Edgar Ribot‐Llobet, Nuria Montpart, Yolanda Ruiz‐Franco et al.

Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology • 2014

Abstract BACKGROUND The microbial fuel cell ( MFC ) technology transforms the chemical energy present in substrates into electricity. Starting‐up these systems, i.e. enriching the anodic community in exoelectrogenic bacteria, is a lengthy process or requires expensive equipment. RESULTS An easy and low‐cost procedure based on a sediment MFC was developed to select microbial communities with exoelectrogenic activity from the anaerobic sludge of a waste water treatment plant ( WWTP ). The configuration was based on a simple vessel working as a single chamber MFC with a cathode of stainless steel wool in the liquid surface and a submerged graphite fibre brush as anode. In 30 days of operation, a biofilm with remarkable exoelectrogenic activity was grown on the anode of the MFC . This graphite fibre brush anode was able to supply 0.9 W m ‐2 when working in an air‐cathode MFC ( AC‐MFC ) for 45 days. CONCLUSION The procedure presented was demonstrated to be a successful, low‐cost and low‐maintenance procedure to obtain exoelectrogenic activity and had performances comparable with other more costly and complex inoculation procedures. The Sed‐ MFC does not require a potentiostat, external aeration, stirring, membranes or an enriched inoculum in the exoelectrogenic biomass. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry

Michael Lienemann, Michaela A. TerAvest, Juha‐Pekka Pitkänen et al.

Microbial Biotechnology • 2018

Summary Biosensors detect signals using biological sensing components such as redox enzymes and biological cells. Although cellular versatility can be beneficial for different applications, limited stability and efficiency in signal transduction at electrode surfaces represent a challenge. Recent studies have shown that the Mtr electron conduit from Shewanella oneidensis MR ‐1 can be produced in Escherichia coli to generate an exoelectrogenic model system with well‐characterized genetic tools. However, means to specifically immobilize this organism at solid substrates as electroactive biofilms have not been tested previously. Here, we show that mannose‐binding Fim pili can be produced in exoelectrogenic E. coli and can be used to selectively attach cells to a mannose‐coated material. Importantly, cells expressing fim genes retained current production by the heterologous Mtr electron conduit. Our results demonstrate the versatility of the exoelectrogenic E. coli system and motivate future work that aims to produce patterned biofilms for bioelectronic devices that can respond to various biochemical signals.

G. Pasternak, T. D. Askitosari, M. Rosenbaum

Frontiers in Microbiology • 2020

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are ruled by a complex combination of biological and abiotic factors. The interplay of these factors determines the overall efficiency of BES in generating electricity and treating waste. The recent progress in bioelectrochemistry of BESs and electrobiotechnology exposed an important group of compounds, which have a significant contribution to operation and efficiency: surface-active agents, also termed surfactants. Implementation of the interfacial science led to determining several effects of synthetic and natural surfactants on BESs operation. In high pH, these amphiphilic compounds prevent the cathode electrodes from biodeterioration. Through solubilization, their presence leads to increased catabolism of hydrophobic compounds. They interfere with the surface of the electrodes leading to improved biofilm formation, while affecting its microarchitecture and composition. Furthermore, they may act as quorum sensing activators and induce the synthesis of electron shuttles produced by electroactive bacteria. On the other hand, the bioelectrochemical activity can be tailored for new, improved biosurfactant production processes. Herein, the most recent knowledge on the effects of these promising compounds in BESs is discussed.

L. Bird, R. Mickol, Brian J. Eddie et al.

Microbial Biotechnology • 2022

The junction of bioelectrochemical systems and synthetic biology opens the door to many potentially groundbreaking technologies. When developing these possibilities, choosing the correct chassis organism can save a great deal of engineering effort and, indeed, can mean the difference between success and failure. Choosing the correct chassis for a specific application requires a knowledge of the metabolic potential of the candidate organisms, as well as a clear delineation of the traits, required in the application. In this review, we will explore the metabolic and electrochemical potential of a single genus, Marinobacter. We will cover its strengths, (salt tolerance, biofilm formation and electrochemical potential) and weaknesses (insufficient characterization of many strains and a less developed toolbox for genetic manipulation) in potential synthetic electromicrobiology applications. In doing so, we will provide a roadmap for choosing a chassis organism for bioelectrochemical systems.

Eric M. Conners, K. Rengasamy, A. Bose

Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology • 2022

Abstract Microbial biofilms are ubiquitous. In marine and freshwater ecosystems, microbe–mineral interactions sustain biogeochemical cycles, while biofilms found on plants and animals can range from pathogens to commensals. Moreover, biofouling and biocorrosion represent significant challenges to industry. Bioprocessing is an opportunity to take advantage of biofilms and harness their utility as a chassis for biocommodity production. Electrochemical bioreactors have numerous potential applications, including wastewater treatment and commodity production. The literature examining these applications has demonstrated that the cell–surface interface is vital to facilitating these processes. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the state of knowledge regarding biofilms’ role in bioprocessing. This mini-review discusses bacterial biofilm formation, cell–surface redox interactions, and the role of microbial electron transfer in bioprocesses. It also highlights some current goals and challenges with respect to microbe-mediated bioprocessing and future perspectives.

Yue Wang, Yijing Gao, Xueqin Lu et al.

SSRN Electronic Journal • 2023

The disintegration of anaerobic sludge and blockage of membrane pores has impeded the practical application of anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) in treating methanolic wastewater. In this study, bioelectrochemical system (BES) was integrated into AnMBR to alleviate sludge dispersion and membrane fouling as well as enhance bioconversion of methanol. Bioelectrochemical regulation effect induced by BES enhanced methane production rate from 4.94 ± 0.52 to 5.39 ± 0.37 L/Lreactor/d by accelerating the enrichment of electroactive microorganisms and the agglomeration of anaerobic sludge via the adhesive and chemical bonding force. 16 S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing demonstrated that bioelectrochemical stimulation had modified the metabolic pathways by regulating the key functional microbial communities. Methanogenesis via the common methylotrophic Methanomethylovorans was partially substituted by the hydrogenotrophic Candidatus_Methanofastidiosum, etc. The metabolic behaviors of methanol are bioelectrochemistry-dependent, and controlling external voltage is thus an effective strategy for ensuring robust electron transfer, low membrane fouling, and long-term process stability.

