bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathologic Analysis of Chondroblastoma in Adults: A Single-Institution Case Series
Authors: Negri Stefano , Wangsiricharoen Sintawat , Chang Leslie , Gross John , Levin Adam S. , Morris Carol D. , McCarthy Edward F. , James Aaron W.
Published: June 2020

Chondroblastoma is a rare benign tumor of immature cartilage cells that generally occurs in an epiphyseal location of skeletally immature individuals. However, a few studies have reported cases in older patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical, radiographic, and pathologic features of chondroblastoma in an adult population. The pathology archives of our institution were searched for cases of chondroblastoma diagnosed in patients ≥25 years of age. Of 14 patients identified, 8 were male and 6 were female with a median age of 34 years (range = 29-54 years). Most lesions occurred in short bones of hands and feet (N = 7, 50%), followed by the long tubular bones (N = 4, 28%). All demonstrated typical histologic features of chondroblastoma, but more extensive calcification, necrosis, and degenerative changes were also seen. At follow-up (median = 73.5 months), 2 patients (17%) had local recurrence. None had metastasis. In summary, chondroblastoma in adults tends to involve the short bones of the hands and feet and demonstrate histologic changes associated with long-standing growth of a benign tumor.
Nonclinical Safety Assessment of Zanubrutinib: A Novel Irreversible BTK Inhibitor
Authors: Zhang Cuining , Tian Baohong
Published: June 2020

Zanubrutinib an oral irreversible Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, is under development for the treatment of a variety of B-cell malignancies and has received accelerated approval by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of adult patients with mantel cell lymphoma who have received at least one prior therapy. Zanubrutinib moderately inhibited the human ether- à -go-go-related gene channel with half maximal inhibition concentration (IC50) of 9.11 µM and showed neither effects on the cardiovascular system functions in telemetry-implanted dogs nor on the respiratory and central nervous system functions in rats. No toxicologically significant changes were noted in rats and dogs at the systemic exposure ratios (area under the curve ratio between animals and humans at the therapeutic dose) up to 26- and 15-fold for 26-weeks and 39-weeks of treatment, respectively. Zanubrutinib was not genotoxic. Fertility studies showed no abnormal findings in both male and female rats at the systemic exposure ratios of up to 12-fold; embryo-fetal studies showed no fetal lethality or teratogenicity in rabbit or rat fetuses at the systemic exposure ratios of up to 25- and 16-fold, respectively, except for 0.3% to 1.5% of 2 or 3 chambered hearts in rat fetuses; pre- and postnatal developmental toxicity showed no effects in rats at the systemic exposure ratios up to 16-fold except for an increased incidence (26% to 42%) and severity of various ophthalmic lesions in treated groups compared to the concurrent control group (26%). These nonclinical study results suggest that zanubrutinib has a broad safety window and an optimal safety profile while treating patients with advanced cancers.
Efficiency of grey wolf optimization algorithm for damage detection of skeletal structures via expanded mode shapes
Authors: Ghannadi Parsa , Kourehli Seyed Sina , Noori Mohammad , Altabey Wael A
Published: June 2020

Vibration-based structural damage identification through optimization techniques has become an interesting research topic in recent years. Dynamic characteristics such as frequencies and mode shapes are used to construct the objective function. The objective functions based on only frequencies are not very sensitive to damage in large structures. However, objective functions based on both mode shapes and frequencies are very effective. In real measurement condition, the number of installed sensors is limited, and there are no economic reasons for measuring the mode shapes at all degrees of freedom. In this kind of circumstances, mode expansion methods are used to address the incompleteness of mode shapes. In this article, the system equivalent reduction and expansion process is applied to determine the unmeasured mode shapes. Two experimental examples including a cantilever beam and a truss tower are investigated to show system equivalent reduction and expansion process’ efficiency in estimating unmeasured mode shapes. The results show that the technique used for expansion is influential. Damage identification is formulated as an optimization problem, and the residual force vector based on expanded mode shapes is considered as an objective function. In order to minimize the objective function, grey wolf optimization and Harris hawks optimization are used. Numerical studies on a 56-bar dome space truss and experimental validation on a steel frame are performed to demonstrate the efficiency of the developed approach. Both numerical and experimental results indicate that the combination of the grey wolf optimization and expanded mode shapes with system equivalent reduction and expansion process can provide a reliable approach for determining the severities and locations of damage of skeletal structures when it compares with those obtained by Harris hawks optimization.
Fourth Industrial Revolution, Technological Advancement and Youth Employment: A South Asian Perspective
Authors: Khatun Fahmida , Saadat Syed Yusuf
Published: June 2020

Technological advancement can displace workers with machines, but also create new jobs. Hence, at the crux of the matter lies a race between the rate of technological advancement and the pace at which educational institutions can empower workers with the right skills. For the countries of the South Asian region, generating jobs for youth will prove to be a challenge in the backdrop of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This paper investigates the impact of technological advancement on youth unemployment in the context of six South Asian countries, namely, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The results of the panel instrumental variables model estimations show that lower secondary completion rate has a negative relationship and capital–labour ratio has a positive relationship with the share of youth not in employment, education or training. However, since the magnitude of the coefficient of the lower secondary completion rate is greater than the magnitude of the coefficient of the capital–labour ratio, it is concluded that education will win the race against technology in South Asia, as long as the educational attainment rates are high enough to offset the impact of technical progress.

