bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated end-to-end instrumentation for the study of whispering gallery modes in dynamic liquid micro-cavities coupled to sub-micron tapered fibers
Authors: Gaira Meenakshi , Unnikrishnan C.S.
Published: January 2021

An integrated table-top facility with the end-to-end instrumentation for the study of high-Q Whispering Gallery Modes in solid and liquid micro-cavities is described, with emphasis on the in situ fabrication of reliable tapered fibers of sub-micron waist sizes for coupling light into time-dependent liquid micro-cavities. The experimental parameters have been chosen to get nearly adiabatic tapers, with their waist size consistent with the theoretical model. The oscillations in the transmitted power during fiber tapering are monitored to check the coupling of higher order modes and identify the point when the fiber is suitable for pure single mode coupling. The fabricated tapered fibers have greater than 85% transmission on the average and very good polarization fidelity. The tapered fibers have been used for efficiently exciting and detecting WGMs of Q∼107 in silica microspheres and of Q up to 7×107 in microdrops of silicone oils. The set-up is suitable for conversion to a transportable system, for sensing applications involving WGMs in liquid microdrops.
An Exchanged 3-Ary n-Cube Interconnection Network for Parallel Computation
Authors: Lv Yali , Lin Cheng-Kuan , Wang Guijuan
Published: January 2021

The interconnetion network plays an important role in a parallel system. To avoid the edge number of the interconnect network scaling rapidly with the increase of dimension and achieve a good balance of hardware costs and properties, this paper presents a new interconnection network called exchanged [Formula: see text]-ary [Formula: see text]-cube ([Formula: see text]). Compared with the [Formula: see text]-ary [Formula: see text]-cube structures, [Formula: see text] shows better performance in terms of many metrics such as small degree and fewer links. In this paper, we first introduce the structure of [Formula: see text] and present some properties of [Formula: see text]; then, we propose a routing algorithm and obtain the diameter of [Formula: see text]. Finally, we analyze the diagnosis of [Formula: see text] and give the diagnosibility under PMC model and MM* model.
Gluons in two-color QCD at high baryon density
Authors: Bornyakov V. G. , Rogalyov R. N.
Published: January 2021

Landau gauge longitudinal and transverse gluon propagators are studied in lattice QCD with gauge group [Formula: see text] at varying temperature and quark density. In particular, it is found that the longitudinal propagator decreases with increasing quark chemical potential at all temperatures under study, whereas the transverse propagator increases with increasing quark chemical potential at [Formula: see text] MeV and does not depend on it at higher temperatures. The relative strength of chromoelectric and chromomagnetic interactions is also discussed.
Guest Column
Authors: Bun Mark , Thaler Justin
Published: January 2021

The approximate degree of a Boolean function f captures how well f can be approximated pointwise by low-degree polynomials. This article surveys what we know about approximate degree and illustrates some of its applications in theoretical computer science.
Cryogenic Super-Resolution Fluorescence and Electron Microscopy Correlated at the Nanoscale
Authors: Dahlberg Peter D. , Moerner W. E.
Published: January 2021

We review the emerging method of super-resolved cryogenic correlative light and electron microscopy (srCryoCLEM). Super-resolution (SR) fluorescence microscopy and cryogenic electron tomography (CET) are both powerful techniques for observing subcellular organization, but each approach has unique limitations. The combination of the two brings the single-molecule sensitivity and specificity of SR to the detailed cellular context and molecular scale resolution of CET. The resulting correlative data is more informative than the sum of its parts. The correlative images can be used to pinpoint the positions of fluorescently labeled proteins in the high-resolution context of CET with nanometer-scale precision and/or to identify proteins in electron-dense structures. The execution of srCryoCLEM is challenging and the approach is best described as a method that is still in its infancy with numerous technical challenges. In this review, we describe state-of-the-art srCryoCLEM experiments, discuss the most pressing challenges, and give a brief outlook on future applications.
Review—Miniaturized and Microfluidic Devices for Automated Nanoparticle Synthesis
Authors: Amreen Khairunnisa , Goel Sanket
Published: January 2021

Recently, the usage of automated microfluidic integrated platforms in chemical synthesis has emerged as an extremely useful tool for nano/micro structures fabrication. Owing to their cost-effectiveness, portability and low sample consumption, these devices has gained substantial attention especially towards industrial outlook. The physical, chemical, mechanical and magnetic properties of the nanomaterials are greatly influenced by their morphological aspects. The broad spectrum applications of nanostructures in versatile fields like biomedical, energy storage/harvest, biosensing, catalysis, imaging, electronics and engineering, hugely depend on their morphology. Therefore, an automated, robust but customizable synthesis is the key to attain uniformity and reproducibility of morphology. Therefore, microfluidic devices offer features like control fluid flow, faster mixing of reagents, precise heat transfer mechanism and well-regulated pressure, giving a homogenous quality of nanocrytalline material for multiplexed applications. The studies have reported that the micro-devices assisted synthesized nanoparticles have less particle size distribution curve than those prepared traditionally. During the last decade, nano-and-micro sized crystals, colloids, particles, clusters have been synthesized so far using micro-controlled devices. This review summarizes the recent advances and the future scope of various miniaturized and microfluidic automated devices to realize nano crystalline materials.
Habitual cannabis use is associated with altered cardiac mechanics and arterial stiffness, but not endothelial function in young healthy smokers
Authors: Cheung Christian P. , Coates Alexandra M. , Millar Philip J. , Burr Jamie F.
Published: January 2021

