bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Microcystis aeruginosa–Associated Microcystin-LR on the Survival of 2 Life Stages of Freshwater Mussel (Lampsilis siliquoidea)
Authors: Gene Samantha May , Shahmohamadloo Rene Sahba , Ortiz Xavier , Prosser Ryan S.
Published: June 2019

Microcystin-LR is a toxin commonly produced by the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa. It is present in harmful algal blooms and is a concern for both human and environmental health in Canadian freshwater systems. Previous studies have investigated the toxicity of microcystin-LR to other organisms such as fish; however, it is important to assess its toxicity to native freshwater mussels (family Unionidae), which are considered imperiled. The present study examined the toxicity of microcystin-LR to fatmucket mussels (Lampsilis siliquoidea) at 2 different life stages. Juvenile mussels were exposed to microcystin-LR in a 28-d chronic test, and glochidia underwent a 72-h acute toxicity test. There was no significant relationship between glochidia viability and microcystin-LR concentration. The median lethal concentration (LC50) value for juvenile mussels after 28 d of exposure was 2.1 µg/L. To determine the environmental relevance of the observed toxicity, an environmental exposure distribution was created using Canadian and Canadian–US Great Lakes microcystin measurements. The 28-d LC50 value (2.1 µg/L) was greater than those values that occurred in the environment 95% of the time; however, the LC10 (0.45 µg/L) and LC25 (0.97 μg/L) values were not greater than the measured microcystin environmental values. This finding indicates that microcystins may exert toxic effects on juvenile mussels at environmentally relevant concentrations. Further investigation should be considered in terms of prolonged exposure to persistent microcystin-LR, and toxicity to sensitive species at different life stages. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2137–2144. © 2019 SETAC.
Toxicological Evaluation and Quantification of Ingested Metal-Core Nanoplastic by Daphnia magna Through Fluorescence and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometric Methods
Authors: Vicentini Denice Schulz , Nogueira Diego José , Melegari Silvia Pedroso , Arl Miriam , Köerich Jéssica Schveitzer , Cruz Luiza , Justino Naiara Mottim , Oscar Bianca Vicente , Puerari Rodrigo Costa , da Silva Marlon Luiz Neves , Simioni Carmen , Ouriques Luciane Cristina , Matias Marcelo Seleme , de Castilhos Junior Armando Borges , Matias William Gerson
Published: June 2019

There are few studies on nanoplastic that propose quantification of the amount ingested combined with evaluation of the toxic effects on aquatic organisms. We propose 2 methods to quantify the amount of polystyrene nanoplastic (PSNP) ingested by Daphnia magna: fluorescence intensity, where a fluorescent monomer (F) is added to the PSNP and quantified through fluorescence light microscopy, and total aluminum quantification, where PSNP is synthesized with Al2O3 metal-core nanoparticles and used for quantification of the nanoplastic ingested by the organism Daphnia magna using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. In addition, the PSNP was functionalized with palmitic acid to simulate the environmental conditions leading to biological and chemical transformations. Acute and chronic toxicity tests were performed with fluorescent PSNP (PSNP/F) and palmitic acid-functionalized PSNP/F (PSNP/F-PA). The ingestion quantified was higher by factors of 2.8 and 3.0 for PSNP/F-PA and 1.9 and 1.7 for PSNP/F applying the fluorescence intensity and total Al quantifying methods, respectively, when compared to PSNP. These results are consistent with the data obtained in the toxicity tests, which showed an approximately 3 times increase in the adverse effect of PSNP/F-PA on the mobility and reproduction of the organisms. Thus, the strong inhibition of D. magna reproduction caused by PSNP/F-PA in the chronic toxicity tests could be associated with a greater amount of this nanoplastic being ingested by the organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2101–2110. © 2019 SETAC.
Effect of Saccharomyces uvarum on lipid oxidation and carbonyl compounds in silver carp mince during cold storage
Authors: Xu Lina , Luo Yu , Fu Xiangjin , Luo Feijun , Xu Youzhi , Sun Shuguo
Published: June 2019

Fish lipid is highly susceptible to oxidation, resulting in accumulation of toxic substances reactive carbonyl compounds (RCCs), the reduction of nutritional value, and the production of odorous substances. In this study, the effect of yeast (Saccharomyces uvarum) on RCCs, fat acid composition, volatiles, and sensory traits in silver carp mince stored at 4°C was evaluated. Yeast eliminated malondialdehyde, 4‐hydroxyl‐2‐hexenal, and 4‐hydroxyl‐2‐nonenal by about 80%, 68%, and 60%, which increased by about 170%, 340%, and 300% in the control, respectively. Yeast helped retain about 80% of the polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), respectively; only about 53% and 46% of EPA and DHA, respectively, were maintained in the control. Yeast removed off‐odors hexanal, nonanal, and decenal, resulting in enhanced sensory traits. These findings were economically important for improving the quality of fish products. It might present an approach to improve the flavor of fish products.
The role of sleep and wakefulness in myelin plasticity
Authors: de Vivo Luisa , Bellesi Michele
Published: June 2019

