bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of Genetic Variants Contributing to Gut Microbiota Composition in Immunoglobin A Nephropathy
Authors: He Jia-Wei , Zhou Xu-Jie , Li Ya-Feng , Wang Yan-Na , Liu Li-Jun , Shi Su-Fang , Xin Xiao-Hong , Li Rong-Shan , Falchi Mario , Lv Ji-Cheng , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2021

The gut microbiota and host genetics are implicated in the pathogenesis of IgAN. Recent studies have confirmed that microbial compositions are heritable (microbiome quantitative trait loci [QTL]).
National Prevalence of Salmonella enterica Serotype Kentucky ST198 with High-Level Resistance to Ciprofloxacin and Extended-Spectrum Cephalosporins in China, 2013 to 2017
Authors: Chen Honghu , Song Jingjie , Zeng Xianying , Chen Dandan , Chen Rongchang , Qiu Chen , Zhou Kai
Published: January 2021

Ciprofloxacin and extended-spectrum cephalosporins are the choice for treatment of severe nontyphoidal
S. enterica
infections in adults.
S. enterica
serotype Kentucky ST198 has gained epidemiological importance globally, because the clone is frequently resistant to both of these high-level-resistance drug groups. The genetic and epidemiological characterization of
S.
Kentucky has been well studied in Western countries; however, the information is unclear for China.
Gradient Internal Standard Method for Absolute Quantification of Microbial Amplicon Sequencing Data
Authors: Wang Shilei , Wu Qun , Han Ying , Du Rubing , Wang Xiaoyong , Nie Yao , Du Xiaowei , Xu Yan
Published: January 2021

To solve the problem of amplicon sequencing cannot discern the microbiota absolute abundance, we proposed a gradient internal standard absolute quantification method. We used Chinese liquor fermentation as a model system to demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of the method.
Complementary Roles of Wood-Inhabiting Fungi and Bacteria Facilitate Deadwood Decomposition
Authors: TlÁskal Vojtěch , BrabcovÁ Vendula , Větrovský TomÁš , Jomura Mayuko , López-Mondéjar Rubén , Oliveira Monteiro Lummy Maria , Saraiva João Pedro , Human Zander Rainier , Cajthaml TomÁš , Nunes da Rocha Ulisses , Baldrian Petr
Published: January 2021

Wood represents a globally important stock of C, and its mineralization importantly contributes to the global C cycle. Microorganisms play a key role in deadwood decomposition, since they possess enzymatic tools for the degradation of recalcitrant plant polymers.
Disinfection ofPseudomonas aeruginosafrom N95 respirators with ozone: a pilot study
Authors: Manning Edward P , Stephens Matthew D , Dufresne Sylvie , Silver Bruce , Gerbarg Patricia , Gerbarg Zach , Dela Cruz Charles S , Sharma Lokesh
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Personal protective equipment shortages require the reuse of N95 respirators. We sought the necessary conditions for ozone to disinfect N95 respirators for reuse and the effects of multiple cycles of exposure.

Methods

Portions of 3M 1870 N95 respirators were exposed to ozone at 400 ppm with 80% humidity for 2 hours to determine effectiveness of ozone on killingPseudomonas aeruginosa. Entire 3M 1870 N95 respirators were exposed to five cycles of 400 ppm with 80% or higher humidity for 2 hours then evaluated for ozone’s effects on airflow resistance, filtration efficiency, strap strength and quantitative fit.

Results

Ozone exposure disinfected 3M 1870 N95 respirators heavily inoculated withP. aeruginosa. Ozone exposure did not negatively affect the airflow resistance, filtration efficiency, strap strength or fit of the 3M 1870 N95 respirator.

Discussion

These results suggest that ozone is a feasible strategy to disinfect N95 respirators for reuse during this and future pandemics.
Use of plasma ctDNA as a potential biomarker for longitudinal monitoring of a patient with metastatic high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma receiving pembrolizumab and personalized neoepitope-derived multipeptide vaccinations: a case report
Authors: Blumendeller Carolin , Boehme Julius , Frick Maximilian , Schulze Martin , Rinckleb Antje , Kyzirakos Christina , Kayser Simone , Kopp Maria , Kelkenberg Sabine , Pieper Natalia , Bartsch Oliver , Hadaschick Dirk , Battke Florian , Stenzl Arnulf , Biskup Saskia
Published: January 2021

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is often diagnosed late and exhibits poor prognosis. Only limited data are available concerning therapeutic regimes and potential biomarkers for disease monitoring. Standard therapies often provide only insufficient treatment options. Hence, immunotherapies and complementary approaches, such as personalized neoepitope-derived multipeptide vaccine (PNMV), come into focus. In this context, genetic analysis of tumor tissue by whole exome sequencing represents an essential diagnostic step in order to calculate tumor mutational burden (TMB) and to reveal tumor-specific neoantigens. Furthermore, disease progression is essential to be monitored. Longitudinal screening of individually known mutations in plasma circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) by the use of next-generation sequencing and digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) might be a promising method to fill this gap.

