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Silicone
Kinds of Silicone Terms modified by Silicone Selected AbstractsInjecting 1000 Centistoke Liquid Silicone With Ease and PrecisionDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2003Anthony V. Benedetto DO, FACP BACKGROUND Since the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of the 1000 centistoke liquid silicone, Silikon 1000, for intraocular injection, the off-label use of this injectable silicone oil as a permanent soft-tissue filler for facial rejuvenation has increased in the United States. Injecting liquid silicone by the microdroplet technique is the most important preventive measure that one can use to avoid the adverse sequelae of silicone migration and granuloma formation, especially when injecting silicone to improve small facial defects resulting from acne scars, surgical procedures, or photoaging. OBJECTIVE To introduce an easy method for injecting a viscous silicone oil by the microdroplet technique, using an inexpensive syringe and needle that currently is available from distributors of medical supplies in the United States. METHOD We suggest the use of a Becton Dickinson 3/10 cc insulin U-100 syringe to inject Silikon 1000. This syringe contains up to 0.3 mL of fluid, and its barrel is clearly marked with an easy-to-read scale of large cross-hatches. Each cross-hatch marking represents either a unit value of 0.01 mL or a half-unit value of 0.005 mL of fluid, which is the approximate volume preferred when injecting liquid silicone into facial defects. Because not enough negative pressure can be generated in this needle and syringe to draw up the viscous silicone oil, we describe a convenient and easy method for filling this 3/10 cc diabetic syringe with Silikon 1000. RESULTS We have found that by using the Becton Dickinson 3/10 cc insulin U-100 syringe, our technique of injecting minute amounts of Silikon 1000 is facilitated because each widely spaced cross-hatch on the side of the syringe barrel is easy to read and measures exact amounts of the silicone oil. These lines of the scale on the syringe barrel are so large and clearly marked that it is virtually impossible to overinject the most minute amount of silicone. CONCLUSION Sequential microdroplets of 0.01 cc or less of Silikon 1000 can be measured and injected with the greatest ease and precision so that inadvertent overdosing and complications can be avoided. [source] Silicone,Poly(hexylthiophene) Blends as Elastomers with Enhanced Electromechanical Transduction Properties,ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 2 2008F. Carpi Abstract Dielectric elastomers are progressively emerging as one of the best-performing classes of electroactive polymers for electromechanical transduction. They are used for actuation devices driven by the so-called Maxwell stress effect. At present, the need for high-driving electric fields limits the use of these transduction materials in some areas of potential application, especially in the case of biomedical disciplines. A reduction of the driving fields may be achieved with new elastomers offering intrinsically superior electromechanical properties. So far, most attempts in this direction have been focused on the development of composites between elastomer matrixes and high-permittivity ceramic fillers, yielding limited results. In this work, a different approach was adopted for increasing the electromechanical response of a common type of dielectric elastomer. The technique consisted in blending, rather than loading, the elastomer (poly(dimethylsiloxane)) with a highly polarizable conjugated polymer (undoped poly(3-hexylthiophene)). The resulting material was characterised by dielectric spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, tensile mechanical analysis, and electromechanical transduction tests. Very low percentages (1,6 wt %) of poly(3-hexylthiophene) yielded both an increase of the relative dielectric permittivity and an unexpected reduction of the tensile elastic modulus. Both these factors synergetically contributed to a remarkable increase of the electromechanical response, which reached a maximum at 1 wt % content of conjugated polymer. Estimations based on a simple linear model were compared with the experimental electromechanical data and a good agreement was found up to 1 wt %. This approach may lead to the development of new types of materials suitable for several types of applications requiring elastomers with improved electromechanical properties. [source] Vertically Aligned Nanowires on Flexible Silicone using a Supported Alumina Template prepared by Pulsed AnodizationADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 40 2009Stefan Mátéfi-Tempfli Carpets of vertically aligned nanowires on flexible substrates are successfully realized by a template method. Applying special pulsed anodization conditions, defect-free nanoporous alumina structures supported on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a flexible silicone elastomer, are created. By using this template with nanopores ending on a conducting underlayer, a high-density nanowire array can be simply grown by direct DC-electrodeposition on the top of the silicone rubber. [source] Silicone-based impact modifiers for poly(vinyl chloride), engineering resins, and blendsJOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 5 2004Akira Yanagase Abstract Silicone-based impact modifiers were prepared in a previous study. The modifiers were composed of silicone/acrylic rubber cores and grafted acrylic shells. They improved the toughness of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and poly(methyl methacrylate). The silicone emulsion that was used to produce the silicone-based impact modifiers was prepared via two routes: emulsion polymerization and bulk polymerization of octamethyltetracyclosiloxane. Many silicone-based impact modifiers were produced that had different silicone/acrylic rubber characteristics. Through a toughness examination of modified PVC, the best composition of the silicone-based impact modifiers was obtained, and the silicone content in the rubber composition was 25 wt %. The morphology of the silicone-based impact modifiers, determined by transmission electron microscopy, was as follows: core and second shell polymers were mainly poly(butyl acrylate), and the first shell polymer was silicone. The silicone-based impact modifiers were blended with engineering resins such as PVC, polycarbonate (PC), poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT), and PC/PBT mixtures. The impact strength under standard conditions and after weathering test conditions for blends of the silicone-based impact modifiers were investigated with respect to two commercially available acrylic and methyl methacrylate/butadiene/styrene impact modifiers. The results showed good weatherability and good toughness under low-temperature conditions for the silicone-based impact modifiers. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 1112,1119, 2004 [source] UV Absorption and Photoisomerixation of p -Methoxycinnamate Grafted Silicone,PHOTOCHEMISTRY & PHOTOBIOLOGY, Issue 2 2004Supason Pattanaargson ABSTRACT p -Methoxycinnamate moieties, UV-B-absorptive chromophores of the widely used UV-B filter, 2-ethylhexyl p -methoxycinnamate (OMC), were grafted onto the 7 mol% amino functionalized silicone polymer through amide linkages. Comparing with OMC, the resulting poly [3(p -methoxycinnamido)(propyl)(methyl)-dimethyl] siloxane copolymer (CAS) showed less E to Z isomerization when exposed to UV-B light. The absorption profiles of the product showed the maximum absorption wavelength to be similar to that of OMC but with less sensitivity to the type of solvent. Poly (methylhydrosiloxane) grafted with 10 mol%p -methoxycinnamoyl moieties was prepared through hydrosilylations of 2-propenyl- p -methoxycinnamate, in which the resulting copolymer showed similar results to those of CAS. [source] Composite Particles of Novozyme,435 and Silicone: Advancing Technical Applicability of Macroporous Enzyme CarriersCHEMCATCHEM, Issue 4 2009Abstract The mechanical and leaching stability of enzymes adsorbed on macroporous carriers is an important issue for the technical applicability of such biocatalysts. Both can considerably benefit from the deposition of silicone coating on the carrier surface. The coating of the immobilized lipase Novozyme,435 (NZ435), as a model enzyme preparation, with different silicone loadings was studied in detail by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), as well as by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and BET isotherms, and offers explanations and prerequisites for its stabilizing effects. The deposition of silicone on the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) carrier was found to form an interpenetrating network composite rather than the anticipated core-shell structure. The silicone precursors homogeneously wet the carrier surface including all inner pores and gradually fill the complete carrier. In parallel, the surface area of NZ435 decreases from an initial value of 89,m2g,1to 0.2,m2g,1after silicone loading. A visible layer of silicone on the outer surface of the carrier was only observed at a silicone concentration of 54,%,w/w and more. Maximum leaching stability corresponds to the formation of this layer. The mechanical stability increases with the amount of deposited silicone. It can be expected that stabilization against leaching and/or mechanical stress by formation of silicone composites can easily be transferred to a whole range of alternative biocatalytic systems. This should considerably advance their general technical applicability and overall implementation of biocatalysts in chemical synthesis. [source] ChemInform Abstract: Silicone as a New Class of Organosilicon Reagents for the Palladium-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reaction.CHEMINFORM, Issue 39 2001Atsunori Mori Abstract ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a "Full Text" option. The original article is trackable via the "References" option. [source] Microbial Hydrogen Production with Immobilized Sewage SludgeBIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRESS, Issue 5 2002Shu-Yii Wu Municipal sewage sludge was immobilized to produce hydrogen gas under anaerobic conditions. Cell immobilization was essentially achieved by gel entrapment approaches, which were physically or chemically modified by addition of activated carbon (AC), polyurethane (PU), and acrylic latex plus silicone (ALSC). The performance of hydrogen fermentation with a variety of immobilized-cell systems was assessed to identify the optimal type of immobilized cells for practical uses. With sucrose as the limiting carbon source, hydrogen production was more efficient with the immobilized-cell system than with the suspended-cell system, and in both cases the predominant soluble metabolites were butyric acid and acetic acid. Addition of activated carbon into alginate gel (denoted as CA/AC cells) enhanced the hydrogen production rate ( vH2) and substrate-based yield ( YH2/sucrose) by 70% and 52%, respectively, over the conventional alginate-immobilized cells. Further supplementation of polyurethane or acrylic latex/silicone increased the mechanical strength and operation stability of the immobilized cells but caused a decrease in the hydrogen production rate. Kinetic studies show that the dependence of specific hydrogen production rates on the concentration of limiting substrate (sucrose) can be described by Michaelis-Menten model with good agreement. The kinetic analysis suggests that CA/AC cells may contain higher concentration of active biocatalysts for hydrogen production, while PU and ALSC cells had better affinity to the substrate. Acclimation of the immobilized cells led to a remarkable enhancement in vH2 with a 25-fold increase for CA/AC and ca. 10- to 15-fold increases for PU and ALSC cells. However, the ALSC cells were found to have better durability than PU and CA/AC cells as they allowed stable hydrogen production for over 24 repeated runs. [source] Highly Purified 1000-cSt Silicone Oil for Treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Facial Lipoatrophy: An Open Pilot TrialDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 10 2004Derek H. Jones MD Background. Among human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals, facial lipoatrophy has become epidemic. Those affected are stigmatized, leading to psychological distress, social and career impediments, and impaired compliance to human immunodeficiency virus medications. Temporary treatment options are limited by excessive cost, necessity of frequent treatments, and lack of a natural look or feel beneath the skin. Affected patients require more persistent, affordable, safe, and effective treatment options. Objective. The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of highly purified 1000-cSt silicone oil injected by microdroplet serial puncture technique for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus-associated lipoatrophy. Methods. Data on 77 patients with a complete correction were analyzed to determine the number of treatments, amount of silicone, and time required to reach complete correction, relative to initial severity. Results. The volume of silicone, number of treatments, and time required to reach a complete correction were directly related to initial severity of lipoatrophy (p < 0.0001). Supple, even facial contours were routinely restored, with all patients tolerating treatments well. No adverse events were noted. Conclusion. In this pilot trial, we have demonstrated that highly purified 1000-cSt silicone oil is a safe and effective treatment option for human immunodeficiency virus facial lipoatrophy. Longer-term safety and efficacy in human immunodeficiency virus patients remain to be proven. [source] Injecting 1000 Centistoke Liquid Silicone With Ease and PrecisionDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2003Anthony V. Benedetto DO, FACP BACKGROUND Since the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of the 1000 centistoke liquid silicone, Silikon 1000, for intraocular injection, the off-label use of this injectable silicone oil as a permanent soft-tissue filler for facial rejuvenation has increased in the United States. Injecting liquid silicone by the microdroplet technique is the most important preventive measure that one can use to avoid the adverse sequelae of silicone migration and granuloma formation, especially when injecting silicone to improve small facial defects resulting from acne scars, surgical procedures, or photoaging. OBJECTIVE To introduce an easy method for injecting a viscous silicone oil by the microdroplet technique, using an inexpensive syringe and needle that currently is available from distributors of medical supplies in the United States. METHOD We suggest the use of a Becton