bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can COVID-19 pandemic boost the epidemic of neurodegenerative diseases?
Authors: Verkhratsky Alexei , Li Qing , Melino Sonia , Melino Gerry , Shi Yufang
Published: November 2020

The pandemic of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) presents the world with the medical challenge associated with multifactorial nature of this pathology. Indeed COVID-19 affects several organs and systems and presents diversified clinical picture. COVID-19 affects the brain in many ways including direct infection of neural cells with SARS-CoV-2, severe systemic inflammation which floods the brain with pro-inflammatory agents thus damaging nervous cells, global brain ischaemia linked to a respiratory failure, thromboembolic strokes related to increased intravascular clotting and severe psychological stress. Often the COVID-19 is manifested by neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms that include dizziness, disturbed sleep, cognitive deficits, delirium, hallucinations and depression. All these indicate the damage to the nervous tissue which may substantially increase the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases and promote dementia.
Comparison of peri-implant submucosal microbiota in arches with zirconia or titanium implant-supported fixed complete dental prostheses: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jia Pingyi , Yang Jingwen , Yue Zhaoguo , Liu Jianzhang , Liu Qi , Liu Zhongning , Tang Lin , Hou Jianxia
Published: November 2020

Background

The success rate of implant-supported prostheses for edentulous patients is relatively high. However, the incidence of biological complications, especially peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, increases yearly after the placement of prostheses. The accumulation of pathogenic bacteria adjacent to a prosthesis is the main cause of biological complications. Titanium, one of the classical materials for implant-supported prostheses, performs well in terms of biocompatibility and ease of maintenance, but is still susceptible to biofilm formation. Zirconia, which has emerged as an appealing substitute, not only has comparable properties, but presents different surface properties that influence the adherence of oral bacteria. However, evidence of a direct effect on oral flora is limited. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the effects of material properties on biofilm formation and composition.

Methods

The proposed study is designed as a 5-year randomized controlled trial. We plan to enroll 44 edentulous (mandible) patients seeking full-arch, fixed, implant-supported prostheses. The participants will be randomly allocated to one of two groups: group 1, in which the participants will receive zirconia frameworks with ceramic veneering, or group 2, in which the participants will receive titanium frameworks with acrylic resin veneering. Ten follow-up examinations will be completed by the end of this 5-year trial. Mucosal conditions around the implants will be recorded every 6 months after restoration. Peri-implant submucosal plaque will be collected at each reexamination, and bacteria flora analysis will be performed with 16S rRNA gene sequencing technology in order to compare differences in microbial diversity between groups. One week before each visit, periodontal maintenance will be arranged. Each participant will receive an X-ray examination every 12 months as a key index to evaluate the marginal bone level around the implants.

Discussion

The current study aims to explore the oral microbiology of patients following dental restoration with zirconia ceramic frameworks or titanium frameworks. The features of the microbiota and the mucosal condition around the two different materials will be evaluated and compared to determine whether zirconia is an appropriate material for fixed implant-supported prostheses for edentulous patients.

Trial registration

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) ChiCTR2000029470. Registered on 2 February 2020. http://www.chictr.org.cn/searchproj.aspx?
Platelet-rich plasma versus corticosteroid injection for treatment of trigger finger: study protocol for a prospective randomized triple-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Aspinen Samuli , Nordback Panu H. , Anttila Turkka , Stjernberg-Salmela Susanna , Ryhänen Jorma , Kosola Jussi
Published: November 2020

Background

Trigger finger is a common hand disorder that limits finger range of motion and causes pain and snapping of the affected finger. Trigger finger is caused by an imbalance of the tendon sheath and the flexor tendon. The initial treatment is generally a local corticosteroid injection around the first annular (A1) pulley. However, it is not unusual that surgical release of the A1 pulley is required. Moreover, adverse events after local corticosteroid injection or operative treatment may occur. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been shown to be safe and to reduce symptoms in different tendon pathologies, such as DeQuervain’s disease. However, the effects of PRP on trigger finger have not been studied. The aim of this single-center triple-blind randomized controlled trial is to study whether PRP is non-inferior to corticosteroid injection in treating trigger finger. The secondary outcome is to assess the safety and efficacy of PRP in comparison to placebo.

Methods

The trial is designed as a randomized, controlled, patient-, investigator-, and outcome assessor-blinded, single-center, three-armed 1:1:1 non-inferiority trial. The patients with clinical symptoms of trigger finger will be randomly assigned to treatment with PRP, corticosteroid, or normal saline injection. The primary outcome is Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation and symptom resolution. Secondary outcomes include Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand; pain; grip strength; finger active range of motion; and complications. Appropriate statistical methods will be applied.

