bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the Expression of Mitochondrial Morphology-Related Genes during the Differentiation of Murine Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Lee Jeong Eon , Seo Bong Jong , Han Min Ji , Hong Yean Ju , Hong Kwonho , Song Hyuk , Lee Jeong Woong , Do Jeong Tae
Published: January 2020

During embryonic development, cells undergo changes in gene expression, signaling pathway activation/inactivation, metabolism, and intracellular organelle structures, which are mediated by mitochondria. Mitochondria continuously switch their morphology between elongated tubular and fragmented globular via mitochondrial fusion and fission. Mitochondrial fusion is mediated by proteins encoded byMfn1,Mfn2, andOpa1, whereas mitochondrial fission is mediated by proteins encoded byFis1andDnm1L. Here, we investigated the expression patterns of mitochondria-related genes during the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Pluripotent ESCs maintain stemness in the presence of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) via the JAK-STAT3 pathway but lose pluripotency and differentiate in response to the withdrawal of LIF. We analyzed the expression levels of mitochondrial fusion- and fission-related genes during the differentiation of ESCs. We hypothesized that mitochondrial fusion genes would be overexpressed while the fission genes would be downregulated during the differentiation of ESCs. Though the mitochondria exhibited an elongated morphology in ESCs differentiating in response to LIF withdrawal, only the expression ofMfn2was increased and that ofDnm1Lwas decreased as expected, the other exceptions beingMfn1,Opa1, andFis1. Next, by comparing gene expression and mitochondrial morphology, we proposed an index that could precisely represent mitochondrial changes during the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells by analyzing the expression ratios of three fusion- and two fission-related genes. Surprisingly, increasedMfn2/Dnm1Lratio was correlated with elongation of mitochondria during the differentiation of ESCs. Moreover, application of this index to other specialized cell types revealed that neural stems cells (NSCs) and mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) showed increasedMfn2/Dnm1Lratio compared to ESCs. Thus, we suggest that theMfn2/Dnm1Lratio could reflect changes in mitochondrial morphology according to the extent of differentiation.
Phase II Trial of Cabozantinib in Recurrent/Metastatic Endometrial Cancer: A Study of the Princess Margaret, Chicago, and California Consortia (NCI9322/PHL86)
Authors: Dhani Neesha C. , Hirte Hal W. , Wang Lisa , Burnier Julia V. , Jain Angela , Butler Marcus O. , Welch Stephen , Fleming Gini F. , Hurteau Jean , Matsuo Koji , Matei Daniela , Jimenez Waldo , Johnston Carolyn , Cristea Mihaela , Tonkin Katia , Ghatage Prafull , Lheureux Stephanie , Mehta Anjali , Quintos Judy , Tan Qian , Kamel-Reid Suzanne , Ludkovski Olga , Tsao Ming-Sound , Wright John J. , Oza Amit M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

The relevance of the MET/hepatocyte growth factor pathway in endometrial cancer tumor biology supports the clinical evaluation of cabozantinib in this disease.

Patients and Methods:

PHL86/NCI#9322 (NCT01935934) is a single arm study that evaluated cabozantinib (60 mg once daily) in women with endometrial cancer with progression after chemotherapy. Coprimary endpoints were response rate and 12-week progression-free-survival (PFS). Patients with uncommon histology endometrial cancer (eg, carcinosarcoma and clear cell) were enrolled in a parallel exploratory cohort.

Results:

A total of 102 patients were accrued. Among 36 endometrioid histology patients, response rate was 14%, 12-week PFS rate was 67%, and median PFS was 4.8 months. In serous cohort of 34 patients, response rate was 12%, 12-week PFS was 56%, and median PFS was 4.0 months. In a separate cohort of 32 patients with uncommon histology endometrial cancer (including carcinosarcoma), response rate was 6% and 12-week PFS was 47%. Six patients were on treatment for >12 months, including two for >30 months. Common cabozantinib-related toxicities (>30% patients) included hypertension, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, and hand–foot syndrome. Gastrointestinal fistula/perforation occurred in four of 70 (6%) patients with serous/endometrioid cancer and five of 32 (16%) patients in exploratory cohort. We observed increased frequency of responses with somatic CTNNB1 mutation [four partial responses (PRs) in 10 patients, median PFS 7.6 months] and concurrent KRAS and PTEN/PIK3CA mutations (three PRs in 12 patients, median PFS 5.9 months).

