Novel imaging analysis system to measure the spatial dimension of engineered tissue construct.

PubMed

Choi, Kyoung-Hwan; Yoo, Byung-Su; Park, So Ra; Choi, Byung Hyune; Min, Byoung-Hyun

2010-02-01

The measurement of the spatial dimensions of tissue-engineered constructs is very important for their clinical applications. In this study, a novel method to measure the volume of tissue-engineered constructs was developed using iterative mathematical computations. The method measures and analyzes three-dimensional (3D) parameters of a construct to estimate its actual volume using a sequence of software-based mathematical algorithms. The mathematical algorithm is composed of two stages: the shape extraction and the determination of volume. The shape extraction utilized 3D images of a construct: length, width, and thickness, captured by a high-quality camera with charge coupled device. The surface of the 3D images was then divided into fine sections. The area of each section was measured and combined to obtain the total surface area. The 3D volume of the target construct was then mathematically obtained using its total surface area and thickness. The accuracy of the measurement method was verified by comparing the results with those obtained from the hydrostatic weighing method (Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science [KRISS], Korea). The mean difference in volume between two methods was 0.0313 +/- 0.0003% (n = 5, P = 0.523) with no significant statistical difference. In conclusion, our image-based spatial measurement system is a reliable and easy method to obtain an accurate 3D volume of a tissue-engineered construct.

Ex vivo method to visualize and quantify vascular networks in native and tissue engineered skin.

PubMed

Egaña, José Tomás; Condurache, Alexandru; Lohmeyer, Jörn Andreas; Kremer, Mathias; Stöckelhuber, Beate M; Lavandero, Sergio; Machens, Hans-Günther

2009-03-01

Neovascularization plays a pivotal role in tissue engineering and tissue regeneration. However, reliable technologies to visualize and quantify blood vessel networks in target tissue areas are still pending. In this work, we introduce a new method which allows comparing vascularization levels in normal and tissue-engineered skin. Normal skin was isolated, and vascular dermal regeneration was analyzed based on tissue transillumination and computerized digital segmentation. For tissue-engineered skin, a bilateral full skin defect was created in a nude mouse model and then covered with a commercially available scaffold for dermal regeneration. After 3 weeks, the whole skin (including scaffold for dermal regeneration) was harvested, and vascularization levels were analyzed. The blood vessel network in the skin was better visualized by transillumination than by radio-angiographic studies, the gold standard for angiographies. After visualization, the whole vascular network was digitally segmented showing an excellent overlapping with the original pictures. Quantification over the digitally segmented picture was performed, and an index of vascularization area (VAI) and length (VLI) of the vessel network was obtained in target tissues. VAI/VLI ratio was calculated to obtain the vessel size index. We present a new technique which has several advantages compared to others, as animals do not require intravascular perfusions, total areas of interest can be quantitatively analyzed at once, and the same target tissue can be processed for further experimental analysis.

Correction of Large Oro-antral Communications From Previously Failed Implant Treatment: Reconstruction of Hard and Soft Tissues.

PubMed

Petrungaro, Paul S; Gonzalez, Santiago; Villegas, Carlos

2018-02-01

As dental implants become more popular for the treatment of partial and total edentulism and treatment of "terminal dentitions," techniques for the management of the atrophic posterior maxillae continue to evolve. Although dental implants carry a high success rate long term, attention must be given to the growing numbers of revisions or retreatment of cases that have had previous dental implant treatment and/or advanced bone replacement procedures that, due to either poor patient compliance, iatrogenic error, or poor quality of the pre-existing alveolar and/or soft tissues, have led to large osseous defects, possibly with deficient soft-tissue volume. In the posterior maxillae, where the poorest quality of bone in the oral cavity exists, achieving regeneration of the alveolar bone and adequate volume of soft tissue remains a complex procedure. This is made even more difficult when dealing with loss of dental implants previously placed, aggressive bone reduction required in various implant procedures, and/or residual sinus infections precluding proper closure of the oral wound margins. The purpose of this article is to outline a technique for the total closure of large oro-antral communications, with underlying osseous defects greater than 15 mm in width and 30 mm in length, for which multiple previous attempts at closure had failed, to achieve not only the reconstruction of adequate volume and quality of soft tissues in the area of the previous fistula, but also total regeneration of the osseous structures in the area of the large void.

Efficacy of enzymatic debridement of deeply burned hands.

PubMed

Krieger, Yuval; Bogdanov-Berezovsky, Alexander; Gurfinkel, Reuven; Silberstein, Eldad; Sagi, Amiram; Rosenberg, Lior

2012-02-01

The burned hand is a common and difficult to care-for entity in the field of burns. Due to the anatomy of the hand (important and delicate structures crowded in a small limited space without sub-dermal soft tissue), surgical debridement of the burned tissue is technically difficult and may cause considerable complications and, therefore, should be performed judiciously. Selective enzymatic debridement of the burn wound can preserve the spontaneous epithelialisation potential and reduce the added injury to the traumatised tissue added by a surgical debridement. The aim of the study was to assess the implication of a selective enzymatic compound (Debrase(®) - Ds) in the special field of deep hand burns, by comparing the actual burn area that required surgical coverage after enzymatic debridement to the burn area clinically judged to require skin grafting prior to debridement. This was a retrospective data collection and analysis from 154 complete files of prospective, open-label study in 275 hospitalised, Ds-treated burn patients. A total of 69 hand burns diagnosed as 'deep' was analysed; 36% of the wounds required surgical intervention after enzymatic debridement; 28.6% of the total burned area estimated initially as deep was covered by skin graft (statistically significant p<0.001). Debridement of deep-hand burns with a selective enzymatic agent decreased the perceived full-thickness wound area and skin-graft use. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

Histological Evaluation of the Healing Process of Various Bone Graft Materials after Engraftment into the Human Body.

PubMed

Jo, Sang Hyun; Kim, Young-Kyun; Choi, Yong-Hoon

2018-05-02

The purpose of this study was to measure the level of new bone formation induced by various bone graft materials to provide clinicians with more choices. The samples were divided into three groups: group 1 ( n = 9: allograft + xenograft, DBX ® , San Francisco, CA, USA + Bio-Oss ® , Princeton, NJ, USA), group 2 ( n = 10: xenograft, Bio-Oss ® ), and group 3 ( n = 8: autogenous tooth bone graft, AutoBT ® , Korea Tooth Bank, Seoul, Korea). The average duration of evaluation was 9.56, 2.50, and 3.38 months, respectively. A tissue sample was taken from 27 patients during the second implant surgery. New bone formation was measured via histomorphometry, using a charge-coupled device camera, adaptor, and image analysis software. Total bone area, total area, and ((total bone area/total area) × 100) was measured to determine the extent of new bone formation. The mean value of the total bone area was 152,232.63 μm²; the mean value of the total area was 1,153,696.46 μm²; and the mean total bone area/total area ratio was 13.50%. In each comparison, there was no significant difference among the groups; no inflammation or complications were found in any of the groups. AutoBT ® , an autogenous tooth bone graft, resulted in a level of bone formation similar to that using allografts and xenografts.

Anthropometric and computerized tomographic measurements of lower extremity lean body mass.

PubMed

Buckley, D C; Kudsk, K A; Rose, B S; Fatzinger, P; Koetting, C A; Schlatter, M

1987-02-01

The loss of lean muscle mass is one of the hallmarks of protein-calorie malnutrition. Anthropometry is a standardized technique used to assess the response of muscle mass to nutrition therapy by quantifying the muscle and fat compartments. That technique does not accurately reflect actual limb composition, whereas computerized tomography does. Twenty lower extremities on randomly chosen men and women patients were evaluated by anthropometry and computerized tomography. Total area, muscle plus bone area, total volume, and muscle plus bone volume were correlated, using Heymsfield's equation and computerized tomography-generated areas. Anthropometrics overestimated total and muscle plus bone cross-sectional areas at almost every level. Anthropometry overestimated total area and total volume by 5% to 10% but overestimated muscle plus bone area and muscle plus bone volume by as much as 40%. Anthropometry, while easily performed and useful in large population groups for epidemiological studies, offers a poor assessment of lower extremity composition. On the other hand, computerized tomography is also easily performed and, while impractical for large population groups, does offer an accurate assessment of the lower extremity tissue compartments and is an instrument that might be used in research on lean muscle mass.

Lifespan mercury accumulation pattern in Liza aurata : Evidence from two southern European estuaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tavares, S.; Oliveira, H.; Coelho, J. P.; Pereira, M. E.; Duarte, A. C.; Pardal, M. A.

2011-10-01

Mercury accumulation throughout the lifespan of Liza aurata (Risso, 1810) was analysed in four tissues (muscle, gills, liver and brain) in two southern European coastal ecosystems with distinct mercury contamination. Specimens from four to five age classes were captured in two sampling sites in the Ria de Aveiro (Laranjo bay and Mira), a system historically contaminated by industrial mercury, and in one site in the Mondego estuary, assumed as a mercury-free ecosystem. Mercury concentration in all tissues was found to be significantly higher in the Ria de Aveiro (Laranjo bay) compared to the Mondego, in accordance with the environmental contamination (water, sediments and suspended particulate matter). Significant differences inside the Ria de Aveiro (between the Mira and Laranjo bay) were only detected in the liver. This tissue registered the highest levels of mercury (ranging from 0.11 to 4.2 μg g -1 ) in all sampling sites, followed by muscle, brain, and gills. In all sampling sites and tissues was denoted a mercury dilution pattern along the lifecycle (except in liver at the Mondego, the reference area where the concentrations are always very low). An exponential trend was found in the metal age variation patterns in Laranjo (the most contaminated area) and a linear trend in the Mira and the Mondego (the least contaminated areas). Organic mercury concentration in muscle generally accounted for over 95% of total mercury concentration, and followed the same accumulation pattern of total mercury. This fish species is of lesser importance in mercury transfer to adjacent coastal areas and although the consumption of fish from Laranjo may present some risk for the humans, this risk decreases with fish age/size.

Automated unsupervised multi-parametric classification of adipose tissue depots in skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

Valentinitsch, Alexander; Karampinos, Dimitrios C.; Alizai, Hamza; Subburaj, Karupppasamy; Kumar, Deepak; Link, Thomas M.; Majumdar, Sharmila

2012-01-01

Purpose To introduce and validate an automated unsupervised multi-parametric method for segmentation of the subcutaneous fat and muscle regions in order to determine subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) areas based on data from a quantitative chemical shift-based water-fat separation approach. Materials and Methods Unsupervised standard k-means clustering was employed to define sets of similar features (k = 2) within the whole multi-modal image after the water-fat separation. The automated image processing chain was composed of three primary stages including tissue, muscle and bone region segmentation. The algorithm was applied on calf and thigh datasets to compute SAT and IMAT areas and was compared to a manual segmentation. Results The IMAT area using the automatic segmentation had excellent agreement with the IMAT area using the manual segmentation for all the cases in the thigh (R2: 0.96) and for cases with up to moderate IMAT area in the calf (R2: 0.92). The group with the highest grade of muscle fat infiltration in the calf had the highest error in the inner SAT contour calculation. Conclusion The proposed multi-parametric segmentation approach combined with quantitative water-fat imaging provides an accurate and reliable method for an automated calculation of the SAT and IMAT areas reducing considerably the total post-processing time. PMID:23097409

Scattering properties of normal and cancerous tissues from human stomach based on phase-contrast microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hui; Li, Zhifang; Li, Hui

2012-12-01

In order to study scattering properties of normal and cancerous tissues from human stomach, we collect images for human gastric specimens by using phase-contrast microscope. The images were processed by the way of mathematics morphology. The equivalent particle size distribution of tissues can be obtained. Combining with Mie scattering theory, the scattering properties of tissues can be calculated. Assume scattering of light in biological tissue can be seen as separate scattering events by different particles, total scattering properties can be equivalent to as scattering sum of particles with different diameters. The results suggest that scattering coefficient of the cancerous tissue is significantly higher than that of normal tissue. The scattering phase function is different especially in the backscattering area. Those are significant clinical benefits to diagnosis cancerous tissue

Multimodal optical coherence tomography for in vivo imaging of brain tissue structure and microvascular network at glioblastoma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yashin, Konstantin S.; Kiseleva, Elena B.; Gubarkova, Ekaterina V.; Matveev, Lev A.; Karabut, Maria M.; Elagin, Vadim V.; Sirotkina, Marina A.; Medyanik, Igor A.; Kravets, L. Y.; Gladkova, Natalia D.

2017-02-01

In the case of infiltrative brain tumors the surgeon faces difficulties in determining their boundaries to achieve total resection. The aim of the investigation was to evaluate the performance of multimodal OCT (MM OCT) for differential diagnostics of normal brain tissue and glioma using an experimental model of glioblastoma. The spectral domain OCT device that was used for the study provides simultaneously two modes: cross-polarization and microangiographic OCT. The comparative analysis of the both OCT modalities images from tumorous and normal brain tissue areas concurrently with histologic correlation shows certain difference between when accordingly to morphological and microvascular tissue features.

Treatment of the concrete scalp donor site.

PubMed

Engrav, L H; Grube, B J; Bubak, P J

1990-02-01

The scalp has become a popular donor site for split-thickness skin, and few complications have been reported. However, we have been troubled by 5 patients in whom the donor site did not epithelialize but rather turned into dried granulation tissue with embedded growing hairs, a situation rather like concrete with steel reinforcing rods. The pathophysiology is not clear but seems to be related to thick grafts from hair-bearing areas. We treated the lesions by removing the granulation tissue, shaving the hair, and treating the wound as a new donor site. Four lesions healed with total or near total regrowth of hair, and one required a small skin graft.

Year 5 Post-Remediation Biomonitoring of Pesticides and other Contaminants in Marine Waters near the United Heckathorn Superfund Site, Richmond, California

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kohn, Nancy P.; Kropp, Roy K.

Marine sediment remediation at the United Heckathorn Superfund Site in Richmond, California, was completed in April 1997. The Record of Decision included a requirement for five years of post-remediation monitoring be conducted in the waterways near the site. The present monitoring year, 2001? 2002, is the fifth and possibly final year of post-remediation monitoring. In March 2002, water and mussel tissues were collected from the four stations in and near Lauritzen Channel that have been routinely monitored since 1997-98. A fifth station in Parr Canal was sampled in Year 5 to document post-remediation water and tissue concentrations there. Dieldrin andmore » dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) were analyzed in water samples and in tissue samples from resident (i.e., naturally occurring) mussels. As in Years 3 and 4, mussels were not transplanted to the study area in Year 5. Year 5 concentrations of dieldrin and total DDT in water and total DDT in tissue were compared with those from Years 1 through 4 of post-remediation monitoring, and with preremediation data from the California State Mussel Watch Program and the Ecological Risk Assessment for the United Heckathorn Superfund Site. Year 5 water samples and mussel tissues were also analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), which were detected in sediment samples during Year 2 monitoring and were added to the water and mussel tissue analyses in 1999. Contaminants of concern in Year 5 water samples were analyzed in both bulk (total) phase and dissolved phase, as were total suspended solids, to evaluate the contribution of particulates to the total contaminant concentration.« less

PAPP-A affects tendon structure and mechanical properties.

PubMed

Yang, Tai-Hua; Thoreson, Andrew R; An, Kai-Nan; Zhao, Chunfeng; Conover, Cheryl A; Amadio, Peter C

2015-10-01

Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) serves to increase local insulin-like growth factor (IGF) stimulation of proliferation and differentiation in many tissues through proteolysis of inhibitory IGF-binding proteins. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of PAPP-A on tendon structure and mechanical properties. A total of 30 tails from 6-month-old mice were tested with 10 tails in each of following groups: PAPP-A knockout (KO), skeletal-specific PAPP-A overexpressing transgenic (Tg) and wild type (WT). Morphologically, the total tail cross-sectional area (CSA), individual tissue CSAs of bone, muscle and tendon, and fascicle diameter were measured. A fascicle pullout test was performed to assess stiffness and strength of interfascicular structures. Fascicles were mechanically characterized through low and high displacement rate uniaxial tension tests providing modulus at each rate, hysteresis area and stress relaxation ratio. The KO mice had a smaller total tail CSA (p<0.05), fascicle diameter (p<0.05), absolute tendon CSA (p<0.05), fast and slow stiffness (p<0.05 for both) and larger hysteresis area (p<0.05) compared to WT and Tg mice. On the other hand, the Tg mice had a larger fascicle diameter (p<0.05), absolute tendon CSA (p<0.05), higher interfascicular strength and stiffness (p<0.05) and lower fascicular modulus at low displacement rates (p<0.05) compared to WT and KO mice. Tg mice also had larger total tail CSA area (p<0.05) and smaller hysteresis area (p<0.05) than KO mice, and larger normalized tendon CSA (p<0.05) than WT mice. Based on these data, we conclude that PAPP-A affects fascicle structure, thereby affecting tendon phenotype. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

10 CFR 72.106 - Controlled area of an ISFSI or MRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... controlled area may not receive from any design basis accident the more limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The lens dose...

10 CFR 72.106 - Controlled area of an ISFSI or MRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... controlled area may not receive from any design basis accident the more limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The lens dose...

10 CFR 72.106 - Controlled area of an ISFSI or MRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... controlled area may not receive from any design basis accident the more limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The lens dose...

10 CFR 72.106 - Controlled area of an ISFSI or MRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... controlled area may not receive from any design basis accident the more limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The lens dose...

10 CFR 72.106 - Controlled area of an ISFSI or MRS.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... controlled area may not receive from any design basis accident the more limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The lens dose...

USE OF NATIVE PLANTS FOR REMEDIATION OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE: I. DECIDUOUS TREES.

PubMed

Strycharz, S; Newman, L

2009-02-01

Phytoremediation of trichloroethylene (TCE) can be accomplished using fast-growing, deep-rooting trees. The most commonly used tree for phytoremediation of TCE has been the hybrid poplar. This study looks at native southeastern trees of the United States as alternatives to the use of hybrid poplar. The use of native trees for phytoremediation allows for simultaneous restoration of contaminated sites. A 2-mo, greenhouse-based study was conducted to determine if sycamore (Plantanus L.), eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua L.), and willow (Salix sachalinensis) trees possess the ability to degrade TCE by assessing TCE metabolite formation in the plant tissue. In addition to the metabolic capabilities of each tree species, growth parameters were measured including change in height, water usage, total fresh weight of each tissue type, and calculated total leaf surface area. Willow trees had the greatest increase in height among all trees tested; however, at higher concentrations TCE inhibits growth. Sycamore trees had the highest overall leaf surface area and total biomass, which correlated with sycamore trees also having the highest average water usage over the course of the experiment. Carbon tubes used to sample transpiration gases from sycamore, sweetgum, and cottonwood trees did not contain detectable levels of TCE. Tenex sample collection tubes used to sample willow trees during TCE exposure showed average TCE concentrations of up to 0.354 ng TCE cm -2 leaf tissue. All exposed trees contained TCE in the root, stem, and leaf tissues. The concentration of TCE remaining in tissues at the conclusion of the experiment varied, with the highest levels found in the roots and the lowest levels found in the leaves. Metabolites were also observed in different tissue types of all trees tested. The highest concentrations of trichloroacetic acid were observed in the leaves of the sycamore trees and cottonwood trees. Based on the growth parameters tested and the ability to metabolize TCE, sycamore and native cottonwood species are the best candidates for phytoremediation from this study.

Improvement of left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction with eight weeks L-thyroxine treatment in rats.

PubMed

Chen, Yue-Feng; Weltman, Nathan Y; Li, Xiang; Youmans, Steven; Krause, David; Gerdes, Anthony Martin

2013-02-14

Left ventricular (LV) remodeling following large transmural myocardial infarction (MI) remains a pivotal clinical issue despite the advance of medical treatment over the past few decades. Identification of new medications to improve the remodeling process and prevent progression to heart failure after MI is critical. Thyroid hormones (THs) have been shown to improve LV function and remodeling in animals post-MI and in the human setting. However, changes in underlying cellular remodeling resulting from TH treatment are not clear. MI was produced in adult female Sprague-Dawley rats by ligation of the left descending coronary artery. L-thyroxine (T4) pellet (3.3 mg, 60 days sustained release) was used to treat MI rats for 8 weeks. Isolated myocyte shape, arterioles, and collagen deposition in the non-infarcted area were measured at terminal study. T4 treatment improved LV ±dp/dt, normalized TAU, and increased myocyte cross-sectional area without further increasing myocyte length in MI rats. T4 treatment increased the total LV tissue area by 34%, increased the non-infarcted tissue area by 41%, and increased the thickness of non-infarcted area by 36% in MI rats. However, myocyte volume accounted for only ~1/3 of the increase in myocyte mass in the non-infarct area, indicating the presence of more myocytes with treatment. T4 treatment tended to increase the total length of smaller arterioles (5 to 15 μm) proportional to LV weight increase and also decreased collagen deposition in the LV non-infarcted area. A tendency for increased metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) expression and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) -1 to -4 expression was also observed in T4 treated MI rats. These results suggest that long-term T4 treatment after MI has beneficial effects on myocyte, arteriolar, and collagen matrix remodeling in the non-infarcted area. Most importantly, results suggest improved survival of myocytes in the peri-infarct area.

Cadmium contamination of tissues and organs of delphinids species (Stenella attenuata)--influence of biological and ecological factors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Andre, J.M.; Amiard, J.C.; Amiard-Triquet, C.

1990-12-01

Based on a sample of 27 dolphins (Stenella attenuata) captured in the Eastern tropical zone of the Pacific Ocean, this study was carried out to analyze the cadmium accumulation levels and distribution in 12 organs or tissue samples. The average cadmium concentrations were between 0.2 mg Cd.kg-1 in the brain and muscle and 48 mg Cd.kg-1 in the kidneys. For most of organs and tissues the average values were between 1 and 5 mg Cd.kg-1. Kidneys, liver, muscle, and intestine contained almost 85% of the total cadmium burden of all tissues considered in this study. Most of the biological andmore » ecological factors taken into account (age, sex, total weight, and length of the dolphins, weight of the organs, place and date of capture) interacted with the cadmium concentrations and burdens in the collected organs or tissues. Three factors appear to be of prime importance: age, body weight, and geographical location of the area of capture.« less

Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Soft Tissue Wound Healing: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Miron, Richard J; Fujioka-Kobayashi, Masako; Bishara, Mark; Zhang, Yufeng; Hernandez, Maria; Choukroun, Joseph

2017-02-01

The growing multidisciplinary field of tissue engineering aims at predictably regenerating, enhancing, or replacing damaged or missing tissues for a variety of conditions caused by trauma, disease, and old age. One area of research that has gained tremendous awareness in recent years is that of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), which has been utilized across a wide variety of medical fields for the regeneration of soft tissues. This systematic review gathered all the currently available in vitro, in vivo, and clinical literature utilizing PRF for soft tissue regeneration, augmentation, and/or wound healing. In total, 164 publications met the original search criteria, with a total of 48 publications meeting inclusion criteria (kappa score = 94%). These studies were divided into 7 in vitro, 11 in vivo, and 31 clinical studies. In summary, 6 out of 7 (85.7%) and 11 out of 11 (100%) of the in vitro and in vivo studies, respectively, demonstrated a statistically significant advantage for combining PRF to their regenerative therapies. Out of the remaining 31 clinical studies, a total of 8 reported the effects of PRF in a randomized clinical trial, with 5 additional studies (13 total) reporting appropriate controls. In those clinical studies, 9 out of the 13 studies (69.2%) demonstrated a statistically relevant positive outcome for the primary endpoints measured. In total, 18 studies (58% of clinical studies) reported positive wound-healing events associated with the use of PRF, despite using controls. Furthermore, 27 of the 31 clinical studies (87%) supported the use of PRF for soft tissue regeneration and wound healing for a variety of procedures in medicine and dentistry. In conclusion, the results from the present systematic review highlight the positive effects of PRF on wound healing after regenerative therapy for the management of various soft tissue defects found in medicine and dentistry.

Guided bone generation in a rabbit mandible model after periosteal expansion with an osmotic tissue expander.

PubMed

Abrahamsson, Peter; Isaksson, Sten; Andersson, Gunilla

2011-11-01

To evaluate the space-maintaining capacity of titanium mesh covered by a collagen membrane after soft tissue expansion on the lateral border of the mandible in rabbits, and to assess bone quantity and quality using autogenous particulate bone or bone-substitute (Bio-Oss(®) ), and if soft tissue ingrowth can be avoided by covering the mesh with a collagen membrane. In 11 rabbits, a self-inflatable soft tissue expander was placed under the lateral mandibular periosteum via an extra-oral approach. After 2 weeks, the expanders were removed and a particulated onlay bone graft and deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) (Bio-Oss(®) ) were placed in the expanded area and covered by a titanium mesh. The bone and DBBM were separated in two compartments under the mesh with a collagen membrane in between. The mesh was then covered with a collagen membrane. After 3 months, the animals were sacrificed and specimens were collected for histology. The osmotic soft tissue expander created a subperiosteal pocket and a ridge of new bone formed at the edges of the expanded periosteum in all sites. After the healing period of 3 months, no soft tissue dehiscence was recorded. The mean bone fill was 58.1±18% in the bone grafted area and 56.9±13.7% in the DBBM area. There was no significant difference between the autologous bone graft and the DDBM under the titanium mesh with regard to the total bone area or the mineralized bone area. Scanning electron microscopy showed that new bone was growing in direct contact with the DBBM particles and the titanium mesh. There is a soft tissue ingrowth even after soft tissue expansion and protection of the titanium mesh with a collagen membrane. This study confirms that an osmotic soft tissue expander creates a surplus of periosteum and soft tissue, and that new bone can subsequently be generated under a titanium mesh with the use of an autologous bone graft or DBBM. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Contaminant levels in fish tissue from San Francisco Bay

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fairey, R.; Taberski, K.

1995-12-31

Edible fish species were collected from thirteen locations throughout San Francisco Bay, during the spring of 1994, for determination of contaminants levels in muscle tissue. Species collected included white croaker, surfperch, leopard and brown smoothhound sharks, striped bass, white sturgeon and halibut Sixty six composite tissue samples were analyzed for the presence of PAHs, PCBs, pesticides, trace elements and dioxin/furans. The US EPA approach to assessing chemical contaminant data for fish tissue consumption was used for identifying the primary chemicals of concern. Six chemicals or chemical groups were found to exceed screening levels established using the US EPA approach. PCBsmore » (as total Aroclors) exceeded the screening level of 3 ppb in all sixty six tissue samples, with the highest concentrations (638 ppb) found near San Francisco`s industrial areas. Mercury was elevated (> 0.14 ppm) in forty of the sixty-six samples with the highest levels (1.26 ppm) occurring in shark muscle tissues. Concentrations of the organochlorine pesticides dieldrin, total chlordanes and total DDTs exceeded screening levels in a number of samples. Dioxin/furans (as TEQs) were elevated (above 0.15 ppt) in 16 of the 19 samples analyzed. Fish with high lipid content (croaker and surfperch) in their muscle tissue generally exhibited higher contaminant levels while fish with low lipid levels (halibut and shark) exhibited lower organic contaminant levels. Tissue samples taken from North Bay stations most often exhibited high levels of chemical contamination. The California Office of Health Hazard Assessment is currently evaluating the results of this study and has issued an interim Health Advisory concerning the human consumption of fish tissue from San Francisco Bay.« less

Spectral areas and ratios classifier algorithm for pancreatic tissue classification using optical spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandra, Malavika; Scheiman, James; Simeone, Diane; McKenna, Barbara; Purdy, Julianne; Mycek, Mary-Ann

2010-01-01

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer death, in part because of the inability of current diagnostic methods to reliably detect early-stage disease. We present the first assessment of the diagnostic accuracy of algorithms developed for pancreatic tissue classification using data from fiber optic probe-based bimodal optical spectroscopy, a real-time approach that would be compatible with minimally invasive diagnostic procedures for early cancer detection in the pancreas. A total of 96 fluorescence and 96 reflectance spectra are considered from 50 freshly excised tissue sites-including human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, chronic pancreatitis (inflammation), and normal tissues-on nine patients. Classification algorithms using linear discriminant analysis are developed to distinguish among tissues, and leave-one-out cross-validation is employed to assess the classifiers' performance. The spectral areas and ratios classifier (SpARC) algorithm employs a combination of reflectance and fluorescence data and has the best performance, with sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, and positive predictive value for correctly identifying adenocarcinoma being 85, 89, 92, and 80%, respectively.

Trace elements and organic compounds in streambed sediment and fish tissue of coastal New England streams, 1998-99

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chalmers, Ann

2002-01-01

Streambed sediment and fish tissue were collected at 14 river sites in eastern New England during low-flow conditions in 1998 and 1999 as part of the New England Coastal Basins (NECB) study of the U.S. Geological Survey National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) Program. Sampling sites were selected over a range of urban settings. Population densities at selected sites ranged from 26 to 3,585 people per square mile, and urban land use ranged from 1 to 68 percent. The streambed sediment samples were analyzed for a total of 141 contaminants, including 45 trace elements, 32 organochlorine compounds, and 64 semi-volatile organic compounds. The fish tissue samples were analyzed for 22 trace elements and 28 organochlorine compounds. Concentrations of selected contaminants in both streambed sediment and fish tissue correlated more strongly with population density than with other watershed characteristics. Cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, zinc, total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), total polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichloro diphenyl trichloroethane and metabolites (DDTM), and total chlordane in streambed sediment all showed strong positive correlations with population density (rho = 0.71 to 0.85, p value = 0.005 to <0.001). Correlations between population density and selected contaminants in fish tissue were less significant than with streambed sediment (rho = 0.62 to 0.72, p value = 0.03 to 0.008). Organic carbon concentrations were correlated with concentrations of arsenic, selenium, total PAHs, total PCBs, and DDTM in streambed sediment. The relation between concentrations of contaminants in streambed sediment and fish tissue was stronger for organochlorine compounds (rho = 0.75 to 0.55, p = 0.005 to 0.065) than for trace elements (rho = 0.63 to 0.53, p = 0.029 to 0.069). The NECB study area had the highest median concentrations of lead, mercury, total PAHs, total PCBs, and DDTM in streambed sediment and the highest median concentration of PCBs in fish tissue compared to 45 other NAWQA study units across the Nation. Concentrations of many of these constituents in streambed sediment also were frequently above the consensus-based Sediment-Quality Guidelines for the protection of wildlife, suggesting they are a threat to the health of aquatic biota in New England.

Connective Tissue Characteristics around Healing Abutments of Different Geometries: New Methodological Technique under Circularly Polarized Light.

PubMed

Delgado-Ruiz, Rafael Arcesio; Calvo-Guirado, Jose Luis; Abboud, Marcus; Ramirez-Fernandez, Maria Piedad; Maté-Sánchez de Val, José Eduardo; Negri, Bruno; Gomez-Moreno, Gerardo; Markovic, Aleksa

2015-08-01

To describe contact, thickness, density, and orientation of connective tissue fibers around healing abutments of different geometries by means of a new method using coordinates. Following the bilateral extraction of mandibular premolars (P2, P3, and P4) from six fox hound dogs and a 2-month healing period, 36 titanium implants were inserted, onto which two groups of healing abutments of different geometry were screwed: Group A (concave abutments) and Group B (wider healing abutment). After 3 months the animals were sacrificed and samples extracted containing each implant and surrounding soft and hard tissues. Histological analysis was performed without decalcifying the samples by means of circularly polarized light under optical microscope and a system of vertical and horizontal coordinates across all the connective tissue in an area delimited by the implant/abutment, epithelium, and bone tissue. In no case had the connective tissue formed a connection to the healing abutment/implant in the internal zone; a space of 35 ± 10 μm separated the connective tissue fibers from the healing abutment surface. The total thickness of connective tissue in the horizontal direction was significantly greater in the medial zone in Group B than in Group A (p < .05). The orientation of the fibers varied according to the coordinate area so that internal coordinates showed a higher percentage of parallel fibers in Group A (p < .05) and a higher percentage of oblique fibers in Group B (p < .05); medial coordinates showed more oblique fibers (p < .05); and the area of external coordinates showed the highest percentage of perpendicular fibers (p < .05). The fiber density was higher in the basal and medial areas (p < .05). Abutment geometry influences the orientation of collagen fibers; therefore, an abutment with a profile wider than the implant platform favors oblique and perpendicular orientation of collagen fibers and greater connective tissue thickness. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Post-remediation biomonitoring of pesticides and other contaminants in marine waters and sediment near the United Heckathorn Superfund Site, Richmond, California

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LD Antrim; NP Kohn

Marine sediment remediation at the United Heckathorn Superfund Site was completed in April 1997. Water and mussel tissues were sampled in February 1999 from four stations near Lauritzen Canal in Richmond, California, for Year 2 of post-remediation monitoring of marine areas near the United Heckathorn Site. Dieldrin and dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) were analyzed in water samples, tissue samples from resident mussels, and tissue samples from transplanted mussels deployed for 4 months. Concentrations of dieldrin and total DDT in water and total DDT in tissue were compared with Year 1 of post-remediation monitoring, and with preremediation data from the California Statemore » Mussel Watch program (tissues) and the Ecological Risk Assessment for the United Heckathorn Superfund Site (tissues and water). Mussel tissues were also analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), which were detected in sediment samples. Chlorinated pesticide concentrations in water samples were similar to preremediation levels and did not meet remediation goals. Mean dieidrin concentrations in water ranged from 0.62 rig/L to 12.5 ng/L and were higher than the remediation goal (0.14 ng/L) at all stations. Mean total DDT concentrations in water ranged from 14.4 ng/L to 62.3 ng/L and exceeded the remediation goal (0.59 ng/L) at all stations. The highest concentrations of both pesticides were found at the Lauritzen Canal/End station. Despite exceedence of the remediation goals, chlorinated pesticide concentrations in Lauritzen Canal water samples were notably lower in 1999 than in 1998. Tissue samples from biomonitoring organisms (mussels) provide an indication of the longer-term integrated exposure to contaminants in the water column, which overcomes the limitations of grab samples of water. Biomonitoring results indicated that the bioavailability of chlorinated pesticides has been reduced from preremediation levels both in the dredged area and throughout Richmond Harbor. Total DDT and dieldrin concentrations in mussel tissues were dramatically lower than measured levels from preremediation surveys and also lower than Year 1 levels from post-remediation biomonitoring. The lowest levels were found at the Richmond Inner Harbor Channel station (4.1 {micro}g/kg total DDT and 0.59 {micro}g/kg dieldrin, wet weight; mean of resident and transplant mussels). Mean chlorinated pesticide concentrations were highest at Lauritzen Canal/End (82 {micro}g/kg total DDT and 7.1 {micro}g/kg dieldrin, wet weight), followed by Lauritzen Canal/Mouth (22 {micro}/kg total DDT and 1.7 {micro}g/kg dieldrin, wet weight) and Santa Fe Channel/End (7.5 {micro}g/kg total DOT and 0.61 {micro}g/kg dieldrin, wet weight). These levels are 95% to 99% lower than those recorded by the California State Mussel Watch program prior to EPA's response actions. The levels of PCBs in mussel tissue were also reduced by 93% to 97% from preremediation levels. Surface sediment concentrations of dieldrin and DDT in November 1998 were highest in samples from the head or north end of Lauritzen Canal and progressively lower toward the mouth, or south end. Total DDT ranged from 130 ppm (dry weight) at the north end to 3 ppm at the south end. Dieldrin concentrations decreased from 3,270 ppb (dry weight) at the north end to 52 ppb at the south end. These results confirmed elevated pesticide concentrations in sediments collected from Lauritzen Channel by Anderson et al. (1999). The pesticide concentrations were lower than maximum concentrations found in the 1993 Remedial Investigation but comparable to the median levels measured before remediation was completed. Sediment analyses also showed the presence of elevated PCB aroclor 1254, and very high levels of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in Lauritzen Channel.« less

Efficacy of thigh volume ratios assessed via stereovision body imaging as a predictor of visceral adipose tissue measured by magnetic resonance imaging

PubMed Central

Lee, Jane J; Freeland-Graves, Jeanne H; Pepper, M Reese; Yu, Wurong; Xu, Bugao

2014-01-01

Objectives The research examined the efficacy of regional volumes of thigh ratios assessed by stereovision body imaging (SBI) as a predictor of visceral adipose tissue measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Body measurements obtained via SBI also were utilized to explore disparities of body size and shape in men and women. Method 121 participants were measured for total/regional body volumes and ratios via SBI and abdominal subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue areas by MRI. Results Thigh to torso and thigh to abdomen-hip volume ratios were the most reliable parameters to predict the accumulation of visceral adipose tissue depots compared to other body measurements. Thigh volume in relation to torso [odds ratios (OR) 0.44] and abdomen-hip (OR 0.41) volumes were negatively associated with increased risks of greater visceral adipose tissue depots, even after controlling for age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). Irrespective of BMI classification, men exhibited greater total body (80.95L vs. 72.41L), torso (39.26L vs. 34.13L), and abdomen-hip (29.01L vs. 25.85L) volumes than women. Women had higher thigh volumes (4.93L vs. 3.99L) and lower-body volume ratios [thigh to total body (0.07 vs. 0.05), thigh to torso (0.15 vs. 0.11), and thigh to abdomen-hip (0.20 vs. 0.15); p<0.05]. Conclusions The unique parameters of the volumes of thigh in relation to torso and abdomen-hip, by SBI were highly effective in predicting visceral adipose tissue deposition. The SBI provided an efficient method for determining body size and shape in men and women via total and regional body volumes and ratios. PMID:25645428

Evidence of new viruses infecting freesia hybrids showing necrotic disease

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Different cultivars of Freesia plants with necrotic symptoms were collected in the Sanremo area of Northern Italy. Symptomatic foliar tissue was used both for mechanical inoculation of Nicotiana benthamiana and for virus purification. Total virus-enriched RNA extract was tested by Sequence-Independe...

Potassium uptake and redistribution in Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grape tissues and its relationship with grape quality parameters.

PubMed

Ramos, María Concepción; Romero, María Paz

2017-08-01

The present study investigated the potassium (K) levels in petiole and other grape tissues during ripening in Vitis vinifera Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, grown in areas with differences in vigour, as well as with and without leaf thinning. Potassium levels in petiole, seeds, skin and flesh were related to grape pH, acidity, berry weight and total soluble solids. Differences in K levels in petiole were in accordance with the differences in soil K. Leaf thinning gave rise to higher K levels in petiole but, in grape tissues, the differences were not significant in all samplings, with greater differences at the end of the growing cycle. Potassium levels per berry in grape tissues increased from veraison to harvest, with K mainly accumulated in skins and, to a lesser extent, in flesh. Potassium levels in flesh positively correlated with pH and total soluble solids, whereas the correlation with titratable acidity was negative. Grape juice pH and total soluble solids positively correlated with K, whereas titratable acidity correlated negatively. Leaf thinning increased K levels in petiole, although differences in K levels in grape tissues were not significant. This suggests the need to consider the K berry concentration when aiming to optimise K fertilisation programmes. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Increasing the number of unloading/reambulation cycles does not adversely impact body composition and lumbar bone mineral density but reduces tissue sensitivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Shikha; Manske, Sarah L.; Judex, Stefan

2013-11-01

A single exposure to hindlimb unloading leads to changes in body mass, body composition and bone, but the consequences of multiple exposures are not yet understood. Within a 18 week period, adult C57BL/6 male mice were exposed to 1 (1x-HLU), 2 (2x-HLU) or 3 (3x-HLU) cycles of 2 weeks of hindlimb unloading (HLU) followed by 4 weeks of reambulation (RA), or served as ambulatory age-matched controls. In vivo μCT longitudinally tracked changes in abdominal adipose and lean tissues, lumbar vertebral apparent volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and upper hindlimb muscle cross-sectional area before and after the final HLU and RA cycle. During the final HLU cycle, significant decreases in total adipose tissue and vertebral vBMD in the three experimental groups occurred such that there were no significant between-group differences at the beginning of the final RA cycle. However, the magnitude of the HLU induced losses diminished in mice undergoing their 2nd or 3rd HLU cycle. Irrespective of the number of HLU/RA cycles, total adipose tissue and vertebral vBMD recovered and were no different from age-matched controls after the final RA period. In contrast, upper hindlimb muscle cross-sectional area was significantly lower than controls in all unloaded groups after the final RA period. These results suggest that tissues in the abdominal region are more resilient to multiple bouts of unloading and more amenable to recovery during reambulation than the peripheral musculoskeletal system.

Functional anatomy and ultrasound examination of the canine penis.

PubMed

Goericke-Pesch, Sandra; Hölscher, Catharina; Failing, Klaus; Wehrend, Axel

2013-07-01

The aim of this study was to identify the functional-anatomical structures of the canine penis during and after erection to demonstrate the respective changes to provide a basis for further examinations of pathological conditions like priapism. Additionally, a gray-scale analysis was performed to quantify results from the ultrasound examination. In total, 80 dogs were examined. In group (Gr.) A, 44 intact or castrated dogs were examined, and in Gr. B, 36 dogs were examined during erection and after complete detumescence of the penis. The following parameters were assessed: (1) using physical measurements: length of the Pars longa glandis [Plg] and length of the Bulbus glandis [Bg]; and (2) using ultrasound: total penile diameter, width of the erectile tissue of the Plg, diameter of the Corpus spongiosum [Cs] including the penile bone and urethra, vertical diameter, circumference of the penis, cross-sectional area, and area of the Cs including the urethra. The mentioned parameters could be assessed in all dogs of Gr. A and Gr. B with the only exception being the urethra that could be visualized using ultrasound in some dogs only and predominantly in the erected penis (Gr. B). Concomitantly, the erectile tissue of the Plg and the Cs was more heterogenous and hypo- to anechoic during erection compared with dogs in Gr. A and Gr. B after detumescence. Comparing the results in Gr. B, the length of the Plg and the Bg were decreased approximately 40.6% and 38.0%, the total width of the penis 40.5%, the total width of the erectile tissue of the Plg 48.0%, and the width of the Cs 15.6% during detumescence compared with erection. Comparing the decrease in size at the different locations (apex penis, middle of Plg, middle of Bg) for vertical diameter, total circumference, and cross-section area, it was largest at the Bg. B-mode ultrasound is a suitable tool to investigate not only the morpho-functional structures of the resting canine penis, but also of the erected and detumescent penis, and to investigate the underlying changes during erection and detumenscence. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mechanical contribution of lamellar and interlamellar elastin along the mouse aorta.

PubMed

Clark, T E; Lillie, M A; Vogl, A W; Gosline, J M; Shadwick, R E

2015-10-15

The mechanical properties of aortic elastin vary regionally, but the microstructural basis for this variation is unknown. This study was designed to identify the relative contributions of lamellar and interlamellar elastin to circumferential load bearing in the mouse thoracic and abdominal aortas. Forces developed in uniaxial tests of samples of fresh and autoclaved aorta were correlated with elastin content and morphology obtained from histology and multiphoton laser scanning microscopy. Autoclaving should render much of the interlamellar elastin mechanically incompetent. In autoclaved tissue force per unit sample width correlated with lamellar elastin content (P≪0.001) but not total elastin content. In fresh tissue at low strain where elastin dominates the mechanical response, forces were higher than in the autoclaved tissue, but force did not correlate with total elastin content. Therefore although interlamellar elastin likely contributed to the stiffness in the fresh aorta, its contribution appeared not in proportion to its quantity. In both fresh and autoclaved tissue, elastin stiffness consistently decreased along the abdominal aorta, a key area for aneurysm development, and this difference could not be fully accounted for on the basis of either lamellar or total elastin content. These findings are relevant to the development of mathematical models of arterial mechanics, particularly for mouse models of arterial diseases involving elastic tissue. In microstructural based models the quantity of each mural constituent determines its contribution to the total response. This study shows elastin's mechanical response cannot necessarily be accounted for on the basis of fibre quantity, orientation, and modulus. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The classification of secondary colorectal liver cancer in human biopsy samples using angular dispersive x-ray diffraction and multivariate analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Theodorakou, Chrysoula; Farquharson, Michael J.

2009-08-01

The motivation behind this study is to assess whether angular dispersive x-ray diffraction (ADXRD) data, processed using multivariate analysis techniques, can be used for classifying secondary colorectal liver cancer tissue and normal surrounding liver tissue in human liver biopsy samples. The ADXRD profiles from a total of 60 samples of normal liver tissue and colorectal liver metastases were measured using a synchrotron radiation source. The data were analysed for 56 samples using nonlinear peak-fitting software. Four peaks were fitted to all of the ADXRD profiles, and the amplitude, area, amplitude and area ratios for three of the four peaks were calculated and used for the statistical and multivariate analysis. The statistical analysis showed that there are significant differences between all the peak-fitting parameters and ratios between the normal and the diseased tissue groups. The technique of soft independent modelling of class analogy (SIMCA) was used to classify normal liver tissue and colorectal liver metastases resulting in 67% of the normal tissue samples and 60% of the secondary colorectal liver tissue samples being classified correctly. This study has shown that the ADXRD data of normal and secondary colorectal liver cancer are statistically different and x-ray diffraction data analysed using multivariate analysis have the potential to be used as a method of tissue classification.

Use of sedimentary metals to predict metal concentrations in black mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) tissue and risk to human health (Sydney estuary, Australia).

PubMed

Birch, G F; Apostolatos, C

2013-08-01

Filter-feeding bivalves have been used extensively as an indicator of ecosystem condition and in management of estuarine environments. The current study aimed to determine whether sedimentary metals could predict metal concentrations in tissue of filter-feeding mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and to identify areas of the estuary where mussel consumption posed a human health risk. Mussel tissue Cu and Zn concentrations (wet weight) were below guideline values for human consumption in all parts of the waterway, whereas Pb tissue concentrations exceed these guidelines (2.0 μg g(-1) wet weight) in the upper reaches of some embayments of the estuary. Concentrations of Cu and Pb in the fine fraction (<62.5 μm) of bottom sediment reasonably predicted concentrations (dry weight) of these metals in mussel tissue (r (2) =0.460 and p=0.001 and r (2) =0.669 and p<0.0001, respectively) as these materials are resuspendable and available to filter-feeding estuarine animals, whereas total sediment and mussel tissue were poorly related. Lead concentrations (>350 μg g(-1)) in fine sediments indicated areas of this estuary where human health was at risk due to high tissue concentrations of this metal. These results give encouragement for the use of the metal concentration in fine sediments as an indicator of estuarine condition and risk to human health in this waterway. Mussels were distributed in all parts of the estuary, even in areas where metal concentrations exceeded sediment quality guidelines.

Partially nanofibrous architecture of 3D tissue engineering scaffolds.

PubMed

Wei, Guobao; Ma, Peter X

2009-11-01

An ideal tissue-engineering scaffold should provide suitable pores and appropriate pore surface to induce desired cellular activities and to guide 3D tissue regeneration. In the present work, we have developed macroporous polymer scaffolds with varying pore wall architectures from smooth (solid), microporous, partially nanofibrous, to entirely nanofibrous ones. All scaffolds are designed to have well-controlled interconnected macropores, resulting from leaching sugar sphere template. We examine the effects of material composition, solvent, and phase separation temperature on the pore surface architecture of 3D scaffolds. In particular, phase separation of PLLA/PDLLA or PLLA/PLGA blends leads to partially nanofibrous scaffolds, in which PLLA forms nanofibers and PDLLA or PLGA forms the smooth (solid) surfaces on macropore walls, respectively. Specific surface areas are measured for scaffolds with similar macroporosity but different macropore wall architectures. It is found that the pore wall architecture predominates the total surface area of the scaffolds. The surface area of a partially nanofibrous scaffold increases linearly with the PLLA content in the polymer blend. The amounts of adsorbed proteins from serum increase with the surface area of the scaffolds. These macroporous scaffolds with adjustable pore wall surface architectures may provide a platform for investigating the cellular responses to pore surface architecture, and provide us with a powerful tool to develop superior scaffolds for various tissue-engineering applications.

Calculation of Absorbed Dose in Target Tissue and Equivalent Dose in Sensitive Tissues of Patients Treated by BNCT Using MCNP4C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zamani, M.; Kasesaz, Y.; Khalafi, H.; Pooya, S. M. Hosseini

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is used for treatment of many diseases, including brain tumors, in many medical centers. In this method, a target area (e.g., head of patient) is irradiated by some optimized and suitable neutron fields such as research nuclear reactors. Aiming at protection of healthy tissues which are located in the vicinity of irradiated tissue, and based on the ALARA principle, it is required to prevent unnecessary exposure of these vital organs. In this study, by using numerical simulation method (MCNP4C Code), the absorbed dose in target tissue and the equiavalent dose in different sensitive tissues of a patiant treated by BNCT, are calculated. For this purpose, we have used the parameters of MIRD Standard Phantom. Equiavelent dose in 11 sensitive organs, located in the vicinity of target, and total equivalent dose in whole body, have been calculated. The results show that the absorbed dose in tumor and normal tissue of brain equal to 30.35 Gy and 0.19 Gy, respectively. Also, total equivalent dose in 11 sensitive organs, other than tumor and normal tissue of brain, is equal to 14 mGy. The maximum equivalent doses in organs, other than brain and tumor, appear to the tissues of lungs and thyroid and are equal to 7.35 mSv and 3.00 mSv, respectively.

[Diversity and tissue distribution of fungal endophytes in Alpinia officinarum: an important south-China medicinal plant].

PubMed

Zhou, Ren-Chao; Huang, Juan; Li, Ze-En; Li, Shu-Bin

2014-08-01

In the present study, terminal-restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) technique was applied to assess the diversity and tissue distribution of the fungal endophyte communities of Alpinia officinarum collected from Longtang town in Xuwen county, Guangdong province, China, at which the pharmacological effect of the medicine plant is traditional considered to be the significantly higher than that in any other growth areas in China. A total of 28 distinct Terminal-Restriction Fragment (T-RFs) were detected with HhaI Mono-digestion targeted amplified fungal nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region sequences (rDNA ITS) from the root, rhizome, stem, and leaf internal tissues of A. officinarum plant, indicating that at least 28 distinct fungal species were able to colonize the internal tissue of the host plant. The rDNA ITS-T-RFLP profiles obtained from different tissues of the host plant were obvious distinct. And the numbers of total T-RFs, and the dominant T-RFs detected from various tissues were significantly different. Based on the obtained T-RFLP profiles, Shannon's diversity index and the Shannon's evenness index were calculated, which were significantly different among tissues (P < 0.05). Furthermore, two types of active chemicals, total volatile oils by water vapor distillation method and galangin by methanol extraction-HPLC method, were examined in the each tissue of the tested plant. Both of tested components were detected in all of the four tissues of the medicine plant with varying contents. And the highest was in rhizome tissue. Correlation analysis revealed there were significant negative correlations between both of the tested active components contents and calculated Shannon's diversity index, as well as the Shannon's evenness index of the fungal endophyte communities of the host plant (P = 0, Pearson correlation coefficient ≤ -0.962), and significant positive correlations between both of the tested active components contents and 325 bp dominant T-RF linkage to Pestalotiopsis (P = 0, Pearson correlation coefficient ≥ 0.975). In conclusion, A. officinarum is colonized by diverse fungal endophytes communities. The diversity of the fungal endophytes was found in the A. officinarum varied with differences of the tissue types of the host plants and was closely correlated with the accumulation of main active components, total volatile oils and galangin contents in the host plant tissue.

Temporal dynamics of stem expansion and contraction in savanna trees: withdrawal and recharge of stored water.

PubMed

Scholz, Fabian C; Bucci, Sandra J; Goldstein, Guillermo; Meinzer, Frederick C; Franco, Augusto C; Miralles-Wilhelm, Fernando

2008-03-01

Relationships between diel changes in stem expansion and contraction and discharge and refilling of stem water storage tissues were studied in six dominant Neotropical savanna (cerrado) tree species from central Brazil. Two stem tissues were studied, the active xylem or sapwood and the living tissues located between the cambium and the cork, made up predominantly of parenchyma cells (outer parenchyma). Outer parenchyma and sapwood density ranged from 320 to 410 kg m(-3) and from 420 to 620 kg m(-3), respectively, depending on the species. The denser sapwood tissues exhibited smaller relative changes in cross-sectional area per unit change in water potential compared with the outer parenchyma. Despite undergoing smaller relative changes in cross-sectional area, the sapwood released about 3.5 times as much stored water for a given change in area as the outer parenchyma. Cross-sectional area decreased earlier in the morning in the outer parenchyma than in the sapwood with lag times up to 30 min for most species. The relatively small lag time between dimensional changes of the two tissues suggested that they were hydraulically well connected. The initial morning increase in basal sap flow lagged about 10 to 130 min behind that of branch sap flow. Species-specific lag times between morning declines in branch and main stem cross-sectional area were a function of relative stem water storage capacity, which ranged from 16 to 31% of total diurnal water loss. Reliance on stored water to temporarily replace transpirational losses is one of the homeostatic mechanisms that constrain the magnitude of leaf water deficits in cerrado trees.

A combined MR and CT study for precise quantitative analysis of the avian brain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jirak, Daniel; Janacek, Jiri; Kear, Benjamin P.

2015-10-01

Brain size is widely used as a measure of behavioural complexity and sensory-locomotive capacity in avians but has largely relied upon laborious dissections, endoneurocranial tissue displacement, and physical measurement to derive comparative volumes. As an alternative, we present a new precise calculation method based upon coupled magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and computed tomography (CT). Our approach utilizes a novel interactive Fakir probe cross-referenced with an automated CT protocol to efficiently generate total volumes and surface areas of the brain tissue and endoneurocranial space, as well as the discrete cephalic compartments. We also complemented our procedures by using sodium polytungstate (SPT) as a contrast agent. This greatly enhanced CT applications but did not degrade MR quality and is therefore practical for virtual brain tissue reconstructions employing multiple imaging modalities. To demonstrate our technique, we visualized sex-based brain size differentiation in a sample set of Ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus). This revealed no significant variance in relative volume or surface areas of the primary brain regions. Rather, a trend towards isometric enlargement of the total brain and endoneurocranial space was evidenced in males versus females, thus advocating a non-differential sexually dimorphic pattern of brain size increase amongst these facultatively flying birds.

POST-REMEDIATION BIOMONITORING OF PESTICIDES AND OTHER CONTAMINANTS IN MARINE WATERS AND SEDIMENT NEAR THE UNITED HECKATHORN SUPERFUND SITE, RICHMOND, CALIFORNIA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Antrim, Liam D.; Kohn, Nancy P.

Marine sediment remediation at the United Heckathorn Superfund Site was completed in April 1997. Water and mussel tissues were sampled in February 1999 from four stations near Lauritzen Canal in Richmond, California, for Year 2 of post-remediation monitoring of marine areas near the United Heckathorn Site. Dieldrin and dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) were analyzed in water samples, tissue samples from resident mussels, and tissue samples from transplanted mussels deployed for 4 months. Mussel tissues were also analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), which were detected in sediment samples. Chlorinated pesticide concentrations in water samples were similar to preremediation levels and did notmore » meet remediation goals. Biomonitoring results indicated that the bioavailability of chlorinated pesticides has been reduced from preremediation levels both in the dredged area and throughout Richmond Harbor. Total DDT and dieldrin concentrations in mussel tissues were lower than measured levels from preremediation surveys and also lower than Year 1 levels from post-remediation biomonitoring. Sediment analyses showed the presence of elevated DDT, dieldrin, PCB aroclor 1254, and very high levels of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in Lauritzen Channel.« less

Quantification of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis using computed tomography and histology.

PubMed

Coxson, H O; Hogg, J C; Mayo, J R; Behzad, H; Whittall, K P; Schwartz, D A; Hartley, P G; Galvin, J R; Wilson, J S; Hunninghake, G W

1997-05-01

We used computed tomography (CT) and histologic analysis to quantify lung structure in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). CT scans were obtained from IPF and control patients and lung volumes were estimated from measurements of voxel size, and X-ray attenuation values of each voxel. Quantitative estimates of lung structure were obtained from biopsies obtained from diseased and normal CT regions using stereologic methods. CT density was used to calculate the proportion of tissue and air, and this value was used to correct the biopsy specimens to the level of inflation during the CT scan. The data show that IPF is associated with a reduction in airspace volume with no change in tissue volume or weight compared with control lungs. Lung surface area decreased two-thirds (p < 0.001) and mean parenchymal thickness increased tenfold (p < 0.001). An exudate of fluid and cells was present in the airspace of the diseased lung regions and the number of inflammatory cells, collagen, and proteoglycans was increased per 100 g of tissue in IPF. We conclude that IPF reorganized lung tissue content causing a loss of airspace and surface area without increasing the total lung tissue.

Robust classification of contact orientation between tissue and an integrated spectroscopy and radiofrequency ablation catheter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaryab, Mohammad; Singh-Moon, Rajinder P.; Hendon, Christine P.

2017-02-01

Using light-based catheters for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapies grants the ability to accurately derive tissue properties such as lesion depth and overtreatment from spectroscopic information. However, this information is heavily reliant on contact quality with the treatment area and the orientation of the catheter. Thus to improve assessments of tissue properties, this work utilizes Bayesian modelling to classify whether the catheter is indeed in proper contact with the tissue. Initially in-laboratory experiments were conducted with ten fresh swine hearts submerged in blood. A total of 1555 unique near infrared spectra were collected from a spectrometer using a light-based catheter and manually tagged as "full perpendicular contact," "angled contact," and "no contact," between the catheter and heart tissue. Three features were prominent in all spectra for distinguishing purposes: area underneath the spectra, an intensity "valley" between 730 nm and 800 nm, along with the slope between 850 nm and 1150 nm. A classifier featuring bootstrapping, adaboost, and k-means techniques was thus created and achieved a 96.05% accuracy in classifying full contact, 98.33% accuracy in classifying angled contact, and 100% accuracy in classifying no contact.

Evidence of Nonuniformity in Urothelium Barrier Function between the Upper Urinary Tract and Bladder.

PubMed

Williams, Nicholas A; Barnard, Luke; Allender, Chris J; Bowen, Jenna L; Gumbleton, Mark; Harrah, Tim; Raja, Aditya; Joshi, Hrishi B

2016-03-01

We compared the relative permeability of upper urinary tract and bladder urothelium to mitomycin C. Ex vivo porcine bladder, ureters and kidneys were dissected out and filled with 1 mg ml(-1) mitomycin C. At 60 minutes the organs were emptied and excised tissue samples were sectioned parallel to the urothelium. Sectioned tissue was homogenized and extracted mitomycin C was quantified. Transurothelial permeation across the different urothelia was calculated by normalizing the total amount of drug extracted to the surface area of the tissue sample. Average mitomycin C concentrations at different tissue depths (concentration-depth profiles) were calculated by dividing the total amount of drug recovered by the total weight of tissue. Mitomycin C permeation across the ureteral urothelium was significantly greater than across the bladder and renal pelvis urothelium (9.07 vs 0.94 and 3.61 μg cm(-2), respectively). Concentrations of mitomycin C in the ureter and kidney were markedly higher than those achieved in the bladder at all tissue depths. Average urothelial mitomycin C concentrations were greater than 6.5-fold higher in the ureter and renal pelvis than in the bladder. To our knowledge we report for the first time that the upper urinary tract and bladder show differing permeability to a single drug. Ex vivo porcine ureter is significantly more permeable to mitomycin C than bladder urothelium and consequently higher mitomycin C tissue concentrations can be achieved after topical application. Data in this study correlate with the theory that mammalian upper tract urothelium represents a different cell lineage than that of the bladder and it is innately more permeable to mitomycin C. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Post-Remediation Biomonitoring of Pesticides in Marine Waters Near the United Heckathorn Superfund Site, Richmond, California

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LD Antrim; NP Kohn

This report, PNNL-11911 Rev. 1, was published in July 2000 and replaces PNNL-11911, which was published in September 1998. The revision corrects tissue concentration units that were reported as dry weight but were actually wet weight, and updates conclusions based on the correct reporting units. Marine sediment remediation at the United Heckathorn Superfund Site was completed in April 1997. Water and mussel tissues were sampled in January 1998 from four stations near Lauritzen Canal in Richmond, California, for the first post-remediation monitoring of marine areas near the United Heckathorn Site. Dieldrin and DDT were analyzed in water samples, tissue samplesmore » from resident mussels, and tissue samples from transplanted mussels deployed for 4 months. Concentrations of dieldrin and total DDT in water and total DDT in tissue were compared to pre-remediation data available from the California State Mussel Watch program (tissues) and the Ecological Risk Assessment for the United Heckathorn Superfund Site (tissues and water). Chlorinated pesticide concentrations in water samples were similar to pre-remediation levels and did not meet remediation goals. Mean dieldrin concentrations in water ranged from 0.65 ng/L to 18.1 ng/L and were higher than the remediation goal (0.14 ng/L) at all stations. Mean total DDT concentrations in water ranged from 0.65 ng/L to 103 ng/L and exceeded the remediation goal of 0.59 ng/L. The highest concentrations of both pesticides were found in Lauritzen Canal, and the lowest levels were from the Richmond Inner Harbor Channel water. Unusual amounts of detritus in the water column at the time of sampling, particularly in Lauritzen Canal, could have contributed to the elevated pesticide concentrations and poor analytical precision.« less

Effect of noise pollution on testicular tissue and hormonal assessment in rat.

PubMed

Farzadinia, P; Bigdeli, M; Akbarzadeh, S; Mohammadi, M; Daneshi, A; Bargahi, A

2016-11-01

Many studies have focused on the effect of noise stress on the health. So far, few studies have been conducted on the effect of noise on reproductive system. The aim of study was to investigate the effect of noise pollution on morphometric parameters of testicular tissue and hormonal assessment (ACTH, cortisol and testosterone). In this study, 40 male rats were exposed to control, 95, 105 and 115 dB noise intensity for sixty days. At the end of study, blood sampling was performed and ACTH, cortisol and testosterone concentrations were assessed. The results showed that noise stress decreased testosterone levels in the 115 dB-treated group, while it increased the ACTH and cortisol levels. Histological sections of testis showed that the mean diameter of the seminiferous tubules and thickness of the germinal epithelium reduced compared to the control group. Also the ratio of the interstitial tissue area to the total testicular tissue area was increased significantly. Our study shows that noise stress may have negative influences on male fertility. © 2016 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Fourier Transform Infrared Imaging analysis of dental pulp inflammatory diseases.

PubMed

Giorgini, E; Sabbatini, S; Conti, C; Rubini, C; Rocchetti, R; Fioroni, M; Memè, L; Orilisi, G

2017-05-01

Fourier Transform Infrared microspectroscopy let characterize the macromolecular composition and distribution of tissues and cells, by studying the interaction between infrared radiation and matter. Therefore, we hypothesize to exploit this analytical tool in the analysis of inflamed pulps, to detect the different biochemical features related to various degrees of inflammation. IR maps of 13 irreversible and 12 hyperplastic pulpitis, together with 10 normal pulps, were acquired, compared with histological findings and submitted to multivariate (HCA, PCA, SIMCA) and statistical (one-way ANOVA) analysis. The fit of convoluted bands let calculate meaningful band area ratios (means ± s.d., P < 0.05). The infrared imaging analysis pin-pointed higher amounts of water and lower quantities of type I collagen in all inflamed pulps. Specific vibrational markers were defined for irreversible pulpitis (Lipids/Total Biomass, PhII/Total Biomass, CH 2 /CH 3 , and Ty/AII) and hyperplastic ones (OH/Total Biomass, Collagen/Total Biomass, and CH 3 Collagen/Total Biomass). The study confirmed that FTIR microspectroscopy let discriminate tissues' biological features. The infrared imaging analysis evidenced, in inflamed pulps, alterations in tissues' structure and composition. Changes in lipid metabolism, increasing amounts of tyrosine, and the occurrence of phosphorylative processes were highlighted in irreversible pulpitis, while high amounts of water and low quantities of type I collagen were detected in hyperplastic samples. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Intersexuality of Scomberomorus niphonius from the Coastal Area around Jeju Island, Korea (Teleostei: Scombridae)

PubMed Central

Kim, Jong Bin; Chang, Dae Soo; Kim, Hyejin; Jeon, Mi Ae; Ku, Kayeon; Lee, Jung Sick

2013-01-01

This study histologically describes the intersexuality of Scomberomorus niphonius collected from the coastal area near Jeju Island. A total of 126 S. niphonius, collected from March to July 2012 with a total length of 62.4 cm (±17.5) and a total weight of 1,701.9 g (±1,528.9) were used for analyses. From a histological perspective, two types of intersex were confirmed. One type had scattered germ cells from the opposite sex within the gonad. The second type developed germ cells from the opposite sex in the connective tissue of the outer gonadal membrane. The intersexuality was 14.3% (n=18/126), with females (21.3%; n=16/75) exhibiting a higher rate than males (3.9%; n=2/51). There was no displayed correlation between intersexuality and the total length and weight. PMID:25949123

Optimization of tissue physical parameters for accurate temperature estimation from finite-element simulation of radiofrequency ablation.

PubMed

Subramanian, Swetha; Mast, T Douglas

2015-10-07

Computational finite element models are commonly used for the simulation of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) treatments. However, the accuracy of these simulations is limited by the lack of precise knowledge of tissue parameters. In this technical note, an inverse solver based on the unscented Kalman filter (UKF) is proposed to optimize values for specific heat, thermal conductivity, and electrical conductivity resulting in accurately simulated temperature elevations. A total of 15 RFA treatments were performed on ex vivo bovine liver tissue. For each RFA treatment, 15 finite-element simulations were performed using a set of deterministically chosen tissue parameters to estimate the mean and variance of the resulting tissue ablation. The UKF was implemented as an inverse solver to recover the specific heat, thermal conductivity, and electrical conductivity corresponding to the measured area of the ablated tissue region, as determined from gross tissue histology. These tissue parameters were then employed in the finite element model to simulate the position- and time-dependent tissue temperature. Results show good agreement between simulated and measured temperature.

Factors influencing mercury in freshwater surface sediments of northeastern North America

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kamman, N.C.; Chalmers, A.; Clair, T.A.; Major, A.; Moore, R.B.; Norton, S.A.; Shanley, J.B.

2005-01-01

We report on an inventory and analysis of sediment mercury (Hg) concentrations from 579 sites across northeastern North America. Sediment Hg concentrations ranged from the limit of detection ca. 0.01-3.7 ??g g -1 (dry weight, d.w.), and the average concentration was 0.19 ??g g-1 (d.w.) Sediment methylmercury concentrations ranged from 0.15 to 21 ng g-1 (d.w.) and the mean concentration was 3.83 ng g -1 (d.w.). Total Hg concentrations (HgT) were greatest in lakes > reservoirs > rivers, although the proportion of Hg as methylmercury showed an inverse pattern. Total Hg was weakly and positively correlated with the sediment organic matter and percent of watershed as forested land, and weakly and negatively correlated with sediment solids content, drainage area, and agricultural land. Sediment methylmercury concentrations were weakly and positively correlated to wetland area, and weakly and negatively correlated to drainage area. Methylmercury, expressed as a percentage of HgT was positively correlated to agricultural land area. For sites with co-located sediment and fish-tissue sampling results, there was no relationship between sediment Hg and fish-tissue Hg. Finally, our data indicate that at least 44% of waters across the region have sediment HgT concentrations in excess of Canadian and United States minimum sediment contaminant guidelines for the protection of aquatic biota. ?? 2005 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc.

Biocompatibility of root filling pastes used in primary teeth.

PubMed

Lima, C C B; Conde Júnior, A M; Rizzo, M S; Moura, R D; Moura, M S; Lima, M D M; Moura, L F A D

2015-05-01

To evaluate the biocompatibility of two pastes designed to fill the root canals of primary teeth. A study group of 54 mice received subcutaneous tissue implants of polyethylene tubes containing CTZ or calcium hydroxide paste or, as a negative control, empty tubes. Biocompatibility was evaluated on days 7, 21 and 63, yielding a total of nine groups of six animals each. Following the experimental intervals, the implant areas were removed and subjected to histologic processing. After the tissues were stained with HE and Masson trichrome, two pathologists performed a histologic analysis of the samples in a blinded manner. Collagen fibre formation, tissue thickness and inflammatory cell infiltration were analysed qualitatively. Quantitative morphometry was performed for the thickness, perimeter length and tissue area of the region in direct contact with the open tube. anova with the Tukey post-test and Kruskal-Wallis analysis followed by Dunn's post-test, with significance established as P < 0.05, were used for data analysis. At 7 days, all groups had severe acute inflammatory infiltrates. Inflammation was reduced at 21 days in the CTZ paste group. Mild chronic inflammatory infiltrates were observed after 63 days in the CTZ and Ca(OH)2 paste groups; these groups also showed a significant decrease in collagen fibre density (P < 0.05), which was not observed in the control group. The average tissue thickness, perimeter length and area in contact with the tube decreased during the experimental periods in all groups. The CTZ and calcium hydroxide pastes demonstrated biocompatibility with subcutaneous tissue in this experimental model. © 2014 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Edema Areas of Calves Measured with Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Novel Indicator for Early Staging of Lower Extremity Lymphedema.

PubMed

Wang, Li; Wu, Xiaoying; Wu, Mingfeng; Zhao, Zizhou; Tang, Hui; Li, Suqin; Wu, Lianming; Suo, Shiteng; Lu, Qing

2018-06-01

Staging of lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) is difficult in clinical work. The excellent soft tissue contrast of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables soft tissue changes to be feasibly and reproducibly characterized and distinguished. To determine whether cross-section areas of edema calves measured with MRI could be useful for staging of the LEL. We recruited 138 participants who were clinically diagnosed with LEL: 61 unilateral and 77 bilateral LEL. Two legs underwent different stages of LEL. Fourteen characters are diagnosed without LEL; we assumed them as stage 0; age-matched 54, 59, and 54 lower extremities had the LEL, which are classified as stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively. On fat-suppressed T2-weighted mid-axial images of calves, the total area of the soft tissue (TA), muscle area (MA), and the water area (WA) of subcutaneous tissue of the bilateral claves were measured and analyzed statistically for staging of LEL. The difference of TA (DTA) of the unilateral LEL was also analyzed. TA and DTA showed statistical differences among each stage (p < 0.0001), except that it was challenged in making off stages 0 and 1 (p > 0.05). No significant difference was found among four stages of LEL in MA. WA was able to display the perfect sensitivity to lymphedema appearance (p < 0.0001, sensitivity = 100%). The WA of the calves could be suggested as a specific indicator for diagnosis of LEL. TA and DTA are the secondary indicators for staging of LEL.

Relationship of Adipocyte Size with Adiposity and Metabolic Risk Factors in Asian Indians

PubMed Central

Meena, Ved Prakash; Seenu, V.; Sharma, M. C.; Mallick, Saumya Ranjan; Bhalla, Ashu Seith; Gupta, Nandita; Mohan, Anant; Guleria, Randeep; Pandey, Ravindra M.; Luthra, Kalpana; Vikram, Naval K.

2014-01-01

Background Enlargement of adipocyte is associated with their dysfunction and alterations in metabolic functions. Objectives We evaluated the association of adipocyte size of subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue with body composition and cardiovascular risk factors in Asian Indians. Methodology Eighty (40 males and 40 females) non-diabetic adult subjects undergoing elective abdominal surgery were included. Pre-surgery evaluation included anthropometric measurements, % body fat by bioimpedance, abdominal fat area at L2–3 level (computed tomography) and biochemical investigations (fasting blood glucose and insulin, lipids and hsCRP). During surgery, about 5 grams each of omental and subcutaneous adipose tissue was obtained for adipocyte size determination. Results Females had higher BMI, % body fat, skinfold thickness, total and subcutaneous abdominal fat area as compared to males. Overweight was present in 42.5% and 67.5%, and abdominal obesity in 5% and 52.5% males and females, respectively. Subcutaneous adipocyte size was significantly higher than omental adipocyte size. Omental adipocyte size correlated more strongly than subcutaneous adipocyte size with measures of adiposity (BMI, waist circumference, %BF), total and subcutaneous abdominal fat area and biochemical measures (fasting glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and HOMA-IR), the correlations being stronger in females. The correlation of adipocyte size with metabolic parameters was attenuated after adjusting for measures of adiposity. Conclusion Omental adipocyte size, though smaller than the subcutaneous adipocyte size, was more closely related to measures of adiposity and metabolic parameters. However, the relationship was not independent of measures of adiposity. PMID:25251402

Influence of carbon and lipid sources on variation of mercury and other trace elements in polar bears (Ursus maritimus).

PubMed

Routti, Heli; Letcher, Robert J; Born, Erik W; Branigan, Marsha; Dietz, Rune; Evans, Thomas J; McKinney, Melissa A; Peacock, Elizabeth; Sonne, Christian

2012-12-01

In the present study, the authors investigated the influence of carbon and lipid sources on regional differences in liver trace element (As, Cd, Cu, total Hg, Mn, Pb, Rb, Se, and Zn) concentrations measured in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) (n = 121) from 10 Alaskan, Canadian Arctic, and East Greenland subpopulations. Carbon and lipid sources were assessed using δ(13) C in muscle tissue and fatty acid (FA) profiles in subcutaneous adipose tissue as chemical tracers. A negative relationship between total Hg and δ(13) C suggested that polar bears feeding in areas with higher riverine inputs of terrestrial carbon accumulate more Hg than bears feeding in areas with lower freshwater input. Mercury concentrations were also positively related to the FA 20:1n-9, which is biosynthesized in large amounts in Calanus copepods. This result raises the hypothesis that Calanus glacialis are an important link in the uptake of Hg in the marine food web and ultimately in polar bears. Unadjusted total Hg, Se, and As concentrations showed greater geographical variation among polar bear subpopulations compared with concentrations adjusted for carbon and lipid sources. The Hg concentrations adjusted for carbon and lipid sources in Bering-Chukchi Sea polar bear liver tissue remained the lowest among subpopulations. Based on these findings, the authors suggest that carbon and lipid sources for polar bears should be taken into account when one is assessing spatial and temporal trends of long-range transported trace elements. Copyright © 2012 SETAC.

Effects of a Cattail Wetland on Water Quality of Irondequoit Creek near Rochester, New York

USGS Publications Warehouse

Coon, William F.; Bernard, John M.; Seischab, Franz K.

2000-01-01

A 6-year (1990-96) study of the Ellison Park wetland, a 423-acre, predominantly cattail (Typha glauca) marsh in Monroe County, N.Y., was conducted to document the effect that this wetland has on the water quality of Irondequoit Creek, which flows through it. Irondequoit Creek drains 151 square miles of mostly urban and suburban land and is the main tributary to Irondequoit Bay on Lake Ontario. The wetland was a sink for total phosphorus and total suspended solids (28 and 47 percent removal efficiencies, respectively, over the 6-year study period). Sedimentation and vegetative filtration appear to be the primary mechanisms for the decrease in loads of these constituents. Total nitrogen loads were decreased slightly by the wetland; removal efficiencies for ammonia-plus-organic nitrogen and nitrate-plus-nitrite were 6 and 3 percent, respectively. The proportions of total phosphorus and total nitrogen constituents were altered by the wetland. Orthophosphate and ammonia nitrogen were generated within the wetland and represented 12 percent of the total phosphorus output load and 1.8 percent of total nitrogen output load, respectively. Conservative chemicals, such as chloride and sulfate, were littleaffected by the wetland. Concentrations of zinc, lead, and cadmium showed statistically significant decreases, which are attributed to sedimentation and filtration of sediment and organic matter to which these elements adsorb.Sediment samples from open-water depositional areas in the wetland contained high concentrations of (1) trace metals, including barium, manganese, strontium, zinc (each of which exceeded 200 parts per million), as well as chromium, copper, lead, and vanadium, and (2) some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Persistent organochlorine pesticides, such as chlordane, dieldrin, DDT and its degradation products (DDD and DDE), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's), also were detected, but concentrations of these compounds were within the ranges often found in depositional environments in highly urbanized areas.Cattail shoots attained a maximum height of 350 centimeters, a density of more than 30 shoots per square meter, and total biomass of more than 5,600 grams per square meter (46 percent of which was in above-ground tissues during the growing season). Nitrogen and potassium were three times more abundant in above-ground tissues (2.4 and 1.5 percent by dry weight, respectively) than in below-ground tissues (0.8 and 0.5 percent, respectively). Concentrations of phosphorus, molybdenum, and manganese in above-ground tissues were similar to those in below-ground tissues, but the concentrations of all other constituents were considerably higher in below-ground tissues. Concentrations of several elements exceeded those typically found in natural wetlands; these included manganese (417 ppm, parts per million) and sodium (3,600 ppm) in above-ground tissues, and aluminum (1,540 ppm), iron (15,400 ppm), manganese (433 ppm), and sodium (10,000 ppm) in below-ground tissues.Large quantities of nutrients are assimilated by wetland vegetation during the growing season, but neither tissue production nor microbial metabolic processes appeared to play a significant role in the observed patterns of surface-water chemical input-to-output relations on a seasonal basis. Presumably, internal cycling of nutrients sequestered in the sediments and detritus, combined with a summer increase in microbially mediated chemical transformations, obscured the effects of vegetative assimilation during the summer on surface-water chemical loads. Additionally, the natural confinement of most flows within the banks of Irondequoit Creek, which resulted in passage of stormwater through the wetland with little dispersion or detention in the cattail and backwater areas, diminished the capability of the wetland to improve water quality. Additional factors that probably affected the chemical-removal efficiency of the wetland included chemical inflow loading rates, storage and release mechanisms of the sediments (sedimentation, adsorption, filtration, precipitaton, dissolution, and resuspension), and accretion and burial of organic matter.Measurements of chlorophyll_a concentrations, and calculations of potential phosphorus concentrations, since the 1970’s indicate an improvement in the trophic state of Irondequoit Bay. Estimated average annual loads (1990-96) of selected constituents entering Irondequoit Bay indicate that, since 1980, the loads of all major forms of nitrogen have decreased, chloride loads have increased, and sulfate loads have changed little. Inputs of total phosphorus and suspended solids to the wetland have increased since 1980, possibly as a result of increased erosion by stormflows from an increasingly developed watershed. The wetland decreases the loads of these constituents, but the trends of these loads entering Irondequoit Bay cannot be reliably defined because the removal efficiencies during the two earlier study periods (1980–81 and 1984–88) are known.

Presence of reduced regional left ventricular function even in the absence of left ventricular wall scar tissue in the long term after repair of an anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery.

PubMed

Nordmeyer, Sarah; Schmitt, Boris; Nasseri, Boris; Alexi-Meskishvili, Vladimir; Kuehne, Titus; Berger, Felix; Nordmeyer, Johannes

2018-02-01

We sought to assess left ventricular regional function in patients with and without left ventricular wall scar tissue in the long term after repair of an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. A total of 20 patients aged 12.8±7.4 years were assessed 10 (0.5-17) years after the repair of an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery; of them, 10 (50%) patients showed left ventricular wall scar tissue on current cardiac MRI. Left ventricular regional function was assessed by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in 10 patients with scar tissue and 10 patients without scar tissue and in 10 age-matched controls. In patients with scar tissue, MRI-derived left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly reduced compared with that in patients without scar tissue (51 versus 61%, p<0.05), and echocardiography-derived longitudinal strain was significantly reduced in five of six left ventricular areas compared with that in healthy controls (average relative reduction, 46%; p<0.05). In patients without scar tissue, longitudinal strain was significantly reduced in two of six left ventricular areas (average relative reduction, 23%; p<0.05) and circumferential strain was reduced in one of six left ventricular areas (relative reduction, 56%; p<0.05) compared with that in healthy controls. Regional left ventricular function is reduced even in patients without left ventricular wall scar tissue late after successful repair of an anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. This highlights the need for meticulous lifelong follow-up in all patients with a repaired anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery.

Ecotoxicity and risk to human fish consumers of polychlorinated biphenyls in fish near the Hanford Site (USA).

PubMed

Delistraty, Damon

2013-02-15

The purpose of this study was to quantify three groups of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners (i.e., dioxin-like toxic equivalents [TEQ], non-dioxin-like PCBs, total PCBs) in fish in several species, tissues, and locations in the Columbia River near the Hanford Site. For TEQ and total PCBs, fish ecotoxicity and risk to human fish consumers were also evaluated. Non-dioxin-like PCBs were not assessed for toxicity, due to lack of available benchmarks. In sturgeon liver, TEQ was significantly higher (P<0.05) within the Hanford Site study areas, relative to upriver. However, this same spatial relationship in sturgeon liver did not attain statistical significance for non-dioxin-like PCBs and total PCBs. Non-dioxin-like PCBs and total PCBs were significantly higher (P<0.05) in whitefish fillet than in other species (except carp) and significantly higher (P<0.05) in carp fillet, relative to bass. All PCB residues in carcass were significantly elevated (P<0.005) in comparison to fillet. In addition to PCB source, many factors (e.g., dietary composition, tissue lipid content, fish mobility and home range, age, toxicokinetic processes, seasonal adaptations) influence patterns in PCB bioaccumulation across species, tissues, and locations. TEQ and total PCB residues in liver, fillet, and carcass, observed in this study, were below corresponding no effect residues for TEQ and Aroclors in the literature for fish survival, growth, and reproduction. In contrast, TEQ and total PCBs in fillet in this study exceeded USEPA tissue screening levels for cancer (1E-6 risk) and noncancer (hazard quotient [HQ]=1) toxicity for human fish consumers. Key uncertainties in these comparisons to assess toxicity relate to variation in fish species sensitivity to PCBs and use of Aroclor data in the literature to represent total PCBs. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Efficacy of thigh volume ratios assessed via stereovision body imaging as a predictor of visceral adipose tissue measured by magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Lee, Jane J; Freeland-Graves, Jeanne H; Pepper, M Reese; Yu, Wurong; Xu, Bugao

2015-01-01

The research examined the efficacy of regional volumes of thigh ratios assessed by stereovision body imaging (SBI) as a predictor of visceral adipose tissue measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Body measurements obtained via SBI also were utilized to explore disparities of body size and shape in men and women. One hundred twenty-one participants were measured for total/regional body volumes and ratios via SBI and abdominal subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue areas by MRI. Thigh to torso and thigh to abdomen-hip volume ratios were the most reliable parameters to predict the accumulation of visceral adipose tissue depots compared to other body measurements. Thigh volume in relation to torso [odds ratios (OR) 0.44] and abdomen-hip (OR 0.41) volumes were negatively associated with increased risks of greater visceral adipose tissue depots, even after controlling for age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). Irrespective of BMI classification, men exhibited greater total body (80.95L vs. 72.41L), torso (39.26L vs. 34.13L), and abdomen-hip (29.01L vs. 25.85L) volumes than women. Women had higher thigh volumes (4.93L vs. 3.99L) and lower-body volume ratios [thigh to total body (0.07 vs. 0.05), thigh to torso (0.15 vs. 0.11), and thigh to abdomen-hip (0.20 vs. 0.15); P < 0.05]. The unique parameters of the volumes of thigh in relation to torso and abdomen-hip, by SBI were highly effective in predicting visceral adipose tissue deposition. The SBI provided an efficient method for determining body size and shape in men and women via total and regional body volumes and ratios. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:445-457, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Histological evaluation of capsules formed by silicon implants coated with polyurethane foam and with a textured surface in rats.

PubMed

Silva, Eduardo Nascimento; Ribas-Filho, Jurandir Marcondes; Czeczko, Nicolau Gregori; Pachnicki, Jan Pawel Andrade; Netto, Mário Rodrigues Montemor; Lipinski, Leandro Cavalcante; Noronha, Lucia de; Colman, Joelmir; Zeni, João Otavio; Carvalho, Caroline Aragão de

2016-12-01

To assess the capsules formed by silicone implants coated with polyurethane foam and with a textured surface. Sixty-four Wistar albinus rats were divided into two groups of 32 each using polyurethane foam and textured surface. The capsules around the implants were analyzed for 30, 50, 70 and 90 days. Were analyzed the following parameters: foreign body reaction, granulation tissue, presence of myofibroblasts, neoangiogenesis, presence of synovial metaplasia, capsular thickness, total area and collagen percentage of type I and III, in capsules formed around silicone implants in both groups. The foreign body reaction was only present in the four polyurethane subgroups. The formation of granulation tissue and the presence of myofibroblasts were higher in the four polyurethane subgroups. Regarding to neoangiogenesis and synovial metaplasia, there was no statistical difference between the groups. Polyurethane group presented (all subgroups) a greater capsule thickness, a smaller total area and collagen percentage of type I and a higher percentage area of type III, with statistical difference. The use of polyurethane-coated implants should be stimulated by the long-term results in a more stable capsule and a lower incidence of capsular contracture, despite developing a more intense and delayed inflammatory reaction in relation to implants with textured surface.

Post-Remediation Biomonitoring of Pesticides and Other Contaminants in Marine Waters and Sediment Near the United Heckathorn Superfund Site, Richmond, California

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LD Antrim; NP Kohn

This report, PNNL-1 3059 Rev. 1, was published in July 2000 and replaces PNNL-1 3059 which is dated October 1999. The revision corrects tissue concentration units that were reported as dry weight but were actually wet weight, and updates conclusions based on the correct reporting units. Marine sediment remediation at the United Heckathorn Superfund Site was completed in April 1997. Water and mussel tissues were sampled in February 1999 from four stations near Lauritzen Canal in Richmond, California, for Year 2 of post-remediation monitoring of marine areas near the United Heckathom Site. Dieldrin and dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) were analyzed inmore » water samples, tissue samples from resident mussels, and tissue samples from transplanted mussels deployed for 4 months. Concentrations of dieldrin and total DDT in water and total DDT in tissue were compared with Year 1 of post-remediation monitoring, and with preremediation data from the California State Mussel Watch program (tissue s) and the Ecological Risk Assessment for the United Heckathorn Superfund Site (tissues and water). Mussel tissues were also analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), which were detected in sediment samples. Chlorinated pesticide concentrations in water samples were similar to preremediation levels and did not meet remediation goals. Mean dieldrin concentrations in water ranged from 0.62 ng/L to 12.5 ng/L and were higher than the remediation goal (0.14 ng/L) at all stations. Mean total DDT concentrations in water ranged from 14.4 ng/L to 62.3 ng/L and exceeded the remediation goal (0.59 ng/L) at all stations. The highest concentrations of both DDT and dieldrin were found at the Lauritzen Canal/End station. Despite exceedence of the remediation goals, chlorinated pesticide concentrations in Lauritzen Canal water samples were notably lower in 1999 than in 1998. PCBS were not detected in water samples in 1999.« less

Quantitative analysis of [99mTc]C2A-GST distribution in the area at risk after myocardial ischemia and reperfusion using a compartmental model.

PubMed

Audi, Said; Poellmann, Michael; Zhu, Xiaoguang; Li, Zhixin; Zhao, Ming

2007-11-01

It was recently demonstrated that the radiolabeled C2A domain of synaptotagmin I accumulates avidly in the area at risk after ischemia and reperfusion. The objective was to quantitatively characterize the dynamic uptake of radiolabeled C2A in normal and ischemically injured myocardia using a compartmental model. To induce acute myocardial infarction, the left descending coronary artery was ligated for 18 min, followed by reperfusion. [99mTc]C2A-GST or its inactivated form, [99mTc]C2A-GST-NHS, was injected intravenously at 2 h after reperfusion. A group of four rats was sacrificed at 10, 30, 60 and 180 after injection. Uptake of [99mTc]C2A-GST and [99mTc]C2A-GST-NHS in the area at risk and in the normal myocardium were determined by gamma counting. A compartmental model was developed to quantitatively interpret myocardial uptake kinetic data. The model consists of two physical spaces (vascular space and tissue space), with plasma activity as input. The model allows for [99mTc]C2A-GST and [99mTc]C2A-GST-NHS diffusion between vascular and tissue spaces, as well as for [99mTc]C2A-GST sequestration in vascular and tissue spaces via specific binding. [99mTc]C2A-GST uptake in the area at risk was significantly higher than that for [99mTc]C2A-GST-NHS at all time points. The compartmental model separated [99mTc]C2A-GST uptake in the area at risk due to passive retention from that due to specific binding. The maximum amount of [99mTc]C2A-GST that could be sequestered in the area at risk due to specific binding was estimated at a total of 0.048 nmol/g tissue. The rate of [99mTc]C2A-GST sequestration within the tissue space of the area at risk was 0.012 ml/min. Modeling results also revealed that the diffusion rate of radiotracer between vascular and tissue spaces is the limiting factor of [99mTc]C2A-GST sequestration within the tissue space of the area at risk. [99mTc]C2A-GST is sequestered in the ischemically injured myocardium in a well-defined dynamic profile. Model parameters will be valuable indicators for gauging and guiding the development of future-generation molecular probes.

Selenium and sulfur relationships in alfalfa and soil under field conditions, San Joaquin Valley, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Severson, R.C.; Gough, L.P.

1992-01-01

Relationships between total Se and S or soluble SeO4 and SO4 in soils and tissue concentrations in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), under field conditions in the San Joaquin Valley of California, suggest that the rate of accumulation of Se in alfalfa may be reduced in areas where high Se and S concentrations in soils were measured. These data suggest that the balance between carbonate and sulfate minerals in soil may have a greater influence on uptake of Se by alfalfa than does the balance of SeO4 and SO4 in soil solution. Soil and alfalfa were sampled from areas representing a wide range in soil Se and S concentrations. Specific sampling locations were selected based on a previous study of Se, S, and other elements where 721 soil samples were collected to map landscape variability and distribution of elements. Six multiple-linear regression equations were developed between total and/or soluble soil chemical constituents and tissue concentrations of Se in alfalfa. We chose a regression model that accounted for 72% of the variability in alfalfa Se concentrations based on an association of elements in soil (total C, S, Se, and Sr) determined by factor analysis. To prepare a map showing the spatial distribution of estimated alfalfa Se concentrations, the model was applied to the data from the previously collected 721 soil samples. Estimated alfalfa Se concentrations in most of the study area were within a range that is predicted to produce alfalfa with neither Se deficiency nor toxicity when consumed by livestock. A few small areas are predicted to produce alfalfa that potentially would not meet minimum dietary needs of livestock.

Evidence of impaired health in yellow perch (Perca flavescens) from a biological mercury hotspot in northeastern North America.

PubMed

Batchelar, Katharina L; Kidd, Karen A; Drevnick, Paul E; Munkittrick, Kelly R; Burgess, Neil M; Roberts, Aaron P; Smith, James D

2013-03-01

Few studies have investigated the effects of mercury (Hg) on wild fish from remote areas, even though these fish can have high total Hg concentrations. In Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (KNPNHS), Nova Scotia, Canada, concentrations of total Hg in many yellow perch (Perca flavescens) currently exceed the estimated threshold level for adverse effects in fish (0.2 µg Hg g(-1) (wet wt), whole body). To determine whether Hg exposure is adversely affecting the general health of these fish, the authors collected male and female perch in the fall of 2009 and 2010 from 12 lakes within KNPNHS. The health endpoints condition, liver somatic index (LSI), and macrophage aggregates (MAs; indicators of oxidative stress and tissue damage) in the liver, kidney, and spleen were examined, and in female perch were compared between lakes and related to Hg concentrations measured in the muscle and liver tissue. No negative relationships between fish condition or LSI and Hg were found. However, within the liver, kidney, and spleen tissues of females, the relative area occupied by MAs was positively related to both muscle and liver Hg concentrations, indicating the health of these perch was adversely affected at the cellular level. These findings raise concerns for the health of these perch as well as for other wild fish populations known to have similarly elevated Hg concentrations. Copyright © 2013 SETAC.

