bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual in vitro invasion/migration suppressing and tamoxifen response modulating effects of a recombinant anti‐ALCAM scFv on breast cancer cells
Authors: Darvishi Behrad , Salehi Malihe , Boroumandieh Saeedeh , Majidzadeh‐A Keivan , Jalili Neda , Moradi‐Kalbolandi Shima , Farahmand Leila
Published: March 2020

It has been shown that overexpression of activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule (ALCAM) is involved in development of resistance to tamoxifen therapy and promotion of cell invasion, migration and metastasis in ER+ breast cancer cells. Thus, we hypothesized that blockade of ALCAM interconnections with antibodies could be an effective approach for reversing mentioned negative events associated with ALCAM overexpression in breast cancer cells. Here, an anti‐ALCAM scFv was recombinantly expressed and used throughout study for examination of the putative anticancer effects of ALCAM blockade. The anti‐ALCAM scFv coding sequence was obtained from GenBank database and after addition of a 6× His‐tag moiety, signal peptide and flanking sequences, the whole construct was expressed in Escherichia coli. Tamoxifen resistant MCF7 cells were then pretreat for 24 hours with purified recombinant anti‐ALCAM scFv prior to administration of tamoxifen. In parallel, the cytotoxicity profile of anti‐ALCAM scFv and tamoxifen co‐treatments against tamoxifen resistant and sensitive MCF7 cell lines was also evaluated using CompuSyn software. The invasion/migration inhibitory effects of anti‐ALCAM scFv on MDA‐MB‐231 cells were also evaluated. Pretreatment with anti‐ALCAM scFv could successfully enhance anti‐proliferative effects of tamoxifen against resistant MCF‐7 cell lines. Furthermore, the combination of 19.2:1 of tamoxifen to anti‐ALCAM scFv demonstrated synergistic cell inhibitory effect against tamoxifen resistant MCF7 cell lines. Also, incubating MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines with anti‐ALCAM scFv resulted in a 30% and 25% reduction in number of invaded and migrated cells respectively. Overall, application of anti‐ALCAM scFv could significantly suppress cancer cells metastasis in vitro and modulate tamoxifen resistant ER+ MCF7 cell line's sensitivity to tamoxifen.

Significance of the study

Acquisition of resistance to tamoxifen therapy is one of the major challenges associated with cancer chemotherapy, gradually turning a responsive tumour into a refractory more invasive one which ultimately ends in disease progression and relapse. Here, we reported expression of an anti‐ALCAM scFv, capable of increasing the sensitivity of tamoxifen resistant ER+ MCF‐7 cells to tamoxifen therapy following a 24‐hour pretreatment period. In addition, we demonstrated that the anti‐ALCAM scFv monotherapy was also capable of suppressing invasion and migration of MDA‐MB‐231 cells in Boyden chamber assays.
Tripartite motif protein 25 is associated with epirubicin resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells via regulating PTEN/AKT pathway
Authors: Yuan Peng , Zheng Aidong , Tang Qing
Published: March 2020

Tripartite motif protein 25 (TRIM25) expression was altered in various human cancers. Herein, we found that the expression of TRIM25 was elevated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of TRIM25 increased the sensitivity of HCC HepG2 cells to epirubicin (EPI), as indicated by reduced cell viability, enhanced cell apoptosis, and downregulated P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) and multiple drug‐resistance protein 1 (MRP1). Moreover, TRIM25 knockdown strengthened the effects of EPI on phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and phosphorylated (p)‐AKT. However, overexpression of TRIM25 exerted an opposite effect, weakening the sensitivity of Huh7 to EPI, and obviously increasing PTEN and reducing p‐AKT. Most important, all the changes induced by TRIM25 overexpression in Huh7 were reversed with additional treatment of LY294002 (an AKT pathway inhibitor). Notably, coimmunoprecipitation experiments confirmed the interaction between TRIM25 and PTEN. Knockdown of TRIM25 resulted in reduced ubiquitination of PTEN protein. Collectively, our data suggested that TRIM25 enhanced EPI resistance via modulating PTEN/AKT pathway, and targeting TRIM25 may enhance the sensitivity of HCC cells toward chemotherapy drugs.
Quantitative flow ratio—Meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Cortés Carlos , Carrasco‐Moraleja Manuel , Aparisi Alvaro , Rodriguez‐Gabella Tania , Campo Alberto , Gutiérrez Hipolito , Julca Fabián , Gómez Itziar , San Román Jose Alberto , Amat‐Santos Ignacio J.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Despite of the wide evidence of use fractional flow reserve (FFR), isolated angiography evaluation is still the main tool to indicate percutaneous coronary intervention. Quantitative flow ratio (QFR) is a new functional index to assess functional significance. Recently, few studies have showed the capacity of QFR to predict significance stenosis. The aim of this research has been to describe the evidence of QFR in this clinical setting, to analyze the global diagnosis accuracy of QFR versus FFR and to compare the difference in feasibility between retrospective and prospective analysis.

Methods and results

Systematic review of literature was performed. Eligible studies for the meta‐analysis were considered those directly evaluating de QFR versus FFR. Pooled values of diagnosis test and summary receiver operator curve were calculated. Main causes of not‐perform QFR analysis according to study design were also evaluated.

Sixteen studies were included. Good correlation and agreement were showed. Global sensibility, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 0.84, 0.89, 0.80, and 0.92, respectively. Then, 18% of evaluated vessels could not be analyzed. Significant differences were found in the percentage of discarded vessels and the cause of nonperformed analysis between retrospective or prospective analysis.

