bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Hospital-Based Pneumonia Nurse Navigator Program
Authors: Seldon Lisa E. , McDonough Kelly , Turner Barbara , Simmons Leigh Ann
Published: January 2020

PURPOSE:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a hospital-based pneumonia nurse navigator program.

DESIGN:

This study used a retrospective, formative evaluation.

METHODS:

Data of patients admitted from January 2012 through December 2014 to a large community hospital with a primary or secondary diagnosis of pneumonia, excluding aspiration pneumonia, were used. Data included patient demographics, diagnoses, insurance coverage, core measures, average length of stay (ALOS), disposition, readmission rate, financial outcomes, and patient barriers to care were collected. Descriptive statistics and parametric testing were used to analyze data.

RESULTS:

Core measure performance was sustained at the 90th percentile 2 years after the implementation of the navigator program. The ALOS did not decrease to established benchmarks; however, the SD for ALOS decreased by nearly half after implementation of the navigator program, suggesting the program decreased the number and length of extended stays. Charges per case decreased by 21% from 2012 to 2014. Variable costs decreased by 4% over a 2-year period, which increased net profit per case by 5%. Average readmission payments increased by 8% from 2012 to 2014, and the net revenue per case increased by 8.3%.

CONCLUSION:

The pneumonia nurse navigator program may improve core measures, reduce ALOS, and increase net revenue. Future evaluations are necessary to substantiate these findings and optimize the cost and quality performance of navigator programs.
Implementation of Quiet Time for Noise Reduction on a Medical-Surgical Unit
Authors: Applebaum Diane , Calo Oriana , Neville Kathleen
Published: January 2020

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this evidence-based investigation is to determine the efficacy of a quiet-time intervention to reduce noise in the hospital setting.

BACKGROUND:

For many reasons, noise continues to increase in the hospital setting.

METHODS:

In a descriptive comparative design, using a convenience sample of hospitalized patients, 80 patients were assessed on their perceptions of noise using the Patient Survey on Noise During Hospital Stay.

RESULTS:

Data revealed favorable responses to quiet time, with 70% of subjects reporting quiet-time intervention to be effective in reducing noise. Sixty percent of participants felt that 1 hour of quiet time helped to facilitate a quieter, more restful environment for the whole day.

CONCLUSION:

A quiet-time intervention is effective in addressing patient perception of noise while in the acute care hospital setting.
Grade 3 infusion-related reaction because of cetuximab administered with 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin chemotherapy for a recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancer patient who received chlorpheniramine 5 mg, dexamethasone 13.2 mg, and aprepitant 125 mg premedication
Authors: Horinouchi Ai , Suzuki Shinya , Enokida Tomohiro , Kamata Hayato , Kaneko Asumi , Matsuyama Chihiro , Fujisawa Takao , Ueda Yuri , Okano Susumu , Kawasaki Toshikatsu , Tahara Makoto
Published: January 2020

Cetuximab (Cmab), an Immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor, is associated with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor inhibitor-specific adverse drug reactions, such as skin toxicities and infusion-related reactions (IRRs). IRRs have been reported in 6–18% of patients receiving Cmab, with grade 3 and 4 reactions in 1–5% in head and neck cancer patients. Premedication with corticosteroids may prevent or dampen non-Immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated infusion reactions. We encountered a case in which a grade 3 IRR occurred secondary to Cmab that was combined with 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin (5-fluorouracil and Cisplatin  + Cmab) chemotherapy for a recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancer patient who had received premedication consisting of chlorpheniramine 5 mg, dexamethasone 13.2 mg, and aprepitant 125 mg. Non-IgE-mediated reaction and cytokine release syndrome can be prevented by premedication. The patient had grade 3 IRRs because of Cmab, even though we used a higher dose of corticosteroid, dexamethasone 13.2 mg, and aprepitant. Severe IRRs because of Cmab occurred despite administration of a higher dose of dexamethasone, compared with the ordinary dose that ranges from 3.3 to 6.6 mg. Furthermore, his rapid symptom after Cmab intravenous administration confirmed to typical IgE-mediated reaction even though he received high dose of dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine. To prevent a critical situation due to severe Cmab IRRs is early first aid treatment when a patient has hypertensive reactions. Monitoring for symptoms of Cmab-induced IRRs requires not only the supervision of oncologists, nurses, and pharmacists but also patient awareness of the condition.
Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Appearances of Malignant Vaginal Tumors in Children: Endodermal Sinus Tumor and Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Sun Fan , Zhao Shu Hui , Li Hui Min , Bao Lei , Xu Lei , Wang Deng Bin
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to analyze retrospectively the computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of pediatric vaginal endodermal sinus tumor (EST) and rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) in a case series.

Methods

Seven children with vaginal EST and 2 children with vaginal RMS underwent MRI and/or computed tomography examination before the biopsy and treatment. Images were evaluated by 2 observers for the following features: (a) tumor extent; (b) margin; (c) tumor shape; (d) tumor size; (e) architecture (solid, cystic, or mixed cystic-solid); (f) hemorrhage, necrosis, and calcification; (g) magnetic resonance T2 signal intensity; (h) pattern of the enhancement; and (i) signal intensity on diffusion-weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value.

