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Anatomy is an essential component of clinical anesthesiology. The use of simulated patients and alternative materials, including embalmed human bodies, have become increasingly common during resident physician training due to the deemphasis on anatomical education during undergraduate medical training. In this report, the need for a more extensive review of relevant anatomy for the practice of anesthesiology was addressed by the design, evaluation, and dissemination of a human dissection course for procedural training of anesthesiology residents. The course utilized "freedom art" embalmed human bodies that allowed trainees to perform ultrasound‐based regional and neuraxial techniques followed by detailed dissections of critical anatomy. One hundred and four residents participated in workshops and small group discussions and were evaluated using pre‐ and post‐course assessments. A variety of clinical techniques were performed on the bodies, including regional blocks and neuraxial catheter placement. Insertion of peripheral/neuraxial catheters was successful, with dissections demonstrating the expected placement. Assessment scores improved following the course (pre‐course mean 52.7%, standard deviation (σ) 13.1%; post‐course mean 72.2%, σ 11.6%; t‐test p < 0.0001) and feedback highlighted the usefulness and clinical relevance of course content. The ability to correlate ultrasound imaging with subsequent dissections of the "blocked" area and visualization of dye staining was extremely relevant for spatial understanding of the anatomy relevant for the clinical practice of these techniques. This manuscript demonstrates successful implementation of a comprehensive course for anesthesiology resident physicians to address gaps in undergraduate anatomical education and suggests that broader adoption of dissection courses may be beneficial for training anesthesiologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the utility of prenatal exome sequencing (pES) in fetuses with central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of fetuses identified to have CNS abnormality on prenatal ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging. All fetuses were first analyzed by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA). Fetuses with a confirmed aneuploidy or causal pathogenic copy‐number variant (CNV) on CMA did not undergo pES analysis and were excluded, while those with a negative CMA result were offered pES testing. Results: Of the 167 pregnancies included in the study, 42 (25.1%) were identified to have a pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variant. The diagnostic rate was significantly higher in fetuses with a non‐isolated CNS abnormality than in those with a single CNS abnormality (35.7% (20/56) vs 14.5% (8/55); P = 0.010). Moreover, when a fetus had three or more CNS abnormalities, the positive diagnostic rate increased to 42.9%. A total of 25/42 (59.5%) cases had de‐novo mutations, while, in the remaining cases, mutations were inherited and carried a significant risk of recurrence. Families whose fetus carried a P/LP mutation were more likely to choose advanced pregnancy termination than those with a variant of uncertain significance, secondary/incidental finding or negative pES result (83.3% (25/30) vs 41.3% (38/92); P < 0.001). Conclusion: pES improved the identification of genetic disorders in fetuses with CNS anomalies without a chromosomal abnormality or CNV identified on CMA, regardless of the number of CNS anomalies and presence of extracranial abnormality. We also demonstrated that pES findings can significantly impact parental decision‐making. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrasynovial flexor tendon lacerations of the hand are clinically problematic, typically requiring operative repair and extensive rehabilitation. The small‐molecule connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) mimics, oxotremorine M (Oxo‐M) and 4‐PPBP maleate (4‐PPBP), have been shown to improve tendon healing in small animal models by stimulating the expansion and differentiation of perivascular CD146+ cells. To enhance intrasynovial flexor tendon healing, small‐molecule CTGF mimics were delivered to repaired canine flexor tendons via porous sutures. In vitro studies demonstrated that Oxo‐M and 4‐PPBP retained their bioactivity and could be released from porous sutures in a sustained manner. However, in vivo delivery of the CTGF mimics did not improve intrasynovial tendon healing. Histologic analyses and expression of tenogenic, extracellular matrix, inflammation, and remodeling genes showed similar outcomes in treated and untreated repairs across two time points. Although in vitro experiments revealed that CTGF mimics stimulated robust responses in extrasynovial tendon cells, there was no response in intrasynovial tendon cells, explaining the lack of in vivo effects. The results of the current study indicate that therapeutic strategies for tendon repair must carefully consider the environment and cellular makeup of the particular tendon for improving the healing response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID‐19 pandemic has led to an increase in online purchases, which has inevitably raised the demand for express delivery packaging materials (EDPMs). This study proposes a reverse logistics reuse framework that extends the EDPM life cycle by drawing on insights and conclusions from a review of the literature on supply chain management and materials science to achieve a sustainable e‐commerce system. A key benefit of reverse logistics is its effectiveness in exploiting opportunities for resource reuse, which is preferred to recycling. By extending service life through resource optimization, recycling, and recovery processes, the novel reuse framework based on reverse logistics can be implemented with minimal changes to existing forward logistics systems, potentially leading to more sustainable online shopping. This study proposes a novel combination of reusable packaging materials and reverse logistics as a viable and more environmentally friendly practice, in line with circular economy goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Is smoking associated with mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome? I To i I the Editor: i Mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome (MF/SS) are rare cutaneous T-cell lymphomas.1 MF is characterized by chronic skin lesions infiltrated by malignant T cells, while SS by erythroderma with circulating malignant T cells that usually match the clones in the skin lesions.1 SS may arise from skin lesions of MF or occur de novo.1 The aetiology of MF/SS remains largely unknown. However, the subgroup analysis of the heaviest smokers indicated a significantly increased risk of MF/SS in heavy smokers (OR = 1.536, 95% CI = 1.123-2.101, I I i SP 2 sp = 0%; Fig. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) is a major concern when starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) in patients with advanced HIV infection. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors of IRIS in HIV‐infected Koreans initiating ART, and whether integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) treatment increases the risk of IRIS. Methods: This retrospective analysis included adults living with HIV, seen at four university‐affiliated hospitals in South Korea, who were naïve to ART and had a CD4 T‐cell count < 200 cells/μL between January 2004 and May 2019. IRIS was determined through a medical record review within 6 months of ART initiation. Propensity score‐matched case–control study between the non‐INSTI and INSTI groups was performed. Results: The study included 501 patients; 192 were assigned to the INSTI group, who started ART based on INSTIs as the initial treatment. There were opportunistic infections (OIs) in 253 (50.5%) cases before ART initiation. The three most common OIs were Pneumocystisjirovecii pneumonia, candidiasis and tuberculosis (TB). We identified 47 cases of IRIS; TB‐IRIS was the most common type. The incidence of IRIS within 6 months of ART initiation was 9.4%, and there were no significant differences in baseline characteristics and incidence of IRIS between the matched groups. The risk factors for IRIS were pre‐ART CD4 T‐cell count (< 30 cells/μL), higher pre‐ART viral load (≥ 75 000 copies/mL), and TB‐OI. Conclusions: The incidence of IRIS was 9.4% in Korean HIV patients. The INSTI regimen was not related to IRIS occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cadmium (Cd)‐polluted soils are is an increasing concern worldwide. Phytoextraction of Cd pollutants by high biomass plants, such as sweet sorghum, is considered an environmentally‐friendly, cost‐effective and sustainable strategy for remediating this problem. Nitrogen (N) is a macronutrient essential for plant growth, development and stress resistance. Nevertheless, how nitrate, as an important form of N, affects Cd uptake, translocation and accumulation in sweet sorghum is still unclear.In the present study, a series of nitrate levels (N1, 0.5 mm; N2, 2 mm; N3, 4 mm; N4, 8 mm and N5, 16 mm) with or without added 5 μm CdCl2 treatment in sweet sorghum was investigated hydroponically.The results indicate that Cd accumulation in the aboveground parts of sweet sorghum was enhanced by optimum nitrate supply, resulting from both increased dry weight and Cd concentration. Although root‐to‐shoot Cd translocation was not enhanced by increased nitrate, some Cd was transferred from cell walls to vacuoles in leaves. Intriguingly, expression levels of Cd uptake and transport genes, SbNramp1, SbNramp5 and SbHMA3, were not closely related to increased Cd as affected by nitrate supply. The expression of SbNRT1.1B in relation to nitrate transport showed an inverted 'U' shape with increasing nitrate levels under Cd stress, which was in agreement with trends in Cd concentration changes in aboveground tissues.Based on the aforementioned results, nitrate might regulate Cd uptake and accumulation through expression of SbNRT1.1B rather than SbNramp1, SbNramp5 or SbHMA3, the well‐documented genes related to Cd uptake and transport in sweet sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floods are important disturbances to urban socio‐eco‐technical systems and their meteorological drivers are projected to increase through the century due to global climate change. Urban flood models are numerical models that have the capability of representing the features of urban ecosystems and the mechanisms of flooding that impact them. They have the potential to play a critical role in flood risk assessment, operational response, and resilience planning, but existing models remain limited in their capability to represent integrated flooding processes in urban areas and provide the credible quantitative information needed to support risk assessment and resilience practice. Research to advance model development, facilitate intensive watershed monitoring for model parameterization and validation, and support collaboration between researchers and practitioners should be prioritized. This will represent a substantial, expensive effort, but will still be of great value as cities are faced with urgent challenges posed by climate change in coming decades. Plain Language Summary: Across the globe, floods in cities cause substantial loss of life, property damage, and other socioeconomic harms. As the global climate changes, meteorological events that cause flooding such as extreme rain, high tides, and coastal storms are projected to become more frequent and severe. Researchers and environmental managers use urban flood models (UFMs)—packages of mathematical equations that can simulate water flow and other flooding processes—to support risk assessment and emergency management and to develop strategies to mitigate future flooding. However, these models are currently limited in their potential to achieve these objectives, despite recent advances in computing and environmental monitoring. We recommend that the research community prioritizes development of improved UFMs, which will involve use of more sophisticated equations and approaches to solve them, intensive monitoring of flooding processes in cities, and development of institutions dedicated to supporting these efforts. Although these initiatives will be resource intensive, the value provided by UFMs and the urgency of urban flooding issues make such an effort worthwhile. Key Points: Urban flood models (UFMs) are critical tools for flood risk assessment, emergency operations, and resilience planning in citiesThe ultimate goal of UFM development should be the capability for sustained, integrated simulation of urban watershedsA substantial effort will be needed to overcome existing barriers in urban flood modeling, which will be of great value for urban flood resilience [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate an association between colorectal neoplasm (CRN) and skeletal muscle mass using three widely accepted skeletal muscle mass indices (SMIs) in a large population at average risk. Method: We performed a cross‐sectional study using a screening colonoscopy database of 33 958 asymptomatic subjects aged 40–75 years. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was measured using a bioelectrical impedance analyser. ASM adjusted for height squared (ASM/ht2), weight (ASM/wt) and body mass index (ASM/BMI) were used as indices for muscle mass. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between SMIs and CRN. Results: In a multivariable‐adjusted model, the risk of an advanced CRN increased linearly with decreasing quartiles for all three SMIs. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for advanced CRN in quartiles 1, 2 and 3 of ASM/wt compared with that in quartile 4 were 1.279, 1.196 and 1.179, respectively (Ptrend = 0.017); for ASM/BMI, ORs were 1.307, 1.144 and 1.091, respectively (Ptrend = 0.002); and for ASM/ht2, ORs were 1.342, 1.169 and 1.062, respectively (Ptrend = 0.002). The risk of distally located advanced CRN was higher in quartile 1 than in quartile 4 for all three SMIs (ASM/wt, OR = 1.356; ASM/BMI, OR = 1.383; ASM/ht2, OR = 1.430). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that low skeletal muscle mass was consistently associated with the presence of advanced CRN in a population at average risk regardless of the operational definition of the SMI, and it was particularly associated with distal advanced CRN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the 28‐day mortality of patients with septic shock, defined by Sepsis‐3 criteria and patients with vasoplegic or cryptic shock who are excluded from this new definition. Objectives: This retrospective observational study was performed using a tertiary emergency department's septic shock registry and investigated the records of patients managed between January 2010 and December 2015. In 2,138 total patients, 1004 (47.0%) had septic shock, 476 (22.2%) had vasoplegic shock and 655 (30.6%) had cryptic shock. Results: There was significant variation in 28‐day mortality among the three groups: 23.4% for septic shock, 8.8% for vasoplegic shock and 12.2% for cryptic shock (P <.001). In subgroup analysis of cryptic shock or septic shock according to lactate levels (2‐3, 3‐4 and >4 mmol/L), the mortality rate increased as lactate increased (cryptic shock: 9.5%, 14.8% and 18.0%; septic shock: 18.6%, 22.6% and 27.0%, respectively; P <.001). Multivariable analysis revealed odds ratios for mortality of 0.31 (95% CI 0.22‐0.44; P <.001) for vasoplegic shock and 0.46 (95% CI 0.35‐0.61; P <.001) for cryptic shock relative to septic shock. Survival curve analysis showed significant differences among patients with septic shock, vasoplegic shock and cryptic shock (Log rank test: P <.0001). Conclusion: The new septic shock definition may be useful for identifying high‐risk patients requiring intensive care. However, cryptic shock‐associated mortality increased to 18.0% as serum lactate increased, which suggests that some cryptic shock patients may also require intensive management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate whether the timing of root canal treatment (primary aim) or other endodontic parameters (secondary aim) is associated with the survival probability of autotransplanted third molars, using a nationwide population‐based database. Methodology: A total of 1811 third molars autotransplanted between 2000 and 2013 met the inclusion criteria and were followed until the end of 2016. The teeth were classified into three groups on the basis of timing between root canal treatment and the autotransplantation: preoperative, extraoral and postoperative treatment groups. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the association between the timing of root canal treatment and the risk of tooth extraction after autotransplantation. Results: Of the 1811 autotransplanted third molars, 462 were extracted, yielding a 17‐year survival probability of 0.578. The survival probability of autotransplanted teeth that received postoperative root fillings after 17 years was 0.583, which was significantly higher than the 0.434 and 0.566 for teeth that received preoperative and extraoral root fillings, respectively (P = 0.0013). After adjustment for potential confounding factors, teeth that received postoperative root fillings were associated with a significantly lower tooth extraction hazard ratio (HR) compared with those that received extraoral root fillings (adjusted HR, 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–1.78) and those that received preoperative root fillings (adjusted HR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.19–3.82). Furthermore, the use of a rubber dam during postoperative root filling was associated with a significantly lower extraction rate after autotransplantation (adjusted HR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.43–0.69). Conclusions: Postoperative root canal treatment resulted in a significantly lower extraction rate than did preoperative or extraoral root canal treatment amongst autotransplanted third molars during a mean follow‐up period of 8.33 years. Rubber dam use is recommended during postoperative root canal treatment to improve the outcomes of autotransplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the effects of TGF‐β1 on the plasminogen activation (PA) system of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) and its signalling. Methodology: SCAP cells were isolated from the apical papilla of immature permanent teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. They were exposed to various concentration of TGF‐β1 with/without pretreatment and coincubation by SB431542 (ALK/Smad2/3 inhibitor), or U0126 (MEK/ERK inhibitor). MTT assay, Western blotting and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to detect their effects on cell viability, and the protein expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA), uPA receptor (uPAR) and their secretion. The paired Student's t‐test was used for statistical analysis. Results: TGF‐β1 significantly stimulated PAI‐1 and soluble uPAR (suPAR) secretion of SCAP cells (P < 0.05), whereas uPA secretion was inhibited. Accordingly, TGF‐β1 induced both PAI‐1 and uPAR protein expression of SCAP cells. SB431542 (an ALK5/Smad2/3 inhibitor) pretreatment and coincubation prevented the TGF‐β1‐induced PAI‐1 and uPAR of SCAP. U0126 attenuated the TGF‐β1‐induced expression/secretion of uPAR, but not PAI‐1 in SCAP. SB431542 reversed the TGF‐β1‐induced decline of uPA. Conclusions: TGF‐β1 may affect the repair/regeneration activities of SCAP via differential increase or decrease of PAI‐1, uPA and uPAR. These effects induced by TGF‐β1 are associated with ALK5/Smad2/3 and MEK/ERK activation. Elucidation the signalling pathways and effects of TGF‐β1 is useful for treatment of immature teeth with open apex by revascularization/revitalization procedures and tissue repair/regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuromyelitis optica is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system that preferentially targets the spinal cord and optic nerve. Following the discovery of circulating antibodies against the astrocytic aquaporin 4 (AQP4) water channel protein, recent studies have expanded our knowledge of the unique complexities of the pathogenesis of neuromyelitis optica and its relationship with the immune response. This review describes and summarizes the recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying neuromyelitis optica disease pathology and examines their potential as therapeutic targets. Additionally, we update the most recent research by proposing major unanswered questions regarding how peripheral AQP4 antibodies are produced and their entry into the central nervous system, the causes of AQP4‐IgG‐seronegative disease, why peripheral AQP4‐expressing organs are spared from damage, and the impact of this disease on pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Interaction between programmed death‐1 ligand (PD‐L1) and its receptor programmed death 1 (PD‐1) on T cells inactivates antitumour immune responses. PD‐L1 expression has been associated with poor prognosis in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and predicts adverse outcome. This study was designed to evaluate the impact of PD‐L1 expression and the immune microenvironment on the clinical outcome in Xp11 translocation renal cell carcinoma (TRCC) and, therefore, their potential relevance as prognostic biomarkers. Methods and results: The present retrospective analysis investigated expression of PD‐L1 and immune cells CD8, CD4, CD3, forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3) and PD‐1 in TRCC compared to other types of RCC. FFPE specimens were collected between 2011 and 2017 from 311 patients who underwent nephrectomy at our institution for RCC. Specimens were immunostained for PD‐L1, CD8, CD4, CD3, FoxP3 and PD‐1, and an outcome analysis was conducted. PD‐L1 expression rate was highest in TRCC (68%, 16 of 25), followed by mucinous tubular and spindle cell RCC and collecting duct carcinoma (33%, one of three), papillary RCC (27%, seven of 26), clear cell RCC (16%, 29 of 233), chromophobe RCC (11%, two of 18) and multilocular cystic RCC (0%, none of three). In TRCC, PD‐L1 expression was associated with poor recurrence‐free survival (RFS) (P = 0.041). The CD4high and FoxP3high groups showed a significantly shorter RFS (P = 0.05 and P = 0.031, respectively) compared to CD4low and FOXPlow groups. Conclusion: PD‐L1 expression was higher in TRCC than in other types of RCC. High PD‐L1 tumour cell expression and tumour infiltration by CD4+ and FoxP3+ immune cells were associated with poor RFS in TRCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differential food protein-induced inflammatory responses in swine lines selected for reactivity to soy antigens For panel D, weaned L2 pigs were placed on soy-free diet for 7 days and then on soy-free or 18% soy diet for the next 21 days. In line with the eosinophil response, I GATA3 i and I CCL11 i were highly up-regulated in the jejunum of L2, but I IL18 i expression was up-regulated in the jejunum of L1 following soy challenge (Figure S3A). [Extracted from the article]

