bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular evolution of the sex peptide network in Drosophila
Authors: McGeary Meaghan K. , Findlay Geoffrey D.
Published: January 2020

Successful reproduction depends on interactions between numerous proteins beyond those involved directly in gamete fusion. Although such reproductive proteins evolve in response to sexual selection pressures, how networks of interacting proteins arise and evolve as reproductive phenotypes change remains an open question. Here, we investigated the molecular evolution of the ‘sex peptide network’ of Drosophila melanogaster, a functionally well‐characterized reproductive protein network. In this species, the peptide hormone sex peptide (SP) and its interacting proteins cause major changes in female physiology and behaviour after mating. In contrast, females of more distantly related Drosophila species do not respond to SP. In spite of these phenotypic differences, we detected orthologs of all network proteins across 22 diverse Drosophila species and found evidence that most orthologs likely function in reproduction throughout the genus. Within SP‐responsive species, we detected the recurrent, adaptive evolution of several network proteins, consistent with sexual selection acting to continually refine network function. We also found some evidence for adaptive evolution of several proteins along two specific phylogenetic lineages that correspond with increased expression of the SP receptor in female reproductive tracts or increased sperm length, respectively. Finally, we used gene expression profiling to examine the likely degree of functional conservation of the paralogs of an SP network protein that arose via gene duplication. Our results suggest a dynamic history for the SP network in which network members arose before the onset of robust SP‐mediated responses and then were shaped by both purifying and positive selection.
A region‐specific environmental analysis of technology implementation of hydrogen energy in Japan based on life cycle assessment
Authors: Shimizu Teruyuki , Hasegawa Kei , Ihara Manabu , Kikuchi Yasunori
Published: January 2020

Energy systems using renewables with adequate energy carriers are needed for sustainability. Before accelerating technology implementation for the transition to the new energy system, region‐specific implementation effects should be carefully examined as a system. In this study, we aim to analyze an energy system using hydrogen as an energy carrier with the approach of combining life cycle assessment and a regional energy simulation model. The model calculates the emissions, such as CO2, nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and volatile organic compounds, and their impacts on human health, social assets, primary production, and an integrated index. The analysis quantitatively presented various environmental impacts by region, life cycle stage, and impact category. Climate change was dominant on the integrated index while the other impact categories were also important. Fuel cell vehicles were effective in mitigating local air pollution, especially in high‐population regions where many people are adversely affected. Although technology implementation contributes to mitigating environmental impacts at locations of energy users, it also has possibilities to have negative impacts at locations of device manufacturing and raw material processing. The definition of the regional division was also an important factor in energy system design because the final results of life cycle assessments are highly sensitive to region‐specific characteristics. The proposed region‐specific analysis is expected to support local governments and technology developers in designing appropriate energy systems for regions and building marketing plans for specific targets.
Lazy Prices
Authors: COHEN LAUREN , MALLOY CHRISTOPHER , NGUYEN QUOC
Published: January 2020

Using the complete history of regular quarterly and annual filings by U.S. corporations, we show that changes to the language and construction of financial reports have strong implications for firms’ future returns and operations. A portfolio that shorts “changers” and buys “nonchangers” earns up to 188 basis points per month in alpha (over 22% per year) in the future. Moreover, changes to 10‐Ks predict future earnings, profitability, future news announcements, and even future firm‐level bankruptcies. Unlike typical underreaction patterns, we find no announcement effect, suggesting that investors are inattentive to these simple changes across the universe of public firms.
Clinical manifestations of oral proliferative verrucous leukoplakia: A systematic review
Authors: Torrejon‐Moya Aina , Jané‐Salas Enric , López‐López José
Published: January 2020

Objective

The aim of this systematic review was to gather the available evidence about proliferative verrucous leukoplakia. This systematic review was conducted to answer the question: “What are the main clinical features of PVL patients?”.

Material and Methods

A systematic review of the literature was done following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statements. An electronic research was carried out using different electronic databases; PubMed, and Scopus. Inclusion criteria were papers which reported at least 10 patients with proliferative verrucous leukoplakia and were published not more than 10 years ago.

Results

A total of 285 records were identified through databases, although only 6 of them were eligible. Most patients were women, above 60 years of age (67.4). Additionally, 28 of them were non‐smokers (66.6%) and 24 were non‐habitual drinkers (57.1%). The most common locations were gingiva (50.9%), buccal mucosa (44.9%), and tongue (40.6%)

Conclusion

Level C can be established to conclude the proliferative verrucous leukoplakia demographic data, risk factors, malignant transformation, and location. A strict follow‐up on these patients should be mandatory, even after surgical management since they have a high recurrence rate and a malignant transformation.
Therapeutic benefits and limitations of participatory photography for adults with mental health problems: A systematic search and literature review
Authors: Buchan Catherine A.
Published: January 2020

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Participatory photography has been reported to have therapeutic benefits for participants, such as a sense of empowerment and increased self‐knowledge.

No known review has examined the potential of participatory photography as a therapeutic intervention in people with mental health problems.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

Participatory photography can have many therapeutic benefits for people with mental health problems. It can be used to work through problematic issues, can promote a sense of empowerment and strengthen therapeutic relationships.

The most significant potential drawback of the process is the ethical issues that may arise with taking photographs of identifiable people.

What are the implications for practice?

Participatory photography can be a helpful therapeutic intervention for some adults with mental health problems, though not all.

