bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of microRNA expression in peripheral blood monocytes of three Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome types in psoriasis patients
Authors: Lu Yue , Qi Yao , Yan Yuhong , Yao Danni , Deng Hao , Deng Jingwen , Ye Shuyan , Chen Haiming , Chen Qubo , Gao Hengjun , Han Ling , Lu Chuanjian
Published: May 2020

Background

To analyze the expression of miRNA (microRNA) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in patients with Psoriasis vulgaris with different TCM syndromes by miRNA chip. It further revealed the micromaterial basis of different syndrome types of psoriasis at the miRNA level.

Methods

Peripheral blood monocytes were collected and prepared from 30 patients with Psoriasis vulgaris (including 9 patients of blood heat syndrome, 8 patients of blood stasis syndrome, and 13 patients of blood dry syndrome) and 9 healthy controls. The miRNA expression profile of peripheral blood monocytes was detected by Agilent Hum miRNA chip.

Results

Compared to the healthy control group, 156 upregulated and 242 downregulated miRNAs were detected in all psoriasis patients. Compared to the healthy control group, 40 miRNAs were upregulated and 44 were downregulated in the blood heat syndrome group. Furthermore, there were 49 upregulated miRNAs and 44 downregulated miRNAs in the dry syndrome group as compared to the healthy control group. Also, 67 miRNAs were upregulated and 154 miRNAs were downregulated in the blood stasis syndrome group as compared to the healthy control group.

Conclusions

There are common different miRNAs and pathways, as well as specific miRNAs between the psoriasis and the healthy control groups.

Trial registration ChiCTR-TRC-14005185 registered on August 8, 2014.
Management guidelines of penile cancer- a contemporary review of sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Cassell Ayun , Yunusa Bashir , Manobah Burgess , Wambo Desire
Published: May 2020

Background

Penile cancer is a rare malignancy with prevalence higher in areas of high Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) such as Africa, Asia and South America. In middle- and low-income countries where circumcision is not routinely practiced, the rate of penile cancer could be ten times higher.

Main body of the abstract

A literature review was conducted from 1992 to 2019 using PubMed, Google Scholar, African Journal Online and Google with inclusion of 27 publications with emphasis on the Sub-Saharan literature. Findings revealed that most men with penile cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) present with locally advanced to advanced disease with devastating consequences. The option of penile sparing procedure is reduced with most treatment option directed to mutilating surgeries. The lack of appropriate chemotherapy and radiotherapy worsens the prognosis in the region.

Short conclusion

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination may not be cost-effective for most regions in SSA. Therefore, early childhood circumcision might be the best advocated alternative for prevention.
The development of a Consensus Conference on Pediatric Procedural Sedation in the Emergency Department in Italy: from here where to?
Authors:   on behalf of the Procedural Sedation Analgesia Consensus working group, Sforzi Idanna , Bressan Silvia , Saffirio Claudia , De Masi Salvatore , Bussolin Leonardo , Da Dalt Liviana , De Iaco Fabio , Shavit Itai , Krauss Baruch , Barbi Egidio
Published: May 2020

Background

In Italy, as in many European countries, Pediatric Emergency Medicine is not formally recognized as a pediatric subspecialty, hindering nation-wide adoption of standards of care, especially in the field of procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) in the Emergency Department (ED). For this reason PSA in Italy is mostly neglected or performed very heterogeneously and by different providers, with no reference standard. We aimed to describe the procedures and results of the first multidisciplinary and multi-professional Consensus Conference in Italy on safe and effective pediatric PSA in Italian EDs.

Methods

The preparation, organization and conduct of the Consensus Conference, held in Florence in 2017, followed the recommended National methodological standards. Professionals from different specialties across the country were invited to participate.

Results

Overall 86 recommendations covering 8 themes (pre-sedation evaluation, pharmacologic agents, monitoring, equipment and discharge checklists, training, non-pharmacologic techniques, the adult ED setting, impact on hospitalizations) were developed, taking into account the Italian training system and healthcare organization characteristics.

Conclusion

The results of the first multidisciplinary and multi-professional Consensus Conference in Italy are meant to provide up-to-date national guidance to improve the standard of care of children undergoing painful and stressful procedures in the ED. The recommendations will be periodically updated as new relevant evidence is published.
Glucocorticoid receptors are required effectors of TGFβ1-induced p38 MAPK signaling to advanced cancer phenotypes in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Perez Kerkvliet Carlos , Dwyer Amy R. , Diep Caroline H. , Oakley Robert H. , Liddle Christopher , Cidlowski John A. , Lange Carol A.
Published: May 2020

Background

Altered signaling pathways typify breast cancer and serve as direct inputs to steroid hormone receptor sensors. We previously reported that phospho-Ser134-GR (pS134-GR) species are elevated in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and cooperate with hypoxia-inducible factors, providing a novel avenue for activation of GR in response to local or cellular stress.

