bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloning, expression, and functional characterization of an organophosphates insecticides degrading gene (opdC) from a potential probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum WCP931
Authors: Haque Md. Azizul , Lee Hee Yul , Cho Du Yong , Lee Jin Hwan , Hwang Chung Eun , Cho Kye Man
Published: April 2020

An organophosphorus (OP) insecticides degrading strain Lactobacillus plantarum WCP931, harboring OP hydrolase (OpdC) gene, was isolated during kimchi fermentation. The strain WCP931 appeared a significant survival rate of 51 to 96% under the artificial gastric acidic condition at pH 2 to 3 after 3 h. The opdC gene consisting 831 bp encoding 276 amino acids was cloned from the strain WCP907. The recombinant Escherischia coli harboring opdC gene depleted 77% chlorpyrifos (CP) in M9 medium after 6 days of incubation. The OpdC enzyme represents a novel member of GHSQG family of esterolytic enzymes or new Opd group. The OpdC molecular mass was estimated to be approximately 31 kDa in SDS-PAGE and showed maximum activity at 40 οC with pH 6. However, the mutated OpdC (Ser116 → Ala116) enzyme had no activity towards OP insecticides and ρ-nitrophenol-β-butyrate. Importantly, relative activity of OpdC against P-O bond insecticides was higher than P-S bond insecticide, which indicated its broad substrate specificity. It is suggested that opdC gene of strain WCP931 play role for the biodegradation of OP insecticides during kimchi fermentation.
Early post-stress decrease in cardiac performance by impedance cardiography and its relationship to the severity and extent of ischemia by myocardial perfusion imaging
Authors: Goldkorn Ronen , Naimushin Alexey , Rozen Eli , Freimark Dov
Published: April 2020

Background
While single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a well-established noninvasive procedure for the evaluation of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), it is unable to detect the presence of, or underestimates the extent of CAD in certain patients. We aimed to show that a bio-impedance device can detect early post-stress changes in several hemodynamic parameters, thereby serving as a potential marker for the presence of significant ischemia.
Methods
Prospectively enrolled patients, referred to our Medical Center for clinically-indicated MPI, underwent testing using a Non-Invasive Cardiac System (NICaS) before and immediately after exercise. The differences between rest and stress hemodynamic parameters were compared with the severity and extent of myocardial ischemia by MPI. The study included 198 patients; mean age was 62 years, 26% were women, 54% had hypertension, and 29% diabetes mellitus. Of them, 188 patients had ≤ 10%, and 10 had > 10% of myocardial ischemia.
Results
In the first group, there was a significantly greater increase in post-exercise stroke index, stroke work index, cardiac index and cardiac power index (19.2%, 29.1%, 90.5% and 107%, respectively) compared with the second group (-2.7%, 3.8%, 43.7% and 53.5%, respectively), as well as a significantly greater decrease in total peripheral resistance index (-38.7% compared with − 16.3%), with corresponding p values of 0.015, 0.017, 0.040, 0.016, and < 0.001, respectively.
Conclusions
Our data suggest that immediate post-stress changes in several hemodynamic parameters, detected by the NICaS, can be used as an important adjunct to SPECT MPI for the early detection of myocardial ischemia.
The correlation between Aromatase (CYP19A1) and Bladder cancer in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Zhang Shufang , Zhang Chong , Wen Xiaohong , Wang Shunlan , He Haowei , Zheng Linlin , Chen Mei , Wang Fei
Published: April 2020

BackgroundSeveral P450 metabolic enzymes genes have been discovered that affect the genetic susceptibility of bladder cancer. While, there is no report about CYP19A1 gene polymorphism on the susceptibility of bladder cancer. So, we performed a case–control study to investigate the association between polymorphisms in CYP19A1 gene and the susceptibility to bladder cancer in Chinese Han population.Materials:Five SNPs were selected and genotyped in 217 patients and 550 healthy controls. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by logistic regression adjusted for age and gender.ResultsWe found that CYP19A1 rs4646 “A” allele and rs17601876 “GA” genotype added the risk of bladder cancer (rs4646: OR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.62, p = 0.043; rs17601876: OR= 1.64, 95%CI: 1.17 – 2.29, p = 0.004 ), while with rs6493487 “G” and rs1062033 “G” allele in CYP19A1 gene reduced the risk of bladder cancer (rs6493487: OR = 0.68, 95%CI: 0.51 - 0.89, p = 0.005; rs1062033: OR = 0.36, 95%CI: 0.28 - 0.47, p = 9.09E-16). WHO grade stratified analysis shown that rs6493487 (OR =0.42, 95%CI: 0.23 – 0.76, p = 0.004) and rs17601876 (OR =0.44, 95%CI: 0.23 – 0.85, p = 0.015) reduced the risk of bladder cancer with WHO III-IV, when compared with the bladder cancer with WHO I-II. Age stratified analysis shown that rs4646 “A”, rs6493487 “G”, and rs1062033 “G” allele were associated with bladder cancer risk.ConclusionOur results suggested that the Aromatase CYP19A1 gene has potential roles in the genetic susceptibility to bladder cancer.
The Impact Of The Vaginal And Endometrial Microbiome Pattern On Assisted Reproduction Outcomes
Authors: Carratala Concepcion , Martínez María Carmen Díaz , García Andrea Bernabeu , Bosch Belén Lledó , Rico José Antonio Quesada , García Francisca M. Lozano , Cámara Vicente Ruiz , Sabater Ruth Morales , Aparicio Joaquín LLácer , Morro Jorge Ten , Farfán Juan Carlos Castillo , Arnedo Adoración Rodríguez , Renau Belén Moliner , Pérez Rafael Bernabeu
Published: April 2020

