bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring soil surface roughness under growing winter wheat with low‐altitude UAV sensing: Potential and limitations
Authors: Onnen Nils , Eltner Anette , Heckrath Goswin , Van Oost Kristof
Published: September 2020

Soil surface roughness (SSR) is an important factor in controlling sediment and runoff generation, influencing directly a wide spectrum of erosion parameters. SSR is highly variable in time and space under natural conditions, and characterizing SSR to improve the parameterization of hydrological and erosion models has proved challenging. Our study uses recent technological and algorithmic developments in capturing and processing close aerial sensing data to evaluate how high‐resolution imagery can assist the temporally and spatially explicit monitoring of SSR. We evaluated the evolution of SSR under natural rainfall and growing vegetation conditions on two arable fields in Denmark. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry was used to monitor small field plots over 7 months after seeding of winter wheat following conventional and reduced tillage treatments. Field campaigns were conducted at least once a month from October until April, resulting in nine time steps of data acquisition. Structure from motion photogrammetry was used to derive high‐resolution point clouds with an average ground sampling distance of 2.7 mm and a mean ground control point accuracy of 1.8 mm. A comprehensive workflow was developed to process the point clouds, including the detection of vegetation and the removal of vegetation‐induced point cloud noise. Rasterized and filtered point clouds were then used to determine SSR geostatistically as the standard deviation of height, applying different kernel sizes and using semivariograms. The results showed an influence of kernel size on roughness, with a value range of 0.2–1 cm of average height deviation during the monitoring period. Semivariograms showed a measurable decrease in sill variance and an increase in range over time. This research demonstrated multiple challenges to measuring SSR with UAV under natural conditions with increasing vegetation cover. The proposed workflow represents a step forward in tackling those challenges and provides a knowledge base for future research. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Terrestrial expression of the Cretaceous greenhouse regime and its relationship with OAE 1a: Evidence from the Jiaolai Basin, eastern China
Authors: Zhang Xiangyu , Li Shoujun , Yin Tiantao
Published: September 2020

Important geological events that influenced the global environment occurred during the mid‐Cretaceous period. Dramatically increasing temperatures not only triggered oceanic anoxic events (OAEs) but also led to the aridity of terrestrial environments in East Asia. This study provides evidence for the aridity of a terrestrial East Asian environment during the mid‐Cretaceous and provides an example of the influence of the Cretaceous greenhouse climate on a terrestrial lake system in correspondence with the OAE 1a event. Palaeosalinity indexes (B, B/Ga, Sr/Ba, and Couch's palaeosalinity) and palaeoclimate proxies (Sr/Cu, Rb/Sr, Al2O3/MgO, and clay mineral compositions) of shale and mudstone from the Laiyang Group of the Jiaolai Basin in Eastern China were analysed. The results demonstrate that the palaeoclimate in the Wawukuang Formation was relatively warm and humid but became extremely dry and hot in the Shuinan Formation during the OAE 1a event before becoming warm and humid again in the Longwangzhuang and Qugezhuang formations. As a result, the palaeosalinity of the Jiaolai Basin increased from 4% in the Wawukuang Formation to 30% in the Shuinan Formation before decreasing to 0.48% in the Longwangzhuang and Qugezhuang formations. The following conclusions are from combining the distributional characteristics of the saliferous strata and its palaeontology, the palaeogeographic background, and the aeolian sandstone in eastern China. (a) The East Asian continental margin was influenced by the Cretaceous greenhouse climate, which resulted in the salinization of the Jiaolai Basin. (b) The significant increase of the palaeosalinity in the Shuinan Formation was an effect of the OAE 1a event on the terrestrial lake system, which further suggests the OAE 1a event was global. (c) Influences of the hothouse climate on the continental lakes changed the palaeosalinity of the water bodies.
Recurrent audiovestibular dysfunction and associated neurological immune‐related adverse events in a melanoma patient treated with nivolumab and ipilimumab
Authors: Choi Jonathan S. , Chen Merry , McQuade Jennifer L. , Appelbaum Eric , Gidley Paul W. , Nader Marc‐Elie
Published: September 2020

Background

Recurrent immunotherapy‐induced audiovestibular toxicity despite cessation of therapy has not been reported.

Methods

We report the first case of recurrent audiovestibular toxicity following immune‐checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. The patient was seen with sudden bilateral hearing loss and disequilibrium. After ruling out other etiologies, he was diagnosed with audiovestibular and neurological immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). He received systemic steroids, with significant hearing and balance recovery. Over the following 4 months, he experienced two other episodes of sudden bilateral hearing loss despite ICIs cessation. The second episode was treated with oral steroids, and hearing improved. On the third episode, he received oral and intratympanic steroids, and he was started on infliximab.

Results

Audiogram 8 months following the last recurrence showed hearing improvement and stability.

Conclusion

Immunotherapy‐induced ototoxicity may recur despite therapy cessation. High dose steroids remain the mainstay of treatment. If audiovestibular irAEs recur despite multiple courses of steroids, immunosuppressive agents may be considered.
Nivolumab‐related tracheobronchial chondritis: Extremely rare manifestation of an immune‐related adverse effect
Authors: Kuba Kiyomi , Nakahira Mitsuhiko , Inoue Hitoshi , Kogashiwa Yasunao , Ebihara Yasuhiro , Sugasawa Masashi
Published: September 2020

Background

Programmed death‐1 checkpoint inhibitors, such as nivolumab, have successfully been utilized for recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck; however, their use may be associated with immune‐related adverse effects (irAEs).