Conclusions:

Cabozantinib has activity in serous and endometrioid histology endometrial cancer. These results support further evaluation in genomically characterized patient cohorts.
Examination of Treatment Satisfaction Instruments in Psoriasis: 2017 Results from the Psoriasis Working Group of the International Dermatology Outcome Measures (IDEOM)
Authors: Kornmehl Heather , Callis Duffin Kristina , Salame Nicole , Perez-Chada Lourdes M. , Singh Sanminder , Garg Amit , Gottlieb Alice B. , Latella John , Merola Joseph F. , Armstrong April W.
Published: January 2020

Background/Aims: In dermatology clinical trials, assessment of patients’ treatment satisfaction is crucial but often lacking. To address this need, IDEOM’s Psoriasis Working Group seeks to evaluate, develop, and validate treatment satisfaction instruments for the psoriasis population. The Psoriasis Working Group aimed to determine (1) factors affecting psoriasis patients’ satisfaction with their therapies, (2) adequacy of two commonly used generic treatment satisfaction instruments in reflecting the psoriasis patients’ perspective, and (3) whether a need exists to develop a new treatment satisfaction instrument. Methods: Patient perspectives on satisfaction with treatment efficacy, safety, convenience, and overall satisfaction were elicited.Stakeholders were presented with information regarding the feasibility and content validity of two generic treatment instruments, the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM) and the Treatment Satisfaction with Medicines Questionnaire (SATMED-Q). We conducted a nominal group discussion and survey to determine whether stakeholders considered these instruments feasible and adequate to address treatment satisfaction for psoriasis therapies. Results: Forty-five stakeholders participated in the nominal group discussion and survey. 53% of participants voted that the TSQM and SATMED-Q are not adequate and that we should create a new dermatology-specific treatment satisfaction instrument. Patients and other stakeholders also provided feedback on aspects of treatment satisfaction important to them. These include speed of onset and durability of therapeutic effect of a medication, permanence of side effects, and convenience of administering the medication. Conclusion: Stakeholders, including patients and providers, determined that generic treatment satisfaction questionnaires are not adequate to evaluate treatment satisfaction in psoriasis patients.
In vivo Oxygen Condition of Human Nasal Inferior Turbinate-Derived Stem Cells in Human Nose
Authors: Hwang Se Hwan , Lee Dong Chang , Kim Do Hyun , Kim Boo-Young , Park Sun Hwa , Lim Mi-Hyun , Jeun Jung Ho , Park Young Hoon , Kim Sung Won
Published: January 2020

Background and Objective: Human nasal inferior turbinate-derived stem cells (hNTSCs) have been considered as a potent and useful source for regenerative medicine. To most effectively mimic the native environment of inferior turbinate could be very effective to hNTSCs biology. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate partial pressure of oxygen (ppO2) and temperature in inferior turbinate. Methods: Ten patients were enrolled who underwent endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal skull base tumor surgery between January 2014 and December 2015. The commercially available OxyLab pO2 monitor gauges the ppO2 and temperature using a fluorescence quenching technique. Also, hNTSCs were isolated from 10 patients and cultivated under hypercapnic condition (5, 10, and 15%) to mimic hypoxic intranasal conditions. Results: The measured oxygen concentration in submucosa tissue was higher than that at the surface of the inferior turbinate and the temperature in submucosa tissue was higher than the value at the surface of inferior turbinate. The patterns of proliferation were significantly different according to hypercapnic cultivation conditions and there were statistically significant decreased proliferation rates after the exposure of higher CO2 over a period of 5 days. Conclusions: Intranasal turbinate tissue showed the hypoxia state in concordance with the result of the other tissues or organs. However, indirectly induced hypoxia influenced the influence on the hNTSCs proliferation negatively. Further study is needed to mimic the real hypoxic state, but our results could be used to optimize the culture environment of hNTSCs, thereby producing the stem cells for regenerative therapies.
A Novel Method of Implant Coverage for Post-Mastectomy Reconstruction after Previous Augmentation: A Case Report
Authors: Rossi Elisabetta Maria Cristina , Invento Alessandra , Iera Marco , Sacchini Virgilio , Veronesi Paolo , De Lorenzi Francesca
Published: January 2020

Background: Breast augmentation is the most common ­cosmetic surgical procedure in the USA, with nearly 300,000 women undergoing surgery annually. National incidence rates predict that among women undergoing breast augmentation each year, approximately 35,000 will eventually be diagnosed with breast cancer, in particular individual BRCA1/2 germline mutant carriers. Case Report: Our case introduces a novel method of implant coverage after immediate post-mastectomy reconstruction in augmented patients. A novel “capsular flap” (flap of the pre-existing old capsule) is isolated and refolded to cover the outer lower portion of the implant. Conclusion: Tailored surgical approaches can be offered to those patients previously augmented and requiring mastectomy after breast cancer diagnosis.
Motor Function Deficits in the Estrogen Receptor Beta Knockout Mouse: Role on Excitatory Neurotransmission and Myelination in the Motor Cortex
Authors: Varshney Mukesh Kumar , Yu Nancy Yiu-Lin , Katayama Shintaro , Li Xin , Liu Tianyao , Wu Wan-Fu , Töhönen Virpi , Krjutškov Kaarel , Kere Juha , Fan Xiaotang , Inzunza José , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Nalvarte Ivan
Published: January 2020