Results

All of the 7 ESTs showed as a round-shaped solid mass with a location limited to the vagina without vulva and bladder invasion, whereas RMSs have an irregular grape-like appearance filling the whole vagina with vulva and bladder invasion. The invasion to the cervix was not observed in EST or RMS. Both EST and RMS were heterogeneously hyperintense on T2-weighted magnetic resonance images and enhanced remarkably and heterogeneously. Heterogeneous high signal on diffusion-weighted imaging were observed in vaginal EST and RMS. The ESTs showed a lower ADC value (mean, 1.04×10−3 mm2/s), while RMSs showed a relatively high ADC value (mean, 1.51 × 10−3 mm2/s).

Conclusions

Computed tomography and MRI may be useful tools in diagnosing the vaginal RMS and EST.
Unique Characteristics of Intravitreal Silicone Oil on Dual-Energy Computed Tomography
Authors: Sachs Jeffrey R. , Lack Christopher M. , West Thomas G. , Bunch Paul M.
Published: January 2020

Silicone oil is used as an intravitreal injection to treat retinal detachment. This material can spread into the subarachnoid space, where it may be mistaken for acute hemorrhage on single-energy computed tomography. This report describes the appearance of intravitreal silicone oil on dual-energy computed tomography, emphasizing unique virtual monoenergetic imaging characteristics that allow for confident differentiation of silicone oil from hemorrhage as well as from other potential single-energy mimics, such as calcium and iodine.
Effect of New Model-Based Iterative Reconstruction on Quantitative Analysis of Airway Tree by Computer-Aided Detection Software in Chest Computed Tomography
Authors: Jia Yongjun , Zhai Bingying , He Taiping , Yu Yong , Yu Nan , Duan Haifeng , Yang Chuangbo , Li Jian-ying
Published: January 2020

Objective

Compared the performance of computer-aided detection (CAD) software for quantitative analysis of airway using computed tomography (CT) images reconstructed with versions of model-based iterative reconstruction (MBIR) that either balances spatial and density resolution (MBIRSTND) or prefers spatial resolution (MBIRRP20), and adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR) with lung kernel.

Methods

Thirty patients were included who were scanned for pulmonary disease using a routine dose multidetector CT system. Data were reconstructed with ASIR, MBIRSTND, and MBIRRP20. Airway dimensions from the 3 reconstructions were measured using an automated, quantitative CAD software designed to segment and quantify the bronchial tree automatically using a skeletonization algorithm. For each patient and reconstruction algorithm, the right middle lobe bronchus was selected as a representative for measuring the bronchial length of the matched airways. Two radiologists used a semiquantitative 5-point scale to rate the subjective image quality of MBIRSTND and MBIRRP20 reconstructions on airway trees analysis.

Results

Algorithm impacts the measurement variability of bronchus length in chest CT, MBIRRP20 were the best, whereas ASIR were the worst (P < 0.05). In addition, the optimal reconstruction algorithm was found to be MBIRSTND for the airway trees being assessed about subjective noise and MBIRRP20 about bronchial end shows, and there were no significant differences in the continuity and completeness of bronchial wall, whereas ASIR performed inferiorly compared with them (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with ASIR, MBIRSTND, and MBIRRP20 from MBIRn algorithm potentially allow the desired airway quantification accuracy to be achieved on the performance of CAD, especially for MBIRRP20.
Refining Approaches to Surgical Repair of Rectovaginal Fistulas
Authors: Hauch Adam , Ramamoorthy Sonia , Zelhart Matthew , Dobke Marek
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Rectovaginal fistulas are notorious for both their morbidity and their difficulty to treat effectively. A variety of methods for repair has been described; however, there is no consensus on the ideal repair. A better understanding of the anatomical relationship of fistulas to the anal sphincter and detrusor muscles is one of the components necessary to develop an effective treatment plan for repair and preservation of sphincter mechanics.

Methods

A review of the literature was conducted to determine the types of methods typically used by reconstructive surgeons for repair of rectovaginal fistulas. A critical clinical analysis of our series of 10 patients was performed to determine optimal strategies for and pitfalls of repair in the context of recent reports in hopes of refining surgical techniques.

Results

Detailed anatomical understanding of the relationship of fistulas to the surrounding sphincter muscles is described. Etiology of the fistula and its anatomical relationship to the surrounding sphincter complex is used to help develop an algorithm for repair. Suprasphincteric fistulas will necessitate a laparotomy for repair, intersphincteric fistulas will often require muscle interposition with recreation of the vaginal and rectal walls, and low/transphincteric fistulas will require local flaps mostly for coverage and repair of the sphincter muscles.

Conclusions

Complex rectovaginal fistulas are both debilitating for the patient and extremely difficult to manage. Plastic surgeons are often involved in such cases only after previous attempts at repair have failed. The success of surgery in treating these patients with rectovaginal fistulas depends on a variety of factors. Unfortunately, the available literature describing these repairs lacks uniform guidance regarding approach to repair. Herein, we attempt to detail the possible anatomical variations of fistulas in relationship to the sphincter muscles to begin the discussion necessary for the development of an algorithm for repair that considers preservation of sphincter mechanism function.
Pseudomonas carnis sp. nov., isolated from meat
Authors: Lick Sonja , Kröckel Lothar , Wibberg Daniel , Winkler Annika , Blom Jochen , Bantleon Annegret , Goesmann Alexander , Kalinowski Jörn
Published: January 2020

During investigations of spoilage-associated meat microbiota,

Pseudomonas

isolates were found in two different laboratories showing highest similarities to

