Preservation Techniques Research Articles

Xenotransplantation of solid organs

Transplantation of genetically modified porcine hearts and kidneys could become asolution to the persistent shortage of human organ donors. Progress has been made in genetic engineering of donor pigs, preservation techniques after organ harvesting and immunosuppression using co-stimulation blockade with anti-CD40/CD40L monoclonal antibodies. Progress has also been made in in the development of methods that detect pathogenic porcine viruses and prevent their transmission to the recipient. As normal land breed pig organs continue to grow in the recipient to their original size, different pig breeds (such as Auckland Island pigs) are now used which reach a final size suitable for humans. Alternatively, aknock-out of the growth hormone receptor gene has been established, e.g., in the 10GM genetically modified pigs from Revivicor/United Therapeutics, USA. The first clinical pilot studies including patients suffering from terminal heart failure are expected to start in Germany in about 2years.

Quality Changes and Fungal Microbiota Dynamics in Stored Jujube Fruits: Insights from High-Throughput Sequencing for Food Preservation

Postharvest rot is an urgent problem affecting the storage of winter jujube. Therefore, the development of new technologies for efficient and safe preservation is very important. This study aimed to elucidate the fungal microbiota found on the epidermis of jujube during the storage period using high-throughput sequencing, as well as to monitor the changes in quality indexes throughout this period. Through internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing, we identified two phyla (Basidiomycota and Ascomycota) and six genera (Cryptococcus, Bulleromyces, Sporidiobolus, Alternaria, Pseudozyma, and Sporobolomyces), which potentially contribute to the spoilage and deterioration of jujube, referred to as “core fungal taxa”. A high correlation was further found between preservation indices (including decay rate, firmness, and total soluble solids) and the growth of multiple core fungi over time. These findings will provide insights and a theoretical basis for further research on preservation techniques related to biological control during date fruit storage.

The impact of normothermic and hypothermic preservation methods on kidney lipidome—comparative study using chemical biopsy with microextraction probes

IntroductionNormothermic ex vivo kidney perfusion (NEVKP) is designed to replicate physiological conditions to improve graft outcomes. A comparison of the impact of hypothermic and normothermic preservation techniques on graft quality was performed by lipidomic profiling using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) chemical biopsy as a minimally invasive sampling approach.MethodsDirect kidney sampling was conducted using SPME probes coated with a mixed-mode extraction phase in a porcine autotransplantation model of the renal donor after cardiac death, comparing three preservation methods: static cold storage (SCS), NEVKP, and hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP). The lipidomic analysis was done using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a Q-Exactive Focus Orbitrap mass spectrometer.ResultsChemometric analysis showed that the NEVLP group was separated from SCS and HMP groups. Further in-depth analyses indicated significantly (p < 0.05, VIP > 1) higher levels of acylcarnitines, phosphocholines, ether-linked and longer-chain phosphoethanolamines, triacylglycerols and most lysophosphocholines and lysophosphoethanolamines in the hypothermic preservation group. The results showed that the preservation temperature has a more significant impact on the lipidomic profile of the kidney than the preservation method’s mechanical characteristics.ConclusionHigher levels of lipids detected in the hypothermic preservation group may be related to ischemia-reperfusion injury, mitochondrial dysfunction, pro-inflammatory effect, and oxidative stress. Obtained results suggest the NEVKP method’s beneficial effect on graft function and confirm that SPME chemical biopsy enables low-invasive and repeated sampling of the same tissue, allowing tracking alterations in the graft throughout the entire transplantation procedure.