Background:The vaginal microbiome plays an important role in maintaining health, and there is evidence that microbial colonization of the upper genital tract can also influence successful embryo transfer. The aim of this study is to determine whether the vaginal and endometrial microbiome in people undergoing assisted reproduction techniques could affect the pregnancy rate.Results:Regarding the microbiome dynamics during the cycle, we observed a decrease in alpha diversity from the follicular to luteal phase in the control group, in contrast to a stable pattern in the repetitive implantation failure group. As for endometrial and vaginal microbiome, alpha diversity was higher in the endometrium (Shannon p = 0.0139, Simpson p = 0.046); differences were also observed in beta diversity (p = 0.001). Compared to the endometrium, the vagina showed a greater relative abundance of Lactobacillus spp. (83.17% vs 84.82%, p < 0.0001), Streptococcus spp. (1.59% vs 7.74%, p = 0.014) and Ureaplasma spp. (0% vs. 0.89%, p = 0.006), and a lower abundance of Delftia spp. (0.95% vs 0%, p = 0.0003), Anaerobacillus spp. (1.59% vs 0%, p = 0.0004), and Ralstonia spp. (3.17% vs 0%, p = 0.0006). We also observed differences in both alpha diversity (Shannon p = 0.0206, Simpson p = 0.0206) and beta diversity between groups, along with differences for Ralstonia spp. (0.09% study group and 0.73% control, p = 0.0012). Finally, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus spp. differed between patients that did not versus did achieve pregnancy (91% vs 99%, p = 0.0445 visit 1, 94.63% vs. 97.69%, p = 0.0268 visit 2, 97.73% vs 99.74%, p = 0.0492 visit 3). The relative abundance of L.reuteri was also different between groups (0.39% vs 0.17%, p = 0.0397 visit 1, 0.15% vs 0.30%, p = 0.0491 visit 3).Conclusions:The vaginal and endometrial microbiome pattern correlates with the pregnancy rate, and it is different in patients who do versus do not have repetitive implantation failures. No significant differences in the composition of the microbiome were observed through the different visits. The lack of dynamism in the microbiome pattern of repetitive implantation failure patients might reflect an impaired adaptation to endometrial changes. A greater relative abundance of Lactobacillus spp. and L. reuteri is correlated with higher chances of pregnancy.*MC Díaz Martínez and A Bernabeu García share equal responsibility for authorship.
Usefulness of Recovery services promoting personal recovery among Adults living with Severe Mental illness – A Comprehensive Integrative Review
Authors: Badu Eric , O’Brien Anthony Paul , Mitchell Rebecca
Published: April 2020

Background: There is increasing call regarding recovery services but little review have been undertaken regarding such services. This integrative review aimed to identify and synthesize evidence on the usefulness of recovery services used to promote personal recovery among adults living with severe mental illness. Methods: A search of the published literature was conducted using: Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus. Mixed methods synthesis was used to analyse the data. The search was limited to papers published in English from January 2008 to January 2020. The review integrated both qualitative and quantitative data into a single synthesis. Results: Out of 40 included papers, 62.5 %( 25/40) used Quantitative data, 32.5% used Qualitative and 5 %( 2/40) used mixed methods. The review identified three recovery services such as integrated recovery model, vocational rehabilitation (Individual Placement Services), as well as recovery narrative photovoice and art-making services. The recovery services are useful in areas such as medication and treatment adherence, improvement in functioning, symptoms, physical health & social behaviour, self-efficacy, economic empowerment, social inclusion, household integration and access to support services. Conclusions: The evidence on recovery services focused largely on integrated rehabilitation and individual placement services, with a few studies implementing recovery narrative photovoice and art-making services. Mental health professionals are encouraged to implement the identified recovery services to improve the personal recovery goals of consumers.
Azoles resistance reversal by oridonin in Candida albicans
Authors: Shi Wenna , Chen Haisheng , Li Hui , Duan Cunxian , Song Chuanjie , Peng Zuoliang , Li Hui
Published: April 2020

Background

Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a yeast causing hazardous fungal infections with high mortality, especially accompanied by resistance to azole drugs (fluconazole, itraconazole and voriconazole). To overcome the azoles resistance of C. albicans, we explored the Oridonin (ORI) with three azole drugs mainly focused on the synergistic activity. In this study, C. albicans strains were obtained from cancer patients, and the reversal of drug resistance of azole-resistant C. albicans was further studied.
Methods

The synergistic antifungal activities of ORI and azoles were measured by checkerboard microdilution and time-kill assays. The resistance reversal mechanisms, inhibition of drug efflux and induction of apoptosis, were investigated by flow cytometry after Annexin V-FITC/PI co-staining. The expression levels of efflux pump related genes CDR1 and CDR2 were quantitatively detected by qRT-PCR.
Results

