bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BRD7 suppresses invasion and metastasis in breast cancer by negatively regulating YB1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Niu Weihong , Luo Yanwei , Zhou Yao , Li Mengna , Wu Chunchun , Duan Yumei , Wang Heran , Fan Songqing , Li Zheng , Xiong Wei , Li Xiaoling , Li Guiyuan , Ren Caiping , Li Hui , Zhou Ming
Published: February 2020

Background

BRD7 is a tumor suppressor known to inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle progression and initiate apoptosis in breast cancer. However, the function and underlying molecular events of BRD7 in tumor invasion and metastasis in breast cancer are not fully understood.

Methods

BRD7 expression was assessed in two stable cell lines MDA231 and MCF7 with BRD7 overexpression and one stable cell line MDA231 with BRD7 interference using qRT-PCR and western blotting. CCK8 assay was used to examine the proliferation ability of MDA231 and MCF7 cells. Scratch wound healing assay was used to evaluate cell migration in MDA231 and MCF7 cells. Both Matrigel and three-dimensional invasion assays were performed to investigate the cell invasion ability after BRD7 overexpression or silencing or YB1 restoration in MDA231 and MCF7 cells. The potential interacting proteins of BRD7 were screened using co-immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry and verified by co-immunoprecipitation in HEK293T cells. Additionally, we confirmed the specific binding region between BRD7 and YB1 in HEK293T cells by constructing a series of deletion mutants of BRD7 and YB1 respectively. Finally, xenograft and metastatic mouse models using MDA231 cells were established to confirm the effect of BRD7 on tumor growth and metastasis.

Results

Here, the results of a series of assays in vitro indicated that BRD7 has the ability to inhibit the mobility, migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. In addition, YB1 was identified as a novel interacting protein of BRD7, and BRD7 was found to associate with the C-terminus of YB1 via its N-terminus. BRD7 decreases the expression of YB1 through negatively regulating YB1 phosphorylation at Ser102, thereby promoting its proteasomal degradation. Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis revealed that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the common change occurring with altered expression of either BRD7 or YB1 and that BRD7 represses mesenchymal genes and activates epithelial genes. Moreover, restoring the expression of YB1 antagonized the inhibitory effect of BRD7 on tumorigenicity, EMT, invasiveness and metastasis through a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Additionally, BRD7 expression was negatively correlated with the level of YB1 in breast cancer patients. The combination of low BRD7 and high YB1 expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis, distant metastasis and advanced TNM stage.

Conclusions

Collectively, these findings uncover that BRD7 blocks tumor growth, migration and metastasis by negatively regulating YB1-induced EMT, providing new insights into the mechanism by which BRD7 contributes to the progression and metastasis of breast cancer.
A phase II study of the combination chemotherapy of bevacizumab and gemcitabine in women with platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer
Authors: Nagao Shoji , Kogiku Ai , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Shibutani Takashi , Yamamoto Kasumi , Jimi Tomoatsu , Kitai Miho , Shiozaki Takaya , Matsuoka Kazuko , Yamaguchi Satoshi
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Bevacizumab and gemcitabine are key drugs for treating recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer. However, information about the combination of bevacizumab and gemcitabine is insufficient. We conducted a phase II study to assess the feasibility, clinical activity, and toxicity of this combination chemotherapy.

Methods

This study included women with platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer who received one to three regimens of platinum-based chemotherapy between April 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. The patients received bevacizumab 15 mg/kg intravenously on day 1 and gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 8 every 21 days until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was the completion rate of three cycles of chemotherapy. This study was registered in the University Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000016619).

Results

Among the 19 patients, 18 (95%) received ≥3 and 9 (47%) received ≥6 cycles of the study therapy. The objective response rate was 42% (complete response of 16% and partial response of 26%), and the clinical control rate was 84%. Hematological toxicity included neutropenia grade 3/4 in 9 patients (47%), anemia grade 3/4 in 2 (11%), and thrombocytopenia grade 3/4 in 1 (5%). One patient (5%) had grade 3 hypertension, and 1 (5%) had grade 3 protein urea. Possibly related grade 3 pulmonary toxicity was observed in 1 patient. Three patients needed dose reduction of gemcitabine to 800 mg/m2 due to treatment delay by 15 to 21 days on day1. There was no treatment delay more than 14 days on day 8. The median progression-free survival duration was 5.1 months and median overall survival duration was 21.3 months.

Conclusion

The combination chemotherapy with gemcitabine and bevacizumab was feasible, effective and safe. This combination chemotherapy may be explored in a further randomized trial.
Systematic functional identification of cancer multi-drug resistance genes
Authors: Lau Man-Tat , Ghazanfar Shila , Parkin Ashleigh , Chou Angela , Rouaen Jourdin R. , Littleboy Jamie B. , Nessem Danielle , Khuong Thang M. , Nevoltris Damien , Schofield Peter , Langley David , Christ Daniel , Yang Jean , Pajic Marina , Neely G. Gregory
Published: February 2020

Background

Drug resistance is a major obstacle in cancer therapy. To elucidate the genetic factors that regulate sensitivity to anti-cancer drugs, we performed CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screens for resistance to a spectrum of drugs.

