bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron Metabolism in Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: González-Domínguez Álvaro , Visiedo-García Francisco M. , Domínguez-Riscart Jesús , González-Domínguez Raúl , Mateos Rosa M. , Lechuga-Sancho Alfonso María
Published: August 2020

Obesity is an excessive adipose tissue accumulation that may have detrimental effects on health. Particularly, childhood obesity has become one of the main public health problems in the 21st century, since its prevalence has widely increased in recent years. Childhood obesity is intimately related to the development of several comorbidities such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-congenital cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation and anemia, among others. Within this tangled interplay between these comorbidities and associated pathological conditions, obesity has been closely linked to important perturbations in iron metabolism. Iron is the second most abundant metal on Earth, but its bioavailability is hampered by its ability to form highly insoluble oxides, with iron deficiency being the most common nutritional disorder. Although every living organism requires iron, it may also cause toxic oxygen damage by generating oxygen free radicals through the Fenton reaction. Thus, iron homeostasis and metabolism must be tightly regulated in humans at every level (i.e., absorption, storage, transport, recycling). Dysregulation of any step involved in iron metabolism may lead to iron deficiencies and, eventually, to the anemic state related to obesity. In this review article, we summarize the existent evidence on the role of the most recently described components of iron metabolism and their alterations in obesity.
Deep Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Dynamic Developmental Progression during Early Development of Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)
Authors: Ma Xiaoli , Su Baofeng , Tian Yuan , Backenstose Nathan , Ye Zhi , Moss Anthony , Duong Thuy-Yen , Wang Xu , Dunham Rex
Published: August 2020

The transition from fertilized egg to larva in fish is accompanied with various biological processes. We selected seven early developmental stages in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, for transcriptome analysis, and covered 22,635 genes with 590 million high-quality RNA-sequencing (seq) reads. Differential expression analysis between neighboring developmental timepoints revealed significantly enriched biological categories associated with growth, development and morphogenesis, which was most evident at 2 vs. 5 days post fertilization (dpf) and 5 vs. 6 dpf. A gene co-expression network was constructed using the Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) approach and four critical modules were identified. Among candidate hub genes, GDF10, FOXA2, HCEA and SYCE3 were involved in head formation, egg development and the transverse central element of synaptonemal complexes. CK1, OAZ2, DARS1 and UBE2V2 were mainly associated with regulation of cell cycle, growth, brain development, differentiation and proliferation of enterocytes. IFI44L and ZIP10 were critical for the regulation of immune activity and ion transport. Additionally, TCK1 and TGFB1 were related to phosphate transport and regulating cell proliferation. All these genes play vital roles in embryogenesis and regulation of early development. These results serve as a rich dataset for functional genomic studies. Our work reveals new insights of the underlying mechanisms in channel catfish early development.
Automatic Field Detection of Western Corn Rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera; Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) with a New Probe
Authors: Tóth Zsolt , Tóth Miklós , Jósvai Júlia Katalin , Tóth Franciska , Flórián Norbert , Gergócs Veronika , Dombos Miklós
Published: August 2020

The Western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), is a significant invasive pest of maize plantations in Europe. Integrated pest management demands an adequate monitoring system which detects the activity of insects with high accuracy in real-time. In this study, we show and test a new electronic device (ZooLog KLP), which was developed to detect WCR in the field. The ZooLog KLP consists of a trapping element that attracts insects with its color and species-specific sex pheromone. The other part is an opto-electronic sensor-ring which detects the specimens when they fall into the trap. At detection, the time of catch is recorded and sent to a web interface. In this study, we followed WCR flight patterns for six weeks in two locations, using ZooLog KLP probes. We investigated sensor precision by comparing the number of catches to the number of detections. The tool reached high accuracy (95.84%) in recording WCR. We found a peak in flight activity in August and a bimodal daily pattern. This method may be beneficial in detecting the WCR during their activity, and this new device may serve as a prototype for real-time monitoring systems and improve the management of this pest.
Bacterial Communities in Three Parts of Intestinal Tracts of Carpenter Bees (Xylocopa tenuiscapa)
Authors: Subta Phakamas , Yodsuwan Phongsathon , Yongsawas Rujipas , In-on Ammarin , Warrit Natapot , Panha Somsak , Khongphinitbunjong Kitiphong , Chantawannakul Panuwan , Attasopa Korrawat , Disayathanoowat Terd
Published: August 2020

This study investigated different bacterial communities in three intestinal parts (foregut, midgut and hindgut) of Xylocopatenuiscapa to understand the roles of gut bacteria. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that X. tenuiscapa is closely related to Xylocopa latipes. The 16S rRNA gene in the genomic DNA samples from the gut was examined by illumina (Solexa) and a total of 998 operational taxonomic unit (OTUs) clusters were found. Taxonomic classification identified 16 bacterial phyla and unclassified bacteria. The dominant bacteria taxa in the three parts of X. tenuiscapa gut were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria. In the foregut, Lactobacillales and Enterobacteriaceae were predominantly found. The population in the midgut was similar to that in the foregut, with the addition of Gilliamella, which was also abundant. The most dominant bacteria identified in the hindgut were similar to those in the midgut and Lactobacillales, Enterobacteriaceae, Gilliamella, Bifidobacteriaceae and Flavobacteriaceae appeared in abundance. Moreover, our results suggest that a community structure of bacteria in different parts of X. tenuiscapa’s gut may be an important indicator of carpenter bees’ health. This functional study of bacterial communities revealed significant differences among the three intestinal parts and is the first report of the gut bacteria structure in solitary bees.
Triglycerides to High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio Predicts Chronic Renal Disease in Patients without Diabetes Mellitus (STELLA Study)
Authors: Raikou Vaia D. , Kyriaki Despina , Gavriil Sotiris
Published: August 2020