Methods

We describe a case of tracheobronchial chondritis as a rare irAE in a 72‐year‐old man with multiple pulmonary metastases of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with nivolumab, who was seen with a 2‐week history of fever, nonproductive cough, and dyspnea.

Results

CT revealed a thickened tracheobronchial wall and narrowed intraluminal space resulting in respiratory symptoms, despite significant clinical response of the metastases. He was clinically diagnosed with tracheobronchial chondritis and treated successfully by steroid therapy. His diagnosis was confirmed by a positive serum anti‐collagen type 2 antibody test.

Conclusions

In addition to interstitial lung disease, tracheobronchial chondritis should be considered as a possible irAE in patients with acute respiratory symptoms after nivolumab administration.
Aboriginal patient and interpreter perspectives on the delivery of culturally safe hospital‐based care
Authors: Mithen Vincent , Kerrigan Vicki , Dhurrkay Galathi , Morgan Talena , Keilor Natasha , Castillon Craig , Hefler Marita , Ralph Anna P.
Published: September 2020

Issue addressed

Improving equitable delivery of health care for Aboriginal people in northern Australia is a priority. This study sought to gauge patient experiences of hospitalisation and to identify strategies to improve equity in health care for Aboriginal patients. Aims were to validate an experience of care survey and document advice from Aboriginal interpreters.

Methods

Medical charts of Aboriginal patients were audited for documentation of language and interpreter use. Aboriginal inpatients were surveyed using an adapted Australian Hospital Patient Experience Question Set. Multiple‐choice responses were compared with free‐text comments to explore validity. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with Aboriginal interpreter staff.

Results

In 68 charts audited, primary language was documented for only 30/68 (44%) people. Of 73 patient experience survey respondents, 49/73 (67%) indicated satisfaction with overall care; 64/73 (88%) indicated hospital staff communicated well in multiple‐choice responses. Respondents who gave positive multiple‐choice ratings nevertheless reported in free text responses concerns relating to social‐emotional support, loneliness, racism and food. Key themes from interviews included the benefits to patients from accessing interpreters, benefits of hospital‐based support for interpreters and the need for further service redesign.

Conclusions

Multiple‐choice questions in the survey were of limited utility; respondents' free comments were more informative. Social and emotional wellbeing must be addressed in future experience‐of‐care evaluations. Aboriginal patients' language and cultural needs can be better met by improved systems approaches. Aboriginal interpreters are uniquely placed to advise on this.

So What?

Improving health communication is critical to equitable and effective health care. Interventions must be driven by Aboriginal perspectives.
Supporting patients to be involved in decisions about their health and care: Development of a best practice health literacy App for Australian adults living with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Muscat Danielle Marie , Lambert Kelly , Shepherd Heather , McCaffery Kirsten J. , Zwi Stephanie , Liu Na , Sud Kamal , Saunders John , O’Lone Emma , Kim Jinman , Robbins Aphra , Webster Angela C.
Published: September 2020

Issue addressed

Inadequate health literacy is common in those with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially among culturally and linguistically diverse groups. Patient information for people with CKD, including those with kidney failure requiring dialysis, is often written beyond their literacy level, and many CKD‐related apps are not accurate or evidence based. These represent important barriers to health care decision‐making and equity in access to health care.

Methods

We developed a cross‐platform application (the “SUCCESS app”) to support Australian adults with kidney failure requiring dialysis to actively participate in self‐management and decision‐making. App content was informed by health literacy theory which recognises the importance of reducing the complexity of health information as well as equipping consumers with the skills necessary to access, understand and act on this information. The development team comprised members of diverse backgrounds and expertise, including nursing, allied health, psychology, epidemiology, nephrology and IT, as well as consumer representatives.

Results

Content areas included diet, fluids, medicine, physical activity, emotional well‐being and supportive care, chosen as they represent important decision points in the CKD trajectory. To support functional health literacy, a four‐step process to simplify written content was used including calculating readability statistics, applying the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool, supplementing written information with video and audio content, and incorporating micro‐learning and interactive quizzes. To develop communicative and critical health literacy skills, question prompt lists and evidence‐based volitional help sheets were included in each module to support question‐asking and behaviour change. We also developed animated skills training related to communication, shared decision‐making and critical appraisal of health information.

Conclusions

This is the first health literacy informed app developed to promote active patient participation in CKD management and decision‐making. Ongoing evaluation of the SUCCESS app through analysis of quantitative and qualitative data will provide valuable insights into the feasibility of implementing the app with dialysis patients, and the impact of the intervention of psychosocial and clinical outcomes.

So what?

