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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Asymptomatic atherosclerosis is an important early marker of vascular damage and, among its risk factors, hemorheological alterations play an important role. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a cohort of 85 non-diabetic subjects with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis (ACA), we have measured whole blood viscosity (cWBV) according to the haematocrit and plasma fibrinogen level. The cWBV distinguish the subgroup of ACA subjects with 3-5 cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) from that with 1-2 CRFs and the same behavior is present for haematocrit and plasma fibrinogen level. Therefore, we divided the whole group of ACA subjects according to the medians of the four surrogate indexes with an insulin resistance degree of TG/HDL-C, TyG, VAI and LAP. RESULTS: The analysis of the correlation between cWBV and each index of insulin resistance has shown that no correlation is present in the whole group and in the group of ACA subjects with 1-2 CRFs, while in the subgroup with 3-5 CRFs there is a positive correlation between cWBV with TG/HDL-C and TyG at a low degree of statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: The date underline that subjects with this clinical condition have an unaltered evaluation of the cWBV compared to the other indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a cohort of subjects with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis (ACA), we have evaluated the neutrophil and lymphocyte count and their ratio (NLR), the gelatinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and their tissue (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2). At baseline, no difference was observed between ACA subjects and subject control group regarding neutrophil and lymphocyte count while was evident in ACA subjects a significant increase in MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 associated to a significant decrease in TIMP-1. Dividing the ACA according to the number of cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) we have observed an increase in lymphocyte count in the subgroup with 3–5 CRFs. Evaluating the leukocyte subtypes according to all the surrogate markers of insulin resistance has been noted, in the subgroups that exceed the medians of these markers, a significant increase in neutrophil and lymphocyte count without any variation of the NLR. Effecting the same evaluation for the MMP/TIMP pattern we observed, instead, that the same subgroups tend to show a decrease in MMP-2 and an increase in MMP-9. No difference instead for TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. The abnormality of the MMP/TIMP pattern, bearing in mind the cardiometabolic clustering present in this cohort of ACA subjects, would induce to use drugs able not only to cure the cardiometabolic risk factors but also to influence the MMP/TIMP profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a cohort of 100 subjects [43 men and 57 women; median age 66.00(25)] who were tested using carotid ultrasound to identify subclinical carotid atherosclerosis (SCA). We have evaluated the behaviour of whole blood viscosity (WBV) at high (450 s–1) and low (0.51 s–1) shear rates, plasma viscosity (450–1), hematocrit and mean erythrocyte aggregation. When compared to normal control subjects, using the Mann-Whitney test, we observed in SCA patients a significant increase in WBV only. The results were substantial after having divided the SCA subjects according to the cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) and the degree of insulin resistance; the research was performed using two surrogate indexes such as TG/HDL-C and TyG. With the division carried out according to CRFs, employing the Kruskal-Wallis test, results show a significant increase in WBV (at high and low shear rates), in plasma viscosity, in erythrocyte aggregation and plasma fibrinogen level. Whereas by dividing them into the median of TG/HDL-C and TyG, we noticed a significant increase in WBV (at high and low shear rates) and in erythrocyte aggregation in the two groups with high TG/HDL-C ratio and with high TyG; having found an increased level of plasma fibrinogen in the latter. The data underlines the role of the main hemorheologic aspects in subclinical carotid atherosclerosis being closely correlated to the CRFs and different degrees of insulin resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recently proposed molecular-field approach, based on the formulation of an approximate, analytical orientational partition function to describe the thermodynamic properties of D 2h thermotropic biaxial nematics governed by fully attractive orientational interactions (G. Celebre, J. Mol. Liq. 209 (2015) 104–114), has now been extended to treat also the partially repulsive regime of orientational interactions. This has been made by the implementation of a Minimax algorithm to locate the stationary, stable points of the Helmholtz Free Energy for the studied systems. The developed tool paved the way to new interesting (and intriguing) scenarios, allowing us to virtually explore a wide range of cases, where the features determining the existence of possible stable biaxial nematic mesophases were basically dictated by the geometric parameters characterizing the single D 2h mesogenic particles. Many cases have been revisited to validate the method (starting from the pioneering work of Straley), and also new simulated and experimental (goethite) cases have been addressed. Particular attention has been paid to the physical meaning of the two biaxiality parameters (called γ and λ ), weighting the biaxial extra-terms in the molecular-field expression of the mean-torque potential. Moreover, an explicit mathematical relation has been found between the parameter λ , ruling the dominant biaxial interaction, and the ratio of the biaxial-to-uniaxial and uniaxial-to-isotropic transition temperatures, whereas a substantial uncorrelation amongst the transition temperatures T NB-NU and the other biaxiality parameter, γ , has been verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was focused on the