Average Maximum Diameter Research Articles

Cocktail therapy with prednisolone, vincristine and sirolimus for Kasabach‑Merritt phenomenon in 10 infants.

Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon (KMP) is a life-threatening condition caused by rare vascular tumors. To reduce drug resistance observed in monotherapy of KMP with prednisone, vincristine (VCR) or sirolimus, the present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of triad therapy in the treatment of KMP. A total of 10 KMP infants managed with prednisolone, VCR and sirolimus in The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University (Xi'an, China) between April 2017 and August 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The three female and seven male infants with KMP underwent cocktail therapy with prednisone, VCR and sirolimus. At diagnosis, the infants, aged 49.1±41.0 days, showed laboratory test results with platelet counts 22±15.4x109/l, fibrinogen 81.7±26.9 mg/dl and D-dimer 38649±13443.6 ng/ml. The average maximal diameter of the tumors at diagnosis was 84.5±25.1 mm. KMP risk is increased by large tumors with deep lesions infiltrating the muscle. Platelet counts normalized after a median 10 days (range, 5-69 days) of treatment. With combination therapy maintained for 46.8±24.4 days, ultrasound showed that the thickness of the tumors decreased by 51% from 28.9±12.1 to 13.9±6.2 mm. Neutropenia and gastrointestinal disorders were the most common adverse effects. The present study found that the cocktail therapy with prednisolone, VCR and sirolimus has favorable tolerance and efficacy for life-threatening KMP. Once a stable condition has been achieved, cocktail therapy should be replaced by sirolimus monotherapy to reduce potential side effects.

Clinical presentation, management, and research progress of adrenal schwannoma.

ObjectiveThis study shares our experience in managing adrenal schwannoma (AS).MethodsThe clinical data of eight patients with AS in our hospital from April 2007 to April 2022 were analyzed retrospectively.ResultsA total of 1309 patients with adrenal lesions were treated in the affiliated hospital of Guizhou Medical University for 15 years, of which only 8 cases were diagnosed as AS, accounting for 0.61%. Among the eight patients with AS, there were five females and three males, with an average age of 48.63 ± 12.05 years, and the average maximum diameter of the tumor was 6.96 ± 1.83 cm. All patients underwent adrenalectomy and were pathologically diagnosed as AS after the operation. The average follow-up time of eight patients with AS was 60.13 ± 22.33 months, and there was no recurrence or metastasis.ConclusionThe retroperitoneum is an uncommon site for schwannoma tumors, and among adrenal incidentalomas, the schwannoma is rare. The disease lacks specific clinical and imaging features, but correct diagnosis before the pathological examination is very important for clinical management and surgical decision. When imaging examination indicates a slow-growing retroperitoneal mass, schwannoma should be considered. Surgical resection is the main treatment. Pathology is the gold standard for diagnosis. Most of the tumors are benign and have a good prognosis. There is a risk of recurrence after the operation, and it should be monitored actively.

Computerized visualization of seeds of Sepa subgenus (Allium L., Alliaceae – an effective tool to assess their quality

The authors presented the results of a study of the morphology of Allium seeds from the subgenus Cepa: Cepa section (Mill.) Prokh. A. fistulosum L., A. altaiсum Pall., A. galanthum Kar. & Kir., A. oschaninii O. Fedtsch., A. pskemense B. Fedtsch.; Schoenoprasum Dum. – A. altyncoliсum, A. ledebourianum, A. oliganthum, A. schoenoprasum L.; Condensatum N. Friesen – A. condensatum, from the biocollection of All-Russian Research Institute of Vegetable Growing – Branch of the Federal State Budgetary «Scientific Institution Federal Scientific Centre for Vegetable Growing») (Moscow region). Seeds were 2.74 – 3.50 mm long and 1.33 – 2.14 mm wide. The morphological characteristics of the seeds can be used as additional taxonomic indicators in the identification and classification of taxa within the Cepa subgenus of the genus Allium. The authors measured the morphometric and optical parameters of the seeds by image analysis using VideoTest-Morphology software developed at Argus Bio Ltd. (St. Petersburg). Seed digital images were obtained using an HP Scanjet 200 digital flatbed scanner, 600 dpi resolution, and JPG file format. Morphometric parameters of seeds were determined, including projection area (cm2), length, width, perimeter, average size (mm), average diameter Fere, factors of roundness, elongation, ellipse, rugosity (relative units), parameters of brightness, tonality, color saturation (relative units). Based on the results of the study, a series of distributions of species was compiled in descending order of each of the characters studied. Within the Cepa section, the seeds of A. pskemense had the maximum linear size, perimeter, and cross-sectional area. Within the Schoenoprasum section, the seeds of A. altyncolium had the maximum length. The maximum width, perimeter, cross-sectional area, and average diameter of Fere seeds were recorded for A. ledebourianum. In the Cepa section, the average RGB value in descending order was as follows: A. pskemense > A. galanthum > A. fistulosum > A. altaiсum > A. oschaninii. In the Schoenoprasum section, this series is as follows. A. schoenoprasum > A. ledebourianum > A. altyncoliсum > A. oliganthum.