Methods

We probed GR regulation by factors (cytokines, growth factors) that are rich within the tumor microenvironment (TME). TNBC cells harboring endogenous wild-type (wt) or S134A-GR species were created by CRISPR/Cas knock-in and subjected to transwell migration, invasion, soft-agar colony formation, and tumorsphere assays. RNA-seq was employed to identify pS134-GR target genes that are regulated both basally (intrinsic) or by TGFβ1 in the absence of exogenously added GR ligands. Regulation of selected basal and TGFβ1-induced pS134-GR target genes was validated by qRT-PCR and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Bioinformatics tools were used to probe public data sets for expression of pS134-GR 24-gene signatures.

Results

In the absence of GR ligands, GR is transcriptionally activated via p38-dependent phosphorylation of Ser134 as a mechanism of homeostatic stress-sensing and regulated upon exposure of TNBC cells to TME-derived agents. The ligand-independent pS134-GR transcriptome encompasses TGFβ1 and MAPK signaling gene sets associated with TNBC cell survival and migration/invasion. Accordingly, pS134-GR was essential for TNBC cell anchorage-independent growth in soft-agar, migration, invasion, and tumorsphere formation, an in vitro readout of cancer stemness properties. Both pS134-GR and expression of the MAPK-scaffolding molecule 14-3-3ζ were essential for a functionally intact p38 MAPK signaling pathway downstream of MAP3K5/ASK1, indicative of a feedforward signaling loop wherein self-perpetuated GR phosphorylation enables cancer cell autonomy. A 24-gene pS134-GR-dependent signature induced by TGFβ1 predicts shortened overall survival in breast cancer patients.

Conclusions

Phospho-S134-GR is a critical downstream effector of p38 MAPK signaling and TNBC migration/invasion, survival, and stemness properties. Our studies define a ligand-independent role for GR as a homeostatic “sensor” of intrinsic stimuli as well as extrinsic factors rich within the TME (TGFβ1) that enable potent activation of the p38 MAPK stress-sensing pathway and nominate pS134-GR as a therapeutic target in aggressive TNBC.
Effects of perioperative enhanced recovery after surgery pathway management versus traditional management on the clinical outcomes of laparoscopic-assisted radical resection of distal gastric cancer: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tian Yulong , Cao Shougen , Li Leping , He Qingsi , Xia Lijian , Jiang Lixin , Ding Yinlu , Wang Xinjian , Wang Hao , Mao Weizheng , Hui Xizeng , Shi Yiran , Zhang Huanhu , Chu Xianqun , Kehlet Henrik , Zhou Yanbing
Published: May 2020

Background

The incidence of gastric cancer in East Asia is much higher than the international average. Therefore, improving the prognosis of patients and establishing effective clinical pathways are important topics for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer. At present, the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway is widely used in the field of gastric surgery. Many randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies have proven that the ERAS regimen can improve the short-term clinical outcomes of patients with gastric cancer. However, a prospective study on the effect of the ERAS pathway on the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer has not yet been reported. This trial aims to confirm whether the ERAS pathway can improve the disease-free survival and overall survival of patients undergoing laparoscopic-assisted radical resection for distal gastric cancer.

Methods/design

This study is a prospective, multicentre RCT. This experiment will consist of two groups – an experimental group and a control group – randomly divided in a 1:1 ratio. The perioperative period of the experimental group will be managed according to the ERAS pathway and that of the control group will be managed according to the traditional management mode. An estimated 400 patients will be enrolled. The main endpoint for comparison is the 3-year overall survival and disease-free survival between the two groups.

Discussion

The results of this RCT should clarify whether the ERAS pathway is superior to traditional treatment on inflammatory indexes, short-term clinical outcome and survival for laparoscopic-assisted radical resection of distal gastric cancer. It is hoped that our data will provide evidence that the ERAS pathway improves survival in patients with gastric cancer.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, CHiCTR1900022438. Registered on 11 April 2019.
Efficacy and safety of Shengjiang Xiexin decoction in prophylaxis of chemotherapy-related diarrhea in small cell lung cancer patients: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Deng Chao , Lou Yanni , Gao Yu , Deng Bo , Su Fei , Jia Liqun
Published: May 2020

Background

Diarrhea is a common adverse reaction in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, for which there is currently no effective method of treatment. Shengjiang Xiexin decoction (SXD), a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has shown efficacy in alleviating irinotecan-induced diarrhea in preliminary clinical studies. The current study is designed to assess the efficacy and safety of SXD for prophylaxis against irinotecan-induced diarrhea. Additionally, we employ a new approach to analyze and evaluate the data based on the patients’ uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) genotype, which predicts the risk of diarrhea.

Methods and design

A prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial will be conducted in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) from five hospitals in China. For this study, 100 irinotecan-naïve patients will be randomly allocated to either the SXD or placebo arms in a 1:1 ratio. Stratified randomization will be used to divide subjects by UGT1A1 genotype into groups with differing risk of diarrhea. The trial will consist of two cycles of chemotherapy with 14 days of oral administration of SXD or placebo administered beginning between 3 days before and up to 11 days after initiation of each chemotherapy cycle. The primary study outcome is the incidence of diarrhea. Secondary outcomes include the degree of diarrhea, the degree of neutropenia, the rate of alterations in chemotherapy regimens, the amount of antidiarrheal drug taken, the rate of hospitalization, and evaluation of chemotherapy efficacy.