Myelin plasticity is gaining increasing recognition as an essential partner to synaptic plasticity, which mediates experience‐dependent brain structure and function. However, how neural activity induces adaptive myelination and which mechanisms are involved remain open questions. More than two decades of transcriptomic studies in rodents have revealed that hundreds of brain transcripts change their expression in relation to the sleep–wake cycle. These studies consistently report upregulation of myelin‐related genes during sleep, suggesting that sleep represents a window of opportunity during which myelination occurs. In this review, we summarize recent molecular and morphological studies detailing the dependence of myelin dynamics after sleep, wake, and chronic sleep loss, a condition that can affect myelin substantially. We present novel data about the effects of sleep loss on the node of Ranvier length and provide a hypothetical mechanism through which myelin changes in response to sleep loss. Finally, we discuss the current findings in humans, which appear to confirm the important role of sleep in promoting white matter integrity.
Did UberX reduce ambulance volume?
Authors: Moskatel Leon , Slusky David
Published: June 2019

Ambulances are a vital part of emergency medical services. However, they come in single, high intervention form, which is at times unnecessary, resulting in excessive costs for patients and insurers. In this paper, we ask whether UberX's entry into a city caused substitution away from traditional ambulances for low‐risk patients, reducing overall volume. Using a city‐panel over‐time and leverage that UberX enter markets sporadically over multiple years, we find that UberX entry reduced the per capita ambulance volume by at least 6.7%. Our result is robust to numerous specifications.
Assessing the effects of the Three Gorges Dam and upstream inflow change on the downstream flow regime during different operation periods of the dam
Authors: Jiang Cong , Zhang Quan , Luo Mingming
Published: June 2019

As the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) has raised wide concerns over the environmental and ecological impacts since its dramatic effect on the downstream flow regime of the Yangtze River. Since 2003, the TGD has progressed from the initial operation period to the full operation period, with different effects on the downstream flow regime over each period. Although the upstream inflow change (USIC) of the TGD is a possibly additional factor affecting the downstream flow regime, this has drawn little attention. This study aims to quantify the individual contributions of the TGD and the USIC to the changes of the downstream flow regime over different operation periods of the dam. Using the Muskingum routing model and the Xin'anjiang rainfall–run‐off model, we reconstruct the discharge unregulated by the TGD for the post‐TGD period from 2003 to 2015. On this basis, the effects of the TGD and the USIC on the downstream flow regime are quantitatively assessed. Benchmarked against the flow regime during the pre‐TGD period from 1955 to 2002, it is found that the TGD and the USIC play considerable and comparable roles in affecting the downstream flow regime during the whole post‐TGD period from 2003 to 2015. Furthermore, the TGD appears to have a limited effect on the downstream flow regime during the initial operation period from 2003 to 2008 relative to the USIC. In contrast, during the full operation period from 2009 to 2015, the TGD plays a dominant role in changing the downstream flow regime, although the effect of the USIC cannot be neglected. The findings of this study are helpful to understand the exact impacts of the TGD on the downstream flow regime, thereby facilitating the development of a rational strategy for operating the dam.
Systematic review of the effects of birth spacing after cesarean delivery on maternal and perinatal outcomes
Authors: Ye Lei , Cao Wen , Yao Jing , Peng Ge , Zhou Rong
Published: June 2019

Background

Little is known about the association between birth spacing and subsequent pregnancy outcomes after cesarean delivery.

Objectives

To summarize the effects of birth spacing after previous caesarean on maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Search strategy

Four online databases were searched via a multistage search strategy.

Selection criteria

Studies assessing the effects of birth spacing on any adverse pregnancy outcome after cesarean were included.

Data collection and analysis

A narrative synthesis was completed.

Main results

Fifteen studies were included. Eight reported that interpregnancy interval (IPI) shorter than 6 months or birth interval (BI) shorter than 16–18 months increased the risk of uterine rupture during trial of labor after previous cesarean. Most studies found no association of birth spacing with vaginal delivery success following spontaneous labor, but the association with vaginal delivery after induced labor was less certain. BI shorter than 12 months was associated with increased risk of placenta previa and placental abruption. Few studies examined the effect of birth spacing after previous cesarean on perinatal outcomes.

Conclusions

IPI longer than 6–8 months or BI longer than 18 months was related to decreased risk of maternal morbidity and failed vaginal delivery after previous cesarean.
Differential protein expression profiling by iTRAQ‐2D‐LC‐MS/MS of rats treated with oxaliplatin
Authors: Sun Xianjun , Lv Yubao , Wang Junjun , Cheng HuiQin , Huang Jianhua , Du Yijie , Dong Jingcheng
Published: June 2019

Clinical application of oxaliplatin, a platinum‐based chemotherapeutic agent, in cancer, especially colorectal cancer, is widely used. However, oxaliplatin‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (OIPN) has a high incidence, and to date, there have been few detailed studies on pathogenesis and treatment mechanisms. The present study was performed by using a proteomic approach to explore protein expression profiling of rats treated with oxaliplatin by multiplex isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification labeling and two‐dimensional liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. There were 74 proteins that showed different expression in sciatic nerve between control rats and OIPN model rats, with 53 upregulated proteins and 21 downregulated proteins detected in OIPN groups compared with control groups. On the basis of Gene Ontology clustering, these proteins were associated with biological processes (eg, muscle contraction, muscle system process, and skeletal muscle contraction), cellular component (eg, myofibril, contractile fiber, and contractile fiber part) and molecular function (structural constituent of muscle, hydro‐lyase activity, and calcium ion binding). On the basis of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway database, these proteins were associated with African trypanosomiasis, malaria, nitrogen metabolism, etc. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot as well as immunohistochemistry analysis was performed to examine the expression of partially differential protein. In conclusion, our study establishes a protein expression profile of oxaliplatin‐induced rats and mechanisms leading to OIPN development, and will be useful for developing novel diagnostic biomarkers and aiding in the prevention and control of OIPN.
Could microRNA be used as a diagnostic tool for lung cancer?
Authors: Wang Yang , Guan Jian , Wang Yaolin
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Current methods for diagnosing lung cancer (LC) have varying degrees of risks and complications. MicroRNA (miRNA) is a small molecule noncoding RNA with gene regulation functions. Many studies have shown that miRNA can be used for the diagnosis of LC, but there are differences in diagnostic accuracy. Therefore, we aim to systematically review and meta‐analyze published articles to comprehensively evaluate the diagnostic value of miRNA for LC.