Han Chen, Yu-Qing Wei, Meng-Yuan Xu et al.

Small • 2024

Bioelectrochemical reactions using whole-cell biocatalysts are promising carbon-neutral approaches because of their easy operation, low cost, and sustainability. Bidirectional (outward or inward) electron transfer via exoelectrogens plays the main role in driving bioelectrochemical reactions. However, the low electron transfer efficiency seriously inhibits bioelectrochemical reaction kinetics. Here, a three dimensional and artificial nanoparticles-constituent inverse opal-indium tin oxide (IO-ITO) electrode is fabricated and employed to connect with exoelectrogens (Shewanella loihica PV-4). The above electrode collected 128-fold higher cell density and exhibited a maximum current output approaching 1.5 mA cm-2 within 24 h at anode mode. By changing the IO-ITO electrode to cathode mode, the exoelectrogens exhibited the attractive ability of extracellular electron uptake to reduce fumarate and 16 times higher reverse current than the commercial carbon electrode. Notably, Fe-containing oxide nanoparticles are biologically synthesized at both sides of the outer cell membrane and probably contributed to direct electron transfer with the transmembrane c-type cytochromes. Owing to the efficient electron exchange via artificial and biosynthetic nanoparticles, bioelectrochemical CO2 reduction is also realized at the cathode. This work not only explored the possibility of augmenting bidirectional electron transfer but also provided a new strategy to boost bioelectrochemical reactions by introducing biohybrid nanoparticles.

L. Caneo, G. Matte, R. Groom et al.

Brazilian Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery • 2019

Luiz Fernando Caneo1, MD, PhD; Gregory Matte2, CCP, LP, FPP; Robert Groom3, PhD; Rodolfo A. Neirotti4, MD, PhD, FEACTS; Paulo Manuel Pêgo-Fernandes5, MD, PhD; Juan Alberto C. Mejia6, MD, PhD; Fernando Augusto Marinho dos Santos Figueira7, MD; Élio Barreto de Carvalho Filho8, MSc; Fábio Murilo da Costa8, Sintya Tertuliano Chalegre9,10, MSc; Renato Abdala Karam Kalil11, MD, MSc, PhD; Rui M. S. Almeida12, MD, MSc, PhD; on behalf of DECAM/SBCCV13 and SBCEC14

Fernando Barcellos da Silva, L. A. Chisini, F. Demarco et al.

Brazilian Oral Research • 2018

Population-based studies estimating the prevalence of tooth bleaching desire or the percentage of individuals who had performed this treatment are rare. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the desire to perform tooth bleaching and the prevalence of adult individuals who had performed the treatment and investigate the association of these outcomes. A subsample (n = 536) of the 1982 Pelotas birth cohort in southern Brazil was investigated at the ages 15, 24 and 31 by clinical examinations and interviews. The prevalence of bleaching at 31 years was 15.6% [95%CI 12.6-18.9] while 85.9% [95%CI 82.7-88.7] reported they desired the treatment. Multivariate Poisson regression analysis showed that individuals who have visited the dentist within the last year showed a treatment prevalence ratio (PR) 2.31 times [95%CI 1.40-3.83] higher compared with those who had the last dental visit more than a year before the interview. Similarly, individuals with smoking habits presented an elevated PR of 1.60 [95%CI 1.00-2.55], and the low-income trajectory group showed the largest PR of desire for tooth bleaching (1.17 [95%CI 1.07-1.28]). Moreover, individuals from the high-risk caries trajectory group presented a higher prevalence of desire for tooth bleaching than individuals from low caries trajectory group. Individuals who have declared being "dissatisfied" with their dental color presented a prevalence of desire for tooth bleaching 16% greater than "satisfied" ones. Thus, the present findings confirm that tooth bleaching has become a frequently desired dental treatment to improve dental aesthetics in the population and a considerable rate of adults has performed the treatment.

L. Silva, J. Arruda, Stephanie Joana Roman Martelli et al.

Brazilian Oral Research • 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of oral and maxillofacial lesions among children from representative regions of Brazil. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted. Biopsy records comprising the period from 2000 to 2015 were obtained from the archives of three Brazilian oral pathology referral centers. A total of 32,506 biopsy specimens were analyzed, and specimens from 1,706 children aged 0-12 years were selected. Gender, age, anatomical location and histopathological diagnosis were evaluated. Descriptive statistics was carried out. Likelihood ratio tests were used to evaluate the association between the categorical variables. The level of significance was set at 0.05. The post-hoc test was used to identify the subgroups that significantly differed from one another, and the Bonferroni correction was applied. A total of 1,706 oral and maxillofacial lesions were diagnosed in pediatric patients, including 51.9% girls. Oral mucocele was the most prevalent reactive/inflammatory lesion (64%). The most commonly affected sites were the lips (34.5%) and mandible (19.9%). A significant association was observed between age and the group of lesions of the oral cavity (p < 0.001), and between age and anatomical location (p < 0.001). Pediatric oral and maxillofacial lesions were frequent and showed wide diversity, with the prevalence of mucocele. Knowledge of oral lesions is important for pediatric dentists worldwide, since it provides accurate data for the diagnosis and oral health of children.

L. G. Rosenfeld, D. Malta, C. Szwarcwald et al.

Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia • 2019

OBJECTIVE To describe reference values for blood counts obtained from laboratory tests in the Brazilian adult population according to laboratory results from the National Health Survey (Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde - PNS), by gender, age group and skin color. METHODS The initial sample consisted of 8,952 adults. To determine the reference values, individuals with prior diseases and outliers were excluded. Mean values, standard deviation and limits were stratified by gender, age group and skin color. RESULTS For red blood cells, men presented a mean value of 5.0 million per mm3 (limits: 4.3-5.8) and women, 4.5 million per mm3 (limits: 3.9-5.1). Hemoglobin levels were higher among men with a mean of 14.9 g/dL (13.0-16.9), and in women, 13.2 g/dL (11.5-14.9). The mean number of white blood cells among men was 6.142/mm3 (2.843-9.440) and 6.426/mm3 (2.883-9.969) for women. Other parameters showed close values between the genders. Regarding age groups and skin color, mean values, standard deviation and limits of the exams presented small variations. CONCLUSION Hematological reference values based on the national survey allow for the establishment of specific reference limits for gender, age and skin color. The results presented here may contribute to the establishment of better evidence and criteria for the care, diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Bingqing Shi, Yuming Zhao, Xiaojing Yuan

