Wall Integrity Research Articles

Intertrochanteric femoral fracture with lateral wall fracture at the lag screw insertion site may cause postoperative anterior wall fracture and lead to deterioration in activities of daily living

BackgroundIncomplete reduction and fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures significantly affect patients' daily activities. The lateral wall's integrity is pivotal in such fractures. This study examines instability, particularly lateral wall fractures at the lag screw insertion site and postoperative anterior wall fractures. MethodsOverall, 161 patients with femoral intertrochanteric fractures were included. Three-dimensional computed tomography was conducted preoperatively and 3 weeks postoperatively to determine the postoperative anterior wall fractures incidence. Patient background, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative telescoping, and daily living activities were compared. ResultsThe study recorded 51 cases of lateral wall fractures at the lag screw insertion site and 17 of postoperative fractures of the anterior wall. Postoperative fractures of the anterior wall were found in 3 of 110 and 14 of 51 patients in the group without and with the lag screw insertion site, respectively. The group of postoperative fractures of the anterior wall had significantly lower bone mineral density, longer operative time, and increased intraoperative blood loss. At 4 weeks postoperatively, the group of postoperative fractures of the anterior wall showed increased telescoping and decreased motor component of the functional independence measure (with postoperative fractures of the anterior wall: 28, without postoperative fractures of the anterior wall: 30), and significant reductions were observed in the transfer and locomotion items, indicating lower limb function (with postoperative fractures of the anterior wall group: 11, without postoperative fractures of the anterior wall group: 12). ConclusionsPostoperative anterior wall fractures occurred in 27.5% cases with lateral wall fractures at the lag screw insertion site. Three-dimensional computed tomography is useful for preoperative evaluation of lateral wall fractures at the lag screw insertion site to assess instability. Postoperative fractures of the anterior wall related reduction in daily living activities needs attention.

Metabolic analysis of the CAZy class glycosyltransferases in rhizospheric soil fungiome of the plant species Moringa oleifera

The target of the present work is to study the most abundant carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) of glycosyltransferase (GT) class, which are encoded by fungiome genes present in the rhizospheric soil of the plant species Moringa oleifera. The datasets of this CAZy class were recovered using metagenomic whole shotgun genome sequencing approach, and the resultant CAZymes were searched against the KEGG pathway database to identify function. High emphasis was given to the two GT families, GT4 and GT2, which were the highest within GT class in the number and abundance of gene queries in this soil compartment. These two GT families harbor CAZymes playing crucial roles in cell membrane and cell wall processes. These CAZymes are responsible for synthesizing essential structural components such as cellulose and chitin, which contribute to the integrity of cell walls in plants and fungi. The CAZyme beta-1,3-glucan synthase of GT2 family accumulates 1,3-β-glucan, which provides elasticity as well as tensile strength to the fungal cell wall. Other GT CAZymes contribute to the biosynthesis of several compounds crucial for cell membrane and wall integrity, including lipopolysaccharide, e.g., lipopolysaccharide N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase, cell wall teichoic acid, e.g., alpha-glucosyltransferase, and cellulose, e.g., cellulose synthase. These compounds also play pivotal roles in ion homeostasis, organic carbon mineralization, and osmoprotection against abiotic stresses in plants. This study emphasizes the major roles of these two CAZy GT families in connecting the structure and function of cell membranes and cell walls of fungal and plant cells. The study also sheds light on the potential occurrence of tripartite symbiotic relationships involving the plant, rhizospheric bacteriome, and fungiome via the action of CAZymes of GT4 and GT2 families. These findings provide valuable insights towards the generation of innovative agricultural practices to enhance the performance of crop plants in the future.

The Eleutherococcus senticosus fruits' intractum affects changes in the transepithelial electric potential in the distal section of the rabbit's large intestine and inhibits hyaluronidase

