How Stone Tools Shaped Us: Post-Phenomenology and Material Engagement Theory

Abstract

The domain of early hominin stone tool making and tool using abilities has received little scholarly attention in mainstream philosophy of technology. This is despite the fact that archeological evidence of stone tools is widely seen today as a crucial source of information about the evolution of human cognition. There is a considerable archeological literature on the cognitive dimensions of specific hominin technical activities. However, within archeology and the study of human evolution the standard perception is stone tools are mere products of the human mind (or brain or innate cognitive capacities). A number of recent approaches to cognition challenges this simplistic one-way-causal-arrow view and emphasizes instead the functional efficiency of tools or artifacts in transforming and augmenting human (or hominin) cognitive capacities. As a result, the very idea that tools or artifacts are intimately tied to human cognitive processes is fast becoming an alternative within the cognitive sciences and a few allied disciplines. The present study intends to explore its implications for philosophy of technology. The central objective of this paper is to examine the dynamic and intricate tool-mediated activities of the early hominins through the lens of Don Ihde's post-phenomenological theory of human-technology relations and Lambros Malafouris' Material Engagement Theory. Highlighting the key points where these two research approaches, despite their subtle nuances, converge and look capable of mutually catalyzing each other, the paper attempts to show why it is important to bring these approaches together for a more refined understanding of the controversial role these stone tools played in human evolution.

Seasonal and downstream alterations of dissolved organic matter and dissolved inorganic ions in a human-impacted mountainous tributary of the Yellow River, China

Abstract

Human activities impose important disturbances on both organic and inorganic chemistry in fluvial systems. In this study, we investigated the intra-annual and downstream variations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved organic matter (DOM) excitation-emission matrix fluorescence (EEM) with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), major ions, and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) species in a mountainous tributary of the Yellow River, China. Both DOM quantity and quality, as represented by DOC and DOM fluorescence respectively, changed spatially and seasonally in the studied region. Fluorescence intensity of tryptophan-like components (C3) were found much higher at the populated downstream regions than in the undisturbed forested upstream regions. Seasonally, stronger fluorescence intensity of protein-like components (C3 and C4) was observed in the low-flow period (December) and in the medium-flow period (March) than in the high-flow period (May), particularly for the downstream reaches, reflecting the dominant impacts of wastewater pollution in the downstream regions. In contrast to the protein-like fluorescence, humic-like fluorescence components C1 and C2 exhibited distinctly higher intensity in the high-flow period with smaller spatial variation indicating strong flushing effect of increasing water discharge on terrestrial-sourced humic-like materials in the high-flow period. Pollution-affected dissolved inorganic ions, particularly Na⁺, Cl⁻, and NH₄⁺-N, showed similar spatial and seasonal variations with protein-like fluorescence of DOM. The significant positive correlations between protein-like fluorescence of DOM and pollution-affected ions, particularly Na⁺, Cl⁻, and NH₄⁺-N, suggested that there were similar pollution sources and transportation pathways of both inorganic and organic pollutants in the region. The combination of DOM fluorescence properties and inorganic ions could provide an important reference for the pollution source characterization and river basin management.

A Leptolyngbya -based microbial consortium for agro-industrial wastewaters treatment and biodiesel production

Abstract

A mixed cyanobacterial-mixotrophic algal population, dominated by the filamentous cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya sp. and the microalga Ochromonas (which contributed to the total photosynthetic population with rates of less than 5%), was studied under non-aseptic conditions for its efficiency to remove organic and inorganic compounds from different types of wastes/wastewaters while simultaneously producing lipids. Second cheese whey, poplar sawdust, and grass hydrolysates were used in lab-scale experiments, in photobioreactors that operated under aerobic conditions with different initial nutrient (C, N and P) concentrations. Nutrient removal rates, biomass productivity, and the maximum oil production rates were determined. The highest lipid production was achieved using the biologically treated dairy effluent (up to 14.8% oil in dry biomass corresponding to 124 mg L⁻¹) which also led to high nutrient removal rates (up to 94%). Lipids synthesized by the microbial consortium contained high percentages of saturated and mono-unsaturated fatty acids (up to 75% in total lipids) for all the substrates tested, which implies that the produced biomass may be harnessed as a source of biodiesel.

