bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stokes polarimetry-based second harmonic generation microscopy for collagen and skeletal muscle fiber characterization
Authors: Mazumder Nirmal , Kao Fu-Jen
Published: September 2020

The complete polarization state of second harmonic (SH) light was measured and characterized by collagen type I and skeletal muscle fiber using a Stokes vector-based SHG microscope. The polarization states of the SH signal are analyzed in a pixel-by-pixel manner and displayed through two dimensional (2D) Stokes vector images. Various polarization parameters are reconstructed using Stokes values to quantify the polarization properties of SH light. Also, the measurements are extended for different input polarization states to investigate the molecular structure of second harmonic generation (SHG) active molecules such as collagen type I and myosin.
Press-extrusion pretreatment of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste for enhanced methane production
Authors: Cesaro Alessandra , Cieri Valentina , Belgiorno Vincenzo
Published: September 2020

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a well-established process for the treatment of a wide variety of solid organic substrates, including the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW). At industrial scale, the mechanical pretreatment is a fundamental step to reduce OFMSW particle size and to promote the hydrolysis within the subsequent AD process. Among the mechanical pretreatment technologies, press-extrusion has recently raised great interest for its possible application to either enhance the organic load to the digester or improve the overall process stability and methane yields. Aim of this study was in assessing the potential of the press-extrusion pretreatment to improve the performance of OFMSW anaerobic degradation. Batch tests were set up according to a full factorial design of experiments to assess the significance of the main operating parameters. The statistical analysis of results addressed further tests, carried out under semi-continuous feeding mode, to better discuss the possible application of press-extrusion for the greatest valorization of OFMSW under anaerobic conditions.
Rheumatic Disease-Related Symptoms during the Height of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mancuso Carol A. , Duculan Roland , Jannat-Khah Deanna , Barbhaiya Medha , Bass Anne R. , Mehta Bella
Published: September 2020

Background

Systemic rheumatic diseases are characterized by diverse symptoms that are exacerbated by stressors.

Questions/Purposes

Our goal was to identify COVID-19-related stressors that patients associated with worsening rheumatic disease symptoms.

Methods

With approval of their rheumatologists, patients at an academic medical center were interviewed with open-ended questions about the impact of COVID-19 on daily life. Responses were analyzed with qualitative methods using grounded theory and a comparative analytic approach to generate categories of stressors.

Results

Of 112 patients enrolled (mean age 50 years, 86% women, 34% non-white or Latino, 30% with lupus, 26% with rheumatoid arthritis), 2 patients had SARS-CoV-2 infection. Patients reported that coping with challenges due to the pandemic both directly and indirectly worsened their rheumatic disease symptoms. Categories associated with direct effects were increased fatigue (i.e., from multitasking, physical work, and taking precautions to avoid infection) and worsening musculoskeletal and cognitive function. Categories associated with indirect effects were psychological worry (i.e., about contracting SARS-COV-2, altering medications, impact on family, and impact on job and finances) and psychological stress (i.e., at work, at home, from non-routine family responsibilities, about uncertainty related to SARS-CoV-2, and from the media). Patients often reported several effects coalesced in causing more rheumatic disease symptoms.

Conclusion

Coping with the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with rheumatic disease–related physical and psychological effects, even among patients not infected with SARS-CoV-2. According to patients, these effects adversely impacted their rheumatic diseases. Clinicians will need to ascertain the long-term sequelae of these effects and determine what therapeutic and psychological interventions are indicated.
Community Archaeology at the Trowel's Edge
Authors: Miroff Laurie E. , Versaggi Nina M.
Published: September 2020

The Public Archaeology Facility's (PAF) Community Archaeology Program (CAP) at Binghamton University began 25 years ago in response to intense community interest in participating in archaeology. Although non-archaeologists have unlimited access to programming and social media about archaeology, there is more limited access to professionally supervised opportunities. PAF developed CAP to provide non-archaeologists with the opportunity to participate in highly supervised archaeological research projects to share in the process of discovery at the “trowel's edge.” CAP recognizes the challenges and critiques of community programs and mitigates these by creating a climate of ethical practice. Our goal is to educate individuals about the presence of a rich and fascinating past in their own communities and create the sweat equity that can result in advocates for preservation. We operate under the principles that the heritage story embedded in an artifact is worthy of our respect and protection, and that an educated public is more likely to support the preservation of this heritage. Making a connection to people through artifacts builds not only a deeper understanding of the past but also an empathy for preservation. In this article, we introduce the program and reflect on the 25-year history of CAP and future directions.
Predictors of anaemia among adolescent schoolchildren of Ghana
Authors: Gosdin Lucas , Tripp Katie , Mahama Abraham B. , Quarshie Kate , Amoaful Esi Foriwa , Selenje Lilian , Sharma Deepika , Jefferds Maria Elena , Sharma Andrea J. , Whitehead Ralph D. , Suchdev Parminder S. , Ramakrishnan Usha , Martorell Reynaldo , Addo O. Yaw
Published: September 2020

