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Introduction: Chest wall reconstruction in children after large resection of tumors may be performed with rigid or soft materials. Cementoplasty is commonly used with the "Sandwich" method i.e. gore-tex meshes surrounding both faces of the cement., Hypothesis: Is antibiotic loaded single-side gore-tex "Tartine" methyl-methacrylate cementoplasty an interesting alternative to the double-side "sandwich" method for chest wall reconstruction?, Material and Methods: Consecutive patients who were treated from 2011 to 2023 in our hospital were included., Results: Among the ten children treated with a median 5.6 years follow-up, there were no surgical complications related to the reconstruction, loss of function, infections, post operative complications (versus 22.7% in meta-analysis encompassing the 50 rigid reconstructions reported worldwide) nor scoliosis (versus 25%). Three patients have an asymmetric chest wall appearance., Discussion: "Tartine" cementoplasty is a simple, low-cost technique for pediatric chest wall reconstruction. It is well tolerated and checks key demands for chest wall reconstructions., Level of Evidence: IV; retrospective case series., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)

Semi-dry desulfurization is an efficient means of SO 2 removal from the effluent gases from electrolysis cells in aluminum smelters. These gases are at low temperature and contain low concentrations of SO 2 , as opposed to thermal power plants. The removal is carried out by injecting powdered alkaline sorbent, hydrated lime (solid particles), into the SO 2 -containing gas (gas phase) in the presence of humidity. The reaction is controlled by the adsorption of SO 2 onto the surface of lime. This study involves the mathematical modelling of a lab-scale scrubber using a Lagrangian-Eulerian approach in order to analyze the desulfurization efficiency. The model was validated based on experimental data. A parametric study was carried out to investigate the effects of particle size, sorbent amount, and relative humidity (RH) on the desulfurization efficiency. The results show that the particle size is the most important parameter; as the particle size decreases, the desulfurization efficiency increases. However, using finer particles may increase the process cost. The loss in SO 2 capture efficiency due to the use of coarser particle size could be compensated by increasing the relative humidity (RH) of the gas, another key parameter of the process., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Duygu Kocaefe reports financial support was provided by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Rio Tinto. Duygu Kocaefe reports financial support was provided by Quebec Center for Aluminum Research and Development, Graymont. If there are other authors, they declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Doxorubicin (Dox) is among the most widely used cancer chemotherapeutic drugs. The clinical use of Dox is, however, limited due to its cardiotoxicity. Studies over the past several decades have suggested various mechanisms of Dox-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC). Among them are oxidative stress, topoisomerase inhibition, and mitochondrial damage. Several novel molecular targets and signaling pathways underlying DIC have emerged over the past few years. The most notable advances include discovery of ferroptosis as a major form of cell death in Dox cytotoxicity, and elucidation of the involvement of cardiogenetics and regulatory RNAs as well as multiple other targets in DIC. In this review, we discuss these advances, focusing on latest cutting-edge research discoveries from mechanistic studies reported in influential journals rather than surveying all research studies available in the literature., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

To review at 18 years-old the results of surgery and follow-up of children born in our hospital with unilateral cleft lip and palate (uCLP). They were operated at the time by the same surgeon, following the same primary surgical procedure (Malek)., Retrospective cohort study., Tertiary Children's Hospital., All children born with uCLP between 1996 and 2001 and operated in our hospital. Syndromic children were excluded., Results of the primary surgery, ear-nose-throat interventions, maxillo-facial surgery and final phonatory results., Seventy-nine files of children born with a cleft were reviewed: 34 were taken into consideration for uCLP: 15 right and 19 left. They were operated in two stages, following the inverse Malek procedure. Sixty per cent had a fistula. Eighty-eight percent had grommets. Ninety-seven percent had an alveolar graft at a median age of nine (5-10) and 22% underwent a Le Fort osteotomy. Seven percent were operated for a pharyngeal flap, 29% for a secondary lip surgery at a mean age of 12.8 and 29% for a late rhinoplasty at a mean age of 14.8 years. A median of 5.7 multidisciplinary consultations was realized with a median number of general anesthesia of 7.1 (4-13)., This retrospective study shows that the Malek procedure for children born with uCLP is related to a high risk of fistula but good long-term phonatory results. Twenty percent of children were operated for a Le Fort procedure and one-third for a secondary lip procedure and rhinoplasty., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Hyper-fidelity (HxF) depletion of pebble bed reactors (PBRs) is the capability to model depletion for every pebble while accounting for motion through the core. Previous HxF work demonstrated feasibility to deplete hundreds of thousands of stationary pebbles concurrently within reasonable timeframes. This work illustrates the second step towards HxF, coupling depletion with a discrete motion scheme. The model assumes an ordered bed with pebbles occupying fixed positions. Motion is simplified as discrete since pebbles move in straight lines from one set position to another. The methodology was implemented in Serpent 2, combined with its transport and depletion capabilities. Ad-hoc routines were developed ensuring compatibility with domain decomposition and pebble recirculation after each pass based on discharge criteria and fresh pebble insertion. Capabilities of HxF with discrete motion are demonstrated using a full-scale high-temperature gas-cooled reactor model. Specifically, an approach to equilibrium is performed, and example results are shown for in-core and discarded pebbles. The data illustrates how HxF provides unique insights into PBR fuel, producing information on statistical distributions rather than average values only, as obtained by traditional methods that rely on spectral zoning for depletion. Knowledge of these distributions can greatly improve analysis and assessment of PBRs., (© 2023. Springer Nature Limited.)

