Enhancing the Carrier Transport in Monolayer MoS2 through Interlayer Coupling with 2D Covalent Organic Frameworks

The coupling of different 2D materials (2DMs) to form van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) is a powerful strategy for adjusting the electronic properties of 2D semiconductors, for applications in opto-electronics and quantum computing. 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2 ) represents an archetypical semiconducting, monolayer thick versatile platform for the generation of hybrid vdWH with tunable charge transport characteristics through its interfacing with molecules and assemblies thereof. However, the physisorption of (macro)molecules on 2D MoS2 yields hybrids possessing a limited thermal stability, thereby jeopardizing their technological applications. Herein, the rational design and optimized synthesis of 2D covalent organic frameworks (2D-COFs) for the generation of MoS2 /2D-COF vdWHs exhibiting strong interlayer coupling effects are reported. The high crystallinity of the 2D-COF films makes it possible to engineer an ultrastable periodic doping effect on MoS2 , boosting devices' field-effect mobility at room temperature. Such a performance increase can be attributed to the synergistic effect of the efficient interfacial electron transfer process and the pronounced suppression of MoS2 's lattice vibration. This proof-of-concept work validates an unprecedented approach for the efficient modulation of the electronic properties of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides toward high-performance (opto)electronics for CMOS digital circuits.

P-093 A comparison of the effects of IMSI and HOST for sperm selection on morphokinetic parameters and ploidy status in sibling embryos

Study question

Are hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST) and intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI) both effective alternative methods for sperm selection?

Summary answer

Similar results were obtained in embryo morphokinetics between HOST and IMSI.

What is known already

HOST is a simple, low-cost and rapid test based on the swelling of the tail of the sperm in a hypoosmotic environment. Less DNA fragmentation, membrane integrity and aneuploidy rates have been found in sperm selected by the HOST method. It also allows identification of viable sperm in a totally immotile sperm sample. IMSI, on the other hand, is a method for identifying the morphologically best sperm using high-magnification microscope. In studies, IMSI has been associated with high fertilization rates. However, it is a time-consuming method that requires expensive equipment.

Study design, size, duration

Time-Lapse Monitoring (TLM)-incubated sibling embryos of 25 male factor patients who applied for ART treatment to Istanbul, Sisli Memorial ART and Genetics Center in 2021 were included into the study. Sibling embryos were grouped according to their sperm selection method. In the IMSI group 170 embryos, in the HOST group 173 embryos were evaluated retrospectively in terms of the morphokinetic parameters, the rates of blastulation, Top- Quality (TQ) and Good Quality (GQ) embryos and euploidy.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Blastocyst grading was performed according to Gardner’s classification. Blastocysts 3AA,4AA,4AB,4BA,4BB,5AA,5AB,5BA,5BB were accepted as TQ+GQ. Blastulation rates was determined including the embryos at least 2 expansion. PGT-A results were obtained by Next Generation Sequencing(NGS) method. The comparison of the TLM parameters and clinical features of the patients were performed using Student’s t-test. Chi-square test was used for comparing the rates of fertilization, blastulation, TQ+GQ embryo and euploidy in each group.

Main results and the role of chance

No statistical difference was observed between IMSI and HOST groups in terms of morphokinetic parameters (tPN, tPNf, t2, t3, t4, t5, t6, t7, t8, t9, tSC, tM, tSB, tB, tEB) (p > 0.05). There were higher rates of normal fertilization in the HOST group (90.8%) than in the IMSI group (82.4%) and of TQ+GQ embryo (HOST: 50%, IMSI: 47.3%). However, these diffrences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). There was statistically lower abnormal fertilization rate was found in HOST group (2.3% vs 7.1%, p = 0.038). When PGT-A results were compared (HOST:19 embryos, IMSI: 19), slightly higher results were observed in IMSI group than HOST group ( 63%, 58% respectively) (p > 0.05).

Limitations, reasons for caution

This was a retrospective of a small number of cases.

Wider implications of the findings

The similarity of the outcome in these initial findings studying a small number of cases, suggest that this study should be extended.

Trial registration number

None

POS1536-HPR THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POSTURAL CHANGES AND TRUNK MUSCLE ENDURANCE IN CHILDREN WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Background

Body posture is defined as relative biomechanical alignment of body’s head, trunk, and extremities as well as position of the body in the space. Body posture might be altered due to different musculoskeletal pathologies. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by musculoskeletal problems including bone and muscle geometry alterations which may lead a deteriorated posture. However, it is not known whether trunk muscle endurance is associated with body posture in children with JIA.

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between postural changes and trunk muscle endurance in children with JIA.

Methods

Thirty-four children (eighteen female, sixteen male) were included in the study. Postural changes were assessed by a three-dimensional evaluation system (PosturePrint System, Biotonix, Canada). The system provides Posture Index (PI) score which is a composite score from three postural regions including head, ribcage, and pelvis. Higher PI scores indicate a more deteriorated posture. Biering–Sørensen Test (BST), Flexor Endurance Test (FET), Lateral Endurance Test (LET) were used to assess trunk muscle endurance, and Static Scapular Endurance Test (SSET) were used to assess scapular muscle endurance. Spearman Rank Correlation test was employed to determine the possible relationships.

