bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspect-Level Sentiment Analysis Based on Position Features Using Multilevel Interactive Bidirectional GRU and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Wang Xiaodi , Chen Xiaoliang , Tang Mingwei , Yang Tian , Wang Zhen
Published: July 2020

The aim of aspect-level sentiment analysis is to identify the sentiment polarity of a given target term in sentences. Existing neural network models provide a useful account of how to judge the polarity. However, context relative position information for the target terms is adversely ignored under the limitation of training datasets. Considering position features between words into the models can improve the accuracy of sentiment classification. Hence, this study proposes an improved classification model by combining multilevel interactive bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU), attention mechanisms, and position features (MI-biGRU). Firstly, the position features of words in a sentence are initialized to enrich word embedding. Secondly, the approach extracts the features of target terms and context by using a well-constructed multilevel interactive bidirectional neural network. Thirdly, an attention mechanism is introduced so that the model can pay greater attention to those words that are important for sentiment analysis. Finally, four classic sentiment classification datasets are used to deal with aspect-level tasks. Experimental results indicate that there is a correlation between the multilevel interactive attention network and the position features. MI-biGRU can obviously improve the performance of classification.
UV Light-Modulated Fluctuation-Enhanced Gas Sensing by Layers of Graphene Flakes/TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Smulko Janusz , Chludziński Tomasz , Çindemir Umut , Granqvist Claes G. , Wen He
Published: July 2020

We present experimental results of fluctuation-enhanced gas sensing by low-cost resistive sensors made of a mixture of graphene flakes and TiO2 nanoparticles. Both components are photocatalytic and activated by UV light. Two UV LEDs of different wavelengths (362 and 394 nm) were applied to modulate the gas sensing of the layers. Resistance noise was recorded at low frequencies, between 8 Hz and 10 kHz. The sensors’ response was observed in an ambient atmosphere of synthetic air and toxic NO2 at selected concentrations (5, 10, and 15 ppm). We observed that flicker noise changed its frequency dependence at different UV light wavelengths, thereby providing additional information about the ambient atmosphere. The power spectral density changed by a few times as a result of UV light irradiation. The sensors were operated at 60 and 120°C, and the effect of UV light on gas sensing was most apparent at low operating temperature. We conclude that UV light activates the gas-sensing layer and improves gas detection at low concentrations of NO2. This result is desirable for the detection of the components of gas mixtures, and the modulated sensor can replace an array of independent resistive sensors which would consume much more energy for heating. We also suggest that a more advanced technology for preparing the gas-sensing layer, by use of spin coating, will produce corresponding layers with thickness of about a few μm, which is about ten times less than that for the tested samples. The effects induced by the applied UV light, having a penetration depth of only a few μm, would then be amplified.
Effect of Active Ingredients of Chinese Herbal Medicine on the Rejuvenation of Healthy Aging: Focus on Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Chen , Ling Shuang , Xu Jin-Wen
Published: July 2020

Stem cells (SCs) are special types of cells with the ability of self‐renewal and multidirectional differentiation. As the organism ages, the ability to maintain homeostasis and regeneration deteriorates and the number and activity of stem cells decline. Theoretically, the restoration of stem cells might reverse aging. However, due to their own aging, donor‐derived immune rejection, and difficulties in stem cell differentiation control, a series of problems need to be solved to realize the potential for clinical application of stem cells. Chinese herbal medicine is a nature drug library which is suitable for the long‐term treatment of aging‐related diseases. Modern pharmacological studies have revealed that many active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines with the effect of promoting stem cells growth and differentiation mainly belong to “reinforcing herbs.” In recent years, exploration of natural active ingredients from Chinese herbal medicines for delaying aging, improving the stem cell microenvironment, and promoting the proliferation and differentiation of endogenous stem cells has attracted substantial attention. This article will focus on active ingredients from Chinese herbs‐mediated differentiation of stem cells into particular cell type, like neural cells, endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and osteoblasts. We will also discuss the effects of these small molecules on Wnt, Sonic Hedgehog, Notch, eNOS‐cGMP, and MAP kinase signal transduction pathways, as well as reveal the role of estrogen receptor α and PPAR γ on selectively promoting or inhibiting stem cells differentiation. This review will provide new insights into the health aging strategies of active ingredients in Chinese herbal medicine in regenerative medicine.
Factor and Cluster Analysis for TCM Syndromes of Real‐World Metabolic Syndrome at Different Age Stage
Authors: Xia Shujie , Cai Jing , Chen Jianxin , Lin Xuejuan , Chen Shujiao , Gao Bizhen , Li Candong
Published: July 2020

