Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cyclooxygenase-2 and Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 Are Overexpressed in Mucinous Pancreatic Cysts

OBJECTIVES: Expression of prostaglandin biosynthetic pathway enzymes in mucinous pancreatic cysts is unknown. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition is a potential cancer chemoprevention strategy for these lesions. We evaluated the expression of COX-2, cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), and protein kinase B (AKT) in the epithelium of pancreatic cysts and correlated enzyme expression with aspirin (ASA) use and cyst fluid prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentration. METHODS: Pathology of 80 resected pancreatic cysts was reviewed. Expression of COX-2, cPLA2, and AKT was quantified by tissue immunohistochemistry immunoreactivity scores (IRSs). IRS values were compared between cyst types and (in 30 cases) with matched cyst fluid PGE2 concentrations. RESULTS: The mean IRS was higher in the epithelium of mucinous vs nonmucinous cysts for COX-2 (6.1 ± 4.7 vs 3.2 ± 2.8, P = 0.01) and cPLA2 (6.9 ± 3.0 vs 2.9 ± 2.9, P < 0.001). Cyst epithelial COX-2 expression was higher in mucinous cysts with low-grade dysplasia vs those with high-grade dysplasia or invasive carcinoma (IRS 8.0 ± 3.9 vs 1.5 ± 2.9, P < 0.001), whereas the opposite was found for cPLA2 (6.2 ± 3.0 vs 8.6 ± 2.3, P = 0.005). Cyst fluid PGE2 concentrations did not correlate with either the IRS or a history of low- to moderate-dose ASA use. CONCLUSIONS: COX-2 and cPLA2 are overexpressed in the epithelium of mucinous pancreatic cysts. COX-2 and/or cPLA2 inhibition might prevent the emergence or progression of mucinous pancreatic cysts, but higher doses of ASA or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be necessary to substantially inhibit cyst epithelial COX-2 activity.
Global Transcriptomic Profile Analysis of Genes Involved in Lignin Biosynthesis and Accumulation Induced by Boron Deficiency in Poplar Roots

To uncover the transcriptomic mechanism of lignin accumulation caused by boron deficiency (BD), Nanlin895 (Populus × euramericana “Nanlin895”) was subjected to control (CK, 0.25 mg·L−1) and BD (0 mg·L−1) treatments for 3 days. RNA-Seq was carried out to survey the expression patterns of the lignin-regulated biosynthetic genes in response to BD. The results showed that 5946 genes were identified as differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 2968 (44.2%) of which were upregulated and 3318 (55.8%) of which were downregulated in response to BD. Among them, the expression of lignin monomer biosynthetic (PAL, CCR, CAD, COMT, F5H, PER/LAC) and modulated genes, for example, transcription factors (MYBs) and hormone signal regulating genes (GIDs, histidine kinase 1, coronatine-insensitive protein 1), were upregulated, and some hormone signal regulating genes, such as AUXs and BR-related (sterol methyltransferases), were downregulated under BD treatment. There are also some genes that were screened as candidates for an association with wood formation, which will be used for the further analysis of the function of lignin formation. These results provide an important theoretical basis and reference data in plant for further research on the mechanism of lignin accumulation under BD.
The effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on retinal thickness and progression of retinopathy in patients with Type 2 diabetes: a prospective cohort study

