Early development of the enteric nervous system visualized by using a new transgenic zebrafish line harboring a regulatory region for choline acetyltransferase a (chata) gene

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Gene Expression Patterns, Volume 28
Author(s): Masataka Nikaido, Saki Izumi, Honoka Ohnuki, Yuki Takigawa, Kyo Yamasu, Kohei Hatta
The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the largest part of the peripheral nervous system in vertebrates. Toward the visualization of the development of the vertebrate ENS, we report our creation of a new transgenic line, Tg(chata:GGFF2) which has a 1.5-kb upstream region of the zebrafish choline acetyltransferase a (chata) gene followed by modified green fluorescent protein (gfp). During development, GFP + cells were detected in the gut by 60 h post-fertilization (hpf). In the gut of 6- and 12-days post-fertilization (dpf) larvae, an average of 92% of the GFP + cells were positive for the neuronal marker HuC/D, suggesting that GFP marks enteric neurons in this transgenic line. We also observed that 66% of the GFP + cells were choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)-immunopositive at 1.5 months. Thus, GFP is expressed at the larval stages at which ChAT protein expression is not yet detected by immunostaining. We studied the spatiotemporal pattern of neural differentiation in the ENS by live-imaging of this transgenic line. We observed that GFP + or gfp + cells initially formed a pair of bilateral rows at 60 hpf or 53 hpf, respectively, in the migrating enteric neural crest cells. Most of the GFP + cells did not migrate, and most of the new GFP + cells were added to fill the space among the previously formed GFP + cells. GFP expression reached the anus by 72 hpf. New GFP + cells then also appeared in the dorsal and ventral sides of the initial GFP + rows, resulting in their distribution on the entire gut by 4 dpf. A small number of new GFP + cells were found to move among older GFP + cells just before the cells stopped migration, suggesting that the moving GFP + cells may represent neural precursor cells searching for a place for the final differentiation. Our data suggest that the Tg(chata:GGFF2) line could serve as a useful tool for studies of enteric neural differentiation and cell behavior.



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Oxygen-induced alterations in the expression of chromatin modifying enzymes and the transcriptional regulation of imprinted genes

Publication date: June 2018
Source:Gene Expression Patterns, Volume 28
Author(s): William M. Skiles, Avery Kester, Jane H. Pryor, Mark E. Westhusin, Michael C. Golding, Charles R. Long
Embryo culture and assisted reproductive technologies have been associated with a disproportionately high number of epigenetic abnormalities in the resulting offspring. However, the mechanisms by which these techniques influence the epigenome remain poorly defined. In this study, we evaluated the capacity of oxygen concentration to influence the transcriptional control of a selection of key enzymes regulating chromatin structure. In mouse embryonic stem cells, oxygen concentrations modulated the transcriptional regulation of the TET family of enzymes, as well as the de novo methyltransferase Dnmt3a. These transcriptional changes were associated with alterations in the control of multiple imprinted genes, including H19, Igf2, Igf2r, and Peg3. Similarly, exposure of in vitro produced bovine embryos to atmospheric oxygen concentrations was associated with disruptions in the transcriptional regulation of TET1, TET3, and DNMT3a, along with the DNA methyltransferase co-factor HELLS. In addition, exposure to high oxygen was associated with alterations in the abundance of transcripts encoding members of the Polycomb repressor complex (EED and EZH2), the histone methyltransferase SETDB1 and multiple histone demethylases (KDM1A, KDM4B, and KDM4C). These disruptions were accompanied by a reduction in embryo viability and suppression of the pluripotency genes NANOG and SOX2. These experiments demonstrate that oxygen has the capacity to modulate the transcriptional control of chromatin modifying genes involved in the establishment and maintenance of both pluripotency and genomic imprinting.