Recreational cannabis is the most widely used substance in the world, other than alcohol. Yet, the effects of cannabis use on cardiovascular function and health are not well understood. Our cross-sectional data demonstrate that young, ostensibly healthy cannabis users have greater arterial stiffness and altered cardiac mechanics compared to nonusers. These findings suggest that cannabis users may be at greater risk of the development of future cardiovascular disease.
Energy state alters regulation of proopiomelanocortin neurons by glutamatergic ventromedial hypothalamus neurons: pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms
Authors: Rau Andrew R. , Hentges Shane T.
Published: January 2021

Despite decades of research, the neurocircuitry underlying metabolic homeostasis remains incompletely understood. Specifically, the roles of amino acid transmitters, particularly glutamate, have received less attention than hormonal signals. Here, we characterize an energy-state-sensitive glutamate circuit from the ventromedial hypothalamus to anorexigenic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons that responds to changes in energy state at both sides of the synapse, providing novel information about how variations in metabolic state affect excitatory drive onto POMC cells.
Topical Application of Fibroblast Growth Factor 10-PLGA Microsphere Accelerates Wound Healing via Inhibition of ER Stress
Authors: Xu Ke , Chai Bo , Zhang Kailun , Xiong Jun , Zhu Yiru , Xu Jingyu , An Ningchen , Xia Weidong , Ji Hao , Wu Yanqing , Li Hao , Xiao Jian , Feng Zhiguo , Zhang Hongyu
Published: January 2021

There is a high incidence of acute and chronic skin defects caused by various reasons in clinically practice. The repair and functional reconstruction of skin defects have become a major clinical problem, which needs to be solved urgently. Previous studies have shown that fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10) plays a functional role in promoting the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of epithelial cells. However, little is known about the effect of FGF10 on the recovery process after skin damage. In this study, we found that the expression of endogenous FGF10 was increased during wound healing. We prepared FGF10-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (FGF10-PLGA) microspheres, and it could sustain release of FGF10 both in vitro and in vivo, accelerating wound healing. Further analysis revealed that compared with FGF10 alone, FGF10-PLGA microspheres significantly improved granulation formation, collagen synthesis, cell proliferation, and blood vessel density. In the meantime, we found that FGF10-PLGA microspheres inhibited the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers. Notably, activating ER stress with tunicamycin (TM) reduced therapeutic effects of FGF10-PLGA microspheres in wound healing, whereas inhibition of ER stress with 4-phenyl butyric acid (4-PBA) improved the function of FGF10-PLGA microspheres. Taken together, this study indicates that FGF10-PLGA microspheres accelerate wound healing presumably through modulating ER stress.
How Much PEEP Does High Flow Deliver via Tracheostomy? A Literature Review and Benchtop Experiment
Authors: Thomas Martin , Joshi Riddhi , Cave Grant
Published: January 2021

Background. High flow tracheostomy (HFT) is a commonly used weaning and humidification strategy for tracheostomised patients, but little is known as to how much PEEP or mechanical benefit it offers. Patient anatomy and device characteristics differentiate it from high flow nasal cannula and the physiological effects observed. Objectives. (1) To review the available literature on the effects of HFT on airway pressure and indices of gas exchange. (2) To quantify PEEP generated by a HFT  circuit. Methods. A randomised benchtop experiment was conducted, with a size 8 uncuffed Portex tracheostomy connected to an Optiflow™ with Airvo 2™ humidifier system. The tracheostomy tube was partially immersed in water to give rise to a column of water within the inner surface of the tube. An air fluid interface was generated with flows of 40 L/min, 50 L/min, and 60 L/min. The amount of potential PEEP (pPEEP) generated was determined by the distance the water column was pushed downward by the flow delivered. Findings. Overall 40 L/min, 50 L/min, and 60 L/min provided pPEEP of approximately 0.3 cmH2O, 0.5 cmH2O, and 0.9 cmH2O, respectively. There was a statistically significant change in pPEEP with change in flows from 40–60 L/min with an average change in pPEEP of 0.25–0.35 cmH2O per 10 L/min flow (

p

value <0.01). Interpretation. HFT  can generate measurable and variable PEEP despite the open system used. The pPEEP generated with HFT is minimal despite statistically significant change with increasing flows. This pPEEP is unlikely to provide mechanical benefit in weaning patients off ventilatory support.
Transcriptome Profiling of Human Follicle Dermal Papilla Cells in response to Porphyra-334 Treatment by RNA-Seq
Authors: Kim Su Yeon , Cho Won Kyong , Kim Hye-In , Paek Seung Hye , Jang Sung Joo , Jo Yeonhwa , Choi Hoseong , Lee Jeong Hun , Moh Sang Hyun
Published: January 2021