Conclusions

Excellent correlation and agreement between QFR and FFR was demonstrated. QFR assessment could be improved by its prospective analysis with a dedicated protocol.
Intraoperative considerations in a patient with chondroblastic osteosarcoma and saddle pulmonary embolism undergoing amputation
Authors: Smisson William B. , Vale Henrique , Chandrashekar Arvind , Hierlmeier Bryan J.
Published: March 2020

In patients presenting to the operating room with a saddle pulmonary embolism for noncardiac surgery, it is best to take a multidisciplinary approach and involve the cardiac and vascular surgeons.
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura caused by the over‐the‐counter weight supplement Root of Tejocote (Crataegus species)
Authors: Alhasson Hussam , Muchnik Eugene
Published: March 2020

Over‐the‐counter supplements, such as Alipotec which often purported to amplify weight loss and readily available in naturopathic shops, can have clinically significant patient outcomes including severe cytopenia, and even inducing immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
CO2 Hydrogenation with Cu/ZnO/Al2O3: A Benchmark Study
Authors: Ruland Holger , Song Huiqing , Laudenschleger Daniel , Stürmer Sascha , Schmidt Stefan , He Jiayue , Kähler Kevin , Muhler Martin , Schlögl Robert
Published: March 2020

The suitability of a commercial and industrially applied Cu‐based catalyst for the synthesis of methanol by CO2 hydrogenation was investigated. Unexpectedly, this system showed high stability and well‐performance under conditions that may be relevant for chemical energy conversion using hydrogen and energy from renewable technologies. This Cu‐based catalyst demonstrated excellent suitability for dynamical process operation that may be essential for effective compensation of the volatility of renewable energy sources.
Analysis of Morphological Changes in Monosodium Urate Monohydrate Crystals for Gout Treatment
Authors: Oda Momoko , Hirasawa Izumi , Kohori Fukashi
Published: March 2020

Gout is arthritis induced by monosodium urate monohydrate (MSU) crystals. The treatment of gout is mainly a symptomatic treatment, by suppressing the blood uric acid concentration with drugs. Here, the changes in crystal morphology in the process of MSU crystallization were investigated. Experiments were conducted to clarify the mechanisms of nucleation and growth of the MSU crystals, revealing that MSU first precipitated as granular crystals. Thereafter, nucleation and growth of needle‐like crystals were observed concomitant with the disappearance of the granular crystals. These results suggest that it is necessary to suppress the nucleation of granular crystals and the change in morphology from granular to needle‐like of the MSU crystals that cause gout.
Electronic Consequences of Ligand Substitution at Heterometal Centers in Polyoxovanadium Clusters: Controlling the Redox Properties through Heterometal Coordination Number
Authors: Meyer Rachel L. , Anjass Montaha H. , Petel Brittney E. , Brennessel William W. , Streb Carsten , Matson Ellen M.
Published: March 2020

The rational control of the electrochemical properties of polyoxovanadate‐alkoxide clusters is dependent on understanding the influence of various synthetic modifications on the overall redox processes of these systems. In this work, the electronic consequences of ligand substitution at the heteroion in a heterometal‐functionalized cluster was examined. The redox properties of [V5O6(OCH3)12FeCl] (1‐[V5FeCl]) and [V5O6(OCH3)12Fe]X (2‐[V5Fe]X; X=ClO4, OTf) were compared in order to assess the effects of changing the coordination environment around the iron center on the electrochemical properties of the cluster. Coordination of a chloride anion to iron leads to an anodic shift in redox events. Theoretical modelling of the electronic structure of these heterometal‐functionalized clusters reveals that differences in the redox profiles of 1‐[V5FeCl] and 2‐[V5Fe]X arise from changes in the number of ligands surrounding the iron center (e.g., 6‐coordinate vs. 5‐coordinate). Specifically, binding of the chloride to the sixth coordination site appears to change the orbital interaction between the iron and the delocalized electronic structure of the mixed‐valent polyoxovanadate core. Tuning the heterometal coordination environment can therefore be used to modulate the redox properties of the whole cluster.
Pathfinders in oncology from the beginning of modern surgery of intracranial tumors to the introduction of the Pap smear
Authors: Hajdu Steven I.
Published: March 2020

During the period from 1922 to 1942, several carcinogens were identified in coal tar, industrial oils, and petroleum, and radium was added to x‐ray as a potential carcinogen. It was proven that some viruses are capable of causing cancer, and the dependency of prostatic and mammary hyperplasia and carcinoma on naturally occurring hormones was established. Colon cancer was linked to hereditary and nonhereditary polyposis. A permanent place for diagnostic radiology was defined and radiation therapy advanced to preoperative and postoperative modalities using x‐ray and radium. The trend toward the use of radical surgery for primary and metastatic cancers continued. Although several new radical surgical procedures were developed and advanced as far as the technical skills of surgeons and the anatomic setting permitted, several innovative, less radical procedures were introduced. In chemotherapy, the basic principle of the treatment of advanced cancers with hormones was inaugurated. Pathologists synthesized what was known in tumor pathology, named new microscopic entities, recognized carcinoma in situ, developed histologic grading and pathologic staging of cancers, and introduced aspiration cytology and exfoliative cytology as new fields in oncology. It is interesting that despite profound global economic, social, and political upheaval and wars and preparation for wars, writers and producers of musicals and movies presented more memorable works than ever before. In the fields of science and technology, particularly nuclear physics and chemistry, profound discoveries were made that became a permanent part of human life. The progress made in oncology between 1922 and 1942 came about through the dedicated work of many individuals. However, there were 7 pathfinders (3 surgeons, 2 pathologists, 1 physician‐chemist, and 1 physician‐cytologist) who, despite their widely diverse backgrounds, personalities, and interest, made outstanding contributions to oncology to the magnitude that they deserve a permanent place in the history of medicine and oncology.
Mineralization Mechanism of Mineralization Bacteria on Strontium Crystallization of Simulated Radionuclides
Authors: Tian Xiuquan , Zhang Yingchun , Zhang Jian , Ye Zhiyang , Lian Jie , Duan Tao , He Rong , Zhu Wenkun
Published: March 2020