synthesis of tantalum (Ta) modified TiO 2 mixed oxides and their structural and surface properties characterization using XRD, XPS, BET and H 2 -TPR techniques. Ta-modified TiO 2 samples were synthesized using a sol-gel procedure and evaluated for potential application as electrocatalysts support. The tantalum (Ta) modified TiO 2 mixed oxides showed a unimodal nanoporous structure with pore sizes ranging from 3 nm to 5 nm. Concomitant with their higher surface area and pore volume, the mixed oxides were nanocrystalline and significantly smaller than Ti and Ta single oxides prepared by the same method (7–8 nm). A dominant anatase phase was detected by XRD at low calcination temperature, while the crystallographic structure becomes rutile when the sample was treated at 850 °C. By incorporating Ta into TiO 2 , the lattice parameters were changed, the reducibility of mixed oxides was increased and the surface oxygen deficiency was significantly enhanced as well. The present study clearly established that the structural (crystal phase, crystal size, nanoporosity, pore size) and surface properties (reducibility, oxygen deficiency, acidity, oxidation activity) of the Ta-modified TiO 2 mixed oxides can be tailored by modifying the sol-gel procedure and the thermal treatment. A palladium catalyst supported on this oxide (30% Pd/TaTiO x ) was prepared by the sulphite complex route. The catalyst was ex-situ characterized by physico-chemical analysis and investigated for the ORR to evaluate its activity, stability and durability. The Pd/TaTiO x catalyst, compared with catalysts from literature, showed a very promising stability, figuring good perspectives for application in fuel cells and/or electrolyzers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a straightforward synthesis of bimetallic radical scavengers supported onto silica and an evaluation of their effectiveness to increasing the lifetime of Aquivion ® PFSA membranes. Such scavengers comprise cerium (Ce) and chromium (Cr) and were incorporated in e-PTFE reinforced thin membranes through suspension in water-based Aquivion ® PFSA dispersion. The bimetallic samples were physico-chemically characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses and compared to the monometallic Ce and Cr scavengers prepared in the same way. The membranes containing the mono- or bi-metallic scavengers were electrochemically investigated in terms of polarization behavior, cell resistance and durability. The MEA based on monometallic Ce-based scavenger showed the largest durability (7-time more than a reference MEA). The bimetallic scavenger appears also very promising. However, a proper optimization of the composition is required for its application in highly durable composite Aquivion ® membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and broadly applicable preparation procedure to obtain silica-supported transition metal (namely Cr, Co and Mn)-based radical scavengers, containing sulfonic acid functionalities, is reported. These systems are widely characterised in terms of structure, bulk and surface composition and morphology by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The scavenger material is loaded in ePTFE reinforced membranes prepared from Aquivion ® perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) dispersions. All these composite membranes show longer lifetime in Accelerated Stress Tests (AST) and reduced fluoride release in Fenton's tests than the scavenger-free membranes without any loss in electrochemical performance. The Cr-scavenger-based polymer electrolyte shows a three-time larger stability than the pristine membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is known and objective Hyponatraemia, the most common electrolyte imbalance occurring in hospitalized subjects, is usually classified as hypovolaemic, euvolaemic or hypervolaemic. Hyponatraemia is a predictor of death among subjects with chronic heart failure and cirrhosis. The inappropriate secretion of the antidiuretic hormone ( AVP) seems to be of pivotal importance in the decline of serum sodium concentration in these clinical conditions. The objective of this review was to summarize recent progress in management of hyponatraemia in SIADH, cirrhosis and heart failure. Methods Literature searches were conducted on the topics of hyponatraemia and vasopressin receptor antagonists, using PubMed, pharmaceutical company websites and news reports. The information was evaluated for relevance and quality, critically assessed and summarized. Results and discussion The initial treatment of severe hyponatraemia is directed towards the prevention or management of neurological manifestations and consists of an intravenous infusion of hypertonic saline. Fluid restriction is indicated in oedematous states. Diuretics alone or in combination with other specific drugs remain the main strategy in the management of volume overload in heart failure. In resistant cases, ultrafiltration can lead to effective removal of isotonic fluid preventing new episodes of decompensation; however, aquapheresis is associated with increased costs and other limits. In several trials, the efficacy of vasopressin receptor antagonists in euvolaemic patients (inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion) or in hypervolaemic hyponatraemia (chronic heart failure, cirrhosis) has been evaluated. It was found that vaptans, which promote aquaresis, were superior to a placebo in raising and maintaining serum sodium concentrations in these subjects. What is new and conclusions Combined with conventional therapy, vasopressin receptor antagonists ( AVP-R antagonists) are able to increase the excretion of electrolyte-free water and the sodium concentration. Further studies are needed to assess efficacious outcomes of aquaresis compared with aquapheresis and with conventional therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile synthesis, based on a wet impregnation technique and a thermal treatment, of a novel silica-supported cerium-oxide-based radical scavenger bearing sulfonic acid functionalities is presented. This material is loaded as a filler in ePTFE reinforced membranes (called R79-02S) prepared starting from Aquivion ® Perfluoro-Sulfonic Acid (PFSA) dispersions. The aim is to mitigate the peroxy radicals attack to the polymeric membrane under fuel cell operating conditions. These membranes show much longer (7 times more) life-time in Accelerated Stress Tests (AST) and reduced fluoride release (about one half) in Fenton's tests than the radical scavenger-free membrane without any loss in electrochemical performance. Scavenger-free Aquivion ® PFSA-based membrane durability is about 200 h in AST whereas the same membrane containing the newly developed radical scavenger exceeds 1400 h. These results confirm the stability of the modified membranes and the excellent activity of the composite scavenger in mitigating the polymer electrolyte degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A PtCo catalyst with an ordered cubic primitive structure was synthesized and investigated for the application as a cathode in direct methanol fuel cells. The synthesis involved the preparation of an amorphous PtOx/C precursor by the sulfite complex route, an impregnation with Co(NO3)2, a high temperature (800 °C) carbothermal reduction and, finally, a leaching procedure. This method led to the occurrence of a Pt3Co/C catalyst with a primitive cubic ordered (L12) phase and a mean crystallite size of 3.3 nm, as well as a suitable degree of alloying. This electrocatalyst was investigated for the oxygen reduction reaction in a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) operating in the range 30–90 °C. At 60 °C, under atmospheric pressure, a maximum power density of 40 mW cm−2 was obtained with the new PtCo catalyst formulation at low noble metal loading on the electrode (1 mg cm−2). This performance was 2.3 times higher than a benchmark Pt catalyst used for comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A co-planar micro Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (μDMFC) configuration was designed, developed and tested. The system geometry consisted of anodic and cathodic micro-channels arranged in the same plane. Firstly, micro-channels for a uniform distribution of oxygen and methanol were designed and realized on a polymeric substrate of polycarbonate. Then, the deposition of the catalytic elements inside the micro-channels by a spray-coating technique was carried out. Micro-channels were then covered by a catalyzed membrane containing separate anode and cathode layers. Different cell configurations were built, tested and evaluated. It was observed that the open circuit voltage varied significantly as a function of the membrane humidification degree and distance between anode and cathode channels in this planar design. In the presence of a large distance between the anode and cathode channel, the OCV reached 0.97 V. This high OCV reflected the absence of methanol cross-over due to the specific planar configuration. Regrettably, the overall cell impedance (ohmic and polarization resistance) limited the performance. A maximum power density of 1.3 mW cm−2 (active area) was achieved at room temperature with the smallest distance between anode and cathode (0.25 mm). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

IrO2/Pt catalysts (at different concentrations) were synthesized by incipient wetness technique and characterized by XRD, XRF, and SEM. Water electrolysis/fuel cell performances were evaluated in a 5 cm2 single cell under Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cell (URFC) configuration. The IrO2/Pt composition of 14/86 showed the highest performance for water electrolysis and the lowest one as fuel cell. It is derived that for fuel cell operation an excess of Pt favours the oxygen reduction process whereas IrO2 promotes oxygen evolution. From the present results, it appears that the diffusion characteristics and the reaction rate in fuel cell mode are significantly lower than in the electrolyser mode. This requires the enhancement of the gas diffusion properties of the electrodes and the catalytic properties for cathode operation in fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IrO2–RuO2, IrO2–Pt and IrO2–Ta2O5 electrocatalysts were synthesized and characterized for the oxygen evolution in a Solid Polymer Electrolyte (SPE) electrolyzer. These mixtures were characterized by XRD and SEM. The anode catalyst powders were sprayed onto Nafion 117 membrane (catalyst coated membrane, CCM), using Pt catalyst at the cathode. The CCM procedure was extended to different in-house prepared catalyst formulations to evaluate if such a method could be applied to electrolyzers containing durable titanium backings. The catalyst loading at the anode was about 6 mg cm−2, whereas 1 mg cm−2 Pt was used at the cathode. The electrochemical activity for water electrolysis was investigated in a single cell SPE electrolyzer at 80 °C. It was found that the terminal voltage obtained with Ir–Ta oxide was slightly lower than that obtained with IrO2–Pt and IrO2–RuO2 at low current density (lower than 0.15 A cm−2). At higher current density, the IrO2–Pt and IrO2–RuO2 catalysts performed better than Ir–Ta oxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 60 wt% Pt-Fe/C and a 60 wt% Pt-Cu/C catalysts with Fe and Cu content of 5 wt% were prepared by using a combination of colloidal and incipient wetness methods; this has allowed synthesis of small nanostructured crystalline bimetallic catalysts with particle size less than 3 nm and with a suitable degree of alloying. These materials were studied in terms of structure, morphology and composition using XRD, XRF and TEM techniques. The electrocatalytic behaviour for ORR of the catalysts was investigated using the rotating disk technique and compared to that of a pure Pt catalyst with similar particle size. No improvement in performance was recorded with the Pt-Cu compared to Pt catalyst, whereas, a promoting effect in enhancing the ORR was observed for the Pt-Fe catalyst both with and without methanol in the oxygen-saturated electrolyte solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To assess the interobserver reproducibility of certain histological features proposed for the diagnosis of melanoma. Methods: In a series of melanomas, 13 histological parameters were analysed: dimension > 6 mm, asymmetry, poor