Discussion

We present a novel RCT study design on the use of PRP for the treatment of trigger finger compared to corticosteroid and normal saline injection. The results of the trial will indicate if PRP is appropriate for the treatment of trigger finger.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04167098. Registered on November 18, 2019.
Hydroxyurea Optimization through Precision Study (HOPS): study protocol for a randomized, multicenter trial in children with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Meier Emily R. , Creary Susan E. , Heeney Matthew M. , Dong Min , Appiah-Kubi Abena O. , Nelson Stephen C. , Niss Omar , Piccone Connie , Quarmyne Maa-Ohui , Quinn Charles T. , Saving Kay L. , Scott John P. , Talati Ravi , Latham Teresa S. , Pfeiffer Amanda , Shook Lisa M. , Vinks Alexander A. , Lane Adam , McGann Patrick T.
Published: November 2020

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a severe and devastating hematological disorder that affects over 100,000 persons in the USA and millions worldwide. Hydroxyurea is the primary disease-modifying therapy for the SCD, with proven benefits to reduce both short-term and long-term complications. Despite the well-described inter-patient variability in pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics, and optimal dose, hydroxyurea is traditionally initiated at a weight-based dose with a subsequent conservative dose escalation strategy to avoid myelosuppression. Because the dose escalation process is time consuming and requires frequent laboratory checks, many providers default to a fixed dose, resulting in inadequate hydroxyurea exposure and suboptimal benefits for many patients. Results from a single-center trial of individualized, PK-guided dosing of hydroxyurea for children with SCD suggest that individualized dosing achieves the optimal dose more rapidly and provides superior clinical and laboratory benefits than traditional dosing strategies. However, it is not clear whether these results were due to individualized dosing, the young age that hydroxyurea treatment was initiated in the study, or both. The Hydroxyurea Optimization through Precision Study (HOPS) aims to validate the feasibility and benefits of this PK-guided dosing approach in a multi-center trial.

Methods

HOPS is a randomized, multicenter trial comparing standard vs. PK-guided dosing for children with SCD as they initiate hydroxyurea therapy. Participants (ages 6 months through 21 years), recruited from 11 pediatric sickle cell centers across the USA, are randomized to receive hydroxyurea either using a starting dose of 20 mg/kg/day (Standard Arm) or a PK-guided dose (Alternative Arm). PK data will be collected using a novel sparse microsampling approach requiring only 10 μL of blood collected at 3 time-points over 3 h. A protocol-guided strategy more aggressive protocols is then used to guide dose escalations and reductions in both arms following initiation of hydroxyurea. The primary endpoint is the mean %HbF after 6 months of hydroxyurea.

Discussion

HOPS will answer important questions about the clinical feasibility, benefits, and safety of PK-guided dosing of hydroxyurea for children with SCD with potential to change the treatment paradigm from a standard weight-based approach to one that safely and effectively optimize the laboratory and clinical response.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT03789591. Registered on 28 December 2018.
Major SCP/TAPS protein expansion in Lucilia cuprina is associated with novel tandem array organisation and domain architecture
Authors: Prawer Yair D. J. , Stroehlein Andreas J. , Young Neil D. , Kapoor Shilpa , Hall Ross S. , Ghazali Razi , Batterham Phillip , Gasser Robin B. , Perry Trent , Anstead Clare A.
Published: November 2020

Background

Larvae of the Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina, parasitise sheep by feeding on skin excretions, dermal tissue and blood, causing severe damage known as flystrike or myiasis. Recent advances in -omic technologies and bioinformatic data analyses have led to a greater understanding of blowfly biology and should allow the identification of protein families involved in host-parasite interactions and disease. Current literature suggests that proteins of the SCP (Sperm-Coating Protein)/TAPS (Tpx-1/Ag5/PR-1/Sc7) (SCP/TAPS) superfamily play key roles in immune modulation, cross-talk between parasite and host as well as developmental and reproductive processes in parasites.

Methods

Here, we employed a bioinformatics workflow to curate the SCP/TAPS protein gene family in L. cuprina. Protein sequence, the presence and number of conserved CAP-domains and phylogeny were used to group identified SCP/TAPS proteins; these were compared to those found in Drosophila melanogaster to make functional predictions. In addition, transcription levels of SCP/TAPS protein-encoding genes were explored in different developmental stages.

Results

A total of 27 genes were identified as belonging to the SCP/TAPS gene family: encoding 26 single-domain proteins each with a single CAP domain and a solitary double-domain protein containing two conserved cysteine-rich secretory protein/antigen 5/pathogenesis related-1 (CAP) domains. Surprisingly, 16 SCP/TAPS predicted proteins formed an extended tandem array spanning a 53 kb region of one genomic region, which was confirmed by MinION long-read sequencing. RNA-seq data indicated that these 16 genes are highly transcribed in all developmental stages (excluding the embryo).

Conclusions

Future work should assess the potential of selected SCP/TAPS proteins as novel targets for the control of L. cuprina and related parasitic flies of major socioeconomic importance.

Graphical Abstract
IRF-1 expressed in the inner cell mass of the porcine early blastocyst enhances the pluripotency of induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Shi Bingbo , Gao Dengfeng , Zhong Liang , Zhi Minglei , Weng Xiaogang , Xu Junjun , Li Junhong , Du Xuguang , Xin Yanli , Gao Jie , Zhu Qianqian , Cao Suying , Liu Zhonghua , Han Jianyong
Published: November 2020

Background

Despite years of research, porcine-induced pluripotent stem cells (piPSCs) with germline chimeric capacity have not been established. Furthermore, the key transcription factors (TFs) defining the naïve state in piPSCs also remain elusive, even though TFs in the inner cell mass (ICM) are believed to be key molecular determinants of naïve pluripotency. In this study, interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF-1) was screened to express higher in ICM than trophectoderm (TE). But the impact of IRF-1 on maintenance of pluripotency in piPSCs was not determined.

