Retrospective Comparative Analysis of Clinical and Functional Outcome After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair using All-Suture Anchor and Metal Anchor

Introduction

Both knotted all suture anchors and metal anchors are used for arthroscopic Bankart repair. We retrospectively evaluated and compared clinical and functional outcomes after arthroscopic Bankart repair using the knotted all-suture anchors and knotted metal anchors.

Materials and methods

In a retrospective cohort analysis, patients who underwent arthroscopic Bankart repair without any concomitant additional lesion repair using either all-suture anchors or metal anchors, between January 2015 and May 2018 were identified. Their pre- and post-operative functional and clinical outcomes were compared using Rowe and WOSI scores. The recurrence rate in the two groups was also compared.

Results

A total of 41 patients in all suture anchors group and 47 in the metal anchors group were identified as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. The demographic profile of both groups was comparable. There was no significant difference in clinical and functional outcome between the two suture anchor groups as per Rowe (pre-operative 40.13+6.51 vs 38.09+6.24 and post-operative 2 years 93.28+7.09 vs 92.55+9.2) and WOSI (pre-operative 943.05+216.64 vs 977.55+165.46 and post-operative 2 years 278.21+227.56 vs 270.94+186.25) scores. There was a significant improvement in both the groups between preoperative and post-operative ROWE and WOSI scores at 6 months and 2 years follow-up as compared to pre-operative scores (p<0.001). Re-dislocation rates were also comparable (4.8% vs 6.3%).

Conclusion

All-suture anchors showed comparable clinical and functional results as the metal anchors for arthroscopic Bankart repair at two-year follow-up.

Synthesis and characterization of nanostructured graphene-doped selenium

In this work, we explore various properties of elemental selenium glass (g-Se) by doping with graphene through the facile melt-quench technique. The structural information of the synthesized sample was found by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy. The analyses confirm that the graphene-doped g-Se behaves like a glass-ceramic material. Electrical and dielectric measurements were performed to discover the consequences of graphene incorporation on the nano-structure of g-Se. The electrical measurements of the dielectric parameters (i.e., dielectric constant ε' and loss ε'') and conductivity (σ _ac) reveal that graphene incorporation causes a rise in the dielectric constant but simultaneously increases dielectric loss. The enhancement in ε' and ε'' values is thought to be a consequence of the interface effect between graphene and the host selenium glass. Calorimetric experiments were performed in a standard differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) unit on the glassy nanocomposite in non-isothermal mode. By measuring the kinetic temperatures at four heating rates, the kinetics of the crystallization/glass transition were studied. The results were examined to understand the role of graphene doping on the well-known phase transitions (i.e., glass transition and crystallization) of g-Se.

Thermal analysis of novel third-generation phase-change materials with zinc as a chemical modifier

The thermal analysis in the present work is done to analyze the glass/crystal phase transformation in a newly synthesized glassy system (i.e., glassy SeTeSnZn alloys) consisting of chalcogenides Se and Te as major elements, Sn as a third element of the parent alloy and Zn as a chemical modifier. The role of increasing the Zn concentration at the cost of Se has been understood by correlating the kinematics of structural relaxation during the glass transition phenomenon and devitrification during the crystallization phenomenon in the chalcogenide glasses (ChGs) of the quaternary STSZ [i.e., Se_78-x Zn _x Te₂₀Sn₂ (0 ≤ x ≤ 6)] system and their different physicochemical properties. A noticeable rise in the crystallization rate is observed after the addition of Zn in the parent SeTeSn glass. With the rise in the zinc content, the values of average heat of atomization and overall mean bond energy are found to be decreased with the decrease in cohesive energy of samples. An inverse correlation is observed between the thermal stability parameter and the enthalpy released during the glass/crystalline phase transformation.

AB0544 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF TILDRAKIZUMAB IN PATIENTS WITH AND WITHOUT METABOLIC SYNDROME: 5-YEAR POOLED DATA FROM reSURFACE 1 AND reSURFACE 2

Background:

Patients with psoriasis and metabolic syndrome (MetS) may have reduced absolute Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) response and long-term drug survival. Tildrakizumab is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in the US, EU, Australia, and Japan. Efficacy and safety of tildrakizumab were previously shown to be comparable in patients with vs without MetS after 1 and 3 years of treatment.1

Objectives:

This post hoc analysis of pooled data from reSURFACE 1 and reSURFACE 2 (NCT01722331/NCT01729754) assessed tildrakizumab efficacy and safety through up to 5 years of treatment in patients with psoriasis with and without MetS.

