bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between stromal cells and tumor spread through air spaces in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Qiu Xie , Chen Donglai , Liu Yangyang , Duan Shanzhou , Zhang Fuquan , Zhang Yongsheng , Li Feng , Chen Chang , Chen Yongbing
Published: January 2019

Background

The mechanism underlying tumor spread through air spaces (STAS) has not been well studied. We investigated the role of tumor stromal cells in the pathogenesis of STAS from a pathological perspective and evaluated the prognostic significance of tumor stromal cells and STAS in postoperative patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 208 postsurgical patients with stage I–IIIA lung adenocarcinoma. The presence of STAS was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA)‐positive cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and CD204‐positive tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. A logistic regression model was applied to confirm the predictive factors of STAS. Survival analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of α‐SMA‐positive CAFs, CD204‐positive TAMs, and STAS on prognosis. A nomogram was generated to evaluate the prognosis of postoperative patients.

Results

Logistic regression suggested that the expression of α‐SMA‐positive CAFs (P < 0.001) and the number of CD204‐positive TAMs (P < 0.001) were related to the presence of STAS. The multivariate Cox proportional hazards model suggested that STAS (P = 0.004), α‐SMA‐positive CAFs (P < 0.001), and CD204‐positive TAMs (P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for prognosis. Harrell's c‐indexes for overall and recurrence‐free survival prediction based on nomograms were 0.84 (95% confidence interval 0.76–0.91) and 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.76–0.89), respectively.

Conclusions

The presence of STAS was associated with high expression of α‐SMA and CD204 in lung adenocarcinoma. Nomograms including STAS and stromal cells as variables are recommended as practical models to evaluate the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients.
Clinical significance and biological role of cancer‐derived Type I collagen in lung and esophageal cancers
Authors: Fang Shuo , Dai Yongdong , Mei Yan , Yang Mingming , Hu Liang , Yang Hong , Guan Xininyuan , Li Jiangchao
Published: January 2019

Background

Extracellular matrix (ECM) is remodeled during carcinogenesis. An abundant constituent of ECM is collagen. Type I collagen is secreted by fibroblasts, is important for tumor growth and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and may also be secreted by cancer cells. However, the role and function of cancer‐derived Type I collagen in the tumor microenvironment remains unclear.

Methods

We used immunohistochemistry and Western blot to detect Type I collagen expression in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cell lines, respectively. We assessed the migration and adhesion capability of these cells in vivo by inhibiting Type I collagen in tumors. Relevant data were extracted from a large cohort study of The Cancer Genome Atlas to analyze messenger RNA levels. Protein expression of Type I collagen was further determined in tumor tissues of patients using tissue microarray.

Results

Cancer cell lines secreted Type I collagen. The molecular weight of cancer‐derived Type I collagen was different from that secreted by cancer‐associated fibroblasts and normal fibroblasts. Expression levels of COL1A1 and COL1A2 (subtypes of Type I collagen) messenger RNA in NSCLC and ESCC tumors were higher than in normal tissues, but were not associated with tumor node metastasis stages. Low expression of Type I collagen was significantly associated with poor overall survival and cancer cell differentiation.

Conclusion

NSCLC and ESCC cells could produce Type I collagen endogenously, revealing the potential functions of Type I collagen in cancer development. Cancer‐derived Type I collagen was associated with overall survival and cancer cell differentiation.
New models of lipopolysaccharide‐induced implantation loss reveal insights into the inflammatory response
Authors: Moustafa Sarah , Joseph Dana N. , Taylor Robert N. , Whirledge Shannon
Published: January 2019

Problem

Chronic endometritis, inflammation of the uterizzvvne lining caused by common gram‐negative bacterial strains or mycoplasma, has been associated with unexplained implantation failure and infertility. However, limited models of bacteria‐induced implantation loss exist to study the molecular changes that occur in vivo. The goal of this study was to provide a new resource to study the process of bacteria‐induced inflammation and implantation loss utilizing common experimental models: C57Bl/6 mice and primary human endometrial stromal cells.

Method of study

Prior to implantation, mated C57Bl/6 females were administered vehicle (saline) or gram‐negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a range of concentrations by intraperitoneal injection. Implantation sites were counted, and uteri were harvested to evaluate the molecular changes that accompany LPS‐mediated implantation loss. Primary human endometrial stromal cells were decidualized in vitro in the presence and absence of LPS. Total RNA and conditioned media were harvested to evaluate the expression of known decidualization‐associated genes and various cytokines and chemokines.

Results

Lipopolysaccharide treatment resulted in fewer implantation sites in mice, decreased expression of decidualization‐associated genes, and altered expression and release of cytokines and chemokines. Immunohistological analysis of the uterus from LPS‐exposed mice demonstrated increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation during decidualization.