Results

Enthesitis related arthritis was the most common JIA subtype in the study (38.2%) followed by oligoarthritis (26.5%), polyarthritis (20.6%), and systemic arthritis (14.7%). Significant negative correlations were detected between SSET and PI-head score (rho= -0.467, p=0.005), SSET and PI-ribcage score (rho= -0.381, p=0.026); FET and PI-head score (rho= -0.469, p=0.005); LET and PI-head score (rho= -0.441, p=0.009).

Table 1.

Demographics, muscle endurance and Posture Index scores of children

VariableMedian (IQR 25th/75th)Age (years)12.0 (10.0/14.0)Height (cm)145.50 (140.00/158.25)Weight (kg)42.75 (33.00/49.50)Body mass index (kg/m2)19.17 (16.09/21.42)Biering– Sørensen Test (sec)49.70 (28.42/80-78)Flexor Endurance Test (sec)38.91 (30.59/60.19)Lateral Endurance Test (sec)32.52 (19.99/59.68)Static Scapular Endurance Test (sec)23.19 (15.93/44.74)Posture Index-Head (score)7.0 (5.0/8.0)Posture Index-Ribcage (score)5.0 (4.0/6.0)Posture Index-Pelvis (score)6.0 (3.0/8.0)

IQR: Interquartile range

Conclusion

These results indicated that postural displacements of head and ribcage are linked with decreased trunk and scapular muscle endurance in children with JIA. Exercise and physical activity programs targeting muscle endurance may result improvements in posture in these children.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1535-HPR THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCAPULAR STABILIZATION AND HAND FUNCTIONS IN CHILDREN WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Background

Distal stabilization is an essential component for high quality proximal movement. In this regard, scapular stabilization is important for upper extremity and hand functions. Moreover, scapular stabilization might have a role as a support point for hand functions in patients with joint problems. However, the relationships between scapular stabilization and hand functions were not investigated in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between scapular stabilization and hand function in children with JIA with wrist arthritis history (JIAWrist+), and children with JIA without wrist arthritis history (JIAWrist-).

Methods

A total of forty children (20 children for each group) were included in the study. Scapular stabilization was measured by using scapular muscle endurance test. General functional status, subjective hand functions, and objective hand functions were assessed by using Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), Duruoz Hand Index, and Purdue Pegboard Test, respectively.

Results

JIAWrist+ patients reported poorer hand functions compared to JIAWrist- patients. No significant differences were detected for other parameters. Scapular muscle endurance was moderately related to CHAQ Disability Index score, Purdue Pegboard Test (single hand score and assembly score) in JIAWrist+ patients, while there was only a significant relationship between scapular muscle endurance and Purdue Pegboard Test both hand score in JIAWrist- patients.

Table 1.

Comparison of the Groups and Relationships between Scapular Muscle Endurance and Hand Functions

JIAWrist+ (n:20)JIAWrist- (n:20)Median (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)p*Age (years)14.0 (10.5/16.0)12.5 (11.0/14.5)0.512Scapular Muscle Endurance (sec)21.9 (10.7/35.8)22.5 (15.8/50.8)0.383CHAQ Discomfort Index (score)20.0 (7.5/48.2)27.5 (10.0/50.0)0.489CHAQ Health Status Index (score)45.0 (30.0/75.0)45.0 (30.0/57.5)0.558CHAQ Disability Index (score)0.8 (0.1/1.0)0.3 (0.0/0.7)0.104Duruöz Hand Index (score)5.5 (2.5/13.5)0.5 (0.0/4.0)0.006Purdue Pegboard Test Single Hand (score)15.2 (13.5/15.5)15.2 (14.5/16.2)0.981Purdue Pegboard Test Both Hands (score)11 (9.8/12.0)11.0 (10.3/12.3)1.000Purdue Pegboard Test Assembly (score)26.5 (23.0/28.5)26.0 (23.5/29.0)0.779Relationships between Scapular Muscle Endurance and Hand FunctionsCHAQ Discomfort Index (score)rho: -0.086, p: 0.718rho: -0.174, p: 0.464CHAQ Health Status Index (score)rho: 0.090, p: 0.706rho: 0.005, p: 0.982CHAQ Disability Index (score)rho: -0.560, p: 0.010rho: -0.219, p: 0.353Duruöz Hand Index (score)rho: -0.442, p: 0.051rho: -0.158, p: 0.506Purdue Pegboard Test Single Hand (score)rho: 0.503, p: 0.024rho: 0.313, p: 0.179Purdue Pegboard Test Both Hands (score)rho: 0.400, p: 0.081rho: 0.459, p: 0.042Purdue Pegboard Test Assembly (score)rho: 0.594, p: 0.006rho: 0.218, p: 0.355

*Mann-Whitney-U Test, p<0.05, CHAQ: Childhood Health Assessment Questionnarie, JIAWrist+: children with JIA with wrist arthritis history; JIAWrist-: children with JIA without wrist arthritis history, rho: Spearman’s Rank Correlatio

Conclusion

According to our results, scapular endurance was found more related to hand functions in wrist involved JIA patients. It seems that scapular stabilization contributes to hand functions differently related to joint involvement in JIA patients. It might be a beneficial strategy to work on scapular muscles in JIA patients with wrist involvement and poor hand functions.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1534-HPR WRIST JOINT POSITION SENSE AND MANUAL DEXTERITY IN CHILDREN WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS

Background

Joint position sense is a marker of proprioception and is defined as being aware of the body position and individual body parts in the space. Position sense in the wrist joint is especially important for the manual dexterity. A possible damage due to arthritis may lead a decrease in joint position sense. However, the status of joint position sense was not investigated in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Objectives

To compare the wrist position sense and a motor performance test related to manual dexterity among children with JIA with wrist arthritis history (JIAWrist+), children with JIA without wrist arthritis history (JIAWrist-), and healthy controls.

