bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the Load–Velocity Profile Following Power- and Strength-Oriented Resistance-Training Programs
Authors: Pérez-Castilla Alejandro , García-Ramos Amador
Published: September 2020

Objective: To compare the short-term effect of power- and strength-oriented resistance-training programs on the individualized load–velocity profiles obtained during the squat (SQ) and bench-press (BP) exercises. Methods: Thirty physically active men (age = 23.4 [3.5] y; SQ 1-repetition maximum [1RM] = 126.5 [26.7] kg; BP 1RM = 81.6 [16.7] kg) were randomly assigned to a power- (exercises: countermovement jump and BP throw; sets per exercise: 4–6; repetitions per set: 5–6; load: 40% 1RM) or strength-training group (exercises: SQ and BP; sets per exercise: 4–6; repetitions per set: 2–8; load: 70%–90% 1RM). The training program lasted 4 wk (2 sessions/wk). The individualized load–velocity profiles (ie, velocity associated with the 30%–60%–90% 1RM) were assessed before and after training through an incremental loading test during the SQ and BP exercises. Results: The power-training group moderately increased the velocity associated with the full spectrum of % 1RM for the SQ (effect size [ES] range: 0.70 to 0.93) and with the 30% 1RM for the BP (ES: 0.67), while the strength-training group reported trivial/small changes across the load–velocity spectrum for both the SQ (ES range: 0.00 to 0.35) and BP (ES range: −0.06 to −0.33). The power-training group showed a higher increase in the mean velocity associated with all % 1RM compared with the strength-training group for both the SQ (ES range: 0.54 to 0.63) and BP (ES range: 0.25 to 0.53). Conclusions: The individualized load–velocity profile (ie, velocity associated with different % 1RM) of lower-body and upper-body exercises can be modified after a 4-wk resistance-training program.
Comparison of a Traditional Graded Exercise Protocol With a Self-Paced 1-km Test to Assess Maximal Oxygen Consumption
Authors: van den Tillaar Roland , von Heimburg Erna , Solli Guro Strøm
Published: September 2020

Purpose: To compare the assessment of the maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) in a traditional graded exercise test (GXT) with a 1-km self-paced running test on a nonmotorized treadmill in men and women. Methods: A total of 24 sport-science students (12 women: age 23.7 [7.7] y, body height 1.68 [0.02] m, body mass 66.6 [4.3] kg; 12 men: 22.1 [3.1] y, body height 1.82 [0.06] m, body mass 75.6 [11.0] kg) performed a traditional GXT on a motorized treadmill and a 1-km self-paced running test on a nonmotorized treadmill. VO2max, blood lactate, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion, together with running velocity and duration at each test, were measured. Results: The main findings of the study were that the 1-km test produced significantly higher VO2max values (53.2 [9.9] vs 51.8 [8.8] mL/kg/min ) and blood lactate concentrations (11.9 [1.8] vs 11.1 [2.2] mmol/L) than the GXT (F ≥ 4.8, P ≤ .04, η2 ≥ .18). However, after controlling for sex, these differences were only present in men (60.6 [8.1] vs 58.1 [8.0] mL/kg/min , P = .027). Peak running velocity was higher in the GXT than in the 1-km test (15.7 [2.7] vs 13.0 [2.8] km/h). Men had higher VO2max values and running velocities than women in both tests. However, men and women used approximately similar pacing strategies during the 1-km test. Conclusions: Higher VO2max values were observed in a 1-km self-paced test than in the GXT. This indicates that a 1-km running test performed on a nonmotorized treadmill could serve as a simple and sport-specific alternative for the assessment of VO2max.
Experiences of Undergraduates Publishing Biomechanics Research
Authors: McErlain-Naylor Stuart A.
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate student experiences of publishing undergraduate research in biomechanics. A total of 29 former students with experience of publishing peer-reviewed undergraduate biomechanics research completed an online survey regarding their perceived benefits, level of involvement, and experiences in aspects of the research process. On average, students perceived their experiences to be “largely helpful” or greater in all aspects. Areas were identified corresponding to: the greatest perceived benefits (eg, understanding of the research process); the least perceived benefits (eg, statistical analysis skills); the greatest student involvement (eg, reading relevant literature); and the least student involvement (eg, developing hypotheses and/or methods). A thematic analysis of open question responses identified themes relating to: future career, skills, scientific process, intra- and interpersonal factors, and pedagogy. Common intended learning outcomes may be achieved through involvement in the research process independently of the level of staff involvement. Staff should be encouraged to involve students in publishable biomechanics research projects where this is possible without compromising research standards and should explore ways of recreating the publishing process internally for all students.
Why the West is WEIRD
The WEIRDest People in the World
Joseph Henrich
Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2020. 704 pp.
Authors: Grosjean Pauline
Published: September 2020