Background: The triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio has been included in the potential indices for atherosclerosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this study, we addressed the role of the TG/HDL-C ratio on CKD prediction defined by both classified estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and classified urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) in non-diabetic participants. Methods: One hundred and eighty-three subjects with a mean age 67.3 ± 15.6 years old were included. Our participants were classified in both eGFR and UACR categories according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes 2012 criteria. Estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV) was calculated using an equation from age and mean blood pressure. The TG/HDL-C ratio was calculated. X2 tests and adjusted models were applied using confounders. Results: The TG/HDL-C ratio was inversely associated with eGFR and positively with both UACR and ePWV. We divided our patients in two groups according to the found ROC curve of the TG/HDL-C ratio cut-off point, either with an eGFR of less or more than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. X2 tests showed significant association between the high TG/HDL-C ratio and classified eGFR, and classified UACR and hypertension (x2 = 24.5, p = 0.001, x2 = 12.5, p = 0.002 and x2 = 12.6, p = 0.001, respectively). The adjusted model showed the high TG/HDL-C ratio to be an independent predictor for both a low eGFR and UACR (OR = 1.5, 1.2–1.9 and OR = 1.22, 1.02–1.47, respectively) in combination with old age and hypertension. Conclusion: The TG/HDL-C ratio was revealed to be a potential predictor for both a low eGFR and micro/macroalbuminuria in non-diabetic patients. The arterial stiffening was included in the main underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
Insight in miRNome of Long-Term Non-Progressors and Elite Controllers Exposes Potential RNAi Role in Restraining HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Ayala-Suárez Rubén , Díez-Fuertes Francisco , Calonge Esther , De La Torre Tarazona Humberto , Gracia-Ruíz de Alda María , Capa Laura , Alcamí José
Published: August 2020

Long-term non-progressors (LTNP) and elite controllers (EC) represent spontaneous natural models of efficient HIV-1 response in the absence of treatment. The main purposes of this work are to describe the miRNome of HIV-1 infected patients with different extreme phenotypes and identify potentially altered pathways regulated by differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs. The miRNomes from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of dual phenotype EC-LTNP or LTNP with detectable viremia and HIV-infected patients with typical progression before and after treatment, were obtained through miRNA-Seq and compared among them. The administration of treatment produces 18 DE miRNAs in typical progressors. LTNP condition shows 14 DE miRNA when compared to typical progressors, allowing LTNP phenotype differentiation. A set of four miRNAs: miR-144-3p, miR-18a-5p, miR-451a, and miR-324 is strongly downregulated in LTNP and related to protein regulation as AKT, mTOR, ERK or IKK, involved in immune response pathways. Deregulation of 28 miRNA is observed between EC-LTNP and viremic-LTNP, including previously described anti-HIV miRNAs: miR-29a, associated with LTNP phenotype, and miR-155, targeting different pre-integration complexes such as ADAM10 and TNPO3. A holistic perspective of the changes observed in the miRNome of patients with different phenotypes of HIV-control and non-progression is provided.
Impact of Regional Block Failure in Ambulatory Hand Surgery on Patient Management: A Cohort Study
Authors: Picard Lucile , Belnou Pierre , Debes Claire , Lapidus Nathanael , Sung Tsai Eileen , Gaillard Julien , Sautet Alain , Bonnet Francis , Lescot Thomas , Verdonk Franck
Published: August 2020

Regional anesthesia (RA) is an anesthetic technique essential for the performance of ambulatory surgery. Failure rates range from 6% to 20%, and the consequences of these failures have been poorly investigated. We determined the incidence and the impact of regional block failure on patient management in the ambulatory setting. This retrospective cohort study includes all adult patients who were admitted to a French University Hospital (Hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP) between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2017 for unplanned ambulatory distal upper limb surgery. Univariate and stepwise multivariate analyses were performed to determine factors associated with block failure. Among the 562 patients included, 48 (8.5%) had a block failure. RA failure was associated with a longer surgery duration (p = 0.02), more frequent intraoperative analgesics administration (p < 0.01), increased incidence of unplanned hospitalizations (p < 0.001), and a 39% prolongation of Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) length of stay (p < 0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, the risk factors associated with block failure were female sex (p = 0.04), an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score > 2 (p = 0.03), history of substance abuse (p = 0.01), and performance of the surgery outside of the specific ambulatory surgical unit (p = 0.01). Here, we have documented a significant incidence of block failure in ambulatory hand surgery, with impairment in the organization of care. Identifying patients at risk of failure could help improve their management, especially by focusing on providing care in a dedicated ambulatory circuit.
Hospitalization Rates and Comorbidities in Patients with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy in Germany from 2010 to 2017
Authors: Zella Maria Angela Samis , Bartig Dirk , Herrmann Lennard , Respondek Gesine , Höglinger Günter , Gold Ralf , Woitalla Dirk , Krogias Christos , Tönges Lars
Published: August 2020