Methods

Transcriptome profiles of the early ICM were analyzed to determine highly interconnected TFs. Cells carrying these TFs’ reporter were used to as donor cells for somatic cell nuclear transfer to detect expression patterns in blastocysts. Next, IRF1-Flag was overexpressed in DOX-hLIF-2i piPSCs and AP staining, qRT-PCR, and RNA-seq were conducted to examine the effect of IRF-1 on pluripotency. Then, the expression of IRF-1 in DOX-hLIF-2i piPSCs was labeled by GFP and qRT-PCR was conducted to determine the difference between GFP-positive and GFP-negative cells. Next, ChIP-Seq was conducted to identify genes target by IRF-1. Treatment with IL7 in wild-type piPSCs and STAT3 phosphorylation inhibitor in IRF-1 overexpressing piPSCs was conducted to confirm the roles of JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway in IRF-1’s regulation of pluripotency. Moreover, during reprogramming, IRF-1 was overexpressed and knocked down to determine the change of reprogramming efficiency.

Results

IRF-1 was screened to be expressed higher in porcine ICM than TE of d6~7 SCNT blastocysts. First, overexpression of IRF-1 in the piPSCs was observed to promote the morphology, AP staining, and expression profiles of pluripotency genes as would be expected when cells approach the naïve state. Genes, KEGG pathways, and GO terms related to the process of differentiation were also downregulated. Next, in the wild-type piPSCs, high-level fluorescence activated by the IRF-1 promoter was associated with higher expression of naïve related genes in piPSCs. Analysis by ChIP-Seq indicated that genes related to the JAK-STAT pathway, and expression of IL7 and STAT3 were activated by IRF-1. The inhibitor of STAT3 phosphorylation was observed could revert the expression of primed genes in IRF-1 overexpressing cells, but the addition of IL7 in culture medium had no apparent change in the cell morphology, AP staining results, or expression of pluripotency related genes. In addition, knockdown of IRF-1 during reprogramming appeared to reduce reprogramming efficiency, whereas overexpression exerted the converse effect.

Conclusion

The IRF-1 expressed in the ICM of pigs’ early blastocyst enhances the pluripotency of piPSCs, in part through promoting the JAK-STAT pathway.
Apoptotic bodies derived from mesenchymal stem cells promote cutaneous wound healing via regulating the functions of macrophages
Authors: Liu Jin , Qiu Xinyu , Lv Yajie , Zheng Chenxi , Dong Yan , Dou Geng , Zhu Bin , Liu Anqi , Wang Wei , Zhou Jun , Liu Siying , Liu Shiyu , Gao Bo , Jin Yan
Published: November 2020

Background

As the major interface between the body and the external environment, the skin is liable to various injuries. Skin injuries often lead to severe disability, and the exploration of promising therapeutic strategies is of great importance. Exogenous mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy is a potential strategy due to the apparent therapeutic effects, while the underlying mechanism is still elusive. Interestingly, we observed the extensive apoptosis of exogenous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) in a short time after transplantation in mouse skin wound healing models. Considering the roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in intercellular communication, we hypothesized that the numerous apoptotic bodies (ABs) released during apoptosis may partially contribute to the therapeutic effects.

Methods

ABs derived from MSCs were extracted, characterized, and applied in mouse skin wound healing models, and the therapeutic effects were evaluated. Then, the target cells of ABs were explored, and the effects of ABs on macrophages were investigated in vitro.

Results

We found ABs derived from MSCs promoted cutaneous wound healing via triggering the polarization of macrophages towards M2 phenotype. In addition, the functional converted macrophages further enhanced the migration and proliferation abilities of fibroblasts, which together facilitated the wound healing process.

Conclusions

Collectively, our study demonstrated that transplanted MSCs promoted cutaneous wound healing partially through releasing apoptotic bodies which could convert the macrophages towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype that plays a crucial role in the tissue repair process.
Comprehensive proteomic analysis of exosomes derived from human bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wang Zheng-gang , He Zhi-yi , Liang Shuang , Yang Qing , Cheng Peng , Chen An-min
Published: November 2020

Background

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes have shown comprehensive application prospects over the years. Despite performing similar functions, exosomes from different origins present heterogeneous characteristics and components; however, the relative study remains scarce. Lacking of a valuable reference, researchers select source cells for exosome studies mainly based on accessibility and personal preference.

Methods

In this study, exosomes secreted by MSCs derived from different tissues were isolated, by ultracentrifugation, and proteomics analysis was performed. A total of 1014 proteins were detected using a label-free method.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis revealed their shared function in the extracellular matrix receptor. Bone marrow MSC-derived exosomes showed superior regeneration ability, and adipose tissue MSC-derived exosomes played a significant role in immune regulation, whereas umbilical cord MSC-derived exosomes were more prominent in tissue damage repair.

Conclusions

This study systematically and comprehensively analyzes the human MSC-derived exosomes via proteomics, which reveals their potential applications in different fields, so as to provide a reference for researchers to select optimal source cells in future exosome-related studies.
KLHL18 inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer by inhibiting PI3K/PD-L1 axis activity
Authors: Jiang Xizi , XU Yitong , Ren Hongjiu , Jiang Jun , Wudu Muli , Wang Qiongzi , Guan Jingqian , Su Hongbo , Zhang Yao , Zhang Bo , Guo Yuanzi , Hu Yujiao , Jiang Lihong , Liu Zongang , Wang Huanxi , Cheng Yu , Sun Limei , Qiu Xueshan
Published: November 2020

Background

The expression of Kelch-like protein 18 (KLHL18) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is lower than that in normal lung tissue according to the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis database. KLHL18 is a BTB domain protein and binds cullin 3 (CUL3). However, whether this complex participates in ubiquitination-mediated protein degradation in NSCLC is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the role of KLHL18 in human NSCLC cells.