Digital health solutions have been found to improve self‐management for chronic conditions, and could optimise the use of health care services and patient outcomes.
Atmospheric river orientation determines flood occurrence
Authors: Griffith Helen V. , Wade Andrew J. , Lavers David A. , Watts Glenn
Published: September 2020

Atmospheric Rivers (ARs) have been linked to many of the largest recorded UK winter floods. These large‐scale features can be 500–800 km in width but produce markedly different flood responses in adjacent catchments. Here we combine meteorological and hydrological data to examine why two impermeable catchments on the west coast of Britain respond differently to landfalling ARs. This is important to help better understand flood generation associated with ARs and improve flood forecasting and climate‐change impact assessment. Analysis of 32 years of a newly available ERA5 high‐resolution atmospheric reanalysis and corresponding 15‐min river flow data show that the most impactful ARs arise through a combination of the orientation and magnitude of their water vapour flux. At the Dyfi catchment, AR orientations of between 238–258° result in the strongest hydrological responses, whereas at the Teifi the range is 224–243°. We believe this differential flood response is the result of catchment orientation and topography enhancing or suppressing orographic rainfall totals, even in relatively low‐relief coastal catchments. Further to the AR orientation, ARs must have an average water vapour flux of 400–450 kg m−1 s−1 across their lifetime. Understanding the preferential properties of impactful ARs at catchments allows for the linking of large‐scale synoptic features, such as ARs, directly to winter flood impacts. These results using two test catchments suggest a novel approach to flood forecasts through the inclusion of AR activity.
Detection and diagnosis of brain tumors‐framework using extreme machine learning and CANFIS classification algorithms
Authors: Jeevanantham V. , MohanBabu G.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, brain tumors are detected and diagnosed using machine learning approaches in brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which has many real time clinical applications. Noise variations in brain images are detected and removed using index filter, which is proposed in this paper. Brain images devoid of noise content are in spatial domain format, which are not suitable for further feature extraction process. Hence, there is a need for converting all the spatial pixels into multi orientation pixels. In this paper, Gabor transform is used for spatial into multi oriented image conversion. The noise filtered images are transformed into multi orientation‐based brain image using Gabor transform method. Then, the hybrid features which are the integration of statistical and texture features (GLCM, gray level co‐occurrence matrix, and LDP, local derivative pattern), are computed from this transformed brain image. These computed features are classified using extreme machine learning (EML) approach, which categorizes the source brain image as normal or abnormal. Then, the segmented tumor regions are diagnosed using co‐active adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (CANFIS) classifier, which classifies the segmented regions as mild or severe. The proposed tumor detection and diagnosis methods are applied and tested on the brain images which are available as open access dataset. The performance of the proposed brain tumor detection method is analyzed in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy with classification rate.
The role of consultative alliance in infant and early childhood mental health consultation: Child, teacher, and classroom outcomes
Authors: Davis Annie E. , Barrueco Sandra , Perry Deborah F.
Published: September 2020

Young children's social–emotional development is powerfully shaped by their early environments, which for many includes early childhood education (ECE). Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) pairs teachers and infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) consultants to promote teachers’ capacity to foster positive social–emotional development in ECE. Although the outcomes of IECMHC have been well studied, little research has investigated how this model leads to changes for teachers and children. According to theory, the quality of the relationship between teachers and IECMH consultants, termed consultative alliance (CA), is a key mechanism of change. This study analyzed the role of CA on 6‐month outcomes of IECMHC in a sample of 316 children, 289 teachers, and 62 IECMH consultants. Results from multilevel models suggested that stronger CA predicted greater improvements in teacher–child closeness and teacher‐rated child attachment behaviors. In addition, a strong CA was related to greater improvement in classroom climate, teachers’ self‐efficacy, and teachers’ perceptions of their jobs. This study upholds the centrality of relationship‐building and parallel process in mental health consultation, and by advancing understanding of the mechanisms of change for IECMHC may provide salient implications for policy and practice.
Use of photoacoustic imaging for monitoring vascular disrupting cancer treatments
Authors: Fadhel Muhannad N , Appak Baskoy Sila , Wang Yanjie , Hysi Eno , Kolios Michael C.
Published: September 2020

Vascular disrupting agents disrupt tumor vessels, blocking the nutritional and oxygen supply tumors need to thrive. This is achieved by damaging the endothelium lining of blood vessels, resulting in red blood cells (RBCs) entering the tumor parenchyma. RBCs present in the extracellular matrix are exposed to external stressors resulting in biochemical and physiological changes. The detection of these changes can be used to monitor the efficacy of cancer treatments. Spectroscopic photoacoustic (PA) imaging is an ideal candidate for probing RBCs due to their high optical absorption relative to surrounding tissue. The goal of this work is to use PA imaging to monitor the efficacy of the vascular disrupting agent 5,6‐Dimethylxanthenone‐4‐acetic acid (DMXAA) through quantitative analysis. Then, 4T1 breast cancer cells were injected subcutaneously into the left hind leg of eight BALB/c mice. After 10 days, half of the mice were treated with 15 mg/kg of DMXAA and the other half were injected with saline. All mice were imaged using the VevoLAZR X PA system before treatment, 24 and 72 hours after treatment. The imaging was done at six wavelengths and linear spectral unmixing was applied to the PA images to quantify three forms of hemoglobin (oxy, deoxy and met‐hemoglobin). After imaging, tumors were histologically processed and H&E and TUNEL staining were used to detect the tissue damage induced by the DMXAA treatment. The total hemoglobin concentration remained unchanged after treatment for the saline treated mice. For DMXAA treated mice, a 10% increase of deoxyhemoglobin concentration was detected 24 hours after treatment and a 22.6% decrease in total hemoglobin concentration was observed by 72 hours. A decrease in the PA spectral slope parameters was measured 24 hours after treatment. This suggests that DMXAA induces vascular damage, causing red blood cells to extravasate. Furthermore, H&E staining of the tumor showed areas of bleeding with erythrocyte deposition. These observations are further supported by the increase in TUNEL staining in DMXAA treated tumors, revealing increased cell death due to vascular disruption. This study demonstrates the capability of PA imaging to monitor tumor vessel disruption by the vascular disrupting agent DMXAA.
Light propagation within N95 filtered face respirators: A simulation study for UVC decontamination
Authors: Lilge Lothar , Manalac Angelica , Weersink Madrigal , Schwiegelshohn Fynn , Young‐Schultz Tanner , Abdalrhman Abdallatif Satti , Wang Chengjin , Ngan Aldrich , Gu Frank X. , Betz Vaughn , Hofmann Ron
Published: September 2020

