Variations in origin level of superior mesenteric artery, inferior mesenteric artery and coeliac trunk in indian population.

OBJECTIVE: The abdominal aorta is a continuation of the thoracic aorta and gives off coeliac trunk, superior mesenteric artery & inferior mesenteric artery. The focus of our study is to evaluate variations in origin level in coeliac trunk, Superior Mesenteric artery, Inferior Mesenteric artery, and Aortic bifurcation in the Indian population and compare with various demographics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was retrospective and the local ethics committee approval was taken before starting it. 300 patients who were of more than 18 years of age and required CECT studies were included in this. The vertebral origin level of the arteries from Abdominal Aorta and Aortic Bifurcation level was analyzed. RESULTS: The most common origin level of Coeliac trunk for both males and females was T12-L1 Disc level. The most common origin level of Superior Mesenteric Artery was L1 Upper level. The most common origin level of Inferior Mesenteric Artery was L3 Upper level. The most common origin level of Superior Mesenteric Artery was L5 Lower level. There was no statistical difference between the origin of any arteries in Males and Females in the Indian Population. CONCLUSION: As per our study in the Indian population and the published literature it is realized that there are significant variations in origins of Coeliac Trunk, Superior Mesenteric artery, Inferior Mesenteric artery and Abdominal Aorta bifurcation in different populations. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This study elaborates on potential Anatomical Variations in Indian Population, particularly Mumbai City population. Also, our study compares it to different countries' data and their results in variations found in Abdominal Aorta branches.

Leveraging neuroscience education to address stigma related to opioid use disorder in the community: a pilot study.

Opioid use disorder (OUD) and overdose deaths are a public health crisis. One contributing factor is stigma towards people who use opioids. We developed and conducted a public-facing, half-day educational event designed to challenge misperceptions about OUD from a contemporary neuroscience perspective. Participants engaged with three different resources on the neurobiology of addiction, and, at the end of the event, they rated its effectiveness. We also collected and compared pre- and post-event composite OUD stigma scales. Participants rated our approach and the overall event as highly effective. Additionally, OUD stigma scores were lower immediately following the event, and this decrease was primarily driven by decreased internalized stigma. Here, we demonstrate an effective proof-of-concept that an accessible, public-facing, neuroscience education event may reduce OUD stigma in the community.

Examining road safety impacts of Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory (GLOSA) system.

Mobility and environmental benefits of Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory (GLOSA) systems have been reported by many previous research studies, however, there is insufficient knowledge on the safety implications of such an application. For safe deployment of GLOSA system, it is most critical to identify and address potential safety issues in the design process. It can be argued that implementation of GLOSA system can improve safety by reducing traffic conflicts associated with the interrupted traffic flow at signalised intersections. However, more research findings are needed from field and simulation based studies to evaluate the impacts on safety under a variety of real-world scenarios. As part of the LEVITATE (Societal Level Impacts of Connected and Automated Vehicles) project under European Union's Horizon 2020 Programme, the main objective of this study is to examine the safety impacts of GLOSA under mixed traffic compositions with varying market penetration rates (MPR) of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs). A calibrated and validated microsimulation model (developed in Aimsun) of the greater Manchester area was used for this study where three signalised intersections in a corridor were identified for implementing GLOSA system. An improved algorithm was developed by identifying the potential issues/limitations in some of the GLOSA algorithms found in literature. Behaviours of CAVs were modelled based on the findings of a comprehensive literature review. Safety analysis was performed through processing the simulated vehicular trajectories in the surrogate safety assessment model (SSAM) by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The surrogate safety assessment results showed small improvement in safety with the GLOSA implementation at multiple intersections in the test network only at low MPR (20%) scenarios of CAVs, as compared to the respective without GLOSA scenarios. No or rather slightly lower improvement in safety was observed with GLOSA implementation under mixed fleet scenarios with 40 % or higher 1st Generation or 2nd Generation CAVs, as compared to the respective scenarios without GLOSA. The implementation of GLOSA system was also found to have some impact on the traffic conflict types (although not consistent across all MPR scenarios), where rear-end conflicts were found to decrease while a slight increase was observed in lane-change conflicts.