JEL: E24, J01, J13, J64
Structural damage detection based on variational Bayesian inference and delayed rejection adaptive Metropolis algorithm
Authors: Wang Xiaoyou , Hou Rongrong , Xia Yong , Zhou Xiaoqing
Published: June 2020

Existing studies on sparse Bayesian learning for structural damage detection usually assume that the posterior probability density functions follow standard distributions which facilitate to circumvent the intractable integration problem of the evidence by means of numerical sampling or analytical derivation. Moreover, the uncertainties of each mode are usually quantified as a common parameter to simplify the calculation. These assumptions may not be realistic in practice. This study proposes a sparse Bayesian method for structural damage detection suitable for standard and nonstandard probability distributions. The uncertainty corresponding to each mode is assumed as different. Variational Bayesian inference is developed and the posterior probability density functions of each unknown are individually derived. The parameters are found to follow the gamma distribution, whereas the distribution of the damage index cannot be directly obtained because of the nonlinear relationship in its posterior probability density function. The delayed rejection adaptive Metropolis algorithm is then adopted to generate numerical samples of the damage index. The coupled damage index and parameters in the variational Bayesian inference are successively calculated via an iterative process. A laboratory-tested frame is utilised to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results indicate that the sparse damage can be accurately detected. The proposed method has the advantage of high accuracy and broad applicability.
Multi-resolution in architecture as a design driver for additive manufacturing applications
Authors: Ladron de Guevara Manuel , Borunda Luis Ricardo , Byrne Daragh , Krishnamurti Ramesh
Published: June 2020

Additive manufacturing is evolving toward more sophisticated territory for architects and designers, mainly through the increased use of scripting tools. Recognizing this, we present a design and fabrication pipeline comprised of a class of techniques for fabrication and methods of design through discrete computational models. These support a process responsive to varied design intents: this structured workflow expands the design and fabrication space of any input shape, without having to explicitly deal with the complexity of discrete models beforehand. We discuss a multi-resolution-based methodology that incorporates discrete computational methods, spatial additive manufacturing with both robotic and commercial three-dimensional printers, as well as, a free-oriented technique. Finally, we explore the impact of computational power on design outcome, examining in-depth the concept of resolution as a design driver.
Patterns of Failure in Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas of Unknown Primary Treated With Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Dhouib Fatma , Bertaut Aurélie , Maingon Philippe , Siala Wicem , Daoud Jamel , Aubignac Léone , Lestrade Laetitia , Crehange Gilles , Vulquin Noemie
Published: June 2020

Background:

To evaluate the patterns of failure in patients treated for head and neck carcinoma of unknown primary and to discuss treatment practices concerning radiotherapy target volumes definition and dose prescription.

Methods:

Eleven patients presenting a locoregional recurrence after head and neck carcinoma of unknown primary treatment with curative-intent radiochemotherapy performed between 2007 and 2017 in the departments of radiation oncology of 2 French cancer institutes. Images of the computed tomography scan or the magnetic resonance imaging performed at the time of the recurrence were fused with those of the simulation computed tomography scan to delimit a volume corresponding to the recurrence and to define the area of relapse compared to the volumes treated.

Results:

Irradiation was unilateral in 6 cases and bilateral in 5 cases. The median time to onset of recurrence was 7.24 months (extreme 3-67.7 months). Six patients had only a neck node recurrence, 3 had a neck node and subsequent primary recurrence, and 1 had only a median subsequent primary recurrence. Only 1 patient had synchronous distance progression to local recurrence. All neck node recurrences were solitary and ipsilateral. The subsequent primary recurrences were in the oropharynx in 3 cases and in the contralateral oral cavity in one case. All neck node recurrences were into the irradiated volume. The subsequent primary recurrences were either within or in border of the irradiated volumes. The median of the mean dose, received by neck node recurrences, was 69.9 Gy and that of the mean dose, minimum dose, maximum dose, and dose received by 95% of the volume of recurrence was 66.7 Gy. For the primary relapses, the median of the mean dose was 52.1 Gy and that of the mean dose, minimum dose, maximum dose, and dose received by 95% of the volume of recurrence was 39.9 Gy.