MR-Guided Microwave Ablation for Lung Malignant Tumor: A Single Center Prospective Study.

ObjectivesTo prospectively investigate the feasibility and efficacy of MRI-guided MWA for lung malignant tumor in our single center.Materials and Methods22 patients [mean age, 56.86 ± 13.05(23–73)years] with 23 malignant lung tumors were enrolled in the study. 21 patients had a single lesion and 1 patient had 2 lesions in the ipsilateral lung. The average maximum diameter of the lesion was 1.26 ± 0.65 (0.50-2.58)cm. Percutaneous MWA was guided by 1.5T MRI scanner using a MR-compatible microwave antenna to the target the lung lesions and ablation area was monitored intraoperatively by using a shielded MR-compatible microwave device and then follow-up.ResultsAll patients were successfully treated under MR-guided MWA for lung tumors. Average operation time was 72.21 ± 24.99 (36–158) mins. T2WI signal intensity of the lesion gradually decreased over the course of MWA. The center of the ablated zones showed a short T1 and short T2 signals with the ring-like of long T1 and long T2 signals surrounded after immediately evaluation. No serious complications occurred. The average follow-up period was 12.89 ± 4.33 (2.0-19.6) months. Local recurrence occurred in one patient, representing a technical efficacy of 95.5% (21/22).ConclusionMagnetic resonance-guided microwave ablation for lung malignant tumor was feasible and demonstrated unique advantages in efficacy evaluation.

Breast Metastasis From Rectal Signet-Ring Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

BackgroundMetastatic rectal cancer (mRC) of the breast is an extremely rare clinical situation. There are few reported cases in domestic or foreign literature. The clinicopathologic characteristics along with the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies of such cases remain relatively unclear. Here, we would like to provide our comprehensive insights into this rare entity.MethodsWe present a case that till now is the first reported breast metastasis from rectal cancer pathologically diagnosed as a signet-ring cell carcinoma, and we review the current literature on this rare event. The detailed clinical data, histopathology, management, and follow-up aspects were gathered for analysis.ResultsA total of 15 cases were collected including the current case. Breast metastases from rectal cancer present at an average age of 47.7 years (range, 28 to 69 years) and appear with an average interval of 28.4 months (range, 5 months to 18 years) following primary tumor diagnoses. Of the 15 cases, 8 and 5 are pathologically diagnosed as adenocarcinomas and mucinous adenocarcinomas, respectively. Most cases (11/15) are accompanied by extramammary metastases. About half of the breast metastases (7/15) were to the left. In all cases, the main complaints were palpable mass. The average maximum diameter of the metastatic mass is 2.7 cm (range, 1–11 cm). The majority (8/12) of cases with accessible therapy information exclude the option of local surgery.ConclusionPrevious cancer history and accurate immunohistochemistry data play critical roles to distinguish mammary metastasis from a primary neoplasm of the breast. Mastectomy and molecular-targeted drugs should be considered with priority if systemic condition supports them.

Root Endophytic Fungi Regulate Changes in Sugar and Medicinal Compositions of Polygonum cuspidatum.

Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc is an important industrial crop because it contains a large amount of medicinal secondary metabolites (such as polydatin, resveratrol, chrysophanol, and emodin). However, it is unclear whether root endophytic fungi increase the content of secondary metabolites in the plant. This study aimed to analyze the effects of Funneliformis mosseae (Fm) and Piriformospora indica (Pi) alone or in combination on plant growth, root morphology, thirteen sugars concentrations, and six secondary metabolites (physcion, chrysophanol, emodin, aloe-emodin, polydatin, and resveratrol) concentrations of P. cuspidatum. After 11 weeks of the fungal inoculation, the roots could be colonized by Fm and Pi single or in combination, along with the higher root colonization frequency of Fm > Pi > Fm + Pi in the descending order. In addition, Fm and Pi improved plant growth performance (plant height, stem diameter, leaf number, and shoot and root biomass) and root morphology (average diameter, maximum diameter, total length, area, and volume) to varying degrees, depending on fungal inoculations, in which Pi displayed a relatively better effect on plant growth. Single Fm and Pi inoculation significantly increased three disaccharides (sucrose, maltose, and trehalose) accumulation, while dual inoculum (Fm + Pi) only elevated sucrose concentrations. Most monosaccharides concentrations, such as D-arabinose, D-galactose, D-sorbitol, D-fructose, glucose, and L-rhamnose were not altered or inhibited by the endophytic fungi, except the increase in L-fucose and inositol. All fungal treatments significantly increased root chrysophanol and resveratrol concentrations, while decreased aloe-emodin concentrations. In addition, single Pi and dual Fm + Pi increased emodin concentrations, and single Fm and dual Fm + Pi elevated physcion and polydatin concentrations. It was concluded that Fm and Pi promoted the growth of P. cuspidatum, and the combination of Fm and Pi was more conducive to the production of some secondary metabolites than single inoculation.

Surgical Outcomes Following Vestibular Schwannoma Resection in Patients over the Age of Sixty-five.

Objective Vestibular schwannoma (VS) are benign, often slow growing neoplasms. Some institutions opt for radiosurgery in symptomatic patients of advanced age versus surgical resection. The aim of the study is to analyze surgical outcomes of VS in patients over the age of 65 who were either not candidates for or refused radiosurgery. Methods This includes retrospective analysis of VS patients between 1988 and 2020. Demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical records, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Patient preference for surgery over radiosurgery was recorded in the event that patients were offered both. Facial nerve outcomes were quantified using House-Brackmann (HB) scores. Tumor growth was defined by increase in size of >2 mm. Results In total, 64 patients were included of average age 72.4 years (65-84 years). Average maximum tumor diameter was 29 mm (13-55 mm). Forty-five patients were offered surgery or GKRS, and chose surgery commonly due to radiation aversion (48.4%). Gross total resection was achieved in 39.1% ( n = 25), near total 32.8% ( n = 21), and subtotal 28.1% ( n = 18). Average hospitalization was 5 days [2-17] with 75% ( n = 48) discharged home. Postoperative HB scores were good (HB1-2) in 43.8%, moderate (HB3-4) in 32.8%, and poor (HB5-6) in 23.4%. HB scores improved to good in 51.6%, moderate in 31.3%, and remained poor in 17.1%, marking a rate of facial nerve improvement of 10.9%. Tumor control was achieved in 95.3% of cases at an average follow-up time of 37.8 months. Conclusion VS resection can be safely performed in patients over the age of 65. Advanced age should not preclude a symptomatic VS patient from being considered for surgical resection.

Initial Clinical Experience With ClearPoint SmartFrame Array–Aided Stereotactic Procedures

The ClearPoint SmartFrame Array (ClearPoint Neuro, Inc., Solana Beach, CA) system consists of a magnetic resonance imaging compatible frame supported by a customized neuro navigation software. This system received U.S. Food and Drug Administrationclearance for clinical use in January 2021. Our objective was to report initial safety data and user experience of SmartFrame Array-supported stereotactic procedures. We prospectively followed the first 10 consecutive patients who underwent stereotactic procedures supported by SmartFrame Array. Clinical and procedural data were recorded and compared to data obtained from prior cases with SmartFrame XG. Ten patients underwent stereotactic needle biopsy, stereotactic laser ablation (SLA), or combined biopsy/SLA procedures. For needle biopsies (n= 9), the average maximal diameter of the contrast-enhancing target lesion was 9.9 ± 2.8 mm. The radial error of stereotaxis was less than 2 mm. Definitive diagnosis was achieved in all cases. For procedures involving SLA (n= 5), 100% of the contrast-enhancing lesion was ablated. All patients were discharged home by postoperative day 2. There were no 30-day readmissions, morbidity, or mortality. The average stereotaxis time for the SmartFrame Array-aided single trajectory procedure was 80 ± 9.5 minutes, which compared favorably to that required for the earlier generation SmartFrame XG frame (111.5 ± 16.5 minutes; P < 0.01). The unique Array design supported stereotactic procedures that cannot be easily achieved with the previous SmartFrame XG frame. The SmartFrame Array system offers a more rigid and compact build to enhance procedural efficiency while maintaining accuracy and safety. The design supports multi-trajectory stereotaxis, allowing novel clinical applications.