Xanthone Derivatives Enhance the Therapeutic Potential of Neomycin against Polymicrobial Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections.

Gram-negative bacterial infections are difficult to manage as many antibiotics are ineffective owing to the presence of impermeable bacterial membranes. Polymicrobial infections pose a serious threat due to the inadequate efficacy of available antibiotics, thereby necessitating the administration of antibiotics at higher doses. Antibiotic adjuvants have emerged as a boon as they can augment the therapeutic potential of available antibiotics. However, the toxicity profile of antibiotic adjuvants is a major hurdle in clinical translation. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and biological activities of xanthone-derived molecules as potential antibiotic adjuvants. Our SAR studies witnessed that the p-dimethylamino pyridine-derivative of xanthone (X8) enhances the efficacy of neomycin (NEO) against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and causes a synergistic antimicrobial effect without any toxicity against mammalian cells. Biochemical studies suggest that the combination of X8 and NEO, apart from inhibiting protein synthesis, enhances the membrane permeability by binding to lipopolysaccharide. Notably, the combination of X8 and NEO can disrupt the monomicrobial and polymicrobial biofilms and show promising therapeutic potential against a murine wound infection model. Collectively, our results unveil the combination of X8 and NEO as a suitable adjuvant therapy for the inhibition of the Gram-negative bacterial infections.

Network-wide safety impacts of dedicated lanes for connected and autonomous vehicles.

Cooperative, Connected and Automated Mobility (CCAM) enabled by Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) has potential to change future transport systems. The findings from previous studies suggest that these technologies will improve traffic flow, reduce travel time and delays. Furthermore, these CAVs will be safer compared to existing vehicles. As these vehicles may have the ability to travel at a higher speed and with shorter headways, it has been argued that infrastructure-based measures are required to optimise traffic flow and road user comfort. One of these measures is the use of a dedicated lane for CAVs on urban highways and arterials and constitutes the focus of this research. As the potential impact on safety is unclear, the present study aims to evaluate the safety impacts of dedicated lanes for CAVs. A calibrated and validated microsimulation model developed in AIMSUN was used to simulate and produce safety results. These results were analysed with the help of the Surrogate Safety Assessment Model (SSAM). The model includes human-driven vehicles (HDVs), 1st generation and 2nd generation autonomous vehicles (AVs) with different sets of parameters leading to different movement behaviour. The model uses a variety of cases in which a dedicated lane is provided at different type of lanes (inner and outer) of highways to understand the safety effects. The model also tries to understand the minimum required market penetration rate (MPR) of CAVs for a better movement of traffic on dedicated lanes. It was observed in the models that although at low penetration rates of CAVs (around 20%) dedicated lanes might not be advantageous, a reduction of 53% to 58% in traffic conflicts is achieved with the introduction of dedicated lanes in high CAV MPRs. In addition, traffic crashes estimated from traffic conflicts are reduced up to 48% with the CAVs. The simulation results revealed that with dedicated lane, the combination of 40-40-20 (i.e., 40% human-driven - 40% 1st generation AVs- 20% 2nd generation AVs) could be the optimum MPR for CAVs to achieve the best safety benefits. The findings in this study provide useful insight into the safety impacts of dedicated lanes for CAVs and could be used to develop a policy support tool for local authorities and practitioners.

Cholic Acid-Derived Gemini Amphiphile Can Eradicate Interkingdom Polymicrobial Biofilms and Wound Infections.

