bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of differentially expressed microRNAs of sunflower seedlings under drought stress
Authors: Liang Chunbo , Wang Wenjun , Ma Jun , Wang Jing , Zhou Fei , Li Weizhong , Yu Ying , Zhang Liguo , Huang Wengong , Huang Xutang
Published: April 2020

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is considered to be drought‐tolerant, the roles of microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) in the response to drought have not been thoroughly studied. In this work, differentially expressed miRNAs of sunflower seedlings under drought stress were identified, and putative target genes were predicted. Ultimately, 163 known miRNAs and 90 novel miRNAs were identified and discovered. Under drought stress, 54 and 25 miRNAs were up‐regulated and down‐regulated in leaves, while 94 and 10 miRNAs were up‐regulated and down‐regulated in roots, respectively. A total of 1788 target genes were predicted. The results of gene ontology (GO) and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of target genes indicated that 47 and 74 genes were enriched for 14 and 19 GO terms in leaves and roots, respectively. In leaf, seven genes were possibly associated with binding to meta lion, adenyl ribonucleotide, alcohol and protein, two genes with transferase activity, three genes with hormone responses, and two genes with hormone‐mediated signaling pathways. In root, 23 genes were associated with binding functions, two genes with lignin metabolic processes, and three genes with hormone responses. We also discovered 40 target genes related to spliceosome function, of which three genes may take part in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) replication pathways that include nucleotide excision repair, mismatch repair, and homologous recombination. Sequencing of miRNAs and digital expression spectrum demonstrated that the differential expression of 21 genes may be the results of miRNAs regulating. These findings provide new information regarding molecular mechanisms of sunflower drought responses and add to the number of plant drought tolerance genes.
Frailty is an independent risk factor for recurrence and mortality following curative resection of stage I–III colorectal cancer
Authors: Mima Kosuke , Miyanari Nobutomo , Morito Atsushi , Yumoto Shinsei , Matsumoto Takashi , Kosumi Keisuke , Inoue Mitsuhiro , Mizumoto Takao , Kubota Tatsuo , Baba Hideo
Published: April 2020

Aim

With population aging, the number of frail patients with colorectal cancer has increased. The Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) is a validated tool for assessing frailty, and higher scores indicate worse clinical outcomes following cardiovascular procedures. This retrospective study aimed to examine preoperative frailty in relation to recurrence and mortality following curative resection of colorectal cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data for 729 consecutive patients undergoing curative resection of stage I–stage III colon and rectal adenocarcinoma between January 2009 and December 2016. Frailty was assessed using the CFS: 1 (very fit) to 9 (terminally ill), and frailty was defined as CFS ≥ 4. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared between frail and nonfrail patients. Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs), controlling for potential confounders.

Results

CFS score was negatively correlated with the Barthel index of activities of daily living (Spearman's ρ = −0.83). Of the 729 patients, 253 (35%) were frail. In multivariable analyses adjusting for potential confounders including age and disease stage, frailty was independently associated with shorter RFS (multivariable HR: 1.70, 95% confidence interval: 1.25‐2.31, P < .001) and OS (multivariable HR: 2.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.40‐2.99, P < .001). There were no significant interactions of frailty with age and disease stage regarding RFS and OS (Pinteraction > .72).

Conclusion

Preoperative frailty was independently associated with shorter RFS and OS following resection of nonmetastatic colorectal cancer, regardless of age and disease stage. Further trials are needed to establish treatment strategies for frail patients with colorectal cancer.
Astragaloside IV attenuates chronic intermittent hypoxia‐induced myocardial injury by modulating Ca2+ homeostasis
Authors: Jiang Shan , Jiao Guangyu , Chen Yunqiu , Han Mingxin , Wang Xinzhuo , Liu Wenjuan
Published: April 2020

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is an important consequence of chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). Astragaloside IV (AS‐IV) exerts multiple protective effects in diverse diseases. However, whether AS‐IV can attenuate CIH‐induced myocardial injury is unclear. In this study, rats exposed to CIH were established and treated with AS‐IV for 4 weeks. In vitro, H9C2 cardiomyocytes subjected to CIH exposure were treated with AS‐IV for 48 hours. Then the cardiac function, morphology, fibrosis, apoptosis and Ca2+ homeostasis were determined to assess cardiac damage. Results showed that AS‐IV attenuated cardiac dysfunction and histological lesions in CIH rats. The increased TUNEL‐positive cells and activated apoptotic proteins in CIH rats were reduced by AS‐IV. We also noticed that AS‐IV reversed the accumulation of Ca2+ and altered expressions of Ca2+ handling proteins (decreases of SERCA2a and RYR2, and increases of p‐CaMKII and NCX1) under CIH exposure. Furthermore, CIH‐induced reduction of SERCA2a activity was increased by AS‐IV in rats. Similar results were also observed in H9C2 cells. Altogether, these findings indicate that AS‐IV modulates Ca2+ homeostasis to inhibit apoptosis, protecting against CIH‐induced myocardial injury eventually, suggesting it may be a potential agent for cardiac damage of OSAS patients.