Anaemia is a public health problem in Ghana. We sought to identify factors associated with haemoglobin concentration (Hb) and anaemia among school-attending adolescents. We analysed data from 2948 adolescent girls and 609 boys (10–19 years) selected from 115 schools from regions of Ghana as a secondary analysis of baseline surveys conducted at two time-points. We measured Hb, malaria from capillary blood, anthropometry and used a modified food frequency questionnaire to assess diet. Multivariable linear and Poisson regression models were used to identify predictors of Hb and anaemia. The prevalence of anaemia, malaria and geophagy were 24, 25, and 24 %, respectively, among girls and 13, 27 and 6 %, respectively, among boys. Girls engaging in geophagy had a 53 % higher adjusted prevalence of anaemia and 0⋅39 g/dl lower Hb. There were similar results among those who tested positive for malaria (+52 % anaemia; −0⋅42 g/dl Hb). Among girls, lower anaemia prevalence and higher Hb were associated with consumption of foods rich in haeme iron (−22 %; +0⋅18 g/dl), consumption of iron-fortified cereal/beverages consumed with citrus (−50 %; +0⋅37 g/dl) and being overweight (−22 %; +0⋅22 g/dl). Age was positively associated with anaemia among girls, but negatively associated among boys. Boys who tested positive for malaria had 0⋅31 g/dl lower Hb. Boys who were overweight or had obesity and consumed flour products were also more likely to be anaemic (119 and 56 %, respectively). Factors associated with Hb and anaemia may inform anaemia reduction interventions among school-going adolescents and suggest the need to tailor them uniquely for boys and girls.
Associations between dietary patterns and physical fitness among Chinese elderly
Authors: Lyu Yan , Yu Xiao , Yuan Huacai , Yi Xiangren , Dong Xiaosheng , Ding Meng , Lin Xinying , Wang Baozhen
Published: September 2020

Objective:

To explore the relationship between dietary patterns and physical fitness among older Chinese (≥60 years) individuals.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey. Dietary data were collected by a simplified semi-quantitative FFQ. The 30-s Chair Stand test (30sCST), 30-s Arm Curl test (30sACT), 8-foot Time Up-and-Go test (8fTUAGT) and 6-min Walking test (6mWT) were used to assess physical fitness. Dietary patterns were obtained by factor analysis. The association between dietary patterns and physical fitness was explored by multiple logistic regression.

Setting:

Six communities (villages) of three districts in Liaocheng City (Shandong Province, China).

Participants:

A total of 596 residents were recruited from April to May 2017.

Results:

Among 556 residents who were finally enrolled, 196 were men (35 %) and 360 were women (65 %). Three dietary patterns were identified: ‘Western’, ‘Vegetarian’ and ‘Modern’. The 30sACT revealed that men in the fourth quartile of the Western pattern were less likely to be classified in the ‘high-level’ group, but men in the fourth quartile of the Vegetarian pattern were classified in the high-level group. The 6mWT revealed that men in the fourth quartile of the Modern pattern were classified in the high-level group. These associations were independent of confounding factors.

Conclusions:

Adherence to the Vegetarian pattern and Modern pattern may be protective factors for maintaining good physical fitness in older Chinese individuals. The Western pattern may lead to poor physical fitness in this population.
Deep-Ocean Oxygen May Increase with Climate Change
Authors: Wheeling Kate
Published: September 2020

A millennial-scale ocean simulation indicates that oxygen gains in the deep ocean may offset oxygen losses in the upper water layer under a protracted climate change scenario.
Creasy and Wu Receive 2019 Study of the Earth’s Deep Interior Section Award for Graduate Research
Authors:   AGU
Published: September 2020

Neala Marie Creasy and Wenbo Wu received the 2019 Study of the Earth’s Deep Interior Section Award for Graduate Research at AGU’s Fall Meeting 2019, held 9–13 December in San Francisco, Calif. The award is given annually for advances that contribute to “the understanding of the deep interior of the Earth or other planetary bodies using a broad range of observational, experimental, or theoretical approaches.”
Leader Charges, Currents, Ambient Electric Fields, and Space Charges Along Downward Positive Leader Paths Retrieved From Ground Measurements in Metropolis
Authors: Gao Yan , Chen Mingli , Lyu Weitao , Qi Qi , Qin Zilong , Du Ya‐ping , Zhang Yijun
Published: September 2020

An approach for retrieving the leader channel charge density, leader current, ambient electric field, and space charge along a leader channel path from ground observations with a complicated ground condition was presented. With this approach, properties of two downward positive leaders (DPL1 and DPL2) struck at high‐rise buildings were studied based on electric and optical measurements made on the roof of a 100 m high building in Guangzhou, China. It shows that the leader‐produced electric field on the roof of the 100 m high building was about 4 times of that on flat ground. The 2‐D speed for both leaders showed a general increasing trend as the leader going down, in the range of 1.8 to 32.3 × 105 and 1.7 to 46.9 × 105 m/s, respectively. The channel line charge density for both leaders showed firstly a sharp increasing trend and then a decreasing trend as the leader going down, in the range of 0.4 to 8.6 and 0.4 to 15.2 mC/m, respectively. The current of the two leaders varied in the range of 0.7 to 5.4 and 0.7 to 4.6 kA, respectively. The ambient electric field (downward is positive) for both leaders showed an alternating polarity along the leader path, in the range of −120 to +176 and −250 to +180 kV/m, respectively. The space charge for both leaders showed also an alternating polarity along the leader path, in the range of −12.3 to +4.2 and −13.9 to +7.8 nC/m3, respectively, which may reflect the in‐cloud electric structure and the corona charge distribution between the cloud and ground.
Surface Waves in a Nonlinear Metamaterial Rod
Authors: Smolkin Eugene , Shestopalov Yury , Snegur Maxim
Published: September 2020

