bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abundance of Gut Microbiota, Concentration of Short-Chain Fatty Acids, and Inflammatory Markers Associated with Elevated Body Fat, Overweight, and Obesity in Female Adolescents
Authors: Miranda Valter Paulo Neves , dos Santos Amorim Paulo Roberto , Bastos Ronaldo Rocha , de Faria Eliane Rodrigues , de Castro Moreira Maria Eliza , do Carmo Castro Franceschini Sylvia , do Carmo Gouveia Peluzio Maria , de Luces Fortes Ferreira Célia Lucia , Priore Silvia Eloiza
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims. Overweight is ever more prevalent in the pediatric population, and this cardiometabolic factor can be associated with inflammatory markers, gut microbiota composition, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations. The aim of this study is to evaluate to what extent the abundance of gut microbiota phyla, SCFA concentrations, and inflammatory markers are associated with elevated body fat percentage (BF%), overweight, and obesity in female adolescents. Methods. An experimental and comparative study was conducted with 96 girls 14 to 19 years old. They were divided into 3 groups: G1—eutrophic (EUT) and adequate BF%; G2—EUT and high BF%; and G3—overweight (OW) or obese (OB) and high BF%. Waist circumference (WC), waist to height ratio (WtHR), and neck circumference (NC) were analyzed as indicators of central visceral adiposity. The BF% was evaluated by DEXA equipment. A food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate the main types of food consumed in a week. The abundance of the Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria phyla was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and the SFCA concentrations (acetic, butyric, and propionic) were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The inflammatory markers leptin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were assessed. Results. Female adolescents in groups G2 and G3 had greater central visceral adiposity and leptin concentration than those in group G1. No association was found between gut microbiota phyla abundance and SFCA concentrations in any of the groups. WC and frequency of consumption of oily and fatty foods were associated with Firmicutes abundance and SFCA concentrations. Girls with high WC also had the greatest leptin (p<0.001) and hs-CRP (p=0.035) concentrations. Conclusions. Inflammatory markers showed association with increased BMI and high BF% in female adolescents. The abundance of Firmicutes was associated with WC and NC, but not with BMI classification or BF%. Specifically, WC and the consumption of oils and fats showed correlation with SCFA concentrations. Different anthropometric indicators, such as NC and WC, should be incorporated into the clinical evaluation of the nutritional status of individuals in the adolescent population.
Hippocampal Volume Loss, Brain Amyloid Accumulation, and APOE Status in Cognitively Intact Elderly Subjects
Authors: Haller Sven , Montandon Marie-Louise , Rodriguez Cristelle , Garibotto Valentina , Herrmann François R. , Giannakopoulos Panteleimon
Published: December 2019

Background: Hippocampal volume loss (HVL), PET-documented brain amyloid accumulation, and APOE-ε4 status are predictive biomarkers of the transition from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer disease (AD). In asymptomatic cases, the role of these biomarkers remains ambiguous. In contrast to the idea that HVL occurs in late phases of neurodegeneration, recent contributions indicate that it might occur before abnormal amyloid PET occurrence in elderly subjects and that its severity could be only marginally related to APOE variants. Using a longitudinal design, we examined the determinants of HVL in our sample, i.e., brain amyloid burden and the presence of APOE-ε4, and made a longitudinal assessment of cognitive functions. Methods: We performed a 4.5-year longitudinal study on 81 elderly community dwellers (all right-handed;, 48 (59.3%) women; mean age 73.7 ± 3.7 years) including MRI at baseline and follow-up, PET amyloid during follow-up, neuropsychological assessment at 18 and 54 months, and APOE genotyping. All cases were assessed using a continuous cognitive score (CCS) that took into account the global evolution of neuropsychological performance. Linear regression models were used to identify predictors of HVL. Results: There was a negative association between the CCS and HVL bilaterally. In multivariate models adjusting for demographic variables, the presence of APOE-ε4 was related to increased HVL bilaterally. A trend of significance was observed with respect to the impact of amyloid positivity on HVL in the left hemisphere. No significant interaction was found between amyloid positivity and the APOE-ε4 allele. Conclusion: The progressive decrement of neuropsychological performance is associated with HVL long before the emergence of clinically overt symptoms. In this cohort of healthy individuals, the presence of the APOE-ε4 allele was shown to be an independent predictor of worst hippocampal integrity in asymptomatic cases independently of amyloid positivity.
Risk Factors of Infectious Complications following Ureteroscopy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sun JiaLe , Xu JiangNan , OuYang Jun
Published: December 2019

