bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of serum anti-Mullerian hormone levels in women with Hashimoto thyroiditis in the reproductive age
Authors: Unsal Ilknur Ozturk , Hepsen Sema , Akhanli Pinar , Calapkulu Murat , Sencar Muhammed Erkam , Yalcindag Ali , Cakal Erman
Published: August 2020

Background

Autoimmune thyroid disease in women is associated with subfertility and early pregnancy loss, and patients with primary ovarian insufficiency have a high prevalence of thyroid autoimmune disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between Hashimoto thyroiditis and ovarian reserve.
Methods

Levels of serum thyroid stimulating hormones, thyroid autoantibodies, and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) were measured in women with Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) and a healthy control group between 2018 and 2019.
Result

Evaluation was made of 108 premenopausal women with Hashimoto thyroiditis. A control group was formed of 172 healthy female subjects with normal anti-thyroid antibody levels and thyroid function. Serum AMH levels were determined to be significantly lower in the HT group compared to the control group.
Conclusion

Ovarian reserve evaluated by serum AMH concentration is affected by thyroid autoimmunity independently of anti-thyroid antibodies type or titers.
Early leucine programming on protein utilization and mTOR signaling by DNA methylation in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Zhu Qiang-Sheng , Wang Jie , he shan , Liang Xu-Fang , Xie Shuang , Xiao Qian-Qian
Published: August 2020

Background: Early nutritional programming affects a series of metabolism, growth and development in mammals. Fish also exhibit the developmental plasticity by early nutritional programming. However, little is known about the effect of early amino acid programming on growth and metabolism. Methods: In the present study, zebrafish (Danio rerio) was used as the experimental animal to study whether early leucine stimulation can programmatically affect the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, growth and metabolism in the later life, and to undercover the mechanism of epigenetic regulation. Zebrafish larvas at 3 days post hatching (dph) were raised with 1.0% leucine from 3 to 13 dph during the critical developmental stage, then back to normal water for 70 days (83 dph). Results: The growth performance and crude protein content of zebrafish in the early leucine programming group were increased, and consistent with the activation of the mTOR signaling pathway and the high expression of genes involved in the metabolism of amino acid and glycolipid. Furthermore, we compared the DNA methylation profiles between the control and leucine-stimulated zebrafish, and found that the methylation levels of CG-differentially methylated regions (DMGs) and CHH-DMGs of genes involved in mTOR signaling pathway were different between the two groups. With quantitative PCR analysis, the decreased methylation levels of CG type of Growth factor receptor-bound protein 10 (Grb10), eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) and mTOR genes of mTOR signaling pathway in the leucine programming group, might contribute to the enhanced gene expression. Conclusions: The early leucine programming could improve the protein synthesis and growth, which might be attributed to the methylation of genes in mTOR pathway and the expression of genes involved in protein synthesis and glycolipid metabolism in zebrafish. These results could be beneficial for better understanding of the epigenetic regulatory mechanism of early nutritional programming.
Prolonged Exposure to Traffic-related Particulate Matter Showed Distinct Molecular Mechanisms of Lung Injury in Rats
Authors: Jheng Yu-Teng , Putri Denise Utami , Chuang Hsiao-Chi , Lee Kang-Yun , Chou Hsiu-Chu , Wang San-Yuan , Han Chia-Li
Published: August 2020

Background: Exposure to particulate matter (PM) pollution has direct impacts on the respiratory organs, yet the molecular alterations underlying PM-induced pulmonary injury remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effect of PM on lung tissues of SD rats with whole-body exposure to traffic-related PM1 (< 1 mm in aerodynamic diameter) pollutants and compared it with rats exposed to high-efficiency particulate air-filtered gaseous pollutants and clean air control for 3 and 6 months. Lung function and histological examinations as well as quantitative proteomics analysis and functional validation were performed. Results: The rats in 6-month PM1-exposed group showed significant decline in lung function by decreased forced expiratory flow and forced expiratory volume, but the histological analysis revealed an earlier lung damage evidenced by increased congestion and macrophage infiltration in 3-month PM1-exposed rat lungs. The lung tissue proteomics analysis identified 2,673 proteins which highlighted dysregulations on proteins involved in oxidative stress, cellular metabolisms, calcium signaling, inflammatory responses, and actin dynamics. The presence of fine particles specifically enhanced the oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions under sub-chronic exposure of traffic-related PM1 and suppressed the glucose metabolism and actin cytoskeleton signaling which might lead to repair failure and thus lung function decline after chronic exposure of traffic-related PM1. A detailed pathogenic mechanism was proposed to depict the temporal and dynamic molecular regulations associated with PM1-induced lung injury.Conclusion: Our study explored the earlier lung injury prior to lung function decline and proposed potential molecular features for traffic-related PM1-induced lung injury.
Comparative analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific antigens and T-cell mitogen-stimulated interferon gamma production in hemodialysis patients and healthy individuals
Authors: Park Heechul , Kim Ye Na , Park Sung-Bae , Kim Junseong , Lim Jaewon , Kim Jungho , Park Ji Young , Kim Sunghyun
Published: August 2020

Background

The incidence of Tuberculosis (TB) is higher in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis than in the general population; further, both the incidence and development of active TB from latent TB infection (LTBI) are considerably higher in patients undergoing hemodialysis than in any other group. The QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) assay is one of the most commonly used interferon gamma (IFN-γ) release assays (IGRAs) currently. We aim to know T-cell function of hemodialysis patients and the possible QFT false negatives.