Brazilian Oral Research • 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Brazilian propolis on the cell viability, mineralization, anti-inflammatory ability, and migration of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). The cell viability was evaluated with CCK-8 kit after 1, 5, 7, and 9 days. The deposition of calcified matrix and the expression of osteogenesis-related genes were evaluated by Alizarin Red staining and real-time PCR after incubation in osteogenic medium for 21 days. The expression of inflammation-related genes in cells was determined after exposure to 1 μg/mL LPS for 3 h. Finally, the numbers of cells that migrated through the permeable membranes were compared during 15 h. Propolis and MTA significantly increased the viability of hDPCscompared to the control group on days 7 and 9. In the propolis group, significant enhancement of osteogenic potential and suppressed expression of IL-1β and IL-6 was observed after LPS exposure compared to the MTA and control groups. The number of migration cells in the propolis group was similar to that of the control group, while MTA significantly promoted cell migration. Propolis showed comparable cell viability to that of MTA and exhibited significantly higher anti-inflammatory and mineralization promotion effects on hDPCs.

L. Machado

Vibrant: Virtual Brazilian Anthropology • 2020

Abstract The present article discusses the recent neo-conservative movement in Brazil led by the Agribusiness and Evangelical Congressional Caucuses. Both fronts built and consolidated a confluence of objectives and political linkages in the National Congress to confront access to human rights. Neoconservative narratives centered on the “moral agenda” and based on the manipulation of Christian religious values have grown in Brazil’s public scene, countering concepts of gender equality, sexual diversity and reproductive rights. At the same time, an agenda of “legal certainty”, based on the interests of agribusiness, has dismantled environmental protection policies and blocked indigenous and quilombola rights to access land. This movement promotes the delegitimization of anthropological knowledge and of the sciences in general, while undermining the fundamental rights referenced by the Brazilian constitution. With the inauguration of a neoconservative government, intolerance has grown. As Bauman warns, one of the conditions of the dehumanization of the “Other” is authorization by government practices. The challenges facing Brazilian anthropology have increased dramatically in this scenario.

L. F. Zeola, Daniela Navarro Ribeiro Teixeira, Alexia da Mata Galvão et al.

Brazilian Oral Research • 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate how Brazilian dentists perceive and manage dentin hypersensitivity (DH) in their clinical routine. A 13-item questionnaire-based survey was developed and sent electronically to a convenience sample of dentists. The questionnaire assessed the personal and dental practice characteristics of the sample, the occurrence of DH in their daily clinical practice, and management strategies. The data were analyzed descriptively and together with the chi-square test (a = 0.05). A total of 353 responses were obtained from September 2017 to March 2018. Of all the respondents, 62% were females, 49.9% reported fewer than five years of dental practice, and 70.5% were self-identified as private practitioners. Most of the dentists reported an estimated frequency (30-60%) of patients with DH in their practice. The most frequently cited (91.79%) trigger of DH was air blast and/or scratching with a probe. The first-choice strategy to manage DH was a dentin desensitizer (48.16%). The number of years in clinical practice did not influence DH relapse frequency (p = 0.76) significantly, or consider DH treatment as a problem (p = 0.22). The present findings indicate that, regardless of clinical experience, dentists in Brazil still consider DH management a challenge in their daily dental practice. In addition, the results suggest that guidelines should be developed to disseminate the available knowledge regarding this condition in ways that may influence decision-making processes among practitioners.

J. G. Mill, D. Malta, Í. Machado et al.

Revista Brasileira de Epidemiologia • 2019

OBJECTIVE To estimate the salt intake in the Brazilian population according to their urinary sodium excretion. METHODS The National Health Survey (2013) aimed to gather data on the health of adults (≥ 18 years) through a random selection of households. In each household, one adult was selected to have their biological data collected (anthropometry, blood pressure, and blood and urine tests). The urine sample was sent to a central laboratory to determine sodium (ion-selective electrode) and creatinine (Jaffé method) concentrations. Sodium excretion was estimated with the Tanaka equation. RESULTS Urinary sodium and creatinine concentrations were measured in 8,083individuals (58% women). The mean salt intake was estimated at 9.34 g/day (95% confidence interval - 95%CI 9.27 - 9.41) and was higher in males (9.63 g/day; 95%CI 9.52 - 9.74) than in females (9.08 g/day; 95%CI 8.99 - 9.17). Wefound no significant differences regarding age group, ethnicity, or schooling. Salt intake was higher in the Southeast and South regions and lower in the Northeast and North. Only 2.4% (95%CI 2.0 - 2.8) of the sample consumed less than 5 g/day, and 58.2% (95%CI 56.7 - 59.6) of participants had an estimated intake of 8 to 12 g/day. CONCLUSION The mean salt intake in the Brazilian population is approximately twice the recommended by the World Health Organization (5g/day).Given the association of high salt intake with hypertension and decreased renal function, these data indicate the need to adopt comprehensive public policies to reduce the consumption in the Brazilian population.

Tae Hang Yoon, Hak Jin Song, Woo Young Jung et al.

Bulletin of the Korean Chemical Society • 2018

A plant health monitoring method based on a plant microbial fuel cell (PMFC) technique was investigated. The reducing action of plant exudates on electrochemically active bacteria (EAB) in the rhizosphere was used as the basis of the method. Ardisia pusilla was used as an experimental plant. The results indicated that the open circuit potential (OCP) development from the PMFC is closely related to plant health and affected by the cultivation environment. Distinctive OCP developments were observed using the PMFC with live, dead (heat shocked), or no plant. Cultivation conditions such as watering, fertilizing, temperature variation, and lighting affected OCP development from the PMFC. Plant root viability analysis indicated that OCP development from the PMFC is closely related to plant health. These results suggest that this method based on the PMFC technique is a facile, cost‐effective, and rapid tool for monitoring plant health.