Results

We found that KLHL18 is downregulated in cancer cells and is associated with poor prognosis. Further, its expression was significantly associated with tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis, and tumor size. In vitro analysis of NSCLC cells showed that overexpressing KLHL18 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. We found that the tumor-inhibitory effect of the KLHL18 protein was achieved by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) p85α and inhibiting the expression of PD-L1 protein, ultimately preventing tumor cell immune escape.

Conclusions

Our results identified the tumor-suppressive mechanism of KLHL18 and suggested that it is closely related to NSCLC occurrence and development. Further investigation of the underlying mechanism may provide new targets for NSCLC treatment.
Hereditary angioedema caused by a premature stop codon mutation in the SERPING1 gene
Authors: Xu Ying-Yang , Gu Jian-Qing , Zhi Yu-Xiang
Published: November 2020

Background

Hereditary angioedema with deficient and dysfunctional C1 inhibitor (C1-INH-HAE) is a rare genetic disorder. The majority of the cases with this disease are caused by mutations in the C1-inbitor gene SERPING1 and are classified as type 1 and type 2. We aimed to detect mutations in the SERPING1 gene and evaluate its expression in nine probands with hereditary angioedema from nine different families.

Methods

Nine probands with hereditary angioedema from nine different families and 53 healthy controls were recruited in this study. All eight exons and intron–exon boundaries in the SERPING1 gene were amplified by PCR and then sequenced. Mutations were identified by alignment with reference sequences. mRNA expression was measured by real-time PCR.

Results

All probands were diagnosed with HAE type 1. Nine mutations were found in nine patients: c.44delT, c.289C<T, c.296_303delCCATCCAA, c.538C<T, c.786_787insT, c.794 G < A, c.939delT, c.1214_1223delCCAGCCAGGA, and c.1279delC. All mutations formed a premature stop codon that might lead to the impaired synthesis of C1 inhibitor and result in the deficiency of this protein. None of the detected mutations were observed in the controls. In the C1-INH-HAE group, SERPING1 mRNA expression was significantly reduced (20% of the normal average level) compared to controls.

Conclusions

Three known and six novel mutations in the SERPING1 gene were identified, and they produced a truncated nonfunctional C1 inhibitor without a reactive central loop. All the mutations led to reduced expression of SERPING1 mRNA in peripheral blood and low antigenic C1 inhibitor levels.
The stochastic θ method for stationary distribution of stochastic differential equations with Markovian switching
Authors: Jiang Yanan , Hu Liangjian , Lu Jianqiu
Published: November 2020

In this paper, stationary distribution of stochastic differential equations (SDEs) with Markovian switching is approximated by numerical solutions generated by the stochastic θ method. We prove the existence and uniqueness of stationary distribution of the numerical solutions firstly. Then, the convergence of numerical stationary distribution to the underlying one is discussed. Numerical simulations are conducted to support the theoretical results.
A trend prevalence of visceral Leishmaniasis in West Armachiho District, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Gize Addisu , Workineh Addisu , Hailu Taddesse
Published: November 2020

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a disease caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that affects animals and humans. An estimated 3.2 million people are at risk of VL, and 3700–7400 cases occur annually in Ethiopia. The highest numbers of VL cases have been previously reported from the North Western parts of the country, especially in West Armachiho District. The aim of this study was to determine the trend prevalence of VL at the study area.

Methods

Health center based retrospective data were collected to determine the trend prevalence of VL among patients who had blood examination from January 2010 to August 2015. The blood samples were collected by finger pricking and the infections were confirmed by using rK39 antibody test.

Result

Of the 9299 VL suspected cases, 1948 (21%) were positive for rK39 antibody test. Of these, 1757 (90.2%) were primary kala-azar cases, 167 (8.6%) were relapse and the remaining 24 (1.2%) were post kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis cases.

Conclusions

The prevalence of VL is still high in the study area. Therefore, early case detection, diagnosis, treatment, and timely analysis are essential.
Correction to: Calcium and vitamin D supplementation and/or periodontal therapy in the treatment of periodontitis among Brazilian pregnant women: protocol of a feasibility randomised controlled trial (the IMPROVE trial)
Authors: Cocate Paula Guedes , Kac Gilberto , Hieitmann Berit Lilienthal , Nadanovsky Paulo , da Veiga Soares Carvalho Maria Cláudia , Benaim Camila , Schlüssel Michael Maia , de Castro Maria Beatriz Trindade , Alves-Santos Nadya Helena , Baptista Amanda Farnum , Holick Michael F. , Mokhtar Rana R. , Bomfim Alessandra Raymundo , Adegboye Amanda Rodrigues Amorim
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Visualization of antennal lobe glomeruli activated by nonappetitive D-limonene and appetitive 1-octen-3-ol odors via two types of olfactory organs in the blowfly Phormia regina
Authors: Maeda Toru , Nisimura Tomoyosi , Habe Shunnya , Uebi Tatsuya , Ozaki Mamiko
Published: November 2020