Microbial‐induced carbonate crystallization is a natural biological process in which microbes produce inorganic materials as part of their basic metabolic activities. Herein, the influence of the bacterial somatic solution and secretion solution on the crystal growth behavior of strontium carbonate (SrCO3) is studied. The mineralization mechanism of carbonate mineralizing bacteria on simulated radionuclides (Sr2+) is also demonstrated. The results reveal that the morphology of SrCO3 crystal formed by involvement of microbes is greatly different with chemical method, which means that microbes play a critical role during the SrCO3 crystallization process. Briefly, bacterial somatic provides nucleation sites for SrCO3 during both the nucleation and growth processes. In addition, bacterial secretions play a vital role in regulating the morphology of mineralized products. This work unveils the mineralization process of strontium nuclides, providing reference for the control of crystal morphologies and structural properties of the SrCO3.
The Nature of Carbon Dioxide in Bare Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zanatta Marcileia , Simon Nathália M. , Dupont Jairton
Published: March 2020

Ionic liquids (ILs) are among the most studied and promising materials for selective CO2capture and transformation. The high CO2sorption capacity associated with the possibility to activate this rather stable molecule through stabilization of ionic/radical species or covalent interactions either with the cation or anion has opened new avenues for CO2functionalization. However, recent reports have demonstrated that another simpler and plausible pathway is also involved in the sorption/activation of CO2by ILs associated with basic anions. Bare ILs or IL solutions contain almost invariable significant amounts of water and through interaction with CO2generate carbonates/bicarbonates rather than carbamic acids or amidates. In these cases, the IL acts as a base and not a nucleophile and yields buffer‐like solutions that can be used to shift the equilibrium toward acid products in different CO2reutilization reactions. In this Minireview, the emergence of IL buffer‐like solutions as a new reactivity paradigm in CO2capture and activation is described and analyzed critically, mainly through the evaluation of NMR data.
An automated patient monitoring using discrete‐time wireless sensor networks
Authors: Chatterjee Aditi , Biswas Jayabrata , Das Kiranmoy
Published: March 2020

In recent years, Internet of Things (IoT) devices are used for remote health monitoring. For remotely monitoring a patient, only the health information at different time points are not sufficient; predicted values of biomarkers (for some future time points) are also important. In this article, we propose a powerful statistical model for an efficient dynamic patient monitoring using wireless sensor nodes through Bayesian Learning (BL). We consider the setting where a set of correlated biomarkers are measured from a patient through wireless sensors, but the sensors only report the ordinal outcomes (say, good, fair, high, or very high) to the sink based on some prefixed thresholds. The challenge is to use the ordinal outcomes for monitoring and predicting the health status of the patient under consideration. We propose a linear mixed model where interbiomarker correlations and intrabiomarker dependence are modeled simultaneously. The estimated and the predicted values of the biomarkers are transferred over the internet so that health care providers and the family members of the patient can remotely monitor the patient. Extensive simulation studies are performed to assess practical usefulness of our proposed joint model, and the performance of the proposed joint model is compared to that of some other traditional models used in the literature.
Elevated pre‐transplant pulmonary vascular resistance is associated with early post‐transplant atrial fibrillation and mortality
Authors: Rivinius Rasmus , Helmschrott Matthias , Ruhparwar Arjang , Schmack Bastian , Darche Fabrice F. , Thomas Dierk , Bruckner Tom , Doesch Andreas O. , Katus Hugo A. , Ehlermann Philipp
Published: March 2020

Aims

Severely elevated pre‐transplant pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) has been linked to adverse effects after heart transplantation (HTX). The impact of a moderately increased PVR before HTX on post‐transplant outcomes remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an elevated pre‐transplant PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm−5 (≥3.75 Wood units) on outcomes after HTX.

Methods and results

This observational retrospective single‐centre study included 561 patients receiving HTX at Heidelberg Heart Center between 1989 and 2015. Patients were stratified by degree of pre‐transplant PVR. Analyses covered demographics, post‐transplant medication, mortality and causes of death after HTX, early post‐transplant atrial fibrillation (AF), and length of the initial hospital stay after HTX. Ninety‐four patients (16.8%) had a PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm−5 (≥3.75 Wood units). These patients had a higher rate of early post‐transplant AF [20.2 vs. 10.7%, difference: 9.5%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.9–18.1%, P = 0.01] and an increased 30 day post‐transplant mortality (25.5 vs. 6.4%, hazard ratio: 4.4, 95% CI: 2.6–7.6, P < 0.01), along with a higher percentage of death due to transplant failure (21.2 vs. 4.1%, difference: 17.1%, 95% CI: 8.7–25.5%, P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed a PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm−5 (≥3.75 Wood units) as a significant risk factor for increased 30 day mortality after HTX (hazard ratio: 4.4, 95% CI: 2.5–7.6, P < 0.01). Kaplan–Meier estimator showed a lower 2 year survival after HTX (P < 0.01) in patients with a PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm−5 (≥3.75 Wood units).