Methods

A total of sixty children (20 children for each group) were included in the study. Wrist joint position sense was evaluated by measuring joint re-position error. The wrist was passively placed in a pre-determined position (30o for flexion, 30o for extension, 10o for radial deviation, and 15o for ulnar deviation). Then passively was returned to baseline position. The patient was asked to reposition their wrist into the target degree actively. The absolute error in degrees between each position and reposition was calculated. Manual dexterity was evaluated by using Purdue Pegboard Test. The test was repeated three times and the average number of the correctly placed pines was used in the analysis.

Results

Joint position sense (in all directions except radial deviation) and manual dexterity (except assembly) was found negatively affected in JIAWrist+ patients compared to healthy controls. No differences (except radial deviation) were observed between JIAWrist- patients and healthy controls.

Table 1.

Comparison of the groups

JIAWrist+ (n:20)JIAWrist- (n:20)Healthy Controls (n:20)Physical CharacteristicsMedian (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)p*Age (years)14.0 (10.5/16.0)12.5 (11.0/14.5)12.0 (10.0/13.0)0.131Body-Mass Index (kg/m2)20.1 (18.8/22.6)18.9 (15.7/23.9)18.6 (16.8/21.9)0.477Disease Related DataMedian (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)p**Disease Duration (months)27.5 (10.5/64.0)31.5 (11.0/63.0)NA0.903Gendern (%)n (%)n (%)p***Female19 (95%)10 (50%)13 (65%)0.007Male1 (5%)10 (50%)7 (35%)Joint Re-position ErrorMedian (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)p*Flexion (o)5.2 (3.3/6.7)2.7 (2.0/4.0)2.0 (1.3/2,7)p<0.001 p1: 0.061 p2< 0.001 p3: 0.148Extension (o)3.8 (2.2/6.0)3.5 (2.8/4.5)1.8 (1.3/4.0)p: 0.038 p1: 1.000 p2: 0.045 p3: 0.171Radial Deviation (o)2.8 (2.0/5.2)3.3 (1.8/4.7)2.0 (1.3/2.7)p: 0.022 p1: 1.000 p2: 0.051 p3: 0.048Ulnar Deviation (o)3.5 (2.5/4.3)2.3 (1.5/3.0)1.7 (1.2/2.7)p: 0.003 p1: 0.084 p2: 0.003 p3: 0.805Flexion (o)5.2 (3.3/6.7)2.7 (2.0/4.0)2.0 (1.3/2,7)p<0.001 p1: 0.061 p2< 0.001 p3: 0.148Manual DexterityMedian (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)Median (IQR 25/75)p*Purdue Pegboard Test Single Hand (score)15.2 (13.5/15.5)15.2 (14.5/16.2)16.2 (15.0/18.0)p: 0.022 p1: 0.981 p2: 0.019 p3: 0.244Purdue Pegboard Test Both Hands (score)11.0 (9.8/12.0)11.0 (10.3/12.3)12.5 (11.7/13.2)p: 0.006 p1: 1.000 p2: 0.007 p3: 0.051Purdue Pegboard Test Assembly (score)26.5 (23.0/28.5)26.0 (23.5/29.0)28.0 (25.5/30.0)p: 0.243

*Kruskal-Wallis Analysis, **Mann-Whitney-U Test, ***Chi-Square Test, p<0.05. JIAWrist+: children with JIA with wrist arthritis history; JIAWrist-: children with JIA without wrist arthritis history, NA: not applicable, p1: JIAWrist+ vs. JIAWrist-; p2: JIAWrist+ vs. healthy controls; p3: JIAWrist- vs. healthy controls.

Conclusion

Joint position sense and related manual dexterity is diminished in JIA patients with wrist involvement. The results of this study suggested that children with wrist arthritis should be followed with special attention focusing on manual abilities. Hand therapy programs might help improving joint position sense acuity.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Pigmented villonodular synovitis: Four pediatric cases and brief review of literature

Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare benign disorder of a joint which affects its synovium, tendon sheaths and bursas. While most cases of PVNS are adult patients aged between 20-50 years, few afflicted children have also been reported. Clinical signs of PVNS are insidious and non-specific. Pain, swelling and stiffness are the major symptoms. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the best radiological method for diagnosis of PVNS, as the initial X-ray is normal in early phase of disease in most cases. Therefore, diagnosis is often delayed or confused with mechanical disorders, haemophilic arthropathy, tuberculosis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and other disorders. Four paediatric PVNS cases are being reported in this case series with the aim to highlight that PVNS should be considered in the differential diagnoses of chronic monoarthritis. Two of our cases were initially misdiagnosed as JIA and the remaining two as Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). They did not respond to conventional anti-inflammatory treatment and eventually only benefited from surgery. These four cases emphasize that the radiologist and clinician should collaborate carefully while managing any child with monoarthritis to ensure that the diagnosis of PVNS is not missed.