Role of NR5A1 Gene Mutations in Disorders of Sex Development: Molecular and Clinical Features

Disorders/differences of sex development (DSDs) are defined as broad, heterogenous groups of congenital conditions characterized by atypical development of genetic, gonadal, or phenotypic sex accompanied by abnormal development of internal and/or external genitalia. NR5A1 gene mutation is one of the principal genetic alterations implicated in causing DSD. This review outlines the role of NR5A1 gene during the process of gonadal development in humans, provides an overview of the molecular and functional characteristics of NR5A1 gene, and discusses potential clinical phenotypes and additional organ diseases due to NR5A1 mutations. NR5A1 mutations were analyzed in patients with 46,XY DSD and 46,XX DSD both during the neonatal and pubertal periods. Loss of function of the NR5A1 gene causes several different phenotypes, including some associated with disease in additional organs. Clinical phenotypes may vary, even among patients carrying the same NR5A1 variant, indicating that there is no specific genotype–phenotype correlation. Genetic tests are crucial diagnostic tools that should be used early in the diagnostic pathway, as early as the neonatal period, when gonadal dysgenesis is the main manifestation of NR5A1 mutation. NR5A1 gene mutations could be mainly associated with amenorrhea, ovarian failure, hypogonadism, and infertility during puberty. Fertility preservation techniques should be considered as early as possible.

Evaluation of Elnady preserved tissues as a teaching aid for undergraduate animal science courses

Abstract The use of tissue specimens for undergraduate instruction is a very valuable tool. However, fresh tissue specimens are not always available and many common preservation techniques can result in discoloration, offensive odors, and/or dangerous chemical residues. The Elnady Technique was developed as a means to produce tissue specimens that “are realistic, durable, have no offensive odor, and are dry, soft and flexible” (Elnady, F.A. 2016 The Elnady Technique: An innovative, new method for tissue preservation. Altex. 33:237-242. doi:10.14573/altex.1511091). Briefly for soft tissue, specimens were preserved by fixing in formalin. The tissue specimen was then dehydrated with a series of acetone baths. Once the tissue was fully dehydrated, the specimen was impregnated in glycerin. Excess glycerin was then removed by draining followed by immersion in cornstarch. Cornstarch residue was removed with a soft brush, and the specimen was stored in a plastic bag. Multiple specimens (including female reproductive tract of the cat, goat, horse, and sow; digestive tract of cat, chicken, and dog; one day old lamb stomach; goat rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum; and sheep heart and kidney) have been preserved and used in various animal science course laboratories (126 laboratory sections and 1696 students at Berry College). Some of the specimens have been in use for seven years and are still in usable condition. Anonymously surveyed Berry College Animal Science Faculty strongly agreed or agreed Elnady preserved tissues are a useful teaching aid (n = 5). The Elnady Technique has proven to be a useful means of preserving tissue samples used in undergraduate animal science courses.

Precision Rhinoplasty Cylindric Burrs - Sidewall Aesthetics.

The development of power instruments has led to great advances in Rhinoplasty. It has helped reduce operating time, minimize damage to the surrounding soft tissues and allow precision bony modification compared with the use of manual rasps. Burrs help ensure precise results by i) creating a smooth transition between the lateral nasal sidewall and the face, ii) treating bony asymmetries and iii) producing homogeneous upper and middle thirds that softy translate into the upper lateral cartilages. The aim of this paper is to show applications of cylindrical burrs in Rhinoplasty surgery to treat the dorsal upper and middle thirds as well as lateral sidewalls of the nose, regardless of whether the dorsal preservation or structure technique is used. This approach offers a safe, fast, and precise technique that can be used in conjunction with piezo osteotomy to obtain the optimal outcomes.

Machine perfusion organ preservation: Highlights from the American Transplant Congress 2023.

The American Transplant Congress (ATC) 2023, held in San Diego, California, emerged as a pivotal platform showcasing the latest advancements in organ machine perfusion, a key area in solid organ and tissue transplantation. This year's congress, attended by over 4500 participants, including leading experts, emphasized innovations in machine perfusion technologies across various organ types, including liver, kidney, heart, and lung. A total of 85 abstracts on organ machine perfusion were identified. Noteworthy advancements included the use of normothermic machine perfusion in mitigating ex-situ reperfusion injury in liver transplantation, the potential of biomarkers in assessing organ quality, and the impact of machine perfusion on graft survival and ischemic cholangiopathy incidence. Kidney transplantation saw promising developments in novel preservation methods, such as subzero storage and pulsatile perfusion. Heart and lung sessions revealed significant progress in preservation techniques, including metabolic alterations to extend organ preservation time. The conference also highlighted the growing interest in machine perfusion applications in pediatric transplantation, multi-visceral organ recovery, Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation, and discussions on novel technologies for monitoring and optimizing perfusion protocols. Additionally, ATC 2023 included critical discussions on ethical concerns, legal implications, and the evolving definition of death in the era of machine preservation, illustrating the complex landscape of transplantation science. Overall, ATC 2023 showcased significant strides in machine perfusion and continued its tradition of fostering global knowledge exchange, further cementing machine perfusion's role as a transformative force in improving transplant outcomes and expanding the donor pool.