We consider propagation of surface Transverse Electric (TE) waves in a rod filled with nonlinear metamaterial medium. The problem is reduced to the analysis of a nonlinear integral equation with a kernel in the form of the Green function of an auxiliary boundary value problem on an interval. The existence of propagating nonlinear surface TE waves for the chosen nonlinearity (Kerr law) is proved using the method of contraction. For the numerical solution, a method based on solving an auxiliary Cauchy problem (a version of the shooting method) is proposed. New propagation regimes are discovered.
The optical tweezer of skyrmions
Authors: Wang Xi-Guang , Chotorlishvili Levan , Dugaev Vitalii K. , Ernst Arthur , Maznichenko Igor V. , Arnold Nikita , Jia Chenglong , Berakdar Jamal , Mertig Ingrid , Barnaś Józef
Published: September 2020

In a spin-driven multiferroic system, the magnetoelectric coupling has the form of effective dynamical Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya (DM) interaction. Experimentally, it is confirmed, for instance, for Cu2OSeO3, that the DM interaction has an essential role in the formation of skyrmions, which are topologically protected magnetic structures. Those skyrmions are very robust and can be manipulated through an electric field. The external electric field couples to the spin-driven ferroelectric polarization and the skyrmionic magnetic texture emerged due to the DM interaction. In this work, we demonstrate the effect of optical tweezing. For a particular configuration of the external electric fields it is possible to trap or release the skyrmions in a highly controlled manner. The functionality of the proposed tweezer is visualized by micromagnetic simulations and model analysis.
Induction of protection in mice against a respiratory challenge by a vaccine formulated with exosomes isolated from Chlamydia muridarum infected cells
Authors: Pal Sukumar , Mirzakhanyan Yeva , Gershon Paul , Tifrea Delia F. , de la Maza Luis M.
Published: September 2020

The goal of this study was to determine if exosomes, isolated from Chlamydia muridarum infected HeLa cells (C. muridarum-exosomes), induce protective immune responses in mice following vaccination using CpG plus Montanide as adjuvants. Exosomes, collected from uninfected HeLa cells and PBS, formulated with the same adjuvants, were used as negative controls. Mass spectrometry analyses identified 113 C. muridarum proteins in the C. muridarum-exosome preparation including the major outer membrane protein and the polymorphic membrane proteins. Vaccination with C. muridarum-exosomes elicited robust humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to C. muridarum elementary bodies. Following vaccination, mice were challenged intranasally with C. muridarum. Compared to the negative controls, mice immunized with C. muridarum-exosomes were significantly protected as measured by changes in body weight, lungs’ weight, and number of inclusion forming units recovered from lungs. This is the first report, of a vaccine formulated with Chlamydia exosomes, shown to elicit protection against a challenge.
EMILIN proteins are novel extracellular constituents of the dentin-pulp complex
Authors: Imhof Thomas , Korkmaz Yüksel , Koch Manuel , Sengle Gerhard , Schiavinato Alvise
Published: September 2020

Odontoblasts and pulp stroma cells are embedded within supramolecular networks of extracellular matrix (ECM). Fibrillin microfibrils and associated proteins are crucial constituents of these networks, serving as contextual scaffolds to regulate tissue development and homeostasis by providing both structural and mechanical properties and sequestering growth factors of the TGF-β superfamily. EMILIN-1, -2, and -3 are microfibril-associated glycoproteins known to modulate cell behaviour, growth factor activity, and ECM assembly. So far their expression in the various cells of the dentin-pulp complex during development, in the adult stage, and during inflammation has not been investigated. Confocal immunofluorescence microscopy and western blot analysis of developing and adult mouse molars and incisors revealed an abundant presence of EMILINs in the entire dental papilla, at early developmental stages. Later in development the signal intensity for EMILIN-3 decreases, while EMILIN-1 and -2 staining appears to increase in the pre-dentin and in the ECM surrounding odontoblasts. Our data also demonstrate new specific interactions of EMILINs with fibulins in the dentin enamel junction. Interestingly, in dentin caries lesions the signal for EMILIN-3 was significantly increased in inflamed odontoblasts. Overall our findings point for the first time to a role of EMILINs in dentinogenesis, pulp biology, and inflammation.
Correction: Structural reconstruction: a milestone in the hydrothermal synthesis of highly active Sn-Beta zeolites
Authors: Zhu Zhiguo , Xu Hao , Jiang Jingang , Wu Haihong , Wu Peng
Published: September 2020

Correction for ‘Structural reconstruction: a milestone in the hydrothermal synthesis of highly active Sn-Beta zeolites’ by Zhiguo Zhu et al., Chem. Commun., 2017, 53, 12516–12519, DOI: 10.1039/C7CC06778J.
Trends in microbiological drinking water quality violations across the United States
Authors: Michielssen Senne , Vedrin Matthew C. , Guikema Seth D.
Published: September 2020

