bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of crocin versus fluoxetine in treatment of mild to moderate obsessive‐compulsive disorder: A double blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kazemi Fatemeh , Vosough Iraj , Sepahi Samaneh , Mohajeri Seyed Ahmad
Published: February 2021

Background

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common disabling disorder. Crocin, the active component of the saffron plant (Crocus Sativus L.) has various pharmacological activities. The present study compared the efficacy and safety of crocin and fluoxetine in treatment of mild to moderate OCD.

Methods & Materials

Fifty patients with OCD, aged 18 to 60 years, were randomized to receive either crocin (15 mg) or fluoxetine (20 mg) capsules for 8 weeks. Eligible participants received one capsule/day in the first month, which followed by two capsules daily in the second month. The patients were evaluated using Yale‐Brown Obsessive‐compulsive scale (Y‐BOCS) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale (HARS).

Results

The mean Y‐BOCS score in both groups decreased significantly during 2 months (p‐value = 0.0001). Also, HARS score in the crocin group was changed from 17.16 to 13.04 whereas, in the fluoxetine group was decreased from 18.28 to 12.34. The results indicated no difference between the two groups in Y‐BOCS and HARS score changes after 2‐month trial (p‐value >0.5). Also, fewer adverse effects were reported in the crocin group compared to the fluoxetine group.

Conclusion

According to our study, it seems that crocin is effective in treatment of patients with mild to moderate OCD with possibly fewer adverse effects compared to fluoxetine.
SLy2‐overexpression impairs B‐cell development in the bone marrow and the IgG response towards pneumococcal conjugate‐vaccine
Authors: Jaufmann Jennifer , Tümen Leyla , Beer‐Hammer Sandra
Published: February 2021

Background

Infections with Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause severe diseases in humans including pneumonia. Although guidelines for vaccination have been established, S. pneumoniae is still responsible for a serious burden of disease around the globe. Currently, two pneumococcal immunizations are available, namely the pure polysaccharide vaccine Pneumovax23 (P23) and the conjugate‐vaccine Prevenar13 (PCV13). We recently reported impaired thymus‐independent antibody responses towards P23 in mice overexpressing the immunoinhibitory adapter SLy2. The purpose of this study was to evaluate adaptive B‐cell responses towards the thymus‐dependent vaccine PCV13 in SLy2‐overexpressing mice and to study their survival rate during pneumococcal lung infection. Moreover, we investigated B‐cell developmental stages within the bone marrow (BM) in the context of excessive SLy2‐expression.

Methods

B‐cell subsets and their surface immune globulins were investigated by flow cytometry. For class‐switch assays, isolated splenic B cells were stimulated in vitro with lipopolysaccharide and interleukin‐4 and antibody secretion was quantified via LEGENDplex. To study PCV13‐specific responses, mice were immunized and serum antibody titers (immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulins IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3) were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Survival rates of mice were assessed within 7 days upon intranasal challenge with S. pneumoniae.

Results

Our data demonstrate impaired IgG1 and IgG3 antibody responses towards the pneumococcal conjugate‐vaccine PCV13 in SLy2‐overexpressing mice. This was accompanied by reduced frequencies and numbers of BM‐resident plasmablasts. In addition, we found drastically reduced counts of B‐cell precursors in the BM of SLy2‐Tg mice. The survival rate upon intranasal challenge with S. pneumoniae was mostly comparable between the genotypes.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate an important role of the adapter protein SLy2 in the context of adaptive antibody responses against pneumococcal conjugate‐vaccine. Interestingly, deficits in humoral immunity seemed to be compensated by cellular immune effectors upon bacterial challenge. Our study further shows a novel relevance of SLy2 for plasmablasts and B‐cell progenitors in the BM.
Corporate environmental disclosure and earnings management—The moderating role of corporate governance structures
Authors: Gerged Ali Meftah , Albitar Khaldoon , Al‐Haddad Lara
Published: February 2021

Our study examines whether internal corporate governance (CG) mechanisms moderate the relationship between a firm's engagement in corporate environmental disclosure (CED) and earnings management (EM) practices in an emerging economy. Using a sample of 100 Jordanian listed firms from 2010 to 2014 (i.e., 500 firm‐year observations), our findings reveal that while the relationship between CED and earnings manipulations is negative, the links between CG arrangements and EM are heterogeneous in that they might have either reduced or increased earnings manipulations in Jordan. Furthermore, some CG structures, such as board size, managerial, and institutional ownership structures have moderating effects on the CED‐EM nexus. Our research highlights the significance of considering internal CG mechanisms to explain the link between CED and EM in the context of emerging economies. Our results help to explain and place into setting the earlier mixed results on the association between CED and earnings manipulations and most importantly add to the debate about whether CG structures detrimental to the CED‐EM nexus. This study allows for a richer understanding of how managers respond to CED initiatives and CG reforms in relation to reducing earnings manipulations, which offers policymakers, board directors and managers, a set of context‐specific recommendations related to the crucial need for more concerted efforts to ensure corporate sustainability in emerging economies.
A scoping review of maternal antibiotic prophylaxis in low‐ and middle‐income countries: Comparison to WHO recommendations for prevention and treatment of maternal peripartum infection
Authors: Jury Imogen , Thompson Kelly , Hirst Jane E.
Published: February 2021

Background

Sepsis is a leading cause of maternal death. Antimicrobials save lives, but inappropriate overuse increases risk of antimicrobial resistance.