Quantitative diagnosis of tongue cancer from histological images in an animal model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Guolan; Qin, Xulei; Wang, Dongsheng; Muller, Susan; Zhang, Hongzheng; Chen, Amy; Chen, Zhuo G.; Fei, Baowei

2016-03-01

We developed a chemically-induced oral cancer animal model and a computer aided method for tongue cancer diagnosis. The animal model allows us to monitor the progress of the lesions over time. Tongue tissue dissected from mice was sent for histological processing. Representative areas of hematoxylin and eosin stained tissue from tongue sections were captured for classifying tumor and non-tumor tissue. The image set used in this paper consisted of 214 color images (114 tumor and 100 normal tissue samples). A total of 738 color, texture, morphometry and topology features were extracted from the histological images. The combination of image features from epithelium tissue and its constituent nuclei and cytoplasm has been demonstrated to improve the classification results. With ten iteration nested cross validation, the method achieved an average sensitivity of 96.5% and a specificity of 99% for tongue cancer detection. The next step of this research is to apply this approach to human tissue for computer aided diagnosis of tongue cancer.

Unilateral pleural effusion in an animal model: evaluation of lung function with EBCT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Recheis, Wolfgang A.; Pallwein, Leo; Soegner, Peter; Faschingbauer, Ralph; Schmidbauer, Georg; Kleinsasser, Axel; Loeckinger, Alexander; Hoermann, Christoph; zur Nedden, Dieter

2003-05-01

The purpsoe was to evaluate the influence of a right-sided pleural effusion on the lung aeration dynamics in the respiratory cycle during pressure controlled ventilation. Pleural effusion was simulated by infusion of 3% gelatin into the pleural cavity in steps of 300ml totaling 1200ml in four anesthetized pigs. After each step, volume scans and respirator gated 50ms scans at a constant table position (carina niveau) were taken. The dynamic changes of the previously defined air-tissue ratios (in steps of 100HU) were evaluated in three separate regions of left and right lung: a ventral, an intermediate and a dorsal area. The affected side revealed dramatic alveolar collapse. There was a shift of the lung density to higher air-tissue ratios (+200HU) but showing the same air-tissue ratio dynamics. A slight lateral shift of 32mm (+/-14mm) the mediastinum was measured. The unaffected side showed no increase in the air-tissue ratios caused by hyperinflation but an increase of density due to mediastinal shift. Air-tissue ratio dynamics remained unchanged on the unaffected side compared to baseline measurements. We visualized the ventilation mismatch caused by pleural effusion. The contra-lateral lung is not affected by unilateral pleural effusion. Pressure controlled ventilation prevents hyper-inflation of non-dependent lung areas.

Analyses of organic and inorganic contaminants in Salton Sea fish.

PubMed

Riedel, Ralf; Schlenk, Daniel; Frank, Donnell; Costa-Pierce, Barry

2002-05-01

Chemical contamination of fish from the Salton Sea, a quasi-marine lake in Southern California, could adversely impact millions of birds using the Pacific Flyway and thousands of humans using the lake for recreation. Bairdiella icistia (bairdiella), Cynoscion xanthulus (orangemouth corvina), and Oreochromis spp. (tilapia) were sampled from two river mouths and two nearshore areas of the Salton Sea. Muscle tissues were analyzed for a complete suite of 14 trace metals and 53 pesticides. Fish muscle tissues had concentrations of selenium ranging between 1.89 and 2.73 microg/g wet weight. 4,4'-DDE accounted for 94% of the total DDT metabolites. Total DDTs ranged between 17.1 and 239.0 and total PCBs between 2.5 and 18.6 ng/g wet weight. PCB congeners 132, 138, 153, 168, and 180 comprised over 50% of the total PCBs. Given the potential implementation of a commercial fishing at the Salton Sea in the future, the presence of persistent organic pollutants and selenium warrants further research into the effects of these mixtures on fish populations, and on wildlife and humans consuming fish.

Ecological studies of small vertebrates in Pu-contaminated study areas of NTS and TTR

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bradley, W.G.; Moor, K.S.; White, M.G.

Ecological studies of vertebrates in plutonium-contaminated areas of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) were initiated in March 1972, and have continued to date. In September 1973, standard census methods were also employed to derive a qualitative and quantitative inventory of vertebrate biota of four Nevada Applied Ecology Group (NAEG) study areas of the Tonopah Test Range (TTR). A checklist of vertebrates of NAEG study areas of NTS and TTR is presented. Data are presented on vertebrate composition, relative abundance, and seasonal status in the study areas. Concentrations of $sup 239$Pu and $sup 241$Am were determined in pelt or skin, GImore » tract, and carcass of 13 lizards and 16 mammals resident on Clean Slate 2, TTR, and Area 11, NTS. A total of 71 animals were collected for radioanalysis. However, the data were not available at the time this report was written. Pu tissue burdens were highest in lizards from Area 11 GZ. Maximum values obtained in nCi/g ash were 30.9, 42.2, and 0.43 for the pelt, GI tract, and carcass, respectively. Maximum $sup 239$Pu values in tissues of small rodents from Area 11 (not from GZ) were 11.4, 6.49, and 0.20 nCi/g ash for pelt, GI tract, and carcass, respectively. Pu/Am ratios were relatively consistent in tissue samples of lizards and small mammals from Area 11 (approximately 6:1, Pu/Am). Pu/Am ratios were not consistent in vertebrates of Clean Slate 2, TTR, and appeared to be lower in carcass (28:1, Pu/Am in mammals) than GI tract (9:1, Pu/Am in mammals). Although this trend was more conspicuous in mammals, it was also evident in reptiles. (auth)« less

Mercury in South Carolina fishes, USA.

PubMed

Glover, James B; Domino, Marisa E; Altman, Kenneth C; Dillman, James W; Castleberry, William S; Eidson, Jeannie P; Mattocks, Micheal

2010-04-01

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has collected, processed, and analyzed fish tissue total mercury (Hg) since 1976. For this study, skin-on-filet data from 1993 to 2007 were examined to determine biotic, spatial and temporal trends in tissue Hg levels for SC fishes. Because of the relatively high number of tissue Hg values below the analytical detection limits interval censored regression and censored least absolute deviations were used to construct several models to characterize trends. Large pelagic, piscivorous fish species, such as bowfin (Amia calva Linnaeus 1766), had higher levels of tissue Hg than smaller omnivorous species. Estuarine species had relatively low levels of tissue Hg compared to freshwater species, while two large open ocean species, king mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla Cuvier 1829) and swordfish (Xiphias gladius Linnaeus 1758), had higher tissue Hg readings. For a given fish species, length was an important predictor of tissue Hg with larger individuals having higher levels than smaller individuals. The USEPA Level III ecoregion and water body type from where the fishes were collected were important in predicting the levels of tissue Hg. The Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain ecoregion had fishes with the highest levels of tissue Hg, while the Piedmont and Southern Coastal Plain ecoregions had the lowest. For a given ecoregion, large reservoirs and regulated rivers had fish with lower levels of tissue Hg than unregulated rivers. For reservoirs, the size of the impoundment was a significant predictor of tissue mercury with small reservoirs having higher levels of tissue mercury than large reservoirs. Landuse and water chemistry accounted for differences seen in fish of various ecoregions and waterbody types. Sampling locations associated with a high percentage of wetland area had fish with high levels of tissue Hg. Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between tissue Hg levels and water column iron, total organic carbon, ammonia, and total kjedahl nitrogen, and a negative relationship with alkalinity, dissolved oxygen and pH. Results from principle component analysis revealed patterns between waterbody type and water chemistry variables that suggests hydrologic modification can have profound effects on the levels of fish tissue Hg in riverine systems. From 1993 to 2007, fish tissue Hg levels have trended lower. A spike in tissue Hg levels was observed in 2003-2005. The drying and rewetting of the landscape after the 2002 drought is hypothesized to have caused an increase in the methylation efficiencies of the system.

Reflection imaging of China ink-perfused brain vasculature using confocal laser-scanning microscopy after clarification of brain tissue by the Spalteholz method.

PubMed

Gutierre, R C; Vannucci Campos, D; Mortara, R A; Coppi, A A; Arida, R M

2017-04-01

Confocal laser-scanning microscopy is a useful tool for visualizing neurons and glia in transparent preparations of brain tissue from laboratory animals. Currently, imaging capillaries and venules in transparent brain tissues requires the use of fluorescent proteins. Here, we show that vessels can be imaged by confocal laser-scanning microscopy in transparent cortical, hippocampal and cerebellar preparations after clarification of China ink-injected specimens by the Spalteholz method. This method may be suitable for global, three-dimensional, quantitative analyses of vessels, including stereological estimations of total volume and length and of surface area of vessels, which constitute indirect approaches to investigate angiogenesis. © 2017 Anatomical Society.

Radiofrequency-induced small bowel thermofusion: an ex vivo study of intestinal seal adequacy using mechanical and imaging modalities.

PubMed

Arya, Shobhit; Hadjievangelou, Nancy; Lei, Su; Kudo, Hiromi; Goldin, Robert D; Darzi, Ara W; Elson, Daniel S; Hanna, George B

2013-09-01

Bipolar radiofrequency (RF) induced tissue fusion is believed to have the potential to seal and anastomose intestinal tissue thereby providing an alternative to current techniques which are associated with technical and functional complications. This study examines the mechanical and cellular effects of RF energy and varying compressive pressures when applied to create ex vivo intestinal seals. A total of 299 mucosa-to-mucosa fusions were formed on ex vivo porcine small bowel segments using a prototype bipolar RF device powered by a closed-loop, feedback-controlled RF generator. Compressive pressures were increased at 0.05 MPa intervals from 0.00 to 0.49 MPa and RF energy was applied for a set time period to achieve bowel tissue fusion. Seal strength was subsequently assessed using burst pressure and tensile strength testing, whilst morphological changes were determined through light microscopy. To further identify the subcellular tissue changes that occur as a result of RF energy application, the collagen matrix in the fused area of a single bowel segment sealed at an optimal pressure was examined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). An optimal applied compressive pressure range was observed between 0.10 and 0.25 MPa. Light microscopy demonstrated a step change between fused and unfused tissues but was ineffective in distinguishing between pressure levels once tissues were sealed. Non uniform collagen damage was observed in the sealed tissue area using TEM, with some areas showing complete collagen denaturation and others showing none, despite the seal being complete. This finding has not been described previously in RF-fused tissue and may have implications for in vivo healing. This study shows that both bipolar RF energy and optimal compressive pressures are needed to create strong intestinal seals. This finding suggests that RF fusion technology can be effectively applied for bowel sealing and may lead to the development of novel anastomosis tools.

Measurement of real-time tissue elastography in a phantom model and comparison with transient elastography in pediatric patients with liver diseases.

PubMed

Schenk, Jens-Peter; Alzen, Gerhard; Klingmüller, Volker; Teufel, Ulrike; El Sakka, Saroa; Engelmann, Guido; Selmi, Buket

2014-01-01

We aimed to determine the comparability of real-time tissue elastography (RTE) and transient elastography (TE) in pediatric patients with liver diseases. RTE was performed on the Elasticity QA Phantom Model 049 (Computerized Imaging Reference Systems Company Inc., Norfolk, Virginia, USA), which has five areas with different levels of stiffness. RTE measurements of relative stiffness (MEAN [mean value of tissue elasticity], AREA [% of blue color-coded stiffer tissue]) in the phantom were compared with the phantom stiffness specified in kPa (measurement unit of TE). RTE and TE were performed on 147 pediatric patients with various liver diseases. A total of 109 measurements were valid. The participants had following diseases: metabolic liver disease (n=25), cystic fibrosis (n=20), hepatopathy of unknown origin (n=11), autoimmune hepatitis (n=12), Wilson's disease (n=11), and various liver parenchyma alterations (n=30). Correlations between RTE and TE measurements in the patients were calculated. In addition, RTE was performed on a control group (n=30), and the RTE values between the patient and control groups were compared. The RTE parameters showed good correlation in the phantom model with phantom stiffness (MEAN/kPa, r=-0.97; AREA/kPa, r=0.98). However, the correlation of RTE and TE was weak in the patient group (MEAN/kPa, r=-0.23; AREA/kPa, r=0.24). A significant difference was observed between the patient and control groups (MEAN, P = 5.32 e-7; AREA, P = 1.62 e-6). In the phantom model, RTE was correlated with kPa, confirming the presumed comparability of the methods. However, there was no direct correlation between RTE and TE in patients with defined liver diseases under real clinical conditions.

Synthetic Materials for Osteochondral Tissue Engineering.

PubMed

Iulian, Antoniac; Dan, Laptoiu; Camelia, Tecu; Claudia, Milea; Sebastian, Gradinaru

2018-01-01

The objective of an articular cartilage repair treatment is to repair the affected surface of an articular joint's hyaline cartilage. Currently, both biological and tissue engineering research is concerned with discovering the clues needed to stimulate cells to regenerate tissues and organs totally or partially. The latest findings on nanotechnology advances along with the processability of synthetic biomaterials have succeeded in creating a new range of materials to develop into the desired biological responses to the cellular level. 3D printing has a great ability to establish functional tissues or organs to cure or replace abnormal and necrotic tissue, providing a promising solution for serious tissue/organ failure. The 4D print process has the potential to continually revolutionize the current tissue and organ manufacturing platforms. A new active research area is the development of intelligent materials with high biocompatibility to suit 4D printing technology. As various researchers and tissue engineers have demonstrated, the role of growth factors in tissue engineering for repairing osteochondral and cartilage defects is a very important one. Following animal testing, cell-assisted and growth-factor scaffolds produced much better results, while growth-free scaffolds showed a much lower rate of healing.

Potential contribution of exposed resin to ecosystem emissions of monoterpenes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eller, Allyson S. D.; Harley, Peter; Monson, Russell K.

2013-10-01

Conifers, especially pines, produce and store under pressure monoterpene-laden resin in canals located throughout the plant. When the plants are damaged and resin canals punctured, the resin is exuded and the monoterpenes are released into the atmosphere, a process that has been shown to influence ecosystem-level monoterpene emissions. Less attention has been paid to the small amounts of resin that are exuded from branches, expanding needles, developing pollen cones, and terminal buds in the absence of any damage. The goal of this study was to provide the first estimate of the potential of this naturally-exposed resin to influence emissions of monoterpenes from ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) ecosystems. When resin is first exuded as small spherical beads from undamaged tissues it emits monoterpenes to the atmosphere at a rate that is four orders of magnitude greater than needle tissue with an equivalent exposed surface area and the emissions from exuded beads decline exponentially as the resin dries. We made measurements of resin beads on the branches of ponderosa pine trees in the middle of the growing season and found, on average, 0.15 cm2 of exposed resin bead surface area and 1250 cm2 of total needle surface area per branch tip. If the resin emerged over the course of 10 days, resin emissions would make up 10% of the ecosystem emissions each day. Since we only accounted for exposed resin at a single point in time, this is probably an underestimate of how much total resin is exuded from undamaged pine tissues over the course of a growing season. Our observations, however, reveal the importance of this previously unrecognized source of monoterpenes emitted from pine forests and its potential to influence regional atmospheric chemistry dynamics.

Selenium concentrations in the Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius): Relationship with flows in the upper Colorado River

USGS Publications Warehouse

Osmundson, B.C.; May, T.W.; Osmundson, D.B.

2000-01-01

A Department of the Interior (DOI) irrigation drainwater study of the Uncompahgre Project area and the Grand Valley in western Colorado revealed high selenium concentrations in water, sediment, and biota samples. The lower Gunnison River and the Colorado River in the study area are designated critical habitat for the endangered Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius) and razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus). Because of the endangered status of these fish, sacrificing individuals for tissue residue analysis has been avoided; consequently, little information existed regarding selenium tissue residues. In 1994, muscle plugs were collected from a total of 39 Colorado pikeminnow captured at various Colorado River sites in the Grand Valley for selenium residue analysis. The muscle plugs collected from 16 Colorado pikeminnow captured at Walter Walker State Wildlife Area (WWSWA) contained a mean selenium concentration of 17 ??g/g dry weight, which was over twice the recommended toxic threshold guideline concentration of 8 ??g/g dry weight in muscle tissue for freshwater fish. Because of elevated selenium concentrations in muscle plugs in 1994, a total of 52 muscle plugs were taken during 1995 from Colorado pikeminnow staging at WWSWA. Eleven of these plugs were from fish previously sampled in 1994. Selenium concentrations in 9 of the 11 recaptured fish were significantly lower in 1995 than in 1994. Reduced selenium in fish may in part be attributed to higher instream flows in 1995 and lower water selenium concentrations in the Colorado River in the Grand Valley. In 1996, muscle plugs were taken from 35 Colorado squawfish captured at WWSWA, and no difference in mean selenium concentrations were detected from those sampled in 1995. Colorado River flows during 1996 were intermediate to those measured in 1994 and 1995.

Selenium concentrations in the Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius): relationship with flows in the upper Colorado River.

PubMed

Osmundson, B C; May, T W; Osmundson, D B

2000-05-01

A Department of the Interior (DOI) irrigation drainwater study of the Uncompahgre Project area and the Grand Valley in western Colorado revealed high selenium concentrations in water, sediment, and biota samples. The lower Gunnison River and the Colorado River in the study area are designated critical habitat for the endangered Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius) and razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus). Because of the endangered status of these fish, sacrificing individuals for tissue residue analysis has been avoided; consequently, little information existed regarding selenium tissue residues. In 1994, muscle plugs were collected from a total of 39 Colorado pikeminnow captured at various Colorado River sites in the Grand Valley for selenium residue analysis. The muscle plugs collected from 16 Colorado pikeminnow captured at Walter Walker State Wildlife Area (WWSWA) contained a mean selenium concentration of 17 microg/g dry weight, which was over twice the recommended toxic threshold guideline concentration of 8 microg/g dry weight in muscle tissue for freshwater fish. Because of elevated selenium concentrations in muscle plugs in 1994, a total of 52 muscle plugs were taken during 1995 from Colorado pikeminnow staging at WWSWA. Eleven of these plugs were from fish previously sampled in 1994. Selenium concentrations in 9 of the 11 recaptured fish were significantly lower in 1995 than in 1994. Reduced selenium in fish may in part be attributed to higher instream flows in 1995 and lower water selenium concentrations in the Colorado River in the Grand Valley. In 1996, muscle plugs were taken from 35 Colorado squawfish captured at WWSWA, and no difference in mean selenium concentrations were detected from those sampled in 1995. Colorado River flows during 1996 were intermediate to those measured in 1994 and 1995.

Incising the thick retrolental fibrovascular tissue with a hooked sclerotome in persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous.

PubMed

Shiraki, K; Moriwaki, M; Kohno, T; Yanagihara, N; Miki, T

1999-01-01

A technique for incising thick retrolental fibrovascular tissue and extensive cyclitic membrane is reported in a case of anterior persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous. A membranectomy was performed in a 1-month-old post-lensectomy baby via a limbal approach. A sclerotome tip was hooked to cut through an extremely thick fibrovascular tissue by rotating the sclerotome by its grip. Sutherland microscissors (Grieshaber, Switzerland) and a vitrectomy cutter were used for further membranectomy. The baby was followed-up until age 18 months. A total of 3 membranectomy sessions were required because of rapid cyclitic membrane formation, severe centripetal retraction of the membrane on the ciliary processes, and posterior synechia. Thorough membranectomy and cutting the iris edge maintained a clear pupillary area during the 13-month postoperative period. Extremely thick retrolental fibrovascular tissue is a challenging condition that can be dealt with by delicate instrumentation.

Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and phenolic and anthocyanin concentrations in fruit and leaf tissues of highbush blueberry.

PubMed

Ehlenfeldt, M K; Prior, R L

2001-05-01

Antioxidant capacity, as measured by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and total phenolic and total anthocyanin contents were evaluated in fruit tissues of 87 highbush blueberry (Vacciniumcorymbosum L.) and species-introgressed highbush blueberry cultivars. ORAC and phenolic levels were evaluated in leaf tissues of the same materials. Average values for ORAC, phenolics, and anthocyanins in fruit were 15.9 ORAC units, 1.79 mg/g (gallic acid equivalents), and 0.95 mg/g (cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents), respectively. Cv. Rubel had the highest ORAC per gram of fresh weight values, at 31.1 units, and cv. Elliott had the highest values on the basis of ORAC per square centimeter of surface area. In leaf tissue, values for both ORAC and phenolics were significantly higher than in fruit tissue, with mean values of 490 ORAC units and 44.80 mg/g (gallic acid equivalents), respectively. Leaf ORAC had a low, but significant, correlation with fruit phenolics and anthocyanins, but not with fruit ORAC. An analysis of ORAC values versus calculated midparent values in 11 plants from the 87-cultivar group in which all parents were tested suggested that, across cultivars, ORAC inheritance is additive. An investigation of ORAC values in a family of 44 cv. Rubel x Duke seedlings showed negative epistasis for ORAC values, suggesting Rubel may have gene combinations contributing to ORAC that are broken up during hybridization.

Marine origin of pyritic sulfur in the Lower Bakerstown coal bed, Castleman coal field, Maryland (U.S.A.)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lyons, P.C.; Whelan, J.F.; Dulong, F.T.

1989-01-01

The amount, kind, distribution, and genesis of pyrite in the Lower Bakerstown coal bed in a 150 ?? 15 m area of the Bettinger mine, Castleman coal field, Maryland, were studied by various analytical techniques. The mined coal, which had a nonmarine roof rock, contained 1.4-2.8 wt.% total sulfur, generally much lower than the high-sulfur coal (> 3.0 wt.% total S) to the north, which is associated with marine roof rocks. Small-scale systematic and nonsystematic variations in total sulfur and pyrite distribution were found in the mined area. In the column sample, most of the pyrite was found in the upper 9 cm of the 69-cm-thick mined coal and occurred mainly as a pyrite lens containing cell fillings in seed-fern tissue (coal ball). As-bearing pyrite was detected by laser microprobe techniques in the cell walls of this tissue but not elsewhere in the column sample. This may indicate that the As was derived from decomposition of organic matter in the cell walls. The sulfur isotopic composition and distribution of pyrite in the coal are consistent with introduction of marine sulfate shortly after peat deposition, followed by bacterial reduction and pyrite precipitation. Epigenetic cleat pyrite in the coal is isotopically heavy, implying that later aqueous sulfate was 34S-enriched. ?? 1989.

Tissue parasitic helminthiases are prevalent at Cheongjin, North Korea

PubMed Central

Shen, Chenghua; Li, Shunyu; Zheng, Shanzi; Choi, Min-Ho; Bae, Young Mee

2007-01-01

We investigated a small-scale serological survey to screen tissue-parasitic helminthiases of North Koreans as one of research programs for re-unification of Korea. Soil-transmitted helminthiases were found highly prevalent among North Korean residents at the border with China. ELISA using 4 tissue-parasitic helminth antigens was applied to 137 residents living in Cheongjin-shi, Hamgyeongbuk-do, North Korea and 133 female refugees in South Korea in 2004-2005. Among a total of 270 samples, 31 (11.5%), 25 (9.3%), and 11 (4.1%) were positive for specific IgG antibodies to antigens of Clonorchis sinensis, Taenia solium metacestode, and sparganum, respectively. The overall positive rate was 21.5%; 38.2% in males and 15.8% in females. The present finding suggests that tissue parasites, such as C. sinensis, T. solium metacestode and sparganum are highly prevalent in some limited areas of North Korea. These foodborne tissue-parasitic helminthiases should be considered for future control measures of parasitic diseases in North Korea. PMID:17570978

Tissue parasitic helminthiases are prevalent at Cheongjin, North Korea.

PubMed

Shen, Chenghua; Li, Shunyu; Zheng, Shanzi; Choi, Min Ho; Bae, Young Mee; Hong, Sung Tae

2007-06-01

We investigated a small-scale serological survey to screen tissue-parasitic helminthiases of North Koreans as one of research programs for re-unification of Korea. Soil-transmitted helminthiases were found highly prevalent among North Korean residents at the border with China. ELISA using 4 tissue-parasitic helminth antigens was applied to 137 residents living in Cheongjin-shi, Hamgyeongbuk-do, North Korea and 133 female refugees in South Korea in 2004-2005. Among a total of 270 samples, 31 (11.5%), 25 (9.3%), and 11 (4.1%) were positive for specific IgG antibodies to antigens of Clonorchis sinensis, Taenia solium metacestode, and sparganum, respectively. The overall positive rate was 21.5%; 38.2% in males and 15.8% in females. The present finding suggests that tissue parasites, such as C. sinensis, T. solium metacestode and sparganum are highly prevalent in some limited areas of North Korea. These foodborne tissue-parasitic helminthiases should be considered for future control measures of parasitic diseases in North Korea.

10 CFR 60.136 - Preclosure controlled area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The eye dose equivalent shall not exceed 0.15 Sv (15 rem), and the shallow dose...

10 CFR 60.136 - Preclosure controlled area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The eye dose equivalent shall not exceed 0.15 Sv (15 rem), and the shallow dose...

10 CFR 60.136 - Preclosure controlled area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The eye dose equivalent shall not exceed 0.15 Sv (15 rem), and the shallow dose...

10 CFR 60.136 - Preclosure controlled area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The eye dose equivalent shall not exceed 0.15 Sv (15 rem), and the shallow dose...

10 CFR 60.136 - Preclosure controlled area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... limiting of a total effective dose equivalent of 0.05 Sv (5 rem), or the sum of the deep-dose equivalent and the committed dose equivalent to any individual organ or tissue (other than the lens of the eye) of 0.5 Sv (50 rem). The eye dose equivalent shall not exceed 0.15 Sv (15 rem), and the shallow dose...

Chemical and biological methods to evaluate the availability of heavy metals in soils of the Siena urban area (Italy).

PubMed

Nannoni, Francesco; Protano, Giuseppe

2016-10-15

A biogeochemistry field study was conducted in the Siena urban area (Italy) with the main objective of establishing the relationship between available amounts of heavy metals in soil assessed by a chemical method (soil fractionation) and bioavailability assessed by a biological method (bioaccumulation in earthworm tissues). The total content of traffic-related (Cd, Cu, Pb, Sb, Zn) and geogenic (Co, Cr, Ni, U) heavy metals in uncontaminated and contaminated soils and their concentrations in soil fractions and earthworms were used for this purpose. The bioavailability of heavy metals assessed by earthworms did not always match the availability defined by soil fractionation. Earthworms were a good indicator to assess the bioavailability of Pb and Sb in soil, while due to physiological mechanisms of regulation and excretion, Cd, Cu and Zn tissue levels in these invertebrates gave misleading estimates of their bioavailable pool. No relationship was identified between chemical and biological availability for the geogenic heavy metals, characterized by a narrow range of total contents in soil. The study highlighted that chemical and biological methods should be combined to provide more complete information about heavy element bioavailability in soils. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Micro-anatomical quantitative optical imaging: toward automated assessment of breast tissues.

PubMed

Dobbs, Jessica L; Mueller, Jenna L; Krishnamurthy, Savitri; Shin, Dongsuk; Kuerer, Henry; Yang, Wei; Ramanujam, Nirmala; Richards-Kortum, Rebecca

2015-08-20

Pathologists currently diagnose breast lesions through histologic assessment, which requires fixation and tissue preparation. The diagnostic criteria used to classify breast lesions are qualitative and subjective, and inter-observer discordance has been shown to be a significant challenge in the diagnosis of selected breast lesions, particularly for borderline proliferative lesions. Thus, there is an opportunity to develop tools to rapidly visualize and quantitatively interpret breast tissue morphology for a variety of clinical applications. Toward this end, we acquired images of freshly excised breast tissue specimens from a total of 34 patients using confocal fluorescence microscopy and proflavine as a topical stain. We developed computerized algorithms to segment and quantify nuclear and ductal parameters that characterize breast architectural features. A total of 33 parameters were evaluated and used as input to develop a decision tree model to classify benign and malignant breast tissue. Benign features were classified in tissue specimens acquired from 30 patients and malignant features were classified in specimens from 22 patients. The decision tree model that achieved the highest accuracy for distinguishing between benign and malignant breast features used the following parameters: standard deviation of inter-nuclear distance and number of duct lumens. The model achieved 81 % sensitivity and 93 % specificity, corresponding to an area under the curve of 0.93 and an overall accuracy of 90 %. The model classified IDC and DCIS with 92 % and 96 % accuracy, respectively. The cross-validated model achieved 75 % sensitivity and 93 % specificity and an overall accuracy of 88 %. These results suggest that proflavine staining and confocal fluorescence microscopy combined with image analysis strategies to segment morphological features could potentially be used to quantitatively diagnose freshly obtained breast tissue at the point of care without the need for tissue preparation.

Mercury in Indiana watersheds: retrospective for 2001-2006

USGS Publications Warehouse

Risch, Martin R.; Baker, Nancy T.; Fowler, Kathleen K.; Egler, Amanda L.; Lampe, David C.

2010-01-01

Information about total mercury and methylmercury concentrations in water samples and mercury concentrations in fish-tissue samples was summarized for 26 watersheds in Indiana that drain most of the land area of the State. Mercury levels were interpreted with information on streamflow, atmospheric mercury deposition, mercury emissions to the atmosphere, mercury in wastewater, and landscape characteristics. Unfiltered total mercury concentrations in 411 water samples from streams in the 26 watersheds had a median of 2.32 nanograms per liter (ng/L) and a maximum of 28.2 ng/L. When these concentrations were compared to Indiana water-quality criteria for mercury, 5.4 percent exceeded the 12-ng/L chronic-aquatic criterion, 59 percent exceeded the 1.8-ng/L Great Lakes human-health criterion, and 72.5 percent exceeded the 1.3-ng/L Great Lakes wildlife criterion. Mercury concentrations in water were related to streamflow, and the highest mercury concentrations were associated with the highest streamflows. On average, 67 percent of total mercury in streams was in a particulate form, and particulate mercury concentrations were significantly lower downstream from dams than at monitoring stations not affected by dams. Methylmercury is the organic fraction of total mercury and is the form of mercury that accumulates and magnifies in food chains. It is made from inorganic mercury by natural processes under specific conditions. Unfiltered methylmercury concentrations in 411 water samples had a median of 0.10 ng/L and a maximum of 0.66 ng/L. Methylmercury was a median 3.7 percent and maximum 64.8 percent of the total mercury in 252 samples for which methylmercury was reported. The percentages of methylmercury in water samples were significantly higher downstream from dams than at other monitoring stations. Nearly all of the total mercury detected in fish tissue was assumed to be methylmercury. Fish-tissue samples from the 26 watersheds had wet-weight mercury concentrations that exceeded the 0.3 milligram per kilogram (mg/kg) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) methylmercury criterion in 12.4 percent of the 1,731 samples. The median wet-weight concentration in the fish-tissue samples was 0.13 mg/kg, and the maximum was 1.07 mg/kg. A coarse-scale analysis of all fish-tissue data in each watershed and a fine-scale analysis of data within 5 kilometers (km) of the downstream end of each watershed showed similar results overall. Mercury concentrations in fish-tissue samples were highest in the White River watershed in southern Indiana and the Fall Creek watershed in central Indiana. In fish-tissue samples within 5 km of the downstream end of a watershed, the USEPA methylmercury criterion was exceeded by 45 percent of mercury concentrations from the White River watershed and 40 percent of the mercury concentration from the Fall Creek watershed. A clear relation between mercury concentrations in fish-tissue samples and methylmercury concentrations in water was not observed in the data from watersheds in Indiana. Average annual atmospheric mercury wet-deposition rates were mapped with data at 156 locations in Indiana and four surrounding states for 2001-2006. These maps revealed an area in southeastern Indiana with high mercury wet-deposition rates-from 15 to 19 micrograms per square meter per year (ug/m2/yr). Annual atmospheric mercury dry-deposition rates were estimated with an inferential method by using concentrations of mercury species in air samples at three locations in Indiana. Mercury dry deposition-rates were 5.6 to 13.6 ug/m2/yr and were 0.49 to 1.4 times mercury wet-deposition rates. Total mercury concentrations were detected in 96 percent of 402 samples of wastewater effluent from 50 publicly owned treatment works in the watersheds; the median concentration was 3.0 ng/L, and the maximum was 88 ng/L. When these concentrations were compared to Indiana water-quality criteria for mercury, 12 percent exceeded the 12-n

Ectopic bone formation by marrow stromal osteoblast transplantation using poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) foams implanted into the rat mesentery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ishaug-Riley, S. L.; Crane, G. M.; Gurlek, A.; Miller, M. J.; Yasko, A. W.; Yaszemski, M. J.; Mikos, A. G.; McIntire, L. V. (Principal Investigator)

1997-01-01

Porous biodegradable poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) foams were seeded with rat marrow stromal cells and implanted into the rat mesentery to investigate in vivo bone formation at an ectopic site. Cells were seeded at a density of 6.83 x 10(5) cells/cm2 onto polymer foams having pore sizes ranging from either 150 to 300 to 710 microns and cultured for 7 days in vitro prior to implantation. The polymer/cell constructs were harvested after 1, 7, 28, or 49 days in vivo and processed for histology and gel permeation chromatography. Visual observation of hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections and von Kossa-stained sections revealed the formation of mineralized bonelike tissue in the constructs within 7 days postimplantation. Ingrowth of vascular tissue was also found adjacent to the islands of bone, supplying the necessary metabolic requirements to the newly formed tissue. Mineralization and bone tissue formation were investigated by histomorphometry. The average penetration depth of mineralized tissue in the construct ranged from 190 +/- 50 microns for foams with 500-710-microns pores to 370 +/- 160 microns for foams with 150-300-microns pores after 49 days in vivo. The mineralized bone volume per surface area and total bone volume per surface area had maximal values of 0.28 +/- 0.21 mm (500-710-microns pore size, day 28) and 0.038 +/- 0.024 mm (150-300-microns, day 28), respectively. As much as 11% of the foam volume penetrated by bone tissue was filled with mineralized tissue. No significant trends over time were observed for any of the measured values (penetration depth, bone volume/surface area, or percent mineralized bone volume). These results suggest the feasibility of bone formation by osteoblast transplantation in an orthotopic site where not only bone formation from transplanted cells but also ingrowth from adjacent bone may occur.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gorodetsky, R.; Goldfarb, A.; Dagan, I.

Diagnostic x-ray spectrometry, a method based on x-ray fluorescence analysis, was used for noninvasive determination of iron and zinc in two distinct skin areas, representing predominantly dermal and epidermal tissues, in 56 patients with beta-thalassemia major and intermedia. The mean iron levels in the skin of patients with beta-thalassemia major and intermedia were elevated by greater than 200% and greater than 50%, respectively, compared with control values. The zinc levels of both skin areas examined were within the normal range. The data indicate that the rate and number of blood transfusions, which correlated well with serum ferritin levels (r .more » 0.8), are not the only factors that determine the amount of iron deposition in the skin (r less than 0.6). Other sources of iron intake contribute to the total iron load in the tissues, particularly in patients who are not given multiple transfusions. The noninvasive quantitation of skin levels may reflect the extent of iron deposition in major parenchymal organs. Repeated DXS examinations of the skin could monitor the clearance of iron from the tissues of patients with iron overload in the course of therapy with chelating agents.« less

Effects of long-term pre- and post-natal exposure to 2.45 GHz wireless devices on developing male rat kidney.

PubMed

Kuybulu, Ayça Esra; Öktem, Faruk; Çiriş, İbrahim Metin; Sutcu, Recep; Örmeci, Ahmet Rıfat; Çömlekçi, Selçuk; Uz, Efkan

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate oxidative stress and apoptosis in kidney tissues of male Wistar rats that pre- and postnatally exposed to wireless electromagnetic field (EMF) with an internet frequency of 2.45 GHz for a long time. The study was conducted in three groups of rats which were pre-natal, post-natal. and sham exposed groups. Oxidative stress markers and histological evaluation of kidney tissues were studied. Renal tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and total oxidant (TOS) levels of pre-natal group were high and total antioxidant (TAS) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were low. Spot urine NAG/creatinine ratio was significantly higher in pre- and post-natal groups (p < 0.001). Tubular injury was detected in most of the specimens in post-natal groups. Immunohistochemical analysis showed low-intensity staining with Bax in cortex, high-intensity staining with Bcl-2 in cortical and medullar areas of pre-natal group (p values, 0.000, 0.002, 0.000, respectively) when compared with sham group. Bcl2/Bax staining intensity ratios of medullar and cortical area was higher in pre-natal group than sham group (p = 0.018, p = 0.011). Based on this study, it is thought that chronic pre- and post-natal period exposure to wireless internet frequency of EMF may cause chronic kidney damages; staying away from EMF source in especially pregnancy and early childhood period may reduce negative effects of exposure on kidney.

Elevated numbers of CD163+ macrophages in hearts of simian immunodeficiency virus-infected monkeys correlate with cardiac pathology and fibrosis.

PubMed

Walker, Joshua A; Sulciner, Megan L; Nowicki, Katherine D; Miller, Andrew D; Burdo, Tricia H; Williams, Kenneth C

2014-07-01

The role of macrophage activation, traffic, and accumulation on cardiac pathology was examined in 23 animals. Seventeen animals were simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infected, 12 were CD8 lymphocyte depleted, and the remaining six were uninfected controls (two CD8 lymphocyte depleted, four nondepleted). None of the uninfected controls had cardiac pathology. One of five (20%) SIV-infected, non-CD8 lymphocyte-depleted animals had minor cardiac pathology with increased numbers of macrophages in ventricular tissue compared to controls. Seven of the 12 (58%) SIV-infected, CD8 lymphocyte-depleted animals had cardiac pathology in ventricular tissues, including macrophage infiltration and myocardial degeneration. The extent of fibrosis (measured as the percentage of collagen per tissue area) was increased 41% in SIV-infected, CD8 lymphocyte-depleted animals with cardiac pathology compared to animals without pathological abnormalities. The number of CD163+ macrophages increased significantly in SIV-infected, CD8 lymphocyte-depleted animals with cardiac pathology compared to ones without pathology (1.66-fold) and controls (5.42-fold). The percent of collagen (percentage of collagen per total tissue area) positively correlated with macrophage numbers in ventricular tissue in SIV-infected animals. There was an increase of BrdU+ monocytes in the heart during late SIV infection, regardless of pathology. These data implicate monocyte/macrophage activation and accumulation in the development of cardiac pathology with SIV infection.

Altered Gravity and Early Heart Development in Culture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wiens, Darrell J.; Lwigale, P.; Denning, J.

1996-01-01

The macromolecules comprising the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix of cells may be sensitive to gravitation. Since early development of organs depends on dynamic interactions across cell surfaces, altered gravity may disturb development. We investigated this possibility for heart development. Previous studies showed that the extracellular matrix glycoprotein fibronectin (Fn) is necessary for normal heart development. We cultured precardiac tissue explants in a high aspect ratio bioreactor vessel (HARV) to simulate microgravity. We observed tissue morphology, contraction, and Fn distribution by immunolocalization in HARV rotated and control (lxg) explants, cultured 18 hr. We also measured Fn amount by immunoassay. Explants in HARV were rotated at 6 rpm to achieve continuous freefall. Thirty-five of 37 control, but only 1 of 37 matched rotated explants exhibited contractions. Tissue architecture was identical. Immunolocalization of Fn showed remarkable differences which may be related to the development of contractions. The Fn staining in the HARV explants was less intense in all areas. Areas of linear staining along epithelia were present but shorter, and there was less intercellular staining in both mesenchymal tissue and myocardium. Initial immunoassay results of 5 matched pairs of explants showed a 22% reduction in total tissue Fn in the HARV rotated samples. Our results indicate that altered gravity in the HARV reduced the amount and distribution of Fn, as assessed by two independent criteria. This was correlated with a reduction in the development of contractile activity.

Sex steroid imbalances in the muricid Stramonita haemastoma from TBT contaminated sites.

PubMed

Rossato, M; Castro, I B; Paganini, C L; Colares, E P; Fillmann, G; Pinho, G L L

2016-04-01

Imposex incidence, organotin tissue levels, and sex steroid (free and esterified testosterone and estradiol) levels were assessed in Stramonita haemastoma from Babitonga Bay (Santa Catarina State, Southern Brazil). The imposex levels showed a reduction when compared to a previous evaluation performed in the same area. In spite of that, the detected imposex incidence indicated the occurrence of tributyltin (TBT) inputs that were still able to produce endocrine disruption in local gastropods. In addition, a high level of organotins was observed in tissues of imposexed females. These females also showed a hormonal imbalance, especially in the total testosterone/total estradiol ratio. These findings obtained under realistic field conditions suggest that the steroid pathway could be responsible by the imposex induction after exposure to TBT. In this case, measurements of sex steroid levels can be an additional evidence for monitoring sites and impose affected gastropod populations.

Evidence of detrimental effects of environmental contaminants on growth and reproductive physiology of white sturgeon in impounded areas of the Columbia River

USGS Publications Warehouse

Feist, G.W.; Webb, M.A.H.; Gundersen, D.T.; Foster, E.P.; Schreck, C.B.; Maule, A.G.; Fitzpatrick, M.S.

2005-01-01

This study sought to determine whether wild white sturgeon from the Columbia River (Oregon) were exhibiting signs of reproductive endocrine disruption. Fish were sampled in the free-flowing portion of the river (where the population is experiencing reproductive success) and from three reservoirs behind hydroelectric dams (where fish have reduced reproductive success). All of the 18 pesticides and almost all of the 28 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) that were analyzed in livers and gonads were detected in at least some of the tissue samples. Metabolites of p,p???-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) [p,p???-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) and p,p???-1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDD)] were consistently found at relatively high levels in fish. Some males and immature females showed elevated plasma vitellogenin; however, concentrations were not correlated with any of the pesticides or PCBs analyzed. Negative correlations were found between a number of physiologic parameters and tissue burdens of toxicants. Plasma triglycerides and condition factor were negatively correlated with total DDT (DDD + DDE + DDT), total pesticides (all pesticides detected - total DDT), and PCBs. In males, plasma androgens and gonad size were negatively correlated with total DDT, total pesticides, and PCBs. Fish residing in the reservoir behind the oldest dam had the highest contaminant loads and incidence of gonadal abnormalities, and the lowest triglycerides, condition factor, gonad size, and plasma androgens. These data suggest that endocrine-disrupting chemicals may be accumulating behind dams over time. Overall, results of this study indicate that exposure to environmental contaminants may be affecting both growth and reproductive physiology of sturgeon in some areas of the Columbia River.

Organic Chemical Concentrations and Reproductive Biomarkers in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Collected from Two Areas in Lake Mead, Nevada, May 1999-May 2000

USGS Publications Warehouse

Goodbred, Steven L.; Leiker, Thomas J.; Patiño, Reynaldo; Jenkins, Jill A.; Denslow, Nancy D.; Orsak, Erik; Rosen, Michael R.

2007-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and Nevada Department of Wildlife, collected and assessed data to determine the general health and reproductive status of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) at two study areas in Lake Mead, Nevada, during May 1999-May 2000. These data will form the basis of interpretations and provide a comparison for continuing studies on the health of the ecosystem in Lake Mead. One study area, Las Vegas Bay, is in the western part of Lake Mead. Las Vegas Bay receives inflows from Las Vegas Wash, which is predominantly tertiary-treated wastewater effluent, and to a lesser extent stormwater runoff from Las Vegas, Henderson, and other nearby communities, and from ground water underlying Las Vegas Valley. The other study area, Overton Arm, is in the northern extent of Lake Mead. Overton Arm receives inflow from the Virgin and Muddy Rivers, which historically are not influenced by wastewater effluent. Both sexes of common carp were collected bimonthly for 12 months using boat-mounted electrofishing gear (a direct electric current is used to temporarily immobilize fish for capture) to determine their health and reproductive status and any relation between these factors and environmental contaminants. This report presents fish tissue chemistry, organic chemical compound concentrations, and biomarker data for 83 male common carp collected from Las Vegas Bay, similar organic chemistry results for 15 male common carp, and similar biomarker measures for 80 male common carp collected from Overton Arm. Tissue chemistry results also are presented for 16 female common carp and biomarker measures for 79 female common carp collected from Las Vegas Bay, and tissue chemistry results for 15 female common carp and biomarker measures for 81 female common carp collected from Overton Arm. Thirty-three organic chemical compounds plus total concentrations for four groups of compounds (chlordanes, polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], brominated diphenyl ethers [BDEs], and triclosans) were analyzed from extracts of whole-body tissue using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry in male common carp from Las Vegas Bay during May 1999 through May 2000. All 33 compounds were detected in at least one sample of whole-body tissue from male common carp collected in Las Vegas Bay. In Overton Arm, 37 organic compounds plus total concentrations of three groups of compounds (PCBs, BDEs, and triclosans) were analyzed in male common carp where 20 (54 percent) of the compounds were detected. Sixteen of the 33 compounds detected in male common carp from Las Vegas Bay and 10 compounds detected in males from Overton Arm have the potential to disrupt the endocrine system in fish in Lake Mead. During May and June 1999, the mean concentration of all organic compounds detected in male common carp was 670 micrograms per kilogram from Las Vegas Bay and 109 micrograms per kilogram from Overton Arm. Twenty-seven organic compounds plus total PCBs were analyzed from extracts of whole-body tissue in female common carp collected in Las Vegas Bay and Overton Arm during May 1999. Twenty-four (86 percent) of these compounds were detected in at least one sample of whole-body tissue from female common carp collected from Las Vegas Bay while 10 (36 percent) chemical compounds were detected in female common carp from Overton Arm during that same period. Median concentrations of all chemical compounds were higher in female common carp from Las Vegas Bay compared to those collected from Overton Arm except Dacthal (DCPA), which was similar between sites. Biomarker measures obtained for male and female common carp include gonadosomatic index (percentage of gonad weight to total body weight), plasma vitellogenin (a phospholipid protein normally produced by female common carp and other oviparous fish), and condition factor [body weight/(fork length)3]. Biomarker measures for male c

Evaluation of an automated connective tissue disease screening assay in Korean patients with systemic rheumatic diseases

PubMed Central

Jeong, Seri; Yang, Heeyoung; Hwang, Hyunyong

2017-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utilities of the automated connective tissues disease screening assay, CTD screen, in patients with systemic rheumatic diseases. A total of 1093 serum samples were assayed using CTD screen and indirect immunofluorescent (IIF) methods. Among them, 162 were diagnosed with systemic rheumatic disease, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and mixed connective tissue disease (MCT). The remaining 931 with non-systemic rheumatic disease were assigned to the control group. The median ratios of CTD screen tests were significantly higher in the systemic rheumatic disease group than in the control group. The positive likelihood ratios of the CTD screen were higher than those of IIF in patients with total rheumatic diseases (4.1 vs. 1.6), including SLE (24.3 vs. 10.7). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC-AUCs) of the CTD screen for discriminating total rheumatic diseases, RA, SLE, and MCT from controls were 0.68, 0.56, 0.92 and 0.80, respectively. The ROC-AUCs of the combinations with IIF were significantly higher in patients with total rheumatic diseases (0.72) and MCT (0.85) than in those of the CTD screen alone. Multivariate analysis indicated that both the CTD screen and IIF were independent variables for predicting systemic rheumatic disease. CTD screen alone and in combination with IIF were a valuable diagnostic tool for predicting systemic rheumatic diseases, particularly for SLE. PMID:28273146

Evaluation of an automated connective tissue disease screening assay in Korean patients with systemic rheumatic diseases.

PubMed

Jeong, Seri; Yang, Heeyoung; Hwang, Hyunyong

2017-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utilities of the automated connective tissues disease screening assay, CTD screen, in patients with systemic rheumatic diseases. A total of 1093 serum samples were assayed using CTD screen and indirect immunofluorescent (IIF) methods. Among them, 162 were diagnosed with systemic rheumatic disease, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and mixed connective tissue disease (MCT). The remaining 931 with non-systemic rheumatic disease were assigned to the control group. The median ratios of CTD screen tests were significantly higher in the systemic rheumatic disease group than in the control group. The positive likelihood ratios of the CTD screen were higher than those of IIF in patients with total rheumatic diseases (4.1 vs. 1.6), including SLE (24.3 vs. 10.7). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC-AUCs) of the CTD screen for discriminating total rheumatic diseases, RA, SLE, and MCT from controls were 0.68, 0.56, 0.92 and 0.80, respectively. The ROC-AUCs of the combinations with IIF were significantly higher in patients with total rheumatic diseases (0.72) and MCT (0.85) than in those of the CTD screen alone. Multivariate analysis indicated that both the CTD screen and IIF were independent variables for predicting systemic rheumatic disease. CTD screen alone and in combination with IIF were a valuable diagnostic tool for predicting systemic rheumatic diseases, particularly for SLE.

The effect of individual antiretroviral drugs on body composition in HIV-infected persons initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy.

PubMed

Shlay, Judith C; Sharma, Shweta; Peng, Grace; Gibert, Cynthia L; Grunfeld, Carl

2009-07-01

To examine the long-term effects of individual antiretroviral drugs on body composition among 416 persons initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). In a substudy of a clinical trial of persons initiating ART, changes in body composition attributable to individual ART were examined. ARTs assessed were as follows: indinavir, ritonavir, nelfinavir, efavirenz, nevirapine, stavudine (d4T), zidovudine (ZDV), lamivudine (3TC), didanosine, and abacavir. Skinfolds and circumferences were measured at baseline and every 4 months. Mid arm, mid thigh, and waist subcutaneous tissue areas and nonsubcutaneous tissue areas were calculated. Rates of change per year of exposure to each individual ART drug were determined using multivariate longitudinal regression. d4T and ZDV use was associated with losses in subcutaneous tissue area and skinfold thickness. 3TC use was associated with gains in all subcutaneous tissue areas and skinfold thickness, whereas abacavir use was associated with an increase in waist subcutaneous tissue area. Indinavir was associated with gains in waist subcutaneous tissue area, whereas indinavir, efavirenz, and nevirapine were associated with increases in upper back skinfolds. d4T use was also associated with increases in all nonsubcutaneous tissue areas; 3TC use was associated with the greatest increase in waist nonsubcutaneous tissue area. In this prospective nonrandomized evaluation, the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors d4T and ZDV were associated with decreases in subcutaneous tissue areas, whereas 3TC use was associated with increased subcutaneous tissue areas and waist nonsubcutaneous tissue area.

Aluminum concentrations in central and peripheral areas of malignant breast lesions do not differ from those in normal breast tissues

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Aluminum is used in a wide range of applications and is a potential environmental hazard. The known genotoxic effects of aluminum might play a role in the development of breast cancer. However, the data currently available on the subject are not sufficient to establish a causal relationship between aluminum exposure and the augmented risk of developing breast cancer. To achieve maximum sensitivity and specificity in the determination of aluminum levels, we have developed a detection protocol using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). The objective of the present study was to compare the aluminum levels in the central and peripheral areas of breast carcinomas with those in the adjacent normal breast tissues, and to identify patient and/or tumor characteristics associated with these aluminum levels. Methods A total of 176 patients with breast cancer were included in the study. Samples from the central and peripheral areas of their tumors were obtained, as well as from the surrounding normal breast tissue. Aluminum quantification was performed using GFAAS. Results The average (mean ± SD) aluminum concentrations were as follows: central area, 1.88 ± 3.60 mg/kg; peripheral area, 2.10 ± 5.67 mg/kg; and normal area, 1.68 ± 11.1 mg/kg. Overall and two-by-two comparisons of the aluminum concentrations in these areas indicated no significant differences. We detected a positive relationship between aluminum levels in the peripheral areas of the tumors, age and menopausal status of the patients (P = .02). Conclusions Using a sensitive quantification technique we detected similar aluminum concentrations in the central and peripheral regions of breast tumors, and in normal tissues. In addition, we did not detect significant differences in aluminum concentrations as related to the location of the breast tumor within the breast, or to other relevant tumor features such as stage, size and steroid receptor status. The next logical step is the assessment of whether the aluminum concentration is related to the key genomic abnormalities associated with breast carcinogenesis. PMID:23496847

Aluminum concentrations in central and peripheral areas of malignant breast lesions do not differ from those in normal breast tissues.

PubMed

Rodrigues-Peres, Raquel Mary; Cadore, Solange; Febraio, Stefanny; Heinrich, Juliana Karina; Serra, Katia Piton; Derchain, Sophie F M; Vassallo, Jose; Sarian, Luis Otavio

2013-03-08

Aluminum is used in a wide range of applications and is a potential environmental hazard. The known genotoxic effects of aluminum might play a role in the development of breast cancer. However, the data currently available on the subject are not sufficient to establish a causal relationship between aluminum exposure and the augmented risk of developing breast cancer. To achieve maximum sensitivity and specificity in the determination of aluminum levels, we have developed a detection protocol using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). The objective of the present study was to compare the aluminum levels in the central and peripheral areas of breast carcinomas with those in the adjacent normal breast tissues, and to identify patient and/or tumor characteristics associated with these aluminum levels. A total of 176 patients with breast cancer were included in the study. Samples from the central and peripheral areas of their tumors were obtained, as well as from the surrounding normal breast tissue. Aluminum quantification was performed using GFAAS. The average (mean ± SD) aluminum concentrations were as follows: central area, 1.88 ± 3.60 mg/kg; peripheral area, 2.10 ± 5.67 mg/kg; and normal area, 1.68 ± 11.1 mg/kg. Overall and two-by-two comparisons of the aluminum concentrations in these areas indicated no significant differences. We detected a positive relationship between aluminum levels in the peripheral areas of the tumors, age and menopausal status of the patients (P = .02). Using a sensitive quantification technique we detected similar aluminum concentrations in the central and peripheral regions of breast tumors, and in normal tissues. In addition, we did not detect significant differences in aluminum concentrations as related to the location of the breast tumor within the breast, or to other relevant tumor features such as stage, size and steroid receptor status. The next logical step is the assessment of whether the aluminum concentration is related to the key genomic abnormalities associated with breast carcinogenesis.

Reproducibility of regional DEXA examinations of abdominal fat and lean tissue.

PubMed

Tallroth, Kaj; Kettunen, Jyrki A; Kujala, Urho M

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to develop and test the validity of a new repeatable method to delimit abdominal areas for follow-up of fat mass (FM) and lean tissue mass (LM) in DEXA examinations. 37 male volunteers underwent two DEXA examinations. Total body FM and LM measurements and corresponding abdominal measurements in a carefully defined region were calculated from the first scan. After repositioning of the subjects and a second scan, the delimited region was copied and the abdominal tissues re-calculated. The mean LM of the abdominal area was 2.804 kg (SD 0.556), and the mean FM was 1.026 kg (SD 0.537). The intra-class correlation coefficient for the repeated abdominal LM, FM, and LM/FM ratio measurements was 0.99. The mean difference (bias) for the repeated abdominal LM measurements was -13 g (95% confidence interval (CI) -193.0 to 166.8), and for the repeated abdominal FM measurements it was -35 g (95% CI -178.9 to 108.5). The results indicate that regional DEXA is a sensitive method with excellent reproducibility in the measurements of the abdominal fat and lean tissues. The method may serve as a useful tool for evaluation and follow-up of various dietary and training programmes.

Reproducibility of Regional DEXA Examinations of Abdominal Fat and Lean Tissue

PubMed Central

Tallroth, Kaj; Kettunen, Jyrki A.; Kujala, Urho M.

2013-01-01

Objective The aim of this study was to develop and test the validity of a new repeatable method to delimit abdominal areas for follow-up of fat mass (FM) and lean tissue mass (LM) in DEXA examinations. Methods 37 male volunteers underwent two DEXA examinations. Total body FM and LM measurements and corresponding abdominal measurements in a carefully defined region were calculated from the first scan. After repositioning of the subjects and a second scan, the delimited region was copied and the abdominal tissues re-calculated. Results The mean LM of the abdominal area was 2.804 kg (SD 0.556), and the mean FM was 1.026 kg (SD 0.537). The intra-class correlation coefficient for the repeated abdominal LM, FM, and LM/FM ratio measurements was 0.99. The mean difference (bias) for the repeated abdominal LM measurements was −13 g (95% confidence interval (CI) −193.0 to 166.8), and for the repeated abdominal FM measurements it was −35 g (95% CI −178.9 to 108.5). Conclusions The results indicate that regional DEXA is a sensitive method with excellent reproducibility in the measurements of the abdominal fat and lean tissues. The method may serve as a useful tool for evaluation and follow-up of various dietary and training programmes. PMID:23615566

Mammographic features and subsequent risk of breast cancer: a comparison of qualitative and quantitative evaluations in the Guernsey prospective studies.

PubMed

Torres-Mejía, Gabriela; De Stavola, Bianca; Allen, Diane S; Pérez-Gavilán, Juan J; Ferreira, Jorge M; Fentiman, Ian S; Dos Santos Silva, Isabel

2005-05-01

Mammographic features are known to be associated with breast cancer but the magnitude of the effect differs markedly from study to study. Methods to assess mammographic features range from subjective qualitative classifications to computer-automated quantitative measures. We used data from the UK Guernsey prospective studies to examine the relative value of these methods in predicting breast cancer risk. In all, 3,211 women ages > or =35 years who had a mammogram taken in 1986 to 1989 were followed-up to the end of October 2003, with 111 developing breast cancer during this period. Mammograms were classified using the subjective qualitative Wolfe classification and several quantitative mammographic features measured using computer-based techniques. Breast cancer risk was positively associated with high-grade Wolfe classification, percent breast density and area of dense tissue, and negatively associated with area of lucent tissue, fractal dimension, and lacunarity. Inclusion of the quantitative measures in the same model identified area of dense tissue and lacunarity as the best predictors of breast cancer, with risk increasing by 59% [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 29-94%] per SD increase in total area of dense tissue but declining by 39% (95% CI, 53-22%) per SD increase in lacunarity, after adjusting for each other and for other confounders. Comparison of models that included both the qualitative Wolfe classification and these two quantitative measures to models that included either the qualitative or the two quantitative variables showed that they all made significant contributions to prediction of breast cancer risk. These findings indicate that breast cancer risk is affected not only by the amount of mammographic density but also by the degree of heterogeneity of the parenchymal pattern and, presumably, by other features captured by the Wolfe classification.

Accumulation of subcutaneous fat, but not visceral fat, is a predictor of adiponectin levels in preterm infants at term-equivalent age.

PubMed

Nakano, Yuya; Itabashi, Kazuo; Sakurai, Motoichiro; Aizawa, Madoka; Dobashi, Kazushige; Mizuno, Katsumi

2014-05-01

Preterm infants have altered fat tissue development, including a higher percentage of fat mass and increased volume of visceral fat. They also have altered adiponectin levels, including a lower ratio of high-molecular-weight adiponectin (HMW-Ad) to total adiponectin (T-Ad) at term-equivalent age, compared with term infants. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between adiponectin levels and fat tissue accumulation or distribution in preterm infants at term-equivalent age. Cross-sectional clinical study. Study subjects were 53 preterm infants born at ≤34weeks gestation with a mean birth weight of 1592g. Serum levels of T-Ad and HMW-Ad were measured and a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed at the level of the umbilicus at term-equivalent age to analyze how fat tissue accumulation or distribution was correlated with adiponectin levels. T-Ad (r=0.315, p=0.022) and HMW-Ad levels (r=0.338, p=0.013) were positively associated with subcutaneous fat area evaluated by performing CT scan at term-equivalent age, but were not associated with visceral fat area in simple regression analyses. In addition, T-Ad (β=0.487, p=0.003) and HMW-Ad levels (β=0.602, p<0.001) were positively associated with subcutaneous fat tissue area, but they were not associated with visceral fat area also in multiple regression analyses. Subcutaneous fat accumulation contributes to increased levels of T-Ad and HMW-Ad, while visceral fat accumulation does not influence adiponectin levels in preterm infants at term-equivalent age. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Postphloem, Nonvascular Transfer in Citrus

PubMed Central

Koch, Karen E.; Avigne, Wayne T.

1990-01-01

Postphloem, nonvascular assimilate transport occurs over an unusually long area in citrus fruit and thus facilitates investigation of this process relative to sugar entry into many sink structures. Labeled photosynthates moving into juice tissues of grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) slowed dramatically after entering the postphloem transport path (parenchyma cells, narrow portions of segment epidermis, and hair-like, parenchymatous stalks of juice sacs). Kinetic, metabolic, and compositional data indicated that transfer through the nonvascular area was delayed many hours by temporary storage and/or equilibration with sugars in compartments along the postphloem path. Labeled assimilates were generally recovered as sucrose throughout the path, and extent of hexose formation enroute bore no apparent relationship to the assimilate transfer process. Even after 24 hours, radiolabel was restricted to discrete, highly localized areas directly between vascular bundles and juice sacs. Postphloem transfer occurred against an ascending sucrose concentration gradient in young fruit, whereas a descending gradient (favoring diffusion/cytoplasmic streaming) developed only later in maturation. Involvement of a postphloem bulk flow is complicated in the present instance by the extremely limited water loss from juice sacs either via transpiration or fluid backflow. Nonetheless, tissue expansion can account for a collective water inflow of at least 1.0 milliliter per day throughout the majority of juice sac development, thus providing a modest, but potentially important means of nonvascular solution flow. Overall, data indicate postphloem transfer (a) can follow highly localized paths through sizable nonvascular areas (up to 3.0 centimeters total), (b) appears to involve temporary storage and/or equilibration with compartmentalized sugars enroute, (c) can occur either against an overall up-hill sugar gradient (young tissues) or along a descending gradient (near full expansion), and (d) appears to involve at least some contribution by nonvascular mass flow accommodated by tissue expansion. Images Figure 1 Figure 4 PMID:16667632

Bone tissue, blood lipids and inflammatory profiles in adolescent male athletes from sports contrasting in mechanical load.

PubMed

Agostinete, Ricardo R; Duarte, João P; Valente-Dos-Santos, João; Coelho-E-Silva, Manuel J; Tavares, Oscar M; Conde, Jorge M; Fontes-Ribeiro, Carlos A; Condello, Giancarlo; Capranica, Laura; Caires, Suziane U; Fernandes, Rômulo A

2017-01-01

Exploring the effect of non-impact and impact sports is particular relevant to understand the interaction between skeletal muscle and bone health during growth. The current study aimed to compare total and regional bone and soft-tissue composition, in parallel to measurements of blood lipid and inflammatory profiles between adolescent athletes and non-athletes. Anthropometry, biological maturity, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, training load and lipid and inflammatory profiles were assessed in a cross-sectional sample of 53 male adolescents (20 non-athletes, 15 swimmers and 18 basketball players) aged 12-19 years. Multiple comparisons between groups were performed using analysis of variance, covariance and magnitude effects (ES-r and Cohen's d). The comparisons of controls with other groups were very large for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (d range: 2.17-2.92). The differences between sports disciplines, regarding tissue outputs obtained from DXA scan were moderate for all variables except fat tissue (d = 0.4). It was possible to determine small differences (ES-r = 0.17) between controls and swimmers for bone area at the lower limbs (13.0%). In parallel, between swimmers and basketball players, the gradient of the differences was small (ES-r range: 0.15-0.23) for bone mineral content (24.6%), bone area (11.3%) and bone mineral density (11.1%) at the lower limbs, favoring the basketball players. These observations highlight that youth male athletes presented better blood and soft tissues profiles with respect to controls. Furthermore, sport-specific differences emerged for the lower limbs, with basketball players presenting higher bone mineral content, area and density than swimmers.

Bone tissue, blood lipids and inflammatory profiles in adolescent male athletes from sports contrasting in mechanical load

PubMed Central

Agostinete, Ricardo R.; Duarte, João P.; Valente-dos-Santos, João; Tavares, Oscar M.; Conde, Jorge M.; Fontes-Ribeiro, Carlos A.; Condello, Giancarlo; Capranica, Laura; Caires, Suziane U.; Fernandes, Rômulo A.

2017-01-01

Exploring the effect of non-impact and impact sports is particular relevant to understand the interaction between skeletal muscle and bone health during growth. The current study aimed to compare total and regional bone and soft-tissue composition, in parallel to measurements of blood lipid and inflammatory profiles between adolescent athletes and non-athletes. Anthropometry, biological maturity, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, training load and lipid and inflammatory profiles were assessed in a cross-sectional sample of 53 male adolescents (20 non-athletes, 15 swimmers and 18 basketball players) aged 12–19 years. Multiple comparisons between groups were performed using analysis of variance, covariance and magnitude effects (ES-r and Cohen’s d). The comparisons of controls with other groups were very large for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (d range: 2.17–2.92). The differences between sports disciplines, regarding tissue outputs obtained from DXA scan were moderate for all variables except fat tissue (d = 0.4). It was possible to determine small differences (ES-r = 0.17) between controls and swimmers for bone area at the lower limbs (13.0%). In parallel, between swimmers and basketball players, the gradient of the differences was small (ES-r range: 0.15–0.23) for bone mineral content (24.6%), bone area (11.3%) and bone mineral density (11.1%) at the lower limbs, favoring the basketball players. These observations highlight that youth male athletes presented better blood and soft tissues profiles with respect to controls. Furthermore, sport-specific differences emerged for the lower limbs, with basketball players presenting higher bone mineral content, area and density than swimmers. PMID:28662190

[Experimental study of repairing bone defect with tissue engineered bone seeded with autologous red bone marrow and wrapped by pedicled fascial flap].

PubMed

Yang, Xinming; Shi, Wei; Du, Yakun; Meng, Xianyong; Yin, Yanlin

2009-10-01

To investigate the effect of repairing bone defect with tissue engineered bone seeded with the autologous red bone marrow (ARBM) and wrapped by the pedicled fascial flap and provide experimental foundation for clinical application. Thirty-two New Zealand white rabbits (male and/or female) aged 4-5 months old and weighing 2.0-2.5 kg were used to make the experimental model of bilateral 2 cm defect of the long bone and the periosteum in the radius. The tissue engineered bone was prepared by seeding the ARBM obtained from the rabbits on the osteoinductive absorbing material containing BMP. The left side of the experimental model underwent the implantation of autologous tissue engineered bone serving as the control group (group A). While the right side was designed as the experimental group (group B), one 5 cm x 3 cm fascial flap pedicled on the nameless blood vessel along with its capillary network adjacent to the bone defect was prepared using microsurgical technology, and the autologous tissue engineered bone wrapped by the fascial flap was used to fill the bone defect. At 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after operation, X-ray exam, absorbance (A) value test, gross morphology and histology observation, morphology quantitative analysis of bone in the reparative area, vascular image analysis on the boundary area were conducted. X-ray films, gross morphology observation, and histology observation: group B was superior to group A in terms of the growth of blood vessel into the implant, the quantity and the speed of the bone trabecula and the cartilage tissue formation, the development of mature bone structure, the remodeling of shaft structure, the reopen of marrow cavity, and the absorbance and degradation of the implant. A value: there was significant difference between two groups 8, 12, and 16 weeks after operation (P < 0.05), and there were significant differences among those three time points in groups A and B (P < 0.05). For the ratio of neonatal trabecula area to the total reparative area, there were significant differences between two groups 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after operation (P < 0.05), and there were significant differences among those four time points in group B (P < 0.05). For the vascular regenerative area in per unit area of the junctional zone, group B was superior to group A 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after operation (P < 0.05). Tissue engineered bone, seeded with the ARBM and wrapped by the pedicled fascial flap, has a sound reparative effect on bone defect due to its dual role of constructing vascularization and inducing membrane guided tissue regeneration.

Optical coherence tomography assessment of efficacy of thrombus aspiration in patients undergoing a primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction

PubMed Central

Yamaguchi, Tomoyuki; Ino, Yasushi; Matsuo, Yoshiki; Shiono, Yasutsugu; Yamano, Takashi; Taruya, Akira; Nishiguchi, Tsuyoshi; Shimokado, Aiko; Orii, Makoto; Tanaka, Atsushi; Hozumi, Takeshi; Akasaka, Takashi

2015-01-01

Objective We used optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the impact of thrombus aspiration before angioplasty on poststenting tissue protrusions in patients undergoing a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods and results A total of 188 patients with STEMI who underwent thrombus-aspiration PCI (n=113) or standard PCI (n=75) were examined in this study. OCT was performed immediately after primary PCI to assess lesion morphology in the stented segment. The minimum stent area was similar between the thrombus-aspiration PCI group and the standard PCI group [7.4 interquartile range (IQR): 5.8–9.4 vs. 7.4 IQR: 5.8–8.9 mm2, P=0.788]. The maximum tissue protrusion area [0.6 (IQR: 0.3–1.1) vs. 1.2 (IQR: 0.8–1.9) mm2, P<0.001], the mean tissue protrusion area [0.1 (IQR: 0.1–0.2) vs. 0.5 (IQR: 0.3–0.8) mm2, P<0.001], and tissue protrusion volume [2.3 (IQR: 1.3–4.3) vs. 8.3 (IQR: 5.4–14.6) mm3, P<0.001] were significantly smaller in the thrombus-aspiration PCI group compared with the standard PCI group. Minimum lumen area was significantly greater in the thrombus-aspiration PCI group compared with the standard PCI group [6.9 (IQR: 5.4–8.8) vs. 6.3 (IQR: 4.6–7.8) mm2, P=0.033]. Conclusion Thrombus aspiration before angioplasty in patients with STEMI was associated with significantly smaller tissue protrusion and larger lumen poststenting compared with standard PCI. Thrombus aspiration in primary PCI favorably influenced lesion morphologies in the stented segment. PMID:26230885

Enhanced production of mineralized nodules and collagenous proteins in vitro by calcium ascorbate supplemented with vitamin C metabolites.

PubMed

Rowe, D J; Ko, S; Tom, X M; Silverstein, S J; Richards, D W

1999-09-01

Vitamin C or ascorbate is important in wound healing due to its essential role in collagen synthesis. To study wound healing in the periodontium, cells adherent to expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) augmentation membranes, recovered from edentulous ridge augmentation procedures, have been established in culture in our laboratories. The objective of this study was to determine whether treatment of these cells with a calcium ascorbate, which contains vitamin C metabolites (metabolite-supplemented ascorbate), would increase the production of collagenous protein and mineralized tissue in vitro, as compared to unsupplemented calcium ascorbate (ascorbate). Cells derived from ePTFE membranes were cultured with beta-glycerophosphate and the test agents for 2 to 5 weeks, and the surface areas of the cell cultures occupied by mineralized nodules were measured using computerized image analysis. One experiment tested the effects of calcium threonate, one of the vitamin C metabolites in metabolite-supplemented ascorbate. Incorporation of radioactive proline and glycine was used as a measure of total protein (radioactivity precipitated by trichloracetic acid) and collagenase-digestible protein (radioactivity released by collagenase digestion.) Co-localization of collagen and fibronectin was examined by immunofluorescence. In vitro treatment of these cells with metabolite-supplemented ascorbate increased the area of the cell cultures occupied by mineralized nodules after 5 weeks. Cell cultures treated with metabolite-supplemented ascorbate also exhibited significant increases in total protein. The increase in collagenous proteins in these cultures accounted for 85% of the increase in total protein. The greatest difference between treatment groups was observed in the cell-associated fraction containing the extracellular matrix. The additional collagen exhibited normal co-distribution with fibronectin. In cultures treated with ascorbate spiked with calcium threonate, the area of mineralized tissue was significantly greater than in ascorbate-treated cultures, but was less than that observed in cultures treated with metabolite-supplemented ascorbate. In vitro treatment with ascorbate containing vitamin C metabolites enhanced the formation of mineralized nodules and collagenous proteins. Calcium threonate may be one of the metabolites influencing the mineralization process. Identifying factors which facilitate the formation of mineralized tissue has significant clinical ramifications in terms of wound healing and bone regeneration.

From partial to full-face transplantation: total ablation and restoration, a change in the reconstructive paradigm.

PubMed

Barret, Juan P

2014-01-01

The innovation of composite vascularized allotransplantation has provided plastic and reconstructive surgeons with the ultimate tool for those patients that present with facial deformities that cannot be reconstructed with classical or more traditional techniques. Transplanting normal tissues allows for a true restorative surgery. Initial experiences included the substitution of missing anatomy, whereas after the first world's full-face transplant performed in Barcelona in March 2010, a true ablative surgery with a total restoration proved to be effective. We review the world's experience and the performance of our restorative protocol to depict this change in the reconstructive paradigm of facial transplantation. Facial transplants should be performed after a careful analysis of the defect, with a comprehensive ablation plan following esthetic units with sacrifice of all required tissues with a focus of global restoration of anatomy, aesthetics and function, respecting normal functioning muscles. Nowadays, facial transplants following strict esthetic units should restore disfigurement extending to small central areas, whereas major defects may require a total ablation and restoration with full-face transplants. Copyright © 2013 Surgical Associates Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The growth of tissue engineering.

PubMed

Lysaght, M J; Reyes, J

2001-10-01

This report draws upon data from a variety of sources to estimate the size, scope, and growth rate of the contemporary tissue engineering enterprise. At the beginning of 2001, tissue engineering research and development was being pursued by 3,300 scientists and support staff in more than 70 startup companies or business units with a combined annual expenditure of over $600 million. Spending by tissue engineering firms has been growing at a compound annual rate of 16%, and the aggregate investment since 1990 now exceeds $3.5 billion. At the beginning of 2001, the net capital value of the 16 publicly traded tissue engineering startups had reached $2.6 billion. Firms focusing on structural applications (skin, cartilage, bone, cardiac prosthesis, and the like) comprise the fastest growing segment. In contrast, efforts in biohybrid organs and other metabolic applications have contracted over the past few years. The number of companies involved in stem cells and regenerative medicine is rapidly increasing, and this area represents the most likely nidus of future growth for tissue engineering. A notable recent trend has been the emergence of a strong commercial activity in tissue engineering outside the United States, with at least 16 European or Australian companies (22% of total) now active.

Normal growth and development of the lips: a 3-dimensional study from 6 years to adulthood using a geometric model

PubMed Central

FERRARIO, VIRGILIO F.; SFORZA, CHIARELLA; SCHMITZ, JOHANNES H.; CIUSA, VERONICA; COLOMBO, ANNA

2000-01-01

A 3-dimensional computerised system with landmark representation of the soft-tissue facial surface allows noninvasive and fast quantitative study of facial growth. The aims of the present investigation were (1) to provide reference data for selected dimensions of lips (linear distances and ratios, vermilion area, volume); (2) to quantify the relevant growth changes; and (3) to evaluate sex differences in growth patterns. The 3-dimensional coordinates of 6 soft-tissue landmarks on the lips were obtained by an optoelectronic instrument in a mixed longitudinal and cross-sectional study (2023 examinations in 1348 healthy subjects between 6 y of age and young adulthood). From the landmarks, several linear distances (mouth width, total vermilion height, total lip height, upper lip height), the vermilion height-to-mouth width ratio, some areas (vermilion of the upper lip, vermilion of the lower lip, total vermilion) and volumes (upper lip volume, lower lip volume, total lip volume) were calculated and averaged for age and sex. Male values were compared with female values by means of Student's t test. Within each age group all lip dimensions (distances, areas, volumes) were significantly larger in boys than in girls (P < 0.05), with some exceptions in the first age groups and coinciding with the earlier female growth spurt, whereas the vermilion height-to-mouth width ratio did not show a corresponding sexual dimorphism. Linear distances in girls had almost reached adult dimensions in the 13–14 y age group, while in boys a large increase was still to occur. The attainment of adult dimensions was faster in the upper than in the lower lip, especially in girls. The method used in the present investigation allowed the noninvasive evaluation of a large sample of nonpatient subjects, leading to the definition of 3-dimensional normative data. Data collected in the present study could represent a data base for the quantitative description of human lip morphology from childhood to young adulthood. PMID:10853963

Contamination of local wildlife following a fire at a polychlorinated biphenyls warehouse in St Basile le Grand, Quebec, Canada.

PubMed

Phaneuf, D; DesGranges, J L; Plante, N; Rodrigue, J

1995-02-01

This study on wildlife contamination, one to ten months after the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) fire in St Basile le Grand, Quebec, shows that the fire increased PCB and polychlorinated dibenzofuran (PCDF) levels in animals. From the data, it was not possible to detect a significant increase in polychlorinated dibenzodioxin (PCDD) levels after the fire. Given the relatively small sample size, the differences in concentrations could not be estimated precisely. However, it can be asserted with a 95% confidence level that mean concentrations of total PCBs were roughly 2 to 6 times higher in the area contaminated by the plume of smoke, concentrations of homologues with 3 chlorine atoms were 1 to 4 times higher, and levels of homologues with 5 to 9 chlorine atoms were 3 to 13 times higher. The relative deviations between concentrations in areas under the plume and those outside it were similar for all animals sampled. With regard to total PCDFs, mean concentrations were significantly higher under the smoke plume than outside it for all species. This observation is linked to homologues with 4, 5 and 7 chlorine atoms for which significant differences were detected between the two areas. The fire had no effect on the pattern of PCB congeners found in the tissue of animals in the region. Congeners Nos. 153, 180, 138 and 118 represent approximately 50% of total PCBs. Although PCB and PCDF concentrations were higher in the tissue of local wildlife species exposed to the fire, they were nonetheless comparable to those found in other urban and agricultural areas in Canada. These concentrations, in 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalents, were much lower than those observed in the wake of three other major incidents involving PCDDs (Elgin, Florida; Times Beach, Missouri; and Seveso, Italy).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Association of reproductive history with breast tissue characteristics and receptor status in the normal breast.

PubMed

Gabrielson, Marike; Chiesa, Flaminia; Behmer, Catharina; Rönnow, Katarina; Czene, Kamila; Hall, Per

2018-03-30

Reproductive history has been associated with breast cancer risk, but more knowledge of the underlying biological mechanisms is needed. Because of limited data on normal breast tissue from healthy women, we examined associations of reproductive history and established breast cancer risk factors with breast tissue composition and markers of hormone receptors and proliferation in a nested study within the Karolinska Mammography project for risk prediction for breast cancer (Karma). Tissues from 153 women were obtained by ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy as part of the Karma project. Immunohistochemical staining was used to assessed histological composition of epithelial, stromal and adipose tissue, epithelial and stromal oestrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) status, and Ki-67 proliferation status. An individualised reproductive score including parity, number of pregnancies without birth, number of births, age at first birth, and duration of breastfeeding, was calculated based on self-reported reproductive history at the time of the Karma study entry. All analyses were adjusted for age and BMI. Cumulated reproductive score was associated with increased total epithelial content and greater expression of epithelial ER. Parity was associated with greater epithelial area, increased epithelial-stromal ratio, greater epithelial ER expression and a lower extent of stromal proliferation. Increasing numbers of pregnancies and births were associated with a greater epithelial area in the entire study set, which remained significant among postmenopausal women. Increasing numbers of pregnancies and births were also associated with a greater expression of epithelial ER among postmenopausal women. Longer duration of breastfeeding was associated with greater epithelial area and greater expression of epithelial PR both in the entire study set and among postmenopausal women. Breastfeeding was also positively associated with greater epithelial ER expression among postmenopausal women. Prior use of oral contraceptives was associated with lower epithelial-stromal ratio amongst all participants and among pre- and postmenopausal women separately. Reproductive risk factors significantly influence the epithelial tissue compartment and expression of hormone receptors in later life. These changes remain after menopause. This study provides deeper insights of the biological mechanisms by which reproductive history influences epithelial area and expression of hormone receptors, and as a consequence the risk of breast cancer.

3D modeling of the total electric field induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation using the boundary element method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salinas, F. S.; Lancaster, J. L.; Fox, P. T.

2009-06-01

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) delivers highly localized brain stimulations via non-invasive externally applied magnetic fields. This non-invasive, painless technique provides researchers and clinicians with a unique tool capable of stimulating both the central and peripheral nervous systems. However, a complete analysis of the macroscopic electric fields produced by TMS has not yet been performed. In this paper, we addressed the importance of the secondary E-field created by surface charge accumulation during TMS using the boundary element method (BEM). 3D models were developed using simple head geometries in order to test the model and compare it with measured values. The effects of tissue geometry, size and conductivity were also investigated. Finally, a realistically shaped head model was used to assess the effect of multiple surfaces on the total E-field. Secondary E-fields have the greatest impact at areas in close proximity to each tissue layer. Throughout the head, the secondary E-field magnitudes typically range from 20% to 35% of the primary E-field's magnitude. The direction of the secondary E-field was generally in opposition to the primary E-field; however, for some locations, this was not the case (i.e. going from high to low conductivity tissues). These findings show that realistically shaped head geometries are important for accurate modeling of the total E-field.

Analysis of surface damage in retrieved carbon fiber-reinforced and plain polyethylene tibial components from posterior stabilized total knee replacements.

PubMed

Wright, T M; Rimnac, C M; Faris, P M; Bansal, M

1988-10-01

The performance of carbon fiber-reinforced ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene was compared with that of plain (non-reinforced) polyethylene on the basis of the damage that was observed on the articulating surfaces of retrieved tibial components of total knee prostheses. Established microscopy techniques for subjectively grading the presence and extent of surface damage and the histological structure of the surrounding tissues were used to evaluate twenty-six carbon fiber-reinforced and twenty plain polyethylene components that had been retrieved after an average of twenty-one months of implantation. All of the tibial components were from the same design of total knee replacement. The two groups of patients from whom the components were retrieved did not differ with regard to weight, the length of time that the component had been implanted, the radiographic position and angular alignment of the component, the original diagnosis, or the reason for removal of the component. The amounts and types of damage that were observed did not differ for the two materials. For both materials, the amount of damage was directly related to the length of time that the component had been implanted. The histological appearance of tissues from the area around the component did not differ for the two materials, except for the presence of fragments of carbon fiber in many of the samples from the areas around carbon fiber-reinforced components.

Can subepithelial connective tissue grafts be considered the gold standard procedure in the treatment of Miller Class I and II recession-type defects?

PubMed

Chambrone, Leandro; Chambrone, Daniela; Pustiglioni, Francisco E; Chambrone, Luiz A; Lima, Luiz A

2008-09-01

The objective of this systematic review was to answer the following question: 'Can subepithelial connective tissue grafts (SCTG) be considered the gold standard procedure in the treatment of recession-type defects?' DATA AND SOURCE: An electronic search (MEDLIINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL) for randomized controlled clinical trials with at least 6 months' follow-up comparing SCTG with other procedures for the treatment of gingival recession was performed up to December 2007. To be eligible to this review patients had to present a diagnosis of gingival recession with the following characteristics: (a) recession areas selected for treatment classified as Miller [Miller Jr PD. A classification of marginal tissue recession. International Journal of Periodontics & Restorative Dentistry 1985;5:8-13.] Class I or Class II of at least 2mm; (b) recession areas containing teeth with no caries or restorations; and (c) at least 10 participants per group at final examination. From a total of 568 references, 23 studies were considered relevant. The results indicated a statistically significant greater reduction in gingival recession for SCTG, when compared to acellular dermal matrix grafts and guided tissue regeneration with resorbable membranes (GTR rm). For clinical attachment level changes, differences between all groups were not significant. For changes in the keratinized tissue (KT), the results showed a statistically significant gain in the width of KT for SCTG when compared to GTR rm. The results of this review show that subepithelial connective tissue grafts provided significant root coverage, clinical attachment and keratinized tissue gain. Overall comparisons allow us to consider it as the 'gold standard' procedure in the treatment of recession-type defects.

Tanshinone IIA Pretreatment Renders Free Flaps against Hypoxic Injury through Activating Wnt Signaling and Upregulating Stem Cell-Related Biomarkers

PubMed Central

Xu, Zihan; Zhang, Zhenxin; Wu, Lijun; Sun, Yaowen; Guo, Yadong; Qin, Gaoping; Mu, Shengzhi; Fan, Ronghui; Wang, Benfeng; Gao, Wenjie

2014-01-01

Partial or total flap necrosis after flap transplantation is sometimes clinically encountered in reconstructive surgery, often as a result of a period of hypoxia that exceeds the tolerance of the flap tissue. In this study, we determine whether tanshinone IIA (TSA) pretreatment can protect flap tissue against hypoxic injury and improve its viability. Primary epithelial cells isolated from the dorsal skin of mice were pretreated with TSA for two weeks. Cell counting kit-8 and Trypan Blue assays were carried out to examine the proliferation of TSA-pretreated cells after exposure to cobalt chloride. Then, Polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis were used to determine the expression of β-catenin, GSK-3β, SOX2, and OCT4 in TSA-treated cells. In vivo, after mice were pretreated with TSA for two weeks, a reproducible ischemic flap model was implemented, and the area of surviving tissue in the transplanted flaps was measured. Immunohistochemistry was also conducted to examine the related biomarkers mentioned above. Results show that epidermal cells, pretreated with TSA, showed enhanced resistance to hypoxia. Activation of the Wnt signaling pathway in TSA-pretreated cells was characterized by the upregulation of β-catenin and the downregulation of GSK-3β. The expression of SOX2 and OCT4 controlled by Wnt signaling were also found higher in TSA pretreated epithelial cells. In the reproducible ischaemic flap model, pretreatment with TSA enhanced resistance to hypoxia and increased the area of surviving tissue in transplanted flaps. The expression of Wnt signaling pathway components, stem-cell related biomarkers, and CD34, which are involved in the regeneration of blood vessels, was also upregulated in TSA-pretreated flap tissue. The results show that TSA pretreatment protects free flaps against hypoxic injury and increases the area of surviving tissue by activating Wnt signaling and upregulating stem cell-related biomarkers. PMID:25302618

CALCINOSIS CIRCUMSCRIPTA IN A COHORT OF RELATED JUVENILE AFRICAN LIONS (PANTHERA LEO).

PubMed

Bauer, Kendra L; Sander, Samantha J; Steeil, James C; Walsh, Timothy F; Neiffer, Donald L

2017-09-01

Three juvenile, genetically related African lions (Panthera leo) were evaluated for discrete dome-shaped subcutaneous masses present over the proximal lateral metatarsal-tarsal area. The lesions measured 3-8 cm in diameter, were fluctuant to firm, nonulcerated, and attached to underlying structures. On radiographic evaluation, the lesions were characterized by well-circumscribed punctate mineralizations in the soft tissue surrounded by soft tissue swelling without evidence of adjacent bony involvement. On cut surface, the lesions were made of numerous loculi containing 2-5-mm round-to-ovoid, white-to-gray, firm structures interspersed with fibrous tissue and pockets of serosanguinous fluid. Hematology, serum biochemistry, serum thyroid screening (including total thyroxine, total triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, and free triiodothyronine), and serum vitamin D panels (including parathyroid hormone, ionized calcium, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D) were unremarkable. Histopathologic evaluation of the lesions was consistent with calcinosis circumscripta with fibroplasia, chronic inflammation, and seroma formation. An additional two genetically related lions were considered suspect for calcinosis circumscripta based on presentation, exam findings, and similarity to the confirmed cases. All masses self-regressed and were not associated with additional clinical signs other than initial lameness in two cases.

Tissue ablation accelerated by peripheral scanning mode with high-intensity focused ultrasound: a study on isolated porcine liver perfusion.

PubMed

Bu, Rui; Yin, Li; Yang, Han; Wang, Qi; Wu, Feng; Zou, Jian Zhong

2013-08-01

The aims of this study were to investigate the feasibility of accelerated tissue ablation using a peripheral scanning mode with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and to explore the effect of flow rate on total energy consumption of the target tissues. Using a model of isolated porcine liver perfusion via the portal vein and hepatic artery, we conducted a scanning protocol along the periphery of the target tissues using linear-scanned HIFU to carefully adjust the varying focal depth, generator power, scanning velocity and line-by-line interval over the entire ablation range. Porcine livers were divided into four ablation groups: group 1, n = 12, with dual-vessel perfusion; group 2, n = 11, with portal vein perfusion alone; group 3, n = 10, with hepatic artery perfusion alone; and group 4, n = 11, control group with no-flow perfusion. The samples were cut open consecutively at a thickness of 3 mm, and the actual ablation ranges were calculated along the periphery of the target tissues after triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. Total energy consumption was calculated as the sum of the energy requirements at various focal depths in each group. On the basis of the pre-supposed scanning protocol, the peripheral region of the target tissue formed a complete coagulation necrosis barrier in each group with varying dose combinations, and the volume of the peripheral necrotic area did not differ significantly among the four groups (p > 0.05). Furthermore, total energy consumption in each group significantly decreased with the corresponding decrease in flow rate (p < 0.01). This study revealed that the complete peripheral necrosis barrier within the target tissues can defined using linear-scanned HIFU in an isolated porcine liver perfusion model. Additionally, the flow rate in the major hepatic vessels may play an important role in the use of the peripheral ablation mode, and this novel mode of ablation may enhance the therapeutic efficacy and tolerability of the treatment of large tumors using HIFU ablation. Copyright © 2013 World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reconstruction of attached soft tissue around dental implants by acelluar dermal matrix grafts and resin splint

PubMed Central

Liu, Changying; Su, Yucheng; Tan, Baosheng; Ma, Pan; Wu, Gaoyi; Li, Jun; Geng, Wei

2014-01-01

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to recommend a new method using acellular dermal matrix graft and resin splint to reconstruct the attached soft tissue around dental implants in patients with maxillofacial defects. Materials and methods: Total 8 patients (3 male and 5 female patients) diagnosed with maxillofacial defects and dentition defects caused by tumors, fractures or edentulous jaw, were selected for this study. Dental implants were routinely implanted at the edentulous area. Acellular dermal matrix heterografts and resin splint were used to increase the attached soft tissue. The width of attached gingiva in the labial or buccal surface at edentulous area was measured before surgical procedures and after the completion of superstructures. Paired t-test was applied to assess the change of quantitative variables. All tests were 2-tailed, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The dense connective tissue around implants could be reconstructed one month after the completion of surgical procedures, and the epithelial cuff around the implant neck established very well. The width of attached gingival tissue in the patients increased significantly from a mean of 0.61 ± 0.75 mm to 6.25 ± 1.04 mm. The patients were fully satisfied with the esthetic and functional results achieved. Conclusions: The acellular dermal matrix graft could be used to increase the attached gingiva around dental implants in these patients with maxillofacial defects. The resin splint could facilitate the healing of graft. PMID:25663964

Effects of Thread Depth in the Neck Area on Peri-Implant Hard and Soft Tissues: An Animal Study.