Materials and methods

We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases, and calculated the area under the curve (AUC) by plotting the summary receiver operator characteristic curve using the sensitivity and specificity of each included study. The AUC was calculated and the likelihood ratio was plotted to assess the diagnostic accuracy of miRNA. We used QUADAS‐2 in Review Manager 5.3 to evaluate the quality of all the articles. The other analyses were performed using the STATA 12.0 software.

Results

We included a total of 29 articles, 98 studies, and the qualities of all the articles were satisfactory. The overall pooled parameters calculated from all studies were as follows: sensitivity = 0.77, specificity = 0.83, positive likelihood ratio (PLR) = 4.6, negative likelihood ratio (NLR) = 0.28, and AUC = 0.87 for miRNA diagnosis. It had significant advantages over other biomarkers. Subgroup analysis showed that when combined four or more miRNA for the diagnosis of LC, the parameters were as follows: sensitivity = 0.90, specificity = 0.93, PLR = 13.2, NLR = 0.11, and AUC = 0.97.

Conclusion

Four or more miRNA combination could be used for the diagnosis of LC. Besides this, we also found that miRNA showed a greater advantage in distinguishing LC from benign lung diseases than distinguishing between LC and normal people. Our findings provided a new way of thinking about the clinical diagnosis of LC from a nonmorphological aspect.
RKI‐1447 suppresses colorectal carcinoma cell growth via disrupting cellular bioenergetics and mitochondrial dynamics
Authors: Li Liyi , Chen Qin , Yu Yaojun , Chen Hui , Lu Mingdong , Huang Yingpeng , Li Pihong , Chang Hong
Published: June 2019

Accumulated evidence suggested the importance of the Rho/Rho‐kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway in cancer proliferation and invasion. However, its role in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is not well understood. This study evaluated the effect of ROCK signaling pathway on CRC behavior on the basis of a novel Rho/ROCK inhibitor RKI‐1447. Here, we found RKI‐1447 could drastically suppress HCT‐8 and HCT‐116 cell growth and promoted apoptosis. Our in vitro data indicated suppressed cytoskeletal dynamics induced by RKI‐1447 inhibition on mitochondrial respiration, which was evidenced by basal and maximal respiration rates, and ATP production. Simultaneously, cellular basal and maximal glycolytic rates, and glycolytic capacity were also reduced in response to RKI‐1447. Moreover, RKI‐1447 caused excessive reactive oxygen species generation and membrane depolarization as well as activated ER‐stress. We also demonstrated CHOP is essential for RKI‐1447 induced cell apoptosis. Finally, we proved inhibition of ROCK by RKI‐1447 could effectively inhibit CRC growth in vivo. Taken together, this study demonstrated that inhibition of ROCK signaling pathway by RKI‐1447 could suppress CRC via cytoskeleton associated mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular bioenergetics disruption. Our data suggest RKI‐1447 may be an attractive antitumor drug candidate for the treatment of CRC.
The whole transcriptional profiling of cellular metabolism during adipogenesis from hMSCs
Authors: Yi Xia , Liu Jianyun , Wu Ping , Gong Ying , Xu Xiaoyuan , Li Weidong
Published: June 2019

Metabolism homeostasis plays an important role in progenitor‐cell differentiation to adipocytes, but less is known about the whole transcriptional profiling of cellular metabolism during adipogenesis. We got the first insight into the whole transcriptional profiling of cellular metabolism during adipogenesis from human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) by the RNA‐Seq technique. There were 1,998, 2,629, 3,112, and 3,054 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at Days 7, 14, 21, and 28, respectively, during adipogenesis. The most enriched phosphatidylinositol 3′ kinase–serine/threonine kinase (PI3K‐Akt) signaling pathway stimulated and directly regulated cellular metabolism by priming glucose aerobic glycolysis, arginine and proline metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism during adipogenesis, targeting the potential key genes, such as fatty acid synthase (FABP4), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (PKC1), stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD), and solute carrier family 2 member 1 of Gluts (SLC2A1). And it confirmed PCK1 as the key player for cellular metabolism by small interfering RNA. A comprehensive understanding of cellular metabolism and its regulatory axis of the signaling pathway during adipogenesis would reveal new study and therapy targets for fat metabolism disorders.
Toll‐like receptor 4 contributes to uterine activation by upregulating pro‐inflammatory cytokine and CAP expression via the NF‐κB/P38MAPK signaling pathway during pregnancy
Authors: Chen Zixi , Liu Qiaoli , Zhu Zhaowei , Xiang Fenfen , Wu Rong , Kang Xiangdong
Published: June 2019

