bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of long-term glucose variability on coronary atherosclerosis progression in patients with type 2 diabetes: a 2.3 year follow-up study
Authors: Li Suhua , Tang Xixiang , Luo Yanting , Wu Bingyuan , Huang Zhuoshan , Li Zexiong , Peng Long , Ling Yesheng , Zhu Jieming , Zhong Junlin , Liu Jinlai , Chen Yanming
Published: September 2020

Background

Glycemic variability (GV) confers a risk of cardiovascular events. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether long-term GV has an impact on coronary atherosclerosis progression in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

A total of 396 patients with T2DM who had coronary computed tomography angiography and laboratory data available at baseline and for follow-up evaluations [median 2.3 (1.8–3.1) years] were included. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was measured every 1–3 months, and HbA1c was measured quarterly. The coefficient of variation (CV) of HbA1c and FPG were calculated as measures of GV. Quantitative assessment of coronary plaques was performed by measuring the annual change and progression rate of total plaque volume (TPV). Significant progression was defined as annual TPV progression ≥ 15%. Multivariable regression analyses were used to assess the effects of GV on atherosclerosis progression.

Results

In the 396 patients, the annual change in TPV was 12.35 ± 14.23 mm3, and annual progression rate was 13.36 ± 12.69%. There were 143 (36.11%) patients with significant progression, and they had a significantly higher CV-HbA1c (P < 0.001) and CV-FPG (P < 0.001) than those without significant progression. In multivariable regression analyses, both CV-HbA1c and CV-FPG were independent predictors of annual change in TPV [CV-HbA1c: β = 0.241 (0.019–0.462), P = 0.034; CV-FPG: β = 0.265 (0.060–0.465), P = 0.012], annual TPV progression [CV-HbA1c: β = 0.214 (0.023–0.405), P = 0.029; CV-FPG: β = 0.218 (0.037–0.399), P = 0.019], and significant atherosclerosis progression [CV-HbA1c: odds ratio [OR] = 1.367 (1.149–1.650), P = 0.010; CV-FPG: OR = 1.321 (1.127–1.634), P = 0.013].

Conclusions

Long-term GV is associated with accelerated progression of coronary atherosclerosis independent of conventional risk factors in patients with T2DM.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02587741), October 27, 2015; retrospectively registered
Joint analysis of lncRNA m6A methylome and lncRNA/mRNA expression profiles in gastric cancer
Authors: Lv Zhi , Sun Liping , Xu Qian , Xing Chengzhong , Yuan Yuan
Published: September 2020

Background

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification might be closely associated with the genesis and development of gastric cancer (GC). Currently, the evidence established by high-throughput assay for GC-related m6A patterns based on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) remains limited. Here, a joint analysis of lncRNA m6A methylome and lncRNA/mRNA expression profiles in GC was performed to explore the regulatory roles of m6A modification in lncRNAs.

Methods

Three subjects with primary GC were enrolled in our study and paired sample was randomly selected from GC tissue and adjacent normal tissue for each case. Methylated RNA Immunoprecipitation NextGeneration Sequencing (MeRIP-Seq) and Microarray Gene Expression Profiling was subsequently performed. Then co-expression analysis and gene enrichment analysis were successively conducted.

Results

After data analysis, we identified 191 differentially m6A-methylated lncRNAs, 240 differentially expressed lncRNAs and 229 differentially expressed mRNAs in GC. Furthermore, four differentially m6A-methylated and expressed lncRNAs (dme-lncRNAs) were discovered including RASAL2-AS1, LINC00910, SNHG7 and LINC01105. Their potential target genes were explored by co-expression analysis. And gene enrichment analysis suggested that they might influence the cellular processes and biological behaviors involved in mitosis and cell cycle. The potential impacts of these targets on GC cells were further validated by CCLE database and literature review.

Conclusions

Four novel dme-lncRNAs were identified in GC, which might exert regulatory roles on GC cell proliferation. The present study would provide clues for the lncRNA m6A methylation-based research on GC epigenetic etiology and pathogenesis.
Managing intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy challenges: an ethnographic study of two Ghanaian administrative regions
Authors: Aberese-Ako Matilda , Magnussen Pascal , Gyapong Margaret , Ampofo Gifty D. , Tagbor Harry
Published: September 2020

Background

Malaria in pregnancy (MiP) is an important public health problem across sub-Saharan Africa. The package of measures for its control in Ghana in the last 20 years include regular use of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs), directly-observed administration (DOT) of intermittent preventive treatment with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) and prompt and effective case management of MiP. Unfortunately, Ghana like other sub-Saharan African countries did not achieve the reset Abuja targets of 100% of pregnant women having access to IPTp and 100% using LLINs by 2015.

Methods

This ethnographic study explored how healthcare managers dealt with existing MiP policy implementation challenges and the consequences on IPTp-SP uptake and access to maternal healthcare. The study collected date using non-participant observations, conversations, in-depth interviews and case studies in eight health facilities and 12 communities for 12 months in two Administrative regions in Ghana.