Objective: To investigate the potential risk factors of infectious complications following ureteroscopy (URS). Materials and Methods: Studies reporting risk factors of infectious complications following URS were searched via PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases up to August 30, 2019. OR or mean difference (MD) with 95% CI was calculated to assess the potential risk factors. Results: A total of 14 studies containing 9,532 patients were included. Positive preoperative urine culture was the most significant risk factor (OR 2.95, 95% CI 1.96–4.43, p < 0.01), followed by female gender (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.48–2.57, p < 0.01), diabetes mellitus (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.13–2.13, p < 0.01), pre- and postoperative stent (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.11–2.11, p = 0.01, OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.01–2.03, p = 0.04, relatively), and extended operative time (MD –11.54, 95% CI –16.10 to 6.98, p < 0.01). Age (MD –2.59, 95% CI –5.36 to 0.18, p = 0.07), cumulative stone diameter (MD –1.54; 95% CI –4.63 to 1.55, p = 0.33), and renal insufficiency (OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.80–1.88, p = 0.36) were not the potential risk factors. Conclusion: The prevalence of infectious complications following URS was correlated with female gender, diabetes mellitus, preoperative urine culture, pre- and postoperative stent insertion, and extended operative time. Publication bias and high heterogeneity were observed in some risk factors. Further studies are warranted for a valid conclusion.
Unique Patterns of Distant Metastases in HPV-Positive Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Sacks Ruth , Law Jennie Y. , Zhu Hong , Beg Muhammad S. , Gerber David E. , Sumer Baran D. , Myers Larry L. , Truelson John M. , Nedzi Lucien , Sher David , Hughes Randall S. , Khan Saad A.
Published: December 2019

Background: HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ HNSCC) demonstrates favorable outcomes compared to HPV-negative SCC, but distant metastases (DM) still occur. The pattern of DM in HPV+ HNSCC is unclear. Methods: 1,494 HNSCC patients were treated from 2006 to 2012. Recurrence time and metastatic sites in HPV+ HNSCC (Group 1) were compared to patients with HPV-negative/unknown cancers arising in the hypopharynx, larynx, or glottis (Group 2) as well as to patients with HPV-negative/unknown cancers in theoral cavity, oropharynx, hard palate, or tonsil (Group 3). Results: 7/109 (6.4%) patients with HPV+ HNSCC developed DM. The median time to metastases was 11 months. At a median follow-up of 18–25 months, there was no difference in the overall rate of DM for the HPV+ HNSCC group compared to Group 2 (HPV–/unknown) (p = 0.21) and Group 3 (HPV–/unknown) (p = 0.13). There was a significant difference in the rate of DM to the lung in the HPV+ HNSCC group compared to Group 2 (HPV–/unknown) (p = 0.012) and Group 3 (HPV–/unknown) (p = 0.002). Conclusions: There was no observed difference in the time to development of DM between the HPV–/unknown and HPV+ HNSCC groups. However, the HPV+ HNSCC group showed a higher rate of DM to the lung compared to the HPV–/unknown ­HNSCC group (p = 0.002).
Pattern of Activated Pathways and Quality of Collateral Status in Patients with Symptomatic Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion
Authors: Connolly Florian , Röhl Jens E. , Lopez-Prieto Javier , Danyel Leon A. , Schreiber Stephan J. , Valdueza Jose M.
Published: December 2019

Background: Internal carotid artery occlusion (ICAO) is an important risk factor for stroke. Cerebral hemodynamics in patients with ICAO depends on the individual capacity to activate sufficient collateral pathways. Therefore, the assessment of intracranial collaterals is essential for the acute and long-term management of these patients and accurate estimation of further stroke risk. Methods: Acute stroke patients with unilateral ICAO were prospectively enrolled. We assessed the following collaterals by transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS): the anterior and posterior communicating artery (ACoA, PCoA), the ophthalmic artery (OA), and leptomeningeal collaterals of the posterior cerebral artery (LMC). We subdivided the flow pattern of the Doppler spectrum in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) into 3 categories: (1) good, (2) moderate, and (3) bad according to the hemodynamic effects on the ipsilateral MCA flow. Finally, we compared the individual TCCS results with the stroke pattern detected on CT or MRI scan. Results: One hundred thirteen patients (age 66 ± 12 years; ­female 24) were included. The collateral status was good, moderate, and bad in 59 (52%), 37 (33%), and 17 (15%) patients, respectively. The ACoA collateral was most frequently activated (81%), followed by the OA (63%), the PCoA (53%), and the LMC (22%). The quality of the collateral status was determined by the type (p = 0.0003) but not by the number (p = 0.19) of activated collateral pathways. Good collateral function was highly associated with primary collaterals (ACoA > PCoA). Best parameter for a good collateral status was an antegrade flow in the OA, indicating a high blood supply via the communicating arteries. Conclusions: TCCS allows the assessment of intracranial collaterals and their hemodynamic capacity. Prevalence of collateral sufficiency in ICAO seems to be higher than previously reported. ACoA cross flow is essential for the optimal hemodynamic compensation of ICAO. Antegrade OA flow indicates good collateral status.
Expression of c-Met in Primary and Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Asaoka Yoshinari , Tateishi Ryosuke , Hayashi Akimasa , Ushiku Tetsuo , Shibahara Junji , Kinoshita Jun , Ouchi Yoshiumi , Koike Masamichi , Fukayama Masashi , Shiina Shuichiro , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: December 2019