Pseudomonas lactis

DSM 29167T,

Pseudomonas paralactis

DSM 29164T and

Pseudomonas azotoformans

DSM 18862T based on 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete rpoB gene sequences of isolates B4-1T and SpeckC indicated a separate branch with 99.0 and 99.1 % identity, respectively, to their closest relative (

P. lactis

DSM 29167T). Further phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characterizations, as well as average nucleotide identity (ANIb) values obtained from the draft genomes, revealed that these isolates could be considered as representing a novel species, with ANIb values of around 94 and 90 % with their closest relatives

P. lactis

and

P. paralactis

. Other related species showed ANIb values below 90 %, including

Pseudomonas libanensis

DSM 17149T,

Pseudomonas synxantha

DSM 18928T,

Pseudomonas orientalis

DSM 17489T,

Pseudomonas veronii

DSM 11331T and

P. azotoformans

DSM 18862T. Genome-to-genome distance calculations between B4-1T and its closest relative,

P. lactis

DSM 29167T, showed 62.6 % relatedness. The G+C contents of B4-1T and SpeckC were 59.8 and 59.9 mol%, respectively. The major cellular lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol; the major quinone was Q9. Based on these data, the new species Pseudomonas carnis sp. nov. is proposed, the type strain is B4-1T (=DSM 107652T=LMG 30892T); a second strain is SpeckC (=DSM 107651=LMG 30893).
Review of postharvest management to expand the export of fresh perilla leaves
Authors: Choi Ji Weon , Choi Hyunjin , Kim Ji-Gang , Lee Ji-Hyun , Kim Chang Kug , Shin Il Sheob , Hong Yoon Pyo
Published: January 2020

Current research trends and postharvest management techniques were reviewed to expand the export of perilla leaves and to ensure a competitive quality. We summarized the results of quality change factors according to the environment of perilla leaves during transportation for export. Main problems came from deterioration such as pesticide residues, microbiological hazards and low temperature disorder. In terms of the pesticide residues, this issue can be avoided by ensuring that the pesticide safe use standard is employed and the maximum residue limit is not exceeded during cultivation. To control the microbiological hazards, hygiene concepts and continuous attention are required from harvest to packaging. To reduce the quality degradation after harvesting, precooling is an essential process to extend shelf life. Perilla leaves are susceptible to low temperature damage. The low temperature disorders occur depends on the type of MA film and/or outer packaging materials. So the distribution temperature should be set carefully. Overall, to expand the export, the quality must be considered, along with the use of recommened packaging materials, postharvest treatment and the proper temperature. Finally, to prevent aging after harvest, ethylene biosynthesis suppression and elimination techniques are also required, so ethylene removal techniques are necessary to extend shelf life.
Solvent extraction conditions for the analysis of condensed tannins from grape skin and seeds
Authors: Kim Hyun Il , Hur Youn Young , Im Dong Jun , Lee Dong Hoon , Jung Sung Min , Park Seo Jun , Kim Su Jin
Published: January 2020

The total tannin and individual condensed tannin concentrations in the fruit skin and seeds of “Campbell Early” grapes were analyzed by ultrasound-assisted extraction using various solvents (ethanol, methanol, and acetone, both pure and diluted to 70% with and without 0.5% HCl). The total tannin contents of the grape skin and seeds depended on the extraction-solvent conditions and varied between 0.01 and 2.92 mg/g for the skin, and 8.82 and 14.72 mg/g for the seeds. The most effective solvent for extracting total tannins from both the grape skin and seeds was found to be 70% acetone, which facilitated the detection of high concentrations of tannin monomers and dimers. Monomer tannins (catechin and gallocatechin) concentrations in grape seeds were detected at high levels using both 70% acetone and 70% methanol as the extraction solvents; however, dimer tannins (procyanidin B1 and procyanidin B2) were detected at high levels in grape seeds using 70% methanol. Hence, 70% methanol was effective for measuring the concentrations of condensed tannins in grape seeds. Since we are currently analyzing individual tannins, research into finding the analysis conditions most appropriate for individual situations is still required.
Effect of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis larvae fermented by Bacillus subtilis on serum lipid contents and liver morphology in orotic acid-induced fatty-liver model Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Sim So-Yeon , Ahn Hee-Young , Cho Young-Su
Published: January 2020

We investigated the effect of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis larvae fermented by Bacillus subtilis (FPb) on the orotic-acid-induced fatty livers of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. FPb was found to reduce SD-rat organ size and serum triglyceride levels. Conversely, serum lipid levels were elevated to normal levels, which helped to improve the liver. Total lipid and free fatty acid levels in the serum were lower in the group fed with FPb than in the group fed with Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis larvae (NPb) and showed an overall improvement in lipid metabolism. In a similar manner, the FPb group exhibited an HDL-cholesterol content that was similar to the normal group fed with NPb compared to the group fed only with orotic acid. On the other hand, the group administered with a high concentration of FPb exhibited intracellular toxicity. Pathological observations of liver tissue also revealed that hepatic lobular liver cells were uniformly arranged in the group fed with FPb powder, thereby improving the fatty liver. Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis larvae fermented by Bacillus subtilis improves the non-alcoholic fatty liver and can be used as an effective health food material for enhancing liver function.
Impact of Nativity Status on Dietary Behavior and Obesity Among US Adults
Authors: Alese Joyce T. , Alese Olatunji B.
Published: January 2020

Background/Objectives

Non-communicable diseases and chronic conditions such as obesity continue to emerge as public health crises in the United States (US) and globally. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate how U.S. immigrants compare to native-born adults regarding obesity-related behavior such as dietary intake.

