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Background: Although hepatectomy including inferior vena cava (IVC) resection is becoming more common, some details remain uncertain such as use of artificial materials to replace a tumor-involved, damaged, or narrowed retrohepatic IVC segment. Methods: Surgical outcomes of 12 patients who underwent hepatectomy with IVC resection including reconstruction using synthetic tubular grafts were investigated to clarify safety and feasibility. Results: Operative time (median, 573 min; range, 268 to 774) and the blood loss (1076 mL; 155 to 2960) were acceptable. In-hospital mortality was 8% (1/12), and morbidity was 42% (5/12). Among the 12 patients, 2 were planned to undergo IVC reconstruction without an artificial graft. In one patient, prosthetic repair was adopted because of massive bleeding from the IVC wall during dissection of tumor from the IVC. In the other, severe stricture became evident during attempted direct closure of the partially resected IVC wall. Discussion: Ongoing experience has increased our acceptance of combined liver and IVC resection. We believe that segmental IVC resection and reconstruction with a prosthetic tubular graft could be chosen more frequently in managing liver tumors suspected to involve the IVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although venous drainage of the jejunal loop may be maintained after sacrifice of jejunal vein tributaries during pancreatoduodenectomy, risk of severe jejunal mesenteric congestion following division of these tributaries can be difficult to predict. This study considered how best to predict safety of jejunal vein tributary dissection. Methods: Preoperative imaging findings and results of intraoperative clamp tests of jejunal vein tributaries during pancreatoduodenectomy were analyzed in 121 patients with hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease to determine whether this information adequately predicted safety of resecting superior mesenteric vein branches. Results: Jejunal vein tributaries caudal to the inferior border of the pancreatic uncinate process tended to be fewer when tributaries cranial to this landmark were more numerous. Tributaries cranial to the border drained a relatively wide expanse of jejunal artery territory in the jejunal mesentery. The territory of jejunal tributaries cranial to the inferior border of the pancreas did not vary according to course of the first jejunal vein branch relative to the superior mesenteric artery. One patient among 30 (3%) who underwent intraoperative clamp tests of tributaries cranial to the border showed severe congestion in relation to a venous tributary coursing ventrally to the superior mesenteric artery. Conclusion: Jejunal venous tributaries drained an extensive portion of jejunal arterial territory, but tributaries located cranially to the inferior border of the pancreas could be sacrificed without congestion in nearly all patients. Intraoperative clamp testing of these tributaries can identify patients whose jejunal veins must be preserved to avoid congestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of stereo camera systems to measure fish body size has gained attention in aquaculture systems management. However, the different correlations between swimming depth and size according to fish species can lead to measurement bias depending on camera range and position. This study accordingly applied a fish behavior model based on the Boid model to simulate the relationship among camera position, viewing range, and measurement results considering swimming depth behavior. A total of 722 simulated fish (yellowtail Seriola quinqueradiata) were placed into a rectangular aquaculture net pen model. Virtual cameras were located at different depths along the side, above, and below the pen to measure the total length of individual fish within view. Horizontally oriented cameras closer to the surface captured significantly larger/smaller individuals when the behavior model assumed that larger individuals swim at shallower/deeper depths; vertically oriented cameras facing down from the water surface or up from the bottom net provided mean total length measurements might close to the actual mean total length of the population when a wide viewing range was provided. The proposed simulation method can be applied to preliminarily evaluate the measurement biases inherent to fish behavior and thereby minimize their influence on camera measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The differences in pre- and early post-procedural blood flow dynamics between the two major types of bioprosthetic valves, the balloon-expandable valve (BEV) and self-expandable valve (SEV), in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), have not been investigated. We aimed to investigate the differences in blood flow dynamics between the BEV and SEV using four-dimensional flow cardiovascular magnetic resonance (4D flow CMR). Methods: We prospectively examined 98 consecutive patients with severe AS who underwent TAVR between May 2018 and November 2021 (58 BEV and 40 SEV) after excluding those without CMR because of a contraindication, inadequate imaging from the analyses, or patients' refusal. CMR was performed in all participants before (median interval, 22 [interquartile range (IQR) 4–39] days) and after (median interval, 6 [IQR 3–6] days) TAVR. We compared the changes in blood flow patterns, wall shear stress (WSS), and energy loss (EL) in the ascending aorta (AAo) between the BEV and SEV using 4D flow CMR. Results: The absolute reductions in helical flow and flow eccentricity were significantly higher in the SEV group compared in the BEV group after TAVR (BEV: − 0.22 ± 0.86 vs. SEV: − 0.85 ± 0.80, P < 0.001 and BEV: − 0.11 ± 0.79 vs. SEV: − 0.50 ± 0.88, P = 0.037, respectively); there were no significant differences in vortical flow between the groups. The absolute reduction of average WSS was significantly higher in the SEV group compared to the BEV group after TAVR (BEV: − 0.6 [− 2.1 to 0.5] Pa vs. SEV: − 1.8 [− 3.5 to − 0.8] Pa, P = 0.006). The systolic EL in the AAo significantly decreased after TAVR in both the groups, while the absolute reduction was comparable between the groups. Conclusions: Helical flow, flow eccentricity, and average WSS in the AAo were significantly decreased after SEV implantation compared to BEV implantation, providing functional insights for valve selection in patients with AS undergoing TAVR. Our findings offer valuable insights into blood flow dynamics, aiding in the selection of valves for patients with AS undergoing TAVR. Further larger-scale studies are warranted to confirm the prognostic significance of hemodynamic changes in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Meningiomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumors. Predicting the grade and proliferative activity of meningiomas would influence therapeutic strategies. We aimed to apply the multiple parameters from preoperative diffusion tensor images for predicting meningioma grade and proliferative activity. Methods: Nineteen patients with low‐grade meningiomas and eight with high‐grade meningiomas were included. For the prediction of proliferative activity, the patients were divided into two groups: Ki‐67 monoclonal antibody labeling index (MIB‐1 LI) < 5% (lower MIB‐1 LI group; n = 18) and MIB‐1 LI ≥ 5% (higher MIB‐1 LI group; n = 9). Six features, diffusion‐weighted imaging, fractional anisotropy, mean, axial, and radial diffusivities, and raw T2 signal with no diffusion weighting, were extracted as multiple parameters from diffusion tensor imaging. The two‐level clustering approach for a self‐organizing map followed by the K‐means algorithm was applied to cluster a large number of input vectors with the six features. We also validated whether the diffusion tensor‐based clustered image (DTcI) was helpful for predicting preoperative meningioma grade or proliferative activity. Results: The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic curves from the 16‐class DTcIs for differentiating high‐ and low‐grade meningiomas were 0.870, 0.901, 0.891, and 0.959, and those from the 10‐class DTcIs for differentiating higher and lower MIB‐1 LIs were 0.508, 0.770, 0.683, and 0.694, respectively. The log‐ratio values of class numbers 13, 14, 15, and 16 were significantly higher in high‐grade meningiomas than in low‐grade meningiomas (p <.001). With regard to MIB‐1 LIs, the log‐ratio values of class numbers 8, 9, and 10 were higher in meningiomas with higher MIB‐1 groups (p <.05). Conclusion: The multiple diffusion tensor imaging‐based parameters from the voxel‐based DTcIs can help differentiate between low‐ and high‐grade meningiomas and between lower and higher proliferative activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many results about mass partitions are proved by lifting |$\mathds {R}^d$| to a higher-dimensional space and dividing the higher-dimensional space into pieces. We extend such methods to use lifting arguments to polyhedral surfaces. Among other results, we prove the existence of equipartitions of |$d+1$| measures in |$\mathds {R}^d$| by parallel hyperplanes and of |$d+2$| measures in |$\mathds {R}^d$| by concentric spheres. For measures whose supports are sufficiently well separated, we prove results where one can cut a fixed (possibly different) fraction of each measure either by parallel hyperplanes, concentric spheres, convex polyhedral surfaces of few facets, or convex polytopes with few vertices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica-alumina spheres were used to create macro- and mesoporous bimodal silica-aluminas. Before removing the surfactant template for mesopores, the silica-alumina spheres were neatly stacked by sedimentation, and the contact points between the spheres were reinforced by silica. The bimodal silica-alumina was used as an acid catalyst for transesterification of triglyceride with methanol. The bimodal catalyst was readily separated from the reaction mixture. It showed the same catalytic activity as the non-sedimented spheres and higher activity than the catalyst prepared by pelletizing the silica-alumina spheres with colloidal silica binders. The bimodal materials were utilized as an adsorbent with an indicator of adsorption amount since the color changed with the amount of toluene that was adsorbed on them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed a feeding simulation using the fish schooling behavior model to evaluate growth differences from the feeding spatial distribution. In the proposed simulation, feeding behavior was modeled using the fish schooling model to simulate the amount of feed consumed by each individual. Next, body mass growth was calculated based on the amount of feed consumed. A 3.0-m diameter aquaculture tank was used for the simulation. We used three feeding methods to evaluate how feeding distribution affected growth: Feeding A, B, and C. The feed was distributed in a square pattern with one side length of 1.5, 1.0, or 0.5 m for Feeding A, B, and C groups, respectively. The results revealed that individual differences in body mass resulting from each feeding method differed greatly. The individual difference was largest in the Feeding C group. Here, maximum swimming speed was assumed to be proportional to total length. The feeding area of Feeding C was narrow; therefore, the first individual to arrive in the feeding area dominated the feed. Large individuals accessed the feed more easily than did small individuals. Consequently, the growth of large individuals became more rapid, and the individual differences became large in Feeding C. A rearing test can be conducted in a short time, and the optimal aquaculture operation was easily determined using the proposed simulation method. We concluded that the proposed simulation is useful as a decision-making tool for aquaculture management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Histopathologic patterns at the invasion fronts of tumors predict metastatic potential and prognosis in several cancers. We examined whether such patterns at the interface between colorectal liver metastases and hepatic parenchyma have similar prognostic value. Methods: Microscopic growth patterns at edges of metastases including desmoplasia, pushing borders, and replacement of hepatocytes were retrospectively analyzed with respect to surgical outcomes in 142 patients who underwent hepatectomy for colorectal metastases. Results: Patterns included desmoplasia in 58 patients (41%), hepatocyte replacement in 41 (29%), and pushing borders in 43 (30%). Maximum metastasis diameter and serum carcinoembryonic antigen concentration in patients showing desmoplastic tumor growth were lower than those in others (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). Disease-free survival and overall survival were better in patients showing desmoplastic growth, while a non-desmoplastic tumor growth pattern showed a negative influence. More cluster of differentiation (CD) 68–positive M1 macrophages and fewer CD206-positive M2 macrophages were demonstrated at interfaces of tumors with hepatic parenchyma when desmoplasia was present, although markers for proliferative activity (MIB1 index) and metastatic potential (E-cadherin expression) appeared uninfluenced by desmoplasia. Conclusion: Better long-term results were associated with metastatic tumors showing desmoplastic growth patterns at invasion fronts, which may reflect local immune state in a prognostically useful manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soft coagulation using the VIO soft coagulation system is used to treat minor lung air leaks during pulmonary resection in Japan. We previously reported that it has a similar effect as the air leak treatment with fibrin glue. We evaluated the efficacy of soft coagulation using the VIO soft coagulation system for lung air leakage during pulmonary resection.Methods: Intraoperative air leaks from the interlobar lung parenchyma were observed in 42 of the 283 patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy between 2016 and 2018. We retrospectively reviewed these 42 patients who were treated using the VIO soft coagulation system for air leaks. We classified the air leaks in to grades using the Macchiarini scale score and evaluated the surgical outcomes of air leak treatment.Results: Air leaks from the interlobar lung parenchyma having Macchiarini scale scores 1, 2, and 3 occurred in 8, 17, and 17 patients, respectively. In all the 8 patients with score 1 air leaks (100%), the air leaks could be controlled using the VIO soft coagulation system alone, and none had delayed pneumothorax requiring intervention. Of the score 2 and 3 air leaks, 52.9% and 35.3% were controlled using the VIO soft coagulation system alone, respectively.Conclusions: Macchiarini scale score 1 air leaks from the interlobar lung parenchyma could be well controlled using the VIO soft coagulation system. Therefore, soft coagulation with this system may be an alternative method for treating minor air leaks during pulmonary resection surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment with antenatal steroids (ANS) is standard practice for reducing the risk of respiratory distress in the preterm infant. Despite clear overall benefits when appropriately administered, many fetuses fail to derive benefit from ANS therapies. In standardized experiments using a pregnant sheep model, we have demonstrated that around 40% of ANS‐exposed lambs did not have functional lung maturation significantly different from that of saline‐treated controls. Surfactant protein A is known to play an important role in lung function. In this genotyping study, we investigated the potential correlation between polymorphisms in SFTPA1, messenger RNA and protein levels, and ventilation outcomes in animals treated with ANS. 45 preterm lambs were delivered 48 h after initial ANS therapy and 44 lambs were delivered 8 days after initial ANS therapy. The lambs were ventilated for 30 min after delivery. SFTPA1 mRNA expression in lung tissue was not correlated with arterial blood PaCO2 values at 30 min of ventilation in lambs delivered 48 h after treatment. SFTPA1 protein in lung tissue was significantly correlated with PaCO2 at 30 min of ventilation in lambs ventilated both 48 h and 8 days after ANS treatment. Six different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Ovis aries SFTPA1 sequence were detected by Sanger Sequencing. No individual SNPs or SNP haplotypes correlated with alterations in PaCO2 at 30 min of ventilation or SFTPA1 protein levels in the lung. For the subset of animals analyzed in the present study, variable lung maturation responses to ANS therapy were not associated with mutations in SFTPA1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect has been