Leucemia/linfoma de células T del adulto. Revisión de la literatura científica

Publication date: Available online 21 April 2018
Source:Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas
Author(s): M.J.M. Rodríguez-Zúñiga, F. Cortez-Franco, E. Qujiano-Gomero
La leucemia/linfoma de células T del adulto (LLCTA) es una neoplasia agresiva de los linfocitos T asociada a la infección del virus humano T linfotrófico tipo1 (HTLV-1). El HTLV-1 es un problema de salud pública ya que es endémico en etnias nativas de América del Sur, y su infección conlleva diversas enfermedades crónicas, tal como la LLCTA. Nuestro objetivo fue revisar la literatura más reciente sobre LLCTA para su consideración como diagnóstico diferencial ante hallazgos clínicos compatibles. El pronóstico de esta enfermedad es aún malo en las variantes agresivas e indolentes, con sobrevida desde meses a pocos años. El tratamiento, que actualmente se basa en quimioterapia, antirretrovirales y trasplante alogénico de médula ósea, ha mejorado dichos índices de sobrevida, pero aún con resultados limitados.Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATLL) is an aggressive neoplasm of T lymphocytes associated with Human T-lymphotropic virus type1 (HTLV-1) infection. HTLV-1 is a public health problem because it is endemic in native groups in Latin America, and its infection leads to several chronic diseases as ATLL. We aimed to review current literature of ATLL in order to consider it as a differential diagnosis in front of patients with compatible symptoms. Prognosis is still poor in aggressive and indolent variants, with survival rates from months to few years. Treatment based on chemotherapy, antiretroviral, and allogenic stem cell transplantation are currently improving survival rates, but with limited results.

Graphical abstract

The relationship between diurnal temperature range and COPD hospital admissions in Changchun, China

Abstract

Diurnal temperature range (DTR) has been suggested to be an adverse health factor especially related to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In the current study, we investigated the association between DTR and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) hospital admissions during 2009 to 2012 in northeast city of Changchun, China. Based on generalized additive model (GAM), the effects were expressed as relative risk (RR) values of COPD with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with each 1 °C increase in DTR. And they were significantly increased with an increment of 1 °C in DTR, modified by season, age, and sex. The elderly were more vulnerable, with relative risk values of 1.048 (1.029, 1.066) in cold season and 1.037 (1.021, 1.053) in warm season. Regarding the gender, the DTR effect on females was greater during cold season and the RR value was 1.051 (1.033, 1.069) on the current day (lag 0). The greater estimates for males appeared at lag 7 days, with RR of 1.019 (0.998, 1.040). A season-specific effect was detected that the relative risk values with per 1 °C increase in DTR were greater in cold season than in warm season. These findings support the hypothesis of significant relationship between DTR and COPD in Changchun, one northeast city of China.

A comparison of blood metal levels in autism spectrum disorder and unaffected children in Shenzhen of China and factors involved in bioaccumulation of metals

Abstract

The present study compared blood plasma metals in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with those in unaffected children in Shenzhen (China). Factors associated with the metal bioaccumulation were further investigated. Thirty-four blood samples of children with ASD were collected in a local hospital (Shenzhen Children's Hospital), while those of 38 unaffected children were from a local large public kindergarten, during March to April in 2016. Metal analysis was carried out by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. The results showed that children with ASD had higher (P < 0.01, 0.05) Pb (ASD 31.9 μg/L, unaffected children 18.6 μg/L), Hg (3.83, and 1.09 μg/L), and Cd (0.70 and 0.26 μg/L) than unaffected children, while essential elements Zn (ASD 4552.0 μg/L, unaffected children 5118.6 μg/L), Se (61.7 and 90.6 μg/L), and Mn (13.5 and 21.4 μg/L) showed an opposite pattern. Moreover, the children exposed to passive smoking had higher (P < 0.05) Cd (passive smoking 1.08 μg/L; non-passive smoking 0.22 μg/L) than those without the exposure. Positive associations were found between levels of Hg or Pb and seafood consumption as well as body mass index (BMI). More future work is needed in order to clarify the association between metal exposure and ASD occurrence in China.

Efficiency in the European agricultural sector: environment and resources

Abstract

This article intends to compute agriculture technical efficiency scores of 27 European countries during the period 2005–2012, using both data envelopment analysis (DEA) and stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) with a generalized cross-entropy (GCE) approach, for comparison purposes. Afterwards, by using the scores as dependent variable, we apply quantile regressions using a set of possible influencing variables within the agricultural sector able to explain technical efficiency scores. Results allow us to conclude that although DEA and SFA are quite distinguishable methodologies, and despite attained results are different in terms of technical efficiency scores, both are able to identify analogously the worst and better countries. They also suggest that it is important to include resources productivity and subsidies in determining technical efficiency due to its positive and significant exerted influence.

A report of Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii and other cyanobacteria in the water reservoirs of power plants in Ukraine

Abstract

The occurrence of cyanobacteria in freshwaters attracts much attention due to its associated health threats and ecological implications. Yet data on the composition of cyanobacteria taxa and toxigenicity in some regions is still scarce. Here, we explored the occurrence of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in three locations in Ukraine (reservoir for Kasperivtsi Hydrothermal Power Plant and outflowing River Seret, and cooling pond of Khmelnytsky Atomic Power Plant) in summer 2017. Cyanobacteria were a dominant fraction at all stations. A number of potent-toxin producers were identified including Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, Aphanizomenon gracile, Dolichospermum flos-aquae, and Planktothrix agardhii. Screening for the presence of dissolved and particulate content of microcystins (-LR, -YR, and -RR), cylindrospermopsin, and anatoxin-a yielded negative results. The studied waters displayed no toxicity in human platelets in vitro. Further toxicological and ecological studies are necessary to evaluate the potential presence of cyanotoxin producers in Ukraine.