Dickinson 3/10 cc insulin U-100 syringe to inject Silikon 1000. This syringe contains up to 0.3 mL of fluid, and its barrel is clearly marked with an easy-to-read scale of large cross-hatches. Each cross-hatch marking represents either a unit value of 0.01 mL or a half-unit value of 0.005 mL of fluid, which is the approximate volume preferred when injecting liquid silicone into facial defects. Because not enough negative pressure can be generated in this needle and syringe to draw up the viscous silicone oil, we describe a convenient and easy method for filling this 3/10 cc diabetic syringe with Silikon 1000. RESULTS We have found that by using the Becton Dickinson 3/10 cc insulin U-100 syringe, our technique of injecting minute amounts of Silikon 1000 is facilitated because each widely spaced cross-hatch on the side of the syringe barrel is easy to read and measures exact amounts of the silicone oil. These lines of the scale on the syringe barrel are so large and clearly marked that it is virtually impossible to overinject the most minute amount of silicone. CONCLUSION Sequential microdroplets of 0.01 cc or less of Silikon 1000 can be measured and injected with the greatest ease and precision so that inadvertent overdosing and complications can be avoided. [source] Silicone Gel Sheeting for the Management and Prevention of OnychocryptosisDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2003A. Burhan Aksakal MD BACKGROUND Onychocryptosis, commonly referred to as ingrown nails, has many therapeutic alternatives for its management. Although mild cases can be treated conservatively, in severe cases, surgical treatment is preferred. Silicone gel sheeting is found to be effective in the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids. OBJECTIVE To document the effectiveness of silicone gel sheeting in the management of patients with onychocryptosis and in the prevention of the recurrences by breaking the devil's circle, which usually took place after the surgical procedures used in the treatment of the onychocryptosis. METHODS Fourteen patients were enrolled in the study. Entry criteria required the presence of slight (2 patients), moderate (2 patients), or severe (10 patients) onychocryptosis. The simple technique used in the study was the excision of the one-quarter part of the lesional side of the nail plate without excising the granulation tissue. After 24 hours, the silicone was placed on the granulation tissue and the exposed nail bed. Silicone gel sheet was bandaged loosely without applying any pressure. Patients entering the study were given detailed instructions in applying and using the gel for 12 hours during the daytime. The study lasted for 14 months and was composed of a treatment period of 4 months and a follow-up period of 10 months. The patients were evaluated every 2 weeks in the first month and then monthly. The change in thickness of granulation tissue was evaluated by comparing them with the baseline photographs and those taken at each visit. RESULTS The management and prevention of onychocryptosis were achieved in 12 of 14 patients (85.71%). The silicone gel sheeting treatment was well tolerated except for an occasional transient exudation, which was resolved when the treatment was withdrawn. CONCLUSION The results show that the new method that we used for the treatment of onychocryptosis is successful in reducing the thickness of the hypertrophic nail fold and prevents the recurrence of the condition during the regrowth of the nail plate by breaking the devil's circle. The advantage of this method is that it is not destructive to the nail matrix and the adjacent tissue. [source] Evaluation of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate-co-carbon monoxide) and polydimethylsiloxane for equilibrium sampling of polar organic contaminants in waterENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 9 2009Jörgen A Magnér Abstract Abstract-The aim of the present study was to develop a passive a bsorptive equilibrium sampler that would enable the determination of the concentrations of polar organic compound (POC) in water more efficiently than existing techniques. To this end, a novel plastic material, poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate-co-carbon monoxide) (PEVAC), was evaluated and the results were compared with an existing silicone-based passive absorptive equilibrium device. Seven compounds (imidacloprid, carbendazim, metoprolol, atrazin, carbamazepine, diazinon, and chlorpyrifos), a mixture of pharmaceuticals, and pesticides with a logarithmic octanol-water partition coefficient ranging from 0.2 to 4.77 were selected as model substances for the experiments. The results showed that six of the seven selected POCs reached distribution equilibrium within 4 d in the two materials tested. A linear relation with a regression coefficient of more than 0.8906 between the established logarithmic absorbent-water partition coefficient and the calculated logarithmic dissociation partition coefficient of the selected compounds in the two polymers was observed. The correlation between these two coefficients was within one order of magnitude for the compounds that reached equilibrium in the two polymers, which demonstrates that both materials are suitable for mimicking biological uptake of POCs. The PEVAC material showed an enhanced sorption for all selected compounds compared to the silicone material and up to five times higher enrichment for the most polar compound. Fluorescence analysis of the sampler cross-section, following the uptake of fluoranthene, and proof that the sorption was independent of surface area variations demonstrated that the PEVAC polymer possessed absorptive rather than adsorptive enrichment of organic compounds. [source] Clinical fit of four-unit zirconia posterior fixed dental prosthesesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 6 2008Sven Reich The objective of this clinical study was to assess the internal and marginal accuracy of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)-generated four-unit all-ceramic posterior fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). The data were compared with the results of three-unit metal-ceramic and all-ceramic FDPs that were obtained in a previous study. Twenty-four patients were provided with all-ceramic posterior four-unit FDPs made from semisintered blank zirconia material. Prior to definitive insertion the accuracy was evaluated using a replica technique with a light body silicone that was stabilized with a heavy body material. The replica samples were examined using microscopy. The median marginal gap of the 24 four-unit FDPs was 77 ,m. The median gap widths were 87 ,m at the midaxial wall, 167 ,m at the axio-occlusal transition of the abutments, and 170 ,m at centro-occlusal location. Although the marginal accuracy of the four-unit FDPs differed significantly from that of the three-unit metal-ceramic FDPs (median 54 ,m), the values obtained were clinically satisfactory and showed that semisintered zirconia blanks could be used for the fabrication of four-unit FDPs. [source] Clinical fit of all-ceramic three-unit fixed partial dentures, generated with three different CAD/CAM systemsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 2 2005Sven Reich In this study, the hypothesis was tested that the marginal and internal fit of CAD/CAM fabricated all-ceramic three-unit fixed partial dentures (FPDs) can be as good as in metal,ceramic