Partial Thermal Condensation Mediated Synthesis of High-Density Nickel Single Atom Sites on Carbon Nitride for Selective Photooxidation of Methane into Methanol

Direct selective transformation of greenhouse methane (CH4) to liquid oxygenates (methanol) can substitute energy-intensive two-step (reforming/Fischer-Tropsch) synthesis while creating environmental benefits. The development of inexpensive, selective, and robust catalysts that enable room temperature conversion will decide the future of this technology. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) with isolated active centers embedded in support have displayed significant promises in catalysis to drive challenging reactions. Herein, high-density Ni single atoms are developed and stabilized on carbon nitride (NiCN) via thermal condensation of preorganized Ni-coordinated melem units. The physicochemical characterization of NiCN with various analytical techniques including HAADF-STEM and X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) validate the successful formation of Ni single atoms coordinated to the heptazine-constituted CN network. The presence of uniform catalytic sites improved visible absorption and carrier separation in densely populated NiCN SAC resulting in 100% selective photoconversion of (CH4) to methanol using H2O2 as an oxidant. The superior catalytic activity can be attributed to the generation of high oxidation (NiIII═O) sites and selective C─H bond cleavage to generate •CH3 radicals on Ni centers, which can combine with •OH radicals to generate CH3OH.

Microwave-Enhanced Crystalline Properties of Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles

Two series of ZnFe₂O₄ mixed cubic spinel nanoparticles were prepared by a coprecipitation method, where a solution of Fe³⁺ and Zn²⁺ was alkalised by a solution of NaOH. While the first series was prepared by a careful mixing of the two solutions, the microwave radiation was used to enhance the reaction in the other series of samples. The effect of the microwave heating on the properties of the prepared particles is investigated. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetometry were employed to prove the cubic structure and superparamagnetic behavior of the samples. The particle size in the range of nanometers was investigated by a transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the N₂ adsorption measurements were used to determine the BET area of the samples. The stoichiometry and the chemical purity were proven by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Additionally, the inversion factor was determined using the low temperature Mössbauer spectra in the external magnetic field. The microwave heating had a significant effect on the mean coherent length. On the other hand, it had a lesser influence on the size and BET surface area of the prepared nanoparticles.

MicroBooNE and the ν_{e} Interpretation of the MiniBooNE Low-Energy Excess

A new generation of neutrino experiments is testing the 4.7σ anomalous excess of electronlike events observed in MiniBooNE. This is of huge importance for particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology, not only because of the potential discovery of physics beyond the standard model, but also because the lessons we will learn about neutrino-nucleus interactions will be crucial for the worldwide neutrino program. MicroBooNE has recently released results that appear to disfavor several explanations of the MiniBooNE anomaly. Here, we show quantitatively that MicroBooNE results, while a promising start, unquestionably do not probe the full parameter space of sterile neutrino models hinted at by MiniBooNE and other data, nor do they probe the ν_{e} interpretation of the MiniBooNE excess in a model-independent way.

Quality of life and clinical characteristics of self-improving congenital ichthyosis within the disease spectrum of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis

BACKGROUND

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) is a heterogeneous group of ichthyoses presenting at birth. Self-improving congenital ichthyosis (SICI) is a subtype of ARCI and is diagnosed when skin condition improves remarkably (within years) after birth. So far, there is sparse data on SICI and quality of life (QoL) in this ARCI subtype. This study aims to further delineate the clinical spectrum of SICI as a rather unique subtype of ARCI.

OBJECTIVES

This prospective study included 78 patients (median age: 15 years) with ARCI who were subdivided in SICI (n=18) and non-SICI patients (nSICI, n=60) by their ARCI phenotype.

METHODS

Quality of life (QoL) was assessed using the (Children's) Dermatology Life Quality Index. Statistical analysis was performed with Chi-square- and t-tests.

RESULTS

The genetically confirmed SICI patients presented causative mutations in the following genes: ALOXE3 (8/16; 50.0%), ALOX12B (6/16; 37.5%), PNPLA1 (1/16; 6.3%) and CYP4F22 (1/16; 6.3%). Hypo-/anhidrosis and insufficient Vitamin D levels (< 30 ng/ml) were often seen in SICI patients. Brachydactyly (a shortening of the 4^th and 5^th finger) was statistically more frequent in SICI (p=0.023) than nSICI patients. A kink of the ear's helix was seen in half of the SICI patients and tends to occur more frequently in patients with ALOX12B mutations (p=0.005). QoL was less impaired in patients under the age of 16, regardless of ARCI type.

CONCLUSIONS

SICI is an underestimated, milder clinical variant of ARCI including distinct features such as brachydactyly and kinking of the ears. Clinical experts should be aware of these features when seeing neonates with a collodion membrane. SICI patients should be regularly checked for clinical parameters such as hypo-/anhidrosis or vitamin D levels and monitored for changes in quality of life.

High rate of self-improving phenotypes in children with non-syndromic congenital ichthyosis: case series from south-western Germany

BACKGROUND

Non-syndromic congenital ichthyosis describes a heterogeneous group of hereditary skin disorders associated with erythroderma and scaling at birth. Although both severe and mild courses are known, the prediction of the natural history in clinical practice may be challenging.

OBJECTIVES

To determine clinical course and genotype-phenotype correlations in children affected by non-syndromic congenital ichthyosis in a case series from south-western Germany.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective observational study of 32 children affected by non-syndromic congenital ichthyoses seen in our genodermatosis clinic between 2011 and 2020. Follow-ups included assessment of weight and severity of skin involvement utilizing a modified Ichthyosis Area Severity Index (mIASI). mIASI was calculated as a sum comprising the previously published IASI score and an additional novel score to evaluate palmoplantar involvement. Linear regression was assessed using Pearson correlation, and statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test.