Biofilm infections are mainly caused by Gram-positive bacteria (GPB) like Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and fungi like Candida albicans. These infections are responsible for antimicrobial tolerance, and commensal interactions of these microbes pose a severe threat to chronic infections. Treatment therapies against biofilm infections are limited to eradicating only 20-30% of infections. Here, we present the synthesis of a series of bile acid-derived molecules using lithocholic acid, deoxycholic acid, and cholic acid where two bile acid molecules are tethered through 3'-hydroxyl or 24'-carboxyl terminals with varying spacer length (trimethylene, pentamethylene, octamethylene, and dodecamethylene). Our structure-activity relationship investigations revealed that G21, a cholic acid-derived gemini amphiphile having trimethylene spacer tethered through the C24 position, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. Biochemical studies witnessed that G21 interacts with negatively charged lipoteichoic acid, lipopolysaccharide, and phosphatidylcholine moieties of GPB, GNB, and fungi and disrupts the microbial cell membranes. We further demonstrated that G21 can eradicate polymicrobial biofilms and wound infections and prevent bacteria and fungi from developing drug resistance. Therefore, our findings revealed the potential of G21 as a versatile antimicrobial agent capable of effectively targeting polymicrobial biofilms and wound infections, suggesting that it is a promising antimicrobial agent for future applications.

Groundwater quality index development using the ANN model of Delhi Metropolitan City, India.

Groundwater is widely recognized as a vital source of fresh drinking water worldwide. However, the rapid, unregulated population growth and increased industrialization, coupled with a rise in human activities, have significantly harmed the quality of groundwater. Changes in the local topography and drainage systems in an area have negative impacts on both the quality and quantity of groundwater. This underscores the critical need to assess the susceptibility of groundwater to pollution and implement measures to mitigate these risks. The water quality index (WQI) is an approach that simulates the water quality at peculiar locations for a particular period of time. The artificial neural network (ANN) model approach is such an idealistic methodology that can be utilized for WQI development and provides better results for specific locations in optimum time. Therefore, the goal of the current study is to provide a unique way for using artificial neural networks (ANN) to characterize the groundwater quality of Delhi Metropolitan City, India. In order to make the water fit for residential and drinking use, the research also pinpoints the geographical variability and spots where the contaminated region has to be sufficiently cleaned. A minimum WQI of 41.51 was obtained at the Jagatpur location while a maximum value of 779.01 was at the Peeragarhi location. During the training phase, the results obtained using the ANN model were highly favorable, demonstrating a strong association with an R-value of 98.10%, thus highlighting the program's exceptional efficiency. However, in accordance with the correlation regression findings, the prediction outcomes of the ANN model in testing are observed to be an R-value of 99.99-100%. This study confirms the promise and advantages of employing advanced artificial intelligence in managing groundwater quality in the studied area.

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis infection of the wrist joint: A current concepts review.

Background: Osteoarticular Tuberculosis (TB) of wrist joint is a rare, often misdiagnosed form of site affected by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis infection that can lead to severe disability and morbidity. This review aims to summarize the current literature on the diagnosis and management of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis infection of the wrist joint. Materials and methods: A comprehensive search strategy using the PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcome) framework was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases from 1967 to 2022, excluding single case reports and correspondence articles. The keywords used for the search included 'Mycobacterium tuberculosis' 'osteoarticular' and 'wrist'. Clinical presentation, demographic details, complementary investigations undertaken, trends, and complications of different management interventions were recorded to generate this review. Results: Osteoarticular Tuberculosis (TB) of the wrist joint accounts for fewer than 1% of all skeletal TB cases across a spectrum of age ranges. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) represents an excellent modality to reveal the extent of the disease at an early stage of the condition. Synovial fluid analysis has been recommended for microbiological diagnosis. Treatment options include anti-tubercular therapy (ATT), incision and drainage, debridement, synovectomy, and arthrodesis. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of wrist tuberculosis is crucial for achieving good functional outcomes in patients with this uncommon condition. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and GeneXpert technology for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) have improved diagnostic accuracy in detecting MTB DNA and rifampicin resistance. Anti-Tubercular Therapy (ATT) regime remains a foundation pillar in the overall management of these patients with focused surgical interventions leading to improved clinical outcomes.

Association of sagittal alignment of tibial and femoral components with clinical outcome in total knee arthroplasty: A prospective cohort study.

