bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR‐4282 inhibits tumor progression through down‐regulation of ZBTB2 by targeting LIN28B in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Zebiao , Huang Wanling , Zeng Jinbiao
Published: January 2020

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most aggressive type of head and neck cancer with an unsatisfactory 5‐year survival rate. MicroRNAs are a group of small noncoding RNAs reported to serve important roles in carcinogenesis, inhibiting certain gene expression via targeting the 3′‐untranslated region of messenger RNAs (mRNAs). MiR‐4282 has been newly discovered to be a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer, but it has never been studied in OSCC. The present study aimed to uncover the role of miR‐4282 in OSCC. We first confirmed that miR‐4282 was downregulated in OSCC and validated its prognostic significance. Through gain‐of‐function assays, miR‐4282 was discovered to inhibit proliferation, migration, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, and induce apoptosis. By mechanistic research, we predicted via bioinformatics tools and confirmed by luciferase reporter and pulldown assays that miR‐4282 targeted LIN28B, an RNA‐binding protein, which has been reported to regulate RNA stability in cancers. Furthermore, we confirmed the interaction between LIN28B and zinc finger and BTB domain containing 2 (ZBTB2), and validated that miR‐4282 regulated mRNA stability of ZBTB2 by inhibiting LIN28B. Rescue assays proved that miR‐4282 inhibited tumor progression through LIN28B/ZBTB2 axis. In vivo assays proved that miR‐4282 inhibited tumor growth in OSCC. In conclusion, the present study revealed that miR‐4282 inhibited tumor progression through downregulation of ZBTB2 by targeting LIN28B in OSCC cells, indicating miR‐4282 as a novel biomarker for OSC.
Microenvironment‐induced TIMP2 loss by cancer‐secreted exosomal miR‐4443 promotes liver metastasis of breast cancer
Authors: Wang Jinyan , Zhang Qian , Wang Dandan , Yang Sujin , Zhou Siying , Xu Hanzi , Zhang Heda , Zhong Shanliang , Feng Jifeng
Published: January 2020

We aimed to investigate the role of exosomal miR‐4443 in metastasis of breast cancer (BCa). In vitro wound‐healing assay and transwell invasion assay were used to investigate effect of miR‐4443 on BCa cells. Animal experiments were performed to confirm its effects in vivo. miR‐4443 promotes the metastasis of BCa cells through downregulating tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP2) and upregulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Highly invasive BCa cells have a higher expression of miR‐4443 in both cells and exosomes. The exosomes derived from highly invasive BCa cells mainly gather in the primary tumor and liver. In vivo, overexpression of miR‐4443 in noninvasive BCa cells induces liver metastasis, accompanied with downregulated TIMP2, and upregulated MMP‐2 in both the primary tumor and liver. When we armed MCF‐10A exosomes with miR‐4443 inhibitors to treat mice bearing high‐miR‐4443 tumors, exosomes accumulated in the primary tumor, and liver following the upregulation of TIMP2 and downregulation of MMP2, and the metastasis was inhibited. Highly invasive BCa cells destroy natural barriers against metastasis by delivering exosomal miR‐4443 to stromal cells of the primary tumor and impairing TIMP2, consequently activating MMP; circulating exosomal miR‐4443 might promote BCa cells lodging in future metastatic sites through the similar mechanisms.
Chyle leakage after robotic and open pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Shyr Bor‐Uei , Shyr Bor‐Shiuan , Chen Shih‐Chin , Shyr Yi‐Ming , Wang Shin‐E
Published: January 2020

Background

Chyle leakage is a well‐known but poorly characterized complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). No study examined the chyle leakage after robotic PD (RPD).

Methods

Data regarding chyle leakage were prospectively collected and analyzed from patients undergoing RPD or open PD (OPD).

Results

The study included 118 RPD and 165 OPD. Overall chyle leakage rate was 12.0%, with 13.6% for RPD and 10.9% for OPD. Chyle leakage was eventually resolved in all patients through conservative treatment. The drainage volumes were significantly higher in chyle leakage group from postoperative days (PODs) 1‐7, with a median of 240 mL on POD 1 and POD 7, as compared to 160 mL on POD 1 and 70 mL on POD 7 for those without chyle leakage. The number of lymph nodes involved and resected and pancreatic head adenocarcinoma affected the risk of developing chyle leakage, whereas the surgical approach used (RPD or OPD) did not.

Conclusions

Chyle leakage after PD is not rare, and it can eventually be resolved through conservative treatment. The extent and radicality of the surgery probably have a significant effect on the risk of developing chyle leakage, but the surgical approach used does not.
Differing mechanisms for the 2008 and 2016 wintertime cold events in southern China
Authors: Liao Zhen , Zhai Panmao , Chen Yang , Lu Hong
Published: January 2020