FRI0636-HPR COMPARING THE EFFECTS OF YOGA AND HOME EXERCISE PROGRAMS ON FUNCTIONAL STATUS IN CHILDREN WITH ENTHESITIS RELATED ARTHRITIS

Background:

Enthesitis-Related Arthritis (ERA), also referred as the juvenile ankylosing spondylitis, is a subtype of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). However, ERA patients were reported as having higher pain levels, lower functional status and lower quality of life level compared to other JIA subtypes. Yoga is used as an exercise method in adult patients with rheumatic diseases and positive effects on physical and psychosocial symptoms were reported. However, no study was conducted related to yoga in pediatric population with rheumatic diseases.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of performing yoga or home exercises on functional status in children with ERA.

Methods:

Twenty-one children with ERA were allocated into two groups as yoga group (n=11) and home exercise group (n=10). Yoga group performed yoga exercises supervised by a physiotherapist for twice a week, for eight weeks, while the home exercise group performed video-based home exercises for the same period. Pain in rest and activity (Numeric Rating Pain Scale), functional status (Six-Minute Walk Distance, Stair Climb Test), and quality of life (PedsQL Children and Parent Form) were evaluated at baseline and following eight weeks.

Results:

The groups were similar regarding to physical characteristics, pain, functional status, and quality of life at baseline (p>0.05, Table 1). While, all the parameters (except PEDSQL Parent Form) in yoga group significantly improved at the end of the study (p<0.05, Table 2), only stair climb test results significantly improved in home exercise group (p<0.05, Table 2).

Table 1.

Comparison of the groups at baseline

Yoga Group(n:11)Median (IQR 25/75)Home Exercise Group (n:10)Median (IQR 25/75)p*Physical parametersAge (year)15.0 (13.0/15.5)16.0 (14.0/17.0)0.099BMI (kg/m2)20.7 (18.3/23.1)21.2 (19.9/22.0)0.756PainRest pain (score)0 (0/5.0)1.0 (0/3.0)0.705Activity pain (score)4.0 (1.0/6.5)2.0 (0/7.0)0.387Functional StatusSix-minute walk distance (m)600.0 (552.5/664.5)626.0 (556.0/650.0)1.000Stair climb test (sec)7.6 (6.8/8.3)7.4 (7.0/8.0)1.000Quality of LifePedsQL Children (score)13.0 (10.0/23.5)12.5 (6.0/20.0)0.654PedsQL Parent (score)21.0 (8.5/31.5)26,0 (15.0/39.0)0.387

*: Mann-Whitney U test; IQR 25/75: Interquartile Range 25/75, PedsQL: Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, p<0.05

Table 2.

Changes in the Groups

BeforeMedian(IQR 25/75)AfterMedian(IQR 25/75)p*Yoga GroupPainRest pain (score)0 (0/5.0)0 (0/2.5)0.039Activity pain (score)4.0 (1.0/6.5)0 (0/1.5)0.012Functional StatusSix-minute walk distance (m)600.0 (552.5/664.5)692.0 (595.0/705.5)0.011Stair climb test (sec)7.6 (6.8/8.3)6.2 (6.0/7.0)0.008Quality of LifePedsQL Children (score)13.0 (10.0/23.5)9.0 (4.0/17.0)0.021PedsQL Parent (score)21.0 (8.5/31.5)18.0 (8.0/22.0)0.169Home Exercise GroupPainRest pain (score)1.0 (0/3.0)0 (0/3.0)0.715Activity pain (score)2.0 (0/7.0)2.0 (0/7.0)0.892Functional StatusSix-minute walk distance (m)626.0 (556.0/650.0)601.5 (585.0/707.0)0.093Stair climb test (sec)7.4 (7.0/8.0)7.0 (6.5/7.8)0.028Quality of LifePedsQL Children (score)12.5 (6.0/20.0)8.5 (7.0/18.0)0.475PedsQL Parent (score)26.0 (15.0/39.0)22.5 (14.0/30.0)0.192

*: Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, IQR 25/75: Interquartile Range 25/75, PedsQL: Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, p<0.05

Conclusion:

Yoga seems promising for improving functional status in children with ERA compared to a home-based exercise program. Therefore, yoga can be implemented as an exercise intervention in rehabilitation programs in children with ERA.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Hydrogenated derivatives of hexacoordinated metallic Cu2Si monolayer

Herein, we carried out first-principles calculations based on density functional theory to investigate the effects of surface functionalization with hydrogen atoms on structural, dynamical and electronic properties of Cu₂Si monolayer. Pristine Cu₂Si, a metallic monolayer, has a planar hexacoordinate structure. Calculations revealed that the most favorable position of a single H atom on the Cu₂Si monolayer is at the top of a Si site. Derivatives of Cu₂Si monolayer with various H concentrations were investigated, and by performing phonon calculations, it was found that there are three stable hydrogenated structures. Specific heat of these monolayers was found to increase with the hydrogen concentration at temperatures higher than 100 K. Electronically, the hydrogenated derivatives of Cu₂Si monolayer preserve the metallic character.

