bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IRF8 Is an AML-Specific Susceptibility Factor That Regulates Signaling Pathways and Proliferation of AML Cells
Authors: Liss Franziska , Frech Miriam , Wang Ying , Giel Gavin , Fischer Sabrina , Simon Clara , Weber Lisa Marie , Nist Andrea , Stiewe Thorsten , Neubauer Andreas , Burchert Andreas , Liefke Robert
Published: February 2021

Personalized treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) that target individual aberrations strongly improved the survival of AML patients. However, AML is still one of the most lethal cancer diseases of the 21st century, demonstrating the need to find novel drug targets and to explore alternative treatment strategies. Upon investigation of public perturbation data, we identified the transcription factor IRF8 as a novel AML-specific susceptibility gene in humans. IRF8 is upregulated in a subset of AML cells and its deletion leads to impaired proliferation in those cells. Consistently, high IRF8 expression is associated with poorer patients’ prognoses. Combining gene expression changes upon IRF8 deletion and the genome-wide localization of IRF8 in the AML cell line MV4-11, we demonstrate that IRF8 directly regulates key signaling molecules, such as the kinases SRC and FAK, the transcription factors RUNX1 and IRF5, and the cell cycle regulator Cyclin D1. IRF8 loss impairs AML-driving signaling pathways, including the WNT, Chemokine, and VEGF signaling pathways. Additionally, many members of the focal adhesion pathway showed reduced expression, providing a putative link between high IRF8 expression and poor prognosis. Thus, this study suggests that IRF8 could serve as a biomarker and potential molecular target in a subset of human AMLs.
Clinicopathological Correlates of γδ T Cell Infiltration in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Boissière-Michot Florence , Chabab Ghita , Mollevi Caroline , Guiu Séverine , Lopez-Crapez Evelyne , Ramos Jeanne , Bonnefoy Nathalie , Lafont Virginie , Jacot William
Published: February 2021

The prognostic impact of the different tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) subpopulations in solid cancers is still debated. Here, we investigated the clinicopathological correlates and prognostic impact of TILs, particularly of γδ T cells, in 162 patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). A high γδ T cell density (>6.625 γδ T cells/mm2) was associated with younger age (p = 0.008), higher tumor histological grade (p = 0.002), adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.010), BRCA1 promoter methylation (p = 0.010), TIL density (p < 0.001), and PD-L1 (p < 0.001) and PD-1 expression (p = 0.040). In multivariate analyses, γδ T cell infiltration (cutoff = 6.625 γδ T cells/mm2) was an independent prognostic factor (5-year relapse-free survival: 63.3% vs. 89.8%, p = 0.027; 5-year overall survival: 73.8% vs. 89.9%, p = 0.031, for low vs. high infiltration). This prognostic impact varied according to the tumor PIK3CA mutational status. High γδ T cell infiltration was associated with better survival in patients with PIK3CA wild-type tumors, but the difference was not significant in the subgroup with PIK3CA-mutated tumors. Altogether, these data suggest that high γδ T cell infiltrate is correlated with immune infiltration and might represent a candidate prognostic tool in patients with TNBC.
The Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transcription Factor Slug Predicts Survival Benefit of Up-Front Surgery in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Riechelmann Herbert , Steinbichler Teresa Bernadette , Sprung Susanne , Santer Matthias , Runge Annette , Ganswindt Ute , Gamerith Gabriele , Dudas Jozsef
Published: February 2021

EMT promotes radio- and chemotherapy resistance in HNSCC in vitro. As EMT has been correlated to the transcription factor Slug in tumor specimens from HNSCC patients, we assessed whether Slug overexpression predicts radio- and chemotherapy resistance and favors upfront surgery in HNSCC patients. Slug expression was determined by IHC scoring in tumor specimens from patients with incident HNSCC. Patients were treated with either definitive radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy (primary RT/CRT) or upfront surgery with or without postoperative RT or CRT (upfront surgery/PORT). Treatment failure rates and overall survival (OS) were compared between RT/CRT and upfront surgery/PORT in Slug-positive and Slug-negative patients. Slug IHC was positive in 91/354 HNSCC patients. Primary RT/CRT showed inferior response rates (univariate odds ratio (OR) for treatment failure, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.7 to 7.9; p = 0.001) and inferior 5-year OS (univariate, p < 0.001) in Slug-positive patients. The independent predictive value of Slug expression status was confirmed in a multivariable Cox model (p = 0.017). Slug-positive patients had a 3.3 times better chance of survival when treated with upfront surgery/PORT versus primary RT/CRT. For HNSCC patients, Slug IHC represents a novel and feasible predictive biomarker to support upfront surgery.
Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Carcinoid Tumours. Part 1: The Gastrointestinal Tract. A Statement from a Canadian National Carcinoid Expert Group
Authors: Maroun J. , Kocha W. , Kvols L. , Bjarnason G. , Chen E. , Germond C. , Hanna S. , Poitras P. , Rayson D. , Reid R. , Rivera J. , Roy A. , Shah A. , Sideris L. , Siu L. , Wong R.
Published: February 2021