RESULTS

This study included 23 patients with autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis, seven with keratinopathic ichthyosis and two with harlequin ichthyosis. Cutaneous manifestations improved in more than 70% of the children during the follow-up. Especially in patients with mutations in ALOXE3 and ALOX12B, mIASI scores dropped significantly. The most common phenotype observed in this study was designated 'mild fine scaling ichthyosis'. Severe palmoplantar involvement occurred in patients with KRT1 and ABCA12 mutations; most patients demonstrated hyperlinearity as a sign of dryness and scaling. Weight was mainly in the normal range and negatively correlated with the severity of skin involvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Congenital ichthyosis that self-improves and evolves with mild fine scaling ichthyosis was the most common phenotype observed in our patients. This type might be underdiagnosed if the genetic diagnosis is not performed in the first year of life. mIASI is an easy and fast instrument for scoring disease severity and adding additional points for palmoplantar involvement might be valuable.

P- and F-co-doped Carbon Nitride Nanocatalysts for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction and Thermocatalytic Furanics Synthesis from Sugars

A new P- and F-co-doped amorphous carbon nitride (PFCN) has been synthesized via sol-gel-mediated thermal condensation of dicyandiamide. Such synthesized P- and F-co-doped carbon nitride displayed a well-defined mesoporous nanostructure and enhanced visible light absorption region up to infrared with higher BET surface area of 260.93 m²  g^-1 ; the highest recorded value for phosphorus-doped carbon nitride materials. Moreover, the formation mechanism is delineated and the role of templates was found to be essential not only in increasing the surface area but also in facilitating the co-doping of P and F atoms. Co-doping helped to narrow the optical band gap to 1.8 eV, thus enabling an excellent photocatalytic activity for the aqueous reduction of carbon dioxide into methanol under visible-light irradiation, which is fifteen times higher (119.56 μmol g^-1  h^-1 ) than the bare carbon nitride. P doping introduced Brønsted acidity into the material, turning it into an acid-base bifunctional catalyst. Consequently, the material was also investigated for the thermal conversion of common carbohydrates into furanics.

Formation of Cobalt Ferrites Investigated by Transmission and Emission Mössbauer Spectroscopy

This study focuses on cobalt and iron ordering within a ferrite structure CoxFe3-xO4, formed during a solid-state reaction of ?-Fe2O3 and CoCl2. A unique combination of transmission and emission Mössbauer spectroscopy was employed to inspect selectively the positions of iron and cobalt atoms in the structure. The comparison of transmission and emission spectra allowed the determination of tetrahedral and octahedral positions occupation. The presented method of combining the two Mössbauer spectroscopy techniques is suitable for any compounds containing both iron and cobalt atoms. Additional information concerning the samples composition and morphology were obtained by X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. An increased level of Co atoms incorporation into the structure of ferrite was revealed when higher amounts of Co entered the reaction.

Preparation of Magnetite by Thermally Induced Decomposition of Ferrous Oxalate Dihydrate in the Combined Atmosphere

This study presents an investigation of thermal decomposition of ferrous oxalate dihydrate in the combined atmosphere of inert and conversion gases to find an optimal route for a simple magnetite preparation. Homogenized precursor was isothermally treated inside the stainless-steel cells at 8 equidistant temperatures ranging from 300 to 650 °C for 1, 6, and 12 hours. The enclosure of samples inside the cells with the combined atmosphere eliminates the necessity of the inert gas to flow over the treated samples. Structural, magnetic, and morphological aspects of the prepared materials were examined by the combination of experimental techniques, such as Mössbauer spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy.

Relation of Intraperitoneal and Intravascular Coagulation and Fibrinolysis Related Antigens in Peritoneal Dialysis

Patients received 2,000 ml of dialysate intraperitoneally with five exchanges per day during continuous peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) for the treatment of terminal renal insufficiency. During a dwell time of 4 h the dialysate reached a total protein concentration up to 100 mg/dl by mass transfer of intravascular proteins. The composition is dependent on the molecular weight of the proteins. This results in an intraperitoneal hemostatic system of low concentration and different composition.

We found an intraperitoneal fibrinogen cleavage and thrombin- antithrombin Ill-complex formation leading to increased levels of fibrinopeptide A (FPA: 33.3 ± 7.0 ng/ml) and thrombin-antithrombin Ill-complex (TAT: 4.7 ± 0.4 ng/ml) in plasma by mass transfer from dialysate to plasma. t-PA (tissue plasminogen activator) and PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1) concentrations in plasma were within the normal range. The dialysate concentrations indicated a low local secretion. The fibrinolytic fibrin fragment D-dimer and the fibrinogen degradation product concentrations in plasma were greater than in dialysate. But the relations of the proteins between plasma and dialysate refer to a local intraperitoneal production as well.

The results show that intraperitoneal coagulation predominates over fibrinolysis which is accompanied by an intravascular fibrinolysis in patients undergoing CAPD. Neoantigens produced in dialysate and diffused to plasma are comparable to changes seen in disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Verfahrensanweisung für die nuklear medizinische Wächter-Lymphknoten-Diagnostik

The authors present a procedure guideline for scintigraphic detection of sentinel lymph nodes in malignant melanoma and other skin tumours, in breast cancer, in head and neck cancer, and in prostate and penile carcinoma. Important goals of sentinel lymph node scintigraphy comprise reduction of the extent of surgery, lower postoperative morbidity and optimization of histopathological examination focussing on relevant lymph nodes. Sentinel lymph node scintigraphy itself does not diagnose tumorous lymph node involvement and is not indicated when lymph node metastases have been definitely diagnosed before sentinel lymph node scintigraphy. Procedures are compiled with the aim to reliably localise sentinel lymph nodes with a high detection rate typically in early tumour stages. Radiation exposure is low so that pregnancy is not a contraindication for sentinel lymph node scintigraphy. Even with high volumes of scintigraphic sentinel lymph node procedures surgeons, theatre staff and pathologists receive a radiation exposure < 1 mSv/year so that they do not require occupational radiation surveillance.