Ethnopharmacological relevanceEleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim. has been used in traditional Russian medicine due to its recognized immunostimulant and anti-inflammatory activities. Compounds present in the fruits have demonstrated the capability to modulate the activity of enzymes such as hyaluronidase, suggesting their potential value in the development of effective therapies for various conditions where anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial, such as gastrointestinal diseases and tumor growth. Aim of the studyIn order to support the use of the fruits in folk medicine, this study is aimed to evaluate, post-mortem, the impact of E. senticosus fruits intractum (40 % extract made from fresh fruits) on the transepithelial electrogenic transport of sodium ions in the colon. The objective of this study was also to examine the impact of the intractum on proinflammatory serum hyaluronidase in children diagnosed with acute leukemia. MethodsThe study employed the Ussing technique to examine electrophysiological characteristics of isolated epithelial tissue, using the distal colon wall isolated from 10 New Zealand white male rabbits. The effect of the intractum on the inhibition of human serum hyaluronidase was examined with turbidimetric screening methods, using the blood samples collected from patients diagnosed with acute leukemia. ResultsFor the first time, we discovered that the intractum used in the stimulation fluid, caused hyperpolarization reactions in colon tissue. Statistical analysis showed that these reactions were significantly different in relation to the control. The intractum significantly inhibited hyaluronidase activity with the mean value by group of 60 %, and 40 % for aescin used as a control. ConclusionThe results support the traditional use of the fruits in inflammatory-related diseases. The use of intractum of E. senticosus on the distal colon wall demonstrates its protective effect on the wall integrity and in a relation to hyaluronidase inhibition may additionally indicate its anti-inflammatory property. Thus, the results mean that the intractum may be used in colon-related diseases.

NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS OF THE INFLUENCE OF VARIOUS PARAMETERS ON HEAT TRANSFER AND FLOW SEPARATION IN SUPERSONIC COOLED NOZZLES

In rocket engine nozzle design, flow separation is essential and, given the high temperatures and pressures in the thrust chamber, regenerative cooling is critical for maintaining the nozzle wall's integrity. This passage provides a summary of an in-depth numerical analysis of boundary layer separation and heat transfer within a 30°-15° cooled nozzle. The performance of the SST-V turbulence model under these conditions is assessed numerically. A variety of factors are investigated, including wall temperature, turbulent Prandtl number, and constant specific heat ratios (spanning 1.31 to 1.4 for constant fluid properties of N2O, CH4, Cl2, and air). Furthermore, variable specific heat ratios (from 1.39 to 1.66 for variable fluid properties of air, CH4, O2, and Helium) are examined, along with other parameters that affect the location of separated flow and the local wall heat transfer.

IMAGING OF THE ANTERIOR COMMUNICATING ARTERY: NORMAL AND ABNORMAL FINDINGS RELATED TO ANEURYSM

The anterior communicating artery (AComA) is a critical component of the Circle of Willis, serving as a vital conduit that connects the bilateral anterior cerebral arteries. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the imaging characteristics of the AComA, encompassing both normal variations and abnormal findings associated with aneurysm development. Utilizing advanced imaging techniques, a thorough analysis of the AComA complex was conducted in a cohort of subjects. Normal anatomical variants were meticulously documented, highlighting variations in length, diameter, and branching patterns. Abnormal findings indicative of potential aneurysm markers was carefully assessed, encompassing variations in morphology, hemodynamic flow patterns, and wall integrity. Special attention was given to elucidate the factors contributing to aneurysm initiation within the AComA complex. The clinical significance of distinguishing between normal anatomical variations and potential pathological findings was underscored, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection and intervention to mitigate the risks associated with aneurysm rupture. The findings of this study contribute valuable insights to the field of neurovascular diagnostics and therapeutic strategies. By enhancing our understanding of the AComA and its role in aneurysm development, this research aims to empower clinicians with the knowledge needed for informed decision-making and proactive management. Ultimately, the comprehensive examination of AComA imaging, encompassing both normal and abnormal variants, holds the potential to drive advancements in cerebrovascular care and improve patient outcomes.

A Review on Use of FRP Mesh and Bamboo Fiber Composite Material for AAC Block Masonry Wall Strengthening and Water Resistance

Abstract: For the purpose of strengthening masonry walls, externally bonded composite materials offer a desirable solution. Current studies in this area demonstrate that the use of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs), which are externally bonded composite materials, improves the strength, stiffness, and ductility of the wall under loads while maintaining the wall's integrity at failure

Tympanic bullae ultrasonography is feasible in nonsedated healthy rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