Southern China was hit by a severe cold event during January 21–25, 2016, characteristic of a drastic and sudden temperature drop, with new records of low temperatures set in widespread areas. This cold event was dynamically linked to the activity of the Arctic oscillation (AO) whose evolution led the event by about 2 weeks. Different from this short lasting but intense cold event in 2016, another cold event in the 2008 winter lasted much longer and occurred in tandem with freezing precipitation. Their differences in the duration and precipitation are essentially determined by differing behaviours of blocking highs at mid–high latitudes, the India–Burma Trough and the western Pacific subtropical high. The rapid southward invasion of cold air masses during the 2016 event resulted from the rapid decay of the blocking high, which emanated wave energies downstream and likewise lost wave energies to the local mean flow. By contrast, during the 2008 cold event, continuous upstream wave energy dispersion recurrently stimulated disturbances in the blocking domain, which then extracted energies from the mean flow efficiently to survive markedly longer. Moreover, in the 2008 case, the deepening of the India–Burma Trough and the westward extension of the western Pacific subtropical high jointly enhanced the moisture transport, leading to the freezing rain. This favourable configuration for precipitation was absent in the 2016 case, dictating its dry nature accordingly.
Higher lymph node harvest in patients with a pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant therapy for esophageal cancer is associated with improved survival
Authors: Lutfi Waseem , Martinez‐Meehan Deirdre , Dhupar Rajeev , Christie Neil , Sarkaria Inderpal , Ekeke Chigozirim , Baker Nicholas , Luketich James D. , Okusanya Olugbenga T.
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives

Lymph node harvest during esophagectomy has been associated with improved survival for esophageal cancer but the value of enhanced lymph node harvest following complete pathologic response (pCR) is debated. This study investigated if increasing lymph node harvest in esophageal cancer patients with a pCR after neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy is associated with improved survival.

Methods

We queried the National Cancer Data Base for patients with esophageal cancer between 2004 and 2014 who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation therapy followed by esophagectomy found to have pCR. Multivariable Cox modeling was utilized to evaluate the impact of increasing lymph node counts on overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 1373 patients met inclusion criteria. A National Comprehensive Cancer Network compliant lymphadenectomy of ≥15 nodes was associated with improved survival (66.7% vs 51.1%; P < .001). Cox modeling showed that the first node cutoff to demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in OS was ≥7 nodes (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81, 0.68‐0.97; 5‐year OS: 54.2%) with a trend of decreasing and statistically significant HRs until ≥25 nodes (HR, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.37‐0.72; 5‐year OS: 68.4%).

Conclusions

High negative node counts after neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy are associated with improved survival in patients with pCR.
Botulinum toxin A is an effective therapeutic tool for the management of parotid sialocele and fistula: A systematic review
Authors: Maharaj Shivesh , Mungul Sheetal , Laher Abdullah
Published: January 2020

Objectives

In the management of parotid sialocele and fistula, various conservative and surgical methods have been described. Some studies have described the use of Botulinum toxin A (Botox A) for the management of parotid sialocele and fistula. This is a less invasive and potentially equally effective option. We therefore conducted a systematic review on the current body of literature relating to this specific use of Botox A.

Methods

A search strategy was conducted in July 2019 using the following electronic databases: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. A search of all articles from inception until 31 August 2019 was performed.

Results

Literature searches of electronic databases identified 67 articles eligible for review, of which 15 fulfilled all criteria. These studies were small and in total only 47 patients were included. The majority of sialoceles and fistulas presented as a complication of surgery (77%) with the remaining cases occurring as a result of trauma. The typical age at presentation was between 32 and 88 years of age (mean age of 52 years). All patients were initially treated with and failed other conservative measures. Botox A injection was considered as a final conservative treatment option. The toxin was administered percutaneously in all cases of parotid sialocele and fistula. Dosage of Botox ranged from 10 to 200 units with majority of patients (58%) requiring only one injection. The overall success rate for patients treated with Botox A injections ranged between 70 and 100% for parotid sialoceles and fistulas.

Conclusion

Botox A injections are successful in the treatment of parotid sialoceles and fistulas and should be considered before the use of invasive conventional options. Further studies with larger numbers are needed to ratify this recommendation. Success rate for patients, treated with Botox A injection was between 70 and 100% for parotid sialocele and fistula. Patients who failed initial treatment with Botox A were re‐administered with Botox A and eventually resolved.
Innovative Polymers for Next‐Generation Batteries
Authors: Mecerreyes David , Porcarelli Luca , Casado Nerea
Published: January 2020

Lithium‐ion batteries are part of modern life, being present in daily‐used objects such as mobile phones, tablets, computers, watches, sport accessories, electric scooters, and cars. The next‐generation batteries require the development of innovative polymers that help to improve their performance in terms of power density, cyclability, raw materials' availability, low weight, printability, flexibility, sustainability, or security. This article highlights recent developments in the area of redox‐active, electronic/ionic conducting polymers. This includes the development of innovative binders for electrodes, polymer electrolytes, and redox polymers. All these new polymer developments are leading to new battery technologies such as metal–polymer batteries, organic batteries, polymer–air, and redox–flow batteries, which are expected to complement the current lithium‐ion technologies in the future.
Self‐Healing Metallo‐Supramolecular Hydrogel Based on Specific Ni2+ Coordination Interactions of Poly(ethylene glycol) with Bistriazole Pyridine Ligands in the Main Chain
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Jerca Valentin Victor , Hoogenboom Richard
Published: January 2020

In this study, a supramolecular hydrogel formed by incorporating the 2,6‐bis(1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)‐pyridine (btp) ligand in the backbone of a polymer prepared by copper(I)‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) “click” polyaddition reaction of 2,6‐diethynylpyridine and diazido‐poly(ethylene glycol) is reported. The hydrogelation is selectively triggered by the addition of Ni2+ ions to aqueous copolymer solutions. The gelation and rheological properties could be tuned by the change of metal to ligand ratio and polymer concentration. Interestingly, the hydrogel exhibits a fast (within 2 min) and excellent repeatable autonomic healing capacity without external stimuli. This self‐healing behavior may find potential applications for the repairing of metal coatings, in the future.
What do U.S. biopharmaceutical companies get from patents and research and development spikes for their dynamic corporate performance?
Authors: Wang Wei‐Kang , Lu Wen‐Min , Kweh Qian Long , Truong Hoang Tu Nhi
Published: January 2020

