bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decellularization of porcine whole lung to obtain a clinical‐scale bioengineered scaffold
Authors: Li Yi , Wu Qiong , Li Li , Chen Fei , Bao Ji , Li Weimin
Published: March 2021

Whole‐organ engineering is emerging as an alternative source for xenotransplantation in end‐stage diseases. Utilization of decellularized whole lung scaffolds created by detergent perfusion is an effective strategy for organ replacement. In the current study, we attempted to decellularize porcine whole lungs to generate an optimal and reproducible decellularized matrix for future clinical use. Porcine whole lungs were decellularized via perfusion of various detergents (sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)/Triton X‐100, sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES)/Triton X‐100, dextrose/SDS/Triton X‐100 and dextrose/SLES/Triton X‐100) through the pulmonary artery and bronchus of the lung. The decellularized scaffolds were evaluated for decellularization efficiency, extracellular matrix (ECM) component preservation, xenoantigen removal and compatibility. The resulting lung scaffolds obtained from treatment with the dextrose/SLES/Triton X‐100 cocktail showed minimal residual cellular components and xenoantigens, including DNA and protein, and good preservation of ECM composition. Evaluation of the porcine lung ECM by specific staining and immunofluorescence confirmed that the three‐dimensional ultrastructure of the ECM was noticeably preserved in the SLES‐treated groups. In addition, the decellularized lung scaffolds originating from the dextrose/SLES/Triton X‐100 cocktail supported cell adhesion and growth. In summary, the novel detergent SLES alleviated the damage to retain a better‐preserved ECM than SDS. Sequential Triton X‐100 perfusion eliminated SLES. Moreover, performing dextrose perfusion in advance further protected scaffold components, especially collagen. We developed an optimal dextrose/SLES/Triton X‐100 cocktail method that can be used for the decellularization of porcine whole lung to obtain a clinical‐scale bioengineered scaffold.
Serum exosomal microRNAs as predictive markers for EGFR mutations in non–small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Xia Junbo , Luo Man , Dai Lujun , Wang Liusheng , Wang Limin , Zhu Jing
Published: March 2021

Background

Current therapeutic drugs show positive effects on non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with mutant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression, whereas a lesser beneficial effect is generally noted on NSCLC patients with wild‐type EGFR. Therefore, identification of new detection methods for the accurate clinical diagnosis of NSCLC is essential.

Methods

In this study, tumor‐derived exosomes from the plasma of EGFR mutation and wild‐type NSCLC patients were isolated. Extensive exosomal miRNA profiling of EGFR mutation and wild‐type NSCLC patients, in comparison with healthy individuals, was performed using miRNA‐sequencing analysis.

Results

The variation of exosomal miRNA expression between control group (NR) and NCSLC samples (AM and AW) was identified. 96 significantly different expressed miRNAs were identified. Of these, 39 miRNAs were upregulated and 57 were downregulated. 11 miRNAs were downregulated, and 31 miRNAs were upregulated in the miRNA expression between NR and AM. Compared with healthy donors, 54 upregulated miRNAs and 36 downregulated miRNAs were observed in samples from AW patients. 40 different expressed miRNAs were identified in AM samples, compared with AW. Ten of upregulated miRNAs are miR‐260, miR‐1169, miR‐117, miR‐15b‐5p, miRNA‐731, miR‐342‐5p, miR‐ 898, miR‐1384, miR‐56, and miR‐1214. Ten of downregulated miRNAs are miR‐99b‐5p, miR‐1116, miR‐689, miR‐818, miR‐604, miR‐72, miR‐955, miR‐403, miR‐1228, and miR‐836.

Conclusion

The exosomal miR‐1169 and miR‐260 as potential candidates, which contain specific characteristics that can distinguish between wild‐type EGFR and mutant EGFR NSCLC patients in early‐stage cancers.
The ERK1/2–ATG13–FIP200 signaling cascade is required for autophagy induction to protect renal cells from hypoglycemia‐induced cell death
Authors: Guo Wenjing , Wang Qian , Pan Shihua , Li Jinbing , Wang Yuanhua , Shu Yahai , Chen Jiaheng , Wang Qizheng , Zhang Sheng , Zhang Xiao , Yue Jianbo
Published: March 2021

Autophagy, an evolutionarily conserved lysosomal degradation pathway, is known to regulate a variety of physiological and pathological processes. At present, the function and the precise mechanism of autophagy regulation in kidney and renal cells remain elusive. Here, we explored the role of ERK1 and ERK2 (referred as ERK1/2 hereafter) in autophagy regulation in renal cells in response to hypoglycemia. Glucose starvation potently and transiently activated ERK1/2 in renal cells, and this was concomitant with an increase in autophagic flux. Perturbing ERK1/2 activation by treatment with inhibitors of RAF or MEK1/2, via the expression of a dominant‐negative mutant form of MEK1/2 or RAS, blocked hypoglycemia‐mediated ERK1/2 activation and autophagy induction in renal cells. Glucose starvation also induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species in renal cells, which was involved in the activation of the ERK1/2 cascade and the induction of autophagy in renal cells. Interestingly, ATG13 and FIP200, the members of the ULK1 complex, contain the ERK consensus phosphorylation sites, and glucose starvation induced an association between ATG13 or FIP200 and ERK1/2. Moreover, the expression of the phospho‐defective mutants of ATG13 and FIP200 in renal cells blocked glucose starvation‐induced autophagy and rendered cells more susceptible to hypoglycemia‐induced cell death. However, the expression of the phospho‐mimic mutants of ATG13 and FIP200 induced autophagy and protected renal cells from hypoglycemia‐induced cell death. Taken together, our results demonstrate that hypoglycemia activates the ERK1/2 signaling to regulate ATG13 and FIP200, thereby stimulating autophagy to protect the renal cells from hypoglycemia‐induced cell death.
A community of practice in dental education: A phenomenon of newcomers becoming oldtimers
Authors: Mills Denise A. , Bernstein Joshua
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Community of practice (CoP) members develop cooperative learning history with shared cases, techniques, and concepts. A 2020 study was designed to explore participants’ perceptions toward learning in the dental education CoP.