Results

In addition to known drug targets and resistance mechanisms, this study revealed novel insights into drug mechanisms of action, including cellular transporters, drug target effectors, and genes involved in target-relevant pathways. Importantly, we identified ten multi-drug resistance genes, including an uncharacterized gene C1orf115, which we named Required for Drug-induced Death 1 (RDD1). Loss of RDD1 resulted in resistance to five anti-cancer drugs. Finally, targeting RDD1 leads to chemotherapy resistance in mice and low RDD1 expression is associated with poor prognosis in multiple cancers.

Conclusions

Together, we provide a functional landscape of resistance mechanisms to a broad range of chemotherapeutic drugs and highlight RDD1 as a new factor controlling multi-drug resistance. This information can guide personalized therapies or instruct rational drug combinations to minimize acquisition of resistance.
Admixture-enabled selection for rapid adaptive evolution in the Americas
Authors: Norris Emily T. , Rishishwar Lavanya , Chande Aroon T. , Conley Andrew B. , Ye Kaixiong , Valderrama-Aguirre Augusto , Jordan I. King
Published: February 2020

Background

Admixture occurs when previously isolated populations come together and exchange genetic material. We hypothesize that admixture can enable rapid adaptive evolution in human populations by introducing novel genetic variants (haplotypes) at intermediate frequencies, and we test this hypothesis through the analysis of whole genome sequences sampled from admixed Latin American populations in Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Puerto Rico.

Results

Our screen for admixture-enabled selection relies on the identification of loci that contain more or less ancestry from a given source population than would be expected given the genome-wide ancestry frequencies. We employ a combined evidence approach to evaluate levels of ancestry enrichment at single loci across multiple populations and multiple loci that function together to encode polygenic traits. We find cross-population signals of African ancestry enrichment at the major histocompatibility locus on chromosome 6, consistent with admixture-enabled selection for enhanced adaptive immune response. Several of the human leukocyte antigen genes at this locus, such asHLA-A,HLA-DRB51, andHLA-DRB5, show independent evidence of positive selection prior to admixture, based on extended haplotype homozygosity in African populations. A number of traits related to inflammation, blood metabolites, and both the innate and adaptive immune system show evidence of admixture-enabled polygenic selection in Latin American populations.

Conclusions

The results reported here, considered together with the ubiquity of admixture in human evolution, suggest that admixture serves as a fundamental mechanism that drives rapid adaptive evolution in human populations.
Protocol for a randomised controlled trial of a co-produced, complex, health promotion intervention for women with prior gestational diabetes and their families: the Face-it study
Authors:   On behalf of the Face-it Study Group, Nielsen Karoline Kragelund , Dahl-Petersen Inger Katrine , Jensen Dorte Møller , Ovesen Per , Damm Peter , Jensen Nanna Husted , Thøgersen Maja , Timm Anne , Hillersdal Line , Kampmann Ulla , Vinter Christina Anne , Mathiesen Elisabeth Reinhardt , Maindal Helle Terkildsen
Published: February 2020

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk of future diabetes in both mother, father and offspring. More knowledge is needed about how to effectively reduce the risk of diabetes through sustained behavioural interventions in these families. The Face-it intervention is a complex health promotion intervention embedded in multi-level supportive environments. The aim of the intervention is to reduce type 2 diabetes risk and increase quality of life among families in the first year following a GDM-affected pregnancy by promoting physical activity, healthy dietary behaviours and breastfeeding through a focus on social support, motivation, self-efficacy, risk perception and health literacy.

Methods

This national multicentre study is a two-arm randomised controlled trial including 460 women with GDM in a ratio of 2 (intervention):1 (usual care). The Face-it intervention consists of three main components: 1) additional visits from municipal health visitors, 2) digital health coaching tailored to family needs and 3) a structured cross-sectoral communication system in the health care system. The intervention runs from 3 to 12 months after delivery. The primary outcome is maternal body mass index at 12 months after delivery as a proxy for diabetes risk.

The women will be examined at baseline and at follow-up, and this examination will include blood tests, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), anthropometrics, blood pressure, self-reported diet and physical activity, breastfeeding, quality of life, health literacy, physical and mental health status, risk perception and social support. Aside from those data collected for OGTT and breastfeeding and offspring parameters, the same data will be collected for partners. Data on offspring anthropometry will also be collected. Information on pregnancy- and birth-related outcomes will be derived from the medical records of the woman and child.