Red rice (Oryza sativa L.) composition and its water interaction

Red rice (RR) is renowned for its exceptional nutritional properties and bioactive compounds. Preservation techniques can extend its shelf-life and enhance its market value. Understanding the relationship between the nutritional composition of RR and its water interaction is crucial for improving processing control, product quality and its culinary implications. This study evaluates the influence of RR composition and its water interaction. Nutritional composition was measured. A drying process was conducted to raise the drying critical processing points/periods using an incubator with airflow (1m/s) at 60°C. Empirical models were applied to assess the response of the biological material and ensure a good fit. The experiments and statistical analyses were conducted in triplicate. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to evaluate the correlation between drying periods and the nutritional composition. Results revealed that the nutritional composition influenced the drying critical points/periods. The applied models adjusted well for 'MNA-PB-901', 'MNA-PB-902', and 'MNA-PB-405', while Page's model best fit the experimental data for 'CAQUI' and 'MARANHÃO'. PCA analysis indicated that carbohydrates and amylose impacted superficial water content. A positive correlation was observed between the ash content and "D" point, and crude Fibre and "E" point.

The utility of soft-preservation in Medical Education: Current trends & future directions

The future of Medical Education (ME) must be evaluated in light of the increasing variety and availability of educational models and embalming techniques for student and physician education and training. To evaluate the viability and sustainability of the different learning models, research and data on the diverse teaching modalities will be assessed from the perspectives of training residents and physicians. A literature review was conducted to provide an overview of the diversity of soft-preservation techniques presently available. It was shown that ME is optimized using soft-preservation techniques, but that many are limited in their present ability to accurately reflect the live human anatomy, and that more research must be done to identify the optimal preservation technique given unique educational needs. The aggregation of current research study results will aid educational programs in identifying the modalities of training most appropriate for their curriculum, and help in identifying models that can be utilized long-term to improve ME.

The Major Potential of Non-Conventional Feed Resources in Poultry Nutrition in Ethiopia: A Review

This review was conducted with the objective of assessing the major potential of non-conventional feed resources in poultry nutrition in Ethiopia. Ethiopia has a vast array of non-conventional feed resources that can be utilized in poultry nutrition. These resources have the potential to significantly contribute This review was conducted with the objective of assessing the major potential of non-conventional feed resources to the growth and development of the poultry industry in the country. Potentially available of non-conventional feed resources (NCFR) include plant materials, such as the leaves and seeds of Moringa, Cassava, Taro leaf, Mango seed kernels, Pigeon pea, potato peel and leaf and agro-industrial by-products like, Rice bran, Filter sugar cake and brewery grain. Most of these feedstuff materials are low in energy, protein and minerals. These feed resource contain high amounts of anti-nutritional component. Appropriate processing methods like soaking, boiling, or fermenting can help reduce these anti-nutritional factors, enhancing the digestibility and utilization of NCFR in poultry diets. There are also several challenges and limitations that need to be addressed in order to fully exploit the potential of these feed resources. Some of the common problems are like limited knowledge and awareness, lack of processing and preservation techniques, limited availability and seasonal variations, lack of infrastructure and storage facilities and limited research and data. To addressing these challenges through research, extension services, and policy support can help unlock the full potential of non-conventional feed resources in poultry nutrition in Ethiopia. This would not only contribute to improved productivity and profitability in the poultry sector but also enhance food security and sustainable agricultural practices in the country.