Background:The clinical course of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is complicated, because it often recurs and shows multiple lesions, some of which progress to a more malignant form, shortening the life of the patient. The hepatocyte growth factor receptor c-Met has been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of HCC, but the influence of c-Met expression on the clinical course of HCC remains to be fully elucidated. Methods:We randomly selected and included 600 tumor specimens obtained from the primary and recurrent lesions of 319 HCC cases between 1995 and 2007. The expression of c-Met was determined by immunohistochemistry using archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples. We analyzed the correlation between c-Met expression and clinical parameters, including survival. In addition, we examined c-Met expression in the malignant transition of HCC in all cases including recurrent lesions. Results:Survival analysis using the multivariate Cox proportional-regression model revealed that the prognosis was significantly better in the primary cases with high c-Met expression than in those with low c-Met expression (hazard ratio 0.159, 95% confidence interval 0.065–0.391; p < 0.001). During the course of recurrence, some cases with high c-Met expression returned to low c-Met expression. Among 40 cases with high c-Met expression, 29 survived more than 2 years after detecting the high c-Met expression. Conclusion:High expression of c-Met may be a prognostic factor for a good, rather than a poor, HCC prognosis. The involvement of c-Met expression in the malignant transition of recurrent HCC is obscure.
Risk of Intracranial Hemorrhage Following Intravenous tPA (Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator) for Acute Stroke Is Low in Children
Authors: Amlie-Lefond Catherine , Shaw Dennis W.W. , Cooper Andrew , Wainwright Mark S. , Kirton Adam , Felling Ryan J. , Abraham Michael G. , Mackay Mark T. , Dowling Michael M. , Torres Marcela , Rivkin Michael J. , Grabowski Eric F. , Lee Sarah , Kurz Jonathan E. , McMillan Hugh J. , Barry Dwight , Lee-Eng Jacqueline , Ichord Rebecca N.
Published: December 2019

Background and Purpose—

Data regarding the safety and efficacy of intravenous tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator) in childhood acute arterial ischemic stroke are inadequate. The TIPS trial (Thrombolysis in Pediatric Stroke; National Institutes of Health grant R01NS065848)—a prospective safety and dose-finding trial of intravenous tPA in acute childhood stroke—was closed for lack of accrual. TIPS sites have subsequently treated children with acute stroke in accordance with established institutional protocols supporting data collection on outcomes.

Methods—

Data on children treated with intravenous tPA for neuroimaging-confirmed arterial ischemic stroke were collected retrospectively from 16 former TIPS sites to establish preliminary safety data. Participating sites were required to report all children who were treated with intravenous tPA to minimize reporting bias. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) was defined as ECASS (European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study) II parenchymal hematoma type 2 or any intracranial hemorrhage associated with neurological deterioration within 36 following tPA administration. A Bayesian beta-binomial model for risk of SICH following intravenous tPA was fit using a prior distribution based on the risk level in young adults (1.7%); to test for robustness, the model was also fit with uninformative and conservative priors.

Results—

Twenty-six children (age range, 1.1–17 years; median, 14 years; 12 boys) with stroke and a median pediatric National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 14 were treated with intravenous tPA within 2 to 4.5 hours (median, 3.0 hours) after stroke onset. No patient had SICH. Two children developed epistaxis.

Conclusions—

The estimated risk of SICH after tPA in children is 2.1% (95% highest posterior density interval, 0.0%–6.7%; mode, 0.9%). Regardless of prior assumption, there is at least a 98% chance that the risk is <15% and at least a 93% chance that the risk is <10%. These results suggest that the overall risk of SICH after intravenous tPA in children with acute arterial ischemic stroke, when given within 4.5 hours after symptom onset, is low.
YOKSULLUK, EŞİTSİZLİK VE BÜYÜME ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİ: TÜRKİYE DÜZEY-1 ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: EVCİM Nurgül , GÜNEŞ Sevcan , KARAALP-ORHAN Hacer Simay
Published: December 2019

Yoksullukla
mücadelede gelir artışı büyük önem arz etmektedir. Özellikle artan gelirin
adaletli bir dağılım göstermesi yoksulluğun azaltılmasında en etkili
faktörlerden biridir. Literatürde yoksulluk, eşitsizlik ve büyüme arasındaki
ilişkiyi inceleyen çalışmaların büyük bir kısmı betimsel çalışmalardan
oluşmaktadır. Ampirik uygulamaların yer aldığı çalışmalar daha çok gelir
eşitsizliği ve ekonomik büyüme, ekonomik büyüme ve yoksulluk ya da eşitsizlik ve
yoksulluk arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemiştir. Yoksulluk, gelir eşitsizliği ve
ekonomik büyüme arasındaki ilişkiyi beraber inceleyen az sayıdaki çalışmalarda
elde edilen sonuçlar ise farklılık göstermektedir. Bu çalışmada Türkiye’nin
Düzey-1 bölgelerinde yoksulluk, gelir dağılımı ve ekonomik büyüme arasındaki
ilişki analiz edilerek az sayıdaki mevcut literatüre katkı yapılması
amaçlanmıştır. Bu nedenle 2006-2017 döneminde Türkiye’deki yoksulluk oranı, Gini
katsayısı ve kişi başına düşen gelir değişkenleri kullanılarak 11 bölge için Emirmahmutoğlu
ve Köse (2011) tarafından geliştirilen Panel Fisher testi ile nedensellik
analizi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Analiz sonuçlarına göre, Panel Fisher testi
Türkiye genelinde yoksulluktan ekonomik büyümeye doğru bir nedensellik ilişkisi
ortaya koyarken, bölgeler bazında farklı modeller için farklı sonuçlar elde edilmiştir.
Ancient Egyptians’ Atypical Relationship with Invertebrates
Authors: Evans Linda , Weinstein Philip
Published: December 2019