Discussion

This randomised controlled trial seeks to demonstrate whether the Face-it intervention, addressing the individual, family and health care system levels, is superior to usual care in reducing diabetes risk for mothers and their families. Coupled with a process evaluation and an economic analysis, the study will provide evidence for policymakers and health services about health promotion among families affected by GDM and the potential for reducing risk of type 2 diabetes and associated conditions.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03997773. Registered June 25, 2019 – Retrospectively registered.
Evaluation of anti-infective potencies of formulated aloin A ointment and aloin A isolated from Aloe barbadensis Miller
Authors: Donkor Addai-Mensah , Donkor Martin Ntiamoah , Kuubabongnaa Ngmenpone
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Isolated bioactive components of plants or their raw extract are utilized as complementary or alternate remedy in copious illnesses. The current research was aimed at assessing the activity of aloin A isolated from Aloe barbadensis Miller and its formulated ointment against six (6) selected clinical isolates.

Methods

The column chromatography was utilized in isolating aloin A from chloroform/methanol solvent polarity. The characterization of the isolated compound was performed by spectroscopy techniques corresponding to UV, IR, 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. It was formulated as ointment using polyethylene glycol (PEG) and both the ointment and the isolated compound were probed for in vitro antimicrobial activity.

Results

Aloin A has been isolated from chloroform/methanol solvent mixture. The structure has been explicated as (10S)-10-β-d-glucopyranosyl-1,8-dihydroxy-3-(hydroxymethyl)-9(10H)-anthracenone(1S)-1,5-anhydro-1-[(9S)-4,5-dihydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-10-oxo-9,10-dihydro-9-anthracenyl]-d-glucitol. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the isolated aloin A on the pathogens ranged from 2.5 to 5.0 mg/ml and 0.32 to 5.0 mg/ml for both aloin A and the formulated ointment respectively. It was further revealed that the activity of aloin A showed dose dependence against all the test microorganisms. There was no significant difference in the activity of the drug against K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans and T. flavus (P > 0.05) when the concentration was raised from 2.5 to 5 mg/ml, however, there was significant difference (P ˂ 0.05) in activity against P. aeruginosa. The formulated ointment exhibited dose dependent activity against all test microorganisms. At low concentrations, the ointment showed no significant difference in diameter zone of inhibition against all test microorganisms (P > 0.05) except P. aeruginosa which exhibited a highly significant difference (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Both the isolated aloin A and its formulated ointment demonstrated substantial inhibition of growth of the pathogenic strains. These findings sturdily suggest that aloin A is a nascent drug that could be explored as skin and wound transmittable agent.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor signals attenuate lung fibrosis in the bleomycin-induced mouse model for pulmonary fibrosis through increase of regulatory T cells
Authors: Takei Hiroshi , Yasuoka Hidekata , Yoshimoto Keiko , Takeuchi Tsutomu
Published: February 2020

Background

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a serious complication of connective tissue diseases (CTDs). Although immune dysregulation triggered by genetic and environmental factors is thought to provoke inflammation and subsequent fibrosis, precise mechanisms of these processes remain unclear. Recent reports suggest that activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signals by various ligands such as tryptophan derivatives can induce hyper-immune responses and are involved in autoimmunity. We investigated the effects of AhR signals on the process of lung fibrosis and changes in immunological features using a bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis mouse model.

Methods

BLM was administered intratracheally to C57BL/6JJcl mice and either 5,11-dihydroindolo[3,2-b]carbazole-6-carboxaldehyde (FICZ), a natural AhR ligand, or vehicle was subsequently injected intraperitoneally on day 0, 1, and 2 from BLM administration. Mice were sacrificed at week 3, and lung fibrosis was quantified by the histological changes using the Ashcroft score and deposition of soluble collagen levels in the lung using Sircol assay. The population of immune cells infiltrated into the lungs was analyzed using flow cytometry.

Results

Both the Ashcroft score and soluble collagen level in FICZ-treated mice were significantly lower than those in the vehicle group. Moreover, the survival rate of FICZ-treated mice was significantly higher than that of control mice during the 3 weeks after treatment. Interestingly, flow cytometric analysis revealed that the number of CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) was significantly increased and CD4+IFNγ+ and γδ+IL-17A+ T cells were decreased in the lungs of FICZ-treated mice, while the total number of T, B, and NK cells were unaffected by FICZ treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that stimulation of AhR signals attenuated lung fibrosis by increasing Tregs and suppressing inflammatory T cell subsets in a BLM-induced fibrosis model. AhR signaling pathways may therefore be useful therapeutic targets for connective tissue disease-associated ILD.
Vascular lesions of the head and neck: an update on classification and imaging review
Authors: Brahmbhatt Akshaar N. , Skalski Kamila A. , Bhatt Alok A.
Published: February 2020

Vascular lesions have a varied appearance and can commonly occur in the head and neck. A majority of these lesions are cutaneous and congenital; however, some may be acquired and malignant. The presentation and clinical history of patients presenting with head and neck lesions can be used to guide further imaging, which can provide important diagnostic and therapeutic considerations. This review discusses the revised International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) classification system for vascular tumors and malformations, as well as explores the most common vascular anomalies including their clinical presentations and imaging findings.
Colorimetric determination of amaranth followed enrichment and separation using buoyant adsorbents
Authors: Wu Shu , Yu Yuanyuan , Zhang Cengceng , Chen Fang
Published: February 2020