BIOLOGICAL AGENTS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO CHEMICAL PRESERVATIVES IN THE SEAFOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY, A REVIEW

The present research investigated the possibility of replacing probiotic bacteria instead of chemical preservatives in the seafood processing industry. The data were used from articles published in the databases including Science Direct, Pub Med, Scopus Springer Link, and Scopus. The search was carried out using the keywords fish fillet, beneficial non-dairy foods, increasing shelf life, biological protection, probiotic food, microbial treatment, and Lactobacillus bacteria. A biological preservation technique was used to maintain the quality of hake, spanish mackerel, mackerel, sea bass, tilapia, swordfish, rainbow trout, and ribbon fillets. Swordfish coated with L. paracasei IMPC 2.1 was acceptable for 3 months. Followed by spanish mackerel and rainbow trout fillets coated with L. casei and L. plantarum subsp. plantarum ranked second and third for 30 and 21 days, respectively. The minimum shelf life of fillets was 48 hours (Tilapia coated with L. plantarum 1.19). In freezing, L. brevis could maintain the quality of rainbow trout fillet for 6 months. The present study suggests Lactobacillus strains, especially L. paracasei IMPC 2.1, as a preservative to preserve the quality of fish fillets. However, the use of this species in the seafood processing industry requires wider research to investigate its effect on other aquatic species.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Extracellular Vesicles: Therapeutic Potential in Organ Transplantation.

At present, organ transplantation remains the most appropriate therapy for patients with end-stage organ failure. However, the field of organ transplantation is still facing many challenges, including the shortage of organ donors, graft function damage caused by organ metastasis, and antibody-mediated immune rejection. It is therefore urgently necessary to find new and effective treatment. Stem cell therapy has been regarded as a "regenerative medicine technology." Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), as the most common source of cells for stem cell therapy, play an important role in regulating innate and adaptive immune responses and have been widely used in clinical trials for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Increasing evidence has shown that MSCs mainly rely on paracrine pathways to exert immunomodulatory functions. In addition, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) are the main components of paracrine substances of MSCs. Herein, an overview of the application of the function of MSCs and MSC-EVs in organ transplantation will focus on the progress reported in recent experimental and clinical findings and explore their uses for graft preconditioning and recipient immune tolerance regulation. Additionally, the limitations on the use of MSC and MSC-EVs are also discussed, covering the isolation of exosomes and preservation techniques. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for translating MSCs and MSC-EVs into clinical practice of organ transplantation are also evaluated.

Triangular Flap Insertion: An Option for Correction of Dog-Ears Deformity in High-Tension Areas.

Dog-ear deformity is a common protrusion defect of skin tissue after the closure of a surgical wound, affecting patients' appearance and quality of life. The common methods for correcting dog ears involve the removal of excess tissue in different directions or shapes after extending the incision along the long axis of the original wound. However, the literature regarding tissue preservation techniques for dog-ear correction is poor, especially for areas with insufficient skin tissue or high tension. The authors modified the original design of direct excisions, which transferred excess tissue from the horizontal axis of the wound to the longitudinal axis, thereby absorbing longitudinal tension and relieving linear scar contracture. This technique provides a way to correct dog ears without removing excess healthy tissue, especially as an option for dog-ear correction in high-tension areas.

Histological Evaluation of Alveolar Ridge Preservation Using Different Bone Grafts: Clinical Study Analysis Part II.

To compare histologically the percentage of bone formation 12-20 weeks post-ridge augmentation using two different techniques. Tooth loss is associated with three-dimensional bone remodeling and ridge atrophy. Ridge preservation procedures can prevent alveolar bone volume loss. Different techniques and materials are used to preserve the alveolar ridge. Computer-generated randomization software was used to assign two ridge preservation techniques for 11 extraction sites. In group I (type I bovine Achilles tendon collagen plugs with bioactive resorbable calcium apatite crystals (CPCAC) and ingroup II, cortico-cancellous bone chips (CCBC) mix, and an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) barrier membrane were placed. The histomorphometric studies were performed using a computer-based image analysis system (IMAGE-J 1.4, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA) to calculate the pixel area of bone tissue and the remaining bone graft material. The histomorphometric data were analyzed using a Student's t-test to compare the measurements between the two experimental groups. This parametric statistical test was employed to determine if there were any statistically significant differences in the quantitative histological parameters between the groups. Results: The sockets that received CPCAC showed a lower (31.89%) percentage of native bone surface area compared to the CCBC group (43.87%). However, the difference was not statistically significant (P< 0.05). In addition, group CPCAC showed evidence of foreign body reaction. The CCBC graft covered with an ePTFE barrier may induce more bone formation with minimal inflammation in an extraction socket compared to a collagen plug with calcium apatite crystals. In addition, histological analysis of the CPCAC graft showed evidence of foreign body reaction, which indicates a negative clinical impact.