H. Akaza, S. Naito, N. Ueno et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2015

Objective This prospective, post-marketing study collected sunitinib safety and efficacy data in Japanese patients with unresectable/metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Retrospective analysis investigated adverse events as potential sunitinib efficacy biomarkers. Methods Patients administered sunitinib, after its release, were registered until reaching a pre-specified number of cases. Primary starting dose was 50 mg/day orally on a 4-weeks-on and 2-weeks-off schedule. Physicians completed investigation forms at 6-week intervals for 24 weeks. Associations between baseline characteristics and adverse events were analyzed by Cox proportional hazards model and compared by χ2 test. The log-rank test compared survival in subpopulations based on selected factors. Results Of note, 1689 patients receiving sunitinib were registered between June 2008 and November 2009. Most of them were males (75%), aged <65 years (56%), and had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0/1 (90%), metastatic disease (88%) and previous systemic therapy (66%). Grade ≥3 adverse events occurred in 70%, with reduced platelet count the most common (34%). Characteristics significantly associated with Grade ≥3 adverse events were female sex, age ≥55 years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥2, history of several medical conditions and prior treatment. Objective response rate was 22%. Median progression-free survival was 22.7 weeks. Median overall survival was not reached; however, 24-week overall survival rate was 84%. Improved overall survival was associated with higher relative dose intensity during the first 6 weeks and specific adverse events: hypertension, hand–foot syndrome, hypothyroidism, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. Conclusions Sunitinib demonstrated acceptable safety and useful efficacy in Japanese patients with unresectable/metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Potential biomarkers associated with greater efficacy were relative dose intensity and specific adverse events.

G. Kaneko, A. Miyajima, Kazuyuki Yuge et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2015

OBJECTIVE To investigate the prognostic significance of visceral obesity to predict recurrence after curative surgery for Japanese patients with localized renal cell carcinoma. METHODS The data of 285 patients who underwent curative surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma were retrospectively reviewed. Median follow-up was 36.7 months. The association between visceral obesity and recurrence-free survival rate was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression models. Visceral fat area at the level of the umbilicus measured using pre-operative computed tomography was used as an index of visceral obesity. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients (10.2%) experienced recurrence. Five-year recurrence-free survival rates were 91.3% in high visceral fat area group (≥ 120 cm(2)) and 76.9% in low visceral fat area group (<120 cm(2)) (P = 0.037); however, visceral fat area was not an independent predictor of recurrence-free survival in multivariate analysis. In the patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma, 28 patients (11.6%) experienced recurrence. Five-year recurrence-free survival rates were 88.7% in high visceral fat area group and 71.0% in low visceral fat area group (P = 0.043), and visceral fat area was an independent predictor of recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio: 1.974, P = 0.042) as well as C-reactive protein, Fuhrman nuclear grade, tumor size and microvascular invasion. In patients with organ confined clear cell renal cell carcinoma in particular, visceral fat area was also a useful and independent predictor of recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio: 2.807, P = 0.038). Body mass index was not useful in either cohort. CONCLUSIONS High visceral fat area was a positive predictive biomarker for better recurrence-free survival after curative surgeries for localized clear cell renal cell carcinomas; however, body mass index was not a predictor.

S. Akter, I. Kashino, T. Mizoue et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2016

OBJECTIVE It remains unclear whether coffee drinking is associated with colorectal cancer risk. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiologic studies on this issue among the Japanese population. METHODS Original data were obtained from MEDLINE searches using PubMed or from searches of the 'Ichushi' database, complemented with manual searches. Meta-analysis was performed by using the random effects model to estimate the summary relative risk with 95% confidence interval according to the study design. The final judgment was made based on a consensus of the research group members with consideration for both epidemiological evidence and biological plausibility. RESULTS We identified five cohort studies and nine case-control studies. Of these, one cohort study reported a strong inverse association (in women only), whereas three case-control studies reported a strong inverse association with colon or rectal cancer. In meta-analysis, high consumption of coffee was not appreciably associated with colorectal cancer risk among cohort studies, whereas it was associated with significantly lower risk of colorectal or colon cancer among case-control studies. The summary relative risk/odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for the highest versus lowest categories of coffee consumption was 0.95 (0.77-1.17) and 0.78 (0.65-0.95) for cohort and case-control studies, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The evidence is insufficient to support that coffee drinking increases or decreases the risk of colorectal cancer among the Japanese population.

C. Hamashima, A. Fukao

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2016

The Japanese government introduced endoscopic screening for gastric cancer in 2015 as a public policy based on the Japanese guidelines on gastric cancer screening. To provide appropriate endoscopic screening for gastric cancer in Japanese communities, we developed a quality assurance manual of endoscopic screening and recommend 10 strategies with their brief descriptions as follows: (i) Formulation of a committee responsible for implementing and managing endoscopic screening, and for deciding the suitable implementation methods in consideration of the local context; (ii) Development of an interpretation system that leads to a final judgement to standardize endoscopic examination and improve its accuracy; (iii) Preparation of management and reporting systems for adverse effects by the committee for safety management; (iv) Obtaining informed consent before operation following adequate explanations regarding the benefits and harms of endoscopic screening; (v) Avoidance of frequent screenings to reduce false-positive results and overdiagnosis. As a reference, the target age group is ≥50 years, and the screening interval is 2 years; (vi) Keeping the biopsy rate within 10% as post-biopsy bleeding may occur. Before endoscopic screening, any history of antithrombotic drug usage should be checked; (vii) Nonadministration of sedation in endoscopic screening for safety management; (viii) Adherence to proper endoscopic cleaning and disinfection to reduce infection; (ix) Use of a checklist to achieve optimal program preparation when municipal governments introduce endoscopic screening; (x) Identification of the aims and roles by referring to a checklist if primary care physicians decide to participate in endoscopic screening.