The azole-resistant isolates identified by checkerboard microdilution method and time-kill curves. The efflux pump inhibition assay with ORI showed that the MIC of fluconazole (128-fold), itraconazole (64-fold) and voriconazole (250-fold) decreased significantly. The upregulation of genes coding for CDR1 and CDR2 were confirmed by qPCR with respect to the housekeeping gene ACT1 in the resistant strain. The sensitizing effect of ORI on fluconazole in the treatment of C. albicans also includes promoting apoptosis. We demonstrated that the combination of azoles with ORI exerted potent synergism and further displayed that ORI could promote the sensitization to azoles for azoles-resistant C. albicans.
Conclusions

We speculate that the resistance to azoles depends on the overexpression of efflux pump and its related genes CDR1 and CDR2, which reduces the accessibility of antifungal agents to C. albicans. The discovery that ORI can effectively inhibit drug efflux and promote apoptosis may provide new insights and therapeutic strategies for overcoming the increasing azole resistance in C. albicans infections.
Simulated operation combined with patient-specific instrumentation technology is superior to conventional technology for supramalleolar osteotomy: A retrospective comparative study
Authors: Liu Hua , Wang Chenggong , Xu Can , Li Yusheng , Li Mingqing , Zhong Da , Wang Long
Published: April 2020

Background

Over the past seven years, our team has designed a simulated operation combined with patient-specific instrumentation (SO-PSI) assisted supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) method and applied it in the clinic. This study aimed to evaluate the differences between SO-PSI technology and conventional operation (CO) technology for SMOT in preoperative planning, intraoperative application, and postoperative curative effect.
Methods

We retrospectively analyzed SMOT data collected from our hospital between October 2014 and December 2018. Patients (n = 28) were enrolled and divided into CO (n = 17) and SO-PSI (n = 11) groups; mean follow-up time was 33.4 (range, 13 to 59) months. We statistically analyzed and compared perioperative data, accuracy of preoperative planning, and intraoperative application; difference between pre- and post-operative radiologic ankle angles; and changes in American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, range of ankle motion, and Takakura stage after surgery.
Results

All ankle alignments and positions were recovered for both groups. Compared with the CO group, the SO-PSI group had a shorter mean operating time and postoperative hospital stay, a decreased number of fluoroscopy examinations, lower albumin reduction, longer preoperative planning time and preoperative hospital stay, and increased hospitalization expenses. In the SO-PSI group, comparison of ankle angles at preoperative planning and postoperatively revealed good correlation, while this was not the case in the CO group. Mean tibial ankle center discrepancy for the SO-PSI group was 1.86 ± 1.06 mm. On follow-up, all radiologic parameters for the two groups improved significantly; however, the improvement of the tibial anterior surface angle and tibiotalar tilt angle for the SO-PSI group were more obvious than those for the CO group; AOFAS score, VAS score, ankle range of motion, and Takakura stage improved after surgery in both groups; however, the improvements in the SO-PSI group were greater than those in the CO group overall.
Conclusions

SO-PSI technology can facilitate accurate and rapid preoperative planning for SMOT. In general, compared with conventional technology, SO-PSI has advantages for preoperative planning, intraoperative application, and postoperative curative effect.
Global targetome analysis reveals critical role of miR-29a in pancreatic stellate cell mediated regulation of PDAC tumor microenvironment
Authors: Dey Shatovisha , Liu Sheng , Factora Tricia D , Taleb Solaema , Riverahernandez Primavera , Udari Lata , Zhong Xiaoling , Wan Jun , Kota Janaiah
Published: April 2020

Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive forms of malignancies with a nearly equal incidence and mortality rates in patients. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are critical players in PDAC microenvironment to promote the aggressiveness and pathogenesis of the disease. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to play a significant role in progression of PDAC. Earlier, we observed a PSC-specific downregulation of miR-29a in PDAC pancreas, however, the mechanism of action of the molecule in PSCs is still to be elucidated. The current study aims to clarify the regulation of miR-29a in PSCs and identifies functionally important downstream targets that contribute to tumorigenic activities during PDAC progression.
Methods
In this study, using RNAseq approach, we performed transcriptome analysis of paired miR-29a overexpressing hPSC cells and controls. Enrichment analysis was performed with the identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs). miR-29a targets in the dataset were identified, which were utilized to create network interactions. Western blots were performed with the top candidate miR-29a targets in hPSC cells transfected with miR-29a mimic or scramble control.
Results
RNAseq analysis identified 202 differentially expressed genes, which included 19 downregulated direct miR-29a targets. Translational repression of eight key pro-tumorigenic and -fibrotic targets namely IGF-1, COL5A3, CLDN1, E2F7, MYBL2, ITGA6 and ADAMTS2 by miR-29a was observed in PSCs. Using pathway analysis, we find that miR-29a modulates effectors of IGF-1-p53 signaling in PSCs that may hinder carcinogenesis. We further observe a regulatory role of the molecule in pathways associated with PDAC ECM remodeling and tumor-stromal crosstalk, such as INS/IGF-1, RAS/MAPK, laminin interactions and collagen biosynthesis.
Conclusions
Together, our study presents a comprehensive understanding of miR-29a regulation of PSCs, and identifies essential pathways associated with PSC-mediated PDAC pathogenesis. The findings suggest an anti-tumorigenic role of miR-29a in the context of PSC-tumor cell crosstalk and advocates for the potential of the molecule in PDAC targeted therapies.
Metagenomic analysis reveals the shared and distinct features of the soil resistome across tundra, temperate prairie and tropical ecosystems
Authors: Qian Xun , Gunturu Santosh , Guo Jiarong , Chai Benli , Cole James R. , Gu Jie , Tiedje James
Published: April 2020