Background: Male estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) knockout (BERKO) mice display anxiety and aggression linked to, among others, altered serotonergic signaling in the basolateral amygdala and dorsal raphe, impaired cortical radial glia migration, and reduced GABAergic signaling. The effects on primary motor cortex (M1 cortex) and locomotor activity as a consequence of ERβ loss have not been investigated. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether locomotor activity is altered as a consequence of the changes in the M1 cortex. Methods: The locomotor activity of male wild-type (WT) and BERKO mice was evaluated using the open-field and rotarod tests. Molecular changes in the M1 cortex were analyzed by RNA sequencing, electron microscopy, electrophysiology, and immunohistological techniques. In addition, we established oligodendrocyte (OL) cultures from WT and BERKO mouse embryonic stem cells to evaluate OL function. Results: Locomotor profiling revealed that BERKO mice were more active than WT mice but had impaired motor coordination. Analysis of the M1 cortex pointed out differences in synapse function and myelination. There was a reduction in GABAergic signaling resulting in imbalanced excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission as well as a defective OL differentiation accompanied by myelin defects. The effects of ERβ loss on OL differentiation were confirmed in vitro. Conclusion: ERβ is an important regulator of GABAergic interneurons and OL differentiation, which impacts on adult M1 cortex function and may be linked to increased locomotor activity and decreased motor coordination in BERKO mice.
"Em pleno Foucault"
Authors: Lima Daniela
Published: January 2020

Em 1969, Michel Foucault (1926-1984) se tornou chefe do departamento de filosofia da Universidade de Vincennes e publicou Archéologie du Savoir. Um ano intenso, no qual Foucault passa a encarnar a figura de intelectual engajado, o que se relaciona tanto com a experiência efervescente em Vincennes como primeiro período de sua obra, a Arqueologia (década de 1960). Ou seja, diferentemente das interpretações clássicas que atribuem apenas ao seu segundo período, a Genealogia (década de 1970), uma dimensão política, havia na Arqueologia um potencial para suscitar novas formas de engajamento político
Fear of cancer recurrence among cancer survivors in Singapore
Authors: Mahendran R , Liu JL , Kuparasundram S , Simard S , Chan YH , Kua EH , Griva K
Published: January 2020

INTRODUCTION Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) among cancer survivors is a persistent and distressing psychosocial concern that affects recovery and quality of life. The prevalence of FCR in Singapore is unknown. This cross-sectional study was designed to examine FCR and identify factors associated with FCR in mixed-cancer survivors locally. METHODS Cancer survivors in remission (n = 404) were assessed for: FCR using the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI); emotional distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; and quality of life using the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF. Clinical and severe/pathological FCR was determined based on the severity scale of FCRI, known as FCRI-Short Form. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to examine factors associated with FCR. RESULTS The mean score on the FCRI was 59.5 ± 30.4. 43.6% of cancer survivors had clinical FCR and 32.1% had severe/pathological FCR. Younger age (odds ratio [OR] 0.952, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.911–0.995, p < 0.05), higher educational status (OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.15–5.65, p < 0.05) and higher levels of emotional distress (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.10–1.24, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with severe/pathological levels of FCR. CONCLUSION The present study is the first to determine levels of FCR among cancer survivors in Singapore. While the total FCR scores were similar to those of international studies, severe/pathological levels of FCR were found to be four times higher. These findings highlight a problem that is not widely recognised or acknowledged, but which deserves greater attention.
A new species of spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) from Panama: Mystacagenia kimseyae sp. nov.
Authors: CAMBRA ROBERTO A. , WASBAUER MARIUS S. , CORRO-CHANG PATRICIA
Published: January 2020

Mystacagenia Evans, 1973 is a strictly Neotropical genus of pompilid wasps (Pepsinae: Ageniellini), restricted to rain forest areas. The genus comprises four described species: M. albiceps Evans, 1973 (Peru, Brazil), M. bellula Evans, 1973 (Peru), M. variegata Evans, 1973 (Brazil), and M. elegantula Evans, 1980 (Panama). Mystacagenia is scarce in collections, with only eight specimens registered, all of these females (Evans 1973, 1977, 1980; Cambra 1993; Corro & Cambra 2011).
Investigating Long-Range Seasonal Predictability of East African Short Rains: Influence of the Mascarene High on the Indian Ocean Walker Cell
Authors: Peng Xiao , Steinschneider Scott , Albertson John
Published: January 2020

We investigate the predictability of East African short rains at long (up to 12 month) lead times by relating seasonal rainfall anomalies to climate anomalies associated with the predominant Walker circulation, including sea surface temperatures (SST), geopotential heights, zonal and meridional winds, and vertical velocities. The underlying teleconnections are examined using a regularized regression model that shows two periods of high model skill (0–3-month lead and 7–9-month lead) with similar spatial patterns of predictability. We observe large-scale circulation anomalies consistent with the Walker circulation at short lead times (0–3 months) and dipoles of SST and height anomalies over the Mascarene high region at longer lead times (7–9 months). These two patterns are linked in time by anticyclonic winds in the dipole region associated with a perturbed meridional circulation (4–6-month lead). Overall, these results suggest that there is potential to extend forecast lead times beyond a few months for drought impact mitigation applications.
Weather Literacy in Times of Climate Change
Authors: Fleischhut Nadine , Herzog Stefan M. , Hertwig Ralph
Published: January 2020