Methods:

reSURFACE 1 and 2 were 3-part, double-blind, randomized controlled phase 3 trials with long-term extensions evaluating tildrakizumab 100 or 200 mg monotherapy at Weeks 0, 4, and every 12 weeks thereafter in adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.2 Patients who achieved ≥50% improvement from baseline PASI score (PASI 50 response) at both week 28 and at the end of the phase 3 studies could enter the long-term extension studies continuing the same dose of tildrakizumab.1 This post hoc analysis reports results from a pooled data analysis through up to 5 years of tildrakizumab exposure from patients with and without MetS by National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III criteria who continuously received the same dose of tildrakizumab throughout the base studies and entered the long-term extensions. Efficacy was assessed as change from baseline PASI score; missing data were handled using multiple imputation. Safety was assessed from exposure adjusted incidence rates of serious adverse events (SAEs) and treatment-emergent AEs of special interest.

Results:

Analyses included 70/265 patients with/without MetS receiving tildrakizumab 100 mg and 64/241 patients with/without MetS receiving tildrakizumab 200 mg. Median percentage change from baseline PASI score is shown in Figure 1. Among patients with/without MetS receiving tildrakizumab 100 mg, 78.6%/87.9% achieved PASI 75, 57.1%/63.8% achieved PASI 90, and 25.7%/32.5% achieved PASI 100 response at week 244; the PASI 75, PASI 90, and PASI 100 response rates at week 244 in patients with/without MetS receiving tildrakizumab 200 mg were 76.6%/85.1%, 46.9%/61.4%, and 26.6%/36.5%, respectively. Safety outcomes over the 5-year extension period were consistent with the known safety profile of tildrakizumab. Rates of SAEs were <8.5 per 100 patient-years among all patients, and there were no new safety signals in patients with vs without MetS (Table 1).

Table 1.

SAEs and TEAEs of special interest by MetS status through up to 5 years of tildrakizumab exposure

TIL 100 mgTIL 200 mgWithout MetSWithMetSWithout MetSWithMetSn = 265n = 70n = 241n = 64n (EAIR per 100 PY)1149.1 PY304.1 PY1057.1 PY287.6 PYSAEs53 (4.61)22 (7.23)52 (4.92)24 (8.35)TEAEs of special interest24 (2.09)6 (1.97)27 (2.55)15 (5.22)Infections and infestations10 (0.87)2 (0.66)13 (1.23)6 (2.09)Malignanciesa5 (0.44)1 (0.33)4 (0.38)3 (1.04)Nonmelanoma skin cancer3 (0.26)1 (0.33)6 (0.57)1 (0.35)Confirmed extended MACE3 (0.26)1 (0.33)3 (0.28)3 (1.04)Drug hypersensitivity2 (0.17)1 (0.33)1 (0.09)2 (0.70)Melanoma skin cancer2 (0.17)000Injection site reactionsb1 (0.09)000

Incidence rates reported as events per 100 PY.

aExcluding nonmelanoma and melanoma skin cancer.

bNot considered of special interest in the extension study.

AE, adverse event; EAIR, exposure adjusted incidence rate; MACE, major adverse cardiovascular events; MetS, metabolic syndrome; PY, patient-years; SAE, serious AE; TEAE, treatment-emergent AE; TIL, tildrakizumab.

Conclusion:

The efficacy and safety of tildrakizumab were maintained in patients with and without MetS following 5 years of treatment.

References:

[1]Lebwohl, M et al. JAAD. 2020;S0190-9622(20)32637-2.

[2]Reich K, et al. Lancet. 2017;390:276–88.

Disclosure of Interests:

Alice B Gottlieb Shareholder of: Xbiotech (only stock options, which she has not used)., Consultant of: Anaptyps Bio, Avotres Therapeutics; Beiersdorf; Boehringer Ingelheim; Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.; Eli Lilly; Janssen; LEO Pharma; Novartis; Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.; UCB; and Xbiotech, Grant/research support from: Boehringer Ingelheim; Janssen; Novartis; Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.; UCB; and Xbiotech., Nehal Mehta Grant/research support from: Grants to the NIH from AbbVie, Celgene, Janssen, and Novartis., Employee of: Full-time employee of the US government., Alan Menter Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Abbott Labs, Amgen, Anacor, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Janssen Biotech, LEO Pharma, Merck & Co., Novartis, Sienna, and UCB., Consultant of: AbbVie, Abbott Labs, Amgen, Anacor, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Janssen Biotech, LEO Pharma, Merck & Co., Novartis, Sienna, and UCB., Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Abbott Labs, Amgen, Anacor, Boehringer Ingelheim, Celgene, Eli Lilly, Janssen Biotech, LEO Pharma, Merck & Co., Novartis, Sienna, and UCB., Alan M Mendelsohn Shareholder of: Has individual shares in Johnson and Johnson, and as part of retirement account/mutual funds, Employee of: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., Stephen Rozzo Employee of: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., Mark Lebwohl Consultant of: Aditum Bio; Allergan; Almirall; Arcutis; Avotres Therapeutics; BirchBioMed, Inc.; BMD Skincare; Boehringer Ingelheim; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Cara Therapeutics; Castle Biosciences; Corrona; Dermavant Sciences; Evelo; Facilitate International Dermatologic Education; Foundation for Research and Education in Dermatology; Inozyme Pharma; Kyowa Kirin; LEO Pharma; Meiji Seika Pharma; Menlo; Mitsubishi; Neuroderm; Pfizer; Promius/Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories; Serono; Theravance; and Verrica., Grant/research support from: AbbVie; Amgen; Arcutis; Boehringer Ingelheim; Dermavant; Eli Lilly; Incyte; Janssen Research & Development, LLC; LEO Pharma; Ortho Dermatologics; Pfizer; and UCB.

POS1063 RHEUMATOLOGIST AND PATIENT PERSPECTIVES ON IMPLEMENTING CARDIOVASCULAR RISK PREVENTION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PSORIASIS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Background:

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an immune-mediated musculoskeletal disease associated with excess risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). New US-based guidelines recognize psoriasis as a CVD risk enhancer; however, patients with PsA often do not have CVD risk factors identified nor managed.

Objectives:

This study examines strategies to improve CVD prevention care from the perspective of rheumatologists and patients with PsA.

Methods:

Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted using an interview guide based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to examine the perspectives of rheumatologists (N = 8) and patients with psoriatic arthritis managed by rheumatologists (N = 8) on barriers/facilitators to CVD prevention. Interviews were transcribed and coded using an integrated approach designed to enhance reliability and validity facilitated by NVivo software.

Results:

Most rheumatologists confirmed that they were not regularly engaging in CVD prevention care with psoriatic arthritis patients. Providers reported sometimes counseling and screening for CVD risk, but they were not regularly prescribing statins and not as willing to do so. Reasons included a lack of familiarity or comfort with guidelines, concern about working outside of their scope of practice, confusing boundaries between other clinicians, and time constraints. Most patients confirmed that it was uncommon for their rheumatologists to engage them in CVD prevention care but expressed desire for their rheumatologists inform them of the risk, and were open to CVD prevention care from them.

Conclusion:

We identified several potentially modifiable barriers to CVD screening and management. These findings will inform the design of a clinical trial comparing the effectiveness of rheumatologist implementation of CVD guideline-based counseling, screening and prescribing statins when appropriate in patients with PsA.

Figure 1.

Barriers to CVD screening and management among patients with PsA in a rheumatology practice setting and potential strategies to address those barriers. Abbreviations: CV = cardiovascular; SOC = standard of care.

Disclosure of Interests:

Alexis Ogdie Consultant of: Abbvie, Amgen, BMS, Celgene, Corrona, Gilead, Janssen, Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Grant/research support from: Pfizer to Penn, Novartis to Penn, Amgen to Forward/NDB, Alix Gustafson: None declared, Adina Lieberman: None declared, Jennifer Mason: None declared, April Armstrong: None declared, Nehal Mehta Consultant of: Amgen, Eli Lilly, and Leo Pharma receiving grants/other payments, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Celgene, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc, and Novartis receiving grants and/or research funding and as a principal investigator for the National Institute of Health receiving grants and/or research funding., Employee of: NNM is a full-time US government employee, Rinad Beidas Consultant of: Camden Coalition of Healthcare Providers in the past 3 years. She currently is a consultant for United Behavioral Health. She serves on the Optum Behavioral Health Clinical and Scientific Advisory Council. Dr. Beidas receives royalties from Oxford University Press., Joel Gelfand Shareholder of: Dr Gelfand is a co-patent holder of resiquimod for treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and he is a deputy editor for the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, receiving honoraria from the Society for Investigative Dermatology., Paid instructor for: CME work related to psoriasis that was supported indirectly by Eli Lilly and Company and Ortho Dermatologics, Consultant of: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen Biologics, Novartis Corp, UCB (Data Safety and Monitoring Board), Sanofi, and Pfizer Inc, Grant/research support from: research grants (to the Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania) from AbbVie, Janssen, Novartis Corp, Celgene, OrthoDermatologics, and Pfizer Inc.