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Strengthening and toughening austenitic steel by introducing gradient martensite via cyclic forward/reverse torsion

Publication date: 5 April 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 143
Author(s): Ning Guo, Zhimin Zhang, Qingshan Dong, Hongbing Yu, Bo Song, Linjiang Chai, Cong Liu, Zhongwen Yao, Mark R. Daymond
Converting austenite to martensite is a very effective and low-cost strategy for steel strengthening, but it results in a significant loss of ductility. In this study, we propose a novel method which simultaneously strengthens and toughens austenitic steels by introducing a gradient of martensite phase. We find that a gradient of deformation-induced martensite (α′-M) particles, with a volume fraction increasing from core to surface can be obtained in cylindrical AISI 304 stainless steel (304 SS) rods by applying free-end-torsion (FET). We compared the microstructures and tensile properties of gradient-structured 304 SS prepared by unidirectional-torsion (UT) and cyclic forward/reverse torsion (CFRT). It appears that piled-up dislocations formed near the core region during FET processing play a key role in the subsequent tensile deformation, and control the strain-hardening ability of the FET treated samples. The gradient α′-M enhances the strength of the surface layer and improves the tensile properties of the FET treated samples as a whole. Compared to UT, CFRT is more effective in inducing martensitic transformation, and enhances the gradient distribution of the α′-M. These findings provide a pathway for developing high strength and good ductility steels and other alloyed metals via gradient distributed second phase particles.

Graphical abstract

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Effect of layer sequence on the mechanical properties of Ti/TiAl laminates

Publication date: 5 April 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 143
Author(s): Shaoyuan Lyu, Yanbo Sun, Guodong Li, Wenlong Xiao, Chaoli Ma
The Ti/TiAl metal-intermetallic laminates were fabricated by hot-pressing starting from the elemental Ti and Al foils. The final microstructures of laminates consist of alternating layers of ductile Ti and brittle intermetallic. The relationships between mechanical properties and layer sequence of Ti/TiAl laminates have been studied by examining the effects of solid solubility of Al in Ti layer, the volume fraction of intermetallic layer and the interlayer spacing. In these three cases, the samples with the best performance are obtained and among them the optimal sample is confirm with fracture strength 752MPa, KIC 48MPa·m^1/2. In particularly, a novel theoretical formula of strength calculation is proposed according to the mixing rule of composites. The theoretically calculated results agree well with the experimental results.

Graphical abstract

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The controllable preparation of Co3O4 nanostructure for designing optimal mechanical and magnetic properties of graphite/kaolin based compounds

Publication date: 5 April 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 143
Author(s): Keyun Zhang, Jiujie Zhang, Lili Ma, Yanqin Liang, Xianjin Yang, Zhenduo Cui, Shengli Zhu, Zhaoyang Li
Low heating efficiency of graphite crucible limits the application in electromagnetic induction heating system because of the diamagnetism of graphite. In the present work, Co3O4 nanostructures were successfully prepared by means of a hydrothermal method, and introduced them into graphite and kaolin as raw material of crucible to improve their electromagnetic heating efficiency. The morphology of Co3O4 was adjusted by introducing silk fibroin. The microstructures and morphology of the silk-fibroin-Co3O4 composites were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, and Raman. The magnetic and mechanical properties of these compounds were also evaluated. Adding silk fibroin can optimize the morphology of Co3O4 and increase its magnetism. The addition of Co3O4 calcined at 350°C (with silk fibroin) to graphite increases its magnetism without sacrificing its compressive strength. Co3O4/graphite/kaolin (5:3:2) compounds show desired magnetic and mechanical properties.

Graphical abstract

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Thermal conductivity enhancement of phase change materials with form-stable carbon bonded carbon fiber network

Publication date: 5 April 2018
Source:Materials & Design, Volume 143
Author(s): Zhao Jiang, Ting Ouyang, Yang Yang, Lei Chen, Xiaohua Fan, Yunbo Chen, Weiwei Li, Youqing Fei
Carbon bonded carbon fiber (CBCF) monoliths were prepared from graphite fibers with high thermal conductivity, to promote heat transfer and to stabilize the shape of phase change material (PCM). The CBCF monoliths with density from 0.09 to 0.39g/cm³ were filled with paraffin wax to form PCM composites. Due to the anisotropy of the CBCF material, the PCM composites had varied thermal conductivities with their directions. Results showed that the in-plane thermal conductivity of the PCM composites was markedly improved by 18 to 57 times over the pure wax, depending on the density of CBCF composites, while the out-of-plane thermal conductivity was also increased by 3.7 to 5.5 times. In addition, the improvements in thermal conductivity showed almost linear relationship with the volume fraction of carbon fibers in the PCM composites. The charging time of the composites with the high CBCF density was reduced to one quarter of pure paraffin, while the discharging time was about one sixth. The apparent enthalpy of PCM composites was found to vary with the loadings of paraffin wax, by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). After 40cycles, the wax loadings in the PCM composites were retained at 56–70%.