Results

Healthcare managers addressed frequent stock-outs of malaria programme drugs and supplies from the National Malaria Control Programme and delayed reimbursement from the NHIS, by instituting co-payment, rationing and prescribing drugs for women to buy from private pharmacies. This ensured that facilities had funds to pay creditors, purchase drugs and supplies for health service delivery. However, it affected their ability to enforce DOT and to monitor adherence to treatment. Women who could afford maternal healthcare and MiP services and those who had previously benefitted from such services were happy to access uninterrupted services. Women who could not maternal healthcare services resorted to visiting other sources of health care, delaying ANC and skipping scheduled ANC visits. Consequently, some clients did not receive the recommended 5 + doses of SP, others did not obtain LLINs early and some did not obtain treatment for MiP. Healthcare providers felt frustrated whenever they could not provide comprehensive care to women who could not afford comprehensive maternal and MiP care.

Conclusion

For Ghana to achieve her goal of controlling MiP, the Ministry of Health and other supporting institutions need to ensure prompt reimbursement of funds, regular supply of programme drugs and medical supplies to public, faith-based and private health facilities.
A comprehensive insight into the effect of glutamine supplementation on metabolic variables in diabetes mellitus: a systematic review
Authors: Jafari-Vayghan Hamed , Varshosaz Parisa , Hajizadeh-Sharafabad Fatemeh , Razmi Hamid Reza , Amirpour Mahdi , Tavakoli-Rouzbehani Omid Mohammad , Alizadeh Mohammad , Maleki Vahid
Published: September 2020

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most important threats to human health in the twenty-first century.
The use of complementary and alternative medicine to prevent, control, and reduce the complications of diabetes mellitus is increasing at present. Glutamine amino acid is known as a functional food.
The purpose of this systematic review is to determine the potential role of glutamine supplementation on metabolic variables in diabetes mellitus. For this review, PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, ProQuest, and Google Scholar databases were searched from inception through April 2020. All clinical trial and animal studies assessing the effects of glutamine on diabetes mellitus were eligible for inclusion. 19 studies of 1482 articles met the inclusion criteria. Of the 19 studies, nine studies reported a significant increase in serum GLP-1 levels. Also, eight studies showed reducing in serum levels of fasting blood sugar, four studies reducing in postprandial blood sugar, and triglyceride after glutamine supplementation. Although glutamine resulted in a significant increase in insulin production in seven studies, the findings on Hb-A1c levels were inconclusive. In addition to, despite of the results was promising for the effects of glutamine on weight changes, oxidative stress, and inflammation, more precise clinical trials are needed to obtain more accurate results. In conclusion, glutamine supplementation could improve glycemic control and levels of incretins (such as GLP-1 and GIP) in diabetes mellitus. However, more studies are needed for future studies.
Social capital and public health: responding to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Wong Anna S. Y. , Kohler Jillian C.
Published: September 2020

Background

As countries continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of ensuring that fair and equal access to healthcare for all is more urgent than ever. Policies that promote social capital building along all levels of society may offer an important avenue for improved healthcare delivery and health systems strengthening in the COVID-19 response.

Main body

In reference to the established and emerging literature on social capital and health, we explore the role of social capital in the COVID-19 health policy response. We analyse current research with respect to mental health, public health policy compliance, and the provision of care for vulnerable populations, and highlight how considerations of bonding, bridging, and linking capital can contribute to health systems strengthening in the context of the COVID-19 response and recovery effort.

Conclusions

This article argues that considerations of social capital – including virtual community building, fostering solidarity between high-risk and low-risk groups, and trust building between decision-makers, healthcare workers, and the public – offer a powerful frame of reference for understanding how response and recovery programs can be best implemented to effectively ensure the inclusive provision of COVID-19 health services.
A unique radioprotective effect of resolvin E1 reduces irradiation-induced damage to the inner ear by inhibiting the inflammatory response
Authors: Zhang Jie , Xu Anting , Niu Tingting , Liu Chengcheng , Zhang Yongju , Li Tao , Wang Jihua , Wang Yongjing , Sun Dianshui
Published: September 2020

Background

In addition to the direct effects of irradiation, the induced inflammatory response may play an important role in the damage to the inner ear caused by radiotherapy for the treatment of head and neck cancers. Resolvin E1 (RvE1) has anti-inflammatory activity, acting by reducing neutrophil infiltration and proinflammatory cytokine expression. Therefore, in this study we sought to confirm whether the inflammation induced by irradiation was involved in damage to the inner ear after radiotherapy and to investigate the protective effect and underlying mechanism of RvE1 using mouse models.

Methods

A dose of RvE1 was delivered by intraperitoneal injection to mice before irradiation. Changes in the auditory brainstem response (ABR), relative balance ability, inner ear morphology and the expression levels of inflammatory factors in the inner ear were analyzed on days 7 and 14 after irradiation and compared among different experimental groups.