Further research is required for the effectiveness of this intervention before it can be considered as evidence‐based.

Introduction

Participatory photography (PP) has been reported to have therapeutic benefits for its participants, such as empowerment and critical reflection. No known review has examined this potential exclusively in people with mental health problems.

Aim

To identify what therapeutic benefits and limitation adults with mental health problems have experienced through PP.

Method

Six academic databases were systematically searched. Eleven articles met inclusion/exclusion criteria and were of medium to high quality. Themes were extracted using thematic analysis.

Results

Seven themes were identified: empowerment, mental processing, enhanced therapeutic relationships, peer support, creative expression, sense of achievement and enjoyment, and limitations.

Discussion

The limited evidence base prevents firm conclusions. PP projects higher in personal relevance and intensity were linked with the greater therapeutic benefits. Most identified themes are supported by the wider literature on PP. The limitations indicate that PP is not suitable for all and requires adaptation for individuals and the potential seriousness of ethical issues.

Implications for practice

Participatory photography can be a helpful therapeutic intervention for some adults with mental health problems, though not all. Further research is required to develop the limited evidence base, particularly quantitative research that would enable comparisons to be made with other interventions.
Supplementation of by‐products from grape, tomato and myrtle affects antioxidant status of dairy ewes and milk fatty acid profile
Authors: Buffa Giovanna , Tsiplakou Eleni , Mitsiopoulou Christina , Pulina Giuseppe , Nudda Anna
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of diets containing different dried by‐products on milk and blood plasma antioxidant capacity of dairy ewes. Thirty‐six Sarda ewes were assigned to four treatments: control (CON; no by‐product), 100 g/day of grape marc (GM), 100 g/day tomato pomace (TP) and 75 g/day of exhausted myrtle berries (EMBs). The superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione transferase (GST) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) in blood, and SOD, GR and lactoperoxidase (LPO) in milk were determined. Total antioxidant capacity (FRAP and ABTS assays), malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyls (PCs) were also measured. Milk fatty acid profile was investigated by gas chromatography. The results showed higher antioxidant capacity measured by FRAP or ABTS assays and a reduction in MDA in GM plasma than CON. All by‐products enhanced the protection of milk proteins by oxidation, as evidenced by lower values of PCs compared with CON. GM supplementation increased PUFAn‐6, due to increase in C18:2n‐6, the main component of GM compared with CON. All by‐products did not modify the nutritional indexes of milk fat. In conclusion, dietary GM may enhance protection against oxidative condition of dairy ewes, whereas TP and EMB need further research to define the optimum inclusion level in sheep diet.
Genetic variants of innate immunity receptors are associated with mortality in cirrhotic patients with bacterial infection
Authors: Schaapman Jelte J. , Amoros Àlex , van der Reijden Johan J. , Laleman Wim , Zeuzem Stefan , Bañares Rafael , Jalan Rajiv , Arroyo Vicente , Clària Joan , Verspaget Hein W. , Coenraad Minneke J.
Published: January 2020

Background & Aims

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by acute decompensation of cirrhosis (AD), organ failure(s) and high risk of short‐term mortality with bacterial infection frequently as precipitating event. Innate immune pattern recognition receptors and members of the lectin pathway of complement activation are crucial to the innate immune response to pathogens. The aim of this study was to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of innate immune components are associated with the occurrence of bacterial infections or mortality in patients with cirrhosis hospitalized for AD or ACLF.

Methods

Twenty‐one innate immunity SNPs with known functional implications were genotyped in 826 AD/ACLF patients included in the CANONIC study. Associations between baseline characteristics of the patients, the occurrence of bacterial infections and survival rate at 90 days of follow‐up in relation to the innate immunity genetic variants were analysed.

Results

The NOD2‐G908R genetic variant was associated with mortality (HR 2.25, P = .004) independently of age and MELD Score. This association was also found in a predefined subgroup analysis in patients with bacterial infections (HR 2.78, P < .001) along with MBL_Yx (HR 1.72, P = .008) and MASP2_371 (HR 1.67, P = .012) genetic variants. None of the analysed SNPs were significantly associated with the occurrence of acute bacterial infections or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in particular.

Conclusions

Innate immune system‐specific NOD2‐G908R, MBL_Yx and MASP2_371 genetic variants were independently associated with increased risk of short‐term mortality in AD/ACLF patients with bacterial infection.
Ashwagandha‐induced liver injury: A case series from Iceland and the US Drug‐Induced Liver Injury Network
Authors: Björnsson Helgi K. , Björnsson Einar S. , Avula Bharathi , Khan Ikhlas A. , Jonasson Jon G. , Ghabril Marwan , Hayashi Paul H. , Navarro Victor
Published: January 2020

Background & Aims

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is widely used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Several dietary supplements containing ashwagandha are marketed in the US and Europe, but only one case of drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) due to ashwagandha has been published. The aim of this case series was to describe the clinical phenotype of suspected ashwagandha‐induced liver injury.

Methods

Five cases of liver injury attributed to ashwagandha‐containing supplements were identified; three were collected in Iceland during 2017‐2018 and two from the Drug‐Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN) in 2016. Other causes for liver injury were excluded. Causality was assessed using the DILIN structured expert opinion causality approach.