FPDs. Twenty-four all-ceramic FPDs were fabricated and randomly subdivided into three equally sized groups. Eight frameworks were fabricated using the Digident CAD/CAM system (DIGI), another eight frameworks using the Cerec Inlab system (INLA). Vita Inceram Zirkonia blanks were used for both groups. In a third group frameworks were milled from yttrium-stabilized Zirconium blanks using the Lava system (LAVA). All frameworks were layered with ceramic veneering material. In addition, six three-unit metal-ceramic FPDs served as control group. All FPDs were evaluated using a replica technique with a light body silicone stabilized with a heavy body material. The replica samples were examined under microscope. The medians of marginal gaps were 75 µm for DIGI, 65 µm for LAVA and INLA and 54 µm for the conventional FPDs. Only the DIGI data differed significantly from those of the conventional FPDs. Within the limits of this study, the results suggest that the accuracy of CAD/CAM generated three-unit FPDs is satisfactory for clinical use. [source] Supramolecular Soft Adhesive MaterialsADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 11 2010Jérémie Courtois Abstract The rheological and adhesive properties of bis-urea functionalized low-molecular-weight polyisobutylenes (PIBUT) are investigated. The polymers, which can interact through supramolecular hydrogen bonds, can self-organize over times of the order of days at room temperature. This organized structure has been identified by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and its rheological properties indicate the behaviour of a soft viscoelastic gel. The ordered structure can be disrupted by temperature and shear so that at 80,°C, the material behaves as a highly viscoelastic fluid and no SAXS peak is observed. When cooled back at room temperature, the PIBUT retrieves its ordered structure and gel properties after 20 h of annealing. This very slow molecular dynamics gives PIBUT a highly dissipative nature upon deformation, which combined with strongly interacting moieties results in very interesting adhesive properties both on steel surfaces but more importantly on typical low adhesion surfaces such as silicone. A strategy based on the controlled incorporation of supramolecular bonds in a covalently crosslinked network appears promising for the development of a new generation of highly interacting and dissipative soft adhesives. [source] Molecular Engineering of Blue Fluorescent Molecules Based on Silicon End-Capped Diphenylaminofluorene Derivatives for Efficient Organic Light-Emitting MaterialsADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 8 2010Kum Hee Lee Abstract Blue fluorescent materials based on silicone end-capped 2-diphenylaminofluorene derivatives are synthesized and characterized. These materials are doped into a 2-methyl-9,10- di -[2-naphthyl]anthracene host as blue dopant materials in the emitting layer of organic light-emitting diode devices bearing a structure of ITO/DNTPD (60,nm)/NPB (30,nm)/emitting layer (30,nm)/Alq3 (20,nm)/LiF (1.0,nm)/Al (200,nm). All devices exhibit highly efficient blue electroluminescence with high external quantum efficiencies (3.47%,7.34% at 20,mA,cm,2). The best luminous efficiency of 11.2,cd,A,1 and highest quantum efficiency of 7.34% at 20,mA,cm,2 are obtained in a device with CIE coordinates (0.15, 0.25). A deep-blue OLED with CIE coordinates (0.15, 0.14) exhibits a luminous efficiency of 3.70,cd,A,1 and quantum efficiency of 3.47% at 20,mA,cm,2. [source] Solubility of root-canal sealers in water and artificial salivaINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 10 2003E. Schäfer Abstract Aim, To compare the weight loss of eight different root-canal sealers in water and in artificial saliva with different pH values. Methodology, For standardized samples (n = 12 per group), ring moulds were filled with epoxy resin (AH 26, AH Plus)-, silicone (RSA RoekoSeal)-, calcium hydroxide (Apexit, Sealapex)-, zinc oxide,eugenol (Aptal-Harz)-, glass-ionomer (Ketac Endo)- and polyketone (Diaket)-based sealers. These samples were immersed in double-distilled water or artificial saliva with different pH values (7.0, 5.7 and 4.5) for 30 s, 1 min, 2 min, 5 min, 10 min, 20 min, 1 h, 2 h, 10 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 14 days and 28 days. Mean loss of weight was determined and analysed statistically using a one-way anova and Student,Newman,Keuls test for all pairwise comparisons. Results, Most sealers were of low solubility, although Sealapex, Aptal-Harz and Ketac Endo showed a marked weight loss in all liquids. Even after 28 days of storage in water, AH 26, AH Plus, RSA RoekoSeal, and Diaket showed less than 3% weight loss. At exposure times greater than 14 days, Sealapex showed the significantly greatest weight loss of all sealers tested (P < 0.05). Aptal-Harz and Ketac Endo were significantly more soluble in saliva (pH 4.5) than in water (P < 0.05). Conclusions, Under the conditions of the present study, AH Plus showed the least weight loss of all sealers tested, independent of the solubility medium used. Sealapex, Aptal-Harz and Ketac Endo had a marked weight loss in all liquids. [source] Oral fish cartilage polysaccharides in the treatment of photoageing: biophysical findingsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 2 2002F. Distante Synopsis The topically applied cosmetic products can be helpful in improving the aged skin condition. The present study shows how oral fish-cartilage food supplementation can be helpful in improving the treatment of ageing skin. A total of 30 healthy women with signs of skin ageing were studied. Fifteen of the women were treated with a food supplement based on polysaccharides derived from the fish cartilage and a natural mix of antioxidants for 2 months and the other 15 with a placebo. Clinical evaluation and biophysical parameters related to skin function and wrinkle severity, such as silicone replica, skin thickness, mechanical properties, skin colour and capacitance, were measured. The results showed statistically significant changes in the active-treated group in comparison to the placebo. In particular, dermal thickness (treatment: from 1.13 to 1.23 mm; P < 0.001), skin wrinkling (treatment: from 9.5 to 3.5 Ra; P< 0.002), skin colour (treatment: brighter and less pigmented; P < 0.02) and viscoelasticity (treatment: from 0.70 to 0.97%; P < 0.02) showed considerable improvement. Most of these parameters are related to changes occurring within the dermal matrix, which is improved after the treatment, whereas most of the topically applied cosmetic products have a short-term effect on superficial structures. A combination treatment (oral and topical) can be more effective in reducing the signs of skin-ageing. Résumé Les produits cosmétiques en topiques locaux ont montré leur efficacité pour ralentir le vieillissement cutané. Cette étude montre qu'un traitement oral, à base de cartilage de poisson sous forme de suppléments nutritifs, peut être un complément efficace dans le traitement du vieillissement cutané. 30 femmes en bonne santé présentant des signes de vieillissement cutané ont été incluses dans notre étude. 