Significance of the study

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) is a great contributor of OSAS, which is closely associated with cardiovascular diseases. It is necessary for developing a promising drug to attenuate CIH‐induced myocardial injury. This work suggests that AS‐IV can attenuate myocardial apoptosis and calcium disruption, thus protecting against CIH‐induced myocardial injury. It may represent a novel therapeutic for cardiac damage of OSAS.
Chemospecific deficits in taste sensitivity following bilateral or right hemispheric gustatory cortex lesions in rats
Authors: Bales Michelle B. , Spector Alan C.
Published: April 2020

Our prior studies showed bilateral gustatory cortex (GC) lesions significantly impair taste sensitivity to salts (NaCl and KCl) and quinine (“bitter”) but not to sucrose (“sweet”). The range of qualitative tastants tested here has been extended in a theoretically relevant way to include the maltodextrin, Maltrin, a preferred stimulus by rats thought to represent a unique taste quality, and the “sour” stimulus citric acid; NaCl was also included as a positive control. Male rats (Sprague–Dawley) with histologically confirmed neurotoxin‐induced bilateral (BGCX, n = 13), or right (RGCX, n = 13) or left (LGCX, n = 9) unilateral GC lesions and sham‐operated controls (SHAM, n = 16) were trained to discriminate a tastant from water in an operant two‐response detection task. A mapping system was used to determine placement, size, and symmetry (when bilateral) of the lesion. BGCX significantly impaired taste sensitivity to NaCl, as expected, but not to Maltrin or citric acid, emulating our prior results with sucrose. However, in the case of citric acid, there was some disruption in performance at higher concentrations. Interestingly, RGCX, but not LGCX, also significantly impaired taste sensitivity, but only to NaCl, suggesting some degree of lateralized function. Taken together with our prior findings, extensive bilateral lesions in GC do not disrupt basic taste signal detection to all taste stimuli uniformly. Moreover, GC lesions do not preclude the ability of rats to learn and perform the task, clearly demonstrating that, in its absence, other brain regions are able to maintain sensory‐discriminative taste processing, albeit with attenuated sensitivity for select stimuli.
Do environmental, economic and reputational advantages strengthen green practices' impact on environmental performance?
Authors: Yusof Nor'Aini , Tabassi Amin Akhavan , Kamal Ernawati Mustafa
Published: April 2020

In an attempt to curb the hazardous effect of construction activities, there is a heightened debate about whether the perceptions of green practice (GP) advantages will encourage the adoption of GPs and improve environmental performance (EnvP). This article investigates the role of environmental, economic and reputational advantages of GPs and their relationship with EnvP. The data were collected from 148 project managers from the Malaysian construction industry and analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling. The results demonstrated that the relationship between green supply management and EnvP is more pronounced when environmental and reputational advantages are perceived as low, with the strongest effects derived from low perception of environmental advantage. The results advance existing knowledge by verifying the moderating effects of the advantages of various GPs. At the end of the article, several recommendations are made to help policy makers and project managers improve the EnvP of construction projects.
The utilisation of vascular limb salvage services in the assessment and management of chronic limb‐threatening ischaemia and diabetic foot ulceration: A systematic review
Authors: Nickinson A. T. O. , Houghton J. S. M. , Bridgwood B. , Essop‐Adam A. , Nduwayo S. , Payne T. , Sayers R. D. , Davies R. S. M.
Published: April 2020

Specialist vascular limb salvage services have gained prominence as a new model of care to help overcome barriers which exist in the management of patients with chronic limb‐threatening ischaemia (CLTI) and/or diabetic foot ulceration (DFU). This systematic review aims to explore the nature of reported services, investigate their outcome in the management of CLTI/DFU, and assess the scope and quality of the evidence base to help make recommendations for future practice and research. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Scopus and CINAHL, from 1st January 1995 to 18th January 2019, was performed. Specialist vascular limb salvage services were defined as those services conforming to the definition of “centres of excellence” within the 2019 Global Vascular Guidelines. A study protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42019123325). In total, 2260 articles were screened, with 12 articles (describing 11 services) included in a narrative synthesis. All services ran akin to the “toe‐and‐flow” model, with a number of services having additional core input from diabetology, microbiology, allied health professionals and/or internal/vascular medicine. Methodological weaknesses were identified within the design of the included articles and only one was deemed of high quality. The inception of services was associated with improved rates of major amputation; however, no significant changes in minor amputation or mortality rates were identified. Further research should adopt more a standardised study design and outcomes measures in order to improve the quality of evidence within the literature.
Brain substrate metabolism and ß‐cell function in humans: A positron emission tomography study
Authors: Rebelos Eleni , Mari Andrea , Bucci Marco , Honka Miikka‐Juhani , Hannukainen Jarna C. , Virtanen Kirsi A. , Hirvonen Jussi , Nummenmaa Lauri , Heni Martin , Iozzo Patricia , Ferrannini Ele , Nuutila Pirjo
Published: April 2020

Aims

Recent clinical studies have shown enhanced brain glucose uptake during clamp and brain fatty acid uptake in insulin‐resistant individuals. Preclinical studies suggest that the brain may be involved in the control of insulin secretion. The aim of this study was to investigate whether brain metabolism assessed as brain glucose and fatty acid uptake is associated with the parameters of β‐cell function in humans.