“Super massive” intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Potential role of radiation therapy.

567 Background: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a cancer of the bile ducts within the liver. Most patients have unresectable disease and die of tumor-related liver failure (TRLF); prior data suggest that radiation therapy (RT) may play an important role in decreasing TRLF and improving survival. However, for patients with exceptionally large liver tumors, the role of RT is uncertain. Here, we present our experience using hypofractionated RT for so-called “super-massive” ICC (gross tumor volume &gt; 800cc). Methods: We retrospectively collected data from ICC patients treated at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. We included inoperable patients (both M0 and M1) who were treated with RT, identified those with a gross tumor volume of 800cc or more (median: 1,300cc IQR: 900-1,900). We analyzed overall survival (OS), local and distant recurrence, tumor-related liver failure (TRLF), and treatment toxicity. Results: A total of 12 patients were included. The median age was 60 (IQR: 55-67). The average maximal tumor diameter was 14.1cm (IQR: 12.6-15.8). All but 1 patient received pre-RT systemic therapy. Eight patients (67%) were treated with IMRT, and 4 patients (33%) with proton RT. RT was delivered to a median of 67.5Gy (IQR: 60-73.1) over 15 fractions. At a median follow up of 17.4 months, 5 patients were still alive (2-year OS: 41.7%). Median OS, local recurrence, and distant metastasis from RT were 20.0, 20, and 11.3 months, respectively. Two patients (16.7%) died from TRLF. No grade 2 or higher toxicities were noted. No radiation-induced liver toxicity was present. Conclusions: Hypofractionated RT was safe and showed promising clinical outcomes for patients with “super massive” inoperable ICC, compared to historical data. Future studies are still needed to better assess the role of RT in this patient population.

Highly oriented NiSi2@Si thin-nanocomposite produced by solid state diffusion: Morphological and crystallographic characterization

This article describes a morphological and crystallographic multi-technique characterization of a 2D-nanocomposite consisting of highly oriented NiSi2 nanoplates endotaxially grown inside a single-crystalline Si(001) wafer close to its external surface. This nanostructured material is prepared using a novel procedure which promotes the diffusion of Ni atoms from a deposited Ni-dopped-SiO2 thin film into the volume of a Si(001) flat wafer under controlled thermodynamic conditions. High Resolution Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy images reveal the formations of well oriented thin hexagonal nanoplates totally buried inside a Si(001) wafer and randomly oriented nearly spherical Ni nanocrystals located inside the Ni-doped SiO2 thin film and also inside a thin layer close to external surface of the Si(001) wafer. The NiSi2 nanoplates formed by endotaxial growth have their large hexagonal flat surfaces parallel to one of the four Si{111} crystallographic planes and exhibit coherent 7A-type interfaces with the host Si matrix. Additional analyses of Grazing-Incidence Small-Angle X-ray Scattering patterns - which probe a high number of nanoparticles - indicated that the average thickness and maximum diameter of NiSi2 nanoplates are 12 nm and 118 nm, respectively, and the average radius of Ni nanocrystals is 1.7 nm. The described process for obtaining 2D-NiSi2@Si nanocomposites opens new possibilities for exploiting the structural features of these materials for use in devices requiring anisotropic electrical transport properties.