Background: Metformin is among the most frequently prescribed antidiabetic drugs worldwide and remains the first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes due to its well-established glucose-lowering efficacy and favorable safety profile., Summary: Studies over the past decades show that metformin also exerts many other beneficial effects independent of its glucose-lowering effect both in experimental models and human subjects. Among them, the most notable is its cardiovascular protective effect. In this review, we discuss the latest cutting-edge research findings on metformin's cardiovascular protection from both preclinical studies and randomized clinical trials. We focus on describing novel basic research discoveries reported in influential journals and discussing their implications in the context of latest clinical trial findings related to common cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, including atherosclerosis and dyslipidemia, myocardial injury, and heart failure., Key Messages: While substantial preclinical and clinical evidence suggests metformin as a potential cardiovascular protectant, large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to establish its clinical efficacy in treating patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and heart failure., (© 2023 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Previously, we reported that 3H-1,2-dithiole-3-thione (D3T), an Nrf2 activator, acted as a potential chemoprotectant against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mortality in mice. In view of the critical involvement of macrophages in the pathogenesis of LPS-induced endotoxemia, in the present study, we investigated the protective effects of D3T on LPS-induced proinflammatory responses in cultured murine RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line and primary peritoneal macrophages and the potential involvement of antioxidant induction, NF-κB, and Nrf2. We showed that treatment with D3T resulted in increased levels of a series of antioxidants in RAW 264.7 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. These included the reduced form of glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase, and NADPH:quinone oxidoreductase 1. Catalase was also potently induced by D3T which, however, did not show a concentration dependency. Concurrent with the ability to induce the above cellular antioxidants, D3T pretreatment of RAW 264.7 cells also led to a concentration-dependent suppression of LPS-induced interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) production and nitric oxide release. LPS-stimulated tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) production was also suppressed by D3T, but to a much lesser extent. Using NF-κB reporter gene-expressing RAW 264.7 cells, we further showed that D3T pretreatment also suppressed LPS-induced NF-κB activation. To investigate the potential involvement of Nrf2, a chief regulator of cellular antioxidant genes, we used peritoneal macrophages isolated from Nrf2 +/+ and Nrf2 -/- mice. Our results showed that D3T pretreatment suppressed LPS-induced proinflammatory responses in Nrf2 +/+ macrophages, and this inhibitory effect of D3T was completely lost in Nrf2 -/- macrophages. Collectively, the results of the present study demonstrated that D3T acted as a potent suppressor of LPS-induced proinflammatory responses in macrophages. Antioxidant induction, NF-κB suppression, and Nrf2 activation appeared to contribute to the anti-proinflammatory activity of D3T in macrophages., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Purpose: Inferior vena cava (IVC) agenesis is an uncommon congenital vascular anomaly stemming from aberrant development during embryogenesis. It results from the failure of one or more of the supracardinal veins, subcardinal veins, vitelline veins or postcardinal veins to connect. The symptomatology resulting from this vascular malformation can be either absent or extremely rich and varied., Methods: Thoracoabdominal-pelvic CT scan projections following iodine-based contrast product injection were analyzed and a three-dimensional model of vascularization constructed., Results: Herein, an asymptomatic case of IVC agenesis with absence of the suprarenal and renal segments, with azygos continuation, presenting an accessory hepatorenal vein is reported. The presence of this type of accessory vein has never been described in the literature to date. The etiology of this case of IVC agenesis is explored in depth. We also analyzed the morphometric parameters of the IVC remnant segments and the azygos vein in order to quantify the dilatation of the collateral venous pathway overdeveloped to handle blood return., Conclusion: Using the findings from this case and those reported in the literature, we provide general recommendations that should be taken into account before managing a patient, symptomatic or asymptomatic, admitted to the hospital with IVC agenesis., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Cerium oxide nanoparticles, also known as nanoceria, possess antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities in animal models of inflammatory disorders, such as sepsis. However, it remains unclear how nanoceria affect cellular superoxide fluxes in macrophages, a critical type of cells involved in inflammatory disorders. Using human ML-1 cell-derived macrophages, we showed that nanoceria at 1-100 μg/ml potently reduced superoxide flux from the mitochondrial electron transport chain (METC) in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects of nanoceria were also shown in succinate-driven mitochondria isolated from the macrophages. Furthermore, nanoceria markedly mitigated the total intracellular superoxide flux in the macrophages. These data suggest that nanoceria could readily cross the plasma membrane and enter the mitochondrial compartment, reducing intracellular superoxide fluxes in unstimulated macrophages. In macrophages undergoing respiratory burst, nanoceria also strongly reduced superoxide flux from the activated macrophage plasma membrane NADPH oxidase (NOX) in a concentration-dependent manner. Token together, the results of the present study demonstrate that nanoceria can effectively diminish superoxide fluxes from both METC and NOX in human macrophages, which may have important implications for nanoceria-mediated protection against inflammatory disease processes., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid or ascorbate, is a water-soluble vitamin synthesized in plants as well as in animals except humans and several other animal species. Humans obtain vitamin C from dietary sources and via vitamin supplementation. Vitamin C possesses important biological functions, including serving as a cofactor for many enzymes, acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, and participating in regulating stem cell biology and epigenetics. The multifunctional nature of vitamin C contributes to its essentialness in maintaining and safeguarding physiological homeostasis, especially regulation of immunity and inflammatory responses. In this context, vitamin C has been investigated for its efficacy in treating diverse inflammatory disorders, including sepsis, one of the major causes of death globally and for which currently there is no cure. Accordingly, this Mini-Review surveys recent major research findings on the effectiveness of vitamin C and the underling molecular mechanisms in sepsis intervention in both experimental animal models and randomized controlled trials. To set a stage for discussing the effects and mechanisms of vitamin C in sepsis intervention, this Mini-Review begins with an overview of vitamin C redox biochemistry and its multifunctional properties., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Introduction: Given the high variability and fragility of the thoracic duct, good knowledge of its anatomy is essential for its repair or to prevent iatrogenic postoperative chylothorax. The objective of this study was to define a site where the thoracic duct is consistently found for its ligation. The second objective was to define an anatomically safe surgical pathway to prevent iatrogenic chylothorax in surgery for aortic arch anomalies with vascular ring, through better knowledge of the anatomical relationships of the thoracic duct., Methods: Seventy adult formalin-fixed cadavers were dissected. The anatomical relationships of the thoracic duct were reported at the postero-inferior mediastinum, at levels T3 and T4., Results: The thoracic duct was consistently situated between the left anterolateral border of the azygos vein and the right border of the aorta between levels T9 and T10, whether it was simple, double, or plexiform. It was located medially, anteromedially, or posteriorly to the left subclavian artery in 51%, 21%, and 28% of the cases, respectively, at the level of T3. At T4, it was posteromedial in 27% of the cases or had no direct relationship with the aortic arch., Conclusion: These results favor mass ligation of the thoracic duct at levels T9-T10 between the right border of the aorta and the azygos vein, eventually including the latter. To prevent iatrogenic postoperative chylothorax in aortic arch anomalies with vascular ring surgery, we recommend remaining strictly lateral to the left subclavian artery at the level of T3 to reach the aortic arch anomalies with vascular ring at T4., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

Small mammal populations can be affected by habitat degradation, causing changes in their abundance, density and movement. Akodon montensis , a persistent host for Orthohantavirus , is a common rodent species in primary and secondary forest habitats and is considered a generalist species. This paper analyzes how habitat degradation and resource availability affect the population characteristics of the species. Six plots were classified into three levels of degradation, with sampling conducted in June and November 2015. After the June sampling, three plots were selected for the increase of food resources for three months, to assess how this factor affects the population. Abundance was estimated with the capture-mark-recapture method and density was estimated by dividing abundance by the effective sampling area. Home range was calculated using the Minimum Convex Polygon method, and the Maximum Distance Traveled as the longest average movement between two sampling stations where an individual was encountered. More degraded habitats supported lower average density and abundance of A. montensis compared to less degraded habitats. Increasing food availability led to increases in abundance in the more degraded habitats and decreases in the least degraded. Changes in home range were most evident, decreasing in the least degraded plots after the increase in resources. The sex ratio did not differ from equity in any plot, nor with respect to any of the factors studied. Population characteristics of the species are determined by several factors, including habitat quality and food distribution and abundance. If changes occur in these factors (either artificially or naturally) then movement, abundance and population density are affected in response to such changes. Although some results were not statistically significant, an apparent interaction was observed between habitat quality and resource availability, thereby influencing the abundance and density of A. montensis .

Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared.

Epidemiological studies have exhibited a strong correlation between exposure to air pollution and deaths due to vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. Benzo-a-pyrene-1,6-quinone (BP-1,6-Q) is one of the components of air pollution . This study was to examine the role of GSH in BP-1,6-Q mediated cytotoxicity in human EA.hy96 endothelial cells and demonstrated that induction of cellular glutathione by a potent triterpenoid, CDDO-Im (1-[2-cyano-3-,12-dioxooleana-1,9(11)-dien-28-oyl]imidazole), protects cells against BP-1,6-Q induced protein and lipid damage. Incubation of EA.hy926 endothelial cells with BP-1,6-Q caused a significant increase in dose-dependent cytotoxicity as measured by LDH release assay and both apoptotic and necrotic cell deaths as measured by flow cytometric analysis. Incubation of EA.hy926 endothelial cells with BP-1,6-Q also caused a significant decrease in cellular GSH levels. The diminishment of cellular GSH by buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) potentiated BP-1,6-Q-induced toxicity significantly suggesting a critical involvement of GSH in BP-1,6-Q induced cellular toxicity. GSH-induction by CDDO-Im significantly protects cells against BP-1,6-Q induced protein and lipid damage as measured by protein carbonyl (PC) assay and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay, respectively. However, the co-treatment of cells with CDDO-Im and BSO reversed the cytoprotective effect of CDDO-Im on BP-1,6-Q-mediated lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. These results suggest that induction of GSH by CDDO-Im might be the important cellular defense against BP-1,6-Q induced protein and lipid damage. These findings would contribute to better understand the action of BP-1,6-Q and may help to develop novel therapies to protect against BP-1,6-Q-induced atherogenesis.

Introduction: Von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) is a syndrome of familial predisposition to the development of malignant and benign tumours, due to mutations in the VHL tumour suppressor gene. Pheochromocytoma is a tumour that develops in the adrenal gland, rare in pediatric age, and may be associated with genetic abnormalities including mutations in the VHL gene. Systematic screening of pheochromocytoma in children carrying a VHL mutation has been proposed. However, some VHL patients who have been screened may develop symptoms associated with pheochromocytoma despite screening. Here, we report on such a case., Clinical Case: A 13-year-old boy, known to be a carrier of a mutation of the VHL gene, undergoing annual screening, was admitted to our hospital for clinical symptoms related to a right adrenal pheochromocytoma discovered on abdominal imaging. After hemodynamic stabilisation, the pheochromocytoma was surgically resected. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The postoperative care was simple. The event-free period is currently 2 years., Discussion: The present case has led us to reflect on the French and international screening strategies for pheochromocytoma in children carrying a mutation of the VHL gene. Between 2013 and 2018, six different recommendations were proposed for pheochromocytoma screening in secondary prevention for children with a VHL mutation, with variability regarding the age of onset and complementary examinations to be carried out. Despite the existence of these recommendations, our case demonstrates that a pheochromocytoma can develop by escaping well-performed screening. The role of early abdominal imaging should be redefined to improve the efficiency of screening., Conclusion: The discovery of a pheochromocytoma in a child must be systematically investigated for an underlying genetic cause. In the particular case of children carrying a mutation of the VHL gene, annual abdominal imaging should be included in the pheochromocytoma screening protocol from the age of 5 years., (Copyright © 2020 French Society of Pediatrics. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Peroxiredoxin (Prx) refers to a family of thiol-dependent peroxidases that decompose hydrogen peroxide, lipid hydroperoxides, as well as peroxynitrite, and protect against oxidative and inflammatory stress. There are six mammalian Prx isozymes (Prx1-6), classified as typical 2-Cys, atypical 2-Cys, or 1-Cys Prxs based on the mechanism and the number of cysteine residues involved during catalysis. In addition to their well-established peroxide-scavenging activity, some Prxs also participate in the regulation of various cell signaling pathways. Extensive animal studies employing primarily gene knockout models provide substantial evidence supporting a critical protective role of Prxs in various disease processes involving oxidative and inflammatory stress. This review surveys recent research findings, published primarily in influential journals, on the involvement of various Prx isozymes in protecting against cardiovascular injury and related disorders, including diabetes, metabolic syndromes, and sepsis, whose pathophysiology all intimately involves oxidative stress and inflammation.

Numerous studies conducted in the past have reported deaths in the human population due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) on exposure to air particulate matter (APM). BP-1,6-quinone (BP-1,6-Q) is one of the significant components of APM. However, the mechanism(s) by which it can exert its toxicity in endothelial cells is not yet completely understood. NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) is expressed highly in myocardium and vasculature tissues of the heart and plays a vital role in maintaining vascular homeostasis. This study, demonstrated that BP-1,6-Q diminishes NQO1 enzyme activity in a dose-dependent manner in human EA.hy926 endothelial cells. The decrease in the NQO1 enzyme causes potentiation in BP-1,6-Q-mediated toxicity in EA.hy926 endothelial cells. The enhancement of NQO1 in endothelial cells showed cytoprotection against BP-1,6-Q-induced cellular toxicity, lipid, and protein damage suggesting an essential role of NQO1 in cytoprotection against BP-1,6-Q toxicity. Using various biochemical assays and genetic approaches, results from this study further demonstrated that NQO1 also plays a crucial role in BP-1,6-Q-induced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These findings will contribute to elucidating BP-1,6-Q mediated toxicity and its role in the development of atherosclerosis., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None. Declaration of Competing Interest None declared., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

During phonation, human vocal fold tissues are subjected to combined tension, compression and shear loading modes from small to large finite strains. Their mechanical behaviour is however still not well understood. Herein, we complete the existing mechanical database of these soft tissues, by characterising, for the first time, the cyclic and finite strains behaviour of the lamina propria and vocalis layers under these loading modes. To minimise the inter or intra-individual variability, particular attention was paid to subject each tissue sample successively to the three loadings. A non-linear mechanical behaviour is observed for all loading modes: a J-shape strain stiffening in longitudinal tension and transverse compression, albeit far less pronounced in shear, stress accommodation and stress hysteresis whatever the loading mode. In addition, recorded stress levels during longitudinal tension are much higher for the lamina propria than for the vocalis. Conversely, the responses of the lamina propria and the vocalis in transverse compression as well as transverse and longitudinal shears are of the same orders of magnitude. We also highlight the strain rate sensitivity of the tissues, as well as their anisotropic properties., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