Evidence indicates that inflammatory response is significant during the physiological process of human parturition; however, the specific signaling pathway that triggers inflammation is undefined. Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are key upstream gatekeepers that control inflammatory activation before preterm delivery. Our previous study showed that TLR4 expression was significantly increased in human pregnancy tissue during preterm and term labor. Therefore, we explore whether TLR4 plays a role in term labor by initiating inflammatory responses, therefore promoting uterine activation. The results showed that expression of TLR4, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL‐2), and uterine contraction‐associated proteins (CAPs) was upregulated in the human and mice term labor (TL) group compared with the not‐in‐labor (TNL) group, and the TLR4 level positively correlated with CAP expression. In pregnant TLR4‐knockout (TLR4−/−) mice, gestation length was extended by 8 hr compared with the wild‐type group, and the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, CCL‐2, and CAPs was decreased in TLR4−/− mice. Furthermore, nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and P38MAPK activation is involved in the initiation of labor but was inhibited in TLR4−/− mice. In uterine smooth muscle cells, the expression of inflammatory cytokines and CAPs decreased when the NF‐κB and P38MAPK pathway was inhibited. Our data suggest that TLR4 is a key factor in regulating the inflammatory response that drives uterine activation and delivery initiation via activating the NF‐κB/P38MAPK pathway.
Histone demethylase KDM7A is required for stem cell maintenance and apoptosis inhibition in breast cancer
Authors: Meng Zhenzhen , Liu Ying , Wang Jie , Fan Hongjia , Fang Huan , Li Sha , Yuan Lin , Liu Cuicui , Peng You , Zhao Weiwei , Wang Lulu , Li Jing , Feng Jing
Published: June 2019

Histone demethylase KDM7A regulates neuronal differentiation and development in mammals. In this study, we found that KDM7A was also required for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) maintenance. Silencing KDM7A significantly reduced the BCSCs population and mamosphere formation in vitro, and inhibited breast tumor growth in vivo. Restoring KDM7A expression rescued the defect in stem cell maintenance. Our mechanism analysis suggested that KDM7A upregulated the stemness‐associated factors KLF4 and c‐MYC for BCSCs maintenance. In addition, KDM7A knockdown promoted apoptosis through decreasing BCL2 expression and BAD phosphorylation in breast cancer (BrCa). Furthermore, restoring KDM7A and BCL2 expression rescued apoptosis inhibition in breast cancer, suggesting that KDM7A inhibited apoptosis by upregulating the BCL2 level in breast cancer. In conclusion, KDM7A promotes cancer stem cell maintenance and apoptosis inhibition in breast cancer.
Impact of nanoscale zerovalent iron on volatile fatty acid production from food waste: key enzymes and microbial community
Authors: Jin Yong , Gao Ming , Li Hongai , Lin Yujia , Wang Qunhui , Tu Maobing , Ma Hongzhi
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The proper dosage of nanoscale zerovalent iron (NZVI) for volatile fatty acid (VFA) production was optimized and different kinds of organic acids and key enzymes during the process were analyzed to test the effect of NZVI on VFA fermentation from food waste.

RESULTS

Batch assays showed that proper NZVI dosage can promote VFA production, reaching the maximum accumulation of 22 250 mg COD L−1 at 10 g L−1 dosage, which is 1.92 times higher than that of the control group. Acetic acid accounted for the highest proportion (72%) of VFAs, and lactic acid was the main by‐product of organic acids. The addition of NZVI provided a reducing power for the lactic acid fermentation in the system, which promoted the conversion of pyruvic acid to lactic acid. Moreover, the addition of NZVI not only greatly promoted the activity of ferredoxin oxidoreductase (0.35 IU g−1) and acetyl‐CoA (1.47 IU g−1) but also caused changes in the microbial community structure in the fermentation system. After adding NZVI, besides Lactobacillus, Olsenella (12.69%) was another dominant bacterium which can rapidly convert the produced lactic acid into short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), thereby affecting acid production.

CONCLUSION

These key enzymes resulted in the accumulation of VFAs. The fermentative bacteria responsible for SCFA production were also highly enriched in fermentation reactors with NZVI, which was in accordance with the accumulation of SCFAs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Genetic alterations related to endoscopic treatment of colorectal tumors
Authors: Kuno Toru , Tsukui Yuya , Takano Shinichi , Maekawa Shinya , Yamaguchi Tatsuya , Yoshida Takashi , Kobayashi Shoji , Iwamoto Fumihiko , Ishida Yasuaki , Kawakami Satoshi , Tanaka Keisuke , Fukasawa Yoshimitsu , Muraoka Masaru , Fukasawa Mitsuharu , Shindo Hiroko , Inoue Taisuke , Nakayama Yasuhiro , Mochizuki Kunio , Sato Tadashi , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: June 2019

Background and Aim

Genetic indicators of endoscopic resection for colorectal carcinoma remain inconclusive. This study analyzed genetic changes in early colorectal tumors that could inform decisions for endoscopic procedures.

Methods

A total of 83 colorectal tumors from 81 patients, including adenoma (n = 7), Tis–T1a (n = 22), T1b (n = 14), and advanced carcinoma (n = 40), were analyzed. Tis tumors (n = 16) and some T1 carcinomas (n = 11) were analyzed as mixed adenomas and carcinomas. Lesions were laser‐capture microdissected for DNA extraction, and targeted sequencing of 50 cancer‐related genes was performed. Genetic data were then correlated with clinical records, including magnifying endoscopic findings.