Here, we present the case of a 55-year-old man who was diagnosed with high-risk metastatic UTUC in 2015. After initial surgery and palliative chemotherapy, he developed recurrence of the tumor. Genetic analysis revealed a high TMB of 41.2 mutations per megabase suggesting a potential success of immunotherapy. Therefore, in 2016, off-label treatment with the checkpoint-inhibitor pembrolizumab was started leading to strong regression of the disease. This therapy was then discontinued due to side effects and treatment with a previously produced PNMV was started that induced strong T cell responses. During both treatments, plasma Liquid Biopsies (pLBs) were performed to measure the number of mutated molecules per mL plasma (MM/mL) of a known tumor-specific variant in the MLH1 gene by ddPCR for longitudinal monitoring. Under treatment, MM/mL was constantly zero. A few months after all therapies had been discontinued, an increase of MM/mL was detected that persisted in the following pLBs. When MRI scans proved tumor recurrence, treatment with pembrolizumab was started again leading to a rapid decrease of MM/mL in the pLB to again zero. Treatment response was then also confirmed by MRI.

This case shows that use of immunotherapy and PNMV might be a promising treatment option for patients with high-risk metastatic UTUC. Furthermore, measurement of individually known tumor mutations in plasma ctDNA by the use of pLB could be a very sensitive biomarker to longitudinally monitor disease.
Femoral artery block (FAB) attenuates thigh tourniquet-induced hypertension: a prospective randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Wahal Christopher , Grant Stuart A , Gadsden Jeffrey , Rambhia Milly T , Bullock W Michael
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Prolonged tourniquet inflation during surgery frequently leads to tourniquet hypertension (TH), which is thought to arise from compression of A-δ fibers leading to sympathetically mediated C fiber activation. In the lower extremity, C fibers and other sympathetic nerve fibers are carried along the femoral artery. We hypothesized that blockade of these fibers at the femoral artery would decrease the incidence of TH.

Methods

Thirty American Society of Anesthesia 1–3 patients aged 18–75 undergoing total ankle arthroplasty were randomized to receive 15 mL of injectate (mepivacaine 1.5% or saline placebo) at the anteromedial aspect of the common femoral artery at the level of the inguinal crease under ultrasound guidance. Both groups received preoperative popliteal sciatic and saphenous nerve blocks for analgesia and a standardized general anesthetic. Esmolol was administered if systolic blood pressure rose >30% above baseline. Incidence of TH was the primary outcome.

Results

TH was present in 93.3% of sham patients versus 33.3% of block patients. Mean systolic pressure at 120 min and 150 min of tourniquet time was significantly higher in the sham group compared with the block group. Esmolol requirement (95.3+107.6 v 8.0+14.2, p=<0.001) was also significantly higher in the sham group. No differences were noted in pain scores or opioid consumption, and no patient experienced sensory or motor block of the femoral nerve.

Discussion

Under these experimental conditions, injection of local anesthetic around the femoral artery reduced the incidence of TH and intraoperative esmolol requirement.

Trial registration number

www.clinicaltrials.gov (
NCT03390426
; December 28, 2017).
A redescription of Lophorhothon atopus (Ornithopoda: Dinosauria) from the Late Cretaceous of Alabama based on new material1
Authors: Gates Terry A. , Lamb James P.
Published: January 2021

Diagnostic dinosaur fossils of the southeastern United States are rare discoveries, and even more precious are those fossils that preserve a large portion of a skeleton. Sixty years ago, the dinosaur Lophorhothon atopus was described from Upper Cretaceous sediments of Alabama. It then represented the oldest, most complete, dinosaur in the southeastern United States. Based on a reexamination of the holotype material and a new specimen collected from the same beds, we provide a new diagnosis of this taxon. In particular, the solid nasal crest has several autapomorphies including caudally projecting frontal processes that are oval in cross section, meaning that they did not coalesce at the midline. Other autapomorphies are found on the prefrontal and squamosal. Combining the two Lophorhothon specimens provides nearly the entire skeleton for phylogenetic analysis, which we find as a hadrosauromorph just outside of Hadrosauridae. The original diagnosis of this taxon included the frontonasal fontanelle as a distinguishing character, but comparing the many examples of frontonasal openings across hadrosauromorph taxa shows that in at least a few species, such as Lophorhothon, the structures should be considered a frontonasal fenestra instead of a fontanelle. Additionally, the notion that dinosaurs from the East Coast of the United States represent primitive relicts is an idea that originated before many of the European and Asian hadrosauromorphs known today had been discovered. With new dating and phylogenetic information, it appears that Appalachian dinosaurs are on par evolutionarily with most of the global community and the term ”relict fauna” should be abandoned.
Exceptionally high mortality of adult female salmon: a large-scale pattern and a conservation concern
Authors: Hinch Scott G. , Bett Nolan N. , Eliason Erika J. , Farrell Anthony P. , Cooke Steven J. , Patterson David A.
Published: January 2021

In recent decades, the relative proportion of female sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) on spawning grounds of several British Columbia populations has declined. Coincident with the decline has been large changes to oceanic, estuarine, and river migration environments. Over the past 30 years, numerous telemetry tracking and laboratory studies have examined mortality of adult Fraser River sockeye salmon during ocean and freshwater migrations. We reviewed 19 studies that provided 40 situations where male and female mortality could be directly compared. Female mortality averaged 2.1 times greater than that of males and up to eightfold higher. High female mortality was also evident in migrating coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and for sockeye salmon in other systems. Female mortality was highest when migration conditions were challenging (e.g., high or turbulent flows, high temperatures, confinement, or handling) and towards end of river migration. We review mechanisms for differential mortality, including energy exhaustion, cardiac performance, physiological stress, and immune factors. Female-specific mortality will become even more pronounced in coming years as ocean and riverine conditions continue to change.
Using the “Hallmarks of Cancer” as a framework for medical students and clinicians to understand oncogenesis
Authors: Bergemann Andrew D. , Lucito Robert , Willey Joanne M. , Miller Ellen H.
Published: January 2021