This study presents numerical simulations of UVC light propagation through seven different filtered face respirators (FFR) to determine their suitability for Ultraviolet germicidal inactivation (UVGI). UV propagation was modeled using the FullMonte program for two external light illuminations. The optical properties of the dominant three layers were determined using the inverse adding doubling method. The resulting fluence rate volume histograms and the lowest fluence rate recorded in the modeled volume, sometimes in the nW cm−2, provide feedback on a respirator's suitability for UVGI and the required exposure time for a given light source. While UVGI can present an economical approach to extend an FFR's useable lifetime, it requires careful optimization of the illumination setup and selection of appropriate respirators.
Pixel‐level angular quantification of capsular collagen in second harmonic generation microscopy images of encapsulated thyroid nodules
Authors: Hristu Radu , Eftimie Lucian G. , Paun Bogdan , Stanciu Stefan G. , Stanciu George A.
Published: September 2020

Polarization‐resolved second harmonic generation microscopy is used to provide pixel‐level angular distribution of collagen in thyroid nodule capsules. The pixel‐level angular distribution is combined with textural analysis to quantify the collagen distribution in follicular adenoma (benign) and papillary thyroid carcinoma (malignant). Three second order nonlinear susceptibility tensor elements ratios, the collagen angular distribution and two parameters accounting for the collagen angular dispersion in different sized areas are extracted and corresponding images are computed in a pixel‐by‐pixel fashion. Subsequently, we show that texture analysis can be performed on these images to detect significant differences between the considered benign and malignant nodule capsules.
Detecting mouse squamous cell carcinoma from submicron full‐field optical coherence tomography images by deep learning
Authors: Ho Chi‐Jui , Calderon‐Delgado Manuel , Chan Chin‐Cheng , Lin Ming‐Yi , Tjiu Jeng‐Wei , Huang Sheng‐Lung , Chen Homer H.
Published: September 2020

The standard medical practice for cancer diagnosis requires histopathology, which is an invasive and time‐consuming procedure. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an alternative that is relatively fast, noninvasive, and able to capture three‐dimensional structures of epithelial tissue. Unlike most previous OCT systems, which cannot capture crucial cellular‐level information for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) diagnosis, the full‐field OCT (FF‐OCT) technology used in this paper is able to produce images at sub‐micron resolution and thereby facilitates the development of a deep learning algorithm for SCC detection. Experimental results show that the SCC detection algorithm can achieve a classification accuracy of 80% for mouse skin. Using the sub‐micron FF‐OCT imaging system, the proposed SCC detection algorithm has the potential for in‐vivo applications.
Repetitive transcranial photobiomodulation but not long‐term omega‐3 intake reduces epileptiform discharges in rats with stroke‐induced epilepsy
Authors: Vogel Debora D.S. , Ortiz‐Villatoro Nancy N. , de Freitas Leandro , Aimbire Flavio , Scorza Fúlvio A. , Albertini Regiane , Scorza Carla A.
Published: September 2020

Epilepsy is a yet under‐recognized consequence after a stroke and nearly 30% of cases are pharmacoresistant. There is an unmet need for therapeutic interventions during epileptogenesis for better long‐term disease outcomes. Transcranial photobiomodulation (PBM) and omega‐3 (Ω‐3) dietary supplementation are two approaches that have been shown promising neuroprotective effects after brain injuries. Here, we studied the PBM treatment or Ω‐3 diet during epileptogenesis in long‐term recurrent spontaneous abnormal electrical discharges after stroke. Wistar rats received repetitive 780 nm‐laser in the scalp or oral diet with Ω‐3 for 2‐months after photothrombotic stroke. EEG recordings were performed 60 days after treatment end. PBM but not Ω‐3 reduced both electrographic seizure duration and spikes number in the ipsilateral and contralateral cortices and ventral posteromedial thalamic nucleus. Conclusively, PBM reduced epileptiform discharges in stroke‐induced epilepsy. Our results suggest the PBM as a therapeutic approach for stroke‐induced epileptogenesis to minimize long‐term disease outcomes.
Photobiomodulation and estrogen stabilize mitochondrial membrane potential in angiotensin–II challenged porcine aortic smooth muscle cells
Authors: Gavish Lilach , Gilon Dan , Beeri Ronen , Zuckerman Ayelet , Nachman Dean , Gertz S. David
Published: September 2020