Conclusions:

All local nodal recurrences occurred at sites that received high radiotherapy doses and doses received by sites of eventual failure did not vary significantly from sites that remain in control.
Parent–Child Interaction Therapy for Japanese Working Mother and Child With Behavioral Problems: A Single Case Study
Authors: Furuzawa Ayako , Yoshinaga Naoki , Hattori Kie
Published: June 2020

Parent–child interaction therapy (PCIT) is an empirically supported behavioral parenting intervention developed for families with young children who have significant behavior problems. In Japan, PCIT was introduced in 2008 as a parenting intervention method and later introduced to therapists. This case study reports on the detailed use of PCIT, originally developed in Western cultures, for a 5-year-old Japanese boy with behavioral problems and his mother. During the treatment, the mother successfully acquired PCIT skills in the early stages of the coach sessions that led to improvements in the child’s problematic behavior. However, especially in the later stages of the treatment, the mother was too tired/distressed to focus on the treatment, which complicated the implementation of PCIT (e.g., unable to do homework, canceled sessions). This was mainly because she was a full-time working mother who was very busy with work, housework, and child-rearing, and also had no help from her husband. Cases such as this are commonly seen in current Japanese society. In summary, this case study supported the potential effectiveness of Western-originated PCIT for Japanese families with children who have behavioral problems, and also argued that there is a need for PCIT therapists to carefully assess and address the primary caregiver’s distractions outside the session room especially when working with Japanese working mothers.
Electroencephalographic Grading of Neuronal Dysfunction in Various Etiologies of Encephalopathy
Authors: Alkhamis Fahad , Nazish Saima
Published: June 2020

Objective:

The objective of this work was to study the electroencephalographic (EEG) grading of neuronal dysfunction in encephalopathy of various etiologies and assess their association with clinical outcomes.

Subjects and Methods:

This retrospective cross-sectional study was performed between June and November 2018 at the Neurology Department of King Fahd Hospital of University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and involved a review and analysis of EEG and medical records pertaining to 222 patients in whom encephalopathy was diagnosed.

Results:

In patients suffering from encephalopathy, advanced age ( P = .01), low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores ( P = .00), and certain etiologies, namely hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) ( P = .00), septic encephalopathy ( P = .01), and other illnesses ( P = .00), were significantly associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes, whereas traumatic brain injury (TBI) ( P = .01) and GCS >7 ( P = .00) were associated with favorable outcomes. Among different etiologies, EEG grade I ( P = .02) and grade IV ( P = .04) neuronal dysfunction was significantly associated with TBI while grade III ( P = .05) and grade V ( P = .02) neuronal dysfunction was significantly associated with HIE. Grade I ( P = .03) neuronal dysfunction was mostly observed in septic encephalopathy cases, while patients suffering from other illnesses were also found to have grade I ( P = .04) and grade IV ( P = .05) neuronal dysfunction based on their EEG.

Conclusion:

EEG is being conducted routinely to determine the course and severity of various forms of encephalopathy. However, the clinical implications of EEG grading for neuronal dysfunction are largely dependent on underlying etiology and other clinical parameters, such as age and GCS score. Further larger prospective cohort studies involving other important prognostic parameters and continuous EEG monitoring are thus needed.
Evaluation of 2 Low-cost High-definition Video Systems for Venous Anastomosis
Authors: Teixeira Renan Kleber Costa , Leal Rafael A. , Sabbá Marcelo F. , Yamaki Vitor N. , Lemos Marcos V. V. , de Barros Rui S. M.
Published: June 2020

Background. A literature review of the use of video systems for magnification has suggested that so far, this novel magnification system has only been used to perform arterial anastomoses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of 2 low-cost methods of video-assisted magnification in microvascular venous anastomosis in rats. Methods. Thirty rats were randomly divided into 3 matched groups according to the magnification system used: the microscope group, with venous anastomosis performed under a microscope; the camcorder system group, with the procedures performed under a high-definition Handycam HDR-XR160; and the Photographic camera group, for which procedures were performed with an EOS Rebel T3i photographic camera. In both video system groups, a magnification system was connected to a 42-in. television by an HDMI cable. We analyzed weight, venous caliber, total surgery and anastomosis time, patency immediately and 14 days postoperatively, number of stitches, and histological analyses. Results. There were no significant differences between the groups in weight, venous caliber, or number of stitches. Anastomosis under the video systems took longer. Patency rates were similar between the groups, except for the photographic system group that has a lower patency rate at 14 days. The histological analyses were similar in all groups. Conclusion. It is possible to perform a venous anastomosis in rats through video system magnification, with a satisfactory success rate comparable with that for procedures performed under microscopes; however, the kind of video system has a great influence on the final patency.
Static and dynamic mechanical behavior and constitutive model of polyvinyl chloride elastomers for design processes of soft polymer materials
Authors: Lei Jingfa , Xuan Yan , Liu Tao , Duan Feiya , Sun Hong , Wei Zhan
Published: June 2020

Soft polymer materials are often used in shock absorption, cushioning, and so on. During the design and development process, determining the mechanical behavior and constitutive properties under static and dynamic loads is important to improve product performance. This study aims to analyze the static mechanical performance of polyvinyl chloride elastomers with different Shore hardness levels. Static and dynamic mechanical performance experiments with loading strain rates of 0.1, 1650, 2000, and 2700 s−1 were performed in polyvinyl chloride elastomers (57A, 52A, and 47A) using an electronic dynamic and static fatigue tester and an improved Split Hopkinson pressure bar. Microstructures were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that the addition of plasticizers to polyvinyl chloride promoted the crystallization of the polymer. The presence of plasticizer in the crystal also reduced crystallization. The material plasticity, elastic modulus, yield stress, and flow stress increase with increasing hardness/strain rate, whereas the hardness decreases. The mechanical behavior of polyvinyl chloride elastomers under static and dynamic loads exhibited superelastic and viscoelastic characteristics, respectively. The Mooney–Rivlin, Neo–Hookean, and Yeoh models were selected for the superelastic constitutive model, whereas the Zhu–Wang–Tang model was used for the viscoelastic one. Finally, the applicability of the model was explained. This study can provide theoretical model and method support for the design and development of soft polymer materials.
Satellite glial cells in sensory ganglia express functional transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 that is sensitized in neuropathic and inflammatory pain
Authors: Shin Seung Min , Itson-Zoske Brandon , Cai Yongsong , Qiu Chensheng , Pan Bin , Stucky Cheryl L , Hogan Quinn H , Yu Hongwei
Published: June 2020