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) belongs to the disease spectrum of Parkinsonian syndromes. Due to the chronic and progressive neurodegenerative course of the disease, PSP patients often have to be hospitalized to undergo diagnostic and therapeutic measures. The dynamics and characteristics of PSP inpatient treatment in Germany have not been investigated thus far. The current study analyzed trends of inpatient treatment in Germany for the years 2010–2017 based on the German DRG statistics (“diagnostic-related groups”) in the category G23.- (other degenerative diseases of the basal ganglia) and with special focus on PSP (G23.1). Inpatient case numbers of the G23.- category comprised a total of 21,196 patients from 2010–2017, whereas the PSP subcategory (G23.1) amounted to 10,663 cases. In the analyzed time period, PSP patient numbers constantly increased from 963 in 2010 to 1780 in 2017 with yearly growth rates of up to 20%. Similar trends were observed for other Parkinsonian syndromes such as multiple system atrophy (MSA). Differentiating PSP inpatients by gender demonstrated a higher proportion of males (55–60%) in comparison to female patients for the entire observation period. The average age of hospitalized PSP patients over these years was between 72.3 and 73.4 years without relevant differences for gender. The most common comorbidities consisted of cardiovascular, neurological, muscular and urological disorders. In summary, the analysis demonstrates that PSP patients are increasingly hospitalized in Germany and the current concepts of stationary care have to differentiate standard practices for Parkinson’s disease (PD) to also address the needs of patients with PSP and other Parkinsonian syndromes.
The Need for Red Cell Support During Non-Cardiac Surgery Is Associated to Pre-Transfusion Levels of FXIII and the Platelet Count
Authors: Listyo Silke , Forrest Eric , Graf Lukas , Korte Wolfgang
Published: August 2020

Unexpected intraoperative bleeding is associated with a reduced availability of crosslinking capacity (provided through factor XIII (FXIII)) per unit of generated thrombin. Furthermore, FXIII deficiency and thrombocytopenia (but not fibrinogen deficiency) are the most prevalent modulators of clot firmness in the immediate postoperative setting. In this study, we therefore evaluated whether levels of FXIII, fibrinogen, or the platelet count influenced the probability of intraoperative red cell transfusions in patients in the operating theatre. This retrospective study was comprised of 1023 patients, which were in need of blood product support in the operating theatre and of which 443 received red cell transfusions. Due to standard operating procedures, FXIII activity, fibrinogen concentration, and platelet count were measured before transfusion took place, but without influencing the decision to transfuse. FXIII deficiency was frequent (50%), as was thrombocytopenia (49%), but not fibrinogen deficiency (9%). FXIII deficiency was associated with a significantly increased probability to receive red cell transfusions (OR 4.58, 95% CI 3.46–6.05) as was thrombocytopenia (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.47–2.56), but not fibrinogen deficiency (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.67–1.76). Similar results were seen for cut-off independent evaluations (receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves, using continuously distributed variables), where the areas under the curves (AUC) of red cell transfusion for FXIII activity was 0.744 (95% CI 0.716–0.770)/0.632 (95% CI 0.601–0.661) for the platelet count, and 0.578 (95% CI 0.547–0.609) for fibrinogen concentration. All AUCs were significantly different from each other (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0106, respectively), indicating that FXIII activity was a significantly better predictor of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion than platelet count and fibrinogen concentration. These results suggest that pre-transfusion FXIII activity and to a lesser extent the platelet count influence the probability of intraoperative red cell transfusions. Modifying FXIII activity and/or the platelet count might influence the need for downstream red cell transfusion, thus potentially reducing transfusion associated morbidity. This, however, needs confirmation in future studies.
Danon Disease-Associated LAMP-2 Deficiency Drives Metabolic Signature Indicative of Mitochondrial Aging and Fibrosis in Cardiac Tissue and hiPSC-Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Del Favero Giorgia , Bonifacio Alois , Rowland Teisha J. , Gao Shanshan , Song Kunhua , Sergo Valter , Adler Eric D. , Mestroni Luisa , Sbaizero Orfeo , Taylor Matthew R. G.
Published: August 2020

Danon disease is a severe X-linked disorder caused by deficiency of the lysosome-associated membrane protein-2 (LAMP-2). Clinical manifestations are phenotypically diverse and consist of hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies, skeletal myopathy, retinopathy, and intellectual dysfunction. Here, we investigated the metabolic landscape of Danon disease by applying a multi-omics approach and combined structural and functional readouts provided by Raman and atomic force microscopy. Using these tools, Danon patient-derived cardiac tissue, primary fibroblasts, and human induced pluripotent stem cells differentiated into cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) were analyzed. Metabolic profiling indicated LAMP-2 deficiency promoted a switch toward glycolysis accompanied by rerouting of tryptophan metabolism. Cardiomyocytes’ energetic balance and NAD+/NADH ratio appeared to be maintained despite mitochondrial aging. In turn, metabolic adaption was accompanied by a senescence-associated signature. Similarly, Danon fibroblasts appeared more stress prone and less biomechanically compliant. Overall, shaping of both morphology and metabolism contributed to the loss of cardiac biomechanical competence that characterizes the clinical progression of Danon disease.
Long-Term Evolution of Quality of Life and Symptoms Following Surgical Treatment for Endometriosis: Different Trajectories for Which Patients?
Authors: Comptour Aurélie , Lambert Céline , Chauvet Pauline , Figuier Claire , Gremeau Anne-Sophie , Canis Michel , Pereira Bruno , Bourdel Nicolas
Published: August 2020