Materials and methods

We analysed cross‐sectional data of 120 subjects across a wide range of BMI and insulin sensitivity. Brain glucose uptake (BGU) was measured during euglycaemic‐hyperinsulinaemic clamp (n = 67) and/or during fasting (n = 45) using [18F]‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET). In another group of subjects (n = 34), brain fatty acid uptake was measured using [18F]‐fluoro‐6‐thia‐heptadecanoic acid (FTHA) PET during fasting. The parameters of β‐cell function were derived from OGTT modelling. Statistical analysis was performed with whole‐brain voxel‐based statistical parametric mapping.

Results

In non‐diabetics, BGU during euglycaemic hyperinsulinaemic clamp correlated positively with basal insulin secretion rate (r = 0.51, P = .0008) and total insulin output (r = 0.51, P = .0008), whereas no correlation was found in type 2 diabetics. BGU during clamp correlated positively with potentiation in non‐diabetics (r = 0.33, P = .02) and negatively in type 2 diabetics (r = −0.61, P = .02). The associations in non‐diabetics were not explained with whole‐body insulin sensitivity or BMI. No correlations were found between baseline (fasting) BGU and basal insulin secretion rate, whereas baseline brain fatty acid uptake correlated directly with basal insulin secretion rate (r = 0.39, P = .02) and inversely with potentiation (r = −0.36, P = .04).

Conclusions

Our study provides coherent, though correlative, evidence that, in humans, the brain may be involved in the control of insulin secretion independently of insulin sensitivity.
SFPQ‐ABL1‐positive B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemias
Authors: Biloglav Andrea , Olsson‐Arvidsson Linda , Theander Johan , Behrendtz Mikael , Castor Anders , Johansson Bertil
Published: April 2020

In recent years, a subgroup of B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP ALL) without an established abnormality (“B‐other”) has been shown to be characterized by rearrangements of ABL1, ABL2, CSF1R, or PDGFRB (a.k.a. ABL‐class genes). Using FISH with probes for these genes, we screened 55 pediatric and 50 adult B‐other cases. Three (6%) of the adult but none of the childhood B‐other cases were positive for ABL‐class aberrations. RT‐PCR and sequencing confirmed a rare SFPQ‐ABL1 fusion in one adult B‐other case with t(1;9)(p34;q34). Only six SFPQ‐ABL1‐positive BCP ALLs have been reported, present case included. A review of these shows that all harbored fusions between exon 9 of SFPQ and exon 4 of ABL1, that the fusion is typically found in adolescents/younger adults without hyperleukocytosis, and that IKZF1 deletions are recurrent. The few patients not treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and/or allogeneic stem cell transplantation relapsed, strengthening the notion that TKI should be added to the therapy of SFPQ‐ABL1‐positive BCP ALL.
Predictors of live birth rate in women with diminished ovarian reserve
Authors: Huang Rui , Wang Ning‐Ning , Li Ting‐Ting , Li Man‐Chao , Yang Xing , Liang Xiao‐Yan
Published: April 2020

Objective

To investigate the chance of live birth after several oocyte retrieval cycles in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and identify the possible predictors.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 931 patients with DOR who underwent in vitro fertilization at a university hospital in China between January 2012 and December 2014. All data for fresh and the associated frozen‐thawed embryo transfer attempts were analyzed. Conditional and cumulative live birth rates (LBRs) were calculated. Mediation and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the predictors of live birth.

Results

Conditional LBRs remained around 10.0% in the first five cycles. Conservative cumulative LBRs (CLBRs) reached 22.0% after three cycles and increased to 24.8% after six cycles; optimal CLBRs increased from 12.9% to nearly 50.0% after six cycles. Patient age and the number of good‐quality embryos were two key predictors in determining the conditional and conservative LBRs.

Conclusion

For patients with DOR, conditional LBR remained constant in the first five cycles, and patients should be encouraged to continue to three or five completed cycles to maximize their chance of live birth. Patient age and the number of good‐quality embryos were two key factors to predict live birth.
Complete atrioventricular dissociation and sinus arrest after pheochromocytoma resection
Authors: Yamada Yuya , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Banno Haruka , Hikami Kensuke , Nakashima Masakazu , Tamaki Masahiro , Ito Noriyuki
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Although preoperative bradycardia has been reported in several pheochromocytoma cases, postoperative bradycardia has not. This is the first case report of complete atrioventricular dissociation and sinus arrest occurring after pheochromocytoma resection.

Case presentation

A 38‐year‐old woman was referred for a left adrenal incidentaloma. Twenty‐four hour urinary collection showed elevated noradrenaline. Iodine‐123‐meta‐iodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy showed high tracer uptake in the left adrenal region. Open left adrenalectomy was performed, and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. Thirty minutes following surgery, complete atrioventricular dissociation and sinus arrest developed. Vagal reflex attenuation due to decreased noradrenaline after tumor removal and perioperative pain and fear were believed to be the causes. A temporary pacemaker was implanted to prevent sudden death due to vagal overstimulation.