Background: In total knee replacement component alignment is a very crucial parameter to achieve better clinical outcomes. Only a few studies exist in the literature on the association between sagittal alignment of components and clinical outcomes. The study aimed to measure the functional outcome and association between the sagittal alignment of total knee replacement components and their clinical outcome. Material & methods: Prospectively we collected data of 81 knees (cases) following total knee replacement. The sagittal femoral angle, anterior and posterior tibial slopes were assessed on 2nd postoperative week using a lateral radiograph. Based on these measures 2 groups were made. Group A comprises of the femoral component which was further divided into A1 (41 cases) and A2 (40 cases) based on the component's sagittal femoral angle in flexion or extension.Group B comprises of Tibial component subgrouped based on the degree of Tibal angle as the posterior tibial slope or anterior tibial slopes. The B1 subgroup has posterior tibial slope of more than 5° (23 cases), B2 posterior tibial slope within 5° (53 cases), and B3 anterior tibial slope (5 cases). Preoperative and follow-ups at one month, 6 months, and 3 year; the functional assessment was performed using the American Knee Society score and Oxford knee scores. The duration to raise the leg straight (in days) was also measured. Results: 52 patients (81 total knee replacement cases) with a mean age of 62.88 ± 8.21 were enrolled. Results showed significant improvement in mean American Knee Society score (preoperative 32.91 ± 2.61 to 86.68 ± 2.52 postoperatively at 3 years; P < 0.001) and mean Oxford knee score (preoperative 34.69 ± 1.06 to 19.20 ± 1.91 postoperatively at 3-years; P < 0.001). The correlation of American Knee Society score between the femoral component angle and tibial component angle suggested that the maximum correlation was between Group A2 (Femoral angle = 91 to 95) and Group B2 (Tibal angle = 86 to 90), with p-value <0.0001. Conclusions: There is a positive association between the proper sagittal alignment of femoral component and tibial component in total knee replacement with clinical outcome. The functional outcome (in terms of mean American Knee Society score) is better when the femoral component is positioned in extension and the posterior tibial slope of less than 5° is achieved.

Comparative study of local injections of autologous platelet rich plasma versus corticosteroid in management of chronic plantar fasciitis.

Background: Plantar fasciitis is a known degenerative pathology and is a common cause of heel pain. We intend to evaluate the efficacy between locally injected Corticosteroids and autologous PRP in the management of chronic plantar fasciitis patients. Materials and methods: In this prospective randomized controlled study, 70 chronic plantar fasciitis with failed conservative management for 3 months were randomly selected into 2 groups of 35 patients each. Group A received a local autologous platelet rich plasma injection of 3 ml and group B received a local corticosteroid injection of 2 ml. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were compared between the groups at 15 days, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Results: No improvement in pain between autologous PRP and corticosteroids study subjects was noted in the initial period up to 15 days whereas after 1 month, 3 months and 6 months duration, it is seen that autologous PRP injected study subjects showed significant relief in pain compared to corticosteroids. Conclusion: PRP was more effective in chronic plantar fasciitis patients compared to corticosteroids with pain relief coming after first 1st, 3rd and 6th month of the injection. Level of evidence: Level 2.

A Previously Undiagnosed Case of Alkaptonuria in an 80-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report.

Alkaptonuria is a rare genetic metabolic disorder of autosomal recessive inheritance characterised by the accumulation of homogentisic acid in the body. It is diagnosed upon identification of characteristic symptoms, using various biochemical investigations, radiographic pictures, and a variety of specialised tests. Here we are discussing the case of an 80-year-old female patient with incidental findings of alkaptonuria. It is crucial to understand the fundamental diagnostic investigations that can be used in low-income nations or facilities where investigations like genetic testing, gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry are not readily available for the diagnosis of alkaptonuria.

Leveraging neuroscience education to address stigma related to opioid use disorder (OUD) in the community: A pilot study.