This paper investigates how patents and research and development (R&D) spikes affect the corporate performance of 863 firm‐year observations of U.S. biopharmaceutical companies. First, a dynamic data envelopment analysis model is adopted to evaluate the performance of the U.S. biopharmaceutical companies. Then, ordinary least squares regression is used to explore the effects of three patent‐related variables (patent counts, citations, and claims) and R&D spikes on corporate performance. This study finds positive impacts of patent counts, citations, and claims on corporate performance. In addition, the results show that R&D spikes have negative contemporaneous effects and time‐lagged effects on corporate performance.
Extending the spectrum of CLRN1‐ and ABCA4‐associated inherited retinal dystrophies caused by novel and recurrent variants using exome sequencing
Authors: Abu‐Ameerh Mohammed , Mohammad Hashim , Dardas Zain , Barham Raghda , Ali Dema , Bijawi Maysa , Tawalbeh Mohamed , Amr Sami , Hatmal Ma'mon M. , Al‐Bdour Muawyah , Awidi Abdalla , Azab Belal
Published: January 2020

Background

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are characterized by extreme genetic and clinical heterogeneity. There are many genes that are known to cause IRD which makes the identification of the underlying genetic causes quite challenging. And in view of the emergence of therapeutic options, it is essential to combine molecular and clinical data to correctly diagnose IRD patients. In this study, we aimed to identify the disease‐causing variants (DCVs) in four consanguineous Jordanian families with IRDs and describe genotype–phenotype correlations.

Methods

Exome sequencing (ES) was employed on the proband patients of each family, followed by segregation analysis of candidate variants in affected and unaffected family members by Sanger sequencing. Simulation analysis was done on one novel CLRN1 variant to characterize its effect on mRNA processing. Clinical evaluation included history, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy, and indirect ophthalmoscopy.

Results

We identified two novel variants in CLRN1 [(c.433+1G>A) and (c.323T>C, p.Leu108Pro)], and two recurrent variants in ABCA4 [(c.1648G>A, p.Gly550Arg) and (c.5460+1G>A)]. Two families with the same DCV were found to have different phenotypes and another family was shown to have sector RP. Moreover, simulation analysis for the CLRN1 splice donor variant (c.433+1G>A) showed that the variant might affect mRNA processing resulting in the formation of an abnormal receptor. Also, a family that was previously diagnosed with nonsyndromic RP was found to have Usher syndrome based on their genetic assessment and audiometry.

Conclusion

Our findings extend the spectrum of CLRN1‐ and ABCA4‐associated IRDs and describe new phenotypes for these genes. We also highlighted the importance of combining molecular and clinical data to correctly diagnose IRDs and the utility of simulation analysis to predict the effect of splice donor variants on protein formation and function.
Approximation by sampling‐type operators in Lp‐spaces
Authors: Kolomoitsev Yurii , Skopina Maria
Published: January 2020

Approximation properties of the sampling‐type quasi‐projection operators
for functions
from anisotropic Besov spaces are studied. Error estimates in
‐norm are obtained for a large class of tempered distributions
and a large class of functions
under the assumptions that
has enough decay, satisfies the Strang‐Fix conditions, and has a compatibility condition with
. The estimates are given in terms of moduli of smoothness and best approximations.
3D isocentricity analysis for clinical linear accelerators
Authors: Velten Christian , Wang Yi‐Fang , Adamovics John , Wuu Cheng‐Shie
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To perform a three‐dimensional (3D) concurrent isocentricity measurement of a clinical linear accelerator’s (linac) using a single 3D dosimeter, PRESAGE.

Methods

A 3D dosimeter, PRESAGE, set up on the treatment couch of a Varian TrueBeam LINAC using the setup lasers, was irradiated under gantry angles of 0, 50, 160, and 270 with the couch fixed at 0 and subsequently, under couch angles of 10, 330, 300, and 265 with the gantry fixed at 270. The 1 cm (at 100 cm SAD) square fields were delivered at 6 MV with 800 MU/field. After irradiation, the dosimeter was scanned using a single‐beam optical scanner and images were reconstructed with submillimeter resolution using filtered back‐projection. Postprocessing was used to extract views parallel to the star‐shot planes from which beam trajectories and the smallest circles enclosing these were drawn and extracted. These circles and information from the view orthogonal to both star‐shots were used to represent the rotational centers as spheroids. The linac isocenter was defined by the distribution of midpoints between any, randomly selected, points lying inside the center spheroids defined by the table and gantry rotations; isocenter location and size were defined by the average midpoint and the distribution’s semi‐axes. Collimator rotations were not included in this study.