A buoyant solid-phase extraction adsorbent was prepared by sodium alginate-coated hollow glass microspheres (HGMs) modified with 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (3-APTS) for the separation and enrichment of anionic dye amaranth. After adsorbing amaranth, these low-density adsorbents can float on the surface of the solution, so the separation between adsorbents and substrates can be carried out by flotation. Quantitative determination of amaranth after separation and enrichment can be achieved by combining spectrophotometry. Under the optimum conditions, the linear range and detection limit for amaranth detection were 0.02 mg L−1–2.0 mg L−1 and 0.0021 mg L−1, respectively. The proposed method was applied to the determination of amaranth in different beverages, and the results were in good agreement with those by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The recoveries of amaranth in different beverages were between 97.93 and 105.91%. The floating adsorbent can be used as a conventional sample preparation method for the detection of low concentration analytes in complex samples.
Does the application of diffusion weighted imaging improve the prediction of survival in patients with resected brain metastases? A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Zakaria Rasheed , Chen Yin Jie , Hughes David M. , Wang Sumei , Chawla Sanjeev , Poptani Harish , Berghoff Anna S. , Preusser Matthias , Jenkinson Michael D. , Mohan Suyash
Published: February 2020

Background

Brain metastases are common in clinical practice. Many clinical scales exist for predicting survival and hence deciding on best treatment but none are individualised and none use quantitative imaging parameters. A multicenter study was carried out to evaluate the prognostic utility of a simple diffusion weighted MRI parameter, tumor apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of imaging and clinical data was performed on a cohort of 223 adult patients over a ten-year period 2002–2012 pooled from three institutions. All patients underwent surgical resection with histologically confirmed brain metastases and received adjuvant whole brain radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Survival was modelled using standard clinical variables and statistically compared with and without the addition of tumor ADC.

Results

The median overall survival was 9.6 months (95% CI 7.5–11.7) for this cohort. Greater age (p = 0.002), worse performance status (p < 0.0001) and uncontrolled extracranial disease (p < 0.0001) were all significantly associated with shorter survival in univariate analysis. Adjuvant whole brain radiotherapy (p = 0.007) and higher tumor ADC (p < 0.001) were associated with prolonged survival. Combining values of tumor ADC with conventional clinical scoring systems such as the Graded Prognostic Assessment (GPA) score significantly improved the modelling of survival (e.g. concordance increased from 0.5956 to 0.6277 with Akaike’s Information Criterion reduced from 1335 to 1324).

Conclusions

Combining advanced MRI readings such as tumor ADC with clinical scoring systems is a potentially simple method for improving and individualising the estimation of survival in patients having surgery for brain metastases.
Implementation of vector control on electric vehicle traction system
Authors: Ibrahim Nady , Abdelaziz Mohamed , Ghoneima Maged , Hammad Sherif
Published: February 2020

Background

Nowadays, electric vehicle development takes a great attention in vehicle industry and researches, due to demising supplies of fuel, less pollution, and developing many resources of generating electricity as renewable energy and clean resources.

Results

This research is a part of the Autotronics Research Lab (ARL), applying researches on autonomous and electric vehicles. The main aim of the research is to apply vector control method on traction control system of electric vehicle (mini golf cart) by using two hub motors on the rear wheels while the two front wheels are used for steering; it is assumed that the controlled vehicle is fitted with some equipment which can used in autonomous driving.

Simulation results show the output response of speed and torque of the vehicle motors and vehicle speed while the vehicle is moving in a straight line or during steering and also show the fusion between vector control and power steering algorithm.

Conclusions

The system preforms the efficiency, safety, accuracy, and more controllability of electric vehicle traction system, leading to more stability in vehicle speed, lower troubleshoots, and less error in unstable surfaces and bad roads.
Frequency-dependent attenuation and dispersion caused by squirt flow: Three-dimensional numerical study
Authors: Alkhimenkov Yury , Caspari Eva , Gurevich Boris , Barbosa Nicolás D. , Glubokovskikh Stanislav , Hunziker Jürg , Quintal Beatriz
Published: February 2020

