bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ageing Effects on Tripping Risk: The Foot-Ground Clearance of Healthy Community Dwelling Japanese Cohorts Aged 50, 60 and 70 Years
Authors: Nagano Hanatsu , Sparrow William Anthony , Mizukami Katsuyoshi , Sarashina Eri , Begg Rezaul
Published: August 2020

BackgroundFalls-related injuries are particularly serious for older people, causing pain, reduced community engagement and associated medical costs. Tripping is the leading cause of falls and the current study examined whether minimum ground clearance (MFC) of the swing foot, indicating high tripping risk, would be differentiated across cohorts of healthy 50-, 60- and 70-years old community residents in Japan.MethodsThree groups (50s, 60s and 70s) of 123 Konosu City residents consented to be recorded when walking on an unobstructed surface at preferred speed. Gait biomechanics was measured using high speed (100 Hz) motion capture (OptiTrack – Natural Point Inc.), including step length and width, double support, foot contact angle and MFC (swing toe height above the ground). Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was used to confirm ageing effects on MFC and fundamental gait parameters. Pearson's correlations were performed to identify the relationships between mean MFC and other MFC characteristics (SD and SI), step length, step width, double support time and foot contact angle. ResultsCompared to 50s, lower step length was seen (2.69cm and 6.15cm) for 60s and 70s, respectively. No other statistical effects were identified for spatio-temporal parameters between the three groups. The 50s cohort MFC was also significantly higher than 60s and 70s, while step-to-step MFC variability was greater in the 70s than 50s and 60s. Pearson’s correlations demonstrated more symmetrical gait associated with greater MFC height. In the 70s increased MFC height correlated with higher MFC variability and reduced foot contact angle. ConclusionMFC height reduces from 60 years but more variable MFC appears later, from 70 years. While symmetrical gait was accompanied by increased MFC height, in the 70s group attempts to increase MFC height may have caused more MFC variability and lower foot contact angles, compromising foot-ground clearance. Assessments of swing foot mechanics may be a useful component of community falls prevention.
Single cell sequencing identifies serine proteases as regulators of myofibroblast differentiation
Authors: Vorstandlechner Vera , Laggner Maria , Copic Dragan , Chen Yiyan , Golabi Bahar , Haslik Werner , Radtke Christine , Tschachler Erwin , Ankersmit Hendrik Jan , Mildner Michael
Published: August 2020

Despite recent advances in understanding skin scarring, mechanisms triggering hypertrophic scar formation are still poorly understood. In the present study we performed single-cell sequencing of mature human hypertrophic scars and developing scars in mice.
Compared to normal skin, we found significant differences in gene expression in most cell types present in scar tissue. Fibroblasts (FBs) showed the most prominent alterations in gene expression, displaying a distinct fibrotic signature. By comparing genes upregulated in murine FBs during scar development with genes highly expressed in mature human hypertrophic scars, we identified a group of serine proteases, tentatively involved in scar formation. Two of them, dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 (DPP4) and urokinase (PLAU), were further analyzed in functional assays, revealing a role in TGFβ1-mediated myofibroblast differentiation and over-production of components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) without interfering with the canonical TGFbeta1-signaling pathway.
In this study, we delineate the genetic landscape of hypertrophic scars and present new insights into mechanisms involved in hypertrophic scar formation. Our data suggest the use of serine protease inhibitors for the treatment of skin fibrosis.
Extravasation of Urine Into the Superficial Perineal Space Due to Ureteral Necrosis after Kidney Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Fan Yu , Wang Xianding , Lin Tao , Zhong Qiang , Song Turun , Huang Zhongli
Published: August 2020

Background: Urinary fistula is a common complication of kidney transplantation. It may cause severe complications like graft loss and patient death.Case presentation: Here we present a recipient who developed graft ureteral necrosis with leakage of urine into the superficial perineal space but not into the peri-graft or the retroperitoneal space, as an unusual clinical feature. This may be due to dense adhesions in the peri-graft region and dam-like effect of adhesive spermatic cord and inferior epigastric vessels traversing across the graft ureter. Urine leaking out with high pressure extravasates through the potential gaps in the incision of aponeurosis at the lateral margin of the rectus abdominis and into the superficial perineal space. The proximal ureter of the graft was end-to-end anastomosed to the right ureter. Both the recipient and graft recovered well.Conclusions: Comparing the creatinine levels in the leaking fluid and serum is an effective way to confirm urinary fistula. Early aggressive management is a rational option for treatment of urinary fistula.
Progesterone-induced Warburg Effect is Regulated by Cell-type-specific Interaction of Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component 1 and Hexokinases
Authors: Sabbir Mohammad Golam , Taylor Carla G , Zahradka Peter
Published: August 2020