Background
Soil is likely the largest reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), but their distribution across soil resistomes of different ecosystems is unknown. We used a metagenomic approach to investigate ARG types and amounts in soil DNA of three native ecosystems: Alaskan tundra, US Midwestern prairie, and Amazon rainforest, as well as the effect of conversion of the latter two to agriculture and pasture, respectively.
Results
High diversity (242 ARG subtypes) and abundance (0.184–0.242 ARG copies per 16S rRNA gene copy) were observed irrespective of ecosystem, with multidrug resistance genes and efflux pump the dominant class and mechanism. We identified 55 “background ARGs” which were shared by all 26 soil metagenomes of all three ecosystems, which accounted for more than 81% of resistome abundance. No significant differences in both ARG diversity and abundance were observed between native prairie soil and adjacent long-term cultivated agriculture soil. Conversion of Amazon rainforest to pasture significantly increased soil ARG diversity, with eight ARGs significantly enriched. We chose 12 clinically important ARGs to evaluate at the sequence level and found them to be distinct from those in human pathogens, and when assembled they were even more dissimilar. Significant correlation was found between bacterial community structure and resistome profile, suggesting that variance in resistome profile was mainly driven by the bacterial community composition. There was also wide co-occurrence among ARGs in all samples.
Conclusions
Our results define common background ARGs, quantify resistance classes, provide sequence information suggestive of very low risk but also revealing resistance gene variants that might emerge in the future.
Dandelion Extract Relaxes Mouse Airway Smooth Muscle via the Blockade of VDLCC and NSCC Channels
Authors: Ping Zhao , Liu Jia , Ming Qian , Tian Di , He Jingwen , Yang Ziwei , Shen Jinhua , Liu Qinghua , Yang Xinzhou
Published: April 2020

Backgrond: Asthma is one of the intractable diseases recognized by the world medical community. The current widely used bronchodilators β2-adrenal receptor agonists for asthma have limited therapeutic effects, which make it necessary to develop novel drugs with increased efficacy but fewer side-effects for antiasthma treatments. In this study, we attempted to investigate the relaxing effects and mechanism of an ethyl acetate extract from dandelion (EAED) on mouse airway smooth muscle (ASM). Methods: The effects of EAED on the agonist-induced precontraction in mouse ASM were evaluated with force measurement. Mouse lung slices were conducted to study the effect of EAED on bronchial ASM. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured using calcium imaging system. VDLCCs and NSCCs currents was measured by patch. Lung function of groups of healthy or asthmatic mice was assessed by forced oscillation technique (FOT). Results: EAED inhibits ACH-induced sustained contractions of the whole ASM by inhibiting VDLCC, NSCC and some unknown channels, decreases agonist-induced increasing cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration in ASMCs, blocks VDLCCs and NSCCs currents and relieve respiratory resistance of healthy and asthmatic mice. Conclusions: EAED may have potential beneficial effects on improving asthma attacks.
Time-restricted feeding and lower-extremity functioning in community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Estrada-DeLeón Daniela B. , Struijk Ellen A , Caballero Francisco Félix , Prieto Mercedes Sotos , Rodríguez-Artalejo Fernando , Lopez-Garcia Esther
Published: April 2020

Background: Time-restricted feeding, a specific form of intermittent fasting, has been associated with several possible health benefits including improved body composition, blood lipid levels and extended lifespan. However, it is unknown if time-restricted feeding confers a protective effect on the physical function of older adults. The aim of this study was to assess time-restricted feeding in association with performance-based lower-extremity function (LEF) in a large population of community-dwelling older adults.Methods: Cross-sectional study among 1,226 individuals ≥64 years from the Seniors-ENRICA-II cohort. In 2016-2017, habitual diet was assessed through a validated diet history. Fasting time was classified into the following categories: ≤9, 10-11, and ≥12hours/day, the latter being considered time-restricted feeding. Performance-based LEF was assessed with the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB).Results: After adjusting for potential confounders, a longer fasting period was associated with a higher likelihood of impaired LEF [odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the second and third categories: 2.27 (1.56-3.33); and 2.70 (1.80-4.04), respectively, considering the ≤9 hours/day fasting group as the reference category; p-trend <0.001]. When assessing each SPPB subtest separately, fasting time showed a significant association with balance impairment (OR for highest vs. lowest fasting time: 2.48; 95% CI: 1.51-4.08; p-trend= 0.001) and difficulty to rise from a chair (OR for highest vs. lowest fasting time: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.05-2.06; p-trend= 0.01).Conclusions: Time-restricted feeding was associated with a higher likelihood of impaired LEF, balance impairment, and difficulty to rise from a chair in older adults. These results need to be confirmed in further longitudinal studies.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03541135. Registered 30 May 2018, retrospectively registered.
Predictors of School Students’ Leisure-Time Physical Activity: An Extended Trans-Contextual Model Using Bayesian Path Analysis
Authors: Polet Juho J. , Schneider Jekaterina , Hassandra Mary , Lintunen Taru , Laukkanen Arto , Hankonen Nelli , Hirvensalo Mirja , Tammelin Tuija H. , Hamilton Kyra , Hagger Martin S.
Published: April 2020