the gold standard in developing drug delivery systems for passive tumor targeting. Although the importance of this concept remains unchanged, some controversies have arisen. In this review, various strategies for tumor targeting using macromolecules and nanoparticles based on the EPR effect are discussed from the viewpoint of pharmacokinetics. Overall, such strategies seek to retain therapeutic material in the blood circulation, which is a key factor for successful targeting. Strategies using macromolecules, including antibody–drug conjugates, serum albumin-based delivery systems, PEGylated recombinant proteins, and stealth liposomes as well as nanoparticle-based strategies such as those based on lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric micelles, have been discussed. The feasibility of small extracellular vesicles, a new class of nanosized delivery carriers, is also discussed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting the export price of shrimp is important for Vietnam's fisheries. It not only promotes product quality but also helps policy makers determine strategies to develop the national shrimp industry. Competition in global markets is considered to be an important factor, one that significantly influences price. In this study, we predicted trends in the export price of Vietnamese shrimp based on competitive information from six leading exporters (China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Ecuador, and Chile) who, alongside Vietnam, also export shrimp to the US. The prediction was based on a dataset collected from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) (May-1995 to May-2019) that included price, required farming certificates, and disease outbreak data. A super learner technique, which combined 10 single algorithms, was used to make predictions in selected base periods (3, 6, 9, and 12 months). It was found that the super learner obtained results in all base periods that were more accurate and stable than any candidate algorithms. The impacts of variables in the predictive model were interpreted by a SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis to determine their influence on the price of Vietnamese exports. The price of Indian, Thai, and Chinese exports highlighted the advantages of being a World Trade Organization member and the disadvantages of the prevalence of shrimp disease in Vietnam, which has had a significant impact on the Vietnamese shrimp export price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In ¥cite { A K } , the authors considered analytic monotonic cocycles, and showed that the Lyapunov exponent of an analytic family of analytic monotonic cocycles is analytic. We extend the result of ¥cite { A K } , and show that a analytic family of meromorphic monotonic cocycles have analytic Lyapunov exponent. We then consider the quasiperiodic Schr¥"odinger operators that have meromorphic monotone potentials. Since the associated Schr¥"odinger cocycles are meromorphic and monotonic, by applying the result we show that the Lyapunov exponent of the associated Schr¥"odinger cocycle is analytic. For the proof we rely heavily on the techniques in ¥cite { A K }. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diseases in shrimp farms in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam cause significant crop losses and are therefore of great concern to producers. Once a pond becomes infected, it is difficult to prevent spread of the disease to nearby shrimp farming areas. Thus, predicting the occurrence of disease is an essential part of reducing the risk for shrimp farmers. In this study, we applied an integrated geographic information system and machine learning system to predict three serious diseases of shrimp, namely, acute hepatopancreatic necrosis, white spot syndrome disease, and Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei infection, based on data collected from shrimp farms in the Tra Vinh, Bac Lieu, Soc Trang, and Ca Mau provinces of Vietnam. We first constructed a map showing the distribution of these diseases using the locations of affected farms, and then we conducted spatial analysis to acquire the geographical features of the affected locations. This latter information was combined with environmental factors and clinical signs to form the set of independent variables affecting the outbreak of diseases. The neural network model outperformed the logistic regression, random forest, and gradient boosting methods in terms of predicting infection to estimate the probability of disease occurrence in farmed areas. Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease infected farms downstream of the Co Chien and Hau Rivers of Tra Vinh and west of Ca Mau. Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei infection is distributed in Soc Trang Province, while white spot syndrome virus has spread to the coastal districts of Soc Trang and Bac Lieu Provinces, where it is highly associated to water from a complex canal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: After total knee arthroplasty (TKA), the femur tends to be located posteriorly under weight-bearing (WB) conditions, and a paradoxical femoral anterior motion occurs, leading to joint instability. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to clarify factors which affect the postoperative femoral anteroposterior position relative to the tibia under WB conditions (A-P position) in medial pivot (MP) TKA. METHODS: Among 126 knees (81 women) with primary TKA using MP prosthesis for varus osteoarthritic knees, 70 knees had cruciate-retaining inserts (CR) with the reduced conformity and 56 knees had cruciate-substituting inserts (CS) with the full conformity. Using the three-dimensional (3D) assessment system, the associations between the A-P position and the factors including pre- and postoperative lower extremity alignment, component positions, and posterior femoral condylar offset (PCO), were assessed regarding the type of inserts. RESULTS: Significant correlations were seen between the A-P position and posterior tibial slope (PTS), medial PCO, and lateral PCO. Regarding the difference between the two inserts, the PTS, medial PCO, and lateral PCO significantly correlated with the A-P position in the CR, but only the PTS correlated in the CS. CONCLUSIONS: The increased PTS and decreased PCO were the dominant factors for the A-P position in MP TKA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intraamniotic inflammation is associated with up to 40% of preterm births, most notably in deliveries occurring prior to 32 weeks' gestation. Despite this, there are few treatment options allowing the prevention of preterm birth and associated fetal injury. Recent studies have shown that the small, non-competitive allosteric interleukin (IL)-1 receptor inhibitor, rytvela, may be of use in resolving inflammation associated with preterm birth (PTB) and fetal injury. We aimed to use an extremely preterm sheep model of chorioamnionitis to investigate the anti-inflammatory efficacy of rytvela in response to established intra-amniotic (IA) lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure. We hypothesized that rytvela would reduce LPS-induced IA inflammation in amniotic fluid (AF) and fetal tissues. Methods: Sheep with a single fetus at 95 days gestation (estimated fetal weight 1.0 kg) had surgery to place fetal jugular and IA catheters. Animals were recovered for 48 hours before being randomized to either: i) IA administration of 2 ml saline 24 hours before 2 ml IA and 2 ml fetal intravenous (IV) administration of saline (Saline Group, n = 7); ii) IA administration of 10 mg LPS in 2 ml saline 24 hours before 2 ml IA and 2 ml fetal IV saline (LPS Group, n = 10); 3) IA administration of 10 mg LPS in 2 ml saline 24 hours before 0.3 mg/fetal kg IA and 1 mg/fetal kg fetal IV rytvela in 2 ml saline, respectively (LPS + rytvela Group, n = 7). Serial AF samples were collected for 120 h. Inflammatory responses were characterized by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), histology, fluorescent immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked inmmunosorbent assay (ELISA), fluorescent western blotting and blood chemistry analysis. Results: LPS-treated animals had endotoxin and AF monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 concentrations that were significantly higher at 24 hours (immediately prior to rytvela administration) relative