To assess the feasibility of ultrasonography of the tympanic bullae (TB) in live, nonsedated rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). 40 healthy rabbits undergoing TB ultrasonography without sedation between September 2021 and May 2022. For each rabbit, fur was clipped over an area (3 X 3 cm) at the level of the angular process of each mandible, then 3 ultrasonographic planes of each TB were imaged via ventral approach, with measurement of the time taken to complete the examination. Three items were assessed for each plane: TB depth, wall integrity, and contents (present or absent). Results were compared for rabbits grouped as standard-sized breed type versus dwarf-sized breed type. The examination could be carried out successfully in 36 of 40 (90%) of rabbits with clipping. The restraint and examination were relatively well tolerated by the animals, except for the transverse sections. Obtaining oblique and longitudinal sections, carried out on 33 of 40 (83%) rabbits in our study, allowed for evaluation of the TB. The examination was feasible with all rabbit sizes. The depth of the TB was found to be linked to the size of the rabbit and especially to the size of its jaw. Visualization of the distal bulla wall was observed in 2 of the 40 (5%) subjects, consistent with abnormal fluid contents or bulla osteitis. Ultrasonography of the TB was easy to learn and rapid to perform, with a mean examination time of < 10 minutes (mean of 8.71 minutes) without any sedation.

Abstract 10419: Mechanical Properties of Flap and Adventitia in Type B Aortic Dissection

Introduction: Type B Aortic Dissection (TBAD) is a lethal disease. The tissue mechanical property is of great importance for estimating TBAD rupture risk. This study sought to characterize the mechanical properties of stiffness and strength of dissection flap and adventitia tissues from patients with chronic TBAD. Methods: Aortic tissue removed from 23 patients undergoing open repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms secondary to chronic TBAD was analyzed. Uniaxial testing was performed on the flap (circumferential [Circ] n=11, axial n=8) and on the adventitia (Circ n=7, axial n=6 ). The uniaxial lower tangent modulus (uLTM), uniaxial higher tangent modulus (uHTM) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) were obained for each sample from stress-strain relation (Fig. 1a). We also perfromed biaxial tension testing (BTT, in Circ and Axial) of the flap (n=7) and adventitia (n=9). BTT is closer to the in vivo loading condition than uniaxial testing. Since BTT usually achieves lower maximum stress, here only the biaxial lower tangent modulus (bLTM, Fig. 1b) was obtained. Result: The uLTM of the dissection flap (Fig. 1c), and bLTM of the flap and adventitia (Fig. 1d) in Circ are significantly larger than those in Axial (p=0.006, 0.011, and 0.008, repsectively). In Circ (Fig. 1d), the bLTM of the adventitia is larger than that of the flap (p=0.027). The flap UTS in Circ is larger than that in Axial (Fig. 1f, p&lt;0.001). In Axial, adventitia UTS is larger than flap UTS (Fig. 1f, p=0.001). Conclusions: The adventitia is stiffer and stronger than the dissection flap in patients with cTBAD. These biomechanical data corroborate the surgical axiom of including the adventitia in surgical repair of aortic dissections. Furthermore, the flap and adventitia in Circ are stiffer than those in Axial. These findings may provide insight into the ability of the aorta to maintain its wall integrity in the setting of hypertension and aneurysmal disease, and provide foundations for estimating the risk of TBAD.

Histology and metabonomics reveal the toxic effects of kresoxim-methyl on adult zebrafish

Studies have shown that kresoxim-methyl (KM) and other strobilurin fungicides have toxic effects on aquatic organisms. However, the potential deleterious effects of kresoxim-methyl (KM) on adult zebrafish regarding the ecological risk of environmental concentration remain unclear. Here, the histology and untargeted metabonomics was used to investigate the adverse effect on female zebrafish after exposure to KM at environmental concentration, aquatic life benchmark and one-half LC50 of adult zebrafish. Results demonstrated KM affected zebrafish liver, ovary and intestine development, blurred the boundary between hepatocytes or caused hepatic vacuoles, increased the percentage of perinucleolar oocyte and cortical alveolus oocyte, decreased intestinal goblet cells and disturbed villus and wall integrity after 21 d exposure. Metabonomics showed different concentrations of KM simultaneously influenced the metabolites annotated to vitamin digestion and absorption, serotonergic synapse, retinol metabolism, ovarian steroidogenesis and arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism in zebrafish liver. Results showed the decreased triglyceride and cholesterol levels, as well as the metabolic alterations in amino acid, lipid, vitamin and retinol metabolism caused by KM, might disturb the energy supply for normal liver development and oocyte maturation. In addition, KM altered the transcription of Tdo2a, Tdo2b, Ido1, Cxcl8b, Cyp7a, Cyp11a, Cyp11b, Cyp17a, Cyp19a, Hsd3β, Hsd17β, Pla2, Ptgs2a and Ptgs2b, the level of TG, TC, MDA, IFN, IL6 and Ca2+, and the activity of CAT, SOD Ca2+-ATPase in zebrafish liver. Moreover, cytoscape analysis suggested the disturbed AA metabolism caused by KM, might interconnect multiple metabolic pathways to share implicated function in the regulation of oocyte maturation and immune response. Current study brought us closer to an incremental understanding of the toxic mechanism of KM on adult zebrafish, indicated there was crosstalk among different regulatory pathways to regulate the metabolic disorders and biologically hazardous effects induced by KM.