Abstract Purpose: Evaluation of the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on the progression of retinopathy, choroidal and retinal thickness in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and methods: This prospective non-randomized cohort study consisted of 60 eyes of 30 patients who received 30 sessions of HBOT for a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). The participants were divided into three groups; group 1: mild-moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DRP) (n = 14), group 2: severe non-proliferative DRP (n = 20) and group 3: DRP without active proliferative findings with the applied laser for at least 2 years (n = 26). The cases were examined on base-line (measurement-1), after the 10th session of HBOT (Measurement-2), after the 20th session of HBOT (Measurement-3), after the 30th session of HBOT (Measurement-4), and after 10 days of the last session of HBOT (Measurement-5). The changes in central macular thickness (CMT; subfoveal point [CMT-SF], nasal point [CMT-N] and temporal point [CMT-T]), central choroidal thickness (CCT; subfoveal point [CCT-SF], nasal point [CCT-N] and temporal point [CCT-T]), and the stage of DRP were compared. Results: There was no significant difference between groups in terms of change ratio (CR%) in CMT-SF and CMT-N values. However, in Measurement-3, CR% in CMT-T was significantly higher in group 1 (p = 0.019). A significant increase in CMT-N and CMT-T parameters over time was observed in Group 1 (p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in CCT-SF, CCT-N, and CCT-T values with time in each of the three groups (p < 0.05). At the end of HBOT, there was no progression or regression in the stage of DRP in any group. Conclusions: HBOT has both a thinning effect on the choroid layer in all three groups and a thickening effect on the macula in the mild-moderate non-proliferative diabetic eyes.
Self-Reported Use of Tobacco, E-cigarettes, and Marijuana Versus Urinary Biomarkers

In this study, we compared adolescent self-reported tobacco, e-cigarette, and marijuana use to urinary biomarkers, and patterns of use were correlated with higher cotinine and THCA levels. BrightcoveDefaultPlayer10.1542/6138657597001PEDS-VA_2018-3531 Video Abstract BACKGROUND: Surveys have been instrumental in describing adolescent use of tobacco, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), and marijuana. However, objective biomarker data are lacking. We compared adolescent self-reported use to urinary biomarkers. METHODS: From April 2017 to April 2018, adolescents 12 to 21 years old completed an anonymous questionnaire regarding tobacco, e-cigarette, and marijuana use and provided a urine sample. Urine was analyzed for biomarkers cotinine, total 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol, and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA). RESULTS: Of 517 participants, 2.9% reported using tobacco, 14.3% e-cigarettes, and 11.4% marijuana in the past week. Only 2% reporting no smoking had total 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol levels above cutoff (14.5 pg/mL); 2% of non–e-cigarette users had cotinine above cutoff (10 ng/mL); 2% of those denying marijuana use had THCA above cutoff (10 ng/mL). Daily e-cigarette users showed significantly higher median cotinine than nondaily users (315.4 [interquartile range (IQR) 1375.9] vs 1.69 ng/mL [IQR 28.2]; P < . 003). Overall, 40% who reported using nicotine-free products had cotinine >10 ng/mL. Pod users' median cotinine was significantly higher than in nonpod users (259.03 [IQR 1267.69] vs 1.61 ng/mL [IQR 16.3]; P < .003). Median THCA among daily marijuana users was higher than in nondaily users (560.1 [IQR 1248.3] vs 7.2 ng/mL [IQR 254.9]; P = .04). Sixty-one percent of those with cotinine >10 ng/mL vs 39% of those with cotinine<10 ng/mL had THCA >10 ng/mL (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents’ self-report correlated with measured urinary biomarkers, but subjects were unaware of their nicotine exposure. More frequent e-cigarette and pod use correlated with elevated biomarkers. Co-use of tobacco, e-cigarettes, and marijuana was corroborated by higher THCA in those with higher cotinine.
Contraceptive choices of adolescents before and after the voluntary termination of pregnancy

Abstract In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate the contraceptive choices before and after voluntary termination of pregnancy among adolescents. Seventy pregnant adolescents aged 17–19 and undergone voluntary pregnancy termination were included. Counseling about contraceptives was given before the procedure. Contraceptive choices before and after termination of pregnancy were evaluated. Before pregnancy termination, all of the adolescents reported the use of a contraceptive method. The most commonly used method was coitus interruptus (37.1%), followed by male condom (34.3%) and the rhythm method (18.6%). The use of oral contraceptive pills (7.1%) and intrauterine devices (IUDs; 2.9%) were very low. Implants and injections were not used. None of the methods used were dual methods (used with the male condom). After the termination procedure, IUD was main choice (54.3%) followed by oral contraceptive pills (31.4%). Four adolescents (5.7%) selected to insert subdermal implants and three adolescents (4.3%) preferred injections. All of these preferred methods were dual methods. The preference of male condom as a single method decreased by about 3%. The rhythm method and coitus interruptus were not preferred. As a conclusion, contraceptive choices of adolescents significantly change to more effective methods by sufficient counselling during the termination of an unintended pregnancy. Impact statement What is already known on this subject? Adolescent pregnancies are an important public health problem. The prevention of these pregnancies is important in this respect. However, especially in developing countries, adolescents do not have sufficient knowledge of effective contraceptive methods. What do the results of this study add? The contraceptive choices of adolescents significantly change to more effective methods by appropriate counselling during the termination of unintended pregnancies. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? An unintended pregnancy termination may be an opportunity to provide appropriate counselling to prevent subsequent pregnancies in adolescents, especially in countries where the sexual and reproductive health or family planning services are inadequately used.
Transference Effect of Short-Term Optimum Power Load Training on the Punching Impact of Elite Boxers

