces ou tardias. Apresentamos um relato de caso onde uma deformidade por injeção de silicone em lábios foi tratada cirurgicamente usando a técnica do biquíni modificada obtendo um bom resultado funcional e estético.

Increasing numbers of patients have sequelae due to the injection of non-absorbable substances. Injectable silicone or polydimethylsiloxane fluid is a manufactured polymer containing elemental silicon. The complications associated with the use of this substance can present early or late. Here we present a case report in which a deformity due to a silicone injection in the lips was surgically treated using the modified "bikini" technique that produced a functionally and aesthetically favorable result.

Preparation of elastic porous cell scaffold fabricated with combined polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and hydroxyapatite (HA) / 生物医学工程学杂志

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and hydroxyapatite (HA) were combined in our laboratory to fabricate an elastic porous cell scaffold with pore-forming agent, and then the scaffold was used as culture media for rat bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs). Different porous materials (square and circular in shape) were prepared by different pore-forming agents (NaCl or paraffin spheres) with adjustable porosity (62%-76%). The HA crystals grew on the wall of hole when the material was exposed to SBF solutions, showing its biocompatibility and ability to support the cells to attach on the materials.

Estudo experimental comparativo de remendos arteriais de polidimetilsiloxano com reforço de tecido de poliéster (PDMSr) versus politetrafluoretileno expandido (PTFEe) em aorta de coelhos / Patch of polydimethylsiloxane reinforced with polyester fabric for aortic angioplasty in rabbits

Introdução: Apesar de bons resultados descritos na literatura, o substituto ideal para a utilização como remendo no fechamento arterial ainda não existe. Por este motivo, ainda há espaço para a busca por remendo que seja biocompatível, e que apresente facilidade de manuseio e resultados satisfatórios. Avaliamos remendos arteriais de silicone (polidimetilsiloxano com reforço em poliéster - PDMSr) em comparação com remendos arteriais de PTFEe. Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho é comparar, em modelo experimental, em coelhos, os resultados de remendos arteriais feitos em PDMSr com remendos de PTFEe. Materiais e Método: A amostra foi definida em 10 animais que completassem todas as etapas da pesquisa em cada grupo. Os animais foram submetidos à laparotomia mediana e abertura longitudinal da aorta de aproximadamente 8mm, realizando-se o seu fechamento com remendo do grupo selecionado, seguido do fechamento por planos. Os animais foram mantidos em biotério até o 60º PO, quando, então, realizou-se arteriografia de controle, e análise macro e microscópica de peça. Resultados: Para se atingir a amostra desejada, foram necessários 12 procedimentos no grupo PDMSr e 16 no grupo PTFEe. Ocorreram 2 óbitos no grupo PDMSr e 6 no grupo PTFEe. Apesar do número maior de óbitos no grupo PTFEe não houve diferença estatística na sobrevida entre os grupos. Um animal do grupo PDMSr apresentou monoparesia em pata posterior direita e um animal do grupo PTFEe apresentou hérnia incisional. Não houve diferença estatística nas complicações entre os grupos. O tempo operatório foi estatisticamente maior no grupo PTFEe quando comparamos todos os animais, fato que não se repetiu quando excluímos os animais que faleceram...

Introduction: Although good results are reported for various materials for use as patches for arterial closure, as yet none of these is ideal. Therefore, research is continuing into development of a patch that is biocompatible and provides ease of handling, while having satisfactory outcomes. A new silicone arterial patch (polydimethylsiloxane reinforced with polyester fabric, PDMSr) was compared with patches made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Objective: To compare the outcomes between arterial patches made of PDMSr with those made of ePTFE, in an experimental rabbit model. Materials and Method: Rabbits were placed in two groups, and received either PDMSr or ePTFE arterial patches (PDMSr group and ePTFE group, respectively). The animals underwent laparotomy and longitudinal opening of the aorta, which was then closed with the selected patch, followed by suture of all layers. The animals were kept in their cages until the 60th postoperative day, when arteriography, removal of the aorta, and macroscopic and optic and scanning electron microscopic analyzes of the aorta were performed. Ten rabbits from each group that had completed all stages of the research were included in analyses. Results: Twelve procedures were performed in the PDMSr group and 16 in the ePTFE group. There were 2 deaths in the PDMSr group and 6 in the ePTFE group. Despite the higher number of deaths in the ePTFE group, there was no statistical difference in survival rate between the groups. One animal in the PDMSr group developed monoparesis in its right hind paw and 1 animal in the ePTFE group had an incisional hernia. There was no statistical difference in complications between the groups. The operative time was significantly longer in the ePTFE group when all animals were included in analysis, but not when animals that died were excluded...