Carcinoid tumours are relatively rare and, in general, slow growing. They can be “non-functioning” tumours, presenting as a tumour mass, or “functioning” tumours secondary to the production of several biopeptides leading to the carcinoid syndrome. Though these tumours represent 0.25% of an oncology practice, a proper understanding of the clinical course of the disease and of the importance of appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures is very important. Proper patient management can lead to cure, particularly if the tumour can be fully resected, or to long-term palliation with medical treatment or cytoreductive surgery, or both, with significant prolongation of survival. A good understanding of the use of somatostatin analogues to achieve effective symptomatic control and of the importance of adequate follow-up and cardiac monitoring to prevent or effectively treat cardiac complications can contribute significantly to optimal control of this complex disease, ultimately improving the quality of life of affected patients. This article, developed by a group of Canadian experts, provides a framework that will assist clinicians in taking an optimal approach to managing their patients with carcinoid tumour.
Letter from Dr. Kenneth Wilson
Authors: Wilson Kenneth
Published: February 2021

The conclusions reached in this review are based on incomplete data. [...]
In This Issue of Current Oncology
Authors: Chasen M.
Published: February 2021

Promoting best gynecologic oncology practice is the subject of a manuscript from the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists of Canada. [...]
Diffusion and Dissemination of Evidence-Based Dietary Strategies for the Prevention of Cancer
Authors: Ciliska D. , Robinson P. , Horsley T. , Ellis P. , Brouwers M. , Gauld M. , Baldassarre F. , Raina Parminder
Published: February 2021

We used a systematic review to identify strategies that have been evaluated for disseminating cancer control interventions that promote the uptake of a healthy diet in adults. Studies were identified by contacting technical experts and by searching MEDLINE, PreMedline, CANCERLIT, EMBASE/Excerpta Medica, PsycINFO, CINAHL, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and reference lists. English-language primary studies were selected if they evaluated the dissemination of healthy diet interventions to individuals, health care providers, or institutions. Studies involving only children or adolescents were excluded. We retrieved 101 articles for full-text screening, and identified nine reports of seven distinct studies. Four of the studies were randomized trials, one was a cohort design, and three were descriptive studies. Six of the studies were rated methodologically weak, and one was rated moderate. Because of heterogeneity, low methodological quality, and incomplete data reporting, the studies were not pooled for meta-analysis. No beneficial dissemination strategies were found. One strategy involving the use of peer educators at the work site, which led to a shortterm increase in fruit and vegetable intake, looks promising. Overall, the quality of the evidence is not strong, and the evidence that exists is more descriptive than evaluative. No clear conclusions can be drawn from these data. Controlled studies are needed to evaluate dissemination strategies and to compare dissemination and diffusion strategies that communicate different messages and target different audiences.
In this Issue of Current Oncology
Authors: McLean M.
Published: February 2021

Beginning with this issue, which coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Current Oncology is pleased to announce its association with Eli Lilly’s Oncology on Canvas. [...]
Promising Agents for Chemoprevention of Skin Cancer
Authors: Stratton S. P. , Stratton M. S. , Alberts D. S.
Published: February 2021

Skin cancer presents a significant public health problem because of its increasing incidence in the United States, Australia, Northern Europe, and other temperate climates around the world. [...]
In This Issue of Current Oncology
Authors: McLean M.
Published: February 2021

This issue of Current Oncology, the fifth of six issues scheduled for 2007 [...]
Erratum: Canadian Recommendations for the Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: McLean M.
Published: February 2021

An incorrect table was submitted earlier this year as part of the article “Canadian recommendations for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme” [...]
In this issue of Current Oncology
Authors: McLean M.
Published: February 2021

This new issue of Current Oncology sees a significant change of direction for the journal—for want of a better word, publication in a “hybrid format.” [...]
In This Issue of Current Oncology
Authors: Ablin R.J.
Published: February 2021

In addition to a line-up of topical[...]
Integrative Oncology Education: An Emerging Competency for Oncology Providers
Authors: Karim Safiya , Benn Rita , Carlson Linda E. , Fouladbakhsh Judith , Greenlee Heather , Harris Rick , Henry N. Lynn , Jolly Shruti , Mayhew Sabrina , Spratke Lisa , Walker Eleanor M. , Zebrack Bradley , Zick Suzanna M.
Published: February 2021

A growing number of cancer patients use complementary and alternative therapies during and after conventional cancer treatment. Patients are often reluctant to discuss these therapies with their oncologist, and oncologists may have limited knowledge and confidence on how to advise patients on the appropriate use. Integrative oncology is a patient-centered, evidence-informed field that utilizes mind–body practices, lifestyle modifications and/or natural products interwoven with conventional cancer treatment. It prioritizes safety and best available evidence to offer appropriate interventions alongside conventional care. There are few opportunities for oncologists to learn about integrative oncology. In this commentary, we highlight the Integrative Oncology Scholars (IOS) program as a means to increase competency in this growing field. We provide an overview of several integrative oncology modalities that are taught through this program, including lifestyle modifications, physical activity, and mind–body interventions. We conclude that as more evidence is generated in this field, it will be essential that oncology healthcare providers are aware of the prevalent use of these modalities by their patients and cancer centers include Integrative Oncology trained physicians and other healthcare professionals in their team to discuss and recommend evidence-based integrative oncology therapies alongside conventional cancer treatments to their patients.
Blood Cholesterol and Outcome of Patients with Cancer under Regular Cardiological Surveillance
Authors: Hohneck Anna Lena , Rosenkaimer Stephanie , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Akin Ibrahim , Borggrefe Martin , Gerhards Stefan
Published: February 2021