to values from Saline Group animals. Following rytvela administration, the average MCP-1 concentrations in the AF were significantly lower in the LPS + rytvela Group relative to in the LPS Group. In delivery samples, the expression of IL-1β in fetal skin was significantly lower in the LPS + rytvela Group compared to the LPS Group. Conclusion: A single dose of rytvela was associated with partial, modest inhibition in the expression of a panel of cytokines/chemokines in fetal tissues undergoing an active inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to compare the efficacy of the VIO soft coagulation system (VSCS) for the treatment of air leaks by sealing with fibrin glue, and also assess the histological alterations that occur after soft coagulation. Methods: A mouse pulmonary air leak model was designed. The pulmonary fistula was subsequently coagulated with the VSCS or sealed with fibrin glue with polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets. The burst pressure at air leak recurrence was measured in each group, and the results were compared. We also evaluated the histological alterations in the mouse pulmonary air leak model after soft coagulation with the VSCS. Results: The burst pressure in the soft coagulation group (80 W/Effect 5) (median 42.8; range 35.4–53.8 cmH2O) was similar to that in the fibrin glue group (median 41.5; range 34.6–43.9 cmH2O) (p = 0.21). Histological examinations revealed that the visceral pleura remained torn, the structure of the pulmonary alveolus was maintained, and the coagulated fistula was covered with a fibrin membrane in the soft coagulation group. Conclusions: The pressure resistance following soft coagulation was equivalent to that after sealing using fibrin glue with PGA sheets. The air leaks were likely controlled by covering the fistula with a fibrin membrane after soft coagulation with the VSCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prove that almost every finite collection of matrices in |$GL_d(\mathbb{R})$| and |$SL_d({\mathbb{R}})$| with positive entries is Diophantine. Next we restrict ourselves to the case |$d=2$|⁠. A finite set of |$SL_2({\mathbb{R}})$| matrices induces a (generalized) iterated function system on the projective line |${\mathbb{RP}}^1$|⁠. Assuming uniform hyperbolicity and the Diophantine property, we show that the dimension of the attractor equals the minimum of 1 and the critical exponent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although N levels affect leaf photosynthetic capacity, the effects of N levels on the photochemistry of photosystems II and I (PSII and PSI, respectively) are not well-understood. In the present study, we examined this aspect in rice (Oryza sativa L. 'Hitomebore') plants grown under three different N levels at normal or high temperatures that can occur during rice culture and do not severely suppress photosynthesis. At both growth temperatures, the quantum efficiency of PSII [Y(II)] and the fraction of the primary quinone electron acceptor in its oxidized state were positively correlated with the amount of total leaf-N, whereas the quantum yields of non-photochemical quenching and donor-side limitation of PSI [Y(ND)] were negatively correlated with the amount of total leaf-N. These changes in PSII and PSI parameters were strongly correlated with each other. Growth temperatures scarcely affected these relationships. These results suggest that the photochemistry of PSII and PSI is coordinately regulated primarily depending on the amount of total leaf-N. When excess light energy occurs in low N-acclimated plants, oxidation of the reaction center chlorophyll of PSI is thought to be stimulated to protect PSI from excess light energy. It is also suggested that PSII and PSI normally operate at high temperature used in the present study. In addition, as the relationships between Y(II) and Y(ND) were found to be almost identical to those observed in osmotically stressed rice plants, common regulation is thought to be operative when excess light energy occurs due to different causes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adriamycin (ADR)-induced nephropathy is frequently utilized in rodent models of podocytopathy. However, the application of this model in mice is limited to a few strains, such as BALB/c mice. The most commonly used mouse strain, C57BL/6 (B6), is resistant to ADR-induced nephropathy, as are all mouse strains with a B6 genetic background. Reportedly, the R2140C variant of the Prkdc gene is the cause of susceptibility to ADR-induced nephropathy in mice. To verify this hypothesis, we produced Prkdc mutant B6 mice, termed B6- Prkdc R2140C , that possess the R2140C mutation. After administration of ADR, B6- Prkdc R2140C mice exhibited massive proteinuria and glomerular and renal tubular injuries. In addition, there was no significant difference in the severity between B6- Prkdc R2140C and BALB/c. These findings demonstrated that B6- Prkdc R2140C show ADR-induced nephropathy susceptibility at a similar level to BALB/c, and that the PRKDC R2140C variant causes susceptibility to ADR-induced nephropathy. In future studies, ADR-induced nephropathy may become applicable to various kinds of genetically modified mice with a B6 background by mating with B6- Prkdc R2140C . • Adriamycin (ADR) nephropathy is a rodent model of podocytopathy. • Application of this model to mice is limited to a few strains, such as BALB/c mice. • C57BL/6 mice are highly resistant to ADR nephropathy. • C57BL/6- Prkdc R2140C mice showed ADR nephropathy susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately predicting the price of exported fishery products is an important task for fisheries because it will enable market trends to be determined, leading to the development of high-quality fishery products. In this study, we predicted prices in selected base periods (2, 3, 6, and 12 months) to investigate how historical data influenced the Vietnamese export price. A dataset (from May 1995 to May 2019) was collected from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). We initially hypothesized that the dependent variable, Vietnamese export price, was affected by 33 independent variables, but ultimately used 15 key variables, which were chosen on the basis of Akaike information criterion (AIC) to train the models. A tree-based machine learning technique, including the random forest and gradient boosting tree algorithms, was applied for predictions. It was found that the random forest algorithm performed well for historical data for periods of more than 6 months, while the gradient boosting tree algorithm was better over short durations of less than 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional ZnO/CuO nanoforests (NFRs) were fabricated via the galvanic submerged photosynthesis of crystallites in water at ambient temperature and pressure, and their photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties and applicability to microbial PEC (MPEC) cells were evaluated. ZnO/CuO NFRs irradiated with UV light for 48 h showed a high PEC current of − 2.9 ± 1.3 mA/cm2 and hydrogen (H 2) generation rate of 0.63 ± 0.29 µmol/cm2/day at 0 V vs. RHE owing to their superior light absorption, large BET specific surface area, and low charge recombination. The biocompatibility of the ZnO/CuO NFRs was evaluated by assessing their influence on Escherichia coli MG1655 growth. The ZnO/CuO NFRs leached Cu2+ and inhibited bacterial growth after immersion in the medium. Cu elution could be prevented by maintaining the potential at 0.01 V vs. RHE. The ZnO/CuO NFRs can be used as photocathodes for PEC H 2 generation and the MPEC-based synthesis of valuable CO 2 -reduction products. [Display omitted] • The photoelectrochemical properties of ZnO/CuO nanoforests (NFRs) was assessed. • Galvanic submerged photosynthesis of crystallites was used to fabricate the NFRs. • ZnO deposition was unnecessary to enhance the specific surface area of the NFRs. • The ZnO/CuO NFRs generated 0.63 ± 0.29 µmol H 2 /cm2/day at 0 V vs. RHE. • Cu leaching into the medium was mitigated by keeping a potential at 0.01 V vs. RHE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land-based aquaculture is an ideal aquaculture solution for creating high-quality seafoods and providing optimal conditions for maximizing growth of seafood production because environmental factors are well controlled. Predicting the growth of indoor-cultured