Catholicism's policy forbidding cousins to wed may have led to the distinctive characteristics of Western society
Progressive Control of Streptococcus agalactiae-Induced Innate Inflammatory Response Is Associated with Time Course Expression of MicroRNA-223 by Neutrophils
Authors: Deny Maud , Romano Marta , Denis Olivier , Casimir Georges , Chamekh Mustapha
Published: September 2020

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a human-pathogenic bacterium inducing a strong inflammatory response that may be detrimental for host tissues if not finely regulated. The inflammatory response can be modulated by different molecular mechanisms, among which growing evidence points toward the crucial role of microRNAs (miRNAs). Regarding innate inflammatory response, studies have reported that miR-223 is essential for the control of granulocyte proliferation and activation. Moreover, a number of investigations on miRNA expression profiling performed in various inflammatory settings have revealed that miR-223 is among the top differentially expressed miRNAs.
Unusually sited lower third molar
Authors: Campbell Tim , Raffner Etienne , Danford Martin , Sloane James
Published: September 2020

We present the case of a 60-year-old woman who presented to our unit with left-sided facial swelling, pain and trismus. Initially managed as a parotitis by a different specialty, an ultrasound subsequently showed a collection deep to the parotid associated with an ectopic wisdom tooth within the mandibular posterior ramus/condyle and the patient was referred to our department. After treating the acute infection, the wisdom tooth was surgically removed. Our case highlights the importance of the clinician maintaining an open mind to differential diagnoses and details a technique for surgical removal of a tooth with difficult access.
Percutaneous device closure of a large complex aortic root pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Tran Patrick , Khan Jamal Nasir , Hildick-Smith David , Been Martin
Published: September 2020

Pseudoaneurysm of the aorta is a rare and high-risk complication of native aortic valve endocarditis and can develop following cardiac surgery for aortic valve and root disease. If left untreated, there is a significant risk of aortic wall rupture and fatality. Given the high risk of mortality associated with traditional open surgical repair of aortic pseudoaneurysms, endovascular approach is a potentially favourable alternative. We describe a unique case of a young woman with a large and complex paraprosthetic pseudoaneurysm with multiple communicating fistulae which was successfully percutaneously treated with two occluder devices. In this technically challenging case, a minor but unique procedural complication is also illustrated.
Case of anti-Zic4 antibody-mediated cerebellar toxicity induced by dual checkpoint inhibition in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Iyer Sunil Girish , Khakoo Nidah Shabbir , Aitcheson Gabriella , Perez Cesar
Published: September 2020

Combined checkpoint inhibition therapy targeting the programmed cell death 1 (PD-L1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 pathways has been a successful approach in the treatment of metastatic melanoma, leading to its investigation in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with PD-L1 expression. Despite the potential for excellent responses, an increased rate of autoimmune neurological toxicity and paraneoplastic conditions has been observed when using these treatment modalities. We present the case of a patient with metastatic HNSCC treated with combination ipilimumab/nivolumab who experienced severe cerebellar ataxia with a positive screen for the anti-Zic4 antibody. This is the first case, to our knowledge, of anti-Zic4 antibody-mediated cerebellar toxicity reported in association with HNSCC. Although the patient experienced an impressive partial response with dual checkpoint inhibition, he suffered grade 4 neurotoxicity. Despite exciting advances in cancer immunotherapy, clinicians must be aware of the rare, debilitating and possibly previously undescribed paraneoplastic and autoimmune toxicities that may occur.
Unexpected case of critical left main coronary artery dissection in a young woman
Authors: Butt Ifrah Zahid , Kazemi Vahid , Mohammadi Oranus , Danckers Mauricio
Published: September 2020

A 36-year-old woman presented with a 3-month history of recurrent substernal chest pain, which acutely worsened 2 days prior to presentation. Her initial troponin I was mildly elevated and ECG showed subtle changes initially concerning for ischaemia; however, these were present on her prior ECG and were not considered an acute change. Because of her age and lack of significant risk factors, she was considered low risk for cardiac disease and initially treated conservatively for a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction. Due to persistent symptoms and dynamic changes on ECG concerning for ischaemia, she was immediately taken for a cardiac catheterisation and was found to have critical left main coronary artery dissection with a focal stenotic lesion. She had an extensive workup to identify the underlying cause of her coronary artery dissection which was unrevealing. She underwent an uncomplicated coronary artery bypass graft surgery and was discharged home in stable condition.
Outcomes and risk factors for ERCP-related complications in a predominantly black urban population
Authors: Kwak Nathaniel , Yeoun Daniel , Arroyo-Mercado Fray , Mubarak Ghassan , Cheung Derrick , Vignesh Shivakumar
Published: September 2020

Objective

There is a lack of literature on postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) complications in predominantly black urban populations of low socioeconomic status. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and predictors of post-ERCP complications in this patient population.

Design

Retrospective review of ERCP cases performed at two hospitals from 2007 to 2017 was performed. The categories of complications evaluated were overall complications, severe or fatal complications, pancreatitis, bleeding, infection, perforation and cardiopulmonary events. Predictors of complications were determined by univariate analysis.

Results

A total of 1079 ERCP procedures were reviewed. There were 106 complications (9.8%). Twenty-one were severe (1.9%) and 20 were fatal (1.9%). Both post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP) and post-ERCP bleeding occurred in 18 patients (1.7%) each. Risk factors for overall complications were male sex (OR 1.54), ASA grade IV or V (OR 2.19), prior history of PEP (OR 6.98) and pancreatic duct stent placement (OR 2.75). Those who were ASA grade III or lower (OR 0.4) or who underwent biliary stone extraction (OR 0.62) had fewer complications. PEP was more likely in those with a prior history of PEP (OR 37.6). Those with a suspected or known biliary duct stone had less frequent pancreatitis (OR 0.32). Post-ERCP bleeding was more likely in the presence of cholangitis (OR 8.72).

Conclusion

Outcomes of ERCP in a predominantly black urban population demonstrate a lower incidence of PEP and all-cause mortality compared with historical data reported in the general population. Potential risk factors for post-ERCP complications were identified but require larger studies for validation.
Gastrointestinal malignancies and supportive care trials: a snapshot of the last two decades
Authors: Kouzy Ramez , Abi Jaoude Joseph , Minsky Bruce D , Das Prajnan , Koong Albert C , Subbiah Ishwaria M , Ludmir Ethan B , Taniguchi Cullen M
Published: September 2020

Background

Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers experience a high symptom burden due to the effects of both cancer and treatment. As such, trials assessing symptom burden and supportive interventions are crucial. Here, we characterise the landscape of phase III GI cancer clinical trials and explore study outcomes centred on the patient’s quality of life (QoL).

Methods

We searched ClinicalTrials.gov for phase III randomised controlled trials (RCTs) registered between 2000 and 2017 that are assessing a therapeutic intervention in adult patients with cancer and grouped trials by GI disease sites.

Results

Overall, we identified 76 phase III trials specific to GI cancers that enrolled a total of 53 725 patients. When analysing the primary outcomes measured, the vast majority of studies (n=71, 86%) measured disease-related endpoints such as progression-free survival or overall survival. All trials had a secondary endpoint that measured adverse events, but only 30 trials (39%) included QoL measures as secondary endpoints. Of the 30 trials that included QoL secondary endpoints, only 16 (53%) reported these results. Only five trials (7%) assessed interventions aimed at supportive measures impacting disease-related or treatment-related toxicity. None of the supportive trials included QoL as a primary endpoint and only two of these trials (40%) included QoL as a secondary endpoint.

Conclusions

Most GI cancer trials failed to incorporate patient-centred outcomes or QoL measures when studying new interventions. These findings call for greater integration of patient-reported metrics, which may lead to better care and outcomes for patients with GI malignancies.
Photon induced processes: from ultraperipheral to semicentral heavy ion collisions
Authors: Schäfer Wolfgang
Published: September 2020

We present an overview of processes induced by the coherent Weizsäcker-Williams (WW) photon cloud in heavy ion collisions. Due to the rather broad energy spectrum of photons a large variety of physics topics can be addressed. At the low-energy side, there are the electromagnetic dissociation processes. We discuss the few-neutron production via giant dipole resonance excitation. A typical high energy photonuclear process that has attracted much attention is the diffractive photoproduction of vector mesons. We review the color dipole approach to coherent and incoherent diffractive photoproduction of$$J/\psi $$J/ψmesons. Finally we turn to peripheral and semicentral collisions and discuss the role of WW photons in the production of very low-$$P_T$$PTdileptons.
Protein–protein interaction site prediction using random forest proximity distance
Authors: Qiu Zhijun , Liu Qingjie
Published: September 2020

A front-end method based on random forest proximity distance (PD) is used to screen the test set to improve protein–protein interaction site (PPIS) prediction. The assessment of a distance metric is done under the assumption that a distance definition of higher quality leads to higher classification. On an independent test set, the numerical analysis based on statistical inference shows that the PD has the advantage over Mahalanobis and Cosine distance. Based on the fact that the proximity distance depends on the tree composition of the random forest model, an iterative method is designed to optimize the proximity distance, which adjusts the tree composition of the random forest model by adjusting the size of the training set. Two PD metrics, 75PD and 50PD, are obtained by the iterative method. On two independent test sets, compared with the PD produced by the original training set, the values of 75PD in Matthews correlation coefficient and F1 score were higher, and the differences between them were statistically significant. All numerical experiments show that the closer the distance between the test data and the training data, the better the prediction results of the predictor. These indicate that the iterative method can optimize proximity distance definition and the distance information provided by PD can be used to indicate the reliability of prediction results.
Biomechanical and neuroautonomic adaptation to acute blood volume displacement in ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy: the predictive value of the CD25 test
Authors: Acanfora Domenico , Casucci Gerardo , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Scicchitano Pietro , Lonobile Tommaso , Chiariello Luigi , Maestri Roberto , Pedone Claudio , Provitera Vincenzo , Nolano Maria , Incalzi Raffaele Antonelli
Published: September 2020

The adaptation to volume displacement induced by tilt test was assessed in patients with heart failure and previous inferoapical/inferolateral or basal/apical septal myocardial infarction. The responsiveness of cardiac muscle to sympathetic nervous system stimulation predicts the mortality in patients with ischemic heart failure and may represent a useful tool for clinicians in the general assessment of this kind of patients.
Tradition Mills’ Picholine Olive Oil Physicochemical Characterization and Chemical Profiling across Different Cities in Morocco
Authors: El Moudden Hamza , El Idrissi Yousra , El Guezzane Chakir , Belmaghraoui Walid , El Yadini Adil , Harhar Hicham , Tabyaoui Mohamed
Published: September 2020

This study aims to determine the quality of olive oils (Picholine variety) from the traditional oil mills in different Moroccan cities by means of physicochemical characterization and chemical compositions. All samples of olive oil were collected from traditional oil mills. Physicochemical analyses of free fatty acid (FFA), iodine value (IV), saponification value (SV), specific extinction at 232 and 270 (E232, E270), chlorophyll content, carotenoid content, fatty acids (FAs), and total phytosterols composition were performed with respect to the International Olive Council (IOC) standards. These oils were revealed to be rich in unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs): C18 : 1, C18 : 2, and C18 : 3, and that the total phytosterols content ranged between 142.68 and 208.72 mg per 100 g of oil. Also, the chlorophyll contents, for most of the studied samples, are less than 2 mg/kg, while the carotenoid content varied between 0.13 and 0.63 mg/kg. These results, along with the physicochemical assays, helped classify the oils studied into three categories: extra virgin, virgin, and ordinary virgin olive oils. These results confirm that the conditions under which olive oils are collected, pressed, and stored influence the quality of the oil produced. Therefore, there is a need to inform producers about the correct practices and techniques for storage, processing, and conservation of oils to better improve the quality of the final product.
An Overview of the Mechanism of Penthorum chinense Pursh on Alcoholic Fatty Liver
Authors: Zhao Xingtao , Li Liao , Zhou Mengting , Liu Meichen , Deng Ying , He Linfeng , Guo Chaocheng , Li Yunxia
Published: September 2020

Alcohol liver disease (ALD) caused by excessive alcohol consumption is a progressive disease, and alcohol fatty liver disease is the primary stage. Currently, there is no approved drug for its treatment. Abstinence is the best way to heal, but patients’ compliance is poor. Unlike other chronic diseases, alcohol fatty liver disease is not caused by nutritional deficiencies; it is caused by the molecular action of ingested alcohol and its metabolites. More and more studies have shown the potential of Penthorum chinense Pursh (PCP) in the clinical use of alcohol fatty liver treatment. The purpose of this paper is to reveal from the essence of PCP treatment of alcohol liver mechanism mainly by the ethanol dehydrogenase (ADH) and microsomal ethanol oxidation system‐dependent cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1) to exert antilipogenesis, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and autophagy effects, with special emphasis on its mechanisms related to SIRT1/AMPK, KEAP‐1/Nrf2, and TLR4/NF‐κB. Overall, data from the literature shows that PCP appears to be a promising hepatoprotective traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
Magnesium Lithospermate B Downregulates the Levels of Blood Pressure, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Pregnant Rats with Hypertension
Authors: Xu Kaixiang , Zang Xiaohong , Peng Mian , Zhao Qian , Lin Binbin
Published: September 2020

Background. Magnesium lithospermate B (MLB) was shown to suppress oxidative stress and reduce hypertension, but the role of MLB in pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) remains unknown. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the effects of MLB on rats with PIH. Methods. A total of 40 pregnant SD rats were selected, and 30 rats were orally given NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 60 mg/kg/day) to establish PIH rat models. Rats were equally divided into four groups: control, PIH, 5 mg/kg MLB, and 10 mg/kg MLB. MLB was consecutively administered into PIH rats for one week. The effects of MLB on mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), urine protein level, inflammation, and oxidative stress together with angiogenesis were analyzed. Results. MLB prevented the elevation in MAP and urine protein levels induced by L-NAME. The activities of inflammatory cytokines were highly increased in serum and placental tissues of PIH rats, while cotreatment with MLB partially reversed the activities of these cytokines. MLB also recovered the expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plasma of PIH rats together with levels of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity in the placenta of PIH rats. The decreased expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and NO observed in PIH rats were increased by MLB. In addition, 10 mg/kg MLB exhibited higher protective effects as compared to lower doses of 5 mg/kg. Conclusion. This study demonstrated that pretreatment with MLB decreased MAP, inflammation, and oxidative stress in rats with gestational hypertension.
Investigation of the Role of Oxidative Stress and Factors Associated with Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy in Patients after Heart Transplantation
Authors: Szczurek Wioletta , Gąsior Mariusz , Romuk Ewa , Skrzypek Michał , Zembala Michał , Szyguła-Jurkiewicz Bożena
Published: September 2020

Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance between the production of free radicals and their elimination by the antioxidant defense system. However, the role of oxidative stress in cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) has not been fully understood. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the role of oxidative-antioxidative balance disturbances in patients after HT. Furthermore, we sought to analyze factors associated with the presence of CAV, with particular emphasis placed on oxidative stress markers. The study analyzed data of 194 consecutive patients after HT who underwent routine visits in the Transplantation Clinic between 2015 and 2016. Total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured by the method described by Erel. The oxidative stress index (OSI) was defined as the ratio of the TOS to TAC levels. Patients’ mean age was 55.4±15.0 years, and 73.4% were men. The frequency of CAV was 50%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves indicated a good discriminatory power of TAC and TOS (0.8940 (0.8515-0.9365); 0.8620 (0.8126-0.9114), respectively) as well as excellent discriminatory power of OSI (0.9530 (0.9279-0.9781)) for CAV detection. Multivariate analysis of the Cox proportional hazard model confirmed that OSI (hazard ratio HR=1.294 (1.204-1.391), p<0.0001), age (HR=1.023 (1.006-1.041), p=0.0091), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HR=1.049 (1.016-1.083), p=0.0151) were independently associated with CAV presence. In conclusion, TAC and TOS had a good discriminatory power and OSI had excellent strength for detecting CAV. The independent factors of CAV were higher OSI and CRP levels, as well as older recipient age.
Efficacy and Safety of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty among Ethiopian Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Soboka Jibat Gemida , Giorgis Abeba T. , Alemu Abiye M. , Hodge W. G. , Damji Karim F.
Published: September 2020

Background. Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe and effective treatment modality for lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). Purpose. To determine the efficacy and safety of SLT among Ethiopian patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG), and ocular hypertension (OHT). Method. A prospective, nonrandomized interventional study was conducted at Menelik II Hospital, Ethiopia. Patients on antiglaucoma medication with uncontrolled IOP and those patients treated for the first time with 360 degrees of SLT were included. Success was defined as an IOP lowering of > 20% from baseline without repeat treatment. Result. A total of 95 eyes of 61 patients with a diagnosis of OAG and OHT were enrolled. The diagnosis was POAG in 55 (57.9%) eyes, PXG in 22 (23.2%) eyes, and OHT in 18 (18.9%) eyes. Seventy (73.7%) eyes were on medications, and 25 (26.3%) eyes were treated with laser as primary therapy. The mean (SD) baseline IOP and medication were 24.3 ± 2.5 mmHg and 1.29 ± 1.01, respectively. The one-year mean (SD) IOP reduction was 6.7 ± 4.2 mmHg and medication reduction was 0.26 ± 1.34. The overall IOP reduction at 12 months was 27.6%, and the success rate was 60%. The mean IOP (SD) reduction for patients who were treated for the first time with laser and on antiglaucoma medication was 6.5 ± 3.1 mmHg and 6.8 ± 2.8 mmHg, respectively. Post-SLT, patients experienced transient ocular pain, brow ache, headache, and/or blurring of vision in 31.6%, anterior chamber reaction in 36.8%, and IOP spike ≥ 6 mmHg in 11.6%. Conclusion. SLT is an effective and safe treatment modality for OHT, POAG, and PXG among Ethiopian patients either as a first-line treatment or as an adjunct to topical glaucoma treatment.
Exclusive Breast-Feeding Practice and Associated Factors among HIV-Positive Mothers in Governmental Health Facilities, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mebratu Lewam , Mengesha Selamawit , Tegene Yadessa , Alano Abraham , Toma Alemayehu
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Globally, over 90% of HIV infections among children are due to mother-to-child transmission and breastfeeding accounts for 5–20% of the burden. Avoidance of inappropriate feeding practices and practicing exclusive breastfeeding is recommended to reduce mother-to-child HIV transmission, but it is hardly practiced. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding practice and associated factors among HIV-positive mothers attending governmental PMTCT clinics in Southern Ethiopia. Methods. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2019. The participants of the study were 209 HIV-positive mothers at the selected PMTCT sites. The study subjects were drawn from 10 health institutions located at 6 towns in Southern Ethiopia which constituted six hospitals and four health centers. Quantitative data were collected using the pretested structured questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between the predictors and outcome variable. Results. Among the 209 participants, 81.6% (95% CI: 75.8–86.5) practiced exclusive breastfeeding and 18.4% (95% CI: 13.5–23.7) practiced mixed feeding. Mothers who had attended the recommended four antenatal visits [AOR: 3.01, 95% CI (1.1–8.28)], who had disclosed their serostatus [AOR: 3.17, 95% CI (1.12–8.99)], who had sufficient knowledge about infant feeding practice [AOR: 3.32, 95% CI (1.15–9.55)], and favorable attitude towards infant feeding practice [AOR: 5.39, 95% CI (1.65–17.6)] were more likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion. Exclusive breastfeeding was predominantly practiced. But mixed feeding was also being practice considerably. Improving maternal knowledge and attitude towards appropriate infant feeding practice through appropriate counseling on ANC visits could significantly improve EBF practice. It was also evident that promoting disclose of serostatus could empower the mothers to make an informed decision on how to appropriately feed their newborn.
Minocycline in Treating Glioblastoma Multiforme: Far beyond a Conventional Antibiotic
Authors: Afshari Amir R. , Mollazadeh Hamid , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: September 2020

One of the most lethal forms of CNS pathologies is glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) that represents high invasiveness, uncontrolled proliferation, and angiogenic features. Its invasiveness is responsible for the high recurrence even after maximal surgical interventions. Minocycline is a semisynthetic analog of tetracyclines with potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects, distinct from its antimicrobial activity. In this review, we highlight the importance and the cytotoxic mechanisms of minocycline on GBM pathophysiology. Considering the role of certain enzymes in autophagy, apoptosis, tumor cell invasion, and metastatic ability, the possible use of tetracyclines for cancer therapy should be investigated, especially GBM. The present study is, therefore, going to cover the main topics in minocycline pharmacology to date, encouraging its consideration as a new treatment approach for cancer and GBM.
Analysis of the Anomalous Signals near the Tropopause before the Overshooting Convective System Onset over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Tian Hongying , Xu Xiran , Chen Hongbao , Huang Rui , Zhang Shiyan , Luo Jiali
Published: September 2020

This study investigates the anomalous signals near the tropopause before the overshooting convective system (OCS) onset over the Tibetan Plateau (TP). It is found that the tropopause height is stable at the maximum height for the 7th day and the 5th day before the OCS onset. It then decreases significantly one day before and on the day of the OCS onset. The upward motion in the troposphere is the strongest for the 5th day before the OCS onset. From one day before and after the OCS onset, there are strong ascending motions at 500–300 hPa but weak descending motions near the tropopause. It is proposed that the descending of the tropopause height on the day of the OCS onset is caused by frequent tropopause fold events over the eastern TP associated with frequent cold trough intrusion from the north and the southeastward movement of upper-level westerly jet stream. The decrease of the tropopause height is accompanied by the intrusion of stratospheric air with higher potential vorticity (PV). Positive potential vorticity anomalies on 350 K isentropic surface can be noted in the region where the tropopause height decreases one day before and on the day of the OCS onset. With the deepening of the tropopause fold on the day of the OCS onset, there is not only downward motion near the tropopause in the area behind of the fold but also upward motion in the troposphere beneath the folding region. In addition, the upward displacement of isentropic surfaces leads to an upper-level cold pool, which causes a reduction in static stability beneath the PV anomaly on the day of the OCS onset. The upper-level PV anomalies and their associated strong instability in the middle troposphere can trigger convective activities by the release of potential instability on the day of the OCS onset. The overshooting convection is more likely to occur due to lower tropopause height, although upward motion in the troposphere is not the strongest.
Establishment of a UPLC-MS/MS Method for Studying the Effect of Salt-Processing on Tissue Distribution of Twelve Major Bioactive Components of Qing’e Pills in Rats
Authors: Hou Jingxia , Lin Shangyang , Lu Jinlan , Wu Yu , Wu Li , Chen Zhipeng , Li Weidong
Published: September 2020

Qing’e pills is clinically used for treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women in China. Eucommiae Cortex and Psoraleae Fructus are the main herbs of Qing’e pills and are both required to be salt-processed. In order to study the influence of salt-processing on the tissue distribution of Qing’e pills, a UPLC-MS/MS method was established for studying the tissue distribution of 12 main bioactive ingredients of Qing’e pills in rats. The linear relationships of the 12 compounds in each tissue were good. The method was fully validated for its selectivity, accuracy, precision, stability, matrix effect, and extraction recovery. Then, the validated method was successfully applied for simultaneous determination of the 12 chemical components in Qing’e pills in tissues for the first time. Areas under the curve (AUC) results showed that, except for pinoresinol diglucoside, psoralen, and isopsoralen, the distribution of the other components was increased in the kidney, uterus, ovary, and testes. Relative targeting efficiency (RTE) results showed that all 12 chemical components targeted the kidney and sexual organs. The results indicated that the Eucommiae Cortex and Psoraleae Fructus after salt-processing could significantly increase the distribution of components to the kidney and generative organs.
Scalable System for Smart Urban Transport Management
Authors: Khan Nauman Ahmad , Nebel Jean-Christophe , Khaddaj Souheil , Brujic-Okretic Vesna
Published: September 2020

Efficient management of smart transport systems requires the integration of various sensing technologies, as well as fast processing of a high volume of heterogeneous data, in order to perform smart analytics of urban networks in real time. However, dynamic response that relies on intelligent demand-side transport management is particularly challenging due to the increasing flow of transmitted sensor data. In this work, a novel smart service-driven, adaptable middleware architecture is proposed to acquire, store, manipulate, and integrate information from heterogeneous data sources in order to deliver smart analytics aimed at supporting strategic decision-making. The architecture offers adaptive and scalable data integration services for acquiring and processing dynamic data, delivering fast response time, and offering data mining and machine learning models for real-time prediction, combined with advanced visualisation techniques. The proposed solution has been implemented and validated, demonstrating its ability to provide real-time performance on the existing, operational, and large-scale bus network of a European capital city.
Development of Arthritis as the Initial Involvement in Adult-Onset Cutaneous Polyarteritis Nodosa: Two Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Takamatsu Ryota , Shimojima Yasuhiro , Kishida Dai , Kondo Yasufumi , Ueno Ken-ichi , Sekijima Yoshiki
Published: September 2020

Articular symptoms are commonly present in polyarteritis nodosa (PAN). Meanwhile, they may occur as the initial and main involvement of PAN, raising a concern of a delay in a definitive diagnosis of disease unless the histological evidence is obtained. Herein, we report two cases of cutaneous PAN (c-PAN) in which arthritis developed as the initial clinical episode of disease and we argued, through a review of the literature, the clinical feature of patients presenting with arthritis as the initial symptom of PAN. To our knowledge, only six cases have been reported in the English literature, and all six patients were categorized as having c-PAN. Of those patients, four had arthritis with indicating destructive changes. A median of 9 years elapsed prior to the induction of immunosuppressive treatment despite the fact that the other reviewed cases as well as our two patients, who received treatment significantly earlier, showed no evidence of joint destruction. Taken together, this report suggests that the early induction of therapy based on the definitive diagnosis of PAN may be required for preventing joint disruption even though it is not easy to make a diagnosis of PAN unless biopsied tissue can provide the evidence of necrotizing vasculitis.
Zi Shen Huo Luo Formula Prevents Aldosterone‐Induced Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy and Cardiac Fibroblast Proliferation by Regulating the Striatin‐Mediated MR/EGFR/ERK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Feng Weike , Zhao Yue , Song Xiaotong , Wang Yuan , Chen Qian , Zhao Haijun , Lu Guangying , Yuan Hongyan , Wu Zhichun , Yu Huayun
Published: September 2020

Inappropriate activation of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) is an important factor in the development of hypertension. Excessive aldosterone can lead to myocardial extracellular matrix collagen proliferation, fibrosis, and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and aggravate maladaptive remodeling. The results of our previous clinical and animal experiments suggested that Zi Shen Huo Luo Formula (ZSHLF) combined with perindopril can effectively control the process of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether ZSHLF‐treated serum inhibits the membrane localization of the striatin‐mediated mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and affects MR‐mediated nongenomic effects and the downstream epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways, thereby improving aldosterone‐induced myocardial remodeling. Serum containing ZSHLF was prepared and used to treat rat cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts in vitro after aldosterone induction and striatin knockdown by small interfering RNA (siRNA). Cell‐based assays were carried out to determine the cardiomyocyte surface area and assess the proliferation rate and hydroxyproline secretion of cardiac fibroblasts. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR), immunoprecipitation (IP), and Western blotting were performed to evaluate the striatin‐mediated MR/EGFR/ERK signaling pathway. In the present study, ZSHLF attenuated the aldosterone‐induced hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes and inhibited the proliferation and collagen synthesis of cardiac fibroblasts. ZSHLF also reduced striatin mRNA expression and inhibited striatin and MR binding, membrane MR protein expression, and EGFR and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Furthermore, after striatin silencing with siRNA, some of the effects of ZSHLF were not changed significantly. In conclusion, ZSHLF inhibits the downstream EGFR/ERK signaling pathway by blocking the striatin‐mediated membrane localization of MR, which may be an important molecular mechanism by which ZSHLF improves aldosterone‐induced myocardial remodeling.
Inhibition Mir‐92a Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis of Alveolar Epithelial Cells Induced by Lipopolysaccharide Exposure through TLR2/AP‐1 Pathway
Authors: Cui Jian , Ding Huanhuan , Yao Yongyuan , Liu Wei
Published: September 2020

Objective. To probe into the role of miR‐92a in alleviating oxidative stress and apoptosis of alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure through the Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2/activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) pathway. Methods. Acute lung injury (ALI) rat model and ALI alveolar epithelial cell model were constructed to inhibit the expression of miR‐92a/TLR2/AP‐1 in rat and alveolar epithelial cells (AECs), to detect the changes of oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and cell apoptosis in rat lung tissues and AECs, and to measure the changes of wet‐dry weight (W/D) ratio in rat lung tissues. Results. Both inhibition of miR‐92a expression and knockout of TLR2 and AP‐1 gene could reduce LPS‐induced rat ALI, alleviate pulmonary edema, inhibit oxidative stress and inflammatory response, and reduce apoptosis of lung tissue cells. In addition, the TLR2 and AP‐1 levels in the lung tissues of ALI rats were noticed to be suppressed when inhibiting the expression of miR‐92a, and the AP‐1 level was also decreased after the knockout of TLR2 gene. Further, we verified this relationship in AECs and found that inhibition of miR‐92a/TLR2/AP‐1 also alleviated LPS‐induced AEC injury, reduced cell apoptosis, and inhibited oxidative stress and inflammatory response