A. Kawai, N. Araki, H. Hiraga et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2016

Abstract Objective This analysis of the Japanese subpopulation of the PALETTE Phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled study investigated efficacy and safety of pazopanib in patients with metastatic soft tissue sarcoma after failure of standard chemotherapy. Methods Patients were randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to receive either pazopanib 800 mg once daily or placebo, with no subsequent cross-over. Primary endpoint was progression-free survival. Secondary endpoints included overall survival and overall response rate. Efficacy analysis was by intent-to-treat. Safety was also investigated. Results Forty-seven patients received either pazopanib (n = 31) or placebo (n = 16). Median progression-free survival was 7.0 weeks (95% confidence interval: 4.0–11.7) for placebo and 24.7 weeks (95% confidence interval: 8.6–28.1) for pazopanib (hazard ratio = 0.41 [95% confidence interval: 0.19–0.90]; P = 0.002). Median overall survival was 14.9 months (95% confidence interval: 6.8—not calculable) for placebo and 15.4 months (95% confidence interval: 7.9–28.8) for pazopanib (hazard ratio = 0.87 [95% confidence interval: 0.41–1.83]; P = 0.687). More patients receiving pazopanib experienced best response of stable disease versus placebo. Adverse events were similar to the global population; those leading to dose reduction were more common and mean daily dose was lower in the Japanese population versus the global population (45 vs. 32% and 624.4 vs. 700.4 mg, respectively). Conclusions The efficacy and safety of pazopanib observed in the Japanese subpopulation of PALETTE were similar to those in the global population. Pazopanib is a new treatment option for Japanese patients with metastatic non-adipocytic soft tissue sarcoma after chemotherapy. Clinical trial Registration number NCT00753688; GSK study ID: VEG110727; http://www.gsk-clinicalstudyregister.com/study/VEG110727#ps.

Yuriko N. Koyanagi, K. Matsuo, Hidemi Ito et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2016

OBJECTIVE Although cigarette smoking is a well-established risk factor for head and neck cancer, the impact of smoking on head and neck cancer might vary among geographic areas. To date, however, no systematic review of cigarette smoking and head and neck cancer in the Japanese population has yet appeared. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of previous epidemiological studies for cigarette smoking and head and neck cancer among Japanese. Evaluation of associations was based on the strength of evidence ('convincing', 'probable', 'possible' or 'insufficient') and the magnitude of association ('strong', 'moderate', 'weak' or 'no association'), together with biological plausibility as previously evaluated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. A meta-analysis was conducted to obtain summary estimates for the overall magnitude of association. RESULTS We identified five cohort studies and 12 case-control studies. Four of five cohort studies and 11 of 12 case-control studies showed a strong positive association between cigarette smoking and head and neck cancer. Nine of 12 studies indicated a dose-response relationship between cigarette smoking and the risk of head and neck cancer. Meta-analysis of 12 studies indicated that the summary relative risk for ever smokers relative to never smokers was 2.43 (95% confidence interval: 2.09-2.83). Summary relative risks for current and former smokers relative to never smokers were 2.68 (2.08-3.44) and 1.49 (1.05-2.11), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Cigarette smoking is a convincing risk factor for head and neck cancer in the Japanese population.

Hiroyoshi Suzuki, T. Shin, S. Fukasawa et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2018

Abstract Background LATITUDE was a randomized, double-blind, international and phase 3 study of abiraterone acetate plus prednisone in patients with high-risk metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer. In the first interim analysis of LATITUDE (clinical cutoff date: 31 October 2016), significant prolongation in overall survival and radiographic progression-free survival (co-primary endpoints) was observed when compared with placebo. The results of the Japanese subgroup analysis of LATITUDE first interim analysis were consistent with those of the overall population. In this study, overall survival and safety results from the final analysis of the Japanese subgroup of the LATITUDE study are presented (clinical cutoff date: 15 August 2018). Methods Abiraterone acetate (1000 mg/day) and prednisone (5 mg/day) were administered orally in the abiraterone acetate plus prednisone group, and matching placebos in the placebo group. Results Of the 1199 patients included in LATITUDE, 70 constituted the Japanese subgroup (abiraterone acetate plus prednisone: n = 35, placebo: n = 35). Following a median (range) follow-up of 56.6 (2.5, 64.2) months, the median overall survival was not reached in both the treatment arms of the Japanese subgroup (hazard ratio: 0.61; 95% confidence interval: 0.27–1.42; nominal P = 0.2502). A total of 23 deaths (abiraterone acetate plus prednisone: 9 [25.7%], placebo group: 14 [40.0%]) were reported in Japanese subgroup. Grade 3/4 adverse events were reported in 24 (68.6%) and 9 (25.7%) patients in the abiraterone acetate plus prednisone and placebo groups, respectively. Conclusions In this Japanese subgroup analysis, addition of abiraterone acetate plus prednisone to androgen-deprivation therapy demonstrated favorable efficacy and safety outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed, high-risk metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer. Survival benefits observed in the Japanese subgroup first interim analysis were sustained long-term and were consistent with the overall population.

H. Iwata, Kenichi Inoue, K. Kaneko et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2019

Abstract Background In the randomised Phase 3 IMpassion130 trial, atezolizumab combined with nab-paclitaxel (atezo + nab-P) in 902 patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) showed prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) in both the intention-to-treat (ITT) population and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)–positive subgroup compared with placebo plus nab-P (plac + nab-P). This study assessed the efficacy and safety of atezo + nab-P in the IMpassion130 Japanese subpopulation. Methods Eligible patients had unresectable locally advanced or metastatic TNBC previously untreated with chemotherapy for metastatic disease. Patients were randomised 1:1 to receive either atezo + nab-P or plac + nab-P. Co-primary endpoints were investigator-assessed PFS and overall survival (ITT population and PD-L1–positive subgroup). These were also assessed in the Japanese subpopulation. Results There were 65 Japanese patients (34 atezo + nab-P; 31 plac + nab-P). The PD-L1–positive subgroup included 25 patients (12 atezo + nab-P; 13 plac + nab-P). Median PFS was 7.4 months (atezo + nab-P) versus 4.6 months (plac + nab-P; hazard ratio [HR], 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25–0.90). In the PD-L1–positive subgroup, median PFS was 10.8 months (atezo + nab-P) versus 3.8 months (plac + nab-P; HR, 0.04; 95% CI, <0.01–0.35). Safety results in the Japanese subgroup were consistent with those in the overall population. The Japanese subgroup had a lower incidence of adverse events leading to treatment withdrawal than the overall population. More patients in the atezo + nab-P arm had neutrophil count decreases and stomatitis than patients in the plac + nab-P arm. Conclusions Atezo + nab-P efficacy in Japanese patients was consistent with the overall IMpassion130 population. No new safety signals were observed, and tolerability was consistent with that of the overall population.