Background. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has the characteristics of multitarget and overall regulation, which has certain advantages in preventing and treating of metabolic syndrome (MS). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the similarities and differences of TCM syndrome distribution in different age groups to promote the optimization of treatment strategies. Methods. This study was based on a real‐world survey conducted in 3 hospitals in China. There are 1262 collected cases of MS meeting the inclusion criteria, which were divided into the young group, middle‐aged group, and elderly group. Factor analysis (FA) was conducted for syndrome element extraction, and K‐means cluster analysis was processed for syndrome type classification. Frequency analysis and Chi‐square test were used to compare the syndrome characteristics of each group. Results. Common factors extracted were assigned to 18 syndrome elements including 11 nature syndrome elements and 7 location syndrome elements. Phlegm and dampness are the most frequent syndrome elements in general. Compared with the middle‐aged group and elderly group, the young group has more obvious nature syndrome elements in heat and Qi deficiency, and location syndrome elements in the stomach. As for the middle‐aged group, the frequency of location syndrome in kidney syndrome was higher than that in other groups. When it comes to the elderly group, it is shown that the symptoms of Yin deficiency and blood deficiency increase with age and the old patients may have more location syndrome elements in the lung and gallbladder. Conclusion. The TCM syndrome of MS is complex in that there may be the characteristics of deficiency and excess syndrome simultaneously. The main pathological factors of MS were phlegm and dampness. Besides, MS patients at different age periods may have their own syndrome distribution features. So, it is reasonable to adhere to the method of resolving phlegm and removing dampness and, at the same time, adopt the ways of clearing heat, promoting Qi, nourishing Yin, supplementing blood as well as regulating the liver, promoting the lung, transporting the spleen, nourishing the heart, and nourishing the kidney based on the syndrome feature of MS in different age stages.
Electroacupuncture Prevents Osteoarthritis of High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Xie Lin-Lin , Zhao Yu-Li , Yang Jian , Cheng Hui , Zhong Zhen-Dong , Liu Yi-Ru , Pang Xian-Lun
Published: July 2020

The effects of acupuncture on osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis have been demonstrated in vitro and in animal models. However, the potential for acupuncture to mediate protective effects on obese‐induced OA has not been examined. Here, we investigated the effects of different acupuncture patterns on OA pathogenesis in high‐fat diet‐ (HFD‐) induced obese rats. After 12‐week diet‐induced obesity, obese rats were treated with three acupuncture protocols for 2 weeks, including ST36, GB34, and ST36+GB34. The results showed that the three acupuncture protocols both prevented obesity‐induced cartilage matrix degradation and MMP expression and mitigated obesity‐induced systemic and local inflammation but had different regulatory effects on lipid metabolism and gut microbiota disorder of obese‐induced OA rats. Furthermore, the three acupuncture protocols increased the microbial diversity and altered the structure of community of feces in obese rats. We found that ST36 and GB34 could inhibit proinflammatory shift in the gut microbiome with an increase in the ratio of Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes and promote the recovery of relative abundance of Clostridium, Akkermansia, Butyricimonas, and Lactococcus. Although both ST36 and GB34 had an anti‐inflammatory effect on serum inflammatory mediators, only the acupuncture protocol with both ST36 and GB34 could effectively inhibit LPS‐mediated joint inflammation in obesity rats. Therefore, relieving obesity‐related chronic inflammation, lipid metabolism disorder, and gut microbiota disorder may be an important mechanism for acupuncture with ST36 and GB34 to promote OA recovery.
Accumulation of Molecular Aberrations Distinctive to Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Midorikawa Yutaka , Yamamoto Shogo , Tatsuno Kenji , Renard-Guillet Claire , Tsuji Shingo , Hayashi Akimasa , Ueda Hiroki , Fukuda Shiro , Fujita Takanori , Katoh Hiroto , Ishikawa Shumpei , Covington Kyle R. , Creighton Chad J. , Sugitani Masahiko , Wheeler David A. , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Nagae Genta , Takayama Tadatoshi , Aburatani Hiroyuki
Published: July 2020

Cancer develops through the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic aberrations. To identify sequential molecular alterations that occur during the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we compared 52 early and 108 overt HCC samples by genome sequencing. Gene mutations in the p53/RB1 pathway, WNT pathway, MLL protein family, SWI/SNF complexes, and AKT/PI3K pathway were common in HCC. In the early phase of all entities, TERT was the most frequently upregulated gene owing to diverse mechanisms. Despite frequent somatic mutations in driver genes, including CTNNB1 and TP53, early HCC was a separate molecular entity from overt HCC, as each had a distinct expression profile. Notably, WNT target genes were not activated in early HCC regardless of CTNNB1 mutation status because β-catenin did not translocate into the nucleus due to the E-cadherin/β-catenin complex at the membrane. Conversely, WNT targets were definitively upregulated in overt HCC, with CTNNB1 mutation associated with downregulation of CDH1 and hypomethylation of CpG islands in target genes. Similarly, cell-cycle genes downstream of the p53/RB pathway were upregulated only in overt HCC, with TP53 or RB1 gene mutations associated with chromosomal deletion of 4q or 16q. HCC was epigenetically distinguished into four subclasses: normal-like methylation, global-hypomethylation (favorable prognosis), stem-like methylation (poor prognosis), and CpG island methylation. These methylation statuses were globally maintained through HCC progression. Collectively, these data show that as HCC progresses, additional molecular events exclusive of driver gene mutations cooperatively contribute to transcriptional activation of downstream targets according to methylation status.