Methods

In order to analyze the MTB-specific antigen-stimulated IFN-γ release in patients on hemodialysis, the QFT-GIT test was used in this study. A total of 84 hemodialysis patients and 52 healthy subjects were enrolled from Kosin University Gospel Hospital and Catholic University of Pusan, Busan, Republic of Korea; their whole blood samples were collected and used for the present study.

Results

The positivity results of the IGRAs in hemodialysis patients and normal subjects were 34/84 (40.4%) and 4/52 (7.6%), respectively. The mean value of MTB-specific antigen-stimulated IFN-γ in hemodialysis patients with LTBI and non-LTBI status in hemodialysis patients, healthy individuals were 1.85 IU/mL (4.44ng/mL) and 0.028 IU/mL (0.067 ng/mL) and 0.255 IU/mL (0.612 ng/mL) respectively. In addition, Of the 34 LTBI status in hemodialysis patients, 14 (41.2%) had T-cell mitogen-stimulated IFN-γ levels of 10 or less, and 20 (58.8%) had 10 or more T-cell mitogen-stimulated IFN-γ. Moreover, Of the 49 non-LTBI status in hemodialysis patients, 19 (38.8%) had T-cell mitogen-stimulated IFN-γ levels of 10 or less, and 30 (61.2%) showed T-cell mitogen-stimulated IFN-γ levels of 10 or more. On the other hand, there was no low level of T-cell mitogen-stimulated IFN-γ in the healthy individuals.

Conclusion

This reveals that T-cell function in hemodialysis patients was reduced as compared to the healthy individuals. Therefore, the cut-off value should be adjusted for the active TB high-risk group when using IGRA tests. The clinical manifestations of TB in patients on hemodialysis are quite non-specific, making timely diagnosis difficult, and delaying the initiation of curative treatment, delay being a major determinant of outcome.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1: A Chinese Family with a new germline mutation(c.201delC) and Detection Errors due to an Intron Mutation
Authors: Zhang Fan , Lin Xinyue , Wang Xiaoli , Yu Xiaohui
Published: August 2020

Background: Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is a hereditary cancer syndrome caused by germline mutations in the MEN1 gene located on chromosome 11q13. The three main endocrine tissues affected most frequently by tumors in MEN1 are the parathyroid (95%), enteropancreatic neuroendocrine tissues (50%), and anterior pituitary (40%). The purpose of this study was to report on a Chinese family with a new heterozygous MEN1 mutation in exon 2 [NM_130802: c.201delC (p.Ala68Profs*51) with localization to Chr11:64577381 on assembly GRCh37].Methods: A 49-year-old female patient (proband) was admitted to the hospital due to intermittent recurrent hypoglycemia symptoms. After a series of examinations, we found that she had a pancreatic tumor, parathyroid tumor, adrenal tumor, and a suspicious gastrinoma. Due to the proband’s suspicious clinical manifestations of MEN1, we performed genetic detection for the proband and her immediate family members. We also used multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) to rule out homozygous mutations caused by a deletion of gene fragments in the proband and her immediate family members.Results: A new MEN1 germline mutation [c.201delC (p.Ala68Profs*51)], which could induce MEN1, was found by the genetic test. Two of the proband’s six relatives were found by the genetic test to have the same mutations as the proband, and the proband’s sister also had the typical symptoms of MEN1. However, the first and second genetic detection results showed that they were homozygous mutations, which did not conform to Mendelian inheritance laws. The MLPA results showed that the gene deletion was absent in the MEN1. The results from the third genetic detection (redesigned the primer) showed that they were a heterozygous mutation. The detection errors were due to an intron mutation.Conclusions: A new germline mutation that induced MEN1, which can improve the identification of clinical phenotypes of MEN1 and the early diagnosis of the disease, was identified. An intron mutation may lead to incorrect results of homozygous, which is incompatible with Mendelian genetic law. Redesigning the primers for gene detection could avoid this situation.
A Newfangled Coordinated Ruthenium Phloretin Complex Reprogramming Breast Cancer Microenvironment Interceded by Modulation of PI3K/Akt/Mtor/VEGF Pathway and Modifying The Antioxidant Status Correlated With Intensified Apoptotic Events.
Authors: He Chenyang , Wang Junli , Chakraborty Tania , Roy Souvik
Published: August 2020