Trends in microbiological drinking water quality violations in the U.S. indicate that very small and transient non-community water systems bear a disproportionate burden exacerbated by recent regulatory changes.
Correction: Bacterial biosynthesis of nanosilver: a green catalyst for the synthesis of (amino pyrazolo)-(phenyl)methyl naphth-2-ol derivatives and their antimicrobial potential
Authors: Praveena Ganji , Yagnam Swetha , Banoth Linga , Trivedi Rajiv , Prakasham Reddy Shetty
Published: September 2020

Correction for ‘Bacterial biosynthesis of nanosilver: a green catalyst for the synthesis of (amino pyrazolo)-(phenyl)methyl naphth-2-ol derivatives and their antimicrobial potential’ by Ganji Praveena et al., New J. Chem., 2020, 44, 13046–13061, DOI: 10.1039/D0NJ01924K.
Kinetic resolution of 2H-azirines via Cu(i)-catalyzed asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides
Authors: Deng Hua , Liu Tian-Tian , Ding Zheng-Dong , Yang Wu-Lin , Luo Xiaoyan , Deng Wei-Ping
Published: September 2020

An efficient kinetic resolution of racemic 2H-azirines via copper(i)-catalyzed asymmetric cycloaddition of azomethine ylides was developed and enantioenriched 2H-azirines and 1,3-diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane derivatives were obtained simultaneously.
Correction: Ensemble-machine-learning-based correlation analysis of internal and band characteristics of thermoelectric materials
Authors: Chen Lihao , Xu Ben , Chen Jia , Bi Ke , Li Changjiao , Lu Shengyu , Hu Guosheng , Lin Yuanhua
Published: September 2020

Correction for ‘Ensemble-machine-learning-based correlation analysis of internal and band characteristics of thermoelectric materials’ by Lihao Chen et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020, DOI: 10.1039/d0tc02855j.
Correlating Neuroimaging and CNVs Data: 7 Years of Cytogenomic Microarray Analysis on Patients Affected by Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Milone Roberta , Cesario Claudia , Bernardini Laura , Battini Roberta , Goldoni Marina , Pasquariello Rosa , Fusilli Caterina , Giovannetti Agnese , Giglio Sabrina , Novelli Antonio , Caputo Viviana , Cioni Giovanni , Mazza Tommaso , Battaglia Agatino
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between neurodevelopmental disorders, brain anomalies, and copy number variations (CNVs) and to estimate the diagnostic potential of cytogenomical microarray analysis (CMA) in individuals neuroradiologically characterized with intellectual developmental disorders (IDDs) isolated or associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and epilepsy (EPI), all of which were identified as a “synaptopathies.” We selected patients who received CMA and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over a 7-year period. We divided them into four subgroups: IDD, IDD + ASD, IDD + EPI, and IDD + ASD + EPI. The diagnostic threshold of CMA was 16%. The lowest detection rate for both CMA and brain anomalies was found in IDD + ASD, while MRI was significantly higher in IDD and IDD + EPI subgroups. CMA detection rate was significantly higher in patients with brain anomalies, so CMA may be even more appropriate in patients with pathological MRI, increasing the diagnostic value of the test. Conversely, positive CMA in IDD patients should require an MRI assessment, which is more often associated with brain anomalies. Posterior fossa anomalies, both isolated and associated with other brain anomalies, showed a significantly higher rate of CMA positive results and of pathogenic CNVs. In the next-generation sequencing era, our study confirms once again the relevant diagnostic output of CMA in patients with IDD, either isolated or associated with other comorbidities. Since more than half of the patients presented brain anomalies in this study, we propose that neuroimaging should be performed in such cases, particularly in the presence of genomic imbalances.
Pediatric to Adult Epilepsy Transition in Ambulatory Care: Benefits of a Multidisciplinary Epilepsy Transition Clinic
Authors: Twanow Jaime-Dawn E. , Maturu Sarita , Khandker Nabil
Published: September 2020

Children with epilepsy comprise 3.2% of the estimated 500,000 youth with special medical needs who move from the pediatric to adult care model annually. These 16,000 children who require transfer each year represent a challenging subset of 470,000 youth living with epilepsy in the United States. Transition and transfer of care are complex and require gradual processes. This period for youth with epilepsy is often associated with inadequate follow-up and increased risk of nonadherence. Furthermore, youth and adults with epilepsy are known to have suboptimal social and emotional outcomes compared with peers, with high rates of under education, underemployment, poverty, and struggles with mental health. The goal of improving social determinants and continuity of care prompted the development of formal epilepsy transition clinics. Multiple clinic models exist, sharing the overarching goal of supporting youth while building self-management skills, tailored to age and developmental level. Early evidence shows that transition discussion leads to statistically significant increases in transfer readiness and self-efficacy in young adults with epilepsy. Our center boasts a 100% attendance rate at our transition and transfer clinic and 78% compliance with follow-up, further demonstrating that patients and families value quality transition programming.
The Importance of Assessing and Treating Mental Health in Transition-Aged Adolescents with Epilepsy: A 1-Year Follow-up
Authors: Healy Sarah A. , Fantaneanu Tadeu A. , Whiting Sharon
Published: September 2020