Sentinel lymph node diagnostic in prostate carcinoma: Part II: Biokinetics and dosimetry of 99mTc-Nanocolloid after intraprostatic injection

Aim: To visualise the sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) of the prostate we injected the radiotracer into the parenchyma of the prostate. The activity was deposited in liver, spleen, bone marrow, urinary bladder and regional lymphatic system. The aim of this work is to determine biokinetical data and to estimate radiation doses to the patient. Methods: The patients with prostate cancer received a sonographically controlled, transrectal administration of 99mTc-Nanocoll®, injected directly into both prostate lobes. In 10 randomly selected patients radionuclide distribution and its time course was determined via regions of interest (ROIs) over prostate, urinary bladder, liver, spleen and the lymph nodes. The uptake in the SLNs was estimated from gamma probe measurements at the surgically removed nodes. To compare tumour positive with tumour free lymph nodes according to SLN-uptake and SLNlocalisation we evaluated 108 lymph nodes out of 24 patients with tumour positive SLN. For calculating the effective dose according to ICRP 60 of the patients we used the MIRD-method and the Mirdose 3.1 software. Results: The average uptake of separate organs was: bladder content 24%, liver 25.5%, spleen 2%, sum of SLN 0.5%. An average of 9% of the applied activity remained in the prostate. The residual activity was mainly accumulated in bone marrow and blood. Occasionally a weak activity enrichment in intestinal tract and kidneys could be recognized. The effective dose to the patient was estimated to 7.6 μSv/MBq. The radioactivity uptake of the SLN varied in several orders of magnitude between 0.006% and 0.6%. The probability of SLN-metastasis was found to be independent from tracer uptake in the lymph node. The radioactivity uptake of the SLNs in distinct lymph node regions showed no significant differences. Conclusion: The radiotracer is transferred out of the prostate via blood flow, by direct transfer via the urethra into the bladder and by lymphatic transport. Injecting a total activity of 200 MBq leads to a mean effective dose of 1.5 mSv. It is not recommended to use the tracer uptake in lymph nodes as the only criterion to characterize SLNs.

Sentinel lymph node diagnostic in prostate carcinoma: Part I: Technique and clinical evaluation

Aim: Evaluation of the significance of lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative probe measurement for the identification of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) in prostate cancer. Patients and method: In 117 patients with prostate cancer scintigrams in various projections were acquired till approximately 6 hours p.i. after ultrasound guided transrectal intraprostatic injection of 99mTc-Nanocoll ®. On the following day the SLNs were identified in the operation theatre with a gamma probe and removed. Pelvic standard lymph node dissection followed SLNE. Results: In three of 117 patients with preoperative lymphoscintigraphy no SLN was scintigraphically detectable. These three patients had antecedent transurethral resection of the prostate. In 113 of the residual 114 patients SLN could be intraoperatively localized. In the mean four SLNs per patient were removed. 28 of 117 patients had pelvic lymph node metastases. In 25 cases SLN were right-positive, in one false-negative and in one intraoperatively not detectable. In one patient we found macrometastasis of up to 4 cm diameter (one SLN was tumour positive). In 15 cases only the SLN was bearing tumour. Conclusion: The SLNE with preoperative lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative gamma probe measurement is suitable for detecting lymph node metastasis in prostate cancer. SLNE is superior to the surgical techniques commonly used in pelvic lymphadenectomy.

Single-Cell Suspensions of Cultured Human Keratinocytes in Fibrin–Glue Reconstitute the Epidermis

To overcome common disadvantages of standard cultured epidermal sheet grafts (CEG) we have developed a new technique of transplanting cultured human keratinocytes suspended as single cells in a fibrin–glue matrix (Keratinocyte–fibrin–glue suspension—KFGS). In an athymic mouse model with reproducible standardized full thickness wounds this new technique was compared directly to CEG. Reepithelialization was similar in both groups, but reconstitution of the dermo-epidermal junction zone, as shown by electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry was significantly enhanced by the fibrin–glue suspension technique. The new KFGS technique is earlier available than sheet grafts, is able to transfer actively proliferative single keratinocytes, and simplifies the application.

Fast screening of solid electrolytes: a high throughput solid state NMR probe

In this article we describe the construction of a high throughput solid state NMR probe for a fast and reliable determination of the NMR line width of a given nuclear species within a solid material. Since the NMR line width scales with the inverse of the mobility of the studied species and hence its ionic conductivity, this approach allows a fast screening of the material's promise as a solid electrolyte. The functionality of the approach is exemplified by the determination of the (7)Li-NMR line width of a set of 30 different liquid and solid Li-containing samples.

Gallbladder metastasis from renal cell carcinoma mimicking acute cholecystitis

Renal cell carcinoma constitutes about 3% of adult malignancies. It has a high metastatic potential associated with synchronous or metachronous metastatic disease. Further, it is known to metastasize mainly to the lung, bone, brain, liver, or adrenal glands. In very rare cases it can metastasize to the gallbladder mimicking acute cholecystitis on clinical exam. In this case we present a patient who developed a gallbladder metastasis five years after a renal cell carcinoma mimicking acute cholecystitis.

Post-malignancy irradiation ulcers with exposed alloplastic materials can be salvaged with topical negative pressure therapy (TNP)

AIM

The aim of this study was to salvage or to integrate exposed alloplastic meshes in post malignancy irradiated chronic wounds by using topical negative pressure (TNP) therapy together with staged debridement.