Porphyra-334 is a kind of mycosporine-like amino acid absorbing ultraviolet-A. Here, we characterized porphyra-334 as a potential antiaging agent. An in vitro assay revealed that porphyra-334 dramatically promoted collagen synthesis in fibroblast cells. The effect of porphyra-334 on cell proliferation was dependent on the cell type, and the increase of cell viability by porphyra-334 was the highest in keratinocyte cells among the three tested cell types. An in vivo clinical test with 22 participants demonstrated the possible role of porphyra-334 in the improvement of periorbital wrinkles. RNA-sequencing using human follicle dermal papilla (HFDP) cells upon porphyra-334 treatment identified the upregulation of metallothionein- (MT-) associated genes, confirming the antioxidant role of porphyra-334 with MT. Moreover, the expression of genes involved in nuclear chromosome segregation and the encoding of components of kinetochores was upregulated by porphyra-334 treatment. Furthermore, we found that several genes associated with the hair follicle cycle, the hair follicle structure, the epidermal structure, and stem cells were upregulated by porphyra-334 treatment, suggesting the potential role of porphyra-334 in hair follicle growth and maintenance. In summary, we provided several new pieces of evidence of porphyra-334 as a potential antiaging cosmetic agent and elucidated the expression network in HFDP cells upon porphyra-334.
The Protective Effects of Water Extracts of Compound Turmeric Recipe on Acute Alcoholism: An Experimental Research Using a Mouse Model
Authors: Liang Xian-ting , Wang Yan-yan , Hu Xiao-yu , Wang Shao-bo
Published: January 2021

Acute alcoholism (AAI) is a common emergency. Currently, there is a lack of preventive and therapeutic drugs with superior safety and efficacy. Curcuma longa, Panax ginseng, Pueraria lobata, Pueraria flower, and Hovenia dulcis Thunb., which are the components of compound turmeric recipe (CTR), are, respectively, used in China as adjuvant therapeutic agents for AAI and alcoholic liver injury, respectively. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of traditional compound turmeric recipe in anti-inebriation treatment and to identify its underlying mechanisms. The mice were administered with CTR mixture, and ethanol was subsequently given to mice by gavage. The effects of CTR on the righting reflex, 24-hour survival, drunken behavior, blood ethanol concentration, and pathological changes of liver are depicted. The activities of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were detected. Besides, the activities of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-8 (IL-8), alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), cytochrome P450 (P450), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver and the levels of β-endorphin (β-EP) and leucine enkephalin (LENK) in the brain were also measured. Our results demonstrated that CTR can increase the activities of ADH, ALDH, P450, and SOD and decrease the contents of TNF-α, IL-8, and MDA in the liver. In addition, it can decrease the activities of ALT, AST, and ALP in serum and β-EP and LENK activities in the brain. CTR showed effects on prevention of acute alcoholism, promoting wakefulness, and alleviating alcoholic liver injury, which were likely mediated by the above mechanisms.
Myokines and Heart Failure: Challenging Role in Adverse Cardiac Remodeling, Myopathy, and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Berezin Alexander E. , Berezin Alexander A. , Lichtenauer Michael
Published: January 2021

Heart failure (HF) is a global medical problem that characterizes poor prognosis and high economic burden for the health system and family of the HF patients. Although modern treatment approaches have significantly decreased a risk of the occurrence of HF among patients having predominant coronary artery disease, hypertension, and myocarditis, the mortality of known HF continues to be unacceptably high. One of the most important symptoms of HF that negatively influences tolerance to physical exercise, well-being, social adaptation, and quality of life is deep fatigue due to HF-related myopathy. Myopathy in HF is associated with weakness of the skeletal muscles, loss of myofibers, and the development of fibrosis due to microvascular inflammation, metabolic disorders, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The pivotal role in the regulation of myocardial and skeletal muscle rejuvenation, attenuation of muscle metabolic homeostasis, and protection against ischemia injury and apoptosis belongs to myokines. Myokines are defined as a wide spectrum of active molecules that are directly synthesized and released by both cardiac and skeletal muscle myocytes and regulate energy homeostasis in autocrine/paracrine manner. In addition, myokines have a large spectrum of pleiotropic capabilities that are involved in the pathogenesis of HF including cardiac remodeling, muscle atrophy, and cardiac cachexia. The aim of the narrative review is to summarize the knowledge with respect to the role of myokines in adverse cardiac remodeling, myopathy, and clinical outcomes among HF patients. Some myokines, such as myostatin, irisin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, interleukin-15, fibroblast growth factor-21, and growth differential factor-11, being engaged in the regulation of the pathogenesis of HF-related myopathy, can be detected in peripheral blood, and the evaluation of their circulating levels can provide new insights to the course of HF and stratify patients at higher risk of poor outcomes prior to sarcopenic stage.
Long-Term Survival of Patients with Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer over Five Decades
Authors: Bar Jair , Urban Damien , Amit Uri , Appel Sarit , Onn Amir , Margalit Ofer , Beller Tamar , Kuznetsov Teodor , Lawrence Yaacov
Published: January 2021