Conclusions

Elevated pre‐transplant PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm−5 (≥3.75 Wood units) is associated with early post‐transplant AF and increased mortality after HTX.
Saw tooth cardiomyopathy: a case report
Authors: Chenaghlou Maryam , Kasaei Mohammad , Taghavi Sepideh , Amin Ahmad , Naderi Nasim
Published: March 2020

Saw tooth cardiomyopathy is an unusual and rare type of left ventricular dysplasia that is characterized by multiple projections of compacted myocardium that makes the appearance of ‘saw tooth’ in noninvasive imaging. We present a young man with signs and symptoms of heart failure and reduced left ventricular function in echocardiography who showed distinctive left ventricle features of saw tooth cardiomyopathy (saw tooth appearance of myocardium in basal inferolateral and basal to mid lateral segments) in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.
Nutritional and antinutritional evaluation of complementary foods formulated from maize, pea, and anchote flours
Authors: Gemede Habtamu Fekadu
Published: March 2020

This study was aimed to evaluate nutritional and antinutritional contents of complementary foods from locally available and affordable raw materials (maize, pea, and anchote) grown in Western Ethiopia. The six formulated complementary diets analyzed for their proximate, mineral, and antinutritional continents were compared with Codex standards. The mineral ratios and molar ratios of the formulated diets were also evaluated and compared with each standard values. Six formulations were generated by d‐optimal mixture design. The formulated ingredient ranges 45%–61% maize, 23%–31% pea, and 14%–28% anchote. Design‐Expert® 6 (Stat‐Ease) was used to constrain the three components. The formulated diets ranged from 14.92% to 20.99%, 5.95% to 9.94%, 2.75% to 3.41%, and 59.10% to 66.22% of protein, fat, fiber, and utilizable carbohydrate, respectively. Mineral contents (mg/100 g) of the formulated diet ranged from 225.45 to 261.32, 11.48 to 12.61, 2.73 to 3.00, 357.92 to 391.13, 298.55 to 332.63, 252.00 to 278.01, and 44.26 to 51.56 for calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorous, potassium, sodium and magnesium, respectively. The proximate and mineral contents of the formulated diet 5 meet the Codex standards, except the fat contents of the complementary food standards. The molar ratios of the formulated diets in this study were below standard reference and which show the high mineral bioavailability in all the formulated diets. The results of the study revealed that the formulated diets contain very low antinutritional factors and high mineral bioavailability. The paper's findings show that the complementary food formulated from maize, pea, and anchote flours particularly diet 5 may be suitable to alleviate protein energy malnutrition and it can be used as a substitute for the expensive commercial complementary food.
Spatial variability of modern tectonic stress fields in the north‐eastern margin of Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Liming , Li Xianrui , Li Mingtao , Liang Zhirong , Tian Jingxiong , Zeng Zuoxun , Zeng Xianwei , Yan Guoxiang , Lu Maoxin , Yang Fanyan , Tan Zhen
Published: March 2020

A modern tectonic stress field for the north‐eastern margin of Tibetan Plateau was determined using linear inversion. Focal mechanism solutions and the depths of 54 earthquakes from 2009 to 2017 were obtained from broadband seismic waveforms. We derived the tectonic stress field using the SATSI (Spatial and Temporal Stress Inversion) software based on the damped linear inversion method. The stress tensor structures are primarily indicative of strike‐slip and thrust faulting; their distributions are controlled by the West Qinling and Haiyuan faults. The Longxi Block is surrounded by two faults dominated by thrust faulting; the regions in the periphery of the faults, (e.g., West Qingling Fault Zone and Liupanshan Basin) are primarily characterized by strike‐slip faulting. However, normal faulting has developed in the Haiyuan–Zhongwei Belt of Liupanshan Basin, indicating that the latest tectonic regime is an NNW–SSE extension instead of a strike‐slip fault with a thrust component, as has been previously suggested. This anomalous stress mechanism reflects the combined effects of block rotation and local extension resulting from movement along strike‐slip faults. The West Qinling Fault is dominated by thrust faulting instead of strike‐slip faulting. The Haiyuan–Liupanshan and Niushoushan–Luoshan faults are predominantly strike‐slip faulting. The directions of the maximum stress axes (σ1) in both Liupanshan Basin and the Longxi Block are ENE–WSW down to Liupanshan in the south and West Qinling Fault Zone, where the stress axes gradually rotate clockwise to E–W. The modern tectonic stress field implies that regional stress originates from far‐field effects of Indian and Eurasian plate collision.
Real world outcomes with Bortezomib Thalidomide dexamethasone and Cyclophosphamide Bortezomib dexamethasone induction treatment for transplant eligible multiple myeloma patients in a Latin American country. A Retrospective Cohort Study from Grupo Argentino de Mieloma Múltiple
Authors: Schütz Natalia P. , Ochoa Paola , Duarte Patricio , Remaggi Guillermina , Yantorno Sebastián , Corzo Ariel , Zabaljauregui Soledad , Shanley Claudia , Lopresti Sergio , Orlando Sergio , Verri Verónica , Quiroga Luis , García Carlos A. , Fernández Vanesa , Fantl Dorotea
Published: March 2020