Herein, we carried out first-principles calculations based on density functional theory to investigate the effects of surface functionalization with hydrogen atoms on structural, dynamical and electronic properties of Cu₂Si monolayer.

Rapid integrated rheo-optical and polarized Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry measurement system for polymer films undergoing chemo-mechanical changes

The design and performance of a multisensory instrument to track physical and chemical changes of thin polymer films (typically 5 μm < thickness < 100 μm) subjected to thermal and mechanical treatments are described in this paper. For the first time, real-time measurements of spectral birefringence, true stress, true strain, and temperature are integrated together with ultra-rapid-scan polarized FT-IR spectrometer (URS-FT-IR) to investigate the relationships between true mechanical measures and structural features at different length scales. The rheo-optical properties (birefringence-true stress-true strain) are collected at a rate of 10 data points∕s and URS-FT-IR data are collected at a rate of 300 complete spectra∕s. The IR dichroism measurement is performed by exposing the sample to non-polarized IR beam in transmission mode with two mutually perpendicular polarizations, parallel and perpendicular to the stretching direction, received by detector unit. This design allows to analyze both polarizations simultaneously wavenumbers in the range of 500 cm(-1)-4000 cm(-1). Controlled processing parameters include air speed, air temperature, stretching rate, stretching ratio, stretch cycling, and holding times; while simultaneously measuring optical retardation, sample width, temperature, load cell, and both parallel and perpendicular IR spectra. Calibration and performance of this instrument is demonstrated with several film samples. These are: A polystyrene standard, an atactic polystyrene (homo-polymer), a polyurethane (consists of hard and soft segments) for physical changes during uniaxial deformation, and a polyamic acid during imidization reaction. This measurement system is particularly useful in unraveling molecular level details of complex physical and chemical events that take place during very fast deformation schemes (uniaxial stretching, retraction, relaxation, annealing, etc.) relevant to industrial processes. These include specific orientation behavior of each phase, block or filler, crystallization, relaxation and orientation state. It is also suited to track reaction rates and products in polymers undergoing thermal or photo curing.

A fast real time measurement system to track in and out of plane optical retardation/ birefringence, true stress, and true strain during biaxial stretching of polymer films

An instrumented and highly integrated biaxial stretching system was designed and constructed to obtain true stress, true strain, and optical behavior of polymeric films during biaxial stretching. With programmable drive motors, any form of temporally varying biaxial deformation profiles, including linear, exponential, logarithmic as well as cyclic, can be applied to a square-shaped films. This machine allows the investigation of mechano-optical behavior of films under profiles captured in industrial processes. To overcome the edge effects, the samples are painted with a dot pattern that is imaged using a high speed video capture system. This system accurately determines the locations of the each dot matrix in subsequent images acquired and calculates the true strains in both directions. The in-plane optical retardation is determined using spectral birefringence method that uses polarized white light and optical spectrometer in the optical train. This is carried out automatically at less than 10 nm in retardation resolution with the light beam passing through the symmetry center of the sample. Out of plane retardation is measured with an identical optical train tilted 45° to the plane of the film with its light beam going through the same spot on the sample as 0° beam. The true stress and birefringences are calculated with the determined instantaneous thickness of the film. With this system, the stress optical behavior of PET's is determined up to very large deformation levels at moderate to high deformation rates. Beyond the initial linear stress optical behavior, these films exhibit sudden positive deviation from linearity and this start of nonlinearity was directly associated with the stress induced crystallization.

Real-time measurement system for tracking birefringence, weight, thickness, and surface temperature during drying of solution cast coatings and films

This paper describes the design and performance of a new instrument to track temporal changes in physical parameters during the drying behavior of solutions, as well as curing of monomers. This real-time instrument follows in-plane and out-of-plane birefringence, weight, thickness, and surface temperature during the course of solidification of coatings and films through solvent evaporation and thermal or photocuring in a controlled atmosphere. It is specifically designed to simulate behavior of polymer solutions inside an industrial size, continuous roll-to-roll solution casting line and other coating operations where resins are subjected to ultraviolet (UV) curing from monomer precursors. Controlled processing parameters include air speed, temperature, initial cast thickness, and solute concentration, while measured parameters are thickness, weight, film temperature, in-plane and out-of-plane birefringence. In this paper, we illustrate the utility of this instrument with solution cast and dried poly (amide-imide)∕DMAc (Dimethylacetamide) solution, water based black paint, and organo-modified clay∕NMP (N-Methylpyrrolidone) solution. In addition, the physical changes that take place during UV photo polymerization of a monomer are tracked. This instrument is designed to be generic and it can be used for tracking any drying∕swelling∕solidification systems including paper, foodstuffs such as; grains, milk as well as pharmaceutical thin paste and slurries.