Objective

A scoping review comparing peripartum prophylactic antimicrobial use in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) with WHO recommendations for prevention and treatment of maternal peripartum infection.

Search strategy

Medline, Embase, Global Health, LILACS and the WHO Library databases were searched.

Selection criteria

Publications from LMICs since 2015 describing maternal prophlyactic antibiotics for group B streptococcus (GBS), preterm‐prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM), cesarean section, manual placental removal, and third/fourth‐degree perineal tears.

Data collection and analysis

Publications were screened, and duplicates were removed. A scoping review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Owing to study heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed.

Main results

Of 1886 studies, 27 studies from 13 countries involving 43 774 women met the eligibility criteria. Polymerase chain reaction screening for GBS is feasible, though limited financially. In PPROM, up to 42% of GBS isolates demonstrated erythromycin resistance. Evidence around cesarean section antimicrobial prophylaxis largely supports WHO recommendations; however, prolonged or multidrug regimens were reported.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence to challenge current WHO recommendations to prevent peripartum infection in LMICs. However, implementation challenges exist. Given the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, research is needed to ensure that peripartum prophylactic antimicrobial choices remain effective.
Positive and negative behavioural intentions towards immigrants: A question of ethnic categorisation or worldview conflict?
Authors: Havermans Willemijn , Verkuyten Maykel
Published: February 2021

Anti‐immigrant attitudes are often explained in terms of ethnic boundaries in which a categorical distinction between the ethnic ingroup and immigrant outgroup is made. However, these attitudes might also result from contrasting cultural worldviews. We examined the importance of ethnic categorisation and perceived cultural worldview difference in explaining behavioural intentions towards immigrants. Using an experimental survey design with a national sample of ethnic Dutch respondents (N = 832), we studied two positive and two negative behavioural intentions towards either immigrants with a contrasting cultural worldview or co‐ethnics with such as worldview. Our findings indicate similar behavioural intentions towards both target groups. Furthermore, except for “the intention to learn” there were no differences in behavioural intentions towards both target groups for respondents with lower and higher authoritarian dispositions. Overall, this pattern of findings is theoretically most in line with a worldview conflict perspective rather than an ethnic boundary perspective.
Tri‐tubular penile fracture: A case of complete rupture of urethra and bilateral corpus cavernosa
Authors: Young Edward , Ashrafi Akbar N , Kahokehr Arman A
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Tri‐tubular penile fracture is a very rare subset of penile fractures, typically due to high‐energy trauma to the erect penis.

Case presentation

A 26‐year‐old healthy man presents with a triad of audible crack, immediate detumescence, and hematoma formation, following blunt trauma sustained during vaginal sexual intercourse. A diagnosis of penile fracture is made, with intraoperative finding of a complete traumatic transection of the urethra with total bilateral corpus cavernosa disruption. Both corpora cavernosa were repaired using 2/0 polydioxanone sutures, with the dartos fascia placed in between. The urethra was repaired with interrupted 5/0 polyglactin braided absorbable suture. At 5 weeks, patient reported normal erections and sexual activity with no physical or psychological issues. The literature on management was reviewed.

Conclusion

Current evidence of surgical management of tri‐tubular penile fractures remains predominantly expert opinion, due to difficulties of conducting prospective trials for a rare condition.
The Narrative Turn: Interdisciplinary Methods and Perspectives
Authors: Sarah Raine
Published: February 2021

The narrative turn in the social sciences has affected a variety of disciplines and inspired interest in narrative analysis from a range of methodological perspectives. This article provides an overview of the narrative turn, summarizing historic narrative trends in the social sciences which led to the current interest in narrative analysis across a variety of disciplines. I discuss general concerns of narrative definition, data collection and the researcher's voice in presentation before outlining various frameworks for categorizing approaches to narrative analysis. Examples of a variety of narrative analysis perspectives and methods are provided to support this discussion. While the subjective emphasis of narrative analysis has particular relevance for anthropologists, the strength of the field lies in its ability to bring together perspectives and insights from a wide range of fields.
Concanavalin A induces apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner by modulating thiol/disulfide homeostasis in C6 glioblastoma cells
Authors: Kar Fatih , Kacar Sedat , Hacioglu Ceyhan , Kanbak Gungor , Sahinturk Varol
Published: February 2021

Glioma is the most common brain tumor. C6 rat glioblastoma cells provide the possibility to the scientist to study brain cancer. Concanavalin A (Con A) has a lot of antitumoral effects, especially over oxidative stress. In the present study, it was aimed to decide the impacts of various doses of Con A on C6 glioblastoma cells regarding cytotoxicity, thiol/disulfide homeostasis, apoptosis, and inflammation. We detected the cytotoxic activity of Con A (from 7.8 to 500 µg/ml) in C6 cells by utilizing 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and determined the toxic concentration of Con A. Once the optimal doses were found, the thiol–disulfide homeostasis, levels of total antioxidant and oxidant status (TAS and TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), pro‐inflammatory cytokines as tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), apoptotic proteins as cytochrome c (CYCS), and caspase 3 (CASP3) were measured. Apoptotic and morphological changes in the C6 cells were examined with an inverted microscope and flow cytometry technique. Dose‐dependent Con A triggered oxidative damage in the C6 cells, affecting the inflammatory pathway, so reducing proliferation with apoptotic proteins and morphological changes. But especially, Con A increased disulfide formation by disrupting the thiol/disulfide balance in C6 cells. This study revealed that Con A, known as carbohydrate‐binding protein, generated oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner by modulating thiol/disulfide homeostasis in C6 glioblastoma cells.
Imino isatin derivatives; synthesis, in silico molecular dynamic study over monoamine oxidase B, ADME prediction, and in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation
Authors: Ahmadi Samaneh , Azizian Homa , Azizian Javad
Published: February 2021