Despite the ubiquitous presence and vital role of invertebrates in all known ecological systems, insects and arachnids are largely viewed as repugnant by people. Consequently, until nature intervenes in the form of infestations, swarms or plagues, we largely prefer to ignore them, lest our attention invite unwelcome interaction. In contrast, the people of ancient Egypt did not distance themselves from invertebrates but instead celebrated their myriad forms. Egyptian appreciation of insects and arachnids is reflected in a range of art, artefacts, and texts dating from the predynastic era until the Greco-Roman period, revealing many positive cultural roles, from practical to conceptual. By assigning them a useful function, they were rendered visible and relevant to Egyptian society. The Egyptians’ example suggests that as necessity forces us to acknowledge the value of invertebrates—from their function as pollinators to becoming future food sources—our respect for them may also grow.
Tactical Ant Media: Amplifying the Invertebrate Aesthetics of Ants Using Transversality as an Artistic Process
Authors: Auson Kuai Shen
Published: December 2019

This article examines creative practice-led research that uses transversality as an artistic process to generate ant-human relations. From the artistic perspective, transversality can materialize audiovisual performances with ants by employing technologies of visual and acoustic amplification; these are electronic assemblages made with piezoelectric sensors, computer vision, and infrared thermography, which reveal imperceptible qualities of ant behaviors. Whereas the concept of transversality remains active in philosophical discourses concerning human subjectivity, it has not been explored in artistic technological mediations that seek relational ties with nonhuman beings. The analysis that follows argues that ants are transversal beings whose movements cross boundaries affecting organisms and materializing ecological and multispecies relations. These relations can be amplified using electronic media in order to reveal the invertebrate aesthetics of ants as a different way to understand their social lives, and as an alternative passage for representing their sensorial capacities.
Philanthropic Action of Chinese Diaspora in Southeast Asia: Shaped by Family, Ancestry, Identity and Social Norms
Authors: Harper (陈美月) Marina Tan
Published: December 2019

Due to push and pull factors, millions of Chinese migrants fanned out into the Nanyang from the mid-1800s onward. The G1 (first generation) diasporic Chinese left China with a sojourner mentality, compelling their philanthropic action back to motherland China. As G1 diasporic Chinese and their second or third generation ethnic Chinese (G2, G3 …) eventually settled as nationals into various countries in Southeast Asia, their Confucian Chinese values were confronted, severely tested, remolded, and evolved as they assimilated and converged with the political, social, and economic circumstances of the times. With self-help and mutual aid philanthropy, they thrived and prospered in the Nanyang and were soon propelled to lead local communities. As they engendered gratitude to where they built their wealth, raised families, and honored ancestry in their resettled new homes, their loyalties, generosity, and philanthropy also began to shift away from China. This study investigates these traditions, ethos, and value systems through the lens of philanthropy.
Советские историки-марксисты о Боярской Думе и боярстве в Московском государстве
Authors: Кошелева Ольга Е.
Published: December 2019

В данной статье автор продолжает рассматривать историю изучения боярства и Боярской Думы в России (см.: Ольга Кошелева «Историки XIX века о Боярской Думе и о боярстве в Московском государстве» Canadian-American Slavic Studies 52–54 (2018) Pp. 1–22), обращаясь к периоду вторжения марксистской теории в эту тему. Историки-марксисты ставили перед собой цель вписать российскую историю в марксистскую парадигму, что приводило их к противоречивым трактовкам роли боярства в Московском государстве. Их труды не основывались на анализе источников, а являлись схоластическими построениями. Главным являлся тезис о реакционной сущности боярства, которому давались разноречивые объяснения. С 60-х гг. ХХ в. в советской историографии наметился отход от догматичного понимания марксизма, а в 80-е гг. большинством исследователей тема боярства уже лишь формально помещалась в рамки марксистской риторики и разрабатывалась в основном в источниковедческом направлении. Обширный круг проанализированных работ приводит автора к выводу о том, что марксистский подход не внес ничего нового в изучение боярства. Он объективно мешал нормальной работе историков, но, тем не менее, не приостановил ее, а непреднамеренно повернул в иное русло: в сферу источниковедения, где были достигнуты значительные успехи в изучении рассматриваемой темы.
Cynoglossum dalianum (Boraginaceae Juss.), new endemic species from southern China

Authors: SUTORÝ KAREL
Published: December 2019

A new endemic taxon previously assigned to Cynoglossum wallichii G. Don or Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drumm. from Yunnan Province, south China is described. Distinguishing morphological characters are in its perennial character, bottom rosette leaves with different indumentum density on upper and lower side, moderately branched inflorescence and broadly ovoid nutlets with distinct areola, 3.5–4.2 × 3–3.5 mm in size, which are irregularly and sparsely covered with slim, up to 1 mm long glochids.
Two new species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from the karst forest of Hoa Binh Province, Vietnam
Authors: NGUYEN TRUONG QUANG , LE MINH DUC , PHAM ANH VAN , NGO HAI NGOC , HOANG CHUNG VAN , ZIEGLER THOMAS
Published: December 2019