Role of MicroRNA-Like RNAs in the Regulation of Spore Morphological Differences in the Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhizium acridum.

Metarhizium acridum is an important microbial pesticide. Conidia (CO) and blastospores (BS) are two types of spores that occur in different patterns in the M. acridum life cycle and exhibit significant differences in cell morphology, structure, and activity. It may suggest that the fungus has a complex gene regulation mechanism. While previous studies on the differences between CO and BS have mainly focused on cell structure and application, little is known regarding the differences between CO and BS in fungi on the transcriptome levels. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs crucial to gene regulation and cell function. Understanding the miRNA-like RNAs (milRNA) and mRNA expression profiles related to cell growth and cellular morphological changes would elucidate the roles of miRNAs in spore morphological differences. In this study, 4,646 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and mainly classified in the GO terms cell, cell part, biological process, and catalytic activity. The KEGG annotation suggested that they were enriched in amino acid biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, ribosome, and oxidative phosphorylation and might be involved in cell activity and structure. There were 113 differentially expressed milRNAs (DEMs), targeting 493 DEGs. Target gene functional analysis revealed that the target genes were mainly enriched in RNA transport, purine metabolism, and the cell cycle. In addition, we identified essential genes from milRNA-mRNA pairs that might participate in cell budding growth and cell membrane and wall integrity, including adenosine deaminase, glycosyl hydrolase, and G-patch domain protein (dno-miR-328-3p), WD repeat-containing protein pop1 (age-miR-127), and GPI-anchored wall transfer protein (cgr-miR-598). MilRNAs might therefore play a crucial role in cell growth and cellular morphological changes as transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulators.

Development of a concept and basis for the DEMO diagnostic and control system

An initial concept for the plasma diagnostic and control (D&C) system has been developed as part of European studies towards the development of a demonstration tokamak fusion reactor (DEMO). The main objective is to develop a feasible, integrated concept design of the DEMO D&C system that can provide reliable plasma control and high performance (electricity output) over extended periods of operation. While the fusion power is maximized when operating near to the operational limits of the tokamak, the reliability of operation typically improves when choosing parameters significantly distant from these limits. In addition to these conflicting requirements, the D&C development has to cope with strong adverse effects acting on all in vessel components on DEMO (harsh neutron environment, particle fluxes, temperatures, electromagnetic forces, etc.). Moreover, space allocation and plasma access are constrained by the needs for first wall integrity and optimization of tritium breeding. Taking into account these boundary conditions, the main DEMO plasma control issues have been formulated, and a list of diagnostic systems and channels needed for plasma control has been developed, which were selected for their robustness and the required coverage of control issues. For a validation and refinement of this concept, simulation tools are being refined and applied for equilibrium, kinetic and mode control studies.

Silicone Nanofilament Support Layers in an Open-Channel System for the Fast Reduction of Para-Nitrophenol.

Chemical vapor phase deposition was used to create hydrophobic nanostructured surfaces on glass slides. Subsequently, hydrophilic channels were created by sputtering a metal catalyst on the channels while masking the outside. The surface tension gradient between the hydrophilic surface in the channels and the outside hydrophobicity formed the open-channel system. The reduction of para-nitrophenol (PNP) was studied on these devices. When compared to nanostructure-free reference systems, the created nanostructures, namely, silicone nanofilaments (SNFs) and nano-bagels, had superior catalytic performance (73% and 66% conversion to 55% at 0.5 µL/s flow rate using 20 nm platinum) and wall integrity; therefore, they could be readily used multiple times. The created nanostructures were stable under the reaction conditions, as observed with scanning electron microscopy. Transition electron microscopy studies of platinum-modified SNFs revealed that the catalyst is present as nanoparticles ranging up to 13 nm in size. By changing the target in the sputter coating unit, molybdenum, gold, nickel and copper were evaluated for their catalytic efficiency. The relative order was platinum < gold = molybdenum < nickel < copper. The decomposition of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) by platinum as a concurrent reaction to the para-nitrophenol reduction terminates the reaction before completion, despite a large excess of reducing agent. Gold had the same catalytic rate as molybdenum, while nickel was two times and copper about four times faster than gold. In all cases, there was a clear improvement in catalysis of silicone nanofilaments compared to a flat reference system.