Rupture of Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is among the 15 leading causes of death after age 65. Using high frequency ultrasound, we showed that photobiomodulation (PBM) prevents formation and progression of AAA in the angiotensin‐II (Ang‐II)‐infused, apolipoprotein‐e‐deficient mouse model. In the current study we report that while challenge of porcine aortic Smooth Muscle Cells (SMCs) with Ang‐II (1 μM) resulted in a marked decay in mitochondrial membrane potential (MitMP) vs non‐challenged cells, treatment with PBM (continuous diode laser, 780 nm, 6.7 mW/cm2, 5 minutes, 2 J/cm2) or pre‐incubation with estrogen (50 nM, 1 hour) significantly attenuated this deterioration in MitMP. We also report that PBM and estrogen markedly affected porcine aortic SMC contraction and modified mitochondrial dispersion reflecting important influence on SMC function. These studies provide strong evidence of the important underlying role of mitochondria in the preventive effect of PBM on formation and progression of AAA and its reduced incidence and delayed onset in women.
miR‐145 attenuates cardiac fibrosis through the AKT/GSK‐3β/β‐catenin signaling pathway by directly targeting SOX9 in fibroblasts
Authors: Cui Shengyu , Liu Zhebo , Tao Bo , Fan Suzhen , Pu Yong , Meng Xiangping , Li Dongqing , Xia Hao , Xu Lin
Published: September 2020

Myocardial infarction (MI) will inevitably result in cardiac fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of microRNA‐145 (miR‐145) and transcription factor sex‐determining region Y box 9 (SOX9) in the production of cardiac fibrosis induced by MI. MI rat models were established by left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion. Four weeks after LAD, the cardiac fibrosis level was assessed by Masson's trichrome staining. Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) exposed to hypoxia were used to simulate MI‐induced fibrosis. Flow cytometry, cell counting kit‐8, and transwell assays were used to examine changes in CF apoptosis, proliferation, and migration, respectively. miR‐145 expression was measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis were performed to determine the relative expression of proteins. In comparison to the sham‐operated group, the expression of miR‐145 was significantly downregulated in the infarction peripheral area, whereas, SOX9 was upregulated. In the infarcted heart, the overexpression of miR‐145 significantly ameliorated cardiac fibrosis and cardiac function, and there was a negative correlation between miR‐145 and SOX9 expressions in hypoxic CFs in vitro. In addition, SOX9 was verified to be a functional target of miR‐145. Overexpression of miR‐145 or inhibition of SOX9 decreased CF proliferation, migration, and fibrosis, but augmented their apoptotic rate. Moreover, the upregulation of miR‐145 or suppression of SOX9 inhibited AKT and β‐catenin signaling in hypoxic CFs. Taken together, this study highlights a potential treatment for cardiac fibrosis through the targeted regulation of SOX9 by miR‐145, and our findings indicate that miR‐145 exerts anti‐fibrotic effects in MI via the negative regulation of SOX9 and its downstream AKT/GSK‐3β/β‐catenin pathways.
Association between circular RNA expression content and severity of coronary atherosclerosis in human coronary artery
Authors: Hou Can , Gu Lingfeng , Guo Yi , Zhou Yaqing , Hua Lei , Chen Jiaxin , He Shu , Zhang Sheng , Jia Qiaowei , Zhao Chenhui , Zhang Jing , Xu Guangxu , Jia Enzhi
Published: September 2020

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) may act as biomarkers of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the relationship between expression characteristics of circRNAs and coronary atherosclerosis has not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to determine and characterize the circRNAs from human coronary artery.

Methods

The coronary artery segments were obtained from an 81‐year‐old male patient with sudden death of myocardial infarction at autopsy. The coronary stenosis and atherosclerosis were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and the circRNAs expression profile was characterized by RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq). The differentially expressed circRNAs were validated by qRT‐PCR.

Results

The analysis of H&E staining indicated that coronary atherosclerosis grade and extent in the LM was more serious than that in other coronary arteries. Twenty‐seven circRNAs were selected for expression validation in coronary artery. CircRNAs corresponding cyclization sites of 3 circRNAs (hsa_circ_0016868, hsa_circ_0001364, hsa_circ_0006731) have been verified by Sanger sequencing.

Conclusion

The 3 circRNAs are suggested to play a pathological role underlying the coronary arteries atherosclerosis and may serve as a valuable resource as diagnostic or therapeutic targets against CAD.
Microwave‐assisted deep eutectic solvent extraction of phenolic compounds from brewer's spent grain
Authors: López‐Linares Juan C , Campillo Víctor , Coca Mónica , Lucas Susana , García‐Cubero María T
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have been tested as promising green solvents for the microwave‐assisted extraction of phenolic compounds from brewer's spent grain (BSG). Firstly, a preliminary screening with four different DESs was carried out in order to determine the most effective DES for recovering phenolic compounds (measured as total phenols) from BSG. Later, an experimental design using the DES found to be most effective in the preliminary screening was applied to optimize microwave‐assisted choline chloride (ChCl):glycerol extraction.