circumscription, irregular confluent nests, single melanocytes predominating, absence of maturation, suprabasal melanocytes, asymmetrical melanin, melanin in deep cells, cytological atypia, mitoses, dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, and necrosis. Results: The agreement (reproducibility) between the nine observers was excellent (κ > 0.75) for 10 of the 13 examined features (dimension > 6 mm, poor circumscription, irregular confluent nests, single melanocytes predominating, absence of maturation, suprabasal melanocytes, asymmetrical melanin, melanin in deep cells, mitoses, and necrosis). The agreement for asymmetry was very close to excellence (κ = 0.74), and that for cytological atypia (κ = 0.65) and dermal lymphocytic infiltrate (κ = 0.47) was slightly lower, but in the fair to good agreement range. The κ values obtained by comparison with the majority diagnosis were generally high (⩾ 0.85); the mean value of κ was lower (0.70) for only one parameter (dermal lymphocytic infiltrate). Conclusions: The parameters investigated showed an overall good reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The histological features used in the diagnosis of melanoma may be present in benign naevi, but quantitative data are not available. The aim of this study was to establish the real prevalence of such features in naevi. Methods: Ten dermatopathologists, from nine Italian institutions, studied a series of naevi. Eleven histological parameters currently used in melanoma diagnosis were analysed: asymmetry, poor circumscription, predominance of single melanocytes, irregular confluent nests, suprabasal melanocytes, hair follicle involvement, absence of maturation, cytological alypia, dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, mitoses, and necrosis. Results: Ninely one naevi were examined: 22 junctional, 59 compound, and 10 intradermal. None of the studied parameters was seen in 22 of the benign naevi studied. One or more investigated features were found in 69 naevi. Poor circumscription was found in 49 cases, single melanocytic predominating in 42, asymmetry in 41, irregular confluent nests in 16, cytological atypia in 14, suprabasal melanocytes in seven, and hair follicle involvement in seven; absence of maturation, mitoses and necrosis were not found. Conclusions: The histological features used for the histological diagnosis of melanoma are often present in benign melanocytic naevi. This suggests a critical, non-mechanical use of them in melanoma diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diagnostic efficacy of the histological parameters on which the diagnosis of melanoma is based is still to be defined. Nine dermatopathologists, affiliated to the Melanocytic Lesion Group of the Italian Association of Dermatopathology (A.I.DE.PAT.), from eight Italian Institutions, studied 64 melanomas and 86 melanocytic nevi to perform a quantitative analysis of 13 histological parameters used in the diagnosis of melanoma (dimension>6 mm, asymmetry, poor circumscription, irregular and confluent nests, single melanocytes predominating, absence of maturation, suprabasal melanocytes, asymmetrical melanin, melanin in deep cells, cytological atypia, mitoses, dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, necrosis). The concordance among the 9 observers resulted excellent ( k=>0.75) for 10 of the 13 examined features. The k values obtained by comparison with the majority diagnosis were generally good. Results showed that in melanomas, the investigated histological features were not constant (except for cytological atypia) and tended to have a higher incidence as melanoma progressed. More than 93% of melanomas showed 7 or more investigated features. The efficacy of single histological features was generally poor, because of low sensitivity or specificity; suprabasal melanocytes was the only single reliable feature, contemporary showing a high sensitivity and a high specificity (0.94). Cytological atypia, dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, and asymmetry were rather sensitive (⩾0.92), but poorly specific features of melanoma (⩽0.86); absence of maturation, asymmetrical melanin, melanin in deep cells, mitoses and necrosis were rather specific (⩾0.92), but not sensitive (⩽0.55); single melanocytes predominating, irregular and confluent nests and poor circumscription were poorly sensitive (⩽0.89) and poorly specific (⩽0.72). The univariate logistic analysis showed that parameters useful for discriminating melanomas from controls included suprabasal melanocytes, asymmetrical melanin, asymmetry, dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, melanin in deep cells (p=<0.05). The multivariate analysis showed that two parameters (suprabasal melanocytes and asymmetry) yielded independent diagnostic information (p=<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melanocytic nevi in the genital, acral, and flexural sites often display clinical and histologic features that may simulate melanoma. We verified whether this is the case also for nevi of the breast. Eleven dermatopathologists, from nine Italian Institutions, collected the specimens of melanocytic lesions from the breast and other body sites, excluding the acral, genital, and flexural areas, as controls. Cases and controls were matched for sex and age. All nevi were observed ‘blindly’ and simultaneously by all participants. For each lesion, 10 histological parameters were analyzed: asymmetry, absence of lateral demarcation of melanocytes, lentiginous proliferation, nested and dyshesive pattern, intraepidermal melanocytes above the basal layer, involvement of the hair follicle, absence of maturation of dermal melanocytes, melanocytic atypia, fibroplasia of the papillary dermis, and lymphocytic dermal infiltrate. Each parameter was scored 2 when present and 1 when absent or not valuable. A total score was calculated for each lesion. Results were statistically analyzed by the chi-square test and the Mann–Whitney U-test. One hundred and one nevi came from the breast area and 97 from elsewhere. Breast nevi exhibited significantly more atypical features than nevi from other sites. In particular, breast nevi with intraepidermal melanocytes, melanocytic