Mental health issues become especially problematic when adolescents with epilepsy are preparing to transition from pediatric to adult care. Consistent with guidelines, a transition clinic with ongoing mental health assessment was created, providing treatment to patients scoring in the moderate severity range or higher. In order to examine the effectiveness of our epilepsy transition clinic and the impact of mental health in transition-aged adolescents, baseline and one-year follow-up data were compared in 36 participants (M = 15.82 years, 24 males). Results showed that the majority of participants had improved or comparable mental health scores at follow-up. Furthermore, participants who met threshold for mental health treatment had significantly improved mental health (t = 3.19, p = 0.015), while those who did not showed worsened mental health (t =  − 2.50, p = 0.019). Looking specifically at mental health impact, those with worsened mental health showed significantly worsened quality of life (t = 3.35, p = 0.012). Furthermore, those without mental health issues showed improved transition skills (t =  − 3.86, p = 0.002), while those with mental health issues did not. Results suggest that the transition clinic is effective in helping transition-aged adolescents with their mental health. Additionally, findings suggest that addressing these mental health issues are essential to ensuring successful transitions and the best outcomes in these patients.
Sedation and Analgesia Practices in Pediatric Intensive Care Units: A Survey of 27 Centers from Turkey
Authors: Ekinci Faruk , Yildizdas Dincer , Horoz Ozden Ozgur , Aslan Nagehan ,   The Society of Pediatric Emergency Intensive Care Medicine of Turkey-Sedoanalgesia Study Group
Published: September 2020

The management and monitoring of sedoanalgesia are important measures in improving the efficacy of procedures and mechanical ventilation, as well as reducing adverse effects and preventing withdrawal syndrome, and delirium in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). As there is an ongoing need to clarify the best approach to sedoanalgesia in PICUs, we aimed to analyze the current approaches in sedation, analgesia, withdrawal, and delirium practices among PICUs in Turkey. Twenty-seven PICUs completed the survey. Only 9 (33.3%) and 13 (48.1%) centers had a written protocol for analgesia and sedation, respectively. Paracetamol and a combination of midazolam and fentanyl were preferred in 51.8 and 40% of the PICUs for postoperative periods, respectively, and 81.4% of the units preferred ketamine for short-term interventions. For prolonged sedation in mechanically ventilated children, a combination of benzodiazepines and opiates were the most preferred first-line agents with a very high percentage of 81.4%, whereas ketamine and dexmedetomidine accounted for 62.9 and 18.5%, respectively, as second-line options. Although sedative and analgesic agent preferences were comparable with the relevant literature, we should focus on developing a standardized, evidence-based algorithm for sedation and analgesic drugs.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of wire arc additive repairing Ti–5Al–2Sn–2Zr–4Mo–4Cr titanium alloy
Authors: Zhuo Yimin , Yang Chunli , Fan Chenglei , Lin Sanbao , Chen Chao , Cai Xiaoyu
Published: September 2020

Wire arc additive manufacture (WAAM) technology was employed to repair Ti–5Al–2Sn–2Zr–4Mo–4Cr (TC17) titanium alloy, which is widely used as compressor blades and blisk. The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the repaired specimen were investigated. The results show that the repaired specimen has a good verticality, and it forms good metallurgical bonding with the base metal. The ultimate strength of the interface specimen can reach 88.2% of the base metal. The elongation is slightly lower than the base metal due to the fact that half of the tensile interface specimens with little deformation are base material. Therefore, WAAM technology might be a potential and economical method to repair damaged blade by optimising the WAAM process.
The anti-tumor effect of ursolic acid on papillary thyroid carcinoma via suppressing Fibronectin-1
Authors: Cao Mingxiang , Xiao Di , Ding Xubei
Published: September 2020

This study aims to discover the effects of ursolic acid (UA) on papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Human PTC cells were under UA treatment, and cell viability, clone formation, and apoptosis were measured by MTT assay, clone formation assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. Expressions of apoptosis- and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers were determined via qRT-PCR and western blot. Fibronectin-1 (FN1) expression in thyroid carcinoma was analyzed by GEPIA2 and qRT-PCR. The effects of overexpressed FN1 on UA-treated cells were detected following the previous procedures. Cell viability, proliferation, and EMT-related marker expressions were inhibited, while cell apoptosis and apoptosis-related marker expressions were promoted by UA. FN1 was higher expressed in thyroid carcinoma and downregulated by UA. Effects of FN1 on cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis- and EMT-related marker expressions were partially reversed by UA. UA inhibited human PTC cell viability, proliferation, and EMT but promoted apoptosis via suppressing FN1.
Nickel ferrite doped lithium substituted zinc and niobo vanadate glasses: thermal, physical, and electrical characterization
Authors: Getachew Belay , Ramesh K P , Honnavar Gajanan V
Published: September 2020