Appetite or feeding motivation relies significantly on food odors. In the blowflyPhormia regina, feeding motivation for sucrose is decreased by the odor ofd-limonene but increased by the odor of 1-octen-3-ol odor. These flies have antennal lobes (ALs) consisting of several tens of glomerular pairs as a primary olfactory center in the brain. Odor information from different olfactory organs—specifically, the antennae and maxillary palps—goes to the corresponding glomeruli. To investigate how odors differently affect feeding motivation, we identified the olfactory organs and glomeruli that are activated by nonappetitive and appetitive odors. We first constructed a glomerular map of the antennal lobe inP. regina. Anterograde fluorescence labeling of antennal and maxillary afferent nerves, both of which project into the contralateral and ipsilateral ALs, revealed differential staining in glomerular regions. Some of the axonal fiber bundles from the antennae and maxillary palps projected to the subesophageal ganglion (SOG). We visualized the activation of the glomeruli in response to odor stimuli by immunostaining phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (pERK). We observed different glomerulus activation under different odor stimulations. Referring to our glomerular map, we determined that antennal exposure tod-limonene odor activated the DA13 glomeruli, while exposure of the maxillary palps to 1-octen-3-ol activated the MxB1 glomeruli. Our results indicated that a nonappetitive odor input from the antennae and an appetitive odor input from the maxillary palps activate different glomeruli in the different regions of ALs in the blowflyP. regina. Collectively, our findings suggest that compartmentalization of glomeruli in AL is essential for proper transmission of odor information.
Perspectives on the COVID-19 pandemic impact on cardio-oncology: results from the COVID-19 International Collaborative Network survey
Authors:   on behalf of the Cardio-Oncology International Collaborative Network, Sadler Diego , DeCara Jeanne M. , Herrmann Joerg , Arnold Anita , Ghosh Arjun K. , Abdel-Qadir Husam , Yang Eric H. , Szmit Sebastian , Akhter Nausheen , Leja Monika , Silva Carolina Maria Pinto Domingues Carv , Raikhelkar Jayant , Brown Sherry-Ann , Dent Susan , O’Quinn Rupal , Thuny Franck , Moudgil Rohit , Raez Luis E. , Okwuosa Tochukwu , Daniele Andres , Bauer Brenton , Kondapalli Lavanya , Ismail-Khan Roohi , Lax Jorge , Blaes Anne , Nahleh Zeina , Elson Leah , Baldassarre Lauren A. , Zaha Vlad , Rao Vijay , Lara Daniel Sierra , Skurka Kerry
Published: November 2020

Background

Re-allocation of resources during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in delays in care delivery to patients with cardiovascular disease and cancer. The ability of health care providers to provide optimal care in this setting has not been formally evaluated.

Objectives

To assess the impact of COVID-19 resource re-allocation on scheduling, testing, elective procedures, telemedicine access, use of new COVID-19 therapies, and providers’ opinions on healthcare policies among oncology and cardiology practitioners.

Methods

An electronic survey was conducted by a cardio-oncology collaborative network through regional and state chapters of the American College of Cardiology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the International Cardio-Oncology Society. Descriptive statistics were reported by frequency and proportion for analyses, and stratified categorically by geographic region and specialty.

Results

One thousand four hundred fifteen providers (43 countries) participated: 986 cardiologists, 306 oncologists, and 118 trainees/internal medicine. 63% (195/306) of oncologists vs 92% (896/976) of cardiologists reported cancellations of treatments/elective procedures (p = 0.01). 46% (442/970) of cardiologists and 25% (76/303) of oncologists modified the scope of their practice (p = < 0.001). Academic physicians (74.5%) felt better supplied with personal protective equipment (PPE) vs non-academic (74.5% vs 67.2%;p = 0.018). Telemedicine was less common in Europe 81% (74/91), and Latin America 64% (101/158), than the United States, 88% (950/1097) (p = < 0.001). 95% of all groups supported more active leadership from medical professional societies.

Conclusions

These results support initiatives to promote expanded coverage for telemedicine, increased access to PPE, better testing availability and involvement of medical professional societies to help with preparedness for future health care crisis.
A fast boundary protection for an AC transmission line connected to an LCC-HVDC inverter station
Authors: Liu Zhen , Gao Houlei , Luo Sibei , Zhao Le , Feng Yuyao
Published: November 2020

For AC transmission lines connected to an LCC-HVDC inverter station, commutation failure can lead to the wrong operation of traditional protection. To solve the problem, this paper proposes a fast protection scheme using transient information from one end of the AC line. The boundary frequency characteristics of the AC line connected to LCC-HVDC inverter are analyzed first. This reveals the existence of significant attenuation on both high frequency signals and some specific frequency signals. Based on the boundary characteristics, a novel boundary protection principle utilizing a backward traveling wave is then proposed. A PSCAD/EMTDC simulation model of a ± 800 kV LCC-HVDC and 500 kV AC transmission system is established, and different fault cases are simulated. The simulation results prove that the novel protection principle is immune to commutation failure, fault resistance and fault type.
Effect of endophytic isolates of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metchnikoff) Sorokin on Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) in cabbage
Authors: Bathina Poornesha , Bonam Ramanujam
Published: November 2020

Background

The diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) is one of the major pests in cabbage which causes severe loss to the cruciferous crops. Entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae have been established as endophytes in cabbage plants by seed treatment/root inoculation/foliar application methods in glasshouse conditions.