In large congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDHs), direct suture of the diaphragm is impossible. Surgeons can use a triangular internal oblique muscle (IOM) plus transverse abdominis muscle (TAM) flap. Its caudal limit faces the medial extremity of the 11th rib. Clinical studies show that the flap is not hypotonic but that the procedure could expose patients already presenting a hypoplastic lung to external oblique muscle (EOM) hypotonia. The aims of this study were to study EOM innervation by the 10th intercostal nerve (ICN) and ICN innervation to the IOM and TAM. Forty cadaveric abdominal hemi-walls were dissected. The number of branches and the trajectory of each specimen's 10th ICN were studied medially to the medial extremity of the 11th rib (MEK11) using surgical goggles and a microscope (Carl Zeiss®). The 10th ICN was consistently found between the IOM and TAM. There was a median of nine branches from the 10th ICN to the EOM, 77% of them medial to the MEK11. Median values of nine and 12 branches for the IOM and TAM were found, 60% and 51%, respectively, medial to the MEK11. These results argue in favor of good innervation to the IOM plus TAM flap but also indicate postoperative abdominal weakness exposing patients to herniation risks, as more than 75% of the branches from the 10th ICN to the EOM were sectioned or pulled away during flap detachment. Clin. Anat., 33:759-766, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Strong epidemiological evidence supports the association between increased air pollution and the risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, the mechanism remains unclear. As an environmental air pollutant and benzo-a-pyrene (BP) metabolite, BP-1,6-quinone (BP-1,6-Q) is present in the particulate phase of air pollution. This study was undertaken to examine the redox activity of BP-1,6-Q and mechanisms associated with it using EA.hy926 endothelial cells. BP-1,6-Q at 0.01-1 μM significantly stimulated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)·in intact cells and isolated mitochondria. Furthermore, BP-1,6-Q-induced ROS was altered by mitochondrial electron transport chain (METC) inhibitors of complex I (rotenone) and complex III (antimycin A), denoting the involvement of mitochondrial electron transport chain (METC) in BP-1,6-Q mediated ROS production. In METC deficient cells, interestingly, BP-1,6-Q-mediated ROS production was enhanced, suggesting that overproduction of ROS by BP-1,6-Q is not only produced from mitochondria but can also be from the cell outside of mitochondria (extramitochondrial). BP-1,6-Q also triggered endothelial-monocyte interaction and stimulated expression of vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1). In conclusion, these results demonstrate that BP-1,6-Q can generate ROS within both mitochondria and outside of mitochondria, resulting in stimulation of adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells, a key event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

X-ray Phase Contrast Imaging (PCI) is an emerging modality whose availability in clinics for mammography and lung imaging is expected to materialize within the coming years. In this study, we evaluate the PCI Computed Tomography (PCI-CT) performances with respect to current conventional imaging modalities in the context of osteo-articular disorders diagnosis. X-ray PCI-CT was performed on 3 cadaveric human hands and wrists using a synchrotron beam. Conventional CT, MRI and Ultrasound were also performed on these three samples using routine procedures as well as research protocols. Six radiologists and rheumatologists independently evaluated qualitatively and semi quantitatively the 3D images' quality. Medical interpretations were also made from the images. PCI-CT allows the simultaneous visualization of both the high absorbing and the softer tissues. The 6 reader evaluations characterized PCI-CT as a visualization tool with improved performances for all tissue types (significant p-values), which provides sharper outlines and clearer internal structures than images obtained using conventional modalities. The PCI-CT images contain overall more information, especially at smaller scales with for instance more visible micro-calcifications in our chondrocalcinosis case. Despite a reduced number of samples used, this pilot study highlights the possible medical benefits of PCI for osteo-articular disorders evaluation. Although PCI-CT is not yet available in hospitals, the improved visualization capabilities demonstrated so far and the enhanced tissue measurement quality let suggest strong diagnosis benefits for rheumatology in case of a widespread application of PCI.

Background: Although it is well documented that bloodborne viruses (BBVs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) have been transmitted from patients to healthcare workers (HCWs), there has also been reported transmission from HCWs to patients during the provision of health care. With remarkable progress in infection prevention, diagnosis tools, treatment regimens and major improvements in guideline development methodology, there was a need to develop an evidence-based guideline to replace the 1998 Canadian consensus document for managing HCWs infected with BBVs., Purpose: This article summarizes the Canadian Guideline on the Prevention of Transmission of Bloodborne Viruses from Infected Healthcare Workers in Healthcare Settings ., Methods: A Guideline Development Task Group was established and key questions developed to inform the guideline content. Systematic reviews were conducted to evaluate the risk of HCW-to-patient transmission of HIV, HCV and HBV. Environmental scans were used to provide information on Expert Review Panels, disclosure of a HCW's serologic status and lookback investigations. Federal, provincial and territorial partners and key stakeholder organizations were consulted on the Guideline., Results: The risk of HCW-to-patient BBV transmission was found to be negligible, except during exposure-prone procedures, where there is a risk that injury to the HCW may result in exposure of a patient's open tissues to the HCW's blood. Risk of ensuing transmission and the rate of transmission varied by BBV, and were lowest with HIV and highest with HBV. The Guideline provides key content, including recommendations regarding criteria to determine if a procedure is an exposure-prone procedure, management of HCWs infected with a BBV, including considerations for the HCW's fitness for practice, Expert Review Panels, HCW disclosure obligations and right to privacy and lookback investigations., Conclusion: This new Guideline provides a pan-Canadian approach for managing HCWs infected with a BBV, with recommendations related to preventing HCW-to-patient transmission of BBVs during the provision of care., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: None.

Through the history of modern medicine, bioactive components in natural products have been either employed directly as medicines or used as prototypes for synthetic drug development. This brief Research Highlights paper considers 3 H -1,2-dithiole-3-thione (D3T), a member of the 1,2-dithiole-3-thiones-compounds which may naturally occur in cruciferous vegetables. Among 1,2-dithiole-3-thiones, D3T is the most potent member with regard to the capacity of inducing tissue defenses against oxidative and inflammatory stress. Oxidative and inflammatory stress is a major pathophysiological process involved in numerous human disorders, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration, and sepsis, to name just a few. This article surveys recent major research findings on D3T as an inducer of tissue antioxidative and antiinflammatory defenses and as a potential therapeutic modality for sepsis intervention.

While it is well known that bacterial infection is the predominant cause of sepsis, the molecular pathophysiology of this clinical syndrome remains ill-defined. In this Research Highlights article, we discuss the recent research findings regarding a protective role for glutathione peroxidase-4 (GPx4) in bacterial infection and polymicrobial sepsis via modulating ferroptosis and pyroptosis, two novel modes of regulated cell death. It is suggested that GPx4, being a requisite gateway to both ferroptosis and pyroptosis, may serve as a critical molecular target for developing effective drugs for controlling infection and sepsis.