Subjects/Methods

The Health Information National Trends Survey was analyzed for this study. The survey was conducted between September and December 2013. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were utilized for covariates of interest.

Results

3131 respondents were included in the analysis. Mean age was 54.68 years (SD +/- 16.5) with a female preponderance (61%). Majority were native-born (83%). About 25% of the immigrants were obese, compared to 34% of non-immigrants. After adjusting for gender, age group, race/ethnicity, level of education, marital status and income category, immigrants were more likely to take some quantity of fruit daily (aOR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.07 - 3.32; p = 0.0290); and less likely to consume soda every week (adjusted OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.55 - 0.98; p = 0.0383). Compared to Caucasians, Hispanics (aOR = 2.00; 95% CI: 1.50 - 2.65; p <.0001) and Blacks (aOR = 2.76; 95% CI: 2.08 - 3.64; p <.0001) were more likely to consume soda on a weekly basis.

Conclusion

U.S. immigrants are less likely to be obese, and they have healthier dietary behavior compared to non-immigrants. Further studies are needed to determine the effects of various socio-economic, demographic and cultural factors that impact determinants of obesity.
Identification of Blood-based Non-invasive Biomarkers and Therapeutic Agents against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC): A Network-based Study
Authors: Ullah Md. Asad , Sarkar Bishajit , Akter Fayza
Published: January 2020

Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most demolishing form of pancreatic cancer with poor prognosis and rising incidence. Difficulties in the early detection and aggressive biological nature of this disease are responsible for most of the therapeutic failures. In this study publicly available microarray expression data of full RNA from peripheral blood of PDAC patient has been utilized via network-based approach in order to identify potential non-invasive biomarkers and drug targets for early diagnosis and treatment of PDAC. Analysis of differentially expressed genes revealed their predominant involvement in translational process, apoptotic process, protein phosphorylation, immune responses, ATP binding, protein binding and signal transduction. Moreover, CREBBP, MAPK14, MAPK1, SMAD3, UBC, MAGOH, HSP90AB1, RPL23A, ACTB and STAT3 were identified as the best proteome signatures, GATA2, FOXC1, PPARG, E2F1, HINFP, USF2, MEF2A, FOXL1, YY1 and NFIC were identified as the best transcriptional regulatory signatures, and hsa-miR-93, hsa-miR-16, hsa-miR-195, hsa-miR-424, hsa-miR-506, hsa-miR-124, hsa-miR-590-3p, hsa-miR-1, hsa-miR-497 and hsa-miR-9 were identified as the best post-transcriptional regulatory signatures in PDAC patient. Analysis of drug-gene interaction revealed Anisomycin, Azactidine, Arsenic trioxide, Bortezomib, Ulixertinib and some other molecules as the probable candidate molecules which may reverse PDAC condition.
Molecular Profiling of Breast Cancer Susceptibility of Obese or Insulin-Resistant and Pre-Diabetic Patients Using ITLN1 and CD295 SNPs
Authors: Hamdy Nadia M. , El-Shemy Reham A.
Published: January 2020

Mutations in cluster of differentiation (CD) 295 gene, encoding class I cytokine receptor, are associated with obesity and breast cancer (BC). SNPs in the adipocyte-inferred novel cytokine intelectin 1 (ITLN1) remain understudied in connection to CD295 polymorphisms and diabetes mellitus (DM) or a pre-diabetic state, as well as to DNA damage seen in BC. We will explore whether CD295 (ID rs6700896) and ITLN1 (rs rs952804) SNPs impact BC with or without DM, insulin resistance (IR) or obesity. Effects of ITLN1 or CD295 polymorphism(s) on DNA damage in BC were also examined. Blood samples from 170 women with BC (including 33 and 48 with DM and pre-diabetes, respectively) and from 108 age-matched women in the control group were collected. Plasma insulin, leptin, CD295, and ITLN1 levels were measured by ELISA. DNA damage was assessed using an alkaline comet assay.

BC cases with clinical stage T II and positive LN as well as tumor histologic grade III, presence of obesity, pre-diabetic events, DM or IR were associated with CD295 rs6700986 mutant homozygous (CC) and heterozygous (CT) genotype and ITLN1 rs952804 mutant heterozygous genotype (CT) (P ≤ 0.05). Tail DNA (%) and tail moment units were significantly associated with CD295 rs6700986 CT and ITLN1 rs952804 TT genotypes. C allele (CT+CC vs. TT) and T allele (TT+CT vs. CC) for CD295 rs6700986 and ITLN1 rs952804, respectively, were associated with BC risk (P ≤ 0.05). ITLN1 (rs952804) and CD295 (rs6700986) SNPs should be considered as BC associated-susceptibility risk factors in obese, insulin resistant, or pre-diabetics.

Graphical Abstract

Remarks/Highlights

ITLN1 and CD295 polymorphism testing might be utilized for accessing BC susceptibility in either obese or insulin resistant, pre-diabetic patients.

A modestly increased risk of BC in women harboring the C allele of CD295 rs6700986 polymorphism and the T allele of the ITLN1 rs952804, where:

Tumor clinical stage T II and positive LN involvement as well as the tumor histologic grade III, obesity existence, pre-diabetic event and being diabetic as well as IR cases were associated with CD295 rs6700986 mutant homozygous (CC) and heterozygous (CT) genotype and ITLN1 rs952804 mutant heterozygous cases (CT) (P ≤ 0.05).