PubMed

Sun, Shan-Pao; Lee, Dong-Won; Yun, Jeong-Ho; Park, Kwang-Ho; Park, Kwang-Bum; Moon, Ik-Sang

2016-11-01

Implants with deep thread depth have been developed for the purpose of increasing total implant surface area. However, effects of implant thread depth remain controversial. The aim of this study is to examine effects of thread depth on peri-implant tissues in terms of bone-implant contact (BIC), bone-implant volume (BIV), and hard and soft tissue dimensions using comprehensive analyses, including microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). Five beagle dogs received experimental intramandibular implants 3 months after removal of their premolars and first molars (P 2 , P 3 , P 4 , and M 1 ). Two different types of implants were installed in each animal: deep threaded (DT) and shallow threaded (ST). Resonance frequency testing was performed on the day of implantation as well as 4 and 8 weeks after implantation. Intraoral radiography, micro-CT, and histomorphometry were used to evaluate peri-implant tissues 4 and 8 weeks after implantation. There were no significant differences in resonance frequency test results between the two groups. Although radiographic analysis showed no group differences, micro-CT (P = 0.01) and histomorphometry (P = 0.003) revealed the DT group had significantly lower BIC values than the ST group at 4 weeks. However, by 8 weeks, BIC values of the two groups did not differ significantly. No significant differences in BIV or soft tissue height were observed between the two groups at either time point. DT implants showed no benefits over ST implants when inserted in dog mandibles.

Chronic Hypoxia Accentuates Dysanaptic Lung Growth.

PubMed

Llapur, Conrado J; Martínez, Myriam R; Grassino, Pedro T; Stok, Ana; Altieri, Héctor H; Bonilla, Federico; Caram, María M; Krowchuk, Natasha M; Kirby, Miranda; Coxson, Harvey O; Tepper, Robert S

2016-08-01

Adults born and raised at high altitudes have larger lung volumes and greater pulmonary diffusion capacity compared with adults at low altitude; however, it remains unclear whether the air and tissue volumes have comparable increases and whether there is a difference in airway size. To assess the effect of chronic hypoxia on lung growth using in vivo high-resolution computed tomography measurements. Healthy adults born and raised at moderate altitude (2,000 m above sea level; n = 19) and at low altitude (400 m above sea level; n = 23) underwent high-resolution computed tomography. Differences in total lung, air, and tissue volume, mean lung density, as well as airway lumen and wall areas in anatomically matched airways were compared between groups. No significant differences for age, sex, weight, or height were found between the two groups (P > 0.05). In a multivariate regression model, altitude was a significant contributor for total lung volume (P = 0.02), air volume (P = 0.03), and tissue volume (P = 0.03), whereby the volumes were greater for the moderate- versus the low-altitude group. However, altitude was not a significant contributor for mean lung density (P = 0.35) or lumen and wall areas in anatomically matched segmental, subsegmental, and subsubsegmental airways. Our findings suggest that the adult lung did not increase lung volume later in life by expansion of an existing number of alveoli, but rather from increased alveolarization early in life. In addition, chronic hypoxia accentuates dysanaptic lung growth by increasing the lung parenchyma but not the airways.

Modification of os calcis bone mineral profiles during bedrest

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogel, J. M.

1977-01-01

The mineral content of the left central os calcis was determined using the photon absorptiometric technique modified for the space missions to permit area scanning, and was compared with total body calcium balance changes. The instrument consists of a rectilinear scanner that is programmed by a specially designed control module to move a low energy X-ray emitting radionuclide placed in opposition to a detector to scan the foot which is places between them. The foot is placed in a plexiglas box filled with water to provide tissue equivalence and to compensate for irregularities in thickness of tissue cover that surrounds the bone. The mineral content is obtained from basic attenuation equation.

Predominance of Abdominal Visceral Adipose Tissue Reflects the Presence of Aortic Valve Calcification.

PubMed

Oikawa, Masayoshi; Owada, Takashi; Yamauchi, Hiroyuki; Misaka, Tomofumi; Machii, Hirofumi; Yamaki, Takayoshi; Sugimoto, Koichi; Kunii, Hiroyuki; Nakazato, Kazuhiko; Suzuki, Hitoshi; Saitoh, Shu-Ichi; Takeishi, Yasuchika

2016-01-01

Background. Aortic valve calcification (AVC) is a common feature of aging and is related to coronary artery disease. Although abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) plays fundamental roles in coronary artery disease, the relationship between abdominal VAT and AVC is not fully understood. Methods. We investigated 259 patients who underwent cardiac and abdominal computed tomography (CT). AVC was defined as calcified lesion on the aortic valve by CT. %abdominal VAT was calculated as abdominal VAT area/total adipose tissue area. Results. AVC was detected in 75 patients, and these patients showed higher %abdominal VAT (44% versus 38%, p < 0.05) compared to those without AVC. When the cutoff value of %abdominal VAT was set at 40.9%, the area under the curve to diagnose AVC was 0.626. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR 1.120, 95% CI 1.078-1.168, p < 0.01), diabetes (OR 2.587, 95% CI 1.323-5.130, p < 0.01), and %abdominal VAT (OR 1.032, 95% CI 1.003-1.065, p < 0.05) were independent risk factors for AVC. The net reclassification improvement value for detecting AVC was increased when %abdominal VAT was added to the model: 0.5093 (95% CI 0.2489-0.7697, p < 0.01). Conclusion. We determined that predominance of VAT is associated with AVC.

Predominance of Abdominal Visceral Adipose Tissue Reflects the Presence of Aortic Valve Calcification

PubMed Central

Oikawa, Masayoshi; Owada, Takashi; Yamauchi, Hiroyuki; Misaka, Tomofumi; Machii, Hirofumi; Yamaki, Takayoshi; Sugimoto, Koichi; Kunii, Hiroyuki; Nakazato, Kazuhiko; Suzuki, Hitoshi; Saitoh, Shu-ichi; Takeishi, Yasuchika

2016-01-01

Background. Aortic valve calcification (AVC) is a common feature of aging and is related to coronary artery disease. Although abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) plays fundamental roles in coronary artery disease, the relationship between abdominal VAT and AVC is not fully understood. Methods. We investigated 259 patients who underwent cardiac and abdominal computed tomography (CT). AVC was defined as calcified lesion on the aortic valve by CT. %abdominal VAT was calculated as abdominal VAT area/total adipose tissue area. Results. AVC was detected in 75 patients, and these patients showed higher %abdominal VAT (44% versus 38%, p < 0.05) compared to those without AVC. When the cutoff value of %abdominal VAT was set at 40.9%, the area under the curve to diagnose AVC was 0.626. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age (OR 1.120, 95% CI 1.078–1.168, p < 0.01), diabetes (OR 2.587, 95% CI 1.323–5.130, p < 0.01), and %abdominal VAT (OR 1.032, 95% CI 1.003–1.065, p < 0.05) were independent risk factors for AVC. The net reclassification improvement value for detecting AVC was increased when %abdominal VAT was added to the model: 0.5093 (95% CI 0.2489–0.7697, p < 0.01). Conclusion. We determined that predominance of VAT is associated with AVC. PMID:26904670

Historical sediment record and levels of PCBs in sediments and mangroves of Jobos Bay, Puerto Rico.

PubMed

Alegria, Henry; Martinez-Colon, Michael; Birgul, Askin; Brooks, Gregg; Hanson, Lindsey; Kurt-Karakus, Perihan

2016-12-15

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were quantified in 18 surface sediment samples, 1 sediment core, and several mangrove tissue samples collected in Jobos Bay, Puerto Rico in September 2013. Total PCBs in surface sediments ranged from 0.42 to 1232ngg -1 dw. Generally, higher levels were observed near-shore close to urban and industrial areas. The levels suggest significant pollution in Jobos Bay with respect to PCBs. Two-thirds of the sites were dominated by lighter PCB congeners (tri- to penta-chlorinated PCBs) while one-third had heavy PCB congeners (hexa- to octa-chlorinated PCBs) dominant. Total PCBs in a sediment core indicated levels fluctuating according to historical usage patterns. Total PCBs were measured in mangal leaves (14-747ngg -1 dw), roots (0.26-120ngg -1 dw), and seeds (16-93ngg -1 dw), suggesting bioaccumulation from sediments. This is the first report of a historical profile of PCBs in the study area and of PCB bioaccumulation in mangroves. This article provides new and useful information on PCBs in the Caribbean area of the GRULAC region. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Boiling histotripsy lesion characterization on a clinical magnetic resonance imaging-guided high intensity focused ultrasound system

PubMed Central

Eranki, Avinash; Farr, Navid; Partanen, Ari; V. Sharma, Karun; Chen, Hong; Rossi, Christopher T.; Kothapalli, Satya V. V. N.; Oetgen, Matthew; Kim, AeRang; H. Negussie, Ayele; Woods, David; J. Wood, Bradford; C. W. Kim, Peter; S. Yarmolenko, Pavel

2017-01-01

Purpose High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that can thermally ablate tumors. Boiling histotripsy (BH) is a HIFU approach that can emulsify tissue in a few milliseconds. Lesion volume and temperature effects for different BH sonication parameters are currently not well characterized. In this work, lesion volume, temperature distribution, and area of lethal thermal dose were characterized for varying BH sonication parameters in tissue-mimicking phantoms (TMP) and demonstrated in ex vivo tissues. Methods The following BH sonication parameters were varied using a clinical MR-HIFU system (Sonalleve V2, Philips, Vantaa, Finland): acoustic power, number of cycles/pulse, total sonication time, and pulse repetition frequency (PRF). A 3×3×3 pattern was sonicated inside TMP’s and ex vivo tissues. Post sonication, lesion volumes were quantified using 3D ultrasonography and temperature and thermal dose distributions were analyzed offline. Ex vivo tissues were sectioned and stained with H&E post sonication to assess tissue damage. Results Significant increase in lesion volume was observed while increasing the number of cycles/pulse and PRF. Other sonication parameters had no significant effect on lesion volume. Temperature full width at half maximum at the end of sonication increased significantly with all parameters except total sonication time. Positive correlation was also found between lethal thermal dose and lesion volume for all parameters except number of cycles/pulse. Gross pathology of ex vivo tissues post sonication displayed either completely or partially damaged tissue at the focal region. Surrounding tissues presented sharp boundaries, with little or no structural damage to adjacent critical structures such as bile duct and nerves. Conclusion Our characterization of effects of HIFU sonication parameters on the resulting lesion demonstrates the ability to control lesion morphologic and thermal characteristics with a clinical MR-HIFU system in TMP’s and ex vivo tissues. We demonstrate that this system can produce spatially precise lesions in both phantoms and ex vivo tissues. The results provide guidance on a preliminary set of BH sonication parameters for this system, with a potential to facilitate BH translation to the clinic. PMID:28301597

Liquid Microjunction Surface Sampling Probe Electrospray Mass Spectrometry for Detection of Drugs and Metabolites in Thin Tissue Sections

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Van Berkel, Gary J; Kertesz, Vilmos; Koeplinger, Kenneth A.

2008-01-01

A self-aspirating, liquid micro-junction surface sampling probe/electrospray emitter mass spectrometry system was demonstrated for use in the direct analysis of spotted and dosed drugs and their metabolites in thin tissue sections. Proof-of-principle sampling and analysis directly from tissue without the need for sample preparation was demonstrated first by raster scanning a region on a section of rat liver onto which reserpine was spotted. The mass spectral signal from selected reaction monitoring was used to develop a chemical image of the spotted drug on the tissue. The probe was also used to selectively spot sample areas of sagittal whole mouse bodymore » tissue sections that had been dosed orally (90 mg/kg) with R,S-sulforaphane 3 hrs prior to sacrifice. Sulforaphane and its glutathione and N-acetyl cysteine conjugates were monitored with selected reaction monitoring and detected in the stomach and various other tissues from the dosed mouse. No signal for these species was observed in the tissue from a control mouse. The same dosed tissue section was used to illustrate the possibility of obtaining a line scan across the whole body section. In total these results illustrate the potential for rapid screening of the distribution of drugs and metabolites in tissue sections with the micro-liquid junction surface sampling probe/electrospray mass spectrometry approach.« less

Effects of multi-deficiencies-diet on bone parameters of peripheral bone in ovariectomized mature rat.

PubMed

El Khassawna, Thaqif; Böcker, Wolfgang; Govindarajan, Parameswari; Schliefke, Nathalie; Hürter, Britta; Kampschulte, Marian; Schlewitz, Gudrun; Alt, Volker; Lips, Katrin Susanne; Faulenbach, Miriam; Möllmann, Henriette; Zahner, Daniel; Dürselen, Lutz; Ignatius, Anita; Bauer, Natali; Wenisch, Sabine; Langheinrich, Alexander Claus; Schnettler, Reinhard; Heiss, Christian

2013-01-01

Many postmenopausal women have vitamin D and calcium deficiency. Therefore, vitamin D and calcium supplementation is recommended for all patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis. We used an experimental rat model to test the hypothesis that induction of osteoporosis is more efficiently achieved in peripheral bone through combining ovariectomy with a unique multi-deficiencies diet (vitamin D depletion and deficient calcium, vitamin K and phosphorus). 14-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats served as controls to examine the initial bone status. 11 rats were bilaterally ovariectomized (OVX) and fed with multi-deficiencies diet. Three months later the treated group and the Sham group (n = 8) were euthanized. Bone biomechanical competence of the diaphyseal bone was examined on both, tibia and femur. Image analysis was performed on tibia via µCT, and on femur via histological analysis. Lower torsional stiffness indicated inferior mechanical competence of the tibia in 3 month OVX+Diet. Proximal metaphyseal region of the tibia showed a diminished bone tissue portion to total tissue in the µCT despite the increased total area as evaluated in both µCT and histology. Cortical bone showed higher porosity and smaller cross sectional thickness of the tibial diaphysis in the OVX+Diet rats. A lower ALP positive area and elevated serum level of RANKL exhibited the unbalanced cellular interaction in bone remodeling in the OVX+Diet rat after 3 month of treatment. Interestingly, more adipose tissue area in bone marrow indicated an effect of bone loss similar to that observed in osteoporotic patients. Nonetheless, the presence of osteoid and elevated serum level of PTH, BGP and Opn suggest the development of osteomalacia rather than an osteoporosis. As the treatment and fracture management of both osteoporotic and osteomalacia patients are clinically overlapping, this study provides a preclinical animal model to be utilized in local supplementation of minerals, drugs and growth factors in future fracture healing studies.

Effects of Multi-Deficiencies-Diet on Bone Parameters of Peripheral Bone in Ovariectomized Mature Rat

PubMed Central

El Khassawna, Thaqif; Böcker, Wolfgang; Govindarajan, Parameswari; Schliefke, Nathalie; Hürter, Britta; Kampschulte, Marian; Schlewitz, Gudrun; Alt, Volker; Lips, Katrin Susanne; Faulenbach, Miriam; Möllmann, Henriette; Zahner, Daniel; Dürselen, Lutz; Ignatius, Anita; Bauer, Natali; Wenisch, Sabine; Langheinrich, Alexander Claus; Schnettler, Reinhard; Heiss, Christian

2013-01-01

Many postmenopausal women have vitamin D and calcium deficiency. Therefore, vitamin D and calcium supplementation is recommended for all patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis. We used an experimental rat model to test the hypothesis that induction of osteoporosis is more efficiently achieved in peripheral bone through combining ovariectomy with a unique multi-deficiencies diet (vitamin D depletion and deficient calcium, vitamin K and phosphorus). 14-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats served as controls to examine the initial bone status. 11 rats were bilaterally ovariectomized (OVX) and fed with multi-deficiencies diet. Three months later the treated group and the Sham group (n = 8) were euthanized. Bone biomechanical competence of the diaphyseal bone was examined on both, tibia and femur. Image analysis was performed on tibia via µCT, and on femur via histological analysis. Lower torsional stiffness indicated inferior mechanical competence of the tibia in 3 month OVX+Diet. Proximal metaphyseal region of the tibia showed a diminished bone tissue portion to total tissue in the µCT despite the increased total area as evaluated in both µCT and histology. Cortical bone showed higher porosity and smaller cross sectional thickness of the tibial diaphysis in the OVX+Diet rats. A lower ALP positive area and elevated serum level of RANKL exhibited the unbalanced cellular interaction in bone remodeling in the OVX+Diet rat after 3 month of treatment. Interestingly, more adipose tissue area in bone marrow indicated an effect of bone loss similar to that observed in osteoporotic patients. Nonetheless, the presence of osteoid and elevated serum level of PTH, BGP and Opn suggest the development of osteomalacia rather than an osteoporosis. As the treatment and fracture management of both osteoporotic and osteomalacia patients are clinically overlapping, this study provides a preclinical animal model to be utilized in local supplementation of minerals, drugs and growth factors in future fracture healing studies. PMID:23977109

Tissue breathing and topology of rats thymocytes surface under acute total γ-irradiation.

PubMed

Nikitina, I A; Gritsuk, A I

2017-12-01

Assessment of the effect of single total γ irradiation to the parameters of mitochondrial oxidation and the topology of the thymocyte surface. The study was performed in sexually mature white outbreeding male rats divided into three groups: two experimental and one control. The states of energy metabolism were determined by the rate of oxygen consumption by the thymus tissues on endogenous substrates at the presence of 2,4 dinitrophenol, uncoupler of a tissue breathing (TB) and oxidative phosphorylation (OP) after a single total γ irradiation at a dose of 1.0 Gy at 3, 10, 40 and 60 days. The topology of thymus cells was assessed using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). On the 3rd and 10th days after total gamma irradiation at a dose of 1.0 Gy, a significant decrease in respira tory activity was determined in thymus tissues on endogenous substrates. Simultaneously, on the 3rd day, pro nounced changes in the morphological parameters of thymocytes (height, volume, area of contact with the sub strate) and the topology of their surface were also observed. On the 10th day after irradiation, most of the morpho logical parameters of thymocytes, except for their volume, were characterized by restoration to normal. In the long term (on the 30th and 60th days after exposure), a gradual but not complete recovery of the respiratory activity of thymocytes was observed, accompanied by an increase in the degree of dissociation of TD and OP. The obtained data reflect and refine mechanisms of post radiation repair of lymphopoiesis, showing the presence of conjugated changes in the parameters of aerobic energy metabolism of thymocytes, morphology and topology of their surface. The synchronism of changes in the parameters under study is a reflection of the state of the cytoskeleton, the functional activity of which largely depends on the level and efficiency of mitochondrial oxidation. І. A. Nikitina, A. I. Gritsuk.

Assessment of injury to fish and wildlife resources in the Grand Calumet River and Indiana Harbor Area of Concern, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

MacDonald, D.D.; Ingersoll, C.G.; Smorong, D.E.; Lindskoog, R.A.; Sparks, D.W.; Smith, J.R.; Simon, T.P.; Hanacek, M.A.

2002-01-01

This article is the second in a series of three that describes the results of a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) conducted in the Grand Calumet River and Indiana Harbor Area of Concern (IHAOC). The assessment area is located in northwest Indiana and was divided into nine reaches to facilitate the assessment. This component of the NRDA was undertaken to determine if fish and wildlife resources have been injured due to exposure to contaminants that are associated with discharges of oil or releases of other hazardous substances. To support this assessment, information was compiled on the chemical composition of sediment and tissues; on the toxicity of whole sediments, pore water, and elutriates to fish; on the status of fish communities; and on fish health. The data on each of these indicators were compared to regionally relevant benchmarks to assess the presence and extent of injury to fish and wildlife resources. The results of this assessment indicate that injury to fish and wildlife resources has occurred throughout the assessment area, with up to five distinct lines of evidence demonstrating injury within the various reaches. Based on the frequency of exceedance of the benchmarks for assessing sediment and tissue chemistry data, total polychlorinated biphenyls is the primary bioaccumulative contaminant of concern in the assessment area. It is important to note, however, that this assessment was restricted by the availability of published bioaccumulation-based sediment quality guidelines, tissue residue guidelines, and other benchmarks of sediment quality conditions. The availability of chemistry data for tissues also restricted this assessment in certain reaches of the assessment area. Furthermore, insufficient information was located to facilitate identification of the substances that are causing or substantially contributing to effects on fish (i.e., sediment toxicity, impaired fish health, or impaired fish community structure). Therefore, substances not included on the list of COCs cannot necessarily be considered to be of low priority with respect to sediment injury (e.g., metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, alkanes, alkenes, organochlorine pesticides, phthalates, dioxins, and furans, etc.).

Trace contaminant concentrations in the Kara Sea and its adjacent rivers, Russia.

PubMed

Sericano, J L; Brooks, J M; Champ, M A; Kennicutt, M C; Makeyev, V V

2001-11-01

Trace organic (chlorinated pesticides, PCBs, PAHs and dioxins/furans) and trace metal concentrations were measured in surficial sediment and biological tissues (i.e., worms, crustaceans, bivalve molluscs, and fish livers) collected from the Russian Arctic. Total DDT, chlordane, PCB and PAH concentrations ranged from ND to 1.2, ND to <0.1, ND to 1.5 and <20-810 ng g(-1), respectively, in a suite of 40 surficial sediment samples from the Kara Sea and the adjacent Ob and Yenisey Rivers. High sedimentary concentrations of contaminants were found in the lower part of the Yenisey River below the salt wedge. Total dioxins/furans were analysed in a subset of 20 sediment samples and ranged from 1.4 to 410 pg g(-1). The highest trace organic contaminant concentrations were found in organisms, particularly fish livers. Concentrations as high as 89 ng g(-1) chlordane; 1010 ng g(-1) total DDTs; 460 ng g(-1) total PCBs; and 1110 ng g(-1) total PAH, were detected. A subset of 11 tissue samples was analysed for dioxins and furans with total concentrations ranging from 12 to 61 pg g(-1). Concentrations of many trace organic and metal contaminants in the Kara Sea appear to originate from riverine sources and atmospheric transport from more temperate areas. Most organic contaminant concentrations in sediments were low; however, contaminants are being concentrated in organisms and may pose a health hazard for inhabitants of coastal villages.

Evaluating the spatial variation of total mercury in young-of-year yellow perch (Perca flavescens), surface water and upland soil for watershed-lake systems within the southern Boreal Shield.

PubMed

Gabriel, Mark C; Kolka, Randy; Wickman, Trent; Nater, Ed; Woodruff, Laurel

2009-06-15

The primary objective of this research is to investigate relationships between mercury in upland soil, lake water and fish tissue and explore the cause for the observed spatial variation of THg in age one yellow perch (Perca flavescens) for ten lakes within the Superior National Forest. Spatial relationships between yellow perch THg tissue concentration and a total of 45 watershed and water chemistry parameters were evaluated for two separate years: 2005 and 2006. Results show agreement with other studies where watershed area, lake water pH, nutrient levels (specifically dissolved NO(3)(-)-N) and dissolved iron are important factors controlling and/or predicting fish THg level. Exceeding all was the strong dependence of yellow perch THg level on soil A-horizon THg and, in particular, soil O-horizon THg concentrations (Spearman rho=0.81). Soil B-horizon THg concentration was significantly correlated (Pearson r=0.75) with lake water THg concentration. Lakes surrounded by a greater percentage of shrub wetlands (peatlands) had higher fish tissue THg levels, thus it is highly possible that these wetlands are main locations for mercury methylation. Stepwise regression was used to develop empirical models for the purpose of predicting the spatial variation in yellow perch THg over the studied region. The 2005 regression model demonstrates it is possible to obtain good prediction (up to 60% variance description) of resident yellow perch THg level using upland soil O-horizon THg as the only independent variable. The 2006 model shows even greater prediction (r(2)=0.73, with an overall 10 ng/g [tissue, wet weight] margin of error), using lake water dissolved iron and watershed area as the only model independent variables. The developed regression models in this study can help with interpreting THg concentrations in low trophic level fish species for untested lakes of the greater Superior National Forest and surrounding Boreal ecosystem.

Contribution of aboveground plant respiration to carbon cycling in a Bornean tropical rainforet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katayama, Ayumi; Tanaka, Kenzo; Ichie, Tomoaki; Kume, Tomonori; Matsumoto, Kazuho; Ohashi, Mizue; Kumagai, Tomo'omi

2014-05-01

Bornean tropical rainforests have a different characteristic from Amazonian tropical rainforests, that is, larger aboveground biomass caused by higher stand density of large trees. Larger biomass may cause different carbon cycling and allocation pattern. However, there are fewer studies on carbon allocation and each component in Bornean tropical rainforests, especially for aboveground plant respiration, compared to Amazonian forests. In this study, we measured woody tissue respiration and leaf respiration, and estimated those in ecosystem scale in a Bornean tropical rainforest. Then, we examined carbon allocation using the data of soil respiration and aboveground net primary production obtained from our previous studies. Woody tissue respiration rate was positively correlated with diameter at breast height (dbh) and stem growth rate. Using the relationships and biomass data, we estimated woody tissue respiration in ecosystem scale though methods of scaling resulted in different estimates values (4.52 - 9.33 MgC ha-1 yr-1). Woody tissue respiration based on surface area (8.88 MgC ha-1 yr-1) was larger than those in Amazon because of large aboveground biomass (563.0 Mg ha-1). Leaf respiration rate was positively correlated with height. Using the relationship and leaf area density data at each 5-m height, leaf respiration in ecosystem scale was estimated (9.46 MgC ha-1 yr-1), which was similar to those in Amazon because of comparable LAI (5.8 m2 m-2). Gross primary production estimated from biometric measurements (44.81 MgC ha-1 yr-1) was much higher than those in Amazon, and more carbon was allocated to woody tissue respiration and total belowground carbon flux. Large tree with dbh > 60cm accounted for about half of aboveground biomass and aboveground biomass increment. Soil respiration was also related to position of large trees, resulting in high soil respiration rate in this study site. Photosynthesis ability of top canopy for large trees was high and leaves for the large trees accounted for 30% of total, which can lead high GPP. These results suggest that large trees play considerable role in carbon cycling and make a distinctive carbon allocation in the Bornean tropical rainforest.

Effect of acute exposure to nonylphenol on biochemical, hormonal, and hematological parameters and muscle tissues residues of Nile tilapia; Oreochromis niloticus

PubMed Central

Ismail, Hager Tarek H.; Mahboub, Heba Hassan H.

2016-01-01

Aim: This study was aimed to evaluate some biochemical, hormonal, hematological, and histopathological changes in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, after acute exposure to nonylphenol (NP). In addition to detection of NP residues in the fish, muscle tissues for human health concern. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 apparently healthy Nile tilapia, O. niloticus, were randomly divided into three equal groups; each containing 30 fish (three replicates). Groups 1 and 2 kept as a control and solvent control (acetone), respectively, and Group 3 exposed to NP at a dose level of 500 µg/L water for 7 successive days. Blood and tissue samples were collected 2 times randomly from each group after 7 days from fish exposure to NP and 10 days from exposure stopping. Results: Fish exposed to NP Group 3 showed anorexia, sluggish movement, erythema of the skin, areas of scales loss, and hemorrhagic ulcers in some areas of body region leading to exposing the viscera. Biochemical results revealed a significant increase in serum total proteins and globulins levels, a highly significant increase in serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, triglycerides, cholesterol, and creatinine levels, insignificant increase in serum uric acid level, and a highly significant decrease in serum testosterone and estradiol-β17 levels in Group 3 in compare with the control group. Histopathological finding confirms these results. While hematological results of the same group revealed a significant increase in red blood cells count and packed cell volume value, insignificant increase in hemoglobin concentration, leukopenia, lymphopenia, and monocytopenia in compared with the control group. All of these changes appeared after 7 days from fish exposure to NP. Most of these alterations returned toward the normal level after 10 days from stopping exposure to NP. NP residues detected in fish muscle tissues of Group 3 during exposure and after stopping exposure to it. Conclusion: It is concluded that NP is a toxic pollutant and has an adverse effect on fish health and reproduction as well as accumulates in fish muscle tissues which may cause human health hazard. PMID:27397986

Pilot study: whole body manual subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) therapy improved pain and SAT structure in women with lipedema.

PubMed

Herbst, Karen L; Ussery, Christopher; Eekema, Alyna

2017-09-20

Background Lipedema is a common painful subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) disorder in women affecting the limbs. SAT therapy is a manual therapy to improve soft tissue quality. Objective Determine if SAT therapy improves pain and structure of lipedema SAT. Design Single arm prospective pilot study. Setting Academic medical center. Patients Seven women, 46 ± 5 years, weight 90 ± 19 kg, with lipedema. Intervention Twelve 90-min SAT therapy sessions over 4 weeks. Outcomes Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, SAT ultrasound (Vevo 2100), leg volumetrics, skin caliper assessment, tissue exam, weight, resting metabolic rate, pain assessment, lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) and body shape questionnaire (BSQ) at baseline and end of study. Results Weight, resting metabolic rate and BSQ did not change significantly. Limb fat over total body fat mass (p = 0.08) and trunk fat over total body mass trended down from baseline (p = 0.08) by DXA. Leg volume and caliper assessments in eight of nine areas (p < 0.007), LEFS (p = 0.002) and average pain (p = 0.007) significantly decreased from baseline. Fibrosis significantly decreased in the nodules, hips and groin. Ultrasound showed improved SAT structure in some subjects. Side effects included pain, bruising, itching, swelling and gastroesophageal reflux disease. All women said they would recommend SAT therapy to other women with lipedema. Limitations Small number of subjects. Conclusion SAT therapy in 4 weeks improved tissue structure, perceived leg function, and volume although shape was not affected. While side effects of SAT therapy were common, all women felt the therapy was beneficial.

Lipid, Fatty Acid and Energy Density Profiles of White Sharks: Insights into the Feeding Ecology and Ecophysiology of a Complex Top Predator

PubMed Central

Pethybridge, Heidi R.; Parrish, Christopher C.; Bruce, Barry D.; Young, Jock W.; Nichols, Peter D.

2014-01-01

Lipids are major sources of metabolic energy in sharks and are closely linked to environmental conditions and biological cycles, such as those related to diet, reproduction and migration. In this study, we report for the first time, the total lipid content, lipid class composition and fatty acid profiles of muscle and liver tissue of white sharks, Carcharodon carcharias, of various lengths (1.5–3.9 m), sampled at two geographically separate areas off southern and eastern Australia. Muscle tissue was low in total lipid content (<0.9% wet mass, wm) and was dominated by phospholipids (>90% of total lipid) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (34±12% of total fatty acids). In contrast, liver was high in total lipid which varied between 51–81% wm and was dominated by triacylglycerols (>93%) and monounsaturated fatty acids (36±12%). With knowledge of total lipid and dry tissue mass, we estimated the energy density of muscle (18.4±0.1 kJ g−1 dm) and liver (34.1±3.2 kJ g−1 dm), demonstrating that white sharks have very high energetic requirements. High among-individual variation in these biochemical parameters and related trophic markers were observed, but were not related to any one biological or environmental factor. Signature fatty acid profiles suggest that white sharks over the size range examined are generalist predators with fish, elasmobranchs and mammalian blubber all contributing to the diet. The ecological applications and physiological influences of lipids in white sharks are discussed along with recommendations for future research, including the use of non-lethal sampling to examine the nutritional condition, energetics and dietary relationships among and between individuals. Such knowledge is fundamental to better understand the implications of environmental perturbations on this iconic and threatened species. PMID:24871223

Lipid, fatty acid and energy density profiles of white sharks: insights into the feeding ecology and ecophysiology of a complex top predator.

PubMed

Pethybridge, Heidi R; Parrish, Christopher C; Bruce, Barry D; Young, Jock W; Nichols, Peter D

2014-01-01

Lipids are major sources of metabolic energy in sharks and are closely linked to environmental conditions and biological cycles, such as those related to diet, reproduction and migration. In this study, we report for the first time, the total lipid content, lipid class composition and fatty acid profiles of muscle and liver tissue of white sharks, Carcharodon carcharias, of various lengths (1.5-3.9 m), sampled at two geographically separate areas off southern and eastern Australia. Muscle tissue was low in total lipid content (<0.9% wet mass, wm) and was dominated by phospholipids (>90% of total lipid) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (34±12% of total fatty acids). In contrast, liver was high in total lipid which varied between 51-81% wm and was dominated by triacylglycerols (>93%) and monounsaturated fatty acids (36±12%). With knowledge of total lipid and dry tissue mass, we estimated the energy density of muscle (18.4±0.1 kJ g-1 dm) and liver (34.1±3.2 kJ g-1 dm), demonstrating that white sharks have very high energetic requirements. High among-individual variation in these biochemical parameters and related trophic markers were observed, but were not related to any one biological or environmental factor. Signature fatty acid profiles suggest that white sharks over the size range examined are generalist predators with fish, elasmobranchs and mammalian blubber all contributing to the diet. The ecological applications and physiological influences of lipids in white sharks are discussed along with recommendations for future research, including the use of non-lethal sampling to examine the nutritional condition, energetics and dietary relationships among and between individuals. Such knowledge is fundamental to better understand the implications of environmental perturbations on this iconic and threatened species.

"Ductal adenocarcinoma in anular pancreas".

PubMed

Benassai, Giacomo; Perrotta, Stefano; Furino, Ermenegildo; De Werra, Carlo; Aloia, Sergio; Del Giudice, Roberto; Amato, Bruno; Vigliotti, Gabriele; Limite, Gennaro; Quarto, Gennaro

2015-09-01

The annular pancreas is a congenital anomaly in which pancreatic tissue partially or completely surrounds the second portion of the duodenum. Its often located above of papilla of Vater (85%), rarely below (15%). This pancreatic tissue is often easily dissociable to the duodenum but there is same cases where it the tissue is into the muscolaris wall of the duodenum. We describe three case of annular pancreas hospitalized in our facility between January 2004 and January 2009. There were 2 male 65 and 69 years old respectively and 1 female of 60 years old, presented complaining of repeated episodes of mild epigastric pain. Laboratory tests (including tumor markers), a direct abdomen X-ray with enema, EGDS and total body CT scan were performed to study to better define the diagnosis. EUS showed the presence of tissue infiltrating the muscle layer all around the first part of duodenum. Biopsies performed found the presence of pancreatic tissue with focal areas of adenocarcinoma. Subtotal gastrectomy with Roux was performed. The histological examinations shows an annular pancreas of D1 with multiple focal area of adenocarcinoma. (T1aN0M0). We performed a follow up at 5 years. One patients died after 36 months for cardiovascular hit. Two patients, one male and one female, was 5-years disease-free. Annular pancreas is an uncommon congenital anomaly which usually presents itself in infants and newborn. Rarely it can present in late adult life with wide range of clinical severities thereby making its diagnosis difficult. Pre-operative diagnosis is often difficult. CT scan can illustrate the pancreatic tissue encircling the duodenum. ERCP and MRCP are useful in outlining the annular pancreatic duct. Surgery still remains necessary to confirm diagnosis and bypassing the obstructed segment. Copyright © 2015 IJS Publishing Group Limited. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Image-guided total marrow and total lymphatic irradiation using helical tomotherapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schultheiss, Timothy E.; Wong, Jeffrey; Liu, An

2007-03-15

Purpose: To develop a treatment technique to spare normal tissue and allow dose escalation in total body irradiation (TBI). We have developed intensity-modulated radiotherapy techniques for the total marrow irradiation (TMI), total lymphatic irradiation, or total bone marrow plus lymphatic irradiation using helical tomotherapy. Methods and Materials: For TBI, we typically use 12 Gy in 10 fractions delivered at an extended source-to-surface distance (SSD). Using helical tomotherapy, it is possible to deliver equally effective doses to the bone marrow and lymphatics while sparing normal organs to a significant degree. In the TMI patients, whole body skeletal bone, including the ribsmore » and sternum, comprise the treatment target. In the total lymphatic irradiation, the target is expanded to include the spleen and major lymph node areas. Sanctuary sites for disease (brain and testes) are included when clinically indicated. Spared organs include the lungs, esophagus, parotid glands, eyes, oral cavity, liver, kidneys, stomach, small and large intestine, bladder, and ovaries. Results: With TBI, all normal organs received the TBI dose; with TMI, total lymphatic irradiation, and total bone marrow plus lymphatic irradiation, the visceral organs are spared. For the first 6 patients treated with TMI, the median dose to organs at risk averaged 51% lower than would be achieved with TBI. By putting greater weight on the avoidance of specific organs, greater sparing was possible. Conclusion: Sparing of normal tissues and dose escalation is possible using helical tomotherapy. Late effects such as radiation pneumonitis, veno-occlusive disease, cataracts, neurocognitive effects, and the development of second tumors should be diminished in severity and frequency according to the dose reduction realized for the organs at risk.« less

Impact of Meloidogyne incognita on Physiological Efficiency of Vitis vinifera.

PubMed

Melakeberhan, H; Ferris, H

1989-01-01

Four-week-old French Colombard plants rooted from green cuttings were inoculated with 0, 1,000, 2,000, 4,000, or 8,000 Meloidogyne incognita second-stage juveniles and maintained at 25 C night and 30 C day. Leaf area and dry weight and the rates of photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and internal leaf CO concentration were measured at intervals up to 59 days after inoculation. Nematode stress dosage, measured as the product of cumulative number of juveniles and females and their total energy (calories) demand, was up to 3.4 kcal and accounted for up to 15% of the energy assimilated by the plants. There was a decline in the rate of leaf area expansion and leaf, stem, shoot, root (excluding nematode weight), and total plant dry weight with increasing nematode stress. Root weight including nematodes was not affected. Total respiration, plant photosynthesis, energy assimilated into plant tissue and respiration, and gross production efficiency decreased significantly with nematode stress. Photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and internal CO concentration were not affected. This study demonstrates that the energy demand for growth and reproduction of M. incognita accounts for a significant portion of the total energy entering the plant system. As a result, less energy is partitioned into leaf area expansion which, in turn, affects the energy entering the system and results in decreased productivity of nematode-infected grape vines.

Bleaching of leaf litter and associated microfungi in subboreal and subalpine forests.

PubMed

Hagiwara, Yusuke; Matsuoka, Shunsuke; Hobara, Satoru; Mori, Akira S; Hirose, Dai; Osono, Takashi

2015-10-01

Fungal decomposition of lignin leads to the whitening, or bleaching, of leaf litter, especially in temperate and tropical forests, but less is known about such bleaching in forests of cooler regions, such as boreal and subalpine forests. The purposes of the present study were to examine the extent of bleached area on the surface of leaf litter and its variation with environmental conditions in subboreal and subalpine forests in Japan and to examine the microfungi associated with the bleaching of leaf litter by isolating fungi from the bleached portions of the litter. Bleached area accounted for 21.7%-32.7% and 2.0%-10.0% of total leaf area of Quercus crispula and Betula ermanii, respectively, in subboreal forests, and for 6.3% and 18.6% of total leaf area of B. ermanii and Picea jezoensis var. hondoensis, respectively, in a subalpine forest. In subboreal forests, elevation, C/N ratio and pH of the FH layer, and slope aspect were selected as predictor variables for the bleached leaf area. Leaf mass per area and lignin content were consistently lower in the bleached area than in the nonbleached area of the same leaves, indicating that the selective decomposition of acid unhydrolyzable residue (recalcitrant compounds such as lignin, tannins, and cutins) enhanced the mass loss of leaf tissues in the bleached portions. Isolates of a total of 11 fungal species (6 species of Ascomycota and 5 of Basidiomycota) exhibited leaf-litter-bleaching activity under pure culture conditions. Two fungal species (Coccomyces sp. and Mycena sp.) occurred in both subboreal and subalpine forests, which were separated from each other by approximately 1100 km.

New approaches to increase intestinal length: Methods used for intestinal regeneration and bioengineering

PubMed Central

Shirafkan, Ali; Montalbano, Mauro; McGuire, Joshua; Rastellini, Cristiana; Cicalese, Luca

2016-01-01

Inadequate absorptive surface area poses a great challenge to the patients suffering a variety of intestinal diseases causing short bowel syndrome. To date, these patients are managed with total parenteral nutrition or intestinal transplantation. However, these carry significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, by emergence of tissue engineering, anticipations to utilize an alternative method to increase the intestinal absorptive surface area are increasing. In this paper, we will review the improvements made over time in attempting elongating the intestine with surgical techniques as well as using intestinal bioengineering. Performing sequential intestinal lengthening was the preliminary method applied in humans. However, these methods did not reach widespread use and has limited outcome. Subsequent experimental methods were developed utilizing scaffolds to regenerate intestinal tissue and organoids unit from the intestinal epithelium. Stem cells also have been studied and applied in all types of tissue engineering. Biomaterials were utilized as a structural support for naive cells to produce bio-engineered tissue that can achieve a near-normal anatomical structure. A promising novel approach is the elongation of the intestine with an acellular biologic scaffold to generate a neo-formed intestinal tissue that showed, for the first time, evidence of absorption in vivo. In the large intestine, studies are more focused on regeneration and engineering of sphincters and will be briefly reviewed. From the review of the existing literature, it can be concluded that significant progress has been achieved in these experimental methods but that these now need to be fully translated into a pre-clinical and clinical experimentation to become a future viable therapeutic option. PMID:27011901

Wide-field optical coherence elastography for intraoperative assessment of tumour margins in breast cancer (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, Wes M.; Chin, Lixin; Sampson, David D.; Kennedy, Brendan F.

2016-03-01

Incomplete excision of tumour margins is a major issue in breast-conserving surgery. Currently 20 - 60% of cases require a second surgical procedure required as a result of cancer recurrence. A number of techniques have been proposed to assess margin status, including frozen section analysis and imprint cytology. However, the recurrence rate after using these techniques remains very high. Over the last several years, our group has been developing optical coherence elastography (OCE) as a tool for the intraoperative assessment of tumour margins in breast cancer. We have reported a feasibility study on 65 ex vivo samples from patients undergoing mastectomy or wide local excision demonstrates the potential of OCE in differentiating benign from malignant tissue. In this study, malignant tissue was readily distinguished from surrounding relative tissue by a distinctive heterogeneous pattern in micro-elastograms. To date the largest field of view for a micro-elastogram is 20 x 20mm, however, lumpectomy samples are typically ~50 x 50 x 30mm. For OCE to progress as a useful clinical tool, elastograms must be acquired over larger areas to allow a greater portion of the surface area of lumpectomies to be assessed. Here, we propose a wide-field OCE scanner that utilizes a piezoelectric transducer with an internal diameter of 65mm. In this approach partially overlapped elastograms are stitched together forming a mosaic with overall dimensions of 50 x 50mm in a total acquisition time of 15 - 30 minutes. We present results using this approach on both tissue-mimicking phantoms and tissue, and discuss prospects for shorter acquisitions times.

Expression pattern of aquaporins in patients with primary nephrotic syndrome with edema

PubMed Central

WANG, YU; BU, JIMEI; ZHANG, QING; CHEN, KAI; ZHANG, JIHONG; BAO, XIAORONG

2015-01-01

The association between the expression of aquaporins (AQPs) in kidney tissues and the occurrence of edema in nephrotic syndrome (NS) remains unclear. The current study aimed to investigate this association. A total of 54 patients with primary glomerular disease, diagnosed by renal biopsy, were divided into three groups: Control, NS without edema and NS with edema. The expression of AQP1, AQP2, AQP3 and AQP4 in kidney tissues from these patients was assessed using immunohistochemistry, and urinary AQP concentrations were quantified by ELISA. Comparison of the three groups was conducted using one way analysis of variance, independent samples t-test or the Chi-square test. AQP1 was strongly expressed in the proximal tubules. The proportion of the AQP1-positive area in kidney tissues from patients with NS with edema was significantly reduced, in comparison with the other two groups. By contrast, the proportion of the AQP2-positive area in the NS with edema group was significantly higher than that of the other two groups; significant differences were also observed between the control and NS without edema groups for this parameter. Urinary AQP2 concentrations in patients with NS (with and without edema) were significantly higher than that of the control group, and exhibited a significant positive correlation with kidney tissue AQP2 concentrations. The present study demonstrated the abnormal expression pattern of AQP1-AQP4 in the kidney tissues of patients with NS, providing a basis for an improved understanding of the role of AQP in the pathogenesis of NS. PMID:26261083

Analysis of laser surgery in non-melanoma skin cancer for optimal tissue removal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fanjul-Vélez, Félix; Salas-García, Irene; Arce-Diego, José Luis

2015-02-01

Laser surgery is a commonly used technique for tissue ablation or the resection of malignant tumors. It presents advantages over conventional non-optical ablation techniques, like a scalpel or electrosurgery, such as the increased precision of the resected volume, minimization of scars and shorter recovery periods. Laser surgery is employed in medical branches such as ophthalmology or dermatology. The application of laser surgery requires the optimal adjustment of laser beam parameters, taking into account the particular patient and lesion. In this work we present a predictive tool for tissue resection in biological tissue after laser surgery, which allows an a priori knowledge of the tissue ablation volume, area and depth. The model employs a Monte Carlo 3D approach for optical propagation and a rate equation for plasma-induced ablation. The tool takes into account characteristics of the specific lesion to be ablated, mainly the geometric, optical and ablation properties. It also considers the parameters of the laser beam, such as the radius, spatial profile, pulse width, total delivered energy or wavelength. The predictive tool is applied to dermatology tumor resection, particularly to different types of non-melanoma skin cancer tumors: basocellular carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and infiltrative carcinoma. The ablation volume, area and depth are calculated for healthy skin and for each type of tumor as a function of the laser beam parameters. The tool could be used for laser surgery planning before the clinical application. The laser parameters could be adjusted for optimal resection volume, by personalizing the process to the particular patient and lesion.

INDIVIDUAL TISSUE TO TOTAL BODY-WEIGHT RELATIONSHIPS AND TOTAL, POLAR, AND NON-POLAR LIPIDS IN TISSUES OF HATCHERY LAKE TROUT

EPA Science Inventory

Tissue body weight relaltionships, total lipid, and major lipid subclasses were measured in 20 adult hatchery lake trout to obtain a more in-depth understanding of the major lipid compartments of the "lean" lake trout for use in modeling the disposition of xenobiotics. It is sug...

Comparative evaluation of pressure generated on a simulated maxillary oral analog by impression materials in custom trays of different spacer designs: An in vitro study.

PubMed

Chopra, Sakshi; Gupta, Narendra Kumar; Tandan, Amrit; Dwivedi, Ravi; Gupta, Swati; Agarwal, Garima

2016-01-01

Literature reveals that masticatory load on denture bearing tissues through complete dentures should be maximum on primary stress bearing areas and least on relief area in accordance with the histology of underlying tissues. A study to validate the existing beliefs was planned to compare the pressure on mucosa using selective pressure technique and minimal pressure technique, with the incorporation of two different impression materials utilizing the pressure sensors during secondary impression procedure. The study was performed using a maxillary analog. Three pressure sensors were imbedded in the oral analog, one in the mid palatine area and the other two in the right and left ridge crest. Custom trays of two different configurations were fabricated. The two impression materials tested were light body and zinc oxide eugenol. A total of 40 impressions were made. A constant weight of 1 kg was placed, and the pressure was recorded as initial and end pressures. A significant difference in the pressure produced using different impression materials was found (P < 0.001). Light body vinyl polysiloxane produced significantly lesser pressure than zinc oxide eugenol impression materials. The presence of relief did affect the magnitude of pressure at various locations. All impression materials produced pressure during maxillary edentulous impression making. Tray modification is an important factor in changing the amount of pressure produced. The impression materials used also had a significant role to play on the pressures acting on the tissues during impression procedure. Light body VPS impression material may be recommended to achieve minimal pressure on the denture bearing tissues in both selective as well as minimal pressure techniques.

Minimizing complications of ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty: an initial experience with no related complications.

PubMed

Tebbetts, J B

1998-10-01

Numerous complications and increased operating times were reported with ultrasonically assisted lipoplasty in the first several months after introduction of the technology in the United States. The purpose of this study was to review early reported complications and management regimens, evaluate possible causes of problems, and apply indications and techniques to attempt to minimize complications during an initial experience with this technique beginning in January of 1997. Seven specific indications and modifications of existing techniques were developed and applied to an initial clinical series of 70 consecutive patients who underwent ultrasound-assisted suction lipoplasty between January 10, 1997, and August 1, 1997. Follow-up ranged from 1 to 7 months. No perioperative or postoperative complication occurred in any patient in this series. In this series of ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty cases, application of the following criteria resulted in a series of 70 patients with 1 to 7-month follow-up without complications: (1) selecting patients with well localized fat deposits who were no more than 20 percent above their ideal body weight; (2) infusing a solution of Ringer's Lactate containing 1 cc of 1:1000 epinephrine per 1000 cc into the area of fat removal, stopping infusion when the tissues first become firm, not infusing to marked tissue turgor or skin induration; (3) restricting the level of energy application to a minimum of 1 cm from the undersurface of the dermis; (4) limiting ultrasonic energy application in each area to approximately 1 minute per estimated 100 cc of total aspirate in a wet to superwet environment; (5) not performing ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty in the same area as another procedure that could potentially compromise tissue vascularity; (6) using a Lysonix 2000 generator and 5-mm golf tee tip probe at a power setting of 8 to apply ultrasonic energy to the area of fat removal, ceasing energy application when tissue resistance to the passage of the probe decreases and moving the cannula as rapidly as tissue resistance allows; and (7) using a standard elastic garment without adherent foam or other materials for 2 weeks postoperatively, encouraging all normal activity immediately, and restricting aerobic activities for 2 weeks.

Validity for the simplified water displacement instrument to measure arm lymphedema as a result of breast cancer surgery.

PubMed

Sagen, Ase; Kåresen, Rolf; Skaane, Per; Risberg, May Arna

2009-05-01

To evaluate concurrent and construct validity for the Simplified Water Displacement Instrument (SWDI), an instrument for measuring arm volumes and arm lymphedema as a result of breast cancer surgery. Validity design. Hospital setting. Women (N=23; mean age, 64+/-11y) were examined 6 years after breast cancer surgery with axillary node dissection. Not applicable. The SWDI was included for measuring arm volumes to estimate arm lymphedema as a result of breast cancer surgery. A computed tomography (CT) scan was included to examine the cross-sectional areas (CSAs) in square millimeters for the subcutaneous tissue, for the muscle tissue, and for measuring tissue density in Hounsfield units. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with T2-weighted sequences was included to show increased signal intensity in subcutaneous and muscle tissue areas. The affected arm volume measured by the SWDI was significantly correlated to the total CSA of the affected upper limb (R=.904) and also to the CSA of the subcutaneous tissue and muscles tissue (R=.867 and R=.725), respectively (P<.001). The CSA of the subcutaneous tissue for the upper limb was significantly larger compared with the control limb (11%). Tissue density measured in Hounsfield units did not correlate significantly with arm volume (P>.05). The affected arm volume was significantly larger (5%) than the control arm volume (P<.05). Five (22%) women had arm lymphedema defined as a 10% increase in the affected arm volume compared with the control arm volume, and an increased signal intensity was identified in all 5 women on MRI (T2-weighted, kappa=.777, P<.001). The SWDI showed high concurrent and construct validity as shown with significant correlations between the CSA (CT) of the subcutaneous and muscle areas of the affected limb and the affected arm volume (P>.001). There was a high agreement between those subjects who were diagnosed with arm lymphedema by using the SWDI and the increased signal intensity on MRI, with a kappa value of .777 (P<.001). High construct validity for the SWDI was confirmed for arm lymphedema as a volume increase, but it was not confirmed for lymphedema without an increase in arm volume (swelling). The SWDI is a simple and valid tool for estimating arm volume and arm lymphedema after breast cancer surgery.

Herbivory alters plant carbon assimilation, patterns of biomass allocation and nitrogen use efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peschiutta, María Laura; Scholz, Fabián Gustavo; Goldstein, Guillermo; Bucci, Sandra Janet

2018-01-01

Herbivory can trigger physiological processes resulting in leaf and whole plant functional changes. The effects of chronic infestation by an insect on leaf traits related to carbon and nitrogen economy in three Prunus avium cultivars were assessed. Leaves from non-infested trees (control) and damaged leaves from infested trees were selected. The insect larvae produce skeletonization of the leaves leaving relatively intact the vein network of the eaten leaves and the abaxial epidermal tissue. At the leaf level, nitrogen content per mass (Nmass) and per area (Narea), net photosynthesis per mass (Amass) and per area (Aarea), photosynthetic nitrogen-use efficiency (PNUE), leaf mass per area (LMA) and total leaf phenols content were measured in the three cultivars. All cultivars responded to herbivory in a similar fashion. The Nmass, Amass, and PNUE decreased, while LMA and total content of phenols increased in partially damaged leaves. Increases in herbivore pressure resulted in lower leaf size and total leaf area per plant across cultivars. Despite this, stem cumulative growth tended to increase in infected plants suggesting a change in the patterns of biomass allocation and in resources sequestration elicited by herbivory. A larger N investment in defenses instead of photosynthetic structures may explain the lower PNUE and Amass observed in damaged leaves. Some physiological changes due to herbivory partially compensate for the cost of leaf removal buffering the carbon economy at the whole plant level.

Skin-Sparing Débridement for Necrotizing Fasciitis in Children.

PubMed

Rüfenacht, Magali S; Montaruli, Ernesto; Chappuis, Eléonore; Posfay-Barbe, Klara M; La Scala, Giorgio C

2016-09-01

Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious soft-tissue infection associated with sepsis and tissue destruction. Surgical management usually requires extensive débridement of necrotic fascia and overlying skin, with significant aesthetic and functional consequences. The authors review the outcome of all recent cases of necrotizing fasciitis treated with skin-sparing débridement at their institution. The authors conducted a retrospective review of all of their cases of necrotizing fasciitis treated with skin-sparing débridement. Medical records were evaluated with a standard form gathering relevant demographic and clinical data. All cases were confirmed as necrotizing fasciitis histologically. Ten patients were admitted with a diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. The median age of the patients was 4.9 years (range, 1.7 to 15.1 years). The majority of initial lesions were caused by chickenpox, mostly on the trunk. Interval from admission to surgery was 6 hours (range, 1 to 27.5 hours), with a median hospital stay of 11 days (range, 5 to 43 days). Median fasciectomy was 2.5 percent (range, 1 to 15 percent) of total body surface area, with a median skin excision of 0.25 percent of total body surface area (range, 0.1 to 3 percent). All patients received intravenous amoxicillin/clavulanic acid plus clindamycin. Delayed direct closure was possible for all patients. Median follow-up was 17 months (range, 3 to 79 months). There was no death in this series. This surgical management restricts skin excision to the area of definite skin necrosis, limiting skin excision to one-tenth of excised fascia, with long-term favorable cosmetic and functional results. Therapeutic, IV.

Evaluation of Human Corneal Lenticule Quality After SMILE With Different Cap Thicknesses Using Scanning Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Weng, Shengbei; Liu, Manli; Yang, Xiaonan; Liu, Fang; Zhou, Yugui; Lin, Haiqin; Liu, Quan

2018-01-01

To evaluate the surface characteristics of lenticules created by small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) with different cap thicknesses. This prospective study included 20 consecutive patients who underwent bilateral SMILE. Surface regularity of the extracted corneal lenticule was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with 2 methods: qualitative and quantitative regularity. Qualitative regularity of SEM images was graded by masked observers using an established scoring system. Quantitative regularity of SEM images was assessed by counting the total number and areas of tissue bridges using Image-Pro Plus software. Four different cap thickness of 120, 130, 140, and 150 μm were compared. Refractive outcomes of patients were measured at baseline and 1 month after surgery. As 10 specimens were not analyzable, only 30 eyes were included. Postoperatively, all eyes had postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better; 43% had an unchanged corrected distance visual acuity; 43% gained 1 line; 10% lost 1 line. Ultrastructurally, surface irregularity was primarily caused by tissue bridges. The average surface regularity score obtained was 10.87 ± 2.40 for 120 μm, 10.78 ± 2.60 for 130 μm, 8.76 ± 2.16 for 140 μm, and 8.70 ± 2.66 for 150 μm (P < 0.001). The total number and areas of tissue bridges of 120 to 130 μm were significantly less than 140 to 150 μm (P < 0.05). Surface regularity decreased as cap thickness increased (P < 0.05). There is smoother appearance of the lenticular surface as seen through SEM when a thin cap is created compared with a thick cap qualitatively and quantitatively.

Alteration of foliar flavonoid chemistry induced by enhanced UV-B radiation in field-grown Pinus ponderosa, Quercus rubra and Pseudotsuga menziesii.

PubMed

Warren, Jeffrey M; Bassman, John H; Mattinson, D Scott; Fellman, John K; Edwards, Gerald E; Robberecht, Ronald

2002-03-01

Chromatographic analyses of foliage from several tree species illustrate the species-specific effects of UV-B radiation on both quantity and composition of foliar flavonoids. Pinus ponderosa, Quercus rubra and Pseudotsuga menziesii were field-grown under modulated ambient (1x) and enhanced (2x) biologically effective UV-B radiation. Foliage was harvested seasonally over a 3-year period, extracted, purified and the flavonoid fraction applied to a mu Bondapak/C(18) column HPLC system sampling at 254 nm. Total flavonoid concentrations in Quercus rubra foliage were more than twice (leaf area basis) that of the other species; Pseudotsuga menziesii foliage had intermediate levels and P. ponderosa had the lowest concentrations of total flavonoids. No statistically significant UV-B radiation-induced effects were found in total foliar flavonoid concentrations for any species; however, concentrations of specific compounds within each species exhibited significant treatment effects. Higher (but statistically insignificant) levels of flavonoids were induced by UV-B irradiation in 1- and 2-year-old P. ponderosa foliage. Total flavonoid concentrations in 2-year-old needles increased by 50% (1x ambient UV-B radiation) or 70% (2x ambient UV-B radiation) from that of 1-year-old tissue. Foliar flavonoids of Q. rubra under enhanced UV-B radiation tended to shift from early-eluting compounds to less polar flavonoids eluting later. There were no clear patterns of UV-B radiation effects on 1-year-old P. menziesii foliage. However, 2-year-old tissue had slightly higher foliar flavonoids under the 2x UV-B radiation treatment compared to ambient levels. Results suggest that enhanced UV-B radiation will alter foliar flavonoid composition and concentrations in forest tree species, which could impact tissue protection, and ultimately, competition, herbivory or litter decomposition.

Chloroplast avoidance movement is not functional in plants grown under strong sunlight.

PubMed

Higa, Takeshi; Wada, Masamitsu

2016-04-01

Chloroplast movement in nine climbing plant species was investigated. It is thought that chloroplasts generally escape from strong light to avoid photodamage but accumulate towards weak light to perform photosynthesis effectively. Unexpectedly, however, the leaves of climbing plants grown under strong sunlight showed very low or no chloroplast photorelocation responses to either weak or strong blue light when detected by red light transmittance through leaves. Direct observations of Cayratia japonica leaves, for example, revealed that the average number of chloroplasts in upper periclinal walls of palisade tissue cells was only 1.2 after weak blue-light irradiation and almost all of the chloroplasts remained at the anticlinal wall, the state of chloroplast avoidance response. The leaves grown under strong light have thin and columnar palisade tissue cells comparing with the leaves grown under low light. Depending on our analyses and our schematic model, the thinner cells in a unit leaf area have a wider total plasma membrane area, such that more chloroplasts can exist on the plasma membrane in the thinner cells than in the thicker cells in a unit leaf-area basis. The same strategy might be used in other plant leaves grown under direct sunlight. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Segmenting breast cancerous regions in thermal images using fuzzy active contours

PubMed Central

Ghayoumi Zadeh, Hossein; Haddadnia, Javad; Rahmani Seryasat, Omid; Mostafavi Isfahani, Sayed Mohammad

2016-01-01

Breast cancer is the main cause of death among young women in developing countries. The human body temperature carries critical medical information related to the overall body status. Abnormal rise in total and regional body temperature is a natural symptom in diagnosing many diseases. Thermal imaging (Thermography) utilizes infrared beams which are fast, non-invasive, and non-contact and the output created images by this technique are flexible and useful to monitor the temperature of the human body. In some clinical studies and biopsy tests, it is necessary for the clinician to know the extent of the cancerous area. In such cases, the thermal image is very useful. In the same line, to detect the cancerous tissue core, thermal imaging is beneficial. This paper presents a fully automated approach to detect the thermal edge and core of the cancerous area in thermography images. In order to evaluate the proposed method, 60 patients with an average age of 44/9 were chosen. These cases were suspected of breast tissue disease. These patients referred to Tehran Imam Khomeini Imaging Center. Clinical examinations such as ultrasound, biopsy, questionnaire, and eventually thermography were done precisely on these individuals. Finally, the proposed model is applied for segmenting the proved abnormal area in thermal images. The proposed model is based on a fuzzy active contour designed by fuzzy logic. The presented method can segment cancerous tissue areas from its borders in thermal images of the breast area. In order to evaluate the proposed algorithm, Hausdorff and mean distance between manual and automatic method were used. Estimation of distance was conducted to accurately separate the thermal core and edge. Hausdorff distance between the proposed and the manual method for thermal core and edge was 0.4719 ± 0.4389, 0.3171 ± 0.1056 mm respectively, and the average distance between the proposed and the manual method for core and thermal edge was 0.0845 ± 0.0619, 0.0710 ± 0.0381 mm respectively. Furthermore, the sensitivity in recognizing the thermal pattern in breast tissue masses is 85 % and its accuracy is 91.98 %.A thermal imaging system has been proposed that is able to recognize abnormal breast tissue masses. This system utilizes fuzzy active contours to extract the abnormal regions automatically. PMID:28096784

Changes in hydraulic conductivity, mechanical properties, and density reflecting the fall in strain along the lateral roots of two species of tropical trees.

PubMed

Christensen-Dalsgaard, Karen K; Ennos, Anthony R; Fournier, Meriem

2007-01-01

Roots have been described as having larger vessels and so greater hydraulic efficiency than the stem. Differences in the strength and stiffness of the tissue within the root system itself are thought to be an adaptation to the loading conditions experienced by the roots and to be related to differences in density. It is not known how potential mechanical adaptations may affect the hydraulic properties of the roots. The change in strength, stiffness, conductivity, density, sapwood area, and second moment of area distally along the lateral roots of two tropical tree species in which the strain is known to decrease rapidly was studied and the values were compared with those of the trunk. It was found that as the strain fell distally along the roots, so did the strength and stiffness of the tissue, whereas the conductivity increased exponentially. These changes appeared to be related to differences in density. In contrast to the distal-most roots, the tissue of the proximal roots had a lower conductivity and higher strength than that of the trunk. This suggests that mechanical requirements on the structure rather than the water potential gradient from roots to branches are responsible for the general pattern that roots have larger vessels than the stem. In spite of their increased transectional area, the buttressed proximal roots were subjected to higher levels of stress and had a lower total conductivity than the rest of the root system.

Total Mercury, Methylmercury, and Carbon and Nitrogen Stable Isotope Data for Biota from Selected Streams in Oregon, Wisconsin, and Florida, 2002-04

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chasar, Lia C.; Scudder, Barbara C.; Bell, Amanda H.; Wentz, Dennis A.; Brigham, Mark E.

2008-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey National Water-Quality Assessment Program conducted a multidisciplinary study to investigate the bioaccumulation of mercury from 2002 to 2004. Study areas were located in Oregon, Wisconsin, and Florida. Each study area included one urban site, and one or two nonurban sites that had the following attributes: high-percent wetland or low-percent wetland. Periphyton, macroinvertebrates, and forage fish were collected twice per year (during 2003 and 2004) to capture seasonality. Top predators, specifically largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), brown trout (Salmo trutta), and cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), were collected once per year (Oregon, Wisconsin, and Florida in 2003; Florida only in 2004). All biota were identified to the lowest possible taxonomic category and were analyzed for mercury and stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes. Periphyton and invertebrates were analyzed for total mercury and methylmercury; fish were analyzed for total mercury only. This report presents (1) methodology and data on mercury, methylmercury, stable isotopes, and (2) other ecologically relevant measurements in biological tissues of periphyton, invertebrates, forage fish, and predator fish.

Accuracy of Raman spectroscopy in differentiating brain tumor from normal brain tissue.

PubMed

Zhang, Jing; Fan, Yimeng; He, Min; Ma, Xuelei; Song, Yanlin; Liu, Ming; Xu, Jianguo

2017-05-30

Raman spectroscopy could be applied to distinguish tumor from normal tissues. This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the accuracy of Raman spectroscopy in differentiating brain tumor from normal brain tissue. PubMed and Embase were searched to identify suitable studies prior to Jan 1st, 2016. We estimated the pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristics (SROC) curves to identity the accuracy of Raman spectroscopy in differentiating brain tumor from normal brain tissue. A total of six studies with 1951 spectra were included. For glioma, the pooled sensitivity and specificity of Raman spectroscopy were 0.96 (95% CI 0.94-0.97) and 0.99 (95% CI 0.98-0.99), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.9831. For meningioma, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.98 (95% CI 0.94-1.00) and 1.00 (95% CI 0.98-1.00), respectively. The AUC was 0.9955. This meta-analysis suggested that Raman spectroscopy could be an effective and accurate tool for differentiating glioma and meningioma from normal brain tissue, which would help us both avoid removal of normal tissue and minimize the volume of residual tumor.

Unique transcriptomic signature of omental adipose tissue in Ossabaw swine: a model of childhood obesity.

PubMed

Toedebusch, Ryan G; Roberts, Michael D; Wells, Kevin D; Company, Joseph M; Kanosky, Kayla M; Padilla, Jaume; Jenkins, Nathan T; Perfield, James W; Ibdah, Jamal A; Booth, Frank W; Rector, R Scott

2014-05-15

To better understand the impact of childhood obesity on intra-abdominal adipose tissue phenotype, a complete transcriptomic analysis using deep RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on omental adipose tissue (OMAT) obtained from lean and Western diet-induced obese juvenile Ossabaw swine. Obese animals had 88% greater body mass, 49% greater body fat content, and a 60% increase in OMAT adipocyte area (all P < 0.05) compared with lean pigs. RNA-seq revealed a 37% increase in the total transcript number in the OMAT of obese pigs. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed transcripts in obese OMAT were primarily enriched in the following categories: 1) development, 2) cellular function and maintenance, and 3) connective tissue development and function, while transcripts associated with RNA posttranslational modification, lipid metabolism, and small molecule biochemistry were reduced. DAVID and Gene Ontology analyses showed that many of the classically recognized gene pathways associated with adipose tissue dysfunction in obese adults including hypoxia, inflammation, angiogenesis were not altered in OMAT in our model. The current study indicates that obesity in juvenile Ossabaw swine is characterized by increases in overall OMAT transcript number and provides novel data describing early transcriptomic alterations that occur in response to excess caloric intake in visceral adipose tissue in a pig model of childhood obesity.

Unique transcriptomic signature of omental adipose tissue in Ossabaw swine: a model of childhood obesity

PubMed Central

Toedebusch, Ryan G.; Roberts, Michael D.; Wells, Kevin D.; Company, Joseph M.; Kanosky, Kayla M.; Padilla, Jaume; Jenkins, Nathan T.; Perfield, James W.; Ibdah, Jamal A.; Booth, Frank W.

2014-01-01

To better understand the impact of childhood obesity on intra-abdominal adipose tissue phenotype, a complete transcriptomic analysis using deep RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on omental adipose tissue (OMAT) obtained from lean and Western diet-induced obese juvenile Ossabaw swine. Obese animals had 88% greater body mass, 49% greater body fat content, and a 60% increase in OMAT adipocyte area (all P < 0.05) compared with lean pigs. RNA-seq revealed a 37% increase in the total transcript number in the OMAT of obese pigs. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed transcripts in obese OMAT were primarily enriched in the following categories: 1) development, 2) cellular function and maintenance, and 3) connective tissue development and function, while transcripts associated with RNA posttranslational modification, lipid metabolism, and small molecule biochemistry were reduced. DAVID and Gene Ontology analyses showed that many of the classically recognized gene pathways associated with adipose tissue dysfunction in obese adults including hypoxia, inflammation, angiogenesis were not altered in OMAT in our model. The current study indicates that obesity in juvenile Ossabaw swine is characterized by increases in overall OMAT transcript number and provides novel data describing early transcriptomic alterations that occur in response to excess caloric intake in visceral adipose tissue in a pig model of childhood obesity. PMID:24642759

Leaving tissue associated with infrequent intracranial EEG seizure onsets is compatible with post-operative seizure freedom

PubMed Central

Huang, Cyrus; Marsh, Eric D.; Ziskind, Daniela M.; Celix, Juanita M.; Peltzer, Bradley; Brown, Merritt W.; Storm, Phillip B.; Litt, Brian; Porter, Brenda E.

2013-01-01

Identify seizure onset electrodes that need to be resected for seizure freedom in children undergoing intracranial electroencephalography recording for treatment of medically refractory epilepsy. All children undergoing intracranial electroencephalography subdural grid electrode placement at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia from 2002-2008 were asked to enroll. We utilized intraoperative pictures to determine the location of the electrodes and define the resection cavity. A total of 15 patients had surgical fields that allowed for complete identification of the electrodes over the area of resection. Eight of 15 patients were seizure free after a follow up of 1.7 to 8 yr. Only one seizure-free patient had complete resection of all seizure onset associated tissue. Seizure free patients had resection of 64.1% of the seizure onset electrode associated tissue, compared to 35.2% in the not seizure free patients (p=0.05). Resection of tissue associated with infrequent seizure onsets did not appear to be important for seizure freedom. Resecting ≥ 90% of the electrodes from the predominant seizure contacts predicted post-operative seizure freedom (p=0.007). The best predictor of seizure freedom was resecting ≥ 90% of tissue involved in majority of a patient’s seizures. Resection of tissue under infrequent seizure onset electrodes was not necessary for seizure freedom. PMID:24563805

Can we settle with single-band radiometric temperature monitoring during hyperthermia treatment of chestwall recurrence of breast cancer using a dual-mode transceiving applicator?

PubMed

Jacobsen, Svein; Stauffer, Paul R

2007-02-21

The total thermal dose that can be delivered during hyperthermia treatments is frequently limited by temperature heterogeneities in the heated tissue volume. Reliable temperature information on the heated area is thus vital for the optimization of clinical dosimetry. Microwave radiometry has been proposed as an accurate, quick and painless temperature sensing technique for biological tissue. Advantages include the ability to sense volume-averaged temperatures from subsurface tissue non-invasively, rather than with a limited set of point measurements typical of implanted temperature probes. We present a procedure to estimate the maximum tissue temperature from a single radiometric brightness temperature which is based on a numerical simulation of 3D tissue temperature distributions induced by microwave heating at 915 MHz. The temperature retrieval scheme is evaluated against errors arising from unknown variations in thermal, electromagnetic and design model parameters. Whereas realistic deviations from base values of dielectric and thermal parameters have only marginal impact on performance, pronounced deviations in estimated maximum tissue temperature are observed for unanticipated variations of the temperature or thickness of the bolus compartment. The need to pay particular attention to these latter applicator construction parameters in future clinical implementation of the thermometric method is emphasized.

Can we settle with single-band radiometric temperature monitoring during hyperthermia treatment of chestwall recurrence of breast cancer using a dual-mode transceiving applicator?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobsen, Svein; Stauffer, Paul R.

2007-02-01

The total thermal dose that can be delivered during hyperthermia treatments is frequently limited by temperature heterogeneities in the heated tissue volume. Reliable temperature information on the heated area is thus vital for the optimization of clinical dosimetry. Microwave radiometry has been proposed as an accurate, quick and painless temperature sensing technique for biological tissue. Advantages include the ability to sense volume-averaged temperatures from subsurface tissue non-invasively, rather than with a limited set of point measurements typical of implanted temperature probes. We present a procedure to estimate the maximum tissue temperature from a single radiometric brightness temperature which is based on a numerical simulation of 3D tissue temperature distributions induced by microwave heating at 915 MHz. The temperature retrieval scheme is evaluated against errors arising from unknown variations in thermal, electromagnetic and design model parameters. Whereas realistic deviations from base values of dielectric and thermal parameters have only marginal impact on performance, pronounced deviations in estimated maximum tissue temperature are observed for unanticipated variations of the temperature or thickness of the bolus compartment. The need to pay particular attention to these latter applicator construction parameters in future clinical implementation of the thermometric method is emphasized.

Association Between Mast Cells and Collagen Maturation in Chronic Periodontitis in Humans.

PubMed

E Ribeiro, Lívia S F; Dos Santos, Jean N; Rocha, Clarissa A G; Cury, Patricia R

2018-03-01

Mast cells (MCs) can influence the maturation of collagen fibers. This study evaluated the relationship between the distribution and degranulation of MCs and collagen maturation in human gingival tissue in chronic periodontitis. A total of 16 specimens of patients clinically diagnosed as periodontitis and 18 controls clinically diagnosed as healthy or gingivitis were included. Immunohistochemistry and Picrosirius staining were performed to identify MCs and assess collagen fibers, respectively. Chi-square, t test, and Pearson's correlation test ( p<0.05) were used. In control specimens, there was a positive association between MCs in the connective tissue and the presence of immature collagen ( p=0.001); in periodontitis samples, this association was not confirmed ( p≥0.12). There was no significant relationship between periodontal diagnosis and collagen maturation or MC degranulation ( p≥0.35). MC density was significantly higher ( p=0.04) in periodontitis tissue (339.01 ± 188.94 MCs/mm 2 ) than in control tissue (211.14 ± 131.13 MCs/mm 2 ) in the area of connective tissue containing inflammatory infiltrate. There was a correlation between the number of MCs and probing depth ( r = 0.34, p=0.04). MCs are involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases and might be associated with collagen maturation in periodontal tissue during the early stages of periodontal disease pathogenesis.

Quantitative MRI and strength measurements in the assessment of muscle quality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

PubMed

Wokke, B H; van den Bergen, J C; Versluis, M J; Niks, E H; Milles, J; Webb, A G; van Zwet, E W; Aartsma-Rus, A; Verschuuren, J J; Kan, H E

2014-05-01

The purpose of this study was to assess leg muscle quality and give a detailed description of leg muscle involvement in a series of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients using quantitative MRI and strength measurements. Fatty infiltration, as well as total and contractile (not fatty infiltrated) cross sectional areas of various leg muscles were determined in 16 Duchenne patients and 11 controls (aged 8-15). To determine specific muscle strength, four leg muscle groups (quadriceps femoris, hamstrings, anterior tibialis and triceps surae) were measured and related to the amount of contractile tissue. In patients, the quadriceps femoris showed decreased total and contractile cross sectional area, attributable to muscle atrophy. The total, but not the contractile, cross sectional area of the triceps surae was increased in patients, corresponding to hypertrophy. Specific strength decreased in all four muscle groups of Duchenne patients, indicating reduced muscle quality. This suggests that muscle hypertrophy and fatty infiltration are two distinct pathological processes, differing between muscle groups. Additionally, the quality of remaining muscle fibers is severely reduced in the legs of Duchenne patients. The combination of quantitative MRI and quantitative muscle testing could be a valuable outcome parameter in longitudinal studies and in the follow-up of therapeutic effects. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of Tissue to Total Mass Correction Factor for Porites divaricata in Calcification Rate Studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cannone, T. C.; Kelly, S. K.; Foster, K.

2013-05-01

One anticipated result of ocean acidification is lower calcification rates of corals. Many studies currently use the buoyant weights of coral nubbins as a means of estimating skeletal weight during non-destructive experiments. The objectives of this study, conducted at the Little Cayman Research Centre, were twofold: (1) to determine whether the purple and yellow color variations of Porites divaricata had similar tissue mass to total mass ratios; and (2) to determine a correction factor for tissue mass based on the total coral mass. T-test comparisons indicated that the tissue to total mass ratios were statistically similar for purple and yellow cohorts, thus allowing them to be grouped together within a given sample population. Linear regression analysis provided a correction factor (r2 = 0.69) to estimate the tissue mass from the total mass, which may eliminate the need to remove tissue during studies and allow subsequent testing on the same nubbins or their return to the natural environment. Additional work is needed in the development of a correction factor for P. divaricata with a higher prediction accuracy.

A stepwedge-based method for measuring breast density: observer variability and comparison with human reading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diffey, Jenny; Berks, Michael; Hufton, Alan; Chung, Camilla; Verow, Rosanne; Morrison, Joanna; Wilson, Mary; Boggis, Caroline; Morris, Julie; Maxwell, Anthony; Astley, Susan

2010-04-01

Breast density is positively linked to the risk of developing breast cancer. We have developed a semi-automated, stepwedge-based method that has been applied to the mammograms of 1,289 women in the UK breast screening programme to measure breast density by volume and area. 116 images were analysed by three independent operators to assess inter-observer variability; 24 of these were analysed on 10 separate occasions by the same operator to determine intra-observer variability. 168 separate images were analysed using the stepwedge method and by two radiologists who independently estimated percentage breast density by area. There was little intra-observer variability in the stepwedge method (average coefficients of variation 3.49% - 5.73%). There were significant differences in the volumes of glandular tissue obtained by the three operators. This was attributed to variations in the operators' definition of the breast edge. For fatty and dense breasts, there was good correlation between breast density assessed by the stepwedge method and the radiologists. This was also observed between radiologists, despite significant inter-observer variation. Based on analysis of thresholds used in the stepwedge method, radiologists' definition of a dense pixel is one in which the percentage of glandular tissue is between 10 and 20% of the total thickness of tissue.

DDT contamination in selected estuarine and coastal marine finfish and shellfish of New Jersey.

PubMed

Kennish, M J; Ruppel, B E

1996-08-01

Analysis of DDT contamination in selected finfish and shellfish species from estuarine and coastal marine waters of New Jersey (USA) reveals consistently highest organochlorine pesticide levels in samples from the north and northeast regions of the state. The mean concentrations of DDT and its metabolites, DDE and DDD, in bluefish, striped bass, weakfish, and blue crabs collected at 27 stations throughout the state between 1988 and 1991 ranged from <25 to >300 microg/kg wet weight (wet wt). Gas chromatographic analysis of 175 tissue samples from these four species showed that the highest levels of DDTs (DDT plus DDE and DDD), exceeding 300 microg/kg wet wt, occurred in blue crabs (hepatopancreas) from the Hudson-Newark-Raritan Bay complex in the northeast region. Lower mean concentrations of DDTs (<200 microg/kg wet wt) were recorded in tissue samples of these species from all other regions of the state. The lowest levels of DDT contamination (mean <110 microg/kg wet wt) were found in samples from the south coast region. The greatest impact of DDT contamination is nearby metropolitan areas of the state, although the total concentrations of DDT in tissue samples from these areas are far less than the U.S. Food and Drug Administration action level of 5,000 microg/kg wet wt for this contaminant.

CT-based investigation of the contraction of ex vivo tissue undergoing microwave thermal ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lopresto, Vanni; Strigari, Lidia; Farina, Laura; Minosse, Silvia; Pinto, Rosanna; D'Alessio, Daniela; Cassano, Bartolomeo; Cavagnaro, Marta

2018-03-01

Treatment planning in microwave thermal ablation (MTA) requires the capability to predict and estimate the shape and dimension of the thermally coagulated zone obtainable following a clinical protocol. The ultimate result relies on the knowledge of the performance of the ablation device, as well as of the temperature-dependent structural modifications that the tissue undergoes during the treatment, because of the very high temperatures reached (up to 100 °C or higher). In this respect, tissue shrinkage plays an important role, since the dimension of the ablated tissue evaluated at the end of the MTA procedure (e.g. by way of CT imaging) could underestimate the actual treated tissue, leading to inaccurate assessment of the treatment outcome. In this study, CT imaging was used for real-time monitoring of tissue contraction during MTA experiments carried out in ex vivo bovine liver. Fiducial lead markers were positioned into the tissue in a 3D spatial grid around the MTA applicator. The spatial and temporal evolution of tissue contraction was imaged during the experiments, and analysed in terms of displacements of clusters of fiducial markers. The results obtained indicated that contraction is highly heterogeneous in the zone of ablation, depending both on the heating and on interactions with nearby tissue. In particular, tissue shrinkage appeared asymmetric with respect to the direction of insertion of the microwave applicator in the central area of carbonised tissue (about 30% and 19% along the radial and longitudinal directions, respectively), and isotropic in the region of coagulated (but not carbonised) tissue (about 11%). The total ablated volume was reduced by approximately 43% with respect to its pre-ablation value. Finally, temperature measurements displayed a correlation between temperature increment and temporal evolution of tissue contraction in the zone of ablation.

Development of time-resolved reflectance diffuse optical tomography for breast cancer monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshimoto, Kenji; Ohmae, Etsuko; Yamashita, Daisuke; Suzuki, Hiroaki; Homma, Shu; Mimura, Tetsuya; Wada, Hiroko; Suzuki, Toshihiko; Yoshizawa, Nobuko; Nasu, Hatsuko; Ogura, Hiroyuki; Sakahara, Harumi; Yamashita, Yutaka; Ueda, Yukio

2017-02-01

We developed a time-resolved reflectance diffuse optical tomography (RDOT) system to measure tumor responses to chemotherapy in breast cancer patients at the bedside. This system irradiates the breast with a three-wavelength pulsed laser (760, 800, and 830 nm) through a source fiber specified by an optical switch. The light collected by detector fibers is guided to a detector unit consisting of variable attenuators and photomultiplier tubes. Thirteen irradiation and 12 detection points were set to a measurement area of 50 × 50 mm for a hand-held probe. The data acquisition time required to obtain the temporal profiles within the measurement area is about 2 minutes. The RDOT system generates topographic and tomographic images of tissue properties such as hemoglobin concentration and tissue oxygen saturation using two imaging methods. Topographic images are obtained from the optical properties determined for each source-detector pair using a curve-fitting method based on the photon diffusion theory, while tomographic images are reconstructed using an iterative image reconstruction method. In an experiment using a tissue-like solid phantom, a tumor-like cylindrical target (15 mm diameter, 15 mm high) embedded in a breast tissue-like background medium was successfully reconstructed. Preliminary clinical measurements indicated that the tumor in a breast cancer patient was detected as a region of high hemoglobin concentration. In addition, the total hemoglobin concentration decreased during chemotherapy. These results demonstrate the potential of RDOT for evaluating the effectiveness of chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer.

Progressive Tightening of Pulley Sutures for Primary Repair of Large Scalp Wounds

PubMed Central

McLaughlin, Jillian M.; Ross, Lindy S.; Phillips, Linda G.; Wagner, Richard F.

2017-01-01

Summary: Scalp defects greater than 2 cm in diameter are not usually amenable to primary closure and require local tissue rearrangement, grafting, tissue expansion, or prolonged second intention healing. Scalp flap reconstruction is a significant undertaking that requires elevation of a total flap surface area that is 3–6 times the size of the defect, often involves profuse bleeding, and can be challenging to perform without conscious sedation or general anesthesia. Anticoagulated and medically complex patients pose additional challenges and limit options for treatment. The pulley suture uses the mechanical advantage of the pulley to distribute tension across a wound and is useful in areas of high tension such as scalp wounds. For scalp wounds greater than 2 cm, pulley sutures are placed along the length of the wound. An assistant exerts equal tension on the pulley sutures, and the surgeon sequentially ties the sutures. The sutures are tightened and retied weekly until complete scalp closure is achieved. The pulley sutures can be used for rapid primary closure of scalp wounds up to 2.5–3.0 cm in diameter under local anesthesia. For scalp wounds larger than 3 cm, we have also found that pulley sutures can be progressively tightened yielding additional tissue expansion every week. Scalp wounds greater than 3.0 cm can be easily closed via primary repair and weekly tightening of pulley sutures without the need for flap reconstruction, traditional tissue expander placement, or second intention healing. PMID:29632771

Use of cryostat sections from snap-frozen nervous tissue for combining stereological estimates with histological, cellular, or molecular analyses on adjacent sections.

PubMed

Schmitz, C; Dafotakis, M; Heinsen, H; Mugrauer, K; Niesel, A; Popken, G J; Stephan, M; Van de Berg, W D; von Hörsten, S; Korr, H

2000-10-01

Adequate tissue preparation is essential for both modern stereological and immunohistochemical investigations. However, combining these methodologies in a single study presents a number of obstacles pertaining to optimal histological preparation. Tissue shrinkage and loss of nuclei/nucleoli from the unprotected section surfaces of unembedded tissue used for immunohistochemistry may be problematic with regard to adequate stereological design. In this study, frozen cryostat sections from hippocampal and cerebellar regions of two rat strains and cerebellar and cerebral regions from a human brain were analyzed to determine the potential impact of these factors on estimates of neuron number obtained using the optical disector. Neuronal nuclei and nucleoli were clearly present in thin sections of snap-frozen rat (3 microm) and human (6 microm) tissue, indicating that neuronal nuclei/nucleoli are not unavoidably lost from unprotected section surfaces of unembedded tissue. In order to quantify the potential impact of any nuclear loss, optical fractionator estimates of rat hippocampal pyramidal cells in areas CA1-3 and cerebellar granule and Purkinje cells were made using minimal (1 microm) upper guard zones. Estimates did not differ from data reported previously in the literature. This data indicates that cryostat sections of snap-frozen nervous tissue may successfully be used for estimating total neuronal numbers using optical disectors.

Tissue response to collagen containing polypropylene meshes in an ovine vaginal repair model.

PubMed

Darzi, Saeedeh; Urbankova, Iva; Su, Kai; White, Jacinta; Lo, Camden; Alexander, David; Werkmeister, Jerome A; Gargett, Caroline E; Deprest, Jan

2016-07-15

Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is the herniation of pelvic organs into the vagina. Despite broad acceptance of mesh use in POP surgical repair, the complication rate is unacceptable. We hypothesized that collagen-containing polypropylene (PP) mesh types could modulate mesh-tissue integration and reduce long-term inflammation, thereby reducing mesh-associated complications. This study compared the long-term tissue response to an unmodified PP mesh and two collagen containing meshes in an ovine model which has similar pelvic anatomy and vaginal size to human. Three commercially available macroporous PP meshes, uncoated PP mesh (Avaulta Solo) (PP), the same textile PP mesh layered with a sheet of cross-linked porcine acellular matrix (Avaulta Plus) (PP-ACM) and a different yet also macroporous PP (Sofradim) mesh coated with solubilized atelocollagen (Ugytex) (PP-sCOL) were implanted in the ovine vagina and tissue explanted after 60 and 180days. The macrophage phenotype and response to implanted meshes, and vascularity were quantified by immunostaining and morphometry. We quantified changes in extracellular matrix composition biochemically and collagen organisation and percentage area around the interface of the mesh implants by Sirius Red birefringence and morphometry. PP-ACM induced a more sustained inflammatory response, indicated by similar CD45(+) leukocytes but reduced CD163(+) M2 macrophages at 60days (P<0.05). PP-sCOL increased Von Willebrand Factor (vWF)-immunoreactive vessel profiles after 60days. At the micro-molecular level, collagen birefringence quantification revealed significantly fewer mature collagen fibrils (red, thick fibrils) at the mesh-tissue interface than control tissue for all mesh types (P<0.001) but still significantly greater than the proportion of immature (green thin fibrils) at 60days (P<0.05). The proportion of mature collagen fibrils increased with time around the mesh filaments, particularly those containing collagen. The total collagen percent area at the mesh interface was greatest around the PP-ACM mesh at 60days (P<0.05). By 180days the total mature and immature collagen fibres at the interface of the mesh filaments resembled that of native tissue. In particular, these results suggest that both meshes containing collagen evoke different types of tissue responses at different times during the healing response yet both ultimately lead to physiological tissue formation approaching that of normal tissue. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is the descent of the pelvic organs to the vagina. POP affects more than 25% of all women and the lifetime risk of undergoing POP surgery is 19%. Although synthetic polypropylene (PP) meshes have improved the outcome of the surgical treatment for POP, there was an unacceptable rate of adverse events including mesh exposure and contracture. It is hypothesized that coating the PP meshes with collagen would provide a protective effect by preventing severe mesh adhesions to the wound, resulting in a better controlled initial inflammatory response, and diminished risk of exposure. In this study we assessed the effect of two collagen-containing PP meshes on the long-term vaginal tissue response using new techniques to quantify these tissue responses. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Accurate Measurements of the Skin Surface Area of the Healthy Auricle and Skin Deficiency in Microtia Patients

PubMed Central

van Doremalen, Rob F. M.; Melchels, Ferry P. W.; Kolodzynski, Michail N.; Pouran, Behdad; Malda, Jos; Kon, Moshe; Breugem, Corstiaan C.

2016-01-01

Background: The limited cranial skin covering auricular implants is an important yet underrated factor in auricular reconstruction for both reconstruction surgery and tissue engineering strategies. We report exact measurements on skin deficiency in microtia patients and propose an accessible preoperative method for these measurements. Methods: Plaster ear models (n = 11; male:female = 2:1) of lobular-type microtia patients admitted to the University Medical Center Utrecht in The Netherlands were scanned using a micro-computed tomographic scanner or a cone-beam computed tomographic scanner. The resulting images were converted into mesh models from which the surface area could be calculated. Results: The mean total skin area of an adult-size healthy ear was 47.3 cm2, with 49.0 cm2 in men and 44.3 cm2 in women. Microtia ears averaged 14.5 cm2, with 15.6 cm2 in men and 12.6 cm2 in women. The amount of skin deficiency was 25.4 cm2, with 26.7 cm2 in men and 23.1 cm2 in women. Conclusions: This study proposes a novel method to provide quantitative data on the skin surface area of the healthy adult auricle and the amount of skin deficiency in microtia patients. We demonstrate that the microtia ear has less than 50% of skin available compared with healthy ears. Limited skin availability in microtia patients can lead to healing problems after auricular reconstruction and poses a significant challenge in the development of tissue-engineered cartilage implants. The results of this study could be used to evaluate outcomes and investigate new techniques with regard to tissue-engineered auricular constructs. PMID:28293505

Comparison of labeled acetate and glucose incorporations into lipids in the liver and adipose tissue after intravenous injection in rats.

PubMed

Iritani, Nobuko; Hirakawa, Tomoe; Fukuda, Hitomi; Katsukawa, Michiko; Kouno, Mika

2014-01-01

To compare incorporations of acetate and glucose in tissue total lipids and triacylglycerols (TAG), incorporations of labeled acetate and glucose in livers and epididymal adipose tissues (adipose tissue) were followed after their intravenous injection in the tail vein of individual rat fed a fat-free or 10% corn oil diet. The incorporation of acetate into total lipids (mostly TAG) in the liver reached maximum 2 h after the injection, while the incorporation of glucose decreased more quickly. Incorporation of glucose into total lipids and TAG was more greatly suppressed by dietary corn oil than that of acetate in the liver. In the adipose tissues, the incorporation of labeled acetate or glucose into total lipids was maximum 2-8 h after the injection, while the incorporation of glucose was very low, especially in rats fed the corn oil diet. Moreover, the time courses for labeled acetate and glucose incorporations into total lipids in the liver were parallel to those in plasma, but opposite to those in adipose tissue. TAG synthesized from acetate and glucose in the liver appeared to be mostly transported to adipose tissue. Thus, it is suggested that as the labeled glucose rapidly decreased in the liver, plasma and adipose tissue, TAG should be less derived from dietary carbohydrate than from dietary fat.