METHODS

Three patients with secondarily exposed alloplastic meshes in irradiated non-healing wounds were treated by serial debridement and repeated topical negative pressure therapy until clean and vital wounds were achieved, followed by ultimate plastic coverage by a myocutaneous flap or split-thickness skin graft. The range of the follow-up period was from 18 to 36 months.

RESULTS

After staged serial debridement and repeated vacuum treatment periods wounds were preconditioned in an acceptable fashion for ultimate plastic coverage. After the treatment with a myocutaneous flap or split-thickness skin graft all three patients achieved long-term stable wounds with no alloplastic mesh complication within the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Computer-controlled TNP therapy (vacuum-assisted closure therapy) together with staged debridement can help to induce granulation tissue formation in irradiated wounds and allows integration of alloplastic materials into regenerating wounds after ablative oncologic surgery.

HLA-A0201-positive, IL-7/B7.1-cotransfected allogeneic tumor cells as a vaccine in metastatic renal cell cancer—A clinical phase-I trial

3072

Background: Tumor vaccination remains a promising experimental approach in RCC. HLA-A0201-restricted T cell immunity against RCC is well established. RCC26 is an allogeneic HLA-A0201+ human RCC cell line, a T cell clone specifically recognising RCC26 and other RCC in the context of HLA-A0201 has previously been generated, the TCR of this T cell clone was characterised. Furthermore, IL-7/B7.1 cotransfected tumor cells are a potent vaccine in animal models. Methods: RCC26 was transfected with pKEx-IL-7-IR-B7 coding for human IL-7 and B7.1 (CD80). 10 HLA-A0201+ patients with metastatic RCC and disease progression under cytokine therapy were included. 10 vaccinations with 2.5–40x106 gene-modified irradiated tumor cells which had been produced under GMP conditions were performed s.c. over 22 weeks. Primary endpoints of the study were feasibility, safety and immunological response, secondary endpoint was clinical response. The protocol was approved by the ethics committee, all patients gave informed consent. Results: Gene-modified RCC26 cells produced IL-7 (3.4 ng/106 cells/24h), more than 90% of the cells were CD80+. Vaccination was feasible and safe with no severe toxicity. Local DTH-reactions were observed in 4 patients. Skin biopsies of the vaccination site showed lymphocytic infiltrates dominated by CD4+T cells. In 8 patients vaccination induced HLA- and /or antinuclear antibodies without clinical signs of autoimmunity. Analysis of the T cell response against RCC-associated antigens is under way. No partial or complete responses could be documented. However, 50% of the patients had stable disease with the longest TTP being 69 weeks. Mean TTP in our cohort was 25 weeks (range 4 to 69 weeks). Conclusion: Our results show that vaccination with an allogeneic gene-modified tumor cell line is feasible and safe. Stable disease lasting up to 69 weeks in a substantial proportion of patients suggests immunological activity of the vaccine. Vaccination of patients with a low tumor burden is a promising strategy for the future, i.e. after surgery or treatment with novel multi-kinase inhibitors.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Liver fibrogenesis due to cholestasis is associated with increased Smad7 expression and Smad3 signaling

Abstract

Background/Aims:

Profibrogenic TGF-β signaling in hepatic stellate cells is modulated during transdifferentiation. Strategies to abrogate TGF-β effects provide promising antifibrotic results, however, in vivo data regarding Smad activation during fibrogenesis are scarce. Methods: Here, liver fibrosis was assessed subsequent to bile duct ligation by determining liver enzymes in serum and collagen deposition in liver tissue. Activated hepatic stellate cells were identified by immunohistochemistry and immunoblots for alpha smooth muscle actin. Cellular localization of Smad3 and Smad7 proteins was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. RTPCR for Smad4 and Smad7 was conducted with total RNA and Northern blot analysis for Smad7 with mRNA. Whole liver lysates were prepared to detect Smad2/3/4 and phospho- Smad2/3 by Western blotting. Results: Cholestasis induces TGF-β signaling via Smad3 in vivo, whereas Smad2 phosphorylation was only marginally increased. Smad4 expression levels were unchanged. Smad7 expression was continuously increasing with duration of cholestasis. Hepatocytes of fibrotic lesions exhibited nuclear staining Smad3. In contrast to this, Smad7 expression was localized to activated hepatic stellate cells. Conclusions: Hepatocytes of damaged liver tissue display increased TGF-β signaling via Smad3. Further, negative feedback regulation of TGF-β signaling by increased Smad7 expression in activated hepatic stellate cells occurs, however does not interfere with fibrogenesis.

[De Quervain's stenosing tendovaginitis--one of the most common conditions affecting the hand]

De Quervain's stenosing tendovaginitis is an inflammation of the first dorsal compartment. It is considered to be one of the most common forms of inflammation of the tendon sheaths. The diagnosis is based on the case history and the clinical examination. Finkelstein's test is pathognomonic. Should conservative treatment not prove successful, the condition is readily amenable to surgical treatment.

[The importance of vacuum therapy in the treatment of sternal osteomyelitis from the plastic surgeons point of view]

BACKGROUND

Since its introduction in 1997 the vacuum assisted closure therapy has gained widespread and is for its indications international accepted. It is also well established in the treatment of sternal infections a dreaded complication after median sternotomy in cardiac surgery. The well known positive effects of the vacuum therapy act as a dignified cleaning procedure between debridement and plastic coverage or as a temporarily closure method if the first debridement was properly not sufficient.

METHOD AND PATIENTS

Between January 2003 and December 2005 twenty eight patients with advanced sternal infection after median sternotomy were treated by radical debridement, vacuum assisted closure therapy and definitive plastic coverage by muscle flaps. In this article three patients are exemplarily introduced.

