bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All‐cause mortality versus cancer‐specific mortality as outcome in cancer screening trials: A review and modeling study
Authors: Heijnsdijk Eveline A. M. , Csanádi Marcell , Gini Andrea , ten Haaf Kevin , Bendes Rita , Anttila Ahti , Senore Carlo , de Koning Harry J.
Published: August 2019

Background

All‐cause mortality has been suggested as an end‐point in cancer screening trials in order to avoid biases in attributing the cause of death. The aim of this study was to investigate which sample size and follow‐up is needed to find a significant reduction in all‐cause mortality.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to identify previous studies that modeled the effect of screening on all‐cause mortality. Microsimulation modeling was used to simulate breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer screening trials. Model outputs were: cancer‐specific deaths, all‐cause deaths, and life‐years gained per year of follow‐up.

Results

There were large differences between the evaluated cancers. For lung cancer, when 40 000 high‐risk people are randomized to each arm, a significant reduction in all‐cause mortality could be expected between 11 and 13 years of follow‐up. For breast cancer, a significant reduction could be found between 16 and 26 years of follow‐up for a sample size of over 300 000 women in each arm. For colorectal cancer, 600 000 persons in each arm were required to be followed for 15‐20 years. Our systematic literature review identified seven papers, which showed highly similar results to our estimates.

Conclusion

Cancer screening trials are able to demonstrate a significant reduction in all‐cause mortality due to screening, but require very large sample sizes. Depending on the cancer, 40 000‐600 000 participants per arm are needed to demonstrate a significant reduction. The reduction in all‐cause mortality can only be detected between specific years of follow‐up, more limited than the timeframe to detect a reduction in cancer‐specific mortality.
Solid‐Phase Synthesis Porous Organic Polymer as Precursor for Fe/Fe3C‐Embedded Hollow Nanoporous Carbon for Alkaline Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Xue Qingxia , Xu Zhilu , Jia Denghang , Li Xinjian , Zhang Meng , Bai Jingkun , Li Wenjing , Zhang Weifen , Zhou Baolong
Published: August 2019

A series of issues have been caused by the extensive use of volatile and toxic organic solvents in organics and polymers synthesis, i. e., increased production costs and irreversible damage to the environment. Hence, it is necessary to pioneer a synthesis method that is green, safe, and efficient to the sustainable development of society. Herein, a facile and controllable, but rational and effective, in situ solid‐phase synthesis method was developed to prepare a silica‐templated Fe‐phthalocyanine‐based porous organic polymer (POP), which can be further converted into an iron and nitrogen codoped porous carbon (HS‐Phth‐Fe‐900) upon carbonization and template removal. This innovative approach simultaneously provides a means to control the surface features, thereby tuning the catalytic property of obtained materials. The final HS‐Phth‐Fe‐900 with hierarchical pore structure exhibits hollow hemispheric morphology, large pore volume and surface area, significantly improving the mass transfer efficiency and promoting the accessibility of the active sites, achieving a high oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity in alkaline media (0.1 M KOH). HS‐Phth‐Fe‐900 presents a competitive half‐wave potential of 0.823 V and limiting current of 4.887 mA/cm2 (vs. 0.833 V and 5.621 mA cm−2 for Pt/C) far beyond the catalysts prepared free of template (Phth‐Fe‐900). Furthermore, it also exhibits long‐time stability and methanol immunity surpassing the benchmark Pt/C in 0.1 M KOH. These results may open up new possibilities for the rational design and large‐scale preparation of POPs‐derived materials for electrochemical applications.
A C−N Coupling Polymerization on Ice‐Surface towards Decimeter‐Sized 2D Covalent Materials with High Catalytic Activity for Water‐Splitting
Authors: Cheng Ming , Li Ming
Published: August 2019

Compared to other solid templates (metal, ceramic, carbon, etc.), polymerization on ice‐surface has many advantages. However, the popularity of this method has been impeded by the lack of appropriate polymerization reactions. To date, only few oxidation polymerizations have been reported to occur on ice‐surface, and unfortunately they can only produce supramolecular films rather than fully covalent films. Herein for the first time, 2D covalent materials have been created on ice‐surface even at −16 °C through a C−N coupling polymerization, and two free‐standing 2D polyarylamines (2DPA)s were synthesized. Both 2DPAs have decimeter‐size and nanometer thickness. This study provides the first polymerization reaction to synthesize 2D covalent materials on ice‐surface, which can be used to fabricate materials/tools/robots with specific 2D structure by copying ice morphologies. Furthermore, both 2DPAs exhibit higher hydrogen evolution reaction activity than many metal‐free catalysts and even some metal‐based catalysts, so this study also provides further insight for the development of metal‐free catalysts for water‐splitting.
Tuning of the Self‐Threading of Ring‐in‐Ring Structures in Aqueous Media
Authors: Neira Iago , Alvariño Cristina , Domarco Olaya , Blanco Víctor , Peinador Carlos , García Marcos D. , Quintela José M.
Published: August 2019