Significance:

In addition to driver gene mutations in the WNT and p53 pathways, further molecular events are required for aberrant transcriptional activation of these pathways as HCC progresses.
Leveraging Systematic Functional Analysis to Benchmark an In Silico Framework Distinguishes Driver from Passenger MEK Mutants in Cancer
Authors: Hanrahan Aphrothiti J. , Sylvester Brooke E. , Chang Matthew T. , Elzein Arijh , Gao Jianjiong , Han Weiwei , Liu Ye , Xu Dong , Gao Sizhi P. , Gorelick Alexander N. , Jones Alexis M. , Kiliti Amber J. , Nissan Moriah H. , Nimura Clare A. , Poteshman Abigail N. , Yao Zhan , Gao Yijun , Hu Wenhuo , Wise Hannah C. , Gavrila Elena I. , Shoushtari Alexander N. , Tiwari Shakuntala , Viale Agnes , Abdel-Wahab Omar , Merghoub Taha , Berger Michael F. , Rosen Neal , Taylor Barry S. , Solit David B.
Published: July 2020

Despite significant advances in cancer precision medicine, a significant hurdle to its broader adoption remains the multitude of variants of unknown significance identified by clinical tumor sequencing and the lack of biologically validated methods to distinguish between functional and benign variants. Here we used functional data on MAP2K1 and MAP2K2 mutations generated in real-time within a co-clinical trial framework to benchmark the predictive value of a three-part in silico methodology. Our computational approach to variant classification incorporated hotspot analysis, three-dimensional molecular dynamics simulation, and sequence paralogy. In silico prediction accurately distinguished functional from benign MAP2K1 and MAP2K2 mutants, yet drug sensitivity varied widely among activating mutant alleles. These results suggest that multifaceted in silico modeling can inform patient accrual to MEK/ERK inhibitor clinical trials, but computational methods need to be paired with laboratory- and clinic-based efforts designed to unravel variabilities in drug response.

Significance:

Leveraging prospective functional characterization of MEK1/2 mutants, it was found that hotspot analysis, molecular dynamics simulation, and sequence paralogy are complementary tools that can robustly prioritize variants for biologic, therapeutic, and clinical validation.

See related commentary by Whitehead and Sebolt-Leopold, p. 4042
Exposure of Patient-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells to TGFB1 Supports Fibrosis Induction in a Pediatric Acute Megakaryoblastic Leukemia Model
Authors: Hack Theresa , Bertram Stefanie , Blair Helen , Börger Verena , Büsche Guntram , Denson Lora , Fruth Enrico , Giebel Bernd , Heidenreich Olaf , Klein–Hitpass Ludger , Kollipara Laxmikanth , Sendker Stephanie , Sickmann Albert , Walter Christiane , von Neuhoff Nils , Hanenberg Helmut , Reinhardt Dirk , Schneider Markus , Rasche Mareike
Published: July 2020

Bone marrow fibrosis (BMF) is a rare complication in acute leukemia. In pediatrics, it predominantly occurs in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL) and especially in patients with trisomy 21, called myeloid leukemia in Down syndrome (ML-DS). Defects in mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and cytokines specifically released by the myeloid blasts are thought to be the main drivers of fibrosis in the bone marrow niche (BMN). To model the BMN of pediatric patients with AMKL in mice, we first established MSCs from pediatric patients with AMKL (n = 5) and ML-DS (n = 9). Healthy donor control MSCs (n = 6) were generated from unaffected children and adolescents ≤18 years of age. Steady-state analyses of the MSCs revealed that patient-derived MSCs exhibited decreased adipogenic differentiation potential and enrichment of proliferation-associated genes. Importantly, TGFB1 exposure in vitro promoted early profibrotic changes in all three MSC entities. To study BMF induction for longer periods of time, we created an in vivo humanized artificial BMN subcutaneously in immunodeficient NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ mice, using a mixture of MSCs, human umbilical vein endothelial cell, and Matrigel. Injection of AMKL blasts as producers of TGFB1 into this BMN after 8 weeks induced fibrosis grade I/II in a dose-dependent fashion over a time period of 4 weeks. Thus, our study developed a humanized mouse model that will be instrumental to specifically examine leukemogenesis and therapeutic targets for AMKL blasts in future.

Implications:

TGFB1 supports fibrosis induction in a pediatric AMKL model generated with patient-derived MSCs.

Visual Overview:

http://mcr.aacrjournals.org/content/molcanres/18/10/1603/F1.large.jpg.
Correlation of Venous Oxygen Saturations from Noninvasive Hematocrit Monitoring Using Blood Gas Measured Oximetry in Chronic Pediatric Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Idrovo Alexandra , Geer Jessica , Solomon Catharina H. , Devaraj Sridevi , Swartz Sarah J. , Akcan-Arikan Ayse , Srivaths Poyyapakkam R.
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Noninvasive hematocrit monitoring (NIVHM) during pediatric hemodialysis (pedHD) provides data in real time regarding changes in hematocrit and blood volume and also provides venous oxygen saturations. The latter has been proposed to indicate changes in tissue oxygen consumption. It is not known how well NIVHM oxygen saturations (O2sat) approximate blood gas measured oximetry saturation (mO2sat) in the course of pedHD. We aimed to assess the validity and reliability of NIVHM O2sat compared to mO2sat. Methods: This is a prospective study in 15 patients <21 years old with >90 days on hemodialysis (HD) without congenital heart disease. HD access was fistula (AVF) in 4 patients and tunneled catheters in the remainder. Pulse oximetry (spO2) was continuously monitored; mO2sat was measured via oximetry in a blood gas analyzer and NIVHM O2sat values collected at the start, middle, and end of HD treatment. Results: A total of 45 dyad measurements were obtained. NIVHM O2sat correlated well with mO2sat (R = 0.89, p < 0.0001); the same was seen at pre, mid, and post HD time points (R = 0.86–0.95, p < 0.001). NIVHM O2sat was lower than mO2sat; with catheter as access, the difference was 9.3 ± 8.6 (CI: 12.3–6.22, p < 0.0001) and with AVF was 2.1 ± 0.78 (CI: 2.6–1.7, p < 0.0001). Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated the difference but did not show any systematic bias. Continuous monitor of spO2 showed no hypoxia. Discussion/Conclusion: Intradialytic NIVHM O2sat correlates well with mO2sat but yield lower values. Future studies can include NIVHM O2sat changes as a surrogate for central venous O2 saturation changes and potentially yield useful information regarding tissue oxygen consumption in pedHD patients.
Elevation of Memory Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes, Including Human T Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 Tax-Specific and Hepatitis Virus Type C-Specific Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes, in a Patient with Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Jo Tatsuro , Kaneko Yohei , Oishi Takayuki , Matsuzaka Kaori , Shioya Haruna , Sakai Takahiro , Tomoinaga Hiroo , Hayashi Shizuka , Matsuo Masatoshi , Taguchi Jun
Published: July 2020