Discussion

This study is the first to use the UGT1A1 genotype to stratify patients into groups based on their risk of diarrhea, and to provide a complete assessment of chemotherapy-related diarrhea (CRD), including records of diarrhea duration, grading the severity of diarrhea, and evaluating concomitant symptoms. Study results will provide high-level clinical evidence on the use of SXD as prophylaxis for CRD.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Register: ChiCTR1800018490. Registered on 20 September 2018. Retrospectively registered. http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=25250&htm=4c
Uncharted digenean diversity in Lake Tanganyika: cryptogonimids (Digenea: Cryptogonimidae) infecting endemic lates perches (Actinopterygii: Latidae)
Authors: Kmentová Nikol , Bray Rodney A. , Koblmüller Stephan , Artois Tom , De Keyzer Els Lea R. , Gelnar Milan , Vanhove Maarten P. M. , Georgieva Simona
Published: May 2020

Background

Lake Tanganyika is considered a biodiversity hotspot with exceptional species richness and level of endemism. Given the global importance of the lake in the field of evolutionary biology, the understudied status of its parasite fauna is surprising with a single digenean species reported to date. Although the most famous group within the lake’s fish fauna are cichlids, the pelagic zone is occupied mainly by endemic species of clupeids (Actinopterygii: Clupeidae) and lates perches (Actinopterygii: Latidae,LatesCuvier), which are an important commercial source for local fisheries. In this study, we focused on the lake’s four lates perches and targeted their thus far unexplored endoparasitic digenean fauna.

Methods

A total of 85 lates perches from four localities in Lake Tanganyika were examined. Cryptogonimid digeneans were studied by means of morphological and molecular characterisation. Partial sequences of the nuclear28SrRNA gene and the mitochondrial cytochromecoxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene were sequenced for a representative subset of the specimens recovered. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted at the family level under Bayesian inference.

Results

Our integrative approach revealed the presence of six species within the family Cryptogonimidae Ward, 1917. Three out of the four species ofLateswere found to be infected with at least one cryptogonimid species. Two out of the three reported genera are new to science. Low interspecific but high intraspecific phenotypic and genetic diversity was found amongNeocladocystisspp. Phylogenetic inference based on partial28SrDNA sequences revealed a sister group relationship for two of the newly erected genera and their close relatedness to the widely distributed genus AcanthostomumLooss, 1899.

Conclusions

The present study provides the first comprehensive characterisation of the digenean diversity in a fish family from Lake Tanganyika which will serve as a baseline for future explorations of the lake’s digenean fauna. Our study highlights the importance of employing an integrative approach for revealing the diversity in this unique host-parasite system.
Molecular characterisation and morphological description of two new species of Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) infecting leukocytes of African leopards Panthera pardus pardus (L.)
Authors: van As Michelle , Netherlands Edward C. , Smit Nico J.
Published: May 2020

Background

The African leopard Panthera pardus pardus (L.) is currently listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) red list of threatened species due to ongoing population declines. This implies that leopard-specific parasites are also vulnerable to extinction. Intracellular apicomplexan haemoparasites from the genus Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 have been widely reported from wild carnivores in Africa, including non-specific reports from leopards. This paper describes two new haemogregarines in captive and wild leopards from South Africa and provides a tabular summary of these species in relation to species of Hepatozoon reported from mammalian carnivores.

Methods

Blood was collected from nine captive and eight wild leopards at various localities throughout South Africa. Thin blood smears were Giemsa-stained and screened for intraleukocytic haemoparasites. Gamont stages were micrographed and morphometrically compared with existing literature pertaining to infections in felid hosts. Haemogregarine specific primer set 4558F and 2733R was used to target the 18S rRNA gene for molecular analysis. Resulting sequences were compared to each other and with other available representative mammalian carnivore Hepatozoon sequences from GenBank.