Results

Relative to the setup center defined by lasers, the table and gantry rotation center coordinates (lat., long., vert.) were measured in units of millimeters, to be (−0.24, 0.18, −0.52) and (0.10, 0.53, −0.52), respectively. Displacements from the setup center were 0.60 and 0.75 mm for the table and gantry centers, while the distance between them measured 0.49 mm. The linac’s radiation isocenter was calculated to be at (−0.07, −0.17, 0.51) relative to the setup lasers and its size was found to be most easily described by a spheroid prolate in vertical direction with semi‐axis lengths of 0.13 and 0.23 mm for the lateral‐longitudinal and vertical directions, respectively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates how to measure the location and sizes of rotational centers in 3D with one setup. The proposed method provides a more comprehensive view on the isocentricity of LINAC than the conventional two‐dimensional film measurements. Additionally, a new definition of isocenter and its size was proposed.
Evaluation of RF interactions between a 3T birdcage transmit coil and transcranial magnetic stimulation coils using a realistically shaped head phantom
Authors: Navarro de Lara Lucia I. , Golestanirad Laleh , Makarov Sergey N. , Stockmann Jason P. , Wald Lawrence L. , Nummenmaa Aapo
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Multichannel transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)1 is an emerging technology that allows multiple sites to be stimulated simultaneously or sequentially under electronic control without movement of the coils. A multichannel TMS/MRI head coil array for 3 Tesla is currently under development to mitigate challenges of concurrent TMS/fMRI as well as enable potential new applications. The influence of the multichannel TMS system on the MR image quality and safety must be carefully investigated.

Methods

A standard birdcage volume coil for 3 Tesla systems was simulated using a commercial numerical electromagnetic solver. Two setups, consisting of 1) a MR‐compatible TMS coil, and 2) a 3‐axis TMS coil array, were simulated to quantify changes in the transmit field and the SAR. A realistically shaped homogeneous head model was used in the computations.

Results

The stimulation coils produced enhancements and attenuations on the transmit field with effects greater than 5% up to 2.4 cm and 3.3 cm under the scalp for the MR‐compatible TMS coil and 3‐axis TMS coil array, respectively. The 10 g‐SAR distribution did not change significantly in either of the cases; however, the nominal SAR maximum locus was shifted between existing hot spots.

Conclusion

The simulated variations found near the TMS coils indicate the possibility of inducing sequence‐dependent image artefacts predominatly limited to the vicinity of the coil(s). However, we conclude that neither the MR‐compatible commercial TMS coil nor the 3‐axis TMS coil array siginificantly elevate SAR in the head or neck beyond accepted safety limits.
Evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms in children with Down syndrome: A prospective, case‐controlled cohort study
Authors: Kızılay Fuat , İrer Bora , Özalp Kızılay Deniz , Şimşir Adnan , Kalemci Serdar , Şen Volkan , Altay Barış , Çoğulu Özgür
Published: January 2020

Aims

In children with Down syndrome (DS) which causes cognitive impairment and intellectual disability (ID), dysfunctional voiding is proposed to be more common than in the normal population. In this study, we aimed to compare the voiding symptoms of DS children with a control group by validated questionnaires.

Methods

Thirty‐seven DS children without any previous urological complaints and 59 non‐DS healthy children as control group was included in the study. Overactive bladder symptoms and dysfunctional voiding were evaluated with validated Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB‐V8) and Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Score (DVSS) questionnaire, respectively. Data were arranged, descriptive and comparative statistical analysis were performed.

Results

Demographic data of the two groups were similar except age of completing toilet training being higher in DS group. Total OAB‐V8 and DVSS scores were significantly higher in the DS group. The mean scores of questions regarding voiding frequency, urgency and urgency incontinence in OAB‐V8 were significantly higher in the DS group. The mean daytime incontinence, urgency, urgency incontinence, and quality of life scores in the DVSS were also significantly higher in the DS group.

Conclusions

DS children have more frequent dysfunctional voiding than the normal population. ID of these children may prevent the expression of these symptoms. Awareness and early detection of these symptoms are crucial to prevent devastating complications such as renal failure. Therefore, validated questionnaires are simple, useful, and noninvasive methods.
An asymptotic preserving scheme on staggered grids for the barotropic Euler system in low Mach regimes
Authors: Goudon Thierry , Llobell Julie , Minjeaud Sebastian
Published: January 2020

We present a new scheme for the simulation of the barotropic Euler equation in low Mach regimes. The method uses two main ingredients. First, the system is treated with a suitable time splitting strategy, directly inspired from the previous study that separates low and fast waves. Second, we adapt a numerical scheme where the discrete densities and velocities are stored on staggered grids, in the spirit of MAC methods, and with numerical fluxes derived from the kinetic approach. We bring out the main properties of the scheme in terms of consistency, stability, and asymptotic behavior, and we present a series of numerical experiments to validate the method.
Association Between Life‐Course Obesity and Frailty in Older Adults: Findings in the GAZEL Cohort
Authors: Landré Benjamin , Czernichow Sébastien , Goldberg Marcel , Zins Marie , Ankri Joël , Herr Marie
Published: January 2020

Objective

This study aimed to assess the relationship between weight history during adulthood and frailty in late life in men and women participating in the GAZEL (GAZ and ELectricité) cohort.

Methods

This cohort study included 8,751 men and 3,033 women (aged 61 to 76 years) followed up since 1989. Modified Fried’s frailty criteria (weakness, fatigue, unintentional weight loss, low physical activity, and impaired mobility) were assessed in 2015. Reported BMI was determined each year to characterize: obesity status in 2015, obesity duration over the 1990 to 2015 period, and trajectories of BMI. Associations between frailty and weight history were assessed using multinomial regression.