Methods

The Institutional Review Board exempted (AZ #1355) study involved an incidental population of third‐ and fourth‐year dental students (N = 285) and resulted in a 43.5% response rate. The online Community of Practice Assessment Scale, consisted of Likert‐style, check box items, and one open‐ended question. Survey responses were categorized as Strongly Agree (1), Agree (2), No opinion (3), Disagree (4), and Strongly Disagree (5). Univariate analyses and descriptive statistics were used to analyze study variables (domain, community, and practice).

Results

Overall the learning domain is most strongly perceived by participants with mean scores ranging from 1.59 to 1.61. Responses assessing practices within the CoP had mean scores ranging from 1.72 to 1.90. Similarly, responses assessing the community ranged from 1.65 to 1.81. “Builds Knowledge and Shared Learning” was the characteristic participants most strongly agreed as beneficial with a 1.58 mean score. Participants agree that the CoP “Captures and Stores Tacit and Explicit Knowledge” with a mean score of 1.90. There was a 25.6% response rate to the open‐ended question. Two themes evolved: the need for calibration and more shared learning.

Conclusion

Based on study results, participants strongly agreed or agreed in opinions about CoP learning resources (faculty, staff, technology, and other students) benefitting their learning. The CoP provides an optimal environment for preparing competent new dental professionals.
Ground state depletion microscopy as a tool for studying microglia–synapse interactions
Authors: Paasila Patrick Jarmo , Fok Sandra Y. Y. , Flores‐Rodriguez Neftali , Sajjan Sujata , Svahn Adam J. , Dennis Claude V. , Holsinger R. M. Damian , Kril Jillian J. , Becker Thomas S. , Banati Richard B. , Sutherland Greg T. , Graeber Manuel B.
Published: March 2021

Ground state depletion followed by individual molecule return microscopy (GSDIM) has been used in the past to study the nanoscale distribution of protein co‐localization in living cells. We now demonstrate the successful application of GSDIM to archival human brain tissue sections including from Alzheimer's disease cases as well as experimental tissue samples from mouse and zebrafish larvae. Presynaptic terminals and microglia and their cell processes were visualized at a resolution beyond diffraction‐limited light microscopy, allowing clearer insights into their interactions in situ. The procedure described here offers time and cost savings compared to electron microscopy and opens the spectrum of molecular imaging using antibodies and super‐resolution microscopy to the analysis of routine formalin‐fixed paraffin sections of archival human brain. The investigation of microglia–synapse interactions in dementia will be of special interest in this context.
Botanical and chemical fungicides in the treatment of commercial seeds ofBrachiaria brizanthaandPanicum maximum
Authors: dos Santos Patrícia R. R. , Alves Marcos Vinicius G. , dos Santos Gil R.
Published: March 2021

Brazil is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of forage seeds in the world. However, the high incidence of pathogens threatens the seed production system, resulting in decreases in production and quality. Currently, the emphasis has been placed on the use of alternative products as a way of maintaining productivity and environmental sustainability. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the mycoflora associated with the commercial seeds ofBrachiaria brizanthaandPanicum maximumtreated with chemical and alternative fungicide. To test with chemical and alternative treatments, seeds were subjected to fluazinam + thiophanate‐methyl, fludioxonil + metalaxyl‐M, noni essential oil, rosemary pepper essential oil, sulfuric acid. There was also an untreated control. The most efficient products in the control of incident fungi were, in decreasing order, fluazinam + thiophanate‐methyl, fludioxonil + metalaxyl‐M, noni essential oil, rosemary pepper essential oil, and sulfuric acid. Fungicides mainly controlled the generaAlternaria, Aspergillus, Bipolaris, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, Colletotrichum, Curvularia, Fusarium, Penicillium, PhomaandRhizopus. Essential oils showed positive effects in controlling Bipolaris,Curvularia, andFusarium. Sulfuric acid reduced the incidence ofBipolaris, Colletotrichum, Curvularia, Fusarium, Phoma, andRhizopus. Seed treatment is one of the promising strategies for obtaining seeds of a healthy quality. As a result, the fungicides and botanical components listed above were promising in reducing fungi associated with forage seeds and can be used for seed treatments and in the development of new products with a natural base through essential oils.
Quantifying the effects of the diurnal cycle in the variability of rainfall
Authors: Zermeño‐Díaz David Maximiliano
Published: March 2021