3D Reconstruction of HvRNASET2 Molecule to Understand Its Antibacterial Role.

Recent studies performed on the invertebrate model Hirudo verbana (medicinal leech) suggest that the T2 ribonucleic enzyme HvRNASET2 modulates the leech’s innate immune response, promoting microbial agglutination and supporting phagocytic cells recruitment in challenged tissues. Indeed, following injection of both lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and Staphylococcus aureus in the leech body wall, HvRNASET2 is expressed by leech type I granulocytes and induces bacterial aggregation to aid macrophage phagocytosis. Here, we investigate the HvRNASET2 antimicrobial role, in particular assessing the effects on the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli. For this purpose, starting from the three-dimensional molecule reconstruction and in silico analyses, the antibacterial activity was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. The changes induced in treated bacteria, such as agglutination and alteration in wall integrity, were observed by means of light, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, immunogold, AMPs (antimicrobial peptides) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding assays were carried out to evaluate HvRNASET2 interaction with the microbial envelopes and the ensuing ability to affect microbial viability. Finally, in vivo experiments confirmed that HvRNASET2 promotes a more rapid phagocytosis of bacterial aggregates by macrophages, representing a novel molecule for counteracting pathogen infections and developing alternative solutions to improve human health.

Melaleuca leucadendra Essential Oil Promotes Loss of Cell Membrane and Wall Integrity and Inhibits Bacterial Growth: An In Silico and In Vitro Approach.

Essential oils are potential antimicrobial agents and can be used as active ingredients in the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetics industries. This work intends to evaluate the antibacterial activity and design a strategy for the proposition of the mechanism of action of Melaleuca leucadendra essential oil. Optimum concentration of the bacteria and the phase where they had the highest pathogenic activity were determined. Results show that for each microorganism it is necessary to use a different concentration at the time of adjusting the initial inoculum, and that the time to achieve exponential growth phase varies from one to the other. M. leucadendra essential oil demonstrated in vitro antimicrobial properties. This oil was chemically characterized and the main compounds were evaluated by their mechanism of antibacterial action based on structure-activity analysis. The mechanism is related to the increase of bacteria cell membrane permeability. This indication was confirmed by flow cytometry and transmission electronic microscopy. Thus, in silico analysis is an important tool in the search for new antimicrobial agents and these results showed that M. leucadendra essential oil may be useful on the development of new chemotherapies or food preservation systems.

Auxin protects Arabidopsis thaliana cell suspension cultures from programmed cell death induced by the cellulose biosynthesis inhibitors thaxtomin A and isoxaben

BackgroundThaxtomin A (TA) is a natural cellulose biosynthesis inhibitor (CBI) synthesized by the potato common scab-causing pathogen Streptomyces scabies. Inhibition of cellulose synthesis by TA compromises cell wall organization and integrity, leading to the induction of an atypical program of cell death (PCD). These processes may facilitate S. scabies entry into plant tissues. To study the mechanisms that regulate the induction of cell death in response to inhibition of cellulose synthesis, we used Arabidopsis thaliana cell suspension cultures treated with two structurally different CBIs, TA and the herbicide isoxaben (IXB).ResultsThe induction of cell death by TA and IXB was abrogated following pretreatment with the synthetic auxin 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and the natural auxin indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). The addition of auxin efflux inhibitors also inhibited the CBI-mediated induction of PCD. This effect may be due to intracellular accumulation of auxin. Auxin has a wide range of effects in plant cells, including a role in the control of cell wall composition and rigidity to facilitate cell elongation. Using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)-based force spectroscopy, we found that inhibition of cellulose synthesis by TA and IXB in suspension-cultured cells decreased cell wall stiffness to a level slightly different than that caused by auxin. However, the cell wall stiffness in cells pretreated with auxin prior to CBI treatment was equivalent to that of cells treated with auxin only.ConclusionsAddition of auxin to Arabidopsis cell suspension cultures prevented the TA- and IXB-mediated induction of cell death. Cell survival was also stimulated by inhibition of polar auxin transport during CBI-treatment. Inhibition of cellulose synthesis perturbed cell wall mechanical properties of Arabidopsis cells. Auxin treatment alone or with CBI also decreased cell wall stiffness, showing that the mechanical properties of the cell wall perturbed by CBIs were not restored by auxin. However, since auxin’s effects on the cell wall stiffness apparently overrode those induced by CBIs, we suggest that auxin may limit the impact of CBIs by restoring its own transport and/or by stabilizing the plasma membrane - cell wall - cytoskeleton continuum.