Changes of Cyanide Content and Linamarase Activity in Wounded Cassava Roots 1

PubMed Central

Kojima, Mineo; Iwatsuki, Norio; Data, Emma S.; Villegas, Cynthia Dolores V.; Uritani, Ikuzo

1983-01-01

When cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) root was cut into blocks and incubated under laboratory conditions, the blocks showed more widespread and more even symptoms of physiological deterioration than those under natural conditions. Thus, the tissue block system has potential for biochemical studies of natural deterioration of cassava root. The changes in cyanide content and linamarase (linamarin β-d-glucoside glucohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.21) activity in various tissues during physiological deterioration were investigated. Total cyanide content increased in all parts of block tissue after 3-day incubation. The degree of increase in cyanide was most pronounced in white parenchymal tissue, 2 to 3 millimeters thick, next to the cortex (A-part tissue), where no physiological symptoms appeared. On the other hand, linamarase activity was decreased in all parts of block tissue after a 3-day incubation. A time course analysis of A-part tissue indicated a clear reciprocal relationship between changes in total cyanide and linamarase activity; total cyanide increased, while linamarase activity decreased. Free cyanide constituted a very small portion of the total cyanide and did not change markedly. Images Fig. 2 PMID:16662957

Effect of starvation and refeeding on the hepatopancreas of whiteleg shrimp Penaeus vannamei (Boone) using computer-assisted image analysis.

PubMed

Cervellione, F; McGurk, C; Berger Eriksen, T; Van den Broeck, W

2017-11-01

Under normal farming conditions, shrimp can experience starvation periods attributable to disease outbreaks or adverse environmental conditions. Starvation leads to significant morphological changes in the hepatopancreas (HP), being the main organ for absorption and storage of nutrients. In the literature, limited research has described the effect on the HP of periods of starvation followed by refeeding and none in whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) using computer-assisted image analysis (CAIA). This study describes the effect of starvation and starvation followed by refeeding on the HP of whiteleg shrimp using CAIA. Visiopharm ® software was used to quantify the following morphological parameters, measured as ratio to the total tissue area (TLA): total lumen area (TLA:TTA), haemocytic infiltration area in the intertubular spaces (HIA:TTA), B-cell vacuole area (VBA:TTA), lipid droplet area within R cells (LDA:TTA) and F-cell area (FCA:TTA). Significant changes were measured for HIA:TTA and LDA:TTA during starvation (increase in HIA:TTA associated with decrease in LDA:TTA) and starvation followed by refeeding (decrease in HIA:TTA associated with increase in LDA:TTA). In the future, HIA:TTA and LDA:TTA have the potential to be used in a pre-emptive manner to monitor the health of the HP, facilitate early diagnosis of diseases and study the pathophysiology of the organ. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The reliability of a segmentation methodology for assessing intramuscular adipose tissue and other soft-tissue compartments of lower leg MRI images.

PubMed

Karampatos, Sarah; Papaioannou, Alexandra; Beattie, Karen A; Maly, Monica R; Chan, Adrian; Adachi, Jonathan D; Pritchard, Janet M

2016-04-01

Determine the reliability of a magnetic resonance (MR) image segmentation protocol for quantifying intramuscular adipose tissue (IntraMAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue, total muscle and intermuscular adipose tissue (InterMAT) of the lower leg. Ten axial lower leg MRI slices were obtained from 21 postmenopausal women using a 1 Tesla peripheral MRI system. Images were analyzed using sliceOmatic™ software. The average cross-sectional areas of the tissues were computed for the ten slices. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability were determined and expressed as the standard error of measurement (SEM) (absolute reliability) and intraclass coefficient (ICC) (relative reliability). Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability for IntraMAT were 0.991 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.978-0.996, p < 0.05) and 0.983 (95% CI 0.958-9.993, p < 0.05), respectively. For the other soft tissue compartments, the ICCs were all >0.90 (p < 0.05). The absolute intra-rater and inter-rater reliability (expressed as SEM) for segmenting IntraMAT were 22.19 mm(2) (95% CI 16.97-32.04) and 78.89 mm(2) (95% CI 60.36-113.92), respectively. This is a reliable segmentation protocol for quantifying IntraMAT and other soft-tissue compartments of the lower leg. A standard operating procedure manual is provided to assist users, and SEM values can be used to estimate sample size and determine confidence in repeated measurements in future research.

Total mandibular subapical osteotomy and Le Fort I osteotomy using piezosurgery and computer-aided designed and manufactured surgical splints: a favorable combination of three techniques in the management of severe mouth asymmetry in Parry-Romberg syndrome.

PubMed

Scolozzi, Paolo; Herzog, Georges

2014-05-01

Although its pathogenesis remains obscure, Parry-Romberg syndrome (PRS) has been associated with the linear scleroderma en coup de sabre. PRS is characterized by unilateral facial atrophy of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscles, and bones with at least 1 dermatome supplied by the trigeminal nerve. Facial asymmetry represents the most common sequela and can involve the soft tissues, craniomaxillofacial skeleton, dentoalveolar area, and temporomandibular joint. Although orthognathic procedures have been reported for skeletal reconstruction, treatment of facial asymmetry has been directed to augmentation of the soft tissue volume on the atrophic side using different recontouring or volumetric augmentation techniques. Total mandibular subapical osteotomy has been used in the management of dentofacial deformities, such as open bite and mandibular dentoalveolar retrusion or protrusion associated with an imbalance between the lower lip and the chin. Management of orthognathic procedures has been improved by the recent introduction of stereolithographic surgical splints using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology and piezosurgery. Piezosurgery has increased security during surgery, especially for delicate procedures associated with a high risk of nerve injury. The present report describes a combined total mandibular subapical osteotomy and Le Fort I osteotomy using piezosurgery and surgical splints fabricated using CAD and CAM for the correction of severe mouth asymmetry related to vertical dentoalveolar disharmony in a patient with PRS. Copyright © 2014 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Deficient expression of DNA repair enzymes in early progression to sporadic colon cancer

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Cancers often arise within an area of cells (e.g. an epithelial patch) that is predisposed to the development of cancer, i.e. a "field of cancerization" or "field defect." Sporadic colon cancer is characterized by an elevated mutation rate and genomic instability. If a field defect were deficient in DNA repair, DNA damages would tend to escape repair and give rise to carcinogenic mutations. Purpose To determine whether reduced expression of DNA repair proteins Pms2, Ercc1 and Xpf (pairing partner of Ercc1) are early steps in progression to colon cancer. Results Tissue biopsies were taken during colonoscopies of 77 patients at 4 different risk levels for colon cancer, including 19 patients who had never had colonic neoplasia (who served as controls). In addition, 158 tissue samples were taken from tissues near or within colon cancers removed by resection and 16 tissue samples were taken near tubulovillous adenomas (TVAs) removed by resection. 568 triplicate tissue sections (a total of 1,704 tissue sections) from these tissue samples were evaluated by immunohistochemistry for 4 DNA repair proteins. Substantially reduced protein expression of Pms2, Ercc1 and Xpf occurred in field defects of up to 10 cm longitudinally distant from colon cancers or TVAs and within colon cancers. Expression of another DNA repair protein, Ku86, was infrequently reduced in these areas. When Pms2, Ercc1 or Xpf were reduced in protein expression, then either one or both of the other two proteins most often had reduced protein expression as well. The mean inner colon circumferences, from 32 resections, of the ascending, transverse and descending/sigmoid areas were measured as 6.6 cm, 5.8 cm and 6.3 cm, respectively. When combined with other measurements in the literature, this indicates the approximate mean number of colonic crypts in humans is 10 million. Conclusions The substantial deficiencies in protein expression of DNA repair proteins Pms2, Ercc1 and Xpf in about 1 million crypts near cancers and TVAs suggests that the tumors arose in field defects that were deficient in DNA repair and that deficiencies in Pms2, Ercc1 and Xpf are early steps, often occurring together, in progression to colon cancer. PMID:22494821

A summary of total mercury concentrations in flora and fauna near common contaminant sources in the Gulf of Mexico.

PubMed

Lewis, M; Chancy, C

2008-02-01

Total mercury concentrations are summarized for environmental media and biota collected from near-coastal areas, several impacted by contaminant sources common to the Gulf of Mexico. Water, sediment, fish, blue crabs, oysters, clams, mussels, periphyton and seagrasses were collected during 1993-2002 from targeted areas affected by point and non-point source contaminants. Mean concentrations in water and sediment were 0.02 (+/-1 standard deviation=0.06) microg l(-1) and 96.3 (230.8) ng g(-1) dry wt, respectively. Mean total mercury concentrations in fish, blue crabs, brackish clams and mussels were significantly greater than those in sediment, seagrass, colonized periphyton and oysters. Concentrations (ng g(-1) dry wt) averaged 23.1 (two seagrass species), 220.1 (oysters), 287.8 (colonized periphyton), 604.0 (four species of freshwater mussels), 772.4 (brackish clam), 857.9 (blue crabs) and 933.1 (nine fish species). Spatial, intraspecific and interspecific variability in results limited most generalizations concerning the relative mercury contributions of different stressor types. However, concentrations were significantly greater for some biota collected from areas receiving wastewater discharges and golf course runoff (fish), agricultural runoff (oysters) and urban stormwater runoff (colonized periphyton and sediment). Marine water quality criteria and proposed sediment quality guidelines were exceeded in 1-12% of total samples. At least one seafood consumption guideline, criteria or screening value were exceeded in edible tissues of blue crabs (6% total samples) and nine fish species (8-33% total samples) but all residues were less than the US Federal Drug Administration action limit of 1.0 ppm and the few reported toxic effect concentrations available for the targeted biota.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, central plateau, southeastern, and southern Brazil.

PubMed

Figueiredo, Luiz T M; Moreli, Marcos L; de-Sousa, Ricardo L M; Borges, Alessandra A; de-Figueiredo, Glauciane G; Machado, Alex M; Bisordi, Ivani; Nagasse-Sugahara, Teresa K; Suzuki, Akemi; Pereira, Luiz E; de-Souza, Renato P; de-Souza, Luiza T M; Braconi, Carla T; Harsi, Charlotte M; de-Andrade-Zanotto, Paolo M

2009-04-01

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is an increasing health problem in Brazil because of encroachment of sprawling urban, agricultural, and cattle-raising areas into habitats of subfamily Sigmodontinae rodents, which serve as hantavirus reservoirs. From 1993 through June 2007, a total of 884 cases of HPS were reported in Brazil (case-fatality rate 39%). To better understand this emerging disease, we collected 89 human serum samples and 68 rodent lung samples containing antibodies to hantavirus from a 2,500-km-wide area in Brazil. RNA was isolated from human samples and rodent tissues and subjected to reverse transcription-PCR. Partial sequences of nucleocapsid protein and glycoprotein genes from 22 human and 16 rodent sources indicated only Araraquara virus and Juquitiba virus lineages. The case-fatality rate of HPS was higher in the area with Araraquara virus. This virus, which may be the most virulent hantavirus in Brazil, was associated with areas that have had greater anthropogenic changes.

[Experimental hypertony caused by obstruction of the anterior chamber angle ab interno (author's transl)].

PubMed

Maguritsas, N; Vikas, C; Theodossiadis, G; Vergados, I; Velissaropoulos, P

1976-07-01

In 30 rabbits, separated into 3 groups (A, B and C), the entire area (A), three quarters (B) half of the anterior chamber angle (C) was experimentally obstructed by means of a homologous scleral graft. In groups A and B a statistically significant change of the intraocular pressure and of the cornea diameter was shown as compared with the control eye and group C. This change is due to the obstructed area of the angle. The increased intraocular pressure lasted for some months. The graft was well tolerated by the tissue of the angle and the obstruction of the angle was total, as was confirmed by means of the histological preparations.

Measurement of funny current (I(f)) channel mRNA in human atrial tissue: correlation with left atrial filling pressure and atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Lai, L P; Su, M J; Lin, J L; Tsai, C H; Lin, F Y; Chen, Y S; Hwang, J J; Huang, S K; Tseng, Y Z; Lien, W P

1999-07-01

The funny current (I(f)) contributes to phase IV spontaneous depolarization in cardiac pacemaker tissue. Enhanced I(f) activity in myocardial tissue may lead to increased automaticity and therefore tachyarrhythmia. We measured the amount of I(f) activity in the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) in human atrial tissue and correlated the mRNA amount to left atrial filling pressure and atrial fibrillation (AF). A total of 34 patients undergoing open heart surgery were included (15 men and 19 women, aged 55+/-10 years). Atrial tissue was obtained from the right atrial free wall, the right atrial appendage, the left atrial free wall, and the left atrial appendage, respectively. The mRNA amount of the I(f) channel was measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and was normalized to the mRNA levels of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase. We found that the I(f) channel mRNA was present at all the atrial sampling sites. A higher left atrial filling pressure, an indicator of congestive heart failure, was associated with a higher I(f) mRNA level (r2 = 0.446, P < 0.01 by linear regression). We also found that the mRNA amount was significantly higher in patients with AF than in patients without AF (1.68+/-0.49 vs 1.27+/-0.43; P < 0.05). Age, sex, right atrial filling pressure, left atrial dimension, and left ventricular ejection fraction had no significant effect on the mRNA level. The mRNA of the I(f) channel is present in the free-wall area and appendage area from both atria. Increased left atrial filling pressure and clinical AF are associated with increased I(f) mRNA level.

A mussel-inspired double-crosslinked tissue adhesive on rat mastectomy model: seroma prevention and in vivo biocompatibility.

PubMed

Zhu, Wenzhen; Yang, Jian; Iqbal, Jabed; Peck, Yvonne; Fan, Changjiang; Wang, Dong-An

2017-07-01

Seroma formation is a common postsurgical complication of breast cancer surgery. It delays wound healing and may lead to other more serious complications. Conventional methods of reducing seroma formation through suturing or placement of surgical drainage produce inconsistent clinical outcomes. Tissue adhesives are viable alternatives but most of them are unsuitable for internal use and for large-area applications because of weak tissue adhesion strength or biocompatibility issues. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and biocompatibility of a mussel-inspired double-crosslinked tissue adhesive (DCTA) in reducing seroma formation after mastectomy. Thirty-six female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either the saline control group (n = 12), the TISSEEL sealant (Baxter) group (n = 12), or the DCTA group (n = 12). After performing a mastectomy and applying the corresponding treatment, the efficacy of DCTA was evaluated by measurement of seroma volume while its biocompatibility was assessed via micronuclei test and histopathologic examination. During the 1-wk postsurgical period, the average total seroma volume of DCTA was significantly lower than the saline control group. Importantly, the mean seroma volume in DCTA showed a decreasing trend, whereas those in TISSEEL and saline control groups showed otherwise. The application of DCTA showed no genotoxic effect on the host and no severe inflammation. This study demonstrates that the good tissue adhesion strength and stability of DCTA were successful in reducing seroma formation over a period of 1 wk. Furthermore, the results also showed that it is biocompatible, which makes it suitable for large-area, internal use. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effect of peripheral chronic salsolinol administration on fat pad adipocytes morphological parameters.

PubMed

Aleksandrovych, Veronika; Kurnik, Magdalena; Białas, Magdalena; Bugajski, Andrzej; Thor, Piotr; Gil, Krzysztof

Salsolinol (1-methyl-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline) is thought to regulate dopaminergic neurons and to act as a mediator in the neuroendocrine system. We have previously reported that exogenous salsolinol evokes enteric neuronal cell death, leading to the impairment of myenteric neurons density and abnormal intestinal transit in rats. We also observed significant reduction of body weight, related to the disrupted gastrointestinal homeostasis. e aim of current study was to evaluate the influence of prolonged salsolinol administration body weight, food intake, adipose tissue accumulation and fad pad adipocyte morphological parameters assessed by image analysis. Male Wistar rats were subjected to continuous intraperitoneal low dosing of salsolinol - 200 mg/kg in total with ALZET osmotic mini-pumps (Durtec, USA) for 2 or 4 weeks with either normal or high-fat diet. Appropriate groups served as the controls. Food intake, body weight were measured each morning. Both epididymal fat pads were dissected, weighted and processed for routine hematoxylin and eosin staining. e following parameters: cell area, perimeter, long and short axis, aspect ratio and circularity factor were assessed in stained specimens with the image analysis system (Multiscan, Poland). Salsolinol administration significantly reduced total body mass with no differences in total food intake between the groups. The epididymal fat pad weight over final body mass ratio was lower in salsolinol treated rats on high fat diet in comparison with the control groups. e area, perimeter, short and long axis of the fad pad adipocytes were significantly decreased in salsolinol treated animals in comparison with relevant controls. Salsolinol targets some regulatory mechanisms concerned with the basic rat metabolism. Prolonged peripheral salsolinol administration in rats significantly decreases the adipocyte size, and such effect is related to the weight loss and reduced adipose tissue accumulation.

Correlation analysis of expressions of PTEN and p53 with the value obtained by magnetic resonance spectroscopy and apparent diffusion coefficient in the tumor and the tumor-adjacent area in magnetic resonance imaging for glioblastoma.

PubMed

Li, Yunyun; Ji, Feng; Jiang, Yuzhi; Zhao, Ting; Xu, Chongfu

2018-01-01

To explore the correlation of the expression levels of phosphate and tension homology deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) and p53 of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) with the value obtained by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in the tumor and the tumor-adjacent area in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A total of 38 patients were operated for GBM. All the patients had received diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and MRS prior to surgery. ADC of water molecules and values of metabolite indexes of MRS, including n-acetyl aspartate (NAA), choline (Cho) and creatine (Cr), were recorded, and the ratios of Cho/NAA, Cho/Cr and NAA/Cr were calculated. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was done to examine the morphology of tumor and of tumor-adjacent tissues; immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to examine the expressions of PTEN and p53 in the tumor and the tumor-adjacent area. Finally, the correlations of the expressions of PTEN and p53 with ADC, Cho/NAA, Cho/Cr and NAA/Cr of the tumor and the tumor-adjacent area were analyzed. H&E staining showed that GBM tissues had disordered morphology, different sizes of cells, large cell nuclei and significant cell heterogeneity. IHC indicated that the expression level of p53 protein in the tumor was significantly higher than in the tumor-adjacent tissues (p<0.05). The expression level of PTEN protein was high in the tumor-adjacent tissues, but significantly deficient in the tumor. DWI showed that the signal of DWI in the tumor was significantly increased, but ADC was decreased compared with the tumor-adjacent area. MRS indicated that the wave band of Cho in the tumor was significantly increased, NAA was significantly lowered, and Cr section was decreased compared with the tumor-adjacent area, while NAA/Cr in the tumor was significantly decreased compared with the tumoradjacent area (p<0.05). Correlation analysis indicated that PTEN levels in the tumor and the tumor-adjacent area were positively correlated with ADC in the corresponding area, while p53 in the tumor and the tumor-adjacent area was negatively correlated with ADC in the corresponding area. Cho/NAA and Cho/Cr in the tumor were positively correlated with p53 in the tumor, but negatively correlated with PTEN in the tumor. However, NAA/Cr of the tumor was irrelevant to the levels of PTEN and p53. The test results of DWI and MRS of patients with GBM can accurately reflect the inactivation or mutation of PTEN and p53.

In vivo hyperspectral imaging and differentiation of skin cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zherdeva, Larisa A.; Bratchenko, Ivan A.; Myakinin, Oleg O.; Moryatov, Alexander A.; Kozlov, Sergey V.; Zakharov, Valery P.

2016-10-01

Results of hyperspectral imaging analysis for in vivo visualization of skin neoplasms are presented. 16 melanomas, 19 basal cell carcinomas and 10 benign tumors with different stages of neoplasm growth were tested. The HSI system provide skin tissue images with 5 nm spectral resolution in the range of 450-750 nm with automatic stabilization of each frame compensating displacement of the scanning area due to spontaneous macro-movements of the patient. The integrated optical densities in 530-600 and 600-670 nm ranges are used for real-time hemoglobin and melanin distribution imaging in skin tissue. It was shown that the total accuracy of skin cancer identification exceeds 90% and 70% for differentiation of melanomas from BCC and begihn tumors. It was demonstrated the possibility for HSI classification of melanomas of different stages.

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma derived from the spine region: case report and review of the literature.

PubMed

Gokhan, Guzide Ayse; Akyuz, Mahmut; Gurer, Inanc Elif; Tuncer, Recai

2006-06-01

Epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas (EHE) are rare vascular tumors which generally originate from soft tissues and visceral organs. Primary bone EHEs, especially those occurring in the spine region, are extremely rare. Our case is that of a 30-year-old man who was admitted to hospital with low back pain, difficulty in walking, post-voiding urinary incontinence and numbness in the caudal area. X-ray showed a lytic process affecting the vertebra L2 and collapse of L1. Vertebrectomy of L1 and gross total tumor resection were performed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical findings of the tumor tissue supported the diagnosis of EHE. The case, which to the best of our knowledge is only the fifth such reported case, is presented with its clinicopathological findings and a review of the literature.

Total antioxidant and oxidant status of plasma and renal tissue of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxic rats: protection by floral extracts of Calendula officinalis Linn.

PubMed

Verma, Pawan Kumar; Raina, Rajinder; Sultana, Mudasir; Singh, Maninder; Kumar, Pawan

2016-01-01

The present study was aimed to determine the total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) of plasma and renal tissue in cisplatin (cDDP) induced nephrotoxic rats and its protection by treatments with floral extracts of Calendula officinalis Linn. Treatment with cDDP elevated (p < 0.05) the levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine (CR), TOS, OSI and malondialdehyde (MDA) but lowered (p < 0.05) total plasma proteins, TAS, total thiols (TTH), blood glutathione (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes compared to the control group. Pre- and post-treatments of ethanolic floral extract of C. officinalis along with cDDP restored (p > 0.05) CR, albumin, TOS, GSH and activities of antioxidant enzymes in blood and renal tissue. Ethanolic extract treatments reduced (p < 0.05) MDA level in renal tissue without restoring the erythrocyte MDA level following cDDP treatment. These observations were further supported by the histopathological findings in renal tissue. Observations of the present study have shown that treatments with ethanolic floral extract of C. officinalis protect cDDP induced nephrotoxicity by restoring antioxidant system of the renal tissue.

The effects of different preservation processes on the total protein and growth factor content in a new biological product developed from human amniotic membrane.

PubMed

Russo, Alessandra; Bonci, Paola; Bonci, Paolo

2012-06-01

The aim of this work is to quantify the total protein and growth factors content in a tissue-suspension obtained from processed human amniotic membrane (hAM). hAM was collected, frozen, freeze dried, powdered and sterilized by γ-irradiation. At each step of the process, samples were characterized for the total protein amounts by a Bradford protein assay and for the growth factor concentrations by ELISA test of the tissue suspensions. Frozen-hAM samples show higher release of total proteins and specific growth factors in the tissue suspension in comparison with freeze-dried hAM. We observed that even if the protein extraction is hindered once the tissue is dried, the powdering process allows a greater release in the tissue suspension of total proteins and growth factors after tissue re-solubilization in comparison with only the freeze-drying process (+91 ± 13% for EGF, +16 ± 4% for HGF, +11 ± 5% for FGF, +16 ± 9% for TGF-β1), and a greater release of EGF (85 ± 10%) in comparison with only the freezing process, because proteins become much readily solubilized in the solution. According with these results, we describe a protocol to obtain a new sterile biological product from hAM tissue, with well-known effects of thermal, mechanical and physical processes on the total protein and grow factors contents.

Fat quantification and analysis of lung transplant patients on unenhanced chest CT images based on standardized anatomic space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Yubing; Udupa, Jayaram K.; Torigian, Drew A.; Wu, Caiyun; Christie, Jason; Lederer, David J.

2016-03-01

Chest fat estimation is important for identifying high-risk lung transplant candidates. In this paper, an approach to chest fat quantification based on a recently formulated concept of standardized anatomic space (SAS) is presented. The goal of this paper is to seek answers to the following questions related to chest fat quantification on single slice versus whole volume CT, which have not been addressed in the literature. What level of correlation exists between total chest fat volume and fat areas measured on single abdominal and thigh slices? What is the anatomic location in the chest where maximal correlation of fat area with fat volume can be expected? Do the components of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) have the same area-to-volume correlative behavior or do they differ? The SAS approach includes two steps: calibration followed by transformation which will map the patient slice locations non-linearly to SAS. The optimal slice locations found for SAT and VAT based on SAS are different and at the mid-level of the T8 vertebral body for SAT and mid-level of the T7 vertebral body for VAT. Fat volume and area on optimal slices for SAT and VAT are correlated with Pearson correlation coefficients of 0.97 and 0.86, respectively. The correlation of chest fat volume with abdominal and thigh fat areas is weak to modest.

Adaptive changes in pancreas post Roux-en-Y gastric bypass induced weight loss.

PubMed

Lautenbach, A; Wernecke, M; Riedel, N; Veigel, J; Yamamura, J; Keller, S; Jung, R; Busch, P; Mann, O; Knop, F K; Holst, J J; Meier, J J; Aberle, J

2018-05-16

Obesity has been shown to trigger adaptive increases in pancreas parenchymal and fat volume. Consecutively, pancreatic steatosis may lead to beta-cell dysfunction. However, it is not known, whether the pancreatic tissue components decrease with weight loss and pancreatic steatosis is reversible following RYGB. Therefore, the objective of the study was to investigate the effects of RYGB-induced weight loss on pancreatic volume and glucose homeostasis. 11 patients were recruited in the Obesity Centre of the University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf. Before and 6 months after RYGB, total GLP-1 levels were measured during OGTT. To assess changes in visceral adipose tissue and pancreatic volume, MRI was performed. Measures of glucose homeostasis and insulin indices were assessed. Fractional beta-cell area was estimated by correlation with the C-peptide-to-glucose ratio, beta-cell mass was calculated by the product of beta-cell area and pancreas parenchymal weight. Pancreas volume decreased from 83.8 (75.7-92.0) to 70.5 (58.8-82.3) cm 3 [mean (95% CI), p=0.001]. The decrease in total volume was associated with a significant decrease in fat volume. Fasting insulin and C-peptide were lower post RYGB. HOMA-IR levels decreased, whereas insulin sensitivity increased (p=0.03). This was consistent with a reduction in the estimated beta-cell area and mass. Following RYGB, pancreatic volume and steatosis adaptively decreased to "normal" levels with accompanying improvement in glucose homeostasis. Moreover, obesity-driven beta-cell expansion seems to be reversible, however future studies must define a method to more accurately estimate functional beta-cell mass to increase our understanding of glucose homeostasis after RYGB. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Polycyclic aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons in Chukchi Sea biota and sediments and their toxicological response in the Arctic cod, Boreogadus saida

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harvey, H. Rodger; Taylor, Karen A.; Pie, Hannah V.; Mitchelmore, Carys L.

2014-04-01

As part of the Chukchi Sea Offshore Monitoring in Drilling Area-Chemical and Benthos (COMIDA CAB) project, we determined the distribution and concentrations of aliphatic n-alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface sediments (0-1 cm) among 52 sites across the Chukchi Sea and in muscle tissues of the benthic Northern whelk, Neptunea heros, collected opportunistically. In addition, downcore profiles of contaminants were determined at three targeted sites to establish historic patterns. Baseline responses of PAH exposure and its potential toxicological effects were examined in the common Arctic cod, Boreogadus saida, through measures of cytochrome P4501A/ ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (CYP1A/EROD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in liver tissue. The total concentration of PAHs in surface sediments throughout the study area, including parent and alkyl-homologs, were very low (<1600 ng g-1 dry wt) except for a single station, where values were 2-20-fold greater than at other baseline sites (2956 ng g-1 dry wt). Alkyl-substituted PAHs were the dominant form in all surface (54-93%) and subsurface sediments (50-81% of the total), with a general decrease in total PAH concentrations observed downcore. In biota, larger Neptunea showed lower total concentrations of PAHs in foot muscles (4.5-10.7 ng g-1 wet wt) compared to smaller animals; yet aliphatic n-alkane (C19-C33) concentrations (0.655-5.20 μg g-1 wet wt) increased in larger organisms with distributions dominated by long-chain (C23-C33) hydrocarbons. In B. saida, CYP1A1, GST, and SOD enzyme levels were comparable to baseline levels previously reported in other pristine systems. Of the three assays, only SOD had a significant correlation between gene expression and enzyme activity.

Organo-tins in sediments and mussels from the Sado estuarine system (Portugal).

PubMed

Quevauviller, P; Lavigne, R; Pinel, R; Astruc, M

1989-01-01

Analyses of methyl- and butyl-tin levels in freshwater, estuarine and marine sediments from the Sado estuarine system, and in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from its adjacent coast, have been performed in order to detect the contaminated areas. The main inputs of tributyl-tin (TBT), along with degradation products di- and monobutyl-tin (DBT and MBT), were detected in the estuarine zone, due to high discharge from shipyards located in this area. These levels are sometimes very high, ranging from 235 to 12,200 ng g(-1) total butyl-tins in sediments. Such inputs lead to higher bioconcentration values in mussels in the estuarine zone, as well as in a harbour located along the adjacent coast. The bioconcentration of organo-tins in mussel tissues could be enhanced in estuarine turbid waters, due to an ingestion of butyl-tins adsorbed onto fine particles, in comparison with non-turbid coastal waters. Debutylation processes occur in both sediments and mussel tissues; in organisms, these processes may lead to the formation of inorganic tin, which may be methylated differently according to the period of the year.

Cutaneous lymphosarcoma in a double yellow-headed Amazon parrot (Amazona ochrocephala oratrix).

PubMed

Burgos-Rodríguez, Armando G; Garner, Michael; Ritzman, Tracey K; Orcutt, Connie J

2007-12-01

A 2-year-old double yellow-headed Amazon parrot (Amazona ochrocephala oratrix) was presented for evaluation of a mass on the left wing. A second soft tissue swelling was present under the left mandible and a third in the right inguinal region. The bird had pale mucous membranes, but no other abnormalities were observed on physical examination. Results of the complete blood count and plasma biochemical profile were anemia and decreased total solids. Cytologic findings from fine needle aspirates of the 3 affected areas were nondiagnostic. Whole-body radiographs revealed focal soft tissue swellings. Doppler ultrasound demonstrated significant vascularity in the inguinal swelling; therefore, biopsy of the area was considered contraindicated. Because of the rapid and extensive progression of disease, the owners elected euthanasia. Gross postmortem examination revealed marked and generalized skin thickening. The spleen was slightly enlarged and the bone marrow prominent and gelatinous. The histologic diagnosis was lymphosarcoma, which involved the skin, spleen, and bone marrow. Immunohistochemistry results were consistent with lymphosarcoma of T-cell origin. This case presents an unusual cutaneous manifestation of lymphosarcoma in an Amazon parrot.

Setting occupational health standards: toxicokinetic differences among and between men and women.

PubMed

Silvaggio, T; Mattison, D R

1994-08-01

Differences between and among men, nonpregnant women, and pregnant women can influence exposure and response to workplace toxicants. These differences should be delineated, compared, and used when setting regulatory standards to protect workers from potentially hazardous workplace environments. Anatomical and physiological parameters include: body composition; surface area; blood, organ, and tissue volume; metabolism; and cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and renal structure and function. Although men differ among themselves, on average, they also differ from women by weighing more, being taller, and having a larger surface area. Total body water is 40% greater in men than nonpregnant women; however, during pregnancy, body water increases from 29 to 33 liters. Extracellular and intracellular water volumes are smallest in nonpregnant women, increase with pregnancy, but remain smaller than those in men. Pulmonary function differs; pregnant women have the largest minute volume and greatest volume of air exchanged in an 8-hour period. This article compares anatomical, physiological, and toxicokinetic characteristics of men and nonpregnant and pregnant women to explore how differences in these factors contribute to variations in exposures, target tissue doses, and responses to workplace or environmental chemicals.

Comparison of breast density measurements made using ultrasound tomography and mammography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sak, Mark; Duric, Neb; Littrup, Peter; Bey-Knight, Lisa; Krycia, Mark; Sherman, Mark E.; Boyd, Norman; Gierach, Gretchen L.

2015-03-01

Women with elevated mammographic percent density, defined as the ratio of fibroglandular tissue area to total breast area on a mammogram are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Ultrasound tomography (UST) is an imaging modality that can create tomographic sound speed images of a patient's breast, which can then be used to measure breast density. These sound speed images are useful because physical tissue density is directly proportional to sound speed. The work presented here updates previous results that compared mammographic breast density measurements with UST breast density measurements within an ongoing study. The current analysis has been expanded to include 158 women with negative digital mammographic screens who then underwent a breast UST scan. Breast density was measured for both imaging modalities and preliminary analysis demonstrated strong and positive correlations (Spearman correlation coefficient rs = 0.703). Additional mammographic and UST related imaging characteristics were also analyzed and used to compare the behavior of both imaging modalities. Results suggest that UST can be used among women with negative mammographic screens as a quantitative marker of breast density that may avert shortcomings of mammography.

Stereological estimation of the surface area and oxygen diffusing capacity of the respiratory stomach of the air-breathing armored catfish Pterygoplichthys anisitsi (Teleostei: Loricariidae).

PubMed

da Cruz, André Luis; Pedretti, Ana Carolina Elias; Fernandes, Marisa Narciso

2009-05-01

The stomach of Pterygoplichthys anisitsi has a thin, translucent wall and a simple squamous epithelium with an underlying dense capillary network. In the cardiac and pyloric regions, most cells have short microvilli distributed throughout the cell surface and their edges are characterized by short, densely packed microvilli. The mucosal layer of the stomach has two types of pavement epithelial cells that are similar to those in the aerial respiratory organs. Type 1 pavement epithelial cells, resembling the Type I pneumocyte in mammal lungs, are flat, with a large nucleus, and extend a thin sheet of cytoplasm on the underlying capillary. Type 2 cells, resembling the Type II pneumocyte, possess numerous mitochondria, a well-developed Golgi complex, rough endoplasmic reticulum, and numerous lamellar bodies in different stages of maturation. The gastric glands, distributed throughout the mucosal layer, also have several cells with many lamellar bodies. The total volume (air + tissue), tissue, and air capacity of the stomach when inflated, increase along with body mass. The surface-to-tissue-volume ratio of stomach varies from 108 cm(-1) in the smallest fish (0.084 kg) to 59 cm(-1) in the largest fish (0.60 kg). The total stomach surface area shows a low correlation to body mass. Nevertheless, the body-mass-specific surface area varied from 281.40 cm(2) kg(-1) in the smallest fish to 68.08 cm(2) kg(-1) in the largest fish, indicating a negative correlation to body mass (b = -0.76). The arithmetic mean barrier thickness between air and blood was 1.52 +/- 0.07 microm, whereas the harmonic mean thickness (tau(h)) of the diffusion barrier ranged from 0.40 to 0.74 microm. The anatomical diffusion factor (ADF = cm(2) microm(-1) kg(-1)) and the morphological O(2) diffusion capacity (D(morphol)O(2) = cm(3) min(-1) mmHg(-1) kg(-1)) are higher in the smallest specimen and lower in the largest one. In conclusion, the structure and morphometric data of P. anisitsi stomach indicate that this organ is adapted for oxygen uptake from air. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Spatially heterogeneous land cover/land use and climatic risk factors of tick-borne feline cytauxzoonosis.

PubMed

Raghavan, Ram K; Almes, Kelli; Goodin, Doug G; Harrington, John A; Stackhouse, Paul W

2014-07-01

Feline cytauxzoonosis is a highly fatal tick-borne disease caused by a hemoparasitic protozoan, Cytauxzoon felis. This disease is a leading cause of mortality for cats in the Midwestern United States, and no vaccine or effective treatment options exist. Prevention based on knowledge of risk factors is therefore vital. Associations of different environmental factors, including recent climate were evaluated as potential risk factors for cytauxzoonosis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). There were 69 cases determined to be positive for cytauxzoonosis based upon positive identification of C. felis within blood film examinations, tissue impression smears, or histopathologic examination of tissues. Negative controls totaling 123 were selected from feline cases that had a history of fever, malaise, icterus, and anorexia but lack of C. felis within blood films, impression smears, or histopathologic examination of tissues. Additional criteria to rule out C. felis among controls were the presence of regenerative anemia, cytologic examination of blood marrow or lymph node aspirate, other causative agent diagnosed, or survival of 25 days or greater after testing. Potential environmental determinants were derived from publicly available sources, viz., US Department of Agriculture (soil attributes), US Geological Survey (land-cover/landscape, landscape metrics), and NASA (climate). Candidate variables were screened using univariate logistic models with a liberal p value (0.2), and associations with cytauxzoonosis were modeled using a global multivariate logistic model (p<0.05). Spatial heterogeneity among significant variables in the study region was modeled using a geographically weighted regression (GWR) approach. Total Edge Contrast Index (TECI), grassland-coverage, humidity conditions recorded during the 9(th) week prior to case arrival, and an interaction variable, "diurnal temperature range × percent mixed forest area" were significant risk factors for cytauxzoonosis in the study region. TECI and grassland areas exhibited significant regional differences in their effects on cytauxzoonosis outcome, whereas others were uniform. Land-cover areas favorable for tick habitats and climatic conditions that favor the tick life cycle are strong risk factors for feline cytauxzoonosis. Spatial heterogeneity and interaction effects between land-cover and climatic variables may reveal new information when evaluating risk factors for vector-borne diseases.

Lymphatic microvessel density as a predictive marker for the recurrence time of pterygium: A three-year follow-up study

PubMed Central

Lin, Haotian; Luo, Lixia; Ling, Shiqi; Chen, Wan; Liu, Zhaochuan; Zhong, Xiaojian; Wu, Changrui; Liu, Yizhi

2013-01-01

Purpose To investigate whether lymphatic microvessel density (LMVD) could be used as a predictive marker for the recurrence time of pterygia. Methods This was a prospective case series study. Ninety-six patients with unilateral eye primary nasal pterygia were included. The patients were clinically evaluated to grade the severity of their pterygia (32 were Grade 1, 29 were Grade 2, and 35 were Grade 3) before they underwent bare sclera resection with the use of mitomycin C. Excised tissues from the 96 patients and the ten normal nasal conjunctiva obtained from age-matched donor eyeballs (controls) were immunostained with LYVE-1 and CD31 monoclonal antibodies to evaluate LMVD and blood microvessel density (BMVD). The patients were followed up for three years or until pterygium recurrence was identified, which was defined as fibrovascular regrowth past the limbus in a previously compromised area. The recurrence time (RT) for a pterygium was calculated, and its relationship with LMVD and/or BMVD was statistically analyzed. Results In total, there were 24 cases of pterygium recurrence. The recurrence rate of Grade 1 was 28.1% (9/32), Grade 2 was 24.1% (7/29), and Grade 3 was 22.9% (8/35), as classified in the primary pterygium (p>0.05); the overall recurrence rate was 25% (24/96) for all patients during the three-year follow-up. In the tissue analysis, there were a small number of CD31 (+), LYVE-1(-) BMVD and only a few CD31 (weak), LYVE-1(+) LMVD in the ten normal nasal conjunctiva tissues. BMVD and LMVD increased significantly in the pterygium tissue compared to the control tissue and were significantly correlated with the width and area of pterygium in Grades 1–3 (all p values <0.05). RT was not correlated with BMVD or pterygium grade, but LMVD was significantly and negatively correlated with RT within each group and in the total patient cohort. Furthermore, we determined that an LMVD greater than 20 in the surgical specimens predicted pterygium recurrence. Conclusions The LMVD of surgical specimens is an independent risk factor and a valuable predictive factor for the recurrence time of pterygia. PMID:23378730

In vivo study of partial liver resection on pigs using a 1.9 μm thulium fiber laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Theisen-Kunde, D.; Wolken, H.; Danicke, V.; Brinkmann, R.; Bruch, H.; Kleemann, M.

2011-07-01

Dissection of liver tissue can be performed by different techniques (ultrasound, mono and bipolar dissection, water jet dissection and by stapler). In this animal study the potential of a Thulium fiber laser system was investigated for open parenchyma dissection. Based on a cw Thulium fiber laser (IPG laser GmbH, Burbach, Germany), emitting a wavelength at 1.9 μm and a maximal power at 50 W, a surgical dissection device was developed at the Medical Laser Centre Luebeck. Cw laser radiation (40 Watt) was transmitted via a 365 μm fiber with a polished distal fiber tip. Procedure was performed in contact mode; irradiance at the distal fiber tip was 38.2 kW/cm2. After general anesthesia and a median laparotomy an atypical laser resection of the liver was performed in 3 pigs. Healing process was controlled after 2-3 weeks by histological analysis (H&E staining). The final evaluation data included total resection time, blood loss, bile leakage and mass of dissected tissue. All animals treated in this study were cared for in accordance to the European convention on animal care. In general the dissection with the 1.9 μm laser radiation was easily performed. Hemostasis was highly sufficient so blood loss and bile leakage was negligible. Total resection time including hemostasis of the remaining tissue was 26 +/- 12 min. Weight of resected tissue was 17 +/- 8 g. During survival period no complications (bleeding or inflammation) occurred. After 2 weeks histology showed ongoing scar formation about 1 - 2 mm in depth of the dissected area.

Soft-Tissue Reconstruction of the Complicated Knee Arthroplasty: Principles and Predictors of Salvage.

PubMed

Colen, David L; Carney, Martin J; Shubinets, Valeriy; Lanni, Michael A; Liu, Tiffany; Levin, L Scott; Lee, Gwo-Chin; Kovach, Stephen J

2018-04-01

Total knee arthroplasty is a common orthopedic procedure in the United States and complications can be devastating. Soft-tissue compromise or joint infection may cause failure of prosthesis requiring knee fusion or amputation. The role of a plastic surgeon in total knee arthroplasty is critical for cases requiring optimization of the soft-tissue envelope. The purpose of this study was to elucidate factors associated with total knee arthroplasty salvage following complications and clarify principles of reconstruction to optimize outcomes. A retrospective review of patients requiring soft-tissue reconstruction performed by the senior author after total knee arthroplasty over 8 years was completed. Logistic regression and Fisher's exact tests determined factors associated with the primary outcome, prosthesis salvage versus knee fusion or amputation. Seventy-three knees in 71 patients required soft-tissue reconstruction (mean follow-up, 1.8 years), with a salvage rate of 61.1 percent, mostly using medial gastrocnemius flaps. Patients referred to our institution with complicated periprosthetic wounds were significantly more likely to lose their knee prosthesis than patients treated only within our system. Patients with multiple prior knee operations before definitive soft-tissue reconstruction had significantly decreased rates of prosthesis salvage and an increased risk of amputation. Knee salvage significantly decreased with positive joint cultures (Gram-negative greater than Gram-positive organisms) and particularly at the time of definitive reconstruction, which also trended toward an increased risk of amputation. In revision total knee arthroplasty, prompt soft-tissue reconstruction improves the likelihood of success, and protracted surgical courses and contamination increase failure and amputations. The authors show a benefit to involving plastic surgeons early in the course of total knee arthroplasty complications to optimize genicular soft tissues. Therapeutic, III.

Treatment of Skin Depression with Combined Upward Suture Traction and Percutaneous Subcision

PubMed Central

Bins-Ely, Jorge; Paulo, Elizabeth Machado; Lee, Kuang Hee

2015-01-01

Background: Scar retraction and soft-tissue depression may compromise aesthetics and cause social embarrassment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of treating soft-tissue depressions or retractions at varied anatomy regions with combined upward suture traction and percutaneous subcision. Methods: There were 40 patients (age: mean, 39 years; range, 22–55 years; 39 women and 1 man) (total, 77 soft-tissue lesions) who had treatment with the present technique from 1996 to 2013. Postoperative follow-up was from 6 months to 2 years. The treated anatomic areas were evaluated in 5 groups: (1) face (8 patients; 8 lesions); (2) gluteal (16 patients; 46 lesions); (3) breast (7 patients; 10 lesions); (4) abdomen (7 patients; 7 lesions); and (5) lower limb (2 patients; 6 lesions). The technique included placing a 2-0 nylon monofilament suture deep at the core of the depression, pulling vertically up with the suture, and using a needle or miniblade (placed percutaneously or through a small incision) to release the adhesions. Results: The depressions were released successfully in all patients. Bruises around treated areas persisted for 2–3 weeks. Moderate induration persisted until 3 months. In the gluteal region, 6 patients who had retracted areas with diameter >5 cm developed seroma after treatment; the seromas resolved after needle aspiration or placement of a Penrose drain for 2 weeks (2 patients). Conclusion: The present results confirmed the efficacy of the combined subcision method with upward traction at diverse body sites as previously reported for inverted nipple in the breast. PMID:26579340

Proteomic evaluation of human umbilical cord tissue exposed to polybrominated diphenyl ethers in an e-waste recycling area.

PubMed

Li, Minghui; Huo, Xia; Pan, Yukui; Cai, Haoxing; Dai, Yifeng; Xu, Xijin

2018-02-01

Parental exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) is associated with adverse birth outcomes. This study aims to examine differentially-expressed protein profiles in umbilical cord tissue, derived from mothers exposed to PBDEs, and investigate candidate biomarkers to reveal the underlying molecular mechanisms. Umbilical cord samples were obtained from women residing in an electronic waste (e-waste) recycling area (Guiyu) and reference area (Haojiang) in China. The concentration of PBDEs in umbilical cord tissue was determined by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Isobaric tagging for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)-based proteomic technology was conducted to analyze differentially-expressed protein profiles. The total PBDE concentration was approximately five-fold higher in umbilical cords from Guiyu than from Haojiang (median 71.92ng/g vs. 15.52ng/g lipid, P<0.01). Neonatal head circumference, body-mass index (BMI) and Apgar1 score were lower in Guiyu and negatively correlated with PBDE concentration (P<0.01). Proteomic analysis showed 697 proteins were differentially expressed in the e-waste-exposed group compared with the reference group. The differentially-expressed proteins were principally involved in antioxidant defense, apoptosis, cell structure and metabolism. Among them, catalase and glutathione S-transferase omega-1, were down-regulated, and cytochrome c was found to be up-regulated, changes which were further verified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. These results suggest that an antioxidant imbalance and cell apoptosis in the umbilical cord following PBDE exposure is associated with neonatal birth outcomes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ultrasonographic evaluation of periodontal changes during orthodontic tooth movement - work in progress.

PubMed

Zimbran, Adela; Dudea, Diana; Gasparik, Cristina; Dudea, Sorin

2017-01-01

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is a process whereby the application of a force induces bone resorption on the pressure side and bone apposition on the tension side of the lamina dura. However, only limited data are available on the in vivo behavior of the periodontal tissues. The aim of this study was to assess the changes of periodontal tissues, induced by the orthodontic canine retraction, using 40 MHz ultrasonography. Ultrasonographic evaluation of periodontal tissues was conducted in 5 patients with indication for orthodontic treatment. The upper first premolars were extracted bilaterally due to severe crowding, and the canines were distalized using elastomeric chain with a net force of 100 cN. Ultrasonographic scans (US scans) were performed before, during and after retraction, in three distinct areas of the canines buccal surface: mesial, middle and distal. The reference point was the bracket, which appeared hyperechoic on the US scan. Four different dimensions were obtained: D1 (depth of the sulcus), D2 (thickness of the gingiva), D3 (length of the supracrestal fibers), D4 (width of periodontal space). An increase of D1 was observed in all three areas of the periodontium, during orthodontic treatment. D3 was strongly correlated before and immediately after force delivery only for the mesial area (r=0.828, p<0.05). In total, 228 variables were statistically analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficients, in order to demonstrate the relationship between periodontal findings during orthodontic tooth movement. High-resolution ultrasonography has the capability to obviate changes in periodontal ligament space and free gingiva during orthodontic tooth movement.

Reconnaissance investigation of water quality, bottom sediment, and biota associated with irrigation drainage in the middle Green River basin, Utah, 1986-87

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stephens, D.W.; Waddell, Bruce; Miller, J.B.

1988-01-01

Reconnaissance of wildlife areas in the middle Green River basin of Utah was conducted during 1986 and 1987 to determine whether irrigation drainage has caused, or has the potential to cause significant harmful effects on human health, fish, and wildlife, or may adversely affect the suitability of water for beneficial uses. Studies at Stewart Lake Waterfowl Management Area and Ouray National Wildlife Refuge indicated that concentrations of boron, selenium, and zinc in water, bottom sediment, and biological tissue were sufficiently large to be harmful to fish and wildlife, and to adversely affect beneficial uses of water. Selenium is the principal element of concern in both areas. Concentrations of dissolved selenium in irrigation drain water entering Stewart Lake Waterfowl Management Area ranged from 14-140 micrograms/L (ug/L) and consistently exceeded Utah standards for wildlife protection in water in two of the four drains. Concentrations of boron and zinc exceeded Utah standards only occasionally in the drain waters. Concentrations of total selenium in sediments collected where the drains discharge into the lake were 10-85 ug/gm. Liver tissue collected from American coots at Stewart Lake Waterfowl Management Area contained concentrations of selenium from 4.9-26 ug/gm (dry weight), and whole body samples of carp contained as much as 31 ug/gm (dry weight). Concentrations of selenium in Potamogeton and blue-green algae ranged from 2.1-27 ug/gm. Concentrations of boron, selenium, and zinc were also measured in water from Ouray National Wildlife Refuge. Liver tissue of American coots from the North Roadside Pond, which receives irrigation tailwater, contained a geometric-mean concentration of selenium of 32 ug/gm (dry weight). Five water-bird eggs collected from the North and South Roadside Ponds contained selenium concentrations of 63-120 ug/gm (dry weight). (Lantz-PTT)

Nonshivering thermogenesis in king penguin chicks. II. Effect of fasting.

PubMed

Duchamp, C; Barré, H; Rouanet, J L; Lanni, A; Cohen-Adad, F; Berne, G; Brebion, P

1991-12-01

The effect of fasting on the energy metabolism of skeletal muscle and liver was investigated in cold-acclimatized short-term fasting (STF) (3 wk) and naturally long-term fasting (LTF) (4-5 mo) king penguin chicks, both groups exhibiting nonshivering thermogenesis (NST). A comparison was made with nourished cold-acclimatized controls. In these chicks, no brown adipose tissue deposits could be found on electron-microscopic observations of fat deposits. Protein content and cytochrome oxidase (CO) activity of tissue homogenates were measured in liver and pectoralis and gastrocnemius muscles, as were protein content, CO activity, and respiration rates of mitochondria isolated from these organs. Fasting-induced protein loss affected the pectoralis more than the gastrocnemius muscle, thus preserving locomotor function. In STF chicks, specific mitochondrial protein content and specific tissue CO activity were preserved but total organ CO capacity was reduced by half in pectoralis and liver following the fall in organ mass. In LTF chicks, both specific and total CO activity were drastically reduced in muscles, whereas specific CO activity was preserved in liver. In these LTF chicks, muscle mitochondria showed an energized configuration associated with an increased area of inner membrane in gastrocnemius. A reduction of respiratory control ratio (RCR) was observed in subsarcolemmal muscle mitochondria of STF chicks, whereas intermyofibrillar and liver mitochondria kept high RCR values.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Broth versus solid agar culture of swab samples of cadaveric allograft musculoskeletal tissue.

PubMed

Varettas, Kerry

2013-12-01

As part of the donor assessment protocol, bioburden assessment must be performed on allograft musculoskeletal tissue samples collected at the time of tissue retrieval. Swab samples of musculoskeletal tissue allografts from cadaveric donors are received at the microbiology department of the South Eastern Area Laboratory Services (Australia) to determine the presence of bacteria and fungi. This study will review the isolation rate of organisms from solid agar and broth culture of swab samples of cadaveric allograft musculoskeletal tissue over a 6-year period, 2006-2011. Swabs were inoculated onto horse blood agar (anaerobic, 35 °C) and chocolate agar (CO2, 35 °C) and then placed into a cooked meat broth (aerobic, 35 °C). A total of 1,912 swabs from 389 donors were received during the study period. 557 (29.1 %) swabs were culture positive with the isolation of 713 organisms, 249 (34.9 %) from solid agar culture and an additional 464 (65.1 %) from broth culture only. This study has shown that the broth culture of cadaveric allograft musculoskeletal swab samples recovered a greater amount of organisms than solid agar culture. Isolates such as Clostridium species and Staphylococcus aureus would not have been isolated from solid agar culture alone. Broth culture is an essential part of the bioburden assessment protocol of swab samples of cadaveric allograft musculoskeletal tissue in this laboratory.

Distinctive Tooth-Extraction Socket Healing: Bisphosphonate Versus Parathyroid Hormone Therapy

PubMed Central

Kuroshima, Shinichiro; Mecano, Rodan B.; Tanoue, Ryuichiro; Koi, Kiyono; Yamashita, Junro

2014-01-01

Background Patients with osteoporosis who receive tooth extractions are typically on either oral bisphosphonate or parathyroid hormone (PTH) therapy. Currently, the consequence of these therapies on hard- and soft-tissue healing in the oral cavity is not clearly defined. The aim of this study is to determine the differences in the therapeutic effect on tooth-extraction wound healing between bisphosphonate and PTH therapies. Methods Maxillary second molars were extracted in Sprague Dawley rats (n = 30), and either bisphosphonate (zoledronate [Zol]), PTH, or saline (vehicle control [VC]) was administered for 10 days (n = 10 per group). Hard-tissue healing was evaluated by microcomputed tomography and histomorphometric analyses. Collagen, blood vessels, inflammatory cell infiltration, and cathepsin K expression were assessed in soft tissue using immunohistochemistry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunoblotting. Results Both therapies significantly increased bone fill and suppressed vertical bone loss. However, considerably more devital bone was observed in the sockets of rats on Zol versus VC. Although Zol increased the numbers of blood vessels, the total blood vessel area in soft tissue was significantly smaller than in VC. PTH therapy increased osteoblastic bone formation and suppressed osteoclasts. PTH therapy promoted soft-tissue maturation by suppressing inflammation and stimulating collagen deposition. Conclusion Zoledronate therapy deters whereas PTH therapy promotes hard- and soft-tissue healing in the oral cavity, and both therapies prevent vertical bone loss. PMID:23688101

Reconstruction of maxillectomy and midfacial defects with free tissue transfer.

PubMed

Santamaria, Eric; Cordeiro, Peter G

2006-11-01

The maxillary bones are part of the midfacial skeleton and are closely related to the eyeglobe, nasal airway, and oral cavity. Together with the overlying soft tissues, the two maxillae are responsible to a large extent for facial contour. Maxillectomy defects become more complex when critical structures such as the orbit, globe, and cranial base are resected, and reconstruction with distant tissues become essential. In this article, we describe a classification system and algorithm for reconstruction of these complex defects using various pedicled and free flaps. Most defects that involve resection of the maxilla and adjacent soft tissues may be classified into one of the following four types: Type I defects, Limited maxillectomy; Type II defects, Subtotal maxillectomy; Type III defects, Total maxillectomy; and Type IV defects, Orbitomaxillectomy. Using this classification, reconstruction of maxillectomy and midfacial defects may be approached considering the relationship between volume and surface area requirements, that is, addressing the bony defect first, followed by assessment of the associated soft tissue, skin, palate, and cheek-lining deficits. In our experience, most complex maxillectomy defects are best reconstructed using free tissue transfer. The rectus abdominis and radial forearm free flap in combination with immediate bone grafting or as an osteocutaneous flap reliably provide the best aesthetic and functional results. A temporalis muscle pedicled flap is used for reconstruction of maxillectomy defects only in those patients who are not candidates for a microsurgical procedure.

Water and tissue equivalence of a new PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} formulation for 3D proton beam dosimetry: A Monte Carlo study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gorjiara, Tina; Kuncic, Zdenka; Doran, Simon

2012-11-15

Purpose: To evaluate the water and tissue equivalence of a new PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} 3D dosimeter for proton therapy. Methods: The GEANT4 software toolkit was used to calculate and compare total dose delivered by a proton beam with mean energy 62 MeV in a PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} dosimeter, water, and soft tissue. The dose delivered by primary protons and secondary particles was calculated. Depth-dose profiles and isodose contours of deposited energy were compared for the materials of interest. Results: The proton beam range was found to be Almost-Equal-To 27 mm for PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign }, 29.9 mm for soft tissue, and 30.5 mmmore » for water. This can be attributed to the lower collisional stopping power of water compared to soft tissue and PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign }. The difference between total dose delivered in PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} and total dose delivered in water or tissue is less than 2% across the entire water/tissue equivalent range of the proton beam. The largest difference between total dose in PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} and total dose in water is 1.4%, while for soft tissue it is 1.8%. In both cases, this occurs at the distal end of the beam. Nevertheless, the authors find that PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} dosimeter is overall more tissue-equivalent than water-equivalent before the Bragg peak. After the Bragg peak, the differences in the depth doses are found to be due to differences in primary proton energy deposition; PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} and soft tissue stop protons more rapidly than water. The dose delivered by secondary electrons in the PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} differs by less than 1% from that in soft tissue and water. The contribution of secondary particles to the total dose is less than 4% for electrons and Almost-Equal-To 1% for protons in all the materials of interest. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that the new PRESAGE{sup Registered-Sign} formula may be considered both a tissue- and water-equivalent 3D dosimeter for a 62 MeV proton beam. The results further suggest that tissue-equivalent thickness may provide better dosimetric and geometric accuracy than water-equivalent thickness for 3D dosimetry of this proton beam.« less

Evaluating the spatial variation of total mercury in young-of-year yellow perch (Perca flavescens), surface water and upland soil for watershed-lake systems within the southern Boreal Shield

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gabriel, M.C.; Kolka, R.; Wickman, T.; Nater, E.; Woodruff, Laurel G.

2009-01-01

The primary objective of this research is to investigate relationships between mercury in upland soil, lake water and fish tissue and explore the cause for the observed spatial variation of THg in age one yellow perch (Perca flavescens) for ten lakes within the Superior National Forest. Spatial relationships between yellow perch THg tissue concentration and a total of 45 watershed and water chemistry parameters were evaluated for two separate years: 2005 and 2006. Results show agreement with other studies where watershed area, lake water pH, nutrient levels (specifically dissolved NO3−-N) and dissolved iron are important factors controlling and/or predicting fish THg level. Exceeding all was the strong dependence of yellow perch THg level on soil A-horizon THg and, in particular, soil O-horizon THg concentrations (Spearman ρ = 0.81). Soil B-horizon THg concentration was significantly correlated (Pearson r = 0.75) with lake water THg concentration. Lakes surrounded by a greater percentage of shrub wetlands (peatlands) had higher fish tissue THg levels, thus it is highly possible that these wetlands are main locations for mercury methylation. Stepwise regression was used to develop empirical models for the purpose of predicting the spatial variation in yellow perch THg over the studied region. The 2005 regression model demonstrates it is possible to obtain good prediction (up to 60% variance description) of resident yellow perch THg level using upland soil O-horizon THg as the only independent variable. The 2006 model shows even greater prediction (r2 = 0.73, with an overall 10 ng/g [tissue, wet weight] margin of error), using lake water dissolved iron and watershed area as the only model independent variables. The developed regression models in this study can help with interpreting THg concentrations in low trophic level fish species for untested lakes of the greater Superior National Forest and surrounding Boreal ecosystem.

Comparative study of collagen deposition in the colon wall of patients operated for sigmoid diverticular disease.

PubMed

Pantaroto, Mário; Lopes Filho, Gaspar de Jesus; Pinto, Clovis Antonio Lopes; Antico Filho, Armando

2015-10-01

To investigate the deposition of collagen in the colon wall of patients with sigmoid diverticulitis. Samples of sigmoid tissue from 15 patients (disease group), seven men and eight women aged 37-77 years who underwent surgery for the treatment of diverticulitis, were selected. For the control group, specimens from five patients, three men and two women aged 19-58 years undergoing emergency surgery for sigmoid trauma were selected. These subjects had no associated diseases. The histological study of the surgical specimens was performed by staining with hematoxylin-eosin and picrosirius and using a histochemical method for collagen quantification. Collagen deposition in the colon wall in terms of area (F), glandular epithelium (E) and total area was significantly higher in the disease group compared to control (p=0.003, p=0.026 and p=0.010, respectively). The collagen volume fraction (F fraction) and muscle tissue (M fraction) were also significantly higher compared to control (p=0.044 and p=0.026, respectively). The muscle (M area) and volume fraction of glandular epithelium (E fraction) did not differ significantly between the two groups, (p=0.074 and p=1.000, respectively). In this study, collagen deposition in the colon wall of the patients operated for sigmoid diverticulitis was higher compared to patients without the disease.

Normalization of compression-induced hemodynamics in patients responding to neoadjuvant chemotherapy monitored by dynamic tomographic optical breast imaging (DTOBI)

PubMed Central

Sajjadi, Amir Y.; Isakoff, Steven J.; Deng, Bin; Singh, Bhawana; Wanyo, Christy M.; Fang, Qianqian; Specht, Michelle C.; Schapira, Lidia; Moy, Beverly; Bardia, Aditya; Boas, David A.; Carp, Stefan A.

2017-01-01

We characterize novel breast cancer imaging biomarkers for monitoring neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and predicting outcome. Specifically, we recruited 30 patients for a pilot study in which NACT patients were imaged using dynamic tomographic optical breast imaging (DTOBI) to quantify the hemodynamic changes due to partial mammographic compression. DTOBI scans were obtained pre-treatment (referred to as day 0), as well as 7 and 30 days into therapy on female patients undergoing NACT. We present data for the 13 patients who participated in both day 0 and 7 measurements and had evaluable data, of which 7 also returned for day 30 measurements. We acquired optical images over 2 minutes following 4-8 lbs (18-36 N) of compression. The timecourses of tissue-volume averaged total hemoglobin (HbT), as well as hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SO2) in the tumor vs. surrounding tissues were compared. Outcome prediction metrics based on the differential behavior in tumor vs. normal areas for responders (>50% reduction in maximum diameter) vs. non-responders were analyzed for statistical significance. At baseline, all patients exhibit an initial decrease followed by delayed recovery in HbT, and SO2 in the tumor area, in contrast to almost immediate recovery in surrounding tissue. At day 7 and 30, this contrast is maintained in non-responders; however, in responders, the contrast in hemodynamic time-courses between tumor and normal tissue starts decreasing at day 7 and substantially disappears at day 30. At day 30 into NACT, responding tumors demonstrate “normalization” of compression induced hemodynamics vs. surrounding normal tissue whereas non-responding tumors did not. This data suggests that DTOBI imaging biomarkers, which are governed by the interplay between tissue biomechanics and oxygen metabolism, may be suitable for guiding NACT by offering early predictions of treatment outcome. PMID:28270967

Physical Activity and Change in Mammographic Density

PubMed Central

Conroy, Shannon M.; Butler, Lesley M.; Harvey, Danielle; Gold, Ellen B.; Sternfeld, Barbara; Oestreicher, Nina; Greendale, Gail A.; Habel, Laurel A.

2010-01-01

One potential mechanism by which physical activity may protect against breast cancer is by decreasing mammographic density. Percent mammographic density, the proportion of dense breast tissue area to total breast area, declines with age and is a strong risk factor for breast cancer. The authors hypothesized that women who were more physically active would have a greater decline in percent mammographic density with age, compared with less physically active women. The authors tested this hypothesis using longitudinal data (1996–2004) from 722 participants in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN), a multiethnic cohort of women who were pre- and early perimenopausal at baseline, with multivariable, repeated-measures linear regression analyses. During an average of 5.6 years, the mean annual decline in percent mammographic density was 1.1% (standard deviation = 0.1). A 1-unit increase in total physical activity score was associated with a weaker annual decline in percent mammographic density by 0.09% (standard error = 0.03; P = 0.01). Physical activity was inversely associated with the change in nondense breast area (P < 0.01) and not associated with the change in dense breast area (P = 0.17). Study results do not support the hypothesis that physical activity reduces breast cancer through a mechanism that includes reduced mammographic density. PMID:20354074

Reverse radial artery flap for soft tissue defects of hand in pediatric age group.

PubMed

Cheema, Saeed Ashraf; Talaat, Nabeela

2009-01-01

To highlight the usefulness of reverse radial artery flap in covering various soft tissue defects of hand in paediatric age group. A total of 16 reverse radial artery flaps were utilized in a period of three years to cover various soft tissue defects of hand for paediatric age group patients. The age ranged from 5-18 years. The two common causes of soft tissue defects in this series were mechanical trauma and fireworks trauma with five cases in each group. Three of the cases were burn victims and other two presented with earth quake injuries. One patient had wound because of road traffic accident. Soft tissue defects of palm were covered with this flap in eight cases while in three cases it was wrapped around the thumb. First web space defects were covered with this flap in two cases. Two cases required coverage of amputation stump at transmetacarpal level and yet another required a big flap to cover the soft tissue defects at palm, dorsum and thumb. Donor site was covered with split skin graft in all cases but one, which was closed primarily. We had partial loss of flap in one case. Grafted donor sites healed uneventfully and were quite acceptable to the patients in due course of time. Reverse radial artery flap has a quite long arc of rotation which brings it great ease to cover the soft tissue defects of various areas of hand like palm, dorsum, first web space and thumb.

Decellularization of human donor aortic and pulmonary valved conduits using low concentration sodium dodecyl sulfate

PubMed Central

Vafaee, Tayyebeh; Thomas, Daniel; Desai, Amisha; Jennings, Louise M.; Berry, Helen; Rooney, Paul; Kearney, John; Fisher, John

2017-01-01

Abstract The clinical use of decellularized cardiac valve allografts is increasing. Long‐term data will be required to determine whether they outperform conventional cryopreserved allografts. Valves decellularized using different processes may show varied long‐term outcomes. It is therefore important to understand the effects of specific decellularization technologies on the characteristics of donor heart valves. Human cryopreserved aortic and pulmonary valved conduits were decellularized using hypotonic buffer, 0.1% (w/v) sodium dodecyl sulfate and nuclease digestion. The decellularized tissues were compared to cellular cryopreserved valve tissues using histology, immunohistochemistry, quantitation of total deoxyribose nucleic acid, collagen and glycosaminoglycan content, in vitro cytotoxicity assays, uniaxial tensile testing and subcutaneous implantation in mice. The decellularized tissues showed no histological evidence of cells or cell remnants and >97% deoxyribose nucleic acid removal in all regions (arterial wall, muscle, leaflet and junction). The decellularized tissues retained collagen IV and von Willebrand factor staining with some loss of fibronectin, laminin and chondroitin sulfate staining. There was an absence of major histocompatibility complex Class I staining in decellularized pulmonary valve tissues, with only residual staining in isolated areas of decellularized aortic valve tissues. The collagen content of the tissues was not decreased following decellularization however the glycosaminoglycan content was reduced. Only moderate changes in the maximum load to failure of the tissues were recorded postdecellularization. The decellularized tissues were noncytotoxic in vitro, and were biocompatible in vivo in a mouse subcutaneous implant model. The decellularization process will now be translated into a good manufacturing practices‐compatible process for donor cryopreserved valves with a view to future clinical use. Copyright © 2016 The Authors Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID:27943656

Recent advances in computational mechanics of the human knee joint.

PubMed

Kazemi, M; Dabiri, Y; Li, L P

2013-01-01

Computational mechanics has been advanced in every area of orthopedic biomechanics. The objective of this paper is to provide a general review of the computational models used in the analysis of the mechanical function of the knee joint in different loading and pathological conditions. Major review articles published in related areas are summarized first. The constitutive models for soft tissues of the knee are briefly discussed to facilitate understanding the joint modeling. A detailed review of the tibiofemoral joint models is presented thereafter. The geometry reconstruction procedures as well as some critical issues in finite element modeling are also discussed. Computational modeling can be a reliable and effective method for the study of mechanical behavior of the knee joint, if the model is constructed correctly. Single-phase material models have been used to predict the instantaneous load response for the healthy knees and repaired joints, such as total and partial meniscectomies, ACL and PCL reconstructions, and joint replacements. Recently, poromechanical models accounting for fluid pressurization in soft tissues have been proposed to study the viscoelastic response of the healthy and impaired knee joints. While the constitutive modeling has been considerably advanced at the tissue level, many challenges still exist in applying a good material model to three-dimensional joint simulations. A complete model validation at the joint level seems impossible presently, because only simple data can be obtained experimentally. Therefore, model validation may be concentrated on the constitutive laws using multiple mechanical tests of the tissues. Extensive model verifications at the joint level are still crucial for the accuracy of the modeling.

Recent Advances in Computational Mechanics of the Human Knee Joint

PubMed Central

Kazemi, M.; Dabiri, Y.; Li, L. P.

2013-01-01

Computational mechanics has been advanced in every area of orthopedic biomechanics. The objective of this paper is to provide a general review of the computational models used in the analysis of the mechanical function of the knee joint in different loading and pathological conditions. Major review articles published in related areas are summarized first. The constitutive models for soft tissues of the knee are briefly discussed to facilitate understanding the joint modeling. A detailed review of the tibiofemoral joint models is presented thereafter. The geometry reconstruction procedures as well as some critical issues in finite element modeling are also discussed. Computational modeling can be a reliable and effective method for the study of mechanical behavior of the knee joint, if the model is constructed correctly. Single-phase material models have been used to predict the instantaneous load response for the healthy knees and repaired joints, such as total and partial meniscectomies, ACL and PCL reconstructions, and joint replacements. Recently, poromechanical models accounting for fluid pressurization in soft tissues have been proposed to study the viscoelastic response of the healthy and impaired knee joints. While the constitutive modeling has been considerably advanced at the tissue level, many challenges still exist in applying a good material model to three-dimensional joint simulations. A complete model validation at the joint level seems impossible presently, because only simple data can be obtained experimentally. Therefore, model validation may be concentrated on the constitutive laws using multiple mechanical tests of the tissues. Extensive model verifications at the joint level are still crucial for the accuracy of the modeling. PMID:23509602

Dermal absorption of kerosene components in rats and the influence of its amount and area of exposure.

PubMed

Tsujino, Yoshio; Hieda, Yoko; Kimura, Kojiro; Dekio, Satoshi

2003-04-23

The influences of amount and area of dermal exposure to kerosene upon the levels of kerosene components in biological samples were examined in vivo and in vitro. Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups and exposed to kerosene through the abdominal skin for 2h. The amounts (soaked in cotton) and area of kerosene exposed were 1 ml/4 cm(2) in Group I, 4 ml/4 cm(2) in Group II, 4 ml/16 cm(2) in Group III and 16 ml/64 cm(2) in Group IV. Before, then 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min after exposure, 0.5 ml of blood was collected. Solid tissue samples, including the exposed skin area, were harvested at 120 min. Kerosene components were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Trimethylbenzens (TMBs) that are easily absorbed kerosene components, appeared at 5-20 min. The time course changes in TMB levels in blood were significantly different between Groups I and II or Groups I and III, and almost identical between Groups II and III. Similar trends were observed in tissue samples at 120 min. High concentrations of aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHCs) were detected in the exposed skin and the AHC levels were dependent on the amount of kerosene exposed per unit area. These results suggest that (1) dermal absorption of kerosene occurs soon after dermal exposure started, (2) absorption of TMBs is influenced by the total amount of kerosene rather than area of exposure, and (3) AHCs remaining in the skin at significant levels are influenced by the amount of kerosene per unit area exposed.

Leaf area and photosynthesis of newly emerged trifoliolate leaves are regulated by mature leaves in soybean.

PubMed

Wu, Yushan; Gong, Wanzhuo; Wang, Yangmei; Yong, Taiwen; Yang, Feng; Liu, Weigui; Wu, Xiaoling; Du, Junbo; Shu, Kai; Liu, Jiang; Liu, Chunyan; Yang, Wenyu

2018-03-29

Leaf anatomy and the stomatal development of developing leaves of plants have been shown to be regulated by the same light environment as that of mature leaves, but no report has yet been written on whether such a long-distance signal from mature leaves regulates the total leaf area of newly emerged leaves. To explore this question, we created an investigation in which we collected data on the leaf area, leaf mass per area (LMA), leaf anatomy, cell size, cell number, gas exchange and soluble sugar content of leaves from three soybean varieties grown under full sunlight (NS), shaded mature leaves (MS) or whole plants grown in shade (WS). Our results show that MS or WS cause a marked decline both in leaf area and LMA in newly developing leaves. Leaf anatomy also showed characteristics of shade leaves with decreased leaf thickness, palisade tissue thickness, sponge tissue thickness, cell size and cell numbers. In addition, in the MS and WS treatments, newly developed leaves exhibited lower net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (E), but higher carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) concentration in the intercellular space (Ci) than plants grown in full sunlight. Moreover, soluble sugar content was significantly decreased in newly developed leaves in MS and WS treatments. These results clearly indicate that (1) leaf area, leaf anatomical structure, and photosynthetic function of newly developing leaves are regulated by a systemic irradiance signal from mature leaves; (2) decreased cell size and cell number are the major cause of smaller and thinner leaves in shade; and (3) sugars could possibly act as candidate signal substances to regulate leaf area systemically.

Region-specific tritium enrichment, and not differential beta-absorption, is the major cause of 'quenching' in film autoradiography.

PubMed

McEachron, D L; Nissanov, J; Tretiak, O J

1997-06-01

Tritium quenching refers to the situation in which estimates of tritium content generated by film autoradiography depend on the chemical composition of the tissue as well as on the concentration of the radioisotope. When analysing thin brain sections, for example, regions rich in lipid content generate reduced optical densities on x-ray film compared with lipid-poor regions even when the total tissue concentration of tritium in those regions is identical. We hypothesize that the dried thickness of regions within sections depends upon the relative concentrations and types of lipid within the regions. Areas low in white matter dry thinner than areas high in white matter, leading to a relative enrichment of tritium in the thinner regions. To test this model, a series of brain pastes were made with different concentrations of grey and white matter and impregnated with equal amounts of tritium. The thickness of dried sections was compared with percentage of white matter and apparent radioactive content as determined by autoradiogram analysis. The results demonstrated that thickness increased, and apparent radioactivity decreased, with higher percentages of white matter. In the second experiment, thickness measurements from dried sections were successfully used to correct the apparent radioisotope content of autoradiograms created from tritium containing white- and grey-matter tissue slices. We conclude that within-section thickness variation is the major physical cause for 'tritium quenching'.

Scaling and mechanics of carnivoran footpads reveal the principles of footpad design

PubMed Central

Chi, Kai-Jung; Louise Roth, V.

2010-01-01

In most mammals, footpads are what first strike ground with each stride. Their mechanical properties therefore inevitably affect functioning of the legs; yet interspecific studies of the scaling of locomotor mechanics have all but neglected the feet and their soft tissues. Here we determine how contact area and stiffness of footpads in digitigrade carnivorans scale with body mass in order to show how footpads’ mechanical properties and size covary to maintain their functional integrity. As body mass increases across several orders of magnitude, we find the following: (i) foot contact area does not keep pace with increasing body mass; therefore pressure increases, placing footpad tissue of larger animals potentially at greater risk of damage; (ii) but stiffness of the pads also increases, so the tissues of larger animals must experience less strain; and (iii) total energy stored in hindpads increases slightly more than that in the forepads, allowing additional elastic energy to be returned for greater propulsive efficiency. Moreover, pad stiffness appears to be tuned across the size range to maintain loading regimes in the limbs that are favourable for long-bone remodelling. Thus, the structural properties of footpads, unlike other biological support-structures, scale interspecifically through changes in both geometry and material properties, rather than geometric proportions alone, and do so with consequences for both maintenance and operation of other components of the locomotor system. PMID:20181559

Effects of acid mine drainage from an abandoned copper mine, Britannia Mines, Howe Sound, British Columbia, Canada, on transplanted blue mussels (Mytilus edulis).

PubMed

Grout, J A; Levings, C D

2001-04-01

Juvenile mussels (Mytilus edulis) were transplanted to Howe Sound, British Columbia, Canada, along an apparent pollution gradient of acid mine drainage (AMD) from an abandoned copper (Cu) mine. Cages containing 75 mussels each were placed at a total of 15 stations and were exposed to concentrations of dissolved Cu in surface waters ranging from 5 to 1009 micrograms/l for a period of 41 days. Mussels located at stations closer to the source of AMD at the mouth of Britannia Creek bioaccumulated higher concentrations of Cu and zinc (Zn) in their tissues. Mussel growth was adversely affected by Cu tissue concentrations above 20 micrograms/g dry wt., while declines in survival and condition index occurred in mussels that bioaccumulated greater than 40 micrograms/g dry wt. Cu. Tissue Zn concentrations (117-192 micrograms/g dry wt.) were likely not high enough to have a direct impact on mussel health. Reduced survival of transplanted mussels was supported by an absence of natural mussels in contaminated areas. Phytoplankton was also severely reduced in areas contaminated by mine waters. Based on the weight of evidence, AMD from the Britannia mine had a deleterious impact on mussel survival in a zone extending at least 2.1 km to the north and 1.7 km to the south of Britannia Creek on the east shore of Howe Sound.

The influence of elevated CO2 on non-structural carbohydrate distribution and fructan accumulation in wheat canopies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smart, D. R.; Chatterton, N. J.; Bugbee, B.

1994-01-01

We grew 2.4 m2 wheat canopies in a large growth chamber under high photosynthetic photon flux (1000 micromoles m-2 s-1) and using two CO2 concentrations, 360 and 1200 micromoles mol-1. Photosynthetically active radiation (400-700 nm) was attenuated slightly faster through canopies grown in 360 micromoles mol-1 than through canopies grown in 1200 micromoles mol-1, even though high-CO2 canopies attained larger leaf area indices. Tissue fractions were sampled from each 5-cm layer of the canopies. Leaf tissue sampled from the tops of canopies grown in 1200 micromoles mol-1 accumulated significantly more total non-structural carbohydrate, starch, fructan, sucrose, and glucose (p < 0.05) than for canopies grown in 360 micromoles mol-1. Non-structural carbohydrate did not significantly increase in the lower canopy layers of the elevated CO2 treatment. Elevated CO2 induced fructan synthesis in all leaf tissue fractions, but fructan formation was greatest in the uppermost leaf area. A moderate temperature reduction of 10 degrees C over 5 d increased starch, fructan and glucose levels in canopies grown in 1200 micromoles mol-1, but concentrations of sucrose and fructose decreased slightly or remained unchanged. Those results may correspond with the use of fructosyl-residues and release of glucose when sucrose is consumed in fructan synthesis.

Biosynthesis of Ethylene from Methionine in Aminoethoxyvinylglycine-Resistant Avocado Tissue

PubMed Central

Baker, James E.; Anderson, James D.; Adams, Douglas O.; Apelbaum, Akiva; Lieberman, Morris

1982-01-01

This study was conducted to determine if aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) insensitivity in avocado (Persea americana Mill., Lula, Haas, and Bacon) tissue was due to an alternate pathway of ethylene biosynthesis from methionine. AVG, at 0.1 millimolar, had little or no inhibitory effect on either total ethylene production or [14C] ethylene production from [14C]methionine in avocado tissue at various stages of ripening. However, aminoxyacetic acid (AOA), which inhibits 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) synthase (the AVG-sensitive enzyme of ethylene biosynthesis), inhibited ethylene production in avocado tissue. Total ethylene production was stimulated, and [14C]ethylene production from [14C]methionine was lowered by treating avocado tissue with 1 millimolar ACC. An inhibitor of methionine adenosyltransferase (EC 2.5.1.6), l-2-amino-4-hexynoic acid (AHA), at 1.5 millimolar, effectively inhibited [14C]ethylene production from [14C]methionine in avocado tissue but had no effect on total ethylene production during a 2-hour incubation. Rates of [14C]AVG uptake by avocado and apple (Malus domestica Borkh., Golden Delicious) tissues were similar, and [14C]AVG was the only radioactive compound in alcohol-soluble fractions of the tissues. Hence, AVG-insensitivity in avocado tissue does not appear to be due to lack of uptake or to metabolism of AVG by avocado tissue. ACC synthase activity in extracts of avocado tissue was strongly inhibited (about 60%) by 10 micromolar AVG. Insensitivity of ethylene production in avocado tissue to AVG may be due to inaccessibility of ACC synthase to AVG. AVG-resistance in the avocado system is, therefore, different from that of early climacteric apple tissue, in which AVG-insensitivity of total ethylene production appears to be due to a high level of endogenous ACC relative to its rate of conversion to ethylene. However, the sensitivity of the avocado system to AOA and AHA, dilution of labeled ethylene production by ACC, and stimulation of total ethylene production by ACC provide evidence for the methionine → SAM → ACC → ethylene pathway in avocado and do not suggest the operation of an alternate pathway. PMID:16662192

Skin allograft and vascularized composite allograft: potential for long-term efficacy in the context of lymphatic modulation.

PubMed

Rinkinen, Jacob; Selley, Ryan; Agarwal, Shailesh; Loder, Shawn; Levi, Benjamin

2014-01-01

Tissue transplantation restores form and function in burn patients. The treatment of burn injuries is influenced by severity, location, and the percentage of total body surface area. There have been a number of different techniques developed to temporize and repair the destroyed tissue. However, in patients with large wound burden, sufficient donor site tissue may not be available for autograft harvesting. Such extensive burns necessitate other temporary and permanent options for wound coverage such as skin or vascularized composite allografts (VCA). Rejection of these tissues presents an ongoing problem which is currently managed using a host of systemic immunosuppressive medications. This article discusses the mechanism behind the innate and adaptive immune systems rejection of the allografts. By understanding these pathways, various techniques using immunomodulatory protocols have led to increased allograft survival. However, our primary interest lies in the initial recognition of the graft. We tailor this article to have a specific emphasis on lymphatic modulation as a potential adjunctive therapy. Reviews of the studies evaluating the effect of lymph node modulation on graft survival are described with future implications to allograft transplant research.

Ectopic Male Breast Cancer: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Samanta, Dipti Rani; Upadhyay, Ashish; Sheet, Saikat; Senapati, Surendra Nath

2015-01-01

Carcinoma of male breast constitutes 1% of total breast malignancy. Carcinoma arising from ectopic breast tissue in male is an extremely rare entity and can be misdiagnosed. Ectopic breast tissue may be supernumerary or aberrant one. Despite morphologic difference, ectopic breast tissue presents characteristics analogous to orthoptic breast in terms of functional and pathologic degeneration. Most of the ectopic breast tissue occurs in thoracic or abdominal portion of milk line. If found in a location outside the milk line, it proves a diagnostic dilemma. We are reporting a case of 60-year-old male who presented with a fixed mass of size 10cm×8cm, in right chest wall infraclavicular area of 6 months duration. Histopathology of the mass revealed invasive duct carcinoma. He had no evidence of malignant or occult primary lesion in the bilateral mammary glands. Due to the paucity of the literature, incidence of ectopic male breast cancer and its management is not well understood. There is high probability of misdiagnosis of this disease. To the best of our knowledge this is the first described case of ectopic male breast cancer in the chest wall, not along the milk line, which is being reported here for documentation. PMID:26436033

Assessment of microcirculation dynamics during cutaneous wound healing phases in vivo using optical microangiography

PubMed Central

Yousefi, Siavash; Qin, Jia; Dziennis, Suzan; Wang, Ruikang K.

2014-01-01

Abstract. Cutaneous wound healing consists of multiple overlapping phases starting with blood coagulation following incision of blood vessels. We utilized label-free optical coherence tomography and optical microangiography (OMAG) to noninvasively monitor healing process and dynamics of microcirculation system in a mouse ear pinna wound model. Mouse ear pinna is composed of two layers of skin separated by a layer of cartilage and because its total thickness is around 500 μm, it can be utilized as an ideal model for optical imaging techniques. These skin layers are identical to human skin structure except for sweat ducts and glands. Microcirculatory system responds to the wound injury by recruiting collateral vessels to supply blood flow to hypoxic region. During the inflammatory phase, lymphatic vessels play an important role in the immune response of the tissue and clearing waste from interstitial fluid. In the final phase of wound healing, tissue maturation, and remodeling, the wound area is fully closed while blood vessels mature to support the tissue cells. We show that using OMAG technology allows noninvasive and label-free monitoring and imaging each phase of wound healing that can be used to replace invasive tissue sample histology and immunochemistry technologies. PMID:25036212

[Forensic medical implications of histomorphological changes in the bone and cartilage tissues under effect of radiation].

PubMed

Osipenkova-Vichtomova, T K

2013-01-01

The objective of the present work was to study roentgenological, microscopic, and histomorphological changes in the bone and cartilage tissues under effect of different doses of gamma-ray radiation from Gammatron-2 (GUT Co 400) and betatron bremsstrahlung radiation (25 MeV). The total radiation dose varied from 9.6 Gy to 120 Gy per unit area during 5-8 weeks. The study included 210 patients at the age from 7 to 82 years (97 men and 113 women). Histomorphological studies were carried out using samples of bone and cartilage tissues taken from different body regions immediately after irradiation and throughout the follow-up period of up to 4 years 6 months. Control samples were the unexposed bone and cartilage tissues from the same subjects (n = 14). The tissues were stained either with eosin and hematoxylin or by Van Gieson's and Mallory's methods. Gomori's nonspecific staining was used to detect acid and alkaline phosphatase activities. Moreover, argyrophilic substance was identified in the cartilaginous tissue. Best's carmine was used for glycogen staining and Weigert's stain for elastic fibers. Metachromasia was revealed by toluidine blue staining and fat by the sudan III staining technique. In addition, the ultrastructure of cartilaginous tissue was investigated. Taken together, these methods made it possible to identify the signs of radiation-induced damage to the bone and cartilage tissues in conjunction with complications that are likely to develop at different periods after irradiation including such ones as spontaneous fractures, deforming arthrosis and radiation-induced tumours.

Globular bodies: a primary cause of the opacity in senile and diabetic posterior cortical subcapsular cataracts?

PubMed

Creighton, M O; Trevithick, J R; Mousa, G Y; Percy, D H; McKinna, A J; Dyson, C; Maisel, H; Bradley, R

1978-07-01

We examined 9 cataracts from maturity onset diabetics and 4 senile posterior subcapsular cataracts by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence for crystallin proteins and actin, histochemical methods and x-ray diffraction. The cataractous regions contained spherical globules up to 20 mu in diameter, often in a fibrous matrix. Some were extracellular Morgagnian globules, apparently formed by blebbing from the cell surface; others appeared to have been formed intracellularly. The area of globular degeneration was usually 300 mu deep, but had deeper fusiform extensions. Morphological changes in the cell cytoplasm varied according to their depth in the cataract. Electron microscopy showed intracellular and extracellular globules, many of them were bounded by lipid bilayer membranes. Immunofluorescent staining showed that all the globules contained gamma-crystallin; some contained alpha- and beta-crystallins and actin. All the globules contained higher concentrations of cysteine or cystine than the surrounding lens tissue but they did not react to stains for carbohydrate or calcium. X-ray diffraction studies showed that crystalline calcium salts were absent. Globules and cavities averaged 45% of the total area in cross section. Assuming an area of cataract to be 300 micron thick and that globules 1 mu in diameter scattered, while 2--20 mu in diameter reflected light, we calculated that light passing through such a thickness would be reduced by 65%. Thus the globules could account for most of the opacity of the cataractous area. Presumably the fibrous degeneration of the cells causes enough light scattering to account for the remainder of the reduction. Cataract patients complain of decreased visual acuity, a golden halo around objects, and difficulties when driving while facing oncoming traffic at night. These probably result from light scattering. In our previous experiments, globular bodies containing gamma-crystallin were found in cells grown in tissue culture, and blebs with increased acitn content similar to Morgagnian globules were formed in tissue culture by treating differentiated rat lens cells of stage 2 by cytochalasin D (which impaired microfilament function). These results suggest the possibility of simulating in tissue culture the morphological alterations seen in the cataractous cell.

Eucalyptus plantations for energy production in Hawaii. 1980 annual report, January 1980-December 1980

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Whitesell, C. D.

1980-01-01

In 1980 200 acres of eucalyptus trees were planted for a research and development biomass energy plantation bringing the total area under cultivation to 300 acres. Of this total acreage, 90 acres or 30% was planted in experimental plots. The remaining 70% of the cultivated area was closely monitored to determine the economic cost/benefit ratio of large scale biomass energy production. In the large scale plantings, standard field practices were set up for all phases of production: nursery, clearing, planting, weed control and fertilization. These practices were constantly evaluated for potential improvements in efficiency and reduced cost. Promising experimental treatmentsmore » were implemented on a large scale to test their effectiveness under field production conditions. In the experimental areas all scheduled data collection in 1980 has been completed and most measurements have been keypunched and analyzed. Soil samples and leaf samples have been analyzed for nutrient concentrations. Crop logging procedures have been set up to monitor tree growth through plant tissue analysis. An intensive computer search on biomass, nursery practices, harvesting equipment and herbicide applications has been completed through the services of the US Forest Service.« less

Mercury bioaccumulation studies in the National Water-Quality Assessment Program--biological data from New York and South Carolina, 2005-2009

USGS Publications Warehouse

Beaulieu, Karen M.; Button, Daniel T.; Eikenberry, Barbara C. Scudder; Riva-Murray, Karen; Chasar, Lia C.; Bradley, Paul M.; Burns, Douglas A.

2012-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey National Water-Quality Assessment Program conducted a multidisciplinary study from 2005–09 to investigate the bioaccumulation of mercury in streams from two contrasting environmental settings. Study areas were located in the central Adirondack Mountains region of New York and the Inner Coastal Plain of South Carolina. Fish, macroinvertebrates, periphyton (attached algae and associated material), detritus, and terrestrial leaf litter were collected. Fish were analyzed for total mercury; macroinvertebrates, periphyton, and terrestrial leaf litter were analyzed for total mercury and methylmercury; and select samples of fish, macroinvertebrates, periphyton, detritus, and terrestrial leaf litter were analyzed for stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). This report presents methodology and data on total mercury, methylmercury, stable isotopes, and other ecologically relevant measurements in biological tissues.

[New developments in skin replacement materials].

PubMed

Przybilski, M; Deb, R; Erdmann, D; Germann, G

2004-06-01

Current treatment strategies in intensive care medicine permit survival of patients with burns of more than 80% of the total body surface area (TBSA). Major burns result in extensive skin defects. Thus, burn victims often suffer from scar contractures, altered thermoregulation, and unsatisfactory cosmetic results. In addition to the well-established cultivated epithelial autografts, a number of new composite grafts have been developed in the field of tissue engineering. The combination of synthetic and allogenic matrix structures together with an allogenic or autologous epithelium allows the possibility of mimicking skin structure. The aim is to achieve improved wound healing by regeneration of dermal tissue instead of scarring. This article provides an overview of the currently available products which have already been introduced into clinical routine as well as describing advantages and disadvantages of the individual products and their indications.

Canine body composition quantification using 3 tesla fat-water MRI.