Background: Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) is a non-canonical progesterone (P4) binding protein. PGRMC1 is elevated in a variety of cancers and its phosphorylation state associated with hormone responsiveness in breast cancer. Metabolic reprogramming is a key factor for tumor growth during malignancies. Recently, we reported that the P4-inducedWarburg effectinHEK293cells is associated with altered post-translational modifications (PTMs) of PGRMC1, including phosphorylation, SUMOylation, and ubiquitination, which were linked to rapid proteasomal degradation of the protein. The previous study also identified hexokinase (HK) as a potential novel interacting partner of PGRMC1. HKs catalyze the first essential step of glucose metabolism and directly couple glycolysis to mitochondrial respiration. Therefore, in the present study, P4’s effects on glycolysis and PTMs of PGRMC1 as well as its interaction with HKs were compared between HEK293 and HepG2 cells to unravel the signaling pathways that mediate cell-type-specific metabolic reprogramming.Methods: P4-induced glucose metabolism in wild-type and PGRMC1-deficient cells wasassessed using the Seahorse flux analyzer, while PTMs of PGRMC1/HKs and protein-protein interaction were studied using immunoprecipitation, isoelectric focussing, phosphomimetics, and mass spectrometry.Translocation of HKs to different subcellular organelles were studied using subcellular fractionation, and the cell-type-specific effect of PGRMC1-deficiency on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria; ultrastructure were examined by electron microscopy. Results:P4 treatment caused a rapid increase in glycolysis in HEK293 cells, whereas it decreased glycolysis in HepG2 cells. In addition, PGRMC1 was not degraded in HepG2 cells which is in contrast to HEK293 cells where rapid proteasomal degradation of PGRMC1 occurredfollowing P4 treatment. Besides, PGRMC1 half-life and PTMs under basal condition were found cell-type-specific and the P4-induced PTMsdiffered between the two cell types. Furthermore, we observed cell-type-specific interaction of HKs with PGRMC1, and differential translocation of HK1/2 to the ER, mitochondria and nuclear compartments following P4 treatment. PGRMC1 deficiency altered ER structure in HepG2 cells. Thus, multiple factors underlying the cell-type-specific P4-PGRMC1-mediated metabolic reprogrammingwere identified. Conclusions: These findings provide a hitherto unknown novel P4-induced cell-type-specific PGRMC1-HK signaling mechanism that contributes to the molecular basis of P4-induced metabolic reprogramming, with important applications for hormone responsiveness in cancer.
Mortality Among Male Cigar and Cigarette Smokers in the U.S.
Authors: Rodu Brad , Plurphanswat Nantaporn
Published: August 2020

Background. Cigars and cigarettes are both smoked, but much less is known about the former’s long-term health effects, due to its low prevalence and infrequent collection of cigar information in national surveys. Purpose. We conducted a follow-up mortality study of cigar-smoking men age 40-79 years in National Health Interview Surveys (NHIS). We utilized Methods. We used pooled NHIS files linked to the National Death Index to obtain follow-up from year of interview to year of death or December 31, 2015. We developed categories of cigarette and cigar smoking that accommodate dual and former use of both products. We used Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, income, health status, body mass index, and region to estimate hazard ratios (HRs, 95% confidence intervals, CI) for mortality from all causes, heart diseases, malignant neoplasms, cerebrovascular disease, chronic lower respiratory diseases and two mutually exclusive categories: smoking-related and other diseases.Results. There were 14,628 deaths from all causes, including 3,420 never tobacco users, 3,266 exclusive smokers, and 176 exclusive cigar users. The latter had significantly increased mortality only from chronic lower respiratory diseases (HR = 2.60, CI = 1.04 – 6.50), which was based on 6 deaths. We found no statistically significant evidence among exclusive cigar smokers of increased mortality from any other cause.Conclusions. This study provides evidence that male cigar smokers had elevated mortality risks. However, after accounting for cigarette smoking, we found significantly increased mortality only for chronic lower respiratory diseases.
Genomic Variation in the American Pika: Signatures of Geographic Isolation and Implications for Conservation
Authors: Klingler Kelly Brie , Jahner Joshua P , Parchman Thomas L , Ray Chris , Peacock Mary
Published: August 2020

Background: Distributional responses by alpine taxa to repeated, glacial-interglacial cycles throughout the last two million years have significantly influenced the spatial genetic structure of populations. These effects have been exacerbated for the American pika (Ochotona princeps), a small alpine lagomorph constrained by thermal sensitivity and a limited dispersal capacity. As a species of conservation concern, long-term lack of gene flow has important consequences for landscape genetic structure and levels of diversity within populations. Here, we use reduced representation sequencing (ddRADseq) to provide a genome-wide perspective on patterns of genetic variation across pika populations representing distinct subspecies. To investigate how landscape and environmental features shape genetic variation, we collected genetic samples from distinct geographic regions as well as across finer spatial scales in two geographically proximate mountain ranges of eastern Nevada. Results: Our genome-wide analyses corroborate range-wide, mitochondrial subspecific designations and reveal pronounced fine-scale population structure between the Ruby Mountains and East Humboldt Range of eastern Nevada. Populations in Nevada were characterized by low genetic diversity (𝜋=0.0006–0.0009; 𝜃W=0.0005–0.0007) relative to populations in California (𝜋=0.0014–0.0019; 𝜃W=0.0011–0.0017) and the Rocky Mountains (𝜋=0.0025–0.0027; 𝜃W=0.0021–0.0024), indicating substantial genetic drift in these isolated populations. Tajima’s D was positive for all sites (D=0.240-0.811), consistent with recent contraction in population sizes range-wide. Conclusions: Substantial influences of geography, elevation and climate variables on genetic differentiation were also detected and may interact with the regional effects of anthropogenic climate change to force the loss of unique genetic lineages through continued population extirpations in the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada.
Behavioral and Psychosocial Factors of Quality of Life Among Adult People Living With HIV on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy, in Public Hospitals of South West Ethiopia, 2018: a Case Control Study
Authors: Gesese Abreha Addis , Desta Yitages Getachew , Behire Endale zenebe
Published: August 2020