Background:The trans-contextual model (TCM) has been applied to identify the determinants of leisure-time physical activity participation in secondary school students. In the current study, the TCM was extended to include additional constructs that represent non-conscious, implicit processes that lead to leisure-time physical activity participation alongside the motivational and social cognition constructs from the TCM. The current study used baseline and follow-up data from an intervention study to test the extended TCM.Methods:The current study adopted a two-wave prospective design. Secondary-school students (N = 502) completed measures of perceived autonomy support from physical education (PE) teachers, autonomous motivation in PE and leisure-time contexts, social cognition constructs (attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control), intentions, trait self-control, habits, and past behavior all in a leisure-time physical activity context. Five weeks later, students (N = 298) completed a follow-up self-report measure of their leisure-time physical activity.Results:Bayesian path analyses supported two key premises of the model: perceived autonomous support predicted autonomous motivation in PE, and autonomous motivation in PE predicted autonomous motivation in leisure time. However, while both forms of autonomous motivation predicted social cognition constructs and intentions, they did not predict leisure-time physical activity participation. Trait self-control, attitudes, and past behavior were direct predictors of intentions and leisure-time physical activity participation. Specifying informative priors for key model relations using Bayesian analysis yielded greater precision for some of the estimates.Conclusions:Findings raise some questions on the efficacy of the original TCM, but highlight the value of extending the TCM to incorporate additional constructs representing non-conscious processes.
Currarino Syndrome in a China children’s health institute: on diagnosis and surgical treatment
Authors: Pang Wenbo , Chen Yajun , Peng Chunhui , Wang Kai , Qi Xiang , Wang Zengmeng , Wu Dongyang , Zhang Dan , Shen Qiulong
Published: April 2020

Background Currarino syndrome is a rare disease which needs multidisciplinary management. Misdiagnosis with mal-management is common in children. This study was to summarize the clinical features of children diagnosed with Currarino syndrome in a China institute, with an emphasis on diagnosis and surgical treatment, in order to aid in the diagnosis and determination of the optimal operative treatment. Results From 2016 to 2018, seven patients were diagnosed with Currarino syndrome in our department. One patient was male and six were female, with an admission age of 27.00(16.00, 44.00) months. In four patients, diagnosis of the presacral masses had been missed. Ultrasonography, plain sacral radiographs, contrast enemas and magnetic resonance imaging are necessary for the prompt diagnosis of this syndrome. The initial treatment involved a sagittal anorectoplasty and resection of the mass, followed by a defunctioning ostomy and closure of the stoma in a staged multidisciplinary approach. A limited sagittal route was chosen for the surgical treatment in this group. After closure of the ileostomy or colostomy, bowel function was satisfactory in all children. Conclusion Improved knowledge of the different clinical signs and symptoms of Currarino syndrome will result in appropriate imaging and prompt diagnosis. A protocol with rational timing of multidisciplinary surgical procedures may help to avoid undesirable outcomes. The limited sagittal route is available for effective operative treatment.
Sorafenib in the treatment of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with microvascular infiltration: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gu Wang , Tong Zhong
Published: April 2020

Microvascular invasion has been shown to be an independent risk factor for liver cancer recurrence. Timely treatment can reduce the recurrence rate and prolong the total survival time. However, the effectiveness of sorafenib in treating HCC patients with microvascular invasion remains controversial. As of December 30, 2019, a comprehensive literature search has been conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, web of science and Cochrane Library. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of sorafenib on mortality in HCC patients with microvascular involvement. Two researchers independently reviewed and cross-checked independent reports with sufficient information. Four studies were selected and reported 950 cancer events and 505 cancer deaths. The results showed that sorafenib could improve the survival rate of liver cancer patients with microvascular invasion (RR= 1.369;95% confidence interval (CI) ,1.193-1.570; P < 0.001). However, given the potential for residual confounding, the results should be interpreted with caution. Further prospective studies still need to confirm the prognostic benefits of sorafenib.
Beam complexity and monitor unit efficiency comparison in two different volumetric modulated arc therapy delivery using automated planning
Authors: Li Chengqiang , Tao Cheng , Bai Tong , Li Zhenjiang , Tong Ying , Zhu Jian , Yin Yong , Lu Jie
Published: April 2020