Effectiveness of nutrient remotion and cell physiology of Amphora sp. cultured in shrimp farm effluents

Abstract

Shrimp farm effluents are one of the principal causes of eutrophication in coastal environments. Integrated processes of bioremediation involving the culturing of purifying organisms have been suggested, but very few studies have focused on microalgae. For that purpose evaluated the growth potential of Amphora sp. in the residual waters of shrimp farm activity fulfilled on the Paraíba State, Brazil. The experiments were performed using Conway medium as the control and wastewaters from shrimp farm at 100% concentrations. Amphora sp. demonstrated good growth in the shrimp farm effluents under test conditions, although less than that observed in the control medium. This diatom was found to removed 73.357 and 72.572% of PO₄⁻ and NO₃⁻, respectively, demonstrating a high mitigation potential for this type of effluent. Comparisons of the physiological responses measured by flow cytometry demonstrated higher cell densities of Amphora sp. in the control medium, but a higher lipid content was observed in Amphora cultured in shrimp farm effluents.

Methyl-2-acetylamino-3-(4-hydroxyl-3,5-dimethoxybenzoylthio)propanoate suppresses melanogenesis through ERK signaling pathway mediated MITF proteasomal degradation

Melanin is synthesized for protecting the skin against extensive environmental stimuli a deficiency of epidermal melanin induces the increase of skin aging as wrinkle and hyperpigmentation such as hypermelanotic skin disorders such as melisma, ephelides, and solar lentigines [1,2]. Melanin production is increased in skin melanocytes following the secretion of the hormones in UV-stimulated keratinocytes [3]. During production of melanins, melanogenic enzymes such as tyrosinase (TYR), tyrosinase related protein-1 (TRP-1), and tyrosinase-related protein-2 (TRP-2) was synthesized [1,4].

Dermatology Subspecialty Clinic for Patients with Connective Tissue Disease Impacts Diagnosis and Treatment: A Single-Center, Retrospective Analysis

Vitamin D Status in Scarring and Non-Scarring Alopecia

Analysis of Spin in the Reporting of Studies of Topical Treatments of Photoaged Skin

Reporting and interpretation of findings in medical literature may be inconsistent with study methods and results, Even high-quality study design within dermatologic literature offers opportunities to spin results, Physicians, scientists, editors, and peer-reviewers should be mindful of spin techniques to improve the quality of research and care of our patients.

Appropriate Use Criteria in Dermatopathology: Initial Recommendations from the American Society of Dermatopathology

Appropriate use criteria (AUC) combine the best scientific evidence available with expert judgment yielding a statement of the appropriateness for performing a test in specific clinical scenarios. Initial recommendations for the use of selected ancillary studies in dermatopathology are outlined. AUC can impact health care delivery, inform reimbursement policy, and guide physician decision making.

National Skin Cancer Expenditure Analysis in the United States Medicare Population, 2013

Phthalates and type 1 diabetes: is there any link?

Abstract

Phthalates are a group of chemical compounds used as plasticizers in the manufacture of plastic materials. They can be present in many commonly used products. There seems to be a relationship between exposure to phthalates and the occurrence of metabolic dysfunctions, such as a decrease in glucose tolerance, oxidative stress, loss of beta cells, and a decrease in insulin synthesis. As beta cells play a key role in the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), we sought to investigate the relationship between exposure to phthalates and the diagnosis of T1DM in prepubertal children. Design concentrations of phthalate metabolites were compared in the urine of a population of prepubertal children with new-onset diabetes, patients with T1DM diagnosed more than 6 months previously, and healthy control children. Although the concentrations of DBP and DiBP metabolites were statistically identical in the new-onset diabetes, diabetes, and control groups, there was a clear trend for higher levels of DiBP metabolites in the children with new-onset diabetes. In our sample, there was a trend for higher levels of DiBP metabolites in children with new-onset diabetes.

Spatial distribution of uranium and basic water quality parameter in the capital of Bihar and consequent ingestion dose

Abstract

Investigation of presence of Uranium (U) in groundwater/drinking water is an active are of research due to its chemical and radiological toxicity as well as long-term health effects. The current study had the objective of estimating U as a naturally occurring radioactive element in groundwater samples and assessment of ingestion dose, when groundwater is the source of drinking water. The random sampling method was chosen for the collection of samples based on population density. The estimation of U was done using LED fluorimeter. Statistical tools were applied to analyze the data and its spatial distribution. The U concentrations in three blocks of urban Patna were well below the permissible limits suggested by different health agencies of the world. A correlation test was performed to analyze the association of U with other physiochemical parameters of water samples. It was found that the sulfate, chloride, calcium, hardness, alkalinity, TDS, salinity, and ORP were positively correlated, whereas fluoride, phosphate, magnesium, dissolved oxygen, and pH were negatively correlated with U concentrations. The ingestion dose due to U, occurring in groundwater, was found to vary from 0.2–27.0 μSv y⁻¹ with a mean of 4.2 μSv y⁻¹, which was well below the recommended limit of 0.1 mSv (WHO WHO Chron 38:104–108, 2012).Therefore, the water in this region is fit for drinking purposes.