Results

Numbers of gene alteration rates in TP53 and SMAD4 increased with tumor progression from adenoma to carcinoma. Frequencies of mutant variants in TP53 (P = 0.004) and rates of copy number loss in SMAD4 (P = 0.006) increased in carcinoma components of mixed tumors compared to adenoma components. Moreover, adenoma components of T1b carcinomas had higher TP53 mutation rates than Tis or T1a carcinomas (P = 0.011) and pure adenomas (P = 0.026). Gene alterations in TP53 (P = 0.0055) and SMAD4 (P = 0.0055) increased in cases with irregular surface patterns of magnifying endoscopic findings.

Conclusions

Numbers of copy number variations and TP53 and SMAD4 alterations were related to colorectal tumor progression. TP53 alteration rates in adenoma components were high in T1b carcinomas, warranting complete treatment with en bloc resection. Magnifying endoscopic findings might reflect the genetic status of colorectal tumors.
Fecaloma presenting as huge abdominal mass
Authors: Khan Mushtaq A , Dar Hilal A , Shah Altaf H , Javid Gul , Singh Bhagat , Sheikh Nadeem A , Ashraf Aadil
Published: June 2019

Fecal impaction is common in elderly, bed ridden, schizoaffective patients on antipsychotics. Intestinal obstruction due to distal colonic fecaliths is rare as it is amenable to digital manual evacuation and enemas. Our patient presented with abdominal distention, with last bowel evacuation reported 3 months ago. Computed tomography (CT) abdomen demonstrated a huge sigmoid fecalith causing bilateral hydronephrosis. He was managed through laparotomy with sigmoid colon resection and end colostomy.
Secondary angiosarcoma: A fatal complication of chronic lymphedema
Authors: Farzaliyev Farhad , Hamacher Rainer , Steinau Professor Hans‐Ulrich , Bertram Stefanie , Podleska Lars Erik
Published: June 2019

Secondary Angiosarcoma (Stewart‐Treves Syndrome) is a rare malignant cutaneous lesion, which arises in chronic lymphedema of the extremity, often observed after breast cancer treatment. We reviewed the history and the oncological outcome of two patients with this disease. Multimodal therapy including hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion with TNF‐alpha and Melphalan, combined with radical resection of the affected skin and subcutaneous tissue including the fascia, with large safety margins may probably lead to better survival.
Systemic chemotherapy and survival in patients with metastatic low‐grade appendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lu Pamela , Fields Adam C. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Davids Jennifer S. , Shabat Galyna , Bleday Ronald , Goldberg Joel E. , Nash Garrett M. , Melnitchouk Nelya
Published: June 2019

Background

Appendiceal cancer is a rare malignancy that exhibits a wide range of histology and treatment response. Given the rarity and heterogeneous nature of the disease, it has been difficult to define optimal treatment strategies. Our goal is to examine the association between use of systemic chemotherapy and survival in patients with metastatic low‐grade mucinous appendiceal adenocarcinoma.

Methods

The National Cancer Database (2004‐2015) was queried, and patients with mucinous, grade 1, stage IV appendiceal adenocarcinoma were identified. The Kaplan‐Meier method was used to calculate survival, and a Cox regression model was used to identify predictors of survival.

Results

Six hundred and thirty‐nine patients were identified. Five‐year overall survival (OS) for patients undergoing no chemotherapy vs chemotherapy was 52.9% and 61.3%, respectively. After adjusting with Cox proportional hazards model, chemotherapy was not associated with OS (HR:1.1, 95% CI:0.82‐1.40, P = 0.61). Patients who underwent surgical resection (HR:0.40, 95% CI:0.28‐0.57, P < .001) or were female (HR:0.61, 95% CI:0.5‐0.8, P < .001) had improved survival in adjusted analysis.

Conclusions

There is no association between undergoing chemotherapy and OS in this cohort of patients with stage IV low‐grade mucinous appendiceal adenocarcinoma. Development of national treatment guidelines is urgently needed for more consistency in the management of patients with appendiceal cancers.
Value of Computer Software for Assisting Sonographers in the Diagnosis of Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System Grade 3 and 4 Thyroid Space‐Occupying Lesions
Authors: Lu Yuanyuan , Shi Xian Quan , Zhao Xiaohui , Song Danfei , Li Junlai
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To analyze the ability of thyroid ultrasound computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) detection software (AmCAD‐UT; AmCAD BioMed Corporation, Taipei, Taiwan) to assist sonographers in diagnosing Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System grade 3 and 4 space‐occupying lesions and to provide evidence for ultrasound doctors (UDs) to use the diagnostic recommendations of the AmCAD system to inform clinical decisions.

Methods

In group 1, a retrospective study was performed on 234 cases of thyroid lesions confirmed by surgical pathology. The sensitivities, specificities, and accuracies of the diagnoses determined by the same UD independent of the software (UD) and after consulting the CAD software (UD + CAD) and by the software alone (CAD) were compared. In group 2, a prospective study was performed on 220 individuals with thyroid space‐occupying lesions recommended by physicians from our hospital to undergo needle biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Ultrasound images were imported into AmCAD, and recommendations for needle biopsy or periodic follow‐up were obtained. According to the pathologic results of needle biopsy, consistency and coincidence rates of diagnostic recommendations for AmCAD were obtained.

Results

In group 1, CAD and UD + CAD diagnoses achieved significantly higher sensitivities and accuracies of diagnosis than did independent diagnosis by the UD (P < .05). In group 2, the software showed an overall intraclass correlation (κ = 0.786) and a diagnosis coincidence rate of 93.6% with needle biopsy results.