PubMed

Gifford, Aliya; Kullberg, Joel; Berglund, Johan; Malmberg, Filip; Coate, Katie C; Williams, Phillip E; Cherrington, Alan D; Avison, Malcolm J; Welch, E Brian

2014-02-01

To test the hypothesis that a whole-body fat-water MRI (FWMRI) protocol acquired at 3 Tesla combined with semi-automated image analysis techniques enables precise volume and mass quantification of adipose, lean, and bone tissue depots that agree with static scale mass and scale mass changes in the context of a longitudinal study of large-breed dogs placed on an obesogenic high-fat, high-fructose diet. Six healthy adult male dogs were scanned twice, at weeks 0 (baseline) and 4, of the dietary regiment. FWMRI-derived volumes of adipose tissue (total, visceral, and subcutaneous), lean tissue, and cortical bone were quantified using a semi-automated approach. Volumes were converted to masses using published tissue densities. FWMRI-derived total mass corresponds with scale mass with a concordance correlation coefficient of 0.931 (95% confidence interval = [0.813, 0.975]), and slope and intercept values of 1.12 and -2.23 kg, respectively. Visceral, subcutaneous and total adipose tissue masses increased significantly from weeks 0 to 4, while neither cortical bone nor lean tissue masses changed significantly. This is evidenced by a mean percent change of 70.2% for visceral, 67.0% for subcutaneous, and 67.1% for total adipose tissue. FWMRI can precisely quantify and map body composition with respect to adipose, lean, and bone tissue depots. The described approach provides a valuable tool to examine the role of distinct tissue depots in an established animal model of human metabolic disease. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Modelling of micromachining of human tooth enamel by erbium laser radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belikov, A. V.; Skrypnik, A. V.; Shatilova, K. V.

2014-08-01

We consider a 3D cellular model of human tooth enamel and a photomechanical cellular model of enamel ablation by erbium laser radiation, taking into account the structural peculiarities of enamel, energy distribution in the laser beam cross section and attenuation of laser energy in biological tissue. The surface area of the texture in enamel is calculated after its micromachining by erbium laser radiation. The influence of the surface area on the bond strength of enamel with dental filling materials is discussed. A good correlation between the computer simulation of the total work of adhesion and experimentally measured bond strength between the dental filling material and the tooth enamel after its micromachining by means of YAG : Er laser radiation is attained.

Vibratory onset and offset times in children: A laryngeal imaging study

PubMed Central

Patel, Rita R.

2016-01-01

Objectives The aim of the study was to evaluate the differences in vibratory onset and offset times across age (adult males, adult females, and children) and waveform types (total glottal area waveform, left glottal area waveform, and right glottal area waveform) using high-speed videoendoscopy. Methods In this prospective study, vibratory onset and offset times were evaluated in a total of 86 participants. Forty-three children (23 girls, 18 boys) between 5–11 years and 43 gender matched vocally normal young adults (23 females and 18 males) in the age range (21–45 years) were recruited. Vibratory onset and offset times were calculated in milliseconds from the total, left, and right Glottal Area Waveform (GAW). A two-factor analysis of variance was used to compare the means among the subject groups (children, adult male, and adult female) and waveform type (total GAW, left GAW, right GAW) for onset and offset variables. Post hoc analyses were performed using the Fishers Least Significant Different test with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results Children exhibited significantly shorter vibratory onset and offset times compared to adult males and females. Differences in vibratory onset and offset times were not statistically significant between adult males and females. Across all waveform types (i.e. total GAW, left GAW, and right GAW), no statistical significance was observed among the subject groups. Conclusion This is the first study reporting vibratory onset and offset times in the pediatric population. The study findings lay the foundation for the development of a large age- and gender- based database of the pediatric population to aid the study of the effects of maturation of vocal fold vibration in adulthood. The findings from this study may also provide the basis for evaluating the impact of numerous lesions on tissue pliability, and thereby has potential utility for the clinical differentiation of various lesions. PMID:27368436

Medium-Sized Mammals around a Radioactive Liquid Waste Lagoon at Los Alamos National Laboratory: Uptake of Contaminants and Evaluation of Radio-Frequency Identification Technology

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Leslie A. Hansen; Phil R. Fresquez; Rhonda J. Robinson

1999-11-01

Use of a radioactive liquid waste lagoon by medium-sized mammals and levels of tritium, other selected radionuclides, and metals in biological tissues of the animals were documented at Technical Area 53 (TA-53) of Los Alamos National Laboratory during 1997 and 1998. Rock squirrel (Spermophilus variegates), raccoon (Procyon lotor), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), and bobcat (Lynx rufus) were captured at TA-53 and at a control site on the Santa Fe National Forest. Captured animals were anesthetized and marked with radio-frequency identification (RFD) tags and/or ear tags. We collected urine and hair samples for tritium and metals (aluminum, antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium,more » cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, nickel, selenium, silver, and thallium) analyses, respectively. In addition, muscle and bone samples from two rock squirrels collected from each of TA-53, perimeter, and regional background sites were tested for tritium, {sup 137}Cs, {sup 90}Sr, {sup 238}Pu, {sup 239,240}Pu, {sup 241}Am, and total uranium. Animals at TA-53 were monitored entering and leaving the lagoon area using a RFID monitor to read identification numbers from the RFID tags of marked animals and a separate camera system to photograph all animals passing through the monitor. Cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus spp.), rock squirrel, and raccoon were the species most frequently photographed going through the RFID monitor. Less than half of all marked animals in the lagoon area were detected using the lagoon. Male and female rock squirrels from the lagoon area had significantly higher tritium concentrations compared to rock squirrels from the control area. Metals tested were not significantly higher in rock squirrels from TA-53, although there was a trend toward increased levels of lead in some individuals at TA-53. Muscle and bone samples from squirrels in the lagoon area appeared to have higher levels of tritium, total uranium, and {sup 137}Cs than samples collected from perimeter and background locations. However, the committed effective dose equivalent estimated from the potential human consumption of the muscle and bone tissue from these rock squirrels did not suggest any human health risk. Indirect routes of tritium uptake, possibly through consumption of vegetation, are important for animals in the lagoon area.« less

Selenium and mining in the Powder River Basin, Wyoming: Phase III - a preliminary survey of selenium concentrations in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) livers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Raisbeck, M.L.; Vance, G.F.; Steward, D.G.

1995-09-01

Samples of liver tissue from deer mice trapped on not-yet-mined areas and reclaimed areas at five surface coal mines in the Powder River Basin of northeastern Wyoming were analyzed for selenium. The overall mean concentration of selenium in wet weight liver tissue was 1.685 ppm. The mean value from not-yet-mined areas was 1.437 ppm; the mean value from reclaimed areas was 1.910 ppm (significant at p<0.1016). When one not-yet-mined outlier was removed, significance rose to p<0.0004. Mine-to-mine comparison of samples stratified by type (that is, by not-yet-mined or reclaimed), showed average tissue concentrations from the reclaimed area of Mine 1more » were also higher (p<0.0143) then not-yet-mined area samples at Mine 1. No statistically significant differences were found between mines for samples from not-yet-mined areas, and no statistically significant differences were found between Mines 2, 3, 4, and 5 for samples from reclaimed areas. Multiple analysis of variance using the factors: site (mine) and type (not-yet-mined or reclaimed) was not significantly significant (p<0.2115). Simple linear regression showed that selenium concentrations in dry tissue could easily be predicted from wet tissue selenium (r2=0.9775), demonstrating that percent water in the samples was relatively constant. Animal body weight in general was not a predictor for either wet or dry tissue selenium concentrations, but was related to body weight at the higher tissue concentrations of selenium encountered in samples from the reclaimed area at Mine 1. Mouse body weights at Mine 1 were higher on the reclaimed area than mouse body weights from the not-yet-mined area.« less

Diabetes mellitus increases risk of unsuccessful graft preparation in Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty: a multicenter study.

PubMed

Greiner, Mark A; Rixen, Jordan J; Wagoner, Michael D; Schmidt, Gregory A; Stoeger, Christopher G; Straiko, Michael D; Zimmerman, M Bridget; Kitzmann, Anna S; Goins, Kenneth M

2014-11-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate preparation outcomes of tissue prepared for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) from diabetic and nondiabetic donors. In this nonrandomized, consecutive case series, DMEK grafts were prepared from diabetic and nondiabetic donors by experienced technicians in 2 eye banks using slightly different, modified submerged manual preparation techniques to achieve "prestripped" graft tissue. Graft preparation results were analyzed retrospectively. The main outcome measure was the rate of unsuccessful (failed) DMEK graft preparations, defined as tears through the graft area that prevent tissue use. A total of 359 corneas prepared from 290 donors (114 diabetic and 245 nondiabetic) were included in the statistical analysis of graft preparation failure. There were no significant differences between diabetic and nondiabetic donor tissue characteristics with respect to donor age, death to preservation time, death to preparation time, endothelial cell density, percent hexagonality, or coefficient of variation. DMEK tissue preparation was unsuccessful in 19 (5.3%) cases. There was a significant difference in the site-adjusted rate of DMEK preparation failure between diabetic [15.3%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 9.0-25.0] and nondiabetic donors (1.9%; 95% CI, 0.8-4.8), and the corresponding site-adjusted odds ratio of DMEK graft preparation failure in diabetic donor tissue versus nondiabetic donor tissue was 9.20 (95% CI, 2.89-29.32; P = 0.001). Diabetes may be a risk factor for unsuccessful preparation of donor tissue for DMEK. We recommend caution in the use of diabetic tissue for DMEK graft preparation. Further study is needed to identify what subset of diabetic donors is at risk for unsuccessful DMEK graft preparation.

Giant Occipitocervical Lipomas: Evaluation with Two Cases

PubMed Central

Basmaci, Mehmet; Hasturk, Askin E

2012-01-01

Lipomas are capsulated benign tumours that are commonly found in all body parts. A lipoma is a well-defined mesenchymal tumour that arises from the adipose tissue. Although giant lipomas are rare in the head and neck regions, when they are located here, they are most commonly found in the subcutaneous posterior neck area. Recurrence as well as invasion is very rare after total surgical excision. In this article, we present two rare cases of giant lipomas in the posterior occipitocervical region, which is an exceptional location. PMID:23112521

The dynamics of spiral tip adjacent to inhomogeneity in cardiac tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Juan; Tang, Jun; Ma, Jun; Luo, Jin Ming; Yang, Xian Qing

2018-02-01

Rotating spiral waves in cardiac tissue are implicated in life threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Experimental and theoretical evidences suggest the inhomogeneities in cardiac tissue play a significant role in the dynamics of spiral waves. Based on a modified 2D cardiac tissue model, the interaction of inhomogeneity on the nearby rigidly rotating spiral wave is numerically studied. The adjacent area of the inhomogeneity is divided to two areas, when the initial rotating center of the spiral tip is located in the two areas, the spiral tip will be attracted and anchor on the inhomogeneity finally, or be repulsed away. The width of the area is significantly dependent on the intensity and size of the inhomogeneity. Our numerical study sheds some light on the mechanism of the interaction of inhomogeneity on the spiral wave in cardiac tissue.

Acaroid mite allergens from the filters of air-conditioning system in China.

PubMed

Li, Chao-Pin; Guo, Wei; Zhan, Xiao-Dong; Zhao, Bei-Bei; Diao, Ji-Dong; Li, Na; He, Lian-Ping

2014-01-01

Accumulation of acaroid mites in the filters of air-conditioners is harmful to human health. It is important to clarify the allergen components of mites from the filters of local air-conditioning system. The present study was to detect the allergen types in the filters of air-conditioners and assesse their allergenicity by asthmatic models. Sixty aliquots of dust samples were collected from air conditioning filters in civil houses in Wuhu area. Total protein was extracted from the dust samples using PBS and quantified by Bradford method. Allergens I and II were also detected by Western blot using primary antibody (anti-Der f1/2, Der p1/Der f2/Der p2, respectively). Ten aliquots of the positive samples were randomly selected for homogenization and sensitized the mice for developing asthmatic animal models. Total serum IgE level and IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-5 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The allergenicity of the extraction was assessed using pathological sections developed from the mouse pulmonary tissues. The concentration of extract from the 60 samples was ranged from 4.37 μg/ml to 30.76 μg/ml. After analyzing with Western blot, 31 of 60 samples were positive for 4 allergens of acaroid mites, and yet 16 were negative. The levels of total IgE from serum IL-4 and IL-5 from the BALF in the experimental group were apparently higher than that of negative control and PBS group (P < 0.01), but there were no statistical difference compared to OVA group (P > 0.05). However,the IFN-γ level in BALF was lower compared with the negative control and PBS group (P < 0.05) but with the OVA group (P > 0.05). The pathological changes were evidently emerged in pulmonary tissues, which were similar to those of OVA group, compared with the PBS ground and negative controls. The air-conditioner filters in human dwellings of Wuhu area potentially contain the major group allergen 1 and 2 from D. farinae and D. pteronyssinus, which may be associated with seasonal prevalence of allergic disorders in this area.

Acaroid mite allergens from the filters of air-conditioning system in China

PubMed Central

Li, Chao-Pin; Guo, Wei; Zhan, Xiao-Dong; Zhao, Bei-Bei; Diao, Ji-Dong; Li, Na; He, Lian-Ping

2014-01-01

Accumulation of acaroid mites in the filters of air-conditioners is harmful to human health. It is important to clarify the allergen components of mites from the filters of local air-conditioning system. The present study was to detect the allergen types in the filters of air-conditioners and assesse their allergenicity by asthmatic models. Sixty aliquots of dust samples were collected from air conditioning filters in civil houses in Wuhu area. Total protein was extracted from the dust samples using PBS and quantified by Bradford method. Allergens I and II were also detected by Western blot using primary antibody (anti-Der f1/2, Der p1/Der f2/Der p2, respectively). Ten aliquots of the positive samples were randomly selected for homogenization and sensitized the mice for developing asthmatic animal models. Total serum IgE level and IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-5 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The allergenicity of the extraction was assessed using pathological sections developed from the mouse pulmonary tissues. The concentration of extract from the 60 samples was ranged from 4.37 μg/ml to 30.76 μg/ml. After analyzing with Western blot, 31 of 60 samples were positive for 4 allergens of acaroid mites, and yet 16 were negative. The levels of total IgE from serum IL-4 and IL-5 from the BALF in the experimental group were apparently higher than that of negative control and PBS group (P < 0.01), but there were no statistical difference compared to OVA group (P > 0.05). However,the IFN-γ level in BALF was lower compared with the negative control and PBS group (P < 0.05) but with the OVA group (P > 0.05). The pathological changes were evidently emerged in pulmonary tissues, which were similar to those of OVA group, compared with the PBS ground and negative controls. The air-conditioner filters in human dwellings of Wuhu area potentially contain the major group allergen 1 and 2 from D. farinae and D. pteronyssinus, which may be associated with seasonal prevalence of allergic disorders in this area. PMID:25035772

Morphological changes in paraurethral area after introduction of tissue engineering construct on the basis of adipose tissue stromal cells.

PubMed

Makarov, A V; Arutyunyan, I V; Bol'shakova, G B; Volkov, A V; Gol'dshtein, D V

2009-10-01

We studied morphological changes in the paraurethral area of Wistar rats after introduction of tissue engineering constructs on the basis of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells and gelatin sponge. The tissue engineering construct containing autologous culture of the stromal fraction of the adipose tissue was most effective. After introduction of this construct we observed more rapid degradation of the construct matrix and more intensive formation of collagen fibers.

Mercury, lead, and cadmium in blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus, from the Atlantic coast of Florida, USA: a multipredator approach.

PubMed

Adams, Douglas H; Engel, Marc E

2014-04-01

Blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus, from the Atlantic coast of Florida were analyzed for total mercury, methylmercury, lead, and cadmium. Paired samples of two tissue types were analyzed for each crab, (1) muscle tissue (cheliped and body muscles) and (2) whole-body tissue (all organs, muscle tissue and connective tissue), for evaluation of the concentration of metals available to human consumers as well as estuarine predators. There were clear patterns of tissue-specific partitioning for each metal. Total mercury was significantly greater in muscle tissue (mean=0.078 µg/g) than in whole-body tissue (mean=0.055 µg/g). Conversely, whole-body concentrations of lead and cadmium (means=0.131 and 0.079 µg/g, respectively) were significantly greater than concentrations in muscle (means=0.02 and 0.029 µg/g, respectively). There were no significant correlations between any metal contaminant and crab size. Cadmium levels were significantly greater in the muscle tissue of females, but, no other sex-related differences were seen for other metals or tissue types. Methylmercury composed 93-100% of the total mercury in tissues. Compared to previous blue crab studies from different regions of the United States, mean concentrations of mercury, lead, and cadmium were relatively low, although isolated groups or individual blue crabs accumulated high metal concentrations. © 2013 Published by Elsevier Inc.

Digital histologic analysis reveals morphometric patterns of age-related involution in breast epithelium and stroma.

PubMed

Sandhu, Rupninder; Chollet-Hinton, Lynn; Kirk, Erin L; Midkiff, Bentley; Troester, Melissa A

2016-02-01

Complete age-related regression of mammary epithelium, often termed postmenopausal involution, is associated with decreased breast cancer risk. However, most studies have qualitatively assessed involution. We quantitatively analyzed epithelium, stroma, and adipose tissue from histologically normal breast tissue of 454 patients in the Normal Breast Study. High-resolution digital images of normal breast hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides were partitioned into epithelium, adipose tissue, and nonfatty stroma. Percentage area and nuclei per unit area (nuclear density) were calculated for each component. Quantitative data were evaluated in association with age using linear regression and cubic spline models. Stromal area decreased (P = 0.0002), and adipose tissue area increased (P < 0.0001), with an approximate 0.7% change in area for each component, until age 55 years when these area measures reached a steady state. Although epithelial area did not show linear changes with age, epithelial nuclear density decreased linearly beginning in the third decade of life. No significant age-related trends were observed for stromal or adipose nuclear density. Digital image analysis offers a high-throughput method for quantitatively measuring tissue morphometry and for objectively assessing age-related changes in adipose tissue, stroma, and epithelium. Epithelial nuclear density is a quantitative measure of age-related breast involution that begins to decline in the early premenopausal period. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Scaling of angiosperm xylem structure with safety and efficiency.

PubMed

Hacke, Uwe G; Sperry, John S; Wheeler, James K; Castro, Laura

2006-06-01

We tested the hypothesis that greater cavitation resistance correlates with less total inter-vessel pit area per vessel (the pit area hypothesis) and evaluated a trade-off between cavitation safety and transport efficiency. Fourteen species of diverse growth form (vine, ring- and diffuse-porous tree, shrub) and family affinity were added to published data predominately from the Rosaceae (29 species total). Two types of vulnerability-to-cavitation curves were found. Ring-porous trees and vines showed an abrupt drop in hydraulic conductivity with increasing negative pressure, whereas hydraulic conductivity in diffuse-porous species generally decreased gradually. The ring-porous type curve was not an artifact of the centrifuge method because it was obtained also with the air-injection technique. A safety versus efficiency trade-off was evident when curves were compared across species: for a given pressure, there was a limited range of optimal vulnerability curves. The pit area hypothesis was supported by a strong relationship (r2 = 0.77) between increasing cavitation resistance and diminishing pit membrane area per vessel (A(P)). Small A(P) was associated with small vessel surface area and hence narrow vessel diameter (D) and short vessel length (L)--consistent with an increase in vessel flow resistance with cavitation resistance. This trade-off was amplified at the tissue level by an increase in xylem/vessel area ratio with cavitation resistance. Ring-porous species were more efficient than diffuse-porous species on a vessel basis but not on a xylem basis owing to higher xylem/vessel area ratios in ring-porous anatomy. Across four orders of magnitude, lumen and end-wall resistivities maintained a relatively tight proportionality with a near-optimal mean of 56% of the total vessel resistivity residing in the end-wall. This was consistent with an underlying scaling of L to D(3/2) across species. Pit flow resistance did not increase with cavitation safety, suggesting that cavitation pressure was not related to mean pit membrane porosity.

Significance of serum antibody test for toxocariasis in healthy healthcare examinees with eosinophilia in Seoul and Gyeongsangnam-do, Korea.

PubMed

Kim, Hong Seok; Jin, Yan; Choi, Min-Ho; Kim, Jae-Hwan; Lee, Young Ha; Yoon, Cheong Ha; Hwang, Eui-Hyuk; Kang, Hun; Ahn, Sang-Yong; Kim, Gi Jin; Hong, Sung-Tae

2014-12-01

There have been numerous reports on the relationship between eosinophilia and toxocariasis. The present study investigated seropositive rates of toxocariasis among healthy people with or without eosinophilia in urban and rural areas, and assessed risk factors for positive antibody test. A total of 610 healthy people, who visited health check-up (Medicheck®, Korea Association of Health Promotion), 310 from Seoul and 300 from Gyeongsangnam-do, were subjected for this study. Their serum samples were tested by ELISA with the crude antigen of Toxocara canis larvae. Cross-reactions with other tissue invading helminth antigens were also investigated. Total antibody positive rate of toxocariasis was 8.7% of the 610 subjects. When the subjects were grouped into 3 by their eosinophil counts, the antibody positive rates significantly differed by the groups; 5.9% (18/306) in the group<350/µL, 10.0% (11/110) in the group 350-500/µL, and 12.4% (24/194) in the group>500/µL (P=0.028). A total of 22 serum samples cross-reacted with other tissue-invading helminth antigens. A questionnaire analysis recognized drinking alcohol and smoking as significant risk factors of toxocariasis. In conclusion, toxocariasis antibody positive rate is correlated with eosinophil counts. It is recommended that healthy subjects with eosinophilia by routine health examination and risk factors undergo Toxocara serology by multiantigen ELISA to investigate etiology.

Main Sources and Doses of Space Radiation during Mars Missions and Total Radiation Risk for Cosmonauts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitrikas, Victor; Aleksandr, Shafirkin; Shurshakov, Vyacheslav

This work contains calculation data of generalized doses and dose equivalents in critical organs and tissues of cosmonauts produces by galactic cosmic rays (GCR), solar cosmic rays (SCR) and the Earth’s radiation belts (ERB) that will impact crewmembers during a flight to Mars, while staying in the landing module and on the Martian surface, and during the return to Earth. Also calculated total radiation risk values during whole life of cosmonauts after the flight are presented. Radiation risk (RR) calculations are performed on the basis of a radiobiological model of radiation damage to living organisms, while taking into account reparation processes acting during continuous long-term exposure at various dose rates and under acute recurrent radiation impact. The calculations of RR are performed for crewmembers of various ages implementing a flight to Mars over 2 - 3 years in maximum and minimum of the solar cycle. The total carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic RR and possible life-span shortening are estimated on the basis of a model of the radiation death probability for mammals. This model takes into account the decrease in compensatory reserve of an organism as well as the increase in mortality rate and descent of the subsequent lifetime of the cosmonaut. The analyzed dose distributions in the shielding and body areas are applied to making model calculations of tissue equivalent spherical and anthropomorphic phantoms.

Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Breast Tumors by In-Vivo Three-Dimensional Parallel-Plate Diffuse Optical Tomography

PubMed Central

Choe, Regine; Konecky, Soren D.; Corlu, Alper; Lee, Kijoon; Durduran, Turgut; Busch, David R.; Pathak, Saurav; Czerniecki, Brian J.; Tchou, Julia; Fraker, Douglas L.; DeMichele, Angela; Chance, Britton; Arridge, Simon R.; Schweiger, Martin; Culver, Joseph P.; Schnall, Mitchell D.; Putt, Mary E.; Rosen, Mark A.; Yodh, Arjun G.

2009-01-01

We have developed a novel parallel-plate diffuse optical tomography (DOT) system for three-dimensional in vivo imaging of human breast tumor based on large optical data sets. Images of oxy-, deoxy-, total-hemoglobin concentration, blood oxygen saturation, and tissue scattering were reconstructed. Tumor margins were derived using the optical data with guidance from radiology reports and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Tumor-to-normal ratios of these endogenous physiological parameters and an optical index were computed for 51 biopsy-proven lesions from 47 subjects. Malignant cancers (N=41) showed statistically significant higher total hemoglobin, oxy-hemoglobin concentration, and scattering compared to normal tissue. Furthermore, malignant lesions exhibited a two-fold average increase in optical index. The influence of core biopsy on DOT results was also explored; the difference between the malignant group measured before core biopsy and the group measured more than one week after core biopsy was not significant. Benign tumors (N=10) did not exhibit statistical significance in the tumor-to-normal ratios of any parameter. Optical index and tumor-to-normal ratios of total hemoglobin, oxy-hemoglobin concentration, and scattering exhibited high area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values from 0.90 to 0.99, suggesting good discriminatory power. The data demonstrate that benign and malignant lesions can be distinguished by quantitative three-dimensional DOT. PMID:19405750

Fibrin tissue adhesive reduces postoperative blood loss in total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Sabatini, Luigi; Trecci, Andrea; Imarisio, Daniele; Uslenghi, Marco Davide; Bianco, Giuseppe; Scagnelli, Roberto

2012-09-01

Blood transfusion is often required in total knee replacement; various methods of blood preservation have been studied. The best solution is to reduce the loss of blood during and after surgery. We designed this study to evaluate the hemostatic efficacy and safety of fibrin tissue adhesive (Quixil) in patients receiving total knee arthroplasty [low contact stress (LCS, DePuy, Warsaw, IN, US) cementless total knee replacement (TKR)] with a prospective, randomized, standard treatment controlled study. Thirty-five patients were randomized to receive treatment with fibrin tissue adhesive (treatment group), and 35 were randomized to be managed with postoperative blood recovery and reinfusion (control group). Blood loss in suction drain, decrease in hemoglobin values, and transfusions were recorded. A significant reduction in apparent total blood loss was detected in the treatment group compared with the control group. There was also a lower decrease in hemoglobin level, although this difference was not significant. When fibrin tissue adhesive was administered, the need for transfusions was lower. No major adverse events were recorded in our series. Fibrin tissue adhesive reduced blood loss in TKR and seemed to significantly reduce the need for blood transfusion. Fibrin tissue adhesive can be an appropriate solution to enhance hemostasis and vessel sealing at the operative site in TKR, in order to reduce blood loss after surgery and the risk of complications.

Irradiated patients and survival rate of dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Smith Nobrega, Adhara; Santiago, Joel Ferreira; de Faria Almeida, Daniel Augusto; Dos Santos, Daniela Micheline; Pellizzer, Eduardo Piza; Goiato, Marcelo Coelho

2016-12-01

Radiotherapy has been considered a contraindication for rehabilitation with dental implants because it can change the survival rate of implants. Nevertheless, the installation of implants in irradiated patients has been used with varying success. The purpose of this systematic review was to compare the success rate of implants placed in irradiated human bone tissue with that of implants placed in nonirradiated areas. Searches were performed in the EMBASE, Cochrane, and PubMed/Medline databases up to December 2013 to identify clinical trials addressing the subject. This systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The relative risks of implant failure and survival curves were calculated considering a confidence interval of 95%. Heterogeneity was analyzed by using a funnel chart. A total of 40 studies involving 2220 participants and 9231 dental implants were selected. The survival curve of the studies indicated a survival rate of 84.3% for implants installed in irradiated bone tissue. The meta-analysis indicated statistically significant differences (P<.001) between item success rates of implants placed in irradiated areas and those of implants placed in nonirradiated areas. Dental implants installed in the irradiated area of an oral cavity have a high survival rate, but strict monitoring is needed to prevent complications, thereby reducing possible failures. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A quantitative analysis of microcirculation in sore-prone pressure areas on conventional and pressure relief hospital mattresses using laser Doppler flowmetry and tissue spectrophotometry.

PubMed

Rothenberger, Jens; Krauss, Sabrina; Held, Manuel; Bender, Dominik; Schaller, Hans-Eberhard; Rahmanian-Schwarz, Afshin; Constantinescu, Mihai Adrian; Jaminet, Patrick

2014-11-01

Pressure ulcers are associated with severe impairment for the patients and high economic load. With this study we wanted to gain more insight to the skin perfusion dynamics due to external loading. Furthermore, we evaluated the effect of different types of pressure relief mattresses. A total of 25 healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study. Perfusion dynamics of the sacral and the heel area were assessed using the O2C-device, which combines a laser light, to determine blood flow, and white light to determine the relative amount of hemoglobin. Three mattresses were evaluated compared to a hard surface: a standard hospital foam mattress bed, a visco-elastic foam mattress, and an air-fluidized bed. In the heel area, only the air-fluidized bed was able to maintain the blood circulation (mean blood flow of 13.6 ± 6 versus 3.9 ± 3 AU and mean relative amount of hemoglobin of 44.0 ± 14 versus 32.7 ± 12 AU.) In the sacral area, all used mattresses revealed an improvement of blood circulation compared to the hard surface. The results of this study form a more precise pattern of perfusion changes due to external loading on various pressure relief mattresses. This knowledge may reduce the incidence of pressure ulcers and may be an influencing factor in pressure relief mattress selection. Copyright © 2014 Tissue Viability Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Total mercury distribution in different tissues of six species of freshwater fish from the Kpong hydroelectric reservoir in Ghana.

PubMed

Atta, Alhassan; Voegborlo, Ray Bright; Agorku, Eric Selorm

2012-05-01

Total mercury concentrations were determined in seven tissues of 38 fish samples comprising six species from the Kpong hydroelectric reservoir in Ghana by cold vapour atomic absorption spectrometry technique using an automatic mercury analyzer. Mercury concentration in all the tissues ranged from 0.005 to 0.022 μg/g wet weight. In general, the concentration of mercury in all the tissues were decreasing in the order; liver > muscle > intestine > stomach > gonad > gill > swim bladder. Mercury concentration was generally greater in the tissues of high-trophic-level fish such as Clarotes laticeps, Mormyrops anguilloides and Chrysichthys aurutus whereas low-trophic-level fish such as Oreochromis niloticus recorded low mercury concentration in their tissues. The results obtained for total mercury concentration in the muscle tissues analysed in this study are below the WHO/FAO threshold limit of 0.5 μg/g. This suggests that the exposure of the general public to Hg through fish consumption can be considered negligible.

Trends in the distribution of donor corneal tissue and indications for corneal transplantation: the New Zealand National Eye Bank Study 2000-2009.

PubMed

Cunningham, William J; Brookes, Nigel H; Twohill, Helen C; Moffatt, S Louise; Pendergrast, David G C; Stewart, Joanna M; McGhee, Charles N J

2012-03-01

To investigate the indications for corneal transplantation and the distribution of donor corneal tissue in New Zealand. Analysis of the prospective database of the New Zealand National Eye Bank. A total of 2205 corneal transplants were assessed. New Zealand National Eye Bank records were analysed for the decade 2000-2009. Variables analysed included donor corneal tissue distribution (including public and private sectors), indications for transplantation, donor corneal tissue recipient demographics (age and gender) and corneal transplantation type. An average of 220 corneal transplants were performed each year over the 10-year period (n=2205). The median recipient age was 45years (range 3 to 102years) and 54.0% of recipients were male. In total 71.8% of transplants were performed in the public health sector. Surgeons in the Auckland metropolitan area performed 47.2% of all corneal transplants. The most common indications for corneal transplantation were: keratoconus (41.1%), repeat transplant (17.0%), aphakic/pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (13.9%), corneal dystrophy (10.7%), keratitis (7.9%) and trauma (3.7%). Overall, penetrating keratoplasty accounted for 90.7% of all corneal transplants, however, during the latter half of the study there was a progressive shift in transplantation type, with deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty and Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty combined accounting for 32.3% of all transplants in the final year of the study period. This New Zealand National Eye Bank study provides valuable data regarding the indications for corneal transplantation, transplant recipient demographics and changes in transplantation type in New Zealand over the past decade. © 2011 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology © 2011 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.

Regional Brain Tissue Changes and Associations with Disease Severity in Children with Sleep Disordered Breathing.

PubMed

Horne, Rosemary S C; Roy, Bhaswati; Walter, Lisa M; Biggs, Sarah N; Tamanyan, Knarik; Weichard, Aidan; Nixon, Gillian M; Davey, Margot J; Ditchfield, Michael; Harper, Ronald M; Kumar, Rajesh

2017-12-15

Children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) exhibit behavioral, cognitive, and autonomic deficits, suggestive of neural injury. We assessed whether the tissue alterations resulted from acute or chronic processes, and if alterations correlated with disease severity. Brain tissue integrity was examined with mean diffusivity (MD) (3.0-Tesla scanner) in 20 non-snoring controls (mean age±sem, 12.2±0.6y; 10 male) and 18 children with SDB (12.3±0.7y; 11 male). Sleep, cognitive, and behavioral measures were compared between groups following overnight polysomnography using Student's t-tests. Whole-brain MD maps were realigned and averaged, normalized, smoothed, and compared between groups using ANCOVA (covariates; age, gender, and socioeconomic status). Partial correlations were calculated between whole-brain smoothed MD maps and obstructive apnea hypopnea indices (OAHI). Age, gender, and sleep variables did not differ between groups. The SDB group showed higher OAHI, body mass indices, and systolic blood pressure. Significantly reduced MD values (acute changes) appeared in the hippocampus, insula, thalamus, temporal and occipital cortices, and cerebellum, but were increased (chronic damage) in the frontal and prefrontal cortices in the SDB group over controls. Both positive and negative correlations appeared with extent of tissue changes and disease severity. Externalizing and Total Problem Behaviors were significantly higher in SDB children. Verbal, performance and total IQ scores trended lower, and behavioral scores trended higher. Pediatric SDB is accompanied by predominantly acute brain changes in areas that regulate autonomic, cognitive, and mood functions, and chronic changes in frontal cortices essential for behavioral control. Interventions need to be keyed to address acute vs chronic injury. © Sleep Research Society 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Sleep Research Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail journals.permissions@oup.com.

Soft tissue knee contracture of the knee due to melorheostosis, treated by total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Moulder, Elizabeth; Marsh, Clayton

2006-10-01

Melorheostosis is a rare condition which can cause soft tissue joint contractures. We present a case of melorheostosis causing disabling knee joint contracture, treated successfully by total knee arthroplasty.

Effects of cafeteria diet on the jejunum in sedentary and physically trained rats.

PubMed

Scoaris, Célia Regina; Rizo, Gabriela Vasconcelos; Roldi, Luciana Patrícia; de Moraes, Solange Marta Franzói; de Proença, André Ricardo Gomes; Peralta, Rosane Marina; Natali, Maria Raquel Marçal

2010-03-01

The effects of a cafeteria diet on the small intestine were investigated in adult Wistar rats under sedentary conditions and after physical training. Parameters including morphometry, enzyme activities, and total myenteric populations in the jejunum were evaluated. The cafeteria diet, characterized as hyperlipidic, produced obese rats, corroborated by increases in the Lee index and the weights of the periepididymal and retroperitoneal adipose tissues (P<0.01). Obesity caused increases in the length of the small intestine, villi height, crypt depth, whole-wall thickness (P<0.05), and the enzymatic activities of alkaline phosphatase, lipase, and sucrase (P<0.01), in addition to a reduction in the number of goblet cells (P<0.05). With reference to the jejunal intrinsic innervations, the total number and area of myenteric neurons was unchanged regardless of the group. Physical training promoted 1) a reduction of the weight in the retroperitoneal and periepididymal adipose tissues (P<0.05) and 2) an increase in the thickness of the muscular layer (P<0.05). The cafeteria diet promoted obesity in rodents, leading to alterations in morphometry and enzymatic intestinal parameters, which were partily attenuated by physical training. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Eotaxin/CCL11 levels correlate with myocardial fibrosis and mast cell density in native and transplanted rat hearts.

PubMed

Zweifel, M; Matozan, K; Dahinden, C; Schaffner, T; Mohacsi, P

2010-09-01

Myocardial fibrosis contributes to hemodynamic and cardiac functional alterations commonly observed posttransplantation. Cardiac mast cells (MC) have been linked to fibrosis in posttransplantation hearts. Eotaxin, which has been shown to be involved in fibrogenesis, has been demonstrated to be increased in production in cardiac macrophages. The aim of our study was to correlate myocardial fibrosis during heart transplant rejection in the rat with eotaxin/chemokine [c-c motif] ligand 11 (CCL11) expression, and with various subtypes of infiltrating cardiac MC, namely connective-type MC (CTMC) and mucosa-type MC (MMC). We used tissues from 2 previous studies of ongoing acute rejection in allogeneic Brown-Norway to Lewis rat and an isogeneic Brown-Norway to Brown-Norway heterotopic heart transplantation models under cyclosporin/prednisolone immunosuppression. Collagen fibrils were stained with Masson's trichrome with myocardial fibrosis expressed as percent fibrotic area per total section area. Eotaxin/CCL11 previously measured in heart tissue using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was correlated with the extent of myocardial fibrosis. We compared values from native hearts (n = 4) as well as transplants on days 5, 16, and 28 (n = 4 in each group). The area of myocardial fibrosis was significantly increased in the allogeneic compared with the isogeneic group at day 16 (38% vs 21%) and at day 28 (49% vs 22%) after transplantation. Myocardial fibrosis correlated significantly with eotaxin/CCL11 concentrations and the density of MMC, but not with CTMC in heart tissue. Eotaxin-triggered MC infiltration of the heart may contribute to myocardial fibrosis after transplantation. Targeting eotaxin/CCL11 with monoclonal antibodies, such as bertilimumab, could reduce MC infiltration, possibly resulting in decreased myocardial fibrosis and improved contractile function after heart transplantation. 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

What is the benefit of using amniotic membrane in oral surgery? A comprehensive review of clinical studies.

PubMed

Fénelon, M; Catros, S; Fricain, J C

2018-06-01

Since its first use for the reconstruction of tissue defects in the oral cavity in 1985, human amniotic membrane (hAM) has been widely studied in the field of oral surgery. Despite the growing number of publications in this field, there is no systematic review or meta-analysis concerning its clinical applications, outcome assessments, and relevance in oral surgery. The aim of this review is to provide a thorough understanding of the potential use of hAM for soft and hard tissue reconstruction in the oral cavity. A systematic electronic and a manual literature search of the MEDLINE-PubMed database and Scopus database was completed. Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcomes (PICO) technique was used to select the relevant articles to meet the objective. Studies using hAM for oral reconstruction, and conducted on human subjects, were included in this survey. A total of 17 articles were analyzed. Five areas of interest were identified as potential clinical application: periodontal surgery, cleft palate and tumor reconstruction, prosthodontics and peri-implant surgery. Overall, periodontal surgery was the only discipline to assess the efficacy of hAM with randomized clinical trials. The wide variability of preservation methods of hAM and the lack of objective measurements were observed in this study. hAM is already used in the field of oral surgery. Despite this, there is weak clinical evidence demonstrating convincingly the benefit of hAM in this area compared to standard surgery. Several studies now suggest the interest of hAM for periodontal tissue repair. Due to its biological and mechanical properties, hAM seems to be a promising treatment for wound healing in various areas of oral reconstruction. However, further randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm these preliminary results.

Pilot Study: Unique Response of Bone Tissue During an Investigation of Radio-Adaptive Effects in Mice

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sibonga, J. D.; Iwaniec, U.; Wu, H.

2011-01-01

PURPOSE: We obtained bone tissue to evaluate the collateral effects of experiments designed to investigate molecular mechanisms of radio-adaptation in a mouse model. Radio-adaptation describes a process by which the prior exposure to low dose radiation can protect against the toxic effect of a subsequent high dose exposure. In the radio-adaptation experiments, C57Bl/6 mice were exposed to either a Sham or a priming Low Dose (5 cGy) of Cs-137 gamma rays before being exposed to either a Sham or High Dose (6 Gy) 24 hours later. ANALYSIS: Bone tissue were obtained from two experiments where mice were sacrificed at 3 days (n=3/group, 12 total) and at 14 days (n=6/group, 24 total) following high dose exposure. Tissues were analyzed to 1) evaluate a radio-adaptive response in bone tissue and 2) describe cellular and microstructural effects for two skeletal sites with different rates of bone turnover. One tibia and one lumbar vertebrae (LV2), collected at the 3-day time-point, were analyzed by bone histomorphometry and micro-CT to evaluate the cellular response and any evidence of microarchitectural impact. Likewise, tibia and LV2, collected at the 14-day time-point, were analyzed by micro-CT alone to evaluate resulting changes to bone structure and microarchitecture. The data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA to evaluate the effects of the priming low dose radiation, of the high dose radiation, and of any interaction between the priming low and high doses of radiation. Bone histomorphometry was performed in the cancellous bone (aka trabecular bone) compartments of the proximal tibial metaphysis and of LV2. RESULTS: Cellular Response @ 3 Days The priming Low Dose radiation decreased osteoblast-covered bone perimeter in the proximal tibia and the total cell density in the bone marrow in the LV2. High Dose radiation, regardless of prior exposure to priming dose, dramatically reduced total cell density in bone marrow of both the long bone and vertebra. However, in the proximal tibia, High Dose radiation increased the osteoclast-covered bone perimeters, the density of adipocytes in bone marrow, and the area of bone marrow occupied by fat cells -- while in the LV2, adipocytes were rare and not stimulated by High Dose radiation. In an unexpected response, High Dose radiation dramatically increased (10-fold) osteoblast-covered bone perimeter in the LV2.

Physiological response of Cistus monspeliensis L. growing in two mine areas of the Iberian Pyrite Belt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arenas Lago, Daniel; Carvalho, Luisa C.; Santos, Erika S.; Abreu, Maria Manuela; Andrade, María Luisa

2015-04-01

São Domingos and Lousal mines, nowadays in abandoned state, are located in Portugal, in the Iberian Pyrite Belt, a world-class volcanic-hosted massive sulfide. As a result of the intense mining activity large volumes of wastes containing metal(loid)s were partly exposed to weathering realising potential hazardous elements contaminating waters, soils and sediments. In both mines, a great part of the contaminated areas is relatively covered by several wild species. These species have developed mechanisms of response to oxidative stress originated by high concentration of metal(loid)s in plant tissues, whose presence leads to the formation of reactive oxygen species, thus causing oxidative damage. The main objective of this study was to evaluate changes in the ecophysiological behaviour of Cistus monspeliensis L., which grows spontaneously in both mine areas, in soils containing high concentrations of metal(loid)s. With this purpose, the variation of some physiological parameters was analysed in order to identify which parameters can be indicators of the plant'sresponse to oxidative stress. Representative soils from rhizosphere and plants were sampled, in the same locations, in different areas of São Domingos and Lousal mines and in an uncontaminated area nearby São Domingos. Soils were characterized for the classic properties. Multielemental total concentration was analysed in soils and plants (shoots and roots), and multielemental concentration in the available fraction of soils. Pigments (chlorophylls, anthocyanins and carotenoids), glutathione, ascorbate, H2O2 and antioxidative enzyme activities were measured in plant shoots. In general, total and available concentrations (mg/kg) of Zn (total 149-463; available 2-16), As (total 62-3030; available 0.03-1.9), Cd (total 0.3-1.2; available 0.01-0.05), Cu (total 79-375; available 0.8-10) and Pb (total 95-9210; available 0.2-40) are significantly higher in mine soils than in uncontaminated soils Zn (total 92-123; available <0.6), As (total 18-20; available <0.08), Cd (total <0.3; available <0.01), Cu (total 25-47; available <0.1) and Pb (total 28-50; < available 0.08). Also, shoots and roots of the plants collected in both mine areas contain in general higher concentrations (mg/kg) of As (shoot 0.6-75; root 0.8-13.5)and Pb (shoot 2.5-35; root 1.8-91) than plants from uncontaminated soils (As (shoot 0.8-1.2; root <0.8); Pb (shoot <3.2; root 4-9)). Physiological analyses showed a decrease in chlorophylls, anthocyanins, ascorbic acid levels and percentage of glutathione in shoots of C. monspeliensis collected in contaminated areas compared to the plants growing on uncontaminated soils. The decrease in anthocyanins is correlated with the content of Cd and Zn in plants shoots. A negative correlation was observed between carotenoid contents and Cd concentration in shoots in both mine areas. Arsenic and Cd concentrations were correlated positively with an increase of glutathione in plants grown on mine soils. Moreover, high concentrations of metals in mine soils triggered defence mechanisms against oxidative stress, in the form of increased antioxidative enzyme activity. Therefore, these results reveal that C. monspeliensis is a species adapted to unfavourable environments with high concentrations of metal(loid)s, adjusting its tolerance mechanisms at the metabolic and physiological levels.

An unsupervised MVA method to compare specific regions in human breast tumor tissue samples using ToF-SIMS.

PubMed

Bluestein, Blake M; Morrish, Fionnuala; Graham, Daniel J; Guenthoer, Jamie; Hockenbery, David; Porter, Peggy L; Gamble, Lara J

2016-03-21

Imaging time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to investigate two sets of pre- and post-chemotherapy human breast tumor tissue sections to characterize lipids associated with tumor metabolic flexibility and response to treatment. The micron spatial resolution imaging capability of ToF-SIMS provides a powerful approach to attain spatially-resolved molecular and cellular data from cancerous tissues not available with conventional imaging techniques. Three ca. 1 mm(2) areas per tissue section were analyzed by stitching together 200 μm × 200 μm raster area scans. A method to isolate and analyze specific tissue regions of interest by utilizing PCA of ToF-SIMS images is presented, which allowed separation of cellularized areas from stromal areas. These PCA-generated regions of interest were then used as masks to reconstruct representative spectra from specifically stromal or cellular regions. The advantage of this unsupervised selection method is a reduction in scatter in the spectral PCA results when compared to analyzing all tissue areas or analyzing areas highlighted by a pathologist. Utilizing this method, stromal and cellular regions of breast tissue biopsies taken pre- versus post-chemotherapy demonstrate chemical separation using negatively-charged ion species. In this sample set, the cellular regions were predominantly all cancer cells. Fatty acids (i.e. palmitic, oleic, and stearic), monoacylglycerols, diacylglycerols and vitamin E profiles were distinctively different between the pre- and post-therapy tissues. These results validate a new unsupervised method to isolate and interpret biochemically distinct regions in cancer tissues using imaging ToF-SIMS data. In addition, the method developed here can provide a framework to compare a variety of tissue samples using imaging ToF-SIMS, especially where there is section-to-section variability that makes it difficult to use a serial hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained section to direct the SIMS analysis.

Photoacoustic diagnosis of edema in rat burned skin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshida, Ken; Sato, Shunichi; Hatanaka, Kosuke; Saitoh, Daizoh; Ashida, Hiroshi; Sakamoto, Toshihisa; Obara, Minoru

2010-02-01

Diagnosis of edema, abnormal accumulation of water in tissue, is important for managing various traumatic injuries and diseases. However, there is no established method for real-time, noninvasive monitoring of edema. In severe extensive burn injuries, edema develops both topically and systemically due to the increased permeability of blood vessels. In this study, we examined photoacoustic (PA) monitoring of edema formed in rat burn models. Deep dermal burn with a 20% total body surface area was made in the dorsal skin of rats. Burn and its adjacent nonburn tissues were irradiated with 6-ns light pulses at 1430 nm, which is one of the absorption peak wavelengths of water in the near infrared. The PA signal amplitude increased until 12 - 24 hr postburn, and thereafter it gradually decreased to its initial level; the latter phase (after 24 hr postburn) coincided with a diuretic phase in the rats. There was a significant correlation between the PA signal amplitudes and water contents in the tissue measured by wet/dry weight method. These findings demonstrate the validity of PA measurement for real-time, noninvasive monitoring of edema.

Gene Expression Profiling in Lung Tissues from Rat Exposed to Lunar Dust Particles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhang, Ye; Lam, Chiu-Wing; Zalesak, Selina M.; Kidane, Yared H.; Feiveson, Alan H.; Ploutz-Snyder, Robert; Scully, Robert R.; Williams, Kyle; Wu, Honglu; James, John T.

2014-01-01

The Moon's surface is covered by a layer of fine, reactive dust. Lunar dust contain about 1-2% of very fine dust (< 3 micron), that is respirable. The habitable area of any lunar landing vehicle and outpost would inevitably be contaminated with lunar dust that could pose a health risk. The purpose of the study is to analyze the dynamics of global gene expression changes in lung tissues from rats exposed to lunar dust particles. F344 rats were exposed for 4 weeks (6h/d; 5d/wk) in nose-only inhalation chambers to concentrations of 0 (control air), 2.1, 6.8, 21, and 61 mg/m(exp 3) of lunar dust. Five rats per group were euthanized 1 day, and 3 months after the last inhalation exposure. The total RNAs were isolated from lung tissues after being lavaged. The Agilent Rat GE v3 microarray was used to profile global gene expression (44K). The genes with significant expression changes are identified and the gene expression data were further analyzed using various statistical tools.

Catlas: An magnetic resonance imaging-based three-dimensional cortical atlas and tissue probability maps for the domestic cat (Felis catus).

PubMed

Stolzberg, Daniel; Wong, Carmen; Butler, Blake E; Lomber, Stephen G

2017-10-15

Brain atlases play an important role in effectively communicating results from neuroimaging studies in a standardized coordinate system. Furthermore, brain atlases extend analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data by delineating regions of interest over which to evaluate the extent of functional activation as well as measures of inter-regional connectivity. Here, we introduce a three-dimensional atlas of the cat cerebral cortex based on established cytoarchitectonic and electrophysiological findings. In total, 71 cerebral areas were mapped onto the gray matter (GM) of an averaged T1-weighted structural MRI acquired at 7 T from eight adult domestic cats. In addition, a nonlinear registration procedure was used to generate a common template brain as well as GM, white matter, and cerebral spinal fluid tissue probability maps to facilitate tissue segmentation as part of the standard preprocessing pipeline for MRI data analysis. The atlas and associated files can also be used for planning stereotaxic surgery and for didactic purposes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Clinical value of intraoperative neuromonitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerves in improving outcomes of surgery for well-differentiated thyroid cancer.

PubMed

Barczyński, Marcin; Konturek, Aleksander; Stopa, Małgorzata; Hubalewska-Dydejczyk, Alicja; Richter, Piotr; Nowak, Wojciech

2011-04-01

The recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is particularly prone to injury during thyroidectomy in case of extralaryngeal bifurcation being present in approximately one-third of patients near the inferior thyroid artery or ligament of Berry. Meticulous surgical dissection in this area may be additionally facilitated by the use of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) to assure safe and complete removal of thyroid tissue. The aim of the study was to verify the hypothesis that meticulous surgical technique of tissue dissection in the area of the posterior surface of the thyroid capsule and adjacent RLN may be additionally facilitated by intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM), and may contribute to increasing the safety and radicalness of total thyroidectomy in patients with well-differentiated thyroid cancer. The outcomes of total thyroidectomy with level VI lymph node clearance for well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC; pT1-3, N0-1, Mx) were retrospectively compared between 151 patients undergoing surgery with IONM (01/2005-06/2009) and 151 patients undergoing surgery without IONM (2003-2004). RLN morbidity (calculated for nerves at risk) was assessed by videolaryngoscopy or indirect laryngoscopy (mandatory before and after surgery and at 12-month follow-up). The anatomical course of the extralaryngeal segment of RLNs were analyzed in detail in each operation. Thyroid iodine uptake (131I) was measured during endogenous TSH stimulation test a week before radioiodine therapy. Among patients operated with vs. without IONM, the early RLN injury rate was 3% vs. 6.7% (p=0.02), including 2% vs. 5% (p=0.04) of temporary nerve lesions, and 1% vs. 1.7% of permanent nerve events (p=0.31), respectively. Extralaryngeal RLN bifurcation was identified in 42 (27.8%) vs. 25 (16.6%) of patients operated with vs. without IONM, respectively (p=0.001). Mean I-131 uptake following total thyroidectomy with vs. without IONM was 0.67 ± 0.39% vs. 1.59 ± 0.69% (p<0.001). 131I uptake lower than 1% was found in 106 (70.2%) vs. 38 (25.2%) patients operated with vs. without IONM, respectively (p<0.001). Most patients with WDTC who undergo total thyroidectomy have a small amount of residual thyroid tissue. The use of IONM may improve the outcomes of surgery among these patients by both increasing the completeness of total thyroidectomy and significantly reducing the prevalence of temporary RLN injury. The possible mechanism of this improvement is the aid in dissection at the level of the Berry's ligament offered by IONM which enhances the surgeon's ability to identify a branched RLN, and allows for reduction of traction injury and neuropraxia of the anterior branch of bifid nerves.

Comparison of the clinical outcomes of connective tissue and acellular dermal matrix in combination with double papillary flap for root coverage: A 6-month trial

PubMed Central

Gholami, Gholam Ali; Saberi, Arezoo; Kadkhodazadeh, Mahdi; Amid, Reza; Karami, Daryoosh

2013-01-01

Background: Different techniques have been proposed for the treatment of gingival recession. The majority of current procedures use autogenous soft-tissue grafts, which are associated with morbidity at the donor sites. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) Alloderm is an alternative donor material presented to reduce related morbidity and provide more volume of the donor tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an ADM allograft for root coverage and to compare it with a connective tissue graft (CTG), when used with a double papillary flap. Materials and Methods: Sixteen patients with bilateral class I or II gingival recessions were selected. A total of 32 recessions were treated and randomly assigned into the test and contralateral recessions into the control group. In the control group, the exposed root surfaces were treated by the placement of a CTG in combination with a double papillary flap; and in the test group, an ADM allograft was used as a substitute for palatal donor tissue. Probing depth, clinical attachment level, width of keratinized tissue (KT), recession height and width were measured before, and after 2 weeks and 6 months of surgery. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the test and control groups in terms of recession reduction, clinical attachment gain, and reduction in probing depth. The control group had a statistically significant increased area of KT after 6 months compared to the test group. Conclusion: ADM allograft can be considered as a substitute for palatal donor tissue in root coverage procedure. PMID:24130587

Estimates of plasma, packed cell and total blood volume in tissues of the rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gingerich, W.H.; Pityer, R.A.; Rach, J.J.

1987-01-01

1. Total blood volume and relative blood volumes in selected tissues were determined in non-anesthetized, confined rainbow trout by using 51Cr-labelled trout erythrocytes as a vascular space marker.2. Mean total blood volume was estimated to be 4.09 ± 0.55 ml/100 g, or about 75% of that estimated with the commonly used plasma space marker Evans blue dye.3. Relative tissue blood volumes were greatest in highly perfused tissues such as kidney, gills, brain and liver and least in mosaic muscle.4. Estimates of tissue vascular spaces, made using radiolabelled erythrocytes, were only 25–50% of those based on plasma space markers.5. The consistently smaller vascular volumes obtained with labelled erythrocytes could be explained by assuming that commonly used plasma space markers diffuse from the vascular compartment.

Organochlorine compounds in bed sediment and fish tissue in the South Platte River Basin, USA, 1992-1993

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tate, C.M.; Heiny, J.S.

1996-01-01

Bed-sediment and fish-tissue samples were collected in the South Platte River Basin to determine the occurrence and distribution of organochlorine compounds in the basin. During August-November 1992 and August 1993, bed sediment (23 sites) and fish tissue (subset of 19 sites) were sampled and analyzed for 32 organochlorine compounds in bed sediment and 27 compounds in fish tissue. More types of organochlorine compounds were detected in fish tissue than in bed sediment. Total DDT, p,p???-DDE, o,p???-DDE, p,p???-DDD, total PCS, Dacthal??, dieldrin, cis-chlordane, cis-nonachlor, trans-nonachlor, and p,p???-DDT were detected in fish tissue at >25% of the sites; p,p???-DDE, total DDT, cis-chlordane, and trans-chlordane were detected in bed sediment at >25% of the sites. Organochlorine concentrations in bed sediment and fish tissue were related to land-use settings. Few organochlorine compounds were detected at minimally impacted sites located in rangeland, forest, and built-up land-use settings. Chlordane-related compounds and p,p???-methoxychlor in bed sediment and fish tissue, endrin in fish tissue, and endosulfan I in bed sediment were associated with urban and mixed (urban and agricultural) sites. Dacthal?? in bed sediment and fish tissue was associated with agricultural sites. The compounds HCB, ??-HCH, PCA, and toxaphene were detected only at mixed land-use sites. Although DDT and DDT-metabolites, dieldrin, and total PCB were detected in urban, mixed, and agricultural land-use settings, highest mean concentrations were detected at mixed land-use sites. Mixed land-use sites had the greatest number of organochlorine compounds detected in fish tissue, whereas urban and mixed sites had the greatest number of organochlorine compounds detected in bed sediment. Measuring concentrations of organochlorine compounds in bed sediment and fish tissue at the same site offers a more complete picture of the persistence of organochlorine compounds in the environment and their relation to land-use settings.

Evaluation of transurethral and transperineal tin ethyl etiopurpurin-photodynamic therapy on the canine prostate one week after drug injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Selman, Steven H.; Keck, Rick W.; Kondo, Sandy; Albrecht, Detlef

1999-06-01

We have been investigating the potential applicability of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of benign and malignant disease of the prostate. Both transurethral and transperineal approaches to the delivery of light to the tin ethyl etiopurpurin sensitized canine prostate have been studied. Pharmacologic studies were performed and suggested that delaying light treatment for 7 days after drug administration would maximize the desired effect on the targeted prostatic tissue while minimizing the damage to surrounding bladder and rectum. A total of 12 dogs were treated with transurethral light alone (n=6) or the combination of transurethral light and transperineal light one week after tin ethyl etiopurpurin administration. (Previous studies have shown that light alone has no effect on prostate size or histology.) Animals were euthanized 48 hours and 3 weeks after completion of treatment (drug, 1mg/kg day 0, light [400mw/750sec]day 7). Tissue response was determined by gross and microscopic examination. Additionally, pre- and post- treatment transrectal ultrasounds were compared to assess changes in prostate volume and tissue echogenicity. The combination of transurethral and transperineal light results in extensive destruction of glandular epithelium with minimal damage to surrounding structures. Prostate volumes decreased by an average of 52%. Untreated areas were found to lie greater than 0.5 cm from the light diffuser. These studies have encouraged us to continue to investigate this modality as a technique for total ablation of prostatic glandular epithelium.

Animal fibre: the forgotten nutrient in strict carnivores? First insights in the cheetah.

PubMed

Depauw, S; Hesta, M; Whitehouse-Tedd, K; Vanhaecke, L; Verbrugghe, A; Janssens, G P J

2013-02-01

As wild felids are obligate carnivores, it is likely that poorly enzymatically digestible animal tissues determine hindgut fermentation, instead of plant fibre. Therefore, faecal concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA, including branched-chain fatty acids, BCFA), indole and phenol were evaluated in 14 captive cheetahs, fed two different diets differing in proportion of poorly enzymatically digestible animal tissue. Using a cross-over design, the cheetahs were fed exclusively whole rabbit or supplemented beef for 1 month each. Feeding whole rabbit decreased faecal propionic (p < 0.001) and butyric (p = 0.013) acid concentrations, yet total SCFA was unaltered (p = 0.146). Also, a remarkably higher acetic acid to propionic acid ratio (p = 0.013) was present when fed whole rabbit. Total BCFA (p = 0.011) and putrefactive indole (p = 0.004) and phenol (p = 0.002) were lower when fed whole rabbit. Additionally, serum indoxyl sulphate, a toxic metabolite of indole, was analysed and showed a quadratic decrease (p = 0.050) when fed whole rabbit. The divergent SCFA ratios and the decrease in putrefaction when fed whole rabbit could be caused by the presence of undigested tissue, such as skin, bone and cartilage, that might have fibre-like functions. The concept of animal fibre is an unexplored area of interest relevant to gastrointestinal health of captive cheetahs and likely other felids. © 2011 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Tissue or blood: which is more suitable for detection of EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer?

PubMed

Biaoxue, Rong; Shuanying, Yang

2018-01-01

Many studies have evaluated the accuracy of EGFR mutation status in blood against that in tumor tissues as the reference. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to assess whether blood can be used as a substitute for tumor tissue in detecting EGFR mutations. Investigations that provided data on EGFR mutation status in blood were searched in the databases of Medline, Embase, Ovid Technologies and Web of Science. The detect efficiency of EGFR mutations in paired blood and tissues was compared using a random-effects model of meta-analysis. Pooled sensitivity and specificity and diagnostic accuracy were calculated by receiver operating characteristic curve. A total of 19 studies with 2,922 individuals were involved in this meta-analysis. The pooled results showed the positive detection rate of EGFR mutations in lung cancer tissues was remarkably higher than that of paired blood samples (odds ratio [OR] = 1.47, p<0.001). The pooled sensitivity and specificity of blood were 0.65 and 0.91, respectively, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.89. Although blood had a better specificity for detecting EGFR mutations, the absence of blood positivity should not necessarily be construed as confirmed negativity. Patients with negative results for blood should decidedly undergo further biopsies to ascertain EGFR mutations.

Pharmacokinetic studies of a novel trioxane antimalarial (99/411) in rats and monkeys using LC-MS/MS.

PubMed

Pandey, Saurabh; Gautam, Nagsen; Kushwaha, Hari Narayan; Singh, Shio Kumar

2016-12-01

The pharmacokinetic profile of 99/411, a novel anti-malarial drug, was established in rats (12 mg/kg of body weight) and monkeys (20 mg/kg of body weight). Following oral administration, the presence of 99/411 was rapidly determined in rat plasma, tissues, urine, feces and monkey plasma using a validated LC-MS/MS method. The tissue distribution studies in rats indicated that the drug was partially distributed in all major tissues and plasma, and peak concentration levels were achieved within 0.5-4 h. Area under the curve in different rat tissues and plasma was found in order of blood > lung > intestine > heart > muscle > brain > kidney > spleen > liver. The total recoveries (within 86 h) of 99/411 were <0.0017% and <0.08% in urine and feces, respectively. The peak plasma concentration was 3499 ng/mL in rats after ~2 h of oral administration and 697-767 ng/mL in monkeys after ~6 h of oral administration. No plasma accumulation was observed in both male and female monkeys, even after multiple dosing. The preclinical pharmacokinetic profile and tissue distribution data are expected to assist in future clinical explorations of 99/411 as a promising anti-malarial agent. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Orthodontic soft-tissue parameters: a comparison of cone-beam computed tomography and the 3dMD imaging system.

PubMed

Metzger, Tasha E; Kula, Katherine S; Eckert, George J; Ghoneima, Ahmed A

2013-11-01

Orthodontists rely heavily on soft-tissue analysis to determine facial esthetics and treatment stability. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the equivalence of soft-tissue measurements between the 3dMD imaging system (3dMD, Atlanta, Ga) and the segmented skin surface images derived from cone-beam computed tomography. Seventy preexisting 3dMD facial photographs and cone-beam computed tomography scans taken within minutes of each other for the same subjects were registered in 3 dimensions and superimposed using Vultus (3dMD) software. After reliability studies, 28 soft-tissue measurements were recorded with both imaging modalities and compared to analyze their equivalence. Intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess interexaminer and intraexaminer repeatability and agreement. Summary statistics were calculated for all measurements. To demonstrate equivalence of the 2 methods, the difference needed a 95% confidence interval contained entirely within the equivalence limits defined by the repeatability results. Statistically significant differences were reported for the vermilion height, mouth width, total facial width, mouth symmetry, soft-tissue lip thickness, and eye symmetry. There are areas of nonequivalence between the 2 imaging methods; however, the differences are clinically acceptable from the orthodontic point of view. Copyright © 2013 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

How Many Cultures Are Necessary to Identify Pathogens in the Management of Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Infections?

PubMed

Gandhi, Rikesh; Silverman, Edward; Courtney, Paul M; Lee, Gwo-Chin

2017-09-01

Identification of the infecting organism is critical to the successful management of deep prosthetic joint infections about the hip and the knee. However, the number of culture specimens and which culture specimens are best to identify these organisms is unknown. We evaluated 113 consecutive patients with infected total hip and total knee arthroplasties and correlated the type of culture specimen and number of specimens taken during surgery to the likelihood of a positive culture result. From these data, we subsequently developed a model to maximize culture yield at the time of surgical intervention. After exclusions, 74 patients meeting the Musculoskeletal Infection Society criteria were left for final analysis. From this cohort, 63 of 74 patients had a positive culture result (85%). The odds of a fluid culture result being positive was 35 of 47 (0.75), whereas the likelihood of tissue cultures yielding a positive result was 164 of 245 (0.67; P = .313). The sample designated "best culture" specimen was the only culture with a positive result in 1 of 48 cases in which a best culture was identified. The optimal number of cultures needed to yield a positive test result was 4 (specificity = 0.61 and sensitivity = 0.63). Increasing the number of samples increases sensitivity but reduces specificity. A minimum of 4 tissue cultures from representative areas is necessary to maximize the chance of identifying the infecting organism during management of the infected total hip and total knee arthroplasties. The designation of the best culture specimen for additional testing is arbitrary and may not be clinically efficacious. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of nonthermal irreversible electroporation in vegetable tissue.

PubMed

Hjouj, Mohammad; Rubinsky, Boris

2010-07-01

We introduce and characterize the use of MRI for studying nonthermal irreversible electroporation (NTIRE) in a vegetative tissue model. NTIRE is a new minimally invasive surgical technique for tissue ablation in which microsecond, high electric-field pulses form nanoscale defects in the cell membrane that lead to cell death. Clinical NTIRE sequences were applied to a potato tuber tissue model. The potato is used for NTIRE studies because cell damage is readily visible with optical means through a natural oxidation process of released intracellular enzymes (polyphenol oxidase) and the formation of brown-black melanins. MRI sequences of the treated area were taken at various times before and after NTIRE and compared with photographic images. A comparison was made between T1W, T2W, FLAIR and STIR MRIs of NTIRE and photographic images. Some MRI sequences show changes in areas treated by irreversible electroporation. T1W and FLAIR produce brighter images of the treated areas. In contrast, the signal was lost from the treated area when a suppression technique, STIR, was used. There was similarity between optical photographic images of the treated tissue and MRIs of the same areas. This is the first study to characterize MRI of NTIRE in vegetative tissue. We find that NTIRE produces changes in vegetative tissue that can be imaged by certain MRI sequences. This could make MRI an effective tool to study the fundamentals of NTIRE in nonanimal tissue.

General and histological indicators of health in wild fishes from a biological mercury hotspot in northeastern North America.

PubMed

Graves, Stephanie D; Kidd, Karen A; Houlahan, Jeff E; Munkittrick, Kelly R

2017-04-01

Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Nova Scotia, Canada, is considered a biological mercury (Hg) hotspot because the tissues of yellow perch (Perca flavescens) and common loons (Gavia immer) inhabiting the lakes frequently exceed so-called safe levels of Hg. In the present study, the relationships between Hg and overall health of males and females of 3 forage fish species (brown bullhead Ameirus nebulosus, banded killifish Fundulus diaphanus, and golden shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas; n = 6-18/sex/lake) in 6 lakes at the park were assessed using condition factor, liversomatic index (LSI), and macrophage aggregates (MAs; indicators of tissue damage). Mean muscle total Hg (THg) concentrations of brown bullhead, banded killifish, and golden shiner across lakes were 0.32 μg/g, 0.27 μg/g, and 0.34 μg/g, respectively. Condition was negatively related to muscle THg in golden shiner and banded killifish, LSI was not related to THg in any species, and all species showed evidence of increasing MA prevalence (counts and area) with increasing THg concentrations. The MAs were most prevalent in spleen tissues of golden shiner, with mean percentage cover ranging from 0.36% to 5.59% across lakes. In addition, the area of MAs appeared to be better predicted by THg concentration than was the number of MAs in the same tissue. These findings suggest that Hg is affecting the health of wild fishes in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site and that other populations with similar or higher concentrations of this metal may also be at risk. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:976-987. © 2016 SETAC. © 2016 SETAC.

The effect of thermochemotherapy with mitomycin C on normal bladder urothelium, an experimental study.

PubMed

Uçar, Murat; Altok, Muammer; Umul, Mehmet; Bayram, Dilek; Armağan, İlkay; Güneş, Mustafa; Çapkin, Tahsin; Soyupek, Sedat

2016-01-01

To investigate the effects of thermochemotherapy with mitomycin C (MMC) on normal rabbit bladder urothelium and to compare it with standard intravesical MMC and hyperthermia with normal saline. Twenty-four male New Zealand rabbits, with a mean weight of 2.7 kg (in weight of 2.1–4.3 kg), were divided into three groups, each containing eight rabbits. Thermotherapy with only normal saline was performed in the first group, standard intravesical MMC was performed in the second group, and thermotherapy with MMC was performed in the last group. A week after the primary procedure, total cystectomy was performed and tissue samples were evaluated. The presence of epithelial vacuolar degeneration (p = 0.001), epithelial hyperplasia (p = 0.000), subepithelial fibrosis (p = 0.001) and hemorrhagic areas in the connective tissue (p = 0.002) was observed statistically significantly higher in the standard MMC group than in thermotherapy with normal saline group. There was almost a significant difference among standard MMC and normal saline group in terms of vascular congestion in the connective tissue (p = 0.08). Presence of epithelial vacuolar degeneration (p = 0.002), epithelial hyperplasia (p = 0.002), subepithelial fibrosis (p = 0.030), hemorrhagic areas (p = 0.011) and vascular congestion (p = 0.36) in the connective tissue was observed statistically significantly higher in the thermochemotherapy with MMC group than in standard intravesical MMC group. Polymorphonuclear cell infiltration was not considerable in any of the groups, and there was no significant difference between each groups (p = 0.140). Administration of intravesical MMC causes a toxic effect on the normal urothelium of the bladder rather than an inflammatory reaction. Heating MMC significantly increased this effect.

Does the ratio and thickness of prevertebral soft tissue provide benefit in blunt cervical spine injury?

PubMed

Shiau, J-P; Chin, C-C; Yeh, C-N; Chen, J-F; Lee, S-T; Fang, J-F; Liao, C-C

2013-06-01

Although many reports advocate computed tomography (CT) as the initial surveillance tool for occult cervical spine injury (CSI) at the emergency department (ED), the role of a lateral cervical spine radiograph (LCSX) has still not been replaced. We hypothesized that the increased width of the prevertebral soft tissue on an LCSX provides helpful information for selecting the high-risk patients who need to be evaluated with more accurate diagnostic tools. This was a retrospective and consecutive series of injured patients requiring cervical spine evaluation who were first imaged with three-view plain films at the ED. The prevertebral soft tissue thickness (PVST) and ratio of prevertebral soft tissue thickness to the cervical vertebrae diameter (PVST ratio) were calculated on the LCSX. Suspicion of CSI was confirmed by either CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. A total of 826 adult trauma patients requiring cervical spine evaluation were enrolled. The C3 PVST and PVST ratio were significantly different between patients with or without upper cervical area injury (UCAI, 8.64 vs. 5.49 mm, and 0.394 vs. 0.276, respectively), and, likewise, the C6 PVST and PVST ratio for patients with or without lower cervical area injury (LCAI, 16.89 vs. 14.66 mm, and 0.784 vs. 0.749, respectively). The specificity was greater than 90 % in predicting UCAI and LCAI when combining these two parameters. This method maximizes the usefulness of LCSX during the initial assessment of a conscious patient with blunt head and neck injury, especially for the identification of high-risk patients requiring prompt CT or MRI; on the other hand, it prevents the overuse of these high-cost imaging studies as initial diagnostic tools.

Laser photobiomodulation in pressure ulcer healing of human diabetic patients: gene expression analysis of inflammatory biochemical markers.

PubMed

Ruh, Anelice Calixto; Frigo, Lúcio; Cavalcanti, Marcos Fernando Xisto Braga; Svidnicki, Paulo; Vicari, Viviane Nogaroto; Lopes-Martins, Rodrigo Alvaro Brandão; Leal Junior, Ernesto Cesar Pinto; De Isla, Natalia; Diomede, Francesca; Trubiani, Oriana; Favero, Giovani Marino

2018-01-01

Pressure ulcers (PU) are wounds located mainly on bone surfaces where the tissue under pressure suffers ischemia leading to cellular lesion and necrosis , its causes and the healing process depend on several factors. The aim of this study was evaluating the gene expression of inflammatory/reparative factors: IL6, TNF, VEGF, and TGF, which take part in the tissue healing process under effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT). In order to perform lesion area analysis, PUs were photographed and computer analyzed. Biochemical analysis was performed sa.mpling ulcer border tissue obtained through biopsy before and after laser therapy and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. The study comprised eight individuals, mean age sixty-two years old, and sacroiliac and calcaneous PU, classified as degree III and IV according to the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP). PUs were irradiated with low-level laser (InGaAIP, 100 mW, 660 nm), energy density 2 J/cm 2 , once a day, with intervals of 24 h, totaling 12 applications. The lesion area analysis revealed averaged improvement of the granulation tissue size up to 50% from pre- to post-treatment. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that IL6 values were not significantly different before and after treatment, TNF gene expression was reduced, and VEFG and TGF-β gene expression increased after treatment. After LLLT, wounds presented improvement in gross appearance, with increase in factors VEFG and TGF-β, and reduction of TNF; despite our promising results, they have to be analyzed carefully as this study did not have a control group.

Linezolid versus Vancomycin in Treatment of Complicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

PubMed Central

Weigelt, John; Itani, Kamal; Stevens, Dennis; Lau, William; Dryden, Matthew; Knirsch, Charles

2005-01-01

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are a common cause of morbidity in both the community and the hospital. An SSTI is classified as complicated if the infection has spread to the deeper soft tissues, if surgical intervention is necessary, or if the patient has a comorbid condition hindering treatment response (e.g., diabetes mellitus or human immunodeficiency virus). The purpose of this study was to compare linezolid to vancomycin in the treatment of suspected or proven methicillin-resistant gram-positive complicated SSTIs (CSSTIs) requiring hospitalization. This was a randomized, open-label, comparator-controlled, multicenter, multinational study that included patients with suspected or proven methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections that involved substantial areas of skin or deeper soft tissues, such as cellulitis, abscesses, infected ulcers, or burns (<10% of total body surface area). Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive linezolid (600 mg) every 12 h either intravenously (i.v.) or orally or vancomycin (1 g) every 12 h i.v. In the intent-to-treat population, 92.2% and 88.5% of patients treated with linezolid and vancomycin, respectively, were clinically cured at the test-of-cure (TOC) visit (P = 0.057). Linezolid outcomes (124/140 patients or 88.6%) were superior to vancomycin outcomes (97/145 patients or 66.9%) at the TOC visit for patients with MRSA infections (P < 0.001). Drug-related adverse events were reported in similar numbers in both the linezolid and the vancomycin arms of the trial. The results of this study demonstrate that linezolid therapy is well tolerated, equivalent to vancomycin in treating CSSTIs, and superior to vancomycin in the treatment of CSSTIs due to MRSA. PMID:15917519

Effects of repeated cycles of starvation and refeeding on lungs of growing rats.

PubMed

Sahebjami, H; Domino, M

1992-12-01

Adult male rats were subjected to four cycles of mild starvation (2 wk) and refeeding (1 wk) and were compared with a fed group. Starvation was induced by giving rats one-third of their measured daily food consumption. During each starvation cycle, rats lost approximately 20% of their body weight. Despite catch-up growth and overall weight gain, starved rats had lower final body weight than fed rats. Lung dry weight and lung volumes were also reduced in the starved group. The mechanical properties of air- and saline-filled lungs did not change significantly with repeated cycles of starvation. Mean linear intercept was similar in the two groups, but alveolar surface area was reduced in the starved rats. Total content of crude connective tissue and concentration per lung dry weight of hydroxyproline and crude connective tissue were reduced in starved rats. We conclude that lung growth is retarded in growing rats subjected to repeated cycles of mild starvation and refeeding, as manifested by smaller lung volume and reduced alveolar surface area. Because alveolar size is unchanged, a reduced number of alveoli is most likely responsible for decreased lung volumes.

Osteolipomatous metaplasia in the liver of cameloids

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stroud, R.K.; Griner, L.A.; Higgins, W.Y.

1982-01-01

An aged male Bactrian camel (Camelus ferus f. bactriana), originally from the San Diego Zoo, died suddenly. Necropsy showed acute bloat and chronic liver disease. In samples of liver tissue fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, approximately 25% of the total volume of tissue was comprised of multiple white to cream-colored circumscribed nodules up to 1 cm in diameter, which were gritty when cut (fig. 1).Samples of liver were cut at 6 μm for histologic examination. Microscopically, the nodules consisted of aggregations of large, vacuolated cells resembling fat cells with spicules of mature bone scattered throughout many nodules (fig. 2). Most nodules were circumscribed but not encapsulated. Single or small clusters of vacuolated cells, however, were scattered diffusely in the hepatic parenchyma surrounding the nodules. We found cholangitis and peribiliary fibrosis in some areas, but no generalized cirrhosis. Degeneration of hepatocytes was seen in some areas peripheral to the nodules. Compression of the hepatic architecture was evident in the liver parenchyma surrounding some nodules, but the primary change was infiltrative rather than expansive. Foci of lymphocytes and a few neutrophils were present in some nodules. Hematopoietic cells, described as a characteristic of myelolipomas, were not found in any of the nodules examined [2, 4].

Diode laser prostatectomy (VLAP): initial canine evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kopchok, George E.; Verbin, Chris; Ayres, Bruce; Peng, Shi-Kaung; White, Rodney A.

1995-05-01

This study evaluated the acute and chronic effects of diode laser (960 nm) prostatectomy using a Prolase II fiber in a canine model (n equals 5). The laser fiber consists of a 1000 um quartz fiber which reflects a cone of laser energy, at 45 degree(s) to the axis of the fiber, into the prostatic urethra (Visual Laser Ablation of Prostate). Perineal access was used to guide a 15.5 Fr cystoscope to the level of the prostate. Under visual guidance and continual saline irrigation, 60 watts of laser power was delivered for 60 seconds at 3, 9, and 12 o'clock and 30 seconds at the 6 o'clock (posterior) positions for a total energy fluence of 12,600 J. One prostate received an additional 60 second exposure at 3 and 9 o'clock for a total fluence of 19,800 J. The prostates were evaluated at one day (n equals 1) and 8 weeks (n equals 4). The histopathology of laser effects at one day show areas of necrosis with loss of glandular structures and stromal edema. Surrounding this area was a zone of degenerative glandular structures extending up to 17.5 mm (cross sectional diameter). The histopathology of the 8 week laser treated animals demonstrated dilated prostatic urethras with maximum cross- sectional diameter of 23.4 mm (mean equals 18.5 +/- 3.9 mm). This study demonstrates the effectiveness of diode laser energy for prostatic tissue coagulation and eventual sloughing. The results also demonstrate the safety of diode laser energy, with similar tissue response as seen with Nd:YAG laser, for laser prostatectomy.

Soft tissue balancing in total shoulder replacement.

PubMed

Mueller, Maike; Hoy, Gregory

2014-03-01

Total shoulder arthroplasty is now capable of recreating near anatomic reproduction of native bony shoulder anatomy, but the function and longevity of anatomic shoulder replacement is dependent on a competent soft tissue envelope and adequate motoring of all musculo-tendinous units about the shoulder. Balancing the soft tissues requires understanding of the anatomy and pathology, as well as technical skills. The advent of reverse shoulder biomechanics has brought with it special requirements of understanding of the soft tissue elements still left in the shoulder despite major rotator cuff deficiency.

Modular bicompartmental knee arthroplasty : Indications, technique, prosthetic design, and results.

PubMed

Kanna, R

2017-03-01

The shifting demographics of patients with localized knee arthritis, including younger, more active patients, is a chief motivation for mounting interest in tissue preserving surgical substitutes for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Unlinked, modular bi-compartmental knee arthroplasty (MBKA) is an emerging knee-resurfacing approach that provides a conservative alternative to TKA. Arthritis involving both patellofemoral and either medial or lateral tibiofemoral compartments, with no significant deformity or bone deficiency, preserved motion, and intact cruciate ligaments, can be effectively managed with MBKA. It is tailored to treat the pathologic areas of knees with bicompartmental arthritis with the benefit of improved function and tissue conservation. MBKA done in appropriate patients, using precise technique, with appropriate implants has shown to give good short and long term functional results. Long term results using modern MBKA implants are awaited and may further establish the durability and success of the procedure.

Assessment of body fat based on potential function clustering segmentation of computed tomography images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lixin; Lin, Min; Wan, Baikun; Zhou, Yu; Wang, Yizhong

2005-01-01

In this paper, a new method of body fat and its distribution testing is proposed based on CT image processing. As it is more sensitive to slight differences in attenuation than standard radiography, CT depicts the soft tissues with better clarity. And body fat has a distinct grayness range compared with its neighboring tissues in a CT image. An effective multi-thresholds image segmentation method based on potential function clustering is used to deal with multiple peaks in the grayness histogram of a CT image. The CT images of abdomens of 14 volunteers with different fatness are processed with the proposed method. Not only can the result of total fat area be got, but also the differentiation of subcutaneous fat from intra-abdominal fat has been identified. The results show the adaptability and stability of the proposed method, which will be a useful tool for diagnosing obesity.

Esthetic Outcomes of Immediately Loaded Locking Taper Implants in the Anterior Maxilla: A Case Series Study.

PubMed

Lombardo, Giorgio; Corrocher, Giovanni; Pighi, Jacopo; Mascellaro, Anna; Marincola, Mauro; Nocini, Per Francesco

2016-06-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the esthetic outcome of single-tooth locking taper connection implants placed in the anterior maxilla following a postextractive nonfunctional loading protocol. This preliminary clinical study involving 16 patients evaluated the results of 21 implants placed in areas with high esthetic value. For each implant the pink esthetic score, white esthetic score, cumulative survival rate, and health status of peri-implant tissues were evaluated. The cumulative survival rate was 100% 2 years after prosthetic loading, and the mean total pink esthetic score/white esthetic score was 16.9 ± 1.14 on a maximum value of 20. There was excellent plaque control in all patients, and inflammation indices were within the norm. Within the limits of this study, this immediate nonfunctional loading protocol seems to be a successful procedure esthetically and for the maintenance of peri-implant soft tissues.

Novel Feed Including Olive Oil Mill Wastewater Bioactive Compounds Enhanced the Redox Status of Lambs

PubMed Central

MAKRI, SOTIRIA; KAFANTARIS, IOANNIS; SAVVA, SALOMI; NTANOU, POLYXENI; STAGOS, DIMITRIOS; ARGYROULIS, IOANNIS; KOTSAMPASI, BASILIKI; CHRISTODOULOU, VLADIMIROS; GERASOPOULOS, KONSTANTINOS; PETROTOS, KONSTANTINOS; KOMIOTIS, DIMITRIOS; KOURETAS, DEMETRIOS

2018-01-01

Background/Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant effects of a feed supplemented with polyphenolic additives from olive mill wastewater (OMW) on lambs. Materials and Methods: Lambs received breast milk until the postnatal period, and then they were divided into two groups and received control and OMW feed for 55 days. Redox biomarkers were measured in blood and tissues at days 15, 42 and 70 after feeding. Results: Feed supplemented with OMW reduced thiobarbituric acid reactive species and protein carbonyls and increased total antioxidant capacity, glutathione and catalase activity in both blood and tissues. Conclusion: The administration of OMW-containing feed reinforced the antioxidant defense of lambs, which may improve their wellbeing and productivity. Additionally, this exploitation of OMW may solve problems of environmental pollution in areas with olive oil industries. PMID:29475912

Scanning electron microscopic observations of fibrous structure of cemento-dentinal junction in healthy teeth.

PubMed

Pratebha, B; Jaikumar, N D; Sudhakar, R

2014-01-01

The cemento-dentinal junction (CDJ) is a structural and biologic link between cementum and dentin present in the roots of teeth. Conflicting reports about the origin, structure and composition of this layer are present in literature. The width of this junctional tissue is reported to be about 2-4 μm with adhesion of cementum and dentin by proteoglycans and by collagen fiber intermingling. The objective of this study is to observe and report the fibrous architecture of the CDJ of healthy tooth roots. A total of 15 healthy teeth samples were collected, sectioned into halves, demineralized in 5% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, processed using NaOH maceration technique and observed under a scanning electron microscope. The CDJ appeared to be a fibril poor groove with a width of 2-4 µm. Few areas of collagen fiber intermingling could be appreciated. A detailed observation of these tissues has been presented.

Hg concentrations and related risk assessment in coral reef crustaceans, molluscs and fish from New Caledonia.

PubMed

Chouvelon, Tiphaine; Warnau, Michel; Churlaud, Carine; Bustamante, Paco

2009-01-01

There is a dramatic lack of data on Hg levels in marine organisms from tropical areas, and in particular from New Caledonia. For the first time, this study reports the total Hg concentrations in the tissues of several marine taxa from the New Caledonian lagoon. Seafood from both wild and farmed populations was considered. Hg concentrations varied over three orders of magnitudes according to factors including species, age (size/weight), trophic level, lifestyle and geographical origin. Taking into account the edible tissues, estimations of the amount of flesh that should be consumed by a 60-kg person to reach the Hg Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) reveal acceptable risk for Human health in general. However, a risk was clearly identified in one site of the lagoon (i.e. Grande Rade) where high Hg concentrations were measured. These concentrations were higher than values reported in the current literature.

Finite element analysis (FEA) of dental implant fixture for mechanical stability and rapid osseointegration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tabassum, Shafia; Murtaza, Ahmar; Ali, Hasan; Uddin, Zia Mohy; Zehra, Syedah Sadaf

2017-10-01

For rapid osseointegration of dental implant fixtures, various surface treatments including plasma spraying, hydroxyapatite coating, acid-etching, and surface grooving are used. However undesirable effects such as chemical modifications, loss of mechanical properties, prolonged processing times and post production treatment steps are often associated with these techniques. The osseointegration rate of the dental implants can be promoted by increasing the surface area of the dental implant, thus increasing the bone cells - implant material contact and allow bone tissues to grow rapidly. Additive Manufacturing (AM) techniques can be used to fabricate dental implant fixtures with desirable surface area in a single step manufacturing process. AM allows the use of Computer Aided Designing (CAD) for customised rapid prototyping of components with precise control over geometry. In this study, the dental implant fixture that replaces the tooth root was designed on commercially available software COMSOL. Nickel - titanium alloy was selected as build materials for dental implant. The geometry of the dental fixture was varied by changing the interspacing distance (thread pitch) and number of threads to increase the total surface area. Three different microstructures were introduced on the surface of dental implant. The designed models were used to examine the effect of changing geometries on the total surface area. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was performed to investigate the effect of changing geometries on the mechanical properties of the dental implant fixtures using stress analysis.

Tissue-Specific Transcriptomics in the Field Cricket Teleogryllus oceanicus

PubMed Central

Bailey, Nathan W.; Veltsos, Paris; Tan, Yew-Foon; Millar, A. Harvey; Ritchie, Michael G.; Simmons, Leigh W.

2013-01-01

Field crickets (family Gryllidae) frequently are used in studies of behavioral genetics, sexual selection, and sexual conflict, but there have been no studies of transcriptomic differences among different tissue types. We evaluated transcriptome variation among testis, accessory gland, and the remaining whole-body preparations from males of the field cricket, Teleogryllus oceanicus. Non-normalized cDNA libraries from each tissue were sequenced on the Roche 454 platform, and a master assembly was constructed using testis, accessory gland, and whole-body preparations. A total of 940,200 reads were assembled into 41,962 contigs, to which 36,856 singletons (reads not assembled into a contig) were added to provide a total of 78,818 sequences used in annotation analysis. A total of 59,072 sequences (75%) were unique to one of the three tissues. Testis tissue had the greatest proportion of tissue-specific sequences (62.6%), followed by general body (56.43%) and accessory gland tissue (44.16%). We tested the hypothesis that tissues expressing gene products expected to evolve rapidly as a result of sexual selection—testis and accessory gland—would yield a smaller proportion of BLASTx matches to homologous genes in the model organism Drosophila melanogaster compared with whole-body tissue. Uniquely expressed sequences in both testis and accessory gland showed a significantly lower rate of matching to annotated D. melanogaster genes compared with those from general body tissue. These results correspond with empirical evidence that genes expressed in testis and accessory gland tissue are rapidly evolving targets of selection. PMID:23390599

Tissue-specific transcriptomics in the field cricket Teleogryllus oceanicus.

PubMed

Bailey, Nathan W; Veltsos, Paris; Tan, Yew-Foon; Millar, A Harvey; Ritchie, Michael G; Simmons, Leigh W

2013-02-01

Field crickets (family Gryllidae) frequently are used in studies of behavioral genetics, sexual selection, and sexual conflict, but there have been no studies of transcriptomic differences among different tissue types. We evaluated transcriptome variation among testis, accessory gland, and the remaining whole-body preparations from males of the field cricket, Teleogryllus oceanicus. Non-normalized cDNA libraries from each tissue were sequenced on the Roche 454 platform, and a master assembly was constructed using testis, accessory gland, and whole-body preparations. A total of 940,200 reads were assembled into 41,962 contigs, to which 36,856 singletons (reads not assembled into a contig) were added to provide a total of 78,818 sequences used in annotation analysis. A total of 59,072 sequences (75%) were unique to one of the three tissues. Testis tissue had the greatest proportion of tissue-specific sequences (62.6%), followed by general body (56.43%) and accessory gland tissue (44.16%). We tested the hypothesis that tissues expressing gene products expected to evolve rapidly as a result of sexual selection--testis and accessory gland--would yield a smaller proportion of BLASTx matches to homologous genes in the model organism Drosophila melanogaster compared with whole-body tissue. Uniquely expressed sequences in both testis and accessory gland showed a significantly lower rate of matching to annotated D. melanogaster genes compared with those from general body tissue. These results correspond with empirical evidence that genes expressed in testis and accessory gland tissue are rapidly evolving targets of selection.

Antioxidant compounds of kiwifruit during post-ripening process at ambient temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, D.; Lv, X. L.; Wang, J.; Xia, H.; Xie, Y.; Li, M. Z.; Wang, Y. Z.

2017-09-01

Kiwifruit is well-known for an excellent source of antioxidants. In this study, contents of total phenolics (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), total flavanols (TFAC) and vitamin C were investigated in different fruit tissues during post-ripening process at ambient temperature. The results explored that TPC and TFC showed declining trend with the increase in storage interval in different tissues. TFAC raised with the increase in storage interval in different fruit tissues, while was followed a decrease in later process. Vitamin C content was stable in outer and inner pericarp in prometaphase of post-ripening.

Host status of Meyer and Eureka lemons for Anastrepha ludens.