Objective. Novel therapeutics and supportive care improved outcomes for metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) patients. Major advances over the past five decades include the introduction of combination chemotherapy, small molecules targeting mutant proteins, especially EGFR, and more recently immunotherapy. We aim to document real-world long-term survival over the past five decades. Methods. Survival statistics were extracted from the Survival, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database for mNSCLC patients during 1973–2015. Two- and five-year survival (2yS and 5yS) were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier and proportional hazard models. Results. The study population consisted of 280,655mNSCLC patients diagnosed during 1973–2015. Longer survival was seen in younger, female, married, Asian/Pacific Islander race, adenocarcinoma, lower grade, more recent diagnosis, higher income, and chemotherapy-treated patients. 2yS increased during the study period from 2.6% to 12.9%, and 5yS increased from 0.7% to 3.2%. 2yS of patients <50 years of age rose from 2.1% to 22.8%, and their 5yS rose from 0.7% to 6.2%. 2yS of adenocarcinoma patients improved from 2.7% to 16.2%, and their improved 5yS from 1.1% to 3.9%. Conclusions. Between 1973 and 2015, there was a dramatic improvement in long-term survival, with an approximately five-fold increase in both 2yS and 5yS. Nonetheless, absolute numbers of long-term survivors remained low, with less than 4% living 5 years. This provides a baseline to compare long-term outcomes seen in the current generation of clinical trials.
Effect of Prolonged-Release Pirfenidone on Renal Function in Septic Acute Kidney Injury Patients: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Chávez-Iñiguez Jonathan S. , Poo Jorge L. , Ibarra-Estrada Miguel , García-Benavides Leonel , Navarro-Blackaller Guillermo , Cervantes-Sánchez Cynthia , Nungaray-Pacheco Eduardo , Medina-González Ramón , Armendariz-Borunda Juan , García-García Guillermo
Published: January 2021

Background. There is no treatment for septic acute kidney injury (sAKI). The anti-inflammatory activity of prolonged-release pirfenidone (PR-PFD) could be beneficial in this clinical setting. Methods. This study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial in sAKI patients with nephrology consultation at the Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, in addition to the usual treatment of AKI associated with sepsis; patients were randomized to receive either PR-PFD at 1,200 mg/day (group A) or 600 mg/day (group B) or a matched placebo for 7 consecutive days. The primary objective was the decrease in serum creatinine (sCr) and increase in urinary volume (UV); the secondary objectives were changes in serum electrolytes, acid-base status, and mortality. Results. Between August 2016 and August 2017, 88 patients were randomized. The mean age was 54 (17 ± SD) years, and 47% were male. The main site of infection was the lung (39.8%), septic shock was present in 39.1% of the cases, and the mean SOFA score was 8.8 points. 28 patients received PFD 1,200 mg, 30 patients received PFD 600 mg, and 30 patients received placebo. During the study, sCr did not differ among the groups. The reversion rate of sCr, UV, and mortality was not different among the groups (

p
=
0.70

,

p
=
0.47

, and

p
=
0.38

, respectively). Mild adverse events were not different among the groups. Conclusion. PR-PFD did not improve the clinical course of sAKI and seemed to be safe in terms of adverse events. This trial is registered with NCT02530359.
How Could Policies Facilitate Digital Transformation of Innovation Ecosystem: A Multiagent Model
Authors: Yang Wei , Liu Jian , Li Lingfei , Zhou Qing , Ji Lixia
Published: January 2021

The digital transformation of the innovation ecosystem is not only an inevitable direction of innovation activities in the era of digital economy but also a highly complex and uncertain process. The way to facilitate transformation with policies has become a topic of common concern of academia and policymakers. This paper builds a multiagent model and studies the impacts of supply‐side policies, demand‐side policies, and environmental policies on enterprises’ transformation willingness, digital level, and income level as well as the proportion of enterprises that carry out transformation in the whole innovation ecosystem and innovation network structure by numerical experiments. According to research findings, supply‐side policies play the biggest role in the facilitation of transformation, demand‐side policies are second important to them, and environmental policies have comparatively weak impacts.
Depression and Anxiety among Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus in Chitwan Medical College Teaching Hospital, Nepal
Authors: Sharma Kalpana , Dhungana Govinda , Adhikari Shailendra , Bista Pandey Archana , Sharma Muna
Published: January 2021

The prevalence of depression and anxiety disorders is common among people with diabetes mellitus. Coexistence of diabetes and depression/anxiety increases the risk of diabetes complications and reduces the overall quality of life. Hence, this study aimed to assess the depression and anxiety among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Chitwan. Descriptive survey was carried out among 296 purposively selected clinically diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients admitted in the Chitwan Medical College Teaching Hospital from 15th June 2018 to 17th September 2019. Patients were interviewed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorders-7 (GAD-7). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Of 296 diabetic patients, 48.6% were 60 years and above, 59.5% female and 61.5% literate; their common occupation was agriculture (38.2%) followed by household work (26.4%). Nearly two-thirds (62.8%) of diabetes patients had other chronic comorbid conditions. Depression and anxiety were observed among 57.8% and 49.7% of diabetes patients, respectively. While observing the severity, 27.4%, 19.6%, 8.4%, and 2.4% of patients had mild, moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression, respectively. Likewise, 24.7%, 20.3%, and 4.7% of patients had mild, moderate, and severe anxiety, respectively. Current living status, educational status, medicine adherence, satisfaction toward current treatment, and history of mental illness in the family were found to be significant factors associated with the anxiety of patients with diabetes. Further, educational status, smoking habit, satisfaction towards current treatment, and history of diabetes in family were the factors associated with depression. Prevalence of depression and anxiety is high among admitted patients with diabetes mellitus, and many factors are associated with it. Hence, regular screening services are essential along with diabetes management plan for timely identification and treatment of the vulnerable groups in the healthcare centers.
Toeplitz Operators Acting on True-Poly-Bergman Type Spaces of the Two-Dimensional Siegel Domain: Nilpotent Symbols
Authors: Hernández-Eliseo Yessica , Ramírez-Ortega Josué , Hernández-Zamora Francisco G.
Published: January 2021