Role of Sonazoid-based contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in the microwave ablation of primary hyperparathyroidism

Objectives This study aimed to determine the performance of Sonazoid-based contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the microwave ablation (MWA) of primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT). Methods Forty patients with pHPT were enrolled and treated with percutaneous ultrasound (US)-guided MWA assisted by CEUS. All patients underwent immediate CEUS examinations following MWA. On post-ablation day 1, patients who did not display a decrease in intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels to the norm were examined by CEUS to evaluate an incomplete ablation. We compared the serum iPTH and calcium levels and the nodule volumes before and after MWA. The complications were evaluated during and after treatment. Results Immediately following MWA, CEUS demonstrated complete ablation with all 44 parathyroid nodules. On post-ablation day 1, five nodules in five patients displayed annular enhancement around the ablation zone on CEUS. The average maximum diameters of the nodules and the ablation zone were 1.09 ± 0.28 cm and 1.36 ± 0.23 cm, respectively. An ablation zone larger than the primary lesion (p < 0.05) generated a higher rate of complete ablation. Compared with pre-MWA, serum iPTH and calcium levels were significantly improved. Treatment success was achieved in 38 patients (95%). Hoarseness was a major complication in six patients (15%); however, it improved spontaneously within 1–4 months. We observed two recurrences (2/40, 5%) at 9 months and 11 months following MWA, respectively. Conclusion US-guided percutaneous MWA assisted by CEUS for pHPT is an effective and safe therapy. CEUS can avoid operative failure and improve the cure rate.

A-Site Cation Size Effect on Structure and Magnetic Properties of Sm(Eu,Gd)Cr0.2Mn0.2Fe0.2Co0.2Ni0.2O3 High-Entropy Solid Solutions.

Three high-entropy Sm(Eu,Gd)Cr0.2Mn0.2Fe0.2Co0.2Ni0.2O3 perovskite solid solutions were synthesized using the usual ceramic technology. The XRD investigation at room temperature established a single-phase perovskite product. The Rietveld refinement with the FullProf computer program in the frame of the orthorhombic Pnma (No 62) space group was realized. Along with a decrease in the V unit cell volume from ~224.33 Å3 for the Sm-based sample down to ~221.52 Å3 for the Gd-based sample, an opposite tendency was observed for the unit cell parameters as the ordinal number of the rare-earth cation increased. The average grain size was in the range of 5–8 μm. Field magnetization was measured up to 30 kOe at 50 K and 300 K. The law of approach to saturation was used to determine the Ms spontaneous magnetization that nonlinearly increased from ~1.89 emu/g (Sm) up to ~17.49 emu/g (Gd) and from ~0.59 emu/g (Sm) up to ~3.16 emu/g (Gd) at 50 K and 300 K, respectively. The Mr residual magnetization and Hc coercive force were also determined, while the SQR loop squareness, k magnetic crystallographic anisotropy coefficient, and Ha anisotropy field were calculated. Temperature magnetization was measured in a field of 30 kOe. ZFC and FC magnetization curves were fixed in a field of 100 Oe. It was discovered that the Tmo magnetic ordering temperature downward-curve decreased from ~137.98 K (Sm) down to ~133.99 K (Gd). The spin glass state with ferromagnetic nanoinclusions for all the samples was observed. The <D> average and Dmax maximum diameter of ferromagnetic nanoinclusions were calculated and they were in the range of 40–50 nm and 160–180 nm, respectively. The mechanism of magnetic state formation is discussed in terms of the effects of the A-site cation size and B-site poly-substitution on the indirect superexchange interactions.

P-O07 Endoscopic submucosal dissection for giant esophageal lipomatous tumors

Abstract Background Thoracotomy is the foremost choice of giant esophageal lipomatous tumors in previous studies, but it is highly traumatic and possibly diminishes the quality of patients’ life. To minimize such impacts, a minimally invasive method without loss of curability is desirable for giant lipomatous tumors of the esophagus. With recent progress in endoscopic techniques and devices, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been successfully used to remove esophageal or gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs). Methods Objective: To evaluate the clinical impact of ESD for giant esophageal lipomatous tumors. Design: Single-center, retrospective study. Setting: Academic medical center. Patients: Six patients with six giant lipomatous tumors of the esophagus between February 2013 and December 2020. Interventions: ESD. Main Outcome Measurements: Procedure duration, en bloc resection rate, complications, local recurrence, and distant metastases. Results Endoscopic en bloc resections of esophageal lipomatous tumors were successfully performed in all patients, with a mean duration of 56.5 ± 26.0 min. All en bloc resection lesions showed both lateral and deep tumor-free margins. The average maximum diameter of the esophageal lipomatous tumors was 171.7 ± 66.2 mm. No complications such as bleeding and perforations happened during hospitalization with 4.0 ± 1.6 days. Besides, local recurrence and distant metastasis have not occurred during the follow-up period. Conclusions ESD was a safe and effective way to dissect giant lipomatous tumors of the esophagus thoroughly.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection for giant esophageal lipomatous tumors.

Thoracotomy is the foremost choice of giant esophageal lipomatous tumors in previous studies, but it is highly traumatic and possibly diminishes the quality of patients' lives. To minimize such impacts, a minimally invasive method without loss of curability is desirable for giant lipomatous tumors of the esophagus. With recent progress in endoscopic techniques and devices, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been successfully used to remove esophageal or gastric submucosal tumors. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical impact of ESD for giant esophageal lipomatous tumors. Design, single-center, retrospective study; setting, academic medical center; patients, six patients with six giant lipomatous tumors of the esophagus between February 2013 and December 2020; interventions, ESD; and main outcome measurements, procedure duration, en bloc resection rate, complications, local recurrence, and distant metastases. Endoscopic en bloc resections of esophageal lipomatous tumors were successfully performed in all patients, with a mean duration of 56.5 ± 26.0 min. All en bloc resection lesions showed both lateral and deep tumor-free margins. The average maximum diameter of the esophageal lipomatous tumors was 171.7 ± 66.2 mm. No complications such as bleeding and perforations happened during hospitalization with 4.0 ± 1.6 days. Besides, local recurrence and distant metastasis have not occurred during the follow-up period. Endoscopic submucosal dissection is a safe and effective way to dissect giant lipomatous tumors of the esophagus thoroughly.

Accuracy and outcomes of diffusion tensor imaging tractography in resection for vestibular schwannoma for facial nerve preservation

BackgroundImpairment of facial nerve (FN) function is a common postoperative complication in surgical resections of Vestibular Schwannomas (VS). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) tractography creates in vivo imaging of the anatomical location of white matter tracts that can be preoperatively used to visualize the displaced FN. We present an analysis of patients who underwent DTI tractography imaging prior to VS resection. MethodsPatient charts were reviewed from March 2012 to April 2015 who underwent DTI tractography prior to surgical resection for VS. Reliability of this measure was compared to the intraoperative FN location as determined by the surgeon. House Brackmann (HB) score was used to assess facial nerve function. ResultsA total of 11 patients were included with a mean age of 43 years (range: 19–64) and mean follow-up length of 11.9 months (range: 3.1–34.2). The average maximum tumor diameter was 2.82 cm (range: 1.7–4.2). DTI tractography was accurate in 90.9% (10/11) of patients. Postoperatively, 72.7% (8/11) had a HB score of I or II, 18.2% (2/11) had a HB score of III, and 9.1% (1/11) had a HB score of IV. ConclusionsFacial nerve visualization for VS resection can be accurately visualized using DTI tractography. This modality may lead to reduction of postoperative FN damage.

GSDMD-MEDIATED PYROPTOSIS IN MACROPHAGES IS INVOLVED IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS

Gasdermin D (GSDMD)-executed pyroptosis is a crucial event involved in inflammatory diseases. But its role in endometriosis remains largely unknown. This study aims to determine the role of GSDMD -mediated pyroptosis in endometriosis. Endometriosis was induced by injection of syngeneic endometrial tissue fragments into C57/BL6 female wild-type (WT) mice. The mice were euthanized and endometriotic tissues were collected two weeks after modeling. Infiltration of inflammatory cells was detected by immunostaining. Expression of pyroptosis-related proteins were detected by western blotting. We further generated GSDMD knock-out (KO) mice. Endometriosis was induced in GSDMD KO mice and WT controls. The average number, weight and size of the lesions were compared between two groups. Samples of endometriotic lesions were collected and single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNA seq) was performed using the 10x genomics chromium single cell controller. The establishment of endometriosis model was confirmed by histology. Immunostaining showed extensive macrophage infiltration in the lesions. Western blot demonstrated up-regulated expression of full-length and cleaved (activated form) GSDMD. We further induced endometriosis in eight GSDMD KO mice and seven WT controls. The average number, weight and maximum diameter of the lesions in KO mice were all markedly less than those in WT mice. Results of sc-RNA seq revealed that GSDMD was predominantly expressed in monocytes. The proportion of monocytes was 20.4% in WT lesions, but dropped to 9.6% in KO lesions, while the proportion in peripheral blood remained constant. Cell-cell interaction analysis suggested that monocytes regulated fibroblasts through interleukin-1β (IL-1β)/interleukin-1 receptor (IL1r) pathway. Differential expression analysis showed that both IL-1β in monocytes and IL1r in fibroblasts were down-regulated in lesions from KO mice. Our study indicated that activation of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis in macrophages is involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Knockout of GSDMD significantly suppressed the formation of endometriotic lesions, possibly through down-regulation of IL-1β/IL1r pathway.

Utilization of magnesium resources in salt lake brine and catalytic degradation of dye wastewater by doping cobalt and nickel

• The process of treating dye wastewater with different products of purification, chlorination, electrolysis doping and calcination of Mg in salt lake brine was designed. • MgCo 2 O 4 nanoparticles have the maximum surface area of 151.5 m 2 /g, and Mg/Co(OH) 2 has a maximum average pore diameter of 51.5 nm. • After irradiation for 20 min, the degradation rate of H 2 O 2 was only 31.95%, while adding Mg/Co(OH) 2 (98.94%), Mg/Ni(OH) 2 (71.29%), MgCo 2 O 4 (98.18%) and MgNiO 2 (77.05%) increased by at least 2 times. • Mg/Co(OH) 2 (99.62% after 2 h) and MgCo 2 O 4 (99.59% after 4 h) could effectively catalyze H 2 O 2 degradation of MB under shading which could be left standing in a beaker without any operation. In this paper, a wet recovery and reuse process from salt lake brine is designed. Nano Mg/Co(OH) 2 and Mg/Ni(OH) 2 composite materials are prepared by acid leaching and electrolytic doping from magnesite which is evaporated and crystallized from salt lake brine. Oxides MgCo 2 O 4 and MgNiO 2 are calcined using the electrolytic products as precursors. The structure of the products is characterized by XRD, FTIR, N 2 -adsorption desorption, XPS, DSC-TGA, SEM, TEM testing methods, etc. The results show that the obtained samples are Mg/Co(OH) 2 , Mg/Ni(OH) 2 , MgCo 2 O 4 and MgNiO 2 with good crystallinity; The synthesized composites material have the macroporous structure, and MgCo 2 O 4 has a maximum specific surface area of 151.5 m 2 /g, Mg/Co(OH) 2 has a maximum average pore size of 51 nm; The product is composed of a large number of flaky crystals with diameters ranging from tens to hundreds of nanometers. Then, the catalytic ability of the composite material on the degradation of methylene blue simulated wastewater in organic wastewater with H 2 O 2 is investigated. The results show that all products can efficiently catalyze the degradation of methylene blue simulated wastewater by H 2 O 2 ; Mg/Co(OH) 2 has the best activity under dark condition, the reaction time is 120 min, the decolorization rate reaches 99.62%, without any operation and any energy, just wait for the end. If the time factor is taken into account, the Mg/Co(OH) 2 activity is the best under UV light irradiation, and the decolorization rate reaches 99.59% after 40 min of reaction. The high activity of Mg/Co(OH) 2 is related to the abundant hydroxyl groups on its surface and its macroporous structure. The catalytic degradation of methylene blue in sewage by composite materials can be described by the first-order reaction kinetic equation.

Age Related Histomorphometrical Studies on the Major Lymphoid Organs of Chicken

Background: Hansli chicken is reared in Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts of Odisha. They play a vital role in the economic upliftment of poor, landless and marginalised people in the rural areas besides providing them with nutritious egg and meat for consumption.Methods: Hansli chicks and Vencobb broiler chicks were divided into three age groups viz. group I (up to 1 month), group II (1-3 months) and group III (3-6 months) with six birds in each age group. On 4th week, 12th week and 24th week, six birds from each breed were used for the study of histomorphometrical features of the thymus, spleen and bursa of Fabricius. Result: The average thickness of the capsule, cortex and medulla of thymus, average width of thymic lobule and average maximum diameter of Hassall’s corpuscles differed significantly (p≤0.05) between the birds at specific ages. Similarly, the average thickness of the splenic capsule, average width of white pulp, average external transverse and internal longitudinal diameters of trabecular artery, average external longitudinal, internal longitudinal, external transverse and internal transverse diameters of central artery, average longitudinal diameter of capillary, average longitudinal and transverse diameters of splenic nodule, average thickness of PALS and PELS differed significantly (p≤0.05) between the birds at specific ages. The average number of bursal follicles in larger and smaller plicae, average height and width of larger and smaller plicae, average length and width of bursal follicle, average height of columnar cell of pseudostratified FAE and IFE, average nuclear height of FAE and IFE columnar cells differed significantly (p≤0.05) between the birds at specific ages.

Optimization of onion planting time and variety under Populus deltoides-based agroforestry system in North-Western India

Vegetable-based agroforestry is one of the means to diversify from cereal-based intercrops under agroforestry system. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important vegetable crops used for consumption in India and the highest foreign exchange earner among the fruit and vegetables. In this context, the current study was carried out to assess the potential of onion varieties under Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh-based agroforestry system. Six onion varieties (POH-1, PRO-6, PRO-7, PWO-2, PYO-1 and Pb Naroya) were evaluated with three planting times (mid-December, end-December and mid-January), under two cropping systems (sole onion and poplar + onion) for two consecutive years during rabi (winter) seasons 2018–19 and 2019–20. Poplar block plantation was established at 8 × 2.5 m with 8 m width in N–S direction. Age of the trees was 4 and 5 years during the respective period of experiment and attained 17.7 cm mean diameter, 15.8 m height and 17.8 m2 crown spread. Onion variety PRO-7 transplanted in mid-December gave maximum average bulb weight (62.1, 70.3 g), bulb diameter (5.49, 5.79 cm) and bulb yield (27.59, 37.89 tha−1) under both poplar as well as in open field conditions. This is attributed to the short duration nature of PRO-7 which completes its life cycle before whole development of poplar canopy. NPV and annuity value of poplar + onion-based system was 28% higher than the conventionally followed poplar + wheat model. Benefit–cost ratio was also reported highest for the present model (2.94) as compared to poplar + wheat (2.74) and sole onion (1.92). Thus, growing of suitable onion variety at appropriate time can enhance the income of poplar-based agroforestry system.

Reproductive maturation and induced breeding of two geographical groups of grey mullet, Mugil cephalus Linnaeus, 1758

Success in captive reproduction and hatchery-based seed production is fundamental for the development of sustainable aquaculture of grey mullet in India. In the present study, the induced breeding and reproductive performance of two geographically different groups of grey mullet, Mugil cephalus sourced from east and west coasts of India were studied under captivity. Grey mullets sourced from east coast, Chennai, India (EP-E: eastern mullet population in situ; 782.4 ± 58.26 g) and west coast, Ernakulam, India (WP-E: western mullet population transferred to eastern location; 726.1 ± 31.09 g) were reared under uniform captive conditions at Muttukadu Experimental Station, ICAR-CIBA, Chennai. On the east coast, captive maturation and reproductive performance were studied for two years from October 2015 – January 2018 (EP-E and WP-E; N = 140). To accelerate reproductive maturation, female mullets were treated with intramuscular cholesterol pellets of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRHa, 200 μg/fish) and males with silastic implants of 17-α-methyl testosterone (5 mg/fish). On the west coast, grey mullets (WP-W: western mullet population in situ;N = 130) were reared in earthen ponds under similar experimental conditions as EP-E and WP-E. Fourteen induced breeding trials were carried out in eastern population whereas 24 induced breeding trials were carried out in the western population. The percentages of mature fish initially and at 12 and 24 months for EP-E were 48.7, 57.5, and 50% whereas for WP-E, they were 0, 2.4, and 14.7% respectively. The maximum average oocyte diameter recorded for EP-E was 538 ± 6 μm and that for WP-E was 564 ± 21 μm. The peak reproductive periods of captive grey mullet on the east coast were November (EP-E) and December – January (WP-E). Induced breeding trials using EP-E were successful using females with an average oocyte size in the range of 520–535 μm from 6th – 20th November and the fertilisation rates ranged from 1 to 35%. The peak reproductive period of WP-W extended from June to August and successful induced breeding trials were conducted using females with average oocyte size of 540–570 μm, from 15th June – 20th July. The fertilisation percentage varied from 45 to 85%. Western mullet population exhibited reproductive dysfunctions when maintained under captivity on the east coast. The reproductive periods of captive grey mullets on the east and west coasts of India are asynchronous and provide the opportunity for two nonoverlapping breeding periods for captive reproduction of grey mullets in the region.