RESULTS

In all patients a sufficient plastic coverage was achieved after radical debridement an vacuum assisted closure therapy. The patients received a pedicaled muscle flap. Stable wound condition with no signs of a recurrent sternal infection were observed in all patients.

DISCUSSION

Vacuum assisted closure therapy acts as a link between radical Debridement and definitive plastic coverage in prolonged sternal infection after median sternotomy. Before the invention of V.A.C.(R) dressing changes were obliged every day in patients with deep sternal infection. The V.A.C.(R) therapy reduces the frequency of this painful dressing changes significantly and on this behalf makes life more comfortable for this mostly multi-morbid patients.

Radioiodine therapy for combined disseminated and nodular thyroid autonomy

Ziel: Die kombinierte Schilddrüsenautonomie wird zurzeit mit unterschiedlichen Konzepten radioiodtherapiert. Der Unterschied liegt in der Berechnung des autonomen Volumens. In dieser retrospektiven Studie wird ein neues Verfahren der Volumenberechnung vorgestellt. Patienten und Methoden: Bei 398 Patienten mit kombinierter Autonomie, die eine gute Korrelation von heißen Knoten und sonographisch zirkumskripten Läsionen aufweisen, wird das Volumen der heißen Knoten anhand der sonographischen und szintigraphischen Messdaten ermittelt und das Volumen der disseminierten Autonomie mit einem Wichtungsfaktor (VF) bewertet. Dieser Faktor entspricht dem Quotienten der Impulsdichte von disseminiertem zu zircumskriptem Gewebe im Schilddrüsenszintigramm. Nach Messung des maximalen Iod-131-Uptakes und der effektiven Halbwertszeit (HWZ) in einem Radioiodtest wird die Aktivitätsmenge für eine Herddosis von 400 Gy ermittelt. Ergebnisse: Die Erfolgsquote beträgt mit und ohne Thyreostase 97% bei einer Hypothyreoserate von 18,6 % in der Bewertung des Therapieerfolges ab dem 4. Monat nach Radiojodtherapie. Schlussfolgerung: Die Radioiodtherapie bei kombinierter Autonomie unter Verwendung eines Wichtungsfaktors (Produkt aus VF und Volumen des perinodulären Gewebes) für die Berechnung der Therapieaktivität des disseminierten Autonomieanteils führt bei Patienten mit guter Korrelation von sonographischem und szintigraphischem Befund zu einer hervorragenden Erfolgsquote.

Einsatz der V.A.C.®-Therapie in der plastisch-chirurgischen Behandlung eines bifokalen Marjolin-Ulkus

Marjolin ulcers are scar carcinomas most often found in old instable burn scars, the majority histopathologically characterized as squamous cell carcinomas. Surgical therapy includes radical excision and subsequent defect closure. We report about a 69 year old patient suffering from two scar carcinomas on the right cheek and right chest and abdomen due to an extensive infant burn injury. During a 2 stage procedure, both ulcers were initially excised and resulting soft tissue defects were closed temporarily by applying V.A.C. therapy. During a second procedure defect closure on the right cheek was achieved by using a free radial forearm flap following neck dissection. Additionally, the extensive defect including chest and abdominal wall as well as the flap donor site on the left forearm were covered with split thickness skin grafts and subsequently secured by applying V.A.C. therapy for 5 days. 13 days later, the patient was discharged from our clinic. All skin grafted areas as well as the free flap were stably healed. Our report demonstrates that the application of vacuum therapy is not only useful during temporary closure of large wound sites but also secures healing of large and critical areas grafted with split thickness skin grafts in tumour patients.

Die Vakuumtherapie als temporäre Deckung an der „Problemzone Hand”

INTRODUCTION

Vacuum therapy of hand defect problematic due to the interdigital folds and in particular due to the small surface. As a temporary cover in staged procedures, e. g. following excision of tumor-suspicious skin alterations at the hand, and/or at the fingers, the application of vacuum therapy results not only in a sterile, temporary cover of the wound, furthermore it promotes wound conditioning and reduction of the wound area as well as lymph and edema reduction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A 75 year old female patient presented herself with a skin alteration at the right dorsal ring finger and the tentative diagnosis of a Morbus Bowen like lesion was raised. Due to the unclear histological status, a staged procedure with excision of the tumour and temporary defect coverage by means of vacuum therapy until final histological evaluation was indicated. We accomplished the radical excision of the unclear skin tumour at the proximal phalanx under preservation of the synovial sheath of the tendon. Subsequently, the wound was temporarily closed with vacuum therapy. Histological examination revealed the complete removal of a solar keratosis. Finally, after 7 days of vacuum therapy as a sterile dressing, with obvious reduction of wound area and simultaneous decrease of edema, the defect was finally covered with a reversed cross finger flap from the adjacent middle finger. The donor site was covered with a full thickness skin graft harvested from the right forearm. The further course was without complication after flap dissection and complete healing.

DISCUSSION

Vacuum therapy represents a usefull procedure for temporary wound coverage. Especially at hand defects, when nerves, tendons or bones following trauma or staged procedures are exposed, vacuum therapy can be successfully applied utilizing the special surgical "hand glove" technique.