In order to quantify how much variability is affected by the diurnal cycle (DC), two variance‐partitioning schemes were applied on two rainfall datasets that cover the Intra Americas Seas (IAS) domain at a 3‐hourly resolution during 21 years. The datasets are the Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission (TRMM) 3B42, and a simulation from the Centre National de Recherches Météorologiques (CNRM) model. From TRMM, the results show that the variance attributable to the DC is large because it shapes the variability of transients. Such diurnal effects shape transients similarly during all seasons, but their effects produce different patterns over continental and oceanic regions. Over continental regions, the total variance attributable to the DC is much larger than that attributable to the mean seasonal cycle and to interannual variability. But over oceanic regions, the latter two types of partitions can be larger than that of the DC. Although the analysed model simulation captures the broad features of the observed variance partitions, it overestimates the importance of the typical diurnal march, it underestimates how the DC tends to suppresses transient variability during nighttime over land, and it underestimates how it tends to increase it otherwise. As shown by the results, the variance‐partitioning approach of this study might complement previous approaches because rather than focusing on diurnal amplitudes and phases, it focuses on diurnal effects. Therefore, this approach could be useful to diagnose DC‐related issues from a relatively new perspective, issues such as the evaluation of systematic errors, or the evaluation of how the DC affects transients under different large‐scale conditions or slow‐varying forcings.
Evaluation of biological and chemical additives on microbial community, fermentation characteristics, aerobic stability, and in vitro gas production of SuMu No. 2 elephant grass
Authors: Shah Assar Ali , Qian Chen , Liu Zhiwei , Wu Juanzi , Sultana Nighat , Mobashar Muhammad , Wanapat Metha , Zhong Xiaoxian
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of biological and chemical additives on microbial community, fermentation characteristics, aerobic stability, and in vitro gas production of SuMu No. 2 elephant grass.

RESULTS

Aerobic bacteria and yeast were not affected on days 5 and 7 but were significantly (P < 0.224) reduced on days 14, 30, and 60, whereas lactic acid and lactic acid bacteria were significantly (P > 0.001) higher in all ensiling days within all treatment groups. During the ensiling days, the pH, acetic acid, butyric acid, and yeast were decreased in all treatment groups, whereas the Lactobacillus plantarum group and L. plantarum + natamycin group were highly significantly (P > 0.001) decreased. During air exposure, the water‐soluble carbohydrates, ammonia nitrogen, lactic acid, and acetic acid were not affected on days 1–4, whereas pH and aerobic bacteria (were significantly (P < 0.05) increased on days 2–4. The addition of Lactobacillus plantarum and natamycin increased the gas production, in vitro dry matter digestibility, and in vitro neutral detergent fiber of SuMu No. 2 elephant grass silages.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of biological and chemical additives, such as L. plantrum alone and the combination with natamycin, affected the undesirable microbial community, fermentation characteristics, aerobic stability, and in vitro gas of SuMu No. 2 elephant grass. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Carob kibbles as an alternative raw material for production of kvass with probiotic potential
Authors: Polanowska Katarzyna , Varghese Reshma , Kuligowski Maciej , Majcher Małgorzata
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Non‐diary beverages with probiotic properties are of great interest nowadays. In this research, we evaluated the suitability of carob kibbles in the manufacture of kvass. Kvass is a low‐alcohol drink popular in Central and Eastern Europe and indicated as a potential non‐diary beverage with probiotic properties. Therefore, the viability of probiotic strains of Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces boulardii during 4 weeks’ storage in manufactured beverages was tested.

RESULTS

Carob kibbles introduced significant amounts of phenolic compounds into kvasses, especially gallic acid (up to 117.45 ± 10.56 mg L−1), and improved antiradical activity up to 78% after fermentation. Moreover, fermentation efficiently reduced furfural and hydroxymethylfurfural content in samples up to 12.9% and 29.9%, respectively. Kvasses with rye malt extract possessed coffee‐like, chocolate‐like, roasted and caramel‐like odours and a more bitter taste. Whereas kvass with carob kibbles was characterized by fruit‐like odour and sweeter taste. Fermentation contributed to a creation as well as degradation of volatiles. L. plantarum exhibited higher general mortality during storage, whereas, in the case of S. boulardii, the viability was significantly higher regardless of the sample composition.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study reporting the use of carob kibbles for kvass production. The obtained results showed that carob kibbles can replace rye malt extract, at least partially, in the production of kvass, giving to the product added health benefits. Moreover, S. boulardii is a better choice for production of kvass with probiotic properties. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Simultaneous versus staged resections for bilateral pulmonary metastases
Authors: Feldman Hope A. , Zhou Nicolas , Antonoff Mara B. , Hofstetter Wayne L. , Rajaram Ravi , Rice David C. , Sepesi Boris , Vaporciyan Ara A. , Zorrilla‐Vaca Andres , Mehran Reza J.
Published: March 2021

Background

For patients with bilateral pulmonary metastases, staged resections have historically been the preferred surgical intervention. During the spring of 2020, the COVID‐19 pandemic made patient travel to the hospital challenging and necessitated reduction in operative volume so that resources could be conserved. We report our experience with synchronous bilateral metastasectomies for the treatment of disease in both lungs.