Results

Two species of Hepatozoon were found in captive and wild leopards. Of the 17 leopards screened, eight were infected with one or both morphologically and genetically distinct haemogregarines. When compared with other species of Hepatozoon reported from felids, the two species from this study were morphometrically and molecularly distinct. Species of Hepatozoon from this study were observed to exclusively parasitize a particular type of leukocyte, with Hepatozoon luiperdjie n. sp. infecting neutrophils and Hepatozoon ingwe n. sp. infecting lymphocytes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these haemogregarines are genetically distinct, with Hepatozoon luiperdjie n. sp. and Hepatozoon ingwe n. sp. falling in well supported separate clades.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first morphometric and molecular description of Hepatozoon in captive and wild African leopards in South Africa. This study highlights the value of using both morphometric and molecular characteristics when describing species of Hepatozoon from felid hosts.
Norm inequalities involving a special class of functions for sector matrices
Authors: Afraz Davood , Lashkaripour Rahmatollah , Bakherad Mojtaba
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we present some unitarily invariant norm inequalities for sector matrices involving a special class of functions. In particular, if Z=(Z11Z12Z21Z22) is a $2n\times 2n$2n×2n matrix such that numerical range of Z is contained in a sector region $S_{\alpha } $Sα for some $\alpha \in [0,\frac{\pi }{2} ) $α∈[0,π2), then, for a submultiplicative function h of the class $\mathcal{C} $C and every unitarily invariant norm, we have
$$\begin{aligned} \bigl\Vert h \bigl( \vert Z_{ij} \vert ^{2} \bigr) \bigr\Vert &\leq \bigl\Vert h^{r} \bigl( \sec (\alpha ) \vert Z_{11} \vert \bigr) \bigr\Vert ^{\frac{1}{r} } \bigl\Vert h^{s} \bigl( \sec (\alpha ) \vert Z_{22} \vert \bigr) \bigr\Vert ^{ \frac{1}{s} }, \end{aligned}$$ ∥h(|Zij|2)∥≤∥hr(sec(α)|Z11|)∥1r∥hs(sec(α)|Z22|)∥1s, where r and s are positive real numbers with $\frac{1}{r}+\frac{1}{s}=1 $1r+1s=1 and $i,j=1,2$i,j=1,2. We also extend some unitarily invariant norm inequalities for sector matrices.
Understanding stakeholder preferences for managing red foxes in different situations
Authors: Liordos Vasilios , Kontsiotis Vasileios J. , Emmanouilidou Foteini
Published: May 2020

Background

Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) have historically been interacting with human societies, thus being an important component of socio-ecological systems. In Greece, farmers and hunters have been increasingly complaining about predation of red foxes on livestock and game, and the recurrence of rabies incidents has raised concerns about human and animal health. Understanding public preferences about management is necessary for successful wildlife management. This study aimed at investigating the preferences of north Greece residents for managing the negative impacts of red foxes and also at understanding variation between stakeholder groups: farmers, hunters, farmers-hunters, and the general public. Data were collected from on-site face-to-face surveys (n = 746), between March and May 2017. Respondents were asked to rate their acceptability of management strategies under three impact scenarios: red foxes attack livestock, reduce game, and carry rabies.

Results

Stakeholders preferred nonlethal management strategies, with generally high consensus, both between and within groups. Fencing and compensation were the most acceptable strategies for protecting livestock and vaccination and the removal of sick animals for eliminating rabies. Acceptability and consensus for lethal strategies were lower, with hunting being the most acceptable lethal strategy for hunters, especially when foxes threatened game or carried rabies. Doing nothing was becoming more unacceptable and lethal control more acceptable with increasing severity of the impacts, i.e., livestock and game predation versus rabies transmission.

Conclusions

Variation in the acceptability of and consensus for management strategies was considerable among scenarios, and both between and within stakeholder groups. Research implications could be used as a guide for reaching consensus for proper management strategies during the conservation conflict management process in the study area. As similar studies are scarce, findings might also prove useful elsewhere, especially in the northern hemisphere where native populations do occur. Findings about managing rabid red foxes would be particularly useful for countries where rabies has not been eliminated, particularly for neighboring Balkan and Asia Minor countries. Findings about managing red fox impacts on livestock and game would be most useful for European countries and especially Mediterranean countries with social and ecological conditions similar to Greece.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Interlocking Bricks Utilizing Wasted Polyethylene Terephthalate
Authors: Alaloul Wesam Salah , John Vivekka Olivia , Musarat Muhammad Ali
Published: May 2020

Plastic bottles are non-biodegradable material made up of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and takes around 450 years to get decomposed. In Malaysia, near 13.2% of plastics contribute to municipal solid waste, where 2.5% is PET. To reduce the waste, interlocking bricks manufacture by waste plastic bottles are used to replace the conventional bricks that use cement and clay. The purpose of this research is to reuse plastic bottles comprised of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Polyurethane binder, by manufacturing interlocking brick that helps to reduce the waste on landfills and the pollution. The plastic bottles were shredded and grinded to a size of 0.75 mm and mixed with the Polyurethane (PU) and the Polymer. The mixed later casted and compacted in the interlocking brick machine mould. The tests performed on the interlocking bricks were compressive strength, impact, flexural strength and thermal conductivity for obtaining the mechanical and thermal properties. The tests values were then keyed into the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to obtain the optimal PET and PU to verify reliability. Based on the results it is concluded that PET/PU of 60/40 ratio is suitable as non-load bearing masonry brick and recommended to be used as partition walls.
The effects of vagus nerve stimulation on the course and outcomes of patients with bipolar disorder in a treatment-resistant depressive episode: a 5-year prospective registry
Authors: McAllister-Williams R. Hamish , Sousa Soraia , Kumar Arun , Greco Teresa , Bunker Mark T. , Aaronson Scott T. , Conway Charles R. , Rush A. John
Published: May 2020

Background

To compare illness characteristics, treatment history, response and durability, and suicidality scores over a 5-year period in patients with treatment-resistant bipolar depression participating in a prospective, multicenter, open-label registry and receiving Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy (VNS Therapy) plus treatment-as-usual (VNS + TAU) or TAU alone.