Inelastic Scattering of a Photon by a Quantum Phase Slip

Spontaneous decay of a single photon is a notoriously inefficient process in nature irrespective of the frequency range. We report that a quantum phase-slip fluctuation in high-impedance superconducting waveguides can split a single incident microwave photon into a large number of lower-energy photons with a near unit probability. The underlying inelastic photon-photon interaction has no analogs in nonlinear optics. Instead, the measured decay rates are explained without adjustable parameters in the framework of a new model of a quantum impurity in a Luttinger liquid. Our result connects circuit quantum electrodynamics to critical phenomena in two-dimensional boundary quantum field theories, important in the physics of strongly correlated systems. The photon lifetime data represent a rare example of verified and useful quantum many-body simulation.

Recurrent giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma: Review of literature and a rare case report

Introduction and importance

Retroperitoneal liposarcomas (RPLS) are usually grow large with frequent recurrences. Complete surgical excision remains the gold standard treatment for primary and even recurrent tumours. Their prognosis depends on their histological type and grade. We report a recurrent giant de-differentiated RPLS weighing 18.55 kg which was completely excised. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the largest liposarcoma reported in the literature.

Case presentation

A 40 year old female presented with a gradually progressing large abdominal lump for 1year. She had had a similar large lump twice in the past and undergone excision of the tumour elsewhere. Firm non-tender mass felt all over abdomen with edema noted over abdominal wall and bilateral lower limbs. PET CT showed large heterogeneously enhancing mass occupying almost the entire abdominopelvic cavity. 50 × 40 × 40cm tumour was completely excised and biopsy showed grade 2 dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLS). She is under close follow up with no recurrence at 12months.

Clinical discussion

DDLS have lower risk of distant metastases but have a high risk of local recurrence. The most important favourable prognostic factor in these tumours is complete resection with negative margins. Because of the ineffectiveness of current chemotherapy and the requirement of intolerably high radiation doses, surgical excision remains the most effective treatment even for the localized recurrences of RPLS.

Conclusion

The dedifferentiated subtype should be suspected in locally aggressive RPLS. Close follow up with early detection of recurrences and prompt excision with negative margins lowers the risk of recurrences and improves survival.

Cardiovascular severe maternal morbidity in pregnant and postpartum women: development and internal validation of risk prediction models

OBJECTIVES

To develop and internally validate risk prediction models identifying women at risk for cardiovascular severe maternal morbidity (CSMM).

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

An obstetric teaching hospital between 2007 and 2017.

POPULATION

A total of 89 681 delivery hospitalisations.

METHODS

We created and evaluated two models, one predicting CSMM at delivery (delivery model) and the other predicting CSMM postpartum following discharge from delivery hospitalisation (postpartum CSMM). We assessed model discrimination and calibration and used bootstrapping for internal validation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Cardiovascular severe maternal morbidity comprised the following confirmed conditions: pulmonary oedema/acute heart failure, myocardial infarction, aneurysm, cardiac arrest/ventricular fibrillation, heart failure/arrest during surgery or procedure, cerebrovascular disorders, cardiogenic shock, conversion of cardiac rhythm and difficult-to-control severe hypertension.

RESULTS

The delivery model contained 11 variables and 3 interaction terms. The strongest predictors were gestational hypertension, chronic hypertension, multiple gestation, cardiac lesions or valvular heart disease, maternal age ≥40 years and history of poor pregnancy outcome. The postpartum model comprised eight variables. The strongest predictors were severe pre-eclampsia, non-Hispanic Black race/ethnicity, chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, non-severe pre-eclampsia and maternal age ≥40 years at delivery. The delivery and postpartum models had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.87 (95% CI 0.85-0.89) and 0.85 (95% CI 0.80-0.90), respectively. Both models were adequately calibrated and performed well on internal validation.

CONCLUSIONS

These tools may help providers to identify women at highest risk of CSMM and enable future prevention measures.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Risk assessment tools for cardiovascular severe maternal morbidity were developed and internally validated.