Conclusion

Vagal reflex attenuation after pheochromocytoma resection can result in complete atrioventricular dissociation and sinus arrest. Adequate preoperative preparation and close monitoring during and after surgery are imperative.
Effect of salinity acclimation on osmoregulation, oxidative stress, and metabolic enzymes in the invasive Xenopus laevis
Authors: Hidalgo Jaime , Álvarez‐Vergara Felipe , Peña‐Villalobos Isaac , Contreras‐Ramos Carolina , Sanchez‐Hernandez Juan C. , Sabat Pablo
Published: April 2020

Aquatic animals often display physiological adjustments to improve their biological performance and hydrosaline balance in saline environments. In addition to energetic costs associated with osmoregulation, oxidative stress, and the activation of the antioxidant system are common cellular responses to salt stress in many species, but the knowledge of osmoregulation‐linked oxidative homeostasis in amphibians is scarce. Here we studied the biochemical responses and oxidative responses of Xenopus laevis females exposed for 40 days to two contrasting salinities: hypo‐osmotic (150 mOsm·kg−1·H2O NaCl, HYPO group) and hyper‐osmotic environments (340 mOsm·kg−1·H2O NaCl, HYPER group). We found an increase of plasma osmolality and plasma urea concentration in the animals incubated in the HYPER treatment. Increases in electrolyte concentration were paralleled with an increase of both citrate synthase and cytochrome c oxidase activities in liver and heart. Interestingly, HYPO group had higher catabolic activity of the skin and liver total antioxidant capacity (TAC), compared with animals from the HYPER group. Moreover, there was an inverse relationship between liver TAC and plasma osmolality; and with the metabolic enzymes from liver. These findings suggest that salinity induces changes in urea metabolism and specific activity of metabolic enzymes, which appears to be tissue‐dependent in X. laevis. Contrary to our expectations, we also found a moderate change in the oxidative status as revealed by the increase in TAC activity in the animals acclimated to low salinity medium, but constancy in the lipid peroxidation of membranes.
Coloniality, clonality, and modularity in animals: The elephant in the room
Authors: Hiebert Laurel S. , Simpson Carl , Tiozzo Stefano
Published: April 2020

Nearly half of the animal phyla contain species that propagate asexually via agametic reproduction, often forming colonies of genetically identical modules, that is, ramets, zooids, or polyps. Clonal reproduction, colony formation, and modular organization have important consequences for many aspects of organismal biology. Theories in ecology, evolution, and development are often based on unitary and, mainly, strictly sexually reproducing organisms, and though colonial animals dominate many marine ecosystems and habitats, recognized concepts for the study of clonal species are often lacking. In this review, we present an overview of the study of colonial and clonal animals, from the historic interests in this subject to modern research in a range of topics, including immunology, stem cell biology, aging, biogeography, and ecology. We attempt to portray the fundamental questions lying behind the biology of colonial animals, focusing on how colonial animals challenge several dogmas in biology as well as the remaining puzzles still to be answered, of which there are many.
Sleep health in young children living with socioeconomic adversity
Authors: Ordway Monica R. , Sadler Lois S. , Jeon Sangchoon , O'Connell Meghan , Banasiak Nancy , Fenick Ada M. , Crowley Angela A. , Canapari Craig , Redeker Nancy S.
Published: April 2020

Racially and ethnically diverse young children who live with socioeconomic adversity are at high risk for sleep deficiency, but few behavioral sleep interventions (BSIs) are tailored to their needs. To support the future development of a feasible, acceptable, and culturally relevant sleep intervention, we conducted a community‐engaged, mixed‐methods study with 40 low‐income, racially, and ethnically diverse parents to describe sleep characteristics, sleep habits, and parental sleep knowledge of their 6–36‐month‐old children and to examine the associations between children's sleep characteristics and sleep habits. This report presents quantitative data from this mixed‐methods study. We measured objective (actigraphy) and parent‐reported sleep (Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire) characteristics, sleep habits at bedtime, sleep onset, and during night awakenings, parental sleep knowledge, psychological function (Brief Symptom Inventory), and parenting stress (Parenting Stress Index). Children had low sleep duration (537.2 ± 54.7 nighttime and 111.2 ± 29.8 nap minutes), late bedtimes (22:36 ± 1.5 hr), and high bedtime variability (mean squared successive difference = 3.68 ± 4.31 hr) based on actigraphy. Parental knowledge about sleep recommendations was limited. Sleep habits before bedtime, at sleep onset, and during night awakenings were varied. Sixty‐five percent of parents reported co‐sleeping. Feeding near bedtime or during the night was associated with later bedtimes, more fragmented sleep, and increased bedtime variability. These findings suggest the need for BSIs to support earlier bedtimes and improve sleep duration and continuity by addressing modifiable behaviors. Tailored BSIs that consider socioecological influences on the development of sleep habits are needed.
Comparison of metal‐bound and unbound structures of aminopeptidase B proteins from Escherichia coli and Yersinia pestis
Authors: Minasov George , Lam Matthew R. , Rosas‐Lemus Monica , Sławek Joanna , Woinska Magdalena , Shabalin Ivan G. , Shuvalova Ludmilla , Palsson Bernhard Ø. , Godzik Adam , Minor Wladek , Satchell Karla J. F.
Published: April 2020