Methods

Response was defined as ≥ 50% decrease from baseline Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score at 3, 6, 9, or 12 months post-baseline. Response was retained while MADRS score remained ≥ 40% lower than baseline. Time-to-events was estimated using Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis and compared using log-rank test. Suicidality was assessed using the MADRS Item 10 score.

Results

At baseline (entry into registry), the VNS + TAU group (N = 97) had more episodes of depression, psychiatric hospitalizations, lifetime suicide attempts and higher suicidality score, more severe symptoms (based on MADRS and other scales), and higher rate of prior electroconvulsive therapy than TAU group (N = 59). Lifetime use of medications was similar between the groups (a mean of 9) and was consistent with the severe treatment-resistant nature of their depression. Over 5 years, 63% (61/97) in VNS + TAU had an initial response compared with 39% (23/59) in TAU. The time-to-initial response was significantly quicker for VNS + TAU than for TAU (p < 0.03). Among responders in the first year after implant, the KM estimate of the median time-to-relapse from initial response was 15.2 vs 7.6 months for VNS + TAU compared with TAU (difference was not statistically significant). The mean reduction in suicidality score across the study visits was significantly greater in the VNS + TAU than in the TAU group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The patients who received VNS + TAU included in this analysis had severe bipolar depression that had proved extremely difficult to treat. The TAU comparator group were similar though had slightly less severe illnesses on some measures and had less history of suicide attempts. Treatment with VNS + TAU was associated with a higher likelihood of attaining a response compared to TAU alone. VNS + TAU was also associated with a significantly greater mean reduction in suicidality.

Limitations

In this registry study, participants were not randomized to the study treatment group, VNS Therapy stimulation parameters were not controlled, and there was a high attrition rate over 5 years.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00320372. Registered 3 May 2006, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00320372 (retrospectively registered)
Inhibition of PI3K/AKT molecular pathway mediated by membrane estrogen receptor GPER accounts for cryptotanshinone induced antiproliferative effect on breast cancer SKBR-3 cells
Authors: Shi Danning , Zhao Piwen , Cui Lixia , Li Hongbo , Sun Liping , Niu Jianzhao , Chen Meng
Published: May 2020

Background

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among women and the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Among which nuclear estrogen receptor (nER) negative breast cancer is always with much poor prognosis. Recently, membrane G protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), a newly recognized estrogen receptor has been documented to take essential part in the development and treatment of breast cancer. The present study was designed to investigate the anti nER negative breast cancer effect of cryptotanshinone (CPT), an important active compound of traditional Chinese medicine Danshen and its possible molecular pathway.

Methods

The following in vitro tests were performed in nER negative but GPER positive breast cancer SKBR-3 cells. The effect of CPT on cell proliferation rate and cell cycle distribution was evaluated by MTT cell viability test and flow cytometry assay respectively. The role of PI3K/AKT pathway and the mediated function of GPER were tested by western blot and immunofluorescence. Technique of gene silence and the specific GPER agonist G-1 and antagonist G-15 were employed in the experiments to further verify the function of GPER in mediating the anticancer role of CPT.

Results

The results showed that proliferation of SKBR-3 cells could be blocked by CPT in a time and dose dependent manner. CPT could also exert antiproliferative activities by arresting cell cycle progression in G1 phase and down regulating the expression level of cyclin A, cyclin B, cyclin D and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2). The antiproliferative effect of CPT was further enhanced by G-1 and attenuated by G-15. Results of western blot and immunofluorescence showed that expression of PI3K and p-AKT could be downregulated by CPT and such effects were mediated by GPER which were further demonstrated by gene silence test.

Conclusion

The current study showed that the antiproliferative action of CPT on SKBR-3 cells was realized by inhibition of GPER mediated PI3K/AKT pathway. These findings provide further validation of GPER serving as useful therapeutic target.
How to divide the pancreatic parenchyma in patients with a portal annular pancreas: laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy for serous cystic neoplasms
Authors: Kuriyama Naohisa , Hatanaka Tomohide , Gyoten Kazuaki , Hayasaki Aoi , Fujii Takehiro , Iizawa Yusuke , Kato Hiroyuki , Murata Yasuhiro , Tanemura Akihiro , Kishiwada Masashi , Sakurai Hiroyuki , Mizuno Shugo
Published: May 2020

Background

Portal annular pancreas (PAP) is a rare pancreatic anomaly in which the uncinate process wraps annularly around the portal vein and fuses to the body of the pancreas. PAP is highly relevant to the development of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) in pancreatic surgery. Here, we describe our experience and surgical technique of laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy using Warshaw’s procedure for patients with the PAP.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old woman with PAP was referred to our hospital for a suspicious mucinous cystic neoplasms 1.5 cm in diameter in the pancreatic tail. Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy using Warshaw’s procedure was performed. Mobilization of the pancreatic tail was first performed, and then, the splenic artery was cut. After dividing the pancreatic tail from the splenic hilum, the ventral pancreatic parenchyma was divided using a stapler. After cutting the splenic vein, complete mobilization of the pancreatic body and tail enabled easy division of the PAP. Finally, the PAP was also divided using the stapler. Although grade B POPF occurred, she was discharged on the 9th postoperative day.