A series of aryl‐extended N‐monoalkyl‐4,4′‐bipyridinium salts L (aryl=1,4‐phenyl, 4,4′‐biphenyl, 2,6‐naphthyl and 9,10‐anthracenyl) have been implemented by PdII/PtII‐directed self‐assembly into constitutionally dynamic systems (CDSs). As a result, the intended processes produced not only (en)M2L2 (en=ethylenediamine) metallacyclic species but also (en)M4L4 ring‐in‐ring aggregates, in equilibrium with the former, as a consequence of the hydrophobic nature of the aryl rings within the 4,4′‐bipyridinium scaffold. The key feature of the obtained dynamic systems is the possibility of modulating their response against external stimuli by modifying the hydrophobic character of the ligand. While the different dynamic libraries follow the same trends upon changes in concentration, temperature, polarity of the medium, or addition of an aromatic chemical effector, subtle changes in the ligand hydrophobic core results in a fine‐tuning of the speciation when applying a certain degree of the different stimulus. The exception is the anthracene‐containing derivative, which does not form inclusion complexes or self‐threaded structures.
Electron Density Studies in Materials Research
Authors: Tolborg Kasper , Iversen Bo B.
Published: August 2019

Rational material design requires a deep understanding about the relationship between the structure and properties of materials, which are both intimately related to their chemical bonding. Through the experimentally observable electron density, chemical bonding can be understood from experimental and theoretical points of view on an equal footing, and advances in accurate X‐ray diffraction measurements and computational techniques over the past decades have provided access to electron density distributions in increasingly complex functional materials. In this Review, selected electron density studies from the literature on a wide range of materials classes are presented, including studies of thermoelectric materials, high pressure electrides, coordination polymers and non‐linear optical materials. These studies demonstrate how detailed analysis of chemical bonding based on the electron density provides important understanding of materials beyond arguments based on structure and simple chemical concepts. In cases such as understanding the conducting properties of Zintl semiconductors or the effect of mutual electrical polarization in host–guest systems, it is clearly imperative to go beyond structure and examine the chemical bonding in detail. In the Review, the complementarity between theory and experiment is underlined, which allows for mutual validation of new chemical bonding concepts, and indeed experiment and theory may challenge each other based on the different strengths and weaknesses of each method.
Engaging older patients with cancer and their caregivers as partners in cancer research
Authors: Gilmore Nikesha J. , Canin Beverly , Whitehead Mary , Sedenquist Margaret , Griggs Lorraine , Finch Lynn , Grossman Valerie , Targia Valerie , Wells Megan , Kamen Charles , Flannery Marie , Magnuson Allison , Plumb Sandy , Obrecht Spencer , Lowenstein Lisa M. , Lopez Gilberto , Anderson Jainy , Berenberg Jeffrey , Vogel Victor , Bearden James , Dale William , Mohile Supriya G.
Published: August 2019

Active patient partner engagement with Stakeholders for Care in Oncology and Research for our Elders board (a diverse group of older patients with cancer, caregivers of older patients with cancer, survivors, and patient advocates) to conduct what, to the authors' knowledge, is the largest randomized geriatric assessment clinical trial published to date has been shown to be feasible and to result in tangible and invaluable benefits for both the research team and patient partners alike. Actively engaging patient partners should be an essential component of the development, conduct, and completion of all clinical research.
Fabrication of Liquid Crystal Droplet Patterns for Monitoring Aldehyde Vapors
Authors: An Zongfu , Jang Chang‐Hyun
Published: August 2019

A sensing method based on the pattern of liquid crystal droplets was developed for detecting and monitoring low levels of organic aldehyde vapors. Exposure of the LC droplet pattern covered with glycine solution to aldehyde vapors induced an optical signal transition from a bright fan shape to a dark cross appearance, as observed by polarized light microscopy. Aldehyde and glycine react at the air/solution interface to form a Schiff‐base compound, which controls the orientation of the LCs and induces a change in the optical signals of the LC droplet pattern. The results show that the glycine/LC droplet pattern system is particularly sensitive and selective to aldehydes. In the actual environment, the sensor is exposed to the aldehyde and the signal transition is completed within a few minutes (2–7 min). The LC‐based method has the advantages of simple construction, easy operation, convenient data reading, and shows excellent prospects for real‐time detection of aldehyde vapors.
Wildlife surveillance using deep learning methods
Authors: Chen Ruilong , Little Ruth , Mihaylova Lyudmila , Delahay Richard , Cox Ruth
Published: August 2019

Wildlife conservation and the management of human–wildlife conflicts require cost‐effective methods of monitoring wild animal behavior. Still and video camera surveillance can generate enormous quantities of data, which is laborious and expensive to screen for the species of interest. In the present study, we describe a state‐of‐the‐art, deep learning approach for automatically identifying and isolating species‐specific activity from still images and video data.

We used a dataset consisting of 8,368 images of wild and domestic animals in farm buildings, and we developed an approach firstly to distinguish badgers from other species (binary classification) and secondly to distinguish each of six animal species (multiclassification). We focused on binary classification of badgers first because such a tool would be relevant to efforts to manage Mycobacterium bovis (the cause of bovine tuberculosis) transmission between badgers and cattle.

We used two deep learning frameworks for automatic image recognition. They achieved high accuracies, in the order of 98.05% for binary classification and 90.32% for multiclassification. Based on the deep learning framework, a detection process was also developed for identifying animals of interest in video footage, which to our knowledge is the first application for this purpose.