Background: Our recent investigation directed to synthesize and characterize a novel ruthenium– phloretin complex accompanied by the study of antioxidant in addition to DNA binding capabilities, and to determine the chemotherapeutic activity against breast carcinoma in vitro and in vivo approach.Methods: Ruthenium–phloretin complex was synthesized and characterized using various spectroscopic methods. The complex was further investigated to determine its efficacy in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human cancer cell lines and finally in an in vivo model of DMBA induced mammary carcinogenesis in ratsResults: Our studies confirm that the chelation of the metal and ligand was materialize by the 3-OH and 9-OH functional groups of the ligand and the complex is found crystalline and was capable of intercalating with CT-DNA. The complex was capable of reducing cellular propagation and initiate apoptotic events in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cell lines. Additionally, ruthenium-phloretin complex could modulate p53 intervene apoptosis in the breast carcinoma, initiated by the intrinsic apoptotic trail facilitated by the Bcl2 and Bax and at the same time down regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway coupled with MMP9 regulated tumor invasive pathways.Conclusions: Ruthenium-phloretin chemotherapy could interrupt, revoke or suspend the succession of breast carcinoma by altering intrinsic apoptosis along with the antiangiogenic pathway, hence fulfilling the role of a prospective candidate in cancer chemotherapeutics in the in the near future.
Effect of Desiccation and Storage Environment on Longevity of Ehretia Cymosa Thonn. Seeds.
Authors: Angaine Peter Murithi , Ndungú Stephen Muriithi , Onyango Alice Adongo , Owino Jesse Omondi
Published: August 2020

Background: Globally, forestry faces challenges in the availability of seeds due to limited knowledge on seed handling of various species. Forestry seeds are constantly being reviewed and classified as either recalcitrant, intermediate, or orthodox based on their storage behavior. It is essential to understand the tree seed storage behavior to maintain seed viability and thus minimize seed losses. There is scanty literature combining factors of seed moisture content (6%, 9%, 12%, 15%, and 20%), seed storage temperature (20oC, 5oC and -20oC), seed storage duration (1, 4, 9 and 12 months), and germination in different sites with varying environmental variables. Ehretia cymosa is important in the Afromontane forestry landscape as a medicinal, rehabilitation, and conservation species. This study conducted desiccation and storage studies and their influence on the viability of E. cymosa seeds. The study sought to determine the optimum conditions for the storage of Ehretia cymosa that maintains viability. Results: This study observed that E. cymosa dried to seed moisture content of 6%, stored for 12 months at 20oC and sown in the laboratory had the highest germination performance (27.6 ± 3.18%) (p<0.05). Conclusion: This confirms that E.cymosa seeds exhibit orthodox storage behavior. The authors recommend longer storage studies (>12months) to determine the actual longevity of the seeds of this species. The significance of these results would be useful for foresters and farmers that would need to use this species for various purposes.
Prognostic Impact of Admission High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients With and Without Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lucci Claudia , Cosentino Nicola , Genovese Stefano , Campodonico Jeness , Milazzo Valentina , De Metrio Monica , Rondinelli Maurizio , Riggio Daniela , Biondi Maria Luisa , Rubino Mara , Celentano Katia , Bonomi Alice , Capra Nicolò , Veglia Fabrizio , Agostoni Piergiuseppe , Bartorelli Antonio , Marenzi Giancarlo
Published: August 2020

Background: High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) elevation frequently occurs in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and is associated with adverse outcomes. Since diabetes mellitus (DM) is characterized by an underlying chronic inflammation, hs-CRP may have a different prognostic power in AMI patients with and without DM. Methods: We prospectively included 2,064 AMI patients; hs-CRP was measured at hospital admission. Patients were grouped according to hs-CRP quartiles and DM status. The primary endpoint was a composite of in-hospital mortality, cardiogenic shock, and acute pulmonary edema. Two-year all-cause mortality was the secondary endpoint. Results: Twenty-six percent (n=548) of patients had DM and they had higher hs-CRP levels than non-DM patients (5.32 vs. 3.24 mg/L; P<0.0001). The primary endpoint incidence in the overall population (7%, 9%, 13%, 22%; P for trend <0.0001), in DM (14%, 9%, 21%, 27%; P=0.0001), and non-DM (5%, 8%, 10%, 19%; P<0.0001) patients increased in parallel with hs-CRP quartiles. The adjusted risk of the primary endpoint increased in parallel with hs-CRP quartiles in DM and non-DM patients but this relationship was less evident in DM patients. In the overall population, the adjusted OR of the primary endpoint associated with an hs-CRP value >2 mg/L was 2.10 (95% CI 1.46-3.00). For the same risk, hs-CRP was 7 and 2 mg/L in patients with and without DM. A similar behavior was observed for the secondary endpoint when the HR associated with an hs-CRP value >2 mg/L found in the overall population was 2.25 (95% CI 1.57-3.22). For the same risk, hs-CRP was 8 and 1.5 mg/L in DM and non-DM patients. Conclusions: This study shows that hs-CRP predicts in-hospital outcome and two-year mortality in AMI patients with and without DM. However, in DM patients, the same risk of developing events as in non-DM patients is associated to higher hs-CRP levels.
Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio as a Potential Inflammatory Marker Predicting the Effect of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Stage II Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Fu Yu , Chen Xiaowan , Song Yongxi , Huang Xuanzhang , Chen Quan , Lv Xinger , Gao Peng , Wang Zhenning
Published: August 2020