Current evidence on the role of smoking in plastic surgery elective procedures: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Vasileios Theocharidis, Ioannis Katsaros, Emmanouil Sgouromallis, Nikolaos Serifis, Vasileios Boikou, Sotirios Tasigiorgos, George Kokosis, Konstantinos P. Economopoulos
BackgroundSmoking is considered to be a significant risk factor for the development of postoperative complications after various surgical procedures, mainly by limiting oxygen delivery to tissues. Evidence on the collective impact of smoking in aesthetic procedure outcomes is scarce. The aim of this study is to evaluate the current evidence on the association between smoking and postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent common elective procedures in plastic surgery.MethodsPubMed and Cochrane bibliographical databases were searched from January 1950 to October 2016 for studies reporting on patients who underwent facelift, abdominoplasty, breast reduction and breast reconstruction and for studies with included data on smoking history of treated patients.ResultsFifty-three studies reporting on postoperative complications in tobacco users undergoing facelift, abdominoplasty, breast reduction and reconstruction were identified. Tobacco use is found to significantly increase the total number of postoperative complications as far as abdominoplasty (OR: 5.43; 95% CI = 2.92–10.10), breast reduction (OR: 2.36; 95% CI = 1.64–3.39) and breast reconstruction (OR: 1.91; 95% CI = 1.69–2.17) are concerned. Smoking history does not significantly affect total postoperative complications after facelift procedures (OR: 3.36; 95% CI = 0.92–12.30).ConclusionsSmoking predisposes to surgical site infections, delayed wound healing and skin necrosis in patients undergoing the most common aesthetic procedures in plastic surgery. More rigorous and detailed reporting on the history of tobacco use and surgical outcomes following plastic surgery procedures is needed to better quantify the impact of smoking on the overall postoperative care for this patient population.

Mollie lentaigne, the nurse who drew mcindoe's Guinea pigs: exploring the role of a medical artist at the queen victoria hospital, 1940-1945

Publication date: Available online 16 April 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Alexander J. Baldwin
Mollie Lentaigne was a medical artist who worked at the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead during the Second World War alongside Archibald McIndoe and his dedicated team. She drew hundreds of medical illustrations for McIndoe and his fellow surgeons during the years between 1940 and 1945. Her illustrations depict the plastic surgery that was carried out in that hospital on the badly burnt RAF servicemen injured during the war that took place in the skies over Europe, which included many aircrew injured during the Battle of Britain.This project looks at the career of Lentaigne and her role within the surgical team in East Grinstead during that era and explores a number of Lentaigne's illustrations whilst providing context as to the procedures and patients depicted. An examination of Lentaigne's story, using an interview conducted by the author with the artist offers an alternative perspective with which to observe the events that unfolded in East Grinstead during that conflict.An analysis of these images shows the ability of this artist to portray relatively complex operations with a series of simple pencil or ink diagrams whilst also skilfully engaging the observer's sense of touch. The ability of a medical artist to be selective with their illustrations allowed them to provide clearer, less cluttered images that were preferred by McIndoe when recording the specific surgical procedures for use in the patient's medical records.

Time to re-group and save: Do we routinely need to perform group-and-save in patients undergoing free deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction?

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Stephen R. Ali, Rachel Chetwynd-Stapylton, Will J.M. Holmes, Liam Vermaak, Sherif M. Wilson

Quality of life improvement after chest wall masculinization in female-to-male transgender patients: A prospective study using the BREAST-Q and Body Uneasiness Test

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Cori A. Agarwal, Melody F. Scheefer, Lindsey N. Wright, Norelle K. Walzer, Andy Rivera
BackgroundChest reconstruction in many female-to-male (FTM) transgender individuals is an essential element of treatment for their gender dysphoria. In existing literature, there are very few longitudinal studies utilizing validated survey tools to evaluate patient reported outcomes surrounding this surgery. The purpose of our study is to prospectively evaluate patient reported satisfaction, improvement in body image, and quality of life following FTM chest wall reconstruction.MethodsOur study was a prospective analysis of FTM patients who underwent chest reconstruction by a single surgeon (C.A.) between April 2015 and June 2016. The patients were surveyed preoperatively and 6 months after surgery utilizing the BREAST-Q breast reduction/mastectomy questionnaire and the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT-A). Analysis was performed on their self-reported demographic information, survey results, and chart review data.ResultsOf 87 eligible patients, 42 completed all surveys and could be linked to their chart data. From the BREAST-Q surveys, significant improvements were observed in the domains of breast satisfaction, psychosocial well-being, sexual satisfaction, and physical well-being. From the BUT-A surveys, we observed significant improvement in body image, avoidance, compulsive self-monitoring, and depersonalization. Groups with mental health conditions had poorer initial BUT-A scores and greater degree of improvement after surgery.ConclusionsAs the prevalence of gender affirming surgery increases and as health policies are being developed in this area, the need for evidence-based studies surrounding specific interventions is essential. This study demonstrates significant improvement in a number of quality of life measurements in FTM patients after undergoing chest masculinization surgery.