As climate change unfolds, extreme weather events are on the rise worldwide. According to experts, extreme weather risks already outrank those of terrorism and migration in likelihood and impact. But how well does the public understand weather risks and forecast uncertainty and thus grasp the amplified weather risks that climate change poses for the future? In a nationally representative survey (N = 1004; Germany), we tested the public’s weather literacy and awareness of climate change using 62 factual questions. Many respondents misjudged important weather risks (e.g., they were unaware that UV radiation can be higher under patchy cloud cover than on a cloudless day) and struggled to connect weather conditions to their impacts (e.g., they overestimated the distance to a thunderstorm). Most misinterpreted a probabilistic forecast deterministically, yet they strongly underestimated the uncertainty of deterministic forecasts. Respondents with higher weather literacy obtained weather information more often and spent more time outside but were not more educated. Those better informed about climate change were only slightly more weather literate. Overall, the public does not seem well equipped to anticipate weather risks in the here and now and may thus also fail to fully grasp what climate change implies for the future. These deficits in weather literacy highlight the need for impact forecasts that translate what the weather may be into what the weather may do and for transparent communication of uncertainty to the public. Boosting weather literacy may help to improve the public’s understanding of weather and climate change risks, thereby fostering informed decisions and mitigation support.
Enhanced data-driven optimal iterative learning control for nonlinear non-affine discrete-time systems with iterative sliding-mode surface
Authors: Wang Rongrong , Wei Yangchun , Chi Ronghu
Published: January 2020

In this work, an enhanced data-driven optimal iterative learning control (eDDOILC) is proposed for nonlinear nonaffine systems where a new iterative sliding mode surface (ISMS) is designed to replace the traditional tracking error in the controller design and analysis. It is the first time to extend the sliding mode surface to the iteration domain for systems operate repetitively over a finite time interval. By virtual of the new designed ISMS, the control design becomes more flexible where both the time and the iteration dynamics can be taken into account. Before proceeding to the controller design, an iterative dynamic linear data model is built between two consecutive iterations to formulate the linear input-output data relationship of the repetitive nonlinear nonaffine discrete-time system. The linear data model is virtual and does not have any physical meanings, which is very different to the traditional mechanism mathematical model. In the sequel, the eDDOILC is proposed by designing an objective function with respect to the proposed two-dimensional ISMS. Rigorous proof is provided to show the convergence of the proposed eDDOILC method. Furthermore, the results have been extended to a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) nonaffine nonlinear discrete-time repetitive system. In general, the proposed eDDOILC is data-driven where no explicit model information is included. It is illustrated that the presented eDDOILC is effective when applied to the nonlinear nonaffine uncertain systems.
Intraoperative Primary Tumor Identification and Margin Assessment in Head and Neck Unknown Primary Tumors
Authors: Herruer Jasmijn M. , Taylor S. Mark , MacKay Colin A. , Ubayasiri Kishan M. , Lammers Deanna , Kuta Victoria , Bullock Martin J. , Corsten Martin J. , Trites Jonathan R. B. , Rigby Matthew H.
Published: January 2020

Objective

Surgical management of the unknown primary head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (UP HNSCC) remains controversial due to challenging clinical diagnosis. This study compares positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET‐CT) findings with intraoperative identification of primary tumors and compares intraoperative frozen‐section margins to final histopathology. In addition, adjuvant therapy indications are provided.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Academic university hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Sixty‐one patients with UP HNSCC were included. Patients received PET‐CT, followed by oropharyngeal transoral laser microsurgery (TLM). Margins were assessed intraoperatively using frozen sections and afterward by final histopathology. Adjuvant treatment was based on final histopathology.

Results

The sensitivity of localizing the primary tumor with PET‐CT was 50.9% with a specificity of 82.5%. The primary tumor was found intraoperatively on frozen sections in 82% (n = 50) of patients. Five more tumors were identified on final histopathology, leading to a total of 90% (n = 55). Of the 50 intraoperatively found tumors, 98% (n = 49) had negative margins on frozen sections, and 90% (n = 45) were truly negative on final histopathology. Eighteen patients (29.5%) avoided adjuvant treatment.

Conclusion

PET‐CT localized the primary tumor in fewer than half the cases. This protocol identified 90% of primary tumors. Intraoperative frozen‐section margin assessment has shown potential with a specificity of 92% compared to final histopathology. As a result, adjuvant therapy was avoided in almost one‐third of our patients.
Down‐Expression of Kinin Receptors in Allergic Nasal Polyps Epithelia: An Immunohistochemistry Study
Authors: Warman Meir , Lahav Yonatan , Huszar Monica , Hadad Liad , Halperin Doron , Cohen Oded
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To investigate the expression of B1 and B2 receptors in patients with nasal polyps (NPs) compared to controls.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Settings

Single academic center.

Subjects and Methods

Nasal biopsies of patients with NPs were compared to inferior turbinates of control patients. Comparisons included basic demographics and comorbidities, intensity of inflammation, and immunohistochemical staining of B1 and B2 receptors measured by immunohistochemistry staining scores (ISSs).