Protein degradation by aminopeptidases is involved in bacterial responses to stress. Escherichia coli produces two metal‐dependent M17 family leucine aminopeptidases (LAPs), aminopeptidase A (PepA) and aminopeptidase B (PepB). Several structures have been solved for PepA as well as other bacterial M17 peptidases. Herein, we report the first structures of a PepB M17 peptidase. The E. coli PepB protein structure was determined at a resolution of 2.05 and 2.6 Å. One structure has both Zn2+ and Mn2+, while the second structure has two Zn2+ ions bound to the active site. A 2.75 Å apo structure is also reported for PepB from Yersinia pestis. Both proteins form homohexamers, similar to the overall arrangement of PepA and other M17 peptidases. However, the divergent N‐terminal domain in PepB is much larger resulting in a tertiary structure that is more expanded. Modeling of a dipeptide substrate into the C‐terminal LAP domain reveals contacts that account for PepB to uniquely cleave after aspartate.
Population pharmacokinetics and target attainment of ciprofloxacin in critically ill patients
Authors: Abdulla Alan , Rogouti Omar , Hunfeld Nicole G. M. , Endeman Henrik , Dijkstra Annemieke , van Gelder Teun , Muller Anouk E. , de Winter Brenda C. M. , Koch Birgit C. P.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To develop and validate a population pharmacokinetic model of ciprofloxacin intravenously in critically ill patients, and determine target attainment to provide guidance for more effective regimens.

Methods

Non-linear mixed-effects modelling was used for the model development and covariate analysis. Target attainment of an ƒAUC0–24/MIC ≥ 100 for different MICs was calculated for standard dosing regimens. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to define the probability of target attainment (PTA) of several dosing regimens.

Results

A total of 204 blood samples were collected from 42 ICU patients treated with ciprofloxacin 400–1200 mg/day, with median values for age of 66 years, APACHE II score of 22, BMI of 26 kg/m2, and eGFR of 58.5 mL/min/1.73 m2. The median ƒAUC0–24 and ƒCmax were 29.9 mg•h/L and 3.1 mg/L, respectively. Ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics were best described by a two-compartment model. We did not find any significant covariate to add to the structural model. The proportion of patients achieving the target ƒAUC0–24/MIC ≥ 100 were 61.9% and 16.7% with MICs of 0.25 and 0.5 mg/L, respectively. Results of the PTA simulations suggest that a dose of ≥ 1200 mg/day is needed to achieve sufficient ƒAUC0–24/MIC ratios.

Conclusions

The model described the pharmacokinetics of ciprofloxacin in ICU patients adequately. No significant covariates were found and high inter-individual variability of ciprofloxacin pharmacokinetics in ICU patients was observed. The poor target attainment supports the use of higher doses such as 1200 mg/day in critically ill patients, while the variability of inter-individual pharmacokinetics parameters emphasizes the need for therapeutic drug monitoring to ensure optimal exposure.
Global Survey of Perceptions of the Surgical Safety Checklist Among Medical Students, Trainees, and Early Career Providers
Authors: Panda Nikhil , Koritsanszky Luca , Delisle Megan , Anyomih Theophilus T. K. , Desai Eesha V. , Sonnay Yves , Molina George , Madani Katayoun , Vervoort Dominique , Weiser Thomas G. , Benjamin Evan M. , Haynes Alex B.
Published: April 2020

Background

The Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) has been shown to reduce perioperative complications across global health systems. We sought to assess perceptions of the SSC and suggestions for its improvement among medical students, trainees, and early career providers.

Methods

From July to September 2019, a survey assessing perceptions of the SSC was disseminated through InciSioN, the International Student Surgical Network comprising medical students, trainees, and early career providers pursuing surgery. Individuals with ≥2 years of independent practice after training were excluded. Respondents were categorized according to any clinical versus solely non‐clinical SSC exposure. Logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between clinical/non‐clinical exposure and promoting future use of the SSC, adjusting for potential confounders/mediators: training level, human development index, and first perceptions of the SSC. Thematic analysis was conducted on suggestions for SSC improvement.

Results

Respondent participation rate was 24%. Three hundred and eighteen respondents were included in final analyses; 215 (67%) reported clinical exposure and 190 (60%) were promoters of future SSC use. Clinical exposure was associated with greater odds of promoting future SSC use (aOR 1.81 95% CI [1.03–3.19], p = 0.039). A greater proportion of promoters reported “Improved Operating Room Communication” as a goal of the SSC (0.21 95% CI [0.15–0.27]‐vs.‐0.12 [0.06–0.17], p = 0.031), while non‐promoters reported the SSC goals were “Not Well Understood” (0.08 95% CI [0.03–0.12]‐vs.‐0.03 [0.01–0.05], p = 0.032). Suggestions for SSC improvement emphasized context‐specific adaptability and earlier formal training.

Conclusions

Clinical exposure to the SSC was associated with promoting its future use. Earlier formal clinical training may improve perceptions and future use among medical students, trainees, and early career providers.
ESGAR consensus statement on the imaging of fistula-in-ano and other causes of anal sepsis
Authors: Halligan S. , Tolan D. , Amitai M. M. , Hoeffel C. , Kim S. H. , Maccioni F. , Morrin M. M. , Mortele K. J. , Rafaelsen S. R. , Rimola J. , Schmidt S. , Stoker J. , Yang J.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To develop imaging guidelines for patients with fistula-in-ano and other causes of anal sepsis.

Methods

An expert group of 13 members of the European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology (ESGAR) used a modified Delphi process to vote on a series of consensus statements relating to the imaging of patients with potential anal sepsis. Participants first completed a questionnaire to gather practice information and to help frame the statements posed.