Tail DNA (%) and tail moment unit were significantly associated with CD295 rs6700986 CT genotype and ITLN1 rs952804 TT. These SNPs could be considered as BC associated risk factor.

In dominant effect of the C allele (CT+CC vs TT) and the T allele (TT+CT vs CC) for CD295 rs6700986 and ITLN1 rs952804, respectively, were associated with BC events and risk (P ≤ 0.05).

CD295 rs6700986 and ITLN1 rs952804 SNPs may be considered BC-associated risk for G3, T2, +LN, obesity, pre-diabetic/diabetic and IR in BC patients.
Therapy-induced lipid uptake and remodeling underpin ferroptosis hypersensitivity in prostate cancer
Authors: Tousignant Kaylyn D , Rockstroh Anja , Poad Berwyck LJ , Talebi Ali , Young Reuben RS , Fard Atefeh Taherian , Gupta Rajesh , Zang Tuo , Wang Chenwei , Lehman Melanie L , Swinnen Johan V , Blanksby Stephen J , Nelson Colleen C , Sadowski Martin C
Published: January 2020

Background

Metabolic reprograming, non-mutational epigenetic changes, increased cell plasticity and multidrug tolerance are early hallmarks of therapy resistance in cancer. In this temporary, therapy-tolerant state, cancer cells are highly sensitive to ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death that is caused by oxidative stress through excess levels of iron-dependent peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). However, mechanisms underpinning therapy-induced ferroptosis hypersensitivity remain to be elucidated.

Methods

We used quantitative single cell imaging of fluorescent metabolic probes, transcriptomics, proteomics and lipidomics to perform a longitudinal analysis of the adaptive response to androgen receptor-targeted therapies (androgen deprivation and enzalutamide) in prostate cancer (PCa).

Results

We discovered that cessation of cell proliferation and a robust reduction in bioenergetic processes were associated with multidrug tolerance and a strong accumulation of lipids. The gain in lipid biomass was fueled by enhanced lipid uptake through cargo non-selective (macropinocytosis, tunneling nanotubes) and cargo-selective mechanisms (lipid transporters), whereasde novolipid synthesis was strongly reduced. Enzalutamide induced extensive lipid remodeling of all major phospholipid classes at the expense of storage lipids, leading to increased desaturation and acyl chain length of membrane lipids. The rise in membrane PUFA levels enhanced membrane fluidity and lipid peroxidation, causing hypersensitivity to glutathione peroxidase (GPX4) inhibition and ferroptosis. Combination treatments against AR and fatty acid desaturation, lipase activities or growth medium supplementation with antioxidants or PUFAs altered GPX4 dependence. Despite multidrug tolerance, PCa cells displayed an enhanced sensitivity to inhibition of lysosomal processing of exogenous lipids, highlighting an increased dependence on lipid uptake in the therapy-tolerant state.

Conclusions

Our work provides mechanistic insight into processes of lipid metabolism that underpin the acquisition of therapy-induced GPX4 dependence and ferroptosis hypersensitivity to standard of care therapies in PCa. It demonstrated novel strategies to suppress the therapy-tolerant state that may have potential to delay and combat resistance to androgen receptor-targeted therapies, a currently unmet clinical challenge of advanced PCa. Since enhanced GPX4 dependence is an adaptive phenotype shared by several types of cancer in response to different therapies, our work might have universal implications for our understanding of metabolic events that underpin resistance to cancer therapies.
Towards Autonomous Intra-cortical Brain Machine Interfaces: Applying Bandit Algorithms for Online Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Shaikh Shoeb , So Rosa , Sibindi Tafadzwa , Libedinsky Camilo , Basu Arindam
Published: January 2020

This paper presents application of Banditron - an online reinforcement learning algorithm (RL) in a discrete state intra-cortical Brain Machine Interface (iBMI) setting. We have analyzed two datasets from non-human primates (NHPs) - NHP A and NHP B each performing a 4-option discrete control task over a total of 8 days. Results show average improvements of ≈ 15%, 6% in NHP A and 15%, 21% in NHP B over state of the art algorithms - Hebbian Reinforcement Learning (HRL) and Attention Gated Reinforcement Learning (AGREL) respectively. Apart from yielding a superior decoding performance, Banditron is also the most computationally friendly as it requires two orders of magnitude less multiply-and-accumulate operations than HRL and AGREL. Furthermore, Banditron provides average improvements of at least 40%, 15% in NHPs A, B respectively compared to popularly employed supervised methods - LDA, SVM across test days. These results pave the way towards an alternate paradigm of temporally robust hardware friendly reinforcement learning based iBMIs.
Population variability in the generation and thymic selection of T-cell repertoires
Authors: Sethna Zachary , Isacchini Giulio , Dupic Thomas , Mora Thierry , Walczak Aleksandra M. , Elhanati Yuval
Published: January 2020