PubMed

Mangan, Robert L; Moreno, Aleena Tarshis

2012-04-01

Host status for Mexican fruit fly (Anastrepha ludens (Loew)) was examined under laboratory conditions in cage infested Eureka and Meyer lemons. Our approach was to allow females to oviposit on the two cultivars in separate laboratory cages with aluminum foil covering to restrict the areas where females had access to fruit surface. Fruit of each cultivar were placed in covered trays for incubations and at approximately weekly intervals, fruit were removed, dissected, and live and dead eggs and larvae tabulated in each tissue of the fruit. Infestation and survival were tabulated and analyzed for the effects of harvest date, fruit color and brix indices, postoviposition period, and cultivar. Infestation rate, determined by counts of total eggs and larvae was significantly higher in Meyer lemons. In both cultivars, females deposited eggs into both albedo and pulp tissue but not into flavedo. Both cultivars showed high resistance (> 90% mortality) to egg and first instars survival in albedo and pulp. Second and third instars surviving in the pulp had high survival rates (> 60%) in both cultivars in fruit dissected at weeks 2-4 after infestation. Total adults produced were slightly higher, and total second and third stage larvae were also higher for Meyer lemons. Numbers of adults and total second and third stage larvae increased in Eureka lemons in more mature fruit, but the higher numbers in Meyer lemons were not associated with fruit maturity, at time of infestation. Numbers of second and third stage larvae were significantly correlated with some fruit color indices in Eureka but not in Meyer lemons. Application of these results to quarantine risk analysis is discussed.

Nutrient bioassimilation capacity of aquacultured oysters: quantification of an ecosystem service.

PubMed

Higgins, Colleen B; Stephenson, Kurt; Brown, Bonnie L

2011-01-01

Like many coastal zones and estuaries, the Chesapeake Bay has been severely degraded by cultural eutrophication. Rising implementation costs and difficulty achieving nutrient reduction goals associated with point and nonpoint sources suggests that approaches supplemental to source reductions may prove useful in the future. Enhanced oyster aquaculture has been suggested as one potential policy initiative to help rid the Bay waters of excess nutrients via harvest of bioassimilated nutrients. To assess this potential, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorous (TP), and total carbon (TC) content were measured in oyster tissue and shell at two floating-raft cultivation sites in the Chesapeake Bay. Models were developed based on the common market measurement of total length (TL) for aquacultured oysters, which was strongly correlated to the TN (R2 = 0.76), TP (R2 = 0.78), and TC (R2 = 0.76) content per oyster tissue and shell. These models provide resource managers with a tool to quantify net nutrient removal. Based on model estimates, 10(6) harvest-sized oysters (76 mm TL) remove 132 kg TN, 19 kg TP, and 3823 kg TC. In terms of nutrients removed per unit area, oyster harvest is an effective means of nutrient removal compared with other nonpoint source reduction strategies. At a density of 286 oysters m(-2), assuming no mortality, harvest size nutrient removal rates can be as high as 378 kg TN ha(-1), 54 kg TP ha(-1), and 10,934 kg TC ha(-1) for 76-mm oysters. Removing 1 t N from the Bay would require harvesting 7.7 million 76-mm TL cultivated oysters.

Elbow reconstruction with a pedicled thoracodorsal artery perforator flap after excision of an upper-extremity giant hairy nevus.

PubMed

Oksüz, Sinan; Ulkür, Ersin; Tuncer, Serhan; Sever, Celalettin; Karagöz, Hüseyin

2013-04-01

The complexity of managing large soft-tissue defects at the elbow region by conventional techniques arises from the difficulty of providing sufficient tissue with adequate elasticity and durability. Reconstruction options that allow early mobilisation and avoid the risk of functional loss should be considered to achieve defect closure at the elbow region. A 21-year-old man presented with a congenital giant hairy nevus on his left upper extremity. The nevus was excised and the resulting raw surface after the excision was covered with a split-thickness skin graft except for the elbow region. The elbow was covered in one stage with an ipsilateral 24 cm long pedicled thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flap. The follow-up examination 3 years after total reconstruction demonstrated durable elbow support provided by the TDAP flap. The patient revealed no complaint considering pain or sensitivity even when exposed to mechanical stress. Split-thickness skin grafting of the large superficial defects is almost always possible; however, impairment of the function on joint areas due to gradual contraction and skin graft propensity to ulcers under mechanical stresses can be devastating. The elbow is a weight-bearing area of the body. Elbow defects require durable and thin soft-tissue coverage and the tissue cover must possess excellent elastic properties to re-establish elbow mobility. The TDAP flap is an ideal choice for elbow soft-tissue defects. The longest pedicle length reported for the TDAP flap is 23 cm. In our case, the pedicle length was 24 cm and it was possible to transfer this flap to the elbow on its pedicle. A pedicled TDAP skin flap so as to provide elbow coverage in one stage is a useful choice to retain in one's armamentarium. Copyright © 2012 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Whole-Lesion Apparent Diffusion Coefficient-Based Entropy-Related Parameters for Characterizing Cervical Cancers: Initial Findings.

PubMed

Guan, Yue; Li, Weifeng; Jiang, Zhuoran; Chen, Ying; Liu, Song; He, Jian; Zhou, Zhengyang; Ge, Yun

2016-12-01

This study aimed to develop whole-lesion apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)-based entropy-related parameters of cervical cancer to preliminarily assess intratumoral heterogeneity of this lesion in comparison to adjacent normal cervical tissues. A total of 51 women (mean age, 49 years) with cervical cancers confirmed by biopsy underwent 3-T pelvic diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging with b values of 0 and 800 s/mm 2 prospectively. ADC-based entropy-related parameters including first-order entropy and second-order entropies were derived from the whole tumor volume as well as adjacent normal cervical tissues. Intraclass correlation coefficient, Wilcoxon test with Bonferroni correction, Kruskal-Wallis test, and receiver operating characteristic curve were used for statistical analysis. All the parameters showed excellent interobserver agreement (all intraclass correlation coefficients  > 0.900). Entropy, entropy(H) 0 , entropy(H) 45 , entropy(H) 90 , entropy(H) 135 , and entropy(H) mean were significantly higher, whereas entropy(H) range and entropy(H) std were significantly lower in cervical cancers compared to adjacent normal cervical tissues (all P <.0001). Kruskal-Wallis test showed that there were no significant differences among the values of various second-order entropies including entropy(H) 0, entropy(H) 45 , entropy(H) 90 , entropy(H) 135 , and entropy(H) mean. All second-order entropies had larger area under the receiver operating characteristic curve than first-order entropy in differentiating cervical cancers from adjacent normal cervical tissues. Further, entropy(H) 45 , entropy(H) 90 , entropy(H) 135 , and entropy(H) mean had the same largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.867. Whole-lesion ADC-based entropy-related parameters of cervical cancers were developed successfully, which showed initial potential in characterizing intratumoral heterogeneity in comparison to adjacent normal cervical tissues. Copyright © 2016 The Association of University Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Avian mercury exposure and toxicological risk across western North America: A synthesis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ackerman, Joshua T.; Eagles-Smith, Collin A.; Herzog, Mark; Hartman, Christopher; Peterson, Sarah; Evers, David C.; Jackson, Allyson K.; Elliott, John E.; Vander Pol, Stacy S.; Bryan, Colleen E.

2016-01-01

Methylmercury contamination of the environment is an important issue globally, and birds are useful bioindicators for mercury monitoring programs. The available data on mercury contamination of birds in western North America were synthesized. Original data from multiple databases were obtained and a literature review was conducted to obtain additional mercury concentrations. In total, 29219 original bird mercury concentrations from 225 species were compiled, and an additional 1712 mean mercury concentrations, representing 19998 individuals and 176 species, from 200 publications were obtained. To make mercury data comparable across bird tissues, published equations of tissue mercury correlations were used to convert all mercury concentrations into blood-equivalent mercury concentrations. Blood-equivalent mercury concentrations differed among species, foraging guilds, habitat types, locations, and ecoregions. Piscivores and carnivores exhibited the greatest mercury concentrations, whereas herbivores and granivores exhibited the lowest mercury concentrations. Bird mercury concentrations were greatest in ocean and salt marsh habitats and lowest in terrestrial habitats. Bird mercury concentrations were above toxicity benchmarks in many areas throughout western North America, and multiple hotspots were identified. Additionally, published toxicity benchmarks established in multiple tissues were summarized and translated into a common blood-equivalent mercury concentration. Overall, 66% of birds sampled in western North American exceeded a blood-equivalent mercury concentration of 0.2 μg/g wet weight (ww; above background levels), which is the lowest-observed effect level, 28% exceeded 1.0 μg/g ww (moderate risk), 8% exceeded 3.0 μg/g ww (high risk), and 4% exceeded 4.0 μg/g ww (severe risk). Mercury monitoring programs should sample bird tissues, such as adult blood and eggs, that are most-easily translated into tissues with well-developed toxicity benchmarks and that are directly relevant to bird reproduction. Results indicate that mercury contamination of birds is prevalent in many areas throughout western North America, and large-scale ecological attributes are important factors influencing bird mercury concentrations.

Avian mercury exposure and toxicological risk across western North America: A synthesis

PubMed Central

Ackerman, Joshua T.; Eagles-Smith, Collin A.; Herzog, Mark P.; Hartman, C. Alex; Peterson, Sarah H.; Evers, David C.; Jackson, Allyson K.; Elliott, John E.; Vander Pol, Stacy S.; Bryan, Colleen E.

2017-01-01

Methylmercury contamination of the environment is an important issue globally and birds are useful bioindicators for mercury monitoring programs. The available data on mercury contamination of birds in western North America were synthesized. Original data from multiple databases were obtained and a literature review was conducted to obtain additional mercury concentrations. In total, 29219 original bird mercury concentrations from 225 species were compiled, and an additional 1712 mean mercury concentrations, representing 19998 individuals and 176 species, from 200 publications were obtained. To make mercury data comparable across bird tissues, published equations of tissue mercury correlations were used to convert all mercury concentrations into blood-equivalent mercury concentrations. Blood-equivalent mercury concentrations differed among species, foraging guilds, habitat types, locations, and ecoregions. Piscivores and carnivores exhibited the greatest mercury concentrations, whereas herbivores and granivores exhibited the lowest mercury concentrations. Bird mercury concentrations were greatest in ocean and salt marsh habitats and lowest in terrestrial habitats. Bird mercury concentrations were above toxicity benchmarks in many areas throughout western North America, and multiple hotspots were identified. Additionally, published toxicity benchmarks established in multiple tissues were summarized and translated into a common blood-equivalent mercury concentration. Overall, 66% of birds sampled in western North American exceeded a blood-equivalent mercury concentration of 0.2 μg/g wet weight (ww; above background levels), which is the lowest-observed effect level, 28% exceeded 1.0 μg/g ww (moderate risk), 8% exceeded 3.0 μg/g ww (high risk), and 4% exceeded 4.0 μg/g ww (severe risk). Mercury monitoring programs should sample bird tissues, such as adult blood and eggs, that are most-easily translated into tissues with well-developed toxicity benchmarks and that are directly relevant to bird reproduction. Results indicate that mercury contamination of birds is prevalent in many areas throughout western North America, and large-scale ecological attributes are important factors influencing bird mercury concentrations. PMID:27093907

Biochemical Changes in Terminal Root Galls Caused by an Ectoparasitic Nematode, Longidorus africanus: Amino Acids.

PubMed

Epstein, E; Cohn, E

1971-10-01

The amino acids of terminal root galls caused by Longidorus africanus on bur marigold (Bidens tripartita L.) and grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) were studied. The galled roots of bur marigold contained 73% more cell-wall protein and 184% more free amino acids. The main changes among the free amino acids of the galled tissue were a large increase (1900%) in proline and a decrease in aspartic acid (56%) compared with the respective check tissue. Hydroxyproline decreased in the wall protein fraction from 5.6% in the healthy tissue to 3.6% in the infected tissue.Percent of hydroxyproline in total amino acids of the wall protein fraction of grapevine roots decreased from 0.7% in the healthy tissue to 0.3% in the galled tissue, and total proteins of this fraction decreased from 9.5 mg to 4.5 rag, respectively. Total protein in the protoplasmic fraction also decreased from 3.0 mg in healthy to 1.0 mg in infected roots. No change was noticed in total proteins in the free amino acids fraction but free proline decreased 40% in the infected roots.The relationship of these differences to the specific reactions of the hosts to nematode feeding is discussed.

Modelling of micromachining of human tooth enamel by erbium laser radiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Belikov, A V; Skrypnik, A V; Shatilova, K V

We consider a 3D cellular model of human tooth enamel and a photomechanical cellular model of enamel ablation by erbium laser radiation, taking into account the structural peculiarities of enamel, energy distribution in the laser beam cross section and attenuation of laser energy in biological tissue. The surface area of the texture in enamel is calculated after its micromachining by erbium laser radiation. The influence of the surface area on the bond strength of enamel with dental filling materials is discussed. A good correlation between the computer simulation of the total work of adhesion and experimentally measured bond strength betweenmore » the dental filling material and the tooth enamel after its micromachining by means of YAG : Er laser radiation is attained. (laser biophotonics)« less

A comparison of fat-soluble antioxidants in wild and farm-reared chukar partridges (Alectoris chukar).

PubMed

Karadas, Filiz; Møller, Anders Pape; Karageçili, Mehmet Reşit

2017-06-01

This study assessed differences in antioxidant (carotenoid, retinol, retinol-ester, vitamin E and coenzyme Q 10 ) composition of egg yolk and tissue in chukar partridges (Alectoris chukar) newly hatched from eggs of birds maintained in captivity on commercial maize-soybean based diets and birds from the wild whose diet was obtained from the natural environment. All eggs were incubated in a commercial hatchery. Day-old chicks from both groups were sacrificed and dissected for antioxidant analysis. Fat soluble antioxidant concentrations of egg yolk and tissues were determined by HPLC. Total carotenoids, retinol, alpha-tocopherol, and total vitamin E concentration of wild egg yolks were significantly higher compared to yolks from farm-reared birds (p<0.05). However, gamma tocopherol, and coenzyme Q 10 were not significantly different in the yolks of either wild or farmed birds (p>0.05). The concentration of total carotenoids in all tissues of wild chukar one-day old partridges was significantly higher than in farmed one-day old chukar partridge tissues (p<0.05). Alpha tocopherol, free-retinol, retinol-esters and total vitamin A were significantly higher in most tissues of wild chukar when compared to farmed chicks (p<0.05). Coenzyme Q 10 concentrations of heart, kidney and brain tissues of farm-reared chukar day old chicks were significantly higher than tissues from wild birds, although leg and breast tissues of wild chicks were significantly higher than in farmed birds (p<0.05). These findings suggest that maternal access to antioxidants in the diet of farmed chukar partridges could positively influence fat soluble antioxidant concentrations in the egg yolk and tissues of day old chicks. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association of fatty acids and lipids metabolism in placenta with early spontaneous pregnancy loss in Chinese women.

PubMed

Li, Kelei; Zhang, Xiaotian; Chen, Gong; Pei, Lijun; Xiao, Hailong; Jiang, Jiajing; Li, Jiaomei; Zheng, Xiaoying; Li, Duo

2018-02-21

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of fatty acids and lipids metabolism in placenta with early spontaneous pregnancy loss (ESPL) in Chinese women. Seventy women with ESPL and 29 healthy pregnant women who asked for legal induced abortion were included in the case and control groups, respectively. The gestational age of the subject foetuses in both the case and control groups ranged from 4 to 10 weeks. The total fatty acids composition in the decidual and villous tissues was detected by gas-liquid chromatography using a standard method. Metabonomics analysis of the decidual and villous tissues was conducted by ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOFMS). The total C18:3n-3 in the decidual and villous tissues, total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) in the decidual tissue, and total C18:2n-6 in the villous tissue were all significantly lower in the case group than in the control group. The ratio of C20:4n-6/C20:5n-3 in villous tissue was significantly higher, but prostaglandin I 2 as well as hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid, leukotriene B 5 and thromboxane B 3 in the villous tissue were significantly lower in the case group than in the control group. In addition, the low content of lysophosphatide in the decidual and villous tissues and the low content of diacylglycerol in the villous tissue were also associated with the occurance of ESPL. In conclusion, the lack of essential fatty acids, high ratio of C20:4n-6/C20:5n-3, abnormal eicosanoids metabolism and low content of lysophosphatide and diacylglycerol in the placenta were all potential risk factors for ESPL in Chinese.

Iatrogenic Bone and Soft Tissue Trauma in Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Compared With Conventional Jig-Based Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Cohort Study and Validation of a New Classification System.

PubMed

Kayani, Babar; Konan, Sujith; Pietrzak, Jurek R T; Haddad, Fares S

2018-03-27

The objective of this study was to compare macroscopic bone and soft tissue injury between robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) and conventional jig-based total knee arthroplasty (CJ-TKA) and create a validated classification system for reporting iatrogenic bone and periarticular soft tissue injury after TKA. This study included 30 consecutive CJ-TKAs followed by 30 consecutive RA-TKAs performed by a single surgeon. Intraoperative photographs of the femur, tibia, and periarticular soft tissues were taken before implantation of prostheses. Using these outcomes, the macroscopic soft tissue injury (MASTI) classification system was developed to grade iatrogenic bone and soft tissue injuries. Interobserver and Intraobserver validity of the proposed classification system was assessed. Patients undergoing RA-TKA had reduced medial soft tissue injury in both passively correctible (P < .05) and noncorrectible varus deformities (P < .05); more pristine femoral (P < .05) and tibial (P < .05) bone resection cuts; and improved MASTI scores compared to CJ-TKA (P < .05). There was high interobserver (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.92 [95% confidence interval: 0.88-0.96], P < .05) and intraobserver agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.94 [95% confidence interval: 0.92-0.97], P < .05) of the proposed MASTI classification system. There is reduced bone and periarticular soft tissue injury in patients undergoing RA-TKA compared to CJ-TKA. The proposed MASTI classification system is a reproducible grading scheme for describing iatrogenic bone and soft tissue injury in TKA. RA-TKA is associated with reduced bone and soft tissue injury compared with conventional jig-based TKA. The proposed MASTI classification may facilitate further research correlating macroscopic soft tissue injury during TKA to long-term clinical and functional outcomes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Soft-tissue tension total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Asano, Hiroshi; Hoshino, Akiho; Wilton, Tim J

2004-08-01

It is far from clear how best to define the proper strength of soft-tissue tensioning in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We attached a torque driver to the Monogram balancer/tensor device and measured soft-tissue tension in full extension and 90 degrees flexion during TKA. In our surgical procedure, when we felt proper soft-tissue tension was being applied, the mean distraction force was noted to be 126N in extension and 121N in flexion. There was no significant correlation between soft-tissue tension and the postoperative flexion angle finally achieved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to assess the actual distraction forces in relation to soft-tissue tension in TKA. Further study may reveal the most appropriate forces to achieve proper soft-tissue tension in the wide variety of circumstances presenting at knee arthroplasty.

Four-dimensional optical coherence tomography imaging of total liquid ventilated rats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirsten, Lars; Schnabel, Christian; Gaertner, Maria; Koch, Edmund

2013-06-01

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) can be utilized for the spatially and temporally resolved visualization of alveolar tissue and its dynamics in rodent models, which allows the investigation of lung dynamics on the microscopic scale of single alveoli. The findings could provide experimental input data for numerical simulations of lung tissue mechanics and could support the development of protective ventilation strategies. Real four-dimensional OCT imaging permits the acquisition of several OCT stacks within one single ventilation cycle. Thus, the entire four-dimensional information is directly obtained. Compared to conventional virtual four-dimensional OCT imaging, where the image acquisition is extended over many ventilation cycles and is triggered on pressure levels, real four-dimensional OCT is less vulnerable against motion artifacts and non-reproducible movement of the lung tissue over subsequent ventilation cycles, which widely reduces image artifacts. However, OCT imaging of alveolar tissue is affected by refraction and total internal reflection at air-tissue interfaces. Thus, only the first alveolar layer beneath the pleura is visible. To circumvent this effect, total liquid ventilation can be carried out to match the refractive indices of lung tissue and the breathing medium, which improves the visibility of the alveolar structure, the image quality and the penetration depth and provides the real structure of the alveolar tissue. In this study, a combination of four-dimensional OCT imaging with total liquid ventilation allowed the visualization of the alveolar structure in rat lung tissue benefiting from the improved depth range beneath the pleura and from the high spatial and temporal resolution.

Phosphorus release from ash and remaining tissues of two wetland species after a prescribed fire.

PubMed

Liu, G D; Gu, B; Miao, S L; Li, Y C; Migliaccio, K W; Qian, Y

2010-01-01

Dead plant tissues and ash from a prescribed fire play an important role in nutrient balance and cycling in the Florida Everglades ecosystem. The objective of this study was to assess the dynamic changes in total phosphorus release (TPr) from ash or tissues of either cattail (Typha domingensis Pers.) or sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense Crantz) to water. Natural-dead (senesced-dead) and burning-dead (standing-dead due to a prescribed fire) cattail and sawgrass were collected from highly (H) and moderately (M) impacted zones in the Florida Everglades. This experiment was conducted by incubation and water-extraction of the materials in plastic bottles for 65 d at room temperature (24 +/- 1 degrees C). Results showed that 63 to 88%, 17 to 48%, 9 to 20%, and 13 to 28% of total P (TPp) were released as TPr from cattail and sawgrass ash, cattail tissues from the H zone, cattail tissues, and sawgrass tissues from the M zone, respectively. TPp means total P of plant tissues, whereas TPr is total P release from the tissues or ash. Most of the TPr was released within 24 h after burning. The quick release of TPr observed in this experiment may help explain the P surge in the surface water immediately following a fire in the marsh. These findings suggest that prescribed burning accelerates P release from cattail and sawgrass. They also imply that it is very important to keep the water stagnant in the first 24 h to maximize the benefits of a prescribed fire in the Everglades.

Human fetal lung morphometry at autopsy with new modeling to quantitate structural maturity.

PubMed

Lipsett, Jill

2017-06-01

To demonstrate a simplified morphometric procedure, including a new model for acinar structural maturity, applicable to autopsy fetal lung and present reference values for these parameters. Cases with autopsy consent for research were studied. To simplify analysis only critical morphometric parameters were measured to allow calculation of gas-exchange surface area. A total of 58 fetuses, 16-40 weeks were included. Subjects were rejected with any condition predisposing to pulmonary hypo/hyperplasia, significant maceration, or if lung weight/bodyweight or microscopy identified pulmonary hypoplasia or lung growth disorders. Lungs were inflation fixed, weights and volumes determined, sampled, then returned to the body. Volume densities (V V ) of parenchyma/non-parenchyma and air-space/gas-exchange tissue, gas-exchange surface density (S V ), and total surface area (SA) were determined. The number, mean radius, and septal thickness of modeled airspace-spheres were calculated. Equations were generated for each parameter function of gestation and bodyweight. From 16 to 40-week weights and volumes increased as power functions from ∼4 g/mL to ∼90 g/mL. Parenchyma/non-parenchyma changed little-75:25 (16 weeks) to 71:29 (term). Parenchyma was 10% airspace:90% tissue early and 50:50 by term. Gas-exchange S V increased from 175 to 450 cm 2 /cm 3 and total SA increased from 0.059 to 4.793 m 2 . There were 3.31 × 10 6 airspace-spheres, 12 µ radius, septal thickness 30 µ at 16 weeks, increasing to 56.92 × 10 6 , 26 µ radius, septal thickness 13 µ by term. Morphometry can feasibly be performed at autopsy, providing more informative quantitative data on lung structural development than current methods utilized. This reference data set compares well with published data. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Roles of polyuria and hyperglycemia in bladder dysfunction in diabetes.

PubMed

Xiao, Nan; Wang, Zhiping; Huang, Yexiang; Daneshgari, Firouz; Liu, Guiming

2013-03-01

Diabetes mellitus causes diabetic bladder dysfunction. We identified the pathogenic roles of polyuria and hyperglycemia in diabetic bladder dysfunction in rats. A total of 72 female Sprague-Dawley® rats were divided into 6 groups, including age matched controls, and rats with sham urinary diversion, urinary diversion, streptozotocin induced diabetes mellitus after sham urinary diversion, streptozotocin induced diabetes mellitus after urinary diversion and 5% sucrose induced diuresis after sham urinary diversion. Urinary diversion was performed by ureterovaginostomy 10 days before diabetes mellitus induction. Animals were evaluated 20 weeks after diabetes mellitus or diuresis induction. We measured 24-hour drinking and voiding volumes, and cystometry. Bladders were harvested to quantify smooth muscle, urothelium and collagen. We measured nitrotyrosine and Mn superoxide dismutase in the bladder. Diabetes and diuresis caused increases in drinking and voiding volume, and bladder weight. Bladder weight decreased in the urinary diversion group and the urinary diversion plus diabetes group. The intercontractile interval, voided volume and compliance increased in the diuresis and diabetes groups, decreased in the urinary diversion group and further decreased in the urinary diversion plus diabetes group. Total cross-sectional tissue, smooth muscle and urothelium areas increased in the diuresis and diabetes groups, and decreased in the urinary diversion and urinary diversion plus diabetes groups. As a percent of total tissue area, collagen decreased in the diuresis and diabetes groups, and increased in the urinary diversion and urinary diversion plus diabetes groups. Smooth muscle and urothelium decreased in the urinary diversion and urinary diversion plus diabetes groups. Nitrotyrosine and Mn superoxide dismutase increased in rats with diabetes and urinary diversion plus diabetes. Polyuria induced bladder hypertrophy, while hyperglycemia induced substantial oxidative stress in the bladder, which may have a pathogenic role in late stage diabetic bladder dysfunction. Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sedentary nestlings of Wood Stork as monitors of mercury contamination in the gold mining region of the Brazilian Pantanal

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nassif Del Lama, Silvia, E-mail: dsdl@ufscar.br; Dosualdo Rocha, Cristiano; Figueiredo Jardim, Wilson

Sedentary organisms that are at top trophic levels allow inference about the level of local mercury contamination. We evaluated mercury contamination in feather tissue of nestling Wood Storks (Mycteria americana), sampled in different parts of the Brazilian Pantanal that were variably polluted by mercury releases from gold mining activities. Levels of mercury in feathers sampled in seven breeding colonies were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy, and the mean value of mercury concentration was 0.557 {mu}g/g, dry weight (n=124), range 0.024-4.423 {mu}g/g. From this total sample, 21 feathers that represent 30% of nestlings collected in Porto da Fazenda and Tucum colonies,more » in the northern region, ranged from 1.0 to 4.43 {mu}g/g, dry weight (median value=1.87 {mu}g/g). We found significant differences among regions (H=57.342; p=0<0.05). Results suggest that permanently flooded areas, or along mainstream rivers are more contaminated by mercury than dry areas, regardless of the distance from the gold mining center, which is located in the northern Pantanal. Highest values found in nestlings feathers were similar to those found in feathers of adult birds and in tissues of adult mammals that are less sedentary and were captured in the same region of Pantanal. These findings indicate that mercury released has been biomagnified and it is present in high concentrations in tissues of top consumers. We suggest a program to monitor mercury availability in this ecosystem using sedentary life forms of top predators like Wood Storks or other piscivorous birds. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sedentary stork nestlings were used for the first time to show local mercury contamination of Pantanal. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Differences were found among regions but they are not explained only by distance from the gold mining. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Permanently flooded areas and areas along mainstream rivers are more contaminated than dry areas. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Mercury has been biomagnified in Pantanal and it is found in high concentrations in top consumers.« less

Relationship between tissue tension and thermal diffusion to peripheral tissue using an energy device.

PubMed

Kondo, Akihiro; Nishizawa, Yuji; Ito, Masaaki; Saito, Norio; Fujii, Satoshi; Akamoto, Shintaro; Fujiwara, Masao; Okano, Keiichi; Suzuki, Yasuyuki

2016-08-01

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between tissue tension and thermal diffusion to peripheral tissues using an electric scalpel, ultrasonically activated device, or a bipolar sealing system. The mesentery of pigs was excised with each energy device (ED) at three tissue tensions (0, 300, 600 g). The excision time and thermal diffusion area were monitored with thermography, measured for each ED, and then histologically examined. Correlations between tissue tension and thermal diffusion area were examined. The excision time was inversely correlated with tissue tension for all ED (electric scalpel, r = 0.718; ultrasonically activated device, r = 0.949; bipolar sealing system, r = 0.843), and tissue tension was inversely correlated with the thermal diffusion area with the electric scalpel (r = 0.718) and bipolar sealing system (r = 0.869). Histopathologically, limited deep thermal denaturation occurred at a tension of 600 g with all ED. We conclude that thermal damage can be avoided with adequate tissue tension when any ED is used. © 2016 Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery, Asia Endosurgery Task Force and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

The effect of elastic modulus on ablation catheter contact area.

PubMed

Camp, Jon J; Linte, Cristian A; Rettmann, Maryam E; Sun, Deyu; Packer, Douglas L; Robb, Richard A; Holmes, David R

2015-02-21

Cardiac ablation consists of navigating a catheter into the heart and delivering RF energy to electrically isolate tissue regions that generate or propagate arrhythmia. Besides the challenges of accurate and precise targeting of the arrhythmic sites within the beating heart, limited information is currently available to the cardiologist regarding intricate electrode-tissue contact, which directly impacts the quality of produced lesions. Recent advances in ablation catheter design provide intra-procedural estimates of tissue-catheter contact force, but the most direct indicator of lesion quality for any particular energy level and duration is the tissue-catheter contact area, and that is a function of not only force, but catheter pose and material elasticity as well. In this experiment, we have employed real-time ultrasound (US) imaging to determine the complete interaction between the ablation electrode and tissue to accurately estimate contact, which will help to better understand the effect of catheter pose and position relative to the tissue. By simultaneously recording tracked position, force reading and US image of the ablation catheter, the differing material properties of polyvinyl alcohol cryogel [1] phantoms are shown to produce varying amounts of tissue depression and contact area (implying varying lesion quality) for equivalent force readings. We have shown that the elastic modulus significantly affects the surface-contact area between the catheter and tissue at any level of contact force. Thus we provide evidence that a prescribed level of catheter force may not always provide sufficient contact area to produce an effective ablation lesion in the prescribed ablation time.

"In vivo" measurement of total gas pressure in mammalian tissue.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1963-07-01

An in vivo method for the quantitative estimation of total gas pressure in mammalian tissue has been established. This method utilizes a rigid-walled capsule specially constructed to be permeable to oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen (O2, Co2, and N...

DETERMINATION OF TOTAL MERCURY IN FISH TISSUES USING PYROLYSIS ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROMETRY WITH GOLD AMALGAMATION

EPA Science Inventory

A simple and rapid procedure for measuring total mercury in fish tissues is evaluated and
compared with conventional techniques. Using an automated instrument incorporating combustion, preconcentration by amalgamation with gold, and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), mill...

Evaluation of the Xpert MTB/RIF Performance on Tissues: Potential Impact on Airborne Infection Isolation at a Tertiary Cancer Care Center.

PubMed

McMillen, Tracy; Usiak, Shauna C; Chen, Liang Hua; Gomez, Luz; Ntiamoah, Peter; Hameed, Meera R; Budvytiene, Indre; Banaei, Niaz; Kamboj, Mini; Babady, N Esther

2018-04-01

OBJECTIVES In this study, we sought to evaluate the performance of the Xpert MTB/RIF (Cepheid) assay for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) complex DNA on fresh and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue specimens from oncology patients in an area with a low prevalence of tuberculosis. We also aimed to retrospectively assess the potential impact of Xpert MTB/RIF on the duration of airborne infection isolation (AII). SETTING A 473-bed, tertiary-care cancer center in New York City. DESIGN A total of 203 tissue samples (101 FFPE and 102 fresh) were tested using Xpert MTB/RIF, including 133 pulmonary tissue samples (65.5%) and 70 extrapulmonary tissue samples (34.5%). Acid-fast bacilli (AFB) culture was used as the diagnostic gold standard. The limit of detection (LOD) and reproducibility were also evaluated for both samples types using contrived specimens. The potential impact of the Xpert MTB PCR assay on tissue samples from AII patients on AII duration was retrospectively assessed. RESULTS Using the Xpert MTB/RIF for fresh tissue specimens, the sensitivity was 50% (95% CI, 1.3%-98.7%) and the specificity was 99% (95% CI, 94.5%-99.9%). For FFPE tissue specimens, the sensitivity was 100% (95% CI, 63.1%-100%) and the specificity was 98.3% (95% CI, 95.5%-100%. The LOD was 103 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL for both fresh and FFPE tissue specimens, and the Xpert MTB/RIF was 100% reproducible at concentrations 10 times that of the LOD. With an expected turnaround time of 24 hours, the Xpert MTB PCR could decrease the duration of AII from a median of 8 days to a median of 1 day. CONCLUSIONS The Xpert MTB/RIF assay offers a valid option for ruling out Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) on tissue samples from oncology patients and for minimizing AII resource utilization. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:462-466.

Alveolar Ridge Contouring with Free Connective Tissue Graft at Implant Placement: A 5-Year Consecutive Clinical Study.

PubMed

Hanser, Thomas; Khoury, Fouad

2016-01-01

This study evaluated volume stability after alveolar ridge contouring with free connective tissue grafts at implant placement in single-tooth gaps. A total of 52 single-tooth gaps with labial volume deficiencies in the maxilla (incisors, canines, and premolars) were consecutively treated with implants and concomitant free palatal connective tissue grafts in 46 patients between 2006 and 2009. Implants had to be covered with at least 2 mm peri-implant local bone after insertion. At implant placement, a free connective tissue graft from the palate was fixed inside a labial split-thickness flap to form an existing concave buccal alveolar ridge contour due to tissue volume deficiency into a convex shape. Standardized volumetric measurements of the labial alveolar contour using a template were evaluated before connective tissue grafting and at 2 weeks, 1 year, and 5 years after implantprosthetic incorporation. Tissue volume had increased significantly (P < .05) in all six reference points representing the outer alveolar soft tissue contour of the implant before connective tissue grafting to baseline (2 weeks after implant-prosthetic incorporation). Statistically, 50% of the reference points (P > .05) kept their volume from baseline to 1 year after prosthetic incorporation and from baseline to 5 years after prosthetic incorporation, respectively, whereas reference points located within the area of the implant sulcus showed a significant (P < .05) decrease in volume. Clinically, 5 years after prosthetic incorporation the originally concave buccal alveolar contour was still convex in all implants, leading to a continuous favorable anatomical shape and improved esthetic situation. Intraoral radiographs confirmed osseointegration and stable peri-implant parameters with a survival rate of 100% after a follow-up of approximately 5 years. Implant placement with concomitant free connective tissue grafting appears to be an appropriate long-term means to contour preexisting buccal alveolar volume deficiencies in single implants.

Aging Periosteal Progenitor Cells have Reduced Regenerative Responsiveness to Bone Injury and to the Anabolic Actions of PTH 1-34 Treatment

PubMed Central

Yukata, Kiminori; Xie, Chao; Li, Tian-Fang; Takahata, Masahiko; Hoak, Donna; Kondabolu, Sirish; Zhang, Xinping; Awad, Hani A.; Schwarz, Edward M.; Beck, Christopher A.; Jonason, Jennifer H.; O’Keefe, Regis J.

2014-01-01

A stabilized tibia fracture model was used in young (8-week old) and aged (1-year old) mice to define the relative bone regenerative potential and the relative responsiveness of the periosteal progenitor population with aging and PTH 1-34 (PTH) systemic therapy. Bone regeneration was assessed through gene expressions, radiographic imaging, histology/histomorphometry, and biomechanical testing. Radiographs and microCT showed increased calcified callus tissue and enhanced bone healing in young compared to aged mice. A key mechanism involved reduced proliferation, expansion, and differentiation of periosteal progenitor cell populations in aged mice. The experiments showed that PTH increased calcified callus tissue and torsional strength with a greater response in young mice. Histology and quantitative histomorphometry confirmed that PTH increased callus tissue area due primarily to an increase in bone formation, since minimal changes in cartilage and mesenchyme tissue area occurred. Periosteum examined at 3, 5, and 7 days showed that PTH increased cyclin D1 expression, the total number of cells in the periosteum, and width of the periosteal regenerative tissue. Gene expression showed that aging delayed differentiation of both bone and cartilage tissues during fracture healing. PTH resulted in sustained Col10a1 expression consistent with delayed chondrocyte maturation, but otherwise minimally altered cartilage gene expression. In contrast, PTH 1-34 stimulated expression of Runx2 and Osterix, but resulted in reduced Osteocalcin. β-catenin staining was present in mesenchymal chondroprogenitors and chondrocytes in early fracture healing, but was most intense in osteoblastic cells at later times. PTH increased active β-catenin staining in the osteoblast populations of both young and aged mice, but had a lesser effect in cartilage. Altogether the findings show that reduced fracture healing in aging involves decreased proliferation and differentiation of stem cells lining the bone surface. While PTH 1-34 enhances the proliferation and expansion of the periosteal stem cell population and accelerates bone formation and fracture healing, the effects are proportionately reduced in aged mice compared to young mice. β-catenin is induced by PTH in early and late fracture healing and is a potential target of PTH 1-34 effects. PMID:24530870

Stretching and movement of fibroblasts and osteoblasts cultured in microchannel and micropit arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kikuchi, Hiroko E.; Kikuchi, Yuji; Kuboki, Yoshinori

1999-06-01

Tissue cells bind to extracellular matrix (ECM), and this attachment to ECM plays an essential role in their growth, function, and even survival. Furthermore, the geometry of ECM is known to play an additional role in regulation for these cells to proliferate and differentiate so that tissues with normal morphologies can be formed or maintained. We attempted to culture fibroblast, osteoblast, and bone marrow derived cells in previously described microchannel arrays and newly created micropit arrays, both coated with ECM protein collagen, to examine usefulness of microfabricated structures for elucidating 'what is geometry?' for cells. Cells were inseminated in the well in front of a microchannel array and their movement and stretching behavior against the microchannel array including the entrance and exit terraces were observed using a microscope-TV camera-time lapse video recorder system for 24 hours. Cells entered into the entrance terrace and showed active motions including extending pseudopodia into the channels and whole cell passage through the channels, and fully stretched in the entrance terrace in 8 hours or so. Those cells, however, voluntarily detached themselves from the area in another 8 hours or so probably because of worsening condition of nutrient supply there. Micropit arrays used in the present study consist of a regular arrangement of circular or square pits of diameter or side length of 25, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 600 micrometer and depth of 10 micrometer with one size per array or chip. The total area of the pits was designed to be equal to the rest surface area. After four days of incubation of bone marrow derived cells, the total number of cells and the number of cells in the pits were counted. The former and the ratio of the latter to the former appeared to become maximal when the pits of diameter or side length of 100 and 50 micrometer were used, respectively.

Peste des petits ruminants infection in domestic ruminants in Sudan.

PubMed

Intisar, K S; Ali, Y H; Haj, M A; Sahar, M A T; Shaza, M M; Baraa, A M; Ishag, O M; Nouri, Y M; Taha, K M; Nada, E M; Ahmed, A M; Khalafalla, A I; Libeau, G; Diallo, A

2017-04-01

The existence of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in domestic ruminants and camels in Sudan during 2008-2012 was investigated. Lung tissues and serum samples were randomly collected from sheep, goats, cattle, and camels at different areas of Sudan. A total of 12,384 serum samples were collected from clinically healthy 7413 sheep, 1988 camels, 1501 cattle, 1459 goats, and 23 gazelles at different areas in the Sudan. They were examined for PPR antibodies using competitive ELISA (cELISA). The overall detected seroprevalence of PPR in tested sera was 49.4%; seroprevalence values within species were 67.1, 48.2, 25.8, 2.1, and 21.7% in sheep, goat, cattle, camels, and gazelles, respectively. The highest seroprevalence (68.1%) was observed in sera collected from Darfur states, then the central states (54.3%). A total of 1276 lung tissue samples (623 sheep, 324 cattle, 220 camels, and 109 goats) were collected. The majority of lung samples were collected from clinically healthy animals that showed lesions on PM in slaughterhouses (95%) and during PPR outbreaks; samples were tested for PPR antigen using immunocapture ELISA (IcELISA). PPR antigen was detected in 233 out of the 1276 tested samples (18.3%). Positive results were observed in samples collected from clinically healthy and diseased animals. The observed prevalence values in each species were 33.6, 21.1, 15.4, and 12.3% in camel, goat, sheep, and cattle, respectively. PPR antigen was detected in samples from different areas; however, the highest prevalence (63.9%) was found in samples collected from the eastern states, then Khartoum state (28%). Trials for virus isolation were done in different cell cultures. Out of 30 IcELISA-positive samples inoculated in primary bovine and ovine kidney cells, Vero cells, the PPR virus was successfully isolated from 15 (eight sheep, five camels, and two goats) samples in the three cell culture types. Using RT-PCR, PPRV nucleic acid was detected in all 25 IcELISA-positive tested samples.

Ibuprofen Differentially Affects Supraspinatus Muscle and Tendon Adaptations to Exercise in a Rat Model.

PubMed

Rooney, Sarah Ilkhanipour; Baskin, Rachel; Torino, Daniel J; Vafa, Rameen P; Khandekar, Pooja S; Kuntz, Andrew F; Soslowsky, Louis J

2016-09-01

Previous studies have shown that ibuprofen is detrimental to tissue healing after acute injury; however, the effects of ibuprofen when combined with noninjurious exercise are debated. Administration of ibuprofen to rats undergoing a noninjurious treadmill exercise protocol will abolish the beneficial adaptations found with exercise but will have no effect on sedentary muscle and tendon properties. Controlled laboratory study. A total of 167 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into exercise or cage activity (sedentary) groups and acute (a single bout of exercise followed by 24 hours of rest) and chronic (2 or 8 weeks of repeated exercise) response times. Half of the rats were administered ibuprofen to investigate the effects of this drug over time when combined with different activity levels (exercise and sedentary). Supraspinatus tendons were used for mechanical testing and histologic assessment (organization, cell shape, cellularity), and supraspinatus muscles were used for morphologic (fiber cross-sectional area, centrally nucleated fibers) and fiber type analysis. Chronic intake of ibuprofen did not impair supraspinatus tendon organization or mechanical adaptations (stiffness, modulus, maximum load, maximum stress, dynamic modulus, or viscoelastic properties) to exercise. Tendon mechanical properties were not diminished and in some instances increased with ibuprofen. In contrast, total supraspinatus muscle fiber cross-sectional area decreased with ibuprofen at chronic response times, and some fiber type-specific changes were detected. Chronic administration of ibuprofen does not impair supraspinatus tendon mechanical properties in a rat model of exercise but does decrease supraspinatus muscle fiber cross-sectional area. This fundamental study adds to the growing literature on the effects of ibuprofen on musculoskeletal tissues and provides a solid foundation on which future work can build. The study findings suggest that ibuprofen does not detrimentally affect regulation of supraspinatus tendon adaptations to exercise but does decrease muscle growth. Individuals should be advised on the risk of decreased muscle hypertrophy when consuming ibuprofen. © 2016 The Author(s).

Management of excessive movable tissue: a modified impression technique.

PubMed

Shum, Michael H C; Pow, Edmond H N

2014-08-01

Excessive movable tissue is a challenge in complete denture prosthetics. A modified impression technique is presented with polyvinyl siloxane impression material and a custom tray with relief areas and perforations in the area of the excessive movable tissue. Copyright © 2014 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Visualizing surface area and volumes of lumens in 3 dimensions using images from histological sections

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Visualizing areas of tissue that are occupied by air or liquid can provide a unique perspective on the relationships between various spaces within the tissue. The portal tracts of liver tissue are an example of such a space since the liver contains several vessels and ducts in various patterns of i...

Rural Industrialization: Case Study of a Tissue Paper Mill in Pickens, Mississippi.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crecink, John C.

The shortrun (1962-1966) economic impact of a tissue paper mill in Pickens, Mississippi, a town of under 1,000 in a depressed rural area with a predominance of poor Negroes, was analyzed. The tissue mill began in a building formerly occupied by a North Carolina furniture manufacturer. Initial financing came from the Area Redevelopment…

Effect of P144® (Anti-TGF-β) in an "In Vivo" Human Hypertrophic Scar Model in Nude Mice.

PubMed

Qiu, Shan Shan; Dotor, Javier; Hontanilla, Bernardo

2015-01-01

Hypertrophic scars are one of the most important complications in surgery due to their cosmetic and functional impairments. Previous studies in tissue fibrotic disorders have shown promising results by inhibiting the biological activity effect of Transforming Growth Factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1). The aim of the current study was to determine the clinical effect of the inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling in human hypertrophic scars implanted in nude mice by topical application of an inhibitor of TGF-β1 (P144®). A total of 30 human hypertrophic scars were implanted in 60 nude mice. The animals were divided in two groups, group A (placebo) and group B (treatment). Group C (basal) was considered as the preimplanted scar samples and they were not implanted in the nude mice. After the shedding period, topical application of a lipogel containing placebo (group A) or P144 (group B) was daily administered during two weeks. The animals were sacrificed upon completion of the study. Total area, thickness and collagen fibers area were measure and compared across all groups. Immunohistochemistry was also performed in order to quantify collagen type I and type III and elastic fiber expressions present in the dermis. Successful shedding was achieved in 83,3% of the xenografts. The mean time for shedding was 35±5.4 days. Statistically significant differences were found in the total area, collagen fibers area and thickness between the groups. Increased elastic fibers and decreased collagen I were found in the P144-treated group compared to the basal group. Topical application of an inhibitor of TGF-β1 may promote scar maturation and clinical improvement of hypertrophic scar morphology features in an "in vivo" model in nude mice after two weeks of treatment.

Effects of estradiol on incorporation of new cells in the developing zebra finch song system: potential relationship to expression of ribosomal proteins L17 and L37.

PubMed

Tang, Yu Ping; Wade, Juli

2009-06-01

Mechanisms regulating masculinization of the zebra finch song system are unclear; both estradiol and sex-specific genes may be important. This study was designed to investigate relationships between estrogen and ribosomal proteins (RPL17 and RPL37; sex-linked genes) that exhibit greater expression in song control nuclei in juvenile males than females. Four studies on zebra finches were conducted using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) injections on posthatching days 6-10 with immunohistochemistry for the ribosomal proteins and the neuronal marker HuC/D at day 25. Volumes of brain regions were also assessed in Nissl-stained tissue. Most BrdU+ cells expressed RPL17 and RPL37. The density and percentage of cells co-expressing BrdU and HuC/D was greatest in Area X. The density of BrdU+ cells in Area X (or its equivalent) and the percentage of these cells that were neurons were greater in males than females. In RA and HVC, total BrdU+ cells were increased in males. A variety of effects of estradiol were also detected, including inducing an Area X in females with a masculine total number of BrdU+ cells, and increasing the volume and percentage of new neurons in the HVC of females. The same manipulation in males decreased the density of BrdU+ cells in Area X, total number of BrdU+ cells in RA, and density of new neurons in HVC and RA. These data are consistent with the idea that RPL17, RPL37, and estradiol might all influence sexual differentiation, perhaps with the hormone and proteins interacting, such that an appropriate balance is required for normal development.

Effects of Estradiol on Incorporation of New Cells in the Developing Zebra Finch Song System: Potential Relationship to Expression of Ribosomal Proteins L17 and L37

PubMed Central

Tang, Yu Ping; Wade, Juli

2009-01-01

Mechanisms regulating masculinization of the zebra finch song system are unclear; both estradiol and sex-specific genes may be important. This study was designed to investigate relationships between estrogen and ribosomal proteins (RPL17 and RPL37; sex-linked genes) that exhibit greater expression in song control nuclei in juvenile males than females. Four studies on zebra finches were conducted using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) injections on posthatching days 6-10 with immunohistochemistry for the ribosomal proteins and the neuronal marker HuC/D at day 25. Volumes of brain regions were also assessed in Nissl-stained tissue. Most BrdU+ cells expressed RPL17 and RPL37. The density and percentage of cells co-expressing BrdU and HuC/D was greatest in Area X. The density of BrdU+ cells in Area X (or its equivalent) and the percentage of these cells that were neurons were greater in males than females. In RA and HVC, total BrdU+ cells were increased in males. A variety of effects of estradiol were also detected, including inducing an Area X in females with a masculine total number of BrdU+ cells, and increasing the volume and percentage of new neurons in the HVC of females. The same manipulation in males decreased the density of BrdU+ cells in Area X, total number of BrdU+ cells in RA, and density of new neurons in HVC and RA. These data are consistent with the ideas that RPL17, RPL37, and estradiol might all influence sexual differentiation, perhaps with the hormone and proteins interacting, such that an appropriate balance is required for normal development. PMID:19373862

Epidemiologic study of soft tissue rheumatism in Shantou and Taiyuan, China.

PubMed

Zeng, Qing-yu; Zang, Chang-hai; Lin, Ling; Chen, Su-biao; Li, Xiao-feng; Xiao, Zheng-yu; Dong, Hai-yuan; Zhang, Ai-lian; Chen, Ren

2010-08-05

Soft tissue rheumatism is a group of common rheumatic disorders reported in many countries. For investigating the prevalence rate of soft tissue rheumatism in different population in China, we carried out a population study in Shantou rural and Taiyuan urban area. Samples of 3915 adults in an urban area of Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, and 2350 in a rural area of Shantou, Guangdong Province were surveyed. Modified International League of Association for Rheumatology (ILAR)-Asia Pacific League of Association for Rheumatology (APLAR) Community Oriented Program for Control of Rheumatic Diseases (COPCORD) core questionnaire was implemented as screening tool. The positive responders were then all examined by rheumatologists. Prevalence rate of soft tissue rheumatism was 2.0% in Taiyuan, and 5.3% in Shantou. Rotator cuff (shoulder) tendinitis, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), and digital flexor tenosynovitis (trigger finger) were the commonly seen soft tissue rheumatism in both areas. Tatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, and De Quervain's tenosynovitis were more commonly seen in Shantou than that in Taiyuan. Only 1 case of fibromyalgia was found in Taiyuan and 2 cases in Shantou. The prevalence of soft tissue rheumatism varied with age, sex and occupation. Soft tissue rheumatism is common in Taiyuan and Shantou, China. The prevalence of soft tissue rheumatism was quite different with different geographic, environmental, and socioeconomic conditions; and varying with age, sex, and occupation. The prevalence of fibromyalgia is low in the present survey.

Pattern Of Leukaemia Patients Admitted In Ayub Teaching Hospital Abbottabad.

PubMed

Khan, Tariq Mehmood

2016-01-01

Any tissue of the body can give rise to cancer. However, those tissues which multiply rapidly are at high risk of developing cancer and haematopoietic system is one of them. Neoplasms of this system are known as leukaemia and lymphoma, according to the types of white cells involved. Study of cancer patterns in different societies, however can contribute a substantial knowledge about the aetiology of cancer. The present Study was designed and aimed to estimate the frequency of different types of leukaemia in patients admitted in Ayub Teaching hospital Abbottabad. Data from the patients admitted at oncology Department of Ayub Teaching Hospital Abbottabad from 2010 to 2015 was collected and analysed to calculate cumulative and year-wise frequency of leukaemia and its major types. Frequency distribution with reference to gender and age was also calculated. In our analysis about 16% patients had acute myelocytic leukaemia and 32% patients had acute lymphocytic leukaemia; while chronic myeloid leukaemia outnumbered chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (11% and 3%); Hodgkin lymphoma was seen in 18% cases while Non Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) was present in 20% cases. Out of the total, 150 cases (75%) belonged to mountainous areas of Hazara, i.e., 40 cases belonged to Kohistan, another 40 cases were residents of Battagram, 45 cases belonged to hilly areas of Mansehra and 25 cases to Kaghan valley, while only 50 (25%) cases were from the plain areas of Abbottabad and Haripur districts, i.e., 20 and 30 cases respectively. Leukaemia is more common in hilly areas of Hazara, since majority of the cases belonged to well-known mountainous regions of Kohistan, Battagram, Kaghan or Mansehra and only few cases belonged to the plain areas of Abbottabad and Haripur districts.

SPRUCE S1 Bog Vegetation Allometric and Biomass Data: 2010-2011

DOE Data Explorer

Hanson, P. J. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.A.; Brice, D. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.A.; Garten, C. T. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.A.; Hook, L. A. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.A.; Phillips, J. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.A.; Todd, D. E. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Energy, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, U.S.A.

2012-01-01

This data set reports the results of measurements on sampled aboveground tissues of trees (Picea mariana and Larix laricina), shrubs (Ledum, Chamaedaphne, and Vaccinium), and ground layer vegetation (all species) of the S1 Bog located in areas adjacent to planned experimental study plots. Ground layer vegetation was sampled from both hummocks and hollows, within a 0.25 m2 plot, to evaluate total standing biomass of bog vegetation at or near the peak of annual production. Vegetation was harvested, processed, and measured in July of 2010 and again in June of 2011.

Tissue regeneration during tissue expansion and choosing an expander

PubMed Central

Agrawal, K.; Agrawal, S.

2012-01-01

This paper reviews the various aspects of tissue regeneration during the process of tissue expansion. “Creep” and mechanical and biological “stretch” are responsible for expansion. During expansion, the epidermis thickens, the dermis thins out, vascularity improves, significant angiogenesis occurs, hair telogen phase becomes shorter and the peripheral nerves, vessels and muscle fibres lengthen. Expansion is associated with molecular changes in the tissue. Almost all these biological changes are reversible after the removal of the expander.This study is also aimed at reviewing the difficulty in deciding the volume and dimension of the expander for a defect. Basic mathematical formulae and the computer programmes for calculating the dimension of tissue expanders, although available in the literature, are not popular. A user-friendly computer programme based on the easily available Microsoft Excel spread sheet has been introduced. When we feed the area of defect and base dimension of the donor area or tissue expander, this programme calculates the volume and height of the expander. The shape of the expander is decided clinically based on the availability of the donor area and the designing of the future tissue movement. Today, tissue expansion is better understood biologically and mechanically. Clinical judgement remains indispensable in choosing the size and shape of the tissue expander. PMID:22754146

Summary of information on synthetic organic compounds and trace elements in tissue of aquatic biota, Clark Fork-Pend Oreille and Spokane River basins, Montana, Idaho, and Washington, 1974-96

USGS Publications Warehouse

Maret, Terry R.; Dutton, DeAnn M.

1999-01-01

As part of the Northern Rockies Intermontane Basins study of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program, data collected between 1974 and 1996 were compiled to describe contaminants in tissue of riverine species. Tissue-contaminant data from 11 monitoring programs and studies representing 28 sites in the study area were summarized. Tissue-contaminant data for most streams generally were lacking. Many studies have focused on and around mining-affected areas on the Clark Fork and Coeur d'Alene Rivers and their major tributaries. DDT and PCBs and their metabolites and congeners were the synthetic organic contaminants most commonly detected in fish tissue. Fish collected from the Spokane River in Washington contained elevated concentrations of PCB arochlors, some of which exceeded guidelines for the protection of human health and predatory wildlife. Tissue samples of fish from the Flathead River watershed contained higher-than-expected concentrations of PCBs, which might have resulted from atmospheric transport. Trace element concentrations in fish and macroinvertebrates collected in and around mining areas were elevated compared with background concentrations. Some cadmium, copper, lead, and mercury concentrations in fish tissue were elevated compared with results from other studies, and some exceeded guidelines. Macroinvertebrates from the Coeur d'Alene River contained higher concentrations of cadmium, lead, and zinc than did macroinvertebrates from other river systems in mining-affected areas. A few sportfish fillet samples, most from the Spokane River in Washington, were collected to assess human health risk. Concentrations of PCBs in these fillets exceeded screening values for the protection of human health. At present, there is no coordinated, long-term fish tissue monitoring program for rivers in the study area, even though contaminants are present in fish at levels considered a threat to human health. Development of a coordinated, centralized national data base for contaminants in fish tissue is needed. The National Water-Quality Assessment Program can provide a framework for other agencies to evaluate tissue contaminants in the Northern Rockies Intermontane Basins study area. As of 1996, there are no fish consumption advisories or fishing restrictions as a result of elevated contaminants on any rivers within the study area.

Tissue procurement and transplantation: a Tuscany perspective.

PubMed

Filipponi, F; De Simone, P; Saviozzi, A; Bozzi, G

2008-01-01

Tissue procurement and transplantation are rarely taken into account as indicators of the efficiency of a regional donor procurement network. We present herein a retrospective review on Tuscany tissue procurement activities from 2004 until 2006. In 2003 the Tuscan Regional Government appointed a transplantation service authority to reorganize all regional donation and transplantation activities: the Organizzazione Toscana Trapianti (OTT). The regional tissue procurement network was based on either brain death (BD) and cardiac death (CD) donors under the responsibility of in-hospital transplantation coordinators (IHTCs). From 2004 to 2006, a total of 397 tissue donors were procured in Tuscany, and 4151 tissue transplantations were performed: 2909 skin grafts, 1209 bone grafts, and 33 heart valves. Over the same period, a total of 2116 cornea donors were procured; 4117 corneas were retrieved; 1779 were fit for transplantation, and 1418 were transplanted. Based on our experience, implementation of tissue procurement requires use of BD donors and paramount organizational efforts from IHTCs.

Reduction of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by mechanical tissue resuscitation using sub-atmospheric pressure.

PubMed

Argenta, Louis C; Morykwas, Michael J; Mays, Jennifer J; Thompson, Edreca A; Hammon, John W; Jordan, James E

2010-03-01

Reperfusion-induced injury after myocardial infarction is associated with a well-defined sequence of early and late cardiomyocyte death. Most present attempts to ameliorate this sequence focus on a single facet of the complex process in an attempt to salvage cardiomyocytes. We examined, as proof of concept, the effects of mechanical tissue resuscitation (MTR) with controlled negative pressure on myocardial injury following acute myocardial infarction. Anesthetized swine were subjected to 75 minutes of left coronary artery occlusion and three hours of reperfusion. Animals were assigned to one of three groups: (A) untreated control; treatment of involved myocardium for 180 minutes of MTR with (B) -50 mmHg, or (C) -125 mmHg. All three groups were subjected to equivalent ischemic stress. Treatment of the ischemic area with MTR for 180 minutes significantly (p < 0.001) reduced infarct size (area of necrosis/area at risk) in both treatment groups compared to control: 9.3 +/- 1.8% (-50 mmHg) and 11.9 +/- 1.2% (-125 mmHg) versus 26.4 +/- 2.1% (control). Total area of cell death was reduced by 65% with -50 mmHg treatment and 55% in the -125 mmHg group. Treatment of ischemic myocardium with MTR, for a controlled period of time during reperfusion, successfully reduced the extent of myocardial death after acute myocardial infarction. These data provide evidence that MTR using subatmospheric pressure may be a simple, efficacious, nonpharmacological, mechanical strategy for decreasing cardiomyocyte death following myocardial infarction, which can be delivered in the operating room.

Antioxidant Capacity and Total Phenolic Content in Fruit Tissues from Accessions of Capsicum chinense Jacq. (Habanero Pepper) at Different Stages of Ripening

PubMed Central

Tuyub-Che, Jemina; Moo-Mukul, Angel; Vazquez-Flota, Felipe A.; Miranda-Ham, Maria L.

2014-01-01

In the past few years, there has been a renewed interest in studying a wide variety of food products that show beneficial effects on human health. Capsicum is an important agricultural crop, not only because its economic importance, but also for the nutritional values of its pods, mainly due to the fact that they are an excellent source of antioxidant compounds, and also of specific constituents such as the pungent capsaicinoids localized in the placental tissue. This current study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and total phenolic contents from fruits tissues of two Capsicum chinense accessions, namely, Chak k'an-iik (orange) and MR8H (red), at contrasting maturation stages. Results showed that red immature placental tissue, with a Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) value of 55.59 μmols TE g−1 FW, exhibited the strongest total antioxidant capacity using both the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the CUPRAC methods. Placental tissue also had the highest total phenolic content (27 g GAE 100 g−1 FW). The antioxidant capacity of Capsicum was directly related to the total amount of phenolic compounds detected. In particular, placentas had high levels of capsaicinoids, which might be the principal responsible for their strong antioxidant activities. PMID:24683361

Assessment of heavy metals in seawater and fish tissues at Pulau Indah, Selangor, Malaysia

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Md Yunus, Sabarina, E-mail: sabarina2020@salam.uitm.edu.m; Hamzah, Zaini; Wood, Ab. Khalik

This study focuses on the levels of heavy metals in seawater and selected fish tissue at Pulau Indah, Selangor, Malaysia. Pulau Indah primarily contains Westport (Malaysia’s major port), and a host of full scales factories. Therefore, it is important to monitor the levels of pollution in this water body and the aquatic organisms in the long term effects, due to the human activities in this area. Water samples in this study were taken from 8 locations along the coastal area. The water samples were collected using water sampler and sampling locations were determined using a Global Positioning system (GPS). Similarly,more » in situ water quality parameters including temperature, dissolve oxygen (DO), salinity, total suspended solid (TSS), pH and turbidity were measured by using portable multi probes meter. Then, the samples were acidified until pH 2 and filtered. Fish samples were purchased from local fisherman along the Pulau Indah coastal area and samples were digested using concentrated nitric acid in wet digestion method. The levels of selected heavy metals in four species of fish and seawater from Pulau Indah coastal area were determined using Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICPMS) after dilution to the samples. In general, the quality of water at Pulau Indah is lower than Malaysia Marine Water Quality Standard except for few locations were higher than the maximum permissible levels. The concentration of heavy metals which are lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and uranium (U) in water samples are in the range of 0.36-5.43 µg/L, 75.20-621.58 µg/L, 11.92-30.52 µg/L, and 4.00-4.65 µg/L respectively. While the results of the four selected fish showed the following order of abundance Zn> U> Cu> Pb. Transfer factor (TF) of heavy metals in fish tissue of selected fish species from the water was discussed. However, the observed metal concentration in the sample tissue did not exceed the allowable limit of Malaysian Food Act (1983) and Regulation (1985). Therefore, it is safe for human consumption. Moreover, the pollution levels of these heavy metals were also compared with other studies. This present study can also be used to evaluate the safety dose uptake level of marine biota as well as to monitor environmental health.« less

Assessment of heavy metals in seawater and fish tissues at Pulau Indah, Selangor, Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Md Yunus, Sabarina; Hamzah, Zaini; Wood, Ab. Khalik; Ahmad

2015-04-01

This study focuses on the levels of heavy metals in seawater and selected fish tissue at Pulau Indah, Selangor, Malaysia. Pulau Indah primarily contains Westport (Malaysia's major port), and a host of full scales factories. Therefore, it is important to monitor the levels of pollution in this water body and the aquatic organisms in the long term effects, due to the human activities in this area. Water samples in this study were taken from 8 locations along the coastal area. The water samples were collected using water sampler and sampling locations were determined using a Global Positioning system (GPS). Similarly, in situ water quality parameters including temperature, dissolve oxygen (DO), salinity, total suspended solid (TSS), pH and turbidity were measured by using portable multi probes meter. Then, the samples were acidified until pH 2 and filtered. Fish samples were purchased from local fisherman along the Pulau Indah coastal area and samples were digested using concentrated nitric acid in wet digestion method. The levels of selected heavy metals in four species of fish and seawater from Pulau Indah coastal area were determined using Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICPMS) after dilution to the samples. In general, the quality of water at Pulau Indah is lower than Malaysia Marine Water Quality Standard except for few locations were higher than the maximum permissible levels. The concentration of heavy metals which are lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and uranium (U) in water samples are in the range of 0.36-5.43 µg/L, 75.20-621.58 µg/L, 11.92-30.52 µg/L, and 4.00-4.65 µg/L respectively. While the results of the four selected fish showed the following order of abundance Zn> U> Cu> Pb. Transfer factor (TF) of heavy metals in fish tissue of selected fish species from the water was discussed. However, the observed metal concentration in the sample tissue did not exceed the allowable limit of Malaysian Food Act (1983) and Regulation (1985). Therefore, it is safe for human consumption. Moreover, the pollution levels of these heavy metals were also compared with other studies. This present study can also be used to evaluate the safety dose uptake level of marine biota as well as to monitor environmental health.

Gadolinium Accumulation in the Deep Cerebellar Nuclei and Globus Pallidus After Exposure to Linear but Not Macrocyclic Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents in a Retrospective Pig Study With High Similarity to Clinical Conditions.

PubMed

Boyken, Janina; Frenzel, Thomas; Lohrke, Jessica; Jost, Gregor; Pietsch, Hubertus

2018-05-01

The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the gadolinium (Gd) concentration in different brain areas in a pig cohort that received repeated administration of Gd-based contrast agents (GBCAs) at standard doses over several years, comparable with a clinical setting. Brain tissue was collected from 13 Göttingen mini pigs that had received repeated intravenous injections of gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd-DTPA; Magnevist) and/or gadobutrol (Gadovist). The animals have been included in several preclinical imaging studies since 2008 and received cumulative Gd doses ranging from 7 to 129 mmol per animal over an extended period. Two animals with no history of administration of GBCA were included as controls. Brain autopsies were performed not earlier than 8 and not later than 38 months after the last GBCA application. Tissues from multiple brain areas including cerebellar and cerebral deep nuclei, cerebellar and cerebral cortex, and pons were analyzed for Gd using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Of the 13 animals, 8 received up to 48 injections of gadobutrol and Gd-DTPA and 5 received up to 29 injections of gadobutrol only. In animals that had received both Gd-DTPA and gadobutrol, a median (interquartile range) Gd concentration of 1.0 nmol/g tissue (0.44-1.42) was measured in the cerebellar nuclei and 0.53 nmol/g (0.29-0.62) in the globus pallidus. The Gd concentration in these areas in gadobutrol-only animals was 50-fold lower with median concentrations of 0.02 nmol/g (0.01-0.02) for cerebellar nuclei and 0.01 nmol/g (0.01-0.01) for globus pallidus and was comparable with control animals with no GBCA history. Accordingly, in animals that received both GBCAs, the amount of residual Gd correlated with the administered dose of Gd-DTPA (P ≤ 0.002) but not with the total Gd dose, consisting of Gd-DTPA and gadobutrol. The Gd concentration in cortical tissue and in the pons was very low (≤0.07 nmol/g tissue) in all animals analyzed. Multiple exposure to macrocyclic gadobutrol is not associated with Gd deposition in brain tissue of healthy pigs. A single additional administration of linear Gd-DTPA is sufficient for Gd accumulation in the nucleus dentatus and globus pallidus, underlining the importance of obtaining a complete GBCA history in clinical studies.

Rheumatoid arthritis antigens homocitrulline and citrulline are generated by local myeloperoxidase and peptidyl arginine deiminases 2, 3 and 4 in rheumatoid nodule and synovial tissue.

PubMed

Turunen, Sanna; Huhtakangas, Johanna; Nousiainen, Tomi; Valkealahti, Maarit; Melkko, Jukka; Risteli, Juha; Lehenkari, Petri

2016-10-20

Seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by autoantibodies binding to citrullinated and homocitrullinated proteins. We wanted to study the expression patterns of these disease-associated protein forms and if the rheumatoid nodule and synovial tissue itself contain biologically active levels of citrullinating peptidyl arginine deiminases 2, 3 and 4 and homocitrullination-facilitating neutrophil enzyme myeloperoxidase. Total of 195 synovial samples from metatarsal joints from five ACPA/RF-positive RA patients (n = 77), synovial samples from knees of eight seropositive RA (n = 60), seven seronegative RA (n = 33) and five osteoarthritis (n = 25) patients were analyzed for citrulline and homocitrulline contents using HPLC. The location of citrulline- and homocitrulline-containing proteins, PAD 2, 3, 4 and myeloperoxidase were shown by immunostaining. Myeloperoxidase and citrulline- or homocitrulline-containing proteins were stained on Western blot. Overall, necrosis was frequent in metatarsals of seropositive RA and absent in seronegative RA and osteoarthritis patients. In histological analysis, there was a significant local patterning and variation in the citrulline and homocitrulline content and it was highest in metatarsal synovial tissues of seropositive RA patients. We found peptidyl arginine deiminase 2, 3 and 4 in the lining and sublining layers of intact synovial tissue. Myeloperoxidase was found locally around necrotic areas. The tissues with necrosis contained the highest levels of citrulline and homocitrulline. Rheumatoid nodules and synovia contain significant amount of PAD2, 3 and 4 and myeloperoxidase enzymes. These enzymes could explain the levels of citrulline and homocitrulline in seropositive RA synovial and rheumatoid nodule tissues especially around necrotic tissue.

Independent prognostic value of eosinophil and mast cell infiltration in colorectal cancer tissue.

PubMed

Nielsen, H J; Hansen, U; Christensen, I J; Reimert, C M; Brünner, N; Moesgaard, F

1999-12-01

Overall peritumoural inflammatory cell infiltration is a prognostic variable in solid tumours, but the survival-related impact of the individual cell types within the infiltrate has still not been fully evaluated and compared with the conventional disease classification. In the present study, the prognostic value of individual white cell counts in the peritumoural inflammatory infiltrate in colorectal cancer was assessed. Intra-operative tumour tissue samples from 584 patients undergoing elective surgery for colorectal cancer were included. None of the patients received pre- or post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy. Tissue blocks were cut from the periphery of the tumours and embedded in paraffin. All blocks included both tumour tissue and normal bowel tissue. Serial sections of 4 microm were analysed for tumour tissue inflammatory cell infiltration using a computer- and video-assisted microscope, which allowed semi-automated quantification of cells within a fixed area. Total white cells and individual counts of eosinophils, neutrophils, mast cells, lymphocytes, and plasma cells were evaluated in every tumour specimen. Stratification into four groups with similar numbers of events was used to dichotomize the cell counts with respect to survival. The median observation period was 61 (49-75) months. In a multivariate analysis including Dukes' stage, gender, age, peri-operative blood transfusion, tumour location, and counts of specific inflammatory cells, only advanced Dukes' stage ( p< 0.0001), high age ( p=0.0003), and tumour location in the rectum predicted poor survival, while high counts of eosinophils ( p=0.006) and mast cells ( p=0.02) predicted good survival. Tumour-associated eosinophilia and mastocytosis appear to be independent prognostic variables in colorectal cancer. Future studies should investigate the potential biological role of tumour tissue eosinophils and mast cells in the modulation of tumour growth. Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Evaluation of Soft Tissue Sarcoma Tumors Electrical Conductivity Anisotropy Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging for Numerical Modeling on Electroporation.

PubMed

Ghazikhanlou-Sani, K; Firoozabadi, S M P; Agha-Ghazvini, L; Mahmoodzadeh, H

2016-06-01

There is many ways to assessing the electrical conductivity anisotropy of a tumor. Applying the values of tissue electrical conductivity anisotropy is crucial in numerical modeling of the electric and thermal field distribution in electroporation treatments. This study aims to calculate the tissues electrical conductivity anisotropy in patients with sarcoma tumors using diffusion tensor imaging technique. A total of 3 subjects were involved in this study. All of patients had clinically apparent sarcoma tumors at the extremities. The T1, T2 and DTI images were performed using a 3-Tesla multi-coil, multi-channel MRI system. The fractional anisotropy (FA) maps were performed using the FSL (FMRI software library) software regarding the DTI images. The 3D matrix of the FA maps of each area (tumor, normal soft tissue and bone/s) was reconstructed and the anisotropy matrix was calculated regarding to the FA values. The mean FA values in direction of main axis in sarcoma tumors were ranged between 0.475-0.690.  With assumption of isotropy of the electrical conductivity, the FA value of electrical conductivity at each X, Y and Z coordinate axes would be equal to 0.577. The gathered results showed that there is a mean error band of 20% in electrical conductivity, if the electrical conductivity anisotropy not concluded at the calculations. The comparison of FA values showed that there is a significant statistical difference between the mean FA value of tumor and normal soft tissues (P<0.05). DTI is a feasible technique for the assessment of electrical conductivity anisotropy of tissues.  It is crucial to quantify the electrical conductivity anisotropy data of tissues for numerical modeling of electroporation treatments.

Collateral damage-free debridement using 193nm ArF laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wynne, James J.; Felsenstein, Jerome M.; Trzcinski, Robert; Zupanski-Nielsen, Donna; Connors, Daniel P.

2011-03-01

Burn eschar and other necrotic areas of the skin and soft tissue are anhydrous compared to the underlying viable tissue. A 193 nm ArF excimer laser, emitting electromagnetic radiation at 6.4 eV at fluence exceeding the ablation threshold, will debride such necrotic areas. Because such radiation is strongly absorbed by aqueous chloride ions through the nonthermal process of electron photodetachment, debridement will cease when hydrated (with chloride ions) viable tissue is exposed, avoiding collateral damage to this tissue. Such tissue will be sterile and ready for further treatment, such as a wound dressing and/or a skin graft.

Lipid composition of hepatic and adipose tissues from normal cats and from cats with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis.

PubMed

Hall, J A; Barstad, L A; Connor, W E

1997-01-01

The purpose of this study was to characterize the lipid classes in hepatic and adipose tissues from cats with idiopathic hepatic lipidosis (IHL). Concentrations of triglyceride, phospholipid phosphorus, and free and total cholesterol were determined in lipid extracts of liver homogenates from 5 cats with IHL and 5 healthy control cats. Total fatty acid composition of liver and adipose tissue was also compared. Triglyceride accounted for 34% of liver by weight in cats with IHL (338 +/- 38 mg/g wet liver) versus 1% in control cats (9.9 +/- 1.0 mg/g wet liver, P < .001). The mass of cholesterol ester was significantly higher in triglyceride-free (TG-free) liver from cats with IHL (741 +/- 340 micrograms/g TG-free wet liver) compared to healthy cats (31 +/- 11 micrograms/g TG-free wet liver, P < .05). Total fatty acid composition of hepatic tissue in the 2 groups differed; palmitate was higher (19.5 +/- 1.1% of total fatty acids in cats with IHL versus 9.2 +/- 2.7% in controls, P < .05), stearate was lower (8.5 +/- 0.8% versus 16.8 +/- 1.1%, P < .05), oleate was higher (41.2 +/- 1.6% versus 31.1 +/- 1.8%, P < .05), and arachidonate was lower (1.2 +/- 0.2% versus 6.0 +/- 0.9%, P < .05). The total fatty acid composition of adipose tissue also differed between the 2 groups; palmitate was higher (26.2 +/- 1.2% in cats with IHL versus 21.3 +/- 0.6% in controls, P < .05), total monounsaturated fatty acids were higher (48.4 +/- 1.0% versus 45.0 +/- 0.8%, P < .05), linolenate was lower (13.3 +/- 1.6% versus 17.5 +/- 0.9%, P < .05), total (n-6) fatty acids were lower (13.8 +/- 1.38% versus 18.4 +/- 0.83%, P < .05), linolenate was lower (0.2 +/- 0.04% versus 0.7 +/- 0.06%, P < .06), and total (n-3) fatty acids were lower (0.3 +/- 0.02% versus 1.3 +/- 0.32%, P < .05). The fatty acid composition of both liver and adipose tissue was similar for stearate, oleate, linoleate, and linolenate in cats with IHL. These results support the hypothesis that the origin of hepatic triglyceride in cats with IHL is the mobilization of fatty acids from adipose tissue.

The Effect of Intra-articular Injection of Autologous Microfragmented Fat Tissue on Proteoglycan Synthesis in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Borić, Igor; Rod, Eduard; Jeleč, Željko; Radić, Andrej; Vrdoljak, Trpimir; Skelin, Andrea; Trbojević-Akmačić, Irena; Plečko, Mihovil; Primorac, Dragan

2017-01-01

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the leading musculoskeletal disorders in the adult population. It is associated with cartilage damage triggered by the deterioration of the extracellular matrix tissue. The present study explores the effect of intra-articular injection of autologous microfragmented adipose tissue to host chondrocytes and cartilage proteoglycans in patients with knee OA. A prospective, non-randomized, interventional, single-center, open-label clinical trial was conducted from January 2016 to April 2017. A total of 17 patients were enrolled in the study, and 32 knees with osteoarthritis were assessed. Surgical intervention (lipoaspiration) followed by tissue processing and intra-articular injection of the final microfragmented adipose tissue product into the affected knee(s) was performed in all patients. Patients were assessed for visual analogue scale (VAS), delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) glycans at the baseline, three, six and 12 months after the treatment. Magnetic resonance sequence in dGEMRIC due to infiltration of the anionic, negatively charged contrast gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd-DTPA2−) into the cartilage indicated that the contents of cartilage glycosaminoglycans significantly increased in specific areas of the treated knee joint. In addition, dGEMRIC consequently reflected subsequent changes in the mechanical axis of the lower extremities. The results of our study indicate that the use of autologous and microfragmented adipose tissue in patients with knee OA (measured by dGEMRIC MRI) increased glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content in hyaline cartilage, which is in line with observed VAS and clinical results. PMID:29027984

Integrated Mueller-matrix near-infrared imaging and point-wise spectroscopy improves colonic cancer detection

PubMed Central

Wang, Jianfeng; Zheng, Wei; Lin, Kan; Huang, Zhiwei

2016-01-01

We report the development and implementation of a unique integrated Mueller-matrix (MM) near-infrared (NIR) imaging and Mueller-matrix point-wise diffuse reflectance (DR) spectroscopy technique for improving colonic cancer detection and diagnosis. Point-wise MM DR spectra can be acquired from any suspicious tissue areas indicated by MM imaging. A total of 30 paired colonic tissue specimens (normal vs. cancer) were measured using the integrated MM imaging and point-wise MM DR spectroscopy system. Polar decomposition algorithms are employed on the acquired images and spectra to derive three polarization metrics including depolarization, diattentuation and retardance for colonic tissue characterization. The decomposition results show that tissue depolarization and retardance are significantly decreased (p<0.001, paired 2-sided Student’s t-test, n = 30); while the tissue diattentuation is significantly increased (p<0.001, paired 2-sided Student’s t-test, n = 30) associated with colonic cancer. Further partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and leave-one tissue site-out, cross validation (LOSCV) show that the combination of the three polarization metrics provide the best diagnostic accuracy of 95.0% (sensitivity: 93.3%, and specificity: 96.7%) compared to either of the three polarization metrics (sensitivities of 93.3%, 83.3%, and 80.0%; and specificities of 90.0%, 96.7%, and 80.0%, respectively, for the depolarization, diattentuation and retardance metrics) for colonic cancer detection. This work suggests that the integrated MM NIR imaging and point-wise MM NIR diffuse reflectance spectroscopy has the potential to improve the early detection and diagnosis of malignant lesions in the colon. PMID:27446640

Carcass and Meat Characteristics and Gene Expression in Intramuscular Adipose Tissue of Korean Native Cattle Fed Finishing Diets Supplemented with 5% Palm Oil.

PubMed

Park, Sungkwon; Yan, Zhang; Choi, Changweon; Kim, Kyounghoon; Lee, Hyunjeong; Oh, Youngkyoon; Jeong, Jinyoung; Lee, Jonggil; Smith, Stephen B; Choi, Seongho

2017-01-01

We hypothesized that supplementing finishing diets with palm oil would promote adipogenic gene expression but depress stearoyl-CoA desaturase ( SCD ) gene expression in intramuscular (i.m.) adipose tissues of Hanwoo steers during fattening period (from 16 to 32 mon of age). Fourteen Hanwoo steers were allotted randomly to 2 groups of 7 steers based on initial BW and fed either a basal diet (control) or the basal diet supplemented with 5% palm oil (BDSP). At slaughter, i.m. adipose tissue was harvested for analysis of adipogenic gene expression and fatty acid composition. There were no differences in BW or average daily gain between treatment groups. Supplemental palm oil had no effect on carcass quality traits (carcass weight, backfat thickness, loin muscle area, or marbling scores) or meat color values. Palm oil increased ( p <0.05) expression of AMP-activated protein kinase-α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, but decreased ( p <0.05) CAAT/enhancer binding protein-β gene expression and tended to decrease stearoyl-CoA desaturase gene expression in i.m. adipose tissue. Palm oil increased total i.m. polyunsaturated fatty acids ( p <0.05) compared to the control i.m. adipose tissue, but had no effect on saturated or monounsaturated fatty acids. Although there were significant effects of supplemental palm oil on i.m. adipose tissue gene expression, the absence of negative effects on carcass and meat characteristics indicates that palm oil could be a suitable dietary supplement for the production of Hanwoo beef cattle.

Carcass and Meat Characteristics and Gene Expression in Intramuscular Adipose Tissue of Korean Native Cattle Fed Finishing Diets Supplemented with 5% Palm Oil

PubMed Central

Park, Sungkwon; Yan, Zhang; Choi, Changweon; Kim, Kyounghoon; Lee, Hyunjeong; Oh, Youngkyoon; Jeong, Jinyoung; Lee, Jonggil; Smith, Stephen B.; Choi, Seongho

2017-01-01

We hypothesized that supplementing finishing diets with palm oil would promote adipogenic gene expression but depress stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) gene expression in intramuscular (i.m.) adipose tissues of Hanwoo steers during fattening period (from 16 to 32 mon of age). Fourteen Hanwoo steers were allotted randomly to 2 groups of 7 steers based on initial BW and fed either a basal diet (control) or the basal diet supplemented with 5% palm oil (BDSP). At slaughter, i.m. adipose tissue was harvested for analysis of adipogenic gene expression and fatty acid composition. There were no differences in BW or average daily gain between treatment groups. Supplemental palm oil had no effect on carcass quality traits (carcass weight, backfat thickness, loin muscle area, or marbling scores) or meat color values. Palm oil increased (p<0.05) expression of AMP-activated protein kinase-α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, but decreased (p<0.05) CAAT/enhancer binding protein-β gene expression and tended to decrease stearoyl-CoA desaturase gene expression in i.m. adipose tissue. Palm oil increased total i.m. polyunsaturated fatty acids (p<0.05) compared to the control i.m. adipose tissue, but had no effect on saturated or monounsaturated fatty acids. Although there were significant effects of supplemental palm oil on i.m. adipose tissue gene expression, the absence of negative effects on carcass and meat characteristics indicates that palm oil could be a suitable dietary supplement for the production of Hanwoo beef cattle. PMID:28515640

Integrated assessment of biomarker responses and microbiological analysis of oysters from São Luís Island, Brazil.

PubMed

Ribeiro, E B; Bastos, L S; Galeno, L S; Mendes, R S; Garino, F; Carvalho-Neta, R N F; Costa, F N

2016-12-15

This study was conducted to evaluate the use of biochemical biomarkers and microbiological analysis to identify levels of oyster contamination at different ports in São Luís Island (Maranhão), Brazil. Oysters were analyzed for total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli and Aeromonas spp. In addition, tissue was removed from the digestive gland to determine the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activity. The highest percentage of microbiological contamination of oyster samples occurred during the rainy season. The activity of GST and catalase in oysters was also higher in the rainy season, coinciding with the greatest abundance of total and thermotolerant coliforms. Among the prospective biomarkers, GST showed the best results for identification of areas with higher levels of contamination. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mercury contamination in Khramulia (Capoeta capoeta) from the Cheshme Kile and Zarrin Gol Rivers in Iran and human health risk assessment.

PubMed

Malvandi, Hassan; Sari, Abbas Esmaili; Aliabadian, Mansour

2014-10-01

Total mercury concentrations were determined in muscle tissue of Khramulia (Capoeta capoeta) captured in the Cheshme Kile and Zarrin Gol Rivers, Iran. In Cheshme Kile River, 49 fish samples were collected. The mean total mercury concentration in the muscles of C. capoeta from this area was 249 ng g(-1) dw. In Zarrin Gol River, where 62 fish samples were collected, the total mercury in muscles averaged 164 ng g(-1) dw. A significant difference was found between means of mercury in the rivers (p < 0.001). All samples from the two rivers had mean mercury concentrations below the maximum allowable limits for mercury set by the Food and Agriculture Organization, World Health Organization, Standardization Administration of China and Environmental Protection Agency. The results of this study indicate that the values of hazard target quotient and estimated weekly intake are low and represent a negligible risk for human health.

Arsenic in garden soils and vegetable crops in Cornwall, England: Implications for human health.

PubMed

Xu, J; Thornton, I

1985-12-01

Total concentrations of arsenic in surface (0-15cm) garden soils in the historical mining area of Hayle-Camborne-Godolphin, Cornwall, England are large and range widely (144-892 μg/g). Amounts of water soluble and acid-fluoride extractable soil arsenic are significantly correlated with total content.Examination of 6 salad and vegetable crops grown in 32 gardens has shown arsenic concentrations in the edible tissues to be only slightly elevated. There were strong correlations between arsenic in beetroot, lettuce, onion and peas and soil arsenic (total, water soluble and acid extractable). Regression equations have been calculated. Ridge regression analysis applied to test the importance of other soil variables has shown both iron and phosphorus to influence the uptake of arsenic.Arsenic in all the vegetables sampled was below the statutory limit in the U.K. of 1 mg/kg fresh weight. Implications for health should be assessed in relation to other exposure routesvia water, air and directly ingested dust and soil.

Protein–Hydrogel Interactions in Tissue Engineering: Mechanisms and Applications

PubMed Central

Zustiak, Silviya P.; Wei, Yunqian

2013-01-01

Recent advances in our understanding of the sophistication of the cellular microenvironment and the dynamics of tissue remodeling during development, disease, and regeneration have increased our appreciation of the current challenges facing tissue engineering. As this appreciation advances, we are better equipped to approach problems in the biology and therapeutics of even more complex fields, such as stem cells and cancer. To aid in these studies, as well as the established areas of tissue engineering, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neural applications, biomaterials scientists have developed an extensive array of materials with specifically designed chemical, mechanical, and biological properties. Herein, we highlight an important topic within this area of biomaterials research, protein–hydrogel interactions. Due to inherent advantages of hydrated scaffolds for soft tissue engineering as well as specialized bioactivity of proteins and peptides, this field is well-posed to tackle major needs within emerging areas of tissue engineering. We provide an overview of the major modes of interactions between hydrogels and proteins (e.g., weak forces, covalent binding, affinity binding), examples of applications within growth factor delivery and three-dimensional scaffolds, and finally future directions within the area of hydrogel–protein interactions that will advance our ability to control the cell–biomaterial interface. PMID:23150926

A Presurgical Study of Lecithin Formulation of Green Tea Extract in Women with Early Breast Cancer.

PubMed

Lazzeroni, Matteo; Guerrieri-Gonzaga, Aliana; Gandini, Sara; Johansson, Harriet; Serrano, Davide; Cazzaniga, Massimiliano; Aristarco, Valentina; Macis, Debora; Mora, Serena; Caldarella, Pietro; Pagani, Gianmatteo; Pruneri, Giancarlo; Riva, Antonella; Petrangolini, Giovanna; Morazzoni, Paolo; DeCensi, Andrea; Bonanni, Bernardo

2017-06-01

Epidemiologic data support an inverse association between green tea intake and breast cancer risk. Greenselect Phytosome (GSP) is a lecithin formulation of a caffeine-free green tea catechin extract. The purpose of the study was to determine the tissue distribution of epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) and its effect on cell proliferation and circulating biomarkers in breast cancer patients. Twelve early breast cancer patients received GSP 300 mg, equivalent to 44.9 mg of EGCG, daily for 4 weeks prior to surgery. The EGCG levels were measured before (free) and after (total) enzymatic hydrolysis by HPLC-MS/MS in plasma, urine, breast cancer tissue, and surrounding normal breast tissue. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline, before the last administration, and 2 hours later. Repeated administration of GSP achieved levels of total EGCG ranging from 17 to 121 ng/mL in plasma. Despite a high between-subject variability, total EGCG was detectable in all tumor tissue samples collected up to 8 ng/g. Median total EGCG concentration was higher in the tumor as compared with the adjacent normal tissue (3.18 ng/g vs. 0 ng/g, P = 0.02). Free EGCG concentrations ranged from 8 to 65.8 ng/mL in plasma ( P between last administration and 2 hours after <0.001). Free EGCG plasma levels showed a significant positive correlation with the Ki-67 decrease in tumor tissue ( P = 0.02). No change in any other biomarkers was noted, except for a slight increase in testosterone levels after treatment. Oral GSP increases bioavailability of EGCG, which is detectable in breast tumor tissue and is associated with antiproliferative effects on breast cancer tissue. Cancer Prev Res; 10(6); 363-9. ©2017 AACR . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

Effect of footwear and orthotic devices on stress reduction and soft tissue strain of the neuropathic foot.

PubMed

Lott, Donovan J; Hastings, Mary K; Commean, Paul K; Smith, Kirk E; Mueller, Michael J

2007-03-01

Ground reaction forces from walking result in stress (pressure) and soft tissue strain at the plantar aspect of the foot. Excessive plantar pressure and tissue strain on the insensate foot may lead to ulceration. Our study investigated the effect of therapeutic footwear and custom-made orthotic inserts on pressure and tissue strain along the second ray of the plantar foot, and how these two variables are associated. Twenty subjects (mean age 57.3 [SD 9.3] years, 12 male, 8 female, body mass index 32.5 [SD 7.4] kg/m2) with diabetes mellitus, peripheral neuropathy, and a history of a plantar ulcer participated. Plantar pressure data were recorded during computed tomography scans for four conditions (barefoot, shoe, shoe+total contact insert, and shoe+total contact insert+metatarsal pad). For each condition tested, tissue strain and plantar pressure were determined at the second metatarsal head and at 15 other points along the second ray. Differences were noted between the 4 conditions for pressure (P<0.004) and soft tissue strain (P<0.042) at the second metatarsal head. Correlation coefficients demonstrated an association between pressure and strain (Barefoot r=0.81, Shoe r=0.75, Shoe+total contact insert r=0.73, and Shoe+total contact insert+metatarsal pad r=0.44). Footwear and orthotic devices tested in this study decreased pressure and soft tissue strain at the second ray of the foot, and these two variables were strongly related. A better understanding of the role tissue strain plays in distributing plantar forces may lead to improvements in the design of orthotic devices.

Effect of Footwear and Orthotic Devices on Stress Reduction and Soft Tissue Strain of the Neuropathic Foot

PubMed Central

Lott, Donovan J.; Hastings, Mary K.; Commean, Paul K.; Smith, Kirk E.; Mueller, Michael J.

2007-01-01

Background Ground reaction forces from walking result in stress (pressure) and soft tissue strain at the plantar aspect of the foot. Excessive plantar pressure and tissue strain on the insensate foot may lead to ulceration. Our study investigated the effect of therapeutic footwear and custom-made orthotic inserts on pressure and tissue strain along the second ray of the plantar foot, and how these two variables are associated. Methods Twenty subjects (mean age 57.3 [SD 9.3], 12 male, 8 female, body mass index 32.5 [SD 7.4]) with diabetes mellitus, peripheral neuropathy, and a history of a plantar ulcer participated. Plantar pressure data were recorded during computed tomography scans for four conditions (barefoot, shoe, shoe+total contact insert, and shoe+total contact insert+metatarsal pad). For each condition tested, tissue strain and plantar pressure were determined at the second metatarsal head and at 15 other points along the second ray. Findings Differences were noted between the 4 conditions for pressure (p < 0.004) and soft tissue strain (p < 0.042) at the second metatarsal head. Correlation coefficients demonstrated an association between pressure and strain (Barefoot r = 0.81, Shoe r = 0.75, Shoe+total contact insert r = 0.73, and Shoe+total contact insert+metatarsal pad r = 0.44). Intepretation Footwear and orthotic devices tested in this study decreased pressure and soft tissue strain at the second ray of the foot, and these two variables were strongly related. A better understanding of the role tissue strain plays in distributing plantar forces may lead to improvements in the design of orthotic devices. PMID:17182156

Relationship Between Changes in Fat and Lean Depots Following Weight Loss and Changes in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Markers.