We describe certain

C

∗

-algebras generated by Toeplitz operators with nilpotent symbols and acting on a poly-Bergman type space of the Siegel domain

D

2

⊂

ℂ

2

. Bounded measurable functions of the form

c

Im
 

ζ

1

,
Im
 

ζ

2

−

ζ

1

2

are called nilpotent symbols. In this work, we consider symbols of the form

a

Im
 

ζ

1

b

Im
 

ζ

2

−

ζ

1

2

, where both limits

lim

s
→

0

+

b

s

and

lim

s

→

+

∞

b

s

exist, and

a

s

belongs to the set of piecewise continuous functions on

ℝ

¯

=

−
∞
,
+
∞

and having one-side limit values at each point of a finite set

S
⊂
ℝ

. We prove that the

C

∗

-algebra generated by all Toeplitz operators

T

a
b

is isomorphic to

C

Π

¯

, where

Π

¯

=

ℝ

¯

×

ℝ

¯

+

and

ℝ

¯

+

=

0
,
+
∞

.
Amplitude Variation with Angle Inversion for New Parameterized Porosity and Fluid Bulk Modulus
Authors: Li Shengjun , Liu Bingyang , Gao Jianhu , Chen Huaizhen
Published: January 2021

Estimating porosity and fluid bulk modulus is an important goal of reservoir characterization. Based on the model of fluid substitution, we first propose a simplified bulk modulus of a saturated rock as a function of bulk moduli of minerals and fluids, in which we employ an empirical relationship to replace the bulk modulus of dry rock with that of minerals and a new parameterized porosity. Using the simplified bulk modulus, we derive a PP-wave reflection coefficient in terms of the new parameterized porosity and fluid bulk modulus. Focusing on reservoirs embedded in rocks whose lithologies are similar, we further simplify the derived reflection coefficient and present elastic impedance that is related to porosity and fluid bulk modulus. Based on the presented elastic impedance, we establish an approach of employing seismic amplitude variation with offset/angle to estimate density, new parameterized porosity, and fluid bulk modulus. We finally employ noisy synthetic seismic data and real datasets to verify the stability and reliability of the proposed inversion approach. Test on synthetic seismic data illustrates that the proposed inversion approach can produce stable inversion results in the case of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 2, and applying the approach to real datasets, we conclude that reliably results of porosity and fluid bulk modulus are obtained, which is useful for fluid identification and reservoir characterization.
The Oxford Classic Links Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition to Immunosuppression in Poor Prognosis Ovarian Cancers
Authors: Hu Zhiyuan , Cunnea Paula , Zhong Zhe , Lu Haonan , Osagie Oloruntoba I. , Campo Leticia , Artibani Mara , Nixon Katherine , Ploski Jennifer , Santana Gonzalez Laura , Alsaadi Abdulkhaliq , Wietek Nina , Damato Stephen , Dhar Sunanda , Blagden Sarah P. , Yau Christopher , Hester Joanna , Albukhari Ashwag , Aboagye Eric O. , Fotopoulou Christina , Ahmed Ahmed
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Using RNA sequencing, we recently developed the 52-gene–based Oxford classifier of carcinoma of the ovary (Oxford Classic, OxC) for molecular stratification of serous ovarian cancers (SOCs) based on the molecular profiles of their cell of origin in the fallopian tube epithelium. Here, we developed a 52-gene NanoString panel for the OxC to test the robustness of the classifier.

Experimental Design:

We measured the expression of the 52 genes in an independent cohort of prospectively collected SOC samples (n = 150) from a homogenous cohort who were treated with maximal debulking surgery and chemotherapy. We performed data mining of published expression profiles of SOCs and validated the classifier results on tissue arrays comprising 137 SOCs.

Results:

We found evidence of profound nongenetic heterogeneity in SOCs. Approximately 20% of SOCs were classified as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition–high (EMT-high) tumors, which were associated with poor survival. This was independent of established prognostic factors, such as tumor stage, tumor grade, and residual disease after surgery (HR, 3.3; P = 0.02). Mining expression data of 593 patients revealed a significant association between the EMT scores of tumors and the estimated fraction of alternatively activated macrophages (M2; P < 0.0001), suggesting a mechanistic link between immunosuppression and poor prognosis in EMT-high tumors.

Conclusions:

The OxC-defined EMT-high SOCs carry particularly poor prognosis independent of established clinical parameters. These tumors are associated with high frequency of immunosuppressive macrophages, suggesting a potential therapeutic target to improve clinical outcome.
Diffusion-weighted Imaging Allows for Downgrading MR BI-RADS 4 Lesions in Contrast-enhanced MRI of the Breast to Avoid Unnecessary Biopsy
Authors: Clauser Paola , Krug Barbara , Bickel Hubert , Dietzel Matthias , Pinker Katja , Neuhaus Victor-Frederic , Marino Maria Adele , Moschetta Marco , Troiano Nicoletta , Helbich Thomas H. , Baltzer Pascal A.T.
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Diffusion-weighted imaging with the calculation of an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) has been proposed as a quantitative biomarker on contrast-enhanced MRI (CE-MRI) of the breast. There is a need to approve a generalizable ADC cutoff. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a predefined ADC cutoff allows downgrading of BI-RADS 4 lesions on CE-MRI, avoiding unnecessary biopsies.