Background: There is no demonstrated benefit of high-tie versus low-tie vascular transections in low rectal cancer surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of high tie and low tie of the inferior mesenteric artery on colonic length., Methods: This study was conducted in a surgical anatomy research laboratory. Anatomical dissections were performed on 11 human cadavers. We performed full left colonic mobilization, section of the descending-sigmoid junction, and high and low ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery. Distance from the proximal colon limb to the lower edge of the pubis symphysis was recorded after each step of vascular division. Three measurements were successively performed: before vascular section, after inferior mesenteric artery ligation, and after inferior mesenteric artery and vein section., Results: Before vascular section, the mean distance between colonic end and lower edge of the symphysis pubis was - 1.9 ± 3.5 cm. After combined artery and vein section, the mean distance was + 10.7 ± 4.6 cm for high tie and + 1.5 ± 3 cm for low tie. A limitation of this study is the use of embalmed anatomical specimens, rather than live patients, and the small number of specimens. This study also does not evaluate colon limb vascularization or the impact of proximal lymph node dissection on survival rates., Conclusions: High tie of the inferior mesenteric artery at its aortic origin allows a gain of extra length of about 9 cm over low tie.

Purpose: The pain involved in the herniated discs could be generated by some mobility of the nerve roots during straight leg raising (SLR). SLR produces some movement of nerves, but the magnitude of this displacement needs to be thorough, that is why we have investigated lumbo-sacral nerve root displacement in the spinal canal during the passive straight leg raise (SLR)., Methods: Fourteen cadavers underwent laminectomy to mark the nerve roots of L2-S1 with lead balls. X-rays were taken during different movements imposed on the body: bilateral hip extension, left SLR then right and bilateral SLR. By superimposing these images two by two, the displacement of the nerve roots is quantified numerically during the various SLR maneuvers with respect to the reference position corresponding to the bilateral hip extension., Results: The median range of the different nerve root movements ranged from 0.10 to 0.51 cm (p < 0.05 except for the L2 root) when the left SLR is applied, from 0.26 to 0.48 cm (p < 0.05) with the right SLR and from 0.30 to 0.65 cm (p < 0.05) with a bilateral SLR. No statistically significant relationship was found between age and movement value., Conclusions: The lumbo-sacral nerve roots in the spinal canal region move statistically significantly in response to the clinically applied SLR test, except for L2 root during the left SLR. This movement is symmetric and greater when a bilateral SLR is applied. These anatomical results are correlated with those observed empirically in clinical practice.

Our early work suggested that graphene quantum dots (GQDs) block Cu(II)/Cu(I) redox cycle in biological systems. Here we report that GQDs could also potently protect against copper redox-mediated oxidative DNA damage. Using Cu(II)/hydrogen peroxide, Cu(II)/hydroquinone, and Cu(II)/ascorbic acid as three biologically relevant systems for inducing oxidative DNA damage, we demonstrated that GQDs protected against the above system-induced DNA strand breaks in ϕx-174 plasmid DNA in a concentration-dependent manner. Notably, a significant protection was observed with GQDs at 1 μg/ml, and a nearly complete protection was shown with 10 and 100 μg/ml of GQDs. Using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometry in conjunction with α-(4-pyridyl-1-oxide)- N -tert-butylnitrone (POBN)-spin trapping, we showed that the above three systems generated hydroxyl radicals, as evidenced by the formation of a POBN-CH 3 radical adduct in the presence of 0.5 M dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Consistent with the protective effects of GQDs on DNA damage, the hydroxyl radical formation was markedly reduced in the presence of GQDs in a concentration dependent manner. A nearly complete blockage of the hydroxyl radical generation was seen with GQDs at 10 and 100 μg/ml. Taken together, our results showed that GQDs potently protected against oxidative DNA damage. Considering the critical role of copper in cancer development, our findings might have important implications for cancer intervention with GQD-based nanotech modality.

Aims: The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic treatment of primary obstructive megaureter in children, and to assess its long-term outcome., Methods: Case files of 35 children who had endoscopic treatment of symptomatic primary obstructive megaureter between 2006 and 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. All children had ureterovesical junction dilatation with one or more ureteral dilators, and insertion of a JJ stent. An analysis of the case files and a comparison between pre- and postoperative ultrasound and scintigraphy findings were performed., Results: The study population consisted of 22 boys and 13 girls aged between 2 months and 16 years. The follow-up period ranged from 8 months to 10 years. Twenty-one children (60%) were under 2 years at the time of treatment. The average duration of JJ stenting was 7 weeks (3-16 weeks). Thirty-four of 35 children (97%) were considered definitively cured, that is, asymptomatic with preserved renal function. Two children required open surgery for a failed endoscopic treatment procedure. Secondary reimplantation surgery was only necessary in one case (1/35) after technically satisfactory endoscopic treatment. Twelve of 35 children had a complication, including two Clavien III complications. Comparison of pre- and postoperative ultrasonography showed a significant decrease in ureteral diameter in 31 cases. Postoperative scintigraphy showed a significant improvement in the ureteral leaking curve in 20 children., Conclusion: In our experience, endoscopic treatment of congenital obstructive megaureter in pediatrics seems to be safe and effective. It is proposed as a first-line treatment for children requiring an intervention, even for young children under 2 years., (Copyright © 2018 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Human vocal folds possess outstanding abilities to endure large, reversible deformations and to vibrate up to more than thousand cycles per second. This unique performance mainly results from their complex specific 3D and multiscale structure, which is very difficult to investigate experimentally and still presents challenges using either confocal microscopy, MRI or X-ray microtomography in absorption mode. To circumvent these difficulties, we used high-resolution synchrotron X-ray microtomography with phase retrieval and report the first ex vivo 3D images of human vocal-fold tissues at multiple scales. Various relevant descriptors of structure were extracted from the images: geometry of vocal folds at rest or in a stretched phonatory-like position, shape and size of their layered fibrous architectures, orientation, shape and size of the muscle fibres as well as the set of collagen and elastin fibre bundles constituting these layers. The developed methodology opens a promising insight into voice biomechanics, which will allow further assessment of the micromechanics of the vocal folds and their vibratory properties. This will then provide valuable guidelines for the design of new mimetic biomaterials for the next generation of artificial larynges.

In this work, we investigated the effects of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) on copper redox-mediated free radical generation and cell injury. Using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometry in conjunction with 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N -oxide (DMPO) as a spin trap, we found that GQDs at a concentration as low as 1 μg/ml significantly inhibited Cu(II)/H 2 O 2 -mediated hydroxyl radical formation. GQDs also blocked Cu(II)-catalyzed nucleophilic addition of H 2 O to DMPO to form a DMPO-OH adduct in the absence of H 2 O 2 , suggesting a potential for GQDs to inhibit copper redox activity. Indeed, we observed that the presence of GQDs prevented H 2 O 2 -mediated reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) though GQDs themselves also caused the reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I). To further investigate the effects of GQDs on copper redox activity, we employed the Cu(II)/hydroquinone system in which copper redox activity plays an essential role in the oxidation of hydroquinone to semiquinone radicals with consequent oxygen consumption. Using oxygen polarography as well as EPR spectrometry, we demonstrated that the presence of GQDs drastically blocked the oxygen consumption and semiquinone radical formation resulting from the reaction of Cu(II) and hydroquinone. These results suggested that GQDs suppressed free radical formation via inhibiting copper redox activity. Lastly, using cultured human cardiomyocytes, we demonstrated that the presence of GQDs also protected against Cu(II)/H 2 O 2 -mediated cardiac cell injury as indicated by morphological changes (e.g., cell shrinkage and degeneration). In conclusion, our work shows, for the first time, the potential for using GQDs to counteract copper redox-mediated biological damage.