Conclusion

Lipopolysaccharide exposure disrupted implantation and decidualization in mice and human endometrial stromal cells. This model could be used to study the pathophysiology of implantation failure in patients with chronic endometritis or to test potential therapeutic interventions.
Multi‐modal prehabilitation: addressing the why, when, what, how, who and where next?
Authors: Scheede‐Bergdahl C. , Minnella E. M. , Carli F.
Published: January 2019

Just as there is growing interest in enhancing recovery after surgery, prehabilitation is becoming a recognised means of preparing the patient physically for their operation and/or subsequent treatment. Exercise training is an important stimulus for improving low cardiovascular fitness and preserving lean muscle mass, which are critical factors in how well the patient recovers from surgery. Despite the usual focus on exercise, it is important to recognise the contribution of nutritional optimisation and psychological wellbeing for both the adherence and the response to the physical training stimulus. This article reviews the importance of a multi‐modal approach to prehabilitation in order to maximise its impact in the pre‐surgical period, as well as critical future steps in its development and integration in the healthcare system.
Pre‐operative nutrition and the elective surgical patient: why, how and what?
Authors: Gillis C. , Wischmeyer P. E.
Published: January 2019

Pre‐operative nutrition therapy is increasingly recognised as an essential component of surgical care. The present review has been formatted using Simon Sinek's Golden Circle approach to explain ‘why’ avoiding pre‐operative malnutrition and supporting protein anabolism are important goals for the elective surgical patient, ‘how’ peri‐operative malnutrition develops leading in part to a requirement for pre‐operative anabolic preparation, and ‘what’ can be done to avoid pre‐operative malnutrition and support anabolism for optimal recovery.
Psychological factors, prehabilitation and surgical outcomes: evidence and future directions
Authors: Levett D. Z. H. , Grimmett C.
Published: January 2019

The pre‐operative optimisation of comorbidities is increasingly recognised as an important element of the pre‐operative pathway. These efforts have primarily focused on physical comorbidities such as anaemia and the optimisation of exercise and nutrition. However, there is a growing recognition of the importance of psychological morbidity. Increasingly, evidence suggests that psychological factors have an impact on surgical outcomes in both the short and long term. Pre‐operative anxiety, depression and low self‐efficacy are consistently associated with worse physiological surgical outcomes and postoperative quality of life. This has led to the emergence of psychological prehabilitation and the trimodal approach to prehabilitation, incorporating psychological intervention as well as exercise and nutritional optimisation. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to be sure that pre‐operative psychological interventions are of benefit, or which interventions are most effective, because their impact has been mixed. There is an urgent need for high quality, contemporaneous prospective trials with baseline psychological evaluation, well‐described interventions and agreement on the most appropriate psychological, quality of life and physiological outcomes measures.
Peri‐operative optimisation of elderly and frail patients: a narrative review
Authors: Chan S. P. , Ip K. Y. , Irwin M. G.
Published: January 2019

With increasing life expectancy and technological advancement, provision of anaesthesia for elderly patients has become a significant part of the overall case‐load. These patients are unique, not only because they are older with more propensity for comorbidity but a decline in physiological reserve and cognitive function invariably accompanies ageing; this can substantially impact peri‐operative outcome and quality of recovery. Furthermore, it is not only morbidity and mortality that matters; quality of life is also especially relevant in this vulnerable population. Comprehensive geriatric assessment is a patient‐centred and multidisciplinary approach to peri‐operative care. The assessment of frailty has a central role in the pre‐operative evaluation of the elderly. Other essential domains include optimisation of nutritional status, assessment of baseline cognitive function and proper approach to patient counselling and the decision‐making process. Anaesthetists should be proactive in multidisciplinary care to achieve better outcomes; they are integral to the process.
The weekend effect in status epilepticus: a national cohort study
Authors: Goulden R. , Whitehouse T. , Murphy N. , Hayton T. , Khan Z. , Shyamsundar M. , Gao‐Smith F. , Snelson C. , Bion J. , Veenith T.
Published: January 2019

Higher mortality following admission to hospital at the weekend has been reported for several conditions. It is unclear whether this variation is due to differences in patients or their care. Status epilepticus mandates hospital admission and usually critical care: its study might provide new insights into the nature of any weekend effect. We studied 20,922 adults admitted to UK critical care with status epilepticus from 2010 to 2015. We used multiple logistic regression to evaluate the association between weekend admission and in‐hospital mortality, comparing university hospitals with other hospitals. There were 2462 in‐hospital deaths (12%). There was no difference in mortality after weekend admission to university hospitals, adjusted odds ratio (95%CI) 0.99 (0.84–1.16), p = 0.89. Mortality was less after weekend admission than after admissions Monday to Friday in hospitals not associated with a university, adjusted odds ratio (95%CI) 0.74 (0.64–0.87), p = 0.0001. There is no evidence that adults admitted to UK critical care at the weekend in status epilepticus are more likely to die than similar patients admitted during the week.
Fannie Lou Hamer's Freedom Farms and Black Agrarian Geographies
Authors: McCutcheon Priscilla
Published: January 2019

This paper examines Fannie Lou Hamer's Freedom Farms, a 1969 farming cooperative in Sunflower County, Mississippi. Specifically, this paper interrogates how Hamer's identity as a Black southern woman influences her formulation and daily activities at Freedom Farms. Theoretically, this paper situates Hamer as an expert agrarian labourer and knowledge producer who exists within a history of Black women who have always been utilised for their agrarian knowledge, but given little credit. Hamer's knowledge is a part of her body. This paper argues that Freedom Farms is a Black radical geography operating at three scales: the body, the farm and the southern agrarian landscape. This paper utilises Hamer's speeches, interviews and other archival documents to understand Hamer's efforts. Hamer's agrarian landscape is wrought with pain, but also the insistence in the economic opportunity that exists for Black people in agrarian spaces.
Endoscopy‐assisted laparoscopic submucosal dissection for a duodenal epithelial tumor
Authors: Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Takiguchi Shuji , Kurokawa Yukinori , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Fukuda Yasunari , Yamasaki Makoto , Makino Tomoki , Tanaka Koji , Motoori Masaaki , Kimura Yutaka , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro
Published: January 2019