We describe two new species of the genus Cyrtodactylus on the basis of a new reptile collection from the limestone karst forest of Hoa Binh Province, northwestern Vietnam. Cyrtodactylus otai sp. nov. from Hang Kia—Pa Co Nature Reserve and Cyrtodactylus bobrovi sp. nov. from Ngoc Son—Ngo Luong Nature Reserve can be distinguished from each other and from their congeners by their genetic distinction and morphological differences in number of precloacal pores, femoral scales, ventral scales, lamellae, subcaudals and dorsal tubercle arrangement, as well as in size and color pattern. In phylogenetic analyses, both new species are nested in a clade containing taxa from northwestern and northcentral Vietnam and northern Laos, i.e., C. bichnganae and C. cf. martini from northwestern Vietnam, C. puhuensis from northcentral Vietnam, and C. spelaeus, C. vilaphongi, and C. wayakonei from northern Laos.
Demographic and cognitive risk factors for police mental disorder symptoms
Authors: Korol Stephanie , Vig Kelsey D , Sapach Michelle J N Teale , Asmundson Gordon J G , Carleton R Nicholas
Published: December 2019

The current study was designed to assess whether cognitive risk factors (i.e. anxiety sensitivity (AS), intolerance of uncertainty (IU)) explained variance in mental disorder symptoms in Canadian police officers beyond variance explained by demographic variables (i.e. sex, marital status, education, years of service). Police participants (708 men; 271 women) completed measures assessing posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, IU and AS. Multivariate analysis of variance demonstrated that only main effects of sex were significant for all symptom variables, except SAD. Hierarchical multiple regressions demonstrated that AS and IU accounted for greater variance than sex on all mental disorder symptom measures, which suggests that cognitive risk factors explain more variance in mental disorder symptoms than sex. Efforts to reduce AS and IU may be beneficial for improving police mental health.
Location of Small Intracanalicular Vestibular Schwannomas Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Koen Nicholas , Shapiro Chandler , Kozin Elliott D. , Cunnane Mary E. , Remenschneider Aaron K. , McKenna Michael J. , Jung David H.
Published: December 2019

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) were proposed to arise from the glial–Schwann cell junction within the internal auditory canal (IAC). However, otopathology studies indicate that VS may arise anywhere along the course of the vestibular nerve. Recent studies suggested that the majority of tumors are located centrally within the IAC with an equal distribution near the porus acusticus and the fundus. However, these studies analyzed tumors of all sizes, obscuring their precise origin. Herein, we aim to quantify the position of small intracanalicular tumors (<5 mm), assessing hearing outcomes and growth patterns in relation to tumor position. Of the 38 small intracanalicular tumors analyzed, 61% originated closest to the fundus, 34% at the midpoint, and only 5% closest to the porus acusticus. Tumors were observed with serial magnetic resonance imaging for 3.37 ± 2.65 years (mean ± SD) without intervention. Our findings indicate a lateral predominance of small VS within the IAC, an independence between tumor location and hearing outcomes, and further support the slow natural progression of VS.
Synthesis and characterization of dextran ester derivatives and their adhesive properties
Authors: Togo Azusa , Enomoto Yukiko , Takemura Akio , Iwata Tadahisa
Published: December 2019

Polysaccharides are promising renewable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, and are high-value-added materials in various industries. In this work, we synthesized dextran (α-1,6-glucan) ester derivatives substituting acyl groups with different carbon numbers from acetate to laurate. We found that the thermal stability of dextran was improved by esterification. Moreover, using differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction, we revealed that dextran ester derivatives were amorphous. Self-standing, transparent, solvent-cast films of dextran ester derivatives were prepared. Dextran ester derivatives adhered to various materials, including polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films, wood, glass, and aluminum. In addition, the adhesive interfaces were transparent, which is important for practical applications. The adhesive strength for PVA films increased with concentration, exceeding the breaking strength of the PVA film at 0.3 g/mL. Moreover, dextran valerate and dextran hexanoate behaved as hot-melt-type adhesives. These results demonstrate the potential of dextran ester derivatives as biomass-based adhesives.
Facile fabrication of mesostructured natural rubber/silica nanocomposites with enhanced thermal stability and hydrophobicity
Authors: Chaowamalee Supphathee , Ngamcharussrivichai Chawalit
Published: December 2019

Natural rubber (NR)/hexagonal mesoporous silica (HMS) nanocomposites (NRHMS) with enhanced thermal and hydrophobic properties were facilely prepared via in situ sol–gel formation with pH adjustment using a low sulphuric acid (H2SO4) acid concentration. The effect of the amount of 0.5 M H2SO4 (2.5–10 g) added into the pre-synthesis mixture on the physicochemical properties of the obtained NRHMS nanocomposites was investigated. With a small addition of H2SO4 solution, the fabricated NRHMS nanocomposite possessed an improved wormhole-like mesostructure arrangement with a thicker silica wall, which retarded the thermal decomposition of the NR phase, as deduced from the auto-oxidation of NR by thermogravimetric analysis. The H2O adsorption–desorption measurement revealed an increased hydrophobicity of the NRHMS composites, explained by the acid-catalyzed bridging of free silanol groups to siloxane bonds, which was supported by the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Scanning transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy elemental mapping revealed a good dispersion of the NR phase within the mesostructured silica. However, a high amount of added H2SO4 solution led to silica–NR phase separation due to the decreased hydrophobic interaction between the silica precursor and rubber chain, as well as an agglomeration of the NR phase itself. The mechanism of NRHMS nanocomposite formation under pH-controlled conditions was proposed to proceed via a cooperative self-assembly route.
Clinical method evaluation of hemoglobin S and C identification by top-down selected reaction monitoring and electron transfer dissociation
Authors: Lassout Olivier , Hartmer Ralf , Jabs Wolfgang , Clerici Lorella , Tsybin Yury O. , Samii Kaveh , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Hochstrasser Denis , Scherl Alexander , Lescuyer Pierre , Coelho Graça Didia
Published: December 2019

Background

Biological diagnosis of hemoglobin disorders is a complex process relying on the combination of several analytical techniques to identify Hb variants in a particular sample. Currently, hematology laboratories usually use high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), capillary electrophoresis and gel-based methods to characterize Hb variants. Co-elution and co-migration may represent major issues for precise identification of Hb variants, even for the most common ones such as Hb S and C.

