By Nancy Lapid
(Reuters) – Researchers in China are testing an experimental 3D-printed breast prosthesis that can sense and target breast cancer relapse, according to a report in Advanced Science.
The prosthesis contains a gel made by linking together chemicals that respond to the presence of certain oxygen-containing molecules that are indicative of tumor activity.
In lab experiments, when such “reactive oxygen species” were present, the prostheses released RSL3, a small molecule that induces a type of programmed tumor cell death.
In experiments in mice, the researchers removed breast cancer tumors but left a small amount of cancer cells behind.
They observed “strong and long-term anti-cancer effects” in mice implanted with the experimental prostheses, compared with results observed in a control group.
Going forward, the researchers hope to develop an improved version of the prosthesis with a gel that also contains a chemotherapy or immunotherapy drug and to determine whether the gel can retain its effectiveness in breast prostheses for a relatively long time.
Tests in humans are a long way off. The researchers note, however, that because the size and shape of the 3D-printed prosthesis can be personalized, it would also be appropriate for patients undergoing partial resections.
Arm position can lead to hypertension misdiagnosis
Common ways of positioning the arm during blood pressure screenings can substantially confound the results and may lead to a mistaken diagnosis of high blood pressure, a new study found.
In 133 adult volunteers, researchers measured blood pressure with the arm in the proper position known to yield the most accurate measurement – supported at the level of the heart either on a desk, table, or by the health care provider’s arm.
In the same volunteers, the researchers found that measuring blood pressure while the arm is in the patient’s lap overestimated systolic pressure, the top number in a BP reading, by nearly 4 mmHg, they reported in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Measurements taken on an unsupported arm hanging at the side overestimated systolic pressure by nearly 7 mmHg.
The findings confirm that arm position makes a “huge difference” when it comes to an accurate blood pressure measurement, study leader Dr. Tammy Brady of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine said in a statement.
Clinicians need to pay attention to best practice guidelines, and patients “must advocate for themselves in the clinical setting and when measuring their BP at home,” Brady said.
Other key steps for accurate blood pressure measurement include an appropriate cuff size, back support, and feet flat on the floor with legs uncrossed, the researchers said.
(Reporting by Nancy Lapid; editing by Bill Berkrot)
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