Methods

Patients with bilateral pulmonary metastases who underwent simultaneous bilateral resections were compared with a cohort of patients who underwent staged resections. We used nearest‐neighbor propensity score (1:1) matching to adjust for confounders. Perioperative outcomes were compared between groups using paired statistical analysis techniques.

Results

Between 1998 and 2020, 36 patients underwent bilateral simultaneous metastasectomies. We matched 31 pairs of patients. The length of stay was significantly shorter in patients undergoing simultaneous resection (median 3 vs. 8 days, p < .001) and operative time was shorter (156 vs. 235.5 min, p < .001) when compared to the sum of both procedures in the staged group. The groups did not significantly differ with regard to postoperative complications.

Conclusion

In a carefully selected patient population, simultaneous bilateral metastasectomy is a safe option. A single procedure confers benefits for both the patient as well as the hospital resource system.
Chances, challenges and outcomes of patients with complex bilobar colorectal liver metastases approached by a combined multimodal therapy with liver resection and local ablative therapy
Authors: Drefs Moritz , Schoenberg Markus B. , Schiergens Tobias S. , Albertsmeier Markus , Andrassy Joachim , Angele Martin K. , Westphalen Christoph B. , Seidensticker Max , Werner Jens , Guba Markus O.
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives

In treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CRC‐LM), liver surgery combined with systemic therapies and local ablation (LAT) allows improved survival. This study aims at the outcomes of patients with complex bilobar CRC‐LM who were intended to undergo multimodal therapy with liver resection and LAT.

Methods

Forty‐three CRC‐LM patients with recommendation for multimodal treament were extracted from 5878 tumor board decisions between 2014 and 2017. Outcome variables included patient survival, as well as completion of hepatic clearance. Prognostic factors were identified by correlation and a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Out of 43 patients only 23 achieved complete clearance of CRC‐LM. One‐ and 3‐year overall survival of patients with cleared liver disease was 100% and 91.7%, respectively, as compared to 83.8% and 12.1%. Incomplete hepatic clearance was the strongest independent risk factor for overall survival (hazards ratio [HR], 5.86; p = .009). Risk factors for incomplete clearance were higher age (r = .34; p = .026), comorbidities (r = .40; p = .008), major complications (r = .34; p = .024), and prolonged intensive care unit stay (r = .41; p = .017).

Conclusion

Completion of hepatic clearance is crucial to achieve long‐term survival in patients with complex bilobar CRC‐LM. Careful patient selection and treatment planning should avoid treatment failure before completing the intended therapy plan when multimodal treatments are planned.
Immunological impact of chemotherapy on the tumor microenvironment in gastric cancer
Authors: Wei Qing , Xu Qi , Yuan Xing , Li Jing‐Jing , Chen Lei , Luo Cong , Zhu Xiu , Ying Jie‐Er
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study aimed to investigate alterations in pre‐ and post‐neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) tumor‐infiltrating immune cells and subsequent evaluation of the predictive and prognostic value of these changes in gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

Fifty patients with GC underwent three cycles of S‐1 and oxaliplatin (SOX regimen)‐NACT. Paired samples from tumor lesions before and after NACT were available for all patients participating in the study. Immunohistochemistry was performed for T cell subsets (CD3+ and CD8+) and macrophages (CD68+ and CD163+).

Results

After NACT, the average expression levels of CD3, CD8, CD68, and CD163 were significantly increased (p < .001). However, neither expression levels pre‐ nor post‐chemotherapy correlated with treatment response. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that upregulation of CD8/CD3 levels (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.117; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.031–0.446; p = 0.002) and CD163 levels after chemotherapy (HR = 2.258; 95% CI = 1.047–4.867; p = 0.038) were independent prognostic factors of overall survival.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy in GC is useful to induce CD3+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes as well as CD68+ and CD163+ macrophages in the tumor microenvironment in combination with its direct cytotoxic effects. These results indicate that chemotherapy may play a role in tumor immune microenvironment remodeling.
Author preprint behaviour and non‐compliance with journal preprint policies: One biomedical journal's experience
Authors: Higgins Jan , Steiner Robert D.
Published: March 2021

We investigated author use of preprints including compliance with journal preprint policy, timing of posting, likelihood of preprint review impacting manuscript content, and consistency in licensing. Submissions to one biomedical journal were reviewed over 2.5 years. About 24% of authors were non‐compliant with the journal's preprint policy. Only three journal articles out of 76 posted as preprints received publicly available comments on the preprints. Additionally, most preprints and articles were submitted so closely together temporally (<10 days apart) that even if comments had been posted online in response to the preprint, they were unlikely to have led to changes in manuscript content submitted to the journal. iThenticate plagiarism detection software scored preprints and articles 83% similar (median), providing additional evidence that preprint posting does not notably affect manuscript content. Lastly, preprint versus journal publication licence types were compared. Most authors chose different licence types for the preprint and subsequent journal article, setting up an inherent conflict about reuse of very similar work and incompatible dual licensing of essentially a single product. These insights into author use of preprints and compliance with policy furthers understanding of author utilization of preprints, informs future author education efforts, and supports attempts to harmonize licensing.
A profile design method to improve the wear performance of misaligned water‐lubricated bearing
Authors: Wang Jiefu , Han Yanfeng , Geng Zhibo , Xiang Guo , Wang Jiaxu , Zhao Rui
Published: March 2021