We present the case of a 46‐year‐old obese woman with a 3.5‐cm adenoma in the descending part of the duodenum who was treated with a totally laparoscopic approach. The preoperative examination revealed a pedunculated superficial tumor on the side of pancreas from the inferior duodenal angulus to 5 cm proximal to the papilla that was associated with massive blood flow. We chose not to perform endoscopic submucosal dissection, pancreaticoduodenectomy, or transduodenal tumor excision with laparotomy for this obese patient because of the poor exposure, risk of bleeding, and substantial invasiveness. We performed endoscopy‐assisted laparoscopic submucosal dissection as a novel laparoscopic‐endoscopic cooperative surgical approach in this patient. This surgery was surgically and oncologically safe.
Impact of Botryosphaeria, Diplodia and Neofusicoccum species on two Eucalyptus species and a hybrid: From pathogenicity to physiological performance
Authors: Barradas Carla , Pinto Glória , Correia Barbara , Jesus Cláudia , Alves Artur
Published: January 2019

Species of Botryosphaeriaceae are associated with canker and dieback of Eucalyptus spp. worldwide, but little is known about their effect on the host physiology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of Botryosphaeriaceae isolates from nine species in three genera (Botryosphaeria, Diplodia and Neofusicoccum), previously isolated from eucalypts, on three different Eucalyptus hosts (seedlings of E. nitens, cuttings of E. globulusand of E. globulus× E. cypellocarpa). An approach combining standard pathogenicity trials with evaluation of plant morpho‐physiological parameters was used. The size of the lesions produced revealed differences in fungal aggressiveness and host susceptibility. Isolates of Neofusicoccum kwambonambienseand Diplodia corticolawere the most aggressive, while Botryosphaeria dothidea and Diplodia seriataisolates were the least aggressive. In general, hybrid E. globulus× E. cypellocarpa plants developed smaller lesions, followed by E. nitens and E. globulus. Eucalyptus nitensplants showed minimal modifications on the morpho‐physiological profile when infected, although more severe symptoms and mortality were observed. This is probably due to a more variable genetic background of the plants. However, in general, no direct association between putative fungal aggressiveness and plant physiological disorders could be found. Results suggested that under optimal growth conditions plants manage to cope with pathogen attack and maintain their physiological performance.
Impacts of changing spatial scales on CPUE–factor relationships of Ommastrephes bartramii in the northwest Pacific
Authors: Feng Yongjiu , Cui Li , Chen Xinjun , Chen Lijuan , Yang Qianqian
Published: January 2019

The selection of spatial scales is of particular importance in modeling relationships between fishery abundance and its influencing factors, because these relationships are significantly affected by spatial scale. Here, we explore the spatial scale effects of catch per unit effort (CPUE)–factor relationships for Ommastrephes bartramii in the northwest Pacific. The original commercial fishery data and oceanographic factors were tessellated to 12 spatial scales from 5′ to 60′ with an interval of 5′. Under the original scale and 12 tessellated scales, we constructed the generalized additive models (GAMs) to model the relationships between the O. bartramii CPUE and the influencing factors, including Year, Month, Latitude (Lat), Longitude (Lon), sea surface salinity (SSS), sea surface temperature (SST), sea surface chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a) concentration, and sea surface height (SSH). Our multi‐scale analysis showed that the relationships are sensitive to spatial scales. Among the factors, Year, Month, and SSS share quadratic polynomial scaling relations; Lat, SST, and Chl‐a illustrate power law scaling relations; Lon has a linear scaling relation; and SSH presents an exponential scaling relation. Considering the scale sensitivity of the factor sort‐order and the accumulation of explained residual deviance in GAM, we suggest 30′–45′ as the optimal range of spatial scales for analyzing the CPUE–factor relationships for O. bartramii. Our research improves understanding of the impacts of changing scales in fisheries and provides a potential method for the selection of a suitable spatial scale for fisheries analysis and resource surveying.
Codesigning health and other public services with vulnerable and disadvantaged populations: Insights from an international collaboration
Authors: Mulvale Gillian , Moll Sandra , Miatello Ashleigh , Robert Glenn , Larkin Michael , Palmer Victoria J. , Powell Alicia , Gable Chelsea , Girling Melissa
Published: January 2019

Background

Codesign has the potential to transform health and other public services. To avoid unintentionally reinforcing existing inequities, better understanding is needed of how to facilitate involvement of vulnerable populations in acceptable, ethical and effective codesign.

Objective

To explore citizens’ involvement in codesigning public services for vulnerable groups, identify challenges and suggest improvements.

Design

A modified case study approach. Pattern matching was used to compare reported challenges with a priori theoretical propositions.

Setting and participants

A two‐day international symposium involved 28 practitioners, academics and service users from seven countries to reflect on challenges and to codesign improved processes for involving vulnerable populations.