Many studies have shown a global efficacy of laparoscopic surgery for patients with endometriosis in reducing painful symptoms and improving quality of life (QoL) in the short and long-term. The aim of this study was to analyze the different trajectories of long-term evolution in QoL and symptoms following surgical treatment for endometriosis, and to identify corresponding patient profiles. This prospective and multicenter cohort study concerned 962 patients who underwent laparoscopic treatment for endometriosis. QoL was evaluated using the Short Form (SF)-36 questionnaire and intensity of pain was reported using a visual analog scale prior to surgery and at 6, 12, 18, 24 and 36 months after surgery. Distinctive trajectories of pain and QoL evolution were identified using group-based trajectory modeling, an approach which gathers individuals into meaningful subgroups with statistically similar trajectories. Pelvic symptom trajectories (models of the evolution of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and chronic pelvic pain intensity over years) correspond to (1) patients with no pain or pain no longer after surgery, (2) patients with the biggest improvement in pain and (3) patients with continued severe pain after surgery. Our study reveals clear trajectories for the progression of symptoms and QoL after surgery that correspond to clusters of patients. This information may serve to complete information obtained from epidemiological methods currently used in selecting patients eligible for surgery.
The Impact of Mood and Subjective Intoxication on Hangover Severity
Authors: Verster Joris C. , Arnoldy Lizanne , van de Loo Aurora J.A.E. , Benson Sarah , Scholey Andrew , Stock Ann-Kathrin
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate whether baseline mood and/or mood while drinking have an impact on alcohol hangover severity. A survey was held among N = 331 young adults (mean age = 23.6 years, range = 18–35 years). Demographics, alcohol consumption, subjective intoxication, and hangover severity were assessed for the past three days. In addition, mood (baseline, while drinking, and during hangover) was also assessed. N = 143 participants reported to be hungover on the day of assessment, N = 122 participants reported to have been hungover the previous day (‘yesterday’), and N = 87 participants reported to have been hungover two days before the assessment (‘2 days ago’). The analyses revealed that baseline mood and mood while drinking had no relevant effect on the amount of consumed alcohol and did not significantly contribute to hangover severity. However, hangover severity was associated with significantly increased negative affect, particularly with higher levels of subjective stress on the day of the hangover.
Effect of Sonic Agitation of a Binary Mixture of Solvents on Filling Remnants Removal as an Alternative to Apical Enlargement—A Micro-CT Study
Authors: Ferreira Inês , Babo Pedro S. , Braga Ana Cristina , Gomes Manuela E. , Pina-Vaz Irene
Published: August 2020

Background: This work aimed to evaluate the efficacy of sonic agitation of a binary mixture of solvents (methyl ethyl ketone/tetrachloroethylene) on filling remnants removal and compare the effects of solvent agitation with the enlargement to the next instrument size. Methods: Twenty-four mandibular incisors were prepared with ProTaper Next (X1, X2) and obturated with the single-cone technique and AH Plus sealer. The teeth were retreated with ProTaper Universal Retreatment and ProTaper Next and divided into two groups (n = 12) according to the final instrument (X3 or X4). All canals were submitted to a supplementary procedure consisting of a mixture of solvents―methyl ethyl ketone/tetrachloroethylene, agitated with EndoActivator. The volume of filling remnants was assessed through micro-computed tomography in the apical 5 mm. Statistical analysis was performed with a significance level of 5%. Results: The supplementary procedure of agitation of the solvent mixture was beneficial in both groups (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between canals re-prepared until X4 and canals re-prepared until X3 plus solvent (p > 0.05). Conclusions: An additional step with a two-solvent solution potentiated by EndoActivator showed to be very effective for the removal of gutta-percha and resinous sealer remnants from apical root canals of mandibular incisors, avoiding further enlargement.
Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism in 2020 and Beyond
Authors: Nicholson Matthew , Chan Noel , Bhagirath Vinai , Ginsberg Jeffrey
Published: August 2020

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common cause of vascular mortality worldwide and comprises deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). In this review, we discuss how an understanding of VTE epidemiology and the results of thromboprophylaxis trials have shaped the current approach to VTE prevention. We will discuss modern thromboprophylaxis as it pertains to genetic risk factors, exogenous hormonal therapies, pregnancy, surgery, medical hospitalization, cancer, and what is known thus far about VTE in COVID-19 infection.
GlycA Levels during the Earliest Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Potential Use as a Biomarker of Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Rodríguez-Carrio Javier , Alperi-López Mercedes , López Patricia , Pérez-Álvarez Ángel I. , Gil-Serret Miriam , Amigó Núria , Ulloa Catalina , Benavente Lorena , Ballina-García Francisco J. , Suárez Ana
Published: August 2020