Results

Among the five patients, three were males; mean age was 43 years (range 21‐62). All patients developed jaundice and symptoms such as nausea, lethargy, pruritus and abdominal discomfort after a latency of 2‐12 weeks. Liver injury was cholestatic or mixed (R ratios 1.4‐3.3). Pruritus and hyperbilirubinaemia were prolonged (5‐20 weeks). No patient developed hepatic failure. Liver tests normalized within 1‐5 months in four patients. One patient was lost to follow‐up. One biopsy was performed, showing acute cholestatic hepatitis. Chemical analysis confirmed ashwagandha in available supplements; no other toxic compounds were identified. No patient was taking potentially hepatotoxic prescription medications, although four were consuming additional supplements, and in one case, rhodiola was a possible causative agent along with ashwagandha.

Conclusions

These cases illustrate the hepatotoxic potential of ashwagandha. Liver injury is typically cholestatic or mixed with severe jaundice and pruritus, but self‐limited with liver tests normalizing in 1‐5 months.
Biogeochemical characterization, phosphorus sources and intrinsic drivers to its speciation within the Nyanza Gulf of Lake Victoria
Authors: Guya Fredrick Jared
Published: January 2020

Lake Victoria, like many African great lakes, was formed through tectonic activity that formed East African Rift Valley. The lake's ecology has undergone dramatic reorganization dating back to the 1920s, before agricultural mechanization and high urban populations were observed, transforming from it from a desirable to less desirable state. The present study was conducted to better understand Nyanza Gulf's biogeochemical characteristics, phosphorus sources and the driving forces to their speciation. Five littoral‐limnetic‐littoral transects were sampled for water‐associated phosphorus (soluble reactive phosphorus, SRP; total phosphorus, TPW); sediment‐associated phosphorus (non‐apatite inorganic phosphorus. NAIP); apatite phosphorus, AP; inorganic phosphorus, IP; organic phosphorus, OP; total phosphorus, TPS); elemental compositions (calcium, Ca; iron, Fe; aluminium, Al; manganese, Mn); organic matter (OM); and organic carbon (OC) contents in the sediment. The SRP and TPW concentrations ranged from 22.9 to 142.9 μg/L, and 57.1 to 277.1 μg/L, respectively. The littoral sampling sites exhibited relatively higher TPW concentrations than the limnetic sites. Sheltered bays and sites located off sewerage discharge points had higher NAIP concentrations exceeding 400 mg/kg, compared with strong current areas. The AP and TPS concentrations ranged from 136.7 to 1,511.3 mg/kg, and 512.5 to 2,254.4 mg/kg, respectively. The AP and TPS concentrations were generally higher (>500 mg/kg) within the littoral zones compared to the limnetic zones; with the littoral sites located close to documented carbonatite rock substrates manifesting exceptionally high concentrations. Nyanza Gulf's eutrophic/hypertrophic status is derived highly from shoreline erosions of phosphorus‐enriched carbonatite rocks associated with rift valleys and from municipal sewerage discharges. Re‐afforestation, fringing wetland restorations and tertiary treatment of municipal waste waters are vital for its ecological restoration.
U‐Pb dating of zircons from an impact melt of the Nördlinger Ries crater
Authors: Schwarz Winfried H. , Hanel Michael , Trieloff Mario
Published: January 2020

In situ U‐Pb measurements on zircons of the Ries impact crater are presented for three samples from the quarry at Polsingen. The U‐Pb data of most zircons plot along a discordia line, leading to an upper intercept of Carboniferous age (331 ± 32 Ma [2σ]). Four zircons define a concordia age of 313.2 ± 4.4 Ma (2σ). This age most probably represents the age of a granite from the basement target rocks. From granular textured zircon grains (including baddeleyite and anatase/Fe‐rich phases, first identified in the Ries crater), most probably recrystallized after impact (13 analyses, 4 grains), a concordia age of 14.89 ± 0.34 Ma (2σ) and an error weighted mean 206Pb*/238U age of Ma 14.63 ± 0.43 (2σ) is derived. Including the youngest concordant ages of five porous textured zircon grains (24 spot analyses), a concordia age of 14.75 ± 0.22 Ma (2σ) and a mean 206Pb*/238U age of 14.71 ± 0.26 Ma (2σ) can be calculated. These results are consistent with previously published 40Ar/39Ar ages of impact glasses and feldspar. Our results demonstrate that even for relatively young impact craters, reliable U‐Pb ages can be obtained using in situ zircon dating by SIMS. Frequently the texture of impact shocked zircon grains is explained by decomposition at high temperatures and recrystallization to a granular texture. This is most probably the case for the observed granular zircon grains having baddeleyite/anatase/Fe‐rich phases. We also observe non‐baddeleyite/anatase/Fe‐rich phase bearing zircons. For these domains, reset to crater age is more frequently for high U,Th contents. We tentatively explain the higher susceptibility to impact resetting of high U,Th domains by enhanced Pb loss and mobilization due to higher diffusivity within former metamict domains that were impact metamorphosed more easily into porous as well as granular textures during decomposition and recrystallization, possibly supported by Pb loss during postimpact cooling and/or hydrothermal activity.
Spinal cord anaplastic astrocytoma with BRAF V600E mutation: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Takamiya Soichiro , Hatanaka Kanako C. , Ishi Yukitomo , Seki Toshitaka , Yamaguchi Shigeru
Published: January 2020