Herein, we present the case of a patient who suffered from adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after obtaining a sustained virological response following treatment with a direct-acting antiviral (DAA) at different points in time. The patient went into complete remission (CR) for ATLL. Unfortunately, subsequent relapse of ATLL was observed. This situation was overcome using chemotherapy with pegylated interferon alpha-2b. Human T lymphotropic virus type 1 Tax-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) were recognized after obtaining second CR, and those CTLs have been maintained for many years. After 4 years from the second CR, chronic hepatitis type C was treated with a DAA, and sustained virological response was attained. However, the occurrence of HCC was detected. Surprisingly, the tumor disappeared spontaneously. Hepatitis virus type C-specific CTLs were also detected in the patient. T-cell receptor (TCR) V beta gene repertoire analyses revealed oligoclonal expansion of effector and memory CTLs. The number of CTLs expressing the TCR V beta 13.1 has increased over the years since HCC occurrence. The activation and maintenance of anticancer cellular immunity may have allowed the patient to obtain long-term survival and overcome two lethal neoplasms.
Uterine Tumor Resembling Ovarian Sex Cord Tumor: Clinicopathological Characteristics of a Rare Case
Authors: Nguyen Chu Van , Phung Huyen Thi , Dao Luan Thi , Ta Dang Hong Hai , Tran Minh Ngoc
Published: July 2020

Uterine tumor resembling ovarian sex cord tumor (UTROSCT) is a rare indolent stromal neoplasm of unclear histogenesis with a distinct histopathological entity. Immunophenotypes of sex cord positivity are the most significant information to confirm the diagnosis. We present the case of a 61-year-old female with a polypoid mass in the uterus which was successfully removed by surgical resection as hysterectomy. The pathological diagnosis was UTROSCT, which was characterized microscopically by sex cord images and immunohistochemical features of calretinin, CD99, and WT1 positivity.
Thyroid Hormones within the Normal Range and Cardiac Function in the General Population: The EPIPorto Study
Authors: Neves João Sérgio , Fontes-Carvalho Ricardo , Borges-Canha Marta , Leite Ana Rita , Martins Sandra , Oliveira Ana , Guimarães João Tiago , Carvalho Davide , Leite-Moreira Adelino , Azevedo Ana
Published: July 2020

Background: Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are associated with marked changes in cardiac structure and function. However, the association of thyroid function within the normal range with cardiac structure and function in the general population remains uncertain. Methods: Eight hundred thirty-five subjects aged ≥45 years from the EPIPorto cohort (evaluation between 2006 and 2008) were cross-sectionally analyzed. We excluded participants with TSH, free T4 (FT4), or free T3 (FT3) outside of the reference range or with self-reported cardiovascular or thyroid disease. Cardiac structure and function were evaluated by echocardiography. We used linear regression models unadjusted and adjusted for sex and age (model 1), and sex, age, BMI, diabetes, hypertension, and smoking (model 2). Nonlinear associations were assessed using restricted cubic splines. Results: The mean age was 61.5 years (SD 10.5); 61.1% of the patients were women. In the adjusted model 2, heart rate was positively associated with FT3; diastolic blood pressure was positively associated with TSH; LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were inversely associated with TSH, and ejection fraction was nonlinearly associated with FT3, with higher ejection fractions near the limits of the reference range. Left ventricle (LV) posterior wall thickness was nonlinearly associated with FT4 in the adjusted model 1, with a greater thickness near the limits of the reference range. Regarding diastolic function, no significant associations were observed in adjusted models. Conclusions: Thyroid function within the reference range was associated with heart rate, blood pressure, cardiac structure, and function. Increasing thyroid function (lower TSH, higher FT4, or higher FT3) was associated with a higher heart rate, a lower diastolic blood pressure, and larger LV volumes. LV wall thickness and ejection fraction had a U-shaped association with thyroid hormones.
An Unexpected Response to Imatinib in a “Wild-Type” Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Authors: Gheysen Mathilde , Vander Borght Sara , Lehnert Stefan , Vanslembrouck Ragna , Vanden Bempt Isabelle , Schöffski Patrick
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and the most frequent sarcomas in some geographic regions. In patients with metastatic GIST, the tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib is the first-line standard of care. Mutations in KIT or specific platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) gene aberrations in the tumor cells predict a favorable response to this agent, while tumors without KIT or PDGFRA mutations (“wild-type” GISTs) are usually resistant to such treatment. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is commonly used for mutational analysis of GISTs. Case Presentation: We present a case of an unexpected response to imatinib treatment in a GIST that was initially called “wild-type” based on routine NGS. A spectacular response to empirical imatinib treatment triggered further genetic analysis and led to the identification of a 45-bp duplication in KIT exon 11 undetectable by routine NGS. Conclusion: Negative findings on routine NGS testing for KIT alterations do not exclude the presence of actionable drug targets, as in the case of larger or complex gene insertions or deletions. Updating the NGS bioinformatics pipeline to ensure identification of larger deletions or insertions or additional Sanger sequencing is warranted in NGS driver-negative GISTs in order to allow accurate detection of actionable mutations.
Inter-Laboratory Comparison of Extracellular Vesicle Isolation Based on Ultracentrifugation
Authors: Torres Crigna Adriana , Fricke Fabia , Nitschke Katja , Worst Thomas , Erb Ulrike , Karremann Michael , Buschmann Dominik , Elvers-Hornung Susanne , Tucher Christine , Schiller Martin , Hausser Ingrid , Gebert Johannes , Bieback Karen
Published: July 2020