Background: The effect of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) patients has been in controversy for a long time. Our study aimed to investigate the ability of several common inflammatory markers to predict the effect of chemotherapy in stage II CRC patients, finding an effective method for clinicians to distinguish chemotherapy-effective population.Methods: A total of 708 stage II CRC patients who underwent radical resection (R0) were included. The Subpopulation Treatment Effect Pattern Plot (STEPP) analysis was used to determine the optimal inflammatory marker and cut-off value. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was performed to balance discrepancy of the characteristics between the chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy group. Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test was used to calculate the restricted mean survival time (RMST) and compare survival difference between chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy patients. Univariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to calculate Hazard Ratio (HR). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to investigate the interaction between the effect of chemotherapy and the clinicopathological characteristics.Results: Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) was chosen as the predictive marker with a cut-off value of 130 according to STEPP. For all the 708 patients, chemotherapy patients had a better OS than non-chemotherapy patients (p=0.007). Besides, the results of subgroup analysis interpreted that PLR was strongly associated with the effect of chemotherapy. In the high-PLR subgroup (PLR>130), chemotherapy patients obtained a significantly better survival benefit than non-chemotherapy patients (p＜0.001). However, in the low PLR subgroup (PLR≤130), such difference of survival benefit between chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy patients was not found (p=0.956). Multivariate Cox survival analysis also found that PLR was the only characteristic associated with the effect of chemotherapy (p interaction=0.027) among all the 11 clinicopathological characteristics. After PSM, no significant difference in OS was found between the chemotherapy group and the non-chemotherapy group (p=0.058). PLR was still the only characteristic associated with the effect of chemotherapy (p interaction=0.038).Conclusions: PLR can be used as an effective marker to predict the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II CRC patients.
The role of mixed vibronic Qy-Qx bands in the light-harvesting dynamics of the major antenna complex, LHCII
Authors: Arsenault Eric , Yoneda Yusuke , Iwai Masakazu , Niyogi Krishna , Fleming Graham
Published: August 2020

The importance of green light for driving natural photosynthesis has long been underappreciated, however, under the presence of strong illumination, green light actually drives photosynthesis more efficiently than red light. This green light is absorbed by mixed vibronic Qy-Qx states, arising from chlorophyll (Chl)-Chl interactions, although almost nothing is known about these states. Here, we employ polarization-dependent two-dimensional electronic-vibrational spectroscopy to study the origin and dynamics of the mixed vibronic Qy-Qx states of light-harvesting complex II. We show the states in this region dominantly arise from Chl b and demonstrate how it is possible to distinguish between the degree of vibronic Qy versus Qx character. We find that the dynamics for states of predominately Chl b Qy versus Chl b Qx character are markedly different, as excitation persists for significantly longer in the Qx states and there is an oscillatory component to the Qx dynamics, which will be discussed. Our findings demonstrate the central role of electronic-nuclear mixing in efficient light-harvesting and the different functionalities of Chl a and Chl b.
Preoperative Chronic Pain as a Risk Factor for Early Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction in Elderly Patients Undergoing Hip Joint Replacement Surgery: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Huai Xiaorong , Jiao Yingfu , Gu Xiyao , Zhu Huichen , Chen Lingke , Lu Bingwei , Fan Yichen , Yu Weifeng , Su Diansan , Xie Hong
Published: August 2020

Background: Although there is high overall success rate of major joint replacement surgery, postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a very common complication after surgery, increasing morbidity and mortality. Identifying POCD risk factors would be helpful to prevent and decrease the occurrence of POCD. We hypothesised that preoperative chronic pain increases the risk of POCD.Methods: A single-centre, observational, prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2018 to March 2020. All consecutive elderly patients (>65 years) who underwent elective hemiarthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty with general anaesthesia by the same surgeon were enrolled. The patients underwent neuropsychological testing preoperatively and at 7 days and 2 months postoperatively. To determine POCD, a nonsurgical control group was recruited from the general community.Results: Of the 141 patients who finished the neuropsychological testing 7 days after surgery, 61 (43.2%) had preoperative chronic pain. Of the 61 patients, 17 (27.9%) developed POCD; of the 79 patients with no chronic pain, 10 (12.7%) had developed POCD by 7 days after surgery. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified preoperative chronic pain as a risk factor of POCD assessed 7 days after surgery (odds ratio, 3.335; p = 0.022). There was no significant difference in the POCD incidence 2 months after surgery between patients with and without preoperative chronic pain.Conclusions: Preoperative chronic pain was a risk factor of developing POCD within 7 days after surgery in elderly patients following hip joint replacement surgery.Clinical trial registration: NCT03393676. Registered 10 January 2018, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocolsid=S0006RLL&selectaction=Edit&uid=U0003WPM&ts=79&cx=llo35x
Penetrating Atheromatous Ulcer As A Precursor Of Aortic Dissection: A Case Report
Authors: Shah Priya , Polan Erik
Published: August 2020