Graphical abstract

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Nanoscale active matter matters: Challenges and opportunities for self-propelled nanomotors

Publication date: Available online 7 February 2018
Source:Nano Today
Author(s): Ibon Santiago
Progress in nanotechnology has enabled the synthesis of active particles that can harness chemical energy and translate it into useful work. Catalytic self-propelled motors have implications for understanding out-of-equilibrium systems and have potential applications in active transport at the nanoscale, where they can be used as motors and pumps. Although much research has been done on micron-sized motors, progress in catalytic nanomotors of sub 100 nm is still in its infancy. These nanosized motors are of great importance for future molecular transport at the cellular level because they operate at length scales at which protein motors work. This opinion article focusses on recent advances in the synthesis of catalytic nanomotors and experimental strategies to measure their self-propulsion, which differ from that of micromotors. Enzymatic and metallic nanomotors are surveyed, together with various theoretical models for self-propulsion. Solutions to current challenges are proposed, which include a chemical synthesis approach, new characterisation of motor activity and potential uses of nanomotors in nanomedicine.

Graphical abstract

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An Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Pathway for Microvascular Breast Reconstruction Is Safe and Effective

Background: The aim of this study was to develop, implement, and evaluate a standardized perioperative enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) clinical care pathway in microsurgical abdominal-based breast reconstruction. Methods: Development of a clinical care pathway was informed by the latest ERAS guideline for breast reconstruction. Key features included shortened preoperative fasting, judicious fluids, multimodal analgesics, early oral nutrition, early Foley catheter removal, and early ambulation. There were 3 groups of women in this cohort study: (1) traditional historical control; (2) transition group with partial implementation; and (3) ERAS. Narcotic use, patient-reported pain scores, antiemetic use, time to regular diet, time to first walk, hospital length of stay, and 30-day postoperative complications were compared between the groups. Results: After implementation of the pathway, the use of parenteral narcotics was reduced by 88% (traditional, 112 mg; transition, 58 mg; ERAS, 13 mg; P

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Incisional Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Prevention of Wound Healing Complications Following Reduction Mammaplasty

Background: It has been proposed that negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) applied prophylactically to a closed incision may decrease the incidence of wound complications. Patients undergoing reduction mammaplasty are at risk of wound complications such as delayed healing, infection, and dehiscence, and the bilateral nature of the surgery allows for a within-patient randomized study to evaluate incisional NPWT's effect in reducing healing complications. Methods: In this multicenter trial, 200 patients undergoing bilateral reduction mammaplasty were treated with PICO Single-Use NPWT System or standard wound-care dressings randomized to right or left breast for up to 14 days to enable within-patient comparison. Follow-up assessments were conducted to evaluate the difference in incision healing complications up to 21 days postsurgery. Healing complications (for the primary endpoint) were defined as delayed healing (incision not 100% closed by 7 days) and occurrence of dehiscence or infection within 21 days. Individual healing complications were assessed separately as secondary endpoints. Results: Significantly fewer healing complications (primary endpoint) were noted in NPWT-treated breasts [113 (56.8%)] versus standard care [123 (61.8%)]. The difference of 10 (5.0%) patients with fewer healing complications using NPWT was statistically significant (P = 0.004). NPWT also resulted in a significantly lower incidence of dehiscence (secondary endpoint) compared with standard care [32 patients (16.2%) versus 52 patients (26.4%)] by day 21, a relative reduction of 38% (P

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Successful Hand Replantation in a Case of Total Avulsion without Vein Graft