Rekonstruktion von tumorbedingten Defekten in der Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie mit individualisierten dreidimensionalen Lappen unter Anwendung der Vakuumtherapie

Despite recent developments in oncologic head and neck surgery extensive tissue and functional defects following radical tumor resections remains a surgical challenge. Individually prefabricated free flaps to meet the needs of the functional defect can be generated with the help of continuous computer-assisted vacuum therapy. This accelerates the pre-fabrication of three-dimensional composite flaps and enhances therapeutic safety. Changes of the genuine structure of such flaps are induced by implantation of autologous or heterologous transplants alone or in combination with alloplastic materials as a supportive element. Application of vacuum therapy is useful to accelerate the process of pre-fabrication by the induction of angiogenesis. Besides this the continuous removal of wound exudate, possible seroma or haematoma and secondary compression of the different tissue layers improve the modelling of the three-dimensional construct. This article describes the technique of vacuum therapy for the pre-fabrication of three-dimensional pedicled or free flaps for reconstruction of defects after tumor resection in the head and neck area.

Einsatz der Vakuumtherapie bei einer großflächigen arterialisierten venösen Lappenplastik zur Rekonstruktion einer kompletten Daumenavulsionsverletzung

Arterialized venous flaps are normally raised from the anterior and distal third of the forearm by integration of a venous pathway. Basically, they are composed of skin, subcutaneous tissue, and subdermal venous plexus. Following transposition to the recipient site one vein is linked to a nourishing artery while the other veins are connected to one or more regional veins. The atypical blood perfusion and the delayed opening of intervenous shunts may result in edema, epidermolysis, or even some degree of skin necrosis that disappear during subsequent treatment. We report the salvage of an atypically raised oversized arterialized venous flap for total soft tissue reconstruction in a complete avulsion of a thumb. By applying V.A.C. therapy atypical perfusion and early intervenous shunt formation was treated successfully, resulting in stable healing and survival of the flap.

Vakuumtherapie in der Behandlung desaströser Wundverhältnisse bei Morbus Madelung

INTRODUCTION

A 54 year old patient presented with a Madelung disease. Symmetrically fatty deposits were present on both upper arms, at the abdomen and both thighs. Dermatitis was seen in the axillary fold at the skin bearing surfaces. Shoulder movement was impaired. Liposuction of both upper arms has already been performed, but no significant improvement was obtained.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a dermolipectomy of both upper arms. Postoperatively the patient suffered from a severe wound dehiscence with fulminant wound infection and septic clinical condition. Because of the large wound surface ((1/3) of the upper arm circumference) anemia occurred and had to be treated with blood transfusions. Wound exsudation caused a general hypoproteinemia. Multiple surgical debridements were necessary in order to clean the wound from necrotic tissue and afterwards moist dressings were applied. Furthermore the patient received intravenous antibiotic treatment. After stabilisation of the general condition of the patient and the wound situation a polyvinyl sponge and a vacuum-sealing were applied and continuous suction was performed (125 mm Hg). This resulted in a significant improvement of the wound situation in regards to wound cleaning, induction of granulation tissue, diminished wound size, reduction of oedema and pain reduction. After four weeks of vacuum therapy defect coverage was possible and split thickness skin grafting was performed. The skin graft was attached to the wound using a vacuum-dressing. After removal of the vacuum dressing on the fifth day the skin graft has completely healed.

DISCUSSION

Vacuum therapy is suitable for disastrous wound conditions in order to achieve a defect size reduction, pain reduction and create a clean wound with granulation tissue for further surgical defect coverage using skin grafts or flaps.

Die Vakuumtherapie ist ein essenzielles Werkzeug in der Behandlung von komplexen Defektverletzungen der oberen Extremität

INTRODUCTION

Complex injuries of the upper extremity remain a therapeutic challenge. The prognosis of the damaged extremity is often limited by soft tissue defects. Vacuum Assisted Closure (V.A.C.) therapy facilitates temporary coverage of soft tissue defects prior to surgical reconstruction.

METHODS

In a retrospective study all patients with complex defect injuries of the upper extremity that were treated by V.A.C. prior to reconstruction between August 2003 and September 2005 were analyzed.

RESULTS

7 patients (6 male, 1 female, 14-70 years) were included in the study. The patients suffered from subtotal upper arm (n = 1) and forearm (n = 1) amputation, complex multilevel amputation injury of the forearm (n = 1), slash wound of the forearm with skin defect and discontinuity of all volar structures (n = 1), complex open forearm fractures with skin and soft tissue defects (n = 2), and almost complete necrosis of the flexor compartment following distal radius and proximal ulnar fracture and compartment syndrome (n = 1). Stabile defect coverage was achieved in all patients following V.A.C. therapy by myocutaneous free flaps (n = 2), split thickness skin grafts (STSG) (n = 2), sequential secondary suture (n = 1), and STSG + secondary suture (n = 2). Wound conditions improved significantly under V.A.C. therapy. 5 patients reported pain relief following induction of V.A.C. therapy. Due to reduction of tissue oedema secondary suture was facilitated in 3 patients.

DISCUSSION

V.A.C. therapy represents an essential tool for treatment of complex injuries of the upper extremity with extended soft tissue defects. Decreased frequency of dressing changes as well as reduced tissue oedema considerably improved patient's comfort. Posttraumatic compartment syndrome or skin necrosis, which are often associated with macro amputations of the upper extremity, are efficiently treated with V.A.C., and secondary sutures may be performed despite initial skin defects.

Modifizierte „Handschuhtechnik” zur Vakuumtherapie an der Hand

INTRODUCTION

During the last 10 years sub-atmospheric pressure dressings (Topical Negative Pressure Therapy = TNP) has become a well accepted standard therapeutic modality in the management of acute and chronic wounds. However, in the hand and the fingers TNP treatment is not as an established method as elsewhere in the body. This is mostly due to difficulties in the technique of sealing wounds near the interdigital folds, especially when the interdigital folds are affected themselves.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Over a period of 36 months we treated 9 extensive open wounds of the hand with the TNP dressing procedure. To optimize the effective sealing procedure several methods of closure were applied: sterile vinyl gloves, split V.A.C. gel-straps and the "Sandwich"-principle.