Y. Tomita, T. Kondo, G. Kimura et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2019

Abstract Background Nivolumab plus ipilimumab (NIVO+IPI) demonstrated superior efficacy over sunitinib (SUN) for previously untreated advanced renal cell carcinoma (aRCC) in CheckMate 214, with a manageable safety profile. We report efficacy and safety with extended follow-up amongst Japanese patients. Methods CheckMate 214 patients received NIVO (3 mg/kg) plus IPI (1 mg/kg) every 3 weeks for four doses, then NIVO (3 mg/kg) every 2 weeks; or SUN (50 mg) once daily for 4 weeks (6-week cycle). This subgroup analysis assessed overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) and progression-free survival (PFS) per investigator in International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium (IMDC) intermediate/poor-risk and intent-to-treat (ITT) patients and safety (ITT patients). Results Of 550 and 546 patients randomized to NIVO+IPI and SUN, 38 and 34, respectively, were Japanese. Of these, 31 (NIVO+IPI) and 29 (SUN) patients were IMDC intermediate/poor-risk. In IMDC intermediate/poor-risk patients with 30 months’ minimum follow-up, there was a delayed trend in OS benefit with NIVO+IPI (hazard ratio [HR] 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19–1.59; P = 0.2670), and 24-month OS probability favoured NIVO+IPI (84%) versus SUN (76%). The ORR was 39% with NIVO+IPI and 31% with SUN (P = 0.6968). PFS was similar in both treatment arms (HR 1.17; 95% CI: 0.62–2.20; P = 0.6220). Efficacy in ITT patients was similar to IMDC intermediate/poor-risk patients. Grade 3–4 treatment-related adverse event incidence was lower with NIVO+IPI versus SUN (58 versus 91%). Conclusions Japanese patients with untreated aRCC in the NIVO+IPI arm had a numerically higher ORR and improved safety profile versus patients in the SUN arm. A delayed OS benefit appears to be emerging with NIVO+IPI. Longer follow-up is needed. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02231749?term=NCT02231749&rank=1 identifier: NCT02231749.

K. Shitara, K. Yamazaki, T. Tsushima et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2020

Abstract Objectives Tepotinib (MSC2156119J) is an oral, potent and highly selective small molecule mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (MET) inhibitor for which the recommended Phase II dose of 500 mg once daily has been defined, based on the first-in-man trial conducted in the USA and Europe. We carried out a multicenter Phase I trial with a classic `3 + 3' design to determine the recommended Phase II dose in Japanese patients with solid tumors (NCT01832506). Methods Patients aged ≥20 years with advanced solid tumors (refractory to standard therapy or for whom no effective standard therapy was available) received tepotinib at 215, 300 or 500 mg once daily in a 21-day cycle. Occurrence of dose-limiting toxicities during cycle 1 was used to determine the maximum tolerated dose. Efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics were also evaluated to support the dose assessment. Results Twelve patients were treated. Tepotinib was generally well tolerated with no observed dose-limiting toxicities; treatment-related adverse events were mainly grades 1–2. The tolerability profile of tepotinib was similar to that observed in non-Japanese populations. Pharmacokinetics in Japanese and Western patients was comparable. One patient with gastric cancer and one patient with urachal cancer had stable disease of ≥12 weeks in duration. The observed safety profile and pharmacokinetics are comparable with those in patients from the USA and Europe, and the recommended Phase II dose of tepotinib in Japanese patients was confirmed as 500 mg once daily. Conclusions These results, including initial signals of antitumor activity, support further development of tepotinib in Japanese patients with cancer.

Y. Sugawara, I. Tsuji, T. Mizoue et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2018

Background There is a body of evidence to suggest that cigarette smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer in women, but no study has examined the magnitude of the association in Japanese women. Here, we evaluated the association between cigarette smoking and the risk of cervical cancer in Japanese women based on a systematic review of epidemiological evidence. Methods Original data were obtained from a MEDLINE search using PubMed or from a search of the 'Ichushi' database, as well as by a manual search. Evaluation of associations was based on the strength of evidence and the magnitude of association, together with biological plausibility as evaluated previously by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Meta-analysis of associations was also conducted to obtain a summarized overview of the data. Results We identified two cohort studies and three case-control studies. All five studies had indicated strong positive associations between cigarette smoking and the risk of cervical cancer. Our summary estimate indicated that the relative risk (RR) for individuals who had ever-smoked relative to never-smokers was 2.03 (95% confidence interval: 1.49-2.57). Four studies had also demonstrated dose-response relationships between cigarette smoking and the risk of cervical cancer. Conclusion We conclude that there is convincing evidence that cigarette smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer among Japanese women.

Y. Ohe, F. Imamura, N. Nogami et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2018

In the FLAURA trial Japanese subset, osimertinib significantly improved median PFS versus standard-of-care (gefitinib) in patients with previously untreated EGFR (exon 19 deletion or L858R) mutation-positive advanced or metastatic NSCLC.

Hiroki Sakurai, M. Miyashita, Kengo Imai et al.

Japanese Journal of Clinical Oncology • 2019

Background To improve palliative care practice, the need for patients-reported outcome measures is increasing globally. The Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS) is a streamlined outcome scale developed to comprehensively evaluate patients' distress. The goal of this study is to assess the reliability and validity of IPOS-Japanese version in cancer patients. Methods This is a multicenter, cross-sectional observational study. We assessed the missing values, prevalence, test-retest reliability, criterion validity and known-group validity in Japanese adult cancer patients. Patients provided responses to IPOS, European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy- Spiritual 12 (FACIT-Sp12). Our medical staff provided responses to Support Team Assessment Schedule (STAS). Results One hundred forty-two patients were enrolled at six palliative care facilities. Missing values accounted for less than 1% of most items, with a maximum of 2.8%. The prevalence of symptoms was 17.7-88.7%. The intra-class correlation coefficient ranged from 0.522 to 0.951. The range of correlation coefficients with EORTC-QLQ-C30, FACIT-Sp12 and STAS as gold standards was 0.013 to 0.864 (absolute values). Total IPOS scores were positively correlated with Eastern Corporative Oncology Group Performance Status (P < 0.001). Conclusion IPOS-Japanese version is a valid and reliable tool. The scale is useful in assessing physical, psychological, social and spiritual symptoms and in measuring outcomes of adult cancer patients in Japan.