The study presents a profile design method to improve the wear performance of misaligned water‐lubricated bearing based on the modified Archard model. This method takes into account the variation of the film thickness under the mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication (mixed‐EHL). A transient hydrodynamic Reynolds equation model with the Patir–Cheng flow factors is used to predict the evolution of the mixed‐EHL performance over time. The Archard model is extended to predict the time‐varying wear based on the fatigue concept. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed profile design method; the simulation results, including the transient contact pressure, wear depth and wear volume, between the considering and not considering the profile design are compared. To gain insight, several illustrative examples are presented to show the amelioration of the profile design. Parametric studies are reported to show the applicability of the profile design and emphasise the profile height selection. Therefore, the profile design is an extraordinary method to reduce the edge wear.
FAM129B‐dependent activation of NRF2 promotes an invasive phenotype in BRAF mutant melanoma cells
Authors: Schmidlin Cody J. , Tian Wang , Dodson Matthew , Chapman Eli , Zhang Donna D.
Published: March 2021

Incidence of melanoma continues to rise in the United States with ~100,000 new cases diagnosed in 2019. While the 5‐year survival rate of melanoma is 99% when localized, the rate of survival drops to 22.5% when distant disease is detected. As such, an area of great interest is understanding the mechanisms that promote melanoma metastasis so that better potential therapeutic targets can be discovered. Herein, we demonstrate that activation of NRF2 by FAM129B contributes to increased metastatic potential of BRAF V600E mutant melanoma cells. Specifically, FAM129B induces NRF2 by competing for Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (KEAP1) binding (the negative regulator of NRF2) via an ETGE motif. Furthermore, we show that phosphorylation of FAM129B plays a role in mediating the interaction between FAM129B and KEAP1, as the phosphorylation status of FAM129B dictates its subcellular localization. When phosphorylated, FAM129B is found primarily in the cytosol where it can bind to KEAP1, but upon inhibition of mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase activity, FAM129B is localized to the cell membrane and no longer interacts with KEAP1. In BRAF V600E mutant melanoma, the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway leads to hyperphosphorylation of FAM129B, and therefore FAM129B localizes to the cytosol, binds KEAP1, and upregulates NRF2. Importantly, genetic modulation or pharmacological inhibition that results in a decrease in FAM129B protein level or its phosphorylation decreases migration and invasion of mutant melanoma in an NRF2‐dependent manner. Overall, these data indicate that phosphorylation of FAM129B plays a significant role in driving the metastatic potential of BRAF V600E melanoma via upregulation of the NRF2 signaling pathway.
Use of a combined SIEA and SCIP based double pedicled abdominal flap for breast reconstruction
Authors: Yano Tomoyuki , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Karakawa Ryo , Fuse Yuma , Kuramoto Yukiko , Shibata Tomoyoshi , Suesada Nobuko , Miyashita Hiroki
Published: March 2021

Background

Recently, the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap has become the gold standard for breast reconstruction, but it has some drawbacks such as abdominal bulging and hernia. To overcome these disadvantages, the superficial inferior epigastric artery perforator (SIEA) flap is used as an alternative option, but it has another problem, namely limited vascular territory and risk of vascular thrombosis. To solve these problems, we introduced our new technique, a combined SIEA and superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) based double pedicled abdominal flap. In this report, we present our experience of using this technique.

Methods

The SIEA and SCIP based double pedicled abdominal flap was used in five patients who wanted to have unilateral breast reconstruction after a mastectomy due to breast cancer. The average age was 48.2 (range 38–56) years, and the average BMI was 24.4 (range 19.2–31.4). The SIEA and SCIP based double pedicled abdominal flap was designed as a modified DIEP flap, and all flaps were placed in the vertical setting. The flap pedicles had two different vascular supplies, SIEA and SCIA, and the drainage systems, SIEV and SCIV, anastomosed to the internal mammary artery and vein in all cases.

Results

The harvested SIEA and SCIP based double pedicled abdominal flaps were a median volume of 925 g (range 452–1570 g) and average size of 491 cm2 (range 440–611 cm2). The average reconstructive time was 7:41 (range 6:31–9:17). In four out of the five cases, the SIEA and SCIA joined together to make a common pedicle artery trunk, and its average size was 1.08 mm. Four out of the five cases had a wide vascular territory crossing the abdominal midline as shown by ICG angiography. One case showed ICG fluorescence for the hemi‐side of the abdominal flap. Postoperative course was uneventful, and there were no major perioperative complications, which need extra surgical procedures. Follow‐up period averaged 273 days (range 194–312 days).

Conclusion

The SIEA and SCIP based double pedicled abdominal flap showed viable flap territory across the midline in all cases. The SIEA and SCIP based double pedicled abdominal flap might be another ideal option for breast reconstruction, when appropriate SIEA and SCIA pedicles are identified, and an adequate ICG fluorescence is obtained for the size of flap needed.
Anatomical variations of the superficial branch of the radial nerve and the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve: A detailed electrophysiological study
Authors: Hemmi Shoji , Kurokawa Katsumi , Nagai Taiji , Okamoto Toshio , Asano Akio , Murakami Tatsufumi , Mihara Masahito , Sunada Yoshihide
Published: March 2021

Introduction

In this study we evaluated anatomic variations of the superficial branch of the radial nerve (SBRN) and the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve (DBUN) electrophysiologically.