Methods

We adapted a top-down selected reaction monitoring (SRM) electron transfer dissociation (ETD) mass spectrometry (MS) method to fit with a clinical laboratory environment. An automated analytical process with semi-automated data analysis compatible with a clinical practice was developed. A comparative study between a reference HPLC method and the MS assay was performed on 152 patient samples.

Results

The developed workflow allowed to identify with high specificity and selectivity the most common Hb variants (Hb S and Hb C). Concordance of the MS-based approach with HPLC was 71/71 (100%) for Hb S and 11/11 (100%) for Hb C.

Conclusions

This top-down SRM ETD method can be used in a clinical environment to detect Hb S and Hb C.
Domestic work stress and self-rated psychological health among women: a cross-sectional study in Japan
Authors: Maeda Eri , Nomura Kyoko , Hiraike Osamu , Sugimori Hiroki , Kinoshita Asako , Osuga Yutaka
Published: December 2019

Background

Despite the huge burden of domestic work on women in Japan, its effects on their health have been poorly investigated. We aimed to assess the association between domestic work stress and self-rated psychological health among women.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey using an online social research panel in February 2018. Participants were 2,000 women with paid work (the “workers” group) and 1,000 women without paid work (the “homemakers” group), aged between 25 and 59 years old and living with a partner. Self-rated psychological health (Mental Health and Vitality scales of the Japanese SF-36), occupational and domestic work stress (the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire), the 10-item Work–Family Conflict Scale, and sociodemographic factors were assessed.

Results

The workers had lower domestic job control and higher support from a partner and their parents than the homemakers (p < 0.001), whereas domestic job demand and psychological health were similar between the groups. After adjustment for the covariates using multiple linear regression models, better psychological health was significantly associated with lower domestic job demand, higher domestic job control, and having a young child in both groups. In addition, work–family conflicts and occupational job stress among the workers and caregiving among the homemakers showed negative associations with psychological health.

Conclusion

Self-rated psychological health in women was associated with domestic work stress regardless of employment status. To promote women’s health, we need to take into account the effects of domestic work, work–family conflicts, and social support from families, as well as occupational factors.
Characterization of residential household dust from Shanghai by particle size and analysis of organophosphorus flame retardants and metals
Authors: Li Li , Qiu Yanling , Gustafsson Åsa , Krais Annette M. , Weiss Jana M. , Lundh Thomas , Bergman Åke
Published: December 2019

Background

Physical and biological properties of dust particles might affect the availability and distribution of chemicals associated to indoor dust; however it has not been adequately examined. In this study, household dust from Shanghai was fractionated into five particle sizes and size distribution, morphology, surface area, organic matter, microorganisms, elemental composition, metals and organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) compositions were characterized. Also, household dust samples from Stockholm that has previously been characterized were included in the analysis of OPFRs for comparison.

Results

The respirable fraction had a yield of 3.3% in mass percentage, with a particle size of 2.22 ± 2.04 µm. As expected, both metals and OPFRs concentrations increased with decreased particle size. Al and Fe dominated (66–87%) followed by the concentrations of Zn (5–14%) and Ga (1.8–5%) of the sum of 16 metals in the dust. The concentrations of OPFRs in Shanghai dust ranged from 5.34 to 13.7 µg/g (median: 7.21 µg/g), compared to household dust from Stockholm that ranged from 16.0 to 28.3 µg/g (median: 26.6 µg/g). Tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP) and tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) dominated in Shanghai dust samples while tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP) dominated in dust from Stockholm homes.

Conclusion

The results showed that mass percentage for each particle size fraction was not evenly distributed. Furthermore, the particle-bound microorganisms and OPFRs increased with decreased particle size, whereas metals had the highest concentrations at specific dust sizes. Therefore, it is essential to select the proper particle size in order to assess any specific human exposure study to indoor pollutants.
Inferring Pareto-optimal reconciliations across multiple event costs under the duplication-loss-coalescence model
Authors: Mawhorter Ross , Liu Nuo , Libeskind-Hadas Ran , Wu Yi-Chieh
Published: December 2019

Background

Reconciliation methods are widely used to explain incongruence between a gene tree and species tree. However, the common approach of inferring maximum parsimony reconciliations (MPRs) relies on user-defined costs for each type of event, which can be difficult to estimate. Prior work has explored the relationship between event costs and maximum parsimony reconciliations in the duplication-loss and duplication-transfer-loss models, but no studies have addressed this relationship in the more complicated duplication-loss-coalescence model.

Results

We provide a fixed-parameter tractable algorithm for computing Pareto-optimal reconciliations and recording all events that arise in those reconciliations, along with their frequencies. We apply this method to a case study of 16 fungi to systematically characterize the complexity of MPR space across event costs and identify events supported across this space.