Results

Changes of ABR and relative balance ability showed the inner functions of experimental mice presented severe damage after irradiation, but the damage was significantly alleviated after RvE1 pretreatment compared to irradiation alone. Morphological analysis of the inner ear showed severe damage to the cochlea and vestibule after irradiation. In contrast, damage to the cochlea and vestibule was significantly reduced in the RvE1-pretreated group compared to that in the irradiation alone group. Along with these functional and morphological changes, the mRNA expression level of anti-inflammatory factors interleukin-2 was significantly increased, while those of proinflammatory factors interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly decreased in the inner ear of mice after RvE1 pretreatment compared to irradiation alone.

Conclusions

We believe that inflammation induced by irradiation is involved in the damage to the inner ear caused by radiotherapy, and that RvE1 reduces the damage caused by irradiation to the inner ear by regulating the induced inflammatory response.
Critical left coronary main trunk stenosis, chronic occluded right coronary artery, left subclavian artery occlusion, severe aortic regurgitation and porcelain aorta in a patient with aortitis
Authors: Sasaki Hideki , Harada Takashi , Ishitoya Hiroshi , Sasaki Osamu
Published: September 2020

Background

Coronary involvement is rare but can be critical in patients with aortitis. Although cardiac ischemia can be resolved by coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), patients complicated with cardiac ischemia, calcified aorta, and valve insufficiency pose difficult problems for surgeons.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old woman was referred to our institution because of unstable angina. She had been previously diagnosed with aortitis and left subclavian artery occlusion. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed severe left coronary main trunk stenosis, right coronary artery occlusion, and porcelain aorta. Ultrasonic echocardiogram showed severe aortic regurgitation. We performed emergent coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic valve replacement and ascending aorta replacement under hypothermic circulatory arrest.

Conclusions

The technique of circumferential calcified intimal removal and reinforcement with felt strips was effective for secure anastomosis. Unilateral cerebral perfusion from the right subclavian artery enabled good visualization and sufficient time to perform distal anastomosis.
Applications, phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, pharmacokinetics, toxicity of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. and its probably potential therapeutic effects on COVID-19: a review
Authors: Song Jia-Wen , Long Jia-Ying , Xie Long , Zhang Lin-Lin , Xie Qing-Xuan , Chen Hui-Juan , Deng Mao , Li Xiao-Fang
Published: September 2020

Scutellaria baicalensisGeorgi. (SB) is a common heat-clearing medicine in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It has been used for thousands of years in China and its neighboring countries. Clinically, it is mostly used to treat diseases such as cold and cough. SB has different harvesting periods and processed products for different clinical symptoms. Botanical researches proved that SB included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia (1st, 2020) was consistent with the medicinal SB described in ancient books. Modern phytochemical analysis had found that SB contains hundreds of active ingredients, of which flavonoids are its major components. These chemical components are the material basis for SB to exert pharmacological effects. Pharmacological studies had shown that SB has a wide range of pharmacological activities such as antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, liver protection, etc. The active ingredients of SB were mostly distributed in liver and kidney, and couldn't be absorbed into brain via oral absorption. SB’s toxicity was mostly manifested in liver fibrosis and allergic reactions, mainly caused by baicalin. The non-medicinal application prospects of SB were broad, such as antibacterial plastics, UV-resistant silk, animal feed, etc. In response to the Coronavirus Disease In 2019 (COVID-19), based on the network pharmacology research, SB’s active ingredients may have potential therapeutic effects, such as baicalin and baicalein. Therefore, the exact therapeutic effects are still need to be determined in clinical trials. SB has been reviewed in the past 2 years, but the content of these articles were not comprehensive and accurate. In view of the above, we made a comprehensive overview of the research progress of SB, and expect to provide ideas for the follow-up study of SB.
Similarities and differences in key diagnosis, treatment, and management approaches for PAH deficiency in the United States and Europe
Authors: Lowe Tracy Brock , DeLuca Jane , Arnold Georgianne L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Individuals with phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) deficiency lack an enzyme needed to metabolize the amino acid, phenylalanine. This leads to an increase of phenylalanine in the blood, which is associated with changes in cognitive and psychological functioning. Skilled clinical management is essential for preventing complications and providing comprehensive care to patients. In the last decade, the American College of Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) and a group of European experts developed separate guidelines to provide recommendations for the management and care of persons with PAH deficiency. The purpose of this paper was to compare and contrast these guidelines in order to understand the different approaches to PAH deficiency care.

Methods

We examined the procedures used to develop both guidelines, then evaluated key areas in PAH deficiency care which included screening, diagnostic approaches, dietary treatment (initiation and duration), ongoing phenylalanine level/ nutritional monitoring, neurocognitive screening, adherence issues in treatment, and special populations (women and maternal PKU, late or untreated PAH deficiency, and transitioning to adult services). We conducted a scoping review of four key topics in PAH deficiency care to explore recent research studies performed since the publication of the guidelines.