Background: Acute aortic syndromes include a range of life-threatening conditions with the most familiar entity being aortic dissection. However, variants of aortic dissection also include intimal tear without hematoma, aortic intramural hematoma, and lastly penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU), which will be the focus of this case report. Most PAUs are located in the descending thoracic aorta (85-95%), but they can also occur in the ascending aorta or arch as in the current case. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 77 year old male who presented with chief complaint of intermittent right-handed weakness associated with no numbness or mental status changes. Patient was admitted for stroke workup with unrevealing findings on CT (computed tomography) for acute abnormalities or any hemodynamically significant stenosis on carotid ultrasound. CT angiogram of head/neck revealed a penetrating aortic ulcer of the lateral aspect of the mid to distal ascending aorta. Patient was then transferred for further evaluation to a center of higher level care for further management. Conclusions: Patient was evaluated for surgical repair of penetrating ascending aortic ulcer. Patient underwent serial imaging throughout hospital course which showed grossly similar findings to prior examination and thus no surgical intervention was needed at that time. Patient was recommended to have follow up CT scan in one month to monitor progression of aortic ulcer, however patient lost to follow-up thereafter. Penetrating aortic ulcers are rarely located in the ascending aorta and are considered precursors of life-threatening aortic dissections.
Value of contrast-enhanced CT based radiomic machine learning algorithm in differentiating gastrointestinal stromal tumors with KIT exon 11 mutation: a two-center study
Authors: Liu Bo , Wang Hexiang , Liu Shunli , Yang Shifeng , Song Yancheng , Liu Hao , Zheng Ziwen , Zhao Junjiang , Hou Feng , Jiao Xuelong , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2020

Background Knowing the genetic phenotype of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is essential for patients who receive therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.Methods We enrolled 106 patients (80 in the training set, 26 in the validation set) with clinicopathologically confirmed GISTs from two centers. Preoperative and postoperative clinical characteristics were selected and analyzed to construct the clinical model. Arterial phase (A-phase), venous phase (V-phase), delayed phase (D-phase), and combined radiomics algorithms were generated from the training set based on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT) images. Various radiomics feature selection methods were used, namely least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO); minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR); and generalized linear model (GLM) as a machine-learning classifier. Independent predictive factors were determined to construct preoperative and postoperative radiomics nomograms by multivariate logistic regression analysis. The performances of the clinical model, radiomics algorithm, and radiomics nomogram in distinguishing GISTs with the KIT exon 11 mutation were evaluated by area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC).Results The combined radiomics algorithm was found to be the best prediction model for differentiating the expression status of the KIT exon 11 mutation (AUC = 0.836; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.640–0.951) in the validation set. The clinical model, and preoperative and postoperative radiomics nomograms had AUCs of 0.606 (95% CI, 0.397–0.790), 0.715 (95% CI, 0.506–0.873), and 0.679 (95% CI, 0.468–0.847), respectively, with the validation set.Conclusion The radiomics algorithm could distinguish GISTs with the KIT exon 11 mutation based on CE-CT images and could potentially be used for selective genetic analysis to support the precision medicine of GISTs.
The Application of Laparoscopy Combined With Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging Technique for Hepatic Cystic Echinococcosis
Authors: Li Yupeng , Ma Zhigang , Li Zhide , Tuxun Tuerhongjiang , Meng Yuan , Chen Xiong
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND: With the mature application of laparoscopy in hepatobiliary surgery, laparoscopic treatment of hepatic cystic echinococcosis(CE) has made certain progress. But, due to the inherent limitations of laparoscopy and the growth characteristics of cystic echinococcosis, distinguishing the boundary between cystic lesion and normal hepatic parenchyma is pivotal importance for successful sugery. Indocyanine green(ICG) fluorescence imaging technology can view the boundary of lesion and normal tissue during the treatment of hepatic cystic echinococcosis. Applied laparoscopy combined with ICG fluorescence imaging technique for hepatic cystic echinococcosis may be an effective surgical strategy.AIM: To report and discuss single center experience of indocyanine green fluorescence imaging during laparoscopic management of hepatic cystic echinococcosis patients.METHODS: The clinical data contained nine patients with hepatic cystic echinococcosis who underwent laparoscopic surgery with indocyanine green fluorescence imaging technique in authors’ institution from December 2018 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Indocyanine green was administered intravenously three days prior to surgery. The fluorescence acquisition system for real-time imaging was used during the surgery and the patients were followed up after surgery. RESULTS: Of reported nine patients, six are male and the remaining three are female. The average age is (36.5 ± 7.6) years with their body weight (70.6 ± 7.2) kg. For all subjects, surgical procedures were performed under laparoscopy with indocyanine green fluorescence system. This technique showed the clear boundary of the hepatic cyst with normal liver paranchyma. Total cystectomy in six patients, subtotal cystectomy in two patients and partial hepatectomy in one patient were performed repectively. The average operation time was 228 ± 54 minutes, blood loss 206.3 ± 120.8 ml. Neither blood transfusion nor post-operative complication was experienced. The average abdominal drainage time was 3.4 ± 0.9 days with hospital stay 5.7 ± 2.1 days. During the 6-12 months follow-up period, neither recurrence nor intraperitoneal implantation was found.CONCLUSION: Applied laparoscopy combined with ICG fluorescence imaging technique for hepatic cystic echinococcosis is safe and feasible. Enhanced boundary image can assist surgeons to complete radical resection and reduce complications.
Initial result of unselective implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery in a low-volume bariatric unit: a feasibility and safety study
Authors: Lo Hung Chieh , Chiu Wen-Kuan , Chiu Yu-Chi , Hsu An-Chih , Tai Yu-Ting
Published: August 2020