Clinicopathologic features and prognostic significance of lung tumours with mixed histologic patterns

Lung tumours with a mixed histologic pattern are rare. We evaluated the clinicopathologic features and prognosis of lung tumours with mixed histology and compared them with the tumours which have single histology. The study group consisted of 39 patients with a mixed histologic pattern and a control group consisted of 41 patients with a single histology on the consecutive surgical specimens. In the study group three types of tumour were identified: adenosquamous carcinoma, combined neuro-endocrine tumours and biphasic tumours. The combined neuro-endocrine tumours were further divided into small cell carcinoma (SCLC)+non-neuro-endocrine carcinoma (NNEC), SCLC+large cell neuro-endocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and LCNEC +NNEC. Clinicopathologic characteristics, stage and survival rates were evaluated retrospectively and compared with the tumours showing single histology. There was no significant difference in mean age, sex, smoking history, asbestos exposure and tumour size between the study and control groups (p > 0.05). Among adenosquamous carcinomas advanced stage (IIIa or IIIb) (p = 0.004), vascular invasion (p = 0.04) and parietal pleural involvement (p = 0.012) was significantly more evident than in the single histology group. Among combined neuro-endocrine tumours, advanced stages (p = 0.002) and vascular invasion (p = 0.003) were more evident than in the single histology group. Two- year survival rates were 60% for the single histology group, 39% for the adenosquamous group and 25% for the combined neuro-endocrine tumour group (p = 0.0002). Tumours with mixed histology are rarely seen in the lung. Among these tumours adenosquamous carcinoma and combined neuro-endocrine tumours present more aggressive clinico-pathologic behaviour than tumors with a single histology.

Health-related quality of life of school-age children with familial Mediterranean fever

OBJECTIVES

To describe and compare the parent proxy-reported and child self-reported physical and psychosocial HRQOL of school age children who have FMF with healthy peers.

METHODS

The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (Peds QL 4.0) Generic Core Scales was used to measure HR-QOL. Fifty-one patients and 81 healthy peers were enrolled in the study. Patients were grouped according to their ages as : 1) Children (8-12 years) and 2) Adolescents (13-18 years). An accompanying parent completed the parent proxy-report of the Peds QL 4.0.

RESULTS

Peds QL scores of children (8-12 years) with FMF were significantly lower than healthy peers for physical and psychosocial functioning for both child self-report and parent proxy-report. The parent proxy-report and child self-reported Peds QL scores of adolescent patients (13-18 years) with FMF were lower than the healthy group for physical, emotional and school functioning; however no significant difference was detected regarding the social functioning. Adolescents with FMF had significantly higher social scores when compared to the younger age group (8-12 years) with FMF, 92.6 +/- 8.5 and 82.2 +/- 17.6, respectively (p=0.028). The scores of physical, emotional and school functioning were similar in both groups (p=0.73, p=0.93, and p=0.028). Correlations among child self-report subscales and proxy-report subscales were all significant and varied from moderate to high.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that assessment of HRQOL has potential clinical implications for the healthcare needs of children and adolescents with FMF. Given the degree of reported impairment in their health-related quality of life, individualized counseling and interventions are needed.

Co- and counter-current spontaneous imbibition into groups of capillary tubes with lateral connections permitting cross-flow

A model for co- and counter-current imbibition through independent capillaries has already been developed and experiments conducted to verify the theory [E. Unsal, G. Mason, N.R. Morrow, D.W. Ruth, J. Colloid Interface Sci. 306 (2007) 105]. In this paper, the work is extended to capillaries which are connected laterally and in which cross-flow can take place. The fundamental pore geometry is a rod in an angled round-bottomed slot with a gap between the rod and a capping glass plate. The surfaces of the slot, rod and plate form capillaries and interconnecting passages which have non-axisymmetric cross-sections. Depending on the gap size either (i) a large single meniscus, (ii) two menisci one on each side of the rod, or (iii) three menisci, one between the rod and the glass additional to the ones on each side can be formed. A viscous refined oil was applied to one end of the capillaries and co-current and counter-current spontaneous imbibition experiments were performed. The opposite end was left open to the atmosphere for co-current experiments. When the gap between the rod and the plate was large, the imbibing oil advanced into the tubes with the meniscus in the largest capillary always lagging behind the two menisci in the other two smaller capillaries. For counter-current imbibition experiments the open end was sealed and connected to a sensitive pressure transducer. In some experiments, the oil imbibed into the smaller capillaries and expelled air as a series of bubbles from the end of the largest capillary. In other experiments, the oil was allowed to imbibe part way into the tubes before counter-current imbibition was started. The meniscus curvatures of the capillaries have been calculated using the Mayer and Stowe-Princen method for different cell slot angles and gap sizes using a value of zero for the contact angle. These values have been compared with actual values by measuring the capillary rise in the tubes; agreement was very close. A model for co-current and counter-current imbibition has also been developed. The significance of this model is that some hydraulic/capillary properties are common for both co-current and counter-current imbibition. The experiments give an illustration of behavior expected in a real porous material and verify the importance of the 'perfect cross-flow' modification to the 'bundle of parallel tubes' model.