Should platelet-rich plasma be activated in fat grafts? An animal study

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Barbara Hersant, Jonathan Bouhassira, Mounia SidAhmed-Mezi, Luciano Vidal, Mayoura Keophiphath, Barbara Chheangsun, Jeremy Niddam, Romain Bosc, Aurelie Le Nezet, Jean-Paul Meningaud, Anne Marie Rodriguez
BackgroundThe adjunction of platelet-rich plasma with graft fat has been the subject of a few clinical trials which have demonstrated its value in adipocyte survival. The aim of this study was to assess the different efficacies between activated and non-activated PRP on adipose cells in vitro and for adipose tissue graft survival in vivo.MethodsThe in vitro study assessed the effects of PRP on both the proliferation and adipocyte differentiation of adipose cells.For the in vivo study, 8 nude rats received 3 human fat injections as follows: 0.8 mL of fat + 0.2 mL of normal saline; 0.8 mL of fat + 0.2 mL of non-activated PRP; and 0.8 mL of fat + 0.2 mL of PRP activated with calcium chloride (CaCl2).The quantitative assessment of adipocyte survival was implemented after 3 months using histomorphometric analysis. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis were also performed to evaluate angiogenesis, inflammation and quality of adipocytes in the grafted tissue.ResultsWe showed that activated PRP stimulated, in vitro, proliferation and differentiation of adipose cells.In vivo experiments indicated that CaCl2-activated PRP was more efficient than non-activated to prolong the survival of fat grafts in nude rats. The mean percentage areas occupied by viable adipocytes in the PRP-free group, non-activated PRP group and activated PRP group were 13%, 14% and 24% (p = 0.05%), respectively. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis revealed protective effect of activated PRP on inflammation and adipocyte death.ConclusionThis study showed that activation by CaCl2 improves the beneficial effects of PRP for fat graft maintenance.

In reply to “re: Antibiotic prophylaxis in breast reduction surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis”

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): James Zapata-Copete, Santiago Aguilera-Mosquera, Herney Andrés García-Perdomo

Liposuction-assisted four pedicle-based breast reduction (LAFPBR): A new safer technique of breast reduction for elderly patients

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Simone La Padula, Barbara Hersant, Warren Noel, Jean Paul Meningaud
As older people increasingly care for their body image and remain active longer, the demand for reduction mammaplasty is increasing in this population. Only a few studies of reduction mammaplasty have specifically focussed on the outcomes in elderly women. We developed a new breast reduction technique: the Liposuction-Assisted Four Pedicle-Based Breast Reduction (LAFPBR) that is especially indicated for elderly patients.The aim of this paper was to describe the LAFPBR technique and to determine whether it could be considered a safer option for elderly patients compared to the superomedial pedicle (SMP) technique.A retrospective study included sixty-two women aged 60 years and over who underwent bilateral breast reduction mammaplasty. Thirty-one patients underwent LAFPBR and 31 patients were operated using the SMP technique. Complications and patient satisfaction in both groups were analysed. Patient satisfaction was measured using a validated questionnaire: the client satisfaction questionnaire 8 (CSQ-8).The LAFPBR technique required less operating time, and avoided significant blood loss. Six minor complications were observed in SMP patients. No LAFPBR women developed a procedure-related complication. Patient satisfaction was high with a mean score of 29.65 in LAFPBR patients and 28.68 in SMP patients.The LAFPBR is an easy procedure that appears safer than SMP and results in a high satisfaction rate in elderly women.

Evaluation of anatomical and round breast implant aesthetics and preferences in Dutch young lay and plastic surgeon cohort