Background: To evaluate the management and long-term renal function with DMSA scintigraphy in pediatric severe traumatic kidney injury grade IV and V at the trauma center of Grenoble Teaching Hospital., Methods: This is a single-center observational retrospective study between 2004 and 2014. All children younger than 15 years and managed at the Grenoble teaching Hospital for a severe trauma kidney injury grade IV or V were included. The trauma grade was radiologically diagnosed on arrival at hospital, using the classification of the American Association for Surgery of Trauma. The management followed the algorithm in effect in the establishment. The assessment of the renal function was performed by a DMSA scintigraphy after at least 6 months from the injury., Results: Twenty-one children were managed for a severe renal trauma (16 IV and 5 V). The diagnosis was initially made by an ultrasonography (eight cases) or a computed tomography scan (13 cases). A child with a severe renal trauma IV underwent nephrectomy on day 6 of the trauma. Eleven children needed a therapeutic procedure (three embolizations, four double J stents, one arterial stent, one peritoneal lavage for a splenic hemoperitoneum, four pleural drainages). A DMSA scintigraphy was performed in 15 patients to assess the function of the injured kidney: 11 of 16 severe renal trauma IV with an average of 39.4%, and 17% in 4 of 5 severe renal trauma V analyzed., Conclusion: Among the 21 children managed for a severe kidney trauma injury IV or V, 11 required a therapeutic procedure, one of them a nephrectomy. The DMSA scintigraphy performed after at least 6 months from the trauma found an injured renal function at 39.4% in 11 of 16 severe renal trauma IV analyzed, and 17% in 4 of 5 severe renal trauma V analyzed, which confirms the currently conservative management., Level of Evidence: Type of study: original article, retrospective observational study, level IV.

Introduction: A key concern regarding laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (LP) lies with the process of learning this skill. The learning processes for open pyloromyotomy and LP appear to be different, with an earlier increased risk of perforation or incomplete pyloromyotomy (IP) for LP. Our aim was to develop a simple simulation tool to reduce these specific complications., Materials and Methods: A model of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis was created and inserted into a pediatric laparoscopic surgery simulator. A cohort of experts completed a six-item questionnaire, using a 4-point scale regarding the model's realistic nature and accuracy. Evaluation of the LP procedure was based on a dedicated Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills score. Surgical residents and students were enrolled for the final evaluation to assess the relative performance of trainees who had practiced with this model (Group 1) versus those who had observed its use (Group 2)., Results: Reproducibility of the model construction was considered to be satisfactory. The experts agreed that the model accurately simulated essential components of LP (mean 3.03 ± 0.7). They scored significantly better than the residents (27.2 ± 1.8 versus 22.8 ± 2.9; P < .001), with a lower rate of complications. Group 1 (39 trainees) performed significantly better than Group 2 (26 trainees), with a significant decrease in the risk of an IP (P < .05)., Conclusions: This model appears to be sufficiently accurate to teach LP. In light of this, it can be considered to be an efficient tool for LP simulation teaching in our fellows' educational program.

Purpose: To explore (i) reasons for upper limb orthosis prescription for children with cerebral palsy (CP), (ii) the link between reason and effect according to intended outcome and outcome measure utilized and (iii) to classify the prescribed orthoses using standard terminology., Method: A prospectively registered (center for reviews and dissemination: 42015022067) systematic review searched for experimental and observational studies investigating rigid/thermoplastic upper limb orthotic intervention for children aged 0-18 with CP. The Cochrane central register, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases were searched. Included studies were assessed for risk of bias., Results: Sixteen studies met selection criteria. Two studies described a specific reason for orthosis prescription, six prescribed orthoses to manage a clinical symptom and eight did not describe a reason. Eight studies were analyzed for effect according to intended outcome with no clear connection found between reasons for prescription, outcome measures utilized and effect reported., Interpretation: The lack of evidence for upper limb orthotic intervention for children with CP leads to uncertainty when considering this treatment modality. Future research is needed to evaluate the effect of orthosis wear in relation to intended outcome utilizing robust methods and valid and reliable outcome measures. Implications for rehabilitation: Insufficient evidence exists about the reason for prescription of upper limb orthoses. The connection between reason for orthosis prescription, intended outcome, outcome measure utilized and observed effect is unclear. Recommend orthosis prescription to be accompanied by clear documentation of the aim of the orthosis and description using orthosis classification system terminology. Outcome measures consistent with the reason for orthosis prescription and intended outcome of the intervention are essential to measure effectiveness of the intervention.

Purpose: The anatomy of gubernaculum testis (GT) is often discussed; however, the postnatal anatomy of the GT or scrotal ligament (SL) is rarely described. Hence, we performed an anatomical and histological study to analyze histologically the structures between testis and scrotum., Methods: We performed anatomical dissections on 25 human fresh cadavers' testes. Each testis was removed with its envelopes and macroscopically analyzed. Then samples were included for histological study. Finally, they were analyzed under microscope, looking for attachments between testis, epididymis and scrotal envelopes., Results: The absence of proximal and distal attachment was found in 56.0% of cases. Looking at the proximal attachment of the SL, the main one found is the epididymal attachment (28.0%), whereas no cases of testis attachment was found. Distally, there are more variations with scrotal attachment (12%) and cremaster attachment (12.0%). We found a significant prevalence of multiple adherences in 16.0% of cases too. Finally, in 15 cases (57.7%) an attachment is present between testis and epididymis, as it is commonly described., Conclusions: In the majority of cases there is no attachment of the lower pole of the testis and epididymis and these structures remain free. So it seems that the SL disappears with aging. Moreover, there is not only one kind of ligamentous attachment, but a high variability of attachments at the lower pole of the testiculo-epididymal structure. When it exists, this structure is never a real ligament and it seems more appropriate to use the term "attachments".

In vivo imaging of cancer cell growth and invasion is instrumental in studying cancer cell behavior and in developing effective anticancer agents. In this ROS Protocols article, we report the experimental protocol and steps involving the implantation of luciferase-expressing Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells in normal syngeneic C57BL/6 mice. Using the Berthold NightOwl LB981 in vivo imaging system, we observe the time-dependent growth and invasion of the lung cancer cells following subcutaneous injection of luciferase-expressing LLC cells. The three-dimensional image and counts of photon emission of the tumor mass are obtained to estimate the relative size of the tumor. Ex vivo imaging of the isolated lungs supplemented with D-luciferin and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is obtained to determine lung metastasis of the LLC cells. The LLC cell load in entire mouse lungs is further determined by quantitative bioluminometry with a concurrently run standard curve of the number of LLC cells versus bioluminescence intensity. This in vivo imaging system in live mice, in combination with ex vivo imaging of isolated lungs as well as quantitative bioluminometry of target tissues, may provide important information on the in vivo cancer cell dynamics in immunocompetent syngeneic C57BL/6 mice and offer a valuable tool for studying experimental anticancer agents, including redox-modulating compounds, which are promising anticancer modalities.