The monoamine oxidase B (MAO‐B) depicts an attractive drug target for the development of neuro protective agents toward the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. The current study involved synthesis, in silico and cytotoxic evaluation of N1‐alkylated‐5‐substituted 3‐imino isatin derivatives with the proposed MAO‐B inhibitory activities. The In silico molecular modeling investigation was performed through the induced fit docking, molecular mechanics‐generalized born surface area, and molecular dynamic method in order to uncover the binding mode interaction and their proposed impact on the active site environment and flexibility. The synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods. Compound 3‐Imino‐1‐pentyl indolin‐2‐one (3h) with the highest free binding energy adopts an extended conformation spanning from the flavin ring location to the entrance of the substrate cavity. In this way, Ile199 adopts the “open” conformation so the two separate cavities of MAO‐B active site fused and formed a single‐space, which abled the compound extending to the MAO‐B entrance cavity space. From consideration of the data presented in this paper, we reveal that longer N1‐alkylated‐3‐imino isatin derivative could be proposed as inhibitor that would occupy both cavities of the MAO‐B active site. Furthermore, the mentioned derivatives provided acceptable drug profiling based on in silico ADME calculation and MTT cytotoxicity test evaluation.
Retracted: Problems of the formation of youth changeable personal identity in postmodern conditions
Authors: Maslova Ekaterina S. , Polomoshnov Andrey F. , Gabibov Albert B. , Polomoshnov Platon A.
Published: February 2021

The relevance of the subject matter is connected with the necessity to study the specifics of identification of modern student youth. The purpose of the article is to study modern self‐identity. The leading method for studying this problem is the method of analysing the standard paradigm of the theoretical description of this phenomenon that has developed in the modern scientific discourse. During the study, the authors analyzed the self‐identity structure. Also, were researched. It was concluded that the standard paradigm for the study of mutable identity, without resorting to the deep socioeconomic factors of the modern self‐identity crisis, provides a fragmented, superficial and socio‐abstract picture of variable identity, which, in essence, is a philosophical apology, a mask of identity dehumanization in the postmodern world.
MicroRNAs in the interaction between host–bacterial pathogens: A new perspective
Authors: Riahi Rad Zohreh , Riahi Rad Zahra , Goudarzi Hossein , Goudarzi Mehdi , Mahmoudi Mohammad , Yasbolaghi Sharahi Javad , Hashemi Ali
Published: February 2021

Gene expression regulation plays a critical role in host–pathogen interactions, and RNAs function is essential in this process. miRNAs are small noncoding, endogenous RNA fragments that affect stability and/or translation of mRNAs, act as major posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. miRNA is involved in regulating many biological or pathological processes through targeting specific mRNAs, including development, differentiation, apoptosis, cell cycle, cytoskeleton organization, and autophagy. Deregulated microRNA expression is associated with many types of diseases, including cancers, immune disturbances, and infection. miRNAs are a vital section of the host immune response to bacterial‐made infection. Bacterial pathogens suppress host miRNA expression for their benefit, promoting survival, replication, and persistence. The role played through miRNAs in interaction with host–bacterial pathogen has been extensively studied in the past 10 years, and knowledge about these staggering molecules' function can clarify the complicated and ambiguous interactions of the host–bacterial pathogen. Here, we review how pathogens prevent the host miRNA expression. We briefly discuss emerging themes in this field, including their role as biomarkers in identifying bacterial infections, as part of the gut microbiota, on host miRNA expression.
Covalent conjugation of extracellular vesicles with peptides and nanobodies for targeted therapeutic delivery
Authors: Pham Tin Chanh , Jayasinghe Migara Kavishka , Pham Thach Tuan , Yang Yuqi , Wei Likun , Usman Waqas Muhammad , Chen Huan , Pirisinu Marco , Gong Jinhua , Kim Seongkyeol , Peng Boya , Wang Weixi , Chan Charlene , Ma Victor , Nguyen Nhung T.H. , Kappei Dennis , Nguyen Xuan‐Hung , Cho William C. , Shi Jiahai , Le Minh T.N.
Published: February 2021