Results

A total of 41 patients were enrolled, with 21 patients (51.2%) in the NP group and 20 patients as controls. No differences were found in the prevalence of allergic comorbidities and smoking between the groups. The NP group demonstrated significantly higher prevalence of moderate and severe mononuclear infiltrates compared to the control group (57.1% vs 5.3%, P <. 001). The NP group had significantly lower B1 expression in smooth muscle compared to the control group (mean ISS 0.22 vs 1.56, P <. 001, respectively) and significantly more B2 expression in epithelial cells (mean ISS 1.81 vs 0, P <. 001, respectively).

Conclusion

Patients with NPs exhibit different expression patterns of B1 and B2 compared to control patients. This implies that bradykinin receptor regulation participates in the pathogenesis of NPs.
Mild pericyte deficiency is associated with aberrant brain microvascular flow in aged PDGFRβ+/− mice
Authors: Watson Ashley N , Berthiaume Andree-Anne , Faino Anna V , McDowell Konnor P , Bhat Narayan R , Hartmann David A , Shih Andy Y
Published: January 2020

The receptor tyrosine kinase PDGFRβ is essential for pericyte migration to the endothelium. In mice lacking one allele of PDGFRβ (PDGFRβ+/−), previous reports have described an age-dependent loss of pericytes in the brain, leading to cerebrovascular dysfunction and subsequent neurodegeneration reminiscent of that seen in Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. We examined 12–20-month-old PDGFRβ+/− mice to better understand how pericyte loss affects brain microvascular structure and perfusion in vivo. We observed a mild reduction of cortical pericyte number in PDGFRβ+/− mice (27% fewer cell bodies) compared to controls, but no decrease in pericyte coverage of the endothelium. This mild degree of pericyte loss caused no discernable change in cortical microvascular density, length, basal diameter or reactivity to hypercapnia. Yet, it was associated with an increase in basal blood cell velocity, primarily in pre-capillary arterioles. Taken together, our results suggest that mild pericyte loss can lead to aberrant cerebral blood flow despite a lack of apparent effect on microvascular structure and reactivity.
Controlling two-dimensional collective formation and cooperative behavior of magnetic microrobot swarms
Authors: Dong Xiaoguang , Sitti Metin
Published: January 2020

Magnetically actuated mobile microrobots can access distant, enclosed, and small spaces, such as inside microfluidic channels and the human body, making them appealing for minimally invasive tasks. Despite their simplicity when scaling down, creating collective microrobots that can work closely and cooperatively, as well as reconfigure their formations for different tasks, would significantly enhance their capabilities such as manipulation of objects. However, a challenge of realizing such cooperative magnetic microrobots is to program and reconfigure their formations and collective motions with under-actuated control signals. This article presents a method of controlling 2D static and time-varying formations among collective self-repelling ferromagnetic microrobots (100 [Formula: see text]m to 350 [Formula: see text]m in diameter, up to 260 in number) by spatially and temporally programming an external magnetic potential energy distribution at the air–water interface or on solid surfaces. A general design method is introduced to program external magnetic potential energy using ferromagnets. A predictive model of the collective system is also presented to predict the formation and guide the design procedure. With the proposed method, versatile complex static formations are experimentally demonstrated and the programmability and scaling effects of formations are analyzed. We also demonstrate the collective mobility of these magnetic microrobots by controlling them to exhibit bio-inspired collective behaviors such as aggregation, directional motion with arbitrary swarm headings, and rotational swarming motion. Finally, the functions of the produced microrobotic swarm are demonstrated by controlling them to navigate through cluttered environments and complete reconfigurable cooperative manipulation tasks.
Development and Evaluation of a Cancer Literacy Intervention to Promote Mammography Screening Among Navajo Women: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sinicrope Pamela S. , Bauer Mark C. , Patten Christi A. , Austin-Garrison Martha , Garcia Linda , Hughes Christine A. , Bock Martha J. , Decker Paul A. , Yost Kathleen J. , Petersen Wesley O. , Buki Lydia P. , Garrison Edward R.
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

Develop and evaluate a mammography intervention that provides hope about cancer prevention and treatment.

Design:

Pilot randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Two communities on the Navajo Nation.

Participants:

Navajo women and support persons.

Intervention:

Both groups received standard care: one home visit discussing mammography pros/cons and barriers. The treatment group received an intervention based on Navajo language via an additional home visit with health education materials (written and oral) in English and Navajo, including a Navajo Cancer Glossary with a new descriptive phrase for cancer.

Analysis:

Between control and intervention conditions, we compared baseline sociodemographics; changes from baseline to 3 months on mammography completion and breast cancer literacy scores.

Measures:

(1) intervention feasibility; (2) self- and clinic-reported mammography screening completion; (3) breast cancer literacy.

Results:

A total of 25 participants were randomly assigned (13 treatment, 12 control), with 7 support persons in each arm. Mean age was 53 years, 90% had a high school degree or higher, 86% spoke Navajo and English. At 3 months, 44% had a clinically verified mammogram. Mammography completion was 57% among those with a support person and 27% among those without ( P = .14). Intervention women reported more breast cancer beliefs consistent with mammography ( P = .015).