A 17‐year‐old female complained of lower extremity pain that progressed to low back pain accompanied by paraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass in the conus medullaris of the spinal cord at the thoracic spine 11–12 level. The patient underwent resection of the mass. The pathological diagnosis was anaplastic astrocytoma based on the densely proliferating astrocytic tumor cells without necrosis or microvascular proliferation. The patient received chemoradiotherapy with oral temozolomide and a total of 54 Gy of local irradiation, followed by 24 courses of temozolomide as maintenance chemotherapy. The patient survived for 8 years without tumor recurrence following the initial treatment. Genetic analysis of the tumor revealed a BRAF V600E mutation that has not yet been reported in spinal cord high‐grade gliomas (HGGs). In recent years, the molecular therapy targeting the BRAF V600E mutation has been applied in clinical practice for several cancer types. Although the frequency in spinal cord HGGs is uncertain, it is necessary to investigate BRAF V600E mutation as a potential therapeutic target in the future.
Lateral roots, in addition to adventitious roots, form a barrier to radial oxygen loss in Zea nicaraguensis and a chromosome segment introgression line in maize
Authors: Pedersen Ole , Nakayama Yohei , Yasue Hiroki , Kurokawa Yusuke , Takahashi Hirokazu , Heidi Floytrup Anja , Omori Fumie , Mano Yoshiro , David Colmer Timothy , Nakazono Mikio
Published: January 2020

Plants typically respond to waterlogging by producing new adventitious roots with aerenchyma and many wetland plants form a root barrier to radial O2 loss (ROL), but it was not known if this was also the case for lateral roots.

We tested the hypothesis that lateral roots arising from adventitious roots can form a ROL barrier, using root‐sleeving electrodes and O2 microsensors to assess ROL of Zea nicaraguensis, the maize (Zea mays ssp. mays) introgression line with a locus for ROL barrier formation (introgression line (IL) #468) from Z. nicaraguensis and a maize inbred line (Mi29).

Lateral roots of Z. nicaraguensis and IL #468 both formed a ROL barrier under stagnant, deoxygenated conditions, whereas Mi29 did not. Lateral roots of Z. nicaraguensis had higher tissue O2 status than for IL #468 and Mi29. The ROL barrier was visible as suberin in the root hypodermis/exodermis. Modelling showed that laterals roots can grow to a maximum length of 74 mm with a ROL barrier, but only to 33 mm without a barrier.

Presence of a ROL barrier in lateral roots requires reconsideration of the role of these roots as sites of O2 loss, which for some species now appears to be less than hitherto thought.
Association between malocclusion and orofacial myofunctional disorders of pre‐school children in Latvia
Authors: Priede Dace , Roze Baiba , Parshutin Sergei , Arkliņa Dace , Pircher Julia , Vaska Inga , Folkmanis Valdis , Tzivian Lilian , Henkuzena Ieva
Published: January 2020

Objects

Abnormal use of muscles of tongue and lips is called orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD). In this study, we aimed to investigate the interrelation between occlusal findings and OMD in primary and mixed dentition and to find out the reasons for malocclusions, and the effect modification of these associations by the number of sources that parents used to receive the information on child oral health issues (NSI).

Setting and sample population

Cross‐sectional study was performed in one kindergarten in Latvia (cluster sampling). The study sample comprised 141 children‐mothers’ pairs of pre‐school children aged 4‐7 years.

Materials and methods

Children’ myofunctional situation, occlusion and speech defects were assessed during an examination. Children's mothers were interviewed on their socio‐demographic situation, feeding and habits of the child, history of diseases and NSI. Multiple logistic regression models adjusted for lip power, swallowing, breathing and speech cases of long respiratory diseases, age and gender were built to investigate associations between the types of occlusion and OMD/health characteristics. Effect modification of these associations by NSI was analysed.

Results

Types of occlusion associated with OMD/health characteristics were as follows: normal occlusion with prolonged respiratory diseases (odds ratio, OR = 0.345 [95% confidence interval, CI 0.16; 0.75]); combined type with tongue thrust habits (OR = 3.11 [0.99; 9.90]), lip‐closing strength (OR = 0.99 [0.98; 0.99]); and cross‐bite with speech (OR = 3.55 [1.07; 11.78]). These associations remained stable when parents used two or less sources of information on children's oral health.

Conclusions

To facilitate occlusal stability, early interdisciplinary examinations should be performed to prevent time‐consuming and cost‐consuming treatment.
Characterizing calcinosis cutis in a pediatric population
Authors: Whitlock Ross , Chiu Yvonne
Published: January 2020

Background/Objectives

Calcinosis cutis is the abnormal deposition of calcium in the skin and subcutis. There is currently a paucity of data surrounding pediatric calcinosis cutis. The objective of this study is to characterize calcinosis cutis in a pediatric cohort.

Methods

A single‐institution retrospective cohort study was performed over a 5.5‐year period.

Results

Thirty cases were identified. Calcinosis cutis was found to be more common in men (63%), with a younger median age of onset (5 years) compared to women (10 years). Dystrophic calcinosis cutis (43%) was the most common type in the study population, though idiopathic calcinosis cutis (37%) was nearly as common. No cases of metastatic calcinosis cutis were found.