Results

In 2015, 12% of men had obesity, 1.8% severe obesity, and 0.4% morbid obesity; for women, these percentages were 11%, 2.2%, and 0.8%, respectively. Individuals with obesity were more likely to be frail than those with normal BMI and the risk of frailty increased with each additional year of obesity (adjusted odds ratio 1.04 [1.00–1.08] for men and 1.07 [1.02–1.13] for women). Trajectories of BMI revealed that both long‐term obesity and onset of obesity in late adulthood were associated with frailty.

Conclusions

Current and past obesity appear to be important determinants of frailty. Early weight management may be beneficial in old age.
Behavioral and Psychological Strategies of Long‐Term Weight Loss Maintainers in a Widely Available Weight Management Program
Authors: Phelan Suzanne , Halfman Tate , Pinto Angela Marinilli , Foster Gary D.
Published: January 2020

Objective

The study’s purpose was to use validated questionnaires to identify novel behavioral and psychological strategies among weight loss maintainers (WLMs) in a commercial weight management program.

Methods

Participants were 4,786 WLMs in WW (formerly Weight Watchers, New York, New York) who had maintained weight loss  ≥ 9.1 kg (24.7 kg/23.8% weight loss on average) for 3.3 years and had a current mean BMI of 27.6 kg/m2. A control group of 528 weight‐stable individuals with obesity had a mean BMI of 38.9 kg/m2 and weight change  < 2.3 kg over the previous 5 years.

Results

WLMs versus Controls practiced more frequent healthy dietary choices (3.3 vs. 1.9;  = 0.37), self‐monitoring (2.6 vs. 0.7;  = 0.30), and psychological coping (2.5 vs. 1.1;  = 0.25) strategies. WLMs also reported more willingness to ignore food cravings (4.4 vs. 3.5;  = 0.16) and had greater habit strength for healthy eating (5.3 vs. 3.2;  = 0.21). Standard canonical coefficients indicated that dietary (0.52), self‐monitoring (0.40), and psychological (0.14) strategies as well as habit strength for healthy eating (0.15) contributed independently and most (49.5% of variance) to discriminating groups.

Conclusions

In a widely available weight management program, more frequent practice of healthy dietary, self‐monitoring, and psychological coping strategies as well as development of greater habit strength for healthy eating differentiated long‐term WLMs from weight‐stable individuals with obesity.
Early Infant Feeding and BMI Trajectories in the First 5 Years of Life
Authors: Zheng Miaobing , Cameron Adrian J. , Birken Catherine S. , Keown‐Stoneman Charles , Laws Rachel , Wen Li Ming , Campbell Karen J.
Published: January 2020

Objective

This study examined the relative impact of breastfeeding duration and timing of solids introduction on BMI z score (BMIz) trajectory in early childhood.

Methods

This study conducted secondary analyses of data from the Melbourne Infant Feeding, Activity and Nutrition Trial (InFANT) Program (N = 542), a prospective cohort study with data collected at birth and 3, 9, 18, 42, and 60 months. Linear spline multilevel models were performed.

Results

Differential growth rates were observed from birth to 3 months and from 9 to 18 months by breastfeeding duration (≥ 6 vs. < 6 months) and timing of solids introduction (before vs. after 6 months). Children who were breastfed for ≥ 6 versus < 6 months had lower BMIz at all ages from 3 to 60 months. The difference remained after adjusting for child and maternal factors, and the adjusted mean differences in BMIz at 3, 9, 18, 42, and 60 months were −0.34, −0.44, −0.13, −0.19, and −0.23, respectively. Children who received solids before versus after 6 months of age had higher BMIz at 18 and 42 months, but adjustment for child and maternal factors attenuated these differences.

Conclusions

Longer breastfeeding duration was associated with lower BMIz to 5 years of age, providing further support for infant feeding guidelines to prolong breastfeeding duration for healthy growth.
Association of Hot Tea Consumption with Regional Adiposity Measured by Dual‐Energy X‐Ray Absorptiometry in NHANES 2003‐2006
Authors: Roberts Justin , Liu Qinran , Cao Chao , Jackson Sarah E. , Zong Xiaoyu , Meyer Gretchen A. , Yang Lin , Cade W. Todd , Zheng Xiaobin , López‐Sánchez Guillermo F. , Wu Xiaojian , Smith Lee
Published: January 2020

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the potential antiobesity benefits of hot tea consumption at the population level.

Methods

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003‐2006, the association between hot tea consumption and dual‐energy x‐ray–measured body fat was examined in a large representative sample of US adults (n = 5,681, 51.9% women).

Results

Compared with non–tea drinkers, men who consumed 0.25 to 1 cup per day of hot tea had 1.5% (95% CI: 0.4% to 2.6%) and 1.7% (95% CI: 0.4% to 3.0%) less total and trunk body fat, respectively. The associations were stronger among men 45 to 69 years old compared with younger men (20‐44 years). For men who consumed 1 or more cups per day of hot tea, lower total (−1.2%, 95% CI: −2.3% to −0.2%) and trunk body fat (−1.3%, 95% CI: −2.6 to −0.1%) was observed among men 45 to 69 years old only. In women, those who drank 1 or more cups per day had 1.5% lower (95% CI: −2.7% to −0.3%) trunk body fat compared with non–tea drinkers.

Conclusions

Consumption of hot tea might be considered as part of a healthy diet in order to support parameters associated with metabolic health and may be particularly important in older male age groups in supporting reduced central adiposity.
Longitudinal Study of Maternal BMI in Successive Pregnancies
Authors: Reynolds Ciara M. E. , Egan Brendan , O’Malley Eimer G. , McMahon Léan , Sheehan Sharon R. , Turner Michael J.
Published: January 2020

Objective

This longitudinal observational study examined BMI changes between successive pregnancies.