Background: To investigate the beam complexity and monitor unit（MU）efficiency issues for two different volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) delivery technologies for patients with left-sided breast cancer (BC) and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Methods: Twelve left-sided BC and seven NPC cases were enrolled in this study. Each delivered treatment plan was optimized in Pinnacle 3 treatment planning system with Auto-Planning module for Trilogy and Synergy systems. Similar planning dose objectives and beam configuration were used for each site in two different delivery systems to produce clinically acceptable plans. Beam complexity was evaluated in terms of segment area(SA), segment width(SW), leaf sequence variability(LSV), aperture area variability(AAV), modulation complexity score(MCS) based on MLC sequence and MU. Results: With similar plan quality, the average SAs for Trilogy plans were smaller than those for Synergy plans: 55.5 ± 21.3 cm 2 vs. 66.3 ± 17.9 cm 2 (p<0.05) for the NPC cases, and 100.7 ± 49.2 cm 2 vs. 108.5 ± 42.7 cm 2 (p<0.05) for BC cases, respectively. The SW was statistically significant for two delivery systems (NPC: 6.87±1.95cm vs.6.72±2.71cm, p < 0.05; BC: 8.84±2.56cm vs.8.09±2.63cm, p < 0.05). LSV was statistically significant smaller for Trilogy (NPC: 0.84±0.033 vs.0.86±0.033, p < 0.05; BC: 0.89±0.026 vs.0.90±0.26, p < 0.05). The mean AAV was statistically significant larger for Trilogy than Synergy (NPC: 0.18±0.064 vs.0.14±0.037, p < 0.05; BC: 0.46±0.15 vs.0.33±0.13, p < 0.05). The MCS values for the Trilogy were higher than those for the Synergy: 0.14 ± 0.016vs. 0.12 ± 0.017 (p<0.05) for the NPC cases, and 0.42 ± 0.106 vs. 0.30 ± 0.087(p<0.05) for the BC cases. Compared with Synergy plans, the average MU for Trilogy plans were larger: 828.6±74.1MU and 782.9±85.2MU (p>0.05) for the NPC cases, and 444.8±61.3MU and 393.8±75.3MU (p>0.05) for the BC cases. Conclusions: The pinnacle 3 Auto planning system can optimize BC and NPC plans to obtain the same plan quality using Trilogy and Synergy systems. We found that this two systems resulted in different SA, SW, LSV, AAV and MCS. As a result, we suggested that beam complexity should be considered in providing further methodologies while optimizing VMAT auto planning.
WITHDRAWN: Thoracic blockade in percutaneous hepatocellular carcinoma.
Authors: Glinka Lidia , Braczkowska Małgorzata , Kowalczyk Marek , Klepacki Łukasz , Zieliński Ewa , Batia Krzysztof , Osowiecka Karolina , Dyśko Łukasz , Iwanowski Maciej
Published: April 2020

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver tumor that generally develops in a marsh-altered liver. Local ablation using radio frequency waves is the first-line treatment for patients with early onset of this cancer who cannot undergo radical surgery. This is a painful procedure and must be performed under deep intravenous analgosedation or general anesthesia. The method that appears to meet the anesthesiological and surgical requirements is thoracic paravertebral block.Aim of the study The main purpose of the study was to determine the efficacy and safety of paravertebral block compared to local perioperative anesthesia in patients who had percutaneous thermoablation as a treatment for HHC.Methods 30 patients enrolled in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma by percutaneous thermoablation were enrolled in the study. Two groups of patients were compared: group PVB - patients under paravertebral block anesthesia, group BB - patients under local anesthesia, without paravertebral block.Results The use of paravertebral blockade (PVB) did not significantly reduce the patient's concerns about the postoperative period, the ability to ask questions to the doctor, receive understandable information about anesthesia, reduce stress levels or increase the level of satisfaction with pain therapy in the postoperative period (p> 0.05). Patients significantly more often experienced pain during surgery without paravertebral block (p <0.001). Side effects of anesthesia occurred in both compared groups. They mainly concerned nausea and vomiting, which significantly more often occurred in the group without blockade (BB) and affected up to 60% of the respondents (p = 0.008). Significantly more often any painkillers were used among BB patients compared to PVB, respectively: immediately after surgery 53% vs 13% (p = 0.02), 1 hour after surgery 80% vs 27% (p = 0.003), 3h after surgery 80% vs 14% (p <0.001), 6h after surgery 60% vs 14% (p = 0.008), after 24h 47% vs 20% (p = 0.12).Conclusions The paravertebral block has proved to be a safe and well-tolerated and effective method of treating postoperative pain in patients with liver cancer treated by percutaneous thermoablation. Patients with PVB during the surgery and in the postoperative period had significantly less pain than in the control group.Trial Registration: NCT04241887 from January 27, 2020
Rural Context, Single Institution Prospective Outcomes After Enhance Recovery Colorectal Surgery Protocol Implementation
Authors: Smucker Levi , Victory Jennifer , Scribani Melissa , Oceguera Luis , Monzon Raul
Published: April 2020

Background: Rural hospitals face unique challenges to adopting Enhanced Recovery protocols after colorectal surgical procedures. There are few examples of successful implementation in the United States, and fewer yet of prospective, outcomes-based trials. Methods: This study drew data from elective bowel resection prospectively collected, retrospectively analyzed cases 2 years prior (n=214) and 3 years after (n=224) implementing an ERAS protocol at a small, rural health network in upstate New York. Primary outcomes were cost, length-of-stay, readmission rate, and complications.Results: The implementation required changes and buy-in at multiple levels of the institution. There was a statistically significant reduction in mean length of stay (6.9 versus 5.1 days) and per-patient savings to hospital ($3000) after implementation of ERAS protocol. There was no significant change in rate of 30-day readmissions or complications. Conclusions: The authors conclude that for rural-specific barriers to implementation of Enhanced Recovery protocols, there are also specific organizational strategies that can ultimately yield sustainable endpoints.
Heart rate and swimming activity as indicators of post-surgical recovery time of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Føre Martin , Svendsen Eirik , Økland Finn , Gräns Albin , Alfredsen Jo Arve , Finstad Bengt , Hedger Richard , Uglem Ingebrigt
Published: April 2020