Methods

Antidromic nerve conduction studies (NCS) of the SBRN and DBUN were performed on healthy individuals. To identify individual responses from the distal branches of the SBRN and DBUN, sensory nerve action potentials of each finger (lateral side/medial side) were recorded.

Results

NCS were performed in 50 hands of 27 healthy control subjects. The thumb and the index finger were supplied by the SBRN in all cases. The lateral and medial sides of the third finger were supplied by the SBRN in 94.0% and 74.0% of the cases, but the lateral and medial sides of the fourth finger were supplied by the SBRN in only 10.0% and 2.0% of cases. The fifth finger and the medial side of the fourth finger were always supplied by the DBUN. The lateral side of the fourth finger was supplied by the DBUN in 98.0% of cases, but the lateral and medial sides of the third finger were supplied by the DBUN in 40.0% and 70.0% of cases. Dual innervation by the SBRN and DBUN was found in 34.0% and 46.0% of the lateral and medial sides of the third finger, but in only 8.0% and 2.0% of the lateral and medial sides of the fourth finger.

Discussion

There are considerable anatomic variations of the SBRN and DBUN in healthy individuals.
Endogenous Glucose Production in Critical Illness
Authors: Al‐Yousif Nameer , Rawal Sagar , Jurczak Michael , Mahmud Hussain , Shah Faraaz Ali
Published: March 2021

Regulation of endogenous glucose production (EGP) by hormonal, neuronal, and metabolic signaling pathways contributes to the maintenance of euglycemia under normal physiologic conditions. EGP is defined by the generation of glucose from substrates through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, usually in fasted states, for local and systemic use. Abnormal increases in EGP are noted in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2, and elevated EGP may also impact the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and congestive heart failure. In this narrative review, we performed a literature search in PubMed to identify recently published English language articles characterizing EGP in critical illness. Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies demonstrates that critical illness can disrupt EGP through multiple mechanisms including increased systemic inflammation, counterregulatory hormone and catecholamine release, alterations in the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis, insulin resistance, lactic acidosis, and iatrogenic insults such as vasopressors and glucocorticoids administered as part of clinical care. EGP contributes to hyperglycemia in critical illness when abnormally elevated and to hypoglycemia when abnormally depressed, each of which has been independently associated with increased mortality. Increased EGP may also promote protein catabolism that could worsen critical illness myopathy and impede recovery. Better understanding of the mechanisms and factors contributing to dysregulated EGP in critical illness may help in the development of therapeutic strategies that promote euglycemia, reduce intensive care unit–associated catabolism, and improve patient outcomes.
Effect of prenatal aerobic exercises on maternal and neonatal outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Veisy Afsaneh , Mohammad Alizadeh Charandabi Sakineh , Hematzadeh Shahla , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: March 2021

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of prenatal aerobic exercises on maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Method

A search was carried out in databases including PubMed, ProQuest, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran and SID until 30 September 2020. Two reviewers independently assessed the articles for quality and risk of bias using the Cochrane handbook. The statistical heterogeneity was determined using the Cochran's Q test and Higgins' I2 coefficient.

Results

Of the 2,790 extracted articles, 16 were included in this review. The results of the meta‐analysis showed that prenatal exercise can increase the frequency of vaginal delivery significantly (RR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.08–1.43), but had no statistically significant effect on other maternal and neonatal outcomes, such as first, second and third stages of labour, gestational age at birth, first and fifth‐minute Apgar score, umbilical cord pH, neonatal weight, height and head circumference (p > .05).

Conclusions

The meta‐analysis results suggested that prenatal exercise can reduce the frequency of caesarean section.
Effect of 5‐HT2C receptor gene polymorphism (HTR2C−759C/T) on metabolic adverse effects in Thai psychiatric patients treated with risperidone
Authors: Vanwong Natchaya , Puangpetch Apichaya , Unaharassamee Weerapon , Jiratjintana Napa , Na Nakorn Chalitpon , Hongkaew Yaowaluck , Sukasem Chonlaphat
Published: March 2021

Background

The use of Atypical antipsychotics (AAPs) is related to metabolic disturbances, which put psychiatric patients at risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Evidence is emerging of genetic risk factors. The HTR2C gene is an essential candidate in pharmacogenetic studies of antipsychotic‐induced metabolic effects. Nevertheless, there were inconsistent results among studies.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between ‐759C/T, functional polymorphism of the HTR2C gene and metabolic adverse effects in Thai psychiatric patients treated with risperidone monotherapy.

Method

In this cross‐sectional study, 108 psychiatric patients treated with risperidone monotherapy for ≥3 months were recruited. Anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests were obtained upon enrollment and history of treatment was reviewed from medical records. Weight gain was defined as an increase ≥7% of baseline weight. Metabolic syndrome was evaluated according to the 2005 International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Asia criteria. The ‐759C/T, polymorphism was genotyped. The associations between ‐759C/T polymorphism and metabolic side effects were analyzed. Multiple logistic regression was used for determining potential confounders.