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is well documented as an important molecule in pain hypersensitivity following inflammation and nerve injury and in many other cellular biological processes. Here, we show that TRPA1 is expressed not only by sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) but also in their adjacent satellite glial cells (SGCs), as well as nonmyelinating Schwann cells. TRPA1 immunoreactivity is also detected in various cutaneous structures of sensory neuronal terminals, including small and large caliber cutaneous sensory fibers and endings. The SGC-expressed TRPA1 is functional. Like DRG neurons, dissociated SGCs exhibit a robust response to the TRPA1-selective agonist allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) by an increase of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). These responses are abolished by the TRPA1 antagonist HC030031 and are absent in SGCs and neurons from global TRPA1 null mice. SGCs and neurons harvested from DRG proximal to painful tissue inflammation induced by plantar injection of complete Freund’s adjuvant show greater AITC-evoked elevation of [Ca2+]i and slower recovery compared to sham controls. Similar TRPA1 sensitization occurs in both SGCs and neurons during neuropathic pain induced by spared nerve injury. Together, these results show that functional TRPA1 is expressed by sensory ganglia SGCs, and TRPA1 function in SGCs is enhanced after both peripheral inflammation and nerve injury, and suggest that TRPA1 in SGCs may contribute to inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
First-in-human phase I trial of anti-hepatocyte growth factor antibody (YYB101) in refractory solid tumor patients
Authors: Kim Seung Tae , Hong Jung Yong , Park Se Hoon , Park Joon Oh , Park Young Whan , Park Neunggyu , Lee Hukeun , Hong Sung Hee , Lee Song-Jae , Song Seong-Won , Kim Kyung , Park Young Suk , Lim Ho Yeong , Kang Won Ki , Nam Do-Hyun , Lee Jeong-Won , Park Keunchil , Kim Kyoung-Mee , Lee Jeeyun
Published: June 2020

Background:

YYB101, a humanized monoclonal antibody against hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), has shown safety and efficacy in vitro and in vivo. This is a first-in-human trial of this antibody.

Materials and Methods:

YYB101 was administered intravenously to refractory cancer patients once every 4 weeks for 1 month, and then once every 2 weeks until disease progression or intolerable toxicity, at doses of 0.3, 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 30 mg/kg, according to a 3+3 dose escalation design. Maximum tolerated dose, safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics were studied. HGF, MET, PD-L1, and ERK expression was evaluated for 9 of 17 patients of the expansion cohort (20 mg/kg).

Results:

In 39 patients enrolled, no dose-limiting toxicity was observed at 0.3 mg/kg, and the most commonly detected toxicity was generalized edema ( n = 7, 18.9%) followed by pruritis and nausea ( n = 5, 13.5%, each), fatigue, anemia, and decreased appetite ( n = 4, 10.8%, each). No patient discontinued treatment because of adverse events. YYB101 showed dose-proportional pharmacokinetics up to 30 mg/kg. Partial response in 1 (2.5%) and stable disease in 17 (43.5%) were observed. HGF, MET, PD-L1, and ERK proteins were not significant predictors for treatment response. However, serum HGF level was significantly lowered in responders upon drug administration. RNA sequencing revealed a mesenchymal signature in two long-term responders.

Conclusion:

YYB101 showed favorable safety and efficacy in patients with refractory solid tumors. Based on this phase I trial, a phase II study on the YYB101 + irinotecan combination in refractory metastatic colorectal cancer patients is planned.

Conclusion:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02499224
Weightbearing Radiography and MRI Findings in Ankle Fractures
Authors: Bäcker Henrik C. , Vosseller J. Turner , Bonel Harald , Cullmann-Bastian Jennifer , Krause Fabian , Attinger Marc C.
Published: June 2020

Background. Static weightbearing radiography can be used to assess stability in ankle fractures by measuring lateral talar shift (medial clear space; MCS). However, the correlation of a stable ankle joint under weightbearing load and the structural integrity of the deltoid ligament has not been shown. In this study, we assessed deltoid ligament integrity on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and correlated that with weightbearing and gravity stress test radiography. Methods. Thirty-four patients with supination external rotation II-IV (SER) fractures underwent MRI, weightbearing radiography, and gravity stress test. On MRI, the deep anterior and posterior tibiotalar deltoid, tibionavicular and tibiocalcaneal ligaments, as well as the syndesmosis were assessed as intact, partial rupture, or complete rupture. The MCS was measured as the distance between the lateral border of the medial malleolus and the medial border of the talus at the level of the talar dome on the mortise view. Results. Twenty-three patients suffered a deep anterior tibiotalar ligament rupture (16 partial; 7 complete) and 2 a deep posterior tibiotalar ligament tear (1 partial; 1 complete). For MCS on weightbearing radiography, no statistically significant differences were identified between any of the individual groups. With gravity stress radiography, only a complete tear of the tibiocalcaneal ligament showed a significantly higher MCS than a partial tear or intact tibiocalcaneal ligament ( P < .005). No other ligament disruption showed a significant difference between the complete rupture versus intact or partial tear. Conclusion. Weightbearing radiography does not show much variation in terms of MCS even with ligamentous disruption and fibula fracture. The talus often centers itself underneath the tibia with weightbearing radiography.