Conclusions

Surgeons should understand the anatomical characteristics of PAP and be aware of the possibility of POPF.
Additional cleft mitral valve diagnosed by a combination of 2-D and 3-D echocardiography using transesophageal echocardiography during mitral valve prolapse: a case report
Authors: Miyata Kazuto , Shigematsu Sayaka
Published: May 2020

Background

A mitral cleft may be an important etiological factor for significant mitral regurgitation. We diagnose an additional cleft mitral valve by a combination of 2-dimensional (2-D) and 3-dimensional (3-D) echocardiography.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a severe mitral regurgitation due to posterior leaflet prolapse (P2). In the 2-D view, which is obtained after turning the probe clockwise from the mid-esophageal long-axis view, TEE showed a moderate central regurgitation jet. In the 3-D en face view, a cleft between P2 and P3 was identified, and we found that the cause of mitral regurgitation was not only P2 prolapse but also a cleft between P2 and P3.

Conclusion

A complex mitral valve lesion was detected by a combination of 2-D and 3-D TEE. The presence of a cleft could affect the surgical procedure because of the possibility that an enlarged cleft would increase with leaflet resection.
Automated synthesis and quality control of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA for radioguided surgery (in a [68Ga]Ga-PSMA workflow)
Authors: Aalbersberg Else A. , van Andel Lotte , Geluk-Jonker Martine M. , Beijnen Jos H. , Stokkel Marcel P. M. , Hendrikx Jeroen J. M. A.
Published: May 2020

Background

Lymph node dissection is a therapeutic option for prostate cancer patients with a high risk of- or proven lymph node metastases. Radioguided surgery after intravenous injection of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA could improve the selectivity of lymph node dissection. The aim of this project was to develop an automated synthesis method for [99mTc]Tc-PSMA, using the disposables and chemicals used at our institute for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA labeling. Furthermore, quality control procedures and validation results of the automated production of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA conform cGMP and cGRPP are presented.

Methods

[99mTc]Tc-PSMA is produced fully automatic with a Scintomics synthesis module. Quality control procedures are described and performed for: activity, labeling yield, visual inspection, pH measurement, sterility and endotoxin determination, radionuclide purity, radiochemical purity (99mTc-colloids, unbound [99mTc]pertechnetate, and other impurities), and HEPES content. Three batches of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA were prepared on three separate days for validation and stability testing at 0, 4, 6, and 24 h.

Results

[99mTc]Tc-PSMA can be successfully manufactured automatically within a [68Ga]Ga-PSMA workflow with the addition of only [99mTc]pertechnetate and stannous chloride. The radiochemical purity after production was highly reproducible (96.3%, 97.6%, and 98.2%) and remained > 90% (required for patient administration) up to 6 h later.

Conclusion

A fully automated labeling procedure with corresponding quality control methods for production of [99mTc]Tc-PSMA is presented, which is validated according to cGMP and cGRPP guidelines and can be implemented in a GMP environment. The produced [99mTc]Tc-PSMA is stable for up to 6 h. The presented procedure is almost identical to the automated production of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA and can therefore be implemented expediently if a workflow for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA is already in place.
Maternal PM2.5 exposure triggers preterm birth: a cross-sectional study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Xiaotong , Fan Cuifang , Ren Zhan , Feng Huan , Zuo Shanshan , Hao Jiayuan , Liao Jingling , Zou Yuliang , Ma Lu
Published: May 2020

Background

Most of the studies regarding air pollution and preterm birth (PTB) in highly polluted areas have estimated the exposure level based on fixed-site monitoring. However, exposure assessment methods relying on monitors have the potential to cause exposure misclassification due to a lack of spatial variation. In this study, we utilized a land use regression (LUR) model to assess individual exposure, and explored the association between PM2.5exposure during each time window and the risk of preterm birth in Wuhan city, China.

Methods

Information on 2101 singleton births, which were ≥ 20 weeks of gestation and born between November 1, 2013 and May 31, 2014; between January 1, 2015 and August 31, 2015, was obtained from the Obstetrics Department in one 3A hospital in Wuhan. Air quality index (AQI) data were accessed from the Wuhan Environmental Protection Bureau website. Individual exposure during pregnancy was assessed by LUR models and Kriging interpolation. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the association between women exposure to PM2.5and the risk of different subtypes of PTB.

Results

During the study period, the average individual exposure concentration of PM2.5during the entire pregnancy was 84.54 μg/m3. A 10 μg/m3increase of PM2.5exposure in the first trimester (OR: 1.169; 95%CI: 1.077, 1.262), the second trimester (OR: 1.056; 95%CI: 1.015, 1.097), the third trimester (OR: 1.052; 95%CI: 1.002, 1.101), and the entire pregnancy (OR: 1.263; 95%CI: 1.158, 1.368) was significantly associated with an increased risk of PTB. For the PTB subgroup, the hazard of PM2.5exposure during pregnancy was stronger for very preterm births (VPTB) than moderate preterm births (MPTB). The first trimester was the most susceptible exposure window. Moreover, women who had less than 9 years of education or who conceived during the cold season tended to be more susceptible to the PM2.5exposure during pregnancy.