Seismic waves may exhibit significant dispersion and attenuation in reservoir rocks due to pore-scale fluid flow. Fluid flow at the microscopic scale is referred to as squirt flow and occurs in very compliant pores, such as grain contacts or microcracks, that are connected to other stiffer pores. We have performed 3D numerical simulations of squirt flow using a finite-element approach. Our 3D numerical models consist of a pore space embedded into a solid grain material. The pore space is represented by a flat cylinder (a compliant crack) whose edge is connected with a torus (a stiff pore). Grains are described as a linear isotropic elastic material, whereas the fluid phase is described by the quasistatic linearized compressible Navier-Stokes momentum equation. We obtain the frequency-dependent effective stiffness of a porous medium and calculate dispersion and attenuation due to fluid flow from a compliant crack to a stiff pore. We compare our numerical results against a published analytical solution for squirt flow and analyze the effects of its assumptions. Previous interpretation of the squirt flow phenomenon based mainly on analytical solutions is verified, and some new physical effects are identified. The numerical and analytical solutions agree only for the simplest model in which the edge of the crack is subjected to zero fluid pressure boundary condition while the stiff pore is absent. For the more realistic model that includes the stiff pore, significant discrepancies are observed. We identify two important aspects that need improvement in the analytical solution: the calculation of the frame stiffness moduli and the frequency dependence of attenuation and dispersion at intermediate frequencies.
Alexander Kluge’s Installations
Authors: Hottman Tara
Published: February 2020

Analysis of recent exhibitions featuring Alexander Kluge’s earlier films and televisual work in dialogue with work by other artists demonstrates how the aesthetics of installation art and modes of exhibiting moving images in art museums and galleries have allowed Kluge to continue developing but also revise practices he first engaged in other media. The so-called white-cube exhibition space presents Kluge’s earlier works in terms of remediation and provides him with an opportunity to employ and reconceptualize his approach to montage techniques and reception aesthetics. With their deployment in the white cube, his earlier works become emphatically transmedial, their content and forms no longer bound to one primary medium. This article proposes that the white cube might be better suited for actively and collectively engaging with Kluge’s work in the twenty-first century than the black box of the cinema, the late-night television screen, or the internet.
Bringing immersive science to undergraduate laboratory courses using CRISPR gene knockouts in frogs and butterflies
Authors: Martin Arnaud , Wolcott Nora S. , O'Connell Lauren A.
Published: February 2020

The use of CRISPR/Cas9 for gene editing offers new opportunities for biology students to perform genuine research exploring the gene-to-phenotype relationship. It is important to introduce the next generation of scientists, health practitioners and other members of society to the technical and ethical aspects of gene editing. Here, we share our experience leading hands-on undergraduate laboratory classes, where students formulate hypotheses regarding the roles of candidate genes involved in development, perform loss-of-function experiments using programmable nucleases and analyze the phenotypic effects of mosaic mutant animals. This is enabled by the use of the amphibian Xenopus laevis and the butterfly Vanessa cardui, two organisms that reliably yield hundreds of large and freshly fertilized eggs in a scalable manner. Frogs and butterflies also present opportunities to teach key biological concepts about gene regulation and development. To complement these practical aspects, we describe learning activities aimed at equipping students with a broad understanding of genome editing techniques, their application in fundamental and translational research, and the bioethical challenges they raise. Overall, our work supports the introduction of CRISPR technology into undergraduate classrooms and, when coupled with classroom undergraduate research experiences, enables hypothesis-driven research by undergraduates.
The turquoise killifish: a genetically tractable model for the study of aging
Authors: Poeschla Michael , Valenzano Dario R.
Published: February 2020

Lifespan is a remarkably diverse trait in nature, ranging from just hours in adult mayflies to hundreds of years in the Greenland shark and quahog clam. Great disparities in lifespan are often observed even among somewhat closely related species; for example, in the laboratory, wild-derived strains of the common house mouse have a maximum observed lifespan of approximately 6 years, while a similarly sized rodent, the naked mole rat, can live for over 30 years. Comparative biology of aging across the tree of life provides a tremendous opportunity for understanding the molecular and genetic basis underlying lifespan and aging. However, a lack of molecular and laboratory tools has limited the ability of researchers to take full advantage of the incredible diversity of aging phenotypes in nature. Recent developments in genomic technology have made it increasingly possible to study non-canonical model organisms for aging. One promising new genetic model organism amenable to a range of experimental interventions is the turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri). This fish species has a naturally short lifespan and undergoes a wide range of aging-related transformations. These fish have a fully sequenced genome and transcriptome, and killifish embryos are accessible to transgenesis and genome editing. Furthermore, different killifish species and populations show striking differences in lifespan, providing the opportunity for comparative analysis of aging. This Review introduces the natural life history of the turquoise killifish, its emerging applicability as an aging model system, the genetic tools that have been developed to study aging for this species and a summary of recent studies facilitated by these new tools.
Modelling and assessment of 137-Cs and of heavy metals impact on marine ecosystems
Authors: Psaltaki M. , Markatos N. C.
Published: February 2020

Modelling is an important and useful tool for predicting the behaviour and the impact of pollutants on the local ecosystem parameters. More specifically, simulation and computational methods can be used for estimating the environmental impact on marine ecosystems.The paper presents a three-dimensional general deterministic model, developed to simulate and study the time-dependent behaviour of 137Cs in marine environments. The model capabilities are demonstrated by applying it at the northeast region of the island of Lemnos, in the NE Aegean Sea, Greece. Full Navier-Stokes equations for transient, three-dimensional turbulent flow, heat and mass transfer are solved numerically. The solution method is the finite-volume method and the general CFD code in which the present model is implemented is Phoenics.
Self-disclosure: the invaluable grey area
Authors: Warrender Dan
Published: February 2020