Factors influencing sputum smear and culture conversion time among patients with new case pulmonary tuberculosis

Sputum smear and culture conversion are important indicators for the effectiveness of treatment and the infectivity of the patient. The aim of this study was to identify the factors influencing both sputum smear and culture conversion time among patients with new case pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). The study was conducted in a reference hospital in Turkey in which 737 patients with pulmonary TB were hospitalised between January 2000 and 2005. We evaluated 306 (193 men and 113 women) human immunodeficiency virus-negative patients diagnosed with new case pulmonary TB. Factors associated with both sputum smear and culture conversion time (days) were investigated. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), cavitary disease, radiologically extensive disease had longer sputum smear and culture conversion time than the other groups. In addition, old age, male sex, smoking and thrombocytosis were found to be significantly associated with sputum smear conversion time. In the logistic regression analysis, the presence of DM and extensive disease were determined as independent factors associated with persistent sputum smear and culture positivity at the end of 2 months. The presence of DM and extensive disease were found to be independent risk factors influencing both sputum smear and culture conversion time in pulmonary TB. Sputum smear and culture examinations should be considered together to assess the poor prognosis.

Co-current and counter-current imbibition in independent tubes of non-axisymmetric geometry

Experiments that illustrate and quantify the basics of co- and counter-current spontaneous imbibition have been conducted in a series of simple model pore systems. The fundamental pore geometry is a rod in an angled round-bottomed slot with the rod touching a capping glass plate. The capillaries thus formed by the surfaces of the slot, rod and plate do not have circular cross-sections but more complicated geometric structures with angular corners. The tubes formed at each side of the rod connect at both ends. A viscous, refined oil was applied from one end. For co-current experiments, the opposite end was left open to the atmosphere and oil imbibed into both tubes. For counter-current experiments the opposite end was sealed and connected to a sensitive pressure transducer. Oil imbibed into the smaller capillary and expelled air as a series of bubbles from the end of the larger capillary. Bubble snap-off was observed to be rate-dependent and occurred at a lower curvature than that of the cylindrical meniscus that just fits inside the tube. Only the corners of the larger capillary filled with oil during counter-current imbibition. Meniscus curvatures were calculated using the Mayer and Stowe-Princen method and were compared with actual values by measuring the capillary rise in the tubes; agreement was close. A simple model for co-current and counter-current imbibition has also been developed and the predictions compared with the experimental results. The model results were in agreement with the experiments. The experiments demonstrate that the capillary back pressure generated by the interfaces and bubbles in counter-current imbibition can slow the process significantly.

Relationship between embryo quality and aneuploidies

Many high-grade embryos selected for transfer according to their morphological evaluation were detected to have chromosomal abnormalities after aneuploidy screening for infertility by preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). The aim of this study was to detect if there is any correlation between embryo quality and genetic status. The chromosomal status of the day three embryos was studied by multicolour fluorescence in-situ hybridization for chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y. PGD was performed on 132 patients for 1107 embryos. The correlation between embryo quality and aneuploidy was analysed. The analysis showed that a large proportion of normal embryos (50.7%, n = 280) were grade I. In addition, a considerably high proportion of aneuploid embryos (36.1%, n = 83) were evaluated as grade I. There was a significant relationship between PGD results and embryo grades (P = 0.001). Of the 69 polyploid embryos, 21.7% were grade I and 37.8% were grade II. Of the 83 haploid embryos, 27.8% were grade I and 34.9% were grade II. Euploidy was positively related to morphological grade of embryo (P = 0.001). It was also possible for chromosomally abnormal embryos to have a good developmental potential, and they could be selected for embryo transfer unless the PGD procedure was applied.

Potential role of interleukin 6 in reactive thrombocytosis and acute phase response in pulmonary tuberculosis

OBJECTIVE

Reactive thrombocytosis is found in a number of clinical situations including infectious diseases such as pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). To examine the possible role of interleukin (IL6) in reactive thrombocytosis and acute phase response in PTB this study measured serum IL6, C reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), albumin concentrations in 62 PTB patients and 20 healthy volunteers.

METHOD

PTB patients were divided into two groups based on thrombocyte counts. Twenty seven PTB patients with normal thrombocyte counts constituted group 1, 35 PTB patients with thrombocytosis constituted group 2, and 20 healthy volunteers constituted group 3.

RESULTS

The median IL6 concentration of group 1 was 12.8 pg/ml (95% CI: 12.1 to 56.9 pg/ml) and group 2 was 40.6 pg/ml (95% CI: 67.1 to 168.7 pg/ml). The comparison of IL6 concentrations in the three groups was significant (p = 0.0001). Patients in group 1 had a higher concentration of CRP (p = 0.0001) and lower concentration of albumin (p = 0.002) than group 3 whereas group 2 had higher concentration of CRP (p = 0.003) and lower concentration of albumin (p = 0.002) than group 1. Serum IL6 concentrations were significantly correlated with thrombocyte counts (p = 0.004, r = 0.36), CRP (p = 0.007, r = 0.34), and albumin concentrations (p = 0.005, r = -0.34). IL6 concentrations were significantly correlated with the number of involved zones (p = 0.005, r = 0.35) and acid fast bacilli positivity (p = 0.03, r = 0.27). Patients in group 2 had weight loss (p = 0.004), fever (p = 0.038), and night sweats (p = 0.007) more frequently than group 1. Also, group 2 had more extensive radiological findings (involved zones p = 0.001, bilateral disease p = 0.0001, presence of cavity p = 0.02) than group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

IL6 might play a contributory part in reactive thrombocytosis and acute phase response in PTB.