Intervention studied

Eight case studies working with vulnerable and disadvantaged populations in three countries.

Results

We identified five shared challenges to meaningful, sustained participation of vulnerable populations: engagement; power differentials; health concerns; funding; and other economic/social circumstances. In response, a focus on relationships and flexibility is essential. We encourage codesign projects to enact a set of principles or heuristics rather than following pre‐specified steps. We identify a set of principles and tactics, relating to challenges outlined in our case studies, which may help in codesigning public services with vulnerable populations.

Discussion and conclusions

Codesign facilitators must consider how meaningful engagement will be achieved and how power differentials will be managed when working with services for vulnerable populations. The need for flexibility and responsiveness to service user needs may challenge expectations about timelines and outcomes. User‐centred evaluations of codesigned public services are needed.
Handling and reporting of pelvic lymphadenectomy specimens in prostate and bladder cancer: a web‐based survey by the European Network of Uropathology
Authors: Prendeville Susan , Berney Daniel M , Bubendorf Lukas , Compérat Eva , Egevad Lars , Hes Ondrej , Kristiansen Glen , Oxley Jon , van Leenders Geert J L H , Varma Murali , van der Kwast Theo
Published: January 2019

Aims

Pathological evaluation of lymphadenectomy specimens plays a pivotal role in accurate lymph node (LN) staging. Guidelines standardising the gross handling and reporting of pelvic LN dissection (PLND) in prostate (PCa) and bladder (BCa) cancer are currently lacking. This study aimed to establish current practice patterns of PLND evaluation among pathologists.

Methods and results

A web‐based survey was circulated to all members of the European Network of Uropathology (ENUP), comprising 29 questions focusing on the macroscopic handling, LN enumeration and reporting of PLND in PCa and BCa. Two hundred and eighty responses were received from pathologists throughout 23 countries. Only LNs palpable at grossing were submitted by 58%, while 39% routinely embedded the entire specimen. Average LN yield from PLND was ≥10 LNs in 56% and <10 LNs in 44%. Serial section(s) and immunohistochemistry were routinely performed on LN blocks by 42% and <1% of respondents, respectively. To designate a LN microscopically, 91% required a capsule/subcapsular sinus. In pN+ cases, 72% reported the size of the largest metastatic deposit and 94% reported extranodal extension. Isolated tumour cells were interpreted as pN1 by 77%. Deposits identified in fat without associated lymphoid tissue were reported as tumour deposits (pN0) by 36% and replaced LNs (pN+) by 27%. LNs identified in periprostatic fat were included in the PLND LN count by 69%.

Conclusion

This study highlights variations in practice with respect to the gross sampling and microscopic evaluation of PLND in urological malignancies. A consensus protocol may provide a framework for more consistent and standardised reporting of PLND specimens.
The expanding morphological and genetic spectrum of MYOD1‐mutant spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcomas: a clinicopathological and molecular comparison of mutated and non‐mutated cases
Authors: Tsai Jen‐Wei , ChangChien Yi‐Che , Lee Jen‐Chieh , Kao Yu‐Chien , Li Wan‐Shan , Liang Cher‐Wei , Liao I‐Chuang , Chang Yi‐Ming , Wang Jui‐Chu , Tsao Cheng‐Feng , Yu Shih‐Chen , Huang Hsuan‐Ying
Published: January 2019

Aims

Spindle cell/sclerosing rhabdomyosarcomas (SC/SRMS) feature spindled and/or rounded rhabdomyosarcomatous cells within variably hyalinised stroma. Only 30–67% of SC/SRMSs harbour neomorphic MYOD1 p.L122R mutations, indicating heterogeneity in this RMS type. We compared MYOD1‐mutant and non‐mutant cases to characterise the histological and genetic spectrum of mutated SC/SRMS.

Methods and results

Seventeen RMSs with spindled, sclerosing or hybrid histology were sequenced to identify MYOD1 and PIK3CA mutations and reappraised to assess histological features and myogenic immunophenotypes. Twelve SC/SRMSs harboured MYOD1 mutations, including homozygous p.L122R (n = 8), heterozygous p.L122R (n = 3) and heterozygous p.E118K (n = 1). MYOD1‐mutant tumours affected nine females and three males aged 8–64 years (median = 22.5), had a median size of 4.2 cm (range = 2–22) and involved the head and neck (n = 7), extremities (n = 4) and mediastinum (n = 1). Fascicular/spindle histology was predominant in four cases, including one with heterologous lipoblasts in focally myxoid stroma. Four sclerosing cases mainly comprised rounded cells, including one with multinucleated tumour cells. Four cases were histologically hybrid. The only PIK3CA (p.H1047R) mutation was detected in a predominantly spindled MYOD1‐p.L122R‐mutated case, but not in its laser‐microdissected lipoblast‐containing area. All MYOD1‐mutant cases exhibited diffuse MYOD1 expression but patchy myogenin reactivity. At final follow‐up (median = 13.5 months), recurrences (n = 4), metastases (n = 2) or both (n = 1) occurred in seven MYOD1‐mutant cases; one had died of disease. Five non‐mutated cases were reclassified as spindle embryonal (n = 3), dense embryonal (n = 1) and unclassifiable (n = 1) RMSs.