Self-disclosure can be valuable in therapeutic relationships, although practitioners may feel apprehension around boundaries and worry what may be appropriate. This article asserts the importance of critical thinking around self-disclosure, emphasising that while there is no clear ‘right and wrong’, what is necessary in professional practice is to carefully consider its purposeful use. Discussion using evidence and clinical examples is framed within a model that may be used to aid reflection on the use of self-disclosure within the therapeutic relationship. Self-disclosure is a grey area, but its use in mental health nursing can be invaluable.
Radioiodine treatment for hyperthyroid cats: frequently asked questions from vets and clients
Authors: Hibbert Angie
Published: February 2020

Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrinopathy affecting senior and geriatric cats. Radioactive iodine treatment is widely considered the gold-standard treatment because of its curative effect, associated high success rates, the lack of requirement for anaesthesia, preservation of parathyroid tissue and the ability to treat ectopic tissue and thyroid carcinoma. Until recently, access to radioactive iodine in the UK was limited to a few centres; however, more clinics are starting to offer the treatment, increasing the potential number of cats that can receive radioactive iodine. This review will cover topics including the pros and cons of treatment, the mechanism of radioactive iodine action and management of the feline patient during and after radioactive iodine, to enable veterinary surgeons to discuss the therapy in detail with their clients.
Are ‘healthy cohorts’ real-world relevant? Comparing the National Child Development Study (NCDS) with the ONS Longitudinal Study (LS)
Authors: Archer Gemma , Xun Wei W , Stuchbury Rachel , Nicholas Owen , Shelton Nicola
Published: February 2020

Comparisons between cohort studies and nationally representative ‘real-world’ samples are limited. The NCDS (1958 British birth cohort) follows those born in Britain in a single week in March 1958 (n=18,558); and the ONS Longitudinal Study (LS) contains linked census data and life events for a 1% sample of the population of England and Wales (> 1 million records; allowing for sub-samples by age, ethnicity, or other socio-demographic factors). Common country-and age-matched socio-demographic variables were extracted from the closest corresponding time-points, NCDS 55-year survey in 2013 (n=8107) and LS respondents aged 55 in 2011 (n=7052). Longitudinal associations between socio-demographic exposures (from the NCDS 46-survey in 2004 and LS respondents aged 45 in 2001) and long-term limiting illness (from NCDS 2013 and LS respondents 2011, aged 55) were assessed using logistic regression. The NCDS 55-year sample had similar characteristics to LS respondents aged 55 for sex and marital status, but the NCDS sample had lower levels of long-term limiting illness (19.7% vs 22.8%), non-white ethnicity (2.1% vs 11.7%) and living in South England (46.9% vs 50.1%), and higher levels of full-time employment (61.2% vs 55.2%), working in professional/higher managerial occupations (35.7% vs 29.2%), and living with a spouse (69.1% vs 64.9%), all p<0.001. Nevertheless, longitudinal associations between socio-demographic exposures and long-term limiting illness were similar in the NCDS and LS samples (all tests of between-study heterogeneity in mutually adjusted models p>0.09) suggesting these NCDS findings are largely generalisable to the population of England and Wales.
Efficiency enhancement of ultrathin CIGS solar cells by optimal bandgap grading: erratum
Authors: Ahmad Faiz , Anderson Tom H. , Monk Peter B. , Lakhtakia Akhlesh
Published: February 2020

Typographical errors in a few equations in [Appl. Opt.
58, 6067 (2019)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.58.006067] are
corrected.
From Bach to Helloween: ‘Teutonic’ stereotypes in the history of popular music and heavy metal
Authors: Herbst Jan-Peter
Published: February 2020

Throughout the centuries, German popular music has caused various foreign reactions from admiration to outright rejection. Sometimes, international audiences perceived it as too ‘Teutonic’; other times, this was exactly the reason for its appeal. This article traces ‘Teutonic’ features in 400 years of German popular music history, seeking to identify the emergence and development of ‘Teutonic’ stereotypes as well as their perception inland and abroad. The metal discourse was analysed based on a corpus of nearly 200,000 pages from magazines such as the British Kerrang! and the German Metal Hammer, Rock Hard and Deaf Forever. Stereotypes such as perfectionism, precision and rigidity seem to stem from historical roots, yet their projection onto ‘Teutonic metal’ is over-simplified and often out of context. History suggests that German metal bands were most successful when they exaggerated Germanness. Occasionally, bands became successful because their German features made them sound unique, even though they did not promote their heritage proactively. More often, though, bands that were unintentionally perceived as typically German were less appealing to a foreign audience. In the magazines, discussion of Teutonic attributes almost vanished in the twenty-first century. Global production practices needing to conform to international expectations of ever faster, tighter and heavier records likely made metal artists around the world adopt qualities that previously defined ‘Teutonic music’. It will therefore be interesting to see if or how German stereotypes in metal music will live on.
Book Reviews
Authors: Hazle Dawn , Herbst Jan-Peter , Samoylova Pavla
Published: February 2020