Experimental Design:

This was a retrospective, multicentric, cross-sectional study. Data from five centers were pooled on the individual lesion level. Eligible patients had a BI-RADS 4 rating on CE-MRI. For each center, two breast radiologists evaluated the images. Data on lesion morphology (mass, non-mass), size, and ADC were collected. Histology was the standard of reference. A previously suggested ADC cutoff (≥1.5 × 10−3 mm2/second) was applied. A negative likelihood ratio of 0.1 or lower was considered as a rule-out criterion for breast cancer. Diagnostic performance indices were calculated by ROC analysis.

Results:

There were 657 female patients (mean age, 42; SD, 14.1) with 696 BI-RADS 4 lesions included. Disease prevalence was 59.5% (414/696). The area under the ROC curve was 0.784. Applying the investigated ADC cutoff, sensitivity was 96.6% (400/414). The potential reduction of unnecessary biopsies was 32.6% (92/282).

Conclusions:

An ADC cutoff of ≥1.5 × 10−3 mm2/second allows downgrading of lesions classified as BI-RADS 4 on breast CE-MRI. One-third of unnecessary biopsies could thus be avoided.
Hyperandrogenism, Insulin Resistance, and Acanthosis Nigricans (HAIR-AN) Syndrome Reflects Adipose Tissue Dysfunction (“Adiposopathy” or “Sick Fat”) in Asian Indian Girls
Authors: Agrawal Kritika , Mathur Rachita , Purwar Naincy , Mathur Sandeep Kumar , Mathur Deepak Kumar
Published: January 2021

Background: Whether HAIR-AN syndrome and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are distinct entities or represent a phenotypic spectrum of the same syndrome is still unclear. HAIR-AN syndrome is characterized by high insulin resistance, obesity, and hyperinsulinemia as compared to PCOS and could represent adipose tissue dysfunction as the primary pathophysiologic trigger. This study was undertaken to study the role of adipose tissue dysfunction in HAIR-AN syndrome and PCOS using adipocytokines as surrogate markers of “adiposopathy.” Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital over a period of 1 year. Serum adiponectin, leptin, IL-6, and TNF-α levels were measured in 30 women with HAIR-AN syndrome and in 30 women with PCOS. Correlations between adipocytokines, inflammatory markers, serum testosterone, and serum insulin were determined. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS version 23.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) software program. Results: Women with HAIR-AN syndrome had significantly higher hyperandrogenemia, hyperinsulinemia, and insulin resistance as compared to PCOS women. They also had high leptin levels and lower adiponectin levels (p < 0.001). However, the levels of inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-6) were similar in both the groups (p > 0.05). Serum adiponectin showed a negative correlation with HOMA-IR and testosterone levels, while leptin showed a positive correlation with both in HAIR-AN patients while no such correlation was found in the PCOS group. Conclusion: The significantly raised adipocytokines in HAIR-AN syndrome patients as compared to PCOS patients indicates the primary role of adipose tissue dysfunction (“adiposopathy”) in the pathogenesis of HAIR-AN syndrome while only a minor role, if any, in PCOS. Both these syndromes stand as distinct entities pathogenically with an overlapping phenotype.
Ectoparasitic flies (Diptera: Streblidae) on bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) from a Private Natural Heritage Reserve in southeastern Brazil
Authors: Menezes Júnior Luis Fernando , Santos Daniel Medina Corrêa , Menezes Ana Carolina Duarte Pinto , Peracchi Adriano Lúcio
Published: January 2021

Due to the small number of records of Streblidae on bats, despite extensive study on these mammals in the state of Rio de Janeiro, a survey was carried out in an area of the Atlantic Forest. The present study was carried out at Bom Retiro Farm Natural Heritage Private Reserve. We captured 401 bats of 17 species, 13 genera, and four families; bat flies infested 221 bats of only four species. Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) has the highest fly diversity, with seven fly species: Trichobius joblingi (Wenzel, 1966) (n = 23), Megistopoda proxima (Séguy, 1926) (n = 15), Strebla guajiro (García & Casal, 1965) (n = 15), Aspidoptera falcata (Wenzel, 1976) (n = 6) Paratrichobius longicrus (Miranda Ribeiro, 1907) (n = 8), Paraeuctenodes similis (Wenzel 1976) (n = 3), and Trichobius anducei (Guerrero, 1998) (n = 1). Two species infested Platyrrhinus lineatus (É. Geoffroy, 1810): Aspidoptera falcata (n = 1) and Anastrebla caudiferae (Wenzel, 1996) (n = 1). Paradyschiria parvula (Falcoz, 1931) (n = 11) infested Noctilio leporinus (Linnaeus, 1758) and M. proxima (n = 12) and Trichobius uniformis (Curran, 1935) (n = 1) infested Sturnira lilium (É. Geoffroy, 1842). Sturnira lilium has the highest infestation rate, with ten out of 46 captured individuals parasitized, followed by Carollia perspicillata, with 33 out of 164 captured parasitized, and by P. lineatus with only two parasitized individuals out of ten. Among 97 streblid flies captured, M. proxima was the most abundant (27.83%), followed by T. joblingi (23.71%), and S. guajiro (15.46%). All remaining bat fly species represented 33%. Paradichyria parvula has the first record for Rio de Janeiro State.
A study on the etymology of the scientific names given to planarians (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida) by Ernest Marcus’ school
Authors: Jasper Priscila Donegá , Froehlich Eudóxia Maria , Carbayo-Baz Fernando Jesus
Published: January 2021