atypia, and dermal fibroplasia were significantly more numerous. We did not find any sexual difference. To avoid undue concerns, dermatopathologists should be aware that melanocytic nevi of the breast may show a high degree of atypical features. Rongioletti F, Urso C, Batolo D, Chimenti S, Fanti PL, Filotico R, Giannotti R, Innocenzi D, Lentini M, Tomasini C, Pippione M, Rebora A. Melanocytic nevi of the breast: a histologic case-control study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated level of palmitic acid (PA), a long-chain saturated fatty acid (SFA), is lipotoxic to many different types of cells including Neuro-2a (N2a) neuroblastoma cells. CD36 is a multifunctional membrane glycoprotein that acts as a fatty acid translocase (FAT) facilitating the transport of long-chain free fatty acids (FFAs) into cells, serves a fatty acid (FA) sensing function in areas including taste buds and the proximal gut, and acts as a scavenger receptor that binds to many ligands, including FAs, collagen, oxidized low-density lipoproteins, and anionic phospholipids. However, the involvement of CD36 in FA uptake and PA lipotoxicity in N2a cells remains unclear. In this study, we examined FA uptake in BSA- and PA-treated N2a cells and investigated the involvement of CD36 in FA uptake and PA lipotoxicity in N2a cells. Our data showed that PA treatment promoted FA uptake in N2a cells, and that treatment with sulfo-N-succinimidyl oleate (SSO), a CD36 inhibitor, significantly decreased FA uptake in BSA- and PA-treated N2a cells, and ameliorated PA-induced decrease of cell viability, decrease of diploid cells, and increase of tetraploid cells. We also found that CD36 knockdown significantly decreased FA uptake in both BSA- and PA-treated cells as compared to their corresponding wild-type controls, and dramatically attenuated PA-induced cell cycle defects in N2a cells. Our data suggest that CD36 may play a critical role in FA uptake and PA lipotoxicity in N2a cells. CD36 may therefore represent a regulatory target against pathologies caused by excess FAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports a case of positive sentinel node biopsy in a 30-month-old boy with unusual Spitz tumor or Spitzoid melanoma. The neoplasm can be ascribed to the category of lesions described by Spitz in 1948, because it was made up of big and epithelioid melanocytes, In addition, the neoplasm is malignant, because it showed lymph node metastasis.

Presents a letter to the editor about sentinel node biopsy in problematic melanocytic lesions.

Presents a letter about cutaneous melanoma.

A composite anode was developed to increase the performance of a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). High surface area IrO2 nanopowder was synthesized by a sulfite complex method and added to a 50% PtRu/C catalyst prepared by the same procedure. A catalytic ink, composed of PtRu/C catalyst, IrO2 and Nafion ionomer, was deposited on a carbon-cloth-based backing layer and used as composite anode in a DMFC. A significantly higher performance was recorded for the composite electrode-based MEA compared to a bare one, at 60°C and 90°C, confirming that the electrocatalytic activity is related to the characteristics of water displacement of IrO2 additive, which acts as a co-catalyst for this reaction. The improvement was significantly higher by using 5M methanol solution as the fuel. These results evidence that a multifunctional catalyst can operate better than PtRu for methanol oxidation since this multi-step process requires different functionalities to speed up the reaction rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A novel chemical route for the preparation of titanium suboxides (Ti n O2n−1) with Magneli phase was developed. The ceramic powders were prepared from TiCl4 by complexation of Ti ions and successive decomposition of the complex to form an amorphous oxide. A high temperature reduction (1050°C) of the amorphous oxide was carried out by using diluted hydrogen. IrO2 electrocatalysts supported on Ti-suboxides were prepared by incipient wetness. The chemistry, morphology and structure of the materials were studied by TPR, XRF, XPS, BET, TEM and XRD. The electrochemical activity for oxygen evolution in a solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) electrolyser of IrO2 catalysts supported on a commercial titanium suboxide (Ebonex®) and Ti n O2n−1 prepared in-house was investigated by ac-impedance spectroscopy, linear sweep and cyclic voltammetry. The results showed proper electronic conductivity for both electrocatalysts and superior electrocatalytic activity of the catalyst based on the Ti-suboxides prepared in-house compared to the commercial support. In situ cyclic voltammetry and ac-impedance analyses showed larger voltammetric charge and double layer capacitance for the catalyst based on the Ti-suboxides prepared in-house with respect to the catalyst supported on Ebonex®. These results were attributed to the better dispersion and larger occurrence of active catalytic sites on the surface of the suboxide prepared in-house based anode compared to the anode based on the commercial support. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare skin cancer with intermediate malignancy, characterized by a progressive local growth and a propensity for local recurrence. DFSP is most frequent in adults; however, in recent years, DFSP in childhood emerged to be more common than previously believed. Unfortunately DFSP in children may be misdiagnosed, leading to a delay in the treatment. The authors report two cases of childhood DFSP with unusual clinical presentation: a congenital nodular variant and an atrophic variant developed at 2 years of age, both with acral localization. They highlight the importance of an early diagnosis by pediatricians and dermatologists to ensure an appropriate complete excision and reduce the risks of recurrences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the occurrence of the pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) during pregnancy. Analysis of the aetiology of PLEVA; Possibility of the involvement of the mucosal membranes of the vagina, cervix and the uterus; Description of PLEVA symptoms.