The Efficiency of Hazard Rate Preservation Method for Generating Discrete Rayleigh–Lindley Distribution

In this study, we introduce two novel discrete counterparts for the Rayleigh–Lindley mixture, constructed through the application of survival and hazard rate preservation techniques. These two-parameter discrete models demonstrate exceptional adaptability across various data types, including skewed, symmetric, and monotonic datasets. Statistical analyses were conducted using maximum likelihood estimation and Bayesian approaches to assess these models. The Bayesian analysis, in particular, was implemented with the squared error and LINEX loss functions, incorporating a modified Lwin Prior distribution for parameter estimation. Through simulation studies and numerical methods, we evaluated the estimators’ performance and compared the effectiveness of the two discrete adaptations of the Rayleigh–Lindley distribution. The simulations reveal that Bayesian methods are especially effective in this setting due to their flexibility and adaptability. They provide more precise and dependable estimates for the discrete Rayleigh–Lindley model, especially when using the hazard rate preservation method. This method is a compelling alternative to the traditional survival discretization approach, showcasing its significant potential in enhancing model accuracy and applicability. Furthermore, two real data sets are analyzed to assess the performance of each analog.

60Co γ‐radiation at low‐dose level alters volatile compounds of blueberry during storage

Summary60Co γ‐radiation was applied to blueberry fruits in an effort to investigate a safe, eco‐friendly and effective blueberry preservation technique. However, the preservation effects were variable depending on tissue tolerance to irradiation doses. Moreover, irradiation may cause off‐odour. In this study, we examined the effects of three low doses of 60Co γ‐radiation on the physical and flavour attributes of blueberry. The results showed that 60Co γ‐radiation did not significantly improve fruit quality but extend the shelf life up to 15 days at 25 °C and 30 days at 4 °C. Compared with the control group, the preservation effect of 0.5–1.0 kGy irradiation treatment on blueberry fruit was not obvious before 15 days but maintained 65% of fruit firmness and reduced the loss of nutrients afterwards at 4 °C. At 25 °C, irradiation treatment caused up to a 150% increase in polyphenol oxidase activity, which was relevant to colour changes in late storage. Headspace Gas Chromatography Ion Mobility Spectrometry (HS‐GC‐IMS) was applied, and 33 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in blueberry treated with different radiation doses were identified, including 11 esters, 8 aldehydes, 7 alcohols, 6 ketones and other substances, which increased with increasing radiation dose. Radiation reduced the green taste of blueberry and promoted their ripening. Radiation above the level of 1.02 kGy led to the flavour deterioration of blueberry such as ethyl trans‐2‐butenoate. The side effects of radiation on the aroma of blueberry could be offset by low‐temperature storage. Blueberry stored at 4 °C contained more aldehydes with a heavier fresh/green aroma. Six aromas were proposed to be characteristic odour markers of radiated blueberry.

Transoral Outlet Reduction: Expert Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting.

Transoral outlet reduction (TORe) is an incisionless, endoscopic procedure to address weight recurrence after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Given the chronic, progressive nature of obesity and the minimally invasive, anatomy preserving technique of TORe, the procedure is expected to be met with high patient acceptance and widening clinical adoption. Nevertheless, the approach to TORe has been heterogeneous. As endoscopic bariatric therapies are increasingly incorporated into the multidisciplinary management of obesity, it is crucial to have a standardized, evidence-based framework for their implementation. Here, based on the available literature and the authors' combined experience of over 1,000 TORe procedures, we present our approach to patient selection, procedural technique, troubleshooting, and patient aftercare unique to TORe.