G. Jain

South Asian Journal of Food Technology and Environment • 2016

Hotel industry, in recent years, has been a major consistent force behind the tremendous growth in Indian GDP. It has also fueled the increase in number of hotels around the country. Hotels are the major consumers of resources and contribute heavily toward the waste generation, as compared to others. The study aims to know the current status of use of energy resources; the amount and type of waste generated; the waste management practices followed by hotels. Kitchen waste is defined as left-over organic matter from restaurants, hotels and households. Tons of kitchen wastes are produced daily in highly populated areas. Kitchen wastes entering the mixed-municipal waste system are difficult to process by standard means, such as incineration, due to the high moisture content. Furthermore, organic matter can be transformed into useful fertilizer and bio-fuel. New disposal methods that are both environmentally and economically efficient are being developed which rely on various forms of microbial decomposition.

J. Maninder, Umesh Bhawan

Global NEST Journal • 2015

The technology transfer for rural livelihood development had greater impact to protect microclimatic conditions which further affects the microflora and microbial activities to larger extent in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR). The technological interventions were made by the Himalayan Research Group organization which helped in economic upliftment of rural poor, women empowerment and in environment protection in hill region. The major activities are Passive Solar Retrofitting (namely, Thermosyphoning Air heat Panel (TAP), Trombe Wall (TW), and Sun Spaces (SS)) fodder development, vermicompost biotechnology, button mushroom cultivation and protected cultivation for climate change mitigation and adaptations. The solar retrofits reduced estimated 4.97 tones carbon emission per household during six winter months which helped in reducing the fuel wood consumption. Improved varieties of different fodder spp. were introduced for year round green fodder availability and reduce soil erosion and reduction in tree lopping. Fodder choppers and silage preparation was popularized to contain the fodder wastage. Vermicompost biotechnology was popularized among farmers to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers for improving the quality of soil. The button mushroom cultivation was used for conversion of agriculture residue into compost making by reducing crop residue burning which increases carbon emission. Protected cultivation in local made polyhouse was popularized to generate maximum returns from small piece of land through cut flower and vegetable cultivation and by raising plant nurseries.

Saket Kumar, R. Gautam

Journal of Engineering Research • 2022

The need for alternative and viable energy sources for the automotive industry is increasing due to the fast depletion of fossil fuel reserves. In the present scenario fluctuating petroleum prices. Inconsistent supply, global politics, conflicts of oil-producing countries sky-rocketing energy demands, lacking oil reserves make an energy-intensive country like India, vulnerable to energy security. For a few years, researchers across the world found Biodiesel as a favourable potential energy source to fulfil its energy needs due to its availability, renewable nature, low toxicity and lesser polluting nature. There are various sources of biofuel identified by the scientist s and researchers so far, which include edible oil, non-edible oil, animal fats, microbial feedstocks, waste cooking oil, etc. making biodiesel viable for use and economical for production is the very next challenge for researchers. The present work, emphasises on various selection criteria e.g. physicochemical properties, structural composition, environmental aspects, economic aspects etc. to choose better alternative out of the available biofuel resources. This paper will extensively contribute to identifying the most appropriate and cost-effective feedstocks for biodiesel selection for greater use.

Tong Hao, Zhisong Cui, Xiao Luan et al.

Frontiers in Marine Science • 2023

Hydrocarbons are ubiquitous in marine environments and might fuel hydrocarbon-metabolizing microbes in the ocean. Numerous studies have documented microbial hydrocarbon degradation in water columns and deep-sea surface sediment. However, the degradation potential and biogeochemical cycling of hydrocarbons in subsurface sediments remain largely unknown. In this study, we used two different hydrocarbons, n-hexadecane (HEX) and methylcyclohexane (MCH), to investigate the distribution and diversity of hydrocarbon-consuming bacteria in a core sediment sample from the Central Indian Ridge (CIR), which is adjacent to mid-ridge hydrothermal vents in the Indian Ocean. We observed different vertical profiles of HEX- and MCH-degrading bacteria in the core sediments. Specifically, HEX-degrading bacteria were universally distributed, while MCH-degrading bacteria were found only in the intermediate layers of the core sediments. Changing factors including dissolved oxygen might affect the natural distribution of different hydrocarbon consumers. We found that a novel species of the genus C1-B045 might play a pivotal role in metabolizing MCH in the CIR deep biosphere. Through amino acid identity comparison with published sequences, we determined that C1-B045 harbors two novel classes of cyclohexanone monooxygenases involved in MCH metabolism. This study sheds light on the structure and function of hydrocarbon-consuming microbes in deep biospheres. Graphical abstract

Rubina Basheer, M. Suma, B. R. Sreelekshmy et al.

Asian Journal of Chemistry • 2018

There are frequent fluctuations in oil prices and decline in conventional fossil fuel reserves today. This scenario prompts serious deliberations on the need to target on non-conventional sources of energy. Currently, fossil fuels fulfill majority of the world energy needs and their share in the primary energy mix is on an ever increase. However, its extraction, which is uneconomical as of now-might cause grave damage to the environment [1]. These facts accentuate the prevalent impression that future energy requirements of the human race cannot be met entirely by fossil fuels. The consensus for alternate energy sources and sustainable development was strongly felt among the scientific community a few decades ago. Extraction of energy from renewable sources is one pragmatic step that can alleviate the crisis to a great extent. It seems most appropriate to discuss current strategies of fuel production from renewable sourcesthe non-conventional sources such as biomass and biowaste in particular. Biomass as alternate source of energy: Global and Indian scenario: Biomass and agricultural wastes have historically been used as the solid fuel since ancient times. Even today, around 2.6 million people in Asia and Africa rely solely on solid fuels such as agricultural wastes and cow dung for their energy requirements [2]. However, the combustion systems Microbial Fuel Cells as Alternate Source of Energy: Research, Advancements and Future Prospects in Indian Scenario