Data about treatment outcomes and toxicity in Latin America are scarce. There are differences with central countries based on access to healthcare system and socioeconomic status. Argentinean Society of Hematology recommends bortezomib‐based triplets for induction treatment of transplant eligible newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. Most common options are CyBorD (cyclophosphamide, bortezomib and dexamethasone) and VTD (bortezomib, thalidomide and dexamethasone). Main goal of our retrospective, multicentric study was to compare very good partial response rate (VGPR) or better after induction treatment in a real‐world setting in Argentina. Secondary objectives included comparison of complete response (CR) post‐induction and after bone marrow transplantation, grade 3‐4 adverse events (AEs), progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Three hundred twenty‐two patients were included (median age at diagnosis: 57 years; 52% male; 28% had ISS3; 14% with high‐risk cytogenetics; median follow up: 34 months). CyBorD was indicated in 74% and 26% received VTD. In VTD arm, 72.62% of patients achieved at least VGPR vs 53.36% receiving CyBorD (odds ratio, OR: 1.96 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.08‐3.57; P = .026] after adjusting by age, ISS [International Staging System], lactate dehydrogenase levels (LDH) and cytogenetic risk. Difference in VGPR was 19.26% (95% CI: 15‐24). CR rate were 35.92% (VTD) vs 22.55% (CyBorD) (adjusted OR: 2.13 [95% CI: 1.12‐4.05]). Difference in CR was 13.37% (95% CI: 9.6‐17.53). Adverse events (AEs) were more common with VTD (69.05% vs 55.46% for CyBorD; P = .030), especially grade 3‐4 neuropathy (P = .005) and thrombosis (P = .001). Thromboprophylaxis was inadequate in 20.24% of patients. Hematological AEs were more common with CyBorD, especially thrombocytopenia (P = .017). PFS and OS at 24 months were not different between treatments. In this real‐world setting, VTD was associated with better CR and VGPR than CyBorD. Nevertheless, CyBorD continues to be the preferred induction regimen in Argentina, based on safety profile. Frontline autologous stem cell transplantation improves quality of responses, especially in countries with limited access to new drugs.
Caveolin‐1 in oncogenic metabolic symbiosis
Authors: Raudenska Martina , Gumulec Jaromir , Balvan Jan , Masarik Michal
Published: March 2020

Metabolic phenotypes of cancer cells are heterogeneous and flexible as a tumor mass is a hurriedly evolving system capable of constant adaptation to oxygen and nutrient availability. The exact type of cancer metabolism arises from the combined effects of factors intrinsic to the cancer cells and factors proposed by the tumor microenvironment. As a result, a condition termed oncogenic metabolic symbiosis in which components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) promote tumor growth often occurs. Understanding how oncogenic metabolic symbiosis emerges and evolves is crucial for perceiving tumorigenesis. The process by which tumor cells reprogram their TME involves many mechanisms, including changes in intercellular communication, alterations in metabolic phenotypes of TME cells, and rearrangement of the extracellular matrix. It is possible that one molecule with a pleiotropic effect such as Caveolin‐1 may affect many of these pathways. Here, we discuss the significance of Caveolin‐1 in establishing metabolic symbiosis in TME.
Safety and efficacy of ischial spine fascia and sacrospinous ligament fixation for symptomatic stage 2 and 3 apical prolapse
Authors: Ren Chang , Zhu Lan
Published: March 2020

Objective

To compare safety, efficacy, and impact on quality of life (QoL) between ischial spine fascia fixation (ISFF) and sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) for stage 2–3 pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Method

A prospective cohort study among women with POP attending a national referral university hospital in Beijing, China, between May 2007 and May 2015. Women underwent either ISFF or SSLF. Primary end point was objective success rates at 3 months after surgery. Exploratory outcomes included perioperative parameters, complications, subjective satisfaction rates and QoL at 1 year.

Results

There was no difference in baseline characteristics between the groups (all P>0.05). After ISFF and SSLF, the objective success rate at 3 months was 100% and 98.1% (P>0.99), the recurrence rate at 1 year was 5.3% and 8.3% (P=0.266), and the subjective satisfaction rate at 1 year was 97.8% and 97.9%, respectively. Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire‐12 scores improved significantly after ISFF. De novo urinary incontinence occurred for 5.3% and 6.3% of women, respectively, and de novo dyspareunia for approximately 14% of women in both groups.

Conclusion

ISFF was found to be a safe and effective alternative to SSLF for women with symptomatic stage 2 and 3 POP.
An in vivo and in vitro comparison of the effects of amoxicillin, gentamicin, and cefazolin sodium antibiotics on the mouse hepatic and renal glutathione reductase enzyme
Authors: Güller Pınar , Budak Harun , Şişecioğlu Melda , Çiftci Mehmet
Published: March 2020

Despite the fact that the use of antibiotics is increasing worldwide, it is clear that antibiotics can lead to oxidative stress. This is the first study to make a comparison of the impact of frequently prescribed antibiotics, including amoxicillin, gentamicin, and cefazolin sodium, on the gene, protein, and activity of glutathione reductase (GR), which is one of the primary antioxidant enzymes, in mouse liver and kidney tissues. First, the GR enzyme was purified by the 2′,5′‐ADP Sepharose 4B affinity chromatography with a specific activity of 84.615 EU/mg protein and 9.63 EU/mg protein from the mouse liver and kidney, respectively. The in vitro inhibitory effects of the antibiotics in question was determined. While cefazolin sodium did not exhibit any inhibitory effect, gentamicin and amoxicillin inhibited GR activity in both tissues. Furthermore, the in vivo effects of these drugs were investigated, and amoxicillin and cefazolin sodium‐inhibited GR activity in both liver and kidney tissues, while gentamicin did not have any effect on the kidney. Besides, while gentamicin downregulated and cefazolin sodium upregulated Gr gene expression, amoxicillin did not alter it. Protein expression was only affected by the administration of cefazolin sodium in the kidney. This study is important as it demonstrates that while amoxicillin and gentamicin showed parallel effects on the GR activity in liver and kidney tissues both in vitro and in vivo, cefazolin sodium had a very strong effect on hepatic and renal GR in vivo. Furthermore, the antibiotics used in this study induced oxidative stress in both tissues.
Effect of black tea and matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors on eroded dentin in situ
Authors: Ozan Gunce , Sar Sancakli Hande , Yucel Taner
Published: March 2020