PubMed

Clifton, Peter M

2018-04-04

Gluteofemoral fat mass has been associated with improved cardiovascular disease risk factors. It is not clear if loss of this protective fat during weight loss partially negates the effect of loss of visceral fat. The aim of this study was to examine regional fat loss in a large weight-loss cohort from one center and to determine if fat loss in the leg and total lean tissue loss is harmful. We combined the data from 7 of our previously published 3-month weight-loss studies and examined the relationship between regional fat and lean tissue loss and changes in cardiovascular disease risk factors in 399 participants. At baseline, leg fat was positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in women and inversely with fasting triglyceride level in both sexes. Abdominal lean tissue was also related to systolic blood pressure in men. Changes in regional fat and lean tissue were positively associated with changes in glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and systolic and diastolic blood pressure ( r =0.11-0.22, P <0.05) with leg fat and arm lean tissue dominating in multivariate regression. After adjustment for total weight or total fat change, these relationships disappeared except for a positive relationship between arm and lean leg mass loss and changes in triglycerides and systolic blood pressure. Loss of leg fat and leg lean tissue was directly associated with beneficial changes in cardiovascular disease risk markers. Loss of lean tissue may not have an adverse effect on cardiovascular disease risk, and measures to retain lean tissue during weight loss may not be necessary. © 2018 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley.

Precise Reproduction of Soft Tissue Structure around the Pontic Area Using Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing.

PubMed

Lee, Hyeonjong; Paek, Janghyun; Noh, Kwantae; Kwon, Kung-Rock

2017-08-21

Reproducing soft tissue contours around a pontic area is important for the fabrication of an esthetic prosthesis, especially in the anterior area. A gingival model that precisely replicates the soft tissue structure around the pontic area can be easily obtained by taking a pick-up impression of an interim fixed dental prosthesis. After a working cast is fabricated using the customary technique, the pick-up model is superimposed onto the working model for the pontic area using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM). A definitive restoration using this technique would be well adapted to the pontic base, which is formed by the interim prosthesis. © 2017 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Global transcriptome analysis of the C57BL/6J mouse testis by SAGE: evidence for nonrandom gene order.

PubMed

Divina, Petr; Vlcek, Cestmír; Strnad, Petr; Paces, Václav; Forejt, Jirí

2005-03-05

We generated the gene expression profile of the total testis from the adult C57BL/6J male mice using serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE). Two high-quality SAGE libraries containing a total of 76 854 tags were constructed. An extensive bioinformatic analysis and comparison of SAGE transcriptomes of the total testis, testicular somatic cells and other mouse tissues was performed and the theory of male-biased gene accumulation on the X chromosome was tested. We sorted out 829 genes predominantly expressed from the germinal part and 944 genes from the somatic part of the testis. The genes preferentially and specifically expressed in total testis and testicular somatic cells were identified by comparing the testis SAGE transcriptomes to the available transcriptomes of seven non-testis tissues. We uncovered chromosomal clusters of adjacent genes with preferential expression in total testis and testicular somatic cells by a genome-wide search and found that the clusters encompassed a significantly higher number of genes than expected by chance. We observed a significant 3.2-fold enrichment of the proportion of X-linked genes specific for testicular somatic cells, while the proportions of X-linked genes specific for total testis and for other tissues were comparable. In contrast to the tissue-specific genes, an under-representation of X-linked genes in the total testis transcriptome but not in the transcriptomes of testicular somatic cells and other tissues was detected. Our results provide new evidence in favor of the theory of male-biased genes accumulation on the X chromosome in testicular somatic cells and indicate the opposite action of the meiotic X-inactivation in testicular germ cells.

Global transcriptome analysis of the C57BL/6J mouse testis by SAGE: evidence for nonrandom gene order

PubMed Central

Divina, Petr; Vlček, Čestmír; Strnad, Petr; Pačes, Václav; Forejt, Jiří

2005-01-01

Background We generated the gene expression profile of the total testis from the adult C57BL/6J male mice using serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE). Two high-quality SAGE libraries containing a total of 76 854 tags were constructed. An extensive bioinformatic analysis and comparison of SAGE transcriptomes of the total testis, testicular somatic cells and other mouse tissues was performed and the theory of male-biased gene accumulation on the X chromosome was tested. Results We sorted out 829 genes predominantly expressed from the germinal part and 944 genes from the somatic part of the testis. The genes preferentially and specifically expressed in total testis and testicular somatic cells were identified by comparing the testis SAGE transcriptomes to the available transcriptomes of seven non-testis tissues. We uncovered chromosomal clusters of adjacent genes with preferential expression in total testis and testicular somatic cells by a genome-wide search and found that the clusters encompassed a significantly higher number of genes than expected by chance. We observed a significant 3.2-fold enrichment of the proportion of X-linked genes specific for testicular somatic cells, while the proportions of X-linked genes specific for total testis and for other tissues were comparable. In contrast to the tissue-specific genes, an under-representation of X-linked genes in the total testis transcriptome but not in the transcriptomes of testicular somatic cells and other tissues was detected. Conclusion Our results provide new evidence in favor of the theory of male-biased genes accumulation on the X chromosome in testicular somatic cells and indicate the opposite action of the meiotic X-inactivation in testicular germ cells. PMID:15748293

Confocal microscopy with strip mosaicing for rapid imaging over large areas of excised tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abeytunge, Sanjee; Li, Yongbiao; Larson, Bjorg; Peterson, Gary; Seltzer, Emily; Toledo-Crow, Ricardo; Rajadhyaksha, Milind

2013-06-01

Confocal mosaicing microscopy is a developing technology platform for imaging tumor margins directly in freshly excised tissue, without the processing required for conventional pathology. Previously, mosaicing on 12-×-12 mm2 of excised skin tissue from Mohs surgery and detection of basal cell carcinoma margins was demonstrated in 9 min. Last year, we reported the feasibility of a faster approach called "strip mosaicing," which was demonstrated on a 10-×-10 mm2 of tissue in 3 min. Here we describe further advances in instrumentation, software, and speed. A mechanism was also developed to flatten tissue in order to enable consistent and repeatable acquisition of images over large areas. We demonstrate mosaicing on 10-×-10 mm2 of skin tissue with 1-μm lateral resolution in 90 s. A 2.5-×-3.5 cm2 piece of breast tissue was scanned with 0.8-μm lateral resolution in 13 min. Rapid mosaicing of confocal images on large areas of fresh tissue potentially offers a means to perform pathology at the bedside. Imaging of tumor margins with strip mosaicing confocal microscopy may serve as an adjunct to conventional (frozen or fixed) pathology for guiding surgery.

[Histomorphometric evaluation of ridge preservation after molar tooth extraction].

PubMed

Zhan, Y L; Hu, W J; Xu, T; Zhen, M; Lu, R F

2017-02-18

To evaluate bone formation in human extraction sockets with absorbed surrounding walls augmented with Bio-Oss and Bio-Gide after a 6-month healing period by histologic and histomorphometric analyses. Six fresh molar tooth extraction sockets in 6 patients who required periodontally compromised moral tooth extraction were included in this study. The six fresh extraction sockets were grafted with Bio-Oss particle covered with Bio-Gide. The 2.8 mm×6.0 mm cylindric bone specimens were taken from the graft sites with aid of stent 6 months after the surgery. Histologic and histomorphometric analyses were performed. The histological results showed Bio-Oss particles were easily distinguished from the newly formed bone, small amounts of new bone were formed among the Bio-Oss particles, large amounts of connective tissue were found. Intimate contact between the newly formed bone and the small part of Bio-Oss particles was present. All the biopsy cylinders measurement demonstrated a high inter-individual variability in the percentage of the bone, connective tissues and Bio-Oss particles. The new bone occupied 11.54% (0-28.40%) of the total area; the connective tissues were 53.42% (34.08%-74.59%) and the Bio-Oss particles were 35.04% (13.92%-50.87%). The percentage of the particles, which were in contact with bone tissues, amounted to 20.13% (0-48.50%). Sites grafted with Bio-Oss particles covered with Bio-Gide were comprised of connective tissues and small amounts of newly formed bone surrounding the graft particles.

Assessing fundamental 2-dimensional understanding of basic soft tissue techniques.

PubMed

Jabbour, Noel; Dobratz, Eric J; Dresner, Harley S; Hilger, Peter A

2011-01-01

To develop a written practical examination and scoring system for assessing trainee skills in basic soft-tissue techniques. A brief written practical examination was developed to assess the ability of trainees to sketch preoperative plans and postoperative results for common soft-tissue techniques: simple-excision, M-plasty, geometric broken line closure, Z-plasty, V-to-Y flap, and rhombic flap. A scoring system was developed to assign 0 to 5 points to each of 10 items on the examination for a total score of 0-50. The 15-minute examination was administered as a pretest, posttest, and 3-month posttest assessment as part of a soft-tissue course at our institution. University of Minnesota, Otolaryngology Department. Three raters reviewed all examination answer sheets independently. The pretest scores of examinees correlated strongly with their level of training; the average pretest for junior residents (PGY 1-2) compared with senior residents (PGY 4-5) was 17.3 (of 50) versus 26.0 (p < 0.01). The scoring system showed a high intrarater reliability and high interrater reliability with correlation coefficients of r = 0.99 and r = 0.95, respectively and agreement coefficients of κ = 0.82 and κ = 0.77, respectively. This written practical examination and scoring system may be used to assess the skills of trainees accurately in basic soft tissue techniques and to expose areas of deficiency that can be addressed in future training sessions. Copyright © 2011 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ablation of multi-wavelet re-entry: general principles and in silico analyses.

PubMed

Spector, Peter S; Correa de Sa, Daniel D; Tischler, Ethan S; Thompson, Nathaniel C; Habel, Nicole; Stinnett-Donnelly, Justin; Benson, Bryce E; Bielau, Philipp; Bates, Jason H T

2012-11-01

Catheter ablation strategies for treatment of cardiac arrhythmias are quite successful when targeting spatially constrained substrates. Complex, dynamic, and spatially varying substrates, however, pose a significant challenge for ablation, which delivers spatially fixed lesions. We describe tissue excitation using concepts of surface topology which provides a framework for addressing this challenge. The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of mechanism-based ablation strategies in the setting of complex dynamic substrates. We used a computational model of propagation through electrically excitable tissue to test the effects of ablation on excitation patterns of progressively greater complexity, from fixed rotors to multi-wavelet re-entry. Our results indicate that (i) focal ablation at a spiral-wave core does not result in termination; (ii) termination requires linear lesions from the tissue edge to the spiral-wave core; (iii) meandering spiral-waves terminate upon collision with a boundary (linear lesion or tissue edge); (iv) the probability of terminating multi-wavelet re-entry is proportional to the ratio of total boundary length to tissue area; (v) the efficacy of linear lesions varies directly with the regional density of spiral-waves. We establish a theoretical framework for re-entrant arrhythmias that explains the requirements for their successful treatment. We demonstrate the inadequacy of focal ablation for spatially fixed spiral-waves. Mechanistically guided principles for ablating multi-wavelet re-entry are provided. The potential to capitalize upon regional heterogeneity of spiral-wave density for improved ablation efficacy is described.

Cold thyroid nodules show a marked increase in proliferation markers.

PubMed

Krohn, Knut; Stricker, Ingo; Emmrich, Peter; Paschke, Ralf

2003-06-01

Thyroid follicular adenomas and adenomatous thyroid nodules are a frequent finding in geographical areas with iodine deficiency. They occur as hypofunctioning (scintigraphically cold) or hyperfunctioning (scintigraphically hot) nodules. Their predominant clonal origin suggests that they result from clonal expansion of a single cell, which is very likely the result of a prolonged increase in proliferation compared with non-affected surrounding cells. To test whether increased cell proliferation is detectable in cold thyroid nodules, we studied paraffin-embedded tissue from 40 cold thyroid nodules and their surrounding normal thyroid tissue for the occurrence of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 (MIB-1 antibody) epitopes as markers for cell proliferation. All 40 thyroid nodules were histologically well characterized and have been studied for molecular characteristics before. The labeling index (number of labeled cells versus total cell number) for nodular and surrounding tissue was calculated. In 33 cold thyroid nodules a significant (p < or = 0.05) increase in the labeling index for PCNA was detectable. In 19 cold thyroid nodules a significant (p < or = 0.05) increase in the labeling index for Ki-67 was detectable. Moreover, surrounding tissues with lymphocyte infiltration showed a significantly higher labeling index for both PCNA and Ki-67 compared with normal surrounding tissue. These findings are first evidence that an increased thyroid epithelial cell proliferation is a uniform feature common to most cold nodules. However, the increase of proliferation markers shows a heterogeneity that is not correlated with histopathologic, molecular, or clinical characteristics.

Characteristics, changes and influence of body composition during a 4486 km transcontinental ultramarathon: results from the Transeurope Footrace mobile whole body MRI-project

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Almost nothing is known about the medical aspects of runners doing a transcontinental ultramarathon over several weeks. The results of differentiated measurements of changes in body composition during the Transeurope Footrace 2009 using a mobile whole body magnetic resonance (MR) imager are presented and the proposed influence of visceral and somatic adipose and lean tissue distribution on performance tested. Methods 22 participants were randomly selected for the repeated MR measurements (intervals: 800 km) with a 1.5 Tesla MR scanner mounted on a mobile unit during the 64-stage 4,486 km ultramarathon. A standardized and validated MRI protocol was used: T1 weighted turbo spin echo sequence, echo time 12 ms, repetition time 490 ms, slice thickness 10 mm, slice distance 10 mm (breath holding examinations). For topographic tissue segmentation and mapping a modified fuzzy c-means algorithm was used. A semi-automatic post-processing of whole body MRI data sets allows reliable analysis of the following body tissue compartments: Total body volume (TV), total somatic (TSV) and total visceral volume (TVV), total adipose (TAT) and total lean tissue (TLT), somatic (SLT) and visceral lean tissue (VLT), somatic (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and somatic adipose soft tissue (SAST). Specific volume changes were tested on significance. Tests on difference and relationship regarding prerace and race performance and non-finishing were done using statistical software SPSS. Results Total, somatic and visceral volumes showed a significant decrease throughout the race. Adipose tissue showed a significant decrease compared to the start at all measurement times for TAT, SAST and VAT. Lean adipose tissues decreased until the end of the race, but not significantly. The mean relative volume changes of the different tissue compartments at the last measurement compared to the start were: TV −9.5% (SE 1.5%), TSV −9.4% (SE 1.5%), TVV −10.0% (SE 1.4%), TAT −41.3% (SE 2.3%), SAST −48.7% (SE 2.8%), VAT −64.5% (SE 4.6%), intraabdominal adipose tissue (IAAT) −67.3% (SE 4.3%), mediastinal adopose tissue (MAT) −41.5% (SE 7.1%), TLT −1.2% (SE 1.0%), SLT −1.4% (SE 1.1%). Before the start and during the early phase of the Transeurope Footrace 2009, the non-finisher group had a significantly higher percentage volume of TVV, TAT, SAST and VAT compared to the finisher group. VAT correlates significantly with prerace training volume and intensity one year before the race and with 50 km- and 24 hour-race records. Neither prerace body composition nor specific tissue compartment volume changes showed a significant relationship to performance in the last two thirds of the Transeurope Footrace 2009. Conclusions With this mobile MRI field study the complex changes in body composition during a multistage ultramarathon could be demonstrated in detail in a new and differentiated way. Participants lost more than half of their adipose tissue. Even lean tissue volume (mainly skeletal muscle tissue) decreased due to the unpreventable chronic negative energy balance during the race. VAT has the fastest and highest decrease compared to SAST and lean tissue compartments during the race. It seems to be the most sensitive morphometric parameter regarding the risk of non-finishing a transcontinental footrace and shows a direct relationship to prerace-performance. However, body volume or body mass and, therefore, fat volume has no correlation with total race performances of ultra-athletes finishing a 4,500 km multistage race. PMID:23657091

Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia secondary to cryolipolysis: An underreported entity?

PubMed

Singh, Selina M; Geddes, Elizabeth R C; Boutrous, Sean G; Galiano, Robert D; Friedman, Paul M

2015-08-01

Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive, safe, and effective treatment for localized fat reduction. Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare adverse effect in which patients develop painless, firm, and well-demarcated tissue masses in the treatment areas approximately 3-6 months following cryolipolysis. The incidence of PAH has been estimated at 0.0051% or 1 in 20,000 treated patients. We report two cases of PAH seen in our practice, which may suggest the incidence is greater than previously reported. A 44-year-old man underwent cryolipolysis for unwanted fat in the pectoral region. At 4 month follow-up, the patient had well-demarcated tissue growth in the treatment areas. He elected to undergo additional cryolipolysis treatment to the areas. Two months later, he was found to have further tissue growth in the treatment areas. The patient then underwent corrective treatment with liposuction. A 52-year-old man underwent cryolipolysis for unwanted lower abdominal fat. At one year follow-up, he had a well-demarcated, subcutaneous mass on the lower abdomen corresponding to the treatment site. The patient elected to undergo corrective treatment with liposuction. Adipose tissue samples from the treated and non-treated areas, for control, were collected, processed, and stained to evaluate cellularity and tissue structure. In our practice, the incidence of PAH is 0.47% or 2 in 422 cryolipolysis treatments. This is 100 times greater than the device manufacturer's reported incidence. Histopathologic examination of the subcutaneous tissue mass showed an increased number of adipocytes, fibrosis, and scar tissue in the treated areas when compared to controls. No lipoblasts, a marker of malignant neoplastic proliferation, were identified on the histopathologic examination of the affected tissues. The incidence of PAH is likely underreported. Further investigation is necessary to elucidate its mechanism of action. By understanding the pathogenesis, this rare adverse effect may be avoided, or even utilized as a therapeutic alternative for the treatment of congenital or acquired lipodystrophy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Relevance of infiltration analgesia in pain relief after total knee arthroplasty

PubMed Central

Znojek-Tymborowska, Justyna; Kęska, Rafał; Paradowski, Przemysław T.; Witoński, Dariusz

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of different types of anesthesia on pain intensity in early postoperative period. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 87 patients (77 women, 10 men) scheduled for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were assigned to receive either subarachnoid anesthesia alone or in combination with local soft tissue anesthesia, local soft tissue anesthesia and femoral nerve block and pre-emptive infiltration together with local soft tissue anesthesia. We assessed the pain intensity, opioid consumption, knee joint mobility, and complications of surgery. RESULTS: Subjects with pre-emptive infiltration and local soft tissue anesthesia had lower pain intensity on the first postoperative day compared to those with soft tissue anesthesia and femoral nerve block (P=0.012, effect size 0.68). Subjects who received pre-emptive infiltration and local soft-tissue anesthesia had the greatest range of motion in the operated knee at discharge (mean 90 grades [SD 7], P=0.01 compared to those who received subarachnoid anesthesia alone, and P=0.001 compared to those with subarachnoid together with soft tissue anesthesia). CONCLUSION: Despite the differences in postoperative pain and knee mobility, the results obtained throughout the postoperative period do not enable us to favour neither local nor regional infiltration anesthesia in TKA. Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study. PMID:24453679

Age estimation based on aspartic acid racemization in human sclera.

PubMed

Klumb, Karolin; Matzenauer, Christian; Reckert, Alexandra; Lehmann, Klaus; Ritz-Timme, Stefanie

2016-01-01

Age estimation based on racemization of aspartic acid residues (AAR) in permanent proteins has been established in forensic medicine for years. While dentine is the tissue of choice for this molecular method of age estimation, teeth are not always available which leads to the need to identify other suitable tissues. We examined the suitability of total tissue samples of human sclera for the estimation of age at death. Sixty-five samples of scleral tissue were analyzed. The samples were hydrolyzed and after derivatization, the extent of aspartic acid racemization was determined by gas chromatography. The degree of AAR increased with age. In samples from younger individuals, the correlation of age and D-aspartic acid content was closer than in samples from older individuals. The age-dependent racemization in total tissue samples proves that permanent or at least long-living proteins are present in scleral tissue. The correlation of AAR in human sclera and age at death is close enough to serve as basis for age estimation. However, the precision of age estimation by this method is lower than that of age estimation based on the analysis of dentine which is due to molecular inhomogeneities of total tissue samples of sclera. Nevertheless, the approach may serve as a valuable alternative or addition in exceptional cases.

Odors influencing foraging behavior of the California spiny lobster, Panulirus interruptus, and other decapod crustacea

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zimmer-Faust, R.K.; Case, J.F.

1982-01-01

Trapping experiments were conducted in the More Mesa coastal area of Santa Barbara, California, 4 km east of the U.C. Santa Barbara campus. Live intact and injured prey and excised tissues were placed in traps, in containers allowing odor release but preventing contacts with entering animals. Individuals of six prey species failed to attract lobsters when alive and intact, but some became attractive once injured. Excised tissues were the most effective baits. Abalone and mackerel muscle were attractive to lobsters but relatively nonattractive to crabs, while angel shark muscle was attractive to crabs but not to lobsters. Shrimp cephalothoraces weremore » repellant to lobsters. Naturally occurring attractant and repellent tissues are thus identified and chemosensory abilities of lobsters and sympatric crabs are demonstrated to differ. Abalone muscle increased in attractivity following 1-2 days field exposure. Molecular weights of stimulants released by both weathered and fresh abalone were < 10,000 daltons with evidence suggesting that the 1000-10,000 dalton fraction may contribute significantly to attraction. Concentrations of total primary amines released from abalone muscle failed to differ from background levels, following an initial three (0-3h) period. Primary amines thus appear not to contribute directly to captures of lobsters, since animals were usually caught greater than or equal to 7 h after baits were positioned. Amino acids were the dominant contributors to present measurements of total primary amines, suggesting that these molecules may not direct lobster foraging behavior in the present experiments. 41 references, 4 figures, 8 tables.« less

Chronic exercise preserves lean muscle mass in masters athletes.

PubMed

Wroblewski, Andrew P; Amati, Francesca; Smiley, Mark A; Goodpaster, Bret; Wright, Vonda

2011-09-01

Aging is commonly associated with a loss of muscle mass and strength, resulting in falls, functional decline, and the subjective feeling of weakness. Exercise modulates the morbidities of muscle aging. Most studies, however, have examined muscle-loss changes in sedentary aging adults. This leaves the question of whether the changes that are commonly associated with muscle aging reflect the true physiology of muscle aging or whether they reflect disuse atrophy. This study evaluated whether high levels of chronic exercise prevents the loss of lean muscle mass and strength experienced in sedentary aging adults. A cross-section of 40 high-level recreational athletes ("masters athletes") who were aged 40 to 81 years and trained 4 to 5 times per week underwent tests of health/activity, body composition, quadriceps peak torque (PT), and magnetic resonance imaging of bilateral quadriceps. Mid-thigh muscle area, quadriceps area (QA), subcutaneous adipose tissue, and intramuscular adipose tissue were quantified in magnetic resonance imaging using medical image processing, analysis, and visualization software. One-way analysis of variance was used to examine age group differences. Relationships were evaluated using Spearman correlations. Mid-thigh muscle area (P = 0.31) and lean mass (P = 0.15) did not increase with age and were significantly related to retention of mid-thigh muscle area (P < 0.0001). This occurred despite an increase in total body fat percentage (P = 0.003) with age. Mid-thigh muscle area (P = 0.12), QA (P = 0.17), and quadriceps PT did not decline with age. Specific strength (strength per QA) did not decline significantly with age (P = 0.06). As muscle area increased, PT increased significantly (P = 0.008). There was not a significant relationship between intramuscular adipose tissue (P = 0.71) or lean mass (P = 0.4) and PT. This study contradicts the common observation that muscle mass and strength decline as a function of aging alone. Instead, these declines may signal the effect of chronic disuse rather than muscle aging. Evaluation of masters athletes removes disuse as a confounding variable in the study of lower-extremity function and loss of lean muscle mass. This maintenance of muscle mass and strength may decrease or eliminate the falls, functional decline, and loss of independence that are commonly seen in aging adults.

Large area, label-free imaging of extracellular matrix using telecentricity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Visbal Onufrak, Michelle A.; Konger, Raymond L.; Kim, Young L.

2017-02-01

Subtle alterations in stromal tissue structures and organizations within the extracellular matrix (ECM) have been observed in several types of tissue abnormalities, including early skin cancer and wounds. Current microscopic imaging methods often lack the ability to accurately determine the extent of malignancy over a large area, due to their limited field of view. In this research we focus on the development of simple mesoscopic (i.e. between microscopic and macroscopic) biomedical imaging device for non-invasive assessment of ECM alterations over a large, heterogeneous area. In our technology development, a telecentric lens, commonly used in machine vision systems but rarely used in biomedical imaging, serves as a key platform to visualize alterations in tissue microenvironments in a label-free manner over a clinically relevant area. In general, telecentric imaging represents a simple, alternative method for reducing unwanted scattering or diffuse light caused by the highly anisotropic scattering properties of biological tissue. In particular, under telecentric imaging the light intensity backscattered from biological tissue is mainly sensitive to the scattering anisotropy factor, possibly associated with the ECM. We demonstrate the inherent advantages of combining telecentric lens systems with hyperspectral imaging for providing optical information of tissue scattering in biological tissue of murine models, as well as light absorption of hemoglobin in blood vessel tissue phantoms. Thus, we envision that telecentric imaging could potentially serve for simple site-specific, tissue-based assessment of stromal alterations over a clinically relevant field of view in a label-free manner, for studying diseases associated with disruption of homeostasis in ECM.

Correlation of MRI-derived adipose tissue measurements and anthropometric markers with prevalent hypertension in the community.

PubMed

Lorbeer, Roberto; Rospleszcz, Susanne; Schlett, Christopher L; Heber, Sophia D; Machann, Jürgen; Thorand, Barbara; Meisinger, Christa; Heier, Margit; Peters, Annette; Bamberg, Fabian; Lieb, Wolfgang

2018-07-01

To compare the correlations of MRI-derived adipose tissue measurements and anthropometric markers, respectively, with prevalent hypertension in a community-based sample, free of clinical cardiovascular disease. MRI-derived adipose tissue measurements were obtained in 345 participants (143 women; age 39-73 years) of the KORA FF4 survey from Southern Germany using a 3-Tesla machine and included total adipose tissue (TAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SCAT), hepatic fat fraction (HFF), pancreatic fat fraction (PFF) as well as pericardial adipose tissue (PAT). In addition, the anthropometric markers body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-height ratio (WHtR) as well as blood pressure measurements were obtained. The prevalence of hypertension was 33.6% (women: 28%, men: 38%). VAT and PAT had the highest area under the curve (AUC) values for identifying individuals with prevalent hypertension (AUC: 0.75; 0.73, respectively), whereas WHtR and waist circumference were best performing anthropometric markers (AUC: 0.72; 0.70, respectively). A 1SD increment of TAT was associated with the highest odd for hypertension in the age-adjusted and sex-adjusted model (OR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.67-2.91, P < 0.001) and in the fully adjusted model (OR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.45-2.66, P < 0.001). TAT was the only MRI-derived adipose tissue measurement that was associated with hypertension independently of the best performing anthropometric marker waist circumference in the fully adjusted model (OR = 1.93, 95% CI 1.00-3.72, P = 0.049). MRI-derived adipose tissue measurements perform similarly in identifying prevalent hypertension compared with anthropometric markers. Especially, TAT, VAT and PAT as well as WHtR and waist circumference were highly correlated with prevalent hypertension.

Spirometra (Pseudophyllidea, Diphyllobothriidae) severely infecting wild-caught snakes from food markets in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Guangdong, China: implications for public health.

PubMed

Wang, Fumin; Li, Weiye; Hua, Liushuai; Gong, Shiping; Xiao, Jiajie; Hou, Fanghui; Ge, Yan; Yang, Guangda

2014-01-01

Sparganosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the spargana of Spirometra, and snake is one of the important intermediate hosts of spargana. In some areas of China, snake is regarded as popular delicious food, and such a food habit potentially increases the prevalence of human sparganosis. To understand the prevalence of Spirometra in snakes in food markets, we conducted a study in two representative cities (Guangzhou and Shenzhen), during January-August 2013. A total of 456 snakes of 13 species were examined and 251 individuals of 10 species were infected by Spirometra, accounting for 55.0% of the total samples. The worm burden per infected snake ranged from 1 to 213, and the prevalence in the 13 species was 0∼96.2%. More than half (58.1%) of the spargana were located in muscular tissue, 25.6% in subcutaneous tissue, and 16.3% in coelomic cavity. The results indicated that Spirometra severely infected snakes in food markets in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, implying that eating snakes has great health risk and improper cooking methods may increase the risk of Spirometra infection in humans in China. Additional steps should be considered by the governments and public health agencies to prevent the risk of snake-associated Spirometra infections in humans.

Visceral Obesity Is Associated with Gallbladder Polyps.

PubMed

Lee, Jun Kyu; Hahn, Suk Jae; Kang, Hyoun Woo; Jung, Jae Gu; Choi, Han Seok; Lee, Jin Ho; Han, In Woong; Jung, Jin-Hee; Kwon, Jae Hyun

2016-01-01

Gallbladder polyps (GBP) are a common clinical finding and may possess malignant potential. We conducted this study to determine whether visceral obesity is a risk factor for GBP. We retrospectively reviewed records of subjects who received both ultrasonography and computed tomography with measurements of the areas of visceral adipose tissue and total adipose tissue (TAT) on the same day as health checkups. Ninety-three of 1,615 subjects (5.8%) had GBP and were compared with 186 age- and sex-matched controls. VAT (odds ratio [OR], 2.941; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.325 to 6.529; p=0.008 for the highest quartile vs. the lowest quartile) and TAT (OR, 3.568; 95% CI, 1.625 to 7.833; p=0.002 for the highest quartile vs. the lowest quartile) were independent risk factors together with hypertension (OR, 2.512; 95% CI, 1.381 to 4.569; p=0.003), diabetes mellitus (OR, 2.942; 95% CI, 1.061 to 8.158; p=0.038), hepatitis B virus positivity (OR, 3.548; 95% CI, 1.295 to 9.716; p=0.014), and a higher level of total cholesterol (OR, 2.232; 95% CI, 1.043 to 4.778; p=0.039 for. Visceral obesity measured by VAT and TAT was associated with GBP irrespective of body mass index or waist circumference.

Isolation of Human Skin Dendritic Cell Subsets.

PubMed

Gunawan, Merry; Jardine, Laura; Haniffa, Muzlifah

2016-01-01

Dendritic cells (DCs) are specialized leukocytes with antigen-processing and antigen-presenting functions. DCs can be divided into distinct subsets by anatomical location, phenotype and function. In human, the two most accessible tissues to study leukocytes are peripheral blood and skin. DCs are rare in human peripheral blood (<1 % of mononuclear cells) and have a less mature phenotype than their tissue counterparts (MacDonald et al., Blood. 100:4512-4520, 2002; Haniffa et al., Immunity 37:60-73, 2012). In contrast, the skin covering an average total surface area of 1.8 m(2) has approximately tenfold more DCs than the average 5 L of total blood volume (Wang et al., J Invest Dermatol 134:965-974, 2014). DCs migrate spontaneously from skin explants cultured ex vivo, which provide an easy method of cell isolation (Larsen et al., J Exp Med 172:1483-1493, 1990; Lenz et al., J Clin Invest 92:2587-2596, 1993; Nestle et al., J Immunol 151:6535-6545, 1993). These factors led to the extensive use of skin DCs as the "prototype" migratory DCs in human studies. In this chapter, we detail the protocols to isolate DCs and resident macrophages from human skin. We also provide a multiparameter flow cytometry gating strategy to identify human skin DCs and to distinguish them from macrophages.

Autoinflammation Around AES Total Ankle Replacement Implants.

PubMed

Koivu, Helka; Takakubo, Yuya; Mackiewicz, Zygmunt; Al-Samadi, Ahmed; Soininen, Antti; Peled, Nitai; Kukis, Modestas; Trokovic, Nina; Konttinen, Yrjö T

2015-12-01

Failure of total ankle replacement (TAR) can be characterized by early peri-implant osteolysis even in the presence of very modest numbers of wear particles. The hypothesis of the study was that this reaction is in part mediated by autoinflammatory responses mediated via damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs, danger signals) and pattern-recognizing danger signal receptors (PRRs). Peri-implant tissue and control samples from 10 patients with AES implants were immunostained for hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), activated caspase-3, high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), receptor for advanced glycation end product (RAGE), and toll-like receptors TLR2 and TLR4. Results were evaluated on a 0 to 4 scale (from 0% to >50% stained area). Peri-implant tissue around failed TAR implants had a relatively high mean HIF-1α score of 3 on a scale, which however was similar in control samples. HMGB1 (a DAMP) was seen to be mobilized from nuclei to cellular cytoplasm, and the active caspase-3(+) cells were increased. All PRRs were increased in revision samples. Increased expression of HMGB1 and other danger signals together with increased PRR-dependent responsiveness could contribute to autoinflammatory peri-implantitis, multilocular cyst formation, and osteolysis in failed TAR implants. Level IV, case series. © The Author(s) 2015.

Skeletal muscle atrophy in bioengineered skeletal muscle: a new model system.

PubMed

Lee, Peter H U; Vandenburgh, Herman H

2013-10-01

Skeletal muscle atrophy has been well characterized in various animal models, and while certain pathways that lead to disuse atrophy and its associated functional deficits have been well studied, available drugs to counteract these deficiencies are limited. An ex vivo tissue-engineered skeletal muscle offers a unique opportunity to study skeletal muscle physiology in a controlled in vitro setting. Primary mouse myoblasts isolated from adult muscle were tissue engineered into bioartificial muscles (BAMs) containing hundreds of aligned postmitotic muscle fibers expressing sarcomeric proteins. When electrically stimulated, BAMs generated measureable active forces within 2-3 days of formation. The maximum isometric tetanic force (Po) increased for ∼3 weeks to 2587±502 μN/BAM and was maintained at this level for greater than 80 days. When BAMs were reduced in length by 25% to 50%, muscle atrophy occurred in as little as 6 days. Length reduction resulted in significant decreases in Po (50.4%), mean myofiber cross-sectional area (21.7%), total protein synthesis rate (22.0%), and noncollagenous protein content (6.9%). No significant changes occurred in either the total metabolic activity or protein degradation rates. This study is the first in vitro demonstration that length reduction alone can induce skeletal muscle atrophy, and establishes a novel in vitro model for the study of skeletal muscle atrophy.

Spirometra (Pseudophyllidea, Diphyllobothriidae) Severely Infecting Wild-Caught Snakes from Food Markets in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Guangdong, China: Implications for Public Health

PubMed Central

Gong, Shiping

2014-01-01

Sparganosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the spargana of Spirometra, and snake is one of the important intermediate hosts of spargana. In some areas of China, snake is regarded as popular delicious food, and such a food habit potentially increases the prevalence of human sparganosis. To understand the prevalence of Spirometra in snakes in food markets, we conducted a study in two representative cities (Guangzhou and Shenzhen), during January–August 2013. A total of 456 snakes of 13 species were examined and 251 individuals of 10 species were infected by Spirometra, accounting for 55.0% of the total samples. The worm burden per infected snake ranged from 1 to 213, and the prevalence in the 13 species was 0∼96.2%. More than half (58.1%) of the spargana were located in muscular tissue, 25.6% in subcutaneous tissue, and 16.3% in coelomic cavity. The results indicated that Spirometra severely infected snakes in food markets in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, implying that eating snakes has great health risk and improper cooking methods may increase the risk of Spirometra infection in humans in China. Additional steps should be considered by the governments and public health agencies to prevent the risk of snake-associated Spirometra infections in humans. PMID:24558340

Adverse Local Tissue Reaction Arising from Corrosion at the Femoral Neck-Body Junction in a Dual-Taper Stem with a Cobalt-Chromium Modular Neck

PubMed Central

Cooper, H. John; Urban, Robert M.; Wixson, Richard L.; Meneghini, R. Michael; Jacobs, Joshua J.

2013-01-01

Background: Femoral stems with dual-taper modularity were introduced to allow additional options for hip-center restoration independent of femoral fixation in total hip arthroplasty. Despite the increasing availability and use of these femoral stems, concerns exist about potential complications arising from the modular neck-body junction. Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective case series of twelve hips (eleven patients) with adverse local tissue reactions secondary to corrosion at the modular neck-body junction. The cohort included eight women and three men who together had an average age of 60.1 years (range, forty-three to seventy-seven years); all hips were implanted with a titanium-alloy stem and cobalt-chromium-alloy neck. Patients presented with new-onset and increasing pain at a mean of 7.9 months (range, five to thirteen months) following total hip arthroplasty. After serum metal-ion studies and metal artifact reduction sequence (MARS) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed abnormal results, the patients underwent hip revision at a mean of 15.2 months (range, ten to twenty-three months). Tissue specimens were examined by a single histopathologist, and the retrieved implants were studied with use of light and scanning electron microscopy. Results: Serum metal levels demonstrated greater elevation of cobalt (mean, 6.0 ng/mL) than chromium (mean, 0.6 ng/mL) or titanium (mean, 3.4 ng/mL). MRI with use of MARS demonstrated adverse tissue reactions in eight of nine patients in which it was performed. All hips showed large soft-tissue masses and surrounding tissue damage with visible corrosion at the modular femoral neck-body junction. Available histology demonstrated large areas of tissue necrosis in seven of ten cases, while remaining viable capsular tissue showed a dense lymphocytic infiltrate. Microscopic analysis was consistent with fretting and crevice corrosion at the modular neck-body interface. Conclusions: Corrosion at the modular neck-body junction in dual-tapered stems with a modular cobalt-chromium-alloy femoral neck can lead to release of metal ions and debris resulting in local soft-tissue destruction. Adverse local tissue reaction should be considered as a potential cause for new-onset pain in patients with these components, and early revision should be considered given the potentially destructive nature of these reactions. A workup including serologic studies (erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein), serum metal levels, and MARS MRI can be helpful in establishing this diagnosis. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. PMID:23677352

Leading Efforts to Increase Organ Donation Through Professionalization of Organ Procurement Organizations and Establishment of Organ and Tissue Donor Registries.

PubMed

Vertanous, T; Czer, L S C; de Robertis, M; Kiankhooy, A; Kobashigawa, J; Esmailian, F; Trento, A

2016-01-01

The influence of new donor registrations through the California Organ and Tissue Donor Registry on the local OneLegacy Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) was examined during a 6-year period. Publicly available data from Donate Life America for California were examined for the 6 calendar years of 2009-2014. Performance data from OneLegacy for the same 6 years for organ donors and number of transplants were also examined. The donor designation rate (DDR) was defined as the rate at which new individuals joined the state donor registry as a percentage of all driver licenses and ID cards issued within a calendar year. The total donor designation (TDD) was defined as the sum of the new and existing people who were registered organ donors. Donor designation share (DDS) was the total number of designated donors as a percentage of all residents of the state who were ≥18 years old. The business practices and educational efforts of the OneLegacy OPO were examined as well. In California, from 2009 through 2014, the DDR was 25.5%-28%. When added to the existing donor registrations, the TDD and DDS increased each year from 2009 through 2014. With the current level of growth, it is projected that California will be able to reach a DDS of 50% by 2017. For the OneLegacy OPO, designated donors from the California Organ and Tissue Donor Registry made up 15% of the total donations in 2009, and 39% of the total donations in 2014, increasing by ∼5% each year since 2009. By increasing professionalization and transparency, and widening its educational and training efforts, OneLegacy was able to take advantage of an increasing percentage of donors who were designated donors and to increase the overall number of donors and organs transplanted, becoming one of the largest OPOs in the nation. This can be a model for OPOs in other donor service areas, and it may set the stage for the United States to serve as an example to the global community in the practice of organ donation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Clinical application and viability of cryopreserved cadaveric skin allografts in severe burn: a retrospective analysis.

PubMed

Cleland, Heather; Wasiak, Jason; Dobson, Hannah; Paul, Michelle; Pratt, George; Paul, Eldho; Herson, Marisa; Akbarzadeh, Shiva

2014-02-01

Cadaveric cutaneous allografts are used in burns surgery both as a temporary bio-dressing and occasionally as definitive management of partial thickness burns. Nonetheless, limitations in the understanding of the biology of these grafts have meant that their role in burns surgery continues to be controversial. A review of all patients suffering 20% or greater total body surface area (TBSA) burns over an eight year period that received cadaveric allografts were identified. To investigate whether tissue viability plays a role in engraftment success, five samples of cryopreserved cadaveric cutaneous allograft processed at the Donor Tissue Bank of Victoria (DTBV) were submitted to our laboratory for viability analysis using two methods of Trypan Blue Exclusion and tetrazolium salt (MTT) assays. During the study period, 36 patients received cadaveric allograft at our institution. The average total burn surface area (TBSA) for this group of patients was 40% and all patients received cadaveric skin as a temporizing measure prior to definitive grafting. Cadaveric allograft was used in complicated cases such as wound contamination, where synthetic dressings had failed. Viability tests showed fewer than 30% viability in processed allografts when compared to fresh skin following the thawing process. However, the skin structure in the frozen allografts was histologically well preserved. Cryopreserved cutaneous cadaveric allograft has a positive and definite role as an adjunct to conventional dressing and grafting where available, particularly in patients with large TBSA burns. The low viability of cryopreserved specimens processed at DTBV suggests that cell viability in cadaveric allograft may not be essential for its clinical function as a wound dressing or even as permanent dermal substitute. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

Double-blind randomized 12-month soy intervention had no effects on breast MRI fibroglandular tissue density or mammographic density

PubMed Central

Wu, Anna H.; Spicer, Darcy; Garcia, Agustin; Tseng, Chiu-Chen; Hovanessian-Larsen, Linda; Sheth, Pulin; Martin, Sue Ellen; Hawes, Debra; Russell, Christy; McDonald, Heather; Tripathy, Debu; Su, Min-Ying; Ursin, Giske; Pike, Malcolm C.

2015-01-01

Soy supplementation by breast cancer patients remains controversial. No controlled intervention studies have investigated the effects of soy supplementation on mammographic density in breast cancer patients. We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled intervention study in previously treated breast cancer patients (n=66) and high-risk women (n=29). We obtained digital mammograms and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at baseline and after 12 months of daily soy (50 mg isoflavones per day) (n=46) or placebo (n=49) tablet supplementation. The total breast area (MA) and the area of mammographic density (MD) on the mammogram was measured using a validated computer-assisted method, and mammographic density percent (MD% = 100 × MD/MA) was determined. A well-tested computer algorithm was used to quantitatively measure the total breast volume (TBV) and fibroglandular tissue volume (FGV) on the breast MRI, and the FGV percent (FGV% = 100 × FGV/TBV) was calculated. On the basis of plasma soy isoflavone levels, compliance was excellent. Small decreases in MD% measured by the ratios of month 12 to baseline levels, were seen in the soy (0.95) and the placebo (0.87) groups; these changes did not differ between the treatments (P=0.38). Small decreases in FGV% were also found in both the soy (0.90) and the placebo (0.92) groups; these changes also did not differ between the treatments (P=0.48). Results were comparable in breast cancer patients and high-risk women. We found no evidence that soy supplementation would decrease mammographic density and that MRI might be more sensitive to changes in density than mammography. PMID:26276750

Roles of Polyuria and Hyperglycemia on Bladder Dysfunction in Diabetes

PubMed Central

Xiao, Nan; Wang, Zhiping; Huang, Yexiang; Daneshgari, Firouz; Liu, Guiming

2014-01-01

Purpose Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD). We aimed to identify the pathogenic roles of polyuria and hyperglycemia on DBD in rats. Materials and Methods Seventy-two female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided: age-matched controls (control), sham urinary diversion (sham), urinary diversion (UD), streptozotocin-induced diabetes after sham UD (DM), streptozotocin-induced diabetes after UD (UD+DM), and 5% sucrose-induced diuresis after sham UD (DIU). UD was performed by ureterovaginostomy 10d before DM induction. Animals were evaluated 20 wks after DM or diuresis induction. We measured 24-hr drinking and voiding volumes and cystometry (CMG). Bladders were harvested for quantification of smooth muscle, urothelium, and collagen. We measured nitrotyrosine and manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) in bladder. Results Diabetes and diuresis caused increases in drinking volume, voiding volume and bladder weight. Bladder weights decreased in the UD and UD+DM groups. Intercontractile intervals, voided volume, and compliance increased in the DIU and DM groups, decreased in the UD, and further decreased in the UD+DM group. The total cross-sectional tissue, smooth muscle and urothelium areas increased in the DIU and DM groups, and decreased in the UD and UD+DM groups. As percentages of total tissue area, collagen decreased in the DIU and DM groups, and increased in the UD and UD+DM groups, and smooth muscle and urothelium decreased in the UD and UD+DM groups. Nitrotyrosine and MnSOD increased in DM and UD+DM rats. Conclusions Polyuria induced bladder hypertrophy, while hyperglycemia induced substantial oxidative stress in the bladder, which may play a pathogenic role in late stage DBD. PMID:22999997

Simultaneous determination of polysaccharides and 21 nucleosides and amino acids in different tissues of Salvia miltiorrhiza from different areas by UV-visible spectrophotometry and UHPLC with triple quadrupole MS/MS.

PubMed

Xiang, Xiang; Sha, Xiuxiu; Su, Shulan; Zhu, Zhenhua; Guo, Sheng; Yan, Hui; Qian, Dawei; Duan, Jin-Ao

2018-03-01

Salvia miltiorrhiza, a traditional Chinese medicine, is a widely used herbal medicine to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. In this study, ultraviolet (UV)-visible spectrophotometry and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry analytical methods were used for rapid quantification of polysaccharides and 21 nucleosides and amino acids in S. miltiorrhiza to determine 17 samples of different tissues from different areas. Based on the total contents, hierarchical clustering analysis and principal components analysis were performed to classify these samples. The established methods were validated with good linearity, precision, repeatability, stability, and recovery. Chemical analysis revealed a higher content of total analytes in the sample of inflorescence from Nanjing (34.17 mg/g), sample of root and rhizome from Shaanxi (34.13 mg/g) and sample of stem and leaf from Nanjing (31.14 mg/g), respectively, indicating that root and rhizome from Shaanxi and the aerial parts from Nanjing exhibited the highest quality due to their highest content. In addition, contents of nucleosides and amino acids in the aerial parts (14.67 mg/g) were much higher than that in roots and rhizomes (9.17 mg/g). This study suggested that UV-visible spectrophotometry and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry are effective techniques to analyze polysaccharides, nucleosides, and amino acids in plants, and they provided valuable information for the development and utilization value of the aerial parts of S. miltiorrhiza. This analysis would also provide useful information for the quality control of S. miltiorrhiza. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Trace elements and organic chemicals in stream-bottom sediments and fish tissues, Red River of the North basin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, 1992-95

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brigham, M.E.; Goldstein, R.M.; Tornes, L.H.

1998-01-01

Stream-bottom sediment and fish-tissue samples from the Red River of the North Basin, were analyzed for a large suite of chemical elements and organic chemicals. Cadmium, lead, and mercury were widespread in sediments, at concentrations not indicative of acute contamination. Mercury, the element of greatest health concern in the region, was detected at low concentrations in 38 of 43 sediment samples (<0.02-0.13 micrograms per gram) and all of eleven fish-liver samples (0.03-0.6 micrograms per gram dry weight, or 0.0066-0.13 micrograms per gram wet weight). Concentrations of many elements appeared to be controlled by mineral rather than anthropogenic sources. DDT and its metabolites were the most frequently detected synthetic organochlorines: p,p'-DDE was detected in 9 of 38 sediment samples (concentration range: <1-16 nanograms per gram) and also frequently in whole-fish samples. Total DDT (the sum of DDT and its metabolites) concentrations ranged from <5 to 217 nanograms per gram, and at least one component of total DDT was detected in 19 of 23 fish samples. Concentrations of DDT and its metabolites in stream sediments were significantly higher in the intensively cropped Red River Valley Lake Plain, compared to upland areas, probably because of greater historical DDT usage in the lake plain. Several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were detected in stream-bottom sediments. Although the potentially toxic chemicals measured in this study were at low levels, relative to more contaminated areas of the Nation, maximum concentrations of some chemicals are of concern because of their possible effects on aquatic biota and human health.

Clinical impact of sarcopenia on prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: A retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Ninomiya, Go; Fujii, Tsutomu; Yamada, Suguru; Yabusaki, Norimitsu; Suzuki, Kojiro; Iwata, Naoki; Kanda, Mitsuro; Hayashi, Masamichi; Tanaka, Chie; Nakayama, Goro; Sugimoto, Hiroyuki; Koike, Masahiko; Fujiwara, Michitaka; Kodera, Yasuhiro

2017-03-01

To investigate the impact of the body composition such as skeletal muscle, visceral fat and body mass index (BMI) on patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). A total of 265 patients who underwent curative surgery for PDAC were examined in this study. The total skeletal muscle and fat tissue areas were evaluated in a single image obtained at the third lumber vertebra during a preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan. The patients were assigned to either the sarcopenia or non-sarcopenia group based on their skeletal muscle index (SMI) and classified into high visceral fat area (H-VFA) or low VFA (L-VFA) groups. The association of clinicopathological features and prognosis with the body composition were statistically analyzed. There were 170 patients (64.2%) with sarcopenia. The median survival time (MST) was 23.7 months for sarcopenia patients and 25.8 months for patients without sarcopenia. The MST was 24.4 months for H-VFA patients and 25.8 months for L-VFA patients. However, sarcopenia patients with BMI ≥22 exhibited significantly poorer survival than patients without sarcopenia (MST: 19.2 vs. 35.4 months, P = 0.025). There was a significant difference between patients with and without sarcopenia who did not receive chemotherapy (5-year survival rate: 0% vs. 68.3%, P = 0.003). The multivariate analysis revealed that tumor size, positive dissected peripancreatic tissue margin, and sarcopenia were independent prognostic factors. Sarcopenia is an independent prognostic factor in PDAC patients with a BMI ≥22. Therefore, evaluating skeletal muscle mass may be a simple and useful approach for predicting patient prognosis. Copyright © 2017 IJS Publishing Group Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Lung volume quantified by MRI reflects extracellular-matrix deposition and altered pulmonary function in bleomycin models of fibrosis: effects of SOM230.

PubMed

Egger, Christine; Gérard, Christelle; Vidotto, Nella; Accart, Nathalie; Cannet, Catherine; Dunbar, Andrew; Tigani, Bruno; Piaia, Alessandro; Jarai, Gabor; Jarman, Elizabeth; Schmid, Herbert A; Beckmann, Nicolau

2014-06-15

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive and lethal disease, characterized by loss of lung elasticity and alveolar surface area, secondary to alveolar epithelial cell injury, reactive inflammation, proliferation of fibroblasts, and deposition of extracellular matrix. The effects of oropharyngeal aspiration of bleomycin in Sprague-Dawley rats and C57BL/6 mice, as well as of intratracheal administration of ovalbumin to actively sensitized Brown Norway rats on total lung volume as assessed noninvasively by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were investigated here. Lung injury and volume were quantified by using nongated or respiratory-gated MRI acquisitions [ultrashort echo time (UTE) or gradient-echo techniques]. Lung function of bleomycin-challenged rats was examined additionally using a flexiVent system. Postmortem analyses included histology of collagen and hydroxyproline assays. Bleomycin induced an increase of MRI-assessed total lung volume, lung dry and wet weights, and hydroxyproline content as well as collagen amount. In bleomycin-treated rats, gated MRI showed an increased volume of the lung in the inspiratory and expiratory phases of the respiratory cycle and a temporary decrease of tidal volume. Decreased dynamic lung compliance was found in bleomycin-challenged rats. Bleomycin-induced increase of MRI-detected lung volume was consistent with tissue deposition during fibrotic processes resulting in decreased lung elasticity, whereas influences by edema or emphysema could be excluded. In ovalbumin-challenged rats, total lung volume quantified by MRI remained unchanged. The somatostatin analog, SOM230, was shown to have therapeutic effects on established bleomycin-induced fibrosis in rats. This work suggests MRI-detected total lung volume as readout for tissue-deposition in small rodent bleomycin models of pulmonary fibrosis. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

Edema fluid accumulation within necrotic brain tissue as a cause of the mass effect of cerebral contusion in head trauma patients.

PubMed

Katayama, Y; Kawamata, T

2003-01-01

The early massive edema caused by severe cerebral contusion results in progressive intracranial pressure (ICP) elevation and clinical deterioration within 24-72 hours post-trauma. Surgical excision of the necrotic brain tissue represents the only therapy, which can provide satisfactory control of the elevated ICP and clinical deterioration. In order to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the early massive edema, we have carried out a series of detailed clinical studies. Diffusion magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and apparent diffusion co-efficient (ADC) mapping suggest that cells in the central area of contusion undergo shrinkage, disintegration and homogenization, whereas cellular swelling is predominant in the peripheral area during the period of 24-72 hours post-trauma. The ADC values in the central and peripheral areas are maximally dissociated during this period. A large amount of edema fluid accumulates within the necrotic brain tissue of the central area beginning at approximately 24 hours post-trauma. We have found that fluid-blood interface formation within the central area does not represent an uncommon finding in various neuroimaging examinations of cerebral contusions, indicating layering of red blood cells within the necrotic brain tissue accumulating voluminous edema fluid. Intravenous slow infusion of gadolinium-DTPA and delayed MR imaging revealed that the central area of contusion can be enhanced at 24-48 hours post-trauma. implying that water supply from the blood vessels is not completely interrupted. Necrotic brain tissue sampled from the central area of contusion during surgery demonstrates a very high osmolality. It appears that the capacitance for edema fluid accumulation increases in the central area, whereas cellular swelling in the peripheral area elevates the resistance for edema fluid propagation. Combination of these circumstances may facilitate edema fluid accumulation in the central area. We also suggest that the dissociation of ADC values and high osmolality within the necrotic brain tissue may generate an osmotic potential across the central and peripheral areas and contribute to the early massive edema caused by cerebral contusion.

Novel Loci for Metabolic Networks and Multi-Tissue Expression Studies Reveal Genes for Atherosclerosis

PubMed Central

Inouye, Michael; Ripatti, Samuli; Kettunen, Johannes; Lyytikäinen, Leo-Pekka; Oksala, Niku; Laurila, Pirkka-Pekka; Kangas, Antti J.; Soininen, Pasi; Savolainen, Markku J.; Viikari, Jorma; Kähönen, Mika; Perola, Markus; Salomaa, Veikko; Raitakari, Olli; Lehtimäki, Terho; Taskinen, Marja-Riitta; Järvelin, Marjo-Riitta; Ala-Korpela, Mika; Palotie, Aarno; de Bakker, Paul I. W.

2012-01-01

Association testing of multiple correlated phenotypes offers better power than univariate analysis of single traits. We analyzed 6,600 individuals from two population-based cohorts with both genome-wide SNP data and serum metabolomic profiles. From the observed correlation structure of 130 metabolites measured by nuclear magnetic resonance, we identified 11 metabolic networks and performed a multivariate genome-wide association analysis. We identified 34 genomic loci at genome-wide significance, of which 7 are novel. In comparison to univariate tests, multivariate association analysis identified nearly twice as many significant associations in total. Multi-tissue gene expression studies identified variants in our top loci, SERPINA1 and AQP9, as eQTLs and showed that SERPINA1 and AQP9 expression in human blood was associated with metabolites from their corresponding metabolic networks. Finally, liver expression of AQP9 was associated with atherosclerotic lesion area in mice, and in human arterial tissue both SERPINA1 and AQP9 were shown to be upregulated (6.3-fold and 4.6-fold, respectively) in atherosclerotic plaques. Our study illustrates the power of multi-phenotype GWAS and highlights candidate genes for atherosclerosis. PMID:22916037

Using ultrasound tomography to identify the distributions of density throughout the breast

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sak, Mark; Duric, Neb; Littrup, Peter; Sherman, Mark E.; Gierach, Gretchen L.

2016-04-01

Women with high breast density are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. Breast density has usually been defined using mammography as the ratio of fibroglandular tissue to total breast area. Ultrasound tomography (UST) is an emerging modality that can also be used to measure breast density. UST creates tomographic sound speed images of the patient's breast which is useful as sound speed is directly proportional to tissue density. Furthermore, the volumetric and quantitative information contained in the sound speed images can be used to describe the distribution of breast density. The work presented here measures the UST sound speed density distributions of 165 women with negative screening mammography. Frequency distributions of the sound speed voxel information were examined for each patient. In a preliminary analysis, the UST sound speed distributions were averaged across patients and grouped by various patient and density-related factors (e.g., age, body mass index, menopausal status, average mammographic breast density). It was found that differences in the distribution of density could be easily visualized for different patient groupings. Furthermore, findings suggest that the shape of the distributions may be used to identify participants with varying amounts of dense and non-dense tissue.

[Thyroid proteins in endemic goitre and their relationship to the intrathyroidal thyroid hormone concentration].

PubMed

Platzer, S; Groebner, P; Hausen, A; Obendorf, L; Riccabona, G

1980-02-01

According to several reports we suspected that the pathogenesis of endemic goitre cannot be explained by iodine deficiency only, but that other--partially endogenous--goitrogenic factors must be present. We therefore studied 16 cases of "euthyroid" endemic goitre from the endemic goitre area of the province of Bolzano in Italy. After fractionation of tissue homogenates, T 4 and T 3 were measured by RIA and the I concentration was also termined. Thyroglobulin and its fractions were measured by ultracentrifuge procedures after assessment of the total protein concentration. Evaluation of the present results suggests that an insufficient synthesis of thyroglobulin in the examined goitres induces an inadequate adaptation of the organism to iodine deficiency, which, in turn, decreases the thyroid hormone concentration in thyroid tissue and enhances goitrogenesis. Considering the normal iodine content of the examined tissues, there obviously seems to be two intrathyroidal iodine pools, one of which supplies the body with thyroid hormones under pituitary stimulation even though its thyroglobulin pool is reduced, while a significant amount of the thyroidal iodine pool is bound in metabolically inert protein molecules and therefore increases the goitrogenic effect of iodine deficiency.

Novel feed including bioactive compounds from winery wastes improved broilers' redox status in blood and tissues of vital organs.

PubMed

Makri, Sotiria; Kafantaris, Ioannis; Stagos, Dimitrios; Chamokeridou, Theodora; Petrotos, Konstantinos; Gerasopoulos, Konstantinos; Mpesios, Anastasios; Goutzourelas, Nikolaos; Kokkas, Stylianos; Goulas, Panagiotis; Komiotis, Dimitrios; Kouretas, Dimitrios

2017-04-01

Currently, there is a great interest in the production of animal feed with antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to examine the potential antioxidant effects of a feed supplemented with grape pomace (GP), a winery by-product with high environmental load, in chickens. Broilers of 15 days post birth were separated into two groups fed either with standard diet or with diet supplemented with GP for 35 days. Blood and tissues collections were performed after feeding for 15 and 35 days with the experimental diet (i.e. at 30 and 50 days post birth). Free radical toxicity markers, namely thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, protein carbonyls, total antioxidant capacity, reduced glutathione, catalase activity and rate of H 2 O 2 decomposition were determined in blood and tissues of vital organs. The results indicated that feed supplemented with GP decreased oxidative stress-induced toxic effects and improved chickens' redox status, and so it may also improve their wellness and productivity. On the other hand, this exploitation of GP may solve problems of environmental pollution in areas with wineries. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Comparison of aliphatic hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenylethers, and organochlorine pesticides in Pacific sanddab (Citharichthys sordidus) from offshore oil platforms and natural reefs along the California coast

USGS Publications Warehouse

Gale, Robert W.; Tanner, Michael J.; Love, Milton S.; Nishimoto, Mary M.; Schroeder, Donna M.

2013-01-01

Recently, the relative exposure of Pacific sanddab (Citharichthys sordidus) to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) at oil-production platforms was reported, indicating negligible exposure to PAHs and no discernible differences between exposures at platforms and nearby natural areas sites. In this report, the potential for chronic PAH exposure in fish is reported, by measurement of recalcitrant, higher molecular weight PAHs in tissues of fish previously investigated for PAH metabolites in bile. A total of 34 PAHs (20 PAHs, 11 alkylated PAHs, and 3 polycyclic aromatic thiophenes) were targeted. In addition, legacy contaminants—polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs),—and current contaminants, polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) linked to endocrine disruption, were measured by gas chromatography with electron-capture or mass spectrometric detection, to form a more complete picture of the contaminant-related status of fishes at oil production platforms in the Southern California Bight. No hydrocarbon profiles or unresolved complex hydrocarbon background were found in fish from platforms and from natural areas, and concentrations of aliphatics were low less than 100 nanograms per gram (ng/g) per component]. Total-PAH concentrations in fish ranged from 15 to 37 ng/g at natural areas and from 8.7 to 22 ng/g at platforms. Profiles of PAHs were similar at all natural and platform sites, consisting mainly of naphthalene and methylnaphthalenes, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, and pyrene. Total-PCB concentrations (excluding non-ortho-chloro-substituted congeners) in fish were low, ranging from 7 to 22 ng/g at natural areas and from 10 to 35 ng/g at platforms. About 50 percent of the total-PCBs at all sites consisted of 11 congeners: 153 > 138/163/164 > 110 > 118 > 15 > 99 > 187 > 149 > 180. Most OCPs, except dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)-related compounds, were not detectable or were at concentrations of less than 1 ng/g in fish. p,p′-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p′-DDE) ranged from 5.6 to 33 ng/g at natural areas and from 17 to 76 ng/g at platforms, and comprised greater than 90 percent of the total-DDT concentrations at all sites. The only detectable PBDE congeners were PBDE-47 and PBDE-100, the total concentrations of which ranged from 0.4 to 1.8 ng/g at natural areas and from 0.5 to 3.0 ng/g at platforms. Total-PAH, -PCB, and -DDT concentrations were compared with other Southern California Bight studies involving shoreline mussel, (Mytilus Species, Kimbrough and others, 2008) and near shore sampling (Pacific sanddab, Schiff and Allen, 2000). At corresponding sites, only total-PCB concentrations agreed well with results from this study; total-DDT concentrations were generally much lower than concentrations documented in previous studies for samples collected nearer to shore by sewage treatment outfalls or 14 years earlier or closer in time to when DDT production was halted (1970). Natural areas and platforms in the Bight do not appear to be affected by harbor or urban pollution. Platforms were no more polluted than the nearby natural areas, with these locations exhibiting only low concentrations of PAHs, PCBs, DDTs, and other contaminants.

Evidence that Sensitivity to Growth Hormone (GH) Is Growth Period and Tissue Type Dependent: Studies in GH-Deficient lit/lit Mice

PubMed Central

Kasukawa, Yuji; Baylink, David J.; Guo, Rongqing; Mohan, Subburaman

2010-01-01

We previously found that the magnitude of skeletal deficits caused by GH deficiency varied during different growth periods. To test the hypothesis that the sensitivity to GH is growth period dependent, we treated GH-deficient lit/lit mice with GH (4 mg/kg body weight·d) or vehicle during the prepubertal and pubertal (d 7–34), pubertal (d 23–34), postpubertal (d 42–55), and adult (d 204–217) periods and evaluated GH effects on the musculoskeletal system by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and peripheral quantitative computed tomography. GH treatment during different periods significantly increased total body bone mineral content, bone mineral density (BMD), bone area, and lean body mass and decreased percentage of fat compared with vehicle; however, the magnitude of change varied markedly depending on the treatment period. For example, the increase in total body BMD was significantly (P < 0.01) greater when GH was administered between d 42–55 (15%) compared with pubertal (8%) or adult (7.7%) periods, whereas the net loss in percentage of body fat was greatest (−56%) when GH was administered between d 204 and 216 and least (−27%) when GH was administered between d 7 and 35. To determine whether GH-induced anabolic effects on the musculoskeletal system are maintained after GH withdrawal, we performed DEXA measurements 3–7 wk after stopping GH treatment. The increases in total body bone mineral content, BMD, and lean body mass, but not the decrease in body fat, were sustained after GH withdrawal. Our findings demonstrate that the sensitivity to GH in target tissues is growth period and tissue type dependent and that continuous GH treatment is necessary to maintain body fat loss but not BMD gain during a 3–7 wk follow-up. PMID:12933669

Optimizing Aesthetic Outcomes in Delayed Breast Reconstruction

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Background: The need to restore both the missing breast volume and breast surface area makes achieving excellent aesthetic outcomes in delayed breast reconstruction especially challenging. Autologous breast reconstruction can be used to achieve both goals. The aim of this study was to identify surgical maneuvers that can optimize aesthetic outcomes in delayed breast reconstruction. Methods: This is a retrospective review of operative and clinical records of all patients who underwent unilateral or bilateral delayed breast reconstruction with autologous tissue between April 2014 and January 2017. Three groups of delayed breast reconstruction patients were identified based on patient characteristics. Results: A total of 26 flaps were successfully performed in 17 patients. Key surgical maneuvers for achieving aesthetically optimal results were identified. A statistically significant difference for volume requirements was identified in cases where a delayed breast reconstruction and a contralateral immediate breast reconstruction were performed simultaneously. Conclusions: Optimal aesthetic results can be achieved with: (1) restoration of breast skin envelope with tissue expansion when possible, (2) optimal positioning of a small skin paddle to be later incorporated entirely into a nipple areola reconstruction when adequate breast skin surface area is present, (3) limiting the reconstructed breast mound to 2 skin tones when large area skin resurfacing is required, (4) increasing breast volume by deepithelializing, not discarding, the inferior mastectomy flap skin, (5) eccentric division of abdominal flaps when an immediate and delayed bilateral breast reconstructions are performed simultaneously; and (6) performing second-stage breast reconstruction revisions and fat grafting. PMID:28894666

Quantitative characterization of fatty liver disease using x-ray scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsharkawy, Wafaa B.; Elshemey, Wael M.

2013-11-01

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a dynamic condition in which fat abnormally accumulates within the hepatocytes. It is believed to be a marker of risk of later chronic liver diseases, such as liver cirrhosis and carcinoma. The fat content in liver biopsies determines its validity for liver transplantation. Transplantation of livers with severe NAFLD is associated with a high risk of primary non-function. Moreover, NAFLD is recognized as a clinically important feature that influences patient morbidity and mortality after hepatic resection. Unfortunately, there is a lack in a precise, reliable and reproducible method for quantification of NAFLD. This work suggests a method for the quantification of NAFLD. The method is based on the fact that fatty liver tissue would have a characteristic x-ray scattering profile with a relatively intense fat peak at a momentum transfer value of 1.1 nm-1 compared to a soft tissue peak at 1.6 nm-1. The fat content in normal and fatty liver is plotted against three profile characterization parameters (ratio of peak intensities, ratio of area under peaks and ratio of area under fat peak to total profile area) for measured and Monte Carlo simulated x-ray scattering profiles. Results show a high linear dependence (R2>0.9) of the characterization parameters on the liver fat content with a reported high correlation coefficient (>0.9) between measured and simulated data. These results indicate that the current method probably offers reliable quantification of fatty liver disease.

Biomaterials and host versus graft response: A short review

PubMed Central

Velnar, Tomaz; Bunc, Gorazd; Klobucar, Robert; Gradisnik, Lidija

2016-01-01

Biomaterials and biotechnology are increasing becoming an important area in modern medicine. The main aim in this area is the development of materials, which are biocompatible to normal tissue. Tissue-implant interactions with molecular, biological and cellular characteristics at the implant-tissue interface are important for the use and development of implants. Implantation may cause an inflammatory and immune response in tissue, foreign body reaction, systemic toxicity and imminent infection. Tissue-implant interactions determine the implant life-period. The aims of the study are to consider the biological response to implants. Biomaterials and host reactions to implants and their mechanisms are also briefly discussed. PMID:26894284

Estimation of gas and tissue lung volumes by MRI: functional approach of lung imaging.

PubMed

Qanadli, S D; Orvoen-Frija, E; Lacombe, P; Di Paola, R; Bittoun, J; Frija, G

1999-01-01

The purpose of this work was to assess the accuracy of MRI for the determination of lung gas and tissue volumes. Fifteen healthy subjects underwent MRI of the thorax and pulmonary function tests [vital capacity (VC) and total lung capacity (TLC)] in the supine position. MR examinations were performed at inspiration and expiration. Lung volumes were measured by a previously validated technique on phantoms. Both individual and total lung volumes and capacities were calculated. MRI total vital capacity (VC(MRI)) was compared with spirometric vital capacity (VC(SP)). Capacities were correlated to lung volumes. Tissue volume (V(T)) was estimated as the difference between the total lung volume at full inspiration and the TLC. No significant difference was seen between VC(MRI) and VC(SP). Individual capacities were well correlated (r = 0.9) to static volume at full inspiration. The V(T) was estimated to be 836+/-393 ml. This preliminary study demonstrates that MRI can accurately estimate lung gas and tissue volumes. The proposed approach appears well suited for functional imaging of the lung.

Bioavailability and bioaccumulation characterization of essential and heavy metals contents in R. acetosa, S. oleracea and U. dioica from copper polluted and referent areas.

PubMed

Balabanova, Biljana; Stafilov, Trajče; Bačeva, Katerina

2015-01-01

Bioavailability of metals occurring in soil is the basic source of its accumulation in vegetables and herbs. The impact of soil pollution (due to urban and mining areas) on the food chain presents a challenge for many investigations. Availability of metals in a potentially polluted soil and their possible transfer and bioaccumulation in sorrel (Rumex acetosa), spinach (Spinacia oleracea) and common nettle (Urtica dioica), were examined. Microwave digestion was applied for total digestion of the plant tissues, while on the soil samples open wet digestion with a mixture of acids was applied. Three extraction methods were implemented for the bioavailable metals in the soil. Atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma was used for determination of the total contents of 21 elements. Significant enrichments in agricultural soil for As, Pb and Zn (in urban area), Cd, Cu and Ni (in a copper mine area), compared with the respective values from European standards were detected. On the basis of three different extraction methods, higher availability was assumed for both lithogenic and anthropogenic elements. Translocation values >1 were obtained for As, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. Higher bioconcentrating value was obtained only for Cd, while the bioaccumulation values vary from 0.17 for Cd to 0.82 for Zn. The potential availability of hazardous metals in urban and mining soils is examined using DTPA-TEA-CaCl2 (urban) and HCl (Cu-mines areas). Our results suggested that S. oleracea and R. acetosa have a phytostabilization potential for Cd, Cu, Ni and Pb, while U. dioica only for Cu. R. acetosa has a potential for phytoextraction of Cd in urban and copper polluted areas.

mRNA transcripts as molecular biomarkers in medicine and nutrition

PubMed Central

Sunde, Roger A.

2010-01-01

In medicine, mRNA transcripts are being developed as molecular biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of a number of diseases. These biomarkers offer early and more accurate prediction and diagnosis of disease and disease progression, and ability to identify individuals at risk. Use of microarrays also offers opportunity to identify orthogonal (uncorrelated) biomarkers not known to be linked with conventional biomarkers. Investigators are increasingly using blood as a surrogate tissue for biopsy and analysis; total RNA isolated from whole blood is predominantly from erythroid cells, and whole blood mRNA share more than 80% of the transcriptome with major tissues. Thus blood mRNA biomarkers for individualized disease prediction and diagnosis are an exciting area in medicine; mRNA biomarkers in nutrition have potential application that parallel these opportunities. Assessment of selenium (Se) status and requirements is one area where tissue mRNA levels have been used successfully. Selenoprotein-H and selenoprotein-W as well as glutathione peroxidase-1 (Gpx1) mRNAs are highly down-regulated in Se deficiency in rat liver, and the minimum dietary Se requirement is 0.06–0.07 μg Se/g based on these biomarkers, similar to requirements determined using conventional biomarkers. Blood Gpx1 mRNA can also be used to determine Se requirements in rats, showing that blood mRNA has potential for assessment of nutrient status. Future research is needed to develop mRNA biomarker panels for all nutrients that will discriminate between deficient, marginal, adequate, and supernutritional individuals and populations, and differentiate between individuals that will benefit versus be adversely affected by nutrient supplementation. PMID:20303730

Diametral compression behavior of biomedical titanium scaffolds with open, interconnected pores prepared with the space holder method.

PubMed

Arifvianto, B; Leeflang, M A; Zhou, J

2017-04-01

Scaffolds with open, interconnected pores and appropriate mechanical properties are required to provide mechanical support and to guide the formation and development of new tissue in bone tissue engineering. Since the mechanical properties of the scaffold tend to decrease with increasing porosity, a balance must be sought in order to meet these two conflicting requirements. In this research, open, interconnected pores and mechanical properties of biomedical titanium scaffolds prepared by using the space holder method were characterized. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and permeability analysis were carried out to quantify the porous structures and ascertain the presence of open, interconnected pores in the scaffolds fabricated. Diametral compression (DC) tests were performed to generate stress-strain diagrams that could be used to determine the elastic moduli and yield strengths of the scaffolds. Deformation and failure mechanisms involved in the DC tests of the titanium scaffolds were examined. The results of micro-CT and permeability analyses confirmed the presence of open, interconnected pores in the titanium scaffolds with porosity over a range of 31-61%. Among these scaffolds, a maximum specific surface area could be achieved in the scaffold with a total porosity of 5-55%. DC tests showed that the titanium scaffolds with elastic moduli and yield strengths of 0.64-3.47GPa and 28.67-80MPa, respectively, could be achieved. By comprehensive consideration of specific surface area, permeability and mechanical properties, the titanium scaffolds with porosities in a range of 50-55% were recommended to be used in cancellous bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Classification algorithm of ovarian tissue based on co-registered ultrasound and photoacoustic tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hai; Kumavor, Patrick D.; Alqasemi, Umar; Zhu, Quing

2014-03-01

Human ovarian tissue features extracted from photoacoustic spectra data, beam envelopes and co-registered ultrasound and photoacoustic images are used to characterize cancerous vs. normal processes using a support vector machine (SVM) classifier. The centers of suspicious tumor areas are estimated from the Gaussian fitting of the mean Radon transforms of the photoacoustic image along 0 and 90 degrees. Normalized power spectra are calculated using the Fourier transform of the photoacoustic beamformed data across these suspicious areas, where the spectral slope and 0-MHz intercepts are extracted. Image statistics, envelope histogram fitting and maximum output of 6 composite filters of cancerous or normal patterns along with other previously used features are calculated to compose a total of 17 features. These features are extracted from 169 datasets of 19 ex vivo ovaries. Half of the cancerous and normal datasets are randomly chosen to train a SVM classifier with polynomial kernel and the remainder is used for testing. With 50 times data resampling, the SVM classifier, for the training group, gives 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. For the testing group, it gives 89.68+/- 6.37% sensitivity and 93.16+/- 3.70% specificity. These results are superior to those obtained earlier by our group using features extracted from photoacoustic raw data or image statistics only.

Trace element content and molecular biodiversity in the epiphytic moss Leptodon smithii: two independent tracers of human disturbance.

PubMed

Spagnuolo, Valeria; Terracciano, Stefano; Giordano, Simonetta

2009-03-01

This paper focuses on chemical composition of the epiphytic moss Leptodon smithii, gathered on Quercus ilex bark, assessed in seven sites located in urban and extra-urban/remote areas of southern Italy, a poorly surveyed geographic area. The concentrations of Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn in moss tissue are generally more abundant in moss gathered in the urban sites; among extra-urban/remote sites Valle delle Ferriere showed the highest metal concentrations, mostly related to an industrial activity occurred in the past. L. smithii chemistry seems influenced by airborne dust locally enhanced by erosion phenomena, long-range transport of pollutants and marine aerosols. Element content in moss is compared with genetic variability of L. smithii estimated in the same sites. Pearson's correlation coefficient between gene diversity and total element load (r=-0.851; p=0.03) suggests that anthropogenic pressure, determining habitat disturbance and fragmentation, leads both to genetic impoverishment consequent to population shrink, and to a higher accumulation in moss tissues, as a consequence of increased airborne major/trace elements. Thus, the coupled evaluation of chemical composition in mosses and gene diversity may prove a useful tool to highlight environmental disturbance in a gradient of land use.

Plasma oxalic acid and calcium levels in oxalate poisoning

PubMed Central

Zarembski, P. M.; Hodgkinson, A.

1967-01-01

Observations are reported on five cases of suicide or attempted suicide by poisoning with oxalic acid or ethylene glycol. Elevated oxalic acid levels were observed in the plasma, stomach contents, and a number of tissues. Raised oxalic acid levels in plasma were associated with reduced total and ultrafilterable calcium levels. It is suggested that the reduction in plasma total calcium level is due mainly to the deposition of calcium oxalate in the soft tissues, but inhibition of the parathyroid glands may be a contributory factor. Microscopic examination of various tissues indicated that oxalic acid is deposited in the tissues in two forms: (1) crystalline calcium oxalate dihydrate in the kidney and (2) a non-crystalline complex of calcium oxalate and lipid in liver and other tissues. PMID:5602563

Heat for wounds - water-filtered infrared-A (wIRA) for wound healing - a review.

PubMed

Hoffmann, Gerd; Hartel, Mark; Mercer, James B

2016-01-01

Water-filtered infrared-A (wIRA) is a special form of heat radiation with high tissue penetration and a low thermal load to the skin surface. wIRA corresponds to the major part of the sun's heat radiation, which reaches the surface of the Earth in moderate climatic zones filtered by water and water vapour of the atmosphere. wIRA promotes healing of acute and chronic wounds both by thermal and thermic as well as by non-thermal and non-thermic cellular effects. This publication includes a literature review with search in PubMed/Medline for "water-filtered infrared-A" and "wound"/"ulcus" or "wassergefiltertes Infrarot A" and "Wunde"/"Ulkus", respectively (publications in English and German), and additional analysis of study data. Seven prospective clinical studies (of these six randomized controlled trials (RCT), the largest study with n=400 patients) were identified and included. All randomized controlled clinical trials compare a combination of high standard care plus wIRA treatment vs. high standard care alone. The results below marked with "vs." present these comparisons. wIRA increases tissue temperature (+2.7°C at a tissue depth of 2 cm), tissue oxygen partial pressure (+32% at a tissue depth of 2 cm) and tissue perfusion (effect sizes within the wIRA group). wIRA promotes normal as well as disturbed wound healing by diminishing inflammation and exudation, by promotion of infection defense and regeneration, and by alleviation of pain (with respect to alleviation of pain, without any exception during 230 irradiations, 13.4 vs. 0.0 on a visual analogue scale (VAS 0-100), median difference between groups 13.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 12.3/16.7, p<0.000001) with a substantially reduced need for analgesics (52-69% less in the three groups with wIRA compared to the three control groups in visceral surgery, p=0.000020 and 0.00037 and 0.0045, respectively; total of 6 vs. 14.5 analgesic tablets on 6 surveyed days (of weeks 1-6) in chronic venous stasis ulcers, median difference -8, 95% CI -10/-5, p=0.000002). Further effects are: Faster reduction of wound area (in severely burned children: 90% reduction of wound size after 9 vs. 13 days, after 9 days 89.2% vs. 49.5% reduction in wound area, median difference 39.5% wound area reduction, 95% CI 36.7%/42.2%, p=0.000011; complete wound closure of chronic venous stasis ulcers after 14 vs. 42 days, median difference -21 days, 95% CI -28/-10, p=0.000005). Better overall evaluation of wound healing (surgical wounds: 88.6 vs. 78.5 on a VAS 0-100, median difference 8.9, 95% CI 6.1/12.0, p<0.000001). Better overall evaluation of the effect of irradiation (79.0 vs. 46.8 on a VAS 0-100 with 50 as neutral point, median difference 27.9, 95% CI 19.8/34.6, p<0.000001). Higher tissue oxygen partial pressure during irradiation with wIRA (at a tissue depth of 2 cm 41.6 vs. 30.2 mmHg, median difference 11.9 mmHg, 95% CI 9.6/14.2 mmHg, p<0.000001). Higher tissue temperature during irradiation with wIRA (at a tissue depth of 2 cm 38.9 vs. 36.4°C, median difference 2.6°C, 95% CI 2.2/2.9°C, p<0.000001). Better cosmetic result (84.5 vs. 76.5 on a VAS 0-100, median difference 7.9, 95% CI 3.7/12.0, p=0.00027). Lower wound infection rate (single preoperative irradiation: 5.1% vs. 12.1% wound infections in total, difference -7.0%, 95% CI -12.8%/-1.3%, p=0.017, of these: late wound infections (postoperative days 9-30) 1.7% vs. 7.7%, difference -6.0%, 95% CI -10.3%/-1.7%, p=0.007). Shorter hospital stay (9 vs. 11 postoperative days, median difference -2 days, 95% CI -3/0 days, p=0.022). Most of the effects have been proven with an evidence level of 1a or 1b. Water-filtered infrared-A is a useful complement for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds.

Comparison of Glucosinolate Profiles in Different Tissues of Nine Brassica Crops.

PubMed

Bhandari, Shiva Ram; Jo, Jung Su; Lee, Jun Gu

2015-08-31

Glucosinolate (GSL) profiles and concentrations in various tissues (seeds, sprouts, mature root, and shoot) were determined and compared across nine Brassica species, including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, radish, baemuchae, pakchoi, Chinese cabbage, leaf mustard, and kale. The compositions and concentrations of individual GSLs varied among crops, tissues, and growth stages. Seeds had highest total GSL concentrations in most of crops, whereas shoots had the lowest GSL concentrations. Aliphatic GSL concentrations were the highest in seeds, followed by that in sprouts, shoots, and roots. Indole GSL concentration was the highest in the root or shoot tissues in most of the crops. In contrast, aromatic GSL concentrations were highest in roots. Of the nine crops examined, broccoli exhibited the highest total GSL concentration in seeds (110.76 µmol·g(-1)) and sprouts (162.19 µmol·g(-1)), whereas leaf mustard exhibited the highest total GSL concentration in shoots (61.76 µmol·g(-1)) and roots (73.61 µmol·g(-1)). The lowest GSL concentrations were observed in radish across all tissues examined.

A diet enriched with Mugil cephalus processed roes modulates the tissue lipid profile in healthy rats: a biochemical and chemometric assessment.

PubMed

Rosa, A; Atzeri, A; Putzu, D; Scano, P

2016-01-01

The effect of a diet enriched with mullet bottarga on the lipid profile (total lipids, total cholesterol, unsaturated fatty acids, α-tocopherol, and hydroperoxides) of plasma, liver, kidney, brain, and perirenal adipose tissues of healthy rats was investigated. Rats fed a 10% bottarga enriched-diet for 5 days showed body weights and tissue total lipid and cholesterol levels similar to those of animals fed control diet. Univariate and multivariate results showed that bottarga enriched-diet modified the fatty acid profile in all tissues, except brain. Significant increases of n-3 PUFA, particularly EPA, were observed together with a 20:4 n-6 decrease in plasma, liver, and kidney. Perirenal adipose tissue showed a fat accumulation that reflected the diet composition. The overall data suggest that mullet bottarga may be considered as a natural bioavailable source of n-3 PUFA and qualify it as a traditional food product with functional properties and a potential functional ingredient for preparation of n-3 PUFA enriched foods.

In vitro infrared thermography assessment of temperature peaks during the intra-oral welding of titanium abutments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Degidi, Marco; Nardi, Diego; Sighinolfi, Gianluca; Merla, Arcangelo; Piattelli, Adriano

2012-07-01

Control of heat dissipation and transmission to the peri-implant area during intra-oral welding is very important to limit potential damage to the surrounding tissue. The aim of this in vitro study was to assess, by means of thermal infrared imaging, the tissue temperature peaks associated with the thermal propagation pathway through the implants, the abutments and the walls of the slot of the scaffold, generated during the welding process, in three different implant systems. An in vitro polyurethane mandible model was prepared with a 7.0 mm v-shape slot. Effects on the maximum temperature by a single welding procedure were studied using different power supplies and abutments. A total of 36 welding procedures were tested on three different implant systems. The lowest peak temperature along the walls of the 7.0 mm v-shaped groove (31.6 ± 2 °C) was assessed in the specimens irrigated with sterile saline solution. The highest peak temperature (42.8 ± 2 °C) was assessed in the samples with a contemporaneous power overflow and premature pincers removal. The results of our study suggest that the procedures used until now appear to be effective to avoid thermal bone injuries. The peak tissue temperature of the in vitro model did not surpass the threshold limits above which tissue injury could occur.

Airway structure and function in Eisenmenger's syndrome.

PubMed

McKay, K O; Johnson, P R; Black, J L; Glanville, A R; Armour, C L

1998-10-01

The responsiveness of airways from patients with Eisenmenger's syndrome (n = 5) was compared with that in airways from organ donors (n = 10). Enhanced contractile responses to cholinergic stimulation were found in airways from patients with Eisenmenger's syndrome. The maximal responses to acetylcholine, carbachol, and parasympathetic nerve stimulation in airway tissue from these patients were 221%, 139%, and 152%, respectively, of the maximal responses obtained in donor tissue. Further, relaxation responses to isoproterenol and levocromakalim were absent (n = 2) or markedly impaired (n = 3) in airways from patients with Eisenmenger's syndrome. This attenuated relaxation response was nonspecific in that it was also absent after vasoactive intestinal peptide, sodium nitroprusside, papaverine, and electrical field application. These observations can most likely be explained by a decrease in intrinsic smooth muscle tone, as precontraction of airways revealed relaxation responses that were equivalent to those obtained in donor tissues. Morphometric analysis of tissues used for the functional studies revealed no differences in the airway dimensions (internal perimeter) or airway wall components (e.g., smooth muscle, cartilage) or total area to explain these observations. Although the mechanism for this observed decrease in intrinsic airway smooth muscle tone is not certain, it may be due to alteration in the substructure of the airway wall or, alternatively, may result from the continued release of depressant factors in the vicinity of the smooth muscle which permanently alters smooth muscle responsiveness.

Photosymbiotic giant clams are transformers of solar flux.

PubMed

Holt, Amanda L; Vahidinia, Sanaz; Gagnon, Yakir Luc; Morse, Daniel E; Sweeney, Alison M

2014-12-06

'Giant' tridacnid clams have evolved a three-dimensional, spatially efficient, photodamage-preventing system for photosymbiosis. We discovered that the mantle tissue of giant clams, which harbours symbiotic nutrition-providing microalgae, contains a layer of iridescent cells called iridocytes that serve to distribute photosynthetically productive wavelengths by lateral and forward-scattering of light into the tissue while back-reflecting non-productive wavelengths with a Bragg mirror. The wavelength- and angle-dependent scattering from the iridocytes is geometrically coupled to the vertically pillared microalgae, resulting in an even re-distribution of the incoming light along the sides of the pillars, thus enabling photosynthesis deep in the tissue. There is a physical analogy between the evolved function of the clam system and an electric transformer, which changes energy flux per area in a system while conserving total energy. At incident light levels found on shallow coral reefs, this arrangement may allow algae within the clam system to both efficiently use all incident solar energy and avoid the photodamage and efficiency losses due to non-photochemical quenching that occur in the reef-building coral photosymbiosis. Both intra-tissue radiometry and multiscale optical modelling support our interpretation of the system's photophysics. This highly evolved 'three-dimensional' biophotonic system suggests a strategy for more efficient, damage-resistant photovoltaic materials and more spatially efficient solar production of algal biofuels, foods and chemicals.

Magnesium and Space Flight

PubMed Central

Smith, Scott M.; Zwart, Sara R.

2015-01-01

Magnesium is an essential nutrient for muscle, cardiovascular, and bone health on Earth, and during space flight. We sought to evaluate magnesium status in 43 astronauts (34 male, 9 female; 47 ± 5 years old, mean ± SD) before, during, and after 4–6-month space missions. We also studied individuals participating in a ground analog of space flight (head-down-tilt bed rest; n = 27 (17 male, 10 female), 35 ± 7 years old). We evaluated serum concentration and 24-h urinary excretion of magnesium, along with estimates of tissue magnesium status from sublingual cells. Serum magnesium increased late in flight, while urinary magnesium excretion was higher over the course of 180-day space missions. Urinary magnesium increased during flight but decreased significantly at landing. Neither serum nor urinary magnesium changed during bed rest. For flight and bed rest, significant correlations existed between the area under the curve of serum and urinary magnesium and the change in total body bone mineral content. Tissue magnesium concentration was unchanged after flight and bed rest. Increased excretion of magnesium is likely partially from bone and partially from diet, but importantly, it does not come at the expense of muscle tissue stores. While further study is needed to better understand the implications of these findings for longer space exploration missions, magnesium homeostasis and tissue status seem well maintained during 4–6-month space missions. PMID:26670248

Infrared fiber optic evanescent wave spectroscopy: applications in biology and medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afanasyeva, Natalia I.; Bruch, Reinhard F.; Katzir, Abraham

1999-04-01

A new powerful and highly sensitive technique for non-invasive biomedical diagnostics in vivo has been developed using Infrared Fiberoptic Evanescent Wave Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FEW-FTIR). This compact and portable method allows to detect functional chemical groups and bonds via vibrational spectroscopy directly from surfaces including living tissue. Such differences and similarities in molecular structure of tissue and materials can be evaluated online. Operating in the attenuated total reflection (ATR) regime in the middle-infrared (MIR) range, the FEW-FTIR technique provides direct contact between the fiber probe and tissue for non-destructive, non-invasive, fast and remote (few meters) diagnostics and quality control of materials. This method utilizes highly flexible and extremely low loss unclad fibers, for example silver halide fibers. Applications of this method include investigations of normal skin, precancerous and cancerous conditions, monitoring of the process of aging, allergic reactions and radiation damage to the skin. This setup is suitable as well for the detection of the influence of environmental factors (sun, water, pollution, and weather) on skin surfaces. The FEW-FTIR technique is very promising also for fast histological examinations in vitro. In this review, we present recent investigations of skin, breast, lung, stomach, kidney tissues in vivo and ex vivo (during surgery) to define the areas of tumor localization. The main advantages of the FEW-FTIR technique for biomedical, clinical, and environmental applications are discussed.

Magnesium and Space Flight.

PubMed

Smith, Scott M; Zwart, Sara R

2015-12-08

Magnesium is an essential nutrient for muscle, cardiovascular, and bone health on Earth, and during space flight. We sought to evaluate magnesium status in 43 astronauts (34 male, 9 female; 47 ± 5 years old, mean ± SD) before, during, and after 4-6-month space missions. We also studied individuals participating in a ground analog of space flight (head-down-tilt bed rest; n = 27 (17 male, 10 female), 35 ± 7 years old). We evaluated serum concentration and 24-h urinary excretion of magnesium, along with estimates of tissue magnesium status from sublingual cells. Serum magnesium increased late in flight, while urinary magnesium excretion was higher over the course of 180-day space missions. Urinary magnesium increased during flight but decreased significantly at landing. Neither serum nor urinary magnesium changed during bed rest. For flight and bed rest, significant correlations existed between the area under the curve of serum and urinary magnesium and the change in total body bone mineral content. Tissue magnesium concentration was unchanged after flight and bed rest. Increased excretion of magnesium is likely partially from bone and partially from diet, but importantly, it does not come at the expense of muscle tissue stores. While further study is needed to better understand the implications of these findings for longer space exploration missions, magnesium homeostasis and tissue status seem well maintained during 4-6-month space missions.