This study reports a comparison of some thermal, physical, and electrical properties of lithium substituted zinc and niobo vanadate glasses doped with nickel ferrite prepared for the electrical application. These glasses were prepared using the melt quenching technique. Density and differential scanning calorimetry were used to derive various physical and thermal properties. Packing density, the concentration of atoms, separations between atoms were compared between doped and undoped glass families. Thermal stability was estimated and compared. It is found that glasses with 20 mol% of Lithium are more stable than the rest. The thermal stability increases significantly by doping Nickel Ferrite from 5 °C to 30 °C in zinc vanadate glasses. Packing density varies with mol% of lithium ions from 0.43 to 0.42 in zinc vanadate glasses and from 0.40 to 0.42 in niobo vanadate glasses. Doping of Nickel ferrite varies the packing density from 0.42 to 0.43 in zinc vanadate glasses whereas it stabilizes the packing density to 0.42 in niobo vanadate glasses. Out of the two families of glasses, zinc vanadate glass doped with nickel ferrite shows better stability and higher packing density compared with others. DC electrical conductivities of the two families of glasses are almost similar and nickel ferrite doping has a little effect on DC electrical conductivity. Thus it is concluded that the nickel ferrite enhances the stability of the glass while maintaining DC electrical conductivity. This observation is important from the point of view of the electrical application of these glasses.
Effectiveness and safety of oral anticoagulants among non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients with polypharmacy
Authors: Lip Gregory Y H , Keshishian Allison , Kang Amiee , Dhamane Amol D , Luo Xuemei , Klem Christian , Rosenblatt Lisa , Mardekian Jack , Jiang Jenny , Yuce Huseyin , Deitelzweig Steven
Published: September 2020

Aims

Polypharmacy is prevalent among non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients and presents a potential issue for the effective management of NVAF. This study compared the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (SE) and major bleeding (MB) among NVAF patients with polypharmacy newly prescribed oral anticoagulants (OACs).

Methods and results

A retrospective study of NVAF patients with polypharmacy who initiated OACs from 01 January 2013 to 30 September 2015 was conducted using US CMS Medicare and four commercial databases. Polypharmacy was defined as ≥6 concomitant medications on the index date. Propensity score matching was conducted to compare non-vitamin K antagonists OACs (NOACs) to warfarin as well as between NOACs. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the risk of stroke/SE and MB. A total of 188 893 patients with polypharmacy were included, with an average of 8 concomitant medications (interquartile range 6–9). Compared to warfarin, apixaban [hazard ratio (HR): 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.52–0.68], and rivaroxaban (HR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.69–0.83) were associated with a lower risk of stroke/SE. Apixaban (HR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.54–0.61) and dabigatran (HR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.66–0.88) were associated with a decreased risk of MB compared with warfarin. Compared with dabigatran and rivaroxaban, apixaban was associated with a lower risk of stroke/SE and MB. Dabigatran was associated with lower risk of MB compared with rivaroxaban.

Conclusions

In this observational study of anticoagulated NVAF patients with polypharmacy, effectiveness and safety profiles are more favourable for NOACs vs. warfarin. Our observations are hypothesis generating and may help inform future clinical trials regarding appropriate OAC treatment selection in polypharmacy patients.
Galois action on homology of generalized Fermat Curves
Authors: Kontogeorgis Aristides , Paramantzoglou Panagiotis
Published: September 2020

The fundamental group of Fermat and generalized Fermat curves is computed. These curves are Galois ramified covers of the projective line with abelian Galois groups H. We provide a unified study of the action of both cover Galois group H and the absolute Galois group $\mathrm{Gal}(\bar{\mathbb{Q}}/\mathbb{Q})$ on the pro-$\ell$ homology of the curves in study. Also the relation to the pro-$\ell$ Burau representation is investigated.
Recurrent bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Ellington Kelly , Saccomano Scott J.
Published: September 2020

Bacterial vaginosis recurrence is common but can lead to frequent bothersome symptoms associated with infection. This article reviews evidence-based options for practicing providers to improve patient outcomes. Bacterial vaginosis increases the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Adequate treatment is essential to help avoid adverse patient outcomes.
Molecular Diagnosis of Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: dos Santos Claudia C. , Zehnbauer Barbara A. , Trahtemberg Uriel , Marshall John
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

To review molecular diagnostics for coronavirus disease 2019. The world is in the midst of a coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Containing the spread of the severe acute respiratory distress coronavirus is critical. Instrumental to the future success is the ability to reliably and reproducibly detect this inciting pathogen to inform public health containment policies and treatment decisions.

Data Sources:

Molecular diagnostics focusing on molecular detection methodologies for detection of the virus and the presence of the disease.

Study Selection:

Narrative review.

Data Extraction:

Literature, PubMed, Scopus, and official government documents.

Data Synthesis:

Diagnosing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus is done through real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction tests, cell culture, and serology. For patients, diagnostics are an integral part of a full medical history, physical examinations, blood tests, and diagnostic imaging.