Conclusions

The etiology of calcinosis cutis in the study population was found to be similar to that identified in adults with the exception of metastatic calcinosis cutis, which was not seen in our cohort. Previous recommendations using laboratory testing to diagnose this disease process might not be as critical as previously thought.
Colecistitis calculosa aguda
Authors: Angarita Fernando A. , Acuña Sergio A. , Jimenez Carolina , Garay Javier , Gömez David , Domínguez Luis Carlos
Published: January 2020

La colecistitis calculosa aguda es la causa más importante de colecistectomías en el mundo. En esta revisión de tema se resume la fisiopatología del proceso inflamatorio de la vesículabiliar secundaria a la obstrucción de la vía biliar, así como sus manifestaciones clínicas, enfermedades de la vesícula biliar, colecistitis aguda, colecistectomíaestudios diagnósticos y su manejo médico-quirúrgico.
Distrofia muscular congénita: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Acosta Guío Johanna , Zarante Montoya Ignacio
Published: January 2020

Las distrofias musculares congénitas son entidades con herencia autosómica recesiva. Se clasifican en las que comprometen el sistema nervioso central y las que no lo hacen (forma clásica). Este último grupo se subdivide en distrofias sin déficit de merosina y con déficit de merosina.Se reporta el caso de un paciente con hipotonía grave, contracturas articulares y compromiso de la sustancia blanca del sistema nervioso central. Se considera el diagnóstico de distrofia muscular congénita con posible déficit de merosina.
Proyección de costos en Colombia de la atención inicial del síndrome coronario agudo
Authors: Castellanos Ramírez Julio César
Published: January 2020

Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de costo de la atención inicial de los casos de síndrome coronario agudo en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio de la ciudad de Bogotá, en el periodo comprendido entre enero y octubre de 2010.Objetivo: Realizar una estimación del costo médico promedio y total que significa para Colombia la primera atención de estos eventos agudos.Métodos: Se estudiaron 213 pacientes que se confirmaron como SCA con un promedio de estancia de 7 días, con una máxima de 55 días y mínima de 1 día.Resultados: Se encontró costo global promedio general $ 7.781.230 pesos, medicamentos $ 1.948.366 pesos y antiagregantes $ 103.572. Tomando como referencia los casos esperados de SCA para un año según el ajuste por mortalidad se estima un costo médico anual proyectado esperado o proyectado para Colombia. (Tasa de cambio utilizada $ 1.850 pesos por dólar) US$ 228.886.152,00 y Bogotá US$ 42.325.685.Conclusión: El costo de la atención del SCA agudo en Colombia tiene una posición media en los referentes utilizados, no obstante lo presentado se estima que significa al año un costo médico importante de cerca de un cuarto de billón de dólares para el país y de más de cuarenta millones de dólares para Bogotá. Finalmente este trabajo sólo constituye un abordaje inicial que presenta datos que servirán de referencia a otras instituciones para elaborar sus propios estudios y hacer los seguimientos al respecto.
Pruebas no condicionadas en ratones para evaluar la actividad ansiolítica de sustancias extraídas de plantas
Authors: Rejón-Orantes José Del Carmen , Placer Perdomo Diana , Roldán Gabriel
Published: January 2020

En el último año, el Laboratorio Experimental de Farmacobiología de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas (UNACH), ha venido sistematizando pruebas no condicionadas para el estudio de la ansiedad en modelos animales. En este trabajo se efectúa una revisión bibliográfica que actualiza el conocimiento sobre las pruebas útiles en la evaluación de la ansiedad. Estas pruebas las utilizamos en los trabajos de investigación de extractos vegetales con base en hallazgos etnobotánicos de la medicina tradicional chiapaneca, los cuales se han desarrollado con modestos recursos financieros de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad y autofinanciamiento por parte de los investigadores, considerando la generación de conocimiento y la posibilidad de ampliar las expectativas terapéuticas con recursos naturales, como el insumo de mayor valor.Además, es de interés para el equipo investigador vincular en este proceso a investigadores de otras universidades e instituciones de salud que estén estudiando compuestos extraídos de plantas y que sirvan como base en la obtención de fármacos no sintéticos para tratamiento de la ansiedad en el hombre.
Reproducibilidad del posicionamiento de pacientes en tratamiento con radioterapia del Centro Javeriano de Oncología
Authors: Sánchez Ricardo A. , González Andrea , Rocha Andrea
Published: January 2020

Introducción. Se encuentran incertidumbres por posicionamiento en los pacientes durante el tratamiento de radioterapia. Este estudio se realizó con la finalidad de mostrar la experiencia en nuestro centro.Métodos. Se analizaron 316 pacientes en el periodo comprendido entre el 17 de marzo y el 18 de junio de 2010, y se compararon las radiografías digitales reconstruidas, Digitally Reconstructed Radiograph, DRR) con las radiológicas, en película radiográfica o imagen digital, y se hicieron las correcciones correspondientes en los tres ejes. Resultados. Se registraron 809 imágenes en los 316 pacientes, la mayoría de cáncer de próstata. En 91% de los casos, las imágenes obtenidas no requirieron correcciones por posicionamiento durante el tratamiento. El promedio de correcciones en los tres ejes (X, Y y Z) fue de 3,4 mm. Sin embargo, se presentaron correcciones de 5 mm o más en pacientes con obesidad.Conclusión. En este estudio se encontró una adecuada reproducibilidad en nuestros pacientes durante el tratamiento, con incertidumbres de posicionamiento similares a las reportadas en la literatura. La mayoría se presentó en pacientes tratados por cáncer de próstata. Debe prestarse especial atención en los pacientes obesos o muy delgados, los cuales posiblemente requieren una mejor técnica de inmovilización.
Estudio del polimorfismo MTHFR C677T en recién nacidos con cardiopatías congénitas aisladas, en una población colombiana
Authors: García-Robles Reggie , Ayala-Ramírez Paola Andrea , Villegas Victoria Eugenia , Salazar Marleny , Bernal Jaime , Núñez Federico , Caicedo Víctor , Pachón Sonia , Ramírez Sandra , Bermúdez Martha
Published: January 2020