Methods

The computerized medical records of women who attended a large maternity hospital between 2009 and 2017 for their first and second singleton deliveries were analyzed. Women who had their weight first measured after 15 weeks of gestation in either pregnancy were excluded.

Results

Of the 9,724 women, the incidence of obesity increased from 11.6% in the first pregnancy to 16.0% in the second. The mean interpregnancy interval was 32.5 ± 15.7 months, and median BMI change was +0.6 kg/m2 (interquartile range 2.2; P < 0.001). Overall, 10.3% (1,006/9,724) developed overweight and 5.9% (571/9,724) developed obesity by the second pregnancy. Of the nulliparas in the overweight category, 20.6% (526/2,558) entered the obesity category. The development of obesity by the second pregnancy was independently associated with a longer interpregnancy interval, formula feeding at hospital discharge, taking antidepressants or anxiolytics, and postnatal depression. Professional/managerial employment was associated with a lower odds ratio of developing obesity.

Conclusions

Maternal obesity increased between the first and second pregnancy, with one‐fifth of nulliparas in the overweight category developing obesity. Pregnancy‐related factors were identified as predictors of developing obesity. Further research is needed to assess whether interventions targeting these related factors could optimize maternal weight management between pregnancies.
Moderating role of social support in the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder and antisocial behavior in adolescents after the Ya'an earthquake
Authors: Wang Wenchao , Wu Xinchun , Liu Aiyi , Lan Xiaoyu
Published: January 2020

This study explored whether social support moderated the relationship between various symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and antisocial behavior. Participants were 597 adolescents from two middle schools in Lushan county, China, an area severely affected by the Ya'an earthquake. All four symptom clusters of PTSD significantly and positively correlated with antisocial behavior. Of the PTSD symptoms, only social support played a significant moderating role in the effects of intrusion and avoidance symptoms on antisocial behavior. Intrusion and avoidance symptoms were associated with more antisocial behavior for individuals with lower social support.
CTCF‐induced upregulation of HOXA11‐AS facilitates cell proliferation and migration by targeting miR‐518b/ACTN4 axis in prostate cancer
Authors: Xing Zengshu , Li Sailian , Liu Zhenxiang , Zhang Chong , Bai Zhiming
Published: January 2020

Background

Testified as crucial participators in different types of human malignancies, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been revealed to exert a significant effect on the complicated courses of tumor progression. Although existing literatures have revealed the oncogenic role of lncRNA homeobox A11 antisense RNA (HOXA11‐AS) in multiple cancers, the underlying role of HOXA11‐AS in prostate cancer (PCa) and its potential molecular mechanism remains poorly understood.

Aim

To decipher the molecular performance of HOXA11‐AS in PCa.

Methods

The expression of HOXA11‐AS, miR‐518b and actinin alpha 4 (ACTN4) was detected by a real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Colony formation, EdU, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assays were utilized to explore the biological role of HOXA11‐AS in PCa. The interaction between RNAs (CCCTC‐binding factor [CTCF], HOXA11‐AS, miR‐518b, and ACTN4) was tested via chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assays.

Results

HOXA11‐AS in PCa cells was expressed at high levels. Silenced HOXA11‐AS in PCa cells could lead to a significant elevation in the abilities of cell proliferation and migration whereas a remarkable declination in cell apoptosis capability. Subsequent molecular mechanism assays confirmed that HOXA11‐AS bound with miR‐518b and negatively regulates miR‐518b expression. Besides, HOXA11‐AS could regulate the expression of ACTN4 by sponging miR‐518b. Moreover, rescued‐function assays revealed that miR‐518b inhibition or ACTN4 upregulation reversed the repressive effect of HOXA11‐AS knockdown on PCa progression. Furthermore, CTCF was validated to activate HOXA11‐AS transcription in PCa cells.

Conclusions

CTCF‐induced upregulation of HOXA11‐AS facilitates PCa progression via miR‐518b/ACTN4 axis, providing a new target for PCa treatment.
High Crystallinity and Highly Relaxed Al0.60Ga0.40N Films Using Growth Mode Control Fabricated on a Sputtered AlN Template with High‐Temperature Annealing
Authors: Teramura Shohei , Kawase Yuta , Sakuragi Yusuke , Iwayama Sho , Iwaya Motoaki , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Akasaki Isamu , Miyake Hideto
Published: January 2020

Herein, a method for growing AlGaN using an intermediate AlN molar fraction on a sputtered AlN template with high‐temperature annealing via an AlN homoepitaxial layer is investigated. The growth mode dependence of AlGaN on the amount of Ga doping in the AlN homoepitaxial layer is examined in detail. As a result, homoepitaxial growth of AlN on sputtered AlN improve the surface flatness. In addition, it is found that the macroscopic flatness is improved by increasing the amount of Ga doping, but this decreases the microscopic flatness. Moreover, when Al0.60Ga0.40N is grown on homoepitaxial AlN layers with different amounts of Ga doping, a difference in the growth mode is observed, and this reveal a remarkable difference in the dislocation density of Al0.60Ga0.40N. The dislocation density dependence of the lasing threshold power density in a UV–B optical pumped laser is also investigated. As a result, the lasing threshold power density is reduced from ≈220 to 50 kW cm−2 by reducing the dislocation density from 1.6 × 109 to 8.0 × 108 cm−2. It is confirmed that it is, therefore, essential to reduce the dislocation density to reduce the threshold power density of the UV–B laser.
Study on the normalized Laplacian of a penta‐graphene with applications
Authors: Li Qishun , Zaman Shahid , Sun Wanting , Alam Jawad
Published: January 2020