The diversity of T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoires is achieved by a combination of two intrinsically stochastic steps: random receptor generation by VDJ recombination, and selection based on the recognition of random self-peptides presented on the major histocompatibility complex. These processes lead to a large receptor variability within and between individuals. However, the characterization of the variability is hampered by the limited size of the sampled repertoires. We introduce a new software tool SONIA to facilitate inference of individual-specific computational models for the generation and selection of the TCR beta chain (TRB) from sequenced repertoires of 651 individuals, separating and quantifying the variability of the two processes of generation and selection in the population. We find not only that most of the variability is driven by the VDJ generation process, but there is a large degree of consistency between individuals with the inter-individual variance of repertoires being about ~2% of the intra-individual variance. Known viral-specific TCRs follow the same generation and selection statistics as all TCRs.
CG14906 (mettl4) mediates m6A methylation of U2 snRNA inDrosophila
Authors: Gu Lei , Wang Longfei , Chen Hao , Hong Jiaxu , Shen Zhangfei , Dhall Abhinav , Lao Taotao , Liu Chaozhong , Wang Zheng , Xu Yifan , Tang Hong-Wen , Chakraborty Damayanti , Chen Jiekai , Liu Zhihua , Rogulja Dragana , Perrimon Norbert , Wu Hao , Shi Yang
Published: January 2020

Recent studies reported that METTL4 regulates DNA 6mA in vivo and therefore is a candidate DNA m6A methyltransfease. However, the enzymatic activity of METTL4 in vitro has not been demonstrated in part due to the difficulties of obtaining well-folded proteins. Here we show that mettl4 is a major methyltransfase responsible for m6A methylation of U2 snRNA both in vitro and in vivo in fly, and identify adenosine at 29th position as the site of m6A methylation. This study answered a long-standing question regarding the enzymatic activity of METTL4, and thus paved the way for further investigating the functions of METTL4 in different biological settings.
Directional motion of a vesicle on conical surfaces
Authors: Zhenpeng Ge
Published: January 2020

The spontaneous directional motion of vesicles on both the outer and inner surfaces of a conical substrate is observed in this work. We showed that the motion is ultra-fast and the maximum velocity can be as high as 2.14 nm/μs.The driving force behind is attributed to the reduction of the bending energy along the conical surface, which possesses high curvature gradient.

We observed and explained the spontaneous directional motion of vesicles on both the concave and convex surfaces of a cone.
Sclerotinia sclerotiorumhijacks copper from its host for infection
Authors: Ding Yijuan , Mei Jiaqin , Chai Yaru , Yang Wenjing , Mao Yi , Yan Baoqin , Yu Yang , Disi Joseph Onwusemu , Rana Kusum , Li Jiana , Qian Wei
Published: January 2020

Sclerotinia sclerotioruminduces host reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which leads to necrosis in the host, allowing the pathogen to absorb nutrients from the dead tissues. Here, we found that threeS. sclerotiorumgenes involved in copper ion import/transport,SsCTR1,SsCCSandSsATX1, were significantly up-regulated during infection ofBrassica oleracea. Function analysis revealed that these genes involved in fungal ROS detoxification, oxalic acid production, pathogen establishment and virulence. On the host side, four genes putatively involved in copper ion homeostasis,BolCCS,BolCCH,BolMT2AandBolDRT112, were significantly down-regulated in susceptibleB. oleracea, but stably expressed in resistantB. oleraceaduring infection. Their homologs were found to promote resistance to necrotrophic pathogens and increase antioxidant activity inArabidopsis thaliana. Furthermore, copper concentration analysis indicated that copper is transported into the necrotic area from healthy area during infection. Collectively, our data suggest thatS. sclerotiorumhijacks host copper to detoxify ROS, whereas the resistant hosts restrict the supply of essential copper nutrients toS. sclerotiorumby maintaining copper ion homeostasis during infection.
Aberrant synaptic release underlies sleep/wake transition deficits in a mouseVamp2mutant
Authors: Banks Gareth T. , Guillaumin Mathilde C. C. , Heise Ines , Lau Petrina , Yin Minghui , Bourbia Nora , Aguilar Carlos , Bowl Michael R. , Esapa Chris , Brown Laurence A. , Hasan Sibah , Tagliatti Erica , Nicholson Elizabeth , Bains Rasneer Sonia , Wells Sara , Vyazovskiy Vladyslav V. , Volynski Kirill , Peirson Stuart N. , Nolan Patrick M.
Published: January 2020

Sleep-wake transitions are modulated through extensive subcortical networks although the precise roles of their individual components remain elusive. Using forward genetics andin vivoelectrophysiology, we identified a recessive mouse mutant line characterised by a reduced propensity to transition between all sleep states while a profound loss in total REM sleep time was evident. The causative mutation, an Ile102Asn substitution in VAMP2, was associated with substantial synaptic changes whilein vitroelectrophysiological investigations with fluorescence imaging revealed a diminished probability of vesicular release in mutants. We conclude that the synaptic efficiency of the entire subcortical brain network determines the likelihood that an animal transitions from one vigilance state to the next.
Expression-Based Inference of Human Microbiome Metabolic Flux Patterns in Health and Disease
Authors: Wang Yiping , Gu Zhenglong
Published: January 2020

1

Metagenomic sequencing has revealed that the composition of the gut microbiome is linked to several major metabolic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the exact mechanistic link between the gut microbiome and human host phenotypes is unclear. Here we used constraint-based modeling of the gut microbiome, using a gene-expression based algorithm called FALCON, to simulate metabolic flux differences in the microbiome of controls vs. metabolic disease patients. We discovered that several major pathways, previously shown to be important in human host metabolism, have significantly different flux between the two groups. We also modeled metabolic cooperation and competition between pairs of species in the microbiome, and use this to determine the compositional stability of the microbiome. We find that that the microbiome is generally unstable across controls as well as metabolic microbiomes, and metabolic disease microbiomes even more unstable than controls.
Chroococcidiorella tianjinensis, gen. et sp. nov. (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta), a green alga arises from the cyanobacterium TDX16
Authors: Dong Qing-lin , Xing Xiang-ying
Published: January 2020