RESULTS

In all cases we were able to achieve a tight vacuum sealing with the use of our vinyl or latex free surgical glove as an aid to cover the interdigital spaces. There was a rapid and complete remission of the symptoms in terms of edema, redness, tenderness and range of motion. The indication spectrum encompassed infection control, temporary coverage of exposed bone or tendons, intermittent irrigation with local antiseptics as well as wound preconditioning before skin grafting or flap coverage. For the definite closure or coverage a second operation was necessary in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The TNP-dressing can be securely achieved even in wounds encompassing the interdigital folds or adjacent to the in digital spaces with a modified surgical gloving technique to aid the standard sealing foil. It is a suitable principle for the management of severe hand infections with a reduction of clinical symptoms, reduction of the frequency of dressing changes compared to open approaches and a significant amelioration in the quality of life both for patients and health care personnel.

[Radioiodine therapy for combined disseminated and nodular thyroid autonomy. Results after using a correction term for the disseminated part]

AIM

In combined focal and disseminated thyroid autonomy a variety of concepts in the treatment with radioiodine are used. The difference lies mainly in the calculation of the autonomous volume. This retrospective study shows a new method of calculating the autonomous volume.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 398 patients with combined thyroid autonomy and good correlation of scintigraphically hot nodules and lesions defined by ultrasound the volume of the nodules is ascertained from scintigraphic and ultrasound parameters and the volume of the disseminated autonomous tissue is assessed with a weighting factor (VF). This factor is the ratio of impulse density in a ROI over the disseminated volume divided by the corresponding impulse density over the nodular volume of the thyroid scintigraphy. The sum of nodular volume and weighted perinodular volume gives the total autonomous volume. A standard radioiodine test gives the maximum iodine-131-uptake and effective half-life to calculate the activity to obtain a treatment dose of 400 Gy.

RESULTS

The rate of success with and without thyrostatic medication was 97% with an 18.6% rate of hypothyroidism observed from 4 months post therapy onwards.

CONCLUSION

The use of the weighting factor VF in the treatment of combined autonomy leads to an excellent rate of success in patients with good correlation of functional imaging and ultrasound findings.

[Breast-reduction surgery--a long-term survey of indications and outcomes]

Between 1986 and 2003, breast-reduction surgery was performed in a total of 814 women. The indication was established on the basis of physical complaints, chronic back pain, stiff neck or recurrent intertrigo in the foldbeneath the breasts. A proportion of the patients were interviewed postoperatively using a questionnaire, to determine the impact of the operation on their quality of life. 91% of those surveyed reported a postoperative improvement in the perception of their own body, and 80% were satisfied with the reduced size of their breasts. In conclusion, in the hands of an experienced breast surgeon, breast-reduction surgery for the proper indication results in a reliable and safe diminishment in breast size and tightening of slack tissue, leading to a significant enhancement in the patient's quality of life.

[Possiblities for breast reconstruction following cancer surgery]

Cancer of the breast is the most common malignant disease of women, and currently affects approximately 10% of all women. In the large majority of cases, mammary carcinoma can be treated without having to sacrifice the breast. In some 30% of the cases, however, amputation continues to be needed, in particular when a relatively large tumor presents, or when its removal with an adequate safety margin in a relatively small breast would result in appreciable deformation. Reconstruction of the breast is often an important psychological factor, since, as a visible organ, the breast is a determining feature of a woman's physical appearance and her effect on the opposite sex. The availability of various procedures and modern techniques of breast reconstruction make it possible to comply with the individual wishes of the woman concerned.

[Indication and clinical results of buried skin grafting to treat problematic wounds]

In 1920 Braun described a technique of skin grafting particularly designed for areas where shearing forces, high pressure and extensive secretion cause repetitive loss of conventionally transplanted skin. During the last 10 years we successfully used this technique when impaired wound healing was encountered due to various reasons. Clinical examples of application and results are presented. By combining this technique with vacuum therapy, formation of granulation tissue can be accelerated, thereby resulting in successful transplantation of problematic and therapy resistant wounds.

[Salvage of exposed alloplastic materials in irradiated wounds - a case report]

BACKGROUND

Modern multimodal concepts of complex reconstructions and advanced wound management enlarge strategies for surgical oncological therapies. One of the mainstays of classical surgical therapy in case of exposed alloplastic materials in irradiated wounds was to remove the foreign body due to the risk of infection. This loss of integrity and function of the contaminated host bed was to allow wound healing and closure.

METHOD

We report the management of a 56-year-old female patient who developed a lyomyosarcoma at her left shoulder girdle 8 years after radiation of the left thorax because of breast cancer. After radical tumor resection and exarticulation of her left arm in the shoulder joint a necrosis of the soft tissue envelope developed, leading to an exposed alloplastic mesh. Staged debridement and continuous application of negative pressure was performed three times. Ultimate plastic coverage was performed by means of a pectoralis myocutaneous island flap from the other breast.

RESULTS

After staged debridement and repeated vacuum application excellent wound cleaning, neovascularisation, wound contraction and formation of granulation tissue within the previously irradiated tissue zone was observed. Until fourteen months postoperative wound coverage remained stable and no signs of infection were observed.

DISCUSSION

By means of negative pressure therapy even in radiated wounds excellent wound cleaning and sufficient formation of granulation tissue can be achieved. In some cases negative pressure therapy together with staged debridement allows reintegration of exposed and therefore potentially contaminated alloplastic meshes into new formed granulation tissue in radiated wounds respectively radiation ulcers. Thus leading to the possibility of ultimate plastic coverage.