NMR study of fresh cut salads: Influence of temperature and storage time on leaf structure and water distribution in escarole.

Consumption of fresh-cut vegetables has rapidly increased over the past decades. Among salads, escarole is one of the most popular varieties. Specific packaging limits gas exchange and consequently water loss and bacterial respiration, increasing the shelf life of salads. Although the major cause of quality loss for minimally processed salads is the leaf textural changes, this aspect has rarely been investigated. Therefore, investigating structural changes of leaves during storage is important in order to understand and minimize quality loss of salads. In this study, we focused on the impact of storage duration and temperature on the escarole leaf structure. The complex leaf structure was investigated by relaxation NMR, via transverse relaxation times, which allows the specific description of vacuolar water compartment of the cell. The storage duration (maximum 12days) and temperatures (4°C, 7°C, 10°C, and 12°C) have been chosen in order to represent the conditions registered in factory. The results showed that the temperature did not have significant impact on the salad structure during the first week. During the second week, changes in the water distribution and changes in the relaxation time T2 have been observed. The changes in transverse relaxation times associated with vacuolar water are related to lost of cell membrane and wall integrity. The NMR results confirmed the effect of storage temperature on the degradation process of the cell before visual detection of the salad leaf degradation. The present study confirmed the sensibility of NMR relaxometry for monitoring water changes in the leaf.

Skeletonized internal thoracic artery harvesting: a low thermal damage electrosurgical device provides improved endothelial layer and tendency to better integrity of the vessel wall compared to conventional electrosurgery

BackgroundElectrosurgery is fundamental to the precise, fast and bloodless preparation of internal thoracic artery grafts in cardiac surgery. The PEAK PlasmaBlade is a monopolar electrosurgical device that uses pulsed radiofrequency energy to generate a plasma-mediated discharge along an insulated electrode, creating a cutting edge while the blade stays near body temperature. The aim of this study is to compare the histological samples, cardiac computed-tomography of graft patency, and clinical outcomes of patients after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting with preparation of the internal thoracic arteries by a conventional electrosurgical device and the PlasmaBlade.MethodsIn twenty subjects one internal thoracic artery was prepared with PlasmaBlade and the other artery with a conventional electrosurgical device. Histological samples were evaluated for three factors for potential graft failure: endothelial damage, integrity of the vessel wall and adventitial hemorrhage. Five samples per artery were evaluated by a novel scoring method based on the exposed circumference of the histological sample (“0”: 0%, “1”: 1–25%, “2”: 26–50%, “3”: 51–75%, “4”: ≥76% of the circumference). The Wilcoxon signed ranks test for mean scores within subjects was performed. Six-month-follow up by cardiac computed tomography for evaluation of graft patency was completed in 16 patients.ResultsHistological results demonstrated significantly less endothelial damage after PlasmaBlade (83% vs 60%, absolute: 75/90 vs. 53/89 samples with score “0–1”, p = 0.04). PlasmaBlade samples demonstrated a tendency to better wall integrity (72% vs. 54%, absolute: 64/89 vs. 47/87 samples with score “0–1”, p = 0.32). There were no differences in endothelial bleeding (PlasmaBlade 46% vs. electrosurgery 53%, absolute: 41/88 vs. 48/90 samples with score “0–1”, p = 0.63). Computed tomography confirmed non-inferiority of the PlasmaBlade to conventional electrosurgery with a patency rate of 94%.ConclusionHistologically, internal thoracic arteries harvested with PlasmaBlade demonstrate a more intact endothelial layer and a tendency to better wall integrity. Computed tomography of graft patency speaks for non-inferiority to conventional electrosurgery. PlasmaBlade may be preferable to conventional electrosurgery, if further follow-up confirms patency of internal thoracic arteries.Trial registrationNCT03510026, registered 4th April 2018 (retrospectively registered).