Summary: Replantation is the reattachment of a severed body part, with attempts to restore neurovascular and musculoskeletal integrity, function, and aesthetics. On September 7, 1964, the first extremity replantation—a completely amputated hand—by vascular anastomosis technique was successfully performed.1 Soon after, the first replantation of a complete thumb amputation using microvascular anastomosis in a human was successfully conducted by Komatsu et al.2 in 1968. The overall success rate of limb replantation surgery is around 83.2%.3 The mechanism of injury plays a role in the outcome; guillotine amputations—for example—carry a better prognosis than crush amputations.4 We present a case report of a 36-year-old male patient who presented with a total avulsion of the right hand with multiple fracture levels at the level of trans-carpal, distal radius extra-articulation fracture, and total avulsion of the hand. The patient was managed by a multidisciplinary team who were able to reattach his hand successfully with good functional outcome.

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Single-Stage Breast Reconstruction Using an All-In-One Adjustable Expander/Implant

Background: When tissue expansion is necessary in breast reconstruction, a single-stage approach is possible using adjustable expander/implants, with or without the use of acellular dermal matrix. We aimed to present the senior author's single-stage experience over a period of 12 years using combined expander/implants in breast reconstruction. Methods: This is a Single-institution, retrospective review of breast reconstruction with combined expander/implants from 2002 to 2014. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the impact of multiple variables on long-term outcomes. Results: A total of 162 implants in 105 patients were included in this study. Mean follow-up time was 81.7 months (SD, ± 39.2; range, 15–151). Complication rates were as follows: 0.62% extrusion, 1.2% mastectomy flap necrosis, 1.2% hematoma, 1.9% dehiscence, 2.5% seroma, 4.9% infection, and 15.4% deflation. The following associations were identified by logistic regression: adjuvant radiotherapy and capsular contracture (P = 0.034), tumor size and deflation (P = 0014), and smoking history and infection (P = 0.013). Conclusions: Overall, 81% of breasts were successfully reconstructed in a single stage. Single-stage reconstruction using all-in-one expander/implants reduces costs by eliminating the need for a second procedure under general anesthesia and can achieve results comparable with other alloplastic reconstructions reported in the literature.

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Dimensional Error in Rapid Prototyping with Open Source Software and Low-cost 3D-printer

Summary: Rapid prototyping models (RPMs) had been extensively used in craniofacial and maxillofacial surgery, especially in areas such as orthognathic surgery, posttraumatic or oncological reconstructions, and implantology. Economic limitations are higher in developing countries such as Mexico, where resources dedicated to health care are limited, therefore limiting the use of RPM to few selected centers. This article aims to determine the dimensional error of a low-cost fused deposition modeling 3D printer (Tronxy P802MA, Shenzhen, Tronxy Technology Co), with Open source software. An ordinary dry human mandible was scanned with a computed tomography device. The data were processed with open software to build a rapid prototype with a fused deposition machine. Linear measurements were performed to find the mean absolute and relative difference. The mean absolute and relative difference was 0.65 mm and 1.96%, respectively (P = 0.96). Low-cost FDM machines and Open Source Software are excellent options to manufacture RPM, with the benefit of low cost and a similar relative error than other more expensive technologies.

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Immediate Breast Reconstruction among Patients with Medicare and Private Insurance: A Matched Cohort Analysis

Background: By eliminating economic hurdles, the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 represented a paradigm shift in the availability of breast reconstruction. Yet, studies report disparities among Medicare-insured women. These studies do not account for the inherent differences in age and comorbidities between a younger privately insured and an older Medicare population. We examined immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) utilization between a matched pre- and post-Medicare population. Methods: Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database (1992–2013), breast cancer patients undergoing IBR were identified. To minimize confounding medical variables, 64-year-old privately insured women were compared with 66-year-old Medicare-insured women. Demographic data, IBR rates, and complication rates were compared. Trend over time was plotted for both cohorts. Result: A total of 21,402 64-year-old women and 25,568 66-year-old women were included. Both groups were well matched in terms of demographic type of reconstruction and complication rates. 72.3% of 64-year-old and 71.2 of % 66-year-old women opted for mastectomy. Of these, 25.5% (n = 3,941) of 64-year-old privately insured and 17.7% (n = 3,213) of 66-year-old Medicare-insured women underwent IBR (P