Results

In the first round of voting, the expert group scored 51 statements of which 45 (88%) achieved immediate consensus. The remaining 6 statements were redrafted following input from the expert group and consensus achieved for all during a second round of voting, including an additional statement drafted. No statement was rejected due to a lack of consensus. After redrafting to improve clarity, 53 individual statements were presented.

Conclusion

These expert consensus statements can be used to guide appropriate indication, acquisition, interpretation and reporting of medical imaging for patients with potential fistula-in-ano and other causes of anal sepsis.

Key Points

• Medical imaging, notably magnetic resonance imaging, is used widely for the diagnosis and monitoring of fistula-in-ano and other causes of anal and perianal sepsis.

• While the indexed medical literature is clear that diagnostic accuracy is potentially excellent, this depends on competent image acquisition and interpretation.

• In order to facilitate this, the European Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiology (ESGAR) has produced expert consensus guidelines regarding the imaging of fistula-in-ano and related conditions.
Lymphatic MAFB regulates vascular patterning during developmental and pathological lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Dieterich Lothar C. , Tacconi Carlotta , Menzi Franziska , Proulx Steven T. , Kapaklikaya Kübra , Hamada Michito , Takahashi Satoru , Detmar Michael
Published: April 2020

MAFB is a transcription factor involved in the terminal differentiation of several cell types, including macrophages and keratinocytes. MAFB is also expressed in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and is upregulated by VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 signaling. Recent studies have revealed that MAFB regulates several genes involved in lymphatic differentiation and that global Mafb knockout mice show defects in patterning of lymphatic vessels during embryogenesis. However, it has remained unknown whether this effect is LEC-intrinsic and whether MAFB might also be involved in postnatal lymphangiogenesis. We established conditional, lymphatic-specific Mafb knockout mice and found comparable lymphatic patterning defects during embryogenesis as in the global MAFB knockout. Lymphatic MAFB deficiency resulted in increased lymphatic branching in the diaphragm at P7, but had no major effect on lymphatic patterning or function in healthy adult mice. By contrast, tumor-induced lymphangiogenesis was enhanced in mice lacking lymphatic MAFB. Together, these data reveal that LEC-expressed MAFB is involved in lymphatic vascular morphogenesis during embryonic and postnatal development as well as in pathological conditions. Therefore, MAFB could represent a target for therapeutic modulation of lymphangiogenesis.
Phase-field modeling of hydraulic fracture network propagation in poroelastic rocks
Authors: Ni Lin , Zhang Xue , Zou Liangchao , Huang Jinsong
Published: April 2020

Modeling of hydraulic fracturing processes is of great importance in computational geosciences. In this paper, a phase-field model is developed and applied for investigating the hydraulic fracturing propagation in saturated poroelastic rocks with pre-existing fractures. The phase-field model replaces discrete, discontinuous fractures by continuous diffused damage field, and thus is capable of simulating complex cracking phenomena such as crack branching and coalescence. Specifically, hydraulic fracturing propagation in a rock sample of a single pre-existing natural fracture or natural fracture networks is simulated using the proposed model. It is shown that distance between fractures plays a significant role in the determination of propagation direction of hydraulic fracture. While the rock permeability has a limited influence on the final crack topology induced by hydraulic fracturing, it considerably impacts the distribution of the fluid pressure in rocks. The propagation of hydraulic fractures driven by the injected fluid increases the connectivity of the natural fracture networks, which consequently enhances the effective permeability of the rocks.
Street protests and air pollution in Hong Kong
Authors: Brimblecombe Peter
Published: April 2020

June 2019 saw large-scale street protests in Hong Kong that impeded traffic flow along streets in areas around to the Legislative Council building. These had the potential to reduce overall air pollutant emissions from traffic and lower their concentrations. Two roadside monitoring stations relatively close to the Legislative Council reveal that measured concentrations of nitrogen dioxide declined during the protests compared with measurements from other sites by at least 50% on many occasions. There were only subtle changes in particulate loads and no evidence of any reduction in carbon monoxide concentrations. Pedestrianisation and bus route rationalisation are often seen as methods to reduce exposure in congested areas, but the observations here suggest that the substantial improvements in the nitrogen dioxide levels might not be matched by improvements in other pollutants. Plans for changes to street layouts to improve air quality need careful investigation before they are implemented.
A numerical approach to quasi-ballistic transport and plasma oscillations in junctionless nanowire transistors
Authors: Noei Maziar , Linn Tobias , Jungemann Christoph
Published: April 2020

A numerical framework for DC and RF small-signal simulations of nanowire transistors is presented, which is based on the self-consistent solution of the Poisson, Schrödinger, and Boltzmann transport equations and is stable for the entire range from weak to strong particle scattering. The proposed approach does not suffer from the deficiencies due to the transformation of the Boltzmann transport equation into the energy space and can handle the quasi-ballistic case. This is a key requirement for the investigation of plasma resonances and other high-mobility phenomena. The in-house solver is validated with results of a previously developed simulator based on the H-transformation for a conventional $$\hbox{N}^+\hbox{NN}^+$$