Conclusions:

Increases in breast cancer beliefs consistent with mammography show promise. Findings highlight a need to tailor education materials to Navajo culture/language and focus on enhancing support.
Conflict Changes How People View God
Authors: Caluori Nava , Jackson Joshua Conrad , Gray Kurt , Gelfand Michele
Published: January 2020

Religion shapes the nature of intergroup conflict, but conflict may also shape religion. Here, we report four multimethod studies that reveal the impact of conflict on religious belief: The threat of warfare and intergroup tensions increase the psychological need for order and obedience to rules, which leads people to view God as more punitive. Studies 1 ( N = 372) and 2 ( N = 911) showed that people’s concern about conflict correlates with belief in a punitive God. Study 3 ( N = 1,065) found that experimentally increasing the salience of conflict increases people’s perceptions of the importance of a punitive God, and this effect is mediated by people’s support for a tightly regulated society. Study 4 showed that the severity of warfare predicted and preceded worldwide fluctuations in punitive-God belief between 1800 CE and 2000 CE. Our findings illustrate how conflict can change the nature of religious belief and add to a growing literature showing how cultural ecologies shape psychology.
Photovoice as a Multilevel Tool for Gender and Sexual Identity Exploration
Authors: Christensen M. Candace , Capous-Desyllas Moshoula , Arczynski Alexis V.
Published: January 2020

Gender and sexual identity exploration (GSIE) consists of engaging in activities that allow an individual to discover their values, preferences, and boundaries related to gender and sexuality. Photovoice is a participatory research method that incorporates an intrapersonal, interpersonal, communal, and political approach to engaging with a given topic. The purpose of this article is to use existing research to illustrate how using photovoice method for GSIE does involve individuals in exploring gender and sexual identity from multiple levels of social interaction (micro, mezzo, and macro). This approach to GSIE fosters a dynamic, de-stigmatizing, and advocacy-oriented engagement with GSIE. We use examples from photovoice studies to illustrate how photovoice method uses a multilevel approach to GSIE and the positive implications of this practice. The article ends with practice and research recommendations for employing photovoice to support GSIE.
Balloon-Anchoring Technique to Stabilize Target Vessel Catheterization in Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Heidemann Franziska , Panuccio Giuseppe , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Rohlffs Fiona , Ahmed Eltayeb Mohamed , Debus E. Sebastian , Kölbel Tilo
Published: January 2020

Purpose: To describe a bailout technique to stabilize target vessel catheterization in branched endovascular aortic repair. Technique: The technique is demonstrated in a 75-year-old patient with a 75-mm symptomatic type III thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm that was treated with a t-Branch endograft. If a catheter cannot be advanced for exchange to a more stable guidewire after target vessel catheterization, the balloon-anchoring technique can be applied to stabilize the through-the-branch hydrophilic guidewire. Through a femoral access a catheter and hydrophilic wire are passed outside the device into the target vessel and exchanged with a stiff wire; a semicompliant balloon is advanced over the Rosen wire and inflated in the target vessel, stabilizing the through-the-branch hydrophilic wire and facilitating its exchange with a stiff wire over a catheter or advancement of the bridging covered stent directly. Conclusion: The balloon-anchoring technique adds to the spectrum of bailout techniques that can be applied in cases of challenging target vessel access.
Early activation of ubiquitin-proteasome system at the diaphragm tissue occurs independently of left ventricular dysfunction in SHR rats
Authors: Souza Pamella Ramona Moraes de , da Palma Renata Kelly , Vieira Rodolfo Paula , Santos Fernando dos , Monteiro-De-Moraes Wilson Max Almeida , Medeiros Alessandra , Koike Marcia Kiyomi , Arantes-Costa Fernanda Magalhães , De Angelis Kátia , Irigoyen Maria Claudia , Consolim Colombo Fernanda Marciano
Published: January 2020

Hypertensive status induces modifications in the respiratory profile. Previous studies have indicated that hypertensive rats show increased respiratory-sympathetic coupling compared to normotensive rats. However, these effects and especially the mechanisms underlying such effects are not well known. Thus, we evaluated the influence of high blood pressure and autonomic dysfunction on a ventilatory pattern associated with lung injury and on the ubiquitin-proteasome system of the diaphragm muscle. Autonomic cardiovascular modulation (systolic BP variance and low-frequency band and pulse interval variance) and arterial blood gases patterns (pH, pO2, HCO3, SpO2), can be changed by hypertension, as well exacerbated chemoreflex pressor response. We observed that the diaphragm muscle of SHR showed increase in type I cross-sectional fiber (16%) and reduction in type II cross-sectional fiber area (41%), increased activity of the ubiquitin-proteasome system and lipid peroxidation, with no differences between groups in the analysis of ubiquitinated proteins and misfolded proteins. Our results showed that hypertension induced functional compensatory/adverse alterations associated with diaphragm fiber type changes and protein degradation as well as changed autonomic control of circulation. In conclusion, we believe there is an adaptation in ventilatory pattern in regarding to prevent the development of fatigue and muscle weakness and improve ventilatory endurance.