Summary: Background: Recent studies have shown an increasing incidence of cutaneous adnexal carcinomas (CACs). Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate incidence and survival for cases of CACs and investigate their association with other skin neoplasms. Methods: We conducted a population‐based study. Data on incident cases of CACs were obtained from the Tuscany Cancer Registry between 1985 and 2010. In order to determine whether the occurrence of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) among patients with CAC is higher or lower than expected in the general population, the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) was calculated. Results: A total of 242 patients with CAC were observed; the age‐standardized incidence rate was 3·8 cases per million person‐years. From 1997 to 2010 crude incidence rates increased by 159%. Age‐specific incidence was higher in men over 80 years old than in women of the same age and younger individuals. Carcinomas of sweat gland origin prevailed; the most common histotype was porocarcinoma and the most frequently affected site was the head/neck. Overall, 88% of CACs were diagnosed at a localized stage. The 5‐year overall survival and disease‐specific survival rates were 59% [95% confidence interval (CI) 53–65] and 94% (95% CI 91–98), respectively. In the observation cohort, the number of SCCs was significantly higher than expected as the SIR was calculated to be 33·7 (P < 0·001). Conclusions: Increasing incidence warrants awareness and early diagnosis of CACs. Increased SCC incidence among patients with these tumours highlights the relevance of careful skin examination and follow‐up. What's already known about this topic? Cutaneous adnexal carcinomas (CACs) are rare tumours, but their incidence is increasing.The rarity of these tumours has made it difficult to gain sufficient clinicopathological experience regarding the diagnosis and treatment of CACs.CACs can be a diagnostic challenge owing to mostly nonspecific clinical presentation and histopathological variety that often requires specific expertise for a definite diagnosis. What does this study add? CAC incidence increased from 2·5 per million person‐years in 1985–87 to 19 per million person‐years in 2009–10; from 1997 the incidence has constantly increased, rising to 159% in 2010.In patients with CAC, the risk of squamous cell carcinoma is 34 times higher than in the general population.Considering demographic evolution with a progressively ageing population and higher incidence of CACs among the elderly, it is reasonable to expect a further increase in the future. Respond to this article Linked Comment:Andersen. Br J Dermatol 2019; 180:453–454. Plain language summary available online [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

T regulatory cells (Tregs), involved in tumour tolerance, can generate Adenosine by CD39/CD73 surface enzymes, which identify four Tregs subsets: CD39+CD73- nTregs, CD39+CD73+ iTregs, CD39-CD73+ oTregs and CD39-CD73- xTregs. In melanoma patients, increased Tregs levels are detected in peripheral blood (PB), sentinel lymph node (SLN) and tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), but Adenosine role was not investigated yet. We examined total Tregs and Adenosine subsets in PB, SLN and TILs from melanoma patients (n = 32) and PB from healthy donors (HD; n = 10) by flow cytometry. Total Tregs significantly increased in stage III-IV patients PB, in SLN and TILs, as compared to HD/stage I-II patients. Tregs subsets analyses showed that: 1) PB nTregs significantly increased in SLN and decreased in TILs; 2) iTregs significantly increased in stage III-IV patients PB and further significantly increased in SLN and TILs; 3) PB oTregs and xTregs significantly decreased in SLN and TILs. Patients clinical features did not significantly influence total Tregs, except SLN excision order. Results confirmed Tregs role in melanoma progression and indicate Adenosine generation as a novel escape mechanism, being nTregs and iTregs increased in PB/SLN/TILs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) have been actively investigated from both fundamental and applied points of view due to their interesting perspectives for the application in the fields of auxiliary power supply and portable power sources. However, research efforts are still needed to solve the drawbacks presently affecting these devices, such as methanol cross-over constraints, high costs of materials, etc. The present paper addresses these issues by using a new FUMATECH proton exchange membrane (fumapem ® F-1850), characterized by a nominal equivalent weight of 1800, as the electrolyte, and low electrode noble metal loadings compared to the state of the art. A membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) based on this membrane was investigated in a small area (5 cm 2 ) direct methanol fuel cell at 60 °C and compared to a benchmark Nafion ® 115 membrane in terms of performance and methanol cross-over. The F-1850 membrane showed a lower methanol cross-over rate than Nafion ® 115, despite a lower thickness of the fumapem ® membrane. This allowed to obtain a higher performance (74 vs. 64 mW cm −2 ) for the F-1850 membrane compared to Nafion ® at ambient pressure. To study the scalability of the DMFC device and related components, the new membrane was integrated in large-area MEAs (100 cm 2 ) and investigated in a 5-cell and 10-cell pressurized stack based on a bipolar design. The stack was tested at 75 °C, 5 M methanol solution at the anode and pressurized oxygen (2 atm. rel.) at the cathode, giving a normalized power density per cell of about 130 mW cm −2 . The results obtained with the 10-cell stack showed a good agreement with the performance recorded with the 5-cell stack, confirming the scalability of the DMFC device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor which describes a case of unilateral glomuvenous malformations in a 65-year-old Caucasian man referred to a clinic for three brownish nodules present for several months on the right deltoid, pectoral and supraclavicular regions, as well as for some bluish lesions on his right upper limb and back.