Results

Neither weight gain nor metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with −759C/T allelic and genotype variants of HTR2C. However, T allele of ‐759C/T polymorphism significantly associated with the hypertension. This association was not affected by possible confounding factors such as gender, risperidone dose, duration of treatment and family history of hypertension.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that psychiatric patients with T allele of ‐759C/T polymorphism may be at higher risk for hypertension. Further study with prospective design with larger patient groups are needed.
Mitochondria‐Targeted Bovine Serum Albumin@Copper Sulfide Nanocomposites Conjugated with Rhodamine‐110 Dye for an Enhanced Efficacy of Cancer Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Tong Haibei , Gao Yan , Li Jialiang , Li Jiachen , Huang Di , Shi Jisen , Santos Hélder A. , Xia Bing
Published: March 2021

Recently, mitochondria‐targeted photothermal nanoagents demonstrated an improved therapeutic efficacy of cancer cells, compared with non‐targeting ones. Herein, copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticles are in situ synthesized via bovine serum albumin (BSA) templates to prepare photothermal BSA@CuS nanocomposites with high efficiency (42.0%) of photothermal conversion. Subsequently, rhodamine‐110 (R) molecules are covalently conjugated with BSA@CuS nanocomposites to construct mitochondria‐targeted R‐BSA@CuS nanocomposites, which still retained 22.8% of photothermal conversion efficiency. Furthermore, as‐prepared R‐BSA@CuS nanocomposites can be efficiently internalized by human breast cancer (MCF‐7) cells, and then specifically accumulated in their subcellular mitochondria, not lysosomes. Compared with non‐targeting BSA@CuS nanocomposites, these mitochondria‐targeted R‐BSA@CuS nanocomposites show a significant enhancement (***p < 0.001) of their anticancer efficacy under the same near‐infrared irradiation conditions, whose mechanism is further explored in details. Finally, these R‐BSA@CuS nanocomposites can succeed in penetrating in 3D multicellular tumor spheroids composed of MCF‐7 cells. And they also show a significant inhibition effect (**p < 0.01) on the growth of spheroids via photothermal therapy, in contrast to bare BSA@CuS nanocomposites under the same irradiation conditions. Therefore, these mitochondria‐targeted and photothermal R‐BSA@CuS nanocomposites have important potential applications on cancer photothermal therapy with an enhanced efficacy.
When adherence and inhalation technique matter: Difficult‐to‐control pediatric asthma in low‐ to middle‐income countries
Authors: Rodriguez‐Martinez Carlos E. , Sossa‐Briceño Monica P. , Sinha Ian P.
Published: March 2021

Despite relatively recent advances in our understanding of the physiopathology of asthma and the availability of highly effective controller medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), currently many pediatric patients fail to control their asthma, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Although some of these difficult‐to‐control asthmatic children have severe therapy‐resistant asthma, most of them experience poor asthma control due to various modifiable factors, among which poor adherence to inhaled controller therapy and inadequate inhaler technique are the most common. Although electronic monitoring devices have been considered to be essential tools in identifying patients with severe therapy‐resistant asthma, their high cost and low availability have currently limited their use in clinical practice. For these reasons, clinicians might consider using validated self‐reported questionnaires and the weight of inhaler canisters and as alternative and valid options for assessing adherence to inhaled controller therapy. Furthermore, clinicians might consider adopting validated instruments as an objective measurement of the adequacy of inhaler technique. Although recognizing poor adherence does not automatically lead to improved adherence, it is usually an essential first step in effectively targeting adherence behavior, especially if the reasons for low or erratic compliance are explored by means of non‐judgmental doctor‐patient communication. These recommendations could assist in overcoming our inability to have pediatric asthmatic patients use ICS and in avoiding escalating their controller therapy toward more expensive medications, eventually reaching the use biologics. Promoting the rational and cost‐effective use of asthma controller therapy could help to optimize the limited health resources in many LMICs.
Conformational diversity defines substrate specificity of thymidylate/uridylate kinase from Candida albicans
Authors: Sinha Kaustubh , Rule Gordon S.
Published: March 2021

Thymidylate kinase (TMK) from Candida albicans (CaTMK) contains a unique 15 residue insert, the CaLoop, that is not found on other TMKs. CaTMK is proficient at phosphorylating deoxyuridine monophosphate (dUMP), showing a rate 6‐fold higher than TMP. It has been shown that deletion of the CaLoop reduces the activity towards dUMP by 19‐fold, but has only a modest 4‐fold decrease in activity towards TMP. The molecular dynamics calculations presented here show that the increased activity towards dUMP is due to an increase in flexibility and correlated motions of the protein that allows the enzyme‐dUMP complex to more readily approach a catalytically competent state. Deletion of the CaLoop allows the dUMP‐enzyme complex to adopt catalytically non‐functional conformations. In contrast, TMP stabilizes the deletion such that it remains in a functional conformation that is similar to the conformation of the original enzyme.
Efficacy of nonfumigant nematicides against Meloidogyne javanica as affected by soil temperature under pasteurized and natural soil conditions
Authors: Bui Hung X , Desaeger Johan A
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Biotic and abiotic factors such as microbes and soil temperature can affect nematicide efficacy. Two experiments were conducted to test the effect of three soil temperatures on the efficacy of nonfumigant nematicides (fluopyram, fluensulfone, oxamyl and fluazaindolizine) against Meloidogyne javanica in pasteurized and natural soil in planta.