Conclusion

MYOD1‐mutant RMSs are uncommonly mutated with PIK3CA and behave aggressively with an expanded morphological and genetic spectrum, including lipoblastic differentiation, multinucleated cells and the alternative p.E118K mutation.
The efficacy and use of finasteride in women: a systematic review
Authors: Hu Allison C. , Chapman Lance W. , Mesinkovska Natasha A.
Published: January 2019

Background

Physicians are beginning to use finasteride as treatment for hair loss, hirsutism, and various other dermatologic conditions in women. However, the reported efficacy and use of finasteride in the female population varies widely. The purpose of this study is therefore to better define the efficacy and use of finasteride in women and identify research gaps that require further investigation.

Methods

A systematic review of the current literature describing finasteride use in women.

Results

A total of 2,683 patients participated in 65 studies involving finasteride use in women published between January 1997 and July 2017. Most randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated finasteride use in women with hirsutism (48.7%) or female pattern hair loss (34.7%). RCTs recommend finasteride treatment for women with hirsutism or polycystic ovarian syndrome. Meanwhile, other forms of hair loss were studied such as alopecia, lichen planopilaris, and frontal fibrosing alopecia, but no RCTs evaluating finasteride therapy were identified. Other prospective and retrospective studies report that finasteride may improve hair loss in women with female pattern hair loss or frontal fibrosing alopecia. Overall, doses of oral finasteride ranged from 0.5 to 5 mg/day, in females aged 6–88, over a duration of 6–12 months (57.6%), as monotherapy (88.9%), and for continuous use (96.4%).

Conclusion

The studies reviewed highlight the finasteride dosage, length of treatment, and candidate conditions that can benefit from finasteride therapy. Future long‐term studies are necessary to fully assess the therapeutic mechanisms and potential consequences of finasteride use and to optimize treatment protocols.
Preoperative and postoperative psychologically informed physical therapy: A systematic review of randomized trials among patients with degenerative spine, hip, and knee conditions
Authors: Coronado Rogelio A. , Patel Akshita M. , McKernan Lindsey C. , Wegener Stephen T. , Archer Kristin R.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To summarize evidence on preoperative and postoperative psychologically informed physical therapy (PIPT) for improving outcomes after degenerative spine, hip, or knee surgery.

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched. Randomized trials were included if they examined the efficacy of a preoperative or postoperative intervention involving the delivery of psychologically based strategies by a physical therapist for improving function/disability, pain, quality of life, or psychological factors. Outcomes at 12 months or longer were considered long‐term.

Results

Twelve articles representing 10 unique studies (total N = 1,127 patients, 636 (56.4%) females) in lumbar (n = 7) or cervical spine surgery (n = 1), total knee arthroplasty (n = 1), and total knee/hip arthroplasty (n = 1) were included. The most common PIPT components were coping skills training, psychoeducation, and positive reinforcement. Greater improvements following PIPT were reported in 5 (56%) studies for function/disability, 6 (60%) for pain, 5 (71%) for quality of life, and 7 (70%) for psychological factors. Of these, greater long‐term benefit was reported in three studies for function/disability, two for pain or quality of life, and four for psychological factors.

Conclusion

When examining postoperative effects, there is no clear superiority of PIPT after surgery. However, the data illustrate potential for further development of PIPT in the context of surgery.
MiR‐103 inhibiting cardiac hypertrophy through inactivation of myocardial cell autophagy via targeting TRPV3 channel in rat hearts
Authors: Qi Hanping , Ren Jing , E Mingyao , Zhang Qianhui , Cao Yonggang , Ba Lina , Song Chao , Shi Pilong , Fu Bowen , Sun Hongli
Published: January 2019

Cardiac hypertrophy is a common pathological change frequently accompanied by chronic hypertension and myocardial infarction. Nevertheless, the pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiac hypertrophy have never been elucidated. Recent studies indicated that miR‐103 expression was significantly decreased in heart failure patients. However, less is known about the role of miR‐103 in cardiac hypertrophy. The present study was designed to investigate the relationship between miR‐103 and the mechanism of pressure overload‐induced cardiac hypertrophy. TRPV3 protein, cardiac hypertrophy marker proteins (BNP and β‐MHC) and autophagy associated proteins (Beclin‐1 and LC3‐II) were up‐regulated, as well as, miR‐103 expression and autophagy associated proteins (p62) were down‐regulated in cardiac hypertrophy models in vivo and in vitro respectively. Further results indicated that silencing TRPV3 or forcing overexpression of miR‐103 could dramatically inhibit cell surface area, relative fluorescence intensity of Ca2+ signal and the expressions of BNP, β‐MHC, Beclin‐1 and LC3‐II, but promote p62 expression. Moreover, TRPV3 protein was decreased in neonatal rat ventricular myocyte transfected with miR‐103, but increased by AMO‐103. Co‐transfection of the miR‐103 with the luciferase reporter vector into HEK293 cells caused a sharp decrease in luciferase activity compared with transfection of the luciferase vector alone. The miR‐103‐induced depression of luciferase activity was rescued by an AMO‐103. These findings suggested that TRPV3 was a direct target of miR‐103. In conclusion, miR‐103 could attenuate cardiomyocyte hypertrophy partly by reducing cardiac autophagy activity through the targeted inhibition of TRPV3 signalling in the pressure‐overloaded rat hearts.
The DNA barcoding of Mediterranean combtooth blennies suggests the paraphyly of some taxa (Perciformes, Blenniidae)
Authors: Vecchioni Luca , Marrone Federico , Belaiba Eya , Tiralongo Francesco , Bahri‐Sfar Lilia , Arculeo Marco
Published: January 2019