THU0582 EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF REFRACTORY GOUT: EFFECT OF ONLINE CONTINUING EDUCATION ON RHEUMATOLOGISTS’ KNOWLEDGE

Background:

Gout is a chronic condition with a considerable effect on patient health and quality of life. Despite the availability of multiple pharmacologic treatments and evidence-based management guidelines, treatment targets are often not achieved in patients with gout. Identification and optimal management of patients with severe or refractory gout is specially challenging.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine if an online, continuing education activity could improve knowledge of rheumatologists regarding strategies to ensure effective and safe use of urate-lowering therapies in the management of patients with refractory gout.

Methods:

Educational design included an online, 30-minute, video-based discussion among two faculty experts with synchronized slides. Educational effectiveness was assessed with a repeated-pairs pre-/post-assessment study design using 3 knowledge questions and 1 confidence question, in which each individual served as his/her own control. A chi-squared test assessed differences from pre- to post-assessment. P values <.05 are statistically significant. Cramer’s V was used to calculate the effect size (<0.06 modest effect; 0.06-0.15 noticeable effect; 0.16-0.26 considerable effect; >0.26 extensive effect). The activity launched May 1, 2019, with data collected through December 30, 2019.

Results:

The analysis set consisted of responses from rheumatologists (n=300) who answered all assessment questions during the study period. Analysis of pre- vs post-intervention responses demonstrated a significant improvement in overall knowledge of rheumatologists with considerable educational impact (V = .201, P<.001). Average correct responses increased from 54% pre to 74% post education. Specific areas of improvement in knowledge include:

•Optimal strategies for reducing the risk for immunogenicity associated with the use of pegloticase in patients with refractory gout (40% pre, 73% post; P<.001; V = .326)

•Serum uric acid targets to optimize management of the patient with severe or refractory gout (45% pre, 57% post; P<.05; V = .120)

•Selection of pegloticase for rapid decreases in tophi and serum uric acid in patients with refractory gout (77% pre, 91% post; P<.001; V = .187)

Post-education, 32% of rheumatologists were more confident in their ability to manage patients with refractory gout.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated the success of online, 30-minute, video-based discussion among two faculty experts with synchronized slides on improving the knowledge of rheumatologists regarding appropriate management of patients with refractory gout.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Using Evidence-Based Dentistry in the Clinical Management of Methadone Maintenance Therapy Patients

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

There is an increased interest to incorporate interprofessional educational models in the academic dental institutions to serve both student education and patient care. The aim of this report is to integrate evidence-based dentistry (EBD) with an interprofessional approach to treat methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) patients. Current example illustrates the case of a 26-year-old man receiving MMT who presented at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine with the chief complaint of "I want to fix my teeth." He presented with a collapsed vertical dimension of occlusion, extensive partial edentulism on both arches with bone loss, and a past history of drug abuse since the age of 16 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 5-step (ask, acquire, appraise, apply, assess) framework for the EBD process was used. First, the PICO (population, intervention, comparison, and outcome) question was asked, and then the literature was acquired and appraised. An expert librarian assisted in finding articles on the effects of methadone on the oral cavity and consequences that will affect dental treatment. The search was conducted on PubMed, using the following keywords: oral health, dentistry, dental health, and methadone. The search was performed from 1/1/2005 to 1/1/2018. After appraisal, the studies were applied in the clinical setting and treatment outcomes were assessed both subjectively and objectively.

RESULTS

The initial search identified there is sparse evidence on the topic. Only 34 articles were acquired. Based on the scientific evidence published, the interprofessional expertise of the clinical care team, and patient's perspective, 4 treatment plan options were proposed. The selected treatment plan was considered the best option considering an EBD person-centered approach. Progress of treatment, outcomes, and lessons learned were assessed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that incorporating EBD concepts and an interprofessional approach, MMT patients can be successfully treated. Future studies on this topic are recommended, specially considering the growth of the opioid epidemic in the past years and the need to treat the MMT patients and educate students.

Liver transplantation outcomes after transarterial chemotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) awaiting liver transplantation is widespread, although evidence that it improves outcomes is lacking and there exist concerns about morbidity. The impact of TACE on outcomes after transplantation was evaluated in this study.

Methods

Patients with HCC who had liver transplantation in the UK were identified, and stratified according to whether they received TACE between 2006 and 2016. Cox regression methods were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for death and graft failure after transplantation adjusted for donor and recipient characteristics.