N
+

NN
+

silicon transistor with strong scattering. Then, its results are compared with those of moments-based models and it is shown that these do not provide a satisfactory description of the electron dynamics in the quasi-ballistic transport regime. Furthermore, the internal boundary conditions of the transport models at the contacts are found to have a significant impact on plasma resonances and the physics-based thermal-bath boundary condition strongly suppresses them.
The DSM-5 with Limited Prosocial Emotions Specifier for Conduct Disorder: a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Colins Olivier F. , Van Damme Lore , Hendriks Anne M. , Georgiou Giorgos
Published: April 2020

DSM-5 added a categorically defined specifier (‘with Limited Prosocial Emotions’; LPE) for the diagnosis of conduct disorder (CD). This paper systematically reviews the evidence base for this specifier in children and adolescents who are diagnosed with CD. Computer-assisted searches were executed and identified 181 potentially relevant papers. Eventually, nine papers were included in this review, referring to eight unique samples. All studies constructed an LPE measure by pulling the same items from the same rating scales that were used in the development of the DSM-5 LPE specifier. The prevalence of youth with CD who met criteria for this novel LPE specifier (CD + LPE) ranged from 6.1% to 83.7%. The studies greatly varied in the features used to test the viability of the DSM-5 LPE specifier. The most commonly used features relate to severity of antisocial behavior, low neuroticism (or lack of anxiety and depression), and treatment responsiveness. Available work altogether showed that CD + LPE youth displayed higher levels of past antisocial behaviour than CD Only youth, but failed to reveal other group differences that corroborate with expectations. Effect sizes typically were in the small to moderate range, suggesting that the practical usefulness of the group differences is limited. Empirical work shows that this specifier should not be used for clinical decision-making when relying on items from measures that have been used in the development of the LPE specifier. Crucially, limitations that hallmark the few studies on the topic hamper any firm conclusion about the usefulness of the specifier.
Evidence-based understanding of introductions of research articles
Authors: Bajwa Nida ul Habib , König Cornelius J. , Kunze Thiemo
Published: April 2020

Achieving publications in high-impact journals is a major cornerstone for academic careers in the US and elsewhere in the world. However, apart from novel insights and relevant contributions to the field, there are expectations of editors and reviewers regarding the structure and language of manuscripts that prospective contributors have to adhere to. As these expectations are mostly communicated using best-practice examples, especially international researchers might often wonder how to implement them in their manuscripts. Applying an applied linguistics model to 60 papers that were published in US-based and Indian management journals we derive evidence-based advice for the writing of introductions.
Effect of Weight Loss Surgery on Biomarkers of Angiogenesis in Obese Patients
Authors: Wiewiora Maciej , Mertas Anna , Gluck Marek , Nowowiejska-Wiewiora Alicja , Czuba Zenon , Piecuch Jerzy
Published: April 2020

Background

The present study aims to clarify the effects of weight loss on biomarkers associated with angiogenesis in patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in the 12-month follow-up study.

Materials and Methods

We studied 24 obese patients who underwent laparoscopic weight loss surgery, 13 of whom underwent SG and 11 of whom underwent LAGB. We evaluated the circulating level of angiogenesis biomarkers preoperatively and 12 months after surgery.

Results

Before surgery, the following angiogenic circulating factors were significantly higher than those of healthy subjects: angiopoietin 2 (ANG-2) (p < .05), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) (p < .05), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) (p < .01), platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (PECAM-1) (p < .01), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (p < .05). The following angiogenesis biomarkers decreased significantly after weight loss compared with their baseline values: ANG-2 (p < .05), follistatin (p < .05), HGF (p < .01), PECAM-1 (p < .01), and VEGF (p < .05). There were no significant differences in the circulating levels of angiogenesis biomarkers between individuals who underwent SG and those who underwent LAGB; however, HGF, PECAM-1, and VEGF tended to be lower after SG. %BMI correlated negatively with HGF, PECAM-1, and VEGF. A similar significant negative correlation was found for %WL and %EWL. WHR correlated with PDGF-B and VEGF.

Conclusions

We concluded that weight loss surgery induces the changes of circulating levels of angiogenesis biomarkers in obese patients. The changes in angiogenesis status in obese patients who lost weight after bariatric surgery depended on the amount of weight loss.
Determination of concentration of total sodium and potassium in surface and ground water using a flame photometer
Authors: Banerjee Payal , Prasad Bably
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we have investigated 18 water samples collected from various sources, e.g., surface, underground and river water, as specimens for their sodium and potassium ions content in and around Dhanbad, a mining town, using the flame photometry. We have plotted the contour maps to show the spatial distributions of the dissolved sodium and potassium cations in the groundwater and surface water sources in and around the Dhanbad city to identify the relative contributions of human and natural phenomena to it. Along with it, water quality index (WQI) is calculated to evaluate whether the collected surface, ground and river water samples are fit for human consumption for the residents of those areas. The water of Maithan Dam has been observed to have the least sodium and potassium concentrations of 16 mg/l and 7 mg/l, respectively, which make it most suitable for human consumption. The water of Rani Talab Pond has the highest sodium and potassium contents of 49 mg/l and 24 mg/l. WQI values of all the samples are found to be less than 50, which indicates they are safe to consume by the humans. Reduction in the use of pesticides, potassium permanganate and water softeners is recommended to maintain WQI of the Dhanbad city within safe limit.
Build systems à la carte: Theory and practice
Authors: MOKHOV ANDREY , MITCHELL NEIL , PEYTON JONES SIMON
Published: April 2020