Background/Aims: Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including microvesicles and exosomes, deliver bioactive cargo mediating intercellular communication in physiological and pathological conditions. EVs are increasingly investigated as therapeutic agents and targets, but also as disease biomarkers. However, a definite consensus regarding EV isolation methods is lacking, which makes it intricate to standardize research practices and eventually reach a desirable level of data comparability. In our study, we performed an inter-laboratory comparison of EV isolation based on a differential ultracentrifugation protocol carried out in 4 laboratories in 2 independent rounds of isolation. Methods: Conditioned medium of colorectal cancer cells was prepared and pooled by 1 person and distributed to each of the participating laboratories for isolation according to a pre-defined protocol. After EV isolation in each laboratory, quantification and characterization of isolated EVs was collectively done by 1 person having the highest expertise in the respective test method: Western blot, flow cytometry (fluorescence-activated cell sorting [FACS], nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: EVs were visualized with TEM, presenting similar cup-shaped and spherical morphology and sizes ranging from 30 to 150 nm. NTA results showed similar size ranges of particles in both isolation rounds. EV preparations showed high purity by the expression of EV marker proteins CD9, CD63, CD81, Alix, and TSG101, and the lack of calnexin. FACS analysis of EVs revealed intense staining for CD63 and CD81 but lower levels for CD9 and TSG101. Preparations from 1 laboratory presented significantly lower particle numbers (p < 0.0001), most probably related to increased processing time. However, even when standardizing processing time, particle yields still differed significantly between groups, indicating inter-laboratory differences in the efficiency of EV isolation. Importantly, no relation was observed between centrifugation speed/k-factor and EV yield. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that quantitative differences in EV yield might be due to equipment- and operator-dependent technical variability in ultracentrifugation-based EV isolation. Furthermore, our study emphasizes the need to standardize technical parameters such as the exact run speed and k-factor in order to transfer protocols between different laboratories. This hints at substantial inter-laboratory biases that should be assessed in multi-centric studies.
Nexilin Is Necessary for Maintaining the Transverse-Axial Tubular System in Adult Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Spinozzi Simone , Liu Canzhao , Chen Ze’e , Feng Wei , Zhang Lunfeng , Ouyang Kunfu , Evans Sylvia M. , Chen Ju
Published: July 2020

Background:

NEXN (nexilin) is a protein of the junctional membrane complex required for development of cardiac T-tubules. Global and cardiomyocyte-specific loss of
Nexn
in mice leads to a rapidly progressive dilated cardiomyopathy and premature death. Therefore, little is known as to the role of NEXN in adult cardiomyocytes. Transverse-axial tubular system remodeling are well-known features in heart failure. Although NEXN is required during development for T-tubule formation, its role, if any, in mature T-tubules remains to be addressed.

Methods:

Nexn
inducible adult cardiomyocyte-specific KO mice were generated. Comprehensive morphological and functional analyses were performed. Heart samples (n>3) were analyzed by molecular, biochemical, and electron microscopy analyses. Isolated single adult cardiomyocytes were analyzed by confocal microscopy, and myocyte shortening/re-lengthening and Ca
2+
transient studies were conducted.

Results:

Inducible cardiomyocyte-specific loss of
Nexn
in adult mice resulted in a dilated cardiomyopathy with reduced cardiac function (13% reduction in percentage fractional shortening;
P
<0.05). In vivo and in vitro analyses of adult mouse heart samples revealed that NEXN was essential for optimal contraction and calcium handling and was required for maintenance of T-tubule network organization (transverse tubular component in
Nexn
inducible adult cardiomyocyte-specific KO mice reduced by 40% with respect to controls,
P
<0.05).