Publication date: Available online 16 April 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Patrick P. Bletsis, Lesley R. Bouwer, Klaas H. Ultee, Michel Cromheecke, Berend van der Lei
BackgroundLiterature remains inconclusive on the attractiveness and natural aspect of anatomical breast implants and, so far, studies have failed to demonstrate the visible difference in practice as compared to round ones. This study was undertaken to evaluate: (1) whether lay and professional participants can distinguish between breasts augmented with either round or anatomical breast implants, (2) their opinion with regard to naturalness and attractiveness of these augmented breasts.MethodsTwenty breast augmentations (10 anatomical and 10 round implants), each depicted by two postoperative pictures, were scored by 100 lay participants and 15 plastic surgeons. Implant volume ranged from 275 – 400 grams. Ptotic or malformed breasts were excluded. Finally, they had to score the most natural, unnatural, attractive and unattractive breast shape on a schematic depiction of breast types with varying upper poles.ResultsThe rate of correct implant identifications was 74.0% (1480/2000 observations, p<0.001) in the lay and 67.3% (202/300 observations, p<0.001) in the surgeon cohort. Breasts with anatomical implants were rated significantly more natural by both lay participants and surgeons (3.3±1.0 vs. 2.6±1.0, p<0.001 and 3.3±1.0 vs. 2.2±0.9, p<0.001) and more attractive (3.1±1.0 vs. 2.6±1.0, p<0.001 and 3.6±0.9 vs. 2.7±0.9, p<0.001). Participants preferred breasts with a neutral or slightly negative upper pole contour.ConclusionParticipants were able to distinguish between the results achieved with either anatomical or round textured Allergan breast implants and found augmented breasts with the anatomical implants more natural and attractive.

Distally based anteromedial thigh flaps pedicled on the rectus femoris branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery for reconstruction of soft-tissue defect of the knee

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Shan Zhu, Mengqing Zang, Shengji Yu, Boyang Xu, Yuanbo Liu
BackgroundAnteromedial thigh flaps are far less clinically appealing than their anterolateral counterparts, and are occasionally considered as an alternative to the anterolateral thigh flap. Herein, we report the study of soft-tissue defects reconstruction in the knee using a distally based anteromedial thigh flap pedicled on the rectus femoris branch of the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery.Patients and methodsBetween July 2008 and September 2016, a distally based anteromedial thigh flap was used to reconstruct soft-tissue defects of the knee in 5 patients (3 males, 2 females; age range at surgery 4–55 years old). The perforating vessels supplying anteromedial thigh were derived from the rectus femoris branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery. The rectus femoris branch shared a common trunk with the descending branches of the lateral circumflex femoral artery. Defect etiologies included malignant neoplasms in 2 cases and post-burn scar contracture in the remaining 3 cases.ResultsThe average flap size was 19.6 × 9.2 cm (range: 15–24 × 6–12 cm). There was no flap loss. Postoperative muscle weakness occurred in one case. The average follow-up time was 17.8 months (range: 5–36 months). No recurrence of tumor or scar contracture was noted.ConclusionsDistally based anteromedial thigh flaps pedicled on the rectus femoris branch of the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery may serve as an alternative option to the distally based anterolateral thigh flap for soft-tissue defect reconstruction of the knee.

Intraoperative imaging of lymphatic vessel using ultra high-frequency ultrasound

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Akitatsu Hayashi, Giuseppe Visconti, Takumi Yamamoto, Guido Giacalone, Nobuko Hayashi, Mayumi Handa, Hidehiko Yoshimatsu, Marzia Salgarello

The split hypoglossal nerve versus the cross-face nerve graft to supply the free functional muscle transfer for facial reanimation: A comparative study

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Tarek A. Amer, Mohamed S. El Kholy
Long-standing cases of facial paralysis are currently treated with free functional muscle transfer. Several nerves are mentioned in the literature to supply the free muscle transfer. The aim of this study is to compare the split hypoglossal nerve and the cross-face nerve graft to supply the free functional muscle transfer in facial reanimation.Of 94 patients with long-standing, unilateral facial palsy, 49 were treated using the latissimus dorsi muscle supplied by the split hypoglossal nerve, and 45 patients were treated using the latissmus dorsi muscle supplied by healthy contralateral buccal branch of the facial nerve.The excursion gained by the free muscle transfer supplied by the split hypoglossal nerve (mean 19.20 ± 6.321) was significantly higher (P value 0.001) than that obtained by the contralateral buccal branch of the facial nerve (mean 14.59 ± 6.245).The split hypoglossal nerve appears to be a good possible option to supply the free vascularised muscle transfer in facial reanimation. It yields a stronger excursion in less time than the contralateral cross-face nerve graft.

Letter to the editor: Predictors of internal mammary vessel diameter: A computed tomographic angiography-assisted anatomic analysis

Publication date: May 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Volume 71, Issue 5
Author(s): Rudo N. Madada-Nyakauru, Margaret M. Huang, Yoshi Sasaki, Charles M. Malata

Masseter-to-facial nerve transfer: technique and outcomes utilizing a fibrin sealant for coaptation