This study aimed at evaluating the clinical relevance of glycoprotein profiles during the earliest phases of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) as biomarkers of cardiovascular (CV) risk and treatment response. Then, GlycA and GlycB serum levels were measured using 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance in 82 early RA patients, 14 clinically-suspect arthralgia (CSA), and 28 controls. Serum glycosyltransferase activity was assessed by a colorimetric assay. Subclinical CV disease was assessed by Doppler-ultrasound. We found that GlycA and GlycB serum levels were increased in RA (both p < 0.001), but not in CSA, independently of cardiometabolic risk factors. Increased serum glycosyltransferase activity paralleled GlycA (r = 0.405, p < 0.001) and GlycB levels (r = 0.327, p = 0.005) in RA. GlycA, but not GlycB, was associated with atherosclerosis occurrence (p = 0.012) and severity (p = 0.001). Adding GlycA to the mSCORE improved the identification of patients with atherosclerosis over mSCORE alone, increasing sensitivity (29.7 vs. 68.0%) and accuracy (55.8 vs. 76.6%) and allowing reclassification into more appropriate risk categories. GlycA-reclassification identified patients with impaired lipoprotein metabolism. Finally, baseline GlycA levels predicted poor clinical response upon anti-rheumatic treatment at 6 and 12 months in univariate and multivariate analysis. In sum, increased GlycA levels during the earliest stage of RA can be considered a powerful biomarker for CV risk stratification and treatment response.
Clinicopathological Factors Related to Recurrence Patterns of Resected Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Shimizu Reiko , Kinoshita Tomomari , Sasaki Naomichi , Uematsu Mao , Sugita Yusuke , Shima Toshiyuki , Harada Masahiko , Hishima Tsunekazu , Horio Hirotoshi
Published: August 2020

Even after complete resection, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) shows preferential recurrence in the mediastinal lymph nodes, lungs, brain, bone, liver, and adrenal gland. However, the relationship between clinicopathological factors and recurrence patterns after resection has not been well-evaluated. Among 688 NSCLC cases with complete resection between 2004 and 2016, 233 cases recurred at our institute. On multivariate analyses, NSCLCs with lymph node metastasis and pulmonary metastasis at surgery commonly recurred in the mediastinal lymph nodes and lungs, respectively. Young age, adenocarcinoma, and vascular invasion were correlated with brain metastasis. Although no variable was associated with bone metastasis, vascular invasion was correlated with postoperative liver and adrenal gland metastasis. Pathologically proven stage II or III NSCLC, adenocarcinoma, and the presence of lymphatic permeation would result in multiple metastases. Vascular invasion, larger invasive size, and advanced stage were independent risk factors of early recurrence. Considering survival, vascular invasion, elderly age, and non-adenocarcinoma were unfavorable prognostic factors after recurrence. Some clinicopathological variables were correlated with organ-specific metastasis and post-recurrence survival. Particularly, vascular invasion was a biomarker of brain, liver, and adrenal gland metastases and a prognostic marker after recurrence among completely resected NSCLC. This information is useful for more frequent patient follow-up and identifying organ-specific distant metastasis.
Diagnostic Performance of Simultaneous [18F]-FDG PET/MR for Assessing Endoscopically Active Inflammation in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Langhorst Jost , Umutlu Lale , Schaarschmidt Benedikt Michael , Grueneisen Johannes , Demircioglu Aydin , Forsting Michael , Beiderwellen Karsten , Haubold Johannes , Theysohn Jens Matthias , Koch Anna Katharina , Dobos Gustav , Dechêne Alexander , Herrmann Ken , Bruckmann Nils Martin , Lauenstein Thomas , Li Yan
Published: August 2020

Background: To investigate the diagnostic performance of simultaneous 18F-fluoro-deoxyglucose ([18F]-FDG) PET/MR enterography in assessing and grading endoscopically active inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis. Methods: 50 patients underwent PET/MR 24 h before ileocolonoscopy. Inflammatory activities of bowel segments were evaluated with both Mayo endoscopic subscore and Nancy histologic index. MR, DWI (Diffusion-weighted imaging) and PET were utilized as qualitative parameters for detecting endoscopically active inflammation. SUVmaxQuot in each segment (maximum of standard uptake value relative to liver) was calculated to quantify inflammation. Results: In the study arm without bowel purgation, combined reading of PET and MR resulted in significantly increased specificity against each submodality alone (0.944 vs. 0.82 for MR and 0.843 for PET, p < 0.05) and highest overall accuracy. In the study arm with bowel purgation, the significantly lower specificity of PET (0.595) could be markedly improved by a combined reading of PET and MR. Metabolic conditions in bowel segments with both endoscopic and histological remission were significantly lower than in segments with endoscopic remission but persistent microscopic inflammation (SUVmaxQuot 0.719 vs. 0.947, p < 0.001). SUVmaxQuot correlated highly with Mayo endoscopic subscore (ρ = 0.718 and 0.606) and enabled grading of inflammatory activity. Conclusions: Simultaneous [18F]-FDG PET/MR may be considered as an alternative to endoscopy in clinical trials.
Association between Respiratory Sleep Indices and Cardiovascular Disease in Sleep Apnea—A Community-Based Study in Cyprus
Authors: Frangopoulos Frangiskos , Nicolaou Ivi , Zannetos Savvas , Economou Nicholas-Tiberio , Adamide Tonia , Trakada Georgia
Published: August 2020