Purpose of this in situ study was to evaluate the surface properties of eroded dentin specimens activated with three different matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors (chlorhexidine [CHX], fluoride, green tea), black tea, and water. One hundred eighty dentin samples were prepared from extracted third molars and then samples divided into six groups. Ten volunteers were carried three specimens of each group, on acrylic palatal appliances, which were fabricated exactly for them (n = 3). Erosive cycles were done by immersing appliances in cup containing Cola and was followed by rinsing with test solutions. Microhardness values were measured. Surface properties were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Lowest change in microhardness was shown in fluoride group whereas negative control group (water) had the highest change. There were no statistically significant differences among surface roughness changes (p > .05). The least change in microhardness was seen in the fluoride group (13.05 ± 8.07), while the control group showed the highest change (33.80 ± 12.42) and was statistically significant when compared to other groups (p < .05). Besides lowest depth, values were shown in fluoride group as well. AFM evaluations showed macromolecular deposits on surfaces of fluoride, CHX, and black tea groups. No superior results were detected in CHX + fluoride group and black tea showed similar surface characteristics as green tea. Mouthrinses containing not only green tea but also black tea could be beneficial for patients with exposed dentin surfaces. Catechines and theaflavins in teas could be useful for improving surface quality.
Clinical impact of radiofrequency ablation and stereotactic body radiation therapy for colorectal liver metastasis as local therapies for elderly, vulnerable patients
Authors: Gotohda Naoto , Nomura Shogo , Doi Manami , Karasawa Katsuyuki , Ohki Takamasa , Shimizu Yasuhiro , Inaba Yoshitaka , Takeda Atsuya , Takaki Haruyuki , Anai Hiroshi , Ikeda Masafumi , Sugimoto Motokazu , Akimoto Tetsuo
Published: March 2020

Background and Aim

Surgical resection is the standard local therapy for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). However, elderly and vulnerable patients sometimes have various organ dysfunctions. We have to conduct nonsurgical local therapies for those patients who might not tolerate surgery or systemic chemotherapy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 254 patients who underwent local therapies, including surgery, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), for CRLM from January 2010 to December 2016, at seven tertiary‐care institutions in Japan. This study was designed to include elderly, vulnerable patients who received local therapy for CRLM. For those undergoing liver resection, only those having one or more points of the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) were enrolled.

Results

Of the total 169 enrolled patients, 122 patients underwent surgery, 42 RFA, and 5 SBRT as the first local therapy for CRLM. Median overall survival from the first local therapy was 5.9 years for the surgery group, 2.7 years for the RFA group, and 3.8 years for the SBRT group. The proportion of the patients with CCI ≧3 was significantly higher in the group of RFA/SBRT than surgery (P < 0.0001). In selected patients with CCI ≧3, there was no difference of the median survival time between the surgery group and the RFA group.

Conclusions

We could have other treatment options to provide nonsurgical local therapies (RFA/SBRT) for elderly, vulnerable CRLM patients who have risks for surgery.
Cellular, Mineralized, and Programmable Cellulose Composites Fabricated by 3D Printing of Aqueous Pastes Derived from Paper Wastes and Microfibrillated Cellulose
Authors: Stolz Benjamin , Mülhaupt Rolf
Published: March 2020

Combining recycling of paper wastes (WPs) with extrusion‐based additive manufacturing represents a sustainable route to cellular cellulose composites tailored for lightweight construction. Particularly, shear mixing of shredded WPs with an aqueous solution of a polymer binder like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) yields aqueous pastes suitable for 3D printing. As a shear thinning additive, both WP and microfibrillated cellulose account for enhanced shear thinning and dimensional stability. Opposite to the formation of dense WP/PVA composites by melt extrusion, 3D printing of aqueous pastes produces cellular cellulose/PVA composites exhibiting hierarchical pore architectures. In spite of low densities around 0.8 g cm−3, high Young's modulus (2.0 GPa) and tensile strength (53 MPa) are achieved. Mechanical stability, water resistance, and even flame retardancy simultaneously improve by crosslinking with glyoxal and especially by mineralization. Multimaterial 3D printing combines the 3D dispensing of cellulose/PVA pastes with the simultaneous, staged, or subsequent spraying of aqueous water glass to enable mineralization of composite surface, bulk, and interlayers. Furthermore, the glyoxal‐mediated crosslinking affords thermo‐ and moisture‐responsive cellulose/PVA composites with programmable shape change induced either by heating at 100 °C or by exposure to moisture at 37 °C.
Improved Mechanical Properties and Flame Retardancy of Wood/PLA All‐Degradable Biocomposites with Novel Lignin‐Based Flame Retardant and TGIC
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhang Yumei , Qi Yunxia , Wang Hanbing , Liu Biying , Zhao Qi , Zhang Jia , Duan Jinchi , Zhang Liang , Sun Zhaoyan , Liu Baijun
Published: March 2020