Conclusions

AmCAD‐UT Detection improved the ability of UDs to diagnose Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System grade 3 and 4 space‐occupying lesions. Diagnostic recommendations of AmCAD are relatively consistent with needle biopsy results and can reduce the rate of unnecessary diagnostic needle biopsies.
Protection of aluminum alloy AD31 from corrosion by adsorption layers of trialkoxysilanes and stearic acid
Authors: Semiletov Aleksei M. , Chirkunov Alexander A. , Kuznetsov Yurii I.
Published: June 2019

The effectiveness of protection of technical aluminum AD31 by its hydrophobization and superhydrophobization (SHP) with ethanol solutions of trialkoxysilanes and stearic acid was evaluated. The stability of SHP coatings in distilled water and chloride solution was studied. The thickness of the formed SHP layers is determined by the ellipsometric method. Polarization measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and corrosion tests have shown that SHP coatings have a protective ability in 3% NaCl and under the impact of salt spray.
Cellulose Nanocrystals as a Sustainable Raw Material: Cytotoxicity and Applications on Healthcare Technology
Authors: Pelegrini Bruna Luíza , Ré Fabrícia , de Oliveira Mariana Maciel , Fernandes Thiago , de Oliveira Jean Halison , Oliveira Junior Admilton Gonçalves , Girotto Emerson Marcelo , Nakamura C. V. , Sampaio Anderson Reginaldo , Valim Adriano , de Souza Lima Marli Miriam
Published: June 2019

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are an environmentally friendly natural material, consisting of rod‐like crystalline nanoparticles, called whiskers, or nanocrystalline cellulose. The derivation of different natural sources, aligned to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility, make them a class of fascinating materials with widespread industrial use. In addition, the cellulose species possess intriguing physicochemical and mechanical properties. This paper provides an overview of recent progress in the area of cellulosic nanocomposites, along with details of their structure and liquid crystalline behavior as nematic and cholesteric lyotropic materials. Guidance is subsequently provided for the physicochemical analysis of these materials, including X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, optical evaluation, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Additionally, the functional chemical and physical properties of CNCs are correlated to the resulting nanotoxicity in in vitro and in vivo assays. This review points to relevant concerns, such as sources for the synthesis of CNCs, the nanomaterial size, and the surface chemistry, that must be overcome in order to attain safe use of CNC‐based nanomaterials. The challenging perspectives on the ongoing research are presented in order to explore the technological and industrial perspectives on the use of CNC for the generation of cost‐effective advanced nanomaterials based on cellulosic fibers.
DNA methylome and transcriptome alterations and cancer prevention by triterpenoid ursolic acid in UVB‐induced skin tumor in mice
Authors: Yang Yuqing , Yin Ran , Wu Renyi , Ramirez Christina N. , Sargsyan Davit , Li Shanyi , Wang Lujing , Cheng David , Wang Chao , Hudlikar Rasika , Kuo Hsiao‐Chen , Lu Yaoping , Kong Ah‐Ng
Published: June 2019

Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are the most common type of skin cancers. Major risk factors for NMSCs include exposure to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural triterpenoid enriched in blueberries and herbal medicinal products, and possess anticancer activities. This study focuses on the impact of UA on epigenomic, genomic mechanisms and prevention of UVB‐mediated NMSC. CpG methylome and RNA transcriptome alterations of early, promotion and late stages of UA treated on UVB‐induced NMSC in SKH‐1 hairless mice were conducted using CpG methyl‐seq and RNA‐seq. Samples were collected at weeks 2, 15, and 25, and integrated bioinformatic analyses were performed to identify key pathways and genes modified by UA against UVB‐induced NMSC. Morphologically, UA significantly reduced NMSC tumor volume and tumor number. DNA methylome showed inflammatory pathways IL‐8, NF‐κB, and Nrf2 pathways were highly involved. Antioxidative stress master regulator Nrf2, cyclin D1, DNA damage, and anti‐inflammatory pathways were induced by UA. Nrf2, cyclin D1, TNFrsf1b, and Mybl1 at early (2 weeks) and late (25 weeks) stages were identified and validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In summary, integration of CpG methylome and RNA transcriptome studies show UA alters antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and anticancer pathways in UVB‐induced NMSC carcinogenesis. Particularly, UA appears to drive Nrf2 and its upstream/downstream genes, anti‐inflammatory (at early stages) and cell cycle regulatory (both early and late stages) genes, of which might contribute to the overall chemopreventive effects of UVB‐induced MNSC. This study may provide potential biomarkers/targets for chemoprevention of early stage of UVB‐induced NMSC in human.
A functional variant in the boundary of a topological association domain is associated with pancreatic cancer risk
Authors: Mei Shufang , Ke Juntao , Tian Jianbo , Ying Pingting , Yang Nan , Wang Xiaoyang , Zou Danyi , Peng Xiating , Yang Yang , Zhu Ying , Gong Yajie , Zhong Rong , Chang Jiang , Miao Xiaoping
Published: June 2019