Introducción: El estudio del papel de polimorfismos en genes de las vías metabólicas de la homocisteína-metionina y el ácido fólico en anomalías congénitas, es cada vez más importante debido a que sus efectos podrían ser modulados.Objetivo: Determinar si la presencia del polimorfismo C677T en el gen de la metilentetrahidrofolato reductasa (MTHFR) se asocia con el desarrollo de cardiopatías congénitas aisladas.Métodos: Se compararon las frecuencias alélicas y genotípicas del polimorfismo en 34 recién nacidos con cardiopatías congénitas aisladas y en 102 individuos sanos. La genotipificación se hizo mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) y se determinó el genotipo por medio de la técnica de polimorfismo de longitud de los fragmentos de restricción (RFLP).Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en las frecuencias alélicas ni genotípicas entre los grupos de casos y controles. Sin embargo, se observó una tendencia estadística para un posible efecto protector del genotipo TT.
Teratomas congénitos en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, serie de casos
Authors: Olaya M. , Gamboa J. , Espinosa L. , Escalante P. , Uribe A.Pontificia Universidad Javeriana M.
Published: January 2020

Los tumores en niños tienen menor incidencia que en los adultos. Los tumores en fetos y en recién nacidos son aún más raros. Se reporta una serie de tres tumores germinales, uno en un recién nacido vivo, uno en un feto mortinato y el tercero presente en las membranas ovulares. Se revisa la información disponible sobre los tumores en este grupo de edad.
Tunable light emission from chemical vapor deposited two-dimensional MoSe2 by layer variation and S incorporation
Authors: Singh Vineeta , Late Dattatray J. , Rath Shyama
Published: January 2020

Mono- and few-layer thick MoSe2 and MoSxSe2 − x domains were grown on insulating SiO2/Si substrates by chemical vapor deposition. Scanning electron microscopy and optical contrast images were used to determine the domain size and morphology. The structure, crystallinity, and the thickness (number of layers) of the as-synthesized domains were determined from Raman spectroscopy. The light emission was determined from photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The PL emission started appearing only in domains having four layers or less, with the intensity increasing as the number of layers decreased. The PL peak position varied between 1.48 eV (∼838 nm) for four layers to 1.55 eV (∼800 nm) in the monolayer limit. Sulfur incorporation was done to enable a further tunability of the bandgap. The monolayer bandgap changed from 1.55 eV for MoSe2 to 1.64 eV (∼756 nm) for MoS0.32Se0.68. The other effect of S incorporation was the formation of larger area domains in the alloy as compared to binary MoSe2 with an improvement in the structural properties, thus providing a pathway to improve the properties of two-dimensional semiconductors by mixing of two materials with similar atomic arrangements.
Thermal atomic layer etching of metallic tungsten via oxidation and etch reaction mechanism using O2 or O3 for oxidation and WCl6 as the chlorinating etchant
Authors: Xie Wenyi , Parsons Gregory N.
Published: January 2020

Atomic layer etching (ALE), offering highly controlled removal of thin film materials, is considered as an enabling process technology for future development of transistor devices. The authors previously reported a thermal tungsten (W) ALE process using WF6 and O2 for temperatures ≥275 °C, and they recently discovered the opportunity for low-temperature W etching using WCl6 as the etchant instead of WF6. This article demonstrates a two-step, thermal W ALE process viable for temperatures ≥200 °C, consisting of an oxidation half-reaction with O2 or O3 and an etch half-reaction using WCl6 as the chlorinating etchant. In situ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) analysis reveals that W ALE using O2 and WCl6 is self-limiting and proceeds at an etch rate of ∼7.3–8.2 Å/cycle for temperatures between 205 and 235 °C. QCM analysis further reveals a surface dependence in the etch rate of the O2/WCl6 process, where the etch rate is the largest during the first cycle and decreases to a smaller value in later cycles. In addition, the authors show that O3 is a more effective oxidant than O2 for W ALE at lower temperatures; saturation is achieved with a much shorter exposure. Etching of W films on silicon substrates was confirmed using ex situ techniques. Overall, this study increases the understanding of surface reactions in thermal ALE and expands the range of etchants and coreactants that are useful for thermal etching of metallic thin films.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study for band alignments of BaTiO3/Ga2O3 and In2O3/Ga2O3 heterostructures
Authors: Zhi Yusong , Liu Zeng , Wang Xia , Li Sisi , Wang Xiaolong , Chu Xulong , Li Peigang , Guo Daoyou , Wu Zhenping , Tang Weihua
Published: January 2020