Impact statement

It was well known that hypertension can be driven by increased sympathetic activity and has been documented as a central link between autonomic dysfunction and alterations in the respiratory pattern. Our study demonstrated the impact of hypertension in ventilatory mechanics and their relationship with diaphragm muscle protein degradation. These findings may assist us in future alternative treatments to prevent diaphragm fatigue and weakness in hypertensive patients.
Tracking your emotions: An eye-tracking study on reader’s engagement with perspective during text comprehension
Authors: Child Scarlett , Oakhill Jane , Garnham Alan
Published: January 2020

An eye-tracking study explored perspective effects on eye-movements during reading. We presented texts that included either a personal perspective ( you) or an onlooker perspective (he or she). We measured whether fixations on the pronouns themselves differed as a function of perspective, and whether fixations on pronouns were affected by the emotional valence of the text which was either positive or negative. It was found that early in the text, processing of you is easier than he or she. However, as the character referred to by he or she becomes more familiar, fixations on he or she decrease, specifically in negative contexts.
Investigating the role of attention in the identification of associativity shortcuts using a microgenetic measure of implicit shortcut use
Authors: Eaves Joanne , Gilmore Camilla , Attridge Nina
Published: January 2020

Many mathematics problems can be solved in different ways or by using different strategies. Good knowledge of arithmetic principles is important for identifying and using strategies that are more sophisticated. For example, the problem “6 + 38 − 35” can be solved through a shortcut strategy where the subtraction “38 − 35 = 3” is performed before the addition “3  + 6  = 9,” a strategy that is derived from the arithmetic principle of associativity. However, both children and adults make infrequent use of this shortcut and the reasons for this are currently unknown. To uncover these reasons, new sensitive measures of strategy identification and use must first be developed, which was one goal of our research. We built a novel method to detect the time-point when individuals first identify an arithmetic strategy, based on trial-by-trial response time data. Our second goal was to use this measure to investigate the contribution of one particular factor, attention, in the identification of the associativity shortcut. In two studies, we found that manipulating visual attention made no difference to the number of people who identified the shortcut, the trial number on which they first identified it, or their accuracy and response time for solving shortcut problems. We discuss the theoretical and methodological contribution of our findings and argue that the origin of people’s difficulty with associativity shortcuts may lie beyond attention.
A Comparison of Distractor Selection Among Proficiency Levels in Reading Tests: A Focus on Summarization Processes in Japanese EFL Learners
Authors: Terao Takahiro , Ishii Hidetoki
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to compare selection patterns of distractors (incorrect options) according to test taker proficiency regarding Japanese students’ summarization skills of an English paragraph. Participants included 414 undergraduate students, and the test comprised three summarization process types—deletion, generalization, and integration. Within the questions, which represented summary candidates for a final version of a test, distractors were created reflecting typical student errors related to each summarization process. Six distractor types were tested. Results showed that distractors that were missing important information for the summary functioned well for determining low-, middle-, and high-proficiency students regarding deletion items. For generalization items, both distractor types, those containing examples and those with inappropriate superordinates, were attractive for low- and middle-proficiency students. Regarding integration items, it was found that distractors missing the author’s viewpoint in the summary were more attractive only for less-proficient students. Several tips to guide future item writing are provided.
Book review: Flipped Classrooms for Legal Education, 1st ed. Lutz-Christian Wolff, Jenny Chan, Springer
Authors: Yadav Manish
Published: January 2020

Flipped Classrooms for Legal Education, 1st ed. Lutz-Christian Wolff, Jenny Chan, Springer, 2016 (Paperback).
Usage and Scientific Properties of the ADVOCATE Oral Health Care Measures
Authors: Baâdoudi F. , Maskrey N. , Listl S. , van der Heijden G.J.M.G. , Duijster D.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Feedback information about the quality of oral health care is important for reflective learning by oral health care professionals and the wider health system. To this end, a list of 48 topics describing oral health and oral health care was recently agreed as part of the EU H2020 ADVOCATE project.

Objective:

This article reports on the formulation of measures based on the ADVOCATE topics and provides information on usage, reporting, validity, and reliability of the measures.

Methods:

The AIRE instrument was used to guide the methodological approach adopted. The appropriateness of the measures was tested among 39 general dental practitioners (GDPs) in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands. Data were collected from a convenience sample of patients via a questionnaire deployed in an online application in their practice. Feasibility, acceptability, and usefulness of the measures were evaluated through focus group interviews with GDPs. Face validity and test-retest reliability of the measures were assessed.

Results:

For 46 of the 48 topics, a measure could be defined by constructing a definition and a numerator and denominator. Data collection for all 46 measures was feasible and acceptable for patients using the online questionnaire. The practicalities of using claims data for the purpose of giving feedback to individual and groups of GDPs proved to be challenging in terms of timely access of such data, the granularity of the data, and matching the content of the data with the consented items on quality of oral health care. Face validity was considered appropriate, as the patients found the questionnaire easy to understand. Test-retest reliability was found to be acceptable for 36 of 46 measures.