Abstract Loturco, I, Pereira, LA, Kobal, R, Fernandes, V, Reis, VP, Romano, F, Alves, M, Freitas, TT, and McGuigan, M. Transference effect of short-term optimum power load training on the punching impact of elite boxers. J Strength Cond Res 35(9): 2373–2378, 2021—This study examined the changes in bench press (BP), jump squat (JS), and half-squat (HS) power outputs induced by a short-term (1 week) training scheme based on the optimum power load (OPL) applied to national boxing athletes and measured the transference effect coefficient (TEC) of these exercises on punching impact. Eight elite boxing athletes from the Brazilian National team participated in this study. Athletes were tested before and after 3 power-oriented training sessions performed at the OPL. The physical assessments comprised punching impact measures (jabs and crosses) at fixed and self-selected distances, and bar-power output in BP, HS, and JS exercises. Magnitude-based differences were used to compare pre-training and post-training sessions. Transference effect coefficient was calculated as the ratio between the result gain in the “untrained exercises” (punching impact in jabs and crosses) and “trained exercises” (HS, JS, and BP), for variables presenting an effect size of at least 0.2. The OPL training elicited meaningful increases in the punching impact forces (∼8%) and in both JS and HS power outputs (∼12 and ∼14%, respectively), but not in BP power output. There was an effective transference (TEC = ∼0.80) of JS and HS performance gains to punching impact force, suggesting that increases in lower-limb power can be directly transferred to punching impact. These results provide coaches and practitioners with valuable information about how to rapidly and effectively increase the punching impact force of elite amateur boxers.
Proof of security of quantum key distribution with two-way classical communications

Shor and Preskill (see Phys. Rev. Lett., vol.85, p.441, 2000) have provided a simple proof of security of the standard quantum key distribution scheme by Bennett and Brassard (1984) by demonstrating a connection between key distribution and entanglement purification protocols (EPPs) with one-way communications. Here, we provide proofs of security of standard quantum key distribution schemes, Bennett and Brassard and the six-state scheme, against the most general attack, by using the techniques of two-way entanglement purification. We demonstrate clearly the advantage of classical post-processing with two-way classical communications over classical post-processing with only one-way classical communications in quantum key distribution (QKD). This is done by the explicit construction of a new protocol for (the error correction/detection and privacy amplification of) Bennett and Brassard that can tolerate a bit error rate of up to 18.9%, which is higher than what any Bennett and Brassard scheme with only one-way classical communications can possibly tolerate. Moreover, we demonstrate the advantage of the six-state scheme over Bennett and Brassard by showing that the six-state scheme can strictly tolerate a higher bit error rate than Bennett and Brassard. In particular, our six-state protocol can tolerate a bit error rate of 26.4%, which is higher than the upper bound of 25% bit error rate for any secure Bennett and Brassard protocol. Consequently, our protocols may allow higher key generation rate and remain secure over longer distances than previous protocols. Our investigation suggests that two-way entanglement purification is a useful tool in the study of advantage distillation, error correction, and privacy amplification protocols.
Cathepsin L Regulates Metabolic Networks Controlling Rapid Cell Growth and Proliferation