Cardiovascular (CV) diseases and cancer share several similarities, including common risk factors. In the present investigation we assessed the relationship between cholesterol levels and mortality in a cardiooncological collective. In total, 551 patients receiving anticancer treatment were followed over a median of 41 (95% CI 40, 43) months and underwent regular cardiological surveillance. A total of 140 patients (25.4%) died during this period. Concomitant cardiac diseases were more common in patients who deceased (53 (37.9%) vs. 67 (16.3%), p < 0.0001), as well as prior stroke. There were no differences in the distribution of classical CV risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes or nicotine consumption. While total cholesterol (mg/dL) was significantly lower in patients who deceased (157 ± 59 vs. 188 ± 53, p < 0.0001), both HDL and LDL cholesterol were not differing. In addition, cholesterol levels varied between different tumour entities; lowest levels were found in patients with tumours of the hepatopancreaticobiliary system (median 121 mg/dL), while patients with melanoma, cerebral tumours and breast cancer had rather high cholesterol levels (median > 190 mg/dL). Cholesterol levels were significantly lower in patients who died of cancer; lowest cholesterol levels were observed in patients who died of tumours with higher mitotic rate (mesenchymal tumours, cerebral tumours, breast cancer). Cox regression analysis revealed a significant mortality risk for patients with stem cell transplantation (HR 4.31) and metastasised tumour stages (HR 3.31), while cardiac risk factors were also associated with a worse outcome (known cardiac disease HR 1.58, prior stroke/TIA HR 1.73, total cholesterol HR 1.70), with the best discriminative performance found for total cholesterol (p = 0.002).
Microcanonical and Canonical Ensembles for fMRI Brain Networks in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wang Jianjia , Wu Xichen , Li Mingrui , Wu Hui , Hancock Edwin
Published: February 2021

This paper seeks to advance the state-of-the-art in analysing fMRI data to detect onset of Alzheimer’s disease and identify stages in the disease progression. We employ methods of network neuroscience to represent correlation across fMRI data arrays, and introduce novel techniques for network construction and analysis. In network construction, we vary thresholds in establishing BOLD time series correlation between nodes, yielding variations in topological and other network characteristics. For network analysis, we employ methods developed for modelling statistical ensembles of virtual particles in thermal systems. The microcanonical ensemble and the canonical ensemble are analogous to two different fMRI network representations. In the former case, there is zero variance in the number of edges in each network, while in the latter case the set of networks have a variance in the number of edges. Ensemble methods describe the macroscopic properties of a network by considering the underlying microscopic characterisations which are in turn closely related to the degree configuration and network entropy. When applied to fMRI data in populations of Alzheimer’s patients and controls, our methods demonstrated levels of sensitivity adequate for clinical purposes in both identifying brain regions undergoing pathological changes and in revealing the dynamics of such changes.
Dynamic Analysis of the Switched-Inductor Buck-Boost Converter Based on the Memristor
Authors: Yang Yan , Li Dongdong , Wang Dongqing
Published: February 2021

The direct current (DC)–DC converter presents abundant nonlinear phenomena, such as periodic bifurcation and chaotic motion, under certain conditions. For a switched-inductor buck-boost (SIBB) converter with the memristive load, this paper constructs its state equation model under two operating statuses, investigates its chaotic dynamic characteristics, and draws and analyzes the bifurcation diagrams of the inductive current and phase portraits, under some parameter changing by the MATLAB simulation based on the state equation. Then, by applying certain minor perturbations to parameters, the chaotic phenomenon suppression method is explored by controlling peak current in continuous current mode (CCM) to keep the converter run normally. Finally, the power simulation (PSIM) verifies that the waveforms and the phase portraits controlling the corresponding parameters are consistent with those of the MATLAB simulation.
Day-Ahead and Intra-Day Collaborative Optimized Operation among Multiple Energy Stations
Authors: Zhai Jingjing , Wu Xiaobei , Li Zihao , Zhu Shaojie , Yang Bo , Liu Haoming
Published: February 2021