Conclusion

This work provides a new framework for studying the relationship between event costs and reconciliations that incorporates both macro-evolutionary events and population effects and is thus broadly applicable across eukaryotic species.
NaCl-responsive ROS scavenging and energy supply in alkaligrass callus revealed from proteomic analysis
Authors: Zhang Yongxue , Zhang Yue , Yu Juanjuan , Zhang Heng , Wang Liyue , Wang Sining , Guo Siyi , Miao Yuchen , Chen Sixue , Li Ying , Dai Shaojun
Published: December 2019

Background

Salinity has obvious effects on plant growth and crop productivity. The salinity-responsive mechanisms have been well-studied in differentiated organs (e.g., leaves, roots and stems), but not in unorganized cells such as callus. High-throughput quantitative proteomics approaches have been used to investigate callus development, somatic embryogenesis, organogenesis, and stress response in numbers of plant species. However, they have not been applied to callus from monocotyledonous halophyte alkaligrass (Puccinellia tenuifora).

Results

The alkaligrass callus growth, viability and membrane integrity were perturbed by 50 mM and 150 mM NaCl treatments. Callus cells accumulated the proline, soluble sugar and glycine betaine for the maintenance of osmotic homeostasis. Importantly, the activities of ROS scavenging enzymes (e.g., SOD, APX, POD, GPX, MDHAR and GR) and antioxidants (e.g., ASA, DHA and GSH) were induced by salinity. The abundance patterns of 55 salt-responsive proteins indicate that salt signal transduction, cytoskeleton, ROS scavenging, energy supply, gene expression, protein synthesis and processing, as well as other basic metabolic processes were altered in callus to cope with the stress.

Conclusions

The undifferentiated callus exhibited unique salinity-responsive mechanisms for ROS scavenging and energy supply. Activation of the POD pathway and AsA-GSH cycle was universal in callus and differentiated organs, but salinity-induced SOD pathway and salinity-reduced CAT pathway in callus were different from those in leaves and roots. To cope with salinity, callus mainly relied on glycolysis, but not the TCA cycle, for energy supply.
Molecular evolution and expression of opsin genes in Hydra vulgaris
Authors: Macias-Muñoz Aide , Murad Rabi , Mortazavi Ali
Published: December 2019

Background

The evolution of opsin genes is of great interest because it can provide insight into the evolution of light detection and vision. An interesting group in which to study opsins is Cnidaria because it is a basal phylum sister to Bilateria with much visual diversity within the phylum.Hydra vulgaris(H. vulgaris) is a cnidarian with a plethora of genomic resources to characterize the opsin gene family. This eyeless cnidarian has a behavioral reaction to light, but it remains unknown which of its many opsins functions in light detection. Here, we used phylogenetics and RNA-seq to investigate the molecular evolution of opsin genes and their expression inH. vulgaris. We explored where opsin genes are located relative to each other in an improved genome assembly and where they belong in a cnidarian opsin phylogenetic tree. In addition, we used RNA-seq data from different tissues of theH. vulgarisadult body and different time points during regeneration and budding stages to gain insight into their potential functions.

Results

We identified 45 opsin genes inH. vulgaris, many of which were located near each other suggesting evolution by tandem duplications. Our phylogenetic tree of cnidarian opsin genes supported previous claims that they are evolving by lineage-specific duplications. We identified twoH. vulgarisgenes (HvOpA1andHvOpB1) that fall outside of the two commonly determinedHydragroups; these genes possibly have a function in nematocytes and mucous gland cells respectively. We also found opsin genes that have similar expression patterns to phototransduction genes inH. vulgaris. We propose aH. vulgarisphototransduction cascade that has components of both ciliary and rhabdomeric cascades.

Conclusions

This extensive study provides an in-depth look at the molecular evolution and expression ofH. vulgarisopsin genes. The expression data that we have quantified can be used as a springboard for additional studies looking into the specific function of opsin genes in this species. Our phylogeny and expression data are valuable to investigations of opsin gene evolution and cnidarian biology.
Case reports of a c.475G>T, p.E159* lamin A/C mutation with a family history of conduction disorder, dilated cardiomyopathy and sudden cardiac death
Authors: Yokokawa Tetsuro , Ichimura Shohei , Hijioka Naoko , Kaneshiro Takashi , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Nakazato Kazuhiko , Ishida Takafumi , Suzuki Osamu , Ohno Seiko , Aiba Takeshi , Ohtani Hiroshi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: December 2019

Background

Patients with some mutations in the lamin A/C (LMNA) gene are characterized by the presence of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), conduction abnormalities, ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT), and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Various clinical features have been observed among patients who have the same LMNA mutation. Here, we show a family with cardiac laminopathy with a c.475G > T, p.E159* LMNA mutation, and a family history of conduction disorder, DCM, VT, and SCD.

Case presentation

A proband (female) with atrial fibrillation and bradycardia was implanted with a pacemaker in her fifties. Twenty years later, she experienced a loss of consciousness due to polymorphic VT. She had a serious family history; her mother and elder sister died suddenly in their fifties and sixties, respectively, and her nephew and son were diagnosed as having DCM. Genetic screening of the proband, her son, and nephew identified a nonsense mutation (c.475G > T, p.E159*) in the LMNA gene. Although the proband’s left ventricular ejection fraction remained relatively preserved, her son and nephew’s left ventricular ejection fraction were reduced, resulting in cardiac resynchronization therapy by implantation of a defibrillator.