Opioid use disorder (OUD) and overdose deaths are a public health crisis. One contributing factor is stigma towards people who use opioids. We developed and conducted a public-facing, half-day educational event designed to challenge misperceptions about OUD from a contemporary neuroscience perspective. Participants engaged with three different resources on the neurobiology of addiction; at the end of the event, they rated its effectiveness. We also collected and compared pre- and post-event composite OUD stigma scales. Participants rated our approach and the overall event as highly effective. Additionally, OUD stigma scores were lower immediately following the event, and this decrease was primarily driven by decreased internalized stigma. Here, we demonstrate an effective proof-of-concept that an accessible, public-facing, neuroscience education event may reduce OUD stigma in the community.

A Comparative Evaluation of Digital Radiography and Ultrasound Imaging to Detect Periapical Lesions in the Oral Cavity.

Purpose This study evaluates the efficacy of digital radiography and ultrasound (USG) for the distinction between periapical cysts and granulomas, determines the nature and extent of the periapical lesion, visualizes the lumen of the lesion, assesses its size, content, and vascularity. Material and Methods Thirty patients, ages 18 to 40, with well-defined periapical radiolucencies on maxillary or mandibular teeth, indicated for the extraction or periapical surgery, underwent digital radiography examination using the paralleling technique, followed by USG examination. A sonologist evaluated the lesions' size, echogenicity, and vascular content. The diagnosis was compared to histopathological examinations of tissues obtained through extraction or periapical surgery. Results The diagnostic value of USG compared to the histopathological diagnosis of the periapical cyst was greater than that of the radiographic diagnosis, with an ultrasonographic diagnostic sensitivity (SN) value of 60% and a radiographic diagnostic SN value of 40%, respectively. The diagnostic value of USG imaging against the histopathological diagnosis of periapical granuloma was slightly lower than that of digital radiography, with an SN value of 72.2% for USG and 83.33% for digital radiography. However, the specificity (SP) value and precision of USG imaging were superior to those of digital radiographic diagnosis. USG imaging and radiographic diagnosis had 58.33% and 50% SP values, respectively. In cases of periapical abscess, the diagnostic values of USG against histopathological diagnosis were lower than those of radiographic diagnosis, which had an SN value of 100%. Conclusion USG with color doppler is a more effective tool than digital radiography for diagnosing periapical lesions. The echo structure of the lesions and the presence of vascularity on USG with color doppler correlated with histopathology better than the radiological diagnosis.

Assessment of Pathway and Location of Posterior Superior Alveolar Artery: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study.

Objective The current study evaluated the complicated pathway of the posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA) and measured the prevalence, diameter, and length of PSAA to the alveolar crests of molars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The study compared findings between dentate and edentulous patients grouped by their age. In addition, the study researched the presence of the septa. Methods One hundred and fifty CBCT scans of patients with ages ranging from 20 to 80 years were analyzed for the study. The measurements of PSAA were obtained from CBCT scans. Results The PSAA was detected on CBCT scans of 87.3% of participants. The majority course of PSAA was intraosseous (right side 53.3%, left side 63.3%). The diameter of PSAA was 1.30±0.42 mm on the right side and 1.19±0.40 mm on the left side. The length of PSAA to the alveolar crest of the third molar (A1) was 17.16±2.72 mm on the right side and 17.82±3.2 mm on the left side, to the first molar (M1) was 11.6±2.66 mm on the right side and 11.65±2.37 mm on the left side, and to second molar (M2) was 12.51±1.96 mm on the right side and 12.44±2.72 mm on the left side. There was no significant difference noticed between dentate and edentulous participant groups. Six percent (6%) of the scans showed the septa in the maxillary sinus. Conclusions The study showed that CBCT scans and their analysis help the clinician to make a better radiographic diagnosis and clinical application while using surgical procedures, such as implant placement and sinus lift.

Peptide-Functionalized Dendrimer Nanocarriers for Targeted Microdystrophin Gene Delivery.