Results

The ACMG and European expert group identified limited numbers of high quality studies to use as evidence for their recommendations. The ACMG and European guidelines had many similarities in their respective approaches PAH deficiency care and recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and management for persons with PAH deficiency. There were also a number of differences between the guidelines regarding the upper range for phenylalanine levels in adolescents and adults, the types of instruments used and frequency of neuropsychiatric examinations, and monitoring of bone health. Treatment adherence can be associated with a number of challenges, such as aversions to medical foods and formulas, as well as factors related to educational, social, and psychosocial issues. From the scoping review, there were many new studies addressing issues in treatment and management including new research on sapropterin adherence and increased dietary protein tolerance and pegvaliase on the reduction in phenylalanine levels and hypersensitivity reactions.

Conclusions

In the last decade, ACMG and European experts developed comprehensive guidelines for the clinical management of phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency. The guidelines offered background and recommendations for clinical care of patients with PAH deficiency throughout the lifespan. New research evidence is available and updates to guidelines can keep pace with new developments. Evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment are important for providing expert care to patients.
A single-cell survey of cellular hierarchy in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wu Junqing , Xiao Yanyu , Sun Jie , Sun Huiyu , Chen Haide , Zhu Yuanyuan , Fu Huarui , Yu Chengxuan , E. Weigao , Lai Shujing , Ma Lifeng , Li Jiaqi , Fei Lijiang , Jiang Mengmeng , Wang Jingjing , Ye Fang , Wang Renying , Zhou Ziming , Zhang Guodong , Zhang Tingyue , Ding Qiong , Wang Zou , Hao Sheng , Liu Lizhen , Zheng Weiyan , He Jingsong , Huang Weijia , Wang Yungui , Xie Jin , Li Tiefeng , Cheng Tao , Han Xiaoping , Huang He , Guo Guoji
Published: September 2020

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a fatal hematopoietic malignancy and has a prognosis that varies with its genetic complexity. However, there has been no appropriate integrative analysis on the hierarchy of different AML subtypes.

Methods

Using Microwell-seq, a high-throughput single-cell mRNA sequencing platform, we analyzed the cellular hierarchy of bone marrow samples from 40 patients and 3 healthy donors. We also used single-cell single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing to investigate the clonal heterogeneity of AML cells.

Results

From the integrative analysis of 191727 AML cells, we established a single-cell AML landscape and identified an AML progenitor cell cluster with novel AML markers. Patients with ribosomal protein high progenitor cells had a low remission rate. We deduced two types of AML with diverse clinical outcomes. We traced mitochondrial mutations in the AML landscape by combining Microwell-seq with SMRT sequencing. We propose the existence of a phenotypic “cancer attractor” that might help to define a common phenotype for AML progenitor cells. Finally, we explored the potential drug targets by making comparisons between the AML landscape and the Human Cell Landscape.

Conclusions

We identified a key AML progenitor cell cluster. A high ribosomal protein gene level indicates the poor prognosis. We deduced two types of AML and explored the potential drug targets. Our results suggest the existence of a cancer attractor.
The effects of hedgehog ligand neutralising antibody 5E1 in a mouse model of endometriosis
Authors: Cousins F. L. , Farley J. K. , Kerrigan R. , Mukherjee S. , Darzi S. , Gargett C. E. , Deane J. A.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Endometriosis is a common and painful condition characterised by the formation of endometrial lesions within the peritoneal cavity. Previous studies have suggested a role for hedgehog signalling in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. We investigated the role of hedgehog signalling in the establishment of endometriosis lesions using 5E1, a hedgehog ligand neutralising antibody, and a mouse model of endometriosis. To mimic the initiation of endometriosis by retrograde menstruation, which is believed to occur in humans, donor mice underwent an artificial menstruation protocol. Fragments of menstrual endometrium were injected into the peritoneal cavity of estrogen primed recipients. Recipients received twice weekly injections of 5E1 or an isotype matched control antibody for three weeks. Lesions were collected and analysed for markers of epithelium, proliferation and apoptosis by immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

Treatment with 5E1 reduced the number of lesions found on the mesentery. No significant changes were found in the size of lesions, abundance of endometrial epithelial cells, proliferation or apoptosis.
Associations between social and intellectual activities with cognitive trajectories in Chinese middle-aged and older adults: a nationally representative cohort study
Authors: Li Haibin , Li Changwei , Wang Anxin , Qi Yanling , Feng Wei , Hou Chengbei , Tao Lixin , Liu Xiangtong , Li Xia , Wang Wei , Zheng Deqiang , Guo Xiuhua
Published: September 2020

Background

Associations between the frequency of social and intellectual activities and cognitive trajectories are understudied in Chinese middle-aged and older adults. We aimed to examine this association in a nationally representative longitudinal study.

Methods

The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) is a nationally representative sample of Chinese middle-aged and older participants. The frequency of social and intellectual activities was measured at baseline. Interview-based cognitive assessments of orientation and attention, episodic memory, and visuospatial skills and the calculation of combined global scores were assessed every 2 years from 2011 to 2016. Cognitive aging trajectories over time were analyzed using group-based trajectory modeling, and the associations of the trajectory memberships with social and intellectual activities were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.