Background The feasibility and safety of unselectively applying an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol in a low-volume bariatric unit were determined.Material and methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing bariatric surgeries under a single surgeon between January 2015 and December 2018. Our ERAS protocol initiated in January 2017 with all patients enrolled unselectively. For those receiving non-primary procedures or with BMI < 32.5 kg/m2 were excluded from this analysis. Demographic features and all 30-day outcome measures, including operation time, length of stay (LOS), ER visits, readmissions, reoperations were collected and compared between the ERAS (2017–2018) and control (2015–2016) groups.Results One hundred eighty-four consecutive patients underwent bariatric surgeries during the study period. Of those fulfilling the inclusion criteria, 62 (40.8%) were treated before and 90 (59.2%) were treated after ERAS implementation. No differences in baseline demographics were found between the groups except ERAS group had more Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedures (58.9% vs. 12.9%). A markedly reduced operation time (101 min vs. 147 min; p < 0.001) and shortened LOS (2.6 days vs. 3.3 days; p < 0.001) were observed, with significantly more ERAS patients achieving POD1 discharge (45.6% vs. 1.6%; p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in terms of ER visits (2.2% vs. 8%), readmissions (1.1% vs. 4.8%) or total complication rates between the groups (5.5% vs. 9.7%).Conclusion Unselective ERAS implementation in low-volume units is feasible and safe, with significantly reduced operation times and a shortened LOS without increased complications.
Biocatalytic Hybrid Nanoparticles for Degassing and Stabilization of Single Electron Transfer-Living Radical Polymerization in Pickering emulsions
Authors: Guerra Adrian Moreno , Sipponen Mika
Published: August 2020

Synthetic polymers are indispensable in many different applications, but there is a growing need for green processes and natural surfactants for emulsion polymerization. The use of solid particles to stabilize Pickering emulsions is a particularly attractive avenue, but oxygen sensitivity has remained a formidable challenge in controlled polymerization reactions. Here we show that lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) coated with chitosan and glucose oxidase (GOx) enable efficient stabilization of Pickering emulsion and in situ enzymatic degassing of single electron transfer-living radical polymerization (SET-LRP) without extraneous hydrogen peroxide scavengers. The resulting latex dispersions can be purified by aqueous extraction or used to obtain polymer nanocomposites containing uniformly dispersed LNPs. The polymers exhibit high chain-end fidelity that allows for production of a series of well-defined block copolymers as a viable route to more complex architectures.
Visceral Adiposity Index is Associated With Silent Brain Infarct in a Healthy Population
Authors: Nam Ki-Woong , Kwon Hyung-Min , Jeong Han-Yeong , Park Jin-Ho , Kwon Hyuktae , Jeong Su-Min
Published: August 2020

Background
Visceral adiposity index (VAI) is a novel indicator of the mass and function of visceral adipose tissue, and it has been associated with metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and subclinical atherosclerosis; however, there is limited information about its association with cerebrovascular diseases, especially in subclinical pathology. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between VAI and silent brain infarct (SBI) in a healthy population.
Methods
We evaluated a consecutive series of healthy volunteers over the age of 40 between January 2006 and December 2013. SBI was defined as an asymptomatic, well-defined lesion with a diameter ≥ 3 mm with the same signal characteristics as the cerebrospinal fluid on T1- or T2 weighted images. VAI was calculated using sex-specific equations as described in previous studies, and was based on a number of parameters including waist circumference, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and body mass index.
Results
A total of 2,596 subjects were evaluated (mean age 56y, male sex: 54%), and SBI was found in 218 (8%) participants. In multivariable analysis, VAI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03–1.66; P = 0.030) remained a significant predictor of SBI after adjustment for confounders. On the other hand, visceral adipose tissue area on computed tomography did not show any statistical significance with SBI. The close relationship between VAI and SBI was prominent only in females (aOR = 1.44; 95% CI = 1.00-2.07; P = 0.048). In the evaluation between VAI and the burden of SBI, VAI showed a positive dose-response relationship with the number of SBI lesions (P for trend = 0.037).
Conclusions
High VAI was associated with a higher prevalence and burden of SBI in a neurologically healthy population, especially in females. Our findings indicate that VAI could be used as a simple and convenient predictor for SBI.
Palladium-catalyzed allene synthesis enabled by β-hydrogen elimination from sp2-carbon
Authors: Zhang Ge , Song Yi-Kang , Zhang Fang , Xue Ze-Jian , Li Meng-Yao , Zhang Gui-Shan , Zhu Bin-Bin , Wei Jing , Li Chunsen , Feng Chen-Guo , Lin Guo-Qiang
Published: August 2020