The energy-band alignments of BaTiO3/Ga2O3 and In2O3/Ga2O3 heterostructures are investigated by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All of the samples used in this experiment are deposited by pulsed laser deposition method. The optical bandgaps of BaTiO3, In2O3, and Ga2O3 are derived to be 3.59, 3.71, and 4.9 eV, respectively, by ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrum measurement. In detail, the valence band offsets at BaTiO3/Ga2O3 and In2O3/Ga2O3 interfaces are calculated to be 1.19 and 1.13 eV by using the XPS data based on Kraut’s equation, while, correspondingly, the conduction band offsets are 0.11 and 0.07 eV, respectively. Both BaTiO3/Ga2O3 and In2O3/Ga2O3 heterojunctions exhibit type-I alignments. From the view of applications of these two fabricated heterojunctions, fortunately and interestingly, both BaTiO3 and In2O3 are certified as excellent materials to inject electrons into Ga2O3 and may well be beneficial to the contact resistance reduction, for Ga2O3, as interlayers between metals and Ga2O3. Overall, this work is valuable and instructional for device designing and development by right of the relative heterojunctions in further investigations.
Electric-acoustic interaction measurements in cochlear-implant users with ipsilateral residual hearing using electrocochleography
Authors: Krüger Benjamin , Büchner Andreas , Lenarz Thomas , Nogueira Waldo
Published: January 2020

Cochlear implantation is increasingly being used as a hearing-loss treatment for patients with residual hearing in the low acoustic frequencies. These patients obtain combined electric-acoustic stimulation (EAS). Substantial residual hearing and relatively long electrode arrays can lead to interactions between the electric and acoustic stimulation. This work investigated EAS interaction through psychophysical and electrophysiological measures. Moreover, cone-beam computed-tomography data was used to characterize the interaction along spatial cochlear locations. Psychophysical EAS interaction was estimated based on the threshold of audibility of an acoustic probe stimulus in the presence of a simultaneously presented electric masker stimulus. Intracochlear electrocochleography was used to estimate electrophysiological EAS interaction via the telemetry capability of the cochlear implant. EAS interaction was observed using psychophysical and electrophysiological measurements. While psychoacoustic EAS interaction was most pronounced close to the electrical stimulation site, electrophysiological EAS interaction was observed over a wider range of spatial cochlear locations. Psychophysical EAS interaction was significantly larger than electrophysiological EAS interaction for acoustic probes close to the electrode position.
Responsiveness of Device-Based and Self-Report Measures of Physical Activity to Detect Behavior Change in Men Taking Part in the Football Fans in Training (FFIT) Program
Authors: Donnachie Craig , Hunt Kate , Mutrie Nanette , Gill Jason M.R. , Kelly Paul
Published: January 2020

The capacity of physical activity (PA) measures to detect changes in PA within interventions is crucial. This is the first study to examine the responsiveness of activPAL3™ and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ; Short Form) in detecting PA change during a 12-week group-based, men-only weight management program—Football Fans in Training (FFIT). Participants wore an activPAL3™ and completed the IPAQ pre- and post-program (n = 30). Relationships between change scores were assessed by Spearman’s correlations. Mean or median changes in PA were measured using paired samples t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Responsiveness to change was assessed utilizing Standardized Response Mean (SRM). Both device-based and self-report measures demonstrated significant changes pre-post intervention, although these changes were not significantly correlated. The SRM values for changes in activPAL3™ metrics were: 0.54 (for MET-mins/day); 0.53 (for step counts/day); and 0.44 (for MVPA/day), indicating a small to medium responsiveness to change. SRM values for changes in IPAQ scores were: 0.59 (for total PA mins/day); 0.54 (for total MET-mins/day); 0.59 (for walking MET-mins/day); 0.38 (for vigorous MET-mins/day); and 0.38 (for moderate MET-mins/day), revealing a small to medium responsiveness to change. These findings reveal that two commonly used device-based and self-report measures demonstrated responsiveness to changes in PA. While inclusion of both device-based and self-report measures is desirable within interventions it is not always feasible. The results from this study support that self-reported measures can detect PA change within behavioral interventions, although may have a tendency to overestimate changes compared with device-based measures on absolute values, but not standardized response values.
TRIM32 Drives Pathogenesis in Streptococcal Toxic Shock-Like Syndrome and Streptococcus suis Meningitis by Regulating Innate Immune Responses
Authors: OuYang Xuan , Guo Jie , Lv Qingyu , Jiang Hua , Zheng Yuling , Liu Peng , Zhao Tongyan , Kong Decong , Hao Huaijie , Jiang Yongqiang
Published: January 2020

Streptococcus suis
is an emerging zoonotic agent that causes streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome (STSLS) and meningitis in humans, with high mortality and morbidity. The pathogenesis of both STSLS and central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by
S. suis
is not well understood. TRIM32, a member of the tripartite motif (TRIM) protein family, has been reported to regulate host inflammatory responses. In this study, we showed that TRIM32 deficiency significantly reduced the level of bacteremia and the production of proinflammatory cytokines following severe
S. suis
infection, protecting infected mice from STSLS.
HK97 gp74 Possesses an α-Helical Insertion in the ββα Fold That Affects Its Metal Binding,
cos
Site Digestion, and
In Vivo
Activities
Authors: Weiditch Sasha A. , Bickers Sarah C. , Bona Diane , Maxwell Karen L. , Kanelis Voula
Published: January 2020