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a chronic and prevalent disorder, strongly associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), or respiratory event index (REI), and the oxygen desaturation index (ODI) are the clinical metrics of sleep apnea in terms of diagnosis and severity. However, AHI, or REI, does not quantify OSA-related hypoxemia and poorly predicts the consequences of sleep apnea in cardiometabolic diseases. Moreover, it is unclear whether ODI correlates with CVD in OSA. Our study aimed to examine the possible associations between respiratory sleep indices and CVD in OSA, in a non-clinic-based population in Cyprus. We screened 344 subjects of a stratified, total sample of 4118 eligible responders. All participants were adults (age 18+), residing in Cyprus. Each patient answered with a detailed clinical history in terms of CVD. A type III sleep test was performed on 282 subjects (81.97%). OSA (REI ≥ 15) was diagnosed in 92 patients (32.62%, Group A). REI < 15 was observed in the remaining 190 subjects (67.37%, Group B). In OSA group A, 40 individuals (43%) reported hypertension, 17 (18.5%) arrhythmias, 10 (11%) heart failure, 9 (9.8%) ischemic heart disease and 2 (2%) previous stroke, versus 46 (24%), 21 (11%), 7 (3.7%), 12 (6.3%) and 6 (3%), in Group B, respectively. Hypertension correlated with REI (p = 0.001), ODI (p = 0.003) and mean SaO2 (p < 0.001). Arrhythmias correlated with mean SaO2 (p = 0.001) and time spent under 90% oxygen saturation (p = 0.040). Heart failure correlated with REI (p = 0.043), especially in the supine position (0.036). No statistically significant correlations were observed between ischemic heart disease or stroke and REI, ODI and mean SaO2. The pathogenesis underlying CVD in OSA is variable. According to our data, hypertension correlated with REI, ODI and mean SaO2. Arrhythmias correlated only with hypoxemia (mean SaO2), whereas heart failure correlated only with REI, especially in the supine position.
Neuroimaging-Based Scalp Acupuncture Locations for Dementia
Authors: Cao Jin , Huang Yiting , Meshberg Nathaniel , Hodges Sierra A. , Kong Jian
Published: August 2020

Scalp acupuncture is a modality of acupuncture in which acupuncture needles are inserted into a certain layer of the scalp in order to affect the function of corresponding areas of the cerebral cortex and relieve symptoms. Clinical studies have demonstrated the potential of scalp acupuncture as a non-pharmacological treatment for dementia. Unfortunately, recent findings from brain neuroimaging studies on dementia have not been incorporated into scalp acupuncture. This study aims to integrate meta-analysis, resting-state functional connectivity, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to identify potential locations of scalp acupuncture for treatment of dementia. We found that the prefrontal cortex, the medial prefrontal cortex, the middle and superior temporal gyrus, the temporal pole, the supplementary motor area, the inferior occipital gyrus, and the precuneus are involved in the pathophysiology of dementia and, therefore, may be the target areas of scalp acupuncture for dementia treatment. The neuroimaging-based scalp acupuncture protocol developed in this study may help to refine the locations for the treatment of dementia. Integrating multidisciplinary methods to identify key surface cortical areas associated with a certain disorder may shed light on the development of scalp acupuncture and other neuromodulation methods such as transcranial electrical current stimulation, particularly in the domain of identifying stimulation locations.
Effects of COMT Genotypes on Working Memory Performance in Fibromyalgia Patients
Authors: Ferrera David , Gómez-Esquer Francisco , Peláez Irene , Barjola Paloma , Fernandes-Magalhaes Roberto , Carpio Alberto , De Lahoz María E. , Díaz-Gil Gema , Mercado Francisco
Published: August 2020

Growing research has reported the presence of a clear impairment of working memory functioning in fibromyalgia. Although different genetic factors involving dopamine availability (i.e, the COMT gene) have been associated with the more severe presentation of key symptoms in fibromyalgia, scientific evidence regarding the influence of COMT genotypes on cognitive impairment in these patients is still lacking. To this end, 167 participants took part in the present investigation. Working memory performance was assessed by the application of the SST (Spatial Span Test) and LNST (Letter and Number Sequence Test) belonging to the Weschler Memory Scale III. Significant working memory impairment was shown by the fibromyalgia patients. Remarkably, our results suggest that performance according to different working memory measures might be influenced by different genotypes of the COMT gene. Specifically, fibromyalgia patients carrying the Val/Val genotype exhibited significantly worse outcomes for the span of SST backward, SST backward score, SST total score and the Working Memory Index (WMI) than the Val/Val healthy carriers. Furthermore, the Val/Val patients performed worse on the SST backward and SST score than heterozygotes. Our findings are the first to show a link between the COMT gene and working memory dysfunction in fibromyalgia, supporting the idea that higher COMT enzyme activity would contribute to more severe working memory impairment in fibromyalgia.
Detection of BRAFV600E in Liquid Biopsy from Patients with Papillary Thyroid Cancer Is Associated with Tumor Aggressiveness and Response to Therapy
Authors: Jensen Kirk , Thakur Shilpa , Patel Aneeta , Mendonca-Torres Maria Cecilia , Costello John , Gomes-Lima Cristiane Jeyce , Walter Mary , Wartofsky Leonard , Burman Kenneth Dale , Bikas Athanasios , Ylli Dorina , Vasko Vasyl V. , Klubo-Gwiezdzinska Joanna
Published: August 2020