Results

In total, 385 of 968 patients (39·8 per cent) received TACE. Five-year patient survival after transplantation was similar in those who had or had not received TACE: 75·2 (95 per cent c.i. 68·8 to 80·5) and 75·0 (70·5 to 78·8) per cent respectively. After adjustment for donor and recipient characteristics, there were no differences in mortality (HR 0·96, 95 per cent c.i. 0·67 to 1·38; P = 0·821) or graft failure (HR 1·01, 0·73 to 1·40; P = 0·964). The number of TACE treatments (2 or more versus 1: HR 0·97, 0·61 to 1·55; P = 0·903) or the time of death after transplantation (within or after 90 days; P = 0·291) did not alter the outcome. The incidence of hepatic artery thrombosis was low in those who had or had not received TACE (1·3 and 2·4 per cent respectively; P = 0·235).

Conclusion

TACE delivered to patients with HCC before liver transplant did not affect complications, patient death or graft failure after transplantation.

P2842Sequential application of horizontal and vertical orientation on radiofrequency ablation lesions produced by thermocool smarttouch SF catheter

Background

Ablation lesions represent a complex interaction between the ablation catheter configuration and tissue anatomy. An understanding of each variable can assist in determination of the optimal lesion set. One such variable is the catheter orientation. With an irrigated radiofrequency ablation catheter with 6 pores (6P) near the distal tip, lesion surface area and volumes are smaller in the horizontal catheter orientation compared to the vertical catheter orientation. This finding is explained by the 6P irrigation catheter design, where irrigation fluid is discharged from six ports around the circumference of the electrode. Introduced in 2015, the ThermoCool SmartTouch® SF catheter has a 56-pore (56P) distribution to provide high density low volume irrigation settings. Irrigation catheters create smaller lesions in horizontal orientation compared to vertical orientation, however this has not been studied for the 56P irrigated catheter.

Purpose

Evaluate the impact of catheter orientation with sequential application of 56P catheter.

Methods

Ablation lesions were created on additive-free chicken model in a saline bath heated to 37°C using the 56P catheter under standard flow rate (8cc/min) conditions. Ablation energy of 20W and 30W was delivered twice for 30 seconds with 3 minutes interval between applications. Contact force (CF) of 5, 10, 15, and 20g was applied with the following conditions: horizontal catheter orientation followed by horizontal (HH), vertical by vertical (VV), horizontal by vertical (HV), and vertical by horizontal catheter orientation (VH). Measurements were obtained by lesion dissection through the midpoint by 3 independent operators. Kruskal-Wallis test was used for comparison of lesion depth, surface area and volume.

Results

Ninety-six lesions were analyzed. No coagulum or steam pops were included in the analysis. The minimum and maximum lesion depth, surface area and volume were 1.5 & 6.0 mm, 14.1 & 117.7mm2, 47.1 & 471.0 mm3 respectively. There was no significant difference in the lesion depth, surface area or volume in HH, VV, HV or VH orientation at different CF with 20W and 30W. (Fig 1)

Figure 1

Conclusion

Unlike other irrigated catheters, catheter orientation with sequential application with different CF and power did not impact lesion depth, surface area and volume with 56P catheter. This finding could be considered useful in situations where the catheter orientation could be challenging owing to tissue anatomy to achieve adequate lesion size.

Acknowledgement/Funding

UVA Health System

Synthesis and thermal characterization of novel phase change materials (PCMs) of the Se-Te-Sn-Ge (STSG) multi-component system: calorimetric studies of the glass/crystal phase transition

According to recent literature, germanium-containing chalcogenide glasses (ChGs) show improvement in thermal stability and glass-forming ability because of the self-organization of the glass network towards a more rigid structure. The Ge-containing ChGs play a potential role as PCMs in phase-change optical memory (PCOM) applications. This endeavor reports the synthesis of some novel PCMs with Ge as the chemical modifier to improve the kinetic parameters of glass/crystal phase transition. The compositional variation of the various kinetic parameters in the present STSG chalcogen-rich non-oxide glasses Se78-yGeyTe20Sn2 (0 ≤ y ≤ 6) has been studied by means of the state-of-the-art differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) technique in the non-isothermal mode. The thermally assisted glass transition and crystallization phenomena have been investigated by examining the variation in various kinetic parameters like the characteristic kinetic temperatures (glass transition temperature Tg, on-set crystallization temperature To and peak crystallization temperature Tc), the activation energies involved in both phenomena, the thermal stability factor S and the glass-forming ability (GFA). The thermal stability factor S and GFA increase appreciably at higher concentrations of Ge as a signature of stiffness transition followed by the self-organization of the corner-sharing and the edge-sharing arrangements of the GeSe4 phase.