This study demonstrates that residues outside the canonical ββα fold, namely, the Ω-loop α-helical insert and a disordered C-terminal tail, regulate the activity of the HNH endonuclease gp74. The increased divalent metal ion binding when the Ω-loop insert is removed compared to reduced
cos
site digestion and phage formation indicates that the Ω-loop insert plays multiple regulatory roles. The data presented here provide insights into the molecular basis of the involvement of HNH proteins in phage DNA packing.
Molecular Hydrogen Metabolism: a Widespread Trait of Pathogenic Bacteria and Protists
Authors: Benoit Stéphane L. , Maier Robert J. , Sawers R. Gary , Greening Chris
Published: January 2020

Pathogenic microorganisms use various mechanisms to conserve energy in host tissues and environmental reservoirs. One widespread but often overlooked means of energy conservation is through the consumption or production of molecular hydrogen (H
2
). Here, we comprehensively review the distribution, biochemistry, and physiology of H
2
metabolism in pathogens.
Toxoplasma gondii Dysregulates Barrier Function and Mechanotransduction Signaling in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Franklin-Murray Armond L. , Mallya Sharmila , Jankeel Allen , Sureshchandra Suhas , Messaoudi Ilhem , Lodoen Melissa B.
Published: January 2020

Toxoplasma gondii
is a foodborne parasite that infects virtually all warm-blooded animals and can cause severe disease in individuals with compromised or weakened immune systems. During dissemination in its infected hosts,
T. gondii
breaches endothelial barriers to enter tissues and establish the chronic infections underlying the most severe manifestations of toxoplasmosis. The research presented here examines how
T. gondii
infection of primary human endothelial cells induces changes in cell morphology, barrier function, gene expression, and mechanotransduction signaling under static conditions and under the physiological conditions of shear stress found in the bloodstream. Understanding the molecular interactions occurring at the interface between endothelial cells and
T. gondii
may provide insights into processes linked to parasite dissemination and pathogenesis.
Three-Dimensional Observations of an Aperiodic Oscillatory Gliding Behavior in Myxococcus xanthus Using Confocal Interference Reflection Microscopy
Authors: Rooney Liam M. , Kölln Lisa S. , Scrimgeour Ross , Amos William B. , Hoskisson Paul A. , McConnell Gail
Published: January 2020

3D imaging of live bacteria with optical microscopy techniques is a challenge due to the small size of bacterial cells, meaning that previous studies have been limited to observing motility behavior in 2D. We introduce the application of confocal multiwavelength interference reflection microscopy to bacteria, which enables visualization of 3D motility behaviors in a single 2D image. Using the model organism
Myxococcus xanthus
, we identified novel motility behaviors that are not explained by current motility models, where gliding bacteria exhibit aperiodic changes in their adhesion to an underlying solid surface. We concluded that the 3D behavior was not linked to canonical motility mechanisms and that IRM could be applied to study a range of microbiological specimens with minimal adaptation to a commercial microscope.
mSphere of Influence: Peering through a Keyhole into the Unseen World
Authors: Lebeis Sarah L.
Published: January 2020

Sarah Lebeis studies the assembly and function of plant microbiomes. In this mSphere of Influence article, she reflects on how the paper “Functional Overlap of the
Arabidopsis
Leaf and Root Microbiota” (Y. Bai, D. B. Müller, G. Srinivas, R.
Heredity of type 2 diabetes confers increased susceptibility to oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Baig Sonia , Shabeer Muhammad , Parvaresh Rizi Ehsan , Agarwal Madhur , Lee Michelle H , Ooi Delicia Shu Qin , Chia Chelsea , Aung Nweni , Ng Geelyn , Teo Yvonne , Chhay Vanna , Magkos Faidon , Vidal-Puig Antonio , Seet Raymond C S , Toh Sue-Anne
Published: January 2020

Introduction and objective

Heredity of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with greater risk for developing T2DM. Thus, individuals who have a first-degree relative with T2DM (FDRT) provide a natural model to study factors of susceptibility towards development of T2DM, which are poorly understood. Emerging key players in T2DM pathophysiology such as adverse oxidative stress and inflammatory responses could be among possible mechanisms that predispose FDRTs to develop T2DM. Here, we aimed to examine the role of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses as mediators of this excess risk by studying dynamic postprandial responses in FDRTs.

Research design and methods

In this open-label case-control study, we recruited normoglycemic men with (n=9) or without (n=9) a family history of T2DM. We assessed plasma glucose, insulin, lipid profile, cytokines and F2-isoprostanes, expression levels of oxidative and inflammatory genes/proteins in circulating mononuclear cells (MNC), myotubes and adipocytes at baseline (fasting state), and after consumption of a carbohydrate-rich liquid meal or insulin stimulation.

Results

Postprandial glucose and insulin responses were not different between groups. Expression of oxidant transcription factor NRF2 protein (p<0.05 for myotubes) and gene (pgroup=0.002, ptime×group=0.016), along with its target genes TXNRD1 (pgroup=0.004, ptime×group=0.007), GPX3 (pgroup=0.011, ptime×group=0.019) and SOD-1 (pgroup=0.046 and ptime×group=0.191) was upregulated in FDRT-derived MNC after meal ingestion or insulin stimulation. Synergistically, expression of target genes of inflammatory transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (pgroup=0.001, ptime×group=0.007) was greater in FDRT-derived MNC than in non-FDRT-derived MNC after meal ingestion or insulin stimulation.

Conclusions

Our findings shed light on how heredity of T2DM confers increased susceptibility to oxidative stress and inflammation. This could provide early insights into the underlying mechanisms and future risk of FDRTs for developing T2DM and its associated complications.