Conclusions:

Results here reported reveal NEXN to be a pivotal component of adult junctional membrane complexes required for maintenance of transverse-axial tubular architecture. These results demonstrate that NEXN plays an essential role in the adult cardiomyocyte and give further understanding of pathological mechanisms responsible for cardiomyopathy in patients carrying mutations in the NEXN gene.
COVID-19 and Decompressive Hemicraniectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Liang John W. , Reynolds Alexandra S. , Reilly Kaitlin , Lay Cappi , Kellner Christopher P. , Shigematsu Tomoyoshi , Gilligan Jeffrey , Majidi Shahram , Al-Mufti Fawaz , Bederson Joshua B. , Mocco J , Dhamoon Mandip S. , Dangayach Neha S. ,   on behalf of the Mount Sinai Stroke Investigators
Published: July 2020

Background and Purpose:

Young patients with malignant cerebral edema have been shown to benefit from early decompressive hemicraniectomy. The impact of concomitant infection with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and how this should weigh in on the decision for surgery is unclear.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed all COVID-19–positive patients admitted to the neuroscience intensive care unit for malignant edema monitoring. Patients with >50% of middle cerebral artery involvement on computed tomography imaging were considered at risk for malignant edema.

Results:

Seven patients were admitted for monitoring of whom 4 died. Cause of death was related to COVID-19 complications, and these were either seen both very early and several days into the intensive care unit course after the typical window of malignant cerebral swelling. Three cases underwent surgery, and 1 patient died postoperatively from cardiac failure. A good outcome was attained in the other 2 cases.

Conclusions:

COVID-19–positive patients with large hemispheric stroke can have a good outcome with decompressive hemicraniectomy. A positive test for COVID-19 should not be used in isolation to exclude patients from a potentially lifesaving procedure.
Molecular phylogeny and classification of Chelidurella Verhoeff, stat. restit. (Dermaptera: Forficulidae)
Authors: Kirstová Markéta , Kundrata Robin , Kočárek Petr
Published: July 2020

We present herein the first phylogenetic analysis of the genus Chelidura and the taxonomic revision of the genus Chelidurella, stat. restit., based on DNA sequences. The results confirm the generic status of Chelidurella Verhoeff, 1902 and Mesochelidura Verhoeff, 1902, and they are removed from the synonymy with Chelidura and reinstated as valid genera. Many individual Chelidurella species are defined based on the combination of a few variable characters on the pygidium and forceps, and the systematics and phylogeny of this genus are unclear. The validity of most of the species is revisited here by molecular phylogenetic analyses, and individual morphological characters are evaluated for their relevance in the identification of all described species. We describe two new species to science, Chelidurella galvagnii Kirstová & Kočárek, sp. nov. from Austria, and C. pseudovignai Kočárek & Kirstová, sp. nov. from Italy and Austria; two species, C. guentheri Galvagni, 1994 and C. tatrica Chládek, 2017 are newly synonymized. Critical diagnostic characters are illustrated, and an identification key for males of Chelidurella is provided.
Species of Agaricus section Agaricus from China

Authors: LIU AN-QI , DAI RONG-CHUN , ZHANG MING-ZHE , CAO BIN , XI YA-LI , WEI SHENG-LONG , ZHAO RUI-LIN
Published: July 2020

Agaricus section Agaricus is generally recognized as a monophyletic group. In this study, 28 specimens of this section were collected from five provinces of China. Phylogenetic trees were produced based on the ITS sequences using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses. Based on this phylogenetic approach combined with their morphological examination, five species are identified including two new species named as A. jilinensis and A. zhangyensis, and three new recorded species from China, A. aristocratus, A. griseicephalus and A. argenteus. All species were described and illustrated in detail.
New insights into the phylogenetic position of Hymenidium dentatum (Apioideae, Apiaceae) inferred from nrDNA and morphological evidence

Authors: GUO XIAN-LIN , GOU WEI , PENG CHANG , ZHOU SONG-DONG , HE XING-JIN
Published: July 2020

Hymenidium dentatum (Wall. ex DC.) Pimenov & Kljuykov was a little-known species that was regarded as endemic to the Himalayan region. It is known that many species are under-collected impeded taxonomic studies and the traditionally recognized genera Pleurospermum (Hymenidium and Pterocyclus) were polyphyletic group. In this study, two naturally occurring populations of H. dentatum were discovered in China and morphological traits and ITS sequence data were studied to confirm the phylogenetic position of H. dentatum, which was located in Sinodielsia clade and close to the generic type of Hymendium. A comprehensive description of H. dentatum along with distribution, habitats and specimens examined and discuss suggestions for the conservation of this species were carried out comprehensively referring to our fieldwork.
Wicklowia phuketensis (Wicklowiaceae, Pleosporales), a novel freshwater taxon from Thailand

Authors: CALABON MARK S. , HYDE KEVIN D. , GENTEKAKI ELENI , JONES E.B. GARETH , PHOOKAMSAK RUNGTIWA , DOILOM MINGKWAN , BOONMEE SARANYAPHAT , PROMPUTTHA ITTHAYAKORN
Published: July 2020