Results

Among 8204 participants aged 50–75 years at baseline, trajectory analysis identified three longitudinal patterns of cognitive function based on the global cognitive scores: “persistently low trajectory” (n = 1550, 18.9%), “persistently moderate trajectory” (n = 3194, 38.9%), and “persistently high trajectory” (n = 3460, 42.2%). After adjustment for sociodemographic variables, lifestyles, geriatric symptoms, and health conditions, more frequent intellectual activities (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.38–0.77) and social activities (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65–0.95) were both associated with a lower likelihood of being in the “persistently low trajectory” for global cognitive function.

Conclusions

These findings suggested that more frequent social and intellectual activities were associated with more favorable cognitive aging trajectories.
Primary hepatic lymphoma in a patient with cirrhosis: a case report
Authors: Dantas Eduardo , Santos Joana , Coelho Mariana , Sequeira Cristiana , Santos Inês , Cardoso Cláudia , Oliveira Ana Paula
Published: September 2020

Background

Primary hepatic lymphoma is a very uncommon disease. Due to its nonspecific clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings, it is often misdiagnosed. Liver biopsy is required to make a final diagnosis. Chemotherapy is the current gold standard of treatment.

Case presentation

An asymptomatic 65-year-old Caucasian man with Child-Pugh class A cirrhosis presented to our hospital with a nodular lesion seen on a routine surveillance abdominal ultrasound. His physical examination revealed hepatomegaly and no other significant findings. Magnetic resonance imaging of the abdomen showed a voluminous nodule on the left lobe with heterogeneous contrast enhancement. His liver biopsy was compatible with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Systemic staging showed no evidence of nodal or bone marrow involvement, confirming the diagnosis of primary hepatic lymphoma. He was treated with chemotherapy. However, he developed febrile neutropenia after one of the cycles and died.

Conclusions

In this article, we report a rare presentation of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and review the current literature on clinical features, diagnosis, and management.
Lava flow crises in inhabited areas part I: lessons learned and research gaps related to effusive, basaltic eruptions
Authors: Tsang Sophia W. R. , Lindsay Jan M.
Published: September 2020

Lava flows have threatened and/or inundated inhabited areas and/or their supporting networks 38 times at 12 volcanoes in the past 70 years. A systematic evaluation of these events has not been undertaken, making it hard to compare eruptions, create lava flow vulnerability models to support impact assessments, and deduce best practices for managing lava flow crises. In this paper, we summarise all 38 basaltic lava flow crises and conduct a gap analysis by evaluating published literature. Eleven data types that could support enhanced physical impact studies and/or research on the societal effects of lava flows were identified. Four of the data types (preparation actions and narrative, eruption narrative, response narrative, and evacuation data) have been well-documented (i.e. documented in at least half the eruptions). Communication approaches and recovery narratives have been included in at least a quarter of the studied eruptions, and their documentation in the literature is increasing with time. Five data types (lava flow attribute data, detailed physical impact data, and information on lava flow hazard modelling, community reactions, and applications of learnings) have only been documented a handful of times each. We suggest that standardisation of data collection and data storage could increase the frequency with which these data types are documented. Finally, we use the case studies to extract lessons about how community understanding of volcanic hazards influences community resilience and how lava flow modelling can inform planning. We also describe lessons relating to evacuation processes, mitigation methods, and recovery.
On the optimal control of coronavirus (2019-nCov) mathematical model; a numerical approach
Authors: Sweilam N. H. , Al-Mekhlafi S. M. , Albalawi A. O. , Baleanu D.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, a novel coronavirus (2019-nCov) mathematical model with modified parameters is presented. This model consists of six nonlinear fractional order differential equations. Optimal control of the suggested model is the main objective of this work. Two control variables are presented in this model to minimize the population number of infected and asymptotically infected people. Necessary optimality conditions are derived. The Grünwald–Letnikov nonstandard weighted average finite difference method is constructed for simulating the proposed optimal control system. The stability of the proposed method is proved. In order to validate the theoretical results, numerical simulations and comparative studies are given.
Some fixed point results on $\mathcal{N}_{b}$-cone metric spaces over Banach algebra
Authors: Fernandez Jerolina , Malviya Neeraj , Mitrović Zoran D. , Hussain Azhar , Parvaneh Vahid
Published: September 2020

The main aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of $\mathcal{N}_{b}$

N
b

-cone metric spaces over a Banach algebra as a generalization of $\mathcal{N}$
N
-cone metric spaces over a Banach algebra and b-metric spaces. Also, we study some coupled common fixed point theorems for generalized Lipschitz mappings in this framework. Finally, we give an example and an application to the existence of solutions of integral equations to illustrate the effectiveness of our generalizations. Some results in the literature are special cases of our results.
Molecular characterization of ombrotrophic peats by humeomics
Authors: Vinci Giovanni , Mazzei Pierluigi , Drosos Marios , Zaccone Claudio , Piccolo Alessandro
Published: September 2020

Background

An insight into the molecular composition of ombrotrophic peats of different geographical origin and collected at different depths was achieved by the humeomics method. The humeomic fractionation allowed the separation of molecular components in either organic solvents or water on the basis of their progressive binding strength to the humic matrix. The solubilized matter in fractions was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) or by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, while the residues depleted of the extracted material were observed by 13C cross-polarization magic-angle-spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-CPMAS-NMR) spectroscopy.

Results

The analytical characterization of fractions and residues differentiated peats not only on the basis of the different classes of extracted molecules, but also on their binding strength to the complex peat matrix. Aromatic, lipidic, and sugar compounds were the most representative molecular classes extracted in the humeomic fractions and their abundance varied with depth. The distribution and abundance of extracted compounds provided an indication of the extent of organic matter accumulation in peat. The NMR spectra of solid residues supported the interpretation of the characteristics of the various extracts.

Conclusions

Our findings proved that the humeomic approach allows to provide important information on both the molecular composition of peats and its variation with depth.
Tumor suppressive function of Matrin 3 in the basal-like breast cancer
Authors: Yang Jaehyuk , Lee Seung Jun , Kwon Yongseok , Ma Li , Kim Jongchan
Published: September 2020

Background

Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) or triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and highly metastatic subtype of human breast cancer. The present study aimed to elucidate the potential tumor-suppressive function of MATR3, an abundant nuclear protein, in BLBC/TNBC, whose cancer-relevance has not been characterized.

Methods

We analyzed in vitro tumorigenecity by cell proliferation and soft agar colony formation assays, apoptotic cell death by flow cytometry and Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by checking specific EMT markers with real-time quantitative PCR and in vitro migration and invasion by Boyden Chamber assays. To elucidate the underlying mechanism by which MATR3 functions as a tumor suppressor, we performed Tandem affinity purification followed by mass spectrometry (TAP-MS) and pathway analysis. We also scrutinized MATR3 expression levels in the different subtypes of human breast cancer and the correlation between MATR3 expression and patient survival by bioinformatic analyses of publicly available transcriptome datasets.

Results

MATR3 suppressed in vitro tumorigenecity, promoted apoptotic cell death and inhibited EMT, migration, and invasion in BLBC/TNBC cells. Various proteins regulating apoptosis were identified as MATR3-binding proteins, and YAP/TAZ pathway was suppressed by MATR3. MATR3 expression was inversely correlated with the aggressive and metastatic nature of breast cancer. Moreover, high expression levels of MATR3 were associated with a good prognosis of breast cancer patients.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that MATR3 functions as a putative tumor suppressor in BLBC/TNBC cells. Also, MATR3 potentially plays a role as a biomarker in predicting chemotherapy-sensitivity and patient survival in breast cancer patients.
Digital atmosphere of fashion retail stores
Authors: Kim Ha Youn , Lee Yuri , Cho Erin , Jung Yeo Jin
Published: September 2020

This study sheds light on a prominent issue in retailing: how the digital atmosphere can affect the consumer decision-making process in a fashion retail store. Digital devices and services such as digital screens and digital signage are widely employed in fashion retail stores, transforming the way consumers make decisions about purchasing fashion products. This research investigates how the digital atmosphere affects consumers’ purchase behavior patterns based on the attention-interest-desire-search-action-share (AIDSAS) model. The findings show that attention is a key antecedent to interest, desire, and behavioral responses (search, action, and share) triggered by the digital atmosphere. The findings further suggest that attention has significantly positive effects on consumers’ purchasing patterns of utilizing the digital atmosphere in two types of fashion retail stores: sports and luxury stores. However, we find that these positive effects are more pronounced for sports retail stores than luxury retail stores. This research contributes to understanding consumer behavior related to the digital atmosphere of fashion retail stores by applying the AIDSAS model and helps uncover the stepwise relationships between attention to the store atmosphere-interest/desire and the products-behavior response. These findings have practical implications that can be applied in the fashion industry.
Post-esophageal atresia repair double acquired tracheoesophageal fistulas treated successfully by gastric transposition: a case report
Authors: Takahashi Nobuhiro , Fuchimoto Yasushi , Mori Teizaburo , Abe Kiyotomo , Yamada Yohei , Koinuma Goro , Kuroda Tatsuo
Published: September 2020

Background

Postoperative recurrence of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a frequent complication in the repair of esophageal atresia (EA). Based on the recent etiologic classification, a TEF that develops in a different new pathway from the original one is categorized as an acquired TEF. The TEFs that fall into this category have been reported to be refractory and their mechanisms have not been fully understood. Here, we report the complicated case of an acquired TEF derived from mediastinitis after the original TEF repair developed an anastomotic stricture. The TEF contained double fistulas, both towards the right lobe bronchi, and was repaired by gastric transposition through a retrosternal route.

Case presentation

The patient was diagnosed with Gross C esophageal atresia after birth and underwent tracheoesophageal fistula banding during the neonatal period. He experienced an intractable anastomotic stenosis after surgery which was treated with repeated balloon dilation therapy. By the age of 11 months, he developed a mediastinal abscess that improved with conservative treatment. At 18 months old, a fistula from the esophagus to the right superior lobe bronchus was identified. The patient underwent a right upper lobectomy to resect the fistula. However, at 21 months old, another fistula to the right lower lobe was revealed. An esophageal banding was done to relieve the respiratory symptoms. This was followed by esophagectomy and gastric transposition through the retrosternal route at 26 months old. The patient started rehabilitation and oral intake gradually after surgery. By 3 years after gastric transposition, he could already take blended food orally with the support of small amounts of enteral feeding.

Conclusion

Cases of TEF derived from severe inflammation have the potential to form a complicated network and lead to recurrence. Surgeons should consider the possibility of multiple tiny fistulas in cases of severe acquired TEF. These may be repaired successfully by gastric transposition through the retrosternal route.
Behavioral problems and their relationship to maternal depression, marital relationships, social skills and parenting
Authors: Bolsoni-Silva Alessandra Turini , Loureiro Sonia Regina
Published: September 2020

Behavioral problems have been associated with multiple variables; however, studies simultaneously investigating parenting practices, marital relationships in bi-parental families, maternal depression, and child behavior remain a gap in the literature. The objective was to verify associations between positive and negative parenting practices, marital relationships, social skills, and behavioral problems among children from bi-parental families with and those without maternal depression; to identify the predictive effect of positive and negative parenting practices, marital relationships, children’s social skills, and maternal depression, for internalizing, externalizing behavior problems and internalizing and externalizing comorbidities. A case-control study with a cross-sectional design was adopted to ensure the groups were homogeneous in regard to the children’s, mothers’, and families’ sociodemographic characteristics. A total of 35 mothers currently with depression and 35 without depression indicators participated in the study, while the children were 25 preschoolers and 23 school-aged children. The mothers responded to instruments addressing depression, child behavior, parenting practices, and marital relationships. The results reveal maternal depression associated with marital relationships, positive parenting, and context variables. Maternal depression and marital relationship were found to influence externalizing problems; maternal depression, child-rearing practices, marital relationships, and the children’s behavioral repertoires influence internalizing and externalizing comorbidities; and none of the independent variables influenced the occurrence of internalizing problems.
Material flow analysis and life cycle assessment of solid waste management in urban green areas, Thailand
Authors: Thushari Indika , Vicheanteab Juckrit , Janjaroen Dao
Published: September 2020

This study presents solid waste management planning in an urban green area, Bangkok, Thailand based on the material flow analysis (MFA) and life cycle assessment (LCA). Global warming potential (GWP) of four scenarios for handling solid waste generated in Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park, 2018 was assessed concerning the different ratios of waste recycling, composting, incineration, and landfilling. The results show that alternative systems proposed will result in lower GWP than the existing waste management strategy. The MFA results reveal that the final weights of solid waste ending up in a landfill are 98.8, 101.9, 68.2, and 44.8 t yr− 1 for scenarios 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Increased rates of landfill diversion by increased recycling, composting, and incineration decreased the quantity of solid waste disposed to the landfill and improved the environmental profile of the park waste management system. The LCA results found landfilling to be the dominant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) burdens, while waste recycling was found to result in the reduction of GHG. The results highlight that the use of MFA and LCA as a combined tool to evaluate the environmental performance of solid waste management systems provides valuable information for policy and decision-makers.
Diaphragmatic ultrasound and pulmonary functions evaluation in thyroid patients: a case-control study
Authors: Eltrawy Heba H. , Ahmad Inass Hassan , Elhussieny Fatma Mohamed , Nassib Sherief Abdullah
Published: September 2020

Background

Dyspnea is a frequent symptom among patients with thyroid disorders. However, its actual causative mechanism is not clear. The diaphragm is the main inspiratory muscle and contraction of the diaphragm is essential for breathing, so any disorder that interferes with contractile muscle function can cause diaphragm dysfunction which is associated with dyspnea. The objective of study is to assess the effect of thyroid disorders on diaphragm excursion and thickness.

Results

Diaphragmatic excursion during tidal, deep, and sniff respiration were significantly decreased in patients with thyroid disorder in comparison to control and significantly decreased in hypothyroid patients (right tidal 1.42 ± 0.29, right deep respiration 5.07 ± 0.72, and sniff 2.15 ± 0.26 cm) than hyperthyroid patients (right tidal 1.61 ± 0.34, right deep respiration 5.63 ± 0.50, and sniff 2.67 ± 0.27 cm) and than the control group (right tidal 2.17 ± 0.27, right deep respiration 6.63 ± 0.33, right sniff 2.89 ± 0.19 cm). Diaphragmatic thickness at end tidal inspiration was significantly decreased in patients with thyroid disorder in comparison to control (p value < 0.05). There was negative correlation between diaphragmatic excursion and duration of disease.