Gene therapy is a good alternative for determined congenital disorders; however, there are numerous limitations for gene delivery in vivo including targeted cellular uptake, intracellular trafficking, and transport through the nuclear membrane. Here, a modified G5 polyamidoamine (G5 PAMAM) dendrimer-DNA complex was developed, which will allow cell-specific targeting to skeletal muscle cells and transport the DNA through the intracellular machinery and the nuclear membrane. The G5 PAMAM nanocarrier was modified with a skeletal muscle-targeting peptide (SMTP), a DLC8-binding peptide (DBP) for intracellular transport, and a nuclear localization signaling peptide (NLS) for nuclear uptake, and polyplexed with plasmid DNA containing the GFP-tagged microdystrophin (µDys) gene. The delivery of µDys has been considered as a therapeutic modality for patients suffering from a debilitating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) disorder. The nanocarrier-peptide-DNA polyplexes were prepared with different charge ratios and characterized for stability, size, surface charge, and cytotoxicity. Using the optimized nanocarrier polyplexes, the transfection efficiency in vitro was determined by demonstrating the expression of the GFP and the µDys protein using fluorescence and Western blotting studies, respectively. Protein expression in vivo was determined by injecting an optimal nanocarrier polyplex formulation to Duchenne model mice, mdx4Cv. Ultimately, these nanocarrier polyplexes will allow targeted delivery of the microdystrophin gene to skeletal muscle cells and result in improved muscle function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients.

Dual measurements of temporal and spatial coherence of light in a single experimental setup using a modified Michelson interferometer.

An experimental technique is developed to simultaneously measure both temporal and spatial coherences of a light source by altering a standard Michelson interferometer, which has been primarily used for measuring temporal coherence only. Instead of using simple plane mirrors, two retroreflectors and their longitudinal and lateral movements are utilized to incorporate spatial coherence measurement using this modified Michelson interferometer. In general, one uses Young's double slit interferometer to measure spatial coherence. However, this modified interferometer can be used as an optical setup kept at room temperature outside a cryostat to measure the spatiotemporal coherence of a light source placed at cryogenic temperatures. This avoids the added complexities of modulation of interference fringe patterns due to single slit diffraction as well. The process of mixing of spatial and temporal parts of coherences is intrinsic to existing methods for dual measurements. We addressed these issues of spatiotemporal mixing, and we introduced a method of "temporal filtering" in spatial coherence measurements. We also developed a "curve overlap" method that is used to extend the range of the experimental setup during temporal coherence measurements without compromising the precision. Together, these methods provide major advantages over plane mirror based standard interferometric systems for dual measurements in avoiding systematic errors, which lead to inaccuracies, especially for light sources with low coherences.

Quadrupled Hamstring Graft Diameter Adequacy in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Patient Anthropometry: A Prospective Cohort Study in Indian Males.