Main body

A glasshouse experiment was conducted to study the effect of endophytic isolates of B. bassiana (NBAIR Bb-5a and NBAIR Bb-45) and M. anisopliae (NBAIR Ma-4 and NBAIR Ma-35) on P. xylostella in cabbage using detached leaf bioassay method. The isolates were applied through seed treatment/root inoculation/foliar application at the concentration of 1 × 108 spores/ml and evaluated at 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after treatment (DAT) in 2017 and 2018. These isolates were colonized in cabbage leaf tissues from 15 to 60 DAT. All 4 isolates showed different mortality percentages during 15–30 DAT, and no mortality was observed after 45 and 60 DAT in different inoculation methods during both years. Among the application methods tested, foliar application method gave the highest mortality of 70–80% at 15 DAT and 12–58% at 30 DAT mortality of 2nd instar larvae of P. xylostella in cabbage. Among the isolates tested, NBAIR Ma-35 showed the highest mortality (35–79%) in all the 3 inoculation methods tested.

Conclusion

Endophytic isolates of B. bassiana and M. anisopliae suppressed the population of P. xylostella on cabbage leaves in three inoculation methods tested. Among all the methods tested, foliar application method showed highest mortality. These promising isolates have to be further tested under field conditions for management of P. xylostella in cabbage.
Successful airway management of twin coincidental supraglottic and thyroid masses with difficult fiber optic intubation: a case report
Authors: Bawa Chashamjot , Ramdev Babita , Sarna Rashi , Reddum Praveena Venkatreddy
Published: November 2020

Background

Aberrant airway anatomy in cases of laryngeal carcinomas makes airway management a herculean task for the anesthesiologist. What can further compound the situation is an external compression by thyroid mass.

Case presentation

We present a case report of successful airway management by awake nasal fiberoptic intubation in a 65-year-old male who was found to have compressive symptoms due to thyroid swelling in addition to supraglottic obstructive mass. Although a detailed airway examination and indirect laryngoscope did assist in planning the procedure, but what lay inside could only be dealt with by having an in-depth orientation of airway anatomy, practical know-how to fiberoptic scope, and swift reflexes to prevent an adverse event.

Conclusion

From our experience, fiberoptic intubation can only be optimally utilized if emphasis is laid on planning and preparation for the procedure which are key elements in making any difficult airway management successful.
Pivotal role of PET/CT in characterization of occult metastasis with undetermined origin
Authors: Zytoon Ashraf Anas , Elsayed Elsayed Elmekkawy , Nassar Amr Ibrahim , Murakami Koji
Published: November 2020

Background

The purpose of this multicenter diagnostic accuracy test study was conducted to assess the role of positron emission tomography/computed tomography in the detection of primary tumor in cases of metastasis of undetermined primary site, to estimate its capability in detecting additional lesions as well as evaluating disease burden and staging. This multicentric diagnostic accuracy test study included 175 patients with pathologically proven, radiologically, and/or clinically suspected metastatic lesions of undetermined primary site. Clinical, surgical, and histopathologic findings and correlative imaging modalities were used to assess the results of PET/CT; the accuracy of PET/CT was expressed in terms of sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative predictive values.

Results

The study included 175 patients; PET-CT-positive lesions suggestive of primary malignant tumors were detected in 105 out of 175 patients. These lesions were pathologically proven to be malignant (true positive) in 100/175 patients (57.1%). Five out of 175 patients (2.9%) proved to be falsely positive after pathologic assessment; 70 out of 175 patients (40%) were negative for detection of primary malignancy all over the body by PET/CT (true negative) with no false negative results. PET/CT achieved a sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 93.3% in detection of unknown primary tumor location.

Conclusion

PET/CT is an effective modality for early detection of the primary tumor site in patients with cancer of undetermined primary (CUP) which facilitates early selection of appropriate treatment protocols that will improve patients’ prognosis.
Antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of isolated fractions from methanolic extract derived from the whole plant of Cleome viscosa L.
Authors: Suresh Yarrappagaari , Rajasekar Gutha , Lavanya Thopireddy , Lakshminarsimhulu Benne , Reddy Kesireddy Sathyavelu , Reddy Saddala Rajeswara
Published: November 2020

Background

Cleome viscosais considered as an important medicinal plant extensively used in India, China, Bangladesh, and a few countries in Africa. In the present study, in vitro anti-radical and antidiabetic potential of isolated fractions of methanolic extract ofC.viscosawhole plant (MeCV) has been investigated. The identification of polyphenols and their related functional groups in the bioactive fraction was categorized by using HPLC and FT-IR.

Results

The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of F-D were higher than those of F-A, F-B, and F-C. The F-D exhibited superior antioxidant capacity when compared with the remaining three fractions. However, the F-D showed the highest glucose diffusion activity over the 30 min–27 h incubation period and also inhibited both α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzyme activity. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of the two known compounds (protocatechuic acid hexoside, rutin) and six unknown compounds in the F-D. FTIR spectrum confirmed the presence of phenol group.

Conclusion

The isolated F-D obtained from MeCV displayed superior antioxidant and antidiabetic activity which indicate the presence of polyphenols in the fraction. The data findings of the present study support the traditional uses of the whole plant ofC.viscosaas a promising natural source of biological medicines for oxidative stress and diabetes.
11C-Metomidate PET/CT Detected Multiple Ectopic Adrenal Rest Tumors in a Woman With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Burman Pia , Falhammar Henrik , Waldenström Erik , Sundin Anders , Bitzén Ulrika
Published: November 2020

Context

Women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) may present with androgen excess that is difficult to control with conventional suppressive doses of glucocorticoids. Clinical management is challenging, and the woman is at great risk of developing steroid-induced complications.