A letter to the editor is presented about the diagnosis of partial unilateral lentiginosis with a mixed lentigo/jentigo histological pattern in a 39-year-old Caucasian man.

Simple and functional stack designs were developed for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) with the aim of reducing capital costs. A simplified planar and monopolar ministack, with a reduced number of components, was designed for portable applications. This planar design facilitated the manufacturing of a compact passive mode operation ministack. The ministack provided an output power of 1.30 W under air breathing mode operation, at room pressure and temperature without any auxiliary. For application in auxiliary power units (APU), a self-heating and modular bipolar stack, operating up to 90 °C without internal cooling, was designed. Bipolar stacks consisted of 5–10 cells (100 cm 2 active area), providing an output power of 90–180 W. The recirculated methanol solution was used as thermostating fluid. The stacks achieved a normalised power density per cell of 180 mW cm −2 . Whereas, for the passive mode operation, ministack approached 30 mW cm −2 with 5 M methanol feed. These results favourably compare with the best performance reported in the literature for DMFCs operating under similar conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite membranes based on Nafion with the inclusion of cationic and anionic nanoclays, Laponite, and layered double hydroxide (LDH), respectively, were used to increase the operating temperature of a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). The electrochemical behavior of the hybrid nanocomposites was investigated in a single cell at different temperatures (from 90 to 110 °C), and the results were compared with those obtained on the filler-free Nafion membrane. Cell resistance measurements showed a significant improvement of the water retention capability at intermediate temperature for the composite membranes, in particular the LDH-based one. This feature was investigated and explained by a thorough NMR study (diffusometry, relaxometry, and H spectral analysis) on the different membranes. Furthermore, the dispersion of 2D plate-like nanolayers in the polymeric matrix demonstrates to be a physical barrier, considerably reducing the methanol mobility through an increase of the tortuosity of the diffusional paths of methanol molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The special types of breast cancer seem to have not only distinct morphological features but also distinct biological features. Materials and methods: Women diagnosed with a first primary invasive breast cancer in the 2004-2005 period were identified through Tuscan Cancer Registry. Information on age, tumor size, lymph node status, histological type and grade, hormonal receptors, HER2 immunohistochemical expression were collected. Five subtypes were defined: luminal A, luminal B HER2+, luminal B HER2−, triple negative, and HER2 positive. The association between the histological type and molecular subgroups was assessed by a Fisher's exact test, and a multinomial logistic regression model was used. Results: Out of 1,487 patients, 34 % were luminal A subtype, 25 % luminal B HER2−, 11 % luminal B HER2+, 19 % triple negative, and 10.2 % HER2+; 58.5 % of cancers were ductal NOS types. With luminal A as reference, histological types distribution was significantly different between the subgroups. Mucinous, tubular, and cribriform histotypes were found among luminal A cancers more than in other subgroups; all medullary carcinomas were triple negative cancers. Pathological stage at diagnosis was more advanced, and histological grade was lower among subgroups other than luminal A. Conclusions: Significant association between breast cancer histotypes and molecular subgroups was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In a population-based screening program, a percentage of tumors remain undetected; these tumors comprise a heterogeneous group, and they are more likely to have adverse prognostic features. The aim of this study was to identify differences in biological characteristics of screen-detected versus interval breast cancers in a population-based screening program according to molecular subtypes. Materials and methods: We analyzed the population-based data from a long-running screening program in the area of Florence. Data on screening history and on age, T and N status, grade, histotype, hormonal status and Ki-67 and HER2 expression were retrieved. Subtypes of breast cancer were defined on the expression of ER, PR, Ki-67 and HER2: luminal A if ER/PR+, HER2− and Ki67 <14 %, luminal B (HER2 negative) if ER/PR+, HER2− and Ki67 ≥14 %, luminal B (HER2 positive) if ER/PR+ and HER2+, triple negative if ER/PR−and HER2−, HER2 positive if ER/PR− and HER2+. Association between molecular subtypes and mode of detection will be evaluated by a logistic regression model adjusted for the potential confounding variables. Results: Information about biomarkers was known for 277 cases, 211 screening-detected and 66 interval cancers. Among interval cases, the triple-negative cancers were more represented than luminal A (OR = 3.52; CI, 1.112-11.13; p = 0.0319), while the proportion of HER2+ was quite similar (OR = 1.57; p = 0.4709). Conclusion: Although made on a small number of cases, our results suggest a difference in distribution of molecular subtypes according to mode detection, confirming the results of earlier studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A low temperature preparation procedure, based on a combination of colloidal and incipient wetness methods, was developed to modify the Pt catalyst with transition metals (Fe, Cu and Co). A moderate degree of alloying was obtained with Pt–Fe/C and Pt–Co/C cathode catalysts by using