Conclusion:

The broad range of the ADVOCATE oral health care measures could make a useful contribution to a more transparent, evidence-based, and patient-centered oral health care system.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

This study shows the usage, reliability, and validity of 46 oral health care measures. The measures, which include patient experience and health behaviors, were found to be useful to stimulate discussions about clinical practice. The measures can provide essential information for quality improvement strategies and useful and relevant feedback information for GDPs.
Association of soluble ST2 with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in renal transplant recipients: a single-centre cohort study
Authors: Devine Paul A. , Cardwell Christopher , Maxwell Alexander P.
Published: January 2020

Background

Soluble ST2 is a novel biomarker of myocardial fibrosis with an established role in prognostication of patients with heart failure. Its role in cardiovascular risk prediction for renal transplant recipients has not been investigated despite promising results for ST2 in other populations with renal disease.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 367 renal transplant recipients were followed up for a median of 16.2 years to investigate the association of soluble ST2 concentration with all-cause mortality. Cardiovascular mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events were secondary outcomes. Cox regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for ST2 before and after adjustments. ST2 concentration was analysed both as a continuous variable and following categorisation according to the recommended cut-point of 35 ng/ml.

Results

A twofold higher ST2 concentration was associated with a 36% increased risk of all-cause mortality after adjustment for conventional cardiovascular risk factors and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (adjusted hazard ratio 1.36; 95% confidence interval 1.06–1.75; p = 0.016). Associations with ST2 concentration were similar for cardiovascular events (adjusted hazard ratio 1.31; 95% confidence interval 1.00–1.73; p = 0.054), but were stronger for cardiovascular mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.61; 95% confidence interval 1.07–2.41; p = 0.022). Addition of ST2 to risk prediction models for mortality and cardiovascular events failed to improve their predictive accuracy.

Conclusions

ST2 is associated with, but does not improve prediction of, adverse outcomes in renal transplant recipients.
Bioresorbable vascular stents and drug-eluting stents in treatment of coronary heart disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ni Le , Chen Hao , Luo Zhurong , Yu Yunqiang
Published: January 2020

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of bioresorbable vascular stents (BVS) and drug-eluting stents (DES) in coronary heart disease.

Methods

The full text of clinical studies involving BVS and DES was retrieved in PubMed, Springer, EMBASE, Wiley-Blackwell, and Chinese Journal Full-text Database. Review Manager 5.3 was used for meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of target lesion failure, stent thrombosis and cardiac death in BVS and DES.

Results

Finally, 10 studies with 6383 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with DES group, BVS group had significantly increased risk of target lesion failure (OR = 1.46, 95%CI 1.20–1.79, P = 0.0002; P Heterogeneity = 0.68, I2 = 0%), stent thrombosis (OR = 2.70, 95%CI 1.57–4.66, P = 0.0003; P Heterogeneity = 1.00, I2 = 0%) and cardiac death (OR = 2.19, 95%CI 1.17–4.07, P = 0.01; P Heterogeneity = 0.93, I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

This study shows that DES is a safer treatment than BVS for coronary revascularization.
Hedgehog signaling promotes sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma patient-derived organoids
Authors: Wang Siqi , Wang Yang , Xun Xiaodong , Zhang Changkun , Xiang Xiao , Cheng Qian , Hu Shihua , Li Zhao , Zhu Jiye
Published: January 2020

Background

The mechanism underlying sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests that tumor-initiating cells (TICs) are a pivotal driving force. Both CD44 and Hedgehog signaling play crucial roles in TIC properties in HCC. In this study, we explored the roles of CD44 and Hedgehog signaling in sorafenib resistance and evaluated the therapeutic effect of cotreatment with sorafenib and Hedgehog signaling inhibitors in HCC patient-derived organoid (PDO) models to improve treatment efficacy.

Methods

We collected HCC specimens to establish PDO models. Cell viability and malignant transformation properties were investigated after treatment with different TIC-related inhibitors alone or in combination with sorafenib to evaluate the therapeutic effect in PDOs and cell lines by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Expression levels of Hedgehog signaling proteins and CD44 were monitored to reveal potential relationships.

Results

We demonstrated that our HCC PDO models strongly maintained the histological features of the corresponding tumors and responded to drug treatment. Furthermore, CD44-positive HCC PDOs were obviously resistant to sorafenib, and sorafenib increased CD44 levels. A drug screen showed that compared with Notch, Hippo and Wnt signaling inhibitors, a Hedgehog signaling inhibitor (GANT61) potently suppressed HCC PDO cell viability. In addition, there was a highly synergistic effect in vitro and in vivo on the suppression of cell viability and malignant properties when sorafenib and GANT61 were added to CD44-positive HCC PDOs and cell lines, respectively. Furthermore, the upregulation of CD44 and Hedgehog signaling induced by sorafenib was reversed by GANT61.

Conclusions

GANT61 significantly suppressed Hedgehog signaling to reverse sorafenib resistance in CD44-positive HCC. The combination of sorafenib and Hedgehog signaling inhibitors might be effective in HCC patients with high CD44 levels as a personalized-medicine approach.