abalone is meaningful because it facilitates evaluation of the effectiveness of this type of farming and understanding of the effects of controllable environmental factors on abalone growth. In this study, such predictions were made using an ensemble of machine learning algorithms: the random forest, gradient boosting, support vector machine, and neural network algorithms. Data were collected in the town of Fukushima, Hokkaido, Japan, and the increase in the weight of abalone was hypothesized from independent variables, including air and water temperature, loss of individuals caused by mortality or emigration, flow speed, age, and growth period between two measurements. The results showed that the ensemble method predicts growth well, with a low mean absolute error and mean square error. Temperature adjustment can make a strong contribution to increasing the weight of abalone, where a stable and warm temperature enhances growth. Moreover, the age of abalone is closely related to growth. Abalone size increased strongly in the early stages but decreased slightly once near market size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The movement of a double-lumen endotracheal tube (DLT) out of its appropriate position during thoracic surgery can result in the loss of one-lung ventilation (OLV), especially during pulmonary resection and node dissection. Our study aimed to validate the efficacy of automatic retention pressure control of the DLT bronchial cuff in maintaining OLV in an artificial intubation model. A 35-Fr left-sided DLT was intubated to the left main bronchus in an intubation simulator and connected to an anesthesia machine. The inspiratory volume, respiratory rate, and inspiratory-expiratory ratio were set at 500 mL, 12 times/min, and 1:2, respectively. A 1-kg right main bronchial traction in the lateral right was provided after OLV was established. SmartCuff (Smiths Medical, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA) was used to maintain cuff pressure. The efficacy of retention pressure with SmartCuff (Group S) and without SmartCuff (Group WS) was compared. The primary outcome was the rate of tidal volume (TV) reduction following bronchial traction in the two groups. The TVs were 289.8 ± 28.9 mL and 242.8 ± 31.9 mL in Group S and Group WS, respectively (P = 0.003). The rate of TV reduction after bronchial traction was significantly lower in Group S (29 ± 5%) than in Group WS (43 ± 6%) (P < 0.001). Automatic retention pressure control of the DLT bronchial cuff improves the rate of TV reduction during right main bronchial traction in an artificial intubation model. Continuous retention cuff pressure may be useful in maintaining OLV during thoracic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive activation of NF-κB in macrophages contributes to the onset and exacerbation of inflammatory disorders. The NEMO binding domain (NBD) peptide is an NF-κB inhibitor peptide that binds to NEMO, one of components of the IκB kinase (IKK) complex, and inhibits the IKK kinase activity, in the cytosol. Because of this property, the NBD peptide is expected to inhibit NF-κB activation in macrophages. In this study, we developed a delivery carrier for NBD based on small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), which are membrane vesicles released from cells. We constructed fusion proteins comprising Gag (an sEV tropic protein) and one, three, or six repeats of NBD peptide (Gag-1NBD, Gag-3NBD, and Gag-6NBD, respectively) to load the NBD peptide to the inner space of the sEVs, and attempted the intracellular delivery of the NBD peptide to macrophages using Gag-NBD-loaded sEVs (nNBD-sEVs). The nNBD-sEVs significantly inhibited LPS-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB pathway-related proteins in macrophages in a repeat number-dependent manner. Moreover, they exerted inhibitory effects on the NF-κB-dependent expression of proinflammatory mediators such as TNFα, CXCL10, iNOS, and NO. Collectively, our results indicate that NBD-containing sEVs can be used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases owing to their ability to effectively deliver peptides to the macrophage cytosol. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are important mediators of cell–cell communication with respect to diverse physiological processes. To further understand their physiological roles, understanding blood sEV homoeostasis in a quantitative manner is desired. In this study, we propose novel kinetic approaches to estimate the secretion and clearance of mouse plasma–derived sEVs (MP-sEVs) based on the hypothesis that blood sEV concentrations are determined by a balance between the secretion and clearance of sEVs. Using our specific and sensitive sEV labelling technology, we succeeded in analysing MP-sEV clearance from the blood after intravenous administration into mice. This revealed the rapid disappearance of MP-sEVs with a half-life of approximately 7 min. Moreover, the plasma sEV secretion rate, which is presently impossible to directly evaluate, was calculated as 18 μg/min in mice based on pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis. Next, macrophage-depleted mice were prepared as a model of disrupted sEV homoeostasis with retarded sEV clearance. MP-sEV concentrations were increased in macrophage-depleted mice, which probably reflected a shift in the balance of secretion and clearance. Moreover, the increased MP-sEV concentration in macrophage-depleted mice was successfully simulated using calculated clearance rate constant, secretion rate constant and volume of distribution, suggesting the validity of our PK approaches. These results demonstrate that blood sEV concentration homoeostasis can be explained by the dynamics of rapid secretion/clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generally, the catch efficiency (CE) of a set net is difficult to evaluate because it is affected by fish behavior. Therefore, to evaluate CE, we proposed a fish school behavior simulation model based on the boid model and applied it to a full-scale set net. The moving path of the fish school around the set net was simulated and visualized via the proposed method. From the moving path, three behaviors were identified: all individuals entering, all individuals escaping, and the school dividing in the entrance. A Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to evaluate the relationship between set net entrance shape and CE. The entrance net angle (θ) was considered over a range of 55°–90°. The ratio of fish entering the set net was ~ 60% at θ = 60°–90°, and significantly lower at θ = 55°. After entering the playground, over 80% of individuals entered the bag net. When θ = 60°, the ratios of fish escaping from the set net and entering the bag net were at their lowest and highest, respectively. Therefore, maximum CE was achieved at θ = 60°. We conclude that the proposed simulation method will contribute to more efficient set net design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are important mediators of cell–cell communication with respect to diverse physiological processes. To further understand their physiological roles, understanding blood sEV homoeostasis in a quantitative manner is desired. In this study, we propose novel kinetic approaches to estimate the secretion and clearance of mouse plasma–derived sEVs (MP‐sEVs) based on the hypothesis that blood sEV concentrations are determined by a balance between the secretion and clearance of sEVs. Using our specific and sensitive sEV labelling technology, we succeeded in analysing MP‐sEV clearance from the blood after intravenous administration into mice. This revealed the rapid disappearance of MP‐sEVs with a half‐life of approximately 7 min. Moreover, the plasma sEV secretion rate, which is presently impossible to directly evaluate, was calculated as 18 μg/min in mice based on pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis. Next, macrophage‐depleted mice were prepared as a model of disrupted sEV homoeostasis with retarded sEV clearance. MP‐sEV concentrations were increased in macrophage‐depleted mice, which probably reflected a shift in the balance of secretion and clearance. Moreover, the increased MP‐sEV concentration in macrophage‐depleted mice was successfully simulated using calculated clearance rate constant, secretion rate constant and volume of distribution, suggesting the validity of our PK approaches. These results demonstrate that blood sEV concentration homoeostasis can be explained by the dynamics of rapid secretion/clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), an attractive material for energy conversion devices, is known to exhibit varying properties depending on the number of layers and the phase structure. In this study, we developed a supercritical hydrothermal process that allows the controllable synthesis of MoS2 nanosheets with various structural and morphological characteristics. Detailed characterization of the synthesized materials confirmed that the number of layers in the MoS2 nanosheets could be controlled by varying the organic reducing agent under supercritical hydrothermal conditions. In addition, the MoS2 phase could be controlled kinetically by varying the reaction time with ascorbic acid as the reducing agent. Because water and elemental sulfur were respectively used as the solvent and sulfur source and as the reaction time was minimal, the developed hydrothermal process represents a facile processing method for different types of MoS2 nanosheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting the outbreak of disease is essential when managing shrimp farms. Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a serious disease in shrimp. It is essential that shrimp farmers on the east coast of the Mekong Delta detect the disease as early as possible, because the mortality rate can reach 100%. Here, we used machine learning to predict AHPND development based on data collected since 2010 from shrimp farms in Tra Vinh, Ben Tre, Bac Lieu, and Ca Mau provinces. We initially hypothesized that the dependent variable, AHPND, was affected by 31 independent variables, but ultimately used 15 key variables to train the models. Logistic regression, artificial neural network, decision tree, and K-nearest neighbor analyses were performed, and the accuracy of the predictions was evaluated using hold-out and cross-validation tests. Logistic regression, as the most stable algorithm, was thus used to predict AHPND outbreaks in shrimp farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adjuvants are essential for efficiently inducing an antigen-specific immune response in vaccine therapy. Single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) containing guanosine- and uridine-rich sequences is recognized by Toll-like receptor (TLR)7 and/or TLR8 and induces strong immune responses; thus, the application of ssRNA as an adjuvant is desirable. The development of a ssRNA-based adjuvant, however, requires the efficient delivery of ssRNA into the endosomes of antigen-presenting cells, where the TLRs exist. To achieve this, we developed a nanostructured RNA/DNA assembly using DNA nanotechnology, which can be efficiently recognized by antigen-presenting cells. The nanostructured RNA/DNA assembly, named tetrapodRD3, was designed using a 40-mer phosphorothioate-stabilized RNA and three 40-mer phosphodiester DNAs. TetrapodRD3 was more stable than ssRNA under serum conditions. The secreted alkaline phosphatase assay using HEK-Blue hTLR cells showed that tetrapodRD3 triggered human TLR8-specific responses. Fluorescently labeled tetrapodRD3 was efficiently taken up by murine dendritic DC2.4 cells and induced a high level of tumor necrosis factor-α release from the cells. Antigen presentation by the major histocompatibility complex class I on bone marrow-derived dendritic cells was significantly increased by the addition of an antigen along with tetrapodRD3. These results indicate that tetrapodRD3 constructed using DNA nanotechnology can be a useful adjuvant targeting human TLR8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report a facile fabrication method of 1-D ZnO nanorods (NRs) on a copper substrate surface by means of galvanic contact reactions. Instead of using bimetallic aqueous solution for the galvanic reactions, UV illumination on the Zn contacted with Cu surface in pure water environment was implemented, leading to galvanic combined submerged photo-synthesis of crystallites (G-SPSC) process. A pencil-like and flat-tip shape of NRs growth can be controlled as a function of UV irradiation time. In order to grow fine NRs, the galvanic process was essential for Zn2+ and OH− ions production. In particular, OH− accumulated at the vicinity surface of Cu to achieve a locally alkaline environment. Then, UV irradiation assisted the ZnO NRs initiated by water splitting process. Oxygen vacancy (V O) was responsible for the growth of pencil-like shape NRs. A blue shift in visible light region of photoluminescence (PL) spectra was observed when the pencil-like NRs transformed into flat-tip shape. The successful heterojunction of ZnO-Cu also was observed in their PL spectra, which dictated by the formation of zinc antisite (Zn O). The G-SPSC method approach is versatile for other bimetallic system adaptation and is promising for large-scale environmentally friendly synthesis of optoelectronic devices. Unlabelled Image • Only utilize raw metals for galvanic replacement reactions between Zn and Cu • Photosynthesis process in neutral water to fabricate ZnO nanorods • Zn2+ and OH− accumulation at the vicinity of Cu surface • 700 nm on photoluminescence spectrum confirmed heterojunction of ZnO-Cu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By adapting hetero-nanostructures in optoelectronic device, a prominent luminescence characteristic can be obtained. The challenge is to engineer the band bending if a semiconducting surface gets contact with a metal. A galvanic replacement method is versatile for bimetallic hetero-nanostructures synthesis. However, the nanostructures morphologies can be varied depending on the metals pair or their supporting template. In this study, we demonstrate a facile 1-D ZnO nanorods (NRs) growth fabricated by galvanic replacement reactions. Without using bimetallic solution, the galvanic replacement reaction was implemented by joining Zn metal to Au, Pt, Ag, Cu, W, and Ni metals substrate. The luminescence properties of ZnO NRs were characterized by photoluminescence (PL) and cathodoluminescence in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM-CL). Based on PL analysis result, oxygen vacancy (V O) was responsible for the visible light region emission in all ZnO-M samples. Then, STEM-CL analysis highlighted the presence of zinc interstitial (Zn i) at the interface of ZnO-M. Due to band bending, interaction between V O and Zn i resulted the formation of zinc antisite (Zn O) at the interface. There was no shift in visible light emission of the NRs due to Fermi-level pinning. The findings will be useful for future large-scale synthesis and engineering of hetero-nanostructures luminescent devices. • Only utilize raw metals for galvanic replacement reactions between Zn-Metals. • Photosynthesis process in neutral water to fabricate ZnO nanorods. • Zn i interaction with V O at ZnO-M interface resulted in Zn O. • Total visible light emission did not change due to Fermi-level pinning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We show that for any pair of self-similar Cantor sets with sum of Hausdorff dimensions greater than 1, one can create an interval in the sumset by applying arbitrary small perturbations (without leaving the class of self-similar Cantor sets). In our setting the perturbations have more freedom than in the setting of the Palis' conjecture, so our result can be viewed as an affirmative answer to a weaker form of the Palis' conjecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES We analysed our clinical experience using silk sutures [the double-loop technique (DLT)] or DeBakey type vascular clamp (DeBakey clamp) for pulmonary artery (PA) troubles during anatomical lung resection to validate its practicality and safety. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent either of the above clamping techniques during anatomical lung resection at our hospital between April 2007 and August 2022. We measured the PA diameter at the occlusion site on computed tomography images acquired within 1 year pre- and postoperatively. The difference between pre- and postoperative diameters of the occlusion sites was calculated as the change in the PA diameter. We zoned the occlusion site of the PA to adjust for variation. PA deformation was evaluated as an adverse event caused by clamping. RESULTS Ultimately, 27 and 26 patients who underwent the DLT and DeBakey clamp, respectively, were included. No additional injury due to the clamp procedure was found in either group. For zone R1/L1, defined as the main PA, the median changes in the PA diameter were 0.02 (–0.7 to 0.27) mm for the DLT and 0.36 (–0.28 to 0.89) mm for the DeBakey clamp. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups (P  =   0.106). Furthermore, no aneurysms, dissections, or stenoses were found in either group. CONCLUSIONS The DLT and DeBakey clamp had only minimal effects on the occlusion site of the PA. The DLT is a practical thoracoscopic technique for PA bleeding when primary haemostasis has been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Newborn Behavioral Observations (NBO) system is an infant-focused, family-centered, relationship-based tool designed to help parents become aware of their baby's abilities and to promote a positive parent-child relationship from the very beginning of birth. The aim of this scoping review was to provide an overview of the key characteristics of the research and evidence accumulated over the past 17 years on the early NBO intervention for infants and their parents to identify the existing research gaps and to inform the future direction of research on the NBO System. A scoping review guided by Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework and the PRISMA-ScR Checklist was conducted. This review used six databases (PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Ichushi-Web, and CiNii) and was limited to English and Japanese language articles from January 2006, when the NBO was developed, to September 2022. Reference lists were also hand-searched to further identify relevant articles from the NBO site. A total of 29 articles were selected. Through the analysis of included articles, four overarching themes were identified: (1) usage pattern of the NBO; (2) participants, setting, duration, and frequency of the NBO intervention; (3) outcome measures and effects of the NBO intervention; and (4) findings from a qualitative perspective. The review suggested that early NBO intervention had a positive impact on maternal mental health and sensitivity to the infant, confidence and knowledge of practitioners, and infant development. This scoping review shows that the early NBO intervention has been implemented in a variety of cultures and settings and by professionals of various disciplines. However, research to evaluate the long-term effects of this intervention on a wider range of subjects is needed. • The NBO is used in a variety of cultures and settings and by professionals of various disciplines. • Early NBO intervention had a positive impact on maternal mental health and infant development. • A lack of longitudinal studies and of studies that targeted fathers was also identified. • The NBO was able to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and family-centered care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new configuration of a pulse voltage generator, which can be applied to the klystron modulator for a large‐scale accelerator. The voltage generator consists of a conventional capacitor discharge type pulse voltage generator and series cascaded voltage compensators. By using the voltage compensators, higher voltage fluctuation of the bank capacitor is acceptable; therefore, its capacitance and the dimensions of the capacitors can be low. This paper discusses the control strategy of the voltage compensators and thyristors for DC voltage supply for the highly fluctuating capacitor voltage, and demonstrates this by a laboratory‐scale experimental setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract The application of exosomes as a therapeutic reagent or drug delivery vehicle can be expanded by developing a method to preserve exosomes. Although exosomes are generally stored at −80 °C, this temperature is not suitable for their handling or transportation and, therefore, other storage methods are desirable. Lyophilization is a promising storage method that can be used to preserve various substances at room temperature. In this study, we sought to develop a room temperature preservation method for exosomes using lyophilization and compared the properties of the lyophilized exosomes with ones stored at −80 °C. Lyophilization without cryoprotectant resulted in the aggregation of B16BL6 melanoma-derived exosomes, while the addition of trehalose, a cryoprotectant, prevented aggregation during lyophilization. PAGE analysis revealed that the proteins and RNA of exosomes were protected following lyophilization in the presence of trehalose. Lyophilization had little effect on the pharmacokinetics of Gaussia luciferase (gLuc)-labeled exosomes after an intravenous injection into mice. Moreover, it was found that lyophilized exosomes retained the activity of loaded gLuc and immunostimulatory CpG DNA for approximately 4 weeks even when stored at 25 °C. In conclusion, lyophilization with trehalose is an effective method for the storage of exosomes for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • ET rate of MV2+ partly-included at 4-sulfonatocalix[n]arenes has been investigated. • ET proceeded adiabatically on the collision between the MV+/MV2+ and the electrode. • The host-guest binding equilibrium was not established at activated state. • The non-equilibrium stabilization energy was independent of the cavitand size. • The activation energy of ET was 70~80% of that without any inclusion. Abstract Quasi-reversible single electron transfer (ET) kinetics of methylviologen partly-included at the rim of 4-sulfonatocalix[n]arenes (n = 4,6 and 8) has been investigated in aqueous solution. ET rates were measured by Nicholson method with relatively large potential scan rates (0.9 V/s < v < 50 V/s). ET proceeded adiabatically on the direct collision between the MV+/MV2+ and the electrode surface. The host-guest binding equilibrium at the activation state was not established under the high-speed cyclic voltammetry condition. The non-equilibrium stabilization energy was independent of the size of the cavitands. The activation energy of ET under the partly-included condition was 70–80% of that without any inclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association of 1,3,6,8-pyrenetetrasulfonate (S4P) or 8-hydroxypyrene-1,3,6-trisulfonate (S3POH) with cationic surfactants possessing tetradecyl substituent was studied in aqueous solution at 298 K. Two types of nanoparticles were produced depending on the mixing ratio of the components. The self-assembly to negatively charged larger nanoparticles at low surfactant excess was always exothermic, whereas the formation and size diminution of the positive nanoparticles in the presence of larger amount of surfactants were practically thermoneutral. The alteration of the fluorescence spectrum upon self-organization of the constituents indicated π−π interaction between the pyrene moieties within the nanoparticles. In tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide solution, S4P induced the formation of not only nanoparticles but also mixed micelles composed of supramolecular and conventional amphiphiles. A pH-responsive entropy-controlled transformation of nanoparticles to such mixed micelles was achieved when 1-methyl-3-tetradecyl-imidazolium cation had more than 19-fold molar excess over S3POH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common demyelinating disease. Despite the historical use of interferon-beta (IFN-β) for the treatment of patients with MS, concerns exist regarding the side effects of IFN-β. In this study, we designed a series of novel IFN-β fusion proteins containing galectin-9 (gal-9), which exerts immunosuppressive effects through the binding to its receptor on activated T h 1 cells. We hypothesized that these fusion proteins would improve the therapeutic effects and reduce the side effects of IFN-β. The IFN-β-gal-9 fusion proteins showed less IFN-β biological activity on non-T cells than IFN-β alone. In vitro experiments using re-stimulated T cells isolated from mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) showed that the IFN-β-gal-9 fusion proteins suppressed activated T cells more effectively than IFN-β. Moreover, in our in vivo experiments, the gene transfer of IFN-β-gal-9 fusion protein-expressing plasmid DNA into EAE mice showed beneficial therapeutic effects without cytopenia, a known side effect of IFN-β. In contrast, the gene transfer of IFN-β-expressing plasmid DNA induced a rapid decrease in the white blood cell count, despite its therapeutic effect. These results indicate that gene therapy using IFN-β-gal-9 fusion proteins is expected to be safe and effective for the treatment of MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare image quality and radiation dose of right adrenal vein (RAV) imaging computed tomography (CT) among conventional, low kV, and low kV with reduced contrast medium protocols.Methods: One-hundred-and-twenty patients undergoing adrenal CT were randomly assigned to one of three protocols: contrast dose of 600mgI/kg at 120-kV tube voltage setting (600-120 group), 600mgI/kg at 80kV (600-80 group), and 360mgI/kg at 80kV (360-80 group). Iterative reconstruction was used for 80-kV groups. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the RAV and size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) were measured. Three radiologists evaluated 4-point visualisation scores of RAV by consensus reading.Results: The RAV detectability was 95%, 97.2%, and 97.3% for 600-120, 600-80, and 360-80 groups, respectively (p=1.000). Visualisation scores were not significantly different among the groups (p=0.152). There were no significant differences in CNR or SNR between the 600-120 and 360-80 groups. SSDE of the 360-80 group was significantly lower than that of the 600-120 group (5.86mGy±1.44 vs. 7.27mGy±1.81, p<0.001).Conclusions: 80-kV scans with 360 mgI/kg contrast media showed comparable detectability of RAV to conventional scans, while reducing 19% of SSDE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Success of tumor photothermal immunotherapy requires a system that induces heat stress in cancer cells and enhances strong anti-tumor immune responses. Here, we designed a composite-type immunostimulatory DNA hydrogel consisting of a hexapod-like structured DNA (hexapodna) with CpG sequences and gold nanoparticles. Mixing of the properly designed hexapodna and oligodeoxynucleotide-modified gold nanoparticles resulted in the formation of composite-type gold nanoparticle-DNA hydrogels. Laser irradiation of the hydrogel resulted in the release of hexapodna, which efficiently stimulated immune cells to release proinflammatory cytokines. Then, EG7-OVA tumor-bearing mice received an intratumoral injection of a gold nanoparticle-DNA hydrogel, followed by laser irradiation at 780 nm. This treatment increased the local temperature and the mRNA expression of heat shock protein 70 in the tumor tissue, increased tumor-associated antigen-specific IgG levels in the serum, and induced tumor-associated antigen-specific interferon-γ production from splenocytes. Moreover, the treatment significantly retarded the tumor growth and extended the survival of the tumor-bearing mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has greatly improved in the last 5 years because of the identification of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). However, concerns exist regarding the emergence of drug resistance-associated substitutions (RASs). In this study, we evaluated the in vivo antiviral effect of three classes of interferons (IFNs), namely, types I, II, and III IFNs, on DAA-resistant HCVs. IFN-α 2 , IFN-γ, and IFN-λ 1 were selected as typical types I, II, and III IFNs, respectively. Human hepatocyte-transplanted chimeric mice were infected with NS3-D168, NS5A-L31-, and NS5A-Y93-mutated HCVs, and the antiviral effect of IFN-α 2 , IFN-γ, and IFN-λ 1 on these HCV RASs was examined. Chimeric mice infected with NS3- and NS5A-mutated HCVs were hydrodynamically injected with IFN-expressing plasmids to evaluate the antiviral effect of IFNs. Serum concentrations of IFNs were maintained for at least 42 days. We found that serum HCV level significantly decreased and serum and hepatic HCV levels reached below detection limit in 5/5 and 3/5 chimeric mice injected with IFN-γ- and IFN-λ 1 -expressing plasmids, respectively. The antiviral effect of IFN-α 2 on DAA-resistant HCVs was weaker than that of IFN-γ and IFN-λ 1 . Serum ALT levels showed a small and transient increase in mice injected with the IFN-γ-expressing plasmid but not in mice injected with the IFN-λ 1 -expressing plasmid. However, no apparent histological damage was observed in the liver sections of mice injected with the IFN-γ-expressing plasmid. These results indicate that IFN-γ and IFN-λ 1 are an attractive therapeutic option for treating infection caused by NS3- and NS5A-mutated HCV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes are small membrane vesicles containing lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Recently, researchers have uncovered that exosomes are involved in various biological events, such as tumor growth, metastasis, and the immune response, by delivering their cargos to exosome-receiving cells. Moreover, exosomes are expected to be used in therapeutic treatments, such as tissue regeneration therapy and antitumor immunotherapy, because exosomes are effective delivery vehicles for proteins, nucleic acids, and other bioactive compounds. To elucidate the biological functions of exosomes, and for the development of exosome-based therapeutics, the pharmacokinetics of exosomes is important. In this review, we aim to summarize current knowledge about the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of exosomes. The pharmacokinetics of exogenously administered exosomes is discussed based on the tissue distribution, types of cells taking up exosomes, and key molecules in the pharmacokinetics of exosomes. In addition, recent progress in the methods to control the pharmacokinetics of exosomes is reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived membrane vesicles composed of a lipid bilayer. EVs contain biological molecules, such as nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. As these molecules are transferred to cells that receive EVs, EVs function as intercellular communication tools. EV-mediated intercellular communication is involved in various diseases, such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, and biological events, such as immune reactions and inflammation. Therefore, EVs are suggested to be useful as therapeutic targets for various diseases. However, an EV-based drug delivery system (DDS) that utilizes its therapeutic properties has not yet been reported. The biological activities of EVs are derived from their endogenous components; hence, they can be directly applied as drugs. In this review, the basic aspects of EVs, such as their types, methods of isolation, and in vivo behavior, are briefly summarized. Moreover, the potential of using therapeutics targeting EVs has been discussed in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Various therapeutics using EVs, including DDSs, are listed and their associated advantages and challenges are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although intraoperative peritoneal lavage often is performed routinely with the aim of reducing peritoneal contamination, evidence of lavage benefit in elective pancreatic surgery is limited. Methods: We retrospectively classified patients who had undergone pancreatic surgery to groups given or not given peritoneal lavage, then comparing clinical results. This saline lavage was performed at the end of the operation. The primary endpoint was rate of surgical site infection. Frequency of peritoneal recurrence also was evaluated. Results: Among all 104 patients in the study, incidence of infectious complications in the lavage group (n = 65) was significantly higher than in the non-lavage group (n = 39; 35% vs. 15%, P = 0.041), while incidences of postoperative complications overall and surgical site infection did not differ between lavage (80% and 26%) and non-lavage groups (67% and 10%, P = 0.162 and 0.076, respectively). Among 63 patients undergoing pancratoduodenectomy, frequencies of positive bacterial cultures of drainage fluids on postoperative days 1 and 3 were greater in the non-lavage group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.012), but surgical site infection was significantly more frequent in the lavage group (P = 0.043). Among patients with pancreatic and biliary cancers, lavage did not affect frequency of peritoneal recurrence. Conclusion: Intraoperative lavage did not prevent surgical site infection or peritoneal recurrence of pancreatobiliary cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]