The effect of improved periodontal health on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of improved periodontal health on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fourty-four patients with type 2 DM were selected. Subjects were randomly assigned into two groups.

DATA COLLECTION

Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment levels (CALs), gingival recession (GR) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at baseline at 1st and 3rd months. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h post-prandial glucose (PPG), glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and microalbuminure were analysed at baseline, 3 months following the periodontal therapy. The treatment group received full-mouth scaling and root planing whereas the control group received no periodontal treatment.

RESULTS

A statistically significant effect could be demonstrated for PI, GI, PPD, CAL and BOP for the treatment group. HbA1c levels in the treatment group decreased significantly whereas the control group showed a slight but insignificant increase for this parameter.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study showed that non-surgical periodontal treatment is associated with improved glycaemic control in type 2 patients and could be undertaken along with the standard measures for the diabetic patient care.

The influence of occlusal loading location on stresses transferred to implant-supported prostheses and supporting bone: a three-dimensional finite element study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Information about the influence of occlusal loading by location on the stress distribution in an implant-supported fixed partial denture and supporting bone tissue is limited.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of loading at 1 to 3 different locations on the occlusal surface of a tooth on the stress distributions in an implant-supported mandibular fixed partial denture (FPD) and surrounding bone, using 3-dimensional finite element analysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A 3-dimensional finite element model of a mandibular section of bone (Type 2) with missing second premolar and its superstructures were used in this study. A 1-piece 4.1 x 10-mm screw-shape ITI dental implant system (solid implant) was modeled for this study. Cobalt-Chromium (Wiron 99) was used as the crown framework material and porcelain was used for occlusal surface. The implant and its superstructure were simulated in a Pro/Engineer 2000i program. Total loads at 300 N were applied at the following locations: 1) tip of buccal cusp (300 N); 2) tip of buccal cusp (150 N) and distal fossa (150 N); or 3) tip of buccal cusp (100 N), distal fossa (100 N), and mesial fossa (100 N).

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that vertical loading at 1 location resulted in high stress values within the bone and implant. Close stress levels were observed within the bone for loading at 2 locations and 3 locations; the former created the most extreme stresses and the latter the most even stresses within the bone. With loading at 2 or 3 locations, stresses were concentrated on the framework and occlusal surface of the FPD, and low stresses were distributed to the bone.

CONCLUSION

For the loading conditions investigated, the optimal combination of vertical loading was found to be loading at 2 or 3 locations which decreased the stresses within the bone. In this situation, von Mises stresses were concentrated on the framework and occlusal surface of the FPD.

Finite element analysis of forces created by root separation and resection modelling

Natural teeth with a healthy periodontal support exhibit stress transfer when functional forces are applied to them. These stress patterns show considerable variations during differing treatment modalities, which may influence both the tooth and supporting alveolar bone. The purpose of this study was to evaluate variations in the stress transfer under functional loads on first molars with periodontal furcation involvement, which were treated either with by root resection or root separation. This study used a two dimensional mathematical model of a mandibular first molar that was subjected to either a root separation or a root resection procedure. An evenly distributed dynamic load (600 N) was applied on two buccal cusps and distal fossae of the molar in centric occlusion. The analysis was performed using an IBM-compatible computer running standard analysis software. It was found that in the root resection model the stress values were maximum on the centre of rotation, and compressive stresses increased towards the middle of the cervical line. For the root separation model, the maximum shear stress values were observed in the distal portion, and a uniform stress distribution was observed in the mesial portion. Shear stress values for bone increased towards the centre in the bifurcation area. The outcomes of this study may be useful as a guide in clinical restorative procedures.

Uveitis in juvenile arthritis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical features of and determine the risk factors for uveitis in patients with juvenile arthritis.

METHODS

The prevalence and clinical characteristics of uveitis were studied retrospectively in 90 children diagnosed with arthritis. Patients with uveitis were compared with those who did not have eye involvement.

RESULTS

Uveitis was diagnosed in 11 patients (12.2%). Of these, seven (63.6%) had oligoarticular, two (36.4%) had polyarticular, and one (9.1%) had systemic-onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). One patient (9.1%) was diagnosed with enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) (9.1%). The prevalence of uveitis was significantly higher in patients with oligoarticular JRA. The mean age at onset of arthritis in the uveitis patients was 4.39 years, which was significantly lower than in the non-uveitis group. There was no gender difference in the risk of developing uveitis. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) was positive in seven (63.6%) of the 11 uveitis patients, confirming ANA as a significant determinant for uveitis in juvenile arthritis. Rheumatoid factor was not found to be a risk factor. One (9.1%) of the 11 patients developed serious sight-threatening complications during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed that oligoarticular onset, ANA positivity, and young age are risk factors for developing uveitis in patients with juvenile arthritis. Gender was not found to be a determining factor. Prompt treatment of uveitis effectively decreased the prevalence of visual impairment.