15 d'entre elles ont reçu pendant 2 mois une supplémentation alimentaire à base de polysaccharides dérivés de cartilage de poisson, associée à un mélange normal d'antioxydants. Les 15 autres femmes ont été traitées avec un placebo. Les paramètres cliniques et biophysiques suivants, évaluant la fonction de la peau et la sévérité des rides ont été mesurés: réplica?? de silicone, épaisseur de la peau, propriétés mécaniques, couleur de peau et état d'hydratation cutanée. Les résultats ont mis en évidence des changements significatifs entre le groupe placebo et le groupe traité pour les paramètres étudiés. En particulier, l'épaisseur cutanée (traitement: de 1.13 à 1.23 mm; P < 0.001), les rides (traitement: de 9.5 à,3.5 Ra; P < 0.002), la couleur de la peau (traitement: plus claire et moins pigmentée; P < 0.02) et la visco-élasticité (traitment: de 0.70 à 0.97%; P < 0.02) ont été considérablement améliorées. La plupart de ces paramètres sont liées aux changements qui se produisent en profondeur dans la matrice dermique, alors que la plupart des produits cosmétiques topiques ont un effet à court terme sur les structures superficielles. La combinaison d'un traitement oral associéà un traitement local peut être plus efficace dans la prévention du vieillissement cutané. [source] Outcomes of allogenic acellular matrix therapy in treatment of diabetic foot wounds: an initial experienceINTERNATIONAL WOUND JOURNAL, Issue 2 2005Article first published online: 28 JUN 200 Résultats du traitement par matrice acellulaire allogénique dans le traitement des plaies du pied diabétique: expérience initiale. Le propos de cette étude était d'évaluer les résultats de patients présentant des plaies neuropathiques du pied diabétique UT grade 2A traités avec une matrice extracellulaire. Les données étaient tirées de 17 patients consécutifs présentant un diabète, 76.5% mâles, agés de 61.5 ± 8.5 ans et une hémoglobine glycée moyenne de 9.2 ± 2.2 se présentant pour traitement dans un grand centre de soins des plaies multidisciplinaire.Tous les patients ont bénéficié d'un débridement chirurgical pour leurs plaies du pied diabétique et recevaient un traitement consistant en une application unique d'un greffon de matrice acellulaire. (GraftJacket, Wright Medical Technologies, USA) le pansement étant changé toutes les semaines. Les résultats étaient évalués sur le temps de fermeture complète des plaies et la proportion de patients avec fermeture complète de la plaie en 20 semaines. Le traitement par matrice acellulaire était utilisé de première intention et fixé par sutures ou agraffage sous un pansement à base de silicone non adhérent. Le traitment incluait également un pansement retenant l'humidité jusqu'àépithélialisation complète. Au total, 82.4% des plaies mesurant en moyenne 4.6 ± 3.2 cm2 ont cicatrisé enmoyenne en 8.9 ± 2.7 semaines. Nous concluons que cette techniqueconsistant en application de pansement maintenant la plaie en milieu humide avec un pansement de matrice acellulaire peut être un appport utile dans la prise en charge appropriée des ulcères du pied diabétique dans les plaies profondes non infectées non ischémiques. Nus attendons la réalisation d'études complémentaires pour confirmer ou infirmer cette évaluation initiale. Ergebnisse einer allogenen azellulären Matrixtherapie in der Wundbehandlung bei diabetischem Fußsyndroms: Ein erster Erfahrungsbericht Ziel dieser Studie war die Evaluation einer Wundbehandlung mit einer azellullären Matrix bei Patientin mit Wunden infolge eines diabetischen Fußsyndroms im Stadium II a. Die Daten wurden von 17 Patienten mit einem Diabetes mellitus erhoben, die einem großen interdisziplinären Wundzentrum zur Weiterbehandlung vorgestellt wurden. 76,5% der Patienten waren männlich, das mittlere Alter betrug 61,5 + 8,5 Jahre; der durchschnittliche Hämoglobinwert wurde mit 9,2 + ,2,2% angegeben.. Alle Patienten wurden einem mechanischen Wunddebridement unterzogen, anschließend erfolgte die Applikation einer einfache Schicht einer azellullären Wundmatrix ( Graftjacket, Wright Medical Technologies, USA) Der Verbandswechsel erfolgte in wöchentlichen Abständen. Die Evaluation der Ergebnisse umfasste die Zeitspanne bis zum vollständigen Wundverschluss sowie den prozentualen Anteil der Probanden, bei denen eine vollständige Wundheilung innerhalb eines Zeitraums von 20 Wochen erzielt werden konnte. Dabei wurde die azelluläre Matrix als initiale Therapieform gewählt, eine Adaptation erfolgte durch Nähte oder Klammern unter einem nicht adhärentem Silikonverband. In der Folgezeit wurden saugfähige Wundverbände bis zur vollständigen Epithelialisierung angewandt. Zusammenfassend heilten 82,4% der Wunden bei einer mittleren Wundgröße von 4,6 + ,3,2 cm innerhalb der Evaluierungsperiode von 20 Wochen. Die durchschnittliche Heilungsdauer betrug 8,9 + ,2,7 Wochen. Es wurde gefolgert, das ein Regime aus feuchter Wundbehandlung kombiniert mit der Anwendung einer azellulären Matrix eine sinnvolle Ergänzung in der Therapie von Ulzerationen des nicht infizierten und nicht ischämischen diabetischen Fußes darstellt. Weitere Untersuchungen zur Bestätigung oder Widerlegung der Ergebnisse sind erforderlich. Risultati della terapia con matrice acellulare allogenica nel trattamento delle ulcere del piede diabetico: esperienza preliminare L'obiettivo di questo studio è stato di valutare i risultati di persone con ulcere diabetiche neuropatiche di grado 2° durante il trattamento con una matrice acellulare. I dati sono stati ottenuti da 17 pazienti consecutivi con diabete, 76.5% maschi, età media 61.5 ± 8.5 anni e con un valore medio di emoglobina glicata di 9.2 ± 2.2%, che si sono presentati per assistenza in un ampio centro multidisciplinare per la cura di lesioni. Tutti i pazienti hanno ricevuto un debridement chirurgico per le ulcere del piede diabetico e sono poi stati trattati con una terapia basata sulla applicazione singola di un innesto di matrice acellulare (GrftJacket, Wright Medical Technologies, USA) con un cambio di medicazioni settimanale. I risultati valutati includevano il tempo di guarigione completo delle lesioni e la proporzione dei pazienti che ottenevano una guarigione entro le 20 settimane. La terapia con matrice acellulare è stata utilizzata come trattamento iniziale ed è stata suturata o fissata con graffes con sovrapposizione di una medicazione non aderente a base di silicone. Il trattamento è quindi proseguito con una medicazione in ambiente umido fino a completa riepitelizzazione. In totale, 82.4% delle ulcere che misuravano in media 4.6 ± 3.2 cm2, sono guarite all'interno del periodo di valutazione di 20 settimane. Tra quelle guarite in questo periodo, la guarigione è avvenuta con una media di 8.9 ± 2.7 settimane. Noi concludiamo che il regime terapeutico comprendente la guarigione in ambiente umido mediante una medicazione con matrice acellulare può rappresentare una valida aggiunta per una corretta gestione delle ulcere del piede diabetico, per ulcere profonde, non infette, non ischemiche. Ulteriori trial saranno necessari per confermare o rifiutare questo protocollo. Resultados de la terapéutica matricial acelular alogénica en el tratamiento de heridas en el pie diabético: una experiencia inicial. El objetivo de este estudio era evaluar los desenlaces de sujetos con heridas neuropáticas en pies diabéticos de grado 2A UT, tratados con una matriz acelular. Los datos se obtuvieron de 17 pacientes diabéticos consecutivos, un 76,5% de hombres con 61,5 ± 8,5 años de edad y hemoglobina glucosilada media del 9,2 ± 2,2%, que acudieron para ser asistidos en un gran centro multidisciplinario para asistencia de heridas. En todos los pacientes se realizaron desbridamientos quirúrgicos de las heridas en sus pies diabéticos y recibieron tratamiento consistente en una aplicación única de