An integrated energy system (IES) shows great potential in reducing the terminal energy supply cost and improving energy efficiency, but the operation scheduling of an IES, especially integrated with inter-connected multiple energy stations, is rather complex since it is affected by various factors. Toward a comprehensive operation scheduling of multiple energy stations, in this paper, a day-ahead and intra-day collaborative operation model is proposed. The targeted IES consists of electricity, gas, and thermal systems. First, the energy flow and equipment composition of the IES are analyzed, and a detailed operation model of combined equipment and networks is established. Then, with the objective of minimizing the total expected operation cost, a robust optimization of day-ahead and intra-day scheduling for energy stations is constructed subject to equipment operation constraints, network constraints, and so on. The day-ahead operation provides start-up and shut-down scheduling of units, and in the operating day, the intra-day rolling operation optimizes the power output of equipment and demand response with newly evolved forecasting information. The photovoltaic (PV) uncertainty and electric load demand response are also incorporated into the optimization model. Eventually, with the piecewise linearization method, the formulated optimization model is converted to a mixed-integer linear programming model, which can be solved using off-the-shelf solvers. A case study on an IES with five energy stations verifies the effectiveness of the proposed day-ahead and intra-day collaborative robust operation strategy.
Experimental Study of the Direct Drive Hydraulic System with the Torque Mode
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Jiang Hongzhou
Published: February 2021

The torque mode is more suitable for the direct drive 6 degree of freedom (6-DOF) parallel mechanism than the speed mode that both dynamic coupling and current coupling among motors are easily solved, but its key parameters and dynamic characteristics have never been studied, which are important and are the goals of this paper. First the hydraulic system of the direct drive 6-DOF parallel mechanism is simplified. Then the transfer function of the direct drive hydraulic system with the torque mode is deduced together with that of the speed mode. Finally, comparative experiments are conducted. Results show that the dynamic characteristics of the system with the torque mode which are generally worse than those with the speed mode, are mainly determined by the parameters of the motor-pump second-order element of the transfer function composed of two under-damped second-order elements, proportion differentiation (PD) control strategy and dynamic pressure feedback (DPF) control strategy are useful for the system with the torque mode, but practical and effective methods are still needed.
Exergy Analysis of Adiabatic Liquid Air Energy Storage (A-LAES) System Based on Linde–Hampson Cycle
Authors: Szablowski Lukasz , Krawczyk Piotr , Wolowicz Marcin
Published: February 2021

Efficiently storing energy on a large scale poses a major challenge and one that is growing in importance with the increasing share of renewables in the energy mix. The only options at present are either pumped hydro or compressed air storage. One novel alternative is to store energy using liquid air, but this technology is not yet fully mature and requires substantial research and development, including in-depth energy and exergy analysis. This paper presents an exergy analysis of the Adiabatic Liquid Air Energy Storage (A-LAES) system based on the Linde–Hampson cycle. The exergy analysis was carried out for four cases with different parameters, in particular the discharge pressure of the air at the inlet of the turbine (20, 40, 100, 150 bar). The results of the analysis show that the greatest exergy destruction can be observed in the air evaporator and in the Joule–Thompson valve. In the case of air evaporator, the destruction of exergy is greatest for the lowest discharge pressure, i.e., 20 bar, and reaches over 118 MWh/cycle. It decreases with increasing discharge pressure, down to approximately 24 MWh/cycle for 150 bar, which is caused by a decrease in the heat of vaporization of air. In the case of Joule–Thompson valve, the changes are reversed. The highest destruction of exergy is observed for the highest considered discharge pressure (150 bar) and amounts to over 183 MWh/cycle. It decreases as pressure is lowered to 57.5 MWh/cycle for 20 bar. The other components of the system do not show exergy destruction greater than approximately 50 MWh/cycle for all considered pressures. Specific liquefaction work of the system ranged from 0.189 kWh/kgLA to 0.295 kWh/kgLA and the efficiency from 44.61% to 55.18%.
New HFC/HFO Blends as Refrigerants for the Vapor-Compression Refrigeration System (VCRS)
Authors: Gil Bartosz , Szczepanowska Anna , Rosiek Sabina
Published: February 2021

In this work, which is related to the current European Parliament Regulation on restrictions affecting refrigeration, four new three-component refrigerants have been proposed; all were created using low Global Warming Potential(GWP) synthetic and natural refrigerants. The considered mixtures consisted of R32, R41, R161, R152a, R1234ze (E), R1234yf, R1243zf, and RE170. These mixtures were theoretically tested with a 10% step in mass fraction using a triangular design. The analysis covered two theoretical cooling cycles at evaporating temperatures of 0 and −30 °C, and a 30 °C constant condensing temperature. The final stage of the work was the determination of the best mixture compositions by thermodynamic and operational parameters. R1234yf–R152a–RE170 with a weight share of 0.1/0.5/0.4 was determined to be the optimal mixture for potentially replacing the existing refrigerants.
Evaluating the Use of Displacement Ventilation for Providing Space Heating in Unoccupied Periods Using Laboratory Experiments, Field Tests and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Javed Saqib , Ørnes Ivar Rognhaug , Dokka Tor Helge , Myrup Maria , Holøs Sverre Bjørn
Published: February 2021