The detection of rare mutational targets in plasma (liquid biopsy) has emerged as a promising tool for the assessment of patients with cancer. We determined the presence of cell-free DNA containing the BRAFV600E mutations (cfBRAFV600E) in plasma samples from 57 patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) with somatic BRAFV600E mutation-positive primary tumors using microfluidic digital PCR, and co-amplification at lower denaturation temperature (COLD) PCR. Mutant cfBRAFV600E alleles were detected in 24/57 (42.1%) of the examined patients. The presence of cfBRAFV600E was significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.03), multifocal patterns of growth (p = 0.03), the presence of extrathyroidal gross extension (p = 0.02) and the presence of pulmonary micrometastases (p = 0.04). In patients with low-, intermediate- and high-risk PTCs, cfBRAFV600E was detected in 4/19 (21.0%), 8/22 (36.3%) and 12/16 (75.0%) of cases, respectively. Patients with detectable cfBRAFV600E were characterized by a 4.68 times higher likelihood of non-excellent response to therapy, as compared to patients without detectable cfBRAFV600E (OR (odds ratios), 4.68; 95% CI (confidence intervals)) 1.26–17.32; p = 0.02). In summary, the combination of digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) with COLD-PCR enables the detection of BRAFV600E in the liquid biopsy from patients with PTCs and could prove useful for the identification of patients with PTC at an increased risk for a structurally or biochemically incomplete or indeterminate response to treatment.
The Subgingival Microbiome in Patients with Down Syndrome and Periodontitis
Authors: Nóvoa Lourdes , Sánchez María del Carmen , Blanco Juan , Limeres Jacobo , Cuenca Maigualida , Marín María José , Sanz Mariano , Herrera David , Diz Pedro
Published: August 2020

Objective: To describe the subgingival microbiome of individuals with Down syndrome (DS). Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study that obtained bacterial DNA samples from 50 patients with DS, 25 with periodontitis (PDS) and 25 with a healthy periodontal condition (HDS). The samples were analyzed by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene V3–V4 hypervariable region using the MiSeq System. Taxonomic affiliations were assigned using the naïve Bayesian classifier integrated in QIIME2 plugins. We evaluated the difference in bacteria abundance between the sample groups using Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis tests. We evaluated the alpha diversity of the identified species using the Observed, Chao1metric, ACE and Shannon indices and evaluated beta diversity with principal coordinate analysis (registration code: 2018/510). Results: Twenty-one genera and 39 bacterial species showed a significantly different abundance between the study groups. Among the genera, Porphyromonas, Treponema, Tannerella and Aggregatibacter were more abundant in the PDS group than in the HDS group, as were the less commonly studied Filifactor, Fretibacterium and Desulfobulbus genera. Among the species, Porphyromonas spp. and Tannerella spp. were the most abundant in the PDS group; the most abundant species in the HDS group were Pseudomonas spp., Granulicatella spp. and Gemella spp. Conclusion: Well-recognized periodontal pathogens and newly proposed pathogenic taxa were associated with periodontitis in patients with DS.
The Role of Oral Microbiota in Intra-Oral Halitosis
Authors: Hampelska Katarzyna , Jaworska Marcelina Maria , Babalska Zuzanna Łucja , Karpiński Tomasz M.
Published: August 2020

Halitosis is a common ailment concerning 15% to 60% of the human population. Halitosis can be divided into extra-oral halitosis (EOH) and intra-oral halitosis (IOH). The IOH is formed by volatile compounds, which are produced mainly by anaerobic bacteria. To these odorous substances belong volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), aromatic compounds, amines, short-chain fatty or organic acids, alcohols, aliphatic compounds, aldehydes, and ketones. The most important VSCs are hydrogen sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, dimethyl disulfide, and methyl mercaptan. VSCs can be toxic for human cells even at low concentrations. The oral bacteria most related to halitosis are Actinomyces spp., Bacteroides spp., Dialister spp., Eubacterium spp., Fusobacterium spp., Leptotrichia spp., Peptostreptococcus spp., Porphyromonas spp., Prevotella spp., Selenomonas spp., Solobacterium spp., Tannerella forsythia, and Veillonella spp. Most bacteria that cause halitosis are responsible for periodontitis, but they can also affect the development of oral and digestive tract cancers. Malodorous agents responsible for carcinogenesis are hydrogen sulfide and acetaldehyde.
Gut Microbiota and Liver Interaction through Immune System Cross-Talk: A Comprehensive Review at the Time of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Scarpellini Emidio , Fagoonee Sharmila , Rinninella Emanuele , Rasetti Carlo , Aquila Isabella , Larussa Tiziana , Ricci Pietrantonio , Luzza Francesco , Abenavoli Ludovico
Published: August 2020