Remodeling of cellular metabolism is a genuine feature of rapidly growing cells. Herein we report that mouse embryonic fibroblasts, lacking the Cathepsin L (Cts L) gene, proliferate faster than wild-types and display a noticeable glycolytic shift to satisfy their ever-growing metabolic needs. Mass spectrometry analyses identified LDHA as an essential metabolic junction in these cells, and downstream biochemical studies suggested that Cts L regulates LDHA expression and function. Together, these data uncover an unprecedented role for Cathepsin L in cell metabolism. Graphical Abstract Highlights Cts L−/− cells proliferate faster than wild types and shift to aerobic glycolysis. LDHA is a key glycolytic enzyme controlling Cts L−/− cell proliferation. Cts L regulates LDHA expression and function. Rapidly proliferating cells reshape their metabolism to satisfy their ever-lasting need for cellular building blocks. This phenomenon is exemplified in certain malignant conditions such as cancer but also during embryonic development when cells rely heavily on glycolytic metabolism to exploit its metabolic intermediates for biosynthetic processes. How cells reshape their metabolism is not fully understood. Here we report that loss of cathepsin L (Cts L) is associated with a fast proliferation rate and enhanced glycolytic metabolism that depend on lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) activity. Using mass spectrometry analysis of cells treated with a pan cathepsin inhibitor, we observed an increased abundance of proteins involved in central carbon metabolism. Further inspection of putative Cts L targets revealed an enrichment for glycolytic metabolism that was independently confirmed by metabolomic and biochemical analyses. Moreover, proteomic analysis of Cts L-knockout cells identified LDHA overexpression that was demonstrated to be a key metabolic junction in these cells. Lastly, we show that Cts L inhibition led to increased LDHA protein expression, suggesting a causal relationship between LDHA expression and function. In conclusion, we propose that Cts L regulates this metabolic circuit to keep cell division under control, suggesting the therapeutic potential of targeting this protein and its networks in cancer.
Sleep-Related Infant Suffocation Deaths Attributable to Soft Bedding, Overlay, and Wedging

In this study, we describe characteristics of SUID classified as explained suffocation, per the CDC’s classification system, by mechanism of airway obstruction (soft bedding, overlay, or wedging). BrightcoveDefaultPlayer10.1542/6138655445001PEDS-VA_2018-3408 Video Abstract BACKGROUND: Unintentional suffocation is the leading cause of injury death among infants <1 year old in the United States, with 82% being attributable to accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. Understanding the circumstances surrounding these deaths may inform prevention strategies. METHODS: We analyzed data from the population-based Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Case Registry from 2011 to 2014. Cases categorized as explained suffocation with unsafe sleep factors (suffocation), per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Case Registry classification system, were included and assigned a mechanism of obstruction, including soft bedding, overlay, or wedging. We calculated frequencies and percentages of suffocation deaths by mechanism and selected demographic and sleep-environment characteristics. RESULTS: Fourteen percent of sudden unexpected infant death cases were classified as suffocation; these cases were most frequently attributed to soft bedding (69%), followed by overlay (19%) and wedging (12%). Median age at death in months varied by mechanism: 3 for soft bedding, 2 for overlay, and 6 for wedging. Soft-bedding deaths occurred most often in an adult bed (49%), in a prone position (82%), and with a blanket (or blankets) obstructing the airway (34%). Overlay deaths occurred most often in an adult bed (71%), and infants were overlaid by the mother (47%). Wedging deaths occurred most often when the infant became entrapped between a mattress and a wall (48%). CONCLUSIONS: Safe sleep environments can reduce infant suffocation deaths. Increased knowledge about the characteristics of suffocation deaths can help inform prevention strategies by targeting highest-risk groups.
Tetraspanin CD82 Organizes Dectin-1 into Signaling Domains to Mediate Cellular Responses to Candida albicans