Levels of Evidence: Level III: Retrospective cohort study
The Use of Technology in Managing Diabetes in Youth Part 2—Insulin Pump Technologies: Information and Tips for the School Nurse
Authors: Berget Cari , Wyckoff Leah
Published: June 2020

Insulin pump technologies are commonly used by youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for intensive insulin therapy, the gold standard for T1D care. Insulin pump technologies are advancing rapidly, with new insulin pumps becoming available every year offering improvements in glycemic control. School nurses must understand the basics of insulin pump therapy and distinguish between advanced pump technologies to best support their students with T1D. This is the second article in a three-part series on the use of technology in managing diabetes in youth. The first article described continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices and provided tips for the school nurses in incorporating CGM into the student’s individualized healthcare plan. The purpose of this article is to summarize insulin pump technologies, from conventional insulin pump therapy to advanced automated insulin delivery systems and to describe keys to success with insulin pump technologies. Part 3 will focus on special considerations and problem solving related to technology use in the school setting.
Leisure time physical activity is associated with improved HDL functionality in high cardiovascular risk individuals: a cohort study
Authors: Hernáez Álvaro , Soria-Florido Maria Trinidad , Castañer Olga , Pintó Xavier , Estruch Ramón , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Corella Dolores , Alonso-Gómez Ángel , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel , Schröder Helmut , Ros Emilio , Serra-Majem Lluis , Fiol Miquel , Lapetra José , Gomez-Gracia Enrique , Fitó Montserrat , Lassale Camille
Published: June 2020

Aims

Physical activity has consistently been shown to improve cardiovascular health and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels. However, only small and heterogeneous studies have investigated the effect of exercise on high-density lipoprotein functions. Our aim is to evaluate, in the largest observational study to date, the association between leisure time physical activity and a range of high-density lipoprotein functional traits.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 296 Spanish adults at high cardiovascular risk. Usual leisure time physical activity and eight measures of high-density lipoprotein functionality were averaged over two measurements, one year apart. Multivariable linear regression models were used to explore the association between leisure time physical activity (exposure) and each high-density lipoprotein functional trait (outcome), adjusted for cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

Higher levels of leisure time physical activity were positively and linearly associated with average levels over one year of plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I, paraoxonase-1 antioxidant activity, high-density lipoprotein capacity to esterify cholesterol and cholesterol efflux capacity in individuals free of type 2 diabetes only. The increased cholesterol esterification index with increasing leisure time physical activity reached a plateau at around 300 metabolic equivalents.min/day. In individuals with diabetes, the relationship with cholesteryl ester transfer protein followed a U-shape, with a decreased cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity from 0 to 300 metabolic equivalents.min/day, but increasing from there onwards. Increasing levels of leisure time physical activity were associated with poorer high-density lipoprotein vasodilatory capacity.

Conclusions

In a high cardiovascular risk population, leisure time physical activity was associated not only with greater circulating levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, but also with better markers of high-density lipoprotein functionality, namely cholesterol efflux capacity, the capacity of high-density lipoprotein to esterify cholesterol and paraoxonase-1 antioxidant activity in individuals free of diabetes and lower cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Smartphones, youth and moral panics: Exploring print and online media narratives in India
Authors: Rao Neomi , Lingam Lakshmi
Published: June 2020

India is a rapidly growing youth market for smartphone technology. Accompanying the spike in Indian youths’ smartphone use is a proliferation of media coverage on the purported impact of smartphones on youths’ physical, psychological, and social well-being. We use a qualitative media analysis to show that the online and print media narratives around this issue reveal widespread fear and anxiety about youths’ smartphone use. We argue that this stems from a moral panic reaction to youths’, particularly young women’s, potential exercise of agency using their smartphones and accessing forbidden content over the internet. This narrative fails to include the potential affordances of internet access for youth and other marginalized people while also failing to address deeper concerns about digitization.
Patient-specific three-dimensional printed hemi talar prostheses for the treatment of talar osteonecrosis, case report and literature review
Authors: Del Vecchio Jorge Javier , Chemes Lucas Nicolás , Bertollotti Luciano , Ghioldi Mauricio Esteban , Dealbera Eric Daniel , Galli Serra Marcos , Parizzia Walter
Published: June 2020