Displacement ventilation is a proven method of providing conditioned air to enclosed spaces with the aim to deliver good air quality and thermal comfort while reducing the amount of energy required to operate the system. Until now, the practical applications of displacement ventilation have been exclusive to providing ventilation and cooling to large open spaces with high ceilings. The provision of heating through displacement ventilation has traditionally been discouraged, out of concern that warm air supplied at the floor level would rise straight to the ceiling level without providing heat to the occupied space. Hence, a separate heating system is regularly integrated with the displacement ventilation in cold climates, increasing the cost and energy use of the system. This paper goes beyond the common industry practice and explores the possibility of using displacement ventilation to provide heating without any additional heating system. It reports on experimental investigations conducted in laboratory and field settings, and numerical simulation of these studies, all aimed at investigating the application of displacement ventilation for providing a comfortable indoor environment in winter by preheating the space prior to occupancy. The experimental results confirm that the proposed concept of providing space heating in unoccupied periods without a separate heating system is possible with displacement ventilation.
Norway Spruce Stem Parameters in Sites with Different Stand Densities in Lithuanian Hemiboreal Forest
Authors: Beniušienė Lina , Petrauskas Edmundas , Aleinikovas Marius , Varnagirytė-Kabašinskienė Iveta , Beniušis Ričardas , Šilinskas Benas
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives: The study aimed to determine the changes of the main stem and branch parameters of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst) trees under different stand densities. More specifically, the objective was to develop the models for the determination of branch diameter in 0–6 m log from root collar, taken as one of the parameters directly influencing the stem quality. The study continues a piece of research on stem and branch parameters’ responses to different stand density (SD) in the plantations of coniferous tree species in Lithuania. Materials and Methods: The following key parameters were measured in this study: total tree height, diameter at breast height, height to the lowest live branch, height to the lowest dead branch, and diameter of all branches in 0–6 m log. The linear regression models to predict branch diameter in 0–6 m log were developed based on stand density (SD), tree characteristics (tree diameter at breast height, DBH; and tree height, H) and other related stem and branch parameters. Results and Conclusions: Directly measured tree DBH, branch diameters and number of branches in 0–6 m log decreased significantly with the increasing SD. In the 0–6 m log, the branch diameter and the diameter of the thickest branch were identified as the main parameters related to stem quality. The best fitted models, developed including SD, tree DBH, branch diameter, and diameter of the thickest branch in 0–3 m log, can be proposed as a predictor for stem-wood quality for Norway spruce in hemiboreal forest zone.
Nipple Sparing Mastectomy as a Risk-Reducing Procedure for BRCA-Mutated Patients
Authors: Rocco Nicola , Montagna Giacomo , Criscitiello Carmen , Nava Maurizio Bruno , Privitera Francesca , Taher Wafa , Gloria Antonio , Catanuto Giuseppe
Published: February 2021

Growing numbers of asymptomatic women who become aware of carrying a breast cancer gene mutation (BRCA) mutation are choosing to undergo risk-reducing bilateral mastectomies with immediate breast reconstruction. We reviewed the literature with the aim of assessing the oncological safety of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) as a risk-reduction procedure in BRCA-mutated patients. Nine studies reporting on the incidence of primary breast cancer post NSM in asymptomatic BRCA mutated patients undergoing risk-reducing bilateral procedures met the inclusion criteria. NSM appears to be a safe option for BRCA mutation carriers from an oncological point of view, with low reported rates of new breast cancers, low rates of postoperative complications, and high levels of satisfaction and postoperative quality of life. However, larger multi-institutional studies with longer follow-up are needed to establish this procedure as the best surgical option in this setting.
Paracellular and Transcellular Leukocytes Diapedesis Are Divergent but Interconnected Evolutionary Events
Authors: Mickael Michel-Edwar , Kubick Norwin , Klimovich Pavel , Flournoy Patrick Henckell , Bieńkowska Irmina , Sacharczuk Mariusz
Published: February 2021

Infiltration of the endothelial layer of the blood-brain barrier by leukocytes plays a critical role in health and disease. When passing through the endothelial layer during the diapedesis process lymphocytes can either follow a paracellular route or a transcellular one. There is a debate whether these two processes constitute one mechanism, or they form two evolutionary distinct migration pathways. We used artificial intelligence, phylogenetic analysis, HH search, ancestor sequence reconstruction to investigate further this intriguing question. We found that the two systems share several ancient components, such as RhoA protein that plays a critical role in controlling actin movement in both mechanisms. However, some of the key components differ between these two transmigration processes. CAV1 genes emerged during Trichoplax adhaerens, and it was only reported in transcellular process. Paracellular process is dependent on PECAM1. PECAM1 emerged from FASL5 during Zebrafish divergence. Lastly, both systems employ late divergent genes such as ICAM1 and VECAM1. Taken together, our results suggest that these two systems constitute two different mechanical sensing mechanisms of immune cell infiltrations of the brain, yet these two systems are connected. We postulate that the mechanical properties of the cellular polarity is the main driving force determining the migration pathway. Our analysis indicates that both systems coevolved with immune cells, evolving to a higher level of complexity in association with the evolution of the immune system.
Population Genomics of American Mink Using Whole Genome Sequencing Data
Authors: Karimi Karim , Ngoc Do Duy , Sargolzaei Mehdi , Miar Younes
Published: February 2021