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Use of Viable Cryopreserved Placental Membrane as an Adjunct to Facial Keloid Resection

Summary: Keloids are the physical manifestation of an exaggerated inflammatory response resulting in excess collagen deposition. The resulting fibroproliferative mass can be distressing for patients due to appearance, pruritus, and/or pain. Despite extensive research into the pathophysiology of keloid formation and the development of numerous treatments, keloids remain a challenge to treat. Even when the initial treatment is successful, a risk of recurrence remains. Basic science research into viable cryopreserved placental membranes and viable cryopreserved umbilical tissue has demonstrated their anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects, which may decrease keloid recurrence after excision. In this article, we present the first-reported case of viable cryopreserved placental membrane, with living mesenchymal stem cells, to treat a painful preauricular keloid in conjunction with surgical resection.

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The Pedicled LICAP Flap Combined with a Free Abdominal Flap In Autologous Breast Reconstructions

Background: Previous surgery or slim body configuration can limit the size of the available abdominal flap in autologous breast reconstruction. However, redundant skin and subcutaneous tissue lateral to the mastectomy site can be utilized as the pedicled lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP) flap. This study evaluates the combination of a free abdominal flap and a pedicled LICAP flap to achieve increased breast size and improved cosmetic outcome. Methods: Patients undergoing secondary autologous breast reconstruction were included in a prospective study. The combination with a LICAP flap was used for women with insufficient abdominal flap tissue in relation to the desired breast size. The authors also assessed their modification of the original lateral thoracodorsal flap design to improve the aesthetic outcome. Results: In 109 patients, 121 free abdominal flaps were performed. The combination with a pedicled LICAP flap was used in 82 free abdominal flap reconstructions (68%). The LICAP flap provided additional volume and resulted in better projection and ptosis of the neo-mamma. The overall complication rate for the LICAP flaps was 26 %; all minor complications. Despite combining flaps, the majority of patients needed additional surgery to improve breast symmetry. Breast reduction of the native breast was the most common symmetrizing procedure. Conclusion: In selected patients with insufficient abdominal flap tissue, a combination of a free abdominal flap and a pedicled LICAP flap is a valuable option to increase breast size and cosmetic outcome. Additional symmetrizing surgery might still be necessary.

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Adjuvant Therapy for Revision Rhinoplasty of Contracted Nose Using Polydeoxyribonucleotide and Invasive Bipolar Radiofrequency

Summary: Most cases of severely contracted nose require revision rhinoplasty and septoplasty, wherein preoperative and/or intraoperative expansion of nasal soft tissue is necessary for tension-free revision surgery. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pre- and postoperative adjuvant therapy using polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) and invasive, pulsed-type, bipolar, alternating current radiofrequency (RF) for revision surgery of a contracted nose. In total, 30 patients were treated with 16 sessions (8 preoperative sessions and 8 postoperative sessions) of intralesional injection of PDRN and invasive RF treatment using microneedle electrodes at 1-week intervals. One week after the final combined pretreatment using PDRN and invasive bipolar RF, the skin of contracted noses was sufficiently softened, and nasal skin mobility was notably improved in all the patients. During revision rhinoplasty and septoplasty, the contracted nasal skin in each patient was adequately released for proper covering of the nasal tip without tension. Postoperatively, 8 sessions of adjuvant therapy elicited marked clinical improvements in persistent nasal tip dimpling and contracture, septal deviation, and warping from the incomplete recovery of nasal contracture after revision surgery. In conclusion, our pre- and postoperative adjuvant therapies using PDRN and invasive bipolar RF remarkably improved the therapeutic outcomes of revision rhinoplasty and septoplasty for contracted skin of the nose without major side effects.