Comparison between immediate implant techniques and delayed implants using different Alveolar Preservation techniques on functional and aesthetic aspects: Literature review

Comparison between immediate implant techniques and delayed implants using different Alveolar Preservation techniques on functional and aesthetic aspects: Literature review

Impact of brining and drying processes on the nutritive value of tambaqui fish (Colossoma macropomum).

Preservation of fish as diet ingredient is challenging in many tropical regions due to poor socioeconomic conditions and lack of freezing facilities. So, alternative preservation techniques could be viable to address the issue. The present study evaluated the effect of brine salting (15% w/v) prior to drying at different temperatures on the nutrient profiles of tambaqui fish (Colossoma macropomum). Whole fish samples (n = 48; 792 ± 16 g; 8 months old) were grouped into two as brine-salted and non-salted, and treated at seven different drying temperatures of 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60°C for a period of 23 h each. To evaluate the impact of Maillard reaction, reactive lysine was also quantified. Drying temperature had no effect on the evaluated macro- and micro-nutrients of tambaqui fish (P > 0.05) while brining reduced the overall protein concentration by 6% (58.8 to 55.4 g/100 g DM; P = 0.004). Brining significantly reduced many amino acids: taurine by 56% (7.1 to 3.1 g/kg; P < 0.001), methionine 17% (14.7 to 12.1 g/kg; P < 0.001), cysteine 11% (5.1 to 4.4 g/kg, P = 0.016), and reactive lysine 11% (52.0 to 46.4 g/kg; P = 0.004). However, alanine, arginine, and serine were not affected by brining (P > 0.05). Brining also reduced the concentrations of Se by 14% (149 to 128 μg/kg DM; P = 0.020), iodine 38% (604 to 373 μg/kg DM; P = 0.020), K 42% (9.71 to 5.61 g/kg DM; P < 0.001) and Mg 18% (1.32 to 1.10 g/kg DM; P = < 0.001) versus an anticipated vast increase in Na by 744% (2.70 to 22.90 g/kg DM; P < 0.001) and ash 28% (12.4 to 16.0 g/100g DM; P < 0.001) concentration. Neither brining nor drying temperature induced changes in % lysine reactivity and fat content of tambaqui fish (P > 0.05). Agreeably, results of multivariate analysis showed a negative association between brining, Na, and ash on one side of the component and most other nutrients on the other component. In conclusion, drying without brining may better preserve the nutritive value of tambaqui fish. However, as a practical remark to the industry sector, it is recommended that the final product may further evaluated for any pathogen of economic or public health importance.

Current Fertility Preservation Steps in Young Women Suffering from Cancer and Future Perspectives.

Childhood cancer incidence, especially in high-income countries, has led to a focus on preserving fertility in this vulnerable population. The common treatments, such as radiation and certain chemotherapeutic agents, though effective, pose a risk to fertility. For adult women, established techniques like embryo and egg freezing are standard, requiring ovarian stimulation. However, for prepubescent girls, ovarian tissue freezing has become the primary option, eliminating the need for hormonal preparation. This review describes the beginning, evolution, and current situation of the fertility preservation options for this young population. A total of 75 studies were included, covering the steps in the current fertility preservation protocols: (i) ovarian tissue extraction, (ii) the freezing method, and (iii) thawing and transplantation. Cryopreservation and the subsequent transplantation of ovarian tissue have resulted in successful fertility restoration, with over 200 recorded live births, including cases involving ovarian tissue cryopreserved from prepubescent girls. Despite promising results, challenges persist, such as follicular loss during transplantation, which is attributed to ischemic and oxidative damage. Optimizing ovarian tissue-freezing processes and exploring alternatives to transplantation, like in vitro systems for follicles to establish maturation, are essential to mitigating associated risks. Further research is required in fertility preservation techniques to enhance clinical outcomes in the future. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation appears to be a method with specific benefits, indications, and risks, which can be an important tool in terms of preserving fertility in younger women.