The rational design based on a deep understanding of the present reaction mechanism is an important, viable approach to discover new organic transformations. β-Hydrogen elimination from palladium complexes is an fundamental reaction in palladium catalysis. Normally, the eliminated β-hydrogen has to be attached to a sp3-carbon. We envision that the hydrogen elimination from sp2-carbon is possible by using delicately planed reaction systems, which may offer a new strategy for the preparation of allenes. With this consideration in mind, the palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling of 2,2-diarylvinyl bromides with diazo compounds was realized with a β-vinylic hydrogen elimination from allylic palladium intermediate as the key step. Both aryl diazo carbonyl compounds and N-tosylhydrazones are competent carbene precursors in this reaction. The reaction mechanism was explored by control experiments, KIE studies and DFT calculations
Overweight and Aging Increase the Risk of Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery Independently of Left Atrial Size and Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Stefano Pier Luigi , Bugetti Marco , Monaco Guido Del , Popescu Gloria , Pieragnoli Paolo , Ricciardi Giuseppe , Perrotta Laura , Checchi Luca , Rondine Roberto , Bevilacqua Sergio , Marchionni Niccolò , Michelucci Antonio
Published: August 2020

Background: Body mass index (BMI), age, left atrium (LA) dimensions and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) have been linked to post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after cardiac surgery. The aim was to better define the role of these risk factors. Methods: This study evaluated 249 patients (without prior atrial dysrhythmia) undergoing cardiac or aortic surgery . Prior to surgery the following data were collected: age (yrs), BMI (kg/m2), LA diameter (cm), LA area (cm2), LVEF (%), the presence of arterial hypertension (AH) and of diabetes, tyroid stimulating hormone (TSH, mU/L) and, creatinine (mg/dL). Results: Patients with (n. 127, 51%) and without POAF (n. 122, 49%) were compared. No difference was observed for sex, LA diameter, LA area, LVEF, TSH and diabetes. Instead, patients with PoAF had higher values of age, BMI, creatinine and a greater prevalence of AH and Bentall procedures. Multivariable analysis showed that the only independent predictors of PoAF were: age (OR = 1,05, CI 95% 1,025-1,076, p= 0,0001) and BMI (OR=1,095, CI 95% 1,015-1,182, p= 0,019). Conclusions: Results suggest that advanced age and a higher value of BMI are strong risk factors for POAF in patients without previous AF. This even in the presence of comparable LA dimensions and LVEF.
Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus-GAV-derived vsiRNAs Involved in the Production of Wheat Leaf Yellowing Symptoms by Targeting Chlorophyll Synthase
Authors: Shen Chuan , Wei Caiyan , Li Jingyuan , Zhang Xudong , Zhong Qinrong , Li Yue , Bai Bixin , Wu Yunfeng
Published: August 2020

Background: Wheat yellow dwarf virus disease was infected by barley yellow dwarf virus, caused leaf yellowing and dwarfing symptoms in wheat, posing a serious threat to China's food production. Infection of plant viruses can produce a large number of vsiRNAs, which can target host transcripts for symptoms development. However, few studies were conducted to explore the role of vsiRNAs in the interaction between BYDV-GAV and host wheat plants.Methods: In this study, small RNA sequencing was conducted to profile the vsiRNAs in BYDV-GAV infected wheat plants. The putative targets of vsiRNAs were predicted by bioinformatics software. RT-qPCR and VIGS were used to identify the function of selected target transcripts. To confirm the interaction between vsiRNA and the target, 5’RACE was performed to analyze the specific cleavage sites. Results: From the sequencing data, we obtained a total of 11,384 detected vsiRNAs. The length distribution of these vsiRNAs mostly was 21- and 22-nt along with A/U biased at the 5 ' -terminal. We also found the production region of vsiRNAs had no strand polarity. The vsiRNAs were predicted to target 23,719 wheat transcripts. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that these targets mostly involved in cell parts and catalytic activity and plant-pathogen interaction. The results of RT-qPCR indicted that most chloroplast-related genes showed down-regulation in BYDV-GAV infected wheat plants. Silencing of a chlorophyll synthase caused leaf yellowing that was similar to the symptom of BYDV-GAV inoculated wheat plants. A vsiRNA from an overlap region of BYDV-GAV MP and CP was found that could target the chlorophyll synthase for gene silencing. Then, 5’RACE validated that vsiRNA8856 could cleavage the chlorophyll synthase transcript in a sequence-specific manner.Conclusion: This is the first report demonstrating that BYDV-GAV-derived vsiRNAs can target wheat transcripts for symptom development, and this study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying leaf yellowing upon viral infection.
AKT-mediated phosphorylation of Sox9 induces Sox10 transcription in a murine model of HER2-positive breast cancer.
Authors: Al-Zahrani Khalid N. , Abou-Hamad John , Labreche Cedrik , Garland Brennan , Sabourin Luc
Published: August 2020