RESULTS

ChCl:glycerol was the most effective DES tested in the preliminary screening to recover phenolic compounds (2.3 mg GA g−1 BSG), even more than methanol (80% v/v) as conventional solvent (1.2 mg GA g−1 BSG). On the other hand, using ChCl:glycerol as DES, a total phenols content of 2.89 mg GA g−1 BSG was obtained operating at 100 °C for 13.30 min and 37.46% (v/v) water in the DES, ferulic and coumaric acids being the most abundant. Moreover, a residual extracted solid with non‐disturbed structural carbohydrates was achieved, which could be successfully used in a biorefinery to obtain other products, such as biofuels or chemicals.

CONCLUSIONS

The suitability of a novel and green extraction process based on DESs combined with microwave assistance for the recovery of phenolic compounds from BSG was demonstrated. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Digital light microscopy to characterize the scales of two goatfishes (Perciformes; Mullidae)
Authors: Sabbah Najmeh , Teimori Azad , Hesni Majid Askari
Published: September 2020

The normal and lateral line scales from above the head and four flank regions were investigated in two goatfishes by using light microscopy to evaluate the microscopic characteristics of scale surface ornamentation from different body parts of these fishes and to add new morphological data for their discrimination. The body scales were removed and digital images captured with a Dino‐Lite digital camera connected to a Leica compound microscope. The presence of both transverse and longitudinal radii was a distinctive characteristic for the scales of studied goatfishes. The most distinctive features of the key scales discriminating the two goatfishes were the scale shape, the presence of irregular grooves in scale surface, the presence of transverse radii in the lateral fields, and the availability of lepidont at the anterior field. The lateral line scale ornamentations were almost similar in two species; however, the lateral line canal was branching in Parupeneus heptacanthus. Scale extension index indicated that in both species, the dimension of normal key scales tends to the right, while the dimension of lateral line scales tends to the left. This study accentuated that scales from different body regions may exhibit variation in surface ornamentations, that scale morphology could successfully be used to discriminate the examined goatfishes, and that the use of fish scale microscopy is an easy and relatively rapid method and does not require fish sacrifice. Since fish identification is essential for the conservation and management of species, the use of scale morphology to this purpose appears particularly promising.
Long non‐coding RNA 00507/miRNA‐181c‐5p/TTBK1/MAPT axis regulates tau hyperphosphorylation in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Yan Yan , Yan Hua , Teng Ying , Wang Qin , Yang Ping , Zhang Le , Cheng Han , Fu Siwen
Published: September 2020

Background

Tau hyperphosphorylation is involved in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the role of linc00507 with respect to modulating Tau phosphorylation in ab AD animal and an Aβ42‐SH‐SY5Y cell model.

Methods

Aβ precursor protein (APP)/PS transgenic mice and Aβ42‐SH‐SY5Y cell model were used to investigate the role of linc00507 in AD. A quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction evaluated the RNA expression of linc00507, miR‐181c‐5p and microtubule‐associated protein tau (MAPT)/tau‐tubulin kinase‐1 (TTBK1). The interactions between the genes were investigated through changes in one gene expression by regulating another gene in cells and, in addition, correlation assays were performed in mice. Western blot assays examined the protein expression of MAPT/TTBK1, phosphorylation of tau and signaling proteins P25/P35/GSK3β in response to the regulation of linc00507, miR‐181c‐5p and MAPT/TTBK1 in cells and also in mice.

Results

linc00507 was significantly elevated in hippocampus, and cerebral cortex of APP/PS transgenic mice and AD‐like SH‐SY5Y cells. It could bind miR‐181c‐5p and thereby regulate the expression of microtubule‐associated protein Tau (MAPT) and tau‐tubulin kinase‐1 (TTBK1) as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA). MAPT (encoding the tau protein) and TTBK1 (encoding a tau kinase) were identified as direct target genes of miR‐181c‐5p. Furthermore, linc00507 mediated tau protein hyperphosphorylation by the activation of the P25/P35/GSK3β signaling pathway through regulating MAPT/TTBK1 by sponging miR‐181c‐5p.

Conclusions

The findings of the present highlight the regulatory role of linc00507 in tau phosphorylation miR‐181c‐5p as ceRNA of MAPT/TTBK1 in vitro and in vivo, providing a basis for novel diagnostic and treatment strategies for AD.
Polymorphism of lncRNAs in breast cancer: Meta‐analysis shows no association with susceptibility
Authors: Mathias Carolina , Garcia Leandro E. , Teixeira Mayza Dalcin , Kohler Ana Flávia , Marchi Rafael D. , Barazetti Jéssica F. , Gradia Daniela Fiori , de Oliveira Jaqueline Carvalho
Published: September 2020

Background

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been the target of considerable attention for their roles in many biological processes. Only a small portion of lncRNAs are functionally characterized, and several approaches have been proposed for investigating the roles of these molecules, including how polymorphisms in lncRNA genomic sites may interfere with their function. Allele frequency variation in single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), for example, has been associated with several diseases, including breast cancer (BC), the most common type of cancer in women.

Methods

In the present study, we performed a systematic review of lncRNA SNPs associated with BC and a meta‐analysis of some lncRNA SNPs. We found 31 SNPs mapped in 12 lncRNAs associated with BC in 28 case–control studies.