Let L
n denote a linear pentagonal chain with 2n pentagons. The penta‐graphene (penta‐C), denoted by R
n is the graph obtained from L
n by identifying the opposite lateral edges in an ordered way, whereas the pentagonal Möbius ring is the graph obtained from the L
n by identifying the opposite lateral edges in a reversed way. In this paper, through the decomposition theorem of the normalized Laplacian characteristic polynomial and the relationship between its roots and the coefficients, an explicit closed‐form formula of the multiplicative degree‐Kirchhoff index (resp. Kemeny's constant, the number of spanning trees) of R
n is obtained. Furthermore, it is interesting to see that the multiplicative degree‐Kirchhoff index of R
n is approximately of its Gutman index. Based on our obtained results, all the corresponding results are obtained for .
Phase‐Modulated Interferometry, Spectroscopy, and Refractometry using Entangled Photon Pairs
Authors: Lavoie Jonathan , Landes Tiemo , Tamimi Amr , Smith Brian J. , Marcus Andrew H. , Raymer Michael G.
Published: January 2020

The authors demonstrate a form of two‐photon‐counting interferometry by measuring the coincidence counts between single‐photon‐counting detectors at an output port of a Mach–Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) following injection of broad‐band time‐frequency‐entangled photon pairs (EPP) generated from collinear spontaneous parametric down conversion into a single input port. Spectroscopy and refractometry are performed on a sample inserted in one internal path of the MZI by scanning the other path in length, which acquires phase and amplitude information about the sample's linear response. Phase modulation and lock‐in detection are introduced to increase detection signal‐to‐noise ratio and implement a “down‐sampling” technique for scanning the interferometer delay, which reduces the sampling requirements needed to reproduce fully the temporal interference pattern. The phase‐modulation technique also allows the contributions of various quantum‐state pathways leading to the final detection outcomes to be extracted individually. Feynman diagrams frequently used in the context of molecular spectroscopy are used to describe the interferences resulting from the coherence properties of time‐frequency EPPs passing through the MZI. These results are an important step toward the implementation of a proposed method for molecular spectroscopy—quantum‐light‐enhanced 2D spectroscopy.
Photocontrolled Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of Anisotropic Micropatterns of Nanofibers onto Isotropic Surfaces
Authors: de Vet Christiaan , Gartzia‐Rivero Leire , Schäfer Philip , Raffy Guillaume , Del Guerzo André
Published: January 2020

Hierarchical self‐assembly is achieved using a visible light triggered photoreaction. A pro‐gelator, α‐diketone‐2,3‐didecyloxyanthracene, is photoconverted into a low molecular weight gelator, 2,3‐didecyloxyanthracene (DDOA), that self‐assembles into nanofibers. Spatial confinement and patterns of these nanofibers onto a surface are achieved by localizing initial nucleation with a focused laser and photogenerate subsequent fiber growth with the laser or gentler wide‐field irradiation. Remarkably, collective growth of nanofibers results in anisotropic micropatterns with orientation factors (OF) reaching 79%, resulting in collective emission of linearly polarized light. The OF, distance of collective growth and fiber density, are controlled by the photoirradiation conditions and the balance of interactions between DDOA aggregates and the glass surface. An unprecedented juxtaposition of orthogonally oriented nanofiber patterns on an isotropic surface is achieved with individual control of the fibers' main direction. In perspective, this photochemical method can be extended to a large variety of self‐assembling molecules.
Understanding and targeting the disease‐related RNA binding protein human antigen R (HuR)
Authors: Schultz Christopher W. , Preet Ranjan , Dhir Teena , Dixon Dan A. , Brody Jonathan R.
Published: January 2020

Altered gene expression is a characteristic feature of many disease states such as tumorigenesis, and in most cancers, it facilitates cancer cell survival and adaptation. Alterations in global gene expression are strongly impacted by post‐transcriptional gene regulation. The RNA binding protein (RBP) HuR (ELAVL1) is an established regulator of post‐transcriptional gene regulation and is overexpressed in most human cancers. In many cancerous settings, HuR is not only overexpressed, but it is “overactive” as denoted by increased subcellular localization within the cytoplasm. This dysregulation of HuR expression and cytoplasmic localization allows HuR to stabilize and increase the translation of various prosurvival messenger RNA (mRNAs) involved in the pathogenesis of numerous cancers and various diseases. Based on almost 20 years of work, HuR is now recognized as a therapeutic target. Herein, we will review the role HuR plays in the pathophysiology of different diseases and ongoing therapeutic strategies to target HuR. We will focus on three ongoing‐targeted strategies: (1) inhibiting HuR's translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm; (2) inhibiting the ability of HuR to bind target RNA; and (3) silencing HuR expression levels. In an oncologic setting, HuR has been demonstrated to be critical for a cancer cell's ability to survive a variety of cancer relevant stressors (including drugs and elements of the tumor microenvironment) and targeting this protein has been shown to sensitize cancer cells further to insult. We strongly believe that targeting HuR could be a powerful therapeutic target to treat different diseases, particularly cancer, in the near future.