A dataset including novel and publicly available mtDNA COI sequences of 14 Mediterranean combtooth blenny species belonging to nine genera was assembled in order to provide a reference dataset for DNA barcoding studies. Some inconsistencies in the current taxonomy of some genera were observed. In particular, the monophyly of the genera Parablennius and Salaria is not supported by the present dataset and the absence of reciprocal monophyly between the morphospecies Salaria basilisca and S. pavo questions their status and stresses the need of a revision of the genus Salaria.
Gel strength estimation and optimizing textural behavior of mixed gelatin–carboxymethylcellulose hydrogel
Authors: Tezel Guler Bengusu , Uzuner Sibel , Evrendilek Gulsun A.
Published: January 2019

Rheological and textural behavior of mixed hydrolgels gelatin‐carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) were examined to evaluate the influence of hydrogel concentration (0.5, 0.75, and 1.0%), hydrogel mixed ratio (1:2, 1:1, and 2:1), temperature (4, 12, and 20 °C) and pH (3, 5, and 7.0) on gel strength. Depending on the experimental design, chemical weak and physical mixed gelatin‐CMC hydrogels were obtained according to small amplitude oscillation (SAOS) test. The most effective factor was found as pH followed by hydrogel mixed ratio and hydrogel concentration for gel strength according to design model. The optimum textural conditions for mixed hydrogels were also determined to be 1.0% of hydrogel concentration, 2:1 of hydrogel mixed ratio, 4 °C of temperature, and pH of 7.0 with texture of 1.30 N. It is concluded that gel strength is more sensitive to temperature from rheological measurement than from getting textural measurements.

Practical applications

Hydrogel is a good film form to resist water vapor and air diffusion in coating for fruit and vegetables. Combination of different hydrogels is increased rheological properties such as gel strength due to the synergistic interactions. Thus, gel strength estimation is a critical issue to be explored in food industry especially in food coatings for the improvement of texture, stability, and shelf life extension of food products. As a consequence, there is need to evaluate stability of gel strength under different gel production and processing conditions.
Hyaluronic acid fillers for correcting midface volume deficit in Barraquer‐Simons syndrome
Authors: Afra T. P. , Vinay Keshavamurthy , Razmi T Muhammed , Narang Tarun , Dogra Sunil
Published: January 2019

Background

Barraquer‐Simons syndrome (BSS) or acquired partial lipodystrophy is a disorder of loss of subcutaneous fat from the upper part of the body. The resulting cosmetic disfigurement causes significant psychological distress in the affected individuals. Fillers, autologous fat transplant or cosmetic surgeries can be used to correct the volume deficit.

Methods

The authors report a case of a young woman, who presented with gradual loss of subcutaneous fat from the face, upper limbs, and trunk. On evaluation, she had low complement C3 levels, but there were no features to suggest any metabolic complication. She was diagnosed with BSS. Her volume deficit in the midface area was managed with hyaluronic acid (HA) filler.

Results

The treatment has resulted in the correction of her facial volume loss immediately following the procedure with a maintained effect at follow‐up visits. She experienced no major adverse events.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid filler is safe and effective for the management of volume loss in BSS. It gives a long lasting result and an added self‐confidence to the patient.
The relationship of “shisha” (water pipe) smoking to the risk of head and neck cancer
Authors: Patil Shankargouda , Awan Kamran Habib , Arakeri Gururaj , Aljabab Abdulsalam , Ferrari Marco , Gomes Carolina C. , Gomez Ricardo S. , Brennan Peter A.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

There has been a recent rise in popularity of waterpipe smoking (WPS) among younger people. While it is a tobacco‐related product, research on the possible deleterious effects on health and its relationship with cancer is sparse. In this paper, we evaluated the existing literature and association of WPS with head and neck cancer.

Materials and methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and grey literature from January 1990 up to and including March 2017 were searched. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection according to eligibility criteria.

Results

A total of seven studies that met the eligibility criteria were included. In four studies that evaluated the associated risk of oesophageal cancer, the odds ratio (OR) ranged from 1.69 (95% CI = 0.76‐3.77) to 21.4 (95% CI = 11.6‐39.5). The OR for the association of WPS with nasopharyngeal cancer and oral cancer was reported to be 0.49 (95% CI = 0.20‐1.43) and 4.20 (95% CI = 1.32‐13.3), respectively. One study that evaluated risk in different head and neck cancers reported 2‐fold OR (2.73 [95% CI = 1.65‐4.41]).