Leading zoologist and taxonomist Ernest Marcus (1893-1968) and his school described numerous new invertebrate taxa, including planarians, or triclads (Platyhelminthes). These authors rarely provided the etymology of names for the new taxa. In this paper, the etymology of 149 names of genera and specific epithets of planarians lacking etymology (or honoring people) is investigated. The etymology of most names was retrieved from original descriptive papers and from Eudóxia Maria Froehlich’s recollections, a fellow of Marcus’ school. It was discovered that the names were usually freely derived from words of the language spoken in the country where the species was found. Some names were motivated by an aspect of the biology of the species. Other names honored people or are arbitrary. The etymology of 19 names could not be retrieved and are only suggested. The origin of another 19 names could not be discovered, nor even their meaning. Knowing the etymology makes it easier to memorize a name and it is a way to preserve the historical and emotional aspects of the authors. Through the retrieved etymologies, the personality of Marcus can also be glimpsed.
Enterococcus faecalis causes osteitis deformans in a Golden Lancehead snake (Bothrops insularis): a case report
Authors: Garcia Viviane Campos , Navas-Suárez Pedro Enrique , Fonseca-Pinto Ana Carolina Brandão de Campos , Unruh Silvana Maria , Knöbl Terezinha , Vac Mirian Halásc , Momo Claudia , Arias Lugo Maria Alejandra , Catão-Dias José Luiz , Almeida-Santos Selma Maria , Braz Henrique
Published: January 2021

Osteitis deformans (Paget’s disease) is a chronic bone disorder characterized by excessive osteoclast-mediated bone resorption followed by new bone formation. The present paper reports this condition in an 18-year-old captive golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis) from Brazil. This patient initially exhibited anorexia and swelling in the middle third of the spine associated with locomotor disability. For diagnosis, radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography, cytology, and microbiological culture were performed. Diagnostic imaging showed bone changes, vertebral fusion, and bone proliferation. Cytology revealed blood cells how toxic heterophiles, reactive monocytes, young red blood cells, and polychromasia compatible with an infectious process. A bacterial culture identified an ampicillin-susceptible strain of Enterococcus faecalis. Antibiotic treatment was promptly started, but the snake died 25 days later. Histopathologically, the bone tissue showed a generalized thickening of the vertebral trabeculae. For the first time, the presence of E. faecalis associated with the development of osteitis deformans in snakes was presented.
Experimental Frog Virus 3 infection using Brazilian strain: amphibians susceptibility
Authors: Alfaia Sthefany Rosa , Cândido Marcelo , Sousa Ricardo Luiz Moro de , Harakava Ricardo , Cassiano Luara Lucena , Martins Ana Maria Cristina Rebelo Pinto da Fonseca , Ferreira Cláudia Maris
Published: January 2021

An alarming number of global warnings concerning amphibian mortality outbreaks have been released in recent years. Emerging diseases stand out as the main potential causes. Ranavirus is a worldwide-spread highly infectious disease capable of affecting even other ectothermic animals such as fish and reptiles. One major issue regarding this pathology is the lack of clinical signs before it leads up to death. Aiming at having a better understanding of anurans susceptibility, this study analyzed bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) survival rate, when challenged with three doses of a Brazilian strain of Frog Virus 3 (FV3). The qPCR analysis indicated a low infectivity rate in these animals both as larvae and as adults. To elucidate the results, the following hypothesis was performed: 1) The amount of inoculum used on the frogs was insufficient to trigger an infection; 2) For the FV3 to produce clinical signs in this species, there is the need for a cofactor; 3) The animals did undergo FV3 infection but recovered in the course of the experiment, and 4) The inoculum utilized might have been low-virulence. Finally, the presence of actual clinical signs of ranavirus is discussed, with the more likely hypothesis.
Fatores sociodemográficos moderam a associação da prática de atividade física dos pais e amigos com o nível de atividade física dos adolescentes?
Authors: Mendonça Gerfeson , Mendes Jacqueline de Oliveira , Cheng Luanna Alexandra , Lucena Joana Marcela Sales de , Farias Júnior José Cazuza de
Published: January 2021

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar se os fatores sociodemográficos moderam a associação da prática de atividade física dos pais e dos amigos com o nível de atividade física dos adolescentes. Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico transversal, realizado com 2.859 adolescentes (57,8% sexo feminino) de 14 a 19 anos de idade do município de João Pessoa (PB). O nível de atividade física dos adolescentes e a prática de atividade física dos pais e dos amigos foram mensurados por questionários. A prevalência de adolescentes fisicamente ativos foi de 50,2% (IC95%: 47,3-53,1), sendo mais elevada no sexo masculino (66,3%; IC95%: 63,7-69,0) comparada ao feminino (38,4%; IC95%: 36,1-40,8). Os resultados da análise multivariável demostraram que há associação entre a prática de atividade física dos pais e dos amigos e o nível de atividade física dos adolescentes. No entanto, essa associação é moderada por fatores sociodemográfi cos (sexo e classe econômica). A magnitude da medida de associação entre a prática de atividade física dos amigos e a dos adolescentes foi mais elevada nos adolescentes do sexo masculino e de classe econômica alta. A prática de atividade física da mãe se associou de forma significativa e positiva com o nível de atividade física nos adolescentes de classe econômica alta. Conclui-se que os fatores sociodemográficos moderam a associaçãoda prática de atividade física dos amigos e da mãe com o nível de atividade física dos adolescentes. A magnitude da associação entre essas variáveis variou com o sexo e a classe econômica dos adolescentes.
Grounding e autopossessão em atividades da educação física
Authors: Rocha Diane Ferraz Lopes , Gomes-da-Silva Pierre Normando , Andrade Fernando Cézar Bezerra de , França Ana Raquel Oliveira
Published: January 2021