In this study, a type of all‐degradable flame retardant wood/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) biocomposite (FPW) with low cost and excellent mechanical properties is prepared and studied. A novel lignin‐based phosphorus‐containing flame retardant (LMD) is synthesized first. PLA, wood powder, poly(butyleneadipate‐co‐terephthalate), triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC), and LMD are then melt‐blended to prepare FPW. The limiting oxygen index value of PLAF25L15‐4T (25% of L15MD and 4% of TGIC) reaches 28.6%. Furthermore, the residue at 700 °C is up to 31.3%, which apparently helps to increase the flame retardancy of FPW. Its tensile strength is as high as 48.7 MPa. The interfacial compatibilization is much improved as proved by scanning electron microscopy observation. This should be due to the in situ interfacial reaction between PLA, wood, and TGIC, and the lignin component both in wood and LMD. The obtained PLA biocomposite with improved mechanical and flame retardant properties is promising for its wide applications.
Integrated Design of a Mussel‐Inspired Hydrogel Biofilm Composite Structure to Guide Bone Regeneration
Authors: Lin Hua , Fu Yu , Gao Yujie , Mo Anchun
Published: March 2020

Ideal biomedically engineered hydrogels should imitate the physiological environment of natural bone tissue healing. The healing ability of soft tissue is stronger than that of bone tissue, thus leading to premature growth of soft tissue into the bone tissue area of the defect and resulting in poor bone tissue healing at the defect site. In addition, good cellular affinity is necessary to allow for postimplantation fusion with surrounding tissues. Inspired by the adhesion mechanism of natural mussels, a polydopamine‐polyacrylamide (PDA‐PAM) single‐network hydrogel and a PDA‐PAM/ACP hydrogel composed of amorphous hydroxyapatite (ACP) is designed to maintain sufficient free catechol groups in the hydrogel by preventing excessive oxidation of dopamine. The hydrogels are found to confer a strong healing ability without stimulation and to have cellular affinity. More notably, separation of the ACP layer and PDA‐PAM hydrogel is not easy to achieve in a synthetic hydrogel. It is found that the hydrogels (PDA‐PAM/ACP) promote bone formation. The gel up‐regulates the expression of osteogenic genes including alkaline phosphatase, runt‐related transcription factor 2, and osteocalcin. In vivo, 8‰ PDA‐PAM/ACP gel is found to effectively repair skull defects.
Adjustment of Cell Adhesion on Polyurethane Structures via Control of the Hard/Soft Segment Ratio
Authors: Lutzweiler Gaëtan , Barthes Julien , Vrana Nihal Engin , Rawiso Michel , Louis Benoît , Mayingi Josselin , Carre Albane , Drenckhan Wiebke , Schaaf Pierre
Published: March 2020

Creating substrates with a similar composition that can either prevent or promote cell adhesion is still a challenging feat. Here, it is shown that a strikingly simple method of tuning the amount of hard segments or isocyanate index (NCOind) of a polyurethane (PU) film allows to modulate cell adhesiveness. PU films are synthesized with NCOind of 75, 100, 200, 300 and 400 corresponding to ratios of isocyanate to hydroxyl functions of 0.75, 1, 2, 3, 4, respectively. The adhesive capacity of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts (3T3) and Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) are dependent on the NCOind. For NCOind below 300, no cell adhesion can be observed regardless of the cell type, whereas for NCOind of 300 and 400 cells adhere to the PU surface. WAXS and small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) studies reveal that variations of NCOind allows to modulate the phase separation in PU films. Porod's law shows that for NCOind of 300 and 400, the hard–soft segment interface is sharp. Conversely, samples with smaller NCOind present diffuse interfaces. Hence, the morphology of the interface between hard and soft domains appears to be a critical feature that correlates with the adhesion capacity of cells.
Quasilinear elliptic equations with critical growth involving jumping nonlinearities
Authors: do Ó João Marcos , Gloss Elisandra , Ribeiro Bruno
Published: March 2020

In this paper we deal with the following class of quasilinear elliptic problems
where is bounded with smooth boundary, g is a nonlinearity with subcritical growth condition and . This class of equations is inspired by the famous Ambrosetti–Prodi problems and here we prove existence of two solutions when the nonlinearity crosses the first eigenvalue, that means , and has one sided critical growth. By using some new and delicate estimates for the Talenti functions associated to the critical problem, we invoke variational methods to obtain our results.
Where to Look into the Puzzle of Polyphenols and Health? The Postbiotics and Gut Microbiota Associated with Human Metabotypes
Authors: Cortés‐Martín Adrián , Selma María Victoria , Tomás‐Barberán Francisco Abraham , González‐Sarrías Antonio , Espín Juan Carlos
Published: March 2020