Two landmark reviews in 2000 and 2011, describing the “Hallmarks of Cancer”, provided a new and valuable framework for understanding the process of oncogenesis as a progressive accumulation of characteristics, each characteristic essential for a tumor to become a clinically relevant, metastatic neoplasia. The process of oncogenesis is conceptually important for physicians, both for clinical reasons, and for their engagement in oncological research. However, these reviews are written for specialists in the field, which presents barriers for novice learners. Therefore, to allow students, and also clinicians external to the oncological field, to access this valuable framework for understanding oncogenesis, we have created a condensed summary of the original reviews. Our institutions use a “flipped” approach to the large-group components of our preclinical education. We have successfully used our Hallmarks of Cancer summary as the prework for sessions on oncogenesis for five years at one institution, and nine years at the other, typically at the end of cancer blocks within integrated, multidisciplinary courses. We report here survey results indicating learners strongly appreciate the summary as both preparation material for participation in relevant flipped classroom sessions, and as a general review of oncogenesis. This condensed summary of the original Hallmarks of Cancer reviews makes many of the key concepts of oncogenesis available to medical students in their preclinical years, as well as to physicians outside the field of oncology.
Sex differences in fat taste responsiveness are modulated by estradiol
Authors: Dahir Naima S. , Calder Ashley N. , McKinley Blake J. , Liu Yan , Gilbertson Timothy A.
Published: January 2021

Using molecular, cellular, and behavioral analyses, this study shows that sex differences occur in fat taste in a mouse model. Female mice are more responsive to fatty acids, leading to an overall decrease in intake and fatty acid preference. These differences are linked to sex hormones, as estradiol enhances taste cell responsiveness to fatty acids during periods of low circulating estrogen following ovariectomy and in males. Estradiol is ineffective in altering fatty acid signaling during a high-estrogen period and in ovariectomized mice on hormone replacement. Thus, taste receptor cells are a direct target for actions of estrogen, and there are multiple receptors with differing patterns of expression in taste cells.
IGF-1 infusion to fetal sheep increases organ growth but not by stimulating nutrient transfer to the fetus
Authors: Stremming Jane , Heard Sara , White Alicia , Chang Eileen I. , Shaw Steven C. , Wesolowski Stephanie R. , Jonker Sonnet S. , Rozance Paul J. , Brown Laura D.
Published: January 2021

After a 1-wk infusion of LR3 IGF-1, late gestation fetal sheep had lower umbilical uptake rates of amino acids, lower fetal arterial amino acid and insulin concentrations, and lower fetal oxygen content; however, LR-3 IGF-1-treated fetuses were still able to effectively utilize the available nutrients and oxygen to support organ growth and myoblast proliferation.
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass restores islet function and morphology independent of body weight in ZDF rats
Authors: Mosinski J. David , Aminian Ali , Axelrod Christopher L. , Batayyah Esam , Romero-Talamas Hector , Daigle Christopher , Mulya Anny , Scelsi Amanda , Schauer Philip R. , Brethauer Stacy A. , Kirwan John P.
Published: January 2021

The onset and progression of type 2 diabetes (T2D) results from failure to secrete sufficient amounts of insulin to overcome peripheral insulin resistance. Here, we demonstrate that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) restores islet function and morphology compared to sham and pair-fed controls in ZDF rats. The improvements in islet function were largely attributable to enhanced insulin content and secretory function in response to glucose stimulation.
Pegylated arginine deiminase depletes plasma arginine but maintains tissue arginine availability in young pigs
Authors: Mohammad Mahmoud A. , Didelija Inka C. , Stoll Barbara , Nguyen Trung C. , Marini Juan C.
Published: January 2021

Pegylated arginine deiminase depletes circulating arginine, but the citrulline generated is utilized by multiple tissues to regenerate arginine and sustain local arginine availability. Preempting the arginine depletion that occurs as result of sepsis and trauma with arginine deiminase offers the possibility of maintaining tissue arginine availability despite negligible plasma arginine concentrations.
KIF11 Promotes Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma among Patients with Liver Cancers
Authors: Hu Zhan-Dong , Jiang Ying , Sun Hong-Mei , Wang Jing-wen , Zhai Li-Li , Yin Zhi-Qi , Yan Jun
Published: January 2021

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) lacks effective treatments and has a poor prognosis. Therefore it is needed to develop more effective drug targets. Kinesin family member 11 (KIF11) has been reported to affect the progression of several cancers, and its high expression associates with the prognosis of patients. However, the relevant mechanisms of KIF11 in HCC progression have not been studied. Method. Through the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of patients’ specimens, we determined that KIF11 was highly expressed in HCC tissues and associated with prognosis. We established a KIF11 stably depleted hepatoma cell line, through cell‐cloning experiments and cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assays to detect the effects on proliferation in vitro. The role of KIF11 in promoting cell proliferation was verified in mice. Result. The expression of KIF11 was negatively correlated with the overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) and positively correlated with tumor size of HCC patients. KIF11 depletion inhibits cell proliferation and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion. KIF11 can be used as a positive correlation marker for HCC prognosis and served as a potential therapeutic target.
COL1A1 Is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker and Correlated with Immune Infiltration in Mesothelioma
Authors: Zhang Cangang , Liu Shanshan , Wang Xin , Liu Haiyan , Zhou Xiaobo , Liu Haibo
Published: January 2021

Objective. Mesothelioma (MESO) is a rare tumor derived from mesothelium cells. The aim of this study was to explore key candidate genes and potential molecular mechanisms for mesothelioma through bioinformatics analysis. Methods. The MESO expression profiles came from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases. The differences in the infiltration levels of immune cells between MESO and normal tissues were assessed using CIBERSORT. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by comprehensive analysis of multiple datasets. A protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and a hub gene COL1A1 was selected for MESO. The expression and mutation of COL1A1 in MESO were analyzed in the cBioPortal database. The correlation between COL1A1 expression and immune cell infiltration was evaluated using the TIMER database. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of COL1A1 was then performed. Finally, Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis was presented to predict the survival times between high and low COL1A1 expression groups for MESO patients. Results. There were distinct differences in the infiltration levels of immune cells between MESO and normal tissues. A total of 118 DEGs were identified by comprehensively analyzing three expression profile datasets. COL1A1, a hub gene, was identified to be highly expressed in MESO compared to normal tissues. COL1A1 genetic mutation occurred in 9% of MESO samples, and amplification was the most common type of mutation. COL1A1 expression was significantly correlated to the infiltration levels of CD4+ T cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. GSEA results indicated that COL1A1 could be involved in key biological processes and pathways like extracellular matrix and PI3K‐Akt pathway. Patients with high COL1A1 expression usually experienced shorten overall survival time than those with its low expression. Conclusion. Our findings revealed that COL1A1 could become a potential prognostic biomarker for MESO, which was significantly related to immune cell infiltration.
How Much Time Should Be Waited and What Are the Main Findings to Evaluate the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Response to Regorafenib? A Real-Life Experience
Authors: Kawanami Gustavo Hideki , Katsuda Leopoldo , Rocha Thiara Barcelos , da Silva Yamashiro Fabio , Pelafsky Leonardo , Qi Xingshun , Romeiro Fernando Gomes
Published: January 2021

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma is a relevant cause of mortality worldwide, mainly among patients who have a prior liver disease. In spite of clear recommendations regarding surveillance and screening methods, most patients are still diagnosed only when they are no longer candidates to curative treatment modalities, while others do not achieve the goals of such treatments, thus increasing the need of anticancer drugs. Moreover, when cirrhotic patients begin to receive these drugs, many types of adverse events are seen as a reason to withdrawal, even when there are findings suggesting a good response to the treatment. Case Summary. This case report is about a cirrhotic patient who received many types of treatment, from surgery and chemoembolization during early stages to first- and second-line systemic therapy when the disease turned to be advanced. Since he had no signs of liver dysfunction and suffered tumor progression during sorafenib treatment, regorafenib was initiated. The main findings that make this case important are the adverse events after taking this second-line agent, which would certainly be considered unacceptable and would lead to the drug withdrawal. The reasons why regorafenib was maintained are explained based on clinical and imaging findings, showing how this decision led to an excellent response. Conclusions. The knowledge of the main adverse events described in the pilot clinical trials can avoid unnecessary withdrawal of regorafenib. In addition, some clinical and imaging findings can be deemed as predictors of good response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
CD80 Insights as Therapeutic Target in the Current and Future Treatment Options of Frequent‐Relapse Minimal Change Disease
Authors: Teh Yoong Mond , Lim Soo Kun , Jusoh Norhana , Osman Kahar , Mualif Siti Aisyah
Published: January 2021

Minimal change disease (MCD) is the most common cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in children, and it is well known for its multifactorial causes which are the manifestation of the disease. Proteinuria is an early consequence of podocyte injury and a typical sign of kidney disease. Steroid‐sensitive patients react well with glucocorticoids, but there is a high chance of multiple relapses. CD80, also known as B7‐1, is generally expressed on antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) in steroid‐sensitive MCD patients. Various glomerular disease models associated with proteinuria demonstrated that the detection of CD80 with the increase of urinary CD80 was strongly associated closely with frequent‐relapse MCD patients. The role of CD80 in MCD became controversial because one contradicts finding. This review covers the treatment alternatives for MCD with the insight of CD80 as a potential therapeutic target. The promising effectiveness of CD20 (rituximab) antibody and CD80 inhibitor (abatacept) encourages further investigation of CD80 as a therapeutic target in frequent‐relapse MCD patients. Therapeutic‐based antibody towards CD80 (galiximab) had never been investigated in MCD or any kidney‐related disease; hence, the role of CD80 is still undetermined. A new therapeutic approach towards MCD is essential to provide broader effective treatment options besides the general immunosuppressive agents with gruesome adverse effects.
Effect and Mechanism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Lipoprotein LpqH in NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Mouse Ana‐1 Macrophage
Authors: Liu Liting , Zhai Kaixin , Chen Yue , Chen Xiaowen , Wang Guofu , Wu Lixian
Published: January 2021

The study is aimed at investigating the role and mechanism of LpqH of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in mouse Ana‐1 macrophages. ExPASy‐ProtParam, PHYRE2, ABCpred, and SYFPEITHI were used to predict and analyze the physicochemical properties, protein structure, and B cell/T cell‐associated epitopes of LpqH protein. The recombinant LpqH protein was purified, and its immunoreactivity was analyzed with western blot. The LPS‐treated mouse Ana‐1 macrophages were incubated with purified LpqH protein directly. The expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase‐1 protein was detected by western blot. The secretion of IL‐1β was detected by ELISA, and LDH was detected by a kit. Cell death was detected by flow cytometry. LpqH consisted of 159 amino acids and was a hydrophobic protein with stable properties. Its secondary structure contained 47% random coils, 53% β‐sheets, and 3% α‐helix. The tertiary structure showed a relatively loose spatial conformation. Additionally, it had 8 B cell epitopes (score > 0.8) and 10 CTL cell epitopes (score ≥ 20). The recombinant LpqH, which had strong immunoreactivity, significantly increased the levels of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase‐1 p20 (P < 0.01) and promoted the secretion of IL‐1β by the cells (P < 0.01). In addition, high concentration of KCl significantly inhibited the effect of LpqH on mouse Ana‐1 macrophages and reduced the expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase‐1 p20 (P < 0.01). However, there was no significant change in LDH (P > 0.05). Meanwhile, LpqH protein did not cause additional cell death (P > 0.05). LpqH protein has good immunogenicity and can activate the NLRP3 inflammasome through the potassium efflux pathway without causing cell death.
Determination of the Pulsed Electron Beam Spectrum by Current and Voltage Oscillograms
Authors: Pushkarev A. , Prima A. , Ezhov V. , Miloichikova I. , Petrenko E.
Published: January 2021

The algorithm and results of calculating the integral and differential energy spectra of a pulsed electron beam (350–500 keV, 80 ns), generated by direct-action accelerators, are presented. The electron spectrum was calculated using the oscillograms of the accelerating voltage, electron current, total current of the diode, and the one-dimensional Child–Langmuir (1D CL) ratio. It was found that the discrepancy in the integrated electron beam energy spectrum, when measured using the total current in the diode and using the electron beam current, did not exceed 15% for 80%–95% of the electrons generated in a diode with graphite, carbon fabric, and multipoint cathodes. When calculating the electron spectrum using the 1D CL, the error was much higher.
Silence of Long Noncoding RNA SNHG14 Alleviates Ischemia/Reperfusion‐Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Regulating miR‐124‐3p/MMP2 Axis
Authors: Xue Qianlong , Yang Lipeng , Wang Hui , Han Shuchi
Published: January 2021

Purpose. Ample evidence has proved that lncRNAs are pivotal regulators in acute kidney injury (AKI). Here, we focus on the role and mechanism of lncRNA SNHG14 in ischemia/reperfusion‐ (I/R‐) caused AKI. Methods. I/R and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) were applied to induce rats and HK‐2 cells to establish AKI models in vivo and in vitro. Relative expression of SNHG14, miR‐124‐3p, and MMP2 was determined by qRT‐PCR. HE staining was used to evaluate pathological changes in renal tissues, and acute tubular necrosis (ATN) score was calculated. Renal function was evaluated by measuring serum creatinine content and blood urea nitrogen content. Levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α were measured by ELISA. Cell viability was examined by MTT assay. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring SOD, MDA, and ROS levels. The target of SNHG14 or miR‐124‐3p was verified by DLR assay. Protein expression of MMP2 was examined by western blot. Results. SNHG14 was boosted in renal tissues of I/R‐stimulated rats and H/R‐induced HK‐2 cells, while miR‐124‐3p was diminished in H/R‐stimulated HK‐2 cells. Si‐SNHG14 or miR‐124‐3p mimics repressed inflammation and oxidative stress and enhanced cell viability in H/R‐stimulated HK‐2 cells. Sh‐SNHG14 mitigated I/R‐induced AKI in rats. MiR‐124‐3p was targeted by SNHG14, and MMP2 was targeted by miR‐124‐3p. Inhibition of miR‐124‐3p or upregulation of MMP2 reversed inhibitory effects of SNHG14 silence on inflammation and oxidative stress as well as the promoting effect of SNHG14 silence on cell viability in H/R‐induced HK‐2 cells. Conclusion. Knockdown of SNHG14 alleviated I/R‐induced AKI by miR‐124‐3p‐mediated downregulation of MMP2.
A Case of Lung Adenocarcinoma with Long-Term Response after Late-Onset Pembrolizumab-Induced Acute Adrenal Insufficiency
Authors: Sonehara Kei , Tateishi Kazunari , Hirabayashi Taro , Araki Taisuke , Ikuyama Yuichi , Machida Ryosuke , Hanaoka Masayuki
Published: January 2021

Pembrolizumab is an anti-programmed cell death protein-1 antibody that is mainly used for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Immune-related adverse events can be caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors; however, few case reports evaluate the prognosis of patients with NSCLC with late-onset immune-related adverse events. In this case, a 63-year-old man with stage IVA lung adenocarcinoma received pembrolizumab as first-line therapy and achieved a complete response. The patient developed hypothyroidism and skin toxicity owing to pembrolizumab over the course of treatment; however, the patient continued with pembrolizumab. The patient discontinued pembrolizumab after 20 cycles owing to appetite loss from 14 months after the initiation of pembrolizumab. Two months later, the symptoms worsened and the patient was taken to hospital by an ambulance owing to movement difficulty. The patient was diagnosed with acute adrenal insufficiency by endocrinological examinations. The condition of the patient improved after hydrocortisone treatment. Sixteen months have passed without the readministration of pembrolizumab and no recurrence of lung adenocarcinoma has been observed. Late-onset, severe, and diverse immune-related adverse events may be a favorable prognostic factor associated with survival.
Efficacy of Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery for Cataracts due to Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Yamazaki Kenichiro , Yoneyama Junko , Hayashi Takahiko , Kimoto Ryuta , Shibata Yuko , Mimura Tatsuya
Published: January 2021

We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) for cataracts due to atopic dermatitis, which are often complicated by intumescent white cataract (IWC) and subcapsular fibrosis. Thirty-seven eyes of 30 cataract patients diagnosed with atopic dermatitis were included in the study. Nine eyes had IWC, and 13 eyes had anterior subcapsular fibrosis characteristic of atopic cataracts. Free-floating capsulotomy was achieved in 32 eyes (86%). Three eyes with fibrosis extending across the line of capsulotomy required manual excision. Incomplete capsulotomies due to anterior capsular tags were present in 4 eyes in the IWC group, which was significantly higher compared to non-IWC cases (p < 0.05). Radial anterior capsular tear, vitreous loss, and intraocular lens dislocation did not occur in any of the cases. FLACS can be performed safely in atopic cataract despite the presence of anterior subcapsular fibrosis and/or IWC.
Predictors of Frailty and Vitality in Older Adults Aged 75 years and Over: Results from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam
Authors: de Breij Sascha , van Hout Hein P.J. , de Bruin Simone R. , Schuster Noah A. , Deeg Dorly J.H. , Huisman Martijn , Hoogendijk Emiel O.
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Frailty can be seen as a continuum, from fit to frail. While many recent studies have focused on frailty, much less attention has been paid to the other end of the continuum: the group of older adults that remain (relatively) vital. Moreover, there is a lack of studies on frailty and vitality that investigate predictors from multiple domains of functioning simultaneously. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of frailty as well as vitality among older adults aged 75 years and over. Methods: We used longitudinal data from 569 adults aged ≥75 years who participated in the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. Predictors from the sociodemographic, social, psychological, lifestyle, and physical domains of functioning were measured at T1 (2008–2009). We used the frailty index (FI) to identify frail (FI ≥ 0.25) and vital (FI ≤ 0.15) respondents at follow-up, 3 years later (T2: 2011–2012). We conducted logistic regression analyses with backward stepwise selection to develop and internally validate our prediction models. Results: The prevalence of frailty in our sample at follow-up was 49.4% and the prevalence of vitality was 18.3%. Predictors of frailty and vitality partly overlapped and included age, depressive symptoms, number of chronic diseases, and self-rated health. We also found predictors that did not overlap. Male sex, moderate alcohol use, more emotional support received, and no hearing problems, were predictors of vitality. Lower cognitive functioning, polypharmacy, and pain were predictors of frailty. The final model for vitality explained 42% of the variance and the final model for frailty explained 48%. Both models had a good discriminative value (area under ROC-curve [AUC] vitality: 0.88; AUC frailty: 0.85). Conclusion: Among older adults aged 75 years and over, predictors of frailty only partially overlap with predictors of vitality. The readily accessible predictors in our models may help to identify older adults who are likely to be vital, or who are at risk of frailty.
Relationship between Apgar Scores and Morbidity and Mortality Outcomes in Preterm Infants: A Single-Centre Cohort Study
Authors: Blundell Patrick Derrick Michael , Chakraborty Mallinath
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Apgar scoring in modern practice has extended beyond the original described remit by Virginia Apgar, including prognostication. Prognostic value of Apgar scoring in preterm populations is unsupported by robust evidence. Objectives: We aimed to identify the association between mortality or a composite mortality/major morbidity outcome in preterm infants with 1-min, 5-min, and sum 1 + 5-min Apgar scores. Methods: Seven-year retrospective data was analysed on neonates born <32 weeks gestation in a regional neonatal centre. Co-primary outcomes were mortality and composite mortality/major morbidity. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were estimated using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: 394 infants were included in the analysis. In neonates born <28 weeks gestation, no significant association was found between Apgar scores and the co-primary outcomes. In neonates born ≥28 weeks, low 1-min (aOR 10.452 [1.273, 85.835] for scores 4–6, 22.173 [2.666, 184.438] for scores 0–3), 5-min (4.724 [1.616, 13.806] for scores 4–6, 11.178 [1.803, 69.299] for scores 0–3), and sum 1 + 5-min Apgar scores (12.447 [2.674, 57.941] for scores 4–6, 55.960 [8.333, 375.804] for scores 0–3) were associated with significantly increased aOR of mortality. Increased aOR of composite mortality/major morbidity were also seen in neonates with moderately low (4–6) Apgar scores (aOR 3.104 [1.522, 6.328] for 1 min, 2.804 [1.406, 5.594] for 5 min, and 3.232 [1.769, 5.905] for 1 + 5 min). Conclusions: Apgar scoring at 1 and 5 min has limited prognostic accuracy for extremely preterm infants but is prognostic in older infants. Sum Apgar scores, a measure of initial condition and response to resuscitation, may be a better predictor of mortality than individual scores.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction Treated Using Neural Therapy to the Temporomandibular Joint: A Case Report
Authors: Boluk Senlikci Huma , Ozen Selin
Published: January 2021

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD) include temporomandibular joint dysfunction and bruxism. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SJD) is a frequent cause of non-discogenic low back pain. Studies suggest a relationship between TMJD and SJD; however, the link remains unclear. Neural therapy (NT) utilises local anaesthetic injections to treat pain by normalising a dysfunctional autonomic nervous system held responsible for initiating or propagating chronic pain. A 31-year-old female presented with a 1-year history of mechanical left-sided low back pain and sleep bruxism. Examination revealed crepitation of the left TMJ and a trigger point in the masseter muscle. Range of motion of the spine and hip joints were normal, Patrick and Geanslen tests were positive on the left side. Spine and standing flexion tests were also positive. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joints were normal. A diagnosis of SJD was made, and the patient was treated using NT. Injections of lidocaine 0.5% to the left TMJ, the masseter muscle and intradermal segmental injections at the level of C4 were administered. The patient’s back pain and TMJ tenderness reduced and continued so throughout the 3-month follow-up period. SJD may be related to TMJD, and NT may be used in its treatment.
Humoral Immune Responses and Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Vyas Ashish Kumar , lslam Mojahidul , Garg Garima , Singh Anirudh K. , Trehanpati Nirupma
Published: January 2021

Background: Chronicity or seroclearance of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigens is determined by the host immune responses. Current approaches to treat HBV patients are based on inhibition of replication using different antivirals (nucleoside or nucleotide analogs) as monotherapy, or along with immune modulators as combination therapy is being used worldwide for reducing the viral load. Understanding the role of immune cellular therapies with currently available treatments for persistent viral-mediated responses in HBV patients is unexplored. However, the generation of antibodies against a surface (HBs) and envelop (HBe) antigen of hepatitis B remains an issue for future studies and needs to be explored. Summary: Humoral immunity, specifically T follicular helper (TFh) cells, may serve as a target for therapy for HBsAg seroconversion. In this review, we have been engrossed in the importance and role of the humoral immune responses in CHBV infection and vertical transmission. Key Message: TFh cells have been suggested as the potential target of immunotherapy which lead to seroconversion of HBe and HBs antigens of HBV. HBsAg seroconversion and eradication of covalently closed circular DNA are the main challenges for existing and forthcoming therapies in HBV infection.
Dual Clarithromycin and Metronidazole Resistance Is the Main Cause of Failure in Ultimate Helicobacter pylori Eradication
Authors: Hwang Ji Yong , Kim Changho , Kwon Yong Hwan , Lee Ji Eun , Jeon Seong Woo , Nam Su Youn , Seo An Na , Han Man-Hoon , Park Ji Hye
Published: January 2021

Background/Aim: Antimicrobial resistance significantly affects the cure rate of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication. We evaluated the risk factor of failure in ultimate H. pylori eradication and assessed the efficacy of current regimens to overcome antibiotic resistance. Methods: Patients with H. pylori infection were prospectively enrolled in a single center. They were classified into 3 groups according to the previous history of H. pylori eradication, and antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated by culture and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Results: Ninety-seven patients were successfully cultured for H. pylori and 81 (83.5%), 7 (7.2%), and 9 (9.3%) were classified into primary resistance, 1st eradication failure, and 2nd or more eradication failure groups; the resistance to clarithromycin (CLA), metronidazole (MET), and levofloxacin increased in the 1st eradication failure (85.7, 57.1, and 42.9%) and 2nd or more eradication failure (88.9, 88.9, and 55.6%) groups. The prevalence of MDR was 21.0% (17/81), 57.1% (4/7), and 88.9% (8/9) in the primary, 1st eradication failure, and 2nd or more eradication failure groups, respectively. In multivariate analysis, dual CLA/MET resistance (CLA/MET-R) (OR = 31.432, 95% CI: 3.094–319.266, p = 0.004) was an independent risk factor for ultimate H. pylori eradication failure. In patients with dual CLA/MET-R, the eradication ratio of concomitant therapy was 57.1% (4/7), whereas that of bismuth-containing quadruple therapy was 27.3% (3/11) (p = 0.350). Conclusions: Dual CLA/MET-R was the main cause of failure in ultimate H. pylori eradication, and 7-day bismuth quadruple or concomitant regimen would not be suitable for H. pylori eradication in the dual CLA/MET-R group.
Development of an Online App to Predict Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Adverse Events Using a Single-Center Retrospective Cohort
Authors: Rodrigues-Pinto Eduardo , Morais Rui , Sousa-Pinto Bernardo , Ferreira da Silva Joel , Costa-Moreira Pedro , Santos Ana L. , Silva Marco , Coelho Rosa , Gaspar Rui , Peixoto Armando , Dias Emanuel , Baron Todd H. , Vilas-Boas Filipe , Moutinho-Ribeiro Pedro , Pereira Pedro , Macedo Guilherme
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a technically demanding procedure with a high risk for adverse events (AEs). Aim: evaluate patient- and procedure-related risk factors for ERCP-related AEs and develop an online app to estimate risk of AEs. Methods: retrospective study of 1,491 consecutive patients who underwent 1,991 ERCPs between 2012 and 2017 was conducted. AEs definition and severity were classified according to most recent ESGE guidelines. Each variable was tested for association with occurrence of overall AEs, post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and cholangitis. For each outcome, 2 regression models were built, from which an online Shiny-based app was created. Results: Overall AE rate was 15.3%; in 19 procedures, >1 AE occurred. Main post-ERCP AE was PEP (7.5%), followed by cholangitis (4.9%), bleeding (1.3%), perforation (1%), cardiopulmonary events (0.9%), and cholecystitis (0.3%). Seventy-eight percent of AEs were mild/moderate; of severe (n = 55) and fatal (n = 20) AEs, more than half were related to infection, cardiac/pulmonary AEs, and perforation. AE-related mortality rate was 1%. When testing precannulation, procedural covariates, and ERCP findings, AE occurrence was associated with age (odds ratio [OR] 0.991), previous PEP (OR 2.198), ERCP complexity grade III/IV (OR 1.924), standard bile duct cannulation (OR 0.501), sphincterotomy (OR 1.441), metal biliary stent placement (OR 2.014), periprocedural bleeding (OR 3.024), and biliary duct lithiasis (OR 0.673). Conclusion: Our app may allow an optimization of the patients’ care, by helping in the process of decision-making, not only regarding patient or endoscopist’s selection but also definition of an adequate and tailored surveillance plan after the procedure.
Fingimento e Barroco: as desdobras de identidade em "Anfitrião ou Júpiter e Alcmena", de Antônio José da Silva
Authors: Silva Eduardo Neves
Published: January 2021

Neste artigo trataremos da peça Anfitrião ou Júpiter e Alcmena (1736), de Antônio José da Silva (1705-1739), considerando o fingimento enquanto apropriação de identidade: Júpiter se transforma em Anfitrião, e o mesmo faz Mercúrio em relação à Saramago. Notamos que o autor luso-brasileiro, à guisa de superação do modelo plautino e de seus paradigmas intertextuais, reforça em sua peça os processos de multiplicação, acrescentando desdobras ao mythos inicial. Nesse sentido, podemos identificar vários procedimentos de desdobras, dentre os quais, a divisão da “fôrma-Anfitrião” em marido (Anfitrião ele-mesmo) e amante (Júpiter disfarçado); a inserção de Juno e Íris como fator de oposição à aventura amorosa de Júpiter e, consequentemente, à ramificação da ação principal. Para tanto, relacionamos a estratégia do fingimento das personagens, incluindo a sedução feminina, aos processos de desdobras realizados pelo comediógrafo. Na peça em questão, a personagem Juno desdobra duas vezes sua identidade, fingindo-se primeiramente Felizarda e, então, Flérida. Discorremos, ainda, sobre os quadrângulos amorosos, que também se dão como desdobras: em paralelo aos jogos amorosos entre os discretos (Anfitrião/Alcmena/Júpiter/Juno), teremos a ação cômica, que se dá pelos quiproquós entre Mercúrio/Cornucópia/Saramago/Íris. Logo, constatamos que os processos de desdobras que marcam a estética barroca manifestam-se tanto na estrutura das intrigas séria e cômica da peça quanto nas variações de identidade das personagens, tendo Antônio José da Silva investido sobremaneira neste recurso, de modo quase vertiginoso.
Corpo pulsar
Authors: Alves Adriana Andrade
Published: January 2021

Clarice nos convoca ao primeiro pulsar. E vos convido a percorrer o Corpo Pulsar, inspirado na obra A hora da estrela de Clarice Lispector.
Fingimentos dramáticos, em cinco cenas e sem final...
Authors: Silva Edson Santos
Published: January 2021

Texto poético com objetivo de dialogar com a vida e a obra de Bernardo Santareno.
Os homens dos dóris: Bernardo Santareno e o fazer do mar um texto para produzir sentido
Authors: Santos Rosemary Conceição dos , Silva José Aparecido Da
Published: January 2021

Este trabalho trata das crônicas de Bernardo Santareno presentes na obra Nos mares do fim do mundo (1959) e de seu dialogismo com a peça teatral O lugre (1959), do mesmo autor. Na primeira, o autor, tratando de troças, foca a personalidade (As peias do balanço); de contação de causos, a tradição e a memória (Antigamente). Psiquiatra de formação, a Santareno não passou despercebidos a humilhação (O bobo), o desespero (O ciclone), a descoberta (Funeral marítimo), a esperança (Frederikshaabs), a superstição (Os fantasmas da Groenlândia; O lobisomem) e a angústia (As mulheres dos mais rijos navegadores do mundo) evidenciadas na condição social e pessoal dos personagens, pescadores de bacalhau em sua maioria, e dos que por eles são lembrados, esposas, filhas e amigos. Em cada crônica, a identificação santarena da dignidade que os eleva de um aparente anti-heroismo à condição de heróis. Heróis da resiliência, da superação e do aprender a estarem sozinhos consigo mesmos. Uns, aprendizes, despreparados para lidar com o amor e a morte. Outros, maduros, enfrentando a solidão, o perecimento e o finamento dezenas de vezes em seus dóris. Ao final, o que aprenderam sendo contado a um médico-escritor que viajava com eles. Núcleos narrativos que são, estas crônicas preparam caminho para que Bernardo Santareno redija a peça teatral O lugre (1959), leitura santarena da pesca do bacalhau nada condizente com o rumo traçado pela propaganda Salazarista de então. Tratados, em sua ambivalência, na sequência deste ensaio, em ambas, o exercício do confinamento e do distanciamento social, com todas as exigências e consequências que ambos impõem à condição humana.