RESULTS

The results showed that all tested nematicides were more efficacious in pasteurized than in natural soil. Temperature affected the nematicides differently with no effect of soil temperature on oxamyl and fluazaindolizine, whereas fluopyram and fluensulfone had greater efficacy at higher soil temperatures.

CONCLUSION

Temperature effects were noted for some but not all nonfumigant nematicides. Fluopyram and fluensulfone were less effective when applied in cold soil, whereas oxamyl and fluazaindolizine were not affected by soil temperature. Although all nematicides resulted in almost complete control of M. javanica in pasteurized soil, this was not the case in natural soil, and much more root damage and nematode reproduction was noted in the latter. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Contact toxicity and biochemical impact of metaldehyde against the white garden snail Theba pisana (Müller, 1774)
Authors: Abobakr Yasser , Gad Amira F , Abou‐Elnasr Hamza S , Abdelgalil Gaber M , Hussein Hamdy I , Selim Shady
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Terrestrial snails are one of the most damaging threats to sustainable agriculture. Chemical control using molluscicides is the main approach used to combat these agricultural pests. Metaldehyde is the active ingredient in most snail control products in use. However, its toxicity indices and mode of action have scarcely been investigated. For the first time, we characterized the metaldehyde contact toxicity indices against the white garden snail Theba pisana. The biochemical impact of metaldehyde on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST) activities and the lipid peroxidation (LPO) level was investigated.

RESULTS

The median lethal dose (LD50) values at 24, 48 and 72 h of treatment were 11.33, 8.53, and 6.87 μg g−1 body weight (BW), respectively; while, the median lethal time (LT50) values were 88.16, 55.85, and 25.67 h when doses of 6, 8, and 12 μg g−1 BW were applied, respectively. In the snails treated with 2.83 and 5.67 μg g−1 BW (¼ and ½ LD50 at 24 h of treatment) and 2.13 and 4.27 μg g−1 BW (¼ and ½ LD50 at 48 h of treatment), higher AChE, GST, AST, ALT, and ALP activities as well as higher levels of LPO were observed compared with that of untreated snails.

CONCLUSION

Metaldehyde displayed dose‐ and time‐dependent contact toxicity. The biochemical results suggest that metaldehyde may have neurotoxic and cytotoxic actions in terrestrial snails. Application of metaldehyde in ways that could control pest snails and slugs and reduce its negative impact on the environment are discussed. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Properties and Structure of Modified Taro Starch: Comparison of Ultrasound and Malic Acid Treatments
Authors: Hu Aijun , Chen Xinli , Wang Wei , Li Li , Zhou Yu , Zhi Wenli , Zheng Jie
Published: March 2021

The properties and structure of native taro starch and three modified starches (ultrasonically modified starch, malic acid modified starch, and ultrasound‐malic acid modified starch) are compared and analyzed in this work. Experimental results demonstrate that ultrasound and malic acid change the properties and structure of taro starch. Compared with the native starch, the combination of ultrasound and malic acid (UM) leads to the decrease of the viscosity values and ΔH, as well as the improvement of swelling power, water holding capacity, and oil absorption rate. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) microgram shows that UM results in the damage and degradation of starch granules. Laser diffraction analysis indicates that native starch and modified starches all exhibit bimodal distribution, and ultrasound leads to the decrease of starch particle size, while malic acid results in the increase. The FT‐IR spectra suggest that UM changes the peak intensity and width of starch molecules and produces a new characteristic peak at 1741 cm−1. In conclusion, UM is effective for modifying starch, and it can promote the taro starch process.
Strategic drivers for the fourth industrial revolution
Authors: Lanteri Alessandro
Published: March 2021

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is an era characterized by turbulence and volatility that pushes businesses to make faster and more frequent strategic decisions, even as the rules of strategy are being rewritten. This article uses the methods of business research (inductive case studies) and foresight (drivers analysis) to investigate the drivers of strategic success for the 4IR. The result is a framework of six strategic drivers: Collaborative intelligence, Learning systems, Exponential technologies, Value facilitation, Ethical championship, and Responsive decision making. Business leaders should leverage these six drivers to make strategic decisions during the 4IR.
Surgical repair and subsequent stent placement following traumatic trans‐rectal urethral transection in a dog
Authors: Davila Claudia , Rozanski Elizabeth , Butty Emmanuelle Marie , Krucik David D. R. , Kudej Raymond K.
Published: March 2021

A one‐year‐old male castrated Australian Shepherd presented for rectal trauma after falling into bushes. A 10‐cm long segment of tissue protruded from the anus, and there were no other visible injuries. Abdominal radiographs showed intrapelvic and perirectal subcutaneous emphysema extending into fascial planes of the right hindlimb. Exploratory surgery was performed, and the tissue protruding out of the anus was identified as proximal urethra extending through a 6 cm longitudinal tear in the ventral rectal wall. Urethral debridement and anastomosis were performed, and the rectal wall repaired. A urinary catheter was in place for 5 days postoperatively. The patient had intermittent episodes of stranguria and pollakiuria and multi‐drug resistant urinary tract infection (Enterococcus faecium) cultured. A pelvic urethral stricture was diagnosed on contrast cystourethrogram, and a nitinol stent placed under fluoroscopic guidance. Sporadic haematuria was observed, which was resolving in a few months. Urethral stent placement provided successful long‐term outcome.