Conclusion

Diaphragmatic excursion and thickness are affected in hypothyroidism compared to hyperthyroidism and control groups. There is significant negative correlation between diaphragmatic excursion and duration of disease in patients’ group. Respiratory symptoms are more frequent in hypothyroid patients.
Atorvastatin Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as a Promising Approach for Dermal Delivery and an Anti-inflammatory Agent
Authors: Shahraeini Seyed Sadegh , Akbari Jafar , Saeedi Majid , Morteza-Semnani Katayoun , Abootorabi Shidrokh , Dehghanpoor Milad , Rostamkalaei Seyyed Sohrab , Nokhodchi Ali
Published: September 2020

In the current research, the main focus was to overcome dermal delivery problems of atorvastatin. To this end, atorvastatin solid lipid nanoparticles (ATR-SLNs) were prepared by ultra-sonication technique. The prepared SLNs had a PDI value of ≤ 0.5, and the particle size of nanoparticles was in the range 71.07 ± 1.72 to 202.07 ± 8.40 nm. It was noticed that, when the concentration of lipid in ATR-SLNs increased, the size of nanoparticles and drug entrapment efficiency were also increased. Results showed that a reduction in the HLB of surfactants used in the preparation of SLN caused an increase in the particle size, zeta potential (better stability), and drug entrapment efficiency. Despite Tween and Span are non-ionic surfactants, SLNs containing these surfactants showed a negative zeta potential, and the absolute zeta potential increased when the concentration of Span 80 was at maximum. DSC thermograms, FTIR spectra, and x-ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern showed good incorporation of ATR in the nanoparticles without any chemical interaction. In vitro skin permeation results showed that SLN containing atorvastatin was capable of enhancing the dermal delivery of atorvastatin where a higher concentration of atorvastatin can be detected in skin layers. This is a hopeful promise which could be developed for clinical studies of the dermal delivery of atorvastatin nanoparticles as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Trends in Treatment of Active, Moderate-to-Severe Thyroid Eye Disease in the United States
Authors: Wang Yao , Sharma Anu , Padnick-Silver Lissa , Francis-Sedlak Megan , Holt Robert J , Foley Colleen , Massry Guy , Douglas Raymond S
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Limited data exist on US referral/management patterns for moderate-to-severe thyroid eye disease (TED), a disabling condition.

Methods

US ophthalmologists and endocrinologists experienced in treating TED provided medical record data of moderate-to-severe TED patients and information on referral/treatment practices. Data on signs/symptoms, medical/surgical treatments, treatment response, and referral history were collected. Moderate and severe cases were stratified to interrogate treatment/practice differences.

Results

A total of 181 physicians provided data on 714 patients (49.4 ± 13.6 years old, 65% women, 14% severe disease). Reporting physicians diagnosed 55% of patients themselves and solely managed 37% of cases, with similar referral/comanagement patterns between moderate and severe cases. Topical therapies included lubricating (79%) and glucocorticoid (39%) eye drops. Systemic therapies included oral glucocorticoids (36%), IV glucocorticoids (15%), and rituximab and/or tocilizumab (12%). Few patients underwent orbital radiation (4%) or surgical intervention (4%). IV glucocorticoids (33% vs. 12%), biologics (26% vs. 10%), orbital radiation (11% vs. 3%), and ocular surgery (12% vs. 3%) were used more often in severe versus moderate cases (all P < 0.001). However, severe disease was less responsive to therapy (very responsive to therapy: 28% vs. 49%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Participating physicians were primarily responsible for just over one-half of TED diagnoses, but solely treated <40% of patients. Severe TED was treated more often with surgery and systemic immunologic therapies than moderate disease, but was less likely to respond to treatment. These results reinforce that moderate-to-severe TED is difficult to treat with an unmet medical need in the United States.
Tom Pickard and the Voices of Postwar British Poetry
Authors: Chitwood Bryan C.
Published: September 2020

This article examines the work of British poet Tom Pickard, taking the publication of his collected poems as an occasion to renew an appreciation of the voice as an analytic category for the study of twentieth-century and contemporary British poetry. Focusing on a range of Pickard’s work, especially Ballad of Jamie Allan, the article suggests that rather than view the recent history of British poetry in terms of a modernist/antimodernist dichotomy, with poets assigned to either side of that divide, scholars might productively attend to how voice, as an analytic category and a textual effect, illuminates poetic histories that transgress the bounds of received aesthetic-political narratives.
Differential oxidative costs of locomotory and genital damage in an orb-weaving spider
Authors: Mouginot Pierick , Uhl Gabriele , Toshkova Nia , Beaulieu Michaël
Published: September 2020

In animals that regularly experience tissue loss, physiological responses may have evolved to overcome the related costs. Changes in oxidative status may reflect such self-maintenance mechanisms. Here, we investigated how markers of oxidative status varied in female orb-weaving spiders (Larinia jeskovi) by mimicking two distinct types of tissue loss they may naturally encounter: damage to their locomotory system and damage to their external genital structure (scapus), as inflicted by males during copulation (external female genital mutilation). Damage to the locomotory system resulted in a significant shift in the oxidative status reflecting investment into self-maintenance. In contrast, the loss of the scapus did not result in quantitative changes of oxidative markers. This lack of a physiological response suggests negligible physiological costs of genital mutilation for female spiders. A possible cost of genital mutilation may be preventing females from remating with other males.