All algae documented so far are of unknown origin. Here, we provide a taxonomic description of the first origin-known alga TDX16-DE that arises from theChroococcidiopsis-like endosymbiotic cyanobacterium TDX16 by de novo organelle biogenesis after acquiring its green algal hostHaematococcus pluvialis’s DNA. TDX16-DE is spherical or oval, with a diameter of 2.0-3.6 µm, containing typical chlorophyte pigments of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and lutein and reproducing by autosporulation, whose 18S rRNA gene sequence shows the highest similarity of 99.7% to that ofChlorella vulgaris. However, TDX16-DE is only about half the size ofC. vulgarisand structurally similar toC. vulgarisonly in having a chloroplast-localized pyrenoid, but differs fromC. vulgarisin that (1) it possesses a double-membraned cytoplasmic envelope but lacks endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus; and (2) its nucleus is enclosed by two sets of envelopes (four unit membranes). Therefore, based on these characters and the cyanobacterial origin, we describe TDX16-DE as a new genus and species,Chroococcidiorella tianjinensisgen. et sp. nov., which sets the basis for multidisciplinary research.
Searching for replicable associations between cortical thickness and psychometric variables in healthy adults: empirical facts
Authors: Masouleh Shahrzad Kharabian , Eickhoff Simon B. , Genon Sarah
Published: January 2020

The study of associations between inter-individual differences in brain structure and behaviour has a long history in psychology and neuroscience. Many associations between psychometric data, particularly intelligence and personality measures and local variations of brain cortical thickness (CT) have been reported. While the impact of such findings often go beyond scientific communities, resonating in the public mind, their replicability is rarely evidenced.

Here, we empirically investigated the replicability of associations of an extended range of psychometric variables and CT in a large cohort of healthy adults. Our analyses revealed low likelihood of significant associations. Furthermore, significant associations from exploratory analyses showed overestimated effect sizes and were rarely replicable in an independent sample.

We discuss the interpretation and implications of these findings within the context of accumulating evidence of the poor replicability of structural-brain-behaviour associations using grey matter volume, and more broadly of the replicability crisis of brain and behaviour sciences.
The microbiome of captive hamadryas baboon
Authors: Li Xuanji , Trivedi Urvish , Brejnrod Asker Daniel , Vestergaard Gisle , Mortensen Martin Steen , Bertelsen Mads Frost , Sørensen Søren Johannes
Published: January 2020

Hamadryas baboon is a highly social primate that lives in complex multilevel societies exhibiting a wide range of group behaviors akin to humans. Here, we report the comprehensive 16s rRNA gene analyses of group-living baboon microbiota across different body sites. Additionally, we compared the baboon and human microbiome of the oral cavity, gut and vagina. Our analyses show that the baboon microbiome is distinct from the human and baboon cohabitants share similar microbial profiles in multiple body sites. The oral, gut and vagina shared more bacterial ASVs in group-living baboons than in humans. The shared ASVs in baboons had significantly positive correlations, suggesting a potential bacterial exchange throughout the body. No significant differences in baboon gut microbiome composition within the maternity line and between maternity lines were detected, suggesting that the offspring acquire their gut microbiota primarily through bacterial exchange among cohabitants. Besides,Lactobacilluswas not so predominant in baboon vagina as in the human vagina but was the most abundant genus in baboon gut. These data and findings can form the basis of future microbiome studies in baboons and be used as a reference to research where the microbiome is expected to impact human modeling with baboons.
pinkIndexer – a universal indexer for pink-beam X-ray and electron diffraction snapshots
Authors: Gevorkov Yaroslav , Barty Anton , Brehm Wolfgang , White Thomas A. , Tolstikova Aleksandra , Wiedorn Max O. , Meents Alke , Grigat Rolf-Rainer , Chapman Henry N. , Yefanov Oleksandr
Published: January 2020

A crystallographic indexing algorithm, pinkIndexer, is presented for the analysis of snapshot diffraction patterns. It can be used in a variety of contexts including measurements made with a monochromatic radiation source, a polychromatic source or with radiation of very short wavelength. As such, the algorithm is particularly suited to automated data processing for two emerging measurement techniques for macromolecular structure determination: serial pink-beam X-ray crystallography and serial electron crystallography, which until now lacked reliable programs for analyzing many individual diffraction patterns from crystals of uncorrelated orientation. The algorithm requires approximate knowledge of the unit-cell parameters of the crystal, but not the wavelengths associated with each Bragg spot. The use of pinkIndexer is demonstrated by obtaining 1005 lattices from a published pink-beam serial crystallography data set that had previously yielded 140 indexed lattices. Additionally, in tests on experimental serial crystallography diffraction data recorded with quasi-monochromatic X-rays and with electrons the algorithm indexed more patterns than other programs tested.
Crystal structure of di-μ-trihydro(pentafluorophenyl)borato-tetrakis(tetrahydrofuran)disodium
Authors: Tanaka Ryo , Shiono Takeshi
Published: January 2020