As the proper binding of CCCTC‐binding factor (CTCF) in the boundaries of topological association domains (TADs) was important for chromatin structures and gene regulation, we hypothesized that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) affecting CTCF binding in TAD boundaries might contribute to pancreatic cancer (PC) susceptibility. We first genome widely screened out potential SNPs via bioinformatics analysis on Hi‐C data, ChIP‐seq data, and CTCF binding motif, then tested their associations with PC risk in a previous genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) data set (981 cases and 1,991 controls), followed by another independent replication set (1,208 cases and 1,465 controls). Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs), expression Quantitative Trait Loci (eQTL) analyses and cell proliferation experiments were performed to uncover the biological mechanisms. The positive SNP rs2001389 was found significantly associated with PC risk with odds ratio (OR) being 1.166 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.075‐1.264, P = 2.143E−04) in the combined study. The allele G of rs2001389 weakened the binding activity with CTCF, and it was related to the lower expression of a putative antioncogene MFSD13A whose knockdown promoted proliferation of PC cells. By integrating analysis on multiomics data, association studies and functional assays, we proposed that the common variant rs2001389 and the gene MFSD13A might be genetic modifiers of PC tumorigenesis.
Statistical post‐processing of ensemble forecasts of temperature in Santiago de Chile
Authors: Díaz Mailiu , Nicolis Orietta , Marín Julio César , Baran Sándor
Published: June 2019

Modelling forecast uncertainty is a difficult task in any forecasting problem. In weather forecasting a possible solution is the use of forecast ensembles, which are obtained from multiple runs of numerical weather prediction models with various initial conditions and model parametrizations to provide information about the expected uncertainty. Currently all major meteorological centres issue forecasts using their operational ensemble prediction systems. However, it is a general problem that the spread of the ensemble is too small compared to observations at specific sites resulting in under‐dispersive forecasts, leading to a lack of calibration. In order to correct this problem, various statistical calibration techniques have been developed in the last two decades. In the present work different post‐processing techniques were tested for calibrating nine member ensemble forecasts of temperature for Santiago de Chile, obtained by the Weather Research and Forecasting model using different planetary boundary layer and land surface model parametrizations. In particular, the ensemble model output statistics and Bayesian model averaging techniques were implemented and, since the observations are characterized by large altitude differences, the estimation of model parameters was adapted to the actual conditions at hand. Compared to the raw ensemble, all tested post‐processing approaches significantly improve the calibration of probabilistic forecasts and the accuracy of point forecasts. The ensemble model output statistics method using parameter estimation based on expert clustering of stations (according to their altitudes) shows the best forecast skill.
GPU‐accelerated bi‐objective treatment planning for prostate high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy
Authors: Bouter Anton , Alderliesten Tanja , Pieters Bradley R. , Bel Arjan , Niatsetski Yury , Bosman Peter A. N.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to improve upon a recently introduced bi‐objective treatment planning method for prostate high‐dose‐rate (HDR) brachytherapy (BT), both in terms of resulting plan quality and runtime requirements, to the extent that its execution time is clinically acceptable.

Methods

Bi‐objective treatment planning is done using a state‐of‐the‐art multiobjective evolutionary algorithm, which produces a large number of potential treatment plans with different trade‐offs between coverage of the target volumes and sparing organs at risk. A graphics processing unit (GPU) is used for large‐scale parallelization of dose calculations and the calculation of the dose‐volume (DV) indices of potential treatment plans. Moreover, the objectives of the previously used bi‐objective optimization model are modified to produce better results.

Results

We applied the GPU‐accelerated bi‐objective treatment planning method to a set of 18 patients, resulting in a set containing a few hundred potential treatment plans with different trade‐offs for each of these patients. Due to accelerations introduced in this article, results previously achieved after 1 hour are now achieved within 30 seconds of optimization. We found plans satisfying the clinical protocol for 15 of 18 patients, whereas this was the case for only 4 of 18 clinical plans. Higher quality treatment plans are obtained when the accuracy of DV index calculation is increased using more dose calculation points, requiring still no more than 3 minutes of optimization for 100 000 points.

Conclusions

Large sets of high‐quality treatment plans that trade‐off coverage and sparing are now achievable within 30 seconds, due to the GPU‐acceleration of a previously introduced bi‐objective treatment planning method for prostate HDR brachytherapy. Higher quality plans can be achieved when optimizing for 3 minutes, which we still consider to be clinically acceptable. This allows for more insightful treatment plan selection in a clinical setting.
Approximated analytical characterization of the steady‐state chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) signals
Authors: Jin Tao , Kim Seong‐Gi
Published: June 2019

Purpose

CEST MRI can indirectly detect low‐concentrated molecules via their proton exchange with the bulk water and is widely measured by a sensitivity index, the asymmetry of magnetization transfer ratio (MTRasym). Because CEST applications are often limited by their low sensitivity or specificity, it is important to characterize MTRasym analytically to optimize its sensitivity or specifity.

Methods

Approximated analytical solutions of the MTRasym spectrum were derived based on a 2‐pool chemical exchange model for slow‐to‐intermediate exchanges. The optimal saturation pulse power for maximizing the MTRasym or tuning MTRasym to a specific exchange rate and the peak position and linewidth of a MTRasym spectrum were also derived. These approximated analytical solutions were compared with the solutions from the Bloch‐McConnell equations using computer simulations.

Results

The approximated analytical solutions of the MTRasym spectra, the optimizing parameters, and the peak and linewidth of MTRasym matched well with the solutions of Bloch‐McConnell equations in the slow or slow‐to‐intermediate exchange regimes.