Der Einsatz der Vakuumtherapie bei der Defektdeckung an der oberen Extremität mit freien mikrochirurgischen arterialisierten venösen Lappen

Arterialized venous soft tissue flaps are defined as tissue portions usually harvested from the anterior and distal third of the forearm over a venous pathway to be transplanted to another recipient area. Basically, they are composed of skin, subcutaneous tissue, and subdermal venous plexus. At the recipient site flaps are perfused by a nourishing artery while the other veins are connected to one or more regional veins. The retrograde blood perfusion often results in edema, temporary epidermolysis, or even some degree of skin necrosis that disappear during subsequent treatment. To circumvent these drawbacks grafting of arterialized flaps was combined with local application of vacuum to overcome the venous initial stasis, resulting in improved healing and survival of these flaps.

Ancient traditional Chinese medicine in burn treatment: a historical review

Burn treatment in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long and remarkable history. This article provides a review of it's philosophy and knowledge, basic principles and treatment strategies as well as their modifications during 1300 years of medical development. The specific features presented are still influencing modern traditional Chinese medicine practitioners as well as modern Chinese burn treatment with considerable benefit for the treatment of burn victims.

Dosimetry inside MIR station using a silicon detector telescope (DOSTEL)

The dosimetry telescope (DOSTEL) was flown on the MIR orbital station during October 1997-January 1998. The mission average contributions to the absorbed dose rates (in water) were 126 +/- 4 microGy/d and 121 +/- 13 microGy/d for the GCR and the SAA component, respectively. The mean quality factors (ICRP60) deduced from the LET-spectra are 3.5 +/- 0.2 (GCR) and 1.3 +/- 0.1 (SAA). Separate LET spectra and temporal variations of the absorbed dose rates and of the mean quality factors are presented for these two radiation components as well as for solar energetic particles of the November 6, 1997 event.

Expression of the neuropeptide Y Y1 receptor in the CNS of rat and of wild-type and Y1 receptor knock-out mice. Focus on immunohistochemical localization

The distribution of neuropeptide Y (NPY) Y1 receptor-like immunoreactivity (Y1R-LI) has been studied in detail in the CNS of rat using a rabbit polyclonal antibody against the C-terminal 13 amino acids of the rat receptor protein. The indirect immunofluorescence technique with tyramide signal amplification has been employed. For specificity and comparative reasons Y1 knock-out mice and wild-type controls were analyzed. The distribution of Y1R mRNA was also studied using in situ hybridization. A limited comparison between Y1R-LI and NPY-LI was carried out.A widespread and abundant distribution of Y1R-LI, predominantly in processes but also in cell bodies, was observed. In fact, Y1R-LI was found in most regions of the CNS with a similar distribution pattern between rat and wild-type mouse. This staining was specific in the sense that it was absent in adjacent sections following preadsorption of the antibody with 10(-5) M of the antigenic peptide, and that it could not be observed in sections of the Y1 KO mouse. In contrast, the staining obtained with an N-terminally directed Y1R antiserum did not disappear, strongly suggesting unspecificity. In brief, very high levels of Y1R-LI were seen in the islands of Calleja, the anterior olfactory nucleus, the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus, parts of the habenula, the interpeduncular nucleus, the mammillary body, the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal, caudal part, the paratrigeminal nucleus, and superficial layers of the dorsal horn. High levels were found in most cortical areas, many thalamic nuclei, some subnuclei of the amygdaloid complex, the hypothalamus and the nucleus of the stria terminalis, the nucleus of the solitary tract, the parabrachial nucleus, and the inferior olive. Moderate levels of Y1R-LI were detected in the cornu Ammonis and the subicular complex, many septal, some thalamic and many brainstem regions. Y1R staining of processes, often fiber and/or dot-like, and occasional cell bodies was also seen in tracts, such as the lateral lemniscus, the rubrospinal tract and the spinal tract of the trigeminal. There was in general a good overlap between Y1R-LI and NPY-LI, but some exceptions were found. Thus, some areas had NPY innervation but apparently lacked Y1Rs, whereas in other regions Y1R-LI, but no or only few NPY-positive nerve endings could be detected. Our results demonstrate that NPY signalling through the Y1R is common in the rat (and mouse) CNS. Mostly the Y1R is postsynaptic but there are also presynaptic Y1Rs. Mostly there is a good match between NPY-releasing nerve endings and Y1Rs, but 'volume transmission' may be 'needed' in some regions. Finally, the importance of using proper control experiments for immunohistochemical studies on seven-transmembrane receptors is stressed.

[Sentinel lymph node diagnosis in prostatic carcinoma: I: Method and clinical evaluation]

AIM

Evaluation of the significance of lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative probe measurement for the identification of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) in prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

In 117 patients with prostate cancer scintigrams in various projections were acquired till approximately 6 hours p.i. after ultrasound guided transrectal intraprostatic injection of 99mTc-Nanocoll. On the following day the SLNs were identified in the operation theatre with a gamma probe and removed. Pelvic standard lymph node dissection followed SLNE.

RESULTS

In three of 117 patients with preoperative lymphoscintigraphy no SLN was scintigraphically detectable. These three patients had antecedent transurethral resection of the prostate. In 113 of the residual 114 patients SLN could be intraoperatively localized. In the mean four SLNs per patient were removed. 28 of 117 patients had pelvic lymph node metastases. In 25 cases SLN were right-positive, in one false-negative and in one intraoperatively not detectable. In one patient we found macrometastasis of up to 4 cm diameter (one SLN was tumour positive). In 15 cases only the SLN was bearing tumour.

CONCLUSION

The SLNE with preoperative lymphoscintigraphy and intraoperative gamma probe measurement is suitable for detecting lymph node metastasis in prostate cancer. SLNE is superior to the surgical techniques commonly used in pelvic lymphadenectomy.