Publication date: Available online 16 April 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Enrique Salmerón-González, Eduardo Simón-Sanz, Elena García-Vilariño, Alberto Ruiz-Cases
BackgroundThis article describes the use of fibrin sealant for nerve coaptation without sutures in masseter-to-facial nerve transfer; and the results obtained utilizing this technique in a series of eleven patients.MethodsA retrospective review of eleven patients with facial paralysis grades V-VI was performed. All patients underwent masseter nerve transfer for facial reanimation utilizing a fibrin sealant, without utilizing sutures for coaptation.ResultsThe follow up period ranged from 10 to 52 months. All patients recovered oral competence, eye closure, facial tone and a smile grade of 4,45 +/- 0,52 according to Terzis aesthetic and functional evaluation scale. Muscle contraction started 3-9 months postoperatively (average 4,7 +/- 2,3).ConclusionsThe use of fibrin glue without sutures for coaptation in masseter-to-facial nerve transfer, simplifies the procedure and shortens surgical timing, not requiring the logistics of a microsurgical team, with similar results than neurorraphy performed with sutures. The masseter-to-facial nerve transfer is an effective technique for facial reanimation in short-term complete paralysis and mid-term partial paralysis.

Improved outcomes of scar revision with use of polydioxanone suture in comparison to polyglactin 910: A randomized controlled trial

Publication date: Available online 16 April 2018
Source:Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Author(s): Deepti Gupta, Upendra Sharma, Shashank Chauhan, Shamendra Anand Sahu
Scars have multiple cosmetic and functional sequelae and revision surgeries are an attempt to ameliorate these effects. Reduction of spread of the revised scar is one of the main objectives of revision procedures. Provision of prolonged dermal support to wound can theoretically reduce spread of the scar. We carried out a randomized controlled trial and objectively evaluated the impact of two commonly used absorbable sutures, Polyglactin 910 and Polydioxanone on scar spread and quality. Sixty patients with post traumatic scars of one year duration were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into two groups of 30 each. After noting the demographic data and baseline scar characteristics, revision of the scar was carried out by elliptical excision and primary suturing. In Group1, Polyglactin 910 6-0 suture (Vicryl, Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson Ltd, India) was used for dermal suturing, whereas, in Group 2, Polydioxanone 6-0 suture (PDS II, Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson Ltd, India) was used. The scar spread in terms of scar width and scar quality with Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was evaluated at one, three and four months post-operatively. The two groups were well matched for demographics and baseline scar characteristics. On follow up, the mean scar width in Group 1 was significantly more than in Group 2. VSS score was significantly lower in Group 2 at third and fourth month follow up, signifying better scar quality. Suture extrusion was noticed in three cases in Group 1.Polydioxanone sutures, when used for intradermal suturing in revision of facial scars, result in a significantly decreased scar spread and better scar quality, than Polyglactin 910.

Ecotoxicological effects of microplastics on biota: a review

Abstract

The ubiquitous presence of microplastics in the environment has drawn the attention of ecotoxicologists on its safety and toxicity. Sources of microplastics in the environment include disintegration of larger plastic items (secondary microplastics), personal care products like liquid soap, exfoliating scrubbers, and cleaning supplies etc. Indiscriminate usage of plastics and its poor waste disposal management pose serious concern on ecosystem quality at global level. The present review focused on the ecological impact of microplastics on biota at different trophic levels, its uptake, accumulation, and excretion etc., and its plausible mechanistic toxicity with risk assessment approaches. Existing scientific evidence shows that microplastics exposure triggers a wide variety of toxic insult from feeding disruption to reproductive performance, physical ingestion, disturbances in energy metabolism, changes in liver physiology, synergistic and/ or antagonistic action of other hydrophobic organic contaminants etc. from lower to higher trophics. Thus, microplastic accumulation and its associated adverse effects make it mandatory to go in for risk assessment and legislative action. Subsequent research priorities, agenda, and key issues to be addressed are also acknowledged in the present review.

CRISPR-Cas9 enabled targeted mutagenesis in the thermotolerant methylotrophic yeast Ogataea thermomethanolica

Abstract

Ogataea thermomethanolica TBRC656 is a thermotolerant methylotrophic yeast suitable for heterologous protein expression at various temperatures. However, the lack of efficient methods for targeted gene mutagenesis limits strain engineering in this yeast. In this study, we applied a CRISPR-Cas9 based-tool for targeted gene mutagenesis in O. thermomethanolica. The putative unfolded protein response (UPR) regulator OtHAC1, and the OtMAL1 (maltase) and OtMAL2 (maltose permease) genes involved with sucrose and maltose utilization were targeted for CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis. Plasmids were constructed for integrative and episomal expression of CRISPR-Cas9 elements in O. thermomethanolica in which Cas9 and gRNA are transcribed from the alcohol oxidase (AOX) promoter. The expression of these genome editing elements is controlled by derepression with glycerol and gRNA are flanked by self-cleaving ribozymes. For integrative system, OtHAC1, OtMAL1, and OtMAL2 were disrupted at 63%, 97%, and 93%, respectively. In addition, OtMAL1 was also disrupted with episomal system at 92%. These finding indicate that the CRISPR-Cas9 system described herein are thus applicable for studying gene function and strain engineering in yeast O. thermomethanolica.