Background: Fish telemetry using electronic transmitter or data storage tags has become a common method for studying free-swimming fish both in the wild and in aquaculture. However, fish used in aquatic telemetry studies must be handled, anaesthetised and often subjected to surgical procedures to be equipped with tags, processes that will shift the fish from their normal physiological and behavioural states. In many projects, information is needed on when the fish has recovered after handling and tagging so that only the data recorded after the fish has fully recovered are used in analyses. We aimed to establish recovery times of adult Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) after an intraperitoneal tagging procedure featuring handling, anaesthesia and surgery.Results: Based on ECG and accelerometer data collected with telemetry from nine individual Atlantic salmon during the first period after tagging, we found that heart rate was initially elevated in all fish, and that it took an average of 4 days for heart rate to return to an assumed baseline level. Although activity levels assessed from acceleration appeared to be less affected by the tagging procedure, baseline levels were on average reached after 3.4 days for this parameter.Conclusion: Our findings showed that the Atlantic salmon used in this study on average required 3-4 days of recovery after tagging before tag data could be considered valid. Moreover, the differences between recovery times for heart rate and activity imply that recovery time recommendations should be developed based on a combination of indicators and not just on e.g. behavioural observations.
Circulating nurse´s non-technical skills: a literature review
Authors: Kalantari Reza , Zamanian Zahra , Hasanshahi Mehdi , Faghihi Aliakbar , Niakan Hadi , Jamali Jamshid , Gheysari Somayeh
Published: April 2020

Background: Circulating nurses are key members of the surgical team and play an essential role in ensuring patient safety in the operating room. They need to use non-technical skills to provide safe and efficient patient care. This study was conducted to identify the behaviors related to the circulating nurse´s nontechnical skills from the existing literature.Methods: A search of the literature between 1990 and 2020 was conducted using online sources, including Web of Science, MEDLINE, CINHAL, Scopus, OVID, and Cochran library. Furthermore, the publications of the Association of peri-operative registered nurses (AORN) and the National Association of Theater Nurses (NATH) were consulted. Then the skills were grouped into known categories of non-technical skills.Results: Behaviors related to circulating nurse´s non-technical skills were extracted from the existing literature. Then they were grouped into seven domains, including communication, leadership, coping, teamwork, situational awareness, task management, and decision-making and problem-solving. Furthermore, several improper behaviors were extracted.Conclusion: Circulating nurses need to use non-technical skills from the beginning until the end of surgery to perform efficiently. There is still a need for future work to identifying circulating nurses’ non-technical skills using other types of studies to develop an assessment tool.
The relationship between poor pulmonary function and irregular pulse in the elderly: findings from a nationwide cross-sectional survey in Korea
Authors: Kim Sun Hwa , Hwang Seon Young , Shin Jinho , Park Jin-Kyu
Published: April 2020

Background: Pulse palpation is a useful screening method for early detection of cardiac arrhythmia, which may result from reduced pulmonary function. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between reduced pulmonary function and pulse palpation finding in the elderly. Methods: Secondary analysis was performed using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n=2347 subjects aged ≥65 years). Pulse palpation was initially performed for 15 seconds and confirmed again for 60 seconds. Results: The prevalence of IP was 61 (2.6%). The mean age of subjects with IP was 73.0 (95% CI 71.7-74.3) years, and 45.8% were male. After adjustment, the lowest FVC or FEV 1 and predicted FVC <80% remained significant risk factors for IP. A restrictive or obstructive pattern also independently predicted IP. Conclusions: The elderly with reduced pulmonary function had a significant risk of irregular pulse, in whom careful pulse palpation may be required for early detection of arrhythmia.
Stratigraphy and age of Karoo basalts of Lesotho and implications for correlations within the Karoo igneous province. Mafika Lisiu Pass.xls
Authors: Marsh Julian S , Hooper Peter R , Rehacek Jakub , Duncan Robert A. , R. Duncan Alexander
Published: April 2020

The Lesotho remnant contains the type succession for Karoo low-Ti
basalts of central southern Africa. The 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates that
the sequence was emplaced within a very short period at about 180 Ma and
consists of a monotonous pile of compound basalt lava flows which lacks
significant palaeosols and persistent sedimentary intercalations. We have used
geochemistry to establish a stratigraphic subdivision of the lava pile. Thin
units of basalt flows, the Moshesh's Ford, Golden Gate, Sani, Roma, Letele, and
Wonderkop units, with diverse geochemical character and restricted geographical
distribution, are present at the base of the succession. These are overlain by extensive
units of compositionally more uniform basalt, the Mafika Lisiu, Maloti, Senqu
and Mothae units, which build the bulk of the sequence.

Location of this section is
described in Marsh et al. (1997) AGU Geophysical Monograph, 100, 247-272.

Title of data set: Mafika Lisiu
Pass section.
Stratigraphy and age of Karoo basalts of Lesotho and implications for correlations within the Karoo igneous province. Ongeluksnek Pass.xls
Authors: Marsh Julian S , Hooper Peter R , Rehacek Jakub , Duncan Robert A. , R. Duncan Alasdair
Published: April 2020

The Lesotho remnant contains the type succession for Karoo low-Ti
basalts of central southern Africa. The 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates that
the sequence was emplaced within a very short period at about 180 Ma and
consists of a monotonous pile of compound basalt lava flows which lacks
significant palaeosols and persistent sedimentary intercalations. We have used
geochemistry to establish a stratigraphic subdivision of the lava pile. Thin
units of basalt flows, the Moshesh's Ford, Golden Gate, Sani, Roma, Letele, and
Wonderkop units, with diverse geochemical character and restricted geographical
distribution, are present at the base of the succession. These are overlain by extensive
units of compositionally more uniform basalt, the Mafika Lisiu, Maloti, Senqu
and Mothae units, which build the bulk of the sequence.