un injerto matricial acelular (GraftJacket, Wright Medical Technologies, EE.UU.) con cambios de apósito cada semana. Entre los criterios de valoración evaluados destacan el tiempo hasta la cicatrización completa de la herida y la proporción de pacientes que consiguieron dicha cicatrización en 20 semanas. Se utilizó la terapéutica matricial acelular como tratamiento inicial y se fijó en la zona con sutura o grapas bajo un apósito no adherente basado en silicona. Ese tratamiento se siguió de la aplicación de un apósito retentivo de humedad hasta lograr la epitelización completa. En conjunto, durante el período de evaluación de 20 semanas, curó el 82,4% de las heridas, que medían en promedio 4,6 ± 3,2 cm2. De las que curaron durante este período, la curación se produjo en un promedio de 8,9 ± 2,7 semanas. Concluimos que una pauta consistente en la curación de heridas en medio húmedo utilizando un apósito matricial acelular puede ser un coadyuvante útil de la atención apropiada de úlceras en pies diabéticos para heridas profundas, no infectadas y no isquémicas. Quedamos a la espera de la conclusión de ensayos adicionales en este ámbito para verificar o refutar esta evaluación inicial. Resultat av Allogen Acellulär Matrix Terapi Vid Behandling Av Diabetes Fotsår: En Initial Upplevelse Målsättningen med denna studie var att utvärdera resultat av personer med UT grad 2A neuropatiska diabetes fotsår som behandlats med ett acellulärt matrix. Data sammanfattades för sjutton påvarandraföljande patienter med diabetes, 76.5% manliga, i åldern 61.5 ± 8.5 år, med ett medelvärde för glykolyserat hemoglobin på 9.2 ± 2.2% och som behandlats på ett multidisciplinärt sårvårdscentrum. Alla patienter genomgick kirurgisk debridement för sina diabetes fotsår och tillhandahölls terapi bestående av en enstaka applicering av ett acellulärt matrix transplantat (GraftJacket, Wright Medical Technologies, USA) med förbandsbyten varje vecka. Resultat som utvärderades var tid till fullständig sårläkning och proportionen av patienter som uppnådde sårläkning inom 20 veckor. Acellulär matrix terapi användes som initial terapi och suturerades eller fästades på plats med klammer under ett silikon baserat, icke-vidhäftande sårförband. Terapin åtföljdes därefter av ett fuktbevarande sårförband tills fullständig epitelialisering uppnåtts. Totalt, 82.4% sår vilka uppmätte ett medelvärde på 4.6 ± 3.2 cm2 läktes under den 20 veckor långa utvärderingsperioden. Läkning uppnåddes på en medeltid av 8.9 ± 2.7 veckor i de sår som läktes under loppet av utvärderingsperioden. Vi drar slutsatsen att en behandlingsregim bestående av fuktig sårvård och användandet av acellulärt matrix förband kan i fall av djupa, icke-infekterade, icke-iskemiska sår, vara ett nyttigt tillskott till tillbörlig vård av diabetes fotsår. Vi avväntar slutförandet av fortsatta studier på området för att stöda eller vederlägga denna initiala utvärdering. [source] Penis swelling due to foreign body reaction after injection of siliconeJOURNAL DER DEUTSCHEN DERMATOLOGISCHEN GESELLSCHAFT, Issue 9 2010Tobias Plaza Summary A 19-year-old man presented with phimosis and painful swelling of the penis four weeks after augmentation with silicone in Thailand. Histology revealed a foreign body reaction to silicone. Infectious causes were ruled out. Granulomatous foreign body reactions to silicone are common, but there are few case reports on reactions following silicone injection for penis enlargement. Foreign body reactions should be included in the differential diagnosis of penis swelling. [source] Role of the Clinical Breast Examination in Breast Cancer ScreeningJOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 7 2001Does This Patient Have Breast Cancer? QUESTION: The authors, in an article for the JAMA section on the rational clinical examination, consider the evidence on whether and how to use clinical breast examination as a cancer screening technique. BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a common disease, particularly in older women. The authors note that by age 70 the annual incidence of breast cancer is one in 200 women. Breast cancer survival is strongly influenced by the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis. As a result, it is important to consider how best to screen for this disease. In recent years there has been considerable attention in the clinical literature and in the popular media paid to the screening strategies of breast self-examination and of screening mammography, but somewhat less to the potential role of the breast examination by the healthcare provider. In actual clinical practice, the same woman may be the recipient of any, none, or all of these screening modalities. The best way to combine these screening strategies, particularly in the case of the older woman, remains a subject of some uncertainty and controversy. DATA SOURCES: Data were obtained from a MEDLINE search of the English-language literature for 1966 through 1997 and additional articles as identified by the authors. STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA: In their evaluation of the effectiveness of clinical breast examination, the authors included both controlled trials and case-controlled studies in which clinical breast examination was used as a component of the screening. Study of breast examination technique considered both clinical studies and studies using silicone breast models. DATA EXTRACTION: The combined data from the trials included information on approximately 200,000 women who received a breast cancer screening intervention (mammography and/or clinical breast examination). However, none of the studies made the direct comparison of a group receiving clinical breast examination as a sole intervention with a control group that did not receive any screening. Data on the utility of clinical breast examination were partially derived from studies where that screening modality was used in combination with mammography. MAIN RESULTS: A number of trials of cancer screening have demonstrated a reduction in mortality from the use of mammography and clinical breast examination as combined screening strategies compared with no screening, with the inference that the reduction in mortality comes from the earlier detection of breast cancer. The percentage of the detected cancers that are detected in the trials by clinical breast examination despite having been missed on mammography varies across the trials from a low of 3% of the detected cancers to a high of 45%. It is speculative whether the marginal contribution of clinical breast examination to the mortality reduction in these screening trials corresponds to the percentage of cancers detected by clinical breast examination alone. In most of the clinical trials, the technique of breast examination reportedly was not well described. It is unclear therefore how much the technique of breast examination used varied within and among the clinical trials. Data from studies using examinations of breast models made of silicone demonstrated that test performance accuracy correlated with a lengthier breast examination, better breast examination technique, and perhaps with examiner experience. The report includes data from six comparator studies and from two demonstration projects. Of the six comparator studies, four compared a screened population with an unscreened population and two compared different intensities of screening strategies. None of the eight clinical trials was directed to a