Effect of incorporation of different plasticizers on structural and ion transport properties of PVA-LiClO4 based electrolytes

To date high ionic conducting polymer electrolytes are of great interest because of their potential applications in various electrochemical devices such as batteries, fuel cells, solar cells and super capacitors etc., as electrolytes. Ion conduction through polymer electrolytes can occur mostly in amorphous environment exists above their glass transition temperature (T_g). In order to improve ionic conductivity, many approaches such as addition of plasticizer, blending of polymers, nano composite have been employed. This paper reviews the influence of different plasticizers/additives on the ion transport mechanism of Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-LiClO₄ polymer electrolytes since poly vinyl alcohol is a semi crystalline, synthetic biodegradable polymer and lithium perchlorate is one of the most moisture resistant lithium salts. This review also reveals the relation between dynamical disorder in polymer electrolyte with ionic conductivity.

Unique supramolecular assembly through Langmuir - Blodgett (LB) technique

The Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) technique is a way of making supra-molecular assembly in ultrathin films with a controlled layered structure and crystal parameter, which have many envisioned technological applications for optical and molecular electronic devices as well as signal processing and transformation. Probably LB technique is the best method to manipulate materials at molecular level and provides a scope to realize the molecular electronics in reality. In this review article, we have discussed about the general introduction of LB technique and recent development on LB and related system including (i) LB methodology, (ii) characterizations of LB films, (iii) LB films and molecular electronics, (iv) historical review of LB films, (v) research and applications including fundamental research and application towards devices.

The INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT (INDEPENDENT) study: Design and methods to address mental healthcare gaps in India

INTRODUCTION

Depression and diabetes are highly prevalent worldwide and often co-exist, worsening outcomes for each condition. Barriers to diagnosis and treatment are exacerbated in low and middle-income countries with limited health infrastructure and access to mental health treatment. The INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT (INDEPENDENT) study tests the sustained effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a multi-component care model for individuals with poorly-controlled diabetes and depression in diabetes clinics in India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adults with diabetes, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score≥10), and ≥1 poorly-controlled cardiometabolic indicator (either HbA1c≥8.0%, SBP≥140mmHg, and/or LDL≥130mg/dl) were enrolled and randomized to the intervention or usual care. The intervention combined collaborative care, decision-support, and population health management. The primary outcome is the between-arm difference in the proportion of participants achieving combined depression response (≥50% reduction in Symptom Checklist score from baseline) AND one or more of: ≥0.5% reduction in HbA1c, ≥5mmHg reduction in SBP, or ≥10mg/dl reduction in LDL-c at 24months (12-month intervention; 12-month observational follow-up). Other outcomes include control of individual parameters, patient-centered measures (i.e. treatment satisfaction), and cost-effectiveness.

RESULTS

The study trained seven care coordinators. Participant recruitment is complete - 940 adults were screened, with 483 eligible, and 404 randomized (196 to intervention; 208 to usual care). Randomization was balanced across clinic sites.

CONCLUSIONS

The INDEPENDENT model aims to increase access to mental health care and improve depression and cardiometabolic disease outcomes among complex patients with diabetes by leveraging the care provided in diabetes clinics in India (clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT02022111).

Study of dielectric relaxation and thermally activated a.c. conduction in lead containing topological glassy semiconductors

Illustration of CBH model of the Coulombic well.

Development of an opto-electronic fiber device with multiple nano-probes

We present the fabrication and characterization of an opto-electronic fiber device which can allow for both electromechanical functionality and optical waveguiding capability. The air holes of a photonic crystal fiber are selectively sealed and then pumped with molten metal under pressure. The metal filled holes act as electrodes to which individual carbon nanotubes (CNT) are attached precisely by a laser-welding technique or a focused ion beam assisted pick-and-bond technique. The optical modal profile and the group velocity dispersion of the fabricated device are studied both numerically and experimentally. We also present preliminary experimental proof showing the feasibility of electric actuation of a pair of nanotubes by applying up to 40 V potential difference between the filled electrodes. Furthermore, numerical simulations are carried out which agree with the experimentally observed displacement of the CNT upon electric actuation. The unique aspect of our device is that it provides optical waveguiding and electromechanical nano-probing capability in a single package. Such combined functionality can potentially enable simultaneous electrical and optical manipulation and interrogation at the nanoscale.