Conclusions:

Here, we review current approaches to the molecular diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019.
Evolving Paradigms in the Treatment of Atrial Septal Defects With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Sathananthan Gnalini , Levy Robert D. , Swiston John , Brunner Nathan W. , Bradley Elisa A. , Kiess Marla , Grewal Jasmine
Published: September 2020

Atrial septal defects are one of the most frequently diagnosed congenital heart defects in adulthood. The presence of concurrent moderate or severe pulmonary arterial hypertension without Eisenmenger syndrome at the time of diagnosis can make for a challenging clinical scenario. There is continually evolving literature to determine the ideal approach to this subset of patients. Here we aim to review the clinical presentation, history, medical therapy, and closure options for atrial septal defects–pulmonary arterial hypertension with predominant left-to-right shunting, in the absence of Eisenmenger syndrome.
Statins and Higher Diabetes Mellitus Risk: Incidence, Proposed Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications
Authors: Guber Kenneth , Pemmasani Gayatri , Malik Aaqib , Aronow Wilbert S. , Yandrapalli Srikanth , Frishman William H.
Published: September 2020

3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors are ubiquitously prescribed for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention and treatment. However, the use of statins has been linked to the development of new-onset diabetes mellitus (NODM), which could possibly increase future CVD risk. This phenomenon necessitates a clear discussion of the possible etiologies of this relationship and its broader clinical consequences. We discuss the reported incidence of NODM in statin users through a rigorous review of data from metaanalyses of randomized control trials examining this association. We also highlight the various possible mechanisms responsible for the development of statin-induced diabetes mellitus. Finally, we examine the clinical implications of this effect on future CVD risk and identify specific patient factors that can be used for risk-stratification strategies. Data from 14 randomized control trials metaanalyses suggest a 9–33% higher risk of NODM with statin use. Several cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms, as well as lifestyle habits, have been identified as potential underlying factors responsible for this elevated risk. The principle mode of the diabetogenic action of statins is still unclear, though it is likely the result of a complex interplay of pancreatic and extrapancreatic effects. It is understood that patient populations with a greater predisposition to diabetes mellitus, and those with thicker epicardial adiposity are more at risk for the development of statin-induced NODM. Despite these observations, robust data from a variety of investigations suggest that the CVD preventative benefits of statin treatment significantly outweigh the risks associated with the development of NODM. Nevertheless, further study must better identify the causative mechanisms involved in this process, its natural history, and the unique factors that will help clinicians risk stratify and appropriately monitor patients on statin therapy.
Clinical Burden and Unmet Need in Recurrent Pericarditis: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Klein Allan , Cremer Paul , Kontzias Apostolos , Furqan Muhammad , Forsythe Anna , Crotty Christopher , Lim-Watson Michelle , Magestro Matthew
Published: September 2020

Inflammation of the pericardium (pericarditis) is characterized by excruciating chest pain. This systematic literature review summarizes clinical, humanistic, and economic burdens in acute, especially recurrent, pericarditis, with a secondary aim of understanding United States treatment patterns and outcomes. Short-term clinical burden is well characterized, but long-term data are limited. Some studies report healthcare resource utilization and economic impact; none measure health-related quality-of-life. Pericarditis is associated with infrequent but potentially life-threatening complications, including cardiac tamponade (weighted average: 12.7% across 10 studies), constrictive pericarditis (1.84%; 9 studies), and pericardial effusion (54.7%; 16 studies). There are no approved pericarditis treatments; treatment guidelines, when available, are inconsistent on treatment course or duration. Most recommend first-line use of conventional treatments, for example, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs with or without colchicine; however, 15–30% of patients experience recurrence. Second-line therapy may involve conventional therapies plus long-term utilization of corticosteroids, despite safety issues and the difficulty of tapering or discontinuation. Other exploratory therapies (eg, azathioprine, immunoglobulin, methotrexate, anakinra) present steroid-sparing options, but none are supported by robust clinical evidence, and some present tolerability challenges that may impact adherence. Pericardiectomy is occasionally pursued in treatment-refractory patients, although data are limited. This lack of an evidence-based treatment pathway for patients with recurrent disease is reflected in readmission rates, for example, 12.2% at 30 days in 1 US study. Patients with continued recurrence and inadequate treatment response need approved, safe, accessible treatments to resolve pericarditis symptoms and reduce recurrence risk without excessive treatment burden.
Oral Antiplatelet Therapy Administered Upstream to Patients With NSTEMI
Authors: Pollack Charles V. , Peacock W. Frank , Bhandary Durgesh D. , Silber Steven H. , Bhalla Narinder , Rao Sunil V. , Diercks Deborah B. , Frost Alex , Bangalore Sripal , Heitner John F. , Johnson Charles , DeRita Renato , Khan Naeem D.
Published: September 2020

Objective:

To describe from a noninterventional registry (Utilization of Ticagrelor in the Upstream Setting for Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome), the short-term ischemic and hemorrhagic outcomes in patients with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (MI) are managed with a loading dose (LD) of a P2Y12 inhibitor (P2Y12i) given at least 4 hours before diagnostic angiography and delineation of coronary anatomy. Prior data on the effects of such “upstream loading” have been inconsistent.

Methods:

In 53 US hospitals, we evaluated the in-hospital care and outcomes of patients with confirmed non-ST elevation MI managed with an interventional strategy and loaded upstream (at least 4 h before diagnostic angiography) with oral P2Y12i therapy. Patients entered into the database were grouped into 1 of 4 cohorts for analysis: (1) overall cohort, (2) thienopyridine (clopidogrel or prasugrel) load, (3) ticagrelor load, and (4) ticagrelor-consistent. The fourth cohort is a subset of cohort 3 that received ticagrelor throughout the index hospital stay and at discharge. We evaluated in-hospital clinical course and ischemic and bleeding outcomes in all patients and also 30-day outcomes in the ticagrelor-consistent cohort.