Background and aim The diameter of the graft used for the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an important determinant for the overall strength and future outcome of the operative procedure. Preoperative prediction of quadrupled hamstrings autograft (QHAG) diameter can prove to be of help in forecasting the need for augmentation or alternative grafts like quadriceps, bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft, and synthetic grafts. The relationship between the preoperatively assessed anthropometric parameters and the obtained quadrupled hamstrings graft diameter has not been extensively studied, especially in the population of Indian origin. This study aimed at investigating whether a correlation exists between the measured anthropometric parameters like age, weight, height, thigh circumference, and body mass index (BMI) and the intraoperatively obtained diameter of hamstring graft for ACL reconstruction in the study population of Indian male subjects. Study design A prospective cohort study conducted in a tertiary care center and teaching hospital in a district in central Uttar Pradesh, India. Methods The preoperative anthropometric data (age, height, weight, BMI, and thigh circumference of the injured side) of 73 Indian male subjects undergoing primary ACL reconstructive surgeries between May 2018 and August 2020 were prospectively collected, and their respective intraoperative QHAG diameters measured and recorded. Pearson's correlation test was employed to determine the correlation between the preoperative demographic and anthropometric data and the obtained corresponding graft diameters. Simple linear regression was performed to obtain the graphical plots and determine the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Of these, the variables showing significant association were subjected to stepwise linear regression to identify and exclude the confounder(s) and obtain the predicted equation. Results The study comprised 73 male participants. The study participants' mean age was found to be 33.7 years, mean height was 173.1 cm, mean weight was 71.2 kg, mean BMI was 23.7 kg/m2, mean thigh circumference was 50.4 cm, and the obtained mean graft diameter was 8.0 mm. A strongly positive correlation was observed between height and the graft diameter (r=0.940, P=0.000) and thigh circumference and the graft diameter (r=0.769, P=0.000). In contrast, weight showed a moderately positive correlation with the graft diameter (r=0.514, P=0.000). A very weakly positive correlation was observed between the BMI of the subjects and the obtained graft diameters (r=0.236, P=0.045). However, no correlation was observed between the age and the final graft diameters (r=0.140, P=0.238). Subsequent linear regression analysis indicates that only height (R2=0.883, P=0.000; strong) and the thigh circumference (R2=0.591, P=0.000; moderate) share a significant predictive value for the obtained QHAG. Both height and thigh circumference together were good predictors for graft diameter as determined by multiple regression (F (2,70)=272.372, P<0.001), with an R2 of 0.886. Conclusion Certain anthropometric parameters depict a positive correlation with the QHAG diameter and can assist in preoperative planning, predicting the possible harvested graft diameter and the need for alternative grafts or augmentation during ACL reconstructive surgeries.

LncRNA FENDRR Expression Correlates with Tumor Immunogenicity.

FENDRR (Fetal-lethal non-coding developmental regulatory RNA, LncRNA FOXF1-AS1) is a recently identified tumor suppressor long non-coding (LncRNA) RNA, and its expression has been linked with epigenetic modulation of the target genes involved in tumor immunity. In this study, we aimed to understand the role of FENDRR in predicting immune-responsiveness and the inflammatory tumor environment. Briefly, FENDRR expression and its relationship to immune activation signals were assessed in murine cell lines. Data suggested that tumor cells (e.g., C26 colon, 4T1 breast) that typically upregulate immune activation genes and the MHC class I molecule exhibited high FENDRR expression levels. Conversely, tumor cells with a generalized downregulation of immune-related gene expression (e.g., B16F10 melanoma) demonstrated low to undetectable FENDRR levels. Mechanistically, the modulation of FENDRR expression enhanced the inflammatory and WNT signaling pathways in tumors. Our early data suggest that FENDRR can play an important role in the development of immune-relevant phenotypes in tumors, and thereby improve cancer immunotherapy.

Fisetin Prevents Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein-Induced Macrophage Foam Cell Formation.

ABSTRACT: Foam cell formation is an important event in atherosclerosis. Fisetin, a bioflavonoid, has been identified to possess anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, and anticancerous properties; however, its role as a lipid homeostasis regulator in macrophages, specifically in the presence of metabolic stressors such as oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) is not well understood. In this study, we have investigated the role of fisetin in preventing oxLDL-induced macrophage foam cell formation. U937-derived macrophages were stimulated with oxLDL with or without fisetin for varied time points, and various parameters were assessed including cell viability by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay; reactive oxygen species (ROS) by dichlorofluorescin diacetate assay; lipid accumulation by Oil Red O staining; and expression of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)-1, and associated downstream proteins 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunoblotting. Functionality of FAS enzyme was determined using enzyme activity assay. Docking studies were performed to determine the in silico interaction between NLRP3 and fisetin. The results showed that fisetin up to the dose of 10 µM did not alter cell viability but at the same dose could decrease the accumulation of lipids in macrophages and prevented foam cell formation. Fisetin could also ameliorate and reduce oxLDL-induced upregulation of SREBP-1 and thereby the expression of its downstream lipid synthesis genes HMGCR and FAS and inhibited ROS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. In conclusion, fisetin could inhibit foam cell formation by blocking oxLDL-induced ROS formation and subsequent NLRP3 activation, thereby inhibiting SREBP-1 and its downstream genes including FAS and HMGCR.