Background and aims: The gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem containing bacteria, viruses, fungi, yeasts and other single-celled organisms. It is involved in the development and maintenance of both innate and systemic immunity of the body. Emerging evidence has shown its role in liver diseases through the immune system cross-talk. We review herein literature data regarding the triangular interaction between gut microbiota, immune system and liver in health and disease. Methods: We conducted a search on the main medical databases for original articles, reviews, meta-analyses, randomized clinical trials and case series using the following keywords and acronyms and their associations: gut microbiota, microbiome, gut virome, immunity, gastrointestinal-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis (NASH), alcoholic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma. Results: The gut microbiota consists of microorganisms that educate our systemic immunity through GALT and non-GALT interactions. The latter maintain health but are also involved in the pathophysiology and in the outcome of several liver diseases, particularly those with metabolic, toxic or immune-mediated etiology. In this context, gut virome has an emerging role in liver diseases and needs to be further investigated, especially due to the link reported between severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and hepatic dysfunctions. Conclusions: Changes in gut microbiota composition and alterations in the immune system response are involved in the pathogenesis of metabolic and immune-mediated liver diseases.
Surgery for Adult Patients with Congenital Heart Disease: Results from the European Database
Authors: Vida Vladimiro , Zanotto Lorenza , Torlai Triglia Laura , Zanotto Lucia , Maruszewski Bohdan , Tobota Zdzislaw , Bertelli Francesco , Cattapan Claudia , Ebels Tjark , Bottigliengo Daniele , Gregori Dario , Sarris George , Horer Jurgen , Stellin Giovanni , Padalino Massimo , Di Salvo Giovanni ,   on the behalf of the European Congenital Heart Surgeons Association (ECHSA)
Published: August 2020

Adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) represent a growing population. To evaluate frequency, type and outcomes of cardiac surgery in ACHD, we gathered data from the European Congenital Heart Surgeons Association Database of 20,602 adult patients (≥18 years) with a diagnosis of congenital heart disease who underwent cardiac surgery, between January 1997 and December 2017. We demonstrated that overall surgical workload (as absolute frequencies of surgical procedures per year) for this specific subset of patients increased steadily during the study period. The most common procedural groups included septal defects repair (n = 5740, 28%), right-heart lesions repair (n = 5542, 27%) and left-heart lesions repair (n = 4566, 22%); almost one-third of the procedures were re-operations (n = 5509, 27%). When considering the year-by-year relative frequencies of the main procedural groups, we observed a variation of the surgical scenario during the last two decades, characterized by a significant increase over time for right and left-heart lesions repair (p < 0.0001, both); while a significant decrease was seen for septal defects repair (p < 0.0001) and transplant (p = 0.03). Overall hospital mortality was 3% (n = 622/20,602 patients) and was stable over time. An inverse relationship between mortality and the number of patients operated in each center (p < 0.0001) was observed.
Mixed Carbon Nanomaterial/Epoxy Resin for Electrically Conductive Adhesives
Authors: Lopes Paulo E. , Moura Duarte , Hilliou Loic , Krause Beate , Pötschke Petra , Figueiredo Hugo , Alves Ricardo , Lepleux Emmanuel , Pacheco Louis , Paiva Maria C.
Published: August 2020

The increasing complexity of printed circuit boards (PCBs) due to miniaturization, increased the density of electronic components, and demanding thermal management during the assembly triggered the research of innovative solder pastes and electrically conductive adhesives (ECAs). Current commercial ECAs are typically based on epoxy matrices with a high load (>60%) of silver particles, generally in the form of microflakes. The present work reports the production of ECAs based on epoxy/carbon nanomaterials using carbon nanotubes (single and multi-walled) and exfoliated graphite, as well as hybrid compositions, within a range of concentrations. The composites were tested for morphology (dispersion of the conductive nanomaterials), electrical and thermal conductivity, rheological characteristics and deposition on a test PCB. Finally, the ECA’s shelf life was assessed by mixing all the components and conductive nanomaterials, and evaluating the cure of the resin before and after freezing for a time range up to nine months. The ECAs produced could be stored at −18 °C without affecting the cure reaction.
A Cost-Effective System for Aerial 3D Thermography of Buildings
Authors: Daffara Claudia , Muradore Riccardo , Piccinelli Nicola , Gaburro Nicola , de Rubeis Tullio , Ambrosini Dario
Published: August 2020

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging and infrared (IR) thermography are powerful tools in many areas in engineering and sciences. Their joint use is of great interest in the buildings sector, allowing inspection and non-destructive testing of elements as well as an evaluation of the energy efficiency. When dealing with large and complex structures, as buildings (particularly historical) generally are, 3D thermography inspection is enhanced by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV—also known as drones). The aim of this paper is to propose a simple and cost-effective system for aerial 3D thermography of buildings. Special attention is thus payed to instrument and reconstruction software choice. After a very brief introduction to IR thermography for buildings and 3D thermography, the system is described. Some experimental results are given to validate the proposal.
Structural Similarity Measurement Based Cost Function for Stereo Matching of Automotive Applications
Authors: Zeglazi Oussama , Rziza Mohammed , Amine Aouatif , Demonceaux Cédric
Published: August 2020

The human visual perception uses structural information to recognize stereo correspondences in natural scenes. Therefore, structural information is important to build an efficient stereo matching algorithm. In this paper, we demonstrate that incorporating the structural information similarity, extracted either from image intensity (SSIM) directly or from image gradients (GSSIM), between two patches can accurately describe the patch structures and, thus, provides more reliable initial cost values. We also address one of the major phenomenons faced in stereo matching for real world scenes, radiometric changes. The performance of the proposed cost functions was evaluated within two stages: the first one considers these costs without aggregation process while the second stage uses the fast adaptive aggregation technique. The experiments were conducted on the real road traffic scenes KITTI 2012 and KITTI 2015 benchmarks. The obtained results demonstrate the potential merits of the proposed stereo similarity measurements under radiometric changes.