Key Points Dectin-1 clustering via CD82 enables robust downstream Dectin-1 signaling. Lack of CD82 reduces macrophage fungal killing and survival of Candida infection. CD82 SNPs modulate cytokine production or risk of Candida infections. Tetraspanins are a family of proteins possessing four transmembrane domains that help in lateral organization of plasma membrane proteins. These proteins interact with each other as well as other receptors and signaling proteins, resulting in functional complexes called “tetraspanin microdomains. ” Tetraspanins, including CD82, play an essential role in the pathogenesis of fungal infections. Dectin-1, a receptor for the fungal cell wall carbohydrate β-1,3-glucan, is vital to host defense against fungal infections. The current study identifies a novel association between tetraspanin CD82 and Dectin-1 on the plasma membrane of Candida albicans–containing phagosomes independent of phagocytic ability. Deletion of CD82 in mice resulted in diminished fungicidal activity, increased C. albicans viability within macrophages, and decreased cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β) at both mRNA and protein level in macrophages. Additionally, CD82 organized Dectin-1 clustering in the phagocytic cup. Deletion of CD82 modulates Dectin-1 signaling, resulting in a reduction of Src and Syk phosphorylation and reactive oxygen species production. CD82 knockout mice were more susceptible to C. albicans as compared with wild-type mice. Furthermore, patient C. albicans–induced cytokine production was influenced by two human CD82 single nucleotide polymorphisms, whereas an additional CD82 single nucleotide polymorphism increased the risk for candidemia independent of cytokine production. Together, these data demonstrate that CD82 organizes the proper assembly of Dectin-1 signaling machinery in response to C. albicans. Visual Abstract
Production of a Functional Factor, p40, by Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Is Promoted by Intestinal Epithelial Cell-Secreted Extracellular Vesicles

The symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiome and the host provides a nutrient-rich environment for gut microbes and has beneficial effects on host health. Although the composition of the gut microbiome is known to be influenced by both host genetics and environmental factors, host effects on the activities and functions of the gut microbial communities remain poorly understood. ABSTRACT The symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiome and the host provides a nutrient-rich environment for gut microbes and has beneficial effects on host health. Although the composition of the gut microbiome is known to be influenced by both host genetics and environmental factors, host effects on the activities and functions of the gut microbial communities remain poorly understood. Intestinal epithelial cells exert front-line responses to gut microbes and contribute to maintaining a healthy intestinal homeostasis. Here, seeking to elucidate whether intestinal epithelial cells modulate Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) functions, we examined the production of p40, an LGG-derived secretory protein that protects intestinal epithelial cells against inflammation. We found that growth medium conditioned with colonic epithelial cell-derived components promotes p40 protein synthesis and secretion by LGG and enhances LGG-stimulated protective responses in intestinal epithelial cells. Furthermore, when LGG was cultured with the colonic luminal contents from healthy mice, p40 production was upregulated but was attenuated with luminal contents from mice with intestinal inflammation. Importantly, the colonic epithelial cell-derived components potentiated LGG-produced p40 levels in a mouse model of colitis and enhanced LGG-mediated amelioration of intestinal inflammation in this model. Notably, we found that colonic epithelial cell-secreted extracellular vesicles participate in communicating with LGG and that heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) in these vesicles might mediate the promotion of p40 production. These results reveal a previously unrecognized mechanism by which the anti-inflammatory effect of LGG is reinforced by intestinal epithelial cells and thereby maintains intestinal health.
Percutaneous glue embolization as a primary treatment for visceral pseudoaneurysms

Abstract Aim: To evaluate the feasibility and outcome of percutaneous glue embolisation as primary treatment for pseudoaneurysms in selective patients. Material and methods: A review of the pseudoaneurysm cases managed with percutaneous glue at our institute was analyzed in this study. A total of 21 patients over a period of last one year who were treated for pseudoaneurysm at varied sites primarily with percutaneous n-butyl cynoacrylate were retrospectively evaluated. Site of pseudoaneurysm was Pulmonary (seven cases), renal (four cases), pelvic (4four cases) and miscellaneous abdomen (six cases). Combined ultrasound and fluoroscopy approach was used in 17 cases, CT guidance in three cases and combined ultrasound and CT guidance in one case. Patients were evaluated for therapeutic response (radiological and clinical) and procedure related complications. Results: Complete occlusion of the pseudoaneurysm was seen in all patients. Two patients showed mild pneumothorax and one patient showed reflux into the intercostal artery. All the patients showed symptomatic improvement and discharged in stable condition. Conclusions: Percutaneous glue embolisation of the pseudoaneurysms as a primary treatment is feasible and can be safely carried out in select group of patients with good therapeutic response and minimal complications