Conclusion

On the basis of our evaluation, there is an association of WPS with head and neck cancer. However, larger studies with standardized methods are needed to identify the possible detrimental health effects of WPS more fully.
Good long‐term adherence to continuous positive airway pressure therapy in patients with resistant hypertension and sleep apnea
Authors: Campos‐Rodriguez Francisco , Navarro‐Soriano Cristina , Reyes‐Nuñez Nuria , Torres Gerard , Caballero‐Eraso Candela , Lloberes Patricia , Diaz‐Cambriles Trinidad , Somoza Maria , Masa Juan F. , Gonzalez Monica , Mañas Eva , de la Peña Monica , Barbe Ferran , Garcia‐Rio Francisco , Montserrat Josep Maria , Muriel Alfonso , Garcia‐Ortega Alberto , Selma Maria J. , Martinez‐Garcia Miguel‐Angel ,   on behalf the Spanish Sleep Network
Published: January 2019

Although adequate adherence is paramount in achieving the beneficial effects of continuous positive airway pressure therapy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea, long‐term adherence and the variables involved in continuous positive airway pressure compliance in patients with resistant hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea are yet unknown. We conducted a prospective, multicentre, observational study in 177 patients recruited from hypertensive units with resistant hypertension confirmed by means of 24‐hr blood pressure monitoring (blood pressure ≥ 130 and/or ≥ 80 mmHg, despite taking at least three antihypertensive drugs or < 130/80 mmHg with > 3 drugs) and obstructive sleep apnea (apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 5 in a respiratory polygraph) who were prescribed continuous positive airway pressure treatment. Good adherence was defined as an average cumulative continuous positive airway pressure use of ≥ 4 hr per night at the end of the follow‐up. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of continuous positive airway pressure adherence. Patients were followed for a median of 57.6 (42–72) months after initiating continuous positive airway pressure therapy. At the end of the follow‐up, the median continuous positive airway pressure use was 5.7 (inter‐quartile range 3.9–6.6) hr per night, and 132 patients (74.5%) showed good continuous positive airway pressure adherence. The only baseline variable associated with poor adherence was the presence of previous stroke (hazard ratio 4.00, 95% confidence interval 1.92–8.31). Adequate adherence at 1 month also predicted good adherence at the end of the follow‐up (hazard ratio 14.4, 95% confidence interval 4.94–56). Both variables also predicted adherence at a threshold of 6 hr per night. Our results show that good continuous positive airway pressure adherence is an achievable and feasible goal in patients with resistant hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea. Previous stroke and short‐term adherence predicted long‐term adherence.
Clinicopathological findings in 41 dogs (2008‐2018) naturally infected withEhrlichia ewingii
Authors: Qurollo Barbara A. , Buch Jesse , Chandrashekar Ramaswamy , Beall Melissa J. , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Yancey Caroline B. , Caudill Alexander H. , Comyn Alaire
Published: January 2019

Background

Ehrlichia ewingiiis the most seroprevalentEhrlichia‐infecting dogs in the southern and mid‐western United States. Fever, lameness, and polyarthritis are commonly reported findings in dogs naturally infected withE. ewingii.

Objectives

To evaluate clinicopathologic findings in a population of dogs naturally infected withE. ewingii.

Animals

Forty‐one dogs PCR positive forE. ewingiiand PCR negative for other targeted vector‐borne organisms.

Methods

Retrospective study. Clinical and clinicopathologic data including physical examination findings, CBC, serum biochemistry, urinalysis (UA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), and vector‐borne disease diagnostic results were reviewed.

Results

Frequent clinical diagnoses other than ehrlichiosis (28/41; 68.3%) were renal disease (7/41; 17.1%) and immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) (6/41; 14.6%). The most frequent physical examination finding was joint pain (14/41; 34.1%). Prominent hematologic and biochemical abnormalities included abnormal lymphocyte counts (22/36; 61.1%); neutrophilia (21/37; 56.8%); increased alkaline phosphatase (20/35; 57.1%) and alanine transaminase (14/35; 40%) activities; and increased SDMA concentration (11/34; 32.4%). Urinalysis abnormalities included proteinuria (20/27; 74%), most with inactive sediments (16/20; 80%). Dogs were seroreactive byEhrlichia canisimmunofluorescence assay (IFA; 17/39; 43.6%) andEhrlichiaELISA (34/41; 82.9%). Seroreactivity by IFA for other vector‐borne pathogens includedBartonella(1/39; 2.6%),Rickettsia rickettsii(spotted‐fever group rickettsiae) (12/39; 30.8%), andBorrelia burgdorferiby ELISA (1/41; 2.4%).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Renal disease, IMHA, proteinuria, neutrophilia, abnormal lymphocytes, and increased liver enzyme activities were common in this group ofE. ewingii‐infected dogs. Studies are needed to determine ifE. ewingiicontributes to comorbidities or is a precipitating factor in clinical syndromes in persistently infected dogs.
A pool‐weighted perspective on the two‐water‐worlds hypothesis
Authors: Dubbert Maren , Caldeira Maria C. , Dubbert David , Werner Christiane
Published: January 2019

The ‘two‐water‐worlds’ hypothesis is based on stable isotope differences in stream, soil and xylem waters in dual isotope space. It postulates no connectivity between bound and mobile soil waters, and preferential plant water uptake of bound soil water sources. We tested the pool‐weighted impact of isotopically distinct water pools for hydrological cycling, the influence of species‐specific water use and the degree of ecohydrological separation.

We combined stable isotope analysis (δ18O and δ2H) of ecosystem water pools of precipitation, groundwater, soil and xylem water of two distinct species (Quercus suber,Cistus ladanifer) with observations of soil water contents and sap flow.