Natural extracellular vesicles (EVs) are ideal drug carriers due to their remarkable biocompatibility. Their delivery specificity can be achieved by the conjugation of targeting ligands. However, existing methods to engineer target‐specific EVs are tedious or inefficient, having to compromise between harsh chemical treatments and transient interactions. Here, we describe a novel method for the covalent conjugation of EVs with high copy numbers of targeting moieties using protein ligases. Conjugation of EVs with either an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐targeting peptide or anti‐EGFR nanobody facilitates their accumulation in EGFR‐positive cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Systemic delivery of paclitaxel by EGFR‐targeting EVs at a low dose significantly increases drug efficacy in a xenografted mouse model of EGFR‐positive lung cancer. The method is also applicable to the conjugation of EVs with peptides and nanobodies targeting other receptors, such as HER2 and SIRP alpha, and the conjugated EVs can deliver RNA in addition to small molecules, supporting the versatile application of EVs in cancer therapies. This simple, yet efficient and versatile method for the stable surface modification of EVs bypasses the need for genetic and chemical modifications, thus facilitating safe and specific delivery of therapeutic payloads to target cells.
Cross‐flow microfiltration for isolation, selective capture and release of liposarcoma extracellular vesicles
Authors: Casadei Lucia , Choudhury Adarsh , Sarchet Patricia , Mohana Sundaram Prashanth , Lopez Gonzalo , Braggio Danielle , Balakirsky Gita , Pollock Raphael , Prakash Shaurya
Published: February 2021

We present a resource‐efficient approach to fabricate and operate a micro‐nanofluidic device that uses cross‐flow filtration to isolate and capture liposarcoma derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). The isolated extracellular vesicles were captured using EV‐specific protein markers to obtain vesicle enriched media, which was then eluted for further analysis. Therefore, the micro‐nanofluidic device integrates the unit operations of size‐based separation with CD63 antibody immunoaffinity‐based capture of extracellular vesicles in the same device to evaluate EV‐cargo content for liposarcoma. The eluted media collected showed ∼76% extracellular vesicle recovery from the liposarcoma cell conditioned media and ∼32% extracellular vesicle recovery from dedifferentiated liposarcoma patient serum when compared against state‐of‐art extracellular vesicle isolation and subsequent quantification by ultracentrifugation. The results reported here also show a five‐fold increase in amount of critical liposarcoma‐relevant extracellular vesicle cargo obtained in 30 min presenting a significant advance over existing state‐of‐art.
Effect of constant and fluctuating temperature on the intrapuparial development of Sarcophaga argyrostoma (Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830; Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: Sert Osman , Özdemir Senem , Şabanoğlu Burcu
Published: February 2021

This study aimes to investigate the effect of constant and fluctuating temperatures on starting times of developmental periods of insect species. For this purpose, Sarcophaga (Liopygia) argyrostoma (Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830), a forensically important species has been chosen. Whether the constant (25°C) and fluctuating (25.2°C averaged over natural conditions) temperatures would make a difference on the timing of intrapuparial development of this species was investigated. First larval instars were placed in rearing cages until they reached post‐feeding third larval instar, which is considered the beginning of intrapuparial development. Relevant morphological changes were observed by hourly dissections. At fluctuating temperature treatment, the post‐feeding third instar larvae were transferred to containers under natural, open‐air conditions. Minimum and maximum starting times of 23 intrapuparial development periods were determined for both treatments. These times, medians, and standard deviations were compared by Mann–Whitney U tests. Accumulated degree hour values were also calculated for these periods. Regardless of temperature treatment, intrapuparial development periods were similar and adult emergence was observed at 289.5 ( ± 1.52) h under 25°C constant temperature and 319 ( ± 1.41) h under fluctuating temperature conditions. No statistical difference was found between the intrapuparial development of S. argyrostoma reared under constant and fluctuating temperatures, except “pupal‐adult apolysis” and “checkered pattern on the abdomen becoming distinct” periods. The use of the results obtained when determining the effect of constant and fluctuating temperatures on the starting times of developmental periods of this species in forensic entomology, is also important in transferring developmental biology data into the field of applied sciences.
Safety assessment of laparoscopic liver resection: A project study of the Endoscopic Liver Surgery Study Group of Japan
Authors: Aoki Taku , Kubota Keiichi , Matsumoto Takatsugu , Nitta Hiroyuki , Otsuka Yuichiro , Wakabayashi Go , Kaneko Hironori ,   the Endoscopic Liver Surgery Study Group of Japan
Published: February 2021

Background/Purpose

Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has been expanded rapidly and has been accepted worldwide; however, the safety assessment of LLR has not been fully conducted with a large‐scale cohort. The aim of this study was to assess safety and identify clinical factors associated with postoperative major complications in LLR.

Methods

This project study retrospectively collected the data of LLRs performed before October 2015 in Japan. Patient characteristics, details of LLRs, and surgical outcomes were analyzed.

Results

A total of 4122 patients from 66 institutions were enrolled. The main indications were hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal liver metastases. The majority of the procedures were performed for solitary tumor‐located liver segment 2, 3, 5, and 6 and the partial resection and left‐lateral sectionectomy occupied 77.3%. The rate of conversion, accidental events were 7.1% and 2.1%, respectively. Postoperative major complication occurred in 205 cases (5.0%), and 14 in‐hospital deaths were found among HCC patients with chronically diseased liver. Occurrence of postoperative major complication was associated with operation time (≥360 minutes), intraoperative blood loss (≥250 mL), red blood cell transfusion (yes), and the difficulty score (≥6). The 30‐ and 90‐day mortality was 0.14% and 0.41%, respectively.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic liver resection was performed with an acceptable rate of conversion, accidental events, morbidity, and mortality. The indications for LLR should be cautiously judged considering tumor location, planned operative procedure, and liver function.
Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of methylmalonic acidaemia and propionic acidaemia: First revision
Authors: Forny Patrick , Hörster Friederike , Ballhausen Diana , Chakrapani Anupam , Chapman Kimberly A. , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo , Dixon Marjorie , Grünert Sarah C. , Grunewald Stephanie , Haliloglu Goknur , Hochuli Michel , Honzik Tomas , Karall Daniela , Martinelli Diego , Molema Femke , Sass Jörn Oliver , Scholl‐Bürgi Sabine , Tal Galit , Williams Monique , Huemer Martina , Baumgartner Matthias R.
Published: February 2021