Background: Approximately 5-10% of HER2-positive breast cancers can be defined by low expression of the Ste20-like kinase, SLK, and high expression of SOX10. Our lab has observed that genetic deletion of SLK results in the induction of Sox10 and significantly accelerates tumor initiation in a HER2-induced mammary tumor model. However, the mechanism responsible for the induction of SOX10 gene expression in this context remains unknown.Methods: Using tumor derived cell lines from MMTV-Neu mice lacking SLK and biochemical approaches, we have characterized the signaling mechanisms and relevant DNA elements driving Sox10 expression. Results: Biochemical and genetic analyses of the SOX10 regulatory region in SLK-deficient mammary tumor cells show that Sox10 expression is dependent on a novel -7kb enhancer that harbors three SoxE binding sites. ChIP analyses demonstrate that Sox9 is bound to those elements in vivo. Our data show that AKT can directly phosphorylate Sox9 in vitro at serine 181 and that AKT inhibition blocks Sox9 phosphorylation and Sox10 expression in SLK(-/-) tumor cells. AKT-mediated Sox9 phosphorylation increases its transcriptional activity on the Sox10 -7kb enhancer without altering its DNA binding activity. Interestingly, analysis of murine and human mammary tumors reveals a direct correlation between the levels of active phospho-Sox9 S181 and Sox10 expression.Conclusions: Our results have identified a novel Sox10 enhancer and validated Sox9 as direct target for AKT. As Sox10 is a biomarker for triple negative breast cancers (TNBC), these findings might have major implications in the targeting and treatment of those cancers.
The Role and Meaning of Spirituality in Older People Living With Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: RELJIĆ NATAŠA MLINAR , FEKONJA ZVONKA , KMETEC SERGEJ , PLESNIČAR BLANKA KORES , TIMMINS FIONA , PAJNKIHAR MAJDA
Published: August 2020

Background: Spiritual care is a component of holistic nursing care, and it is a crucial element in providing person-centred care of older people living with dementia. The review aimed to find a deeper meaning and provide a profound interpretation of the role of spirituality from the perspective of older people living with dementia.Methods: The systematic review was conducted using Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Four databases: CINAHL, PubMed, Science Direct, EBSCO host and reference lists were searched for studies published by February 2020. The Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument were used to assess the quality of studies, and the data were synthesised using thematic analysis. Results: Ten studies were included in the systematic review. Two main themes: (1) Spirituality as an inner source of power and (2) Spirituality as connectedness described the role and meaning of spirituality in older people living with dementia. Findings show the importance of spirituality as an inner source which gives people with dementia strength in facing dementia and also highlighted the role and meaning of connectedness with self, others and God. Relationships with family and the community is an essential reflection of spiritual life and represent a source of incentive and joy for older people with dementia.Conclusion: These findings provide new insights based on the qualitative perspective of older people living with dementia. This review offers nursing staff a broader and more in-depth insight into the role and meaning of spirituality as experienced by older people living with dementia and thus encourage the implementation of spiritual care as an integral part of providing holistic person-centred care.
Virulence Differences in Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae between Isolates with Multi-Locus Sequence Type (MLST)-11 and Serotype K1 or K2 Strains
Authors: Wang Tsui-Chin , Lin Jung-Chung , Chang Jen-Chang , Hiaso Ya-Wen , Wang Ching-Hsun , Chiu Sheng-Kung , Fung Chang-Phone , Chang Feng-Yee , Siu L. Kristopher
Published: August 2020

Background: Two different types of hypervirulent K. pneumoniae (HvKp), including MLST-11 or serotype K1/K2 strains, have been frequently described in recent studies. Although these two types of strains were described as HvKp, their virulence was not compared. In this study, an in vitro and in vivo approach was used to assess differences in virulence.Materials and Methods: A total of nine isolates, including one strain of serotype K1 isolate, two strains of serotype K2 isolates and six strains of ST11 isolates, were selected for this study. Phenotypic tests of virulence and associated genes were performed by string test, PCR, and in vitro models of serum resistance and phagocytosis.Results: Although serotype K2 strains and ST11 isolates had similar virulence gene profiles, the ST11 isolates showed less serum and phagocytic resistance than did serotype K1/K2 isolates. The mouse lethality test revealed that all 11 ST isolates were unable to cause lethality, even with > 107 CFU, while one serotype K1 and two serotype K2 showed an LD50 of £ 102 CFU. Aerobactin (or capsule knockout mutants) exhibited a decline in LD50 compared to the parental strain, while capsule mutants showed a more significant decrease in LD50.Conclusion: Since there was a significant difference in virulence levels between the two types of HvKp when assessed by in vitro and in vivo animal models, the designation "HvKp" may be a better term based on animal studies and to avoid confusion. Virulence and nonvirulence could be analysed in a relative manner, especially in comparison studies.
Drone-Drone Collisions Over New York City
Authors: Walbridge Edward
Published: August 2020

Delivery of packages by drones to homes and workplaces is faster and cheaper than delivery by van and hence has significant potential. That potential can only be realized if delivery by drones is safe. In particular, such drones must not pose a threat from in-air drone-drone collisions. To determine how serious the drone collision problem might be, we: 1) focus on a situation where they would be maximized, New York City, and 2) investigate the “do nothing” alternative, in which the drones do nothing to avoid collisions. Such drones, lacking a collision-avoidance capability, are “dumb” drones, and will have a much higher collision rate than “smart” drones, which do have that capability and will ultimately be deployed. The do nothing alternative is useful for determining the extent to which a collision-avoidance capability is needed. The dumb drone collision rate is found to be unacceptably high. Actual smart drones to be ultimately deployed must therefore have a highly effective collision-avoidance capability to bring collision rates close to zero. The needed effectiveness is quantified.