Patients and Methods

A 32-year-old woman with salt-wasting CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency underwent right-sided adrenalectomy because of a large myelolipoma. Over the years, androgens became increasingly difficult to suppress on prednisolone 5 + 0 + 2.5 mg daily, and at age 39 years the left adrenal with an enlarging myelolipoma was removed. A month later serum testosterone levels had increased from 4.1 preoperatively to 18.3 nmol/L (reference 0.2-1.8 nmol/L), and adrenocorticotropin levels from 32 to 283 pmol/L (reference < 14 pmol/L). No adrenal parenchyma was visualized on computed tomography (CT). In the further search for the source of the markedly elevated testosterone, positron emission tomography (PET) was performed with 2 different tracers, 18fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) reflecting glucose metabolism and 11C-metomidate, an inhibitor of 11-β-hydroxylase targeting adrenocortical tissue.

Results

18FDG-PET/CT with cosyntropin stimulation showed ovarian/paraovarian hypermetabolism, suggestive of adrenal rest tumors. Further characterization with 11C-metomidate PET/CT showed uptakes localized to the ovaries/adnexa, behind the spleen, and between the right crus diaphragmaticus and inferior vena cava.

Conclusion

Adrenal rest tumors can give rise to high androgen levels in spite of suppressive supraphysiological glucocorticoid doses. This case illustrates, for the first time, the value of 11C-metomidate PET as a sensitive method in documenting adrenal rest tumors, currently considered rare in women with CAH.
Calcium Stimulation Test for Insulinoma Localization in an End-stage Renal Disease Patient on Diazoxide
Authors: Kim Stephanie , Conrad Miles , Chuang Eunice , Cai Larry , Masharani Umesh , Murphy Elizabeth J
Published: November 2020

Insulinomas are rare, and even rarer in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Clear criteria for the biochemical diagnosis of insulinomas in patients with renal failure have not been established, and hypoglycemia is often attributed to the renal disease itself, frequently leading to a delay in diagnosis. We describe a case of a patient who presented with asymptomatic recurrent hypoglycemia during hemodialysis. Disease progression and biochemical testing strongly suggested an insulinoma. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis, 111In-pentetreotide scintigraphy and endoscopic ultrasound did not localize a pancreatic tumor. A calcium stimulation test was performed while the patient was taking diazoxide due to severe hypoglycemia with fasting for a couple of hours without treatment. The test showed a marked increase in insulin after calcium infusion in the dorsal pancreatic artery, localizing the tumor to the body and tail of the gland. Exploratory surgery easily identified a tumor at the body of the pancreas and pathology confirmed an insulin-secreting pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. On follow-up, there was resolution of the hypoglycemia. We review the challenges of diagnosing an insulinoma in ESRD and describe a successful intra-arterial calcium stimulation test done in an ESRD patient while continuing diazoxide.
Decoding an Organ Regeneration Switch by Dissecting Cardiac Regeneration Enhancers
Authors: Begeman Ian J. , Shin Kwangdeok , Osorio-Méndez Daniel , Kurth Andrew , Lee Nutishia , Chamberlain Trevor J. , Pelegri Francisco J. , Kang Junsu
Published: November 2020

Heart regeneration in regeneration-competent organisms can be accomplished through the remodeling of gene expression in response to cardiac injury. This dynamic transcriptional response relies on the activities of tissue regeneration enhancer elements (TREEs); however, the mechanisms underlying TREEs are poorly understood. We dissected a cardiac regeneration enhancer in zebrafish to elucidate the mechanisms governing spatiotemporal gene expression during heart regeneration. Cardiac lepb regeneration enhancer (cLEN) exhibits dynamic, regeneration-dependent activity in the heart. We found that multiple injury-activated regulatory elements are distributed throughout the enhancer region. This analysis also revealed that cardiac regeneration enhancers are not only activated by injury, but surprisingly, they are also actively repressed in the absence of injury. Our data identified a short 22-bp DNA element containing a key repressive element. Comparative analysis across Danio species indicated that the repressive element is conserved in closely related species. The repression mechanism is not operational during embryogenesis and emerges when the heart begins to mature. Incorporating both activation and repression components into the mechanism of tissue regeneration constitutes a new paradigm that may be extrapolated to other regeneration scenarios.
ИНФОРМАЦИОННЫЕ ТЕХНОЛОГИИ КАК ФАКТОР ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ РАБОТЫ АВТОСЕРВИСА
Authors: Alemasov Evgeny Pavlovich , Zaripova Rimma Soltanovna
Published: November 2020

В статье рассматривается возможность использования цифровых технологий в управлении автосервисом, созданию и применению программы, которая будет служить наглядным примером работы автосервиса и определять оптимальное соотношение числа рабочих в цехах автосервиса и выявление нехватки мастеров или слишком большого числа рабочих.
МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЕ ТРЕНАЖЕРНОЙ ОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНОЙ ИНФОРМАЦИОННОЙ СРЕДЫ ДЛЯ ОБУЧЕНИЯ ВОДИТЕЛЕЙ АВТОТРАНСПОРТНЫХ СРЕДСТВ
Authors: Davidovsky Anatoly Grigorevich , Linnik Aleksey Mikhaylovich
Published: November 2020

В статье рассмотрены основы математического моделирования и функциональной организации тренажерной образовательной информационной среды для обучения водителей автотранспортных средств и инженерно-технических специалистов по эксплуатации наземного беспилотного транспорта.Цель: разработка и обоснование математической модели и функциональной организации тренажерной образовательной информационной среды для обучения водителей автотранспортных средств и инженерно-технических специалистов по эксплуатации наземного беспилотного транспорта.Методология работы включает подходы кортежного и формального моделирования.Результаты: разработана математическая модель и функциональная структура тренажерной образовательной информационной среды для обучения водителей автотранспортных средств, а в перспективе – пользователей и инженерно-технических специалистов по эксплуатации наземного беспилотного транспорта.Область применения результатов: полученные результаты могут быть использованы в области разработки, развития и применения тренажерных обучающих систем для подготовки водителей различных категорий и специалистов в сфере автомобильного транспорта.
ВЗАИМОСВЯЗЬ МЕЖДУ УРОВНЕМ АВТОМОБИЛИЗАЦИИ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ И ДОЛЕЙ ПЕРЕДВИЖЕНИЙ НА ЛЕГКОВЫХ АВТОМОБИЛЯХ В ГОРОДАХ
Authors: Litvinov Alexander Vladimirovich , Donchenko Vadim Valerianovich
Published: November 2020

Для планирования и прогнозирования развития транспортных систем городов необходимо понимание взаимосвязей показателей владения и использования автомобилей для различных вариантов проводимой транспортной политики.Целью исследования – определение взаимосвязи между уровнем автомобилизации населения и долей передвижений на легковых автомобилях в городах в рамках инерционного подхода к развитию городских транспортных систем и подхода, основанного на концепции устойчивого развития.Материалы и методы исследования: для построения зависимостей между уровнем автомобилизации населения и долей передвижений на легковых автомобилях в городах использовались методы регрессионного анализа. Зависимости построены на основе данных, полученных в результате синтеза результатов исследований подвижности населения в ряде городов России, Восточной и Западной Европы за последние пятьдесят лет.Результаты: при инерционном подходе к развитию городских транспортных систем доля передвижений на легковых автомобилях увеличивается с ростом уровня автомобилизации. Зависимость хорошо описывается логистической функцией. Подход, основанный на концепции устойчивого развития, направлен на снижение доли передвижений на легковых автомобилях. Проведенный анализ показывает, что вместе со снижением доли передвижений на легковых автомобилях снижается уровень автомобилизации населения, но такое снижение происходит с задержкой. Имеет место явление гистерезиса.Применение результатов исследования: результаты исследования помогают лучше понимать происходящие изменения в транспортном поведении людей, связанные с автомобилизацией населения и использованием легковых автомобилей для осуществления передвижений в зависимости от проводимой транспортной политики.
КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТНАЯ МОДЕЛЬ ПРОЕКТИРОВЩИКА ПЕЧАТНЫХ ПЛАТ ДЛЯ СУДОВЫХ ИНТЕГРИРОВАННЫХ СИСТЕМ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ
Authors: Hoang Cong Kinh , Avksentieva Elena Yurievna , Nguyen Quang Cuong
Published: November 2020

В статье рассмотрен жизненный цикл печатных плат судовых интегрированных систем управляения (СИСУ), в котором описаны особенности проектирования и изготовления печатных плат СИСУ. Представлены обобщенный маршрут проектирования печатных плат СИСУ и схема принятия проектных решений в процессе проектирования печатных плат СИСУ, которые позволяют уменьшать затраты на конструкторские работы и повышать качество инженерных работ.Исследование носит обзорный характер и подойдет для подготовки методического обеспечения обучения автоматизированному проектированию (АПР) печатных плат СИСУ. Описанные в статье компетенции проектировщика позволяют сформулировать требования к квалификации проектировщиков на судовых предприятиях и выпускникам морских технических вузов.Разработанная компетентностная модель проектировщика позволяет определить содержание обучения и может использоваться для разработки адаптивной системы обучения проектированию печатных плат СИСУ.
Miniaturas sevillanas en librerías y museos de Estados Unidos
Authors: Marchena Hidalgo Rosario
Published: November 2020

En librerías y museos de Estados Unidos hay una abundante representación de libros y documentos iluminados de todo tipo. Una muestra de ello es el recorte de pergamino del Paul Getty Museum, obra del miniaturista Nicolás Gómez de la segunda mitad del siglo XV, desaparecido de la catedral de Sevilla en 1906 y cuya ubicación original era el folio 19 vuelto del coral 77. Otro ejemplo es el manuscrito miniado de la Institución de la regla y hermandad del Santísimo Sacramento, conservado en la Houghton Library, realizado en Sevilla en los primeros años del siglo XVI por Juan de Castro.
La colección de pinturas de Pedro de Guzmán, I conde de Olivares
Authors: Ortega Jiménez José Manuel
Published: November 2020

En este artículo se pretende analizar la colección de pinturas que poseyó don Pedro de Guzmán, I conde de Olivares, tasada en 1569 y ubicada en el palacio de su villa homónima en el Aljarafe sevillano. Del mismo modo, se apuntan los nombres de varios artistas que pudieron realizar algunos de los lienzos de este interesante conjunto en el que se contabiliza un centenar de pinturas de distintos géneros –retratos, mitología, religión, costumbrista e historia–. Su importancia reside en que nos encontramos ante la primera referencia de las pinturas que poseyó el linaje, una colección acorde a los
gustos de la nobleza de la época que sería heredada por su hijo Enrique de Guzmán.