Build systems are awesome, terrifying – and unloved. They are used by every developer around the world, but are rarely the object of study. In this paper, we offer a systematic, and executable, framework for developing and comparing build systems, viewing them as related points in a landscape rather than as isolated phenomena. By teasing apart existing build systems, we can recombine their components, allowing us to prototype new build systems with desired properties.
Shaping Water Management with Planetary Boundaries
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: April 2020

A new study uses the planetary boundaries concept to formulate an approach to water management that considers both global and local limits to water cycle modifications.
Continuous roll-to-roll patterning of three-dimensional periodic nanostructures
Authors: Chen I-Te , Schappell Elizabeth , Zhang Xiaolong , Chang Chih-Hao
Published: April 2020

In this work, we introduce a roll-to-roll system that can continuously print three-dimensional (3D) periodic nanostructures over large areas. This approach is based on Langmuir-Blodgett assembly of colloidal nanospheres, which diffract normal incident light to create a complex intensity pattern for near-field nanolithography. The geometry of the 3D nanostructure is defined by the Talbot effect and can be precisely designed by tuning the ratio of the nanosphere diameter to the exposure wavelength. Using this system, we have demonstrated patterning of 3D photonic crystals with a 500 nm period on a 50 × 200 mm2 flexible substrate, with a system throughput of 3 mm/s. The patterning yield is quantitatively analyzed by an automated electron beam inspection method, demonstrating long-term repeatability of an up to 88% yield over a 4-month period. The inspection method can also be employed to examine pattern uniformity, achieving an average yield of up to 78.6% over full substrate areas. The proposed patterning method is highly versatile and scalable as a nanomanufacturing platform and can find application in nanophotonics, nanoarchitected materials, and multifunctional nanostructures.
Tumour kinome re-wiring governs resistance to palbociclib in oestrogen receptor positive breast cancers, highlighting new therapeutic modalities
Authors: Pancholi Sunil , Ribas Ricardo , Simigdala Nikiana , Schuster Eugene , Nikitorowicz-Buniak Joanna , Ressa Anna , Gao Qiong , Leal Mariana Ferreira , Bhamra Amandeep , Thornhill Allan , Morisset Ludivine , Montaudon Elodie , Sourd Laura , Fitzpatrick Martin , Altelaar Maarten , Johnston Stephen R. , Marangoni Elisabetta , Dowsett Mitch , Martin Lesley-Ann
Published: April 2020

Combination of CDK4/6 inhibitors and endocrine therapy improves clinical outcome in advanced oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer, however relapse is inevitable. Here, we show in model systems that other than loss ofRB1few gene-copy number (CN) alterations are associated with irreversible-resistance to endocrine therapy and subsequent secondary resistance to palbociclib. Resistance to palbociclib occurred as a result of tumour cell re-wiring leading to increased expression ofEGFR, MAPK, CDK4, CDK2, CDK7, CCNE1andCCNE2. Resistance altered the ER genome wide-binding pattern, leading to decreased expression of ‘classical’ oestrogen-regulated genes and was accompanied by reduced sensitivity to fulvestrant and tamoxifen. Persistent CDK4 blockade decreased phosphorylation of tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2) enhancing EGFR signalling, leading to the re-wiring of ER. Kinome-knockdown confirmed dependency on ERBB-signalling and G2/M–checkpoint proteins such as WEE1, together with the cell cycle master regulator, CDK7. Noteworthy, sensitivity to CDK7 inhibition was associated with loss of ER andRB1CN. Overall, we show that resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors is dependent on kinase re-wiring and the redeployment of signalling cascades previously associated with endocrine resistance and highlights new therapeutic networks that can be exploited upon relapse after CDK4/6 inhibition.
Expression of RARRES1 and AGBL2 and progression of conventional renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Peterfi Lehel , Banyai Daniel , Yusenko Maria V. , Bjercke Thea , Kovacs Gyula
Published: April 2020

Background

Approximately 15% of clinically localised conventional renal cell carcinoma (RCC) will develop metastasis within 5 years of follow-up. The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers predicting the postoperative tumour relapse.

Methods

Tissue microarrays of conventional RCC from a cohort of 691 patients without metastasis at the time of operation were analysed by immunohistochemistry for the expression of carboxypeptase inhibitor RARRES1 and its substrate carboxypeptidase AGBL2. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were addressed to postoperative tumour relapse and the metastasis-free survival time was estimated by Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

In multivariate analysis, the lack of staining or cytoplasmic staining of RARRES1 was a significant risk factor indicating five times higher risk of cancer relapse. Combining its co-expression with AGBL2, we found that RARRES1 cytoplasmic/negative and AGBL2-positive/negative staining is a significant risk factor for tumour progression indicating 11–15 times higher risk of cancer relapse, whereas the membranous RARRES1 expression, especially its co-expression with AGBL2, associated with excellent disease outcome.

Conclusions

RARRES1 and AGBL2 expression defines groups of patients at low and high risk of tumour progression and may direct an active surveillance to detect metastasis as early as possible and to apply adjuvant therapy.