Shallow soil water was evaporatively enriched during dry‐down periods, but enrichment faded strongly with depth and upon precipitation events. Despite clearly distinct water sources and water‐use strategies, both species displayed a highly opportunistic pattern of root water uptake.

Here we offer an alternative explanation, showing that the isotopic differences between soil and plant water vs groundwater can be fully explained by spatio‐temporal dynamics. Pool weighting the contribution of evaporatively enriched soil water reveals only minor annual impacts of these sources to ecosystem water cycling (c. 11% of bulk soil water andc. 14% of transpired water).
OBERIU Theater in the Context of Early Soviet Amateurism
Authors: CEBULA GEOFF
Published: January 2019

At first glance, the OBERIU theatrical program could not seem further removed from the amateur performances staged by Soviet workers in small club venues. Whereas the former started from a concept of “pure theater” and advocated self‐sufficient theatrical moments, the latter justified its existence by serving the immediate political and educational needs of the club. Yet these two seemingly incompatible types of theater were brought together by the work of Igor’ Terent’ev, an ardent innovator who derived many of his techniques from the workers’ clubs and directly influenced the OBERIU theater. This article takes Daniil Kharms’s collaboration with Terent’ev as a point of departure for repositioning the OBERIU theatrical program within the various “left” art movements of the 1920s. Such repositioning shows that the theater of OBERIU was engaged in a far‐reaching debate over the professional training requisite for Soviet theaters, while also invested in maintaining an experimental vision of the “left arts.”
The Poor Rhymes of Hooligans: The Anarchist Aesthetics of OBERIU and Pussy Riot
Authors: AIZMAN ANIA
Published: January 2019

In August 2012, having been found guilty of “hooliganism motivated by religious hatred,” Nadezhda Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot delivered a closing statement in which she argued that her group's performances are part of a canon of nonconformism and dissent–from Aristotle, to Jesus, to the Soviet dissidents. But she singled out an obscure early Soviet absurdist, Alexander Vvedensky, whose “poor rhyme” aesthetic she compared at length to the anarchist style of Pussy Riot. Her extended discussion of Vvedensky inspires this paper's analysis. Contrary to recent scholarship that has suggested that the Oberiuty cultivated reactionary politics, I argue that their work should be viewed in the context of anarchism in the arts. Vvedensky's work, and the collaborative performances and texts of his circle, the Oberiuty, differed considerably from the avant‐garde and mainstream artistic conventions of their time because of its anarchist principles. Instead of seeking to communicate artistic mastery, or advocating utopian paradigms and transcendent knowledge, their works sought to suspend the search for absolutes and to cultivate spontaneity. The final portion of this essay contextualizes Tolokonnikova's interpretation and appropriation of Vvedensky in the rediscovery and reception of the Oberiuty by leftist artists, writers, and philosophers.
A 4‐year follow‐up case of extrusive luxation in a patient with cerebral palsy
Authors: Véliz Ramírez Andrea , Krämer Strenger Susanne , Solar López Melissa , Muñoz Cortes Pamela , Corral Núñez Camila
Published: January 2019

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition caused by brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth. Communication can be a challenge when treating patients with CP. Some patients can communicate verbally, while others use augmentative alternative communication tools or have individualized means of communication. Therefore, professional dental treatment in individuals with CP is challenging, especially if the patient is affected by dental trauma and requires emergency treatment. This report shows how individualized communication skills assessment allowed us to successfully manage a 9‐year‐old patient with CP, who suffered extrusive luxation of the permanent lower incisor. In the present case, the teeth were repositioned briefly after the trauma had occurred and then stabilized with a flexible splint according to international guidelines. The teeth remained vital and periodontal repair was observed during the 4‐year follow‐up.
Perception of nursing profession – focus group interview among applicants to nursing education
Authors: Glerean Niina , Hupli Maija , Talman Kirsi , Haavisto Elina
Published: January 2019

Aims and objectives

To explore nursing applicants’ perceptions of the nursing profession and to identify the factors influencing their perceptions.

Background

Perceptions guide the career choice in nursing and the retainment in the profession. Perceptions of nursing profession are said to be outdated and unrealistic among public. Therefore, more information is needed about the perceptions of nursing applicants.

Design

Exploratory qualitative design using focus group interviews.

Methods

Three focus group interviews (n = 18) were conducted among applicants to undergraduate Bachelor of Science (BSc) nursing programmes. The focus group interviews were recorded transcribed and analysed using qualitative content analysis. In this study, the ethical principles set by Finnish law and the National Advisory Board on Research Ethics were followed.

Findings

Applicants perceived nursing through characteristics of a nurse, content of nursing work, nature of nursing work and career possibilities in nursing. According to applicants, nursing requires suitable attitude and character with knowledge, theoretical competence and good general education. Nurses were seen to work in multi‐professional teams and tasks of a nurse were described through caring role of a nurse. The decision‐making in nursing was regarded limited. Nursing was considered as secure job with versatile career options although the career options or the further educational possibilities were not fully recognised among applicants. Personal factors, family and friends, media and career counselling at school influenced applicants’ perceptions.

Conclusions

Applicants’ perceptions of the nursing profession are one‐sided and partly unrealistic. Future research should concentrate on planning interventions aiming to change the public image of the nursing profession.