Results:

A total of 3355 patients were enrolled, of whom 1087 had 30-day follow-up. The mean (±SD) age was 63.3 ± 12.5 years, and 62.6% were male. Thrombolysis in MI and Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events scores placed these patients in the intermediate risk range, and CRUSADE scores were in the moderate risk range. The LD in Utilization of Ticagrelor in the Upstream Setting for Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome was clopidogrel in 45.6%, ticagrelor in 53.6%, and prasugrel in 0.8%. The median upstream interval (LD to angiography) was 17:27 hours and did not change appreciably over the course of the data collection period (2/15–10/19). Access was radial in 48.6% and femoral in 51.4%. Postangiography management was medical only in 32.3%, percutaneous coronary intervention in 59.4%, and coronary artery bypass grafting in 8.3%. Median length of stay was 2.7 days, and median time from angiography to coronary artery bypass grafting was 3.6 days. In-hospital mortality was 0.51%, and major bleeding (thrombolysis in MI) was 0.24%; the in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events rate was 0.7%, and stent thrombosis occurred in 0.18%. No significant differences were seen between the ticagrelor and clopidogrel cohorts in hospital, but 16% received more than 1 P2Y12i in-hospital. On follow-up (93.2% response), 86.7% of patients reported taking ticagrelor as directed.

Conclusions:

Upstream loading of P2Y12i was associated with very low rates of bleeding and short length of stay in a large cohort of non-ST elevation MI (NSTEMI) patients managed invasively.
Establishment of a High‐risk MDS/AML Cell Line YCU‐AML1 and its Xenograft Model Harboring t(3;3) and Monosomy 7
Authors: Kunimoto Hiroyoshi , Fukuchi Yumi , Murakami Koichi , Ikeda Junji , Teranaka Hiroshi , Kato Ikuma , Miyazaki Takuya , Enaka Makiko , Mitsuhashi Takayuki , Yamazaki Etsuko , Kameyama Kaori , Murata Mitsuru , Okamoto Shinichiro , Nakajima Hideaki
Published: September 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with both inv(3)(q21q26.2)/t(3;3)(q21;q26.2) and monosomy 7 defines an extremely aggressive myeloid cancer whose molecular pathogenesis and optimal therapeutic strategy still remain unclear. We established a new MDS/AML cell line, YCU‐AML1, and its patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) model from a high‐risk MDS patient who later transformed into AML harboring both t(3;3)(q21;q26.2) and monosomy 7. YCU‐AML1 cells propagated in co‐culture system with stromal cells in granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)‐dependent manner. CD34+ bone marrow cells derived from our PDX model showed high EVI1 and low GATA2 expression. Moreover, mutational profile of our MDS/AML model was consistent with recently published mutational spectrum of myeloid malignancies with inv(3)/t(3;3). These data suggest that YCU‐AML1 cells and its MDS/AML model strongly mimics a high‐risk human myeloid cancer with inv(3)(q21q26.2)/t(3;3)(q21;q26.2) and monosomy 7 in terms of both clinical phenotype and molecular basis. We believe our model can be used as a feasible tool to further explore molecular pathogenesis and novel treatment strategy of high‐risk MDS/AML with t(3;3)(q21;q26.2) and monosomy 7.
A Retrospective Study of Corneal Endothelial Dystrophy in Dogs (1991–2014)
Authors: Leonard Brian C. , Kermanian Celine S. , Michalak Sarah R. , Kass Philip H. , Hollingsworth Steven R. , Good Kathryn L. , Maggs David J. , Thomasy Sara M.
Published: September 2020

Purpose:

To retrospectively evaluate the clinical data, diagnostic tests, treatments, and outcomes for dogs with corneal endothelial dystrophy (CED) and determine risk factors for CED when compared with a canine reference population.

Methods:

Medical records of 99 dogs (1991–2014) diagnosed with CED at the University of California Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital were reviewed and compared with 458,680 dogs comprising the general hospital population during the study period. Retrieved data included signalment, examination findings, diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes associated with CED. The exact Pearson χ2 test or exact Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare parameters between the groups. Progression of corneal edema was assessed using 3 independent Kaplan–Meier curves, identifying clinically significant changes in corneal opacity.

Results:

Boston terriers, German wirehaired pointers, and Dachshunds were overrepresented in the CED-affected group, whereas Labradors were underrepresented. Dogs older than 11 years were overrepresented in the CED-affected group, whereas intact dogs were underrepresented. Surgical intervention was performed (n = 11) based on the severity of disease and secondary complications from CED. Median time to progression of corneal edema was 1) 368 days when an at-risk eye initially without edema developed edema at a subsequent visit, 2) 701 days when there was progression from mild to marked corneal edema, and 3) 340 days when there was progression from focal to diffuse corneal edema.

Conclusions:

Many CED-affected dogs progress over months to years without surgical intervention, making dogs with CED a useful model for studying genetic predispositions and development of novel therapeutics for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy.