bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Characterization of Mosquito Diversity in the Balearic Islands
Authors: Delgado-Serra Sofía , Viader Miriam , Ruiz-Arrondo Ignacio , Miranda Miguel Ángel , Barceló Carlos , Bueno-Marí Rubén , Hernández-Triana Luis M , Miquel Marga , Lester Katherine , Jurado-Rivera Jose Antonio , Paredes-Esquivel Claudia
Published: October 2020

Several outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases have taken place in Europe in recent years. In Spain, both active and passive surveillance have demonstrated that dengue and West Nile viruses are currently circulating, and seven autochthonous dengue cases have been reported in the last 2 yr. The effectiveness of vector control programs largely depends on the accuracy of the taxonomic identification of the species. However, in Spain, identification almost completely relies on the use of morphological keys to characterize the mosquito fauna. This study investigates the congruence between molecular and morphological species boundaries in 13 Spanish mosquito taxa. The Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene region was sequenced from 60 adult specimens collected in Mallorca, plus several representatives from other Spanish regions for comparative purposes. Phylogenetic relationships were established using Bayesian and maximum-likelihood approaches. Using three species delimitation algorithms (ABGD, mPTP, and GMYC), we found strong evidence for cryptic speciation within Anopheles algeriensis Theobald, a widespread mosquito in the Mediterranean basin. We also delimited the Mallorcan rock pool mosquito Aedes mariae (Sergent & Sergent), from mainland European populations. Finally, we found difficulties in the use of wing characters in species keys to distinguish Culiseta annulata (Schrk) from Culiseta subochrea (Edwards). Given that these species are vectors of pathogens of medical relevance and have veterinary importance, their accurate taxonomic identification is essential in European vector surveillance programs.
Phosphorylation of histone H3 by Haspin regulates chromosome alignment and segregation during mitosis in maize
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Chunhui , Su Handong , Birchler James A , Han Fangpu
Published: October 2020

In human cells, Haspin-mediated histone H3 threonine 3 (H3T3) phosphorylation promotes centromeric localization of the chromosomal passenger complex, thereby ensuring proper kinetochore–microtubule attachment. Haspin also binds to PDS5 cohesin-associated factor B (Pds5B), antagonizing the Wings apart-like protein homolog (Wapl)–Pds5B interaction and thus preventing Wapl from releasing centromeric cohesion during mitosis. However, the role of Haspin in plant chromosome segregation is not well understood. Here, we show that in maize (Zea mays) mitotic cells, ZmHaspin localized to the centromere during metaphase and anaphase, whereas it localized to the telomeres during meiosis. These results suggest that ZmHaspin plays different roles during mitosis and meiosis. Knockout of ZmHaspin led to decreased H3T3 phosphorylation and histone H3 serine 10 phosphorylation, and defects in chromosome alignment and segregation in mitosis. These lines of evidence suggest that Haspin regulates chromosome segregation in plants via the mechanism described for humans, namely, H3T3 phosphorylation. Plant Haspin proteins lack the RTYGA and PxVxL motifs needed to bind Pds5B and heterochromatin protein 1, and no obvious cohesion defects were detected in ZmHaspin knockout plants. Taken together, these results highlight the conserved but slightly different roles of Haspin proteins in cell division in plants and in animals.
Empirical estimates of the Galactic halo contribution to the dispersion measures of extragalactic fast radio bursts using X-ray absorption
Authors: Das Sanskriti , Mathur Smita , Gupta Anjali , Nicastro Fabrizio , Krongold Yair
Published: October 2020

We provide an empirical list of the Galactic dispersion measure (DMGal) contribution to the extragalactic fast radio bursts (FRBs) along 72 sightlines. It is independent of any model of the Galaxy, i.e. we do not assume the density of the disc or the halo, spatial extent of the halo, baryonic mass content, or any such external constraints to measure DMGal. We use 21-cm, UV, EUV, and X-ray data to account for different phases, and find that DMGal is dominated by the hot phase probed by X-ray absorption. We improve upon the measurements of N($\rm{O}\,{\small VII}$) and f$_{\rm O\,{\small VII}}$ compared to previous studies, thus providing a better estimate of the hot phase contribution. The median DMGal = 64$^{+20}_{-23}$ cm−3 pc, with a 68 per cent (90 per cent) confidence interval of 33–172 (23–660) cm−3 pc. The DMGal does not appear to follow any trend with the Galactic longitude or latitude, and there is a large scatter around the values predicted by simple disc + spherical halo models. Our measurements provide more complete and accurate estimates of DMGal independent from the previous studies. We provide a table and a code to retrieve DMGal for any FRB localized in the sky.
Coronal-line forest active galactic nuclei – I. Physical properties of the emission-line regions
Authors: Cerqueira-Campos F C , Rodríguez-Ardila A , Riffel R , Marinello M , Prieto A , Dahmer-Hahn L G
Published: October 2020

Coronal-line forest (CLiF) active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are characterized by strong high-ionization lines, which contrasts with what is found in most AGNs. Here, we carry out a multiwavelength analysis aimed at understanding the physical processes in the narrow-line region (NLR) of these objects, and at discovering whether they are indeed a special class of AGNs. By comparing coronal emission-line ratios we conclude that there are no differences between CLiF and non-CLiF AGNs. We derive physical conditions of the NLR gas and we find electron densities in the range of 3.6 × 102 to 1.7 × 104 cm−3 and temperatures of 3.7 × 103 to 6.3 × 104 K, suggesting that the ionization mechanism is associated primarily with photoionization by the AGN. We suggest an NLR dominated by matter-bounded clouds to explain the high-ionization line spectrum observed. The mass of the central black hole, derived from the stellar velocity dispersion, shows that most of the objects have values in the interval 107–108 M⊙. Our results imply that CLiF AGNs are not in a separate category of AGNs. In all optical/near-infrared emission-line properties analysed, they represent an extension to the low/high ends of the distribution within the AGN class.
ALMA survey of Lupus class III stars: Early planetesimal belt formation and rapid disc dispersal
Authors: Lovell J B , Wyatt M C , Ansdell M , Kama M , Kennedy G M , Manara C F , Marino S , Matrà L , Rosotti G , Tazzari M , Testi L , Williams J P
Published: October 2020

Class III stars are those in star forming regions without large non-photospheric infrared emission, suggesting recent dispersal of their protoplanetary discs. We observed 30 class III stars in the 1–3 Myr Lupus region with ALMA at ∼856μm, resulting in four detections that we attribute to circumstellar dust. Inferred dust masses are 0.036–0.093M⊕, ∼1 order of magnitude lower than any previous measurements; one disc is resolved with radius ∼80 au. Two class II sources in the field of view were also detected, and 11 other sources, consistent with sub-mm galaxy number counts. Stacking non-detections yields a marginal detection with mean dust mass ∼0.0048M⊕. We searched for gas emission from the CO J = 3–2 line, and present its detection to NO Lup inferring a gas mass (4.9 ± 1.1) × 10−5 M⊕ and gas-to-dust ratio 1.0 ± 0.4. Combining our survey with class II sources shows a gap in the disc mass distribution from 0.09–2M⊕ for ${\gt}0.7\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ Lupus stars, evidence of rapid dispersal of mm-sized dust from protoplanetary discs. The class III disc mass distribution is consistent with a population model of planetesimal belts that go on to replenish the debris discs seen around main sequence stars. This suggests that planetesimal belt formation does not require long-lived protoplanetary discs, i.e. planetesimals form within ∼2 Myr. While all four class III discs are consistent with collisional replenishment, for two the gas and/or mid-IR emission could indicate primordial circumstellar material in the final stages of protoplanetary disc dispersal. Two class III stars without sub-mm detections exhibit hot emission that could arise from ongoing planet formation processes inside ∼1 au.
BRENDA, the ELIXIR core data resource in 2021: new developments and updates
Authors: Chang Antje , Jeske Lisa , Ulbrich Sandra , Hofmann Julia , Koblitz Julia , Schomburg Ida , Neumann-Schaal Meina , Jahn Dieter , Schomburg Dietmar
Published: October 2020

The BRENDA enzyme database (https://www.brenda-enzymes.org), established in 1987, has evolved into the main collection of functional enzyme and metabolism data. In 2018, BRENDA was selected as an ELIXIR Core Data Resource. BRENDA provides reliable data, continuous curation and updates of classified enzymes, and the integration of newly discovered enzymes. The main part contains >5 million data for ∼90 000 enzymes from ∼13 000 organisms, manually extracted from ∼157 000 primary literature references, combined with information of text and data mining, data integration, and prediction algorithms. Supplements comprise disease-related data, protein sequences, 3D structures, genome annotations, ligand information, taxonomic, bibliographic, and kinetic data. BRENDA offers an easy access to enzyme information from quick to advanced searches, text- and structured-based queries for enzyme-ligand interactions, word maps, and visualization of enzyme data. The BRENDA Pathway Maps are completely revised and updated for an enhanced interactive and intuitive usability. The new design of the Enzyme Summary Page provides an improved access to each individual enzyme. A new protein structure 3D viewer was integrated. The prediction of the intracellular localization of eukaryotic enzymes has been implemented. The new EnzymeDetector combines BRENDA enzyme annotations with protein and genome databases for the detection of eukaryotic and prokaryotic enzymes.
PROMISCUOUS 2.0: a resource for drug-repositioning
Authors: Gallo Kathleen , Goede Andrean , Eckert Andreas , Moahamed Barbara , Preissner Robert , Gohlke Björn-Oliver
Published: October 2020

The development of new drugs for diseases is a time-consuming, costly and risky process. In recent years, many drugs could be approved for other indications. This repurposing process allows to effectively reduce development costs, time and, ultimately, save patients’ lives. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, drug repositioning has gained widespread attention as a fast opportunity to find potential treatments against the newly emerging disease. In order to expand this field to researchers with varying levels of experience, we made an effort to open it to all users (meaning novices as well as experts in cheminformatics) by significantly improving the entry-level user experience. The browsing functionality can be used as a global entry point to collect further information with regards to small molecules (∼1 million), side-effects (∼110 000) or drug-target interactions (∼3 million). The drug-repositioning tab for small molecules will also suggest possible drug-repositioning opportunities to the user by using structural similarity measurements for small molecules using two different approaches. Additionally, using information from the Promiscuous 2.0 Database, lists of candidate drugs for given indications were precomputed, including a section dedicated to potential treatments for COVID-19. All the information is interconnected by a dynamic network-based visualization to identify new indications for available compounds. Promiscuous 2.0 is unique in its functionality and is publicly available at http://bioinformatics.charite.de/promiscuous2.
MarkerDB: an online database of molecular biomarkers
Authors: Wishart David S , Bartok Brendan , Oler Eponine , Liang Kevin Y H , Budinski Zachary , Berjanskii Mark , Guo AnChi , Cao Xuan , Wilson Michael
Published: October 2020

MarkerDB is a freely available electronic database that attempts to consolidate information on all known clinical and a selected set of pre-clinical molecular biomarkers into a single resource. The database includes four major types of molecular biomarkers (chemical, protein, DNA [genetic] and karyotypic) and four biomarker categories (diagnostic, predictive, prognostic and exposure). MarkerDB provides information such as: biomarker names and synonyms, associated conditions or pathologies, detailed disease descriptions, detailed biomarker descriptions, biomarker specificity, sensitivity and ROC curves, standard reference values (for protein and chemical markers), variants (for SNP or genetic markers), sequence information (for genetic and protein markers), molecular structures (for protein and chemical markers), tissue or biofluid sources (for protein and chemical markers), chromosomal location and structure (for genetic and karyotype markers), clinical approval status and relevant literature references. Users can browse the data by conditions, condition categories, biomarker types, biomarker categories or search by sequence similarity through the advanced search function. Currently, the database contains 142 protein biomarkers, 1089 chemical biomarkers, 154 karyotype biomarkers and 26 374 genetic markers. These are categorized into 25 560 diagnostic biomarkers, 102 prognostic biomarkers, 265 exposure biomarkers and 6746 predictive biomarkers or biomarker panels. Collectively, these markers can be used to detect, monitor or predict 670 specific human conditions which are grouped into 27 broad condition categories. MarkerDB is available at https://markerdb.ca.
Adult precision medicine: learning from the past to enhance the future
Authors: Ghiaseddin Ashley , Hoang Minh Lan B , Janiszewska Michalina , Shin David , Wick Wolfgang , Mitchell Duane A , Wen Patrick Y , Grossman Stuart A
Published: October 2020

Despite therapeutic advances for other malignancies, gliomas remain challenging solid tumors to treat. Complete surgical resection is nearly impossible due to gliomas’ diffuse infiltrative nature, and treatment is hampered by restricted access to the tumors due to limited transport across the blood–brain barrier. Recent advances in genomic studies and next-generation sequencing techniques have led to a better understanding of gliomas and identification of potential aberrant signaling pathways. Targeting the specific genomic abnormalities via novel molecular therapies has opened a new avenue in the management of gliomas, with encouraging results in preclinical studies and early clinical trials. However, molecular characterization of gliomas revealed significant heterogeneity, which poses a challenge for targeted therapeutic approaches. In this context, leading neuro-oncology researchers and clinicians, industry innovators, and patient advocates convened at the inaugural annual Remission Summit held in Orlando, FL in February 2019 to discuss the latest advances in immunotherapy and precision medicine approaches for the treatment of adult and pediatric brain tumors and outline the unanswered questions, challenges, and opportunities that lay ahead for advancing the duration and quality of life for patients with brain tumors. Here, we provide historical context for precision medicine in other cancers, present emerging approaches for gliomas, discuss their limitations, and outline the steps necessary for future success. We focus on the advances in small molecule targeted therapy, as the use of immunotherapy as an emerging precision medicine modality for glioma treatment has recently been reviewed by our colleagues.
Content appealing to youth and spend characteristics of electronic cigarette video advertisements
Authors: Hoetger Cosima , Wall Catherine S J , Rudy Alyssa K , Nicksic Nicole E , Bhatt Sohum M , Sey Nancy Y A , Khan Mishaal , Braxton Destini , Barnes Andrew J , Cobb Caroline O
Published: October 2020

Background

The US electronic cigarette (ECIG) market and use behavior continues to rise, warranting investigation of ECIG advertisement (ad) content within media channels frequented by youth including internet and television (TV). In order to inform potential policy regulations, this content analysis sought to assess the prevalence of youth-appealing content and spend characteristics among ECIG video ads.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2016, 46 ECIG video ads were identified using an ad-tracking firm and were coded using the Content Appealing to Youth (CAY) index. Bivariate analyses and analysis of variance were used to compare CAY indices between online and TV ads and by ECIG brands. Ad-specific spend and source information, including website/TV program targeted were examined descriptively.

Results

Common youth-appealing features included use of animation (56.5%) and content related to positive sensations (52.2%), promoting mood (34.8%), individuality/freedom (23.9%) and addiction (19.6%). Features not associated with youth appeal also were prevalent. Few differences were observed by media source or ECIG brand. TV ads accounted for the largest spend, and Vuse was the top spending brand. Websites/TV programs were diverse.

Conclusions

Findings support regulatory efforts to restrict the use of youth-appealing content within ECIG ads as well as the reduction of media sources available for ECIG marketing.
The association between change in bone marrow lesion size and change in tibiofemoral cartilage volume and knee symptoms
Authors: Cai Guoqi , Aitken Dawn , Laslett Laura L , Hill Catherine , Wluka Anita E , March Lyn , Cicuttini Flavia , Pelletier Jean-Pierre , Martel-Pelletier Johanne , Jones Graeme
Published: October 2020

Objective

To describe the association between change in subchondral bone marrow lesions (BMLs) and change in tibiofemoral cartilage volume and knee symptoms in patients with symptomatic knee OA.

Methods

In total, 251 participants (mean 61.7 years, 51% female) were included. Tibiofemoral cartilage volume was measured at baseline and 24 months, and BML size at baseline, 6 and 24 months. Knee pain and function scores were evaluated at baseline, 6 and 24 months. Change in total and compartment-specific BML size was categorized according to the Least Significance Criterion. Linear mixed-effects models were used to evaluate the associations of change in BMLs over 6 and 24 months with change in cartilage volume over 24 months and knee symptoms over 6 and 24 months.

Results

Total BML size enlarged in 26% of participants, regressed in 31% and remained stable in 43% over 24 months. Compared with stable BMLs in the same compartment, enlarging BMLs over 24 months were associated with greater cartilage loss (difference: −53.0mm3, 95% CI: −100.0, −6.0), and regressing BMLs were not significantly associated with reduced cartilage loss (difference: 32.4mm3, 95% CI: −8.6, 73.3) over 24 months. Neither enlargement nor regression of total BML size over 6 and 24 months was associated with change in knee pain and function over the same time intervals.

Conclusions

In subjects with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and BMLs, enlarging BMLs may lead to greater cartilage loss but regressing lesions are not associated with reduced cartilage loss while neither is associated with change in knee symptoms.
Immunoglobulin G of systemic sclerosis patients programs a pro-inflammatory and profibrotic phenotype in monocyte-like THP-1 cells
Authors: Murthy Sripriya , Wannick Melanie , Eleftheriadis Georgios , Müller Antje , Luo Jiao , Busch Hauke , Dalmann Anja , Riemekasten Gabriela , Sadik Christian D
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Functional IgG autoantibodies against diverse G protein-coupled receptors, i.e. antibodies with agonistic or antagonistic activity at these receptors, are abundant in human serum. Their levels are altered in patients with SSc, and autoantibodies against angiotensin II receptor 1 (ATR1) and endothelin receptor A (ETA) have been suggested to drive SSc by inducing the chemokines CXCL8 and CCL18 in the blood. The objective of our study is to profile the effect of IgG in SSc (SSc-IgG) on the production of soluble mediators in monocytic cells.

Methods

Monocyte-like THP-1 cells were stimulated with SSc-IgG and their secretome was analysed. Furthermore, the significance of major pro-inflammatory pathways for the induction of CXCL8 and CCL18 in response to SSc-IgG was assessed by a pharmacological approach.

Results

Stimulation with SSc-IgG significantly alters the secretome of THP-1 cells towards a general pro-inflammatory and profibrotic phenotype, which includes an increase of CCL18 and CXCL8. The consequent expression profiles vary depending on the individual donor of the SSc-IgG. CCL18 and CXCL8 expression is thus regulated differentially, with AP-1 driving the induction of both CCL18 and CXCL8 and the TAK/IKK-β/NF-κB pathway and ERK1/2 driving that of CXCL8.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that SSc-IgG contributes to the generation of the pro-inflammatory/profibrotic tissue milieu characteristic of SSc by its induction of a respective phenotype in monocytes. Furthermore, our results highlight AP-1 as a critical regulator of gene transcription of CCL18 in monocytic cells and as a promising pharmacological therapeutic target for the treatment of SSc.
Associations between parent-reported and objectively measured sleep duration and timing in infants at age 6 months
Authors: Quante Mirja , Hong Benjamin , von Ash Tayla , Yu Xinting , Kaplan Emily R , Rueschman Michael , Jackson Chandra L , Haneuse Sebastien , Davison Kirsten , Taveras Elsie M , Redline Susan
Published: October 2020

Study Objectives

To compare the estimates of sleep duration and timing from survey, diary, and actigraphy in infants at age 6 months, overall and by select demographics and other factors.

Methods

In total, 314 infants participating in the Rise & SHINE (Sleep Health in Infancy & Early Childhood study) cohort in Boston, MA, USA, wore an actigraph on their left ankle for 7 days. Parents concurrently completed a sleep diary and the expanded version of the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire. Concordance between parent-reported and objective sleep estimates was assessed using Bland–Altman plots, Spearman’s rank correlations, intraclass correlations, and linear regression models.

Results

Mean infant age was 6.4 (0.6 SD) months; 51% were female and 42% were Non-Hispanic white. Mean total sleep duration using actigraphy was 526 (67 SD) minutes per night, 143 (42 SD) minutes per day, and 460 (100 SD) minutes during the longest nighttime sleep period. Relative to actigraphy, parent-completed survey and diary overestimated total day (by 29 and 31 minutes, respectively) and night sleep duration (67 and 43 minutes, respectively) and underestimated the longest sleep (58 minutes), with the highest agreement for sleep onset and offset timing (differences < 30 minutes). There was a tendency toward greater bias among short- and long-sleeping infants. Self-reporting bias for diary-measured longest nighttime sleep and total night sleep duration was higher in infants of parents reporting a problem with their baby’s night awakenings and in low-income families, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the need to be cautious when comparing findings across studies using different sleep assessment methods.
Comparison of single-channel EEG, actigraphy, and sleep diary in cognitively normal and mildly impaired older adults
Authors: Chou Chris A , Toedebusch Cristina D , Redrick Tiara , Freund David , McLeland Jennifer S , Morris John C , Holtzman David M , Lucey Brendan P
Published: October 2020

Study Objectives

Multiple methods for monitoring sleep-wake activity have identified sleep disturbances as risk factors for Alzheimer disease (AD). In order to identify the level of agreement between different methods, we compared sleep parameters derived from single-channel EEG (scEEG), actigraphy, and sleep diaries in cognitively normal and mildly impaired older adults.

Methods

Two hundred ninety-three participants were monitored at home for up to six nights with scEEG, actigraphy, and sleep diaries. Total sleep time (TST), sleep efficiency (SE), sleep onset latency (SOL), and wake after sleep onset (WASO) were calculated using each of these methods. In 109 of the 293 participants, the ratio of cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of phosphorylated tau (p-tau) and amyloid-β-42 (Aβ42) was used as a biomarker for AD pathology.

Results

Agreement was highest for TST across instruments, especially in cognitively normal older adults. Overall, scEEG and actigraphy appeared to have greater agreement for multiple sleep parameters than for scEEG and diary or actigraphy and diary. Levels of agreement between scEEG and actigraphy overall decreased in mildly impaired participants and those with biomarker evidence of AD pathology, especially for measurements of TST.

Conclusions

Caution should be exercised when comparing scEEG and actigraphy in individuals with mild cognitive impairment or with AD pathology. Sleep diaries may capture different aspects of sleep compared to scEEG and actigraphy. Additional studies comparing different methods of measuring sleep-wake activity in older adults are necessary to allow for comparison between studies using different methods.
sORF-Encoded Polypeptide SEP1 Is a Novel Virulence Factor of Phytophthora Pathogens
Authors: Wang Nan , Yin Zhiyuan , Duan Weiwei , Zhang Xiong , Pi Lei , Zhang Yifan , Dou Daolong
Published: October 2020

Diseases caused by the notorious Phytophthora spp. result in enormous economic losses to crops and forests. Increasing evidence suggests that small open reading frame-encoded polypeptides (SEPs) participate in environmental responses of animals, plants, and fungi. However, it remains largely unknown whether Phytophthora pathogens produce SEPs. Here, we systematically predicted and identified 96 SEP candidates in P. capsici. Among them, three may induce stable cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana. Phytophthora-specific and conserved SEP1 facilitated P. capsici infection. PcSEP1-induced cell death is BAK1 and SOBIR1 independent and is correlated with its virulence function. Finally, PcSEP1 may be targeted to the apoplast for carrying out its functions, for which the C terminus is indispensable. Together, our results demonstrated that SEP1 is a new virulence factor, and previously unknown SEPs may act as effector proteins in Phytophthora pathogens.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Adverse respiratory events with sevoflurane compared with desflurane in ambulatory surgery
Authors: Chen Wei-Shan , Chiang Min-Hsien , Hung Kuo-Chuan , Lin Kai-Lieh , Wang Chih-Hsien , Poon Yan-Yuen , Luo Sheng-Dean , Wu Shao-Chun
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of studies have concluded that the number of adverse events in the upper airway caused by desflurane does not differ significantly from the number of adverse events caused by sevoflurane. The advantages of desflurane in ambulatory surgery should be reassessed.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare adverse respiratory events and recovery outcomes in patients undergoing desflurane or sevoflurane-based anaesthesia in ambulatory surgery.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search for eligible RCTs in PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ScienceDirect and Embase published up to June 2019.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

RCTs investigating the occurrence of adverse respiratory events, including airway irritation, stridor, coughing, respiratory distress and laryngospasm, emergence agitation, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), time to eye opening and time to discharge from the operation room after desflurane or sevoflurane-based anaesthesia.

RESULTS

Thirteen trials were included and analysed. A total of 634 patients were included in the desflurane group, and 633 patients in the sevoflurane group. The occurrence of respiratory complications was significantly higher with desflurane-based anaesthesia than with sevoflurane-based anaesthesia (Total n = 673, 20.0 vs. 12.8%, relative risk (RR) 1.59 (95% CI 1.15 to 2.20)) with low heterogeneity (I
2 = 20%). There was no difference in the occurrence of emergence agitation (Total n = 626, 29.1 vs. 27.2%, RR 1.05 (95% CI 0.84 to 1.30)) or the incidence of PONV between the desflurane and sevoflurane groups (Total n = 989, 19.0 vs. 21.0%, RR 0.95 (95% CI 0.71 to 1.26)). Time to eye opening was significantly faster with desflurane than that with sevoflurane (Total n = 1072, mean difference = −3.32 min (95% CI −4.02 to −2.61)) with a substantial heterogeneity (I
2 = 72.6%). There was no significant difference in the time to discharge from the operation room between the two groups (Total n = 1056, mean difference = −0.45 min (95% CI −5.89 to 4.99)).

CONCLUSION

Despite recent reports that there is no significant difference in adverse respiratory events between desflurane and sevoflurane, a pooled analysis revealed that desflurane resulted in a higher rate than sevoflurane. Therefore, the consequences of desflurane should not be neglected and its airway irritant properties should be taken into account.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42019147939).
Inhibition of miR-188-5p Suppresses Progression of Experimental Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Huang Tingting , Liu Shuai , Liu Rui , Pan Baihong , Wang Wei
Published: October 2020

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an aging-related degenerative disease. miR-188-5p was reported to induce cell senescence and play a key role in aging-related disease. Therefore, in this study, we investigated miR-188-5p expression during progression in experimental AAAs. Furthermore, we investigated whether inhibition of miR-188-5p could suppress AAA progression. Experimental AAAs were created in 9–12-week-old male C57BL/6J mice by transient intra-aortic infusion of porcine pancreatic elastase. Expression of miR-188-5p levels were assessed in aneurysmal and control aortae during the progression of aneurysm. For inhibition experiment, miR-188 inhibiting group mice were injected with AAV2-miR188-5p sponge through tail vein and control group mice were injected with AAV2-CMV-GFP. Influences on experimental AAA progression were assessed by measurements of aortic diameter and histopathologic analysis at sacrifice. Meanwhile, immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to determine the inflammatory cells infiltration and colocalization of miR-188-5p in aortic sections. Expression of miR-188-5p is upregulated during progression of AAA. Importantly, miR-188-5p inhibition treatment prevented enlargement of experimental aneurysms. Meanwhile, miR-188-5p inhibition regimens attenuated medial elastin degradation, smooth muscle cell depletion, and mural angiogenesis and the accumulation of macrophages, T cells, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, colocalization of miR188-5p with CD68 and CD3 was observed, which suggest miR-188-5p was expressed mainly in infiltrated macrophages and T cells. Expression of miR-188-5p is increased in experimental AAAs. Treatment with miR-188-5p inhibition limits experimental AAA progression, with histologic evidence of reduced neovessels and attenuated mural leukocyte infiltration. These findings underscore the potential significance of miR-188-5p in aneurysm pathogenesis and as a target for suppression of AAA disease.
Three-Year Outcomes of Second-generation Trabecular Micro-bypass Stents (iStent inject) With Phacoemulsification in Various Glaucoma Subtypes and Severities
Authors: Salimi Ali , Watt Harrison , Harasymowycz Paul
Published: October 2020

Precis:

This longitudinal case series provides valuable long-term data on the safety and efficacy of iStent inject with concomitant cataract surgery. Patients experienced significant and durable reductions in both intraocular pressure (IOP) and medication burden through 3 years postoperative.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to examine the 3-year effectiveness and safety of iStent inject second-generation trabecular micro-bypass stent implantation with concomitant phacoemulsification cataract surgery in eyes with various glaucoma subtypes and severities.

Methods:

This was a single-center consecutive case series. Three-year outcomes included mean IOP and medications, the proportions of eyes with IOP ≤18, ≤15, and ≤12 mm Hg, and success (absence of secondary glaucoma interventions). Safety included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), cup-to-disc ratio, visual field (VF) mean deviation, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness, and adverse events.

Results:

A total of 124 eyes with different glaucoma subtypes and severities were included. At 3 years postoperative, mean IOP reduced from 16.90±3.85 mm Hg preoperatively to 13.17±2.83 mm Hg (22% reduction, P<0.001) and mean medication burden decreased from 2.38±1.29 medications preoperatively to 1.16±1.22 medications (51% reduction, P<0.001). At 3 years, 96% of eyes achieved IOP ≤18 mm Hg (vs. 69% preoperatively), 80% of eyes achieved IOP ≤15 mm Hg (vs. 40% preoperatively), and 42% of eyes achieved IOP ≤12 mm Hg (vs. 7% preoperatively) with 76% of eyes eliminating ≥1 medication and 37% of eyes eliminating ≥2 medications versus preoperative medication burden. The 3-year cumulative survival rate was 74%. Postphacoemulsification BCVA improvement was preserved, and cup-to-disc ratio, VF mean deviation, and RNFL and GCIPL thickness remained stable. A favorable safety profile included no intraoperative complications and few, transient, postoperative adverse events.

Conclusion:

Significant and sustained IOP and medication reductions were achieved through 3 years after iStent inject implantation with cataract surgery in a real-world clinical population with mild-to-severe glaucoma, along with favorable safety including stable BCVA, VF, and RNFL and GCIPL thickness.
A Cross-Sectional Examination of 10-Year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk Among US Firefighters by Age and Weight Status
Authors: Hollerbach Brittany S. , Mathias Kevin C. , Stewart Donald , Jack Kepra , Smith Denise L.
Published: October 2020

Objective:

Examine atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores by age and weight status in career firefighters.

Methods:

Medical examinations for firefighters more than or equal to 40 years (n = 644) were examined. ASCVD 10-year risk scores were calculated from sex- and race-specific equations and were reported by three age (40 to 44.9, 45 to 49.9, more than or equal to 50 years) and weight (normal, overweight, obese) categories.

Results:

Mean risk scores were 1.8%, 3.5%, and 6.2% for firefighters 40 to 44.9, 45 to 49.9, and more than or equal to 50 years, respectively. The association of weight status with increased ASCVD risk was higher (P < 0.01) among older firefighters, where risk was 0.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.6 to 1.1) and 2.3% (95% CI: 2.0 to 2.6) among normal versus obese 40 to 44.9 year olds, and 4.1% (95% CI: 3.1 to 5.3) and 7.8% (95% CI: 6.7 to 8.9) among normal versus obese more than or equal to 50 year olds.

Conclusions:

While firefighters cannot avoid aging, physicians should counsel firefighters with weight-maintenance or weight-loss advice to prevent and manage elevated ASCVD risk.
Advancing the Safety, Health, and Well-Being of Commercial Driving Teams Who Sleep in Moving Semi-Trucks
Authors: Olson Ryan , Johnson Peter , Shea Steven A. , Marino Miguel , Rimby Jarred , Womak Kelsey , Wang Fangfang , Springer Rachel , Donovan Courtney , Rice Sean P.M.
Published: October 2020

Objective:

To test the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effectiveness of engineering and behavioral interventions to improve the sleep, health, and well-being of team truck drivers (dyads) who sleep in moving semi-trucks.

Methods:

Drivers (n = 16) were exposed to Condition A: a new innerspring mattress, and Condition B: a novel therapeutic mattress. A subsample of drivers (n = 8) were also exposed to Condition C: use of their preferred mattress (all chose to keep B), switching to an active suspension driver's seat, and completing a behavioral sleep-health program. Primary outcomes were sleep duration, sleep quality, and fatigue. Behavioral program targets included physical activity and sleep hygiene.

Results:

Self-reported sleep and fatigue improved with mattress A, and improved further with mattress B which altered vibration exposures and was universally preferred and kept by all drivers. Condition C improved additional targets and produced larger effect sizes for most outcomes.

Conclusions:

Results support these interventions as promising for advancing team truck drivers’ sleep, health, and well-being.
Human Papillomavirus Same Genotype Persistence and Risk: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bonde Jesper , Bottari Fabio , Iacobone Anna D. , Cocuzza Clementina E. , Sandri Maria-Teresa , Bogliatto Fabrizio , Khan Khalid S. , Ejegod Ditte M. , Gary Devin S. , Andrews Jeffrey C.
Published: October 2020

Objective

The aim of the study was to examine whether high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) was more closely associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) same-genotype persistence (SGTP) versus clearance of prior infection with a subsequent infection by a new genotype (genotype switch [GS]), clearance of HPV infection, or acquisition of a new HPV infection after a negative infection status, during a follow-up testing subsequent to abnormal screening results.

Materials and Methods

MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Health Technology Assessment, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched from January 2000 to July 2019 for prospective controlled trials and observational studies of women and retrospective studies using HPV assays with extended- or full-genotype reporting. The primary outcome was high-grade CIN after at least 2 rounds of testing. Overall quality of evidence for the risk estimate outcomes was assessed. Of the 830 identified abstracts, 66 full-text articles were reviewed, and 7 studies were included in the synthesis. The study protocol was registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42018091093).

Results

Continued HPV-positive women falls in 2 equally large groups: SGTP and GS. Sensitivity, positive predictive value, and positive likelihood ratio of SGTP were significantly higher than for GS. Human papillomavirus genotypes may be ranked into 3 tiers (immediate colposcopy, follow-up testing, return to routine screening), according to associated risk of persistence for high-grade CIN and to prevailing clinical action thresholds.

Conclusions

There is moderately high-quality evidence to support the clinical utility of SGTP to improve risk discrimination for high-grade CIN compared with qualitative HPV testing without genotype-specific information.
Validation of the Binocular Vision Dysfunction Questionnaire (BVDQ)
Authors: Feinberg Debby L. , Rosner Mark S. , Rosner Arthur J.
Published: October 2020

Objective:

Among patients presenting with dizziness, visual dysfunction must be considered, including vertical heterophoria (VH), a frequently under-identified form of binocular vision dysfunction where there is vertical discrepancy between the lines of sight of the eyes when at physiologic rest. Current self-rated screening measures do not account for complex VH symptomatology including dizziness/ambulation difficulties, nausea, headache, anxiety, neck pain, and reading impairment. VH must be differentiated from vestibular/otolithic etiologies, as their treatment frequently provides inadequate relief, yet treatment of the VH can reduce/eliminate symptoms. The objective of this study is to create a valid measurement tool (binocular vision dysfunction questionnaire) to assist in identifying VH among dizzy patients to aid in appropriate referral.

Study Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Tertiary referral center.

Patients:

One hundred twenty-six patients presenting to an optometric binocular vision subspecialist diagnosed with VH.

Intervention:

Psychometric study. The measurement tool's internal consistency and test–retest reliability was assessed. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses were performed. Validity was estimated through correlations with a visual analog scale and validated instruments for headaches, dizziness, and anxiety.

Main Outcome Measures/Results:

Excellent reliability demonstrated including Cronbach's alpha of 0.91 and high test–retest reliability. Statistical correlations with established measurements established sound convergent/content validity. Analysis of participants who underwent treatment indicated change in BVDQ score correlates with perception of change in symptom burden.

Conclusions:

Results suggest the BVDQ is a valid, reliable screening tool to assist otologists in identifying VH among their dizzy patients. The BVDQ may also be useful for measuring changes with various treatments, and in identifying diverse symptoms associated with BVD/VH
Incidental cerebral aneurysms detected by a computer-assisted detection system based on artificial intelligence
Authors: Shimada Yuki , Tanimoto Tetsuya , Nishimori Masataka , Choppin Antoine , Meir Arie , Ozaki Akihiko , Higuchi Asaka , Kosaka Makoto , Shimahara Yuki , Kitamura Naoyuki
Published: October 2020

Rationale:

Computer-assisted detection (CAD) systems based on artificial intelligence (AI) using convolutional neural network (CNN) have been successfully used for the diagnosis of unruptured cerebral aneurysms in experimental situations. However, it is yet unclear whether CAD systems can detect cerebral aneurysms effectively in real-life clinical situations. This paper describes the diagnostic efficacy of CAD systems for cerebral aneurysms and the types of cerebral aneurysms that they can detect.

Patient Concerns:

From March 7, 2017 to August 26, 2018 we performed brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for 1623 subjects, to rule out intracranial diseases. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records including the history and images for each patient.

Diagnoses, interventions and outcomes:

Among them, we encountered 5 cases in whom the cerebral aneurysms had been overlooked in the first and second round of imaging, and were detected for the first time by CAD. All missed aneurysms were less than 2 mm in diameter. Of the 5 aneurysms, 2 were internal carotid artery (ICA) paraclinoid aneurysms, 2 were Internal carotid-posterior communicating artery (IC-PC) aneurysms and 1 was a distal middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysm.

Lessons:

Our CAD system can detect very small aneurysms masked by the surrounding arteries and difficult for radiologists to detect. In the future, CAD systems might pave the way to substitute the workload of diagnostic radiologists and reduce the cost of human labor.
Musashi1 expression is negatively correlated with numb expression in brain metastases
Authors: Dong Yalan , Li Jianfeng , Liu Rongju , Zhao Zhenxiang , Wang Shuaibin , Cui Kai
Published: October 2020

The expression of tumor stem cell markers musashi1 (msi1) and numb in brain metastases were detected to explore their roles in the development of brain metastases.

A total of 51 cases of brain metastasis, 29 cases of primary tumor and 15 cases of normal brain tissue were selected. Immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to detect msi1 and numb expression at the protein and mRNA levels. Correlation between msi1 and numb in brain metastases were evaluated.

Immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR showed that no significant difference in the expression of msi1 and numb between brain metastases and primary tumors was observed (P > .05); the expression of msi1 and numb in brain metastases was significantly higher than that in normal brain tissues (P < .05); and the expression of msi1 and numb in primary tumors was significantly higher than that in normal brain tissues (P < .05). In general, the expression of msi1 gene was negatively correlated with the expression of numb at mRNA level by Pearson correlation analysis (r = −0.345, P < .05). Additionally, the expression of msi1 and numb in brain metastases was not related to gender, age, and tissue origin (P > .05).

Msi1 is highly expressed in brain metastases and primary tumors, while numb is lowly expressed in brain metastases and primary tumors; msi1 and numb are negatively correlated in brain metastases, suggesting that msi1 and numb may have regulatory mechanisms in the development of brain metastases.
Comparison of dexmedetomidine with midazolam for dental surgery
Authors: Zhang Yibo , Li Chao , Shi Jingjing , Gong Yanming , Zeng Tao , Lin Min , Zhang Xi
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Dexmedetomidine and midazolam have become important approaches for the sedation of dental surgery. However, the comparison of these 2 drugs for the sedation of dental surgery has not been well established. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus midazolam for dental surgery.

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials are searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the influence of dexmedetomidine versus midazolam on dental surgery are included. Two investigators independently have searched articles, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. Meta-analysis is performed using the random-effect model.

Results:

Five RCTs and 420 patients are included in the meta-analysis. Compared with midazolam intervention for dental surgery, dexmedetomidine intervention has similar lowest SpO2, lowest heart rate and lowest systolic blood pressure, duration of surgery, and total volume of local anesthetic, but is associated with stable and reduced lowest diastolic blood pressure.

Conclusions:

Similar benefits of dexmedetomidine and midazolam intervention are observed for the sedation of dental surgery in terms of SpO2, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and the volume of local anesthetic, but dexmedetomidine may result in more stable diastolic blood pressure.
Lymphodepletion chemotherapy revitalizes chimeric antigen receptor T cells contributing to regression of relapsed B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Liang Zuyu , Zhang Hao , Shao Mi , Cui Qu , Wu Zhao , Xiao Lei , Huang He , Hu Yongxian
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) targeting CD19 have shown great potential for treatment of B-cell malignancies. For those patients who can not achieve complete remission (CR) or suffer from relapse after CAR-T therapy, further therapeutic strategies still remain elusive. Whether existing CAR-T cells can revitalize in vivo and eradicate tumor cells is still unknown.

Patient concerns:

We report a case of diffused large B-cell lymphoma patient who had achieved CR after CD19 targeted CAR-T therapy but relapsed after 5 months.

Diagnosis:

Five months after CAR-T cell infusion, the patient was confirmed a relapse by follow-up PET/CT scan and a mass biopsy. Flow cytometry showed a dramatically decreased percentage of CAR-T cells in peripheral blood (PB).

Interventions:

A second anti-CD19 CAR-T therapy was planned with deliberation. Firstly, the patient received lymphodepletion chemotherapy with fludarabine (25 mg/m2, d1–d3) and cyclophosphamide (500 mg/m2 d2–d3).

Outcomes:

After fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (FC) lymphodepletion chemotherapy, pre-existing CAR-T cells were revitalized and the patient developed grade 2 cytokine release syndrome (CRS) contributing to the regression of relapsed B-cell lymphoma.

Conclusions:

This case suggested that FC chemotherapy could revitalize CAR-T cells contributing to the regression of relapsed B-cell lymphoma. Nevertheless, further researches are required in the future as this report described only a single case.