Identification of a contact-dependent growth inhibition system in the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917

Abstract

Contact-dependent growth inhibition (CDI) is a type of competitive mechanisms, and has been identified in various strains including Burkholderia, Dickeya, E. coli, and Yersinia. Classical CDI systems contain three genes, cdiB, cdiA and cdiI. CdiB encoded by cdiB gene is a conserved β-barrel protein and required for export of CdiA. CdiA protein encoded by cdiA gene includes a conserved N-terminal domain, and variable C-terminal toxic domain (CdiA-CT). Immunity protein CdiI binds and inactivates toxin protein CdiA-CT. Here we identified two CDI systems, an intact cdiBAI operon with a truncated CdiB due to an unexpected mutation, and an 'orphan' cdiA-CT/cdiI module in the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) genome. Both CdiA-CTs from EcN showed auto-inhibition activity when transferring into E. coli DH5α, as well the sequential deletion of amino acid residues resulted in generation of the most potent mutant of CdiA-CT. CdiI neutralized the toxicity activity of CdiA and was immunity protein as previous report. In conclusion, this is the first report that functional CDI system is in probiotic EcN and might provide a potential competitive mechanism for probiotic EcN in intestinal microenvironment.

YidC-mediated Membrane Insertion

Abstract

The most simple membrane protein insertion catalyst known so far is the universal YidC/Oxa/Alb insertase that is composed of a single multi-spanning protein present in archaea, bacteria and in eukaryotic organelles. In bacteria, YidC is known to integrate small membrane proteins on its own and more complex proteins in conjunction with the SecYEG translocase. In mitochondria, the YidC homologue Oxa is responsible for the insertion of all membrane proteins synthesized in the matrix since no Sec homologues are present in the mitochondrial inner membrane. This is tantamount to the observation that YidC is able to operate also independently of SecYEG in bacteria. Reconstituted into liposomes, YidC rapidly and efficiently binds to substrate proteins and leads to their integration into the bilayer. Additionally, single molecule force spectroscopy experiments show that YidC binds to unfolded membrane proteins and promotes their folding into the membrane bilayer. To achieve membrane insertion and the correct folding, the periplasmic regions of the substrate have to cross the membrane with the help of YidC by a mechanism that is presently explored.

A town on fire! Integrating 16S rRNA gene amplicon analyses into an undergraduate microbiology lecture class

Abstract

Microbiology increasingly relies upon bioinformatics to understand complex microbial interactions. Nevertheless, biology undergraduates often lack the basic quantitative and computer-based skills required for bioinformatics analyses. To address these issues, the course module 'A Town on Fire! 16S rRNA Gene Amplicon Analysis of Microbial Communities Overlying the Centralia, PA Mine Fire' was developed for an undergraduate microbiology lecture course. In this module, microbiology students used Quantitative Insights into Microbial Ecology (QIIME) to perform taxonomic, phylogenetic and statistical analyses on bacterial communities from three hot mine fire-impacted surface soils using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequences. Pre- and post-module assessment data for each of two years was compiled, and indirect assessment indicated that students' confidence regarding their ability to perform bioinformatics analyses, as well as their ability to interpret bioinformatics data both increased, as did their enthusiasm for bioinformatics. Direct assessment demonstrated that students' understanding of topics that they actually used in the module, such as the statistical analyses that underlie bioinformatics investigations and the ability to infer phylogenetic relationships, improved during the module, but that their underlying understanding of techniques that they did not directly perform, such as sequencing and library construction, did not.

Laboratory Evaluation of a Novel Real-Time Respirator Seal Integrity Monitor

Abstract

Background

A low-cost real-time Respirator Seal Integrity Monitor (ReSIM) was recently developed to monitor a respirator's actual performance at a workplace. The objective of this study was to evaluate the capability of the new ReSIM prototype in manikin-based laboratory experiments to rapidly detect induced leakage of a half-mask elastomeric respirator.

Methods

Two phases of testing were conducted in this study. First, the accuracy of ReSIM measuring an aerosol concentration was assessed by comparing the outputs of ReSIM against a reference optical aerosol spectrometer (OAS) in a flow-through set-up. Second, the capability to detect a leak was tested using a manikin-based set-up to simulate leaks into a functional respirator.

Results:

The regression curve of ReSIM versus OAS had an R² of 0.936, indicating its high accuracy within the targeted particle size range of 0.5–2 µm. The ReSIM provided a leak detection sensitivity (probability of correctly identifying intervals with the true leak) of 98.4% when challenged with a combustion aerosol, compared to 71.8% when challenged with a NaCl aerosol. Its specificity (probability of identifying intervals without a leak) was 99.8% after adjusting for persistent false positives for both types of challenge aerosol.

Conclusion

The ReSIM prototype not only can estimate the particle concentration with high accuracy but also can rapidly detect respirator faceseal leakage in real time with sufficient sensitivity and specificity. In addition, it can trigger an alarm when the faceseal integrity is compromised.