Conclusions

Maternal exposure to PM2.5increased the risk of PTB, and this risk was stronger for VPTB than for MPTB, especially during the first trimester.
Development of an inventory to assess perceived barriers related to PKU treatment
Authors: Teruya Katia Irie , Remor Eduardo , Schwartz Ida Vanessa Doederlein
Published: May 2020

Background

According to studies of phenylketonuria (PKU), the Brazilian population’s metabolic control shows unsatisfactory indexes from childhood. Research on patients’ perceived difficulties or barriers to adherence to treatment can help us to comprehend how these outcomes are associated. The present study aimed to: (1) describe the development of an inventory for identifying the most frequent and relevant perceived barriers to PKU treatment from the perspective of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals; (2) evaluate certain psychometric characteristics of the new measure; and, (3) explore potential predictors (sociodemographic and medical characteristics) that may contribute to increasing the number of perceived barriers and examine whether the number of barriers is associated with the degree of adherence shown by the patient.

Results

Participants in the study were 23 patients with PKU (M age = 18.0 years; SD = 7.3; range 6 to 34 years; 69% early-treated) in classical (n = 11) and mild (n = 12) form, and 11 caregivers. The inventory, developed to ascertain perceived barriers to treatment, was completed by patients (≥ 13 years) and caregivers of patients aged 6 to 17 years. Analyses were conducted to investigate whether barrier inventory scores were associated with adherence to treatment as measured by phenylalanine levels in patients’ medical records. Scores on the inventory differed across the patient age groups: adolescents had lower scores (i.e. reported fewer barriers) compared with those of adults (U = 8.000, p = 0.008); patients with better recent metabolic control also reported fewer perceived barriers than did patients with poor adherence (U = 20.000, p = 0.009); and the number of perceived barriers was positively associated with recent blood phenylalanine concentration (Kendall’s taub = 0.41; p = 0.001).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the inventory has merit in assessing perceived barriers and support the need for further research on barriers perceived by PKU patients.
COVID-19 pandemic and the risk of infection in multiple sclerosis patients on disease modifying therapies: “what the bleep do we know?”
Authors: Mansoor Salman , Kelly Siobhan , Murphy Kevin , Waters Aine , Siddiqui Nauman Saleem
Published: May 2020

The novel coronavirus which emerged in Wuhan province of China has taken world by surprise. Since been diagnosed in December 2019, it has been termed a “Pandemic” and there is a growing concern in physicians across the globe. As new evidence is emerging, there are various preventative strategies which are being deployed. Multiple sclerosis patients who are on disease modifying therapies (DMTs) might be at a higher risk of acquiring or a poorer outcome due to their immune status. This review looks at the available evidence in managing this global crisis.
The physiological effect of pre-soaking with tryptophan on sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) productivity under different levels of salinity stresses
Authors: Hozayn M. , Abd-Elmonem A. A. , Samaha Ghada M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Salinity has a negative effect on the productivity of many crops. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of pre-soaking in different concentrations of tryptophan (0.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mM) on growth, yield and root quality of two sugar beet cultivars (DS-9004 and LP-15) under different salinity levels (320, 2000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 ppm) in an effort to reduce salinity damage on sugar beet. The data were collected at 2 stages of growth (75 and 180 days after sowing).

Results

The results revealed that the pre-soaking in tryptophan treatments (2.5 mM) were the most effective treatments under different salinity levels and caused significant increases in all tested parameters of this study. Moreover, increasing salinity levels decreased significantly the root purity parameters and increased impurity parameters of sugar beet. The DS-9004 cultivar gave the highest values of all studied parameters compared with the LP-15 cultivar under different salinity levels with tryptophan (2.5 mM). Chlorophyll a content and chlorophyll a/b ratio, as well as carotenoids content, were highest in DS-9004 cultivar, while chlorophyll b content was highest in LP-15 cultivar at 75 days.

Conclusions

Salinity level up to 320 ppm positively affected the growth yield of sugar beet while the highest significant reduction was associated with increasing salinity up to 8000 ppm. Thus, pre-soaking in tryptophan (2.5 mM) has a promotive effect on increasing sugar beet yield under water salinity conditions.
In silico molecular GRIP docking of some secondary metabolites combating diabesity
Authors: De Baishakhi , Bhandari Koushik , Singla Rajeev K. , Saha Gargi , Goswami Tridib Kumar
Published: May 2020

Background

This research article aims to study at molecular level by in silico GRIP docking the effectivity of the detected compounds in value added black tea or VABT, prepared in a chemometrically optimized ratio of Black tea:Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum):Ginger (Zingiber officinale):Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) in combating diabesity.