Results

Our meta‐analysis showed an insignificant difference between the SNPs rs217727, rs3741219, rs2107425 and rs2839698 on H19, as well as rs920778, rs1899663, rs12826786 and rs4759314 on HOTAIR, and BC susceptibility.

Conclusions

The present analysis recognized the importance of extensive association studies, including different populations, and further evaluation of potential functional effects caused by lncRNA SNPs. Nevertheless, genetic variants such as SNPs in lncRNAs may play many other essential roles, although this field is still under explored.
Compound heterozygous DYSF variants causing limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy type 2B in a Chinese family
Authors: Li Liangshan , Jing Zhongcui , Cheng Lei , Liu Wenmiao , Wang Haiyan , Xu Yinglei , Zheng Xueping , Yu Xiaoling , Liu Shiguo
Published: September 2020

Background

The dysferlin gene or the DYSF gene encodes the Ca2+‐dependent phospholipid‐binding protein dysferlin, which belongs to the ferlin family and is associated with muscle membrane regeneration and repair. Variants in the DYSF gene are responsible for limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy type 2B (LGMD2B), also called limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy recessive 2 (LGMDR2), a rare subtype of muscular dystrophy involving progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. The present study aimed to identify the variants responsible for the clinical symptoms of a Chinese patient with limb girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) and to explore the genotype–phenotype associations of LGMD2B.

Methods

A series of clinical examinations, including blood tests, magnetic resonance imaging scans for the lower legs, electromyography and muscle biopsy, was performed on the proband diagnosed with muscular dystrophies. Whole exome sequencing was conducted to detect the causative variants, followed by Sanger sequencing to validate these variants.

Results

We identified two compound heterozygous variants in the DYSF gene, c.1058 T>C, p.(Leu353Pro) in exon 12 and c.1461C>A/p.Cys487* in exon 16 in this proband, which were inherited from the father and mother, respectively. In silico analysis for these variants revealed deleterious results by PolyPhen‐2 (Polymorphism Phenotyping v2; http://genetics.bwh.harvard.edu/pph2), SIFT (Sorting Intolerant From Tolerant; https://sift.bii.a-star.edu.sg), PROVEAN (Protein Variation Effect Analyzer; http://provean.jcvi.org/seq_submit.php) and MutationTaster (http://www.mutationtaster.org). In addition, the two compound heterozygous variants in the proband were absent in 100 control individuals who had an identical ethnic origin and were from the same region, suggesting that these variants may be the pathogenic variants responsible for the LGMD2B phenotypes for this proband.

Conclusions

The present study broadens our understanding of the mutational spectrum of the DYSF gene, which provides a deep insight into the pathogenesis of LGMDs and accelerates the development of a prenatal diagnosis.
SARS‐CoV‐2 respiratory viral loads and association with clinical and biological features
Authors: Biguenet Adrien , Bouiller Kevin , Marty‐Quinternet Solène , Brunel Anne‐Sophie , Chirouze Catherine , Lepiller Quentin
Published: September 2020

To determine the distribution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) respiratory viral loads (VL) during the acute phase of infection and their correlation with clinical presentation and inflammation‐related biomarkers. Nasopharyngeal swabs from 453 adult SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected patients from the Department of Infectious Diseases, Besançon, France, were collected at the time of admission or consultation for reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis. Clinical information and concentrations of biological parameters (C‐reactive protein [CRP], fibrinogen, lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], prealbumin) were noticed. Mean respiratory VL homogeneously decreased from 7.2 log10 copies/ml (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.6–7.8) on the first day of symptoms until 4.6 log10 copies/ml (95% CI: 3.8–5.4) at day 10 (slope = −0.24; R2 = .95). VL were poorly correlated with COVID‐19 symptoms and outcome, excepted for dyspnea and anosmia, which were significantly associated with lower VL (p < .05). CRP, fibrinogen, and LDH concentrations significantly increased over the first 10 days (median CRP concentrations from 36.8 mg/L at days 0–1 to 99.5 mg/L at days 8–10; p < .01), whereas prealbumin concentrations tended to decrease. Since SARS‐CoV‐2 respiratory VL regularly decrease in the acute phase of infection, determining the level of VL may help predicting the onset of virus shedding in a specific patient. However, the role of SARS‐CoV‐2 VL as a biomarker of severity is limited.
Changes of liver stiffness measured by magnetic resonance elastography during direct‐acting antivirals treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Higuchi Mayu , Tamaki Nobuharu , Kurosaki Masayuki , Inada Kento , Kirino Sakura , Yamashita Koji , Hayakawa Yuka , Sekiguchi Shuhei , Osawa Leona , Takaura Kenta , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Kaneko Shun , Yasui Yutaka , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Itakura Jun , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Izumi Namiki
Published: September 2020