the new low temperature preparation route; whereas, a high degree of alloying was obtained for Pt–Cu/C by using the same procedure. Despite of the high metal concentration (60wt%) on carbon, all catalysts showed small primary metal particle size and a low degree of agglomeration. These catalysts were investigated as cathodes in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) operating at low temperatures (60°C). It appeared that Pt–Fe/C catalysts were superior than Pt/C, Pt–Co/C and Pt–Cu/C catalysts both in terms of catalytic activity and tolerance to methanol. Adsorbed methanolic residues stripping analysis indicated a better methanol tolerance and an enhanced activity towards oxygen reduction in the case of the Pt–Fe system. An improvement of the DMFC single cell performance was also observed in the presence of Pt–Fe catalysts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: High surface area carbon supported bimetallic Pt–Fe catalysts have been investigated for the oxygen electro-reduction process in low temperature direct methanol fuel cells (30–60°C). The electrocatalysts have been prepared by using a combination of colloidal and incipient wetness methods allowing of synthesis carbon supported bimetallic nanoparticles with a particle size of about 2–3nm. These materials were studied in terms of structure, morphology and composition using XRD, XRF and TEM techniques. Oxygen reduction properties of these bimetallic catalysts were investigated in single cell DMFC polarizations. The electrochemical data were compared with those obtained in the presence of a Pt/C catalyst prepared by the same procedure and characterised by the same concentration of active phase on the carbon support and a similar particle size. An improvement of the DMFC single cell performance was observed in the activation controlled region in the presence of the bimetallic catalysts. Moreover, the influence of the ionomer loading on the performance of the DMFC was investigated. The highest power density was recorded with electrodes containing 25% Nafion loading (87mWcm−2). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We examined a combined (dermoscopic-pathological) approach to the telediagnosis of melanocytic skin lesions. A store-and-forward teleconsultation was simulated. Dermoscopic and histopathology images from 12 melanocytic lesions were stored in a telepathology workstation. A dermoscopy consultant, a histopathology consultant and an expert in dermoscopic-pathological correlation gave their diagnoses and comments on the images. The consensus diagnosis between two teleconsultants on the original histological slides was regarded as the gold standard. The diagnostic accuracy was 83% (including one false negative diagnosis of malignancy) for teledermoscopy and 100% for teledermatopathology. The combined approach detected one case that showed a much greater atypia on dermoscopy than on histopathology. In this case step-sections of the sample were deemed to be required for definite diagnosis. The combined approach was helpful in detecting macroscopic and microscope sampling errors of melanocytic lesions during teleconsultation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main epiluminescence microscopy (ELM) patterns observed on volar acquired melanocytic naevi are the parallel-furrow, the lattice-like and the fibrillar patterns. Because of the peculiar arrangement and configuration of epidermal rete ridges in the glabrous skin, the traditional histological picture does not provide an exact correlation with ELM features. In particular, the fibrillar pattern lacks a histopathological correlate. To clarify the microscopic features of the fibrillar pattern, we used transverse histological sectioning to study an acquired compound melanocytic naevus of the sole, characterized by a mixed parallel-furrow/fibrillar pattern on ELM. Low-magnification images of transverse sections allowed us to highlight the typical anatomical arrangement of the volar skin clearly, while high-magnification images demonstrated that the fibrillar pattern corresponded to parallel striae of intensely pigmented corneocytes arranged obliquely to the cutaneous surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linked Article: De Giorgi et al. Br J Dermatol 2019; 180:565–573 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Globally, skin cancer is one of most common forms of cancer. There are several types, the most common being non‐melanoma skin cancer, which includes basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In the UK, more than 100,000 new cases of non‐melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed every year. Cutaneous adnexal carcinomas (CACs) are rare tumors which are often difficult to diagnose. This study, from Italy, aimed to evaluate how the number of CACs in the population has changed over time and identify if there is a link between CAC presence and the risk of developing SCC. Data was analysed from the Tuscany Cancer Registry (TCR) from a 25‐year time period between 1985 and 2010. 242 patients with CACs were identified from this period with the number of patients with CACs growing from 2.5 per million in 1985‐87 to 19 per million in 2009‐10. Between 1997 and 2010, CAC presence in the population increased by 159%. It was also found that patients with CAC were 34 times more likely to develop SCC later in life than those without CAC, suggesting that this is a significant risk factor. The authors of this study predict that the number of patients with CAC is likely to continue to increase, due to an ageing population. This combined with the link between CAC and SCC highlights the need to improve diagnosis of CACs in the future. Linked Article: De Giorgi et al. Br J Dermatol 2019; 180:565–573 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]