Estudo experimental comparativo de implantes arteriais: politetrafluoretileno expandido (PTFE) versus polidimetilsiloxano com reforço de tecido de poliéster / Experimental comparative study of arterial implants - expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) versus dimethylpolysiloxane reinforced with polyester fabric

INTRODUÇÃO: Os enxertos vasculares sintéticos disponíveis atualmente apresentam baixos índices de patência, quando utilizados na revascularização de vasos de pequeno calibre, e possuem resultados inferiores quando comparados ao uso de veias autólogas em derivações infrageniculares. Nova prótese de pequeno calibre confeccionada em silicone (polidimetilsiloxano, PDMS) com reforço de tecido de poliéster foi desenvolvida e comparada à prótese de PTFE. OBJETIVOS: Analisar, em modelo experimental em coelhos, o tubo de PDMS como material para prótese vascular e compará-lo a prótese de PTFE. MÉTODOS: Quarenta coelhos foram submetidos a interposição na aorta infrarrenal de próteses de 4mm de diâmetro, sendo 20 animais com PDMS e 20 com PTFE (grupo controle). Foi medido o tempo de clampeamento e realizada arteriografia retrógrada da aorta para avaliar a patência das próteses. Para avaliar a endotelização das próteses foi realizada microscopia eletrônica de maneira amostral pareada. RESULTADOS: Vinte e cinco animais (62,5%) não apresentaram intercorrências pós-operatórias; oito (20%) morreram precocemente e sete (17,5%) ficaram paraplégicos no pós-operatório imediato (e foram sacrificados), sendo que esses animais não foram incluídos nas análises de patência. Não foi observada diferença entre os grupos quanto à evolução com complicações pós-operatórias (p=0,526) e quanto ao tempo de clampeamento da aorta (p=0,299). A patência em 30 dias foi de 100% para as duas próteses. Aos 60 dias, a taxa de patência do PDMS foi de 92,3% (± 7,4), e de 73,8% (±13,1) em 90 dias; as próteses de PTFE tiveram taxas de patência de 87,5% (± 11,7) aos 60 e 90 dias. Não foi observada diferença significativa entre as taxas de patência dos grupos (p=0,62). Não houve diferença siginificativa entre os grupos quanto ao grau de estenose das próteses patentes (p=0,650) à avaliação angiográfica. A microscopia eletrônica mostrou crescimento endotelial limitado às regiões próximas...

INTRODUCTION: Synthetic vascular grafts currently available have suboptimal patency rates in small-diameter vessels and inferior outcomes in below-the-knee arterial bypass procedures when compared to the use of autologous vein. A new small vessel prosthesis made of silicone (polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS) and reinforced with polyester fabric was developed and compared to the standard PTFE prosthesis. OBJECTIVES: On a rabbit experimental model, we compared the outcomes of new PDMS vascular prostheses with PTFE vascular prostheses. METHODS: Forty rabbits underwent infra-renal aorta replacement with 4 mm diameter prostheses, twenty animals with PDMS and twenty animals with PTFE (control group). Aortic clamping time was measured and retrograde aortic angiography was performed to assess patency. Histological graft samples were examined by electron microscopy to evaluate prostheses endothelialization. RESULTS: Twenty-five (62,5%) animals had good surgical outcome; eight animals (20%) expired and seven animals (17.5%) became paraplegic (and subsequently sacrificed) during early follow up and were not included in anastomosis patency analysis. Postoperative complications (death, paraplegia) rates (p=0,526) and aortic clamping times (p=0,299) were comparable in both groups. Patency rates in 30 days were 100% for both grafts. At 60 days, patency rate for PDMS was 92,3% (±7,4), and 73,8% (±13,1) at 90 days. PTFE grafts had patency rates of 87,5% (±11,7) at 60 and 90 days. No statistically significant difference was found in between groups for patency rates (p=0,62). No statistically significant difference for stenosis was found on angiographical analysis in between groups (p=0,650). Electron microscopy revealed limited anastomotic endothelial ingrowth in both prostheses used. CONCLUSION: In this experimental model, PDMS and PTFE vascular prostheses had comparable outcomes and PDMS prosthesis could be used as a vacular graft

Effect of different polymerization methods on shear bond strength between polymethyl methacrylate and silicone soft liner / 华西口腔医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To compare shear bond strength (SBS) between two types of silicone soft liner and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) under the condition of heat curing and room temperature curing.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 48 PMMA specimens (50 mm x 10 mm x 3 mm) were made by water-bath heating method, and randomly divided into four groups. By using Ufi Gel P (UGP) as soft liner material, group A1 was prepared under heat curing, and group A2 was prepared under room temperature curing. To form the other two groups, Silagum-Comfort (SLC) as soft-liner material was used. Group B1 was prepared under heat curing, and group B2 was prepared under room temperature curing. Shear bond strength (SBS) was tested by using the electronic universal testing machine. The adhesives layer and surface of silastic and PMMA were observed by optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The SBS of groups A1, A2, B1, B2 were (2.39 +/- 0.24), (1.74 +/- 0.27), (3.09 +/- 0.26), and (2.21 +/- 0.29) MPa, respectively. Significant differences were found between A1 and A2, B1 and B2, A1 and B1, and A2 and B2 (P < 0.05). Optical microscope showed numerous bubbles in the cured UGP, and no air bubbles in the SLC. The surface of PMMA was rough. SEM images showed that each group had continual consistent adhesive interface and a whisker hump on the adhesive layer of A2 and B2.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The SBS ofUGP, SLC, and PMMA achieved minimum clinical standard of 0.44 MPa. The SBS of UGP and PMMA were higher than that of SLC and PMMA. The polymerization method of heat curing was higher than room temperature curing.</p>

The biological safety evaluation of a new developed silicone rubber for inflatable silastic prosthesis / 华西口腔医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>The biological safety of a new developed silicone rubber for inflatable silastic prosthesis (SRISP) was evaluated.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Following the GB/T 16886.10-2005 standard, YY/T 0127.13-2009 standard, and GB/T 16886.11- 2011 standard, samples were prepared and tested by animal experiments, such as guinea pig maximization test, oral mucous membrane irritation test, and short-term systemic toxicity test (oral route).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>No obvious erythema and edema in the guinea pig abdominal skin were observed after 24, 48, and 72 h of stimulating touch, thus indicating that SRISP does not cause potential skin sensitivity. No local response to SRISP was found, and the visual observation and pathological findings of oral mucosa were normal and similar to that of the control group. Therefore, SRISP had no irritation response to oral mucosa. No clinical signs of toxicity were observed in rats, and no significant differences in weight and weight relative growth rate between extract group and blank control group (P > 0.05) were found. Thus, SRISP had no short-term systemic toxicity.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>These results indicated that SRISP met the requirement of biomedical materials and had good bio- security.</p>

Treatment Outcomes of Transurethral Macroplastique Injection for Postprostatectomy Incontinence

PURPOSE: We investigated the efficacy of transurethral injection of Macroplastique bulking agent (Uroplasty) for male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after prostate surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective review included men with SUI treated by transurethral injection for symptoms resulting from prostate surgery. Patients were evaluated at 1 month and 6 months after injection by determining the number of pads used per day and changes in incontinence symptoms. Treatment success was defined as use of 1 pad or fewer per day combined with subjective symptom improvement. RESULTS: The study population comprised 30 men with a mean age of 66.1+/-5.3 years. Of the 30 patients, 24 (80.0%) underwent prostate cancer surgery and the remaining 6 (20.0%) underwent surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The preinjection pad number was 2.9+/-1.9 pads per day. After injection treatment, the mean follow-up period was 9.3+/-12.7 months and the success rate was 43% (13/30) at 1 month and 32% (6/19) at 6 months. Injection was more likely to result in a successful outcome in patients with no preinjection radiation treatment history and higher abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) than in those with a previous history of radiation treatment and lower ALPP, although this result was not statistically significant. Acute urinary retention occurred in 5 patients (17%). CONCLUSIONS: Transurethral Macroplastique injection treatment is a relatively non-invasive treatment method for male SUI with a success rate of 43% at 1 month and 32% at 6 months. Patients with a higher ALPP and no previous history of radiation therapy may experience better treatment outcomes.

Effect of different disinfecting procedures on the hardness and color stability of two maxillofacial elastomers over time

Objective Disinfection procedures often cause deterioration in a maxillofacial prosthesis. Color and hardness alterations could lead to a replacement of the prosthesis. Material and Methods An experimental chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) and a commercial polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) sample were treated with four different disinfection procedures for a period which simulates 1 year of clinical service. The applied disinfection procedures included microwave exposure and immersion in three solutions, sodium hypochlorite, neutral soap and a commercial disinfecting soap. Shore A hardness (∆H) and color differences (∆E) were determined before and after each procedure. All data were analyzed by Two Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc tests at a level of α=0.05. Results The samples presented significant alterations in color and hardness after the different disinfection treatments. The color differences (∆E) were at least eye detectable in all cases and clinically unacceptable in most of the cases, with values ranging from 1.51 to 4.15 and from 1.54 to 5.92 for the PDMS and CPE material, respectively. Hardness was decreased after all the disinfection procedures in the PDMS, while for the CPE, a decrement was observed after disinfection with sodium hypochlorite and neutral soap and an increment after microwave exposure and the disinfection with a commercial antimicrobial agent. The PDMS samples presented greater alterations in color and hardness after disinfection with sodium hypochlorite solution, while the microwave exposure caused negligible effects. The CPE samples were affected most after disinfection when treated with neutral soap, and more slightly when disinfected with sodium hypochlorite solution. Conclusions The disinfection procedures caused alterations in color and hardness of the examined materials. The most suitable disinfection procedure for ...

Síndrome tóxica do segmento anterior / Toxic anterior segment syndrome

A síndrome tóxica do segmento anterior (STSA) é uma severa reação inflamatória aguda causada por agente não infeccioso que entra no segmento anterior, resultando em lesão celular tóxica com necrose e apoptose mediado por resposta imunológica. Neste relato de caso de STSA são enfatizadas as causas mais comuns para o aparecimento da síndrome, apontam para os cuidados que devem ser tomados no processo de esterilização do material cirúrgico além de revisar a melhor conduta diante desses casos. Em conclusão notou-se que o foco principal deve ser a prevenção, pois o tratamento busca apenas suprimir a resposta inflamatória secundária. O tratamento nos casos de STSA consiste em intensa instilação de esteróides tópicos com seguimento rigoroso e controle de complicações tardias como o glaucoma.

Toxic anterior segment syndrome is acute inflammatory reaction caused by a noninfectious substance that enters the anterior segment, resulting in extracellular damage with necrosis and apoptosis during an immune response. We have the report of a case of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS), in which the authors seek to emphasize the most common causes of the appearance of these syndrome. They point out the care that must be taken in the process of sterilization of surgical material, in addition to reviewing the best conduct when faced with these cases. In conclusion, it was noted that the main focus should be on prevention, as treatment only seeks to suppress the secondary inflammatory response. Treatment in cases of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS) consists of intense instillation of topical steroids with strict follow-up and control of late complications such as glaucoma.

Modified Direct W-incision with Silicone Sheet to Minimize Operation Scar in Reconstruction of Mild to Moderate Symptomatic Medial Orbital Wall Fracture

BACKGROUND: For reconstruction of the mild to moderate medial orbital wall fractures, various surgical approaches have been used. Prior existing W-shaped incision was a direct local approach through a 3 cm incision on the superior medial orbital area with a titanium mesh implant. In this study, the authors modified W-shaped incision and reconstructed the defect with silastic sheet to improve the result and the postoperative scar. METHODS: This study included 20 patients who had mild to moderate size of medial wall defect and therefore relatively suitable for reconstruction with silastic sheets from July, 2009 to December, 2011. A modified W-shaped skin incision approximately 1.2 to 1.5 cm in length was made along the superior medial orbital rim from approximately 1 cm medial to the medial canthus to the lower border of the medial eyebrow. The angles of the limbs of the W ranged from 150 to 160 degrees. RESULTS: By using soft flexible silastic sheet, the authors reduced the incision from 3 to 1.5 cm, and by widening the angle of the W limbs, scars were more effectively hided in the relaxed skin tension line. Scar assessment was done with modified patient and observer scar assessment scale and mean score from patients was 2.08 and mean score from observers was 2.12. CONCLUSION: Although this method will not be suitable for every case, it can be a consistent method to obtain the surgical goal in treatment of mild to moderate blowout fractures of the medial orbital wall.