Postnatal dilatation of umbilical cord vessels and its impact on wall integrity: Prerequisite for the artificial placenta.

A lung assist device, which acts as an artificial placenta, can provide additional gas exchange for preterm and term newborns with respiratory failure. The concept of the lung assist device requires a large bore access via umbilical vessels to allow pumpless extracorporeal blood flow rates up to 30 mL/kg/min. After birth, constricted umbilical vessels need to be reopened for vascular access. The objective is to study the impact of umbilical vessel expansion on vessel integrity for achieving large bore access. Umbilical cords from healthy term deliveries were cannulated and dilatated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty catheters in 1 mm increments from 4 to 8 mm for umbilical artery and from 4 to 15 mm for umbilical vein, n = 6 per expansion diameter. Paraffin-embedded transverse sections of dilated and control samples were HE & Van Gieson stained. Effects of dilatation, shown by splitting, were measured. Umbilical vessel expansion led to concentric splitting, shown by areas devoid of extracellular matrix and nuclei in the tunica intima and media. No radial splitting was observed. Results suggest an expansion threshold of umbilical artery at 6 mm and umbilical vein at 7 mm, while maximal splitting was observed above this threshold (3.6 ± 0.8%, p = 0.043 for umbilical artery 7 mm and 6.3 ± 1.8%, p = 0.048 for umbilical vein 8 mm). Endothelial cell sloughing was present in all dilated samples but not in the control samples. The suggested thresholds for safe expansions are similar to in utero umbilical vessel diameters and demonstrate a proof of concept for attaining large bore access for the lung assist device.

Laser ablation of the biliary tree: in vivo proof of concept as potential treatment of unresectable cholangiocarcinoma

Objectives: The palliative treatment of cholangiocarcinoma is based on stent placement with well-known procedure-related complications. Consequently, alternative energy-based techniques were put forward with controversial long-term results. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of biliary tree laser ablation (LA) in terms of: (i) absence of perforation, (ii) temperature increase, (iii) induced thermal damage in in vivo models.Materials and methods: The common bile duct and cystic ducts of two pigs were ablated with a diode laser (circumferential irradiation pattern) for 6 and 3 min at 7 W. Laser settings were chosen from previous ex vivo experiments. Local temperature was monitored through a fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensor embedded into the laser delivery probe. Histopathological analysis of the ablated specimen was performed through in situ endomicroscopy, haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) stains.Results: Temperature reached a plateau of 53 °C with consequent thermal damage on the application area, regardless of laser settings and application sites. No perforation was detected macroscopically or microscopically. At the H&E stain, wall integrity was always preserved. The NADH stain allowed to evaluate damage extension. It turned out that the ablation spreading width depended on application time and duct diameter. In situ endomicroscopy revealed a clear distinction between ablated and non-ablated areas.Conclusions: The temperature distribution obtained through LA proved to induce a safe and effective intraductal coagulative necrosis of biliary ducts. These results represent the basis for further experiments on tumour-bearing models for the treatment of obstructive cholangiocarcinoma.

Mold Spore Release during Simulated Flooding and High Humidity

Two one-month simulations were performed in a chamber to measure mold spore release from deteriorating building materials caused by flooding and excessive dampness. Penicillium chrysogenum was implanted on the backside of a typical wooden frame gypsum wall inside of an environmental chamber. The wall cavity was sealed. Water was fed slowly into the wall cavity, emulating a leaky foundation. One inch of water flooded the bottom of the chamber producing 100% RH continuously. Spore release inside the wall cavity and on the front side of the wall was measured and compared. Aspergillus fumigatus was implanted in the second study with conditions maintained at 75-85% RH and no flooding. Many other molds produced heavy growth in equal or greater abundance. Sustained heavy growth during one month of flooding and later elimination of water did NOT release spores into air, until stripped by high velocity air. With sustained high humidity (no flooding) surface mold and spore releases within the wall cavity increased gradually, but not in front. Near the end, different spores were eventually released into the front airspace, but in far lesser amounts. The wall is an effective barrier against molds released from the wall cavity. Spore release is inhibited by very high humidity conditions. High air contamination does not necessarily accompany findings of extensive mold on building surfaces, as is often assumed or insinuated, until wall integrity is disrupted. The mold colonization process appears to be selective, modulated by environmental conditions.