Neck and Occipital Pain Caused by Deep Cervical Intramuscular Lipoma: A Surgical Case.

PubMed

Kogure, Kazunari; Yamazaki, Michio; Tamaki, Tomonori; Node, Yoji; Morita, Akio

2017-01-01

A lipoma is a slow-growing, benign tumor and is usually asymptomatic; hence, surgical intervention can often be avoided in patients with these tumors in the cervical and cranial area. Lipomas arise most commonly in the subcutaneous fat, but occasionally in muscle tissue. Intramuscular lipomas in the cervico-cranial area have rarely been reported. We describe here a patient with a large intramuscular lipoma in the deep cervical tissue. The patient experienced troublesome pain in the neck and occipital area, and surgical treatment was therefore suggested. Particularly in the cervical area, intramuscular lipomas sometimes invade the surrounding muscles and tissue layers and develop into an irregular mass, despite being benign. In addition, the cervical area has one of the most complex muscle structures. Nevertheless, surgical management of intramuscular lipoma in the cervical and cranial area is sometimes indicated, for example, in patients with clinical symptoms or masses with a tendency to grow large.

The decrease in silicon concentration of the connective tissues with age in rats is a marker of connective tissue turnover.

PubMed

Jugdaohsingh, Ravin; Watson, Abigail I E; Pedro, Liliana D; Powell, Jonathan J

2015-06-01

Silicon may be important for bone and connective tissue health. Higher concentrations of silicon are suggested to be associated with bone and the connective tissues, compared with the non-connective soft tissues. Moreover, in connective tissues it has been suggested that silicon levels may decrease with age based upon analyses of human aorta. These claims, however, have not been tested under controlled conditions. Here connective and non-connective tissues were collected and analysed for silicon levels from female Sprague-Dawley rats of different ages (namely, 3, 5, 8, 12, 26 and 43 weeks; n=8-10 per age group), all maintained on the same feed source and drinking water, and kept in the same environment from weaning to adulthood. Tissues (696 samples) were digested in nitric acid and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for total silicon content. Fasting serum samples were also collected, diluted and analysed for silicon. Higher concentrations of silicon (up to 50-fold) were found associated with bone and the connective tissues compared with the non-connective tissues. Although total silicon content increased with age in all tissues, the highest connective tissue silicon concentrations (up to 9.98 μg/g wet weight) were found in young weanling rats, decreasing thereafter with age (by 2-6 fold). Fasting serum silicon concentrations reflected the pattern of connective tissue silicon concentrations and, both measures, when compared to collagen data from a prior experiment in Sprague-Dawley rats, mirrored type I collagen turnover with age. Our findings confirm the link between silicon and connective tissues and would imply that young growing rats have proportionally higher requirements for dietary silicon than mature adults, for bone and connective tissue development, although this was not formally investigated here. However, estimation of total body silicon content suggested that actual Si requirements may be substantially lower than previously estimated which could explain why absolute silicon deficiency is difficult to achieve but, when it is achieved in young growing animals, it results in stunted growth and abnormal development of bone and other connective tissues. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The decrease in silicon concentration of the connective tissues with age in rats is a marker of connective tissue turnover☆

PubMed Central

Jugdaohsingh, Ravin; Watson, Abigail I.E.; Pedro, Liliana D.; Powell, Jonathan J.

2015-01-01

Silicon may be important for bone and connective tissue health. Higher concentrations of silicon are suggested to be associated with bone and the connective tissues, compared with the non-connective soft tissues. Moreover, in connective tissues it has been suggested that silicon levels may decrease with age based upon analyses of human aorta. These claims, however, have not been tested under controlled conditions. Here connective and non-connective tissues were collected and analysed for silicon levels from female Sprague–Dawley rats of different ages (namely, 3, 5, 8, 12, 26 and 43 weeks; n = 8–10 per age group), all maintained on the same feed source and drinking water, and kept in the same environment from weaning to adulthood. Tissues (696 samples) were digested in nitric acid and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for total silicon content. Fasting serum samples were also collected, diluted and analysed for silicon. Higher concentrations of silicon (up to 50-fold) were found associated with bone and the connective tissues compared with the non-connective tissues. Although total silicon content increased with age in all tissues, the highest connective tissue silicon concentrations (up to 9.98 μg/g wet weight) were found in young weanling rats, decreasing thereafter with age (by 2–6 fold). Fasting serum silicon concentrations reflected the pattern of connective tissue silicon concentrations and, both measures, when compared to collagen data from a prior experiment in Sprague–Dawley rats, mirrored type I collagen turnover with age. Our findings confirm the link between silicon and connective tissues and would imply that young growing rats have proportionally higher requirements for dietary silicon than mature adults, for bone and connective tissue development, although this was not formally investigated here. However, estimation of total body silicon content suggested that actual Si requirements may be substantially lower than previously estimated which could explain why absolute silicon deficiency is difficult to achieve but, when it is achieved in young growing animals, it results in stunted growth and abnormal development of bone and other connective tissues. PMID:25687224

Irreversible electroporation ablation area enhanced by synergistic high- and low-voltage pulses.

PubMed

Yao, Chenguo; Lv, Yanpeng; Dong, Shoulong; Zhao, Yajun; Liu, Hongmei

2017-01-01

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) produced by a pulsed electric field can ablate tissue. In this study, we achieved an enhancement in ablation area by using a combination of short high-voltage pulses (HVPs) to create a large electroporated area and long low-voltage pulses (LVPs) to ablate the electroporated area. The experiments were conducted in potato tuber slices. Slices were ablated with an array of four pairs of parallel steel electrodes using one of the following four electric pulse protocols: HVP, LVP, synergistic HVP+LVP (SHLVP) or LVP+HVP. Our results showed that the SHLVPs more effectively necrotized tissue than either the HVPs or LVPs, even when the SHLVP dose was the same as or lower than the HVP or LVP doses. The HVP and LVP order mattered and only HVPs+LVPs (SHLVPs) treatments increased the size of the ablation zone because the HVPs created a large electroporated area that was more susceptible to the subsequent LVPs. Real-time temperature change monitoring confirmed that the tissue was non-thermally ablated by the electric pulses. Theoretical calculations of the synergistic effects of the SHLVPs on tissue ablation were performed. Our proposed SHLVP protocol provides options for tissue ablation and may be applied to optimize the current clinical IRE protocols.

Irreversible electroporation ablation area enhanced by synergistic high- and low-voltage pulses

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) produced by a pulsed electric field can ablate tissue. In this study, we achieved an enhancement in ablation area by using a combination of short high-voltage pulses (HVPs) to create a large electroporated area and long low-voltage pulses (LVPs) to ablate the electroporated area. The experiments were conducted in potato tuber slices. Slices were ablated with an array of four pairs of parallel steel electrodes using one of the following four electric pulse protocols: HVP, LVP, synergistic HVP+LVP (SHLVP) or LVP+HVP. Our results showed that the SHLVPs more effectively necrotized tissue than either the HVPs or LVPs, even when the SHLVP dose was the same as or lower than the HVP or LVP doses. The HVP and LVP order mattered and only HVPs+LVPs (SHLVPs) treatments increased the size of the ablation zone because the HVPs created a large electroporated area that was more susceptible to the subsequent LVPs. Real-time temperature change monitoring confirmed that the tissue was non-thermally ablated by the electric pulses. Theoretical calculations of the synergistic effects of the SHLVPs on tissue ablation were performed. Our proposed SHLVP protocol provides options for tissue ablation and may be applied to optimize the current clinical IRE protocols. PMID:28253331

Quantification of total and particulate dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) in five Bermudian coral species across a depth gradient

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yost, D. M.; Jones, R.; Rowe, C. L.; Mitchelmore, Carys Louise

2012-06-01

The symbiotic dinoflagellate microalgae of corals ( Symbiodinium spp.) contain high concentrations of dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a multifunctional metabolite commonly found in many species of marine algae and dinoflagellates. A photoprotective antioxidant function for DMSP and its breakdown products has often been inferred in algae, but its role(s) in the coral-algal symbiosis remains elusive. To examine potential correlations between environmental and physiological parameters and DMSP, total DMSP (DMSPt, from the host coral and zooxanthellae), particulate DMSP (DMSPp, from the zooxanthellae only), coral surface area, and total protein, as well as zooxanthellae density, chlorophyll concentration, cell volume and genotype (i.e., clade) were measured in five coral species from the Diploria- Montastraea- Porites species complex in Bermuda along a depth gradient of 4, 12, 18, and 24 m. DMSPt concentrations were consistently greater than DMSPp concentrations in all species suggesting the possible translocation of DMSP from symbiont to host. D. labyrinthiformis was notably different from the other corals examined, showing DMSPp and DMSPt increases (per coral surface area or tissue biomass) with increasing water depth. However, overall, there were no consistent depth-related patterns in DMSPp and DMSPt concentrations. Further research, investigating dimethylsulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoxide, and acrylate levels and DMSP-lyase activity in correlation with other biomarker endpoints that have been shown to be depth (i.e., temperature and light) responsive are needed to substantiate the significance of these findings.

Comparative Evaluation of U.S. Brand and Generic Intravenous Sodium Ferric Gluconate Complex in Sucrose Injection: Biodistribution after Intravenous Dosing in Rats

PubMed Central

Beekman, Christopher R.; Matta, Murali K.; Thomas, Christopher D.; Mohammad, Adil; Stewart, Sharron; Xu, Lin; Chockalingam, Ashok; Shea, Katherine; Sun, Dajun; Jiang, Wenlei; Patel, Vikram; Rouse, Rodney

2017-01-01

Relative biodistribution of FDA-approved innovator and generic sodium ferric gluconate (SFG) drug products was investigated to identify differences in tissue distribution of iron after intravenous dosing to rats. Three equal cohorts of 42 male Sprague-Dawley rats were created with each cohort receiving one of three treatments: (1) the innovator SFG product dosed intravenously at a concentration of 40 mg/kg; (2) the generic SFG product dosed intravenously at a concentration of 40 mg/kg; (3) saline dosed intravenously at equivalent volume to SFG products. Sampling time points were 15 min, 1 h, 8 h, 1 week, two weeks, four weeks, and six weeks post-treatment. Six rats from each group were sacrificed at each time point. Serum, femoral bone marrow, lungs, brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and spleen were harvested and evaluated for total iron concentration by ICP-MS. The ICP-MS analytical method was validated with linearity, range, accuracy, and precision. Results were determined for mean iron concentrations (µg/g) and mean total iron (whole tissue) content (µg/tissue) for each tissue of all groups at each time point. A percent of total distribution to each tissue was calculated for both products. At any given time point, the overall percent iron concentration distribution did not vary between the two SFG drugs by more than 7% in any tissue. Overall, this study demonstrated similar tissue biodistribution for the two SFG products in the examined tissues. PMID:29283393

Intraoperative echocardiographic detection of regurgitant jets after valve replacement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morehead, A. J.; Firstenberg, M. S.; Shiota, T.; Qin, J.; Armstrong, G.; Cosgrove, D. M. 3rd; Thomas, J. D.

2000-01-01

BACKGROUND: Paravalvular jets, documented by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography, have prompted immediate valve explantation by others, yet the significance of these jets is unknown. METHODS: Twenty-seven patients had intraoperative transesophageal two-dimensional color Doppler echocardiography, performed to assess the number and area of regurgitant jets after valve replacement, before and after protamine. Patients were grouped by first time versus redo operation, valve position and type. RESULTS: Before protamine, 55 jets were identified (2.04+/-1.4 per patient) versus 29 jets after (1.07+/-1.2 per patient, p = 0.0002). Total jet area improved from 2.0+/-2.2 cm2 to 0.86+/-1.7 cm2 with protamine (p<0.0001). In all patients jet area decreased (average decrease, 70.7%+/-27.0%). First time and redo operations had similar improvements in jet number and area (both p>0.6). Furthermore, mitral and mechanical valves each had more jets and overall greater jet area when compared to aortic and tissue valves, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Following valve replacement, multiple jets are detected by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography. They are more common and larger in the mitral position and with mechanical valves. Improvement occurs with reversal of anticoagulation.

Confocal microscopy with strip mosaicing for rapid imaging over large areas of excised tissue

PubMed Central

Li, Yongbiao; Larson, Bjorg; Peterson, Gary; Seltzer, Emily; Toledo-Crow, Ricardo; Rajadhyaksha, Milind

2013-01-01

Abstract. Confocal mosaicing microscopy is a developing technology platform for imaging tumor margins directly in freshly excised tissue, without the processing required for conventional pathology. Previously, mosaicing on 12-×-12  mm2 of excised skin tissue from Mohs surgery and detection of basal cell carcinoma margins was demonstrated in 9 min. Last year, we reported the feasibility of a faster approach called “strip mosaicing,” which was demonstrated on a 10-×-10  mm2 of tissue in 3 min. Here we describe further advances in instrumentation, software, and speed. A mechanism was also developed to flatten tissue in order to enable consistent and repeatable acquisition of images over large areas. We demonstrate mosaicing on 10-×-10  mm2 of skin tissue with 1-μm lateral resolution in 90 s. A 2.5-×-3.5  cm2 piece of breast tissue was scanned with 0.8-μm lateral resolution in 13 min. Rapid mosaicing of confocal images on large areas of fresh tissue potentially offers a means to perform pathology at the bedside. Imaging of tumor margins with strip mosaicing confocal microscopy may serve as an adjunct to conventional (frozen or fixed) pathology for guiding surgery. PMID:23389736

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) reduces the COX-2 mRNA expression in both subplantar and total brain tissues in the model of peripheral inflammation induced by administration of carrageenan.

PubMed

Prianti, Antonio Carlos Guimarães; Silva, José Antonio; Dos Santos, Regiane Feliciano; Rosseti, Isabela Bueno; Costa, Maricilia Silva

2014-07-01

In the classical model of edema formation and hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan administration in rat paw, the increase in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in the central nervous system (CNS) contributes to the severity of the inflammatory and pain responses. Prostaglandins are generated by the cyclooxygenase (COX). There are two distinct COX isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2. In inflammatory tissues, COX-2 is greatly expressed producing proinflammatory prostaglandins (PGs). Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used in the treatment of inflammatory pathologies, reducing both pain and acute inflammatory process. Herein we studied the effect of LLLT on both COX-2 and COX-1 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in either subplantar or brain tissues taken from rats treated with carrageenan. The experiment was designed as follows: A1 (saline), A2 (carrageenan-0.5 mg/paw), A3 (carrageenan-0.5 mg/paw + LLLT), A4 (carrageenan-1.0 mg/paw), and A5 (carrageenan-1.0 mg/paw + LLLT). Animals from the A3 and A5 groups were irradiated at 1 h after carrageenan administration, using a diode laser with an output power of 30 mW and a wavelength of 660 nm. The laser beam covered an area of 0.785 cm(2), resulting in an energy dosage of 7.5 J/cm(2). Both COX-2 and COX-1 mRNAs were measured by RT-PCR. Six hours after carrageenan administration, COX-2 mRNA expression was significantly increased both in the subplantar (2.2-4.1-fold) and total brain (8.65-13.79-fold) tissues. COX-1 mRNA expression was not changed. LLLT (7.5 J/cm(2)) reduced significantly the COX-2 mRNA expression both in the subplantar (~2.5-fold) and brain (4.84-9.67-fold) tissues. The results show that LLLT is able to reduce COX-2 mRNA expression. It is possible that the mechanism of LLLT decreasing hyperalgesia is also related to its effect in reducing the COX-2 expression in the CNS.

Comparison of Gross Body Fat-Water Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 3 Tesla to Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Obese Women

PubMed Central

Silver, HJ; Niswender, KD; Kullberg, J; Berglund, J; Johansson, L; Bruvold, M; Avison, MJ; Welch, EB.

2012-01-01

Improved understanding of how depot-specific adipose tissue mass predisposes to obesity-related comorbidities could yield new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of obesity as well as metabolic benefits of weight loss. We hypothesized that three-dimensional contiguous “fat-water” MR imaging (FWMRI) covering the majority of a whole-body field of view (FOV) acquired at 3 Tesla (3T) and coupled with automated segmentation and quantification of amount, type and distribution of adipose and lean soft tissue would show great promise in body composition methodology. Precision of adipose and lean soft tissue measurements in body and trunk regions were assessed for 3T FWMRI and compared to DEXA. Anthropometric, FWMRI and DEXA measurements were obtained in twelve women with BMI 30–39.9 kg/m2. Test-retest results found coefficients of variation for FWMRI that were all under 3%: gross body adipose tissue (GBAT) 0.80%, total trunk adipose tissue (TTAT) 2.08%, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) 2.62%, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) 2.11%, gross body lean soft tissue (GBLST) 0.60%, and total trunk lean soft tissue (TTLST) 2.43%. Concordance correlation coefficients between FWMRI and DEXA were 0.978, 0.802, 0.629, and 0.400 for GBAT, TTAT, GBLST and TTLST, respectively. While Bland Altman plots demonstrated agreement between FWMRI and DEXA for GBAT and TTAT, a negative bias existed for GBLST and TTLST measurements. Differences may be explained by the FWMRI FOV length and potential for DEXA to overestimate lean soft tissue. While more development is necessary, the described 3T FWMRI method combined with fully-automated segmentation is fast (<30 minutes total scan and post-processing time), noninvasive, repeatable and cost effective. PMID:23712980

Nitrogen nutrition and temporal effects of enhanced carbon dioxide on soybean growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vessey, J. K.; Henry, L. T.; Raper, C. D. Jr

1990-01-01

Plants grown on porous media at elevated CO2 levels generally have low concentrations of tissue N and often appear to require increased levels of external N to maximize growth response. This study determines if soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr. Ransom'] grown hydroponically at elevated CO2 requires increases in external NO3- concentrations beyond levels that are optimal at ambient CO2 to maintain tissue N concentrations and maximize the growth response. This study also investigates temporal influences of elevated CO2 on growth responses by soybean. Plants were grown vegetatively for 34 d in hydroponic culture at atmospheric CO2 concentrations of 400, 650, and 900 microliters L-1 and during the final 18 d at NO3- concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 and 10.0 mM in the culture solution. At 650 and 900 microliters L-1 CO2, plants had maximum increases of 31 and 45% in dry weight during the experimental period. Plant growth at 900 microliters L-1 CO2 was stimulated earlier than at 650 microliters L-1. During the final 18 d of the experiment, the relative growth rates (RGR) of plants grown at elevated CO2 declined. Elevated CO2 caused increases in total N and total NO3(-)-N content and leaf area but not leaf number. Enhancing CO2 levels also caused a decrease in root:shoot ratios. Stomatal resistance increased by 2.1- and 2.8-fold for plants at the 650 and 900 microliters L-1 CO2, respectively. Nitrate level in the culture solutions had no effect on growth or on C:N ratios of tissues, nor did increases in CO2 levels cause a decrease in N concentration of plant tissues. Hence, increases in NO3- concentration of the hydroponic solution were not necessary to maintain the N status of the plants or to maximize the growth response to elevated CO2.

Modeling steady state SO2-dependent changes in capillary ATP concentration using novel O2 micro-delivery methods

PubMed Central

Ghonaim, Nour W.; Fraser, Graham M.; Ellis, Christopher G.; Yang, Jun; Goldman, Daniel

2013-01-01

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is known to be released from the erythrocyte in an oxygen (O2) dependent manner. Since ATP is a potent vasodilator, it is proposed to be a key regulator in the pathway that mediates micro-vascular response to varying tissue O2 demand. We propose that ATP signaling mainly originates in the capillaries due to the relatively long erythrocyte transit times in the capillary and the short ATP diffusion distance to the electrically coupled endothelium. We have developed a computational model to investigate the effect of delivering or removing O2 to limited areas at the surface of a tissue with an idealized parallel capillary array on total ATP concentration. Simulations were conducted when exposing full surface to perturbations in tissue O2 tension (PO2) or locally using a circular micro-outlet (~100 μm in diameter), a square micro-slit (200 × 200 μm), or a rectangular micro-slit (1000 μm wide × 200 μm long). Results indicated the rectangular micro-slit has the optimal dimensions for altering hemoglobin saturations (SO2) in sufficient number capillaries to generate effective changes in total [ATP]. This suggests a threshold for the minimum number of capillaries that need to be stimulated in vivo by imposed tissue hypoxia to induce a conducted micro-vascular response. SO2 and corresponding [ATP] changes were also modeled in a terminal arteriole (9 μm in diameter) that replaces 4 surface capillaries in the idealized network geometry. Based on the results, the contribution of terminal arterioles to the net change in [ATP] in the micro-vascular network is minimal although they would participate as O2 sources thus influencing the O2 distribution. The modeling data presented here provide important insights into designing a novel micro-delivery device for studying micro-vascular O2 regulation in the capillaries in vivo. PMID:24069001

Efficacy of hemostasis for epidural venous plexus and safety for neural structure using soft coagulation system in spinal surgery: a laboratory investigation using a porcine model.

PubMed

Nishida, Kotaro; Kakutani, Kenichiro; Maeno, Koichiro; Takada, Toru; Yurube, Takashi; Kuroda, Ryosuke; Kurosaka, Masahiro

2013-10-01

A laboratory investigation using porcine model. To clarify the effectiveness of the soft coagulation system for stopping bleeding from the epidural vein using different outputs and the safety in terms of tissue damage including spinal cord injury. Problems associated with coagulation using an electrosurgical device, such as carbonization of tissue or adhesion to the electrode, have been highlighted. So called "soft coagulation" has been developed to solve these problems. Its' utility as well as the safety of the neural structure in spine surgery has never been reported. A total of 3 animals and 45 spinal segments were used. Total laminectomy was performed to expose the dural tube and epidural venous plexus. Stable bleeding was induced by a 22 G needle puncture. Soft coagulation monopolar output (SCM), soft coagulation bipolar output (SCB), and conventional bipolar output (CB) were used as the coagulators. Valid hemostasis was defined as macroscopically complete bleeding stoppage by coagulation within 3 minutes. The neurological assessment was evaluated by somatosensory evoked potential. Histologic analysis was performed to determine the area of thermal damage. Valid hemostasis ratio was 75.0% of SCM group, 68.8% of SCB group, and 30.8% of CB group. Somatosensory evoked potential monitoring revealed that spinal cord injury was observed in 4 lesions (25%) of the SCM group. Neither bipolar groups (SCB and CB) showed any changes in waveform pattern. Histologic analysis revealed that severe thermal damages were observed in the epidural space of the SCM group. The usefulness of soft coagulation is revealed in terms of bleeding stoppage from epidural vessels and reduced soft-tissue damage compared with the conventional electric device. However, assessing the potential risk of severe neural tissue damage including spinal cord injury, a bipolar soft coagulation is strongly recommended for use in spine surgery.

Fatigue Damage of Collagenous Tissues: Experiment, Modeling and Simulation Studies

PubMed Central

Martin, Caitlin; Sun, Wei

2017-01-01

Mechanical fatigue damage is a critical issue for soft tissues and tissue-derived materials, particularly for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular applications; yet, our understanding of the fatigue damage process is incomplete. Soft tissue fatigue experiments are often difficult and time-consuming to perform, which has hindered progress in this area. However, the recent development of soft-tissue fatigue-damage constitutive models has enabled simulation-based fatigue analyses of tissues under various conditions. Computational simulations facilitate highly controlled and quantitative analyses to study the distinct effects of various loading conditions and design features on tissue durability; thus, they are advantageous over complex fatigue experiments. Although significant work to calibrate the constitutive models from fatigue experiments and to validate predictability remains, further development in these areas will add to our knowledge of soft-tissue fatigue damage and will facilitate the design of durable treatments and devices. In this review, the experimental, modeling, and simulation efforts to study collagenous tissue fatigue damage are summarized and critically assessed. PMID:25955007

Evaluation of chlorpyrifos toxicity through a 28-day study: Cholinesterase activity, oxidative stress responses, parent compound/metabolite levels, and primary DNA damage in blood and brain tissue of adult male Wistar rats.

PubMed

Kopjar, Nevenka; Žunec, Suzana; Mendaš, Gordana; Micek, Vedran; Kašuba, Vilena; Mikolić, Anja; Lovaković, Blanka Tariba; Milić, Mirta; Pavičić, Ivan; Čermak, Ana Marija Marjanović; Pizent, Alica; Lucić Vrdoljak, Ana; Želježić, Davor

2018-01-05

In this 28 day-study, we evaluated the effects of the insecticide chlorpyrifos orally administered to Wistar rats at doses 0.160, 0.015, and 0.010 mg/kg b. w./day. Following treatment, total cholinesterase activity and activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were measured. Oxidative stress responses were evaluated using a battery of endpoints to establish lipid peroxidation, changes in total antioxidant capacity, level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) level and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Using HPLC-UV DAD analysis, levels of the parent compound and its main metabolite 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol in plasma and brain tissue were measured. The genotoxic effect was estimated using alkaline comet assay in leukocytes and brain tissue. The exposure did not result in significant effects on total cholinesterase, AChE and BChE activity in plasma and brain tissue. Lipid peroxidation slightly increased both in plasma and brain tissue. Total antioxidant capacity, ROS and GSH levels were marginally influenced by the exposure. Treatment led to significant increases of GSH-Px activity in blood, SOD activity in erythrocytes and a slight increase of catalase activity in plasma. HPLC-UV DAD analysis revealed the presence of both the parent compound and its main metabolite in the plasma of all of the experimental animals and brain tissue of the animals treated at the two higher doses. All of the tested doses of chlorpyrifos were slightly genotoxic, both to leukocytes and brain tissue. Our results call for further research using other sensitive biomarkers of effect, along with different exposure scenarios. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Tissue procurement system in Japan: the role of a tissue bank in medical center for translational research, Osaka University Hospital.

PubMed

Ohkawara, H; Fukushima, N; Kitagawa, T; Ito, T; Masutani, Y; Sawa, Y

2010-01-01

Although organ procurement has been regulated by The Organ Transplantation Law (brain-dead donors since 1997, donors after cardiac death since 1979), there has been no law or governmental procurement network (except for cornea) in Japan. Since the late 1980s, some university hospitals have developed original banks. Finally, in 2001 guidelines for tissue procurement were established by The Japanese Society of Tissue Transplantation and Japan Tissue Transplant Network (JTTN) to coordinate tissue harvesting. Five tissue banks were joined to the tissue transplant network (skin in one, heart valves in two, and bone in two). As the number of tissue banks is small, each bank cooperates on procurement, but cannot cover the entire country. With regard to skin transplantation, only one skin bank-The Japan Skin Bank Network (JSBN), which is located in Tokyo-has organized skin procurement. Therefore, it has been difficult to procure skin in areas distant from Tokyo, especially around Osaka. In order to improve such a situation, a tissue bank collaborating with the JSBN was established at The Medical Center for Translational Research (MTR), Osaka University Hospital in April 2008. The bank has played a role in skin procurement center in western Japan and supported procurement and preservation at the time of the skin procurement. Between April 2008 and September 2009, the bank participated in eight tissue procurements in the western area. In the future, the bank is planning to procure and preserve pancreatic islets and bones. Moreover, there is a plan to set up an induced pluripotent stem cells center and stem cell bank in MTR. This tissue bank may play a role to increase tissue procurement in Japan, especially in the western area. .

Elevated CO2 leads to carbon sequestration by modulating C4 photosynthesis pathway enzyme (PPDK) in Suaeda monoica and S. fruticosa.

PubMed

Yadav, Sonam; Mishra, Avinash; Jha, Bhavanath

2018-01-01

The C 4 halophytic species Suaeda monoica and S. fruticosa, possess the C 4 photosynthesis pathway without Kranz anatomy were grown at ambient (470ppm CO 2 ) and elevated (850ppm CO 2 ) atmospheric CO 2 under control containment facility to study the plant response under CO 2 stress condition. The relative growth of both Suaeda species was enhanced with atmospheric CO 2 enrichment compared to control (ambient) condition. The photosynthesis rate was found 2.5μmolCO 2 m -2 s -1 in both species under stress condition compared to about 1.9μmolCO 2 m -2 s -1 under control conditions. About 0.3molH 2 Om -2 s -1 conductance was detected under an unstressed condition which decreased significantly to ~0.07molH 2 Om -2 s -1 on the 6th day of stress treatment. Similarly, transpiration rate was also decreased significantly from 4.4-5.2mmolH 2 Om -2 s -1 to 1.7-1.9 under stress condition. In contrast, VpdL increased significantly from 1.9kPa to 2.5kPa under stress condition. A higher total chlorophyll content observed in S. monoica (56.36mgg -1 tissue) compared to S. fruticosa (33.12mgg -1 tissue) under unstressed (control) condition. A significant increase was found in the total chlorophyll content of S. fruticosa (45.47mgg -1 tissue) with stress treatment compared to control (33.12mgg -1 tissue). In contrast, the total chlorophyll decreased in S. monoica (51.58mgg -1 tissue) under similar stress condition compared to control plants (56.36mgg -1 tissue). About 6-6.8mg total sugar per gram tissue found under control condition which enhanced further (7.5 to 11mgg -1 tissue) under stress condition. Similarly, total reducing sugar (~2mgg -1 tissue) and total starch content (6.5-11mgg -1 tissue) increased under stress condition. About 6.5- and 3- fold higher expression of PPDK gene was observed for S. monoica and S. fruticosa, respectively under CO 2 stress condition. PPDK (1.2- and 1.5- fold) and antioxidant enzymes; APX (12.7- and two-fold), CAT (2.2- and 6.4- fold) and SOD (4.6- and 94- fold) enhanced significantly in S. fruticosa and S. monoica, respectively under high CO 2 stress condition compared to control plants. Overall, it was observed that PPDK enzyme plays a key role in C 4 photosynthesis pathway and S. monoica is a potential candidate to be explored further for the saline agricultural and CO 2 capture. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Application areas of 3D bioprinting.

PubMed

Ozbolat, Ibrahim T; Peng, Weijie; Ozbolat, Veli

2016-08-01

Three dimensional (3D) bioprinting has been a powerful tool in patterning and precisely placing biologics, including living cells, nucleic acids, drug particles, proteins and growth factors, to recapitulate tissue anatomy, biology and physiology. Since the first time of cytoscribing cells demonstrated in 1986, bioprinting has made a substantial leap forward, particularly in the past 10 years, and it has been widely used in fabrication of living tissues for various application areas. The technology has been recently commercialized by several emerging businesses, and bioprinters and bioprinted tissues have gained significant interest in medicine and pharmaceutics. This Keynote review presents the bioprinting technology and covers a first-time comprehensive overview of its application areas from tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to pharmaceutics and cancer research. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Uptake of selenium and mercury by captive mink: Results of a controlled feeding experiment.

PubMed

Evans, R D; Grochowina, N M; Basu, N; O'Connor, E M; Hickie, B E; Rouvinen-Watt, K; Evans, H E; Chan, H M

2016-02-01

Captive, juvenile, ranch-bred, male mink (Neovison vison) were fed diets containing various concentrations of methyl-mercury (MeHg) and selenium (Se) for a period of 13 weeks and then sacrificed to determine total Hg levels in fur, blood, brain, liver and kidneys and total Se concentrations in brain tissue. As MeHg concentrations in the diet increased, concentrations of total Hg in the tissues also increased with the highest level occurring in the fur > liver = kidney > brain > blood. Concentrations of Hg in the fur were correlated (r(2) > 0.97) with liver, kidney, blood and brain concentrations. The addition of Se to the mink diet did not appear to affect most tissue concentrations of total Hg nor did it affect the partitioning of Hg between the liver:blood, kidney:blood and brain:blood; however, partitioning of Hg between fur and blood was apparently affected. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Protein Synthesis in Mucin-Producing Tissues Is Conserved When Dietary Threonine Is Limiting in Piglets.

PubMed

Munasinghe, Lalani L; Robinson, Jason L; Harding, Scott V; Brunton, Janet A; Bertolo, Robert F

2017-02-01

The neonatal gastrointestinal tract extracts the majority of dietary threonine on the first pass to maintain synthesis of threonine-rich mucins in mucus. As dietary threonine becomes limiting, this extraction must limit protein synthesis in extraintestinal tissues at the expense of maintaining protein synthesis in mucin-producing tissues. The objective was to determine the dietary threonine concentration at which protein synthesis is reduced in various tissues. Twenty Yucatan miniature piglets (10 females; mean ± SD age, 15 ± 1 d; mean ± SD weight, 3.14 ± 0.30 kg) were fed 20 test diets with different threonine concentrations, from 0.5 to 6.0 g/100 g total amino acids (AAs; i.e., 20-220% of requirement), and various tissues were analyzed for protein synthesis by administering a flooding dose of [ 3 H]phenylalanine. The whole-body requirement was determined by [1- 14 C]phenylalanine oxidation and plasma threonine concentrations. Breakpoint analysis indicated a whole-body requirement of 2.8-3.0 g threonine/100 g total AAs. For all of the non-mucin-producing tissues as well as lung and colon, breakpoint analyses indicated decreasing protein synthesis rates below the following concentrations (expressed in g threonine/100 g total AAs; mean ± SE): gastrocnemius muscle, 1.76 ± 0.23; longissimus dorsi muscle, 2.99 ± 0.50; liver, 2.45 ± 0.60; kidney, 3.81 ± 0.97; lung, 1.95 ± 0.14; and colon, 1.36 ± 0.29. Protein synthesis in the other mucin-producing tissues (i.e., stomach, proximal jejunum, midjejunum, and ileum) did not change with decreasing threonine concentrations, but mucin synthesis in the ileum and colon decreased over threonine concentrations <4.54 ± 1.50 and <3.20 ± 4.70 g/100 g total AAs, respectively. The results of this study illustrate that dietary threonine is preferentially used for protein synthesis in gastrointestinal tissues in piglets. If dietary threonine intake is deficient, then muscle growth and the functions of other tissues are likely compromised at the expense of maintenance of the mucus layer in mucin-producing tissues. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

Investigation of the role of Blankaartia acuscutellaris (Acari: Trombiculidae) as a vector of scrub typhus in central Thailand.

PubMed

Frances, S P; Watcharapichat, P; Phulsuksombati, D; Tanskul, P

2001-12-01

Monthly collections of rodents were conducted in Phitsanulok Province, central Thailand in 1993 to investigate the role of the mite Blankaartia acuscurellaris as a vector of scrub typhus. Overall, a total of 41 rodents were collected and examined for the presence of the red colored larvae of B. acuscutellaris and yellow larvae of Leptotrombidium deliense and Ascoshoengastia sp. A total of 787 B. acuscutellaris and 1390 yellow larvae were placed into pools, triturated and isolation of Orientia tsutsugamushi attempted in laboratory mice. The sera of 8 of the collected rodents had elevated antibodies to O. tsutsugamushi indicating active infections; however, O. tsutsugamushi was not isolated from rodent tissues or pools of larvae. The results of this survey suggest that B. acuscutellaris may not be an important vector of scrub typhus, but more studies are needed in endemic areas.

Human in vitro 3D co-culture model to engineer vascularized bone-mimicking tissues combining computational tools and statistical experimental approach.

PubMed

Bersini, Simone; Gilardi, Mara; Arrigoni, Chiara; Talò, Giuseppe; Zamai, Moreno; Zagra, Luigi; Caiolfa, Valeria; Moretti, Matteo

2016-01-01

The generation of functional, vascularized tissues is a key challenge for both tissue engineering applications and the development of advanced in vitro models analyzing interactions among circulating cells, endothelium and organ-specific microenvironments. Since vascularization is a complex process guided by multiple synergic factors, it is critical to analyze the specific role that different experimental parameters play in the generation of physiological tissues. Our goals were to design a novel meso-scale model bridging the gap between microfluidic and macro-scale studies, and high-throughput screen the effects of multiple variables on the vascularization of bone-mimicking tissues. We investigated the influence of endothelial cell (EC) density (3-5 Mcells/ml), cell ratio among ECs, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and osteo-differentiated MSCs (1:1:0, 10:1:0, 10:1:1), culture medium (endothelial, endothelial + angiopoietin-1, 1:1 endothelial/osteo), hydrogel type (100%fibrin, 60%fibrin+40%collagen), tissue geometry (2 × 2 × 2, 2 × 2 × 5 mm(3)). We optimized the geometry and oxygen gradient inside hydrogels through computational simulations and we analyzed microvascular network features including total network length/area and vascular branch number/length. Particularly, we employed the "Design of Experiment" statistical approach to identify key differences among experimental conditions. We combined the generation of 3D functional tissue units with the fine control over the local microenvironment (e.g. oxygen gradients), and developed an effective strategy to enable the high-throughput screening of multiple experimental parameters. Our approach allowed to identify synergic correlations among critical parameters driving microvascular network development within a bone-mimicking environment and could be translated to any vascularized tissue. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Combining 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Fluorescence and Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Glioblastoma Surgery: A Histology-Based Evaluation.

PubMed

Hauser, Sonja B; Kockro, Ralf A; Actor, Bertrand; Sarnthein, Johannes; Bernays, René-Ludwig

2016-04-01

Glioblastoma resection guided by 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence and intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) may improve surgical results and prolong survival. To evaluate 5-ALA fluorescence combined with subsequent low-field iMRI for resection control in glioblastoma surgery. Fourteen patients with suspected glioblastoma suitable for complete resection of contrast-enhancing portions were enrolled. The surgery was carried out using 5-ALA-induced fluorescence and frameless navigation. Areas suspicious for tumor underwent biopsy. After complete resection of fluorescent tissue, low-field iMRI was performed. Areas suspicious for tumor remnant underwent biopsy under navigation guidance and were resected. The histological analysis was blinded. In 13 of 14 cases, the diagnosis was glioblastoma multiforme. One lymphoma and 1 case without fluorescence were excluded. In 11 of 12 operations, residual contrast enhancement on iMRI was found after complete resection of 5-ALA fluorescent tissue. In 1 case, the iMRI enhancement was in an eloquent area and did not undergo a biopsy. The 28 biopsies of areas suspicious for tumor on iMRI in the remaining 10 cases showed tumor in 39.3%, infiltration zone in 25%, reactive central nervous system tissue in 32.1%, and normal brain in 3.6%. Ninety-three fluorescent and 24 non-fluorescent tissue samples collected before iMRI contained tumor in 95.7% and 87.5%, respectively. 5-ALA fluorescence-guided resection may leave some glioblastoma tissue undetected. MRI might detect areas suspicious for tumor even after complete resection of all fluorescent tissue; however, due to the limited accuracy of iMRI in predicting tumor remnant (64.3%), resection of this tissue has to be considered with caution in eloquent regions.

Linking biochemical perturbations in tissues of the African catfish to the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Ovia River, Niger Delta region.

PubMed

Obinaju, Blessing E; Graf, Carola; Halsall, Crispin; Martin, Francis L

2015-06-01

Petroleum hydrocarbons including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a pollution issue in the Niger Delta region due to oil industry activities. PAHs were measured in the water column of the Ovia River with concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 1055.6 ng L(-1). Attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy detected alterations in tissues of the African catfish (Heterobranchus bidorsalis) from the region showed varying degrees of statistically significant (P<0.0001, P<0.001, P<0.05) changes to absorption band areas and shifts in centroid positions of peaks. Alteration patterns were similar to those induced by benzo[a]pyrene in MCF-7 cells. These findings have potential health implications for resident local communities as H. bidorsalis constitutes a key nutritional source. The study provides supporting evidence for the sensitivity of infrared spectroscopy in environmental studies and supports their potential application in biomonitoring. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Histopathological and Digital Morphometrical Evaluation of Uterine Leiomyoma in Brazilian Women

PubMed Central

da Silva, Ana Paula Fernandes; Mello, Luciano de Albuquerque; dos Santos, Erlene Roberta Ribeiro; Paz, Silvania Tavares; Cavalcanti, Carmelita Lima Bezerra; de Melo-Junior, Mario Ribeiro

2016-01-01

The current study aims to evaluate histopathological and digital morphometrical aspects associated with uterine leiomyomas in one hundred and fifty (150) patients diagnosed with leiomyoma. Uterine tissues were subjected to the histopathological and digital morphometric analyses of the interstitial collagen distribution. The analysis of medical records indicates that most of the women diagnosed with uterine leiomyomas (68.7%) are between 37 and 48 years old. As for the anatomic location of the tumors, approximately 61.4% of the patients had intramural and subserosal lesions. In 50% of the studied cases, the patients developed uterine leiomyomatosis (with more than eight tumors). As for the morphometric study, the average size of the interstitial collagen distribution held approximately 28.53% of the capture area, whereas it was of 7.43% in the normal tissue adjacent to the tumor. Another important aspect observed in the current study was the high rate of young women subjected to total hysterectomy, a fact that resulted in early and definitive sterility. PMID:27293441

Whole-Lesion Histogram Analysis of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient for the Assessment of Cervical Cancer.

PubMed

Guan, Yue; Shi, Hua; Chen, Ying; Liu, Song; Li, Weifeng; Jiang, Zhuoran; Wang, Huanhuan; He, Jian; Zhou, Zhengyang; Ge, Yun

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to explore the application of whole-lesion histogram analysis of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of cervical cancer. A total of 54 women (mean age, 53 years) with cervical cancers underwent 3-T diffusion-weighted imaging with b values of 0 and 800 s/mm prospectively. Whole-lesion histogram analysis of ADC values was performed. Paired sample t test was used to compare differences in ADC histogram parameters between cervical cancers and normal cervical tissues. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to identify the optimal threshold of each parameter. All histogram parameters in this study including ADCmean, ADCmin, ADC10%-ADC90%, mode, skewness, and kurtosis of cervical cancers were significantly lower than those of normal cervical tissues (all P < 0.0001). ADC90% had the largest area under receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.996. Whole-lesion histogram analysis of ADC maps is useful in the assessment of cervical cancer.

Combination of a total free forearm flap and a sensate local flap for preservation of the shoulder girdle in massive, nonreplantable upper extremity injuries.

PubMed

Jakubietz, Rafael G; Jakubietz, Michael G; Kloss, Danni F; Gruenert, Joerg G

2009-02-01

After massive upper extremity injuries, prosthetic use might be complicated by the formation of pressure ulcerations. Especially the coverage with insensate free flaps may predispose the patient for developing chronic ulcerations when using an upper extremity prosthesis. This complication may be reduced when sensate local flaps are used to cover bony prominences. A new operative technique is described. Immediate sensate soft tissue coverage improves prosthetic fitting. Successful manipulation of the prosthesis can be quickly achieved with a decreased risk for pressure ulceration. This challenging procedure helps to achieve durable and sensate coverage of bony prominences. The use of local sensate tissue to cover bony prominences reduces the risk for pressure ulceration when wearing a prosthesis. Areas where prosthetic use causes only low pressure and shearing forces are adequately covered with free flaps. Immediate sensibility of local flaps allows prosthetic fitting and use as soon as wound healing has occurred. Return to work is thus expedited.

Scaffold-Free Tubular Tissues Created by a Bio-3D Printer Undergo Remodeling and Endothelialization when Implanted in Rat Aortae

PubMed Central

Itoh, Manabu; Nakayama, Koichi; Noguchi, Ryo; Kamohara, Keiji; Furukawa, Kojirou; Uchihashi, Kazuyoshi; Toda, Shuji; Oyama, Jun-ichi; Node, Koichi; Morita, Shigeki

2015-01-01

Background Small caliber vascular prostheses are not clinically available because synthetic vascular prostheses lack endothelial cells which modulate platelet activation, leukocyte adhesion, thrombosis, and the regulation of vasomotor tone by the production of vasoactive substances. We developed a novel method to create scaffold-free tubular tissue from multicellular spheroids (MCS) using a “Bio-3D printer”-based system. This system enables the creation of pre-designed three-dimensional structures using a computer controlled robotics system. With this system, we created a tubular structure and studied its biological features. Methods and Results Using a “Bio-3D printer,” we made scaffold-free tubular tissues (inner diameter of 1.5 mm) from a total of 500 MCSs (2.5× 104 cells per one MCS) composed of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (40%), human aortic smooth muscle cells (10%), and normal human dermal fibroblasts (50%). The tubular tissues were cultured in a perfusion system and implanted into the abdominal aortas of F344 nude rats. We assessed the flow by ultrasonography and performed histological examinations on the second (n = 5) and fifth (n = 5) day after implantation. All grafts were patent and remodeling of the tubular tissues (enlargement of the lumen area and thinning of the wall) was observed. A layer of endothelial cells was confirmed five days after implantation. Conclusions The scaffold-free tubular tissues made of MCS using a Bio-3D printer underwent remodeling and endothelialization. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanism of endothelialization and its function, as well as the long-term results. PMID:26325298

Mercury in alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) in the southeastern United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jagoe, C.H.; Arnold-Hill, B.; Yanochko, G.M.; Winger, P.V.; Brisbin, I.L.

1998-01-01

Mercury methylation may be enhanced in wetlands and humic-rich, blackwater systems that crocodiles and alligators typically inhabit. Given their high trophic level and long life-spans, crocodilians could accumulate significant burdens of Hg. Our objectives were to survey Hg concentrations in alligators from several areas in the southeastern United States to test their utility as sentinels of Hg contamination, to examine relationships among Hg concentrations in various tissues and to look for any differences in tissue Hg concentrations among locations. We measured total Hg concentrations in alligators collected in the Florida Everglades (n = 18), the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia (n = 9), the Savannah River Site (SRS), South Carolina (n = 49) and various locations in central Florida ( n = 21), sampling tissues including blood, brain, liver, kidney, muscle, bone, fat, spleen, claws and dermal scutes. Alligators from the Everglades were mostly juvenile, but Hg concentrations in tissues were high (means: liver 41.0, kidney 36.4, muscle 5.6 mg Hg/kg dry wt.). Concentrations in alligators from other locations in Florida were lower (means: liver 14.6, kidney 12.6, muscle 1.8 mg Hg/kg dry wt.), although they tended to be larger adults. Alligators from the Okefenokee were smallest and had the lowest Hg concentrations (means: liver 4.3, kidney 4.8, muscle 0.8 mg Hg/kg dry wt.). At some locations, alligator length was correlated with Hg concentrations in some internal organs. However, at three of the four locations, muscle Hg was not related to length. Tissue Hg concentrations were correlated at most locations; however, claw or dermal scute Hg explained less than 74% of the variation of Hg in muscle or organs, suggesting readily-obtained tissues, such as scutes or claws, have limited value for nondestructive screening of Hg in alligator populations.

Diurnal Changes in Volume and Specific Tissue Weight of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism Plants 1

PubMed Central

Chen, Sheng-Shu; Black, Clanton C.

1983-01-01

The diurnal variations in volume and in specific weight were determined for green stems and leaves of Crassulacen acid metabolism (CAM) plants. Volume changes were measured by a water displacement method. Diurnal variations occurred in the volume of green CAM tissues. Their volume increased early in the light period reaching a maximum about mid-day, then the volume decreased to a minimum near midnight. The maximum volume increase each day was about 2.7% of the total volume. Control leaves of C3 and C4 plants exhibited reverse diurnal volume changes of 0.2 to 0.4%. The hypothesis is presented and supported that green CAM tissues should exhibit a diurnal increase in volume due to the increase of internal gas pressure from CO2 and O2 when their stomata are closed. Conversely, the volume should decrease when the gas pressure is decreased. The second hypothesis presented and supported was that the specific weight (milligrams of dry weight per square centimeter of green surface area) of green CAM tissues should increase at night due to the net fixation of CO2. Green CAM tissues increased their specific weight at night in contrast to control C3 and C4 leaves which decreased their specific weight at night. With Kalanchoë daigremontiana leaves, the calculated increase in specific leaf weight at night based on estimates of carbohydrate available for net CO2 fixation was near 6% and the measured increase in specific leaf weight was 6%. Diurnal measurements of CAM tissue water content were neither coincident nor reciprocal with their diurnal patterns of either volume or specific weight changes. PMID:16662833

Ergot alkaloid transport across ruminant gastric tissues.

PubMed

Hill, N S; Thompson, F N; Stuedemann, J A; Rottinghaus, G W; Ju, H J; Dawe, D L; Hiatt, E E

2001-02-01

Ergot alkaloids cause fescue toxicosis when livestock graze endophyte-infected tall fescue. It is generally accepted that ergovaline is the toxic component of endophyte-infected tall fescue, but there is no direct evidence to support this hypothesis. The objective of this study was to examine relative and potential transport of ergoline and ergopeptine alkaloids across isolated gastric tissues in vitro. Sheep ruminal and omasal tissues were surgically removed and placed in parabiotic chambers. Equimolar concentrations of lysergic acid, lysergol, ergonovine, ergotamine, and ergocryptine were added to a Kreb's Ringer phosphate (KRP) solution on the mucosal side of the tissue. Tissue was incubated in near-physiological conditions for 240 min. Samples were taken from KRP on the serosal side of the chambers at times 0, 30, 60, 120, 180, and 240 min and analyzed for ergot alkaloids by competitive ELISA. The serosal KRP remaining after incubation was freeze-dried and the alkaloid species quantified by HPLC. The area of ruminal and omasal tissues was measured and the potential transportable alkaloids calculated by multiplying the moles of transported alkaloids per square centimeter of each tissue type by the surface area of the tissue. Studies were conducted to compare alkaloid transport in reticular, ruminal, and omasal tissues and to determine whether transport was active or passive. Ruminal tissue had greater ergot alkaloid transport potential than omasal tissue (85 vs 60 mmol) because of a larger surface area. The ruminal posterior dorsal sac had the greatest potential for alkaloid transport, but the other ruminal tissues were not different from one another. Alkaloid transport was less among reticular tissues than among ruminal tissues. Transport of alkaloids seemed to be an active process. The alkaloids with greatest transport potential were lysergic acid and lysergol. Ergopeptine alkaloids tended to pass across omasal tissues in greater quantities than across ruminal tissues, but their transport was minimal compared to lysergic acid and lysergol.

Computerized whole slide quantification shows increased microvascular density in pT2 prostate cancer as compared to normal prostate tissue.

PubMed

van Niekerk, Cornelis G; van der Laak, Jeroen A W M; Börger, M Elisa; Huisman, Henk-Jan; Witjes, J Alfred; Barentsz, Jelle O; Hulsbergen-van de Kaa, Christina A

2009-01-01

Contrast enhanced imaging enables powerful, non-invasive diagnostics, important for detection and staging of early prostate cancer. The uptake of contrast agent is increased in prostate cancer as compared to normal prostate tissue. To reveal the underlying physiological mechanisms, quantification of tissue components in pathology specimens may yield important information. Aim of this study was to investigate whether microvascularity is increased in prostate confined cancer (pT2). Radical prostatectomy specimens of 26 patients were selected for organ confined peripheral zone tumors which were restricted to one side of the prostate. Microvessels were visualized by immunohistochemistry against CD31. Specimens were scanned using a computer controlled microscope and scanning stage and vessels were recognized automatically. Pseudocolor mappings were produced showing number of vascular profiles (MVD), vascular area (MVA) and perimeter (MVP) in an overview of the entire prostate transection. MVD is a common measure for vascularity, whereas MVA represents the 3D vascular volume and MVP the perfused surface area. Mean, coefficient of variation and 75th percentile of these parameters were calculated automatically in manually indicated areas, consisting of the entire tumor area and the corresponding normal area in the contra lateral side of the prostate. The mappings clearly indicate areas of increased vascularity in prostate transections. In tumor tissue an increase was found compared to normal tissue of 81%, 49%, and 62% for mean MVD, mean MVA and mean MVP, respectively (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). In contrast, the heterogeneity in tumor vasculature was significantly decreased as compared to normal prostate (P < 0.001). Characteristics of microvasculature deviated significantly in pT2 prostate tumor as compared to normal tissue. Copyright 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

In vivo pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution investigation of sustained-release cisplatin implants in the normal esophageal submucosa of 12 beagle dogs.

PubMed

Yin, Jia-Xue; Wei, Zhi; Xu, Jian-Jian; Sun, Zi-Qin

2015-09-01

The aim of this study was to clarify the pharmacokinetic, tissue distribution, hematologic, and histopathologic characteristics of sustained-release cisplatin from implants [CDDP-nanoparticle (NP) implants]. Eighteen dogs (six hybrids and twelve beagles) were divided into three groups. In Group A, the six hybrid dogs were intravenously administered 20 mg CDDP via a hind limb vein. In Groups B and C, CDDP-NP implants containing CDDP doses of 40 and 60 mg, respectively, were embedded into the esophageal submucosa of beagles via painless gastroscopy with an endoscopic booster. Graphite frameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used to measure total platinum in plasma and tissues at various timepoints. In addition, free platinum levels in Group B were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Toxicologic evaluation was also conducted. Pharmacokinetic results indicated that the CDDP-NP implant could achieve a smooth pharmacokinetic curve, with the plasma invalid concentration reached after almost 480 h, which is approximately ten times longer than that of standard CDDP (48 h). The peak time, peak concentration, clearance, elimination half-life, area under the curve, volume of distribution at steady state, and mean residence time of Groups B and C were 494 and 211, 0.39 and 0.42, 0.044 and 0.059, 80.11 and 87.70, 44 and 49, 38.8 and 57.9, and 12.29 and 12.39 times those of Group A, respectively (all P < 0.05). The ratio of free/total platinum concentration was 2.0-3.1% in plasma, 14.2% in liver tissue, and 14.3% in kidney tissue. Tissue distribution studies showed that the highest platinum concentrations were found in the esophagus, followed by the kidney and liver. Compared with pre-implantation (day 0), there were no significant differences in most hematological indicators in Groups B and C (P > 0.05). Furthermore, histopathologic examination of the kidneys of dogs from Group C revealed no significant kidney damage. Unlike the intravenous CDDP group (Group A), no animals in the implantation groups showed any clinical signs of toxicity. CDDP-NP implants can be used to achieve a smooth pharmacokinetic curve and higher drug concentration, as well as a longer mean residence time at the implantation site, with reduced side effects compared with intravenous CDDP.

Application of laser-induced autofluorescence spectra detection system in human colorectal cancer in-vivo screening

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chia, Teck Chee; Fu, Sheng; Chia, Yee Hong; Kwek, Leong Chuan; Tang, Choong Leong

2005-09-01

This study aimed at applying Laser induced-autofluorescence (LIAF) diagnostics method as an in-vivo screening of colorectal polyplcancer. The spectrum algorithm based on the ratio of autofluorescence intensity was used to identify the diseased tissues from the normal tissues as it was generally performed better than an algorithm based only simply on the intensity of the spectrum. Histopathological biopsy results were compared with the detected AF spectra characteristics for different kinds of polyps. 73 patients had been examined via the LIAF spectroscopy detection system during their colonoscopy screening in Endoscopy Center, Singapore General Hospital. The autofluorescence from the surface of the colorectal tissues under 405 nm laser light excitation was detected using our detecting system. In the experimental investigation two groups of patients were involved. One group was "abnormal" group. There were 25 patients belonging to this group since polyps or carcinoma was found in their colorectal tract during colonoscopy. The histopathology reports confirm the group classification. Total 36 polyps' AF spectra and 9 carcinoma' AF spectra were detected from 25 patients of the abnormal group during their regular endoscopy examination. The intensity ratios RI-680/I-500 and RI-630/I-500 of polyps/cancerous AF spectra and intensity ratios of corresponding normal colorectal AF spectra were calculated. Two critical intensity ratios for separating the AF intensity ratios RI-680/I-500 and RI-630/I-500 of normal and abnormal colorectal tissues were defined as 0.5 and 0.6 respectively. Using the critical intensity ratio values, 48 "normal" group patients' rectums were checked via the LIAF detection system. There were 20 patients (41.7%) whose AF spectra of colorectal tract mucosa belonging to abnormal spectra. However, these 20 patients had not been found under white light via traditional endoscopy. For small diseased area like small plat polyp disease and carcinoma, it was very difficult to identify under white light by endoscopy. However, the LIAF spectra technique and AF intensity ratio algorithm was able to detect these kinds of abnormal area earlier than traditional endoscopy. Using this algorithm, it is able to identify the onset of abnormal tissue growth during real-time clinical endoscope examination.

Form of Dietary Methylmercury does not Affect Total Mercury Accumulation in the Tissues of Zebra Finch.

PubMed

Varian-Ramos, Claire W; Whitney, Margaret; Rice, Gary W; Cristol, Daniel A

2017-07-01

Exposure to mercury in humans, other mammals, and birds is primarily dietary, with mercury in the methylated form and bound to cysteine in the tissues of prey items. Yet dosing studies are generally carried out using methylmercury chloride. Here we tested whether the accumulation of total mercury in zebra finch blood, egg, muscle, liver, kidney or brain differed depending on whether dietary mercury was complexed with chloride or cysteine. We found no effect of form of mercury on tissue accumulation. Some previous studies have found lower accumulation of mercury in tissues of animals fed complexed mercury. Much remains to be understood about what happens to ingested mercury once it enters the intestines, but our results suggest that dietary studies using methylmercury chloride in birds will produce similar tissue accumulation levels to those using methylmercury cysteine.

Distribution of keratin and associated proteins in the epidermis of monotreme, marsupial, and placental mammals.

PubMed

Alibardi, Lorenzo; Maderson, Paul F A

2003-10-01

The expression of acidic and basic keratins, and of some keratinization marker proteins such as filaggrin, loricrin, involucrin, and trichohyalin, is known for the epidermis of only a few eutherian species. Using light and high-resolution immunocytochemistry, the presence of these proteins has been studied in two monotreme and five marsupial species and compared to that in eutherians. In both monotreme and marsupial epidermis lamellar bodies occur in the upper spinosus and granular layers. Development of the granular layer varies between species and regionally within species. There is great interspecific variation in the size (0.1-3.0 microm) of keratohyalin granules (KHGs) associated with production of orthokeratotic corneous tissues. Those skin regions lacking hairs (platypus web), or showing reduced pelage density (wombat) have, respectively, minute or indiscernible KHGs, associated with patchy, or total, parakeratosis. Ultrastructural analysis shows that monotreme and marsupial KHGs comprise irregular coarse filaments of 25-40 nm that contact keratin filaments. Except for parakeratotic tissues of platypus web, distribution of acidic and basic proteins in monotreme and marsupial epidermis as revealed by anti-keratin antibodies AE1, AE2, and AE3 resembles that of eutherian epidermis. Antibodies against human or rat filaggrins have little or no cross-reactivity with epidermal proteins of other mammals: only sparse areas of wombat and rabbit epidermis show a weak immunofluorescence in transitional cells and in the deepest corneous tissues. Of the available, eutherian-derived antibodies, that against involucrin shows no cross-reactivity with any monotreme and marsupial epidermal tissues and that against trichohyalin cross-reacts only with cells in the inner root sheath and medulla of hairs. These results suggest that if involucrin and trichohyalin are present throughout noneutherian epidermis, they may have species-specific molecular structures. By contrast, eutherian-derived anti-loricrin antibodies show a weak to intense cross-reactivity to KHGs and corneous tissues of both orthokeratotic and parakeratotic epidermis in monotremes and marsupials. High-resolution immunogold analysis of loricrin distribution in immature keratinocytes of platypus parakeratotic web epidermis identifies labeled areas of round or irregular, electron-pale granules within the denser keratohyalin component and keratin network. In the deepest mature tissues, loricrin-like labeling is diffuse throughout the cytoplasm, so that cells lack the preferential distribution of loricrin along the corneous envelope that characterizes mature eutherian keratinocytes. Thus, the irregular distribution of loricrin in platypus parakeratotic tissues more resembles that which has been described for reptilian and avian keratinocytes. These observations on the noneutherian epidermis show that a stratum granulosum is present to different degrees, even discontinuous within one tissue, so that parakeratotic and orthokeratotic areas may alternate: this might imply that parakeratotic monotreme epidermis reflects the primitive pattern of amniote alpha-keratogenesis. Absent from anamniote epidermis and all sauropsid beta-keratogenic tissues, the ubiquitous presence of a loricrin-like protein as a major component of other amniote corneous tissues suggests that this is a primitive feature of amniote alpha-keratogenesis. The apparent lack of specific regionalization of loricin near the plasma membranes of monotreme keratinocytes could be an artifactual result of the immunofluorescence technique employed, or there may be masking of the antigenicity of loricrin-like proteins once they are incorporated into the corneous envelope. Nevertheless, the mechanism of redistribution of such proteins during maturation of monotreme keratinocytes is different from, perhaps more primitive, or less specialized, than that in the epidermis of eutherian mammals. Copyright 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Neuronal regeneration in the newt: a model to study the partly reconstruction of the neural tissue in real and simulated weightles sness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anton, H.; Grigoryan, E.; Mitashov, V.

The micro -"g" effect on nervous tissue regeneration in newts has been investigated by our group for many years. It has been performed in real and in simulated microgravity with a clinostat. During limb regeneration the motor - and sensory nerves regrow perfectly within the newly formed limb. Like in `1g' conditions they are responsible for the initiation of blastema formation and continuity of g owth andr differentiation. Except for a general acceleration of growth and differentiation processes no differences became visible. Tail regeneration, which is perfectly regulated in newts during their whole life, includes the restoration of the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia. They follow or initiate an accelerated growth. Up to the present the cellular derivation of the sensory neurones within the regenerate has not yet been clarified. But growth acceleration comprises the whole nervous system. That means a totally new formation of the sensory connection from the periphery to the whole spinal cord. Regeneration must be initiated by the outgrowth of nerve fibres into the wound area. This may be performed by the remaining cut sensory fibres of the last stump segment and should be followed by the differentiation of undifferentiated cells of neural crest origin nearby the amputation area. Such cells are present in the form of meningeal cells which are the origin of mantle and Schwann cells too. Corresponding to the well proved growth acceleration of lens, retina, connective tissue, muscle and skin, the real and simulated microgravity affects the nervous system in the same manner. Tissues and organs of adult organisms have no chance to remain unaffected by the microgravity effect. We try to find the trigger which initiates the accelerated proliferation of the stem cells of sensory neurons, mantle and sheath cells under micro-"g" conditions.

Regional structural characteristics of bovine periodontal ligament samples and their suitability for biomechanical tests.

PubMed

Bosshardt, Dieter D; Bergomi, Marzio; Vaglio, Giovanna; Wiskott, Anselm

2008-03-01

Mechanical testing of the periodontal ligament requires a practical experimental model. Bovine teeth are advantageous in terms of size and availability, but information is lacking as to the anatomy and histology of their periodontium. The aim of this study, therefore, was to characterize the anatomy and histology of the attachment apparatus in fully erupted bovine mandibular first molars. A total of 13 teeth were processed for the production of undecalcified ground sections and decalcified semi-thin sections, for NaOH maceration, and for polarized light microscopy. Histomorphometric measurements relevant to the mechanical behavior of the periodontal ligament included width, number, size and area fraction of blood vessels and fractal analysis of the two hard-soft tissue interfaces. The histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed at four different root depths and at six circumferential locations around the distal and mesial roots. The variety of techniques applied provided a comprehensive view of the tissue architecture of the bovine periodontal ligament. Marked regional variations were observed in width, surface geometry of the two bordering hard tissues (cementum and alveolar bone), structural organization of the principal periodontal ligament connective tissue fibers, size, number and numerical density of blood vessels in the periodontal ligament. No predictable pattern was observed, except for a statistically significant increase in the area fraction of blood vessels from apical to coronal. The periodontal ligament width was up to three times wider in bovine teeth than in human teeth. The fractal analyses were in agreement with the histological observations showing frequent signs of remodeling activity in the alveolar bone - a finding which may be related to the magnitude and direction of occlusal forces in ruminants. Although samples from the apical root portion are not suitable for biomechanical testing, all other levels in the buccal and lingual aspects of the mesial and distal roots may be considered. The bucco-mesial aspect of the distal root appears to be the most suitable location.

Assessment of Body Composition Using Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: Comparison with Anthropometry

PubMed Central

Jeong, Seong Han; Lee, Jeong A; Kim, Jin A; Lee, Mun Woo; Chae, Hee Bok; Choi, Won Jun; Shin, Hyoung Shik; Lee, Ki Hyeong; Youn, Sei Jin; Koong, Sung Soo; Park, Seon Mee

1999-01-01

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate changes of body composition in cirrhotic patients. Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and anthropometry were used, and the values obtained were compared. Methods Mid-arm fat and muscle areas were calculated by anthropometry in 66 cirrhotic patients and 94 healthy controls. In 37 of the cirrhotic patients and 39 of the controls, fat mass, lean soft tissue mass and bone mineral contents were measured with DEXA. Results The number of cirrhotic patients with measured values below the fifth percentile of normal controls was 21 (31.8%) by mid-arm fat area, six (9.1%) by mid-arm muscle area, 15 (40.5%) by fat mass and 0 (0%) by lean soft tissue mass. The fat mass in cirrhotic patients was less than in controls, whereas lean soft tissue mass and bone mineral content were not different. Fat depletion was severe in Child-class C patients and with severe ascites. Mid-arm fat area and fat mass showed close correlation (r = 0.85, p<0.01), but mid-arm muscle area and lean soft tissue mass showed poor correlation (r = 0.32, p<0.05). Conclusion Cirrhotic patients showed lower fat component, with preserved lean soft tissue mass and bone mineral content. In clinical practice, the measurement of mid-arm fat area was useful for the assessment of fat mass. PMID:10461427

On the effect of computed tomography resolution to distinguish between abdominal aortic aneurysm wall tissue and calcification: A proof of concept.

PubMed

Barrett, H E; Cunnane, E M; O Brien, J M; Moloney, M A; Kavanagh, E G; Walsh, M T

2017-10-01

The purpose of this study is to determine the optimal target CT spatial resolution for accurately imaging abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) wall characteristics, distinguishing between tissue and calcification components, for an accurate assessment of rupture risk. Ruptured and non-ruptured AAA-wall samples were acquired from eight patients undergoing open surgical aneurysm repair upon institutional review board approval and informed consent was obtained from all patients. Physical measurements of AAA-wall cross-section were made using scanning electron microscopy. Samples were scanned using high resolution micro-CT scanning. A resolution range of 15.5-155μm was used to quantify the influence of decreasing resolution on wall area measurements, in terms of tissue and calcification. A statistical comparison between the reference resolution (15.5μm) and multi-detector CT resolution (744μm) was also made. Electron microscopy examination of ruptured AAAs revealed extremely thin outer tissue structure <200μm in radial distribution which is supporting the aneurysm wall along with large areas of adjacent medial calcifications far greater in area than the tissue layer. The spatial resolution of 155μm is a significant predictor of the reference AAA-wall tissue and calcification area measurements (r=0.850; p<0.001; r=0.999; p<0.001 respectively). The tissue and calcification area at 155μm is correct within 8.8%±1.86 and 26.13%±9.40 respectively with sensitivity of 87.17% when compared to the reference. The inclusion of AAA-wall measurements, through the use of high resolution-CT will elucidate the variations in AAA-wall tissue and calcification distributions across the wall which may help to leverage an improved assessment of AAA rupture risk. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microvascular responses to (hyper-)gravitational stress by short-arm human centrifuge: arteriolar vasoconstriction and venous pooling.

PubMed

Habazettl, H; Stahn, Alexander; Nitsche, Andrea; Nordine, Michael; Pries, A R; Gunga, H-C; Opatz, O

2016-01-01

We hypothesized that lower body microvessels are particularly challenged during exposure to gravity and hypergravity leading to failure of resistance vessels to withstand excessive transmural pressure during hypergravitation and gravitation-dependent microvascular blood pooling. Using a short-arm human centrifuge (SAHC), 12 subjects were exposed to +1Gz, +2Gz and +1Gz, all at foot level, for 4 min each. Laser Doppler imaging and near-infrared spectroscopy were used to measure skin perfusion and tissue haemoglobin concentrations, respectively. Pretibial skin perfusion decreased by 19% during +1Gz and remained at this level during +2Gz. In the dilated area, skin perfusion increased by 24 and 35% during +1Gz and +2Gz, respectively. In the upper arm, oxygenated haemoglobin (Hb) decreased, while deoxy Hb increased with little change in total Hb. In the calf muscle, O2Hb and deoxy Hb increased, resulting in total Hb increase by 7.5 ± 1.4 and 26.6 ± 2.6 µmol/L at +1Gz and +2Gz, respectively. The dynamics of Hb increase suggests a fast and a slow component. Despite transmural pressures well beyond the upper myogenic control limit, intact lower body resistance vessels withstand these pressures up to +2Gz, suggesting that myogenic control may contribute only little to increased vascular resistance. The fast component of increasing total Hb indicates microvascular blood pooling contributing to soft tissue capacitance. Future research will have to address possible alterations of these acute adaptations to gravity after deconditioning by exposure to micro-g.

Generalized field-splitting algorithms for optimal IMRT delivery efficiency.

PubMed

Kamath, Srijit; Sahni, Sartaj; Li, Jonathan; Ranka, Sanjay; Palta, Jatinder

2007-09-21

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) uses radiation beams of varying intensities to deliver varying doses of radiation to different areas of the tissue. The use of IMRT has allowed the delivery of higher doses of radiation to the tumor and lower doses to the surrounding healthy tissue. It is not uncommon for head and neck tumors, for example, to have large treatment widths that are not deliverable using a single field. In such cases, the intensity matrix generated by the optimizer needs to be split into two or three matrices, each of which may be delivered using a single field. Existing field-splitting algorithms used the pre-specified arbitrary split line or region where the intensity matrix is split along a column, i.e., all rows of the matrix are split along the same column (with or without the overlapping of split fields, i.e., feathering). If three fields result, then the two splits are along the same two columns for all rows. In this paper we study the problem of splitting a large field into two or three subfields with the field width as the only constraint, allowing for an arbitrary overlap of the split fields, so that the total MU efficiency of delivering the split fields is maximized. Proof of optimality is provided for the proposed algorithm. An average decrease of 18.8% is found in the total MUs when compared to the split generated by a commercial treatment planning system and that of 10% is found in the total MUs when compared to the split generated by our previously published algorithm.

Heterogeneous Binding and Central Nervous System Distribution of the Multitargeted Kinase Inhibitor Ponatinib Restrict Orthotopic Efficacy in a Patient-Derived Xenograft Model of Glioblastoma.

PubMed

Laramy, Janice K; Kim, Minjee; Gupta, Shiv K; Parrish, Karen E; Zhang, Shuangling; Bakken, Katrina K; Carlson, Brett L; Mladek, Ann C; Ma, Daniel J; Sarkaria, Jann N; Elmquist, William F

2017-11-01

This study investigated how differences in drug distribution and free fraction at different tumor and tissue sites influence the efficacy of the multikinase inhibitor ponatinib in a patient-derived xenograft model of glioblastoma (GBM). Efficacy studies in GBM6 flank (heterotopic) and intracranial (orthotopic) models showed that ponatinib is effective in the flank but not in the intracranial model, despite a relatively high brain-to-plasma ratio. In vitro binding studies indicated that flank tumor had a higher free (unbound) drug fraction than normal brain. The total and free drug concentrations, along with the tissue-to-plasma ratio (Kp) and its unbound derivative (Kp,uu), were consistently higher in the flank tumor than the normal brain at 1 and 6 hours after a single dose in GBM6 flank xenografts. In the orthotopic xenografts, the intracranial tumor core displayed higher Kp and Kp,uu values compared with the brain-around-tumor (BAT). The free fractions and the total drug concentrations, hence free drug concentrations, were consistently higher in the core than in the BAT at 1 and 6 hours postdose. The delivery disadvantages in the brain and BAT were further evidenced by the low total drug concentrations in these areas that did not consistently exceed the in vitro cytotoxic concentration (IC 50 ). Taken together, the regional differences in free drug exposure across the intracranial tumor may be responsible for compromising efficacy of ponatinib in orthotopic GBM6. Copyright © 2017 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

Tissue contaminants and associated transcriptional response in trout liver from high elevation lakes of Washington

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moran, P.W.; Aluru, N.; Black, R.W.; Vijayan, M.M.

2007-01-01

The consistent cold temperatures and large amount of precipitation in the Olympic and Cascade ranges of Washington State are thought to enhance atmospheric deposition of contaminants. However, little is known about contaminant levels in organisms residing in these remote high elevation lakes. We measured total mercury and 28 organochlorine compounds in trout collected from 14 remote lakes in the Olympic, Mt. Rainer, and North Cascades National Parks. Mercury was detected in trout from all lakes sampled (15 to 262 ??g/kg ww), while two organochlorines, total polychlorinated biphenyls (tPCB) and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), were also detected in these fish tissues (<25 ??g/kg ww). In sediments, organochlorine levels were below detection, while median total and methyl mercury were 30.4 and 0.34 ??g/ kg dry weight (ww), respectively. Using fish from two lakes, representing different contaminant loading levels (Wilcox lake: high; Skymo lake: low), we examined transcriptional response in the liver using a custom-made low-density targeted rainbow trout cDNA microarray. We detected significant differences in liver transcriptional response, including significant changes in metabolic, endocrine, and immune-related genes, in fish collected from Wilcox Lake compared to Skymo Lake. Overall, our results suggest that local urban areas contribute to the observed contaminant patterns in these high elevation lakes, while the transcriptional changes point to a biological response associated with exposure to these contaminants in fish. Specifically, the gene expression pattern leads us to hypothesize a role for mercury in disrupting the metabolic and reproductive pathways in fish from high elevation lakes in western Washington. ?? 2007 American Chemical Society.

Noninvasive detection of skin cancers by measuring optical properties of tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Lihong V.; Jacques, Steven L.

1995-05-01

Skin cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer of all cancers. Each yea rover 500,000 new cases of skin cancer will be detected. A high percentage of skin cancers are diseases in which fatalities can be all but eliminated and morbidity reduced if detected early and treated properly. These skin lesions are distinguished generally by subjective visual inspection and their definitive diagnosis requires time-consuming expensive histopathological evaluation of excisional or incisional biopsies. In vivo experimental evidence published in the literature has shown that cancerous skin lesions have different total diffuse reflectance spectra than non- cancerous lesions or normal skin. Therefore, cancerous skin lesions may be differentiated from non-cancerous skin lesions by comparing the optical properties of the skin lesions with those of the surrounding normal skin sites, where the optical properties of the normal skin sites are used to account for different types of skin or different areas of skin. We have demonstrated that the effect of melanin concentration on the diffuse reflectance may be removed by extrapolating the reflectance at different wavelengths to an apparent pivot point. Because the concentration of melanin does not indicate malignancy, the removal of its effect is important to avoid false detection. The total diffuse reflectance depends on the albedo and anisotropy of tissues. Therefore, the total diffuse reflectance will remain the same as long as the anisotropy and the ratio between the absorption coefficient and the reduced scattering coefficient remain the same. Separating the absorption and scattering effects should enhance the detection sensitivity of skin cancers.

A rare approach? Microsurgical breast reconstruction after severe burns

PubMed Central

Weitgasser, Laurenz; Bahsoun, Ali; Amr, Amro; Brandstetter, Michael; Knam, Friedrich; Schoeller, Thomas

2018-01-01

Breast deformity, in post-burn patients, is a common problem leading to lower self-esteem and reclusive behavior that impairs quality of life. The authors present the course of treatment of an 18-year-old immigrant girl who suffered second- to third-degree burns over approximately 20% of her total body surface area in her early childhood. The second- to third-degree burns were located on her right trunk and abdomen, as well as her right shoulder, neck, and right groin area. Since it was not offered in her home country, reconstructive surgery, including microsurgical breast reconstruction, was sought abroad. Due to the lack of available skin and soft tissue, a bilateral breast reconstruction with free transverse myocutaneous gracilis flaps was offered. This case illustrates one method of using microsurgery to address post-burn breast deformities in order to alleviate psychological suffering and improve quality of life. PMID:29506333

Environmental fate of mercury discharged into the upper Wisconsin River

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rada, R.G.; Findley, J.E.; Wiener, J.G.

1986-01-01

The authors studied the distribution of Hg in sediments, fish, and crayfish in a 60 km reach of the Upper Wisconsin River that formerly received Hg in discharges from pulp and paper mills. The most heavily contaminated strata of sediments were deposited during the 1950s and early 1960s and buried under subsequent deposits; however, surficial sediments remained substantially enriched at certain sites in 1981. Median concentrations of Hg in surficial sediments, adjusted for grain size, were at least 10-fold greater at the main study area than at an upstream reference site. Total concentrations exceeded 1.0 mu g g super(-1) wet weight in axial muscle tissue in only 2 of 173 fish analyzed from the study area; however, historical comparisons revealed that Hg contamination of fish (common carp Cyprinus carpio and walleye Stizostedion vitreum vitreum ) and crayfish (Orconectes ) in the river had not decreased since the early 1970s.

Tissue-engineered thyroid cell sheet rescued hypothyroidism in rat models after receiving total thyroidectomy comparing with nontransplantation models.

PubMed

Arauchi, Ayumi; Shimizu, Tatsuya; Yamato, Masayuki; Obara, Takao; Okano, Teruo

2009-12-01

For hormonal deficiency caused by endocrine organ diseases, continuous oral hormone administration is indispensable to supplement the shortage of hormones. In this study, as a more effective therapy, we have tried to reconstruct the three-dimensional thyroid tissue by the cell sheet technology, a novel tissue engineering approach. The cell suspension obtained from rat thyroid gland was cultured on temperature-responsive culture dishes, from which confluent cells detach as a cell sheet simply by reducing temperature without any enzymatic treatment. The 8-week-old Lewis rats were exposed to total thyroidectomy as hypothyroidism models and received thyroid cell sheet transplantation 1 week after total thyroidectomy. Serum levels of free triiodothyronine (fT(3)) and free thyroxine (fT(4)) significantly decreased 1 week after total thyroidectomy. On the other hand, transplantation of the thyroid cell sheets was able to restore the thyroid function 1 week after the cell sheet transplantation, and improvement was maintained for 4 weeks. Moreover, morphological analyses showed typical thyroid follicle organization, and anti-thyroid-transcription-factor-1 antibody staining demonstrated the presence of follicle epithelial cells. The presence of functional microvessels was also detected within the engineered thyroid tissues. In conclusion, our results indicate that thyroid cell sheets transplanted in a model of total thyroidectomy can reorganize histologically to resemble a typical thyroid gland and restore thyroid function in vivo. In this study, we are the first to confirm that engineered thyroid tissue can repair hypothyroidism models in rats and, therefore, cell sheet transplantation of endocrine organs may be suitable for the therapy of hormonal deficiency.

Monitoring the process of pulmonary melanoma metastasis using large area and label-free nonlinear optical microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hua, Daozhu; Qi, Shuhong; Li, Hui; Zhang, Zhihong; Fu, Ling

2012-06-01

We performed large area nonlinear optical microscopy (NOM) for label-free monitoring of the process of pulmonary melanoma metastasis ex vivo with subcellular resolution in C57BL/6 mice. Multiphoton autofluorescence (MAF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) images of lung tissue are obtained in a volume of ~2.2 mm×2.2 mm×30 μm. Qualitative differences in morphologic features and quantitative measurement of pathological lung tissues at different time points are characterized. We find that combined with morphological features, the quantitative parameters, such as the intensity ratio of MAF and SHG between pathological tissue and normal tissue and the MAF to SHG index versus depth clearly shows the tissue physiological changes during the process of pulmonary melanoma metastasis. Our results demonstrate that large area NOM succeeds in monitoring the process of pulmonary melanoma metastasis, which can provide a powerful tool for the research in tumor pathophysiology and therapy evaluation.

Current Approaches to Bone Tissue Engineering: The Interface between Biology and Engineering.

PubMed

Li, Jiao Jiao; Ebied, Mohamed; Xu, Jen; Zreiqat, Hala

2018-03-01

The successful regeneration of bone tissue to replace areas of bone loss in large defects or at load-bearing sites remains a significant clinical challenge. Over the past few decades, major progress is achieved in the field of bone tissue engineering to provide alternative therapies, particularly through approaches that are at the interface of biology and engineering. To satisfy the diverse regenerative requirements of bone tissue, the field moves toward highly integrated approaches incorporating the knowledge and techniques from multiple disciplines, and typically involves the use of biomaterials as an essential element for supporting or inducing bone regeneration. This review summarizes the types of approaches currently used in bone tissue engineering, beginning with those primarily based on biology or engineering, and moving into integrated approaches in the areas of biomaterial developments, biomimetic design, and scalable methods for treating large or load-bearing bone defects, while highlighting potential areas for collaboration and providing an outlook on future developments. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Serum and tissue concentrations of gallium after oral administration of gallium nitrate and gallium maltolate to neonatal calves.

PubMed

Monk, Caroline S; Sweeney, Raymond W; Bernstein, Lawrence R; Fecteau, Marie-Eve

2016-02-01

To determine serum and tissue concentrations of gallium (Ga) after oral administration of gallium nitrate (GaN) and gallium maltolate (GaM) to neonatal calves. 8 healthy neonatal calves. Calves were assigned to 1 of 2 groups (4 calves/group). Gallium (50 mg/kg) was administered as GaN or GaM (equivalent to 13.15 mg of Ga/kg for GaN and 7.85 mg of Ga/kg for GaM) by oral gavage once daily for 5 days. Blood samples were collected 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after Ga administration on day 1; 4 and 24 hours after Ga administration on days 2, 3, and 4; and 4, 12, and 24 hours after Ga administration on day 5. On day 6, calves were euthanized and tissue samples were obtained. Serum and tissue Ga concentrations were measured by use of mass spectrometry. Data were adjusted for total Ga dose, and comparisons were made between the 2 groups. Calves receiving GaM had a significantly higher dose-adjusted area under the curve and dose-adjusted maximum serum Ga concentration than did calves receiving GaN. Despite receiving less Ga per dose, calves receiving GaM had tissue Ga concentrations similar to those for calves receiving GaN. In this study, calves receiving GaM had significantly higher Ga absorption than did calves receiving GaN. These findings suggested that GaM might be useful as a prophylactic agent against Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis infection in neonatal calves.

Proteomic Profiles Reveal the Function of Different Vegetative Tissues of Moringa oleifera.

PubMed

Wang, Lei; Zou, Qiong; Wang, Jinxing; Zhang, Junjie; Liu, Zeping; Chen, Xiaoyang

2016-12-01

Moringa oleifera is a rich source of bioactive compounds and is widely used in traditional medicine and food for its nutritional value; however, the protein and peptide components of different tissues are rarely discussed. Here, we describe the first investigation of M. oleifera proteomes using mass spectrometry and bioinformatics methods. We aimed to elucidate the protein profiles of M. oleifera leaves, stem, bark, and root. Totally 202 proteins were identified from four vegetative organs. We identified 101 proteins from leaves, 51 from stem, 94 from bark and 67 from root, finding that only five proteins existed in both four vegetative parts. The calculated pI of most of the proteins is distributed in 5-10 and the molecular weight distributed below 100 kDa. Functional classification analysis revealed that proteins which are involved in catalytic activities are the most abundant both in leaves, stem, bark and root. Identification of several heat shock proteins in four vegetative tissues might be adaptive for resistance to high temperature environmental stresses of tropical or subtropical areas. Some enzymes involved in antioxidant processes were also identified in M. oleifera leaves, stem, bark and root. Among the four tissues studies here, leaves protein content and molecular diversity were the highest. The identification of the flocculating protein MO2.1 and MO2.2 in the bark and root provides clue to clarify the antimicrobial molecular mechanisms of root and bark. This study provides information on the protein compositions of M. oleifera vegetative tissues that will be beneficial for potential drug and food supplement development and plant physiology research.

Levels of mercury in alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) collected along a transect through the Florida Everglades

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rumbold, D.G.; Fink, L.E.; Laine, K.A.; Niemczyk, S.L.; Chandrasekhar, T.; Wankel, Scott D.; Kendall, C.

2002-01-01

As part of a multi-agency study of alligator health, 28 American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) were captured along a transect through the Florida Everglades in 1999. Liver and tail muscle tissues were sampled and analyzed on a wet weight basis for total mercury (THg) using cold-vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometry. All tissues had detectable concentrations of THg that ranged from 0.6 to 17 mg/kg in liver and from 0.1 to 1.8 mg/kg in tail muscle. THg was more concentrated in liver tissue than tail muscle, but levels were highly correlated between tissues. THg concentrations in tissue differed significantly among locations, with animals from Everglades National Park (ENP) having mean concentrations of THg in liver (10.4 mg/kg) and tail muscle (1.2 mg/kg) that were two-fold higher than basin-wide averages (4.9 and 0.64 mg/kg, respectively). The reasons for higher contamination of ENP alligators were unclear and could not be explained by differences in sex, length, weight or animal age. While ??15N values were positively correlated with THg concentrations in tail muscle, spatial patterns in isotopic composition did not explain the elevated THg levels in ENP alligators. Therefore, it appears that ENP alligators were more highly exposed to mercury in their environment than individuals in other areas. Comparisons to a previous survey by Yanochko et al. [Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 32 (1997) 323] suggest that mercury levels have declined in some Everglades alligators since 1994. ?? 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Response of potatoes to nitrogen concentrations differ with nitrogen forms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cao, W.; Tibbitts, T. W.

1998-01-01

Two separate experiments were conducted to investigate plant growth and mineral composition of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) at varied solution concentrations of nitrate (NO3-) and ammonium (NH4+). Each experiment evaluated five nitrogen (N) concentrations of 0.5, 2, 4, 8, and 12 mM, which were maintained with a non-recirculating nutrient film system in controlled environment. Plants were harvested on day 42 with NO3-; and day 35 with NH4+ after transplanting of tissue culture plantlets, and growth measurements were taken as leaf area, tuber number, and dry weights of different parts. With NO3-, plant growth was greatest and similar at 2, 4, and 8 mM of N whereas with NH4+, plant growth was best only at 2 and 4 mM of N. At 12 mM of N, plants exhibited interveinal ammonium toxicity with NH4+ nutrition, but healthy growth appearance with NO3- nutrition. With either N form, total N concentrations in tissues tended to increase with increased N concentrations, and tissue phosphorus (P) concentrations were reduced at 0.5 and 2 mM of N. Tissue concentrations of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) changed only slightly at particular N concentrations, yet changed substantially with different N forms. The data indicate that the optimal ranges of N concentrations in both solution and tissues are wider and higher with NO3- than with NH4+ nutrition, and thus a careful control of NH4+ concentrations is necessary to minimize possible ammonium toxicity to potato plants.

Concentrations of chlorinated organic compounds in biota and bed sediment in streams of the lower San Joaquin River drainage, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brown, Larry R.

1998-01-01

Samples of resident biota and bed sediments were collected in 1992 from 18 sites on or near the floor of the San Joaquin Valley, California, for analysis of 33 organochlorine compounds. The sites were divided into five groups on the basis of physiographic region and land use. Ten compounds were detected in tissue, and 16 compounds were detected in bed sediment. The most frequently detected compound in both media was p,p'-DDE. Concentrations of total DDT (sum of o,p'- and p,p'-forms of DDD, DDE, and DDT) were statistically different among groups of sites for tissue and sediment (Kruskal-Wallis, P < 0.05). Concentrations in both media were highest in streams draining the west side of the valley. Concentrations of total DDT in tissue were significantly correlated with specific conductance, pH, and total alkalinity (P < 0.05), which are indicators of the proportion of irrigation-return flows in stream discharge. Concentrations in sediment on a dry-weight basis were not correlated with these water-quality parameters, but total-organic- carbon (TOC) normalized concentrations were significantly correlated with specific conductance and pH (P < 0.05). Regressions of the concentration of total DDT in tissue as a function of total DDT in bed sediment were significant and explained as much as 76 percent of the variance in the data. The concentration of total DDT in sediment may be related to mechanisms of soil transport to surface water with bioavailability of compounds related to the concentration of TOC in sediment.

Sex and depot differences in ex vivo adipose tissue fatty acid storage and glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase activity

PubMed Central

Morgan-Bathke, Maria; Chen, Liang; Oberschneider, Elisabeth; Harteneck, Debra

2015-01-01

Adipose tissue fatty acid storage varies according to sex, adipose tissue depot, and degree of fat gain. However, the mechanism(s) for these variations is not completely understood. We examined whether differences in adipose tissue glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT) might play a role in these variations. We optimized an enzyme activity assay for total GPAT and GPAT1 activity in human adipose tissue and measured GPAT activity. Omental and subcutaneous adipose tissue was collected from obese and nonobese adults for measures of GPAT and GPAT1 activities, ex vivo palmitate storage, acyl-CoA synthetase (ACS) and diacylglycerol-acyltransferase (DGAT) activities, and CD36 protein. Total GPAT and GPAT1 activities decreased as a function of adipocyte size in both omental (r = −0.71, P = 0.003) and subcutaneous (r = −0.58, P = 0.04) fat. The relative contribution of GPAT1 to total GPAT activity increased as a function of adipocyte size, accounting for up to 60% of GPAT activity in those with the largest adipocytes. We found strong, positive correlations between ACS, GPAT, and DGAT activities for both sexes and depots (r values 0.58–0.91) and between these storage factors and palmitate storage rates into TAG (r values 0.55–0.90). We conclude that: 1) total GPAT activity decreases as a function of adipocyte size; 2) GPAT1 can account for over half of adipose GPAT activity in hypertrophic obesity; and 3) ACS, GPAT, and DGAT are coordinately regulated. PMID:25738782

Overexpression of K-p21Ras play a prominent role in lung cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Peng-bo; Zhou, Xin-liang; Yang, Ju-lun

2018-06-01

The proto-oncogene ras product, p21Ras, has been found overexpression in many human tumors. However, the subtypes of overexpressed p21Ras still remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate overexpressed isoforms of p21Ras and their roles in the progress of lung cancer. Method: The expression of total p21Ras in normal lung tissues and lung cancers was determined by immunohistochemically staining with monoclonal antibody (Mab) KGHR-1 which could recognize and broad spectrum reaction with the (K/H/N) ras protein. Then, the isoforms of p21Ras was examined by specific Mab for each p21Ras subtypes. Results: Low expression of total p21Ras was found in 26.67% (8/30) of normal lung tissues, and 81.31% (87/107) of adenocarcinoma harbored overexpressed total p21Ras. Besides, 70.00% (35/50) of squamous cell carcinoma were detected overexpressed total p21Ras. In addition, 122 lung cancer tissues from overexpression of total p21Ras protein were selected to detect the expression of each subtype. And all the 122 lung cancer tissues were K-p21Ras overexpression. Moreover, there was a statistical significance difference between the expression level of total p21Ras and differentiation, and the same results were observed between the expression level of total p21Ras and lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). However, there was no correlation between the expression level of total p21Ras and gender, age, tumor size (P>0.05). Conclusions: Overexpression of K-p21Ras plays a prominent role in the progress of lung cancer and it is suggested that the p21Ras could serve as a promising treatment target in lung cancer.