When the Uncertainty Principle Goes to 11: Or How to Explain Quantum Physics with Heavy Metal, Philip Moriarty (2018)

Dallas, TX: BenBella Books Ltd., 352 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-94464-852-7, p/bk, $17.95

Gender Inequality in Metal Music Production, Pauwke Berkers and Julian Schaap (2018)

Bingley: Emerald Publishing, 176 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78714-675-4, p/bk, £40.00

Gender Inequality in Metal Music Production, Pauwke Berkers and Julian Shaap (2018)

Bingley: Emerald Publishing Limited, 149 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-78714-675-4, p/bk, £40.00
Comparison of planting success in one-year-old spring, summer and autumn plantings of Norway spruce and Scots pine under boreal conditions
Authors: Pikkarainen Laura , Luoranen Jaana , Kilpeläinen Antti , Oijala Teppo , Peltola Heli
Published: February 2020

In Nordic countries, tree planting of seedlings is mainly performed during spring and early summer. Interest has increased in extending the planting window throughout the unfrozen growing season. This study compared the success of one-year-old spring, summer and autumn plantings in practical forestry in Norway spruce ( (L.) Karst.) and Scots pine ( L.) in southern and central Finland. Planting success was based on the number of viable seedlings per hectare relative to a species-specific target density. The influence of different factors to poor planting results were determined, including quality of site preparation and planting, and sources of natural damage. Overall, in Norway spruce, 85, 69 and 84% and in Scots pine 53, 55 and 40% of spring, summer and autumn plantings succeeded. In Norway spruce, the planting results were consistent between the southern and central regions, whereas in Scots pine, the success was slightly lower in the south. The poor work quality and a low density of appropriate planting spots, contributed to poor planting results, regardless of planting season, region or tree species. Considering different damages, especially mammal damage contributed to the failure of Scots pine spring plantings, whereas in summer plantings, corresponding single failure reason could not be identified. Based on our findings, extending the planting season of Norway spruce could be recommended in both regions. For Scots pine, there is still significant uncertainty about the success of summer and autumn plantings, partially due to the limited number of plantings available for analyses.Picea abiesPinus sylvestris
Planning for the Future: The Role of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in Survivorship Care
Authors: McCabe Mary S. , Pickard Todd Alan
Published: February 2020

Overview:

The number of cancer survivors in the United States now approaches 12 million individuals, with an estimated 7.2% of the general population aged 18 years or older reporting a previous cancer diagnosis. These figures highlight a number of questions about the care of survivors—how patients at risk for a known set of health problems should be followed, by whom, and for how long. At the same time that oncologists are developing strategies to provide services to this growing population, there are economic and systems challenges that have relevance to the previous questions, including a predicted national shortage of physicians to provide oncology services. Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) have been identified as members of the health care team who can help reduce the oncology supply and demand gap in a number of ways. The ASCO Study of Collaborative Practice Arrangements (SCPA) in 2011 concluded that oncology patients were aware and satisfied when their care was provided by NPs and PAs; there was an increase in productivity in practices that utilized NPs and PAs; utilizing the full scope of practice of NPs and PAs was financially advantageous; and, physicians, NPs, and PAs are highly satisfied with their collaborative practices. Increasingly, the oncology and health policy literature contains evidence supporting innovative provider models. There is still much work to be done to move beyond pilot data to establish the true value of these models.
Refining the Role of Radiation Therapy in Pediatric Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Hudson Melissa M. , Constine Louis S.
Published: February 2020

Overview:

The role of radiation therapy in the treatment of pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma has continued to be refined, motivated by the desire to avoid disruption to normal tissue development and function and secondary carcinogenesis. Such progress has occurred in tandem with modifications of the multiagent chemotherapy regimens that have been used in place of or in combination with low-dose involved-field radiation that are also associated with dose-related risks of cardiopulmonary and gonadal dysfunction and leukemogenesis. Consequently, treatment strategies for young patients, who have an excellent prognosis of long-term survival, utilizes a risk-adapted approach that provides optimal efficacy for disease control whereas limiting toxicity associated with both radiation and chemotherapy. Because of the differences in age-related developmental status and gender-related sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation toxicity, no single treatment approach is ideal for all pediatric patients. This manuscript summarizes results from published clinical trials with the goal of defining optimal treatment strategies for children and adolescents with Hodgkin lymphoma in regards to the use of radiation therapy.
A Myriad of Symptoms: New Approaches to Optimizing Palliative Care of Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Wiebe Lauren A.
Published: February 2020

Overview:

Patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) require early and frequent palliative interventions to achieve optimal quality of life for the duration of illness. Evidence-based supportive treatments exist to maximize quality of life for any patient, whether receiving chemotherapy or not. This article provides a comprehensive review of symptoms with current treatment recommendations and directions for future development. Celiac plexus neurolysis improves pain in the majority of patients with APC and should be moved earlier in the analgesic paradigm. Malignant bowel obstruction can be palliated quickly with optimal management via gastric decompression, octreotide, parenteral opioids, and standing antiemetics. Recommendations are provided for best treatment of malignant gastroparesis, gastric outlet obstruction, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in this population. Malignant ascites can be treated initially with diuretics and sodium-restriction in patients with an exudative process; however, an indwelling catheter is recommended for patients with recurrent ascites, particularly because of carcinomatosis or a refractory process. With exocrine insufficiency contributing to weight loss, pancreatic enzyme replacement is essential to improve nourishment in the majority of patients. Presently, megestrol acetate is the only U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapy for the anorexia-cachexia syndrome, although future developments are promising. Finally, patients with advanced pancreatic cancer should be screened and treated early for depression as a common comorbid diagnosis. Early palliative care consultation also helps address the existential and psychosocial concerns of patients facing death from pancreatic cancer in a holistic manner.
Considerations and Controversies in the Management of Older Patients with Advanced Cancer
Authors: Mohile Supriya Gupta , Klepin Heidi D. , Rao Arati V.
Published: February 2020

Overview:

The incidence of cancer increases with age. Oncologists need to be adept at assessing physiologic and functional capacity in older patients in order to provide safe and efficacious cancer treatment. Assessment of underlying health status is especially important for older patients with advanced cancer, for whom the benefits of treatment may be low and the toxicity of treatment high. The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is the criterion standard for evaluation of the older patient. The combined data from the CGA can be used to stratify patients into categories to better predict risk for chemotherapy toxicity as well as overall outcomes. The CGA can also be used to identify and follow-up on possible functional consequences from treatment. A variety of screening tools might be useful in the oncology practice setting to identify patients who may benefit from further testing and intervention. In this chapter, we discuss how the principles of geriatrics can help improve the clinical care of older adults with advanced cancer. Specifically, we discuss assessing tolerance for treatment, options for chemotherapy scheduling and dosing for older patients with advanced cancer, and management of under-recognized symptoms in older patients with cancer.
Buoyancy: A Model for Self-Reflection about Stress and Burnout in Oncology Providers
Authors: Fisch Michael J.
Published: February 2020

Overview:

Burnout is a prevalent syndrome among oncology providers marked by exhaustion, a sense of ineffectiveness, and depersonalization. This syndrome can have enormous influence on patient care as well as the provider's career fulfillment and personal and family well-being. A buoyancy model is proposed as a method to take stock of key parameters that may contribute to happiness and resiliency. Self-monitoring of personal buoyancy parameters may help oncology providers prevent burnout.
Advanced Biliary Tract Cancers
Authors: Goff Laura Williams , Berlin Jordan D.
Published: February 2020

Overview:

Single-agent management of metastatic biliary tract cancers with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or gemcitabine has shown limited efficacy, although 5-FU has been shown to be more effective than best supportive care alone. An analysis of phase II trials has suggested that platinums enhanced the efficacy of single-agent fluoropyrimidines. In a phase III randomized trial comparing single-agent gemcitabine with gemcitabine plus cisplatin, the gemcitabine/cisplatin combination significantly improved median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), which established a new option for standard of care. However, the future of cancer medicine lies in newer, targeted agents. In the management of biliary tract cancers, preliminary evidence with epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors has already demonstrated activity. This article reviews systemic therapies for metastatic biliary tract cancers as they relate to current and emerging standards of care.
Driving Evidence-Based Standardization of Care within a Framework of Personalized Medicine
Authors: Brufsky Adam , Lokay Kathleen , McDonald Melissa
Published: February 2020

Overview:

Cancer care in the United States faces a number of key challenges today that are causing payers, referring physicians, and patients alike to question the value of the care, in terms of both outcomes and costs. New technologies in the form of pharmaceuticals and biologics, prognostic tests, and new radiation therapy tools and techniques offer the promise of improved outcomes, but their cost-effectiveness is often unclear. Oncologists themselves are caught in the middle, as they are the prescribers of such technologies and the entity billing for such services but have only limited ability to influence the pricing models for these services. Finally, as oncology care becomes more complex because of increased understanding of the pathogenesis of the many subtypes of cancer, the community-based oncologist who cares for patients with all cancer subtypes is confronted with maintaining an up-to-date knowledge base that is expanding rapidly. Although no single solution for these issues exists in oncology today, the experience at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has demonstrated that a clinical pathways program can reduce unwarranted variability in both treatment and outcomes, drive adherence to evidence-based medicine, and, in the process, reduce the growth rate in the total costs of cancer care.