We present the case of a 43-year-old boy who presented with progressive pain as a result of history of lateral avascular necrosis of the talus secondary to traumatic open ankle luxation 20 years ago. Conservative treatment (12-month period) prior to surgery failed. It consisted of physiokinetic treatment, insoles and analgesic medication. A diagnostic injection was used in the ankle (positive) and subtalar joint (negative) in order to recognize origin of pain. Hemilateral avascular necrosis of the talus is rare. There are no prior reported cases of the use of hemi-implants. This case highlights the potential use of a patient-specific three-dimensional printed Ti6Al4V prosthesis presented in a complex scenario.
Novel Gene Deletion in NLRC4 Expanding the Familial Cold Inflammatory Syndrome Phenotype
Authors: Jeskey Jack , Parida Akash , Graven Kelsey , Hostoffer Robert
Published: June 2020

Familial cold inflammatory syndrome (FCAS) is a rare, inherited inflammatory disease characterized by episodes of fever, rash, and arthralgias after exposure to cold stimuli. Previous literature has established FCAS linked to autosomal dominant mutations in the NLRP3 (CIAS1) and NLRP12 genes. Moreover, there has been recent evidence of NLRC4-inflammasomopathies. Although there have been cases of FCAS secondary to missense mutations in NLRC4, we report the first symptomatic case associated with a 93-base-pair in-frame deletion within Exon 5 of the leucine rich repeat domain.
Boundaries of Contagion: The Unheard Plight of Sex Workers in Karnataka
Authors: C. Nanjunda Devajana , N. Venugopal Pulamaghatta
Published: June 2020

Karnataka is the most populous state in South India. The Government of Karnataka constituted a committee under the chairpersonship of one of the sitting women members of the Karnataka Legislative Council to study the conditions of the sex workers in the state. This committee has submitted its report to the Karnataka government recently. This study has interviewed around 11,000 sex workers across the state and collected the required information about their present condition. Data have been collected through the schedule having 169 questions and interviewing the respondents. Sex workers were identified through the district councillors for the survey. The committee has estimated more than 300,000 women are involved in this work, a majority of them are from lower social groups having a low income. The study has found that in the initial stage, women are being stepped into this job merely because of trafficking or to earn more money for life, or are sold unwittingly to the pimps by relatives or friends. Once they get stuck in this vicious cycle, women continue to be sex workers only because of no other exit. It is found that women continue to be sex workers as long as demand or beauty prevails in the market. When demand decreases, they continue in the field as a supplier/agent (pimps). The study has found that a majority of them are being trafficked from Maharashtra and Goa to Karnataka. The study found migration, drought, unemployment, early marriage divorce, poverty, etc., as some of the reasons for entering in this job. Shockingly, the report has revealed that married women are more engaged in this occupation. The more interesting issue is that around 26 per cent of women/girls have entered into this sex work job just to buy a good mobile, to get a good dress, for pocket money, etc. The report further says that more than 17–20 per cent of them are HIV infected. The study finally suggests that awareness creation, atrocity prevention, resolving rehabilitation and empowerment should be the part and parcel of any policy for the welfare of the sex workers. This article is based on the findings of the study report submitted to government by the committee.
Deracialization, Dissent, and Terrorism in the FBI’s Most Wanted Program
Authors: Husain Atiya
Published: June 2020

In the war on terror, the state frames terrorism as an exceptional form of violence. This research examines the role of race in that framing. Analysis of the 2017 Federal Bureau of Investigation most wanted program shows that the bureau deploys race to represent the terrorist as exceptional by (1) formally deracializing terrorists, who are far less likely than nonterrorists to even have race labels on their wanted posters, and (2) labeling antiracist, anticolonial, and anticapitalist politics as terrorism. I argue that such representations proceed in step with the material governance of terrorism that is characterized by disappearance. The representation of the terrorist as exceptional helps render the state’s antiterror apparatus as neutral and legitimate, and it continually renews the legitimacy of the colonial, capitalist state through the newer register of terrorism.
Examining the Otolaryngology Match and Relationships Between Publications and Institutional Rankings
Authors: Ryan Evan M. , Geelan‐Hansen Katie R. , Nelson Kari L. , Dowdall Jayme R.
Published: June 2020

This study examines associations among publication number, National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding rank, medical school research rank, and otolaryngology department ranks of otolaryngology applicants during the 2018‐2019 match cycle. Information regarding 2018‐2019 otolaryngology applicants was collected from Otomatch.com and verified via department websites. Information was also collected regarding 2018 NIH funding rank and 2020 US News & World Report research rank of medical schools and otolaryngology departments. T tests and chi‐square analyses were performed. Top 40 NIH funding rank, top 40 medical school research rank, and home institution department rank were separately associated with more publications and higher rates of matching into highly reputed otolaryngology departments (all P <. 01). Furthermore, applicants who matched into ranked otolaryngology departments averaged significantly more publications (P <. 01). Prospective otolaryngology applicants should take into account NIH funding rank, medical school research rank, and otolaryngology department rank, as they are associated with matching into high‐ranking institutions.
Microplastic analysis using chemical extraction followed by LC-UV analysis: a straightforward approach to determine PET content in environmental samples
Authors: Müller Axel , Goedecke Caroline , Eisentraut Paul , Piechotta Christian , Braun Ulrike
Published: June 2020

Background

The ubiquitous occurrence of microplastic particles in marine and aquatic ecosystems was intensively investigated in the past decade. However, we know less about the presence, fate, and input paths of microplastic in terrestrial ecosystems. A possible entry path for microplastic into terrestrial ecosystems is the agricultural application of sewage sludge and solid bio-waste as fertilizers. Microplastic contained in sewage sludge also includes polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which could originate as fiber from textile products or as a fragment from packaging products (foils, bottles, etc.). Information about microplastic content in such environmental samples is limited yet, as most of the used analytical methods are very time-consuming, regarding sample preparation and detection, require sophisticated analytical tools and eventually need high user knowledge.

Results

Here, we present a simple, specific tool for the analysis of PET microplastic particles based on alkaline extraction of PET from the environmental matrix and subsequent determination of the monomers, terephthalic acid, using liquid chromatography with UV detection (LC-UV). The applicability of the method is shown for different types of PET in several soil-related, terrestrial environmental samples, e.g., soil, sediment, compost, fermentation residues, but also sewage sludge, suspended particles from urban water management systems, and indoor dust. Recoveries for model samples are between 94.5 and 107.1%. Limit of determination and limit of quantification are absolute masses of 0.031 and 0.121 mg PET, respectively. In order to verify the measured mass contents of the environmental samples, a method comparison with thermal extraction-desorption-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TED-GC/MS) was conducted. Both methods deliver similar results and corroborated each other. PET mass contents in environmental samples range from values below LOQ in agriculture soil up to 57,000 mg kg−1 in dust samples.

Conclusions

We demonstrate the potential of an integral method based on chemical extraction for the determination of PET mass contents in solid environmental samples. The method was successfully applied to various matrices and may serve as an analytical tool for further investigations of PET-based microplastic in terrestrial ecosystems.
Notch signaling in mouse blastocyst development and hatching
Authors: Batista Mariana R. , Diniz Patrícia , Torres Ana , Murta Daniel , Lopes-da-Costa Luís , Silva Elisabete
Published: June 2020

Background

Mammalian early embryo development requires a well-orchestrated interplay of cell signaling pathways. Notch is a major regulatory pathway involved in cell-fate determination in embryonic and adult scenarios. However, the role of Notch in embryonic pre-implantation development is controversial. In particular, Notch role on blastocyst development and hatching remains elusive, and a complete picture of the transcription and expression patterns of Notch components during this time-period is not available.

Results

This study provided a comprehensive view on the dynamics of individual embryo gene transcription and protein expression patterns of Notch components (receptors Notch1–4; ligands Dll1 and Dll4, Jagged1–2; and effectors Hes1–2), and their relationship with transcription of gene markers of pluripotency and differentiation (Sox2, Oct4, Klf4, Cdx2) during mouse blastocyst development and hatching. Transcription of Notch1–2, Jagged1–2 and Hes1 was highly prevalent and dynamic along stages of development, whereas transcription of Notch3–4, Dll4 and Hes2 had a low prevalence among embryos. Transcription levels of Notch1, Notch2, Jagged2 and Hes1 correlated with each other and with those of pluripotency and differentiation genes. Gene transcription was associated to protein expression, except for Jagged2, where high transcription levels in all embryos were not translated into protein. Presence of Notch signaling activity was confirmed through nuclear NICD and Hes1 detection, and downregulation of Hes1 transcription following canonical signaling blockade with DAPT. In vitro embryo culture supplementation with Jagged1 had no effect on embryo developmental kinetics. In contrast, supplementation with Jagged2 abolished Jagged1 transcription, downregulated Cdx2 transcription and inhibited blastocyst hatching. Notch signaling blockade by DAPT downregulated transcription of Sox2, and retarded embryo hatching.

Conclusion

Transcription of Notch genes showed a dynamic pattern along blastocyst development and hatching. Data confirmed Notch signaling activity, and lead to the suggestion that Notch canonical signaling may be operating through Notch1, Notch3, Jagged1 and Hes1. Embryo culture supplementation with Jagged1 and Jagged2 unveiled a possible regulatory effect between Jagged1, Cdx2 and blastocyst hatching. Overall, results indicate that a deregulation in Notch signaling, either by its over or under-activation, affects blastocyst development and hatching.
Identification and characterization of male reproduction-related genes in pig (Sus scrofa) using transcriptome analysis
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Zhao Feiyang , Chen Mingyue , Li Ye , Lan Xianyong , Yang Ruolin , Pan Chuanying
Published: June 2020

Background

The systematic interrogation of reproduction-related genes was key to gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying male reproductive traits in mammals. Here, based on the data collected from the NCBI SRA database, this study first revealed the genes involved in porcine male reproduction as well their uncharacterized transcriptional characteristics.