The title compound, [Na(μ-C6F5BH3)(C4H8O)2]2, represents a dimeric structure of sodium and organoborohydride, located about a centre of inversion. The Na...B distances of 2.7845 (19) and 2.7494 (18) Å were apparently longer than the Li...B distances (2.403–2.537 Å) of the lithium organotrihydroborates in the previous reports. Moreover, an interaction between the sodium atom and one fluorine atom on the 2-position of the benzene ring is observed [Na—F = 2.6373 (12) Å]. In the crystal, the dimeric molecules are stacked along the b-axis via a π–π interaction between the benzene rings.
Crystal structure, spectroscopic characterization and Hirshfeld surface analysis of aquadichlorido{N-[(pyridin-2-yl)methylidene]aniline}copper(II) monohydrate
Authors: Molano Miguel F. , Lorett Velasquez Vaneza P. , Erben Mauricio F. , Nossa González Diana L. , Loaiza Alix E. , Echeverría Gustavo A. , Piro Oscar E. , Tobón Yeny A. , Ben Tayeb Karima , Gómez Castaño Jovanny A.
Published: January 2020

The reaction of N-phenyl-1-(pyridin-2-yl)methanimine with copper chloride dihydrate produced the title neutral complex, [CuCl2(C12H10N2)(H2O)]·H2O. The CuII ion is five-coordinated in a distorted square-pyramidal geometry, in which the two N atoms of the bidentate Schiff base, as well as one chloro and a water molecule, form the irregular base of the pyramidal structure. Meanwhile, the apical chloride ligand interacts through a strong hydrogen bond with a water molecule of crystallization. In the crystal, molecules are arranged in pairs, forming a stacking of symmetrical cyclic dimers that interact in turn through strong hydrogen bonds between the chloride ligands and both the coordinated and the crystallization water molecules. The molecular and electronic structures of the complex were also studied in detail using EPR (continuous and pulsed), FT–IR and Raman spectroscopy, as well as magnetization measurements. Likewise, Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to investigate the intermolecular interactions in the crystal packing.
Crystal structure, DFT and MEP study of (E)-2-{[(3-chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}-6-methylphenol
Authors: Saraçoğlu Hanife , Doğan Onur Erman , Ağar Tuğgan , Dege Necmi , Iskenderov Turganbay S.
Published: January 2020

In the crystal structure of the title compound, C14H12ClNO, the molecules are linked through C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions, forming chains parallel to the [010] direction. π–π interactions and intramolecular hydrogen bonds are also observed. The molecular geometry of the title compound in the ground state has been calculated using density functional theory at the B3LYP level with the 6–311++G(2d,2p) basis set. Additionally, frontier molecular orbital and molecular electrostatic potential map analyses were performed.
Synthesis and crystal structure of 3-(adamantan-1-yl)-4-(2-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-5(4H)-thione
Authors: Abdelrazeq Alaa S. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , El-Emam Ali A. , Osman Doaa Ahmed , Garcia-Granda Santiago
Published: January 2020

In the title compound, C18H19BrFN3S, the 1,2,4-triazole ring is nearly planar with a maximum deviation of −0.009 (3) and 0.009 (4) Å, respectively, for the S-bound C atom and the N atom bonded to the bromofluorophenyl ring. The phenyl and triazole rings are almost perpendicular to each other, forming a dihedral angle of 89.5 (2)°. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by weak C—H...π(phenyl) interactions, forming supramolecular chains extending along thec-axis direction. The crystal packing is further consolidated by intermolecular N—H...S hydrogen bonds and by weak C—H...S interactions, yielding double chains propagating along thea-axis direction. The crystal studied was refined as a racemic twin.
Public innovation through governance in place-based competitiveness policymaking
Authors: Arrona Ainhoa , Franco Susana , Wilson James R.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the link between collaborative governance arrangements for place-based competitiveness and public innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper combines a conceptual discussion of the links between collaborative governance, competitiveness policy and public innovation with a case study analysis of a specific governance process that aims at adapting policy to respond to local competitiveness challenges in the Basque province of Biscay.

Findings

The conceptual discussion leads to the hypothesis of a new distinction with respect to how governance relates to public innovation. Innovation can occur in governance, through governance or with governance. The analysis of the case supports this distinction. Multi-actor collaboration for competitiveness policymaking (innovation in governance) has led to policy innovation (innovation through governance). This has also promoted emerging administrative changes that could be conducive to a more innovative public sector in general (innovation with governance). These findings validate arguments posed by proponents of collaborative innovation that suggest that multi-actor collaboration is a driver for public sector innovation.

Originality/value

The value of the paper rests on linking theoretically and empirically two relevant and currently popular phenomena: networked governance for place-based competitiveness policymaking and public sector innovation. The paper provides original insights from the practice of building a process for context-sensitive policymaking that can inspire practitioners with similar problems.
Social capital dimensions and employee creativity: Does cognitive style matter?
Authors: Oussi Rahma , Chtourou Wafi
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the theoretical limitations of the social network theory applied on employee creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

By combining the social network theory and componential model of creativity, this study studies the possible impact of social capital through its three dimensions (structural, relational and cognitive dimension) on individual creativity, to explore then the moderating effect of cognitive style as individual characteristic on the structural dimension of social capital such weak ties and employee creativity.

Findings

The results show that, on a sample of 95 employees belonging to four companies in the IT sector, predictions based on the social network theory are only weakly verified. Indeed, the relational and cognitive dimensions of social capital do not have a significant impact on individual creativity.

Originality/value

Based on Kimet al.’s (2016) call for future research, this study extends the assumptions of the social network theory announcing that social capital through its structural dimension may have an identical impact on individual creativity in all circumstances.