Almost all patients achieved sustained virological response (SVR) by direct‐acting antivirals (DAA) therapy, but it is not clear as to what extent DAA therapy affects changes in liver fibrosis after achieving SVR. In this study, we investigated the changes of liver stiffness by magnetic resonance elastogaraphy (MRE) during DAA therapy. A total of 308 patients were enrolled in the study. Liver stiffness was measured twice before and after DAA treatment using MRE and time‐course change of liver stiffness was investigated. The median (interquartile range) values for liver stiffness were 4.2 (3.2–6.1) kPa at baseline and 3.3 (2.6–4.8) kPa at SVR, demonstrating a significant improvement (p < .01). A total of 44% of patients had no improvement in liver stiffness despite achieving SVR. In patients with advanced fibrosis (lower level of albumin [Alb] or histological fibrosis stage F4), it was difficult to improve liver stiffness. Except for Alb, there were no blood tests associated with nonimprovement in liver stiffness, making these cases difficult to predict. In conclusion, despite obtaining SVR, improvement in liver stiffness could not be obtained in some cases, especially in patients with advanced fibrosis. In these patients, liver stiffness must be followed even if SVR is obtained.
Clinical characteristics, cause analysis and infectivity of COVID‐19 nucleic acid repositive patients: A literature review
Authors: Li Youjiang , Ji Danping , Cai Wangyu , Hu Yingying , Bai Yongying , Wu Jianguo , Xu Jian
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) poses a serious threat to human health and lives. The virus is still spreading throughout the world, and the cumulative number of confirmed cases is increasing. After patients with COVID‐19 are treated and discharged, some have repeated clinical symptoms and become positive for nucleic acid tests a second time. Through analysis and review of the existing literature, the proportion of repositive patients in the discharged patient population and their clinical characteristics were systematically described for the first time. Furthermore, an in‐depth analysis of the causes of repositive nucleic acid tests and the potential transmission of the disease provides the basis for the management and protection of discharged patients with COVID‐19.
Role of inflammation in initiation and maintenance of atrial fibrillation in rheumatic mitral stenosis – An analytical cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sharma Gautam , Ghati Nirmal , Sharique Mohd , Sharma Shruti , Shetkar Sudhir , Karmakar Suman , Naik Nitish , Lakshmy Ramakrishnan , Thakur Bhaskar , Agarwal Aman , Saxena Anita
Published: September 2020

Background

Inflammation has been implicated in the initiation and perpetuation of non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). However, there is a lack of similar data on AF in rheumatic heart disease (RHD). The objective of this study was to analyze the association of inflammation as measured by serum inflammatory biomarkers with AF in rheumatic mitral stenosis (Rh‐MS).

Methods

A comparative cross‐sectional analytical study was conducted on 181 Rh‐MS patients in normal sinus rhythm (NSR; n = 69), subclinical transient AF (SCAF; detected by 24‐hours Holter monitoring; n = 30) and chronic AF (n = 82). Serum hs‐CRP, IL‐6, and sCD‐40L were assessed using ELISA immunoassay and compared in all groups of Rh‐MS with or without AF.

Results

We found significantly higher serum hs‐CRP and sCD‐40L levels in the overall AF (Chronic AF + SCAF) group (hs‐CRP: 4.5 ± 3.4 vs 2.3 ± 2.9 mg/L, P < .01; sCD‐40L: 6.4 ± 4.8 vs 3.1 ± 3.4 ng/mL, P < .01) and chronic AF subgroup (hs‐CRP: 4.9 ± 3.4 vs 2.3 ± 2.9 mg/L, P < .01; sCD‐40L: 6.9 ± 5.1 vs 3.1 ± 3.4 ng/mL, P < .01) compared to patients with sinus rhythm. There was a statistically significant graded increase of serum IL‐6 level from the NSR to the SCAF (vs NSR: 6.8 ± 3.9 vs 4.0 ± 2.2 pg/mL, P = .03), and chronic AF subgroups (vs NSR: 9.3 ± 6.5 vs 4.0 ± 2.2 pg/mL, P < .01; vs SCAF: 9.3 ± 6.5 vs 6.8 ± 3.9, P = .05) of atrial fibrillation.

Conclusions

Elevated levels of serum hs‐CRP, IL‐6, and sCD‐40L were strongly associated with overall AF and also with SCAF and chronic AF in Rh‐MS patients indicating a potential role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of rheumatic AF.
Molecular fossils as a tool for tracking Holocene sea‐level change in the Loch of Stenness, Orkney
Authors: Conti Martina L. G. , Bates Martin R. , Preece Richard C. , Penkman Kirsty E. H. , Keely Brendan J.
Published: September 2020

Sediments deposited in the Loch of Stenness (Orkney Islands, Scotland) during the Holocene transgression, previously dated to between ~5939–5612 bp, were analysed for molecular fossils – lipids and chlorophyll pigments from primary producers – that complement conventional microfossil and lithological approaches for studying past sea‐level change. While microfossil and lithological studies identified a transgression between 102 and 81 cm core depth, key molecular fossils fluctuate in occurrence and concentration between 118 and 85 cm, suggesting an earlier start to the transgression. Terrestrial lipid concentrations decreased and algal‐derived, short‐chain, n‐alkanoic acid concentrations increased at 118 cm, indicating a disruption of the freshwater lake conditions associated with the early stages of the marine transgression. The lipid and pigment analyses provided information that complements and extends that from microfossil analysis, presenting a more complete record of Holocene sea‐level changes and local vegetation changes in the Loch of Stenness. The isostatic stability of Stenness during the Holocene points towards other factors to explain the transgression, such as regional factors and/or melting of the Antarctic ice sheet (which occurred up to 3 ka).