Background: Despite of the availability of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy, people living with HIV/AIDS suffer from socioeconomic, behavioral and psychosocial related factors affecting their quality of life. Previous studies assessed the magnitude of quality of life but the present one will identify behavioral and psychosocial factors associated with poor quality of live among adult PLWHIV on Antiretroviral therapy in the study setting.Objective: To identify behavioral and psychosocial determinants of Quality of life among Adult PLWHIV on HARRT, in Public Hospitals of Jimma Zone, South West, Ethiopia 2018.Method: Institution based unmatched case control study was employed. Simple random sampling technique was used to select cases and controls using screening criteria. Interviewer administered data collection method was used. Data were entered into Epi-Data and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed. The study was conducted from March 10-April 10- 2018.Results: A total of 75(25%) cases and 225(75%) of controls included in the study. Finally, the odds of poor quality of life among underweight (BMI kg/m2) 2.7 times [AOR 2.7 95%CI (1.0, 7.1)] more likely than normal /obese respondents, khat chewing 1-4 times/weak/month about 4.5 times [AOR 4.5 95%CI (1.85, 10.9)] and at daily intervals 4.7 times more [AOR 4.7 95% CI (1.18, 18.8)] likely than who never chew respectively. Being dissatisfied from support AOR 9.8 95% CI (1.9, 50), Stigmatized patients 8 times more likely than non-stigmatized AOR 8.0 95%CI (3.6, 18.1). Moreover, the odds of poor quality of life among severely depressed patients were 4 times AOR 4.0 95% CI (1.67, 9.83) more likely than mild depressed patients.Conclusion: Being underweight (BMI kg/m2), khat chewing 1-4 times/weak/month, khat chewing at daily interval, being dissatisfied from support, stigma and depression were independently associated. This may inform possible interventions to reduce comorbidities and disease exacerbation by improving on dietary and nutritional programs and support, reducing behavioral factors, improving social support, reducing stigma and depression by appropriate counseling and strengthening currently existing Information Education Communication to help develop life skills.
Estimation technique of global fringe visibility using in interferometers with adjustable visibility
Authors: bai fu-zhong , Chen Jiayi , Gao Xiaojuan , Xu Yongxiang
Published: August 2020

In the accuracy measurement of phase from interferometers with adjustable fringe visibility, it needs to estimate the visibility of experimental patterns so as to obtain the interference patterns with the maximum visibility. We develop the Fourier-polar transform and combine the directional projection to estimate the global visibility of carrier fringe pattern. The technique is especially used for low-quality fringe pattern such as low contrast and low (signal to noise ratio) SNR that often appear in the interferometric experiment. An illustrative experiment based on the radial shearing interferometer is given. Results generated from this technique are compared with the derived values from theoretical model, and exemplary agreement between both is demonstrated.
All-Optical Computing Based on Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Liao Kun , Chen Ye , Yu Zhongcheng , Hu Xiaoyong , Wang Xingyuan , Lu Cuicui , Lin Hongtao , Du Qingyang , Hu Juejun , Gong Qihuang
Published: August 2020

The rapid development of information technology has fueled an ever-increasing demand for ultrafast and ultralow-energy-consumption computing. Existing computing instruments are pre-dominantly electronic processors. The scaling of computing speed is limited not only by data transfer between memory and processing units, but also by RC delay associated with integrated circuits. Using photons as information carriers is a promising alternative. Here, we report a strategy to realize ultrafast and ultralow-energy-consumption all-optical computing based on convolutional neural networks, leveraging entirely linear optical interactions. The device is constructed from cascaded silicon Y-shaped waveguides with side-coupled silicon waveguide segments to enable complete phase and amplitude control in each waveguide branch. The generic device concept can be used for equation solving, multifunctional logic operation, Fourier transformation, series expanding and encoding, as well as many other mathematical operations. Multiple computing functions were experimentally demonstrated to validate all-optical computing performances. The time-of-flight of light through the network structure corresponds to an ultrafast computing time of the order of several picoseconds with an ultralow energy consumption of dozens of femtojoules per bit. Our approach can be further expanded to fulfill other complex computing tasks based on non-von Neumann architectures and thus paves a new way for on-chip all-optical computing.
Impact of extracellular matrix properties on neuroblastoma genomic heterogeneity
Authors: López-Carrasco Amparo , Martín-Vañó Susana , Burgos-Panadero Rebeca , Monferrer Ezequiel , Berbegall Ana P , Fernández-Blanco Beatriz , Navarro Samuel , Noguera Rosa
Published: August 2020

Background
Increased tissue stiffness is a common feature of malignant solid tumors, often associated with metastasis and poor patient outcomes. Vitronectin, as an extracellular matrix anchorage glycoprotein related to a stiff matrix, is present in a particularly increased quantity and specific distribution in high-risk neuroblastoma. Furthermore, as cells can sense and transform the proprieties of the extracellular matrix into chemical signals through mechanotransduction, genotypic changes related to stiffness are possible.
Methods
We have applied high density SNPa and NGS techniques to in vivo and in vitro models (orthotropic xenograft vitronectin knock-out mice and 3D bioprinted hydrogels with different stiffness) using two representative neuroblastoma cell lines (the MYCN amplified SK-N-BE(2) and the ALK mutated SH-SY5Y), to discern how tumor genomics patterns and clonal heterogeneity of both cell lines are affected.
Results
We describe a remarkable subclonal selection of some genomic aberrations in SK-N-BE(2) cells grown in knock-out vitronectin xenograft mice that also emerged when cultured for long times in stiff hydrogels. Specially, we detected an enlarged subclonal cell population with chromosome 9 aberrations in both models. Similar abnormalities were found in human high-risk neuroblastoma with MYCN amplification. Genomics of the SH-SY5Y cell line remained stable when cultured in both models.
Conclusions
Focus on heterogeneous intratumor segmental chromosome aberrations and mutations, as a mirror image of tumor microenvironment, is a vital area of future research.
Effect of Early Mobilization from Bed to Wheel Chair on Regional Ventilation Distribution Assessed by Electrical Impedance Tomography in Respiratory Failure Patients
Authors: Yuan Siyi , He Huaiwu , Long Yun , Chi Yi , Zhao Zhanqi
Published: August 2020

Backgrounds: There was limited knowledge about the effect of early mobilization on regional lung ventilation in patients with respiratory failure. The aim of the study was to examine whether electrical impedance tomography (EIT) could help to predict the improvement in ventilation distribution due to mobilization.Methods: Forty-one patients with respiratory failure, who had weaned from ventilator and received early mobilization were prospectively enrolled in this study. EIT was used to assess regional lung ventilation distributions at 4 timepoints during the early mobilization from bed to wheelchair (Tbase: baseline, supine position at the bed, T30min: sitting position on the wheelchair after 30min, T60min: sitting position on the wheelchair after 60min, Treturn: return to supine position on the bed after early mobilization). The EIT-based global inhomogeneity (GI) and center of ventilation (CoV) indices were calculated. EIT images were equally divided into four ventral-to-dorsal horizontal regions of interest (ROIs 1-4). Depending on the improvement of ventilation distribution in dependent regions at T60min (threshold set to 15%), patients were divided into recruited (DR) and non-recruited (Non-DR) groups. Results: From the bed to the wheelchair, a significant and continuous increase of dependent regional ventilation distribution (ROI 3+4: baseline vs. T30min, vs. T60min: 45.9±12.1 vs. 48.7±11.6 vs. 49.9±12.6, p=0.015) and COV (COV baseline vs. T30min, vs. T60min: 48.2±10.1 vs. 50.1±9.2 vs. 50.5±9.6, p=0.003). Besides, there was a significant decrease of GI at T60min. Patients in the DR group (n=18) had significantly higher oxygenation than the Non-DR group (n=23) after early mobilization. ROI4Tbase was significantly negatively correlated to ΔSpO2 (R=0.72, p＜0.001). Using a cut-off value of 6.5%, ROI4Tbase had a 79.2% specificity and 58.8% sensitivity to predict response of dependent region recruitment due to early mobilization. The corresponding area under curve was 0.806 (95%CI, 0.677-0.936).Conclusions: EIT may be a promising tool to predict the ventilation improvement resulted from early mobilization.Trial registration: Effect of Early Mobilization on Regional Lung Ventilation Assessed by EIT, NCT04081129. Registered 9 June 2019 - Retrospectively registered, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S00096WT&selectaction=Edit&uid=U00020D9&ts=2&cx=v2cwij
Impact of Galcanezumab on Total Pain Burden: Findings From Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Studies in Patients with Episodic or Chronic Migraine (EVOLVE-1, EVOLVE-2, and REGAIN Trials)
Authors: Ailani Jessica , Andrews J Scott , Rettiganti Mallikarjuna , Nicholson Robert A
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND
Focus on the frequency of migraine pain may undervalue the total burden of migraine as pain duration and severity may present unique, additive burden. A composite measure of total pain burden (TPB; frequency, severity, and duration) of migraine may provide a more comprehensive characterization of pain burden and treatment response in patients with episodic migraine (EM) or chronic migraine (CM). The impact of galcanezumab 120 mg once-monthly injection versus placebo on TPB among patients with EM or CM was analyzed.
METHODS
Patients from randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled episodic (6-month) and chronic migraine (3-month) studies received once-monthly subcutaneous injection of galcanezumab 120 mg once-monthly or placebo. Total pain burden for a given month was calculated as severity-weighted duration by multiplying duration (hours) and maximum pain severity (0 = none, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, 3 = severe) of migraine for each day and summing these over the days in a month. Least square (LS) mean change from baseline in monthly TPB across Months 1–6 (EM) and Months 13 (CM) were compared post hoc using a mixed-model repeated measures model. Correlation of the Migraine Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQ) and Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) to TPB at baseline was assessed.
RESULTS
At baseline, the duration of migraine on a given migraine headache day accounted for the greatest unique proportion of variability (EM, 57.4% and CM, 61.1%) to the TPB after adjusting for frequency of migraine headache days and maximum pain severity. The LS mean decreases from baseline in monthly TPB across months were greater with galcanezumab than placebo for patients with EM (68.6 versus 36.2) and CM (102.6 versus 44.4). The average percent reduction of TPB from baseline was significantly greater with galcanezumab compared with placebo in patients with EM (50.8% versus 17.2%) and CM (29.7% versus 11.0%). Total pain burden in patients with EM and CM correlated with MSQ total score (r = 0.35 and r=-0.37) and MIDAS (r = 0.34 and r = 0.32).
CONCLUSIONS
Greater reduction in TPB was seen in patients with EM and CM treated with galcanezumab 120 mg once-monthly injection relative to placebo. Discussing TPB supports patient-centric conversations regarding treatment expectations when clinicians are evaluating options for migraine prevention.
TRIAL REGISTRATION:
ClinicalTrials.gov: #NCT02614183 (I5Q-MC-CGAG; EVOLVE-1), #NCT02614196 (I5QMCCGAH; EVOLVE-2), and #NCT02614261 (I5Q-MC-CGAI; REGAIN) – all 3 trials were registered on 23 November 2015.
Histamine Intolerance: Clinical Characterization and Determination of Serum Diamine Oxidase (Dao) in a Series of Cases and Controls
Authors: Teresa Peralta , Carla Bastías , Beltran-Ortiz Camila , Magdalena Durán , Verónica Ramos , Antonieta Guzmán María , Pablo Ferrer
Published: August 2020

Introduction. Histamine intolerance (HIT) is a pathology with an estimated prevalence of 1% in which there is an imbalance between the intake of histamine via the digestive tract and the body's ability to degrade it. This results in an excessive accumulation of histamine that determines the appearance of gastrointestinal, skin, respiratory and neurological symptoms. The enzyme responsible for degrading histamine in the extracellular space is diamine oxidase (DAO); therefore, HIT is caused due to a deficit in the concentration and/or in the activity of this enzyme. Because histamine is the main mediator of the classic symptoms of IgE-mediated allergic reactions, it is difficult to differentiate a true allergy from HIT since it has basically the same clinical manifestations. Objectives. The objective of this study was to perform a clinical characterization of patients with HIT and to determine the usefulness of quantifying serum DAO concentration in the diagnosis of HIT. Method: Twenty-two patients over the age of 18 with a history of histamine intolerance were recruited, in whom IgE-mediated food allergy was ruled out, and 22 healthy patients. Both groups were surveyed and serum DAO concentration was determined. Results: Middle-aged women predominated in the population with HIT. They described a wide variety of symptoms, with a dominance of abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, flushing, urticaria, itching, headache and dysmenorrhea. When comparing the average serum DAO concentration in the population with HIT (10.686 U/ml) with the average obtained in the control population (20.664 U/ml), there was a significant difference (p < 0.003). Conclusion. The determination of serum DAO concentration is a useful tool for the diagnosis of HIT.
Indirect cholinergic activation slows down pancreatic cancer growth and tumor-associated inflammation
Authors: Pfitzinger Paulo L. , Fangmann Laura , Wang Kun , Demir Elke , Gürlevik Engin , Fleischmann-Mundt Bettina , Brooks Jennifer , D'Haese Jan G. , Teller Steffen , Hecker Andreas , Jesinghaus Moritz , Jäger Carsten , Istvanffy Rouzanna , Kühnel Florian , Friess Helmut , Ceyhan Güralp O. , Demir Ihsan Ekin
Published: August 2020

Background
Nerve-cancer interactions are increasingly recognized to be of paramount importance for the emergence and progression of pancreatic cancer (PCa). Here, we investigated the role of indirect cholinergic activation on PCa progression through inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) via clinically available AChE-inhibitors, i.e. physostigmine and pyridostigmine.
Methods
We applied immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, MTT-viability, invasion, flow-cytometric-cell-cycle-assays, phospho-kinase arrays, multiplex ELISA and xenografted mice to assess the impact of AChE inhibition on PCa cell growth and invasiveness, and tumor-associated inflammation. Survival analyses were performed in a novel genetically-induced, surgically-resectable mouse model of PCa under adjuvant treatment with gemcitabine+/-physostigmine/pyridostigmine (n = 30 mice). Human PCa specimens (n = 39) were analyzed for the impact of cancer AChE expression on tumor stage and survival.
Results
We discovered a strong expression of AChE in cancer cells of human PCa specimens. Inhibition of this cancer-cell-intrinsic AChE via pyridostigmine and physostigmine, or administration of acetylcholine (ACh), diminished PCa cell viability and invasion in vitro and in vivo via suppression of pERK signaling, and reduced tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) infiltration and serum pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. In the novel genetically-induced, surgically-resectable PCa mouse model, adjuvant co-therapy with AChE blockers had no impact on survival. Accordingly, survival of resected PCa patients did not differ based on tumor AChE expression levels. Patients with higher-stage PCa also exhibited loss of the ACh-synthesizing enzyme, choline-acetyltransferase (ChAT), in their nerves.
Conclusion
For future clinical trials of PCa, direct cholinergic stimulation of the muscarinic signaling, rather than indirect activation via AChE blockade, may be a more effective strategy.
Changes in newly notified cases and control of tuberculosis in China: time-series analysis of surveillance data
Authors: Wang Yesheng , Zhu Wenlong , Li Tao , Chen Wei , Wang Wei-bing
Published: August 2020

Background
China has made progress in tuberculosis control, but this disease remains a burden in many regions of China. We performed time-series analysis to examine changes in the rates of newly notified and newly smear-positive cases of tuberculosis in different regions of China from 1997 to 2017 and assessed the effect of the current control program.
Methods
National and provincial notification data on tuberculosis from 1997 to 2017, which covers 31 provinces in mainland China, were extracted from the Chinese public health science data center. The annual percentage changes in newly notified and smear-positive cases were analyzed using a joinpoint regression method.
Results
There were 17,823,330 newly notified tuberculosis cases from 1997 to 2017, with the greatest number in 2005. A total of 6,378,785 of these cases (35.79%) were smear-positive cases. Most provinces had significant declines in newly notified and smear-positive cases during the most recent years. The declines in newly notified cases were faster in the eastern and central provinces than in the western provinces.
Conclusions
The burden of tuberculosis has been declining throughout China during recent years, but tuberculosis in western China continues to be a public health emergency that needs to be urgently addressed. Effective prevention and control strategies are needed for regions with high disease burdens and those with increasing or unchanging numbers of newly notified and smear-positive cases of tuberculosis.
A Young Adult with COVID-19 and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)-like Illness: A Case Report
Authors: Kofman Aaron D. , Sizemore Emma K. , Detelich Joshua F. , Albrecht Benjamin , Piantadosi Anne L.
Published: August 2020

Background: A healthy 25-year-old woman developed COVID-19 disease with clinical characteristics resembling Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), a rare form of COVID-19 described primarily in children under 21 years of age.Case Presentation: The patient presented with one week of weakness, dyspnea, and low-grade fevers, followed by mild cough, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, and lymph node swelling. She was otherwise healthy, with no prior medical history. Her hospital course was notable for profound acute kidney injury, leukocytosis, hypotension, and cardiac dysfunction requiring ICU admission and vasopressor support. MIS-C-like illness secondary to COVID-19 was suspected due to physical exam findings of conjunctivitis, mucositis, and shock. She improved following IVIG, aspirin, and supportive care, and was discharged on hospital day 5.Conclusion: MIS-C-like illness should be considered in adults presenting with atypical clinical findings and concern for COVID-19. Further research is needed to support the role of IVIG and aspirin in this patient population.
Influence of Educational background in Pathological Stage and Treatment Modalities in Iranian Breast Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Single Center Study
Authors: Kashi Amir Shahram Yousefi
Published: August 2020

Background: Breast cancer is the most frequent diagnosed visceral cancer with 13400 new cases annually in Iranian women. There are a few studies in the west countries that indicates that breast cancer patients with higher educational background had better prognosis than patients with lower education background.Objectives: In a retrospective single center study we compared educational background and its relationship to pathological stage and their treatment modalities among 3010 breast cancer patients.Methods: Medical records of 3010 patients with breast cancer from database at Cancer Research Center of the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences were reviewed and univariate logistic regression analysis was used for association between education background and its relationship to pathological breast cancer stage and treatment modalities. Results: The average age at diagnosis was 49.1 years ± 11.6 years. The proportion of breast cancer patients’ levels of education were 4.2 % illiterate, 7.8% primary school, 7.5% middle school, 21.8% high school and diploma, 18.6% university and above and 40.1% unspecified.Based on univariate logistic regression analysis, the illiterate group had 65.1% of early stage breast cancer (stage I and stage II), and the university and above group had 73.4% of early stage breast cancer (p-value<.001). The rate of receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy and endocrine therapy was in the illiterate group 35.7%, 42.1%, 50% and was in the university and above group 93.7%, 64.3% and 71.1% respectively(p-value<.001). The rate of breast conserving surgery (BCS) in the illiterate group, the primary school, the middle school, the high school and diploma, and the university and above group was 15.1%, 18%, 16.3%, 42.5%, and 73.2% respectively (p-value<.001).Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that education background have a signiﬁcant impact on pathological staging and the selection of treatment modalities.
Postpartum mood among universally screened high and low socioeconomic status patients during COVID-19 social restrictions in New York City.
Authors: Silverman Michael E. , Burgos Laudy , Rodriguez Zoe I. , Afzal Omara , Kalishman Alyssa , Callipari Francesco , Pena Yvon , Gabay Ruth , Loudon Holly
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The mental health effects of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on postpartum women is of increasing concern among mental health practitioners. To date only a handful of studies have explored the impact of the pandemic during pregnancy and none have attempted explore the impact of pandemic related social restrictions on postpartum mood.Methods: Postpartum patients appearing to the Mount Sinai Health System for their postpartum appointment between January 2, 2020 and June 30, 2020, corresponding to before and during pandemic imposed social restrictions, were screened for mood symptomatology using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Each patient’s socioeconomic status (SES; high/low) was determined by their location of clinical service.Results: 516 postpartum patients were screened. While no differences in EPDS scores were observed by SES prior to social restrictions (t(262)=0.23, p=.82), a significant change in mood symptomatology was observed following COVID-19 restrictions (t(288)=2.32, p<.02), with patients living in lower SES reporting significantly less depression symptomatology (t(321)=4.07, p<.01). There was no change in symptomatology among patients of higher SES (t(191)=0.59, p=0.56).Discussion: Postpartum depression, the most common complication of childbearing, is a prevalent, cross-cultural disorder with significant morbidity. The observed differences in postpartum mood between patients of different SES in the context of temporarily imposed COVID-19 related social restrictions present a unique opportunity to better understand the specific health and social support needs of postpartum patients living in urban poverty. Given that maternal mental illness has negative long-term developmental implications for the offspring, and that poor mental health reinforces the poverty cycle, future policy specifically directed towards supporting urban postpartum women living in low-SES by ameliorating some of the early maternal mental health burdens associated with balancing employment-family-childcare demands may assist in interrupting this cycle while simultaneously improving the long-term outcomes of their offspring.
Pain-Guided Activity Modification During Treatment for Patellar Tendinopathy: A Feasibility and Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sprague Andrew L , Couppé Christian , Pohlig Ryan T. , Snyder-Mackler Lynn Sc.D , Silbernagel Karin Grävare
Published: August 2020

Background: Activity modification is a key component of patellar tendinopathy treatment but there is a lack of evidence guiding activity modification prescription. Use of activity modification in treatment studies has varied widely and the impact of those recommendations has not been directly investigated or compared. The purpose of this study was to assess 1) the feasibility of using pain-guided activity modification during treatment for patellar tendinopathy and 2) if our outcome measures are responsive to changes in tendon health over the course of treatment.Methods: This was an unblinded, randomized two-arm pilot and feasibility study randomized clinical trial with parallel assignment, conducted in Newark, DE. Individuals between the ages of 16 and 40 years old with patellar tendinopathy were included. Participants were randomly assigned to a pain-guided activity (PGA) or pain-free activity (PFA) group using a spreadsheet-based randomization scheme. All participants received standardized treatment using a modified version of the heavy-slow resistance protocol 3x/week for 12-weeks. For the first six weeks, the PGA group used the Pain-Monitoring Model to guide activity outside of treatment and the PFA group was restricted from running, jumping, or activities that provoked their patellar tendon pain. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, enrollment, randomization, compliance, and retention percentages. Clinical evaluations were conducted at baseline, 6- and 12-weeks to assess symptom severity, psychological factors, tendon morphology and mechanical properties, lower extremity function and quadriceps muscle performance. Results: In a ~13 month period, 108 individuals were screened, 47/108 (43.5%) were eligible for participation, and 15/47 (32.0%) of those were enrolled (9 PGA, 6 PFA). The recruitment rate was 1.15 participants/month. The mean±SD compliance with treatment was PGA: 86.1±13.0% and PFA: 67.1±30.7%. There was one missed evaluation session and two adverse events, which were not due to study interventions. Changes exceeding the smallest detectable change were observed for at least one outcome in each domain of tendon health.Conclusions: Use of pain-guided activity modification during exercise therapy for patellar tendinopathy was found to be feasible, and the proposed outcome measures appropriate. Computer-based allocation concealment, blinding of evaluators, and greater recruitment of high-level athletes should be implemented in future trials. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03694730. Registered 3rd of October, 2018. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03694730
Prediction of the Date of Flex and of the Date of Substantial Reduction in the Number of COVID – 19 Confirmed Cases and Fatalities in Delhi (India)
Authors: .ARORA B. L
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we analyse the covidCovid-19 data of the number of confirmed positive infectious cases (I) in Delhi - the capital of India – a city with a population of nearly 20 million - from April 1, 2020 to July 27th 2020 to find the flex in the I-t curve, where the second derivative of the I - t curve becomes negative. i.e. the date from which the rate of growth of the number of infections starts decreasing. The data isare fitted to the Gauss error function formulaa + b erf(cx-d)with four parameters a, b, c and d as was done by Ciufolini and Paolozzi [1] for analysis of the covid-19 data of Italy and China. The date of flex is also found by plotting the second derivative of I evaluated numerically and agrees with the date found by the Gauss error function method. We also determinedetermined the date at which the number of new daily infections iswas sufficiently reduced to aboutapproximately 100. An estimate of the number of future cases is calculated using the Gauss error function. The data for the number of fatalities in the city isare also fitted to the Gauss error function with four parameters, and we estimate the date at which the number of fatalities reduces in proportion to a sufficient reduction in the number of new Covid-19 cases, which in this case is approximately 3. The data for the analysis hashave been taken from the website covid19India.org and Aarogya Setu App [6] of the Government of India.
Estimating Producers’ Preferences for Sod Attributes: A Combined Approach of Discrete Choice Experiments and Eye-tracking Technology
Authors: Ge Candi , Chung Chanjin , Boyer Tracy A. , Palma Marco
Published: August 2020

This study combines a discrete choice experiment and eye-tracking technology to investigate producers’ preferences for sod attributes including winterkill reduction, shade tolerance, drought tolerance, salinity tolerance, and maintenance cost reduction. Our study results show that sod producers valued drought tolerance the most, followed by shade tolerance, winterkill reduction, salinity tolerance, and lastly, a 10% maintenance cost reduction. Choice survey data revealed the existence of attribute non-attendance, i.e., respondents skipped some attributes, but statistical tests detected no clear evidence about the role of individuals’ attention changes on their willingness-to-accept estimates. Estimates using a scale heterogeneity multinomial logit model indicate an overall learning effect as respondents made choices in the survey. Producers’ willingness-to-accept were generally higher than consumers’ willingness-to-pay for the improved sod variety attributes, except for the drought tolerance attribute. However, the rankings for these attributes were the same between consumers and producers.
Transport in one-dimensional integrable quantum systems
Authors: Sirker Jesko
Published: August 2020

These notes are based on a series of three lectures given at the Les
Houches summer school on ’Integrability in Atomic and Condensed Matter
Physics’ in August 2018. They provide an introduction into the unusual
transport properties of integrable models in the linear response regime
focussing, in particular, on the spin-1/21/2
XXZ spin chain.
Retrograde long bone intramedullary pinning in wing fractures of the common buzzard
Authors: VASIU IOSIF , OBER CIPRIAN , MUREŞAN COSMIN , LĂCĂTUŞ RADU , OANA LIVIU , DĄBROWSKI ROMAN , PEŞTEAN COSMIN
Published: August 2020

Three common buzzards (Buteo buteo) were brought to the veterinary emergency hospital in Cluj-Napoca with right wing trauma, inflicted by a car accident and multiple gunshot wounds. Clinical and Rtg examination were used to diagnose one humeral and two radio-ulnar fractures in the right wing. The fractures were reduced by using the simple intramedullary retrograde pinning technique, adapted to the requirements of the pneumatic avian bones. Radiological tests were performed at 3, 7 and 21 days postoperatively. The X-rays showed callus formation and healing processes. However, because of complications (paresis, muscular atrophy and osteomyelitis), the flight capacity could not be restored in all 3 cases. This is the first case series of right wing fractures, caused by gunshot and car accident trauma, to be reported in Romania. The orthopedic technique used had proved its effectiveness in healing long bone fractures, but due to presence of osteomyelitis, excessive fracture mobility and the sectioning of the radial nerve, the main objective, i.e. regaining flight capacity, was reached in only one patient.
MATRIX-TYPE CERTIFIED REFERENCE MATERIALS FOR QUALITY CONTROL OF METAL DETERMINATION FROM SOLID ENVIRONMENTAL AND VEGETATION SAMPLES
Authors: Tenea Anda Gabriela , Vasile Gabriela Geanina , Paun Gina Alina , Mureseanu Mihaela
Published: August 2020

In the context of monitoring environmental factors, metals are one of the major analytical components. Applying appropriate determination methods and obtaining accurate results is a requirement imposed on environmental laboratories that perform quality control of water, soil, waste, or vegetation. This study presents some examples of certified reference materials for quality control of the results of toxic metal determination from solid environmental and vegetation samples. The analyzed and verified metals were As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. The pre-treatment of the samples, the determination methods of metals and the obtained results are also presented. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-EOS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) techniques are suitable for low metal concentrations, while ICP-EOS and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS) methods can be used at high concentrations.
EVALUATING THE ECOTOXICITY OF DIFFERENT PHARMACEUTICALS USING ALIIVIBRIO FISCHERI BIOASSAYS
Authors: Ionescu Lucian , Gheorghe Stefania , Mitru Daniel , Stoica Catalina , Banciu Alina Roxana , Mihalache Madalina , Nita-Lazar Mihai
Published: August 2020

An endless list of companies has produced a large amount of pharmaceutical compounds in a year-on-year growth trend. Due to the excessive consumption of these substances and the inappropriate disposal, the environment was contaminated, especially aquatic ecosystems, with quantities of pharmaceuticals (PHACs) so that they have affected the living organisms, leading to decreased biodiversity and ecological
degradation. Many studies on PHACs environmental presence and toxic effects were performed, but unfortunately, no limit was establishing for discharging into the environment, especially into the aquatic systems. The aim of this study was to use the bioluminescence of Aliivibrio fischeri bacteria as an indicator of toxical effect of
different PHACs in simulated marine mediums. The Microtox® bioassay is based on the PHACs inhibitory effect on the metabolism of bacteria which induced changes in their bacterial bioluminescence. The test organisms were exposed to analgesics and anti-inflammatories such as Diclofenac, Ketoprofen, Naproxen and Ibuprofen. The results showed that based on EC50 values, Naproxen had a very low toxicity but Diclofenac, Ketoprofen and Ibuprofen had a harmful effect on the aquatic organisms.