Characterizing the genetic structure and population history can facilitate the development of genomic breeding strategies for the American mink. In this study, we used the whole genome sequences of 100 mink from the Canadian Centre for Fur Animal Research (CCFAR) at the Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture (Truro, NS, Canada) and Millbank Fur Farm (Rockwood, ON, Canada) to investigate their population structure, genetic diversity and linkage disequilibrium (LD) patterns. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that the variation among color-types was significant (p < 0.001) and accounted for 18% of the total variation. The admixture analysis revealed that assuming three ancestral populations (K = 3) provided the lowest cross-validation error (0.49). The effective population size (Ne) at five generations ago was estimated to be 99 and 50 for CCFAR and Millbank Fur Farm, respectively. The LD patterns revealed that the average r2 reduced to <0.2 at genomic distances of >20 kb and >100 kb in CCFAR and Millbank Fur Farm suggesting that the density of 120,000 and 24,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) would provide the adequate accuracy of genomic evaluation in these populations, respectively. These results indicated that accounting for admixture is critical for designing the SNP panels for genotype-phenotype association studies of American mink.
Precision Surgery and Kidney Cancer: Knowledge of Genetic Alterations Influences Surgical Management
Authors: Gomella Patrick T. , Linehan W. , Ball Mark W.
Published: February 2021

Renal cell carcinoma is a term that represents multiple different disease processes, each driven by different genetic alterations, with distinct histology, and biological potential which necessitates divergent management strategies. This review discusses the genetic alterations seen in several forms of hereditary kidney cancer and how that knowledge can dictate when and how to intervene with a focus on the surgical management of these tumors.
Bisphenol A Exposure Changes the Transcriptomic and Proteomic Dynamics of Human Retinoblastoma Y79 Cells
Authors: Kim Chul-Hong , Kim Mi Jin , Park Jinhong , Kim Jinho , Kim Ji-Young , An Mi-Jin , Shin Geun-Seup , Lee Hyun-Min , Kim Jung-Woong
Published: February 2021

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a xenoestrogen chemical commonly used to manufacture polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin and might affect various human organs. However, the cellular effects of BPA on the eyes have not been widely investigated. This study aimed to investigate the cellular cytotoxicity by BPA exposure on human retinoblastoma cells. BPA did not show cytotoxic effects, such as apoptosis, alterations to cell viability and cell cycle regulation. Comparative analysis of the transcriptome and proteome profiles were investigated after long-term exposure of Y79 cells to low doses of BPA. Transcriptome analysis using RNA-seq revealed that mRNA expression of the post-transcriptional regulation-associated gene sets was significantly upregulated in the BPA-treated group. Cell cycle regulation-associated gene sets were significantly downregulated by exposure to BPA. Interestingly, RNA-seq analysis at the transcript level indicated that alternative splicing events, particularly retained introns, were noticeably altered by low-dose BPA treatment. Additionally, proteome profiling using MALDI-TOF-MS identified a total of nine differentially expressed proteins. These results suggest that alternative splicing events and altered gene/protein expression patterns are critical phenomena affected by long-term low-dose BPA exposure. This represents a novel marker for the detection of various diseases associated with environmental pollutants such as BPA.
Genomic Prediction Using Alternative Strategies of Weighted Single-Step Genomic BLUP for Yearling Weight and Carcass Traits in Hanwoo Beef Cattle
Authors: Mehrban Hossein , Naserkheil Masoumeh , Lee Deuk Hwan , Cho Chungil , Choi Taejeong , Park Mina , Ibáñez-Escriche Noelia
Published: February 2021

The weighted single-step genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) method has been proposed to exploit information from genotyped and non-genotyped relatives, allowing the use of weights for single-nucleotide polymorphism in the construction of the genomic relationship matrix. The purpose of this study was to investigate the accuracy of genetic prediction using the following single-trait best linear unbiased prediction methods in Hanwoo beef cattle: pedigree-based (PBLUP), un-weighted (ssGBLUP), and weighted (WssGBLUP) single-step genomic methods. We also assessed the impact of alternative single and window weighting methods according to their effects on the traits of interest. The data was comprised of 15,796 phenotypic records for yearling weight (YW) and 5622 records for carcass traits (backfat thickness: BFT, carcass weight: CW, eye muscle area: EMA, and marbling score: MS). Also, the genotypic data included 6616 animals for YW and 5134 for carcass traits on the 43,950 single-nucleotide polymorphisms. The ssGBLUP showed significant improvement in genomic prediction accuracy for carcass traits (71%) and yearling weight (99%) compared to the pedigree-based method. The window weighting procedures performed better than single SNP weighting for CW (11%), EMA (11%), MS (3%), and YW (6%), whereas no gain in accuracy was observed for BFT. Besides, the improvement in accuracy between window WssGBLUP and the un-weighted method was low for BFT and MS, while for CW, EMA, and YW resulted in a gain of 22%, 15%, and 20%, respectively, which indicates the presence of relevant quantitative trait loci for these traits. These findings indicate that WssGBLUP is an appropriate method for traits with a large quantitative trait loci effect.
Promoting Water Conservation Based on the Matching Effect of Regulatory Focus and Emotion
Authors: Wang Xiaomei , Zhang Lin , Jiang Xiaoyu , Wang Jia
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to examine the effects of regulatory focus and emotions on water-saving information dissemination. The findings revealed that when water-saving information is framed with a prevention focus, sad emotion fosters more active willingness to engage with the information dissemination than cheerful emotion. However, a promotion focus coupled with cheerfulness is slightly more persuasive than a promotion focus coupled with sadness. Furthermore, compared to the individuals in the nonfit group of emotions who had a regulatory focus, the individuals in the fit group formed a more favorable water-saving attitude and demonstrated a slightly higher willingness to disseminate water-saving information. This article is the first to contribute to exploring the dissemination of water-saving information from the perspective of the interactive effect of individual cognitive motivation and emotion.
Removal of Pharmaceutical Residues from Water and Wastewater Using Dielectric Barrier Discharge Methods—A Review
Authors: Massima Mouele Emile S. , Tijani Jimoh O. , Badmus Kassim O. , Pereao Omoniyi , Babajide Omotola , Zhang Cheng , Shao Tao , Sosnin Eduard , Tarasenko Victor , Fatoba Ojo O. , Laatikainen Katri , Petrik Leslie F.
Published: February 2021