Results

Results showed that the transcription of porcine genome was more widespread in testis than in other organs (the same for other mammals) and that testis had more tissue-specific genes (1210) than other organs. GO and GSEA analyses suggested that the identified test is-specific genes (TSGs) were associated with male reproduction. Subsequently, the transcriptional characteristics of porcine TSGs, which were conserved across different mammals, were uncovered. Data showed that 195 porcine TSGs shared similar expression patterns with other mammals (cattle, sheep, human and mouse), and had relatively higher transcription abundances and tissue specificity than low-conserved TSGs. Additionally, further analysis of the results suggested that alternative splicing, transcription factors binding, and the presence of other functionally similar genes were all involved in the regulation of porcine TSGs transcription.

Conclusions

Overall, this analysis revealed an extensive gene set involved in the regulation of porcine male reproduction and their dynamic transcription patterns. Data reported here provide valuable insights for a further improvement of the economic benefits of pigs as well as future treatments for male infertility.
Association of circulating SLAMF7+Tfh1 cells with IgG4 levels in patients with IgG4-related disease
Authors: Higashioka Kazuhiko , Ota Yuri , Maehara Takashi , Moriyama Masafumi , Ayano Masahiro , Mitoma Hiroki , Akahoshi Mitsuteru , Arinobu Yojiro , Horiuchi Takahiko , Nakamura Seiji , Akashi Koichi , Niiro Hiroaki
Published: June 2020

Background

Follicular helper CD4+T (Tfh) cells have a critical role in IgG4 production by B cells in IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD). Recent studies including ours showed that SLAMF7+CD4+T cells are an important pathological driver of IgG4-RD. In this study, we have sought to elucidate a relationship between helper CD4+T (Th), particularly Tfh, cells and SLAMF7+CD4+T cells in IgG4-RD.

Results

The patients with IgG4-RD enrolled in this study were aged 66 ± 12 years and their titers of serum IgG4 were 372 ± 336 mg/dl. Th1 cells, activated circulating Tfh1 (cTfh1), and activated cTfh2 cells increased in IgG4-RD. SLAMF7 was mainly expressed on Th1 and cTfh1, but not cTfh2, cells in the patients. SLAMF7+cTfh1 cells were PD-1/CD28 double-positive, whereas SLAMF7+Th1 cells were CD28 negative. Positive correlations were noted between serum IgG4 levels and the number of activated cTfh2 cells and SLAMF7+cTfh1 cells, but not SLAMF7+Th1 cells. Intriguingly, among cTfh1 cells, activated SLAMF7+cTfh1 cells were high producers of IL-10 along with IL-21. Blimp-1, but not Bcl-6, mRNA was expressed at high levels in activated SLAMF7+cTfh1 cells. In addition to CD4+T cells, the frequency of SLAMF7+fraction was higher in memory B cells than naïve B cells in patients with IgG4RD. Finally, upon stimulation via B-cell receptor and CD40, Tfh1-associated cytokines, IL-21 and IFN-γ, most significantly induced SLAMF7 expression in memory B cells.

Conclusions

Together, these results suggest that circulating SLAMF7+Tfh1 cells, along with Tfh2 cells, play a pathologic role in IgG4 production in IgG4-RD.
Frailty transitions predict healthcare use and Medicare payments in older Mexican Americans: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Li Chih-Ying , Al Snih Soham , Chou Lin-Na , Karmarkar Amol , Kuo Yong-Fang , Markides Kyriakos S. , Ottenbacher Kenneth J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Little is known regarding the impact of transitions in frailty on healthcare use and payment in older Mexican Americans. We address this gap in knowledge by investigating the effect of early transitions in physical frailty on the use of healthcare services and Medicare payments involving older Mexican Americans.

Methods

Longitudinal analyses were conducted using the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly (Hispanic-EPESE) survey data from five Southwest states linked to the Medicare claims files from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Seven hundred and eighty-eight community-dwelling Mexican Americans 72 years and older in 2000/01 were studied. We used a modified Frailty Phenotype (unintentional weight loss, weakness, self-reported exhaustion and slow walking speed) to classify frailty status (non-frail, pre-frail or frail). Each participant was placed into one of 5 frailty transition groups: 1) remain non-frail, 2) remain pre-frail, 3) remain frail, 4) improve (pre-frail to non-frail, frail to non-frail, frail to pre-frail) and 5) worse (non-frail to pre-frail, non-frail to frail, pre-frail to frail). The outcomes for the one-year follow-up period (2000–2001) were: (a) healthcare use (hospitalization, emergency room [ER] admission and physician visit); and (b) Medicare payments (total payment and outpatient payment).

Results

Mean age was 78.8 (SD = 5.1) years and 60.3% were female in 1998/99. Males who remained pre-frail (Odds Ratio [OR] = 3.49, 1.13–10.8, remained frail OR = 6.92, 1.61–29.7) and transitioned to worse frail status (OR = 4.49, 1.74–11.6) had significantly higher hospitalization risk compared to individuals who remained non-frail. Males in the ‘worsened’ groups, and females in the ‘improved’ groups, had significantly higher Medicare payments than individuals who remained non-frail (Cost Ratio [CR] = 2.00, 1.30–3.09; CR = 1.53, 1.12–2.09, respectively].

Conclusions

Healthcare use and Medicare payments differed by frailty transition status. The differences varied by sex. Research is necessary to elucidate the relationship between frailty transitions and outcomes, sex difference and Medicare payment for older Mexican Americans living in the community.