geriatric population and in fact older women were excluded by upper age entry criteria from the six comparator studies. (The upper age limit for study entry in the six comparator studies varied from 49 to 64.) CONCLUSION: The authors drew on the pooled results of these eight studies to conclude that clinical breast examination has a sensitivity of 54% (95% confidence interval, 48.3,59.8) and a specificity of 94% (95% confidence interval, 90.2,96.9). The authors conclude that screening clinical breast examination should be done for women age older than 40. [source] Water-repellent finishing of cotton fabrics by ultraviolet curingJOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE, Issue 2 2008F. Ferrero Abstract Cotton fabrics were water-repellent-finished by radical ultraviolet curing of silicone and urethane acrylates with different formulations. The fabrics were impregnated with undiluted resins and with toluene solutions or water emulsions. Moreover, cationic ultraviolet-curable systems were also investigated, such as an epoxy-functional polysiloxane and mixtures of an epoxy resin with hydroxyl-containing silicone additives. The gel content and polymerization yield were considered for the ultraviolet-curing process evaluation. Water-resistance properties were determined in terms of the contact angle, wettability, moisture adsorption, and water vapor permeability measurements, whereas the morphology and surface composition of treated fabrics were examined with scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008 [source] The characterization and optimization of injectable silicone resin particles in conjunction with dermal fibroblasts and growth factors: An in vitro studyJOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH, Issue 1 2010Robert M. Crews Abstract Minimally invasive subdermal injection of liquid silicone has been used clinically to augment the soft tissue of the foot to mitigate high pressures that cause diabetic foot ulcers. However, implant migration has been a clinical issue. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of three specific concentrations of silicone resin particles (12 ,m average diameter) in conjunction with either platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB) or basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on fibroblast cell proliferation, collagen synthesis, cell morphology, and migration through in vitro assays and a monolayer scratch wound model. PDGF and bFGF enhanced the proliferation of fibroblasts 5.7-fold and fivefold, respectively, while the addition of silicone particles had no significant effect on proliferation. Collagen production was increased approximately twofold with the addition of bFGF and the medium concentration of particles over bFGF without particles and the PDGF groups. The addition of silicone particles had no significant effect on collagen production compared with control groups without particles. Fibroblast migration was enhanced by the addition of both PDGF and bFGF compared to controls, although slower scratch wound closure rates were observed in the presence of particles compared to controls without particles. Cell morphology suggested that particles induced cellular aggregation encircling silicone particles postwounding as well as migration into the wound area. These results suggest that silicone particles in combination with a growth factor might enhance fibroblast aggregation and implant stability, and could promote connective tissue ingrowth and implant encapsulation in the soft tissue of the diabetic foot. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2010 [source] Tissue-engineered tear secretory system: Functional lacrimal gland acinar cells cultured on matrix protein-coated substrataJOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH, Issue 1 2007Shivaram Selvam Abstract Dry eye is a general term that refers to a myriad of ophthalmic disorders resulting in the inadequate wetting of the corneal surface by the tear film. Dry eyes are typically treated by the application of artificial tears. However, patients with lacrimal insufficiencies such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, chemical and thermal injuries, or ocular cicatricial pemphigoid have very limited options because of the short duration and action of lubricating agents. As a therapeutic strategy, we are working to develop a bioengineered tear secretory system for such patients. This article describes the growth and physiological properties of purified rabbit lacrimal gland acinar cells (pLGACs) on several matrix protein-coated polymers such as silicone, collagen I, copolymers of poly- D,L -lactide- co -glycolide (PLGA; 85:15 and 50:50), poly- L -lactic acid (PLLA), and Thermanox® plastic cell culture coverslips. Monolayers of acinar cells were established on all of the polymeric substrata. An assay of ,-hexosaminidase activity in the supernatant medium showed significant increases in protein secretion, following stimulation with 100 ,M carbachol on matrix protein-coated and uncoated polymers such as silicone, PLGA 85:15, and PLLA. Our study demonstrates that PLLA supported the morphological and physiological properties of purified rabbit lacrimal gland epithelial cells more successfully than the others. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007 [source] Processing of ethanol fermentation broths by Candida krusei to separate bioethanol by pervaporation using silicone rubber-coated silicalite membranesJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 8 2009Toru Ikegami Abstract BACKGROUND: Pervaporation employing ethanol-permselective silicalite membranes as an alternative to distillation is a promising approach for refining low-concentration bioethanol solutions. However, to make the separation process practicable, it is extremely important to avoid the problems caused by the adsorption of succinate on the membrane during the separation process. In this work, the pervaporation of an ethanol fermentation broth without succinate was investigated, as well as the influence of several fermentation broth nutrient components. RESULTS:Candida krusei IA-1 produces an extremely low level of succinate. The decrease in permeate ethanol concentration through a silicone rubber-coated silicalite membrane during the separation of low-succinate C. krusei IA-1 fermentation broth was significantly improved when compared with that obtained using Saccharomyces cerevisiae broth. By treating the fermentation broth with activated carbon, bioethanol was concentrated as efficiently as with binary mixtures of ethanol/water. The total flux was improved upto 56% of that obtained from the separation of binary mixtures, compared with 43% before the addition of activated carbon. Nutrients such as peptone, yeast extract and corn steep liquor had a negative effect on pervaporation, but this response was distinct from that caused by succinate. CONCLUSION: For consistent separation of bioethanol from C. krusei IA-1 fermentation broth by pervaporation, it is useful to treat the low nutrient broth with activated carbon. To further improve pervaporation performance, it will be necessary to suppress the accumulation of glycerol. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Removal of H2S and volatile organic sulfur compounds by silicone membrane extractionJOURNAL OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY & BIOTECHNOLOGY, Issue 1 2009I. Manconi Abstract BACKGROUND: This study explores an alternative process for the abatement and/or desulfurization of H2S and volatile organic sulfur compounds (VOSC) containing waste streams, which employs a silicone-based membrane to simultaneously remove H2S and VOSC. An extractive membrane reactor allows the selective withdrawal of VOSC and H2S simultaneously from the waste stream, while preventing direct contact between the waste stream and the absorbing solution and/or the biological treatment system. The influence of the sulfur compounds, membrane characteristics, extractant and pH was studied. RESULTS: Sulfide and the VOCS studied, i.e. methanethiol (MT), ethanethiol (ET) and dimethylsulfide (DMS) were removed from the synthetic wastewater using a silicone rubber membrane. Methanethiol showed the highest (8.72 × 10,6 m s,1) overall mass transfer coefficient (kov) and sulfide the lowest kov value (1.23 × 10,6 m s,1). Adsorption of the VOCS into the silicone membrane reduced the overall mass transfer coefficient. The kov when using Fe(III)EDTA, as extractant (5.81 × 10,7 m s,1) for sulfide extraction was one order of magnitude lower than with anaerobic water (2.54 × 10,6 m s,1). On the other hand, the sulfide removal efficiency with Fe(III)EDTA, was higher (84%) compared with anaerobic water (60%) as extractant. An additional mass transfer resistance was formed by elemental sulfur which remained attached to the membrane surface. CONCLUSIONS: Extraction of sulfide and VOCS from a synthetic wastewater solution through a silicone rubber membrane is a feasible process as alternative to the techniques developed to treat VOSC emissions. Optimizing the aqueous absorption liquid can increase the efficiency of extraction based processes. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Particulate contamination of lyophilized amphotericin B preparation during reconstitution processJOURNAL OF CLINICAL PHARMACY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 2 2001T. Sendo Objective:,To investigate the effect of the reconstitution methods for the commercial amphotericin B preparation with respect to particulate contamination. Methods:,The particle counts in amphotericin B solutions reconstituted according to three different methods and amphotericin B fluids made with intravenous fluids after reconstitution were performed using a light extinction method. The particle contaminants were identified with X-ray emission spectrometry attached to a scanning electron microscope. Results:,Amphotericin B in a vial induced particle contamination during the reconstitution process, and the contamination was especially marked by shaking vigorously after injecting water into the vial. From the X-ray analysis, it appeared that the increased number of particles was derived from the amphotericin B,deoxycholate complex containing substances such as silicone released from the vial components. Amphotericin B fluid made with intravenous fluids after reconstitution also contained particles over the acceptable limits according to the Japanese or US pharmacopoeia. Conclusion:,These findings suggest that reconstituted solutions should be filtered with membrane filters and diluted fluids with in-line filters. [source] Sonographic and mammographic findings of breast liquid silicone injectionJOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND, Issue 6 2006Anabel Medeiros Scaranelo MD Abstract Purpose. To describe the sonographic and mammographic features of patients whose breasts have been injected with silicone. Methods. Between July 1997 and August 1999, 14 patients with a history of breast injection of liquid silicone underwent physical, mammographic, and sonographic examination. Mammographic findings were classified as macronodular, micronodular, or mixed striated patterns. Sonographic appearances were classified as macronodular, micronodular, mixed, or snowstorm patterns. Results. Eighty-six percent of the patients had abnormal physical examination. Well-defined nodules were palpable in 4 patients, 6 patients had diffusely heterogeneous breasts on palpation, and 2 patients had a combination of heterogeneous texture with dominant nodules. Sonographic examination revealed the presence of marked echogenicity (i.e., snowstorm pattern) in all 14 patients; in 11 patients it was associated with macronodules and/or micronodules, whereas in 3 patients only snowstorm appearance was noted. Mammographic patterns were macronodular in 7 patients and mixed macronodular and micronodular in 6 patients. Conclusions. Both mammography and sonography can help identify free silicone injected directly into the breast. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 34:273,277, 2006 [source] A diagnostic trap for the dermatopathologist: granulomatous reactions from cutaneous microimplants for cosmetic purposesJOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS PATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2007Vincenzo Mustacchio We present a case of late granulomatous reactions from silicone that first appeared in a site different from that of the injection causing an incorrect diagnosis of liposarcoma in the beginning. The histological picture was a cystic-macrophagic granuloma in both the injection site (upper lip) and the migrating site (paranasal regions). We think that the foreign body has undergone an antigravity migration from the upper lip to the right paranasal region. To our knowledge, such a phenomenon has not been yet reported in literature. [source] Thyroid hormone enhances transected axonal regeneration and muscle reinnervation following rat sciatic nerve injuryJOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH, Issue 8 2010Petrica-Adrian Panaite Abstract Improvement of nerve regeneration and functional recovery following nerve injury is a challenging problem in clinical research. We have already shown that following rat sciatic nerve transection, the local administration of triiodothyronine (T3) significantly increased the number and the myelination of regenerated axons. Functional recovery is a sum of the number of regenerated axons and reinnervation of denervated peripheral targets. In the present study, we investigated whether the increased number of regenerated axons by T3-treatment is linked to improved reinnervation of hind limb muscles. After transection of rat sciatic nerves, silicone or biodegradable nerve guides were implanted and filled with either T3 or phosphate buffer solution (PBS). Neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) were analyzed on gastrocnemius and plantar muscle sections stained with rhodamine ,-bungarotoxin and neurofilament antibody. Four weeks after surgery, most end-plates (EPs) of operated limbs were still denervated and no effect of T3 on muscle reinnervation was detected at this stage of nerve repair. In contrast, after 14 weeks of nerve regeneration, T3 clearly enhanced the reinnervation of gastrocnemius and plantar EPs, demonstrated by significantly higher recovery of size and shape complexity of reinnervated EPs and also by increased acetylcholine receptor (AChRs) density on post synaptic membranes compared to PBS-treated EPs. The stimulating effect of T3 on EP reinnervation is confirmed by a higher index of compound muscle action potentials recorded in gastrocnemius muscles. In conclusion, our results provide for the first time strong evidence that T3 enhances the restoration of NMJ structure and improves synaptic transmission. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||