Location of this section is
described in Marsh et al. (1997) AGU Geophysical Monograph, 100, 247-272.

Title of data set: Ongeluksnek
Pass
Stratigraphy and age of Karoo basalts of Lesotho and implications for correlations within the Karoo igneous province. Roma Section.xls
Authors: Marsh Julian S , Hooper Peter R , Rehacek Jakub , Duncan Robert A. , R. Duncan Alasdair
Published: April 2020

The Lesotho remnant contains the type succession for Karoo low-Ti
basalts of central southern Africa. The 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates that
the sequence was emplaced within a very short period at about 180 Ma and
consists of a monotonous pile of compound basalt lava flows which lacks
significant palaeosols and persistent sedimentary intercalations. We have used
geochemistry to establish a stratigraphic subdivision of the lava pile. Thin
units of basalt flows, the Moshesh's Ford, Golden Gate, Sani, Roma, Letele, and
Wonderkop units, with diverse geochemical character and restricted geographical
distribution, are present at the base of the succession. These are overlain by extensive
units of compositionally more uniform basalt, the Mafika Lisiu, Maloti, Senqu
and Mothae units, which build the bulk of the sequence.
Location of this section is
described in Marsh et al. (1997) AGU Geophysical Monograph, 100, 247-272.

Title of data set: Roma Section
Stratigraphy and age of Karoo basalts of Lesotho and implications for correlations within the Karoo igneous province. Semongkong Section.xls
Authors: Marsh Julian S , Hooper Peter R , Rehacek Jakub , Duncan Robert A. , R. Duncan Alasdair
Published: April 2020

The Lesotho remnant contains the type succession for Karoo low-Ti
basalts of central southern Africa. The 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates that
the sequence was emplaced within a very short period at about 180 Ma and
consists of a monotonous pile of compound basalt lava flows which lacks
significant palaeosols and persistent sedimentary intercalations. We have used
geochemistry to establish a stratigraphic subdivision of the lava pile. Thin
units of basalt flows, the Moshesh's Ford, Golden Gate, Sani, Roma, Letele, and
Wonderkop units, with diverse geochemical character and restricted geographical
distribution, are present at the base of the succession. These are overlain by extensive
units of compositionally more uniform basalt, the Mafika Lisiu, Maloti, Senqu
and Mothae units, which build the bulk of the sequence.

Location of this section is
described in Marsh et al. (1997) AGU Geophysical Monograph, 100, 247-272.

Title of data set: Semongkong
Section

This section is entirely located
in the Lesotho Formation and does not go down to the Clarens Formation contact
with the base of the volcanic sequence.
Compositionally diverse magmas erupted close together in space and time within a Karoo flood basalt crater complex. Sterkspruit dataset.xlsx
Authors: McClintock Murray , Marsh Julian S , White James
Published: April 2020

Geochemical data and mapping from a Karoo flood basalt crater complex reveals new information about the ascent and eruption of magma batches during the earliest phases of flood basalt volcanism. Flood basalt eruptions at Sterkspruit, South Africa began with emplacement of thin lava flows before abruptly switching to explosive phreatomagmatic and magmatic activity that formed a nest of craters, spatter and tuff rings and cones that collectively comprise a crater complex >40 km2 filled by 9–18 km3 of volcaniclastic debris. Rising magma flux rates combined with reduced access of magma to external water led to effusion of thick Karoo flood basalts, burying the crater-complex beneath the >1.5 km-thick Lesotho lava pile.
Sterkspruit dataset
Research data
Authors: Rhodes University Department of Geology
Published: April 2020

Datasets emanating from research undertaken at the Department of Geology at Rhodes University.
RU Department of Zoology and Entomology: Research Data
Authors: Rhodes University Department of Zoology and Entomology
Published: April 2020

Materials and research data sets produced as part of research undertaken at various departments at Rhodes University, including the Department of Zoology and Entomology.
RU Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science: Research Data
Authors: Rhodes University Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science
Published: April 2020

Materials and datasets produces as part of the the research outputs of the Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries at Rhodes University. Datasets might include authors from SAIAB.
Stratigraphy and age of Karoo basalts of Lesotho and implications for correlations within the Karoo igneous provinceollection
Authors: Marsh Julian S , Hooper Peter R , Rehacek Jakub , Duncan Robert A. , R. Duncan Alasdair
Published: April 2020

The Lesotho remnant contains the type succession for Karoo low-Ti
basalts of central southern Africa. The 40Ar/39Ar dating indicates that
the sequence was emplaced within a very short period at about 180 Ma and
consists of a monotonous pile of compound basalt lava flows which lacks
significant palaeosols and persistent sedimentary intercalations. We have used
geochemistry to establish a stratigraphic subdivision of the lava pile. Thin
units of basalt flows, the Moshesh's Ford, Golden Gate, Sani, Roma, Letele, and
Wonderkop units, with diverse geochemical character and restricted geographical
distribution, are present at the base of the succession. These are overlain by extensive
units of compositionally more uniform basalt, the Mafika Lisiu, Maloti, Senqu
and Mothae units, which build the bulk of the sequence.