Persistent pharmaceutical pollutants (PPPs) have been identified as potential endocrine disruptors that mimic growth hormones when consumed at nanogram per litre to microgram per litre concentrations. Their occurrence in potable water remains a great threat to human health. Different conventional technologies developed for their removal from wastewater have failed to achieve complete mineralisation. Advanced oxidation technologies such as dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) based on free radical mechanisms have been identified to completely decompose PPPs. Due to the existence of pharmaceuticals as mixtures in wastewater and the recalcitrance of their degradation intermediate by-products, no single advanced oxidation technology has been able to eliminate pharmaceutical xenobiotics. This review paper provides an update on the sources, occurrence, and types of pharmaceuticals in wastewater by emphasising different DBD configurations previously and currently utilised for pharmaceuticals degradation under different experimental conditions. The performance of the DBD geometries was evaluated considering various factors including treatment time, initial concentration, half-life time, degradation efficiency and the energy yield (G50) required to degrade half of the pollutant concentration. The review showed that the efficacy of the DBD systems on the removal of pharmaceutical compounds depends not only on these parameters but also on the nature/type of the pollutant.
Daily Time Use by Activity of Community-Dwelling Older Koreans: Focus on Health Management
Authors: Ko Hana
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to examine the daily time use by activity and identified factors related to health management time (HMT) use among 195 older adults (mean age = 77.5, SD = 6.28 years; 70.8% women) attending a Korean senior center. Descriptive statistics were analyzed and gamma regression analyses were performed. Participants used the most time on rest, followed by leisure, health management, daily living activities, and work. The mean duration of HMT was 205.38 min/day. The mean score for the subjective evaluation of health management (SEHM) was 13.62 and the importance score for SEHM was 4.72. Factors influencing HMT included exercise, number of chronic conditions, fasting blood sugar level, low density lipoprotein level, and cognitive function. HMT and frailty significantly predicted SEHM. HMT interventions focus on promoting exercise and acquiring health information to improve health outcomes among older adults in senior centers.
An On-Line Cross-Sectional Questionnaire to Assess Knowledge of COVID-19 Pandemic among Citizens Tested for the SARS-CoV-2 Virus in Quito and Ibarra, Ecuador
Authors: Ortega-Paredes David , Zurita Jeannete , Zurita Camilo , Leoro-Garzón Paula , Leoro-Monroy Galo , Larrea-Álvarez César Marcelo , Loaiza Karen , Fernandez-Moreira Esteban , Molina-Cuasapaz Gabriel , Larrea-Álvarez Marco
Published: February 2021

Several public health measures have been implemented to contain the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. The adherence to control measures is known to be influenced by people’s knowledge, attitudes and practices with regard to the disease. This study aimed at assessing COVID-19 knowledge in individuals who were tested for the virus. An online cross-sectional survey of 32 items, adapted to the national context, was conducted among 1656 Ecuadorians. The mean knowledge score was 22.5 ± 3 out of 28, with significant differences being observed with regard to educational attainment. People with postgraduate training scored higher than those with college, secondary and elementary instruction. Indeed, multiple linear regression revealed that lower scores were associated significantly with the latter three levels of education. Interviewees were knowledgeable about the symptoms, detection, transmission and prevention of the disease. However, they were less assertive regarding the characteristics of the virus as well as the usefulness of traditional and unproven treatments. These outcomes indicated a lack of knowledge in fundamental aspects of virus biology, which may limit the effectiveness of further prevention campaigns. Conclusively, educational and communicational programs must place emphasis on explaining the basic molecular characteristics of SARS-CoV-2; such information will certainly contribute to improve the public’s adherence to control measures.
Postural Control in Childhood: Investigating the Neurodevelopmental Gradient Hypothesis
Authors: Zoccante Leonardo , Ciceri Marco Luigi , Chamitava Liliya , Di Gennaro Gianfranco , Cazzoletti Lucia , Zanolin Maria Elisabetta , Darra Francesca , Colizzi Marco
Published: February 2021