An investigation of aquatic fungi in Thailand resulted in the collection and isolation of a new species of Wicklowia (Wicklowiaceae) from submerged wood. Wicklowia phuketensis sp. nov. differs from known species in morphology and multigene phylogenetic analyses. Both W. submersa and W. phuketensis lack appendages at both ends, while W. aquatica has basal appendages. Wicklowia phuketensis differs from other species in the dimensions of the ascomata, asci and ascospores. The combined LSU and SSU sequence data placed the new species within Wicklowiaceae.
A new species of Geranium (Geraniaceae) from Himachal Pradesh, India

Authors: WAGH VIJAY VISHNU , HURRAH IMTIYAZ AHMAD
Published: July 2020

Geranium lahulense, a new species from Keylong, Lahul & Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, is described and illustrated. The new species is distinguished from its allied species (G. richardsonii, G. pratense, G. himalayense) by its deltoid-subulate stipules, polygonal to sub-globular leaves with widely separated rhombic segments, white obovate-cordate petals and mericarps without any transverse vein at apex. A morphological comparison with related species and taxonomic key to distinguish the species are also provided.
Studies in Colombian Ensifera and adjacent countries: New taxa of smallest field crickets (Orthoptera: Gryllidae: Gryllinae)
Authors: CADENA-CASTAÑEDA OSCAR J. , OREJUELA MERY HELEN TÍJARO
Published: July 2020

Atsigryllus sikuani n. gen et n. sp. and Perugryllus ranoredium n. sp., tiny field crickets from the Orinoquian and Colombian Amazon respectively, are described. The diversity and distribution of field crickets for Colombia is discussed.
A new genus and a new species of Anabropsinae (Orthoptera: Anostostomatidae) from China
Authors: WANG HAN-QIANG , LIU XIAN-WEI
Published: July 2020

A new species of a new genus Melanabropsis. tianmuica gen. & sp. nov. is described from China. 3 Japanese species of Anabropsinae are transferred to the new genus. A key to the Chinese genera of subfamily Anabropsinae is given. Materials are deposited in Shanghai Entomological Museum, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
New species and record of xanthid crabs (Crustacean, Decapoda) from Taiwan
Authors: HSUEH PAN-WEN
Published: July 2020

A new species and a new record species of xanthid crabs collected from shallow subtidal hard bottoms of Taiwanese waters are described in the present study. Garthasia ludaoensis n. sp. represents the second species for the genus and can be readily distinguished from the type species, G. americana (Garth, 1939), by having: 1) smaller width to length ratio of the carapace; 2) larger width to length ratio of the third maxilliped; 3) smaller width to length ratio of merus of the third maxilliped; 4) no distinct longitudinal keel on surfaces of sternites 1 and 2; 5) smaller length to width ratio of merus of the last ambulatory leg; 6) smaller width to length ratio of pleonite 2 of the male abdomen; 7) pleonite 2 in semicircular-shaped; 8) a tuft of long setae near distal opening of G1; and 9) distal end of basal segment without upright protrusion of G2. This genus is reported for the first time from Taiwan, as well as from the West Pacific. The second xanthid crab specimen examined in the present study has live colour pattern of the carapace and morphological characters similar to that of Zosimus maculatus (de Man, 1887) described from Ambon, Indonesia (about 3.7° S). The present finding extends the northern distribution range of this species to near 22° N and represents a new record of this species for Taiwan.
The mental health of health care workers in Oman during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Badahdah Abdallah , Khamis Faryal , Al Mahyijari Nawal , Al Balushi Marwa , Al Hatmi Hashil , Al Salmi Issa , Albulushi Zakariya , Al Noomani Jaleela
Published: July 2020

Background:

COVID-19 disease is one of the most destructive events that humanity has witnessed in the 21st century. It has impacted all aspects of life and all segments of populations, including already vulnerable health care providers.

Aims:

This study sought to detect the prevalence of mental health issues in sample of physicians and nurses working in several health facilities in Oman.

Method:

We gauged the mental health conditions of 509 physicians (38.1%) and nurses (61.9 %) using the Perceived Stress Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale and World Health Organization Well-Being Index.

Results:

The study revealed a high prevalence of stress, anxiety and poor psychological well-being, especially among females, young health care workers and those who interacted with known or suspected COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion:

The outcomes of this study support the handful of studies published during this global health crisis that have found that the mental health of health care workers has been harshly affected and predicted that it will continue, to various degrees, to be affected in the foreseeable future. The results of this study highlight the urgency of providing administrative and psychological support as well as current and accurate information on COVID-19 to health care workers.
Secondary Traumatization Outcomes and Associated Factors Among the Health Care Workers Exposed to the COVID-19
Authors: Arpacioglu Selim , Gurler Meltem , Cakiroglu Suleyman
Published: July 2020

Background:

Secondary traumatization exposure and mental health conditions of health care workers gained importance during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic period.

Aims:

In our study, we aim to research the secondary traumatization and associated factors among health care workers.

Method:

This cross-sectional study was applied through an online questionnaire using the snowball sampling method. Two hundred fifty-one health care workers from different units/services and 312 non-medical worker adults attended to the research. Health care workers were divided into two groups based on working with COVID-19 patients at the frontline or not. The data were collected via Introductory Information Form, Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS) and Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) between 22 May and 30 May 2020.

Results:

Among the 563 participants, 251 (44.6%) were health care workers and 312 (55.4%) were non-medical workers. The anxiety, depression and secondary traumatization scores of the frontline health care workers for the COVID-19 were found to be significantly higher than those of the other health workers or non-medical workers ( p < .001). Also, we found that being a woman, being in the first years of the work, living with a parent, having a chronic disease, having a trauma history and increased social media use are related to having higher scores from the secondary traumatization scale.