The algorithms developed here have wide applications in wildlife monitoring where large quantities of visual data require screening for certain species.
Ethylene facilitates boil‐peeling in fruits
Authors: Murakami Satoru , Yamaguchi Kazuki , Hashimoto Nozomi
Published: August 2019

Boil‐peeling is a common method of cooking or processing some horticultural crops. While boil‐peeling is possible in some horticultural crops, a comprehensive list of crops for which boil‐peeling is possible does not exist. According to a previous study, ethylene facilitates boil‐peeling of kiwifruits. Thus, we studied the effect of ethylene treatment on boil‐peeling in the kiwifruit variety “Rainbow red.” We found that with increasing ethylene concentration in the fruits, boil‐peeling success of kiwifruits increased. In the no‐ethylene treatment, flesh firmness of the fruits decreased and boil‐peeling could not be carried out successfully. Thus, it was clear that ethylene facilitates boil‐peeling in kiwifruit. Furthermore, boil‐peeling was possible after ethylene treatment in persimmon and Japanese pear, which had proved to be impossible so far. Kiwifruits, persimmon, and Japanese pear were classified as climacteric fruits that react with high ethylene sensitivity. Thus, ethylene may facilitate boil‐peeling in climacteric fruits. This finding can possibly suggest new application for ethylene during fruit processing or in processed fruits.
The impacts of zanubrutinib on immune cells in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma
Authors: Zou Yi‐Xin , Zhu Hua‐Yuan , Li Xiao‐Tong , Xia Yi , Miao Kou‐Rong , Zhao Si‐Shu , Wu Yu‐Jie , Wang Li , Xu Wei , Li Jian‐Yong
Published: August 2019

Ibrutinib, a first‐generation Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, could improve immunity of relapsed or refractory (R/R) chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) patients. Whether zanubrutinib, a second‐generation selective BTK inhibitor, has similar effects as ibrutinib remains to be determined. Dynamics of number and immunophenotype of immune cells during zanubrutinib treatment in 25 R/R CLL/SLL patients were examined by flow cytometry and blood routine tests. The expression intensity of programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) on total CD4+ (P < .01), total CD8+ (P < .01), and T helper cells (P < .05) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte‐associated antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) on total CD4+ (P = .010) and regulatory T cells (P < .05) reduced after treatment. There were significant differences in expression intensity of CD19 (P < .01), C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 5 (CXCR5) (P < .01), and CD49d (P < .05) on B cells before and after treatment. Downregulation of PD‐1 on T cells and CXCR5 and CD19 on B cells were observed in nearly all patients after zanubrutinib treatment. Programmed death‐ligand 1 expression downregulated, especially in the female, CLL, normal spleen, normal β2‐macroglobulin (β2‐MG) and abnormal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) subgroups, and CTLA‐4 expression on CD4+ T cells tended to decrease in the male, old, CLL, splenomegaly, abnormal β2‐MG, normal LDH, IGHV‐mutated and wild‐type tumor protein 53 subgroups after zanubrutinib treatment. These findings suggest that zanubrutinib can regulate immunity primarily by improving T cell exhaustion, inhibiting suppressor cells and disrupting CLL cells migration through downregulation of adhesion/homing receptors. Furthermore, favorable changes in cell number and immunophenotype were preferably observed in patients without adverse prognostic factors.
Identification of factors influencing hydrologic model performance using a top‐down approach in a large number of U.S. catchments
Authors: Massmann Carolina
Published: August 2019

Investigating the performance that can be achieved with different hydrological models across catchments with varying characteristics is a requirement for identifying an adequate model for any catchment, gauged or ungauged, just based on information about its climate and catchment properties. As parameter uncertainty increases with the number of model parameters, it is important not only to identify a model achieving good results but also to aim at the simplest model still able to provide acceptable results. The main objective of this study is to identify the climate and catchment properties determining the minimal required complexity of a hydrological model. As previous studies indicate that the required model complexity varies with the temporal scale, the study considers the performance at the daily, monthly, and annual timescales. In agreement with previous studies, the results show that catchments located in arid areas tend to be more difficult to model. They therefore require more complex models for achieving an acceptable performance. For determining which other factors influence model performance, an analysis was carried out for four catchment groups (snowy, arid, and eastern and western catchments). The results show that the baseflow and aridity indices are the most consistent predictors of model performance across catchment groups and timescales. Both properties are negatively correlated with model performance. Other relevant predictors are the fraction of snow in the annual precipitation (negative correlation with model performance), soil depth (negative correlation with model performance), and some other soil properties. It was observed that the sign of the correlation between the catchment characteristics and model performance varies between clusters in some cases, stressing the difficulties encountered in large sample analyses. Regarding the impact of the timescale, the study confirmed previous results indicating that more complex models are needed for shorter timescales.
Serum anti‐Müllerian hormone is associated with oocyte dysmorphisms and ICSI outcomes
Authors: Azizi Elham , Naji Mohammad , Nazari Leila , Salehpour Saghar , Karimi Maryam , Borumandnia Nasrin , Shams Mofarahe Zahra
Published: August 2019

Objective

To evaluate the association between serum levels of anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and oocyte dysmorphisms in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles.

Methods

A retrospective study of data from 628 ICSI cycles with successful oocyte retrieval carried out at a single center in Tehran from November 2015 to July 2018. Cycles were divided into six groups by serum AMH level. Various oocyte dysmorphisms, quantity of retrieved oocytes, fertilization rates, cleavage‐stage embryos, and pregnancy rates were compared among the groups.

Results

Serum AMH was associated with cytoplasm granulation, abnormally amorphous oocytes (P˂0.01), extended perivitelline space (P˂0.001), granulated perivitelline space (P˂0.05), fragmented polar body (P˂0.001), and average of oocyte quality index (AOQI) (P˂0.01). The total number of aspirated and metaphase ΙΙ oocytes increased with increasing AMH levels (P<0.001). There was no difference in the rate of fertilization or cleavage‐stage embryos among the study groups; however, the pregnancy rate differed significantly (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Serum levels of AMH were associated with specific oocyte dysmorphisms and AOQI. Serum AMH levels might influence both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the ovarian response to stimulation and also the pregnancy rate in ICSI cycles.
Phenotypes and markers of cesarean delivery among Colombian women
Authors: Alzate Mónica M. , Dongarwar Deepa , Matas Jennifer L. , Salihu Hamisu M.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To investigate the association of socioeconomic status (SES) components (education, occupation, and household wealth) with number (1 or ≥2) and timing (planned/emergency) of cesarean delivery (CD) in Colombia, rates of which are well above the levels recommended by the World Health Organization.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study using the 2015 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) of Colombia was carried out; 38 718 women answered the woman only module. Binomial and multinomial logistic regression analyses were conducted to generate estimates of the association between markers of SES and likelihood of CD, timing of CD, and number of CDs.

Results

The analysis included 9977 women. Although education and wealth were strongly associated with CD (P<0.001), the association between occupation and CD suggested that women in agriculture were the least likely to experience CD (odds ratio [OR] 0.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.44–1.03, P=0.061); and women in the “poorer” household wealth category were more likely to have emergency (OR 1.57, CI 1.29–1.90, P<0.001) and two or more (OR 1.64, CI 1.29–2.40, P<0.001) CDs.

Conclusion

Markers of SES are associated with CD overuse in Colombia, as well as the number and timing of CD. More robust qualitative inquiry including additional questions to the DHS survey are needed to elucidate reasons driving the overutilization of CD in the country, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Gestational hypertension and pre‐eclampsia and risk of spontaneous premature rupture of membranes: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Liu Lijun , Wang Linlin , Yang Wenlei , Ni Wenli , Jin Lei , Liu Jianmeng , Ren Aiguo
Published: August 2019

Objective

To examine whether gestational hypertension and pre‐eclampsia are associated with spontaneous premature rupture of membranes (PROM).

Methods

A retrospective, population‐based cohort study was conducted in Hebei, Zhejiang, and Jiangsu provinces in China from 1993 to 1995. After excluding women with missing data of exposure and outcome, history of chronic hypertension, multiple births, and babies with major birth defects and ambiguous sex, this study comprised 199 231 singleton live births. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

The incidence of PROM was 17.7% and 8.9% in women with gestational hypertension and pre‐eclampsia, respectively, and 5.9% for the normotensive group. Compared with normotension, gestational hypertension was associated with an increase in the odds of PROM of 4.21 times (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.77–4.70), while pre‐eclampsia had an increase of 2.27 times (95% CI 1.78–2.88). Additionally, women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy had higher risks for term PROM (adjusted risk ratio [RR] 3.83, 95% CI 3.43–4.27) than preterm PROM (adjusted RR 3.10, 95% CI 2.18–4.41). Consistent results of the association were also observed in the sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Gestational hypertension and pre‐eclampsia were associated with an increased risk for PROM. Increased odds were observed for term PROM compared with preterm PROM.
Anaemia is associated with an increased risk for caesarean delivery
Authors: Adam Ishag , Kheiri Sumeya , Sharif Manal E. , Ahmed Abdel B.A. , Rayis Duria A.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To investigate the association between anemia and cesarean delivery.

Methods

A case‐control study was conducted in Saad Abu‐Alela Hospital in Khartoum, Sudan from March 1 to November 30, 2107. The cases were women who had cesarean delivery; women who delivered vaginally were the controls. Obstetrics history was gathered using a questionnaire.

Results

There was no significant difference in age, parity, residence, job, education, and newborn gender between women who delivered by cesarean (n=130) and women who delivered vaginally (n=260). While mean (SD) of the body mass index (29.3 (5.4) kg/m2 vs 26.3 (5.6) kg/m2, P<0.001) was significantly higher, hemoglobin level (103.0 (8.0) g/L vs 107.0 (8.0) g/L, P=0.001) was significantly lower in women who delivered by cesarean compared with women who delivered vaginally. In logistic regression analyses, age, gravidity, occupation, education, history of miscarriage, and newborn gender were not associated with cesarean delivery; overweight (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24–4.26), obesity (AOR 7.17, 95% CI 3.64–14.13) and anemia (AOR 2.45, 95% CI 1.47–4. 11) were associated with cesarean delivery.

Conclusion

The significant association between anemia and cesarean delivery has important implications for the prevention and treatment of anemia among these women.
Hsa_circ_101882 promotes migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells by regulating EMT
Authors: Yin Gui‐Hua , Gao Fu‐Cun , Tian Juan , Zhang Wen‐Bo
Published: August 2019

Background

At present, gastric cancer (GC) is a serious threat to human life and health. Non‐coding circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been found abnormal expression in multiple tumors. However, circRNAs remain largely unknown in tumor progression. In the present study, we mainly examined the expression, function, and molecular mechanisms of a new circRNAs (hsa_circ_101882) in GC.

Materials and methods

The expression of hsa_circ_101882 in GC tissue, corresponding adjacent normal tissues, and GC cell lines was examined by RT‐PCR. The function of hsa_circ_101882 in GC was evaluated by MTT assay, cell migration, and invasion assay, colony formation assay, and flow cytometric assay. The effect of hsa_circ_101882 on epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐related gene expression was detected by RT‐PCR and Western blot.

Results

Hsa_circ_101882 expression levels were significantly increased in GC tissue and GC cell lines. Functionally, low expression of hsa_circ_101882 revealed anti‐tumor effects via inhibiting cell growth, migration, and invasion and promoting cell apoptosis. Mechanically, the dysregulated expression of hsa_circ_101882 affects EMT signaling pathway, which was examined by detecting E‐cadherin, N‐cadherin, vimentin, and Snail expression levels.

Conclusions

Therefore, our research reveals that hsa_circ_101882 is considered a metastasis promoter by activating EMT and may serve as a critical oncogene and potential new biomarker in GC.
An investigation of microRNA‐103 and microRNA‐107 as potential blood‐based biomarkers for disease risk and progression of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Jie , Chen Chunyan , Zhang Yun
Published: August 2019

Background

This study aimed to assess the correlation of circulating microRNA‐103 (miR‐103) and microRNA‐107 (miR‐107) with disease risk and cognitive impairment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Plasma samples from 120 AD patients, 120 Parkinson's disease (PD) patients (served as disease control), and 120 healthy controls were collected for miR‐103 and miR‐107 detections using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score was documented and was used to accordingly assess the dementia severity.

Results

miR‐103 expression was decreased in AD patients compared with PD patients and healthy controls, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses illustrated that it was able to differentiate AD patients from PD patients and healthy controls. Additionally, miR‐103 positively correlated with MMSE score and negatively correlated with dementia severity in AD patients. miR‐107 expression was lower in AD patients compared with healthy controls but similar between AD patients and PD patients, and ROC curve analyses revealed that it was able to differentiate AD patients from healthy controls but not AD patients from PD patients. miR‐107 was positively correlated with MMSE score and negatively correlated with dementia severity in AD patients, while the correlation coefficient of miR‐107 with MMSE score was lower than that of miR‐103 with MMSE score. Besides, miR‐103 was positively correlated with miR‐107 in AD patients, PD patients, and healthy controls.

Conclusion

miR‐103 may be a better choice than miR‐107 to serve as a potential biomarker for disease risk and disease progression of AD.
Mental health change in the transition to permanent supportive housing: The role of housing and social networks
Authors: Harris Taylor , Rhoades Harmony , Duan Lei , Wenzel Suzanne L.
Published: August 2019

Aims: Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) may improve homeless adults’ mental health via housing stabilization and/or improved relational factors, however, the role of housing and social networks on PSH residents' mental health change is minimally understood.

Methods: Interviews were conducted with a baseline sample of adults experiencing homelessness (
N = 421), across their initial year in PSH (3‐months, 6‐months, and 12‐months). Generalized linear mixed models assessed changes in positive past‐month psychiatric disability screenings (Modified‐Colorado Symptom Index [MCSI]) and probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PC‐PTSD) in controlled models, and between and within‐subject effects of time‐varying social network correlates on mental health changes.

Results: Compared with baseline, positive MCSI screens continuously decreased over time (56%, 54%, and 50%) while PC‐PTSD screens declined initially (40%) with marginal decreases at remaining follow‐ups (39% and 38%). These differences remained significant in controlled models. Gaining a romantic partner was associated with a longitudinal increase in a positive MCSI screening. Between subjects, emotional health counselors and conflicting network members were associated with an increased likelihood in positive screenings, while doctors and case managers were protective.

Conclusion: Housing may facilitate positive changes in PSH residents' mental health, yet positive screenings remain high. Social network interventions that increase residents’ positive interpersonal exchanges and prosocial relationships are warranted.
Structural and social determinants of inequities in violence risk: A review of indicators
Authors: Armstead Theresa L. , Wilkins Natalie , Nation Maury
Published: August 2019

There is disproportionate risk for violence conditioned on inequities due to race, socioeconomic status, gender, and where people live. Consequently, some communities are more vulnerable to violence and its repercussions than other communities. This study aims to share indicators that might be useful for violence prevention researchers interested in measuring structural or social determinants that position communities for differential risk of experiencing violence. An existing database of indicators identified in a previous review was reassessed for measures of factors that shape community structures and conditions, which place people at risk for violence. Indicators of 86 community constructs are reported. These indicators may help to advance the field by offering innovative metrics that can be used to investigate further the structural and social determinants that serve as root causes of inequities in violence risk.
An incidental finding of low‐grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm during cesarean section: A case report
Authors: Inubashiri Eisuke , Watanabe Yukio , Akutagawa Noriyuki , Kuroki Katumaru , Sugawara Masaki , Deguchi Keizou , Maeda Nobuhiko , Hata Fumitake
Published: August 2019

Low‐grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms are rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively because of a lack of characteristic symptoms. A 24‐year‐old female with no symptoms before pregnancy underwent an elective cesarean section at 38 weeks of gestation because of cephalo‐pelvic disproportion. Although no abnormalities were detected in the newborn, uterus, or uterine adnexa, a sausage‐like, swollen appendix was noted. The patient underwent appendectomy. Pathology showed the tumor was a low‐grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm.
A novel mutation (c.1010G>T; p.R337L) in TP63 as a cause of split‐hand/foot malformation with hypodontia
Authors: Jin Jie‐Yuan , Zeng Lei , Li Ke , He Ji‐Qiang , Pang Xiaoyang , Huang Hao , Xiang Rong , Tang Ju‐Yu
Published: August 2019

Background

Tumor protein p63 (TP63)‐related disorders can be divided into at least six categories, including ectrodactyly‐ectodermal dysplasia‐cleft lip/palate syndrome 3 (EEC syndrome 3), ankyloblepharon‐ectodermal defects‐cleft lip/palate syndrome (AEC syndrome), acro‐dermo‐ungual‐lacrimal‐tooth syndrome (ADULT syndrome), limb‐mammary syndrome (LMS), Rapp–Hodgkin syndrome (RHS) and split‐hand/foot malformation 4 (SHFM4), and are all a result of heterozygous mutations of TP63. The phenotypes of TP63‐related disorders broadly involve ectodermal dysplasias, acromelic malformation and orofacial cleft. SHFM and hypodontia are prominent clinical manifestations of TP63‐related disorders.

Methods

The present study investigated a family with SHFM and hypodontia; determined the sequences of DLX5, WNT8B, WNT10B, BHLHA9, CDH3, DYNC1I1 and FGFR1; and performed single nucleotide polymorphism‐array analysis. We detected the mutation by multiple sequence alignments and a bioinformatic prediction.

Results

We identified a novel missense mutation of TP63 (c.1010G>T; R337L) in the family without mutations of DLX5, WNT8B, WNT10B, BHLHA9, CDH3, DYNC1I1, FGFR1 and copy number variants causing SHFM.

Conclusions

A mutation of TP63 (c.1010G>T; R337L) leads to SHFM with hypodontia. The identification of this mutation expands the spectrum of known TP63 mutations and also may contribute to novel approaches for the genetic diagnosis and counseling of families with TP63‐related disorders.
Nonimmune hydrops fetalis and congenital disorders of glycosylation: A systematic literature review
Authors: Makhamreh Mona M. , Cottingham Naiga , Ferreira Carlos R. , Berger Seth , Al‐Kouatly Huda B.
Published: August 2019

Numerous etiologies may lead to nonimmune hydrops fetalis (NIHF) including congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG). Recognition of CDG in NIHF is challenging. This study reviews prenatal and neonatal characteristics of CDG presenting with NIHF. A systematic literature search was performed. Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Twenty‐one cases with NIHF associated with a CDG were reported. There were 17 live births, three pregnancy terminations, and one fetal demise. Timing of CDG diagnosis was reported mostly postnatally (90%; 10/11). Postnatal genetic testing was reported in 18 patients; three patients were diagnosed by isoelectric focusing of serum transferrin that showed a type 1 pattern. The genes reported for CDG with NIHF for 15 distinct families include: PMM2 in 47% (7/15), ALG9 in 20% (3/15), ALG8 in 13% (2/15), ALG1 in 7% (1/15), MGAT2 in 7% (1/15), and COG6 7% (1/15). In our review, 81% (17/21) reported facial dysmorphism, 52% (11/21) reported CNS abnormalities, most commonly cerebellar atrophy (64%; 7/11), and 38% (8/21) reported cardiovascular abnormalities, most commonly hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (63%; 5/8). Among live births, 71% (12/17) infants died at a median age of 34 days (range 1‐185). Thrombocytopenia was reported in 53% (9/17) patients. Of those who survived past the neonatal period, 80% (4/5) had significant reported developmental delays. CDG should be on the differential diagnosis of NIHF in the presence of cerebellar atrophy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or thrombocytopenia. Our review highlights the poor prognosis in infants with NIHF due to CDG and demonstrates the importance of identifying these disorders prenatally to guide providers in their counseling with families regarding pregnancy management.

Synopsis

Poor prognosis in fetuses and infants with nonimmune hydrops fetalis due to congenital disorders of glycosylation highlights the importance of prenatal diagnosis of this disorder.
Investigations into ventral prefrontal cortex using mediation models
Authors: Hu Kesong
Published: August 2019

The ventral prefrontal cortex (vPFC) is a major focus of investigation in neuroscience, particularly in the studies of emotion and emotion‐cognition integration. A crucial question concerning the regulatory function of vPFC is how it is recruited, especially how the function maps onto the structure and determines appropriate behavior. In social exclusion studies, mediation model analyses suggest that vPFC regulates distress by disrupting anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) activities, whereas I recently report (Hu, 2018; Neuropsychologia) that ventral medial prefrontal cortex appears to defend the organism from acute stress by activating ACC. In this review, I synthesize and highlight functional imaging research with mediation analysis that over the past decades has begun to offer new insights into the brain mechanisms underlying vPFC. Toward this end, the first section of the paper outlines a model of the processes and neural systems involved in the interaction of emotion and cognition. The second and third sections survey recent research on emotional regulation with negative and positive pathways, respectively, emanating from vPFC. The fourth section summarizes the current dynamic network findings. Functional mediation analysis helps to identify signals within vPFC and others that are common and/or specific to particular information processing. Finally, I provide a personal perspective of the adoption of mediation model analysis in the investigations into vPFC.
Enhanced mitochondrial inhibition by 3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl‐acetaldehyde (DOPAL)‐oligomerized α‐synuclein
Authors: Sarafian Theodore A. , Yacoub Amneh , Kunz Anastasia , Aranki Burkan , Serobyan Grigor , Cohn Whitaker , Whitelegge Julian P. , Watson Joseph B.
Published: August 2019

Oligomeric forms of α‐synuclein are believed to cause mitochondrial injury, which may contribute to neurotoxicity in Parkinson's disease (PD). Here oligomers of α‐synuclein were prepared using the dopamine metabolite, DOPAL (3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl‐acetaldehyde), in the presence of guanidinium hydrochloride. Electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, and Western blotting studies revealed enhanced and stable oligomerization with DOPAL compared with dopamine or CuCl2/H2O2. Using isolated mouse brain mitochondria, DOPAL‐oligomerized α‐synuclein (DOS) significantly inhibited oxygen consumption rates compared with untreated, control‐fibrillated, and dopamine‐fibrillated synuclein, or with monomeric α‐synuclein. Inhibition was greater in the presence of malate plus pyruvate than with succinate, suggesting the involvement of mitochondrial complex I. Mitochondrial membrane potential studies using fluorescent probes, JC‐1, and Safranin O also detected enhanced inhibition by DOS compared with the other aggregated forms of α‐synuclein. Testing a small customized chemical library, four compounds were identified that rescued membrane potential from DOS injury. While diverse in chemical structure and mechanism, each compound has been reported to interact with mitochondrial complex I. Western blotting studies revealed that none of the four compounds disrupted the oligomeric banding pattern of DOS, suggesting their protection involved direct mitochondrial interaction. The remaining set of chemicals also did not disrupt oligomeric banding, attesting to the high structural stability of this α‐synuclein proteoform. DOPAL and α‐synuclein are both found in dopaminergic neurons, where their levels are elevated in PD and in animal models exposed to chemical toxicants, including agricultural pesticides. The current study provides further evidence of α‐synuclein‐induced mitochondrial injury and a likely role in PD neuropathology.
How minimally interrupted direct oral anticoagulants affect intraprocedural anticoagulation during atrial fibrillation ablation? Insights from a Japanese single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Mizobuchi Masahiro , Funatsu Atsushi , Kobayashi Tomoko , Nakamura Shigeru
Published: August 2019

Background

Data are still lacking regarding the effects of minimally interrupted direct oral anticoagulants (MID) on the intensity of intraprocedural anticoagulation of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation.

Methods

A total of consecutive 269 patients who undergone AF ablation were eligible for the study. All oral anticoagulants (OACs) were discontinued just one dose before the procedure except warfarin. We assessed the total required dose of UFH and time‐to‐target ACT > 300 seconds (TTA) for each of direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) groups compared with the uninterrupted warfarin group.

Results

DOACs were used in 86% of the patients in the present study (dabigatran group (DG)‐17%, rivaroxaban group (RG)‐30%, apixaban group (AG)‐29%, and edoxaban group (EG)‐10%). DG and EG used comparable dose of total UFH to WG (WG vs DG; 206 ± 53 U/kg vs 231 ± 63 U/kg; P = .664, vs EG; 239 ± 67 U/kg; P = .335), while RG and AG required higher total UFH (WG vs RG; 206 ± 53 U/kg vs 270 ± 63 U/kg; P < .001, vs AG; 263 ± 62 U/kg; P < .001). TTA was significantly longer in RG (RG:73 ± 28 minutes vs WG:51 ± 25 minutes; P = .001), AG (AG:64 ± 26 minutes vs WG:51 ± 25 minutes; P = .02), and EG (EG:67 ± 34 minutes vs WG:51 ± 25 minutes; P = .02) than WG, whereas DG was comparable to WG (DG:51 ± 29 minutes vs WG:51 ± 25 minutes; P = NS). Especially, only RG demonstrated significantly slower increase in ACT than WG (P = .013). In the multivariate analysis, warfarin or dabigatran use, age > 75 years, and body weight < 60 kg are clinical predictors for achieving TTA within 60 minutes (TTA‐60).

Conclusion

MID‐dabigatran was comparable to uninterrupted warfarin, whereas MID‐factor Xa inhibitors were not. MID is a feasible protocol; however, we should be aware of its effect on the intraprocedural anticoagulation and differences among DOACs in the responsiveness to heparin.
Study design and protocol for evaluating the long‐term prognosis of patients receiving his bundle pacing: A multicenter observational study
Authors: Yanagisawa Satoshi , Inden Yasuya , Kato Hiroyuki , Suzuki Hirohiko , Fujita Masaya , Ishikawa Shinji , Kanzaki Yasunori , Kamikubo Yosuke , Murase Yosuke , Murohara Toyoaki , Shibata Rei
Published: August 2019

Background

His bundle pacing (HBP) is a recently developed pacing technique that can achieve an ideal physiological pattern of ventricular activation via stimulation of the native His‐Purkinje system. Despite the widespread introduction of HBP in clinical practice, its appropriate indications are yet to be determined clearly. Moreover, the efficacy and safety of HBP and long‐term prognosis of patients undergoing such are unknown.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter observational prospective study in patients undergoing HBP in Japan. Patients with atrioventricular block or conduction delay and estimated ventricular pacing of ≥ 40% scheduled for HBP implantation are included. All patients are followed up until 3 years after the implantation. The primary endpoints are all‐cause death, heart failure‐related hospitalization, and upgrade to cardiac resynchronization therapy. The secondary endpoint is changes in cardiac function based on echocardiographic findings and laboratory data after the implantation.

Results

The results are currently under investigation.

Conclusions

This multicenter observational study evaluates the long‐term prognosis and changes in cardiac function of patients undergoing HBP implantation in a clinical setting. Considering the large number of patients included, the cumulative results would be helpful in establishing evidence on HBP application in this area and consequently allow accurate management and treatment of patients undergoing HBP.
Evaluating antibacterial and anticancer activity of crude extracts of bacterial endophytes from Crinum macowanii Baker bulbs
Authors: Sebola Tendani E. , Uche‐Okereafor Nkemdinma C. , Tapfuma Kudzanai I. , Mekuto Lukhanyo , Green Ezekiel , Mavumengwana Vuyo
Published: August 2019

The results from this study revealed that crude extracts isolated from bacterial endophytes obtained from Crinum macowanii bulbs showed activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria, while Acinetobacter guillouiae crude extracts displayed anticancer activity. This study aimed to isolate and characterize bacterial endophytes and their crude extracts from C. macowanii bulbs. Endophytes were isolated using validated surface sterilization techniques, followed by phenotypic and genotypic profiles of the isolates. Crude extracts were extracted from the endophytes using ethyl acetate, while methanol:dichloromethane (1:1) was used to obtain crude extracts from the bulbs. Antibacterial activity of crude extract from each endophyte was investigated against selected pathogenic strains using the broth microdilution method, and anticancer activity against U87MG glioblastoma and A549 lung carcinoma cells was determined by the MTS (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxy‐phenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium) assay. Acinetobacter guillouiae, Pseudomonas moraviensis, Pseudomonas sp., Rahnella aquatilis, Bacillus cereus, Novosphingobium sp., Raoultella ornithinolytica, and Burkholderia tropica were successfully isolated. The crude extracts from the majority of endophytes showed antibacterial activity, ranging from 0.125 to >16.00 mg/ml against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive pathogenic bacteria. Acinetobacter guillouiae extracts showed a high bioactive potential against U87MG glioblastoma cell lines by reducing their growth by 50% at concentrations of 12.5, 6.25, and 3.13 µg/ml. Crude extracts isolated from C. macowanii bulbs showed potential for possible drug lead against common pathogenic bacteria.
Activating transcription factor 1 promoted migration and invasion in lung cancer cells through regulating EGFR and MMP‐2
Authors: Cui Jinggang , Yin Zhaofang , Liu Guohua , Chen Xiaojun , Gao Xiaolai , Lu Huiling , Li Wei , Lin Dang
Published: August 2019

Lung cancer is among the most frequently occurring cancers and the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. Nonsmall cell lung cancer is accountable for 85% to 90% of all lung cancer cases and develops distant metastases with high mortality. In this work, we elucidated the role of activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) in migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. We found that the migration and invasion were inhibited with ATF1 silencing in lung cancer cells. By contrast, ATF1 overexpression led to promotion in migration and invasion. The alteration in ATF1 expression induced a change in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐2 expression level in the same tendency. Thus, we provided a potential new candidate for therapies against lung cancer, showing the possible mechanism underlying the invasion and migration of lung cancer cells.
Melatonin mediates mucosal immune cells, microbial metabolism, and rhythm crosstalk: A therapeutic target to reduce intestinal inflammation
Authors: Ma Ning , Zhang Jie , Reiter Russel J. , Ma Xi
Published: August 2019

Nowadays, melatonin, previously considered only as a pharmaceutical product for rhythm regulation and sleep aiding, has shown its potential as a co‐adjuvant treatment in intestinal diseases, however, its mechanism is still not very clear. A firm connection between melatonin at a physiologically relevant concentration and the gut microbiota and inflammation has recently established. Herein, we summarize their crosstalk and focus on four novelties. First, how melatonin is synthesized and degraded in the gut and exerts potentially diverse phenotypic effects through its diverse metabolites. Second, how melatonin mediates the activation and proliferation of intestinal mucosal immune cells with paracrine and autocrine properties. By modulating T/B cells, mast cells, macrophages and dendritic cells, melatonin immunomodulatory involved in regulating T‐cell differentiation, intervening T/B cell interaction and attenuating the production of pro‐inflammatory factors, achieving its antioxidant action via specific receptors. Third, how melatonin exerts antimicrobial action and modulates microbial components, such as lipopolysaccharide, amyloid‐β peptides via nuclear factor κ‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) or signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT1) pathway to modulate intestinal immune function in immune‐pineal axis. The last, how melatonin mediates the effect of intestinal bacterial activity signals on the body rhythm system through the NF‐κB pathway and influences the mucosal epithelium oscillation via clock gene expression. These processes are achieved at mitochondrial and nuclear levels to control the host immune cell development. Considering unclear mechanisms and undiscovered actions of melatonin in gut‐microbiome‐immune axis, it's time to reveal them and provide new insight for the outlook of melatonin as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment and management of intestinal diseases.