Liver transplantation for "very early" intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: International retrospective study supporting a prospective assessment

The presence of an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) in a cirrhotic liver is a contraindication for liver transplantation in most centers worldwide. Recent investigations have shown that "very early" iCCA (single tumors ≤2 cm) may have acceptable results after liver transplantation. This study further evaluates this finding in a larger international multicenter cohort. The study group was composed of those patients who were transplanted for hepatocellular carcinoma or decompensated cirrhosis and found to have an iCCA at explant pathology. Patients were divided into those with "very early" iCCA and those with "advanced" disease (single tumor >2 cm or multifocal disease). Between January 2000 and December 2013, 81 patients were found to have an iCCA at explant; 33 had separate nodules of iCCA and hepatocellular carcinoma, and 48 had only iCCA (study group). Within the study group, 15/48 (31%) constituted the "very early" iCCA group and 33/48 (69%) the "advanced" group. There were no significant differences between groups in preoperative characteristics. At explant, the median size of the largest tumor was larger in the "advanced" group (3.1 [2.5-4.4] versus 1.6 [1.5-1.8]). After a median follow-up of 35 (13.5-76.4) months, the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year cumulative risks of recurrence were, respectively, 7%, 18%, and 18% in the very early iCCA group versus 30%, 47%, and 61% in the advanced iCCA group, P = 0.01. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year actuarial survival rates were, respectively, 93%, 84%, and 65% in the very early iCCA group versus 79%, 50%, and 45% in the advanced iCCA group, P = 0.02.

CONCLUSION

Patients with cirrhosis and very early iCCA may become candidates for liver transplantation; a prospective multicenter clinical trial is needed to further confirm these results. (Hepatology 2016;64:1178-1188).

Erythema Necroticans - A Case Report

Erythema Nodosum Leprosum (ENL) is characterized by evanescent, erythematous, painful raised nodules which fade within 48-72 hours. Necrotic and ulcerative forms are rare presentations of severe ENL. A 27 year old male patient presented with multiple erythematous nodules on trunk and extremities associated with high grade fever, joint pain and pedal edema. Patient developed ulceration of nodules associated with pain and burning sensation over another 3 days. Slit smear showed clumps of granular bacilli. Biopsy showed superficial dermis showing edema with dense focal perivascular infiltrate of lymphocytes, macrophages and few scattered neutrophils. Fite-Faraco stain was negative. Patient was diagnosed as a case of erythema necroticans and started on oral steroids and thalidomide. The histological findings illustrate the need to consider leprosy diagnosis in necrotizing vasculitis even when Virchow's cells are not found in the infiltrate. Thalidomide is the drug of choice in such cases. This patient showed a marked response to the drug with healing of all ulcers within 2 weeks of starting thalidomide.

Ethnic Variations in Diabetes and Prediabetes Prevalence and the roles of Insulin Resistance and β-cell Function: The CARRS and NHANES Studies

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We compared the hyperglycemia prevalence in Asian Indians to other ethnic groups.

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The prevalence of diabetes was higher in Indians compared to other ethnic groups.

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The prevalence of prediabetes was lower in Indians compared to other ethnic groups.

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These differences may be driven by impaired β-cell function.

Aims

It is unclear how the prevalence of diabetes in Asian Indians in urban India compares to that of race/ethnic groups in the US that may have different underlying susceptibilities. Therefore, we examined ethnic variations in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, iIFG, iIGT, IFG + IGT, and the associated risk factors in Asian Indians in Chennai, India, and Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics in the United States.

Methods

Cross-sectional analyses, using representative samples of 4867 Asian Indians aged 20–74 years from Chennai, India, in the Centre for Cardiometabolic Risk Reduction in South-Asia study (CARRS) (2010–2011) and 6512 US Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics aged 20–74 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2007–2012).

Results

The age-adjusted prevalence of type 2 diabetes was highest in Asian Indians (men: 28.4, 95% CI: 25.9, 31.0; women: 30.6, 95% CI, 27.5, 33.9) and lowest in Caucasians (men: 12.2, 95% CI, 10.3, 14.4, women: 9.5, 95% CI, 7.9, 11.5). Asian Indians had the lowest prediabetes prevalence (men: 19.0, 95% CI, 17.2, 20.8; women: 27.2, 95% CI, 22.8, 32.1) and Caucasians had the highest (men; 46.5, 95% CI, 43.5, 49.6, women: 34.4, 95% CI, 31.7, 37.3). However, there were differences in prediabetes prevalence by gender and prediabetes state. The inclusion of HOMA-β in standardized polytomous logistic regression models resulted in a greater odds of diabetes in Blacks and Hispanics compared to Asian Indians.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of diabetes in Asian Indians may be due to innate susceptibilities for β-cell dysfunction in this high risk population.