Conclusion

These approximate analytical solutions can provide insights to the understanding of CEST signal property and help the optimization of saturation parameters and the interpretation of CEST data.
Proposed Standard Weight (W
s) Equation and Standard Length Categories for Shoal Bass
Authors: Bonvechio Timothy F. , Bonvechio Kimberly I. , Sammons Steven M.
Published: June 2019

Standard weight (Ws) equations have been proposed for a variety of fishes, including many of the black basses Micropterus spp. We developed Ws equations for Shoal Bass M. cataractae by using the traditional regression-line-percentile (RLP) technique and the relatively new empirical-percentile (EmP) method. Length and weight data for 9,058 Shoal Bass from 15 populations were used in this analysis. These fish were collected from 1978 to 2017 by various agency and university personnel from most of the known populations across the species’ range in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The resulting Ws equations were log10W = 3.243·log10L − 5.490 for the RLP technique and log10W = 1.225·log10L + 0.415·(log10L)2 – 3.052 for the quadratic EmP technique, where W is weight (g) and L is TL (mm). Unlike the quadratic EmP equation, the RLP equation exhibited a slight length-related bias on each end of the length spectrum, so we recommend the EmP technique as the preferred equation for this species. To assess fish population size structure, we also propose minimum lengths for five standard TL categories of 18, 28, 35, 43, and 51 cm for stock, quality, preferred, memorable, and trophy sizes, respectively. Development of a Ws equation and standard TL categories will aid biologists in evaluating and monitoring Shoal Bass populations as part of continuing conservation efforts.
Stress and performance: Investigating relationship between occupational stress, career satisfaction, and job performance of police employees
Authors: Nisar Sehran Khan , Rasheed Muhammad Imran
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this research is to explore the impact of occupational stress on job performance of police employees. We theorized and tested the role of career satisfaction in the relationship between occupational stress and job performance as an underlying psychological mechanism. Primary data have been collected from 271 police employees working at AJ&K Pakistan. Results of this research study have shown that occupational stress is negatively related to career satisfaction, in‐role performance, and extra‐role performance of police employees. Moreover, career satisfaction mediates the relationships between occupational stress and in‐role and extra‐role performance of police employees. This research study has called researchers' and policy makers' attention towards an important issue of occupational stress in the police profession. The research will play an important role in compelling the top management, authorities, policy makers, and government officials of police to ponder over the issues of occupational stress aimed at enhancing the job performance including in‐role and extra‐role performance of police employees.
Synergistic improvement of fire retardancy and mechanical properties of ferrocene‐based polymer in intumescent polypropylene composite
Authors: Li Wen‐Xiong , Liao Dui‐Jun , Hu Xiao‐Ping , Cheng Zhou , Xie Chang‐Qiong
Published: June 2019

The ferrocene‐based polymer (PDPFDE) accompanied with traditional intumescent flame retardant (IFR) system (ammonium polyphosphate (APP)/pentaerythritol (PER) = 3/1, mass ratio) has been used as additive flame retardant in polypropylene (PP), aiming to lower the total loading amount. The thermal stability and fire retardant properties were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical combustion (UL‐94), and cone calorimetry (CONE). The fire retardant mechanism was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that the PP1 with 25 wt% IFR only passed the UL‐94 V‐1 rating, but the PP6 loaded by 0.5 wt% PDPFDE and 22.5 wt% IFR possessed an LOI value of 28.5% and passed the UL‐94 V‐0 rating; the peak heat release rate (pHRR) and total heat release (THR) are decreased by 63% and 43%, respectively, compared with pure PP. In addition, the char residue of PP6 manifested a very compact and smooth surface, indicating a more effective barrier layer. Meanwhile, it was interesting that the addition of PDPFDE evidently improved the impact strength and elongation at break of PP/IFR composites.
Clonal and drug resistance dynamics of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pediatric populations in China
Authors: Yang Xin , Liu Yingchao , Wang Lijuan , Qian Suyun , Yao Kaihu , Dong Fang , Song Wenqi , Xu Hong , Zhen Jinghui , Zhou Wei
Published: June 2019

Importance

Regional clonal replacements of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are common. It is necessary to understand the clonal and drug resistance changes in specific areas.

Objective

To evaluate the clonal and drug resistance dynamics of MRSA in Chinese children from 2010 to 2017.

Methods

MRSA was isolated from patients in Beijing Children's Hospital from 2010 to 2013 and from 2016 to 2017. The molecular characteristics and antibiotic resistance were determined.

Results

In total, 211 MRSA isolates were collected, and 104 isolates were classified as community‐associated MRSA (CA‐MRSA). ST59‐SCCmec IV was the most prevalent type in both CA‐MRSA (65.4%) and healthcare‐ associated‐MRSA (HA‐MRSA) (46.7%). ST239‐SCCmec III accounted for 21.5% of all HA‐MRSA, which were not detected in 2016, and only three isolates were detected in 2017. The pvl gene carrying rate of CA‐ MRSA was significantly higher than that of HA‐MRSA (42.3% vs. 29.0%, P = 0.0456). Among CA‐MRSA, resistance rate to all tested antibiotics excluding chloramphenicol remained stable over the periods of 2010–2013 and 2016–2017. HA‐MRSA displayed an overall trend of decreased resistance to oxacillin, gentamicin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and rifampin, and increased resistance to chloramphenicol, consistent with the difference of antibiotic resistance patterns between ST59‐SCCmec IV and ST239‐SCCmec III isolates. Vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) creep was found in the study period in all MRSA and ST59‐SCCmec IV isolates.

Interpretation

ST59‐SCCmec IV has spread to hospitals and replaced the traditional ST239‐SCCmec III clone, accompanied by changes in drug resistance. Furthermore, vancomycin MIC creep indicated that the rational use of antibiotics should be seriously considered.