This article is categorized under:

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease

NRA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability

Translation > Translation Regulation
Processing and Analyzing Multiple Genomes Alignments with MafFilter
Authors: Dutheil Julien Y.
Published: January 2020

As the number of available genome sequences from both closely related species and individuals within species increased, theoretical and methodological convergences between the fields of phylogenomics and population genomics emerged. Population genomics typically focuses on the analysis of variants, while phylogenomics heavily relies on genome alignments. However, these are playing an increasingly important role in studies at the population level. Multiple genome alignments of individuals are used when structural variation is of primary interest and when genome architecture permits to assemble de novo genome sequences. Here I describe MafFilter, a command-line-driven program allowing to process genome alignments in the Multiple Alignment Format (MAF). Using concrete examples based on publicly available datasets, I demonstrate how MafFilter can be used to develop efficient and reproducible pipelines with quality assurance for downstream analyses. I further show how MafFilter can be used to perform both basic and advanced population genomic analyses in order to infer the patterns of nucleotide diversity along genomes.
Exploring Population Structure with Admixture Models and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Liu Chi-Chun , Shringarpure Suyash , Lange Kenneth , Novembre John
Published: January 2020

Population structure is a commonplace feature of genetic variation data, and it has importance in numerous application areas, including evolutionary genetics, conservation genetics, and human genetics. Understanding the structure in a sample is necessary before more sophisticated analyses are undertaken. Here we provide a protocol for running principal component analysis (PCA) and admixture proportion inference—two of the most commonly used approaches in describing population structure. Along with hands-on examples with CEPH-Human Genome Diversity Panel and pragmatic caveats, readers will learn to analyze and visualize population structure on their own data.
Oronce Fine and Sacrobosco: From the Edition of the Tractatus de sphaera (1516) to the Cosmographia (1532)
Authors: Axworthy Angela
Published: January 2020

This paper considers the contribution of the French mathematician Oronce Fine to the diffusion and transformation of Johannes de Sacrobosco’sTractatus de sphaeraby considering his 1516 edition of theSphaeraand hisCosmographia, sive sphaera mundi(inProtomathesis, 1532). The article first describes Fine’s life and career, as well as his work as editor of theSphaera. In a second part, it considers what Fine, in theCosmographia, has drawn and left aside from theSphaera, revealing the consequent transformations to the teaching of Sacrobosco’s theory of the sphere and its adaptation to the cultural and intellectual environment in which Fine evolved. A last part considers the treatment, in theCosmographia, of the cosmological representations transmitted by Sacrobosco and by subsequent interpreters of Ptolemaic astronomy concerning the number of celestial spheres and its relation to judicial astrology.
Fazit: Klappe zu, Affe(kt) tot?
Authors: Shah Mira
Published: January 2020

Die filmischen Bearbeitungen von Pierre Boulles La planète des Singes fallen durch ihre kreativen Eigenarbeiten und Ergänzungen auf. Häufig geht es dabei darum, die von Ulysse Mérou thematisierte Wissenslücke zu füllen: Wie kam es zum Niedergang der Menschheit und dem Aufstieg der Affenheit? Ob Atomkrieg, Sklaverei, genetische Manipulation und/oder Virus, die Bearbeitungen des von Boulle initiierten Stoffes bemühen sich redlich, diesen auszumalen – daher ist es umso auffälliger, welche Elemente des Urnarrativs sie aussparen: Hartnäckig haben die diversen Verfilmungen und Bearbeitungen ein wesentliches Konstruktionselement des Romans ausgeblendet: Ulysse Mérous Bericht von seiner Zeit auf dem Planeten der Affen erreicht uns nur, weil er im Roman bereits Leser/innen hat. Wie wir aus einer Rahmenerzählung erfahren, findet ein Paar auf Weltraumlustreise, „un couple de riches oisifs […] parcouraient l’univers pour leur plaisir“ (5), im All eine Flaschenpost und darin Ulysses Manuskript.
The lung microbiota: role in maintaining pulmonary immune homeostasis and its implications in cancer development and therapy
Authors: Sommariva Michele , Le Noci Valentino , Bianchi Francesca , Camelliti Simone , Balsari Andrea , Tagliabue Elda , Sfondrini Lucia
Published: January 2020

Like other body districts, lungs present a complex bacteria community. An emerging function of lung microbiota is to promote and maintain a state of immune tolerance, to prevent uncontrolled and not desirable inflammatory response caused by inhalation of harmless environmental stimuli. This effect is mediated by a continuous dialog between commensal bacteria and immune cells resident in lungs, which express a repertoire of sensors able to detect microorganisms. The same receptors are also involved in the recognition of pathogens and in mounting a proper immune response. Due to its important role in preserving lung homeostasis, the lung microbiota can be also considered a mirror of lung health status. Indeed, several studies indicate that lung bacterial composition drastically changes during the occurrence of pulmonary pathologies, such as lung cancer, and the available data suggest that the modifications of lung microbiota can be part of the etiology of tumors in lungs and can influence their progression and response to therapy. These results provide the scientific rationale to analyze lung microbiota composition as biomarker for lung cancer and to consider lung microbiota a new potential target for therapeutic intervention to reprogram the antitumor immune microenvironment. In the present review, we discussed about the role of lung microbiota in lung physiology and summarized the most relevant data about the relationship between lung microbiota and cancer.