scholarly journals Topical 5% Imiquimod as Monotherapy for Primary Cutaneous and Cutaneous Metastatic Melanoma: Systematic Review of the Literature

2021 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Keegan O’Hern ◽  
Meagan Chambers ◽  
Shu T. Liang ◽  
Dylan J. Badin ◽  
Michael S. Chapman
Keyword(s):  
Metastatic Melanoma ◽  
Progressive Disease ◽  
Case Reports ◽  
Lesion Size ◽  
Primary Cutaneous Melanoma ◽  
Treatment Regimens ◽  
Positive Treatment ◽  
Topical Immunotherapy

Background: Surgery is the gold standard treatment for primary cutaneous melanoma but may not be suitable given some comorbiditiies, lesion size or location, or anticipated functional impairment. Imiquimod (IMQ) is a topical immunotherapy infrequently used for melanoma, often in combination with other treatments. Objective: The present work aims to review the available literature on the safety and efficacy of imiquimod in the treatment of cutaneous primary and metastatic melanoma. Methods: We systematically reviewed the literature on topical imiquimod as monotherapy for melanoma, excluding in situ disease. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL searches were conducted using terms related to imiquimod and melanoma, results summarized according to the PRISMA Guidelines and quality of evidence assessed using the GRADE tool. Results: Of 559 citations identified, 14 case reports and series with 38 patients with 95 lesions met inclusion criteria. There was heterogeneity in treatment regimens, including the number of applications and treatment length. Complete clearance was observed in 39% of cases, while the stable or progressive disease was seen in 42% of cases; treatment efficacy was limited in cases with prior metastatic disease. Conclusion: The current literature for the use of imiquimod in cutaneous primary and metastatic melanoma remains scarce, with most evidence derived from case reports and series likely to be influenced by selection bias for positive treatment results. Nevertheless, imiquimod remains a relatively well-tolerated treatment for cutaneous primary and metastatic melanoma that may be used in selected cases.

scholarly journals Fixation of Acute Chondral Fractures in Adolescent Knees

Cartilage ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 194760352094121
Author(s):  
Stian Kjennvold ◽  
Per-Henrik Randsborg ◽  
Rune B. Jakobsen ◽  
Asbjorn Aroen
Keyword(s):  
Case Reports ◽  
Femoral Condyle ◽  
Lesion Size ◽  
Joint Surface ◽  
Acute Injuries ◽  
Age At Surgery ◽  
Hop Test ◽  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Mri

Objectives Chondral fractures are focal cartilage lesions without osseous attachment, most commonly seen in adolescent knees. They have limited capacity for intrinsic healing and traditional treatment has been removal of loose fragments. However, case reports of successful healing after fixation indicate that repair of the joint surface is possible. We wanted to evaluate the outcome in a cohort of patients who underwent fixation of acute chondral fractures in the knee. Design Patients treated with fixation of a chondral fracture in the knee at our institution were invited to participate in a follow-up study. The mechanism of injury, fragment properties and complications were registered. Patients completed KOOS (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score) and Lysholm questionnaires and performed a validated single leg hop test. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess healing of the defect and the quality of the cartilage. Results Ten patients with a median age at surgery of 15 years (12-17 years) and median follow-up of 5 years (2-9 years) were assessed. The lesions were located on the patella ( n = 7), the trochlea ( n = 2), and the lateral femoral condyle ( n = 1). Median lesion size was 250 mm2 (1.9-6.0 cm2) All patients were treated within 2 months of injury (4-58 days). All patients returned to preinjury level of sports and MRI showed retained fragments that integrated well with surrounding cartilage at follow-up. Mean Lysholm score at follow-up was 90 (73-100). Conclusion Fixation of traumatic chondral-only fragments using bioabsorbable implants may result in successful healing in adolescent patients and should be considered a treatment option in acute injuries.

Pengaruh Jenis Co-Solvent terhadap Rendemen dan Mutu Biodiesel secara Transesterifikasi In Situ Menggunakan Radiasi Gelombang Mikro

2016 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 119-126
Author(s):  
Mahlinda Mahlinda ◽  
Fitriana Djafar
Keyword(s):  
Catalyst Concentration ◽  
Maximum Yield ◽  
Acid Value ◽  
Experimental Result ◽  
In Situ Transesterification ◽  
Yield And Quality ◽  
Solvent Type ◽  
Biodiesel Quality

The main purpose of this research was to observer effect co-solvent type (n-Hexane, chloroform and without co-solvent)  toward yield and quality of biodiesel via in situ transesterification process using microwave irradiation. The process was studied at microwave power 450 watt, reaction time 4 minutes, methanol to seed ratio 25:1 and catalyst concentration 5%. The physicochemical parameters of the biodiesel produced such as viscosity, density and acid value were analysed and compared with the SNI 7182-2012 standard. The experimental result showed the maximum yield biodiesel 78,32% obtained by using co-solvent chloroform.Test result of physicochemical properties (viscosity, density and acid value) of biodiesel products using co solvent n-Hexane, chloroform and without co solvent showed that these products conform to the SNI 7182-2012 standars. The type of co-solvent only affectedon biodiesel yield dan not affected on biodiesel quality (viscosity, density and acid value).  ABSTRAKTujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mempelajari pengaruh jenis co-solvent (n-Hexane, chloroform dan tanpa co-solvent) terhadap rendemen dan mutu biodiesel secara trasesterifikasi in situ menggunakan radiasi gelombang mikro. Proses dilakukan pada daya gelombang mikro 450 watt, waktu reaksi 4 menit, perbandingan berat metanol terhadap bahan baku 25:1 dan jumlah katalis 5%. Parameter fisiko kimia dari produk biodiesel seperti viskositas, densitas dan angka asam di analisa dan dibandingkan dengan standar SNI 7182-2012 tentang biodiesel. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan rendemen maksimum biodiesel sebesar 78,32% diperoleh dengan menggunakan co-solvent chloroform. Hasil pengujian  karakteristik fisiko kimia (viskositas, densitas dan angka asam) dari produk biodiesel menggunakan co-solvent n-Hexane, chloroform dan tanpa co-solvent menunjukkan bahwa semua parameter ini masih memenuhi standar SNI 1782-2012 tentang biodiesel. Jenis co-solvent hanya berpengaruh pada rendemen biodiesel dan tidak berpengaruh terhadap mutu biodiesel (viskositas, densitas dan bilangan asam).Kata kunci: co-solvent, in situ transesterifikasi, microwave, rendemen, mutu   

Estudio del proceso de lavado de contenedores para eliminar tiempos y movimientos innecesarios, caso: Wash Containers S.A de C.V.

2020 ◽  
pp. 25-36
Author(s):  
Juan Alfredo Lino-Gamiño ◽  
Carlos Méndez-González ◽  
Eduardo José Salazar-Araujo ◽  
Pablo Adrián Magaña-Sánchez
Keyword(s):  
Business Process ◽  
Value Chain ◽  
Process Management ◽  
Core Business ◽  
The Core ◽  
Washing Process ◽  
Overall Performance ◽  
The Times

In the value chain it is important to keep in mind the core business of the company, since it depends largely on the competitiveness of the company and its overall performance, bearing in mind that all business indicators depend on it. In this work we will study the washing process within the company WASH CONTAINERS SA DE CV, to improve the washing processes and in this way reduce times and movements in the process leading the company to reduce costs considerably within the operations company daily, having a more competitive operation and with greater profit margin in its business process. Goals: It Improve the logistics of the movement of containers for washing and with it the core business of the company. Methodology: The action research will be applied applying Business Process Management for the improvement of processes in situ, it will be developed in a certain period of time and with that it will establish an improvement projection. Contribution: The improvement of the times for the disposal of the containers and their subsequent use, allows a better competitiveness and with it the income of the company, on the other hand, the transport companies improve in performance in quantity, quality of disposition and with it their income.

scholarly journals Modelling the Quality of Bathing Waters in the Adriatic Sea

Water ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (11) ◽  
pp. 1525
Author(s):  
Christian Ferrarin ◽  
Pierluigi Penna ◽  
Antonella Penna ◽  
Vedrana Spada ◽  
Fabio Ricci ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Adriatic Sea ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Sea Temperature ◽  
Bathing Water Directive ◽  
Bathing Waters ◽  
Diffusion Dynamics ◽  
Study Sites

The aim of this study is to develop a relocatable modelling system able to describe the microbial contamination that affects the quality of coastal bathing waters. Pollution events are mainly triggered by urban sewer outflows during massive rainy events, with relevant negative consequences on the marine environment and tourism and related activities of coastal towns. A finite element hydrodynamic model was applied to five study areas in the Adriatic Sea, which differ for urban, oceanographic and morphological conditions. With the help of transport-diffusion and microbial decay modules, the distribution of Escherichia coli was investigated during significant events. The numerical investigation was supported by detailed in situ observational datasets. The model results were evaluated against water level, sea temperature, salinity and E. coli concentrations acquired in situ, demonstrating the capacity of the modelling suite in simulating the circulation in the coastal areas of the Adriatic Sea, as well as several main transport and diffusion dynamics, such as riverine and polluted waters dispersion. Moreover, the results of the simulations were used to perform a comparative analysis among the different study sites, demonstrating that dilution and mixing, mostly induced by the tidal action, had a stronger effect on bacteria reduction with respect to microbial decay. Stratification and estuarine dynamics also play an important role in governing microbial concentration. The modelling suite can be used as a beach management tool for improving protection of public health, as required by the EU Bathing Water Directive.

scholarly journals Chlorosulfuric acid-assisted production of functional 2D materials

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohsen Moazzami Gudarzi ◽  
Maryana Asaad ◽  
Boyang Mao ◽  
Gergo Pinter ◽  
Jianqiang Guo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hexagonal Boron Nitride ◽  
2D Materials ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Large Area ◽  
Polar Solvents ◽  
Aspect Ratios ◽  
Two Dimensional Materials ◽  
Liquid Phase Exfoliation

AbstractThe use of two-dimensional materials in bulk functional applications requires the ability to fabricate defect-free 2D sheets with large aspect ratios. Despite huge research efforts, current bulk exfoliation methods require a compromise between the quality of the final flakes and their lateral size, restricting the effectiveness of the product. In this work, we describe an intercalation-assisted exfoliation route, which allows the production of high-quality graphene, hexagonal boron nitride, and molybdenum disulfide 2D sheets with average aspect ratios 30 times larger than that obtained via conventional liquid-phase exfoliation. The combination of chlorosulfuric acid intercalation with in situ pyrene sulfonate functionalisation produces a suspension of thin large-area flakes, which are stable in various polar solvents. The described method is simple and requires no special laboratory conditions. We demonstrate that these suspensions can be used for fabrication of laminates and coatings with electrical properties suitable for a number of real-life applications.

scholarly journals Application of Furcellaran Nanocomposite Film as Packaging of Cheese

Polymers ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (9) ◽  
pp. 1428
Author(s):  
Agnieszka Pluta-Kubica ◽  
Ewelina Jamróz ◽  
Gohar Khachatryan ◽  
Adam Florkiewicz ◽  
Pavel Kopel
Keyword(s):  
Silver Nanoparticles ◽  
Nanocomposite Film ◽  
Microbiological Quality ◽  
Inhibitory Effect ◽  
Quality Properties ◽  
In Situ Method ◽  
And Migration ◽  
Total Bacteria

There is a serious need to develop and test new biodegradable packaging which could at least partially replace petroleum-based materials. Therefore, the objective of this work was to examine the influence of the recently developed furcellaran nanocomposite film with silver nanoparticles (obtained by an in situ method) on the quality properties of two cheese varieties: a rennet-curd (gouda) and an acid-curd (quark) cheese. The water content, physicochemical properties, microbiological and organoleptic quality of cheese, and migration of silver nanoparticles were examined. Both the number of Lactococcus and total bacteria count did not differ during storage of gouda regardless of the packaging applied. The number of Lactococcus decreased in analogous quark samples. The use of the film slowed down and inhibited the growth of yeast in gouda and quark, respectively. An inhibitory effect of this film on mold count was also observed; however, only regarding gouda. The level of silver migration was found to be lower in quark than in gouda. The film improved the microbiological quality of cheeses during storage. Consequently, it is worth continuing research for the improvement of this film in order to enable its use in everyday life.

Infection with antiretroviral-susceptible HIV in an individual adherent to pre-exposure prophylaxis: strategies for treatment initiation

2021 ◽  
pp. 095646242097112
Author(s):  
Jessica M Hughes ◽  
Darrell HS Tan ◽  
Peter Anderson ◽  
Janani Bodhinayake ◽  
Paul A MacPherson
Keyword(s):  
Viral Load ◽  
Copy Number ◽  
Case Reports ◽  
Pharmacy Records ◽  
Treatment Regimens ◽  
Viral Copy Number ◽  
Low Copy Number ◽  
Viral Copy ◽  
Exposure Prophylaxis ◽  
Tenofovir Diphosphate

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective at preventing sexual acquisition of HIV, and failures in clinical trials are largely attributable to medication nonadherence. We report here a case of infection with a fully susceptible strain of HIV in an individual adherent to PrEP as demonstrated by pharmacy records and intracellular tenofovir diphosphate levels. At diagnosis, the viral load was 90 copies/mL precluding initial genotype testing due to low copy number. While PrEP failure is rare, this case underscores the importance of regular HIV testing for patient on PrEP and prompts discussion regarding the approach to treatment following failure where an initial genotype is not yet available or not possible due to low viral load. Few other case reports of PrEP failure exist in the literature and approaches to treatment varied widely. We suggest the initial viral copy number may guide next steps and discuss the risks and benefits of stopping PrEP, escalating therapy with integrase inhibitors or boosted protease inhibitors, or switching to non-nucleoside antiretroviral treatment regimens.

scholarly journals Quality of care for people with multimorbidity: a focus group study with patients and their relatives

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. e047025
Author(s):  
Nadine Janis Pohontsch ◽  
Josefine Schulze ◽  
Charlotte Hoeflich ◽  
Katharina Glassen ◽  
Amanda Breckner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Care ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Healthcare System ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Coordinated Care ◽  
Treatment Standards ◽  
Focus Group Study ◽  
Treatment Regimens ◽  
Quality Aspects

BackgroundPrevalence of people with multimorbidity rises. Multimorbidity constitutes a challenge to the healthcare system, and treatment of patients with multimorbidity is prone to high-quality variations. Currently, no set of quality indicators (QIs) exists to assess quality of care, let alone incorporating the patient perspective. We therefore aim to identify aspects of quality of care relevant to the patients’ perspective and match them to a literature-based set of QIs.MethodsWe conducted eight focus groups with patients with multimorbidity and three focus groups with patients’ relatives using a semistructured guide. Data were analysed using Kuckartz’s qualitative content analysis. We derived deductive categories from the literature, added inductive categories (new quality aspects) and translated them into QI.ResultsWe created four new QIs based on the quality aspects relevant to patients/relatives. Two QIs (patient education/self-management, regular updates of medication plans) were consented by an expert panel, while two others were not (periodical check-ups, general practitioner-coordinated care). Half of the literature-based QIs, for example, assessment of biopsychosocial support needs, were supported by participants’ accounts, while more technical domains regarding assessment and treatment regimens were not addressed in the focus groups.ConclusionWe show that focus groups with patients and relatives adding relevant aspects in QI development should be incorporated by default in QI development processes and constitute a reasonable addition to traditional QI development. Our QI set constitutes a framework for assessing the quality of care in the German healthcare system. It will facilitate implementation of treatment standards and increase the use of existing guidelines, hereby helping to reduce overuse, underuse and misuse of healthcare resources in the treatment of patients with multimorbidity.Trial registration numberGerman clinical trials registry (DRKS00015718), Pre-Results.

scholarly journals Effect of Cavity Disinfectants on Adhesion to Primary Teeth—A Systematic Review

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (9) ◽  
pp. 4398
Author(s):  
Ana Coelho ◽  
Inês Amaro ◽  
Ana Apolónio ◽  
Anabela Paula ◽  
José Saraiva ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Primary Teeth ◽  
Clinical Success ◽  
Dental Materials ◽  
In Vitro Study ◽  
In Vitro Studies ◽  
Cochrane Library ◽  
Promising Alternative

Some authors have been proposing the use of cavity disinfectants in order to reduce, or even eliminate, the effect of the microorganisms present in a dental cavity before a restoration is placed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different cavity disinfectants on bond strength and clinical success of composite and glass ionomer restorations on primary teeth. The research was conducted using Cochrane Library, PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science for articles published up to February 2021. The search was performed according to the PICO strategy. The evaluation of the methodological quality of each in vitro study was assessed using the CONSORT checklist for reporting in vitro studies on dental materials. Sixteen in vitro studies and one in situ study fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Chlorhexidine was the most studied cavity disinfectant, and its use does not compromise dentin bonding. Sodium hypochlorite is a promising alternative, but more research on its use is required to clearly state that it can safely be used as a cavity disinfectant for primary teeth. Although other disinfectants were studied, there is a low-level evidence attesting their effects on adhesion, therefore their use should be avoided.

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