Conclusions

In this family with cardiac laminopathy with a c.475G > T, p.E159* LMNA mutation, DCM, SCD, and malignant VT occurred. Clinical manifestation of various atrial and ventricular arrhythmias and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction occurred in an age-dependent manner in all family members who had the nonsense mutation. It appears highly likely that the E159* LMNA mutation is related to various cardiac problems in the family of the current report.
Intravascular ultrasound findings and stent implantation for a patient with coronary spastic angina at site of progressive atherosclerotic plaque and responded poorly to medical treatment: a case report
Authors: Wang Haoran , Peng Geng , Dong Yancai , Liu Dongliang
Published: December 2019

Background

Most coronary spastic angina patients are responsive to coronary vasodilators therapy, and stent implantation is not recommended for regular use. We reported the angiographic and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) images of a rare case who responded poorly to medical treatment due to progressive atherosclerotic plaque at the spastic site.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old man complaining of 1-month history of episodic chest pain at rest was admitted to our hospital. The diagnosis of coronary spastic angina was made based on the angiographic evidence of vasospasm at the right coronary artery (RCA). The patient responded poorly to conventional medical treatment during the 1-year follow-up. The repeated angiography revealed totally occlusion of the proximal segment of the RCA at the same location as 1 year before, and IVUS demonstrated there was vulnerable plaque and thrombus at the site of spasm. Episodic chest pain ceased completely in the follow up period after stenting.

Conclusion

Coronary spasm might present at the vessel site with advanced atherosclerotic plaque. For patients with refractory vasospastic angina and significant occlusion, stenting might be a viable and valuable treatment strategy under the guidance of intracoronary imaging.
TIA and minor stroke: a qualitative study of long-term impact and experiences of follow-up care
Authors: Turner Grace M. , McMullan Christel , Atkins Lou , Foy Robbie , Mant Jonathan , Calvert Melanie
Published: December 2019

Background

Transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke are often considered transient events; however, many patients experience residual problems and reduced quality of life. Current follow-up healthcare focuses on stroke prevention and care for other long-term problems is not routinely provided.

We aimed to explore patient and healthcare provider (HCP) experiences of residual problems post-TIA/minor stroke, the impact of TIA/minor stroke on patients’ lives, and current follow-up care and sources of support.

Methods

This qualitative study recruited participants from three TIA clinics, seven general practices and one community care trust in the West Midlands, England. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 TIA/minor stroke patients and 24 HCPs from primary, secondary and community care. Data was analysed using framework analysis.

Results

A diverse range of residual problems were reported post-TIA/minor stroke, including psychological, cognitive and physical impairments. Consultants and general practitioners generally lacked awareness of these long-term problems; however, there was better recognition among nurses and allied HCPs. Residual problems significantly affected patients’ lives, including return to work, social activities, and relationships with family and friends. Follow-up care was variable and medically focused. While HCPs prioritised medical investigations and stroke prevention medication, patients emphasised the importance of understanding their diagnosis, individualised support regarding stroke risk, and addressing residual problems.

Conclusion

HCPs could better communicate information about TIA/minor stroke diagnosis and secondary stroke prevention using lay language, and improve their identification of and response to important residual impairments affecting patients.
Physicians’ experiences with euthanasia: a cross-sectional survey amongst a random sample of Dutch physicians to explore their concerns, feelings and pressure
Authors: Evenblij Kirsten , Pasman H. Roeline W. , van Delden Johannes J. M. , van der Heide Agnes , van de Vathorst Suzanne , Willems Dick L. , Onwuteaka-Philipsen Bregje D.
Published: December 2019

Background

Physicians who receive a request for euthanasia or assisted suicide may experience a conflict of duties: the duty to preserve life on the one hand and the duty to relieve suffering on the other hand. Little is known about experiences of physicians with receiving and granting a request for euthanasia or assisted suicide. This study, therefore, aimed to explore the concerns, feelings and pressure experienced by physicians who receive requests for euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Methods

In 2016, a cross-sectional study was conducted. Questionnaires were sent to a random sample of 3000 Dutch physicians. Physicians who had been working in adult patient care in the Netherlands for the last year were included in the sample (n = 2657). Half of the physicians were asked about the most recent case in which they refused a request for euthanasia or assisted suicide, and half about the most recent case in which they granted a request for euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Results

Of the 2657 eligible physicians, 1374 (52%) responded. The most reported reason not to participate was lack of time. Of the respondents, 248 answered questions about a refused euthanasia or assisted suicide request and 245 about a granted EAS request. Concerns about specific aspects of the euthanasia and assisted suicide process, such as the emotional burden of preparing and performing euthanasia or assisted suicide were commonly reported by physicians who refused and who granted a request. Pressure to grant a request was mostly experienced by physicians who refused a request, especially if the patient was ≥80 years, had a life-expectancy of ≥6 months and did not have cancer. The large majority of physicians reported contradictory emotions after having performed euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Conclusions

Society should be aware of the impact of euthanasia and assisted suicide requests on physicians. The tension physicians experience may decrease their willingness to perform euthanasia and assisted suicide. On the other hand, physicians should not be forced to cross their own moral boundaries or be tempted to perform euthanasia and assisted suicide in cases that may not meet the due care criteria.