Results

The compounds in VABT were identified by liquid chromatography-mass chromatography. Basing on the desirability function, the chemometrically optimized weight ratio of VABT was determined to be 420:50:54:26 (Black tea:cinnamon:ginger:cardamom). Among the identified molecules, phlorizin, 6-gingerol, procyanidin, and epicatechin were docked with insulin receptor kinase, pancreatic lipase-colipase complex, and human FTO. The high negative dock scores of the test molecules in inhibiting the enzymes suggest their potency.

Conclusions

Thus, the results of in silico studies predicted the potency of VABT in combating diabesity. VABT thus has potency and can serve as a nutrotherapeutic entity against diabesity.
Positive Impact of Multiple-Choice Question Authoring and Regular Quiz Participation on Student Learning
Authors: Riggs C. Daniel , Kang Sohee , Rennie Olivia
Published: May 2020

Active-learning exercises such as the generation of exam questions are a proven method of increasing student engagement and promoting critical-thinking skills. Students were encouraged to use questions generated by their peers to help promote learning of course materials. A statistically significant correlation between use and performance is reported.
Uncovering Factors Influencing Instructors’ Decision Process when Considering Implementation of a Course-Based Research Experience
Authors: Genné-Bacon Elizabeth A. , Wilks Jessica , Bascom-Slack Carol
Published: May 2020

This paper discusses the results of a qualitative study, framed in diffusion of innovations theory, which explores the decision-making process of undergraduate instructors interested in implementing a short-duration, modular, course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE).
President's Page
Authors: Weiss Chester , Roy Baishali
Published: May 2020

This marks the 10th year since the SEG Executive Committee, realizing the growing importance of near-surface geophysics in addressing humanitarian needs, approved the formation of a Near Surface Task Force. After four years of dedicated efforts by that task force to advance and promote the science, technology, and professional practice of geophysics as applied to near-surface problems, the SEG Near-Surface Geophysics Technical Section (NSTS) was established by the SEG Board of Directors during its October 2014 meeting following submission of applications by 50 Active SEG near-surface geophysics members. The first chair of the NSTS was John Lane Jr. The membership of the technical section has grown since its inception and includes individuals from a global and diverse community.
Reply to the discussion
Authors: Van De Coevering Norbert , Koster Klaas , Holt Rob
Published: May 2020

Unfortunately, the SEAM II Barrett model was built using 10 separate property volumes that need to be combined using a rather complex and nonintuitive set of matrix manipulations in order to properly calculate the azimuthally varying P-P reflection at the interface between each set of anisotropic layers. SEAM is considering the calculation of additional products that will illustrate this, according to Michael Oristaglio in personal communication.
Memorial
Authors: Tyne Ted
Published: May 2020

Brian Spies (1949–2020)
Structure/Function Study of Photoreceptive Proteins by FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Kandori Hideki
Published: May 2020

Light-induced difference Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful, sensitive and informative method for studying protein structural changes in photoreceptive proteins. Strong absorption of water in the IR region is always an issue in this method. However, if water content in the sample is controlled during measurements, this method can provide detailed structural information on a single protein-bound water molecule. We optimized the measuring conditions of light-induced difference FTIR spectroscopy to hydrated film samples. In doing so, highly accurate difference FTIR spectra were successfully obtained for a light-driven proton-pump bacteriorhodopsin (BR), not only in the conventional 1800–800 cm−1 region, but also in the 4000–1800 cm−1 region. A highly accurate measuring system of light-induced difference FTIR spectroscopy was applied to various photoreceptive proteins such as animal and microbial rhodopsins, and comprehensive FTIR analyses revealed that proton-pumping rhodopsins possess strongly hydrogen-bonded water molecules. It was concluded that a strongly hydrogen-bonded water molecule is the functional determinant of a proton pump. FTIR spectroscopy was also applied to flavin-binding photoreceptors, where we elucidated the molecular mechanisms of adduct formation in the LOV domain, hydrogen-bonding alteration in the BLUF domain, and activation and DNA-repair mechanisms in photolyases. In studies on rhodopsin, we contributed to the discovery and creation of new functions, where FTIR spectroscopy was used for the molecular characterization of new rhodopsins. These new rhodopsins offer promising tools in optogenetics that revolutionized brain sciences. As highlighted in this review article, we provided new insights into the structure/function relationship of biomolecules by unique difference FTIR spectroscopy. In particular, by studying photoreceptive proteins such as rhodopsins, we clarified the mechanism of how light is taken into proteins, and how it leads to their function.
Leiomyosarcoma: a rare presentation as multifocal lesion
Authors: Aftan Mohanad Kareem , Alfalahi Afra , Alzeena Ethar , albastaki Usama , Houcinat Yamina , Mahmoud Khalid
Published: May 2020

Leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of connective tissue cancer, accounting for 5–10% of all soft tissue sarcomas. We present a case of leiomyosarcoma as unusual multifocal presentation. Retroperitoneal, mediastinal, pulmonary, uterine and bony regions were all involved at the time of presentation. The liver was normal without detected lesions.