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Complications following Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Immediate Acellular Dermal Matrix Implant-based Breast Reconstruction—A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Acellular dermal matrix was introduced in breast reconstruction in 2001 and is gradually becoming a standard component for immediate breast reconstruction and nipple-sparing mastectomy. The reconstructive technique allows for improved aesthetic outcomes. However, there seems to be uncertainty regarding complication rates. The aim of this review was to systematically evaluate complication rates related to this method. Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the recommendations outlined in the Cochrane Handbook for reviews and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Relevant databases were searched for in the literature concerning the use of acellular dermal matrix in implant-based nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction. All studies underwent detailed quality assessment. Summarized outcome rates were computed using meta-analysis. Results: Nine of 1,039 studies were eligible for inclusion yielding 778 procedures. The quality was acceptable for all included studies. The meta-analysis found the rate of skin necrosis to be 11%, nipple necrosis 5%, infection in 12%, hematoma in 1%, treated seroma in 5%, explantation 4%, and unplanned return to the operating room in 9%. Conclusion: The use of acellular dermal matrix in nipple-sparing mastectomy and implant-based breast reconstruction can be done with acceptable complication rates in selected patients. We recommend future studies to include specific definitions when reporting complication rates. Furthermore, future studies should elaborate on demographic characteristics of the included study samples and include predictor analysis to enhance knowledge of high risk patients.

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V-shaped Internal Nasal Vestibular Flap for Reconstruction of Iatrogenic Columellar Defect

Summary: Columella is an important structure in the center of the face, and its structural integrity has an important functional, social, and psychological role. Columella reconstruction can be very challenging for surgeons and the ideal technique remains elusive. This article describes a reconstruction technique in a young woman with columella necrosis due to nasal continuous positive airway pressure treatment. The method of reconstruction described here, with a V-shaped internal nasal vestibular flap and a cartilage grafts from lateral crura, is simple and easily reproducible, providing an optimal aesthetic result and in addition the donor site does not create a secondary deformity by disrupting normal anatomy.

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Latissimus Dorsi and Immediate Fat Transfer (LIFT) for Complete Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Background: Despite the popularity of latissimus dorsi (LD) flap in breast reconstruction, a breast implant is often necessary to achieve sufficient volume. Prior reports describe fat grafting to the LD flap as a secondary procedure to correct contour deformities and improve volume. Our institution has instituted autologous breast reconstruction with an LD flap and immediate fat transfer (LIFT). Methods: A retrospective review of all patients undergoing the LIFT procedure was undertaken. Patient age, total volume of fat transfer, length of follow-up, need for adjuvant therapy, and complications were recorded. The procedure begins with harvest of the LD flap and fat. Prior to disorigination of the latissimus muscle, fat is injected into the flap. Flap harvest is then completed and inset to create a breast mound. Results: Eighteen patients underwent LIFT procedures over 3 years with an average follow-up of 8.7 months (range, 2–24). Four breasts (22.2%) had previously received adjuvant radiation therapy. The mean total fat grafting volume was 515.5 mL (range, 325–730) per breast. The average estimated fat graft take was 66.8% (range, 50–80%). Four patients (22.2%) experienced complications. Conclusion: Autologous augmentation of the LD flap with lipotransfer has been used to avoid placement of an implant. We improve the technique by performing lipotransfer during index reconstruction. Furthermore, we perform lipotransfer prior to disorigination of the LD muscle to minimize trauma to the flap and increase the efficiency of fat grafting. Our experience demonstrates that this technique is a viable autologous alternative to microsurgical breast reconstruction.

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Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap Salvage Technique Using Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Graft

Summary: Superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap salvage remains challenging, particularly in cases of arterial insufficiency due to vessel spasm, pedicle kinking, or thrombosis. The already small, short SIEA pedicle, in addition to its inherent tendency toward spasm, renders the SIEA flap more difficult to manage when anastomotic revision is required. Furthermore, arterial thrombosis will cause dilation of the internal mammary artery, exacerbating vessel mismatch. In our previously published experience with 145 SIEA flaps, no flap with postoperative arterial thrombosis was salvageable. Following this experience, a new salvage technique using deep inferior epigastric artery grafts has been utilized and is described here.

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