Conclusion:

The secondary traumatization exposure and the mental health conditions of the health care workers directly working with the COVID-19 patients should be taken into consideration. It is important to provide social support, examine and control riskier groups for mental health regularly during the pandemic.
The state as regulator? The ‘dual-track’ system of employment in the Chinese public sector and barriers to equal pay for equal work
Authors: Feng Xiliang , Cooke Fang Lee , Zhao Chenhui
Published: July 2020

Although equal pay for equal work has been clearly incorporated in the law in China for several decades, its implementation faces considerable impediments. This article investigates how labour market transformation and state sector reform in China have led to new forms of labour market segmentation that have undermined gender equality and created barriers to upholding the equal pay for equal work principle. Using the dual-track employment and remuneration system in the public sector as an example, the analysis illustrates the absence of implementation mechanisms or a remedial channel to support this principle in the Chinese context. It shows how the values and norms used in wage-setting in China impede the implementation of equal pay for equal work and in turn its extension to the notion of work of equal value mandated by the International Labour Organization in its Equal Remuneration Convention. It concludes that unless fundamental changes take place at the institutional level with strong state intervention, the International Labour Organization principle will remain a high-level inspiration rather than an enforceable law that could benefit those who are disadvantaged in the labour market.
A National Measurement Framework to Assess and Improve Sickle Cell Care in 4 US Regions
Authors: Faro Elissa Z. , Shook Lisa , Treadwell Marsha J. , King Allison A. , Whiteman Lauren N. , Ivy E. Donnell , Hulihan Mary , Kavanagh Patricia L. , Selk Sabrina , Oyeku Suzette , Berns Scott D.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Coordinated measurement strategies are needed to inform collaborative approaches to improve access to and quality of care for persons with sickle cell disease (SCD). The objective of our study was to develop a multilevel measurement strategy to assess improvements in access to and quality of care for persons with SCD in 4 US regions.

Methods

From 2014 through 2017, regional grantees in the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program collected administrative and patient-level electronic health record (EHR) data to assess quality improvement initiatives. Four grantees—covering 29 US states and territories and an SCD population of 56 720—used a collective impact model to organize their work. The grantees collected administrative data from state Medicaid and Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) at multiple points during 2014-2017 to assess improvements at the population level, and local patient-level data were abstracted from site-level EHRs at regular intervals to track improvements over time.

Results

Administrative data were an important source of understanding population-level improvements but were delayed, whereas patient-level data were more sensitive to small-scale quality improvements.

Conclusions

We established a shared measurement approach in partnership with Medicaid and Medicaid MCO stakeholders that can be leveraged to effectively support quality improvement initiatives for persons with SCD in the United States.
Critical Event Analysis in Case Study Research
Authors: García-Montoya Laura , Mahoney James
Published: July 2020

This article develops a framework for the causal analysis of critical events in case study research. A critical event is defined as a contingent event that is causally important for an outcome in a specific case. Using set-theoretic analysis, this article offers definitions and measurement tools for the study of contingency and causal importance in case study research. One set of tools consists of guidelines for using theoretical expectations to arrive at conclusions about the level of contingency of events. Another set of tools are guidelines for using counterfactual cases to determine the extent to which a given event is necessary and sufficient for a particular outcome in an individual case. Examples from comparative and international studies are used to illustrate the framework.
The Social Psychology of Occupational Status Groups: Relationality in the Structure of Deference
Authors: Maloney Emily
Published: July 2020

Affect Control Theory (ACT) can predict the average deference that occupational identities receive from others. These “deference scores” can capture occupational status better than previous operationalizations of prestige. Combining this new measurement of occupational status with social network methods, this article explores the underlying relational patterns hidden within Freeland and Hoey’s (2018) scores of average deference. I construct a complete network of deference relations across 303 occupational identities using Bayesian ACT simulations. A blockmodel analysis of this network resulted in four positions within the occupational deference structure: everyday specialists, service-to-society occupations, the disagreeably powerful, and the actively revered. These are occupational classes that defer to the same occupational identities and receive deference from the same occupations. Exploring the reduced blockmodel provides a more complete depiction of the occupational status structure as measured by ACT.
Legal Histories as Determinants of Incorporation: Previous Undocumented Experience and Naturalization Propensities Among Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Cheong Amanda R.
Published: July 2020

This article examines how different histories of illegality may influence immigrants’ orientations toward acquiring citizenship in the United States. Findings from the New Immigrant Survey show that having crossed the border without authorization—compared to having no history of illegality—is associated with a higher propensity to naturalize, indicated by an expressed intention to naturalize upon eligibility and, notably, an early undertaking of the naturalization process. In contrast, there is weaker evidence that immigrants who overstayed their visas or worked without authorization differ with regards to naturalization from immigrants with no history of illegality. Results suggest that immigrants who have experienced the greatest degrees of legal insecurity in the past may be among those most likely to seek out full political membership. Thus, this article bears optimistic implications for the integration potential of previously undocumented immigrants, and highlights the importance of making available legal pathways “out of the shadows” and into the political communities of receiving states.