Isolated methylmalonic acidaemia (MMA) and propionic acidaemia (PA) are rare inherited metabolic diseases. Six years ago, a detailed evaluation of the available evidence on diagnosis and management of these disorders has been published for the first time. The article received considerable attention, illustrating the importance of an expert panel to evaluate and compile recommendations to guide rare disease patient care. Since that time, a growing body of evidence on transplant outcomes in MMA and PA patients and use of precursor free amino acid mixtures allows for updates of the guidelines. In this article, we aim to incorporate this newly published knowledge and provide a revised version of the guidelines. The analysis was performed by a panel of multidisciplinary health care experts, who followed an updated guideline development methodology (GRADE). Hence, the full body of evidence up until autumn 2019 was re‐evaluated, analysed and graded. As a result, 21 updated recommendations were compiled in a more concise paper with a focus on the existing evidence to enable well‐informed decisions in the context of MMA and PA patient care.
Narrative Pedagogy for Leadership Education: Stories of Leadership Efficacy, Self‐Identity, and Leadership Development
Authors: Armstrong Josh P. , McCain Kate D.
Published: February 2021

Narrative pedagogy in leadership studies has become popular with a growing body of literature. The current study used a phenomenological case study approach to explore the experiences of emerging adults who had completed a leadership storytelling course. The goal of the current research was to better understand students’ learning outcomes, sense‐making of identity, and leadership skill development. Qualitative data analysis revealed six main themes centering around student's learning: the (a) potentiality of storytelling, (b) self‐efficacy and (c) story reframing in terms of identity sense‐making, and leadership development consisting of (d) act of storytelling, (e) ripple effect, and (f) authentic leadership characteristics. The purpose of the research was to inform leadership educators and practitioners on the positive outcomes associated with narrative frameworks in leadership courses.
Texture Analysis of Native T1 Images as a Novel Method for Noninvasive Assessment of Uremic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhou Hang , An Dong‐Aolei , Ni Zhaohui , Xu Jianrong , Fang Wei , Lu Renhua , Ying Liang , Huang Jiaying , Yao Qiuying , Li Dawei , Chen Binghua , Shen Jianxiao , Jin Haijiao , Wei Yuehan , Hu Jiani , Fahmy Lara M. , Wesemann Luke , Qi Shouliang , Wu Lian‐Ming , Mou Shan
Published: February 2021

Background

Noncontrast cardiac T1 times are increased in dialysis patients which might indicate fibrotic alterations in uremic cardiomyopathy.

Purpose

To explore the application of the texture analysis (TA) of T1 images in the assessment of myocardial alterations in dialysis patients.

Study Type

Case–control study.

Population

A total of 117 subjects, including 22 on hemodialysis, 44 on peritoneal dialysis, and 51 healthy controls.

Field Strength

A 3 T, steady‐state free precession (SSFP) sequence, modified Look–Locker imaging (MOLLI).

Assessment

Two independent, blinded researchers manually delineated endocardial and epicardial borders of the left ventricle (LV) on midventricular T1 maps for TA.

Statistical Tests

Texture feature selection was performed, incorporating reproducibility verification, machine learning, and collinearity analysis. Multivariate linear regressions were performed to examine the independent associations between the selected texture features and left ventricular function in dialysis patients. Texture features' performance in discrimination was evaluated by sensitivity and specificity. Reproducibility was estimated by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

Dialysis patients had greater T1 values than normal (P < 0.05). Five texture features were filtered out through feature selection, and four showed a statistically significant difference between dialysis patients and healthy controls. Among the four features, vertical run‐length nonuniformity (VRLN) had the most remarkable difference among the control and dialysis groups (144 ± 40 vs. 257 ± 74, P < 0.05), which overlap was much smaller than Global T1 times (1268 ± 38 vs. 1308 ± 46 msec, P < 0.05). The VRLN values were notably elevated (cutoff = 170) in dialysis patients, with a specificity of 97% and a sensitivity of 88%, compared with T1 times (specificity = 76%, sensitivity = 60%). In dialysis patients, VRLN was significantly and independently associated with left ventricular ejection fraction (P < 0.05), global longitudinal strain (P < 0.05), radial strain (P < 0.05), and circumferential strain (P < 0.05); however, T1 was not.

Data Conclusion

The texture features obtained by TA of T1 images and VRLN may be a better parameter for assessing myocardial alterations than T1 times.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Climate‐sensitivity of sugarcane yield in the southeastern Africa lowlands
Authors: Mbhamali Thulebona W. , Jury Mark R.
Published: February 2021

We have analysed the relationships between local and regional climate and sugarcane yield over the southeastern Africa lowlands (31°–23.5°S, 28.5°–32.5°E) for the period 1970–2017. The temporal associations for preceding December–May rainfall and temperature, and indices of the Pacific El Niño Southern Oscillation and Indian Ocean Dipole, demonstrate the climate‐sensitivity of sugarcane yield and its proxy: the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI). The composite differences revealed how the atmospheric circulation over the Mozambique Channel shifts the moisture gradient over southeastern Africa. Predictors of sugarcane yield were identified in point‐to‐field maps of global sea surface temperature, sea level air pressure, and upper winds with respect to the PDSI. It was found that four climate predictors account for half of the PDSI variance at 1 year lead time. We also investigated the long‐term change using coupled model simulations. These exhibit weak drying trends but large year‐to‐year swings in soil moisture. Our research offers a basis for mitigating climate variability for the benefit of the sugar industry in southeastern Africa, through statistical forecasts that inform crop management.
Characterization and enhanced extracellular overexpression of a new salt‐activated alginate lyase
Authors: Meng Qing , Tian Xinyu , Jiang Bo , Zhou Licheng , Chen Jingjing , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Alginate lyases (EC 4.4.2.3/4.4.2.11) have been applied to produce alginate oligosaccharides, which have physiological advantages such as prebiotic and antidiabetic effects, and are of benefit in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Extracellular production of recombinant proteins in Escherichia coli presents advantages including simplified downstream processing and high productivity; however, the presence of certain signal peptides does not always ensure successful secretion, which make the extracellular production of alginate lyase in E. coli rarely reported but of great significance.

RESULTS

A PL7 family alginate lyase, Aly01, with its native signal peptide from Vibrio natriegens SK42.001, was identified, characterized, and extracellularly expressed in E. coli. The enzyme specifically released trisaccharide from alginate and was strictly NaCl activated. Green fluorescent protein (GFP) was fused with the Aly01 signal peptide and successfully secreted in E. coli to expand the feasibility of using this signal peptide to produce other heterologous proteins extracellularly. Through a synergistic strategy of utilizing Terrific Broth (TB) medium supplemented with 120 mmol L–1 glycine and 10 mmol L–1 calcium, the lag phase of protein secretion was reduced to 3 h from 12 h; meanwhile calcium remedied glycine‐related cell growth impairment, leading to further enhancement of overall enzyme productivity, reaching a maximum of 4.55 U mL−1.

CONCLUSION

A new salt‐activated alginate lyase, Aly01, was identified and characterized. E. coli employed its signal peptide and extracellularly expressed both Aly01 and a GFP, which indicated the signal peptide of Aly01 could be a powerful tool for extracellular production of other heterologous proteins in E. coli. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Green‐tea‐synthesized silver nanoparticles as a sensing platform for determination of tetracycline in honey samples
Authors: Pistonesi Denise B , Centurión María E , Springer Valeria
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be easily obtained in aqueous solution by chemical reduction using appropriate reducing agents and stabilizers. The development of environmentally friendly methods using non‐toxic solvents and reagents has become an alternative for the synthesis of these particles and their future application as sensor probes for agricultural products. In this work, a straightforward method based on green tea extracts as reducing and capping agent is proposed for the synthesis of AgNPs, followed by their evaluation as a sensing platform for determination of tetracycline in honey samples.

RESULTS

Highly stable nanoparticles were easily obtained by combining green tea aqueous extracts and ultrasound irradiation for 2 min. The as‐synthesized AgNPs, spherical in shape and with average size of 8.5 nm, were evaluated for determination of tetracycline by following the changes on the localized surface plasmon resonance band at 450 nm induced by the presence of this antibiotic at pH 5.8. The method was successfully applied in the concentration range between 200 and 800 μg L−1 with R2 > 0.996 and limit of detection of 52.7 μg L−1. Multiple honey samples were analyzed, and the recovery values obtained ranged between 82.8% and 116%, with relative standard deviation values lower than 6.69%.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained demonstrate that the AgNPs synthesized using just green tea extracts represent a promising and sustainable alternative tool for the cost‐effective determination of tetracycline antibiotics in honey. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Mitigation of the effect of drought on growth and yield of pomegranates by foliar spraying of different sizes of selenium nanoparticles
Authors: Zahedi Seyed Morteza , Hosseini Marjan Sadat , Daneshvar Hakimi Meybodi Naghmeh , Peijnenburg Willie
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Drought is a very important environmental stressor, which has negative effects on the growth of trees, decreasing their yield. The role of different‐sized selenium nanoparticles (Se‐NPs) in the mitigation of environmental stresses such as drought in crops has not yet been investigated.

RESULTS

Trees treated with Se‐NPs displayed higher levels of photosynthetic pigments, a better nutrient status, better physical parameters (especially fruit cracking) and chemical parameters, a higher phenolic content, and higher concentrations of osmolytes, antioxidant enzymes, and abscisic acid than untreated trees under drought stress. Foliar spraying of 10 and 50 nm Se‐NPs alleviated many of the deleterious effects of drought in pomegranate leaves and fruits and this was achieved by reducing stress‐induced lipid peroxidation and H2O2 content by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the 10 nm Se‐NPs treatment produced more noticeable effects than the treatment with 50 nm Se‐NPs.

CONCLUSION

Results confirm the positive effects of nanoparticle spraying, especially the role of 10 nm Se‐NPs in the management of negative effects of drought not only for pomegranates but potentially also for other crops.

© 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Surgical lymph node assessment influences adjuvant therapy in clinically apparent stage I endometrioid endometrial carcinoma, meeting Mayo criteria for lymphadenectomy
Authors: Pendlebury Adam , Radeva Milena , Rose Peter G.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the impact of surgical lymph node assessment for clinically apparent, stage I endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma meeting Mayo criteria for lymphadenectomy.

Methods

Patients with endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma meeting Mayo criteria for lymphadenectomy who underwent hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy were identified. Algorithms for adjuvant therapy with and without lymphadenectomy were developed utilizing NCCN guidelines, PORTEC 1, and PORTEC 2. Patients served as their own control to determine the frequency of treatment modification.

Results

A total of 357 patients were analyzed. Using our algorithms treatment modification would have occurred because of lymphadenectomy in 62.8% of patients if whole pelvic external beam radiation was used for patients meeting inclusion criteria for PORTEC 1. Treatment modification would have occurred in 16.2% of patients if vaginal brachytherapy was used for patients meeting the inclusion criteria for PORTEC 2. Of the total, 53.8% of patients meeting inclusion criteria for PORTEC 1 would have had a reduction in adjuvant therapy from whole pelvic radiotherapy to vaginal brachytherapy alone. Only 9.0% of patients would have adjuvant therapy increased to include external beam radiotherapy and chemotherapy based on the presence of positive lymph nodes.

Conclusions

Applying standard adjuvant treatment algorithms to real patient data, surgical lymph node assessment appears to frequently alter treatment allocation.
Immunotherapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Carpenter Eileen , Nelson Sarah , Bednar Filip , Cho Clifford , Nathan Hari , Sahai Vaibhav , di Magliano Marina Pasca , Frankel Timothy L.
Published: February 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a lethal cancer with an urgent need for better medical therapies. Efforts have been made to investigate the efficacy of immunotherapy, particularly given the hallmarks of immune suppression and exhaustion in PDAC tumors. Here, we review the molecular components responsible for the immune‐privileged state in PDAC and provide an overview of the immunotherapeutic strategies for PDAC including vaccine therapy, checkpoint blockade, myeloid‐targeted therapy, and immune agonist therapy.
Impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on cancer surgery: Patient's perspective
Authors: Rajan Shiv , Akhtar Naseem , Tripathi Abhilasha , Kumar Vijay , Chaturvedi Arun , Mishra Prabhaker , Sharma Sonali , Misra Sanjeev , Gupta Sameer , Singh Mohit
Published: February 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has impacted cancer care globally. The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of COVID‐19 on cancer healthcare from the perspective of patients with cancer.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted between June 19, 2020, to August 7, 2020, using a questionnaire designed by patients awaiting cancer surgery. We examined the impact of COVID‐19 on five domains (financial status, healthcare access, stress, anxiety, and depression) and their relationship with various patient‐related variables. Factors likely to determine the influence of COVID‐19 on patient care were analyzed.

Results

A significant adverse impact was noted in all five domains (p =  < 0.05), with the maximal impact felt in the domain of financial status followed by healthcare access. Patients with income levels of INR < 35 K (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.61, p < 0.05), and 35K‐ 100 K (AOR = 1.96, p < 0.05), married patients (AOR = 3.30, p < 0.05), and rural patients (AOR = 2.82, p < 0.05) experienced the most adverse COVID‐19‐related impact.

Conclusion

Delivering quality cancer care in low to middle‐income countries is a challenge even in normal times. During this pandemic, deficiencies in this fragile healthcare delivery system were exacerbated. Identification of vulnerable groups of patients and strategic utilization of available resources becomes even more important during global catastrophes, such as the current COVID‐19 pandemic. Further work is required in these avenues to not only address the current pandemic but also any potential future crises.
Postoperative imaging surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma: How much is enough?
Authors: Mirdad Rayyan S. , Madison Hyer J. , Diaz Adrian , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Azap Rosevine A. , Paro Alessandro , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: February 2021

Background

The objective of the current study was to define trends in postoperative surveillance imaging following liver‐directed treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and characterize the impact of high‐intensity surveillance on long‐term survival.

Methods

Patients who underwent liver‐ directed therapy for HCC between 2004 and 2016 were identified using the SEER‐Medicare database. Trends in surveillance intensity over time, factors associated with high surveillance intensity and the impact of surveillance on long‐term outcomes were examined.

Results

Utilization of high‐intensity surveillance abdominal imaging (≥6 scans over 2 years) following liver‐directed therapy of HCC decreased over time (2004–2007: n = 130, 36.1% vs. 2008–2011: n = 181, 29.5% vs. 2012–2016: n = 111, 24.5%; ptrend < 0.001). History of chronic viral hepatitis (hepatitis B: odds ratio [OR], 1.98; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–3.43; hepatitis C: OR, 1.79; 95% CI: 1.32–2.43), presence of regional (vs. local‐only) disease (OR, 1.47; 95% CI: 1.09–1.98) and receipt of transplantation (OR, 2.23; 95% CI: 1.57–3.17) were associated with higher odds of high intensity surveillance. Intensity of surveillance imaging was not associated with long‐term survival (5‐year overall survival: low‐intensity, 48.1% vs. high‐intensity, 48.9%; hazards ratio, 0.94; 95% CI: 0.78‐1.13).

Conclusion

Utilization of posttreatment surveillance imaging decreased over time following liver‐directed therapy for HCC. While utilization of high‐intensity screening varied by HCC procedure performed, intensity of surveillance had no effect on survival.
The Diagnostic Value of Superb Microvascular Imaging in Prediction of Uterine Artery Embolization Treatment Response in Uterine Leiomyomas
Authors: Samanci Cesur , Ozkose Burak , Ustabasioglu Fethi Emre , Erol Burak Caglar , Sirolu Sabri , Yılmaz Fatma , Ozkose Zeynep Gedik , Yılmaz Hatice , Kara Sahra Cavuşoğlu , Kicik Caliskan Raziye , Gulsen Fatih
Published: February 2021

Objectives

We aimed to determine if superb microvascular imaging (SMI) can predict response to uterine artery embolization (UAE) as compared with power Doppler ultrasound.

Methods

The blood flow and the volume of the dominant leiomyoma was evaluated by power Doppler ultrasonography (PDUS) and SMI 1 day before and 3 months after the UAE procedure. SMI and PDUS blood flow were classified to 4 grades of vascularity. The change in fibroid volume in Grades 0–2 (hypovascular group) was compared to the hypervascular Grade 3 group.

Results

Twenty‐eight women (mean age, 40.9 years; range, 33–53 years) were examined with PDUS and SMI before and 3 months after UAE. The volume reduction was statistically significantly higher hypervascular group (P < .05). When we accept 30% or more volume reduction as a good response to UAE, the positive predictive value, negative predictive value, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of SMI were 100, 64, 73.6, 100, and 82.1%, respectively. There was excellent agreement between the two blinded observers in SMI measurements.

Conclusions

SMI, with its high reproducibility, provides further microvessel information than PDUS in uterine fibroids. It may be a useful tool in prediction of response to UAE treatment and improve counseling and patient selection for UAE versus medical or surgical treatment options.
ACR BI‐RADS Category 3 Lesions in Women Younger Than 30: Follow‐up Outcomes and Factors Associated With Biopsy
Authors: Merchant Kanwal , Omar Lena , Hayes Jody , Compton Lindsay , Polat Dogan , Xi Yin , Dogan Basak
Published: February 2021

Objective

Investigate imaging follow‐up patterns and assessment of malignancy rate of BI‐RADS 3 lesions in women younger than 30 years.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive studies between January 1, 2013 and January 1, 2015 with BI‐RADS 3 assessment in women <30 years. Lesion size, follow‐up rate, and biopsy rate were recorded. Completion of 24‐month imaging follow‐up or biopsy determined the endpoint. Statistical analysis of follow‐up rates and biopsy timing was performed.

Results

Of 2525 BI‐RADS 3 lesions, 278 were identified in 215 women <30 years. Fifty‐two (24%) women underwent a biopsy which was more frequently done at patient request than for lesion growth [33 (63.4%) versus 19 (36.5%), P <.01]. The odds of having biopsy upfront was significantly higher in lesions >2 cm in diameter (OR: 4.4 [95% CI 2.1–9.4], P <.01). The malignancy rate in our cohort was 0% (95% CI 0–1.7%). Of the 188 women expected for follow‐up imaging, 58 (30%) were lost to follow‐up, while 103 (55%) had 6‐month follow‐up, 74 (39%) 12‐month follow‐up, and 56 (30%) 24‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

BI‐RADS 3 lesions identified in our cohort had high biopsy rates and low compliance with no cancers. Our findings suggest that probable fibroadenomas in young women may only warrant abbreviated short‐term follow‐up at 6‐months.
Predictive Factors for Efficacious Oral Appliance Therapy in Moderate to Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients
Authors: Buiret Guillaume , Bechara Maroun , Plouin‐Gaudon Isabelle , Bavozet Frederique , Dancea Olivia , Pujo Kevin , Chidiac Frederic
Published: February 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Oral appliances (OAs) are a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). The main objective of the study was to determine the predictive factors of OA efficacy. The secondary objective was to measure the efficacy rates and determine OAs' tolerance and dropout.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Efficacy results of the OAs based on the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) reduction, complications, and dropout rates were retrospectively collected from 347 patients with a moderate to severe OSAHS treated by a retention OA. The procedure was entirely performed by otolaryngologists.

Results

The AHI with OA was more significantly reduced in patients with a higher initial AHI and a higher initial body mass index but reduction was not related to age and not proportional to the degree of mandibular advancement. The 50% AHI reduction rate after OA was 65.2%, the AHI ≤5/hr rate after OA was 26.1%, and the <50% AHI reduction and residual AHI > 10/hr rate was 50.1%. The OA significantly reduced the mean AHI (−14.9/hr, P < .0001). In 7.8% of patients, the AHI increased with OA. Seven patients (1.5%) experienced adverse effects. Thirty‐seven (7.8%) patients stopped using OA mainly because of its ineffectiveness. Advancement can be considered beyond the initial maximal advancement. It can be effective sometimes; however, increasing advancement did not significantly reduce AHI.

Conclusions

OA is an effective and well‐tolerated treatment for moderate to severe OSAHS. This treatment was effective for reduction of the AHI ≥50% in two‐thirds of cases studied and it should be considered in more cases.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2089–E2096, 2021