The full consensus on the role of dietary polyphenols as human‐health‐promoting compounds remains elusive. The two‐way interaction between polyphenols and gut microbiota (GM) (i.e., modulation of GM by polyphenols and their catabolism by the GM) is determinant in polyphenols’ effects. The identification of human metabotypes associated with a differential gut microbial metabolism of polyphenols has opened new research scenarios to explain the inter‐individual variability upon polyphenols consumption. The metabotypes unequivocally identified so far are those involved in the metabolism of isoflavones (equol and(or) O‐desmethylangolesin producers versus non‐producers) and ellagic acid (urolithin metabotypes, including producers of only urolithin‐A (UM‐A), producers of urolithin‐A, isourolithin‐A, and urolithin‐B (UM‐B), and non‐producers (UM‐0)). In addition, the microbial metabolites (phenolic‐derived postbiotics) such as equol, urolithins, valerolactones, enterolactone, and enterodiol, and 8‐prenylnaringenin, among others, can exert differential health effects. The knowledge is updated and position is taken here on i) the two‐way interaction between GM and polyphenols, ii) the evidence between phenolic‐derived postbiotics and health, iii) the role of metabotypes as biomarkers of GM and the clustering of individuals depending on their metabotypes (metabotyping) to explain polyphenols’ effects, and iv) the gut microbial metabolism of catecholamines to illustrate the intersection between personalized nutrition and precision medicine.
A study on path loss prediction based on Tikhonov regularization using gradient adaptive step‐size in mountain areas
Authors: Lee Changwon
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a method of applying a regularization concept for more accurate path loss prediction in mountainous areas. Tikhonov regularization with gradient adaptive step‐size is used to adjust the path loss model. Measurements were conducted in two mountainous areas to compare the path loss prediction performances. Prediction accuracies were improved by up to 3.42 and 0.95 dB in the average error and the SD of errors by the proposed method when compared to the nontuned log‐distance path loss model and Edwards‐Durkin model with diffraction models.
Egg and Larval Collection Methods Affect Spawning Adult Numbers Inferred by Pedigree Analysis
Authors: Hunter Robert D. , Roseman Edward F. , Sard Nick M. , Hayes Daniel B. , Brenden Travis O. , DeBruyne Robin L. , Scribner Kim T.
Published: March 2020

Analytical methods that incorporate genetic data are increasingly used in monitoring and assessment programs for important rate functions of fish populations (e.g., recruitment). Because gear types vary in efficiencies and effective sampling areas, results from genetic-based assessments likely differ depending on the sampling gear used to collect genotyped individuals; consequently, management decisions may also be affected by sampling gear. In this study, genetic pedigree analysis conducted on egg and larval Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens collected from the St. Clair–Detroit River system using three gear types was used to estimate and evaluate gear-specific differences in the number of spawning adults that produced the eggs and larvae sampled (Ns), the effective number of breeding adults (Nb), and individual reproductive success. Combined across locations and sampling years, pooled estimates were 330 (Ns; point estimate) and 317 (Nb; 95% CI = 271–372). Mean reproductive success was 4.35 with a variance of 5.33 individuals/spawner. Mean ± SE estimated numbers of unique parents per genotyped egg or larva (i.e., adult detection rate) from 2015 samples were 1.140 ± 0.003 for vertically stratified conical nets, 0.836 ± 0.002 for D-frame nets, and 0.870 ± 0.002 for egg mats. Using samples from 2016, adult detection rates were 0.823 ± 0.001 for D-frame nets and 0.708 ± 0.001 for egg mat collections. Coancestry values were negatively correlated with adult detection rate. Although genetic pedigree analyses can improve the understanding of recruitment in fish populations, this study demonstrates that estimates from genetic analyses can vary with the targeted life stage (a biologically informative outcome) and sampling methodology. This study also highlights the influence of sampling methods on the interpretation of genetic pedigree analysis results when multiple gear types are used to collect individuals. Development of standardization approaches may facilitate spatial and temporal comparisons of genetic-based assessment results.
Arsenic Exposure Decreases Adiposity During High‐Fat Feeding
Authors: Carmean Christopher M. , Kirkley Andrew G. , Landeche Michael , Ye Honggang , Chellan Bijoy , Aldirawi Hani , Roberts Austin A. , Parsons Patrick J. , Sargis Robert M.
Published: March 2020

Objective

Arsenic is an endocrine‐disrupting chemical associated with diabetes risk. Increased adiposity is a significant risk factor for diabetes and its comorbidities. Here, the impact of chronic arsenic exposure on adiposity and metabolic health was assessed in mice.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice were provided ad libitum access to a normal or high‐fat diet and water +/− 50 mg/L of sodium arsenite. Changes in body weight, body composition, insulin sensitivity, energy expenditure, and locomotor activity were measured. Measures of adiposity were compared with accumulated arsenic in the liver.

Results

Despite uniform arsenic exposure, internal arsenic levels varied significantly among arsenic‐exposed mice. Hepatic arsenic levels in exposed mice negatively correlated with overall weight gain, individual adipose depot masses, and hepatic triglyceride accumulation. No effects were observed in mice on a normal diet. For mice on a high‐fat diet, arsenic exposure reduced fasting insulin levels, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance and β‐cell function, and systemic insulin resistance. Arsenic exposure did not alter energy expenditure or activity.

Conclusions

Collectively, these data indicate that arsenic is antiobesogenic and that concentration at the source poorly predicts arsenic accumulation and phenotypic outcomes. In future studies, investigators should consider internal accumulation of arsenic rather than source concentration when assessing the outcomes of arsenic exposure.
Introducing switched adaptive control for quadrotors for vertical operations
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Viswa N. , Roy Spandan
Published: March 2020

With the advent of intelligent transport, quadrotors are becoming an attractive solution while lifting or dropping of payloads during emergency evacuations, construction works, etc. During such operations, dynamic variations in (possibly unknown) payload cause considerable changes in the system dynamics. However, a systematic control solution to tackle such interchanging dynamical behavior is still missing. This paper proposes a switched dynamical framework to capture the interchanging dynamics of a quadrotor during vertical operations and a robust adaptive control solution to tackle such dynamics when it is unknown. The stability of the closed‐loop system is studied analytically and the effectiveness of the proposed solution is verified via simulations.