Analisou-se a autopossessão inerente ao grounding em aulas de Educação Física Escolar com discentes do 5º ano de escola municipal paraibana. Define-se grounding como fluxo de excitação energética, sentido como vibrações céfalo-caudais descendentes e ascendentes, envolvendo o contato com emoções e sua expressão (autoexpressão), cujo gradual autocontrole denomina-se autopossessão. No grounding, toma-se consciência corporal de si, reconhecendo emoções e as expressando adequadamente (autopossessão). Resulta disto o reconhecimento cognitivo do grounding e de sua autopossessão, chamado conscientização. Com metodologia qualitativa, coletaram-se dados por observações diretas e entrevistas semiestruturadas durante aulas de Educação Física. Aplicou-se análise de conteúdo categorial aos resultados, constatando-se presença de autoexpressão, deficiência em autopossessão e, portanto, na conscientização. Concluiu-se pela importância de conhecer o grounding como conceito e processo empírico a fim de que referenciem o planejamento pedagógico de atividades nas aulas de Educação Física Escolar, a fim de promover e elevar o nível de autopossessão e conscientização do alunado.
Método simplificado baseado na disponibilidade de luz difusa para estimar o potencial energético do aproveitamento da luz natural em edificações
Authors: França Suelem Schier de , Fonseca Raphaela Walger da , Pereira Fernando Oscar Ruttkay
Published: January 2021

Esse trabalho verificou o potencial da utilização do Fator de Luz Diurna temporal para a estimativa do consumo de iluminação de ambientes com diferentes volumetrias, tipos de aberturas e distribuição de fotosensores[1]. Tal potencial foi verificado frente à simulação computacional anual baseada no clima, por meio de um estudo de caso para Florianópolis. Avaliaram-se seis cenários paramétricos cujas variações contemplaram a profundidade do ambiente, o tamanho da abertura e a área de atuação dos fotosensores. O método assume a premissa de que um único ponto de análise, associado à zona de controle do fotosensor e localizado na parcela da zona mais distante da abertura, é adotado para estimar o consumo de iluminação. A escolha desse ponto mostrou-se válida, dependendo da profundidade da área de abrangência do sensor e do tamanho da janela. Em geral, os resultados subestimaram o aproveitamento da luz natural. Concluiu-se que o método tem potencial para ser aplicado com erros de ~10%, definindo-se uma área mínima de abertura e limitando-se a profundidade das zonas em ~1,5 X a altura da verga. Assim, recomenda-se como trabalhos futuros a sua validação com base em um maior número de variáveis.
 
[1] Neste trabalho, o termo fotosensor foi utilizado para caracterizar dispositivos de controle do sistema de iluminação em função da luz natural.
Platelet Proteomes, Pathways, and Phenotypes as Informants of Vascular Wellness and Disease
Authors: Aslan Joseph E.
Published: January 2021

Platelets rapidly undergo responsive transitions in form and function to repair vascular endothelium and mediate hemostasis. In contrast, heterogeneous platelet subpopulations with a range of primed or refractory phenotypes gradually arise in chronic inflammatory and other conditions in a manner that may indicate or support disease. Qualitatively distinguishable platelet phenotypes are increasingly associated with a variety of physiological and pathological circumstances; however, the origins and significance of platelet phenotypic variation remain unclear and conceptually vague. As changes in platelet function in disease exhibit many similarities to platelets following the activation of platelet agonist receptors, the intracellular responses of platelets common to hemostasis and inflammation may provide insights to the molecular basis of platelet phenotype. Here, we review concepts around how protein-level relations—from platelet receptors through intracellular signaling events—may help to define platelet phenotypes in inflammation, immune responses, aging, and other conditions. We further discuss how representing systems-wide platelet proteomics data profiles as circuit-like networks of causally related intracellular events, or, pathway maps, may inform molecular definitions of platelet phenotype. In addition to offering insights into platelets as druggable targets, maps of causally arranged intracellular relations underlying platelet function can also advance precision and interceptive medicine efforts by leveraging platelets as accessible, dynamic, endogenous, circulating biomarkers of vascular wellness and disease.

Graphic Abstract:

A graphic abstract is available for this article.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing to Disentangle the Blood System
Authors: Acosta Jean , Ssozi Daniel , van Galen Peter
Published: January 2021

The blood system is often represented as a tree-like structure with stem cells that give rise to mature blood cell types through a series of demarcated steps. Although this representation has served as a model of hierarchical tissue organization for decades, single-cell technologies are shedding new light on the abundance of cell type intermediates and the molecular mechanisms that ensure balanced replenishment of differentiated cells. In this Brief Review, we exemplify new insights into blood cell differentiation generated by single-cell RNA sequencing, summarize considerations for the application of this technology, and highlight innovations that are leading the way to understand hematopoiesis at the resolution of single cells.

Graphic Abstract:

A graphic abstract is available for this article.