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) have been suggested to lie on a gradient continuum, all resulting from common brain disturbances, but with different degrees of impairment severity. This case-control study aimed to assess postural stability against such hypothesis in 104 children/adolescents aged 5–17, of whom 81 had NDDs and 23 were healthy controls. Compared to healthy controls, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) resulted in the most severely impaired neurodevelopmental condition, followed by Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and Tourette Syndrome (TS). In particular, while ASD children/adolescents performed worse than healthy controls in a number of sensory conditions across all parameters, ADHD children/adolescents performed worse than healthy controls only in the sway area for the most complex sensory conditions, when their vision and somatosensory functions were both compromised, and performance in Tourette Syndrome (TS) was roughly indistinguishable from that of healthy controls. Finally, differences were also observed between clinical groups, with ASD children/adolescents, and to a much lesser extent ADHD children/adolescents, performing worse than TS children/adolescents, especially when sensory systems were not operationally accurate. Evidence from this study indicates that poor postural control may be a useful biomarker for risk assessment during neurodevelopment, in line with predictions from the gradient hypothesis.
Using the MMSE-2 to Measure Cognitive Deterioration in a Sample of Psychiatric Patients Living in Puerto Rico
Authors: Ralat Sandra I.
Published: February 2021

Patients with psychiatric disorders often have cognitive impairment. Several deficits have been recognized in patients with mood and/or psychotic disorders. We hypothesized that differences in the levels of deterioration exist between patients with bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and schizoaffective disorder (SAD). The mini-mental state examination, version 2 (MMSE-2), was used with a sample of 160 psychiatric patients to measure cognitive impairment. The aims of this study were as follows: (1) To characterize the differences in cognitive deterioration among patients diagnosed with BD, MDD, or SAD; (2) to explore item difficulty and cutoff points based on the educational level and other variables which are significant for our psychiatric population. Descriptive statistics were used for categorical variables. In addition, a Bonferroni post hoc test and an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) for the continuous dependent variable were performed. Psychiatric diagnosis and years of education adjusted by several covariates proved to be significant. The 25th percentile were obtained to establish the cutoff points. Each item’s difficulty was analyzed using means and chi-square tests. Cognitive deterioration was found in 51% of the patients with SAD, in 31% with BD, and in 18% with MDD.
Unraveling the Role of Respiratory Muscle Metaboloreceptors under Inspiratory Training in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Fernández-Rubio Hugo , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo , Rodríguez-Sanz David , Calvo-Lobo César , Vicente-Campos Davinia , Chicharro Jose López
Published: February 2021

Exercise intolerance may be considered a hallmark in patients who suffer from heart failure (HF) syndrome. Currently, there is enough scientific evidence regarding functional and structural deterioration of skeletal musculature in these patients. It is worth noting that muscle weakness appears first in the respiratory muscles and then in the musculature of the limbs, which may be considered one of the main causes of exercise intolerance. Functional deterioration and associated atrophy of these respiratory muscles are related to an increased muscle metaboreflex leading to sympathetic–adrenal system hyperactivity and increased pulmonary ventilation. This issue contributes to increased dyspnea and/or fatigue and decreased aerobic function. Consequently, respiratory muscle weakness produces exercise limitations in these patients. In the present review, the key role that respiratory muscle metaboloreceptors play in exercise intolerance is accurately addressed in patients who suffer from HF. In conclusion, currently available scientific evidence seems to affirm that excessive metaboreflex activity of respiratory musculature under HF is the main cause of exercise intolerance and sympathetic–adrenal system hyperactivity. Inspiratory muscle training seems to be a useful personalized medicine intervention to reduce respiratory muscle metaboreflex in order to increase patients’ exercise tolerance under HF condition.
Effects of Integrated Indirect Forest Experience on Emotion, Fatigue, Stress, and Immune Function in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Kang Hyoyoung , Chae Youngran
Published: February 2021

Background: Most hemodialysis patients may experience physiological and psychological stress. Exposure to nature has been reported to reduce psychological and physiological stress levels and improve immune function. This study aimed to investigate psychological and physiological effects of integrated indirect forest experience on chronic renal failure patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: As a quasi-experiment, this study employed a nonequivalent control group, repeated measurements, and a non-synchronized design. In total, 54 participants were included: 26 and 28 patients in the experimental and control groups, respectively. During hemodialysis, five types of forest therapy stimuli (visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile, and motor) were applied 3 times per week for 4 weeks during 15 min sessions. Results: Positive, but not negative, emotion measures differed between the groups after the intervention. Fatigue and physiological stress levels were significantly reduced in the experimental group, whereas no significant difference was found between the groups with respect to measures of psychological stress. Activation of both the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems was similar in both groups, as was the number of natural killer cells. Conclusion: Integrated indirect forest experience may help increase positive emotions and reduce fatigue and stress levels during hemodialysis in patients with chronic renal failure.