Ligen Yu

Indian Journal of Microbiology • 2021

COVID-19 continues to be an ongoing global threat. The elderly with underlying health conditions like cardiovascular and lung diseases, diabetes, obesity, are the most vulnerable to this disease. Curing the pre-existing health conditions will greatly increase a person’s resilience to COVID-19 and lower the death rate of the old people. Digestion and immunity form an integrated nutrition acquisition process, especially in obtaining essential amino acids and essential fatty acids from living microbial cells. A mature strong immunity coupled with gut dysbiosis in adults is the main cause of nutritional disorders like morbid obesity, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. Nutrition disorders in return worsen dysbiosis. Human microbiome has an intrinsic duality. While a diverse microbiome provides a full spectrum of essential nutrients to our body, nutrition disorders fuel overgrowth of microbiota (dysbiosis) at many sites on or inside our body, and are the main causes of chronic inflammation at these sites. In the case of COVID-19, nutritional disorder impairs the immunity, causes hyperinflammation, and leads to the protracted overload of cytokines by the immune system, i.e., the cytokine storm. Autophagy induced by restrictive eating is an ideal inhibitor of microbiota overgrowth, as autophagy deprives microbiota of excessive nutrition for replication. Autophagy also attenuates inflammation. Therefore, as a precaution, the author suggests restoring good health in the elderly with the support from a diverse gut microbiome and daily regular food intake restriction, so as to lower the risk of developing into severe case even if they are infected by COVID-19.

Bharat Chandra Nath, Swagata Saikia, PRANABA NANDA BHATTACHARYYA et al.

Indian Journal of Horticulture • 2025

The current investigation is designed to illustrate the beneficial effect of different microbial bioformulations on nutrient availability, microbial biomass carbon and key enzymatic activities in a citrus orchard soil. Three different microbial bioformulations namely Biogreen-5, Bioveer and Biosona were arranged in seven different treatments including T1: Biogreen (soil + foliar application); T2: Biogreen (foliar application); T3: Bioveer (soil + foliar application); T4: Bioveer (foliar application); T5: Biosona (soil + foliar application); T6: Biosona (foliar application); T7: Control (water spray). Biogreen when applied as soil and foliar application increased the soil pH by 6.18%, organic carbon by 27.27%, and cationic exchange capacity by 6.24% over control. Like-wise, Biogreen applied both as soil and foliar application increased the availability of N, P, K, Mn, Zn, Fe and B content by 20.17%, 22.19%, 31.74%, 52.81%, 40.76%, 33.60% and 51.47%, respectively over control. Furthermore, the application of Biogreen (soil + foliar application), demonstrated noteworthy enhanced in microbial biomass carbon, and key enzyme activities including dehydrogenase, phosphomonoesterase, and fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis, with significant improvements up to 39.58%, 23.39%, 30.21%, and 36.15%, respectively as compared to control. The findings of the current investigation indicated that Biogreen followed by bioveer serves as an effective biological formulation, for sustaining microbial biomass carbon, cationic exchange capacity, essential plant nutrients and key enzymatic activities.

Fuel Cells Bulletin • 2018

Several research institutes and industrial companies in India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop a fuel cell-based train prototype. SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) in Chennai and SRM University in Amaravati are partnering with the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) of Indian Railways on the project.

P. Lu, Yong-Hua Zhao

Chinese Medicine • 2020

Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a kind of multi-functional nuclear transcription factor involved in regulating gene transcription to influence pathological evolution of inflammatory and immune diseases. Numerous literature evidence that NF-κB pathway plays an essential role in pathogenic development of ulcerative colitis (UC). UC is a chronic non-specific inflammatory bowel disease, and until now, therapeutic agents for UC including aminosalicylates, corticosteroids and immune inhibitors still cannot exert satisfied effects on patients. In recent years, Chinese medicines suggest the advantages of alleviating symptoms and signs, decreasing side-effects and recurrence, whose one of mechanisms is related to regulation of NF-κB pathway. In this review, we categorize Chinese medicines according to their traditional therapeutic functions, and summarize the characteristics of Chinese medicines targeting NF-κB pathway in UC treatment. It indicates that 85 kinds of Chinese medicines’ compounds and formulae can directly act on NF-κBp65; while 58 Chinese medicines’ ingredients and formulae indirectly suppress NF-κBp65 by regulation of its upstream or other related pathways. Moreover, by the analysis of Chinese medicines’ category based on their traditional functions, we conclude the category of dampness-drying and detoxificating medicine targeting NF-κB pathway accounts for primary status for amelioration of UC. Simultaneously, this review also contributes to the choices of Chinese medicine category and provides curative potential of Chinese medicines for clinical UC treatment.

Jing-ming Ye, Bao-Liang Guo, Qian Liu et al.

Chinese Medical Journal • 2021

Axillary lymph node assessment is one of the important indicators in the clinical pathological staging of breast cancer. Studies have shown that sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has the advantages of fewer complications and less trauma than conventional axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Common mapping methods for SLNB include blue dye, radioisotopes, a combination of blue dye and radioisotopes, and fluorescence imaging. To standardize the SLNB techniques for breast cancer, the Chinese Society of Breast Surgery (CSBrS) re-evaluated the quality of evidence for clinical studies of SLNB for breast cancer, referring to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE), and developed the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Patients with Early-Stage Breast Cancer: CSBrS Practice Guidelines 2021, in accordance with the Expert Consensus and Technical Operational Guidelines for Sentinel LymphNode Biopsy guided by blue dye alone in Early Breast Cancer (2018) combined with data from clinical practice in breast surgery in China, providing a reference for breast surgeons in clinical practice in China.

X. Dai, Jiayi Feng, Yi Chen et al.

Chinese Medicine • 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the world's largest chronic liver disease, while there is still no specific drug to treat NAFLD. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been widely used in hepatic diseases for centuries in Asia, and TCM’s holistic concept and differentiation treatment of NAFLD show their advantages in the treatment of this complex metabolic disease. However, the multi-compounds and multi-targets are big obstacle for the study of TCM. Here, we summarize the pharmacological actions of active ingredients from frequently used single herbs in TCM compounds. The combined mechanism of herbs in TCM compounds are further discussed to explore their comprehensive effects on NAFLD. This article aims to summarize multiple functions and find the common ground for TCM treatment on NAFLD, thus providing enrichment to the scientific connotation of TCM theories and promotes the exploration of TCM therapies on NAFLD.