Introduction: Aspergillomas occur due to colonization of a pre-existing pulmonary, bronchial or pleural cavity by Aspergillus spp. Often asymptomatic, this pathology can reveal itself by recurrent haemoptysis or when bacterial superinfections occur. Aspergillomas occurring in post-traumatic cavities are rare and their management is poorly codified., Case Report: A child suffered from a chest wound at the age of 13 years. Two years later, investigation of recurrent haemoptysis revealed a residual pneumatocele in the right lower lobe colonized by Aspergillus spp. Initial treatment with systemic azole antifungals was unsuccessful because of digestive and ophthalmological intolerance. Surgical treatment by right lower lobectomy was finally decided on by the multidisciplinary team. This revealed an intrabronchial foreign body of vegetal type with cellulosic reinforcement, causing a polymorphic granulomatous reaction around, and associated with a proliferation of filamentous fungi including Aspergillus fumigatus. Surgery was followed by liposomal amphotericin B treatment for three weeks with a favourable outcome., Conclusions: This clinical case illustrates the benefits of surgical management of post-traumatic aspergillomas, even in children, in order to eradicate the aspergillus implant and to remove any foreign body to prevent recurrence., (Copyright © 2018 SPLF. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

The nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) is a redox-sensitive transcription factor that plays a critical role in inflammation among other biological functions. This ROS Protocol article describes an in vivo bioluminescence imaging assay for assessing NF-κB activation using the commercially available transgenic mice carrying NF-κB response element-luciferase reporter gene (NF-κB-RE-Luc). Using the highly sensitive Berthold NightOwl LB981 in vivo bioluminescence imaging system, we are able to visualize the NF-κB activation in live mice under basal conditions, suggesting constitutive activation of NF-κB as a part of its fundamental biology. Treatment of mice with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) results in a drastic increase in bioluminescence, proving the validity of the model in assessing inflammatory stress. Treatment of mice with 3 H -1,2-dithiole-3-thione (D3T), an activator of nuclear factor E-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), led to a significant reduction in both basal and LPS-induced activation of NF-κB in the live mice, suggesting a value of this model in assessing drug efficacy in suppressing NF-κB activation and inflammatory stress. The protocols of this valuable model are detailed in this article along with a discussion of its potential use in studying disease conditions involving inflammatory and oxidative stress mechanisms and in assessing therapeutic modalities targeting the NF-κB signaling for disease intervention.

Competing Interests: P.-Y. Rabattu, Y. Robert et B. Boillot déclarent n’avoir aucun lien d’intérêts.

Background: For radiologists, the venous drainage of adrenal glands is a key to the technique of selective adrenal venous sampling. For endocrine surgeons, it is key to adrenalectomy for carcinoma and pheochromocytoma. This study aims to demonstrate direct anastomosis between the left adrenal vein, the diaphragmatic circulation and the azygos system. Anatomical textbooks only offer very little information concerning the left adrenal vein (LAV) and its potential anastomosis with the reno-lumbo-azygo trunk (RLAT) and the diaphragmatic circulation., Methods: Between November 2014 and October 2015 in the LADAF (French Alps Anatomy Laboratory), we dissected 44 formalin-fixed adult cadavers., Results: We found no direct anastomosis between the left adrenal vein and the reno-azygo-lumbar trunk and two anastomoses (4.5%) between the adrenal capsular vein and azygos system. A lumbo-azygo trunk has been found 38 times (86.3%), drained 35 times (79.5%) into the left renal vein and 3 times (6.8%) into the left genital vein. An inferior phrenic vein ending into an adrenal vein was highlighted in all cases, 6 times (13.7%) in a double adrenal vein and 38 times (86.3%) in a single one., Conclusions: No connections have been found between left adrenal vein and the RLAT, and frequency of the IPV is discordant with the literature. However, our findings concerning the capsular vessels' anastomosis with the azygos system, inferior diaphragmatic flow and double adrenal vein could have two clinical applications: Firstly, the ligation of the adrenal vein solely is not enough to entirely interrupt the adrenal vein drainage, and secondly, sampling of hormones in the LAV could be underestimated because of the risk of dilution.

Objectives: To evaluate how exposure to deep-frying oils, repeated frying oil (RFO) and restaurant waste oil (RWO) affects emission of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and oxidative stress in male restaurant workers., Methods: The study participants included 236 male restaurant workers in 12 restaurants in Shenzhen. Airborne particulate PAHs were measured over 12h on each of two consecutive work days. Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) measurements were used to indicate cooking oil fumes (COF) exposure, and urinary malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were adopted as oxidative stress markers., Results: The production and emission rates of ultrafine particles (UFPs) and PM2.5 were higher in the exposed groups than in the control group. The concentrations of summed PAHs were in the order of RFO-frying group>RWO-frying group>deep-frying group>unexposed control group. Urinary 1-OHP was found to be a significant predictor of elevated urinary MDA and 8-OHdG concentrations (all, P<0.05). UFPs were a significant predictor of elevated urinary 8-OHdG for restaurant workers (P<0.05). The RFO- and RWO-frying groups had higher mean urinary concentrations of 1-OHP, MDA and 8-OHdG than the control group (P<0.05). RFO exposure was found to be a significant risk factor for elevated urinary 8-OHdG and RWO exposure was found to be a significant risk factor for elevated urinary MDA (both, P<0.001)., Conclusions: Concentrations of urinary 1-OHP, MDA and 8-OHdG reflect occupational exposure to PAHs from COFs and oxidative stress in restaurants workers. Exposure to RFO may cause increased oxidative DNA damage, and exposure to RWO might cause increased lipid peroxidation., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) is a major reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by various cellular sources, especially mitochondria. At high levels, H 2 O 2 causes oxidative stress, leading to cell injury, whereas at low concentrations, this ROS acts as an important second messenger to participate in cellular redox signaling. Detection and measurement of the levels or rates of production of cellular H 2 O 2 are instrumental in studying the biological effects of this major ROS. While a number of assays have been developed over the past decades for detecting and/or quantifying biological H 2 O 2 formation, none has been shown to be perfect. Perhaps there is no perfect assay for sensitively and accurately quantifying H 2 O 2 as well as other ROS in cells, wherein numerous potential reactants are present to interfere with the reliable measurement of the specific ROS. In this context, each assay has its own advantages and intrinsic limitations. This article describes a highly sensitive assay for real-time detection of H 2 O 2 formation in cultured cells and isolated mitochondria. This assay is based on the luminol/horseradish peroxidase-dependent chemiluminescence that is inhibitable by catalase. The article discusses the usefulness and shortcomings of this chemiluminometric assay in detecting biological H 2 O 2 formation induced by beta-lapachone redox cycling with both cells and isolated mitochondria.

The genome evolution of ferns has been considered to be relatively static compared with angiosperms. In this study, we analyse genome size data and chromosome numbers in a phylogenetic framework to explore three hypotheses: the correlation of genome size and chromosome number, the origin of modern ferns from ancestors with high chromosome numbers, and the occurrence of several whole-genome duplications during the evolution of ferns. To achieve this, we generated new genome size data, increasing the percentage of fern species with genome sizes estimated to 2.8% of extant diversity, and ensuring a comprehensive phylogenetic coverage including at least three species from each fern order. Genome size was correlated with chromosome number across all ferns despite some substantial variation in both traits. We observed a trend towards conservation of the amount of DNA per chromosome, although Osmundaceae and Psilotaceae have substantially larger chromosomes. Reconstruction of the ancestral genome traits suggested that the earliest ferns were already characterized by possessing high chromosome numbers and that the earliest divergences in ferns were correlated with substantial karyological changes. Evidence for repeated whole-genome duplications was found across the phylogeny. Fern genomes tend to evolve slowly, albeit genome rearrangements occur in some clades., (© 2016 The Authors. New Phytologist © 2016 New Phytologist Trust.)

Dipyridamole was introduced decades ago as a treatment for angina, subsequently found to inhibit platelet aggregation. It is most commonly used, and approved for use in thromboembolism prevention, following surgery. Some of its recognized effects such as adenosine uptake inhibition, elevation of cAMP and cGMP levels, vasodilation, and tissue perfusion are important in various ocular disorders. For this reason, dipyridamole represents an interesting candidate as a therapeutic target for the treatment of eye disorders affecting different ocular structures. The aim of this article is to review the evidence and current understanding of the mechanisms by which dipyridamole exerts its effects on different ocular tissues, discuss the role of dipyridamole in clinical practice, and highlight areas of use and routes of administration.

Doxorubicin (also called Adriamycin) is effective in treating a wide range of human cancers and currently considered as one of the most important drugs in cancer chemotherapeutics. The clinical use of doxorubicin is, however, associated with dosage-dependent cardiotoxicity and development of heart failure, which diminish the therapeutic index of this widely used anticancer drug. This article first surveys key research findings on doxorubicin redox biology that may impact its cardiotoxicity as well as anticancer activity. It then discusses emerging concepts, especially the topoisomerase IIb-p53-mitochondrion axis that may lead to the development of mechanistically based novel strategies to protect against cardiotoxicity and enhance the effectiveness of doxorubicin therapy.

MitoSOX-based assays are widely used to detect mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), especially superoxide. To this end, 5 μM MitoSOX is commonly used. In this ROS Protocols article, we described the flow cytometric protocol involving the use of various concentrations of MitoSOX (1, 2.5, 5 μM) for detecting mitochondrial ROS in control and mitochondrial DNA-deficient (MD) melanoma B16-F10 cells. We also compared the MitoSOX-based flow cytometry with lucigenin-derived chemiluminometry for their ability to reliably detect the relative differences in mitochondrial ROS formation in the control and MD cells. Our results suggested that 1 μM, rather than the commonly used 5 μM, appeared to be the optimal concentration of MitoSOX for detecting mitochondrial ROS via flow cytometry.

Molecular dioxygen (O 2 ) is an essential element of aerobic life, yet incomplete reduction or excitation of O 2 during aerobic metabolisms generates diverse oxygen-containing reactive species, commonly known as reactive oxygen species (ROS). On the one hand, ROS pose a serious threat to aerobic organisms via inducing oxidative damage to cellular constituents. On the other hand, these reactive species, when their generation is under homeostatic control, also play important physiological roles (e.g., constituting an important component of immunity and participating in redox signaling). This article defines oxygen and the key facts about oxygen, and discusses the relationship between oxygen and the emergence of early animals on Earth. The article then describes the discovery of oxygen by three historical figures and examines the birth of the concepts of oxygen toxicity and the underlying free radical mechanisms. The article ends with a brief introduction to the emerging field of ROS-mediated redox signaling and physiological responses.

The role of Nrf2, a key regulator of antioxidant and cytoprotective genes, in tumorigenesis remains controversial. Here we showed that Nrf2 deficiency led to increased local tumor growth in mice following subcutaneous injection of B16-F10 melanoma cells, as indicated by increased proportion of animals with locally palpable tumor mass and time-dependent increases in tumor volume at the injection site. In vivo bioluminescence imaging also revealed increased growth of melanoma in Nrf2-null mice as compared with wild-type mice. By using a highly sensitive bioluminometric assay, we further found that Nrf2 deficiency resulted in a remarkable increase in lung metastasis of B16-F10 melanoma cells as compared with wild-type mice. Taken together, the results of this short communication for the first time demonstrated that Nrf2 deficiency promoted melanoma growth and lung metastasis following subcutaneous inoculation of B16-F10 cells in mice.

The nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is known as the chief regulator of cellular antioxidant defenses as well as a suppressor of inflammation. Macrophages act as major players in inflammatory responses. Because oxidative stress and inflammation are two intertwined processes, the anti-inflammatory activity of Nrf2 signaling is believed to result from its upregulation of cellular antioxidant defenses via the antioxidant response element-driven transcription. In a recent article published in Nature Communications (May 23, 2016; doi: 10.1038/ncomms11624), Kobayashi et al. reported that Nrf2 suppresses transcriptional upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines independent of its role in regulating cellular antioxidants and redox status. This study by Kobayashi et al. provides novel insights into the molecular basis of Nrf2 acting as a suppressor of inflammation.

Detection and measurement of doxorubicin in biological systems, including body fluids, cells, and tissues, are instrumental in understanding the mechanisms of action of this widely used drug in treating cancer as well as in causing adverse effects. In this article, we, for the first time, characterized the use of fluorescence-based techniques, including fluorescence spectrometry, microscopy, and flow cytometry in measuring and/or detecting doxorubicin in biological systems, including cell lysates and cultured intact cells. We showed that doxorubicin has a maximum excitation and emission wavelength of 470 and 560 nm, respectively. The detection sensitivity by fluorescence spectrometry is less than 0.1 μM in buffers and cell lysates. Fluorescence microscopy demonstrated the readily detection of concentration-dependent accumulation of doxorubicin in cultured cells via either green or red fluorescence, but with green fluorescence showing a higher sensitivity of detection. Flow cytometry also revealed sensitive detection of doxorubicin accumulation in cell suspensions in a concentration-dependent manner. The readily and sensitive measurement and detection of doxorubicin by the above three fluorescence-based techniques has important implications in studying the cellular dynamics of doxorubicin in both cancer and normal cells under various experimental conditions.