Dermal papillae (DP) play key roles in hair growth and regeneration by regulating follicular cell activity. Owing to the established roles of exosomes (Exos) in the regulation of cell functions, we investigated whether DP‐derived Exos, especially those from three‐dimensional (3D)‐cultured DP cells, affect hair growth, cycling and regeneration. Exos derived from 3D DP (3D DP‐Exos) promoted the proliferation of DP cells and outer root sheath (ORS) cells and increased the expression of growth factors (IGF‐1, KGF and HGF) in DP cells. 3D DP‐Exo treatment also increased hair shaft elongation in cultured human hair follicles. In addition, local injections of 3D DP‐Exos induced anagen from telogen and also prolonged anagen in mice. Moreover, Exo treatment in human DP spheres augmented hair follicle neogenesis when the DP spheres were implanted with mouse epidermal cells. Similar results were obtained using Exos derived from 2D‐cultured DP cells (2D DP‐Exo). Collectively, our data strongly suggest that Exos derived from DP cells promote hair growth and hair regeneration by regulating the activity of follicular dermal and epidermal cells; accordingly, these findings have implications for the development of therapeutic strategies for hair loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Control of equine infectious anaemia (EIA) currently depends on serological diagnosis of infected equids. However, recently infected equids may not produce detectable anti‐EIAV antibodies up to 157 days post infection and so present a high transmission risk. Therefore, direct nucleic acid detection methods are urgently needed to improve EIAV surveillance and management programs in counties where the disease is endemic. Objectives: To evaluate a field‐deployable, reverse transcription‐insulated isothermal PCR (RT‐iiPCR) assay targeting the conserved 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR)/exon 1 of the tat gene of EIAV. Study design: The analytical and clinical performance of the newly developed EIAV RT‐iiPCR was evaluated by comparison with a EIAV real‐time RT‐PCR (RT‐qPCR) along with the AGID test. Methods: Analytical sensitivity was determined using in vitro transcribed RNA containing the target area of the 5′ UTR/tat gene and samples from two EIAV‐positive horses. Specificity was verified using nine common equine viruses. Clinical performance was evaluated by comparison with EIAV RT‐qPCR and AGID using samples derived from 196 inapparent EIAV carrier horses. Results: EIAV RT‐iiPCR did not react with other commonly encountered equine viruses and had equivalent sensitivity (95% detection limit of eight genome equivalents), with a concordance of 95.41% to conventional EIAV RT‐qPCR. However, the RT‐qPCR and RT‐iiPCR had sensitivities of 43.75 and 50.00%, respectively, when compared to the AGID test. Main limitations: Low viral loads commonly encountered in inapparent EIAV carriers may limit the diagnostic sensitivity of RT‐PCR‐based tests. Conclusions: Although EIAV RT‐iiPCR is not sufficiently sensitive to replace the current AGID test, it can augment control efforts by identifying recently exposed or “serologically silent” equids, particularly as the latter often represent a significant transmission risk because of high viral loads. Furthermore, the relatively low cost and field‐deployable design enable utilisation of EIAV RT‐iiPCR even in remote regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meniscus tears in the avascular region rarely functionally heal due to poor intrinsic healing capacity, frequently resulting in tear propagation, followed by meniscus deterioration. Recently, we have reported that time‐controlled application of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and transforming tissue growth factor β3 (TGFβ3) significantly improved healing of avascular meniscus tears by inducing recruitment and step‐wise fibrocartilaginous differentiation of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells (MSCs). In this study, we investigated effects of the dose of CTGF and the release rate of TGFβ3 on avascular meniscus healing in our existing explant model. Our hypothesis was that dose and release rate of CTGF and TGFβ3 are contributing factors for functional outcome in avascular meniscus healing by stem cell recruitment. Low (100 ng/ml) and high (1,000 ng/ml) doses of CTGF as well as fast (0.46 ± 0.2 ng/day) and slow (0.29 ± 0.1 ng/day) release rates of TGFβ3 were applied to our established meniscus explant model for meniscus tears in the inner‐third avascular region. The release rate of TGFβ3 was controlled by varying compositions of poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acids) (PLGA) microspheres. The meniscus explants were then cultured for 8 weeks on top of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells (MSCs). Among the tested combinations, we found that a high CTGF dose and slow TGFβ3 release are most effective for integrated healing of avascular meniscus, demonstrating improvements in alignment of collagen fibers, fibrocartilaginous matrix elaboration and mechanical properties. This study may represent an important step toward the development of a regenerative therapy to improve healing of avascular meniscus tears by stem cell recruitment. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1555–1562, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceria (CeO2) is an effective precious‐metal‐free catalyst that combusts PM (particulate matter), due to its ability to switch between Ce4+ and Ce3+. In this work, to improve the activity of a ceria‐based catalyst, cerium‐praseodymium mixed oxide catalysts with various Ce−Pr ratios were synthesized with nanofiber morphologies, characterized, and compared with ceria catalysts. Two factors were considered: morphology and Ce−Pr ratio, which result in synergistic effects. In the ceria catalyst, we confirmed that a fibrous morphology is more advantageous for PM oxidation compared to nanocubes and nanorods with cubes, even though these samples have larger surface areas. In addition, the incorporation of Pr into the ceria nanofiber catalyst enhanced its intrinsic properties by promoting the reducibility and formation of oxygen vacancies. The analysis showed improved oxygen storage and supply capacity, especially for oxygen that is chemically adsorbed on the catalytic surface. PM oxidation tests demonstrated the Ce0.5Pr0.5O2‐NF catalyst showed the best activity in air, which was consistent with the characterization results. Thus, the Ce0.5Pr0.5O2‐NF sample was shown to be an effective and promising catalyst for PM oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To examine the effects of diabetes, low income and their combination on mortality in the Korean population. Methods: We analysed a total of 505 677 people (53.9% male) aged 40–79 years old from the National Health Insurance Service‐National Health Screening (NHIS‐HEALS) cohort. Ten levels of household income were used as indicators of economic status. Diabetes was defined as elevated fasting blood glucose (≥ 6.9 mmol/l) and/or use of glucose‐lowering drugs or insulin. Covariates of age, sex, BMI, smoking and Charlson Comorbidity Index were determined at baseline. Outcomes were total and cause‐specific mortality over 12 years. Cox's proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality according to the presence of diabetes, household income and their combination. Results: Lower household income was associated with higher mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and non‐cancer non‐cardiovascular causes. Excessive mortality due to low incomes was observed in both people with and without diabetes. In men, the adjusted HR [95% confidence interval (CI)] of mortality was 1.38 (1.34 to 1.42) for low‐income only, 1.48 (1.42 to 1.55) for diabetes only and 1.95 (1.86 to 2.05) for diabetes and low‐income combined, relative to the normal glucose and high income group. Corresponding HR (95% CI) in women were 1.19 (1.14 to 1.24), 1.54 (1.44 to 1.64) and 1.87 (1.75 to 2.01), respectively. Conclusion: Both low household income and the presence of diabetes independently increase the risk of mortality, but their combined effects on mortality may be different between men and women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Identifying the degree of liver inflammation is critical for therapeutic judgement of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, we lack indexes which can accurately predict significant liver inflammation in patients with CHB. This study aimed to develop a simple predictive index for liver inflammation in CHB using routine clinical parameters. A total of 519 patients with CHB who underwent liver biopsy were enrolled and randomly divided into training (n = 346) and validation cohorts (n = 173). Based on routine clinical parameters, gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT; P = 0.031) and platelets (PLT; P < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of significant inflammation by multivariable analysis in the training cohort. Accordingly, the GGT to PLT ratio (GPR) was developed to amplify the opposing effects for predicting liver inflammation. In the training cohort, the AUCs of GPR in predicting significant inflammation were 0.791 (95% CI: 0.742‐0.839), 0.783 (95% CI: 0.717‐0.849) and 0.791 (95% CI: 0.716‐0.867) in the entire patients with CHB, HBeAg‐positive CHB patients and HBeAg‐negative CHB patients, respectively. The diagnostic performance of GPR for significant inflammation was significantly superior to that of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and GGT in all patients with CHB and HBeAg‐positive CHB patients, but was comparable with ALT, AST and GGT in HBeAg‐negative CHB patients. In the validation cohort, the diagnostic performance of GPR in assessing significant liver inflammation was also superior to other indexes in all patients with CHB and HBeAg‐positive CHB patients, but was comparable with GGT in HBeAg‐negative CHB patients. Thus, GPR can be a novel and simple index for predicting significant liver inflammation in CHB, especially for HBeAg‐positive CHB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The murine maternal immune activation (MIA) offspring model enables longitudinal studies to explore aberrant social behaviors similar to those observed in humans. High levels of cytokines, chemokines and cell adhesion molecules (CAM) have been found in the plasma and/or brains of psychiatric patients. We hypothesized that upregulation of the systemic or brain immune response has an augmenting effect by potentially increasing the interplay between the neuronal and immune systems during the growth of the MIA offspring. In this study, a C57BL/6j MIA female offspring model exhibiting social deficits was established. The expression of fetal interferon (IFN)‐stimulated (gbp3, irgm1, ifi44), adolescent immunodevelopmental transcription factor (eg, r2, tfap2b), hormone (pomc, hcrt), adult selectin (sell, selp) and neuroligin (nlgn2) genes was altered. Systemic upregulation of endogenous IL‐10 occurred at the adult stage, while both IL‐1β and IL‐6 were increased and persisted in the sera throughout the growth of the MIA offspring. The cerebral IL‐6 levels were endogenously upregulated, but both MCP‐1 (macrophage inflammatory protein‐1) and L‐selectin levels were downregulated at the adolescent and/or adult stages. However, the MIA offspring were susceptible to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. After reinjecting the MIA offspring with LPS in adulthood, a variety of sera and cerebral cytokines, chemokines and CAMs were increased. Particularly, both MCP‐1 and L‐selectin showed relatively high expression in the brain compared with the expression levels in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS)‐treated offspring injected with LPS. Potentially, MCP‐1 was attracted to the L‐selectin‐mediated immune cells due to augmentation of the immune response following stimulation in MIA female offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The intestinal immune system is regulated by microbes and their metabolites. The roles of gut microbial metabolites in regulating intestinal inflammation and tumorigenesis are incompletely understood. We systematically studied the roles of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and their receptors (GPR43 or GPR41) in regulating tissue bacterial load, acute versus chronic inflammatory responses, and intestinal cancer development. SCFA receptor‐, particularly GPR43‐, deficient mice were defective in mounting appropriate acute immune responses to promote barrier immunity, and developed uncontrolled chronic inflammatory responses following epithelial damage. Further, intestinal carcinogenesis was increased in GPR43‐deficient mice. Dietary fiber and SCFA administration suppressed intestinal inflammation and cancer in both GPR43‐dependent and independent manners. The beneficial effect of GPR43 was not mediated by altered microbiota but by host tissue cells and hematopoietic cells to a lesser degree. We found that inability to suppress commensal bacterial invasion into the colonic tissue is associated with the increased chronic Th17‐driven inflammation and carcinogenesis in the intestine of GPR43‐deficient mice. In sum, our results reveal the beneficial function of the SCFA‐GPR43 axis in suppressing bacterial invasion and associated chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis in the colon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commensal microbes and the host immune system have been co-evolved for mutual regulation. Microbes regulate the host immune system, in part, by producing metabolites. A mounting body of evidence indicates that diverse microbial metabolites profoundly regulate the immune system via host receptors and other target molecules. Immune cells express metabolite-specific receptors such as P2X7, GPR41, GPR43, GPR109A, aryl hydrocarbon receptor precursor (AhR), pregnane X receptor (PXR), farnesoid X receptor (FXR), TGR5 and other molecular targets. Microbial metabolites and their receptors form an extensive array of signals to respond to changes in nutrition, health and immunological status. As a consequence, microbial metabolite signals contribute to nutrient harvest from diet, and regulate host metabolism and the immune system. Importantly, microbial metabolites bidirectionally function to promote both tolerance and immunity to effectively fight infection without developing inflammatory diseases. In pathogenic conditions, adverse effects of microbial metabolites have been observed as well. Key immune-regulatory functions of the metabolites, generated from carbohydrates, proteins and bile acids, are reviewed in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hundreds of species in one of Australia's dominant plant families, the Myrtaceae, are at risk from the invasive pathogenic fungus Austropuccinia psidii. Since its arrival in Australia in 2010, native plant communities have been severely affected, with highly susceptible species likely to become extinct from recurring infections. While severe impact on Australian native and plantation forestry has been predicted, the lemon myrtle industry is already under threat. Commercial cultivars of lemon myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) are highly susceptible to A. psidii. Detecting and monitoring disease outbreaks is currently only possible by eye, which is costly and subject to human bias. This study aims at developing a proof‐of‐concept for automated, non‐biased classification of healthy (naïve), fungicide‐treated and diseased lemon myrtle trees by means of their spectral reflectance signatures. From a lemon myrtle plantation, spectral signatures of fungicide‐treated and untreated leaves were collected using a portable field spectrometer. A third class of spectra, from naïve lemon myrtle leaves that had not been exposed to A. psidii, was collected from a botanical garden. Reflectance spectra in their primary form and their first‐order derivatives were used to train a random forest classifier resulting in an overall accuracy of 78% (kappa = 0.68) for primary spectra and 95% (kappa = 0.92) for first‐order derivative‐transformed spectra. Thus, an optical sensor‐based discrimination, using spectral reflectance signatures of this as yet uninvestigated pathosystem, seems technically feasible. This study provides a foundation for the development of automated, sensor‐based detection and monitoring systems for myrtle rust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Case series suggest a possible association between bariatric surgery and incident IBD. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between bariatric surgery and new‐onset IBD. Methods: We first conducted a multi‐institutional case series of patients with a history of IBD and bariatric surgery. We next conducted a matched case‐control study using medical and pharmacy claims from 2008 to 2012 in a US national database from Source Healthcare Analytics LLC. Bariatric surgery was defined by ICD‐9 or CPT code. Bariatric surgery was evaluated as recent (code in database timeframe), past (past history V code) or no history. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI for new‐onset IBD, CD and UC. Results: A total of 15 cases of IBD (10 CD, 4 UC, 1 IBD, type unclassified) with a prior history of bariatric surgery were identified. Most cases were women, had Roux‐en‐Y surgery years prior to diagnosis and few IBD‐related complications. A total of 8980 cases and 43 059 controls were included in our database analysis. Adjusting for confounders, a past history of bariatric surgery was associated with an increased risk of new‐onset IBD (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.34‐2.79). However, patients who had recent bariatric surgery did not appear to be at shorter term risk of IBD (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.58‐1.52). Conclusion: New‐onset IBD was significantly associated with a past history of bariatric surgery. This potential association needs to be confirmed in future prospective studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The G‐allele of the ‐1019C/G (rs6295) promoter polymorphism of the serotonin receptor 1A (HTR1A) gene has been implicated in anxiety; however, the underlying neurophysiological processes are still not fully understood. Recent evidence indicates that low parasympathetic (vagal) tone is predictive of anxiety. We thus conducted a structural equation model (SEM) to examine whether the HTR1A rs6295 variant can affect anxiety by altering parasympathetic nervous activity. Method: A sample of 1141 drug‐free healthy Han Chinese was recruited for HTR1A genotyping. Autonomic nervous function was assessed by short‐term spectral analysis of heart rate variability (HRV). Anxiety and stress levels were evaluated by the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) respectively. Results: The number of the HTR1A G allele was inversely correlated with high‐frequency power (HF), a parasympathetic index of HRV. The HF index was negatively associated with BAI scores. Furthermore, the good‐fitting SEM, adjusting for confounding variables (e.g., age and PSS levels), revealed a significant pathway linking rs6295 variant to BAI scores via HF index modulation. Conclusion: These results are the first to show that HTR1A ‐1019C/G polymorphism influences anxiety levels by modulating parasympathetic tone, providing a neurophysiological insight into the role of HTR1A in human anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited information is available on the risks of epilepsy after surgery in patients receiving general or neuraxial anaesthesia. Using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database, we identified 1,478,977 patients aged ≥ 20 years who underwent surgery (required general or neuraxial anaesthesia with hospitalisation for more than one day) between 2004 and 2011. We selected 235,066 patients with general anaesthesia and 235,066 patients with neuraxial anaesthesia using a frequency-matching procedure for age and sex. We did not study those with co-existing epilepsy-related risk factors. The adjusted rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of newly diagnosed epilepsy 1 year after surgery associated with general anaesthesia were analysed in the multivariate Poisson regression model. The one-year incidence of postoperative epilepsy for patients with general anaesthesia and neuraxial anaesthesia were 0.41 and 0.32 per 1000 persons, respectively, and the corresponding RR was 1.27 (95%CI 1.15-1.41). The association between general anaesthesia and postoperative epilepsy was significant in men (RR = 1.22; 95%CI 1.06-1.40), women (RR = 1.33; 95%CI 1.15-1.55) and 20-39-year-old patients. The risk of postoperative epilepsy increased in patients with general anaesthesia who had co-existing medical conditions and postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: The mechanisms underlying detection and transmission of sensory signals arising from visceral organs, such as the urethra, are poorly understood. Recently, specialized ACh‐expressing cells embedded in the urethral epithelium have been proposed as chemosensory sentinels for detection of bacterial infection. Here, we examined the morphology and potential role in sensory signalling of a different class of specialized cells that express serotonin (5‐HT), termed paraneurones. Methods: Urethrae, dorsal root ganglia neurones and spinal cords were isolated from adult female mice and used for immunohistochemistry and calcium imaging. Visceromotor reflexes (VMRs) were recorded in vivo. Results: We identified two morphologically distinct groups of 5‐HT+ cells with distinct regional locations: bipolar‐like cells predominant in the mid‐urethra and multipolar‐like cells predominant in the proximal and distal urethra. Sensory nerve fibres positive for calcitonin gene‐related peptide, substance P, and TRPV1 were found in close proximity to 5‐HT+ paraneurones. In vitro 5‐HT (1 μ m) stimulation of urethral primary afferent neurones, mimicking 5‐HT release from paraneurones, elicited changes in the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) mediated by 5‐HT2 and 5‐HT3 receptors. Approximately 50% of 5‐HT responding cells also responded to capsaicin with changes in the [Ca2+]i. In vivo intra‐urethral 5‐HT application increased VMRs induced by urethral distention and activated pERK in lumbosacral spinal cord neurones. Conclusion: These morphological and functional findings provide insights into a putative paraneurone‐neural network within the urethra that utilizes 5‐HT signalling, presumably from paraneurones, to modulate primary sensory pathways carrying nociceptive and non‐nociceptive (mechano‐sensitive) information to the central nervous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of floodplain sedimentation on a recently restored floodplain is presented. This study uses a two-dimensional hydro-morphodynamic model for predicting flow and suspended-sediment dynamics in the downstream of Johnson Creek, the East Lents reach, where the bank of the river has been reconfigured to reconnect to a restored floodplain on a 0.26 km² (26-ha) site. The simulation scenarios include 10-, 50-, 100- and 500-year event-based deposition modelling of flood events and long-term modelling using the 64 historical flood events between 1941 and 2014. Simulation results showed that the restored floodplain significantly attenuates the upstream flood peak by up to 25% at the downstream. Results also indicated that approximately 20%-30% of sediment from the upstream is deposited on the East Lents floodplain. Furthermore, deposited sediment over the simulated period (1941-2014) is approximately 0.1% of the basin's flood storage capacity; however, the reduction in the storage does not offset the overall flood resilience impact of the flood basin. The sediment conservation at the East Lents flood basin as predicted by the model reduces the annual sediment loading of the Johnson Creek by 1% at the confluence with Willamette River, providing both improved water quality and flood resilience further downstream. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: In mast cells, induction of HSP70 expression during antigen stimulation has not been reported. Methods: Mouse bone marrow‐derived mast cells (BMMC) were stimulated with IgE/Ag or HSP70. Induction of HSP70 expression and signaling protein phosphorylation were evaluated by immunoblotting. Results: HSP70 expression is induced in BMMC at an early stage of IgE/Ag‐dependent stimulation, some of which is released from the cells in a granule‐associated form. Induction of HSP70 expression was also observed with an IgE/Ag‐stimulated human basophilic cell line, indicating that the phenomenon is not restricted to mouse BMMC. The induction of HSP70 expression, and its release, followed a similar time course to that of degranulation. Released HSP70 seems to be responsible for degranulation and production of eicosanoids, at least in part, because a neutralizing anti‐HSP70 antibody mitigated these activities and because exogenous HSP70 not only induced immediate degranulation followed by autocrine HSP70 expression but also enhanced degranulation in IgE/Ag‐stimulated BMMC. Extracellular HSP70 was found to induce phosphorylation of linker for activation of T cells (LAT) and a series of downstream signaling molecules in BMMC. We further found that Fyn, Lyn, and spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), which are known to concern LAT phosphorylation in IgE/Ag‐stimulated BMMC, were not phosphorylated in HSP70‐stimulated BMMC, whereas lymphocyte‐specific protein tyrosine kinase (Lck) was phosphorylated. Conclusion: FcεRI stimulation in BMMC and basophils induces HSP70 expression and its release. Extracellular HSP70 induces degranulation and mediator release via phosphorylation of LAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Length and mass data for 1260 (536 females, 683 males, 41 sex unknown) striped marlin Kajikia audax were collected at the fish markets of Tungkang, Singkang and Nanfangao from July 2004 to September 2010. Of these samples, 534 gonads (236 females and 298 males) ranging from 95 to 206 cm in eye-to-fork length ( LEF) and 8 to 88 kg in round mass ( MR), were collected. Chi-square tests indicated sex ratios were homogeneous among months in 2004 and 2006-2008, but not in 2005, 2009 and 2010; and there were significant differences in sex ratio by size. The overall sex ratio ( RS) differed significantly from the expected 0·5. Kajikia audax are sexually dimorphic and the proportions of females increased with size between 140 and 210 cm LEF. Reproductive activity was assessed using a gonado-somatic index ( IG), external appearance of the gonads and histological examination and results indicated that the spawning season occurred from April to August with a peak in June to July. Based on histological observations and the distribution of oocyte diameters, K. audax are multiple spawners and their oocytes develop asynchronously. The estimated length-at-50% maturity ( LEF50) was c. 181 cm ( c. 4·8 years of age) for females. The proportion of reproductively active females in the spawning season with ovaries containing postovulatory follicles (0·27) indicated that they spawned every 3·7 days on average. The hydrated oocyte method estimated mean ± S.D. batch fecundity ( FB) to be 4·4 ± 2·02 million eggs; average relative fecundity was 53·6 ± 13·9 oocytes g−1 MR; and the average annual fecundity was 181·3 ± 48·3 million eggs. The parameters estimated in this study are key information for stock assessments of K. audax in the north-western and central Pacific and will contribute to the conservation, management and sustainable yield of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses which examined the independent association among suicidal ideation, asthma, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness in Korean high school students. Topics covered include the use the methacholine challenge test and self-reported questionnaires to determine whether a student is affected by asthma, the potential confounders that show the association between asthma and suicidal ideation, and common genetic link that may also explain the association.

Background: The study objective was to examine the correlation between regional ventilation distribution measured with electrical impedance tomography (EIT) and weaning outcomes during spontaneous breathing trial (SBT).Methods: Fifteen patients received 100% automatic tube compensation (ATC) during the first and 70% during the second hour. Another 15 patients received external continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) of 5 and 7.5 cmH2 O during the first and second hours, respectively. Regional ventilation distributions were monitored with EIT.Results: Tidal volume and tidal variation of impedance correlated significantly during assist-control ventilation and ATC in all patients (r2 = 0.80 ± 0.18, P < 0.001). Higher support levels resulted in similar ventilation distribution and tidal volume, but higher end-expiratory lung impedance (EELI) (P < 0.05). Analysis of regional intratidal gas distribution revealed a redistribution of ventilation towards dorsal regions with lower support level in 13 of 30 patients. These patients had a higher weaning success rate (only 1 of 13 patients failed). Eight of 17 other patient failed (P < 0.05). The number of SBT days needed for weaning was significantly lower in the former group of 13 patients (13.1 ± 4.0 vs. 20.9 ± 11.2 days, P < 0.05).Conclusions: Regional ventilation distribution patterns during inspiration were associated with weaning outcomes, and they may be used to predict the success of extubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction In the cytogenetically normal population of AML ( CN- AML), FLT3- ITD-positive and wild-type NPM1 is correlated with a worse outcome, and FLT3- ITD-negative with NPM1-mut is correlated with a better outcome. This leaves a large subpopulation of CN- AML patients without NPM1 or FLT3- ITD mutations with heterogeneous outcomes with overall survivals (OS) ranging from several weeks to years. Therefore, new prognostic markers are needed to better risk stratify this subset of patients. Methods The retrospective study included 60 de novo adult AML patients diagnosed at our institution with normal karyotype, no FLT3- ITD or NPM1 mutations, and who did not receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantations. We investigated the prognostic significance of immunophenotypic markers and clinical laboratory features in this double-negative population. Results Older age (>60) and CD4 expression (14%) were significantly correlated with shorter event-free survival ( EFS) ( P < 0.001, P = 0.016, respectively). Expression of CD56 (12%), as well as lack of CD34 expression (19% of the cases), was also associated with a worse EFS ( P = 0.048, P = 0.028, respectively). On multivariable analysis, CD4 expression and old age (>60) were identified as independent predictors for worse EFS ( P = 0.016; P = 0.001, respectively) and OS ( P = 0.048; P = 0.028, respectively). Conclusions Our results indicate that CD4 expression and older age are adverse prognostic factors in wild-type NPM1, FLT3- ITD-negative CN- AML. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To assess the biological effects, including odontoblastic differentiation of a novel light-curable material (TheraCal), on human dental pulp cells ( hDPCs). Methodology The hDPCs were isolated from freshly extracted, caries-free third molars. Ten discs of TheraCal and MTA (8 mm in diameter and 3 mm in height) were incubated in α-minimum essential medium (α- MEM) and the supernatant collected. Viability of hDPCs in response to TheraCal and MTA was measured using the WST-1 assay. RT- PCR and real-time PCR were used to detect the gene expression of dentine sialophosphoprotein ( DSPP) and dentine matrix protein-1 ( DMP-1). ALP staining and Alizarin red S staining were used to evaluate the expression of alkaline phosphatase ( ALP) and mineralization behaviour. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test were used to determine the statistically significant differences as a result of the variation in test materials ( P < 0.05). Results The effects of TheraCal and MTA on cell viability were similar except at the highest concentration. The mRNA level of DSPP increased significantly in the MTA group relative to the control at day 1 and 3 ( P < 0.05). Also, the mRNA level of DSPP increased significantly in the TheraCal group relative to the control at day 3 ( P < 0.05). The increased mRNA level of DMP-1 was 2.5-fold and 2.3-fold each in the MTA and TheraCal groups relative to the control ( P < 0.05). Cells exposed to MTA exhibited a 1.4-fold increase of ALP staining relative to control ( P < 0.05). In the mineralization assay, increased calcium nodule formation was twofold and 1.3-fold each in the MTA and TheraCal groups compared to the control ( P < 0.05). Conclusions TheraCal and MTA had the ability to induce odontoblastic differentiation and mineralization of hDPCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acquisition of potent human dermal papilla ( DP) cells that can induce hair follicle neogenesis is an overarching concern, and various approaches have been tried. In an attempt to solve the problem, we previously introduced the three-dimensional (3D) culture of human DP cells and observed de novo formation of hair follicles when conducting a patch hair reconstitution assay using 3D cultured DP spheres with mouse epidermal cells. In this study, we have subsequently focused our attention on activin A, one of the notably upregulated proteins in DP spheres compared with 2D cultured DP cells. We then adopted a small interfering RNA-mediated gene knock-down approach and hair reconstitution assay to investigate the role of activin A. We observed that human DP spheres with activin A knock-down are severely impaired in hair follicle neogenesis when combined with mouse epidermal cells. In addition, activin receptor 2B (ActvR2B) knock-down mouse epidermal cells showed severe impairment of hair follicle neogenesis when combined with human DP spheres. Moreover, recombinant activin A treatment of mouse epidermal cells increased the expression of downstream genes of the activin pathway. Taken together, our data strongly suggest that activin A-induced signalling plays a critical role in hair follicle neogenesis, which has not been previously reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented on myeloid neoplasm with PDGFRA rearrangement and on Synchronous T lymphoblastic lymphoma.

Numerous studies on methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions during the rice growth period have focused on paddy fields, but CH4 and N2O emissions from rice seedling nurseries are poorly documented. This holds especially true for South China, where the double rice cropping system dominates. Here, we report CH4 and N2O emissions from three types of rice seedling nurseries in South China: Seedlings raised on wetland soil beds (WSB) with continuous flooding, seedlings raised on dry land soil beds (DSB), and seedlings raised in wet conditions with moist irrigation on plastic trays (WPT). Moreover, global warming potential (GWP) for all the three seedling nursing systems were estimated over a 100-year horizon. The results show that the WSB method produced the highest CH4 with negligible N2O emissions. Among the three methods, the DSB plots emitted the highest N2O and thus the highest GWP. Relative to the WSB method, the WPT method significantly decreased total CH4 emissions by 45%, and the WPT method decreased GWPs by 28 and 68% compared to the WSB and DSB method, respectively. The GWP of CH4 and N2O of WSB, DSB, and WPT account 30, 68, and 22% of that for the whole transplanted early-rice growing season for an equal unit area, indicating that GHGs from seedling stage were not negligible. Moreover, the WPT method produced the best rice seedlings. Therefore, utilizing WPT instead of conventional WSB is proposed as a best method for mitigating the GWPs of CH4 and N2O while growing healthy seedlings in rice nurseries in the double rice cropping system in South China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Little is known about the long-term outcome of T1 colorectal cancer ( CRC) following curative resection. The present study addressed the long-term outcome of locally or radically resected T1 CRCs. Method A total of 430 patients with T1 CRC who underwent local or radical resection were considered. Unfavourable histological factors were defined as positive resection margin, deep submucosal invasion, vascular invasion, Grade 3 and budding. The patients were classified as low-risk (unfavourable histological factor negative, n = 65) or high-risk (unfavourable histological factor positive, n = 365). Results Over a median follow-up of 78.4 months, disease recurred in 16 (3.7%) patients in the high-risk group, and no recurrence in the low-risk group. Resection type and vascular invasion were significantly associated with recurrence. In the vascular invasion (+) high-risk group, both 5-year disease-free survival rate and 5-year overall survival rate were significantly associated with resection type (radical 94.6%, local 43.8%, P < 0.001, and radical 99.1%, local 66.7%, P < 0.001). In the vascular invasion (−) high-risk group, 5-year disease-free survival rate was also significantly associated with resection type (radical 98.9%, local 84.7%, P = 0.001). However, 5-year overall survival rate was not associated with resection type (radical 98.9%, local 95.2%, P = 0.816). Conclusion Local resection may be effective and oncologically safe in low-risk T1 CRC. Although additional surgery should be recommended for the locally resected high-risk T1 CRC cases, intensive surveillance without additional surgery and timely salvage operation may offer another treatment option, if vascular invasion is negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The study was designed to assess the correlation between lymph node ( LN) size and LN metastasis in patients with rectal neuroendocrine tumours ( NETs). Method Forty patients who underwent curative resection with lymphadenectomy for a rectal NET between January 2007 and December 2012 were included. The short and long diameters of entire nodes were microscopically measured using a slide gauge. Results In all, 1052 LNs were collected from the 40 patients, with 49 (4.7%) showing evidence of metastasis. Metastasis-positive LNs had significantly greater long and short diameters ( P < 0.001) than metastasis-negative LNs. Of the 49 metastatic LNs, 29 (59.2%) were ≤ 5 mm in largest diameter. In five patients, the largest metastatic LN was only 2-3 mm in diameter. In clinically node-negative ( cN0) patients, 18 (51.4%) patients had metastatic LNs ( pN1). Conclusion The size of LNs containing metastasis varied widely, with some being very small. LN size alone is therefore not a sufficient predictor of tumour metastasis in rectal NETs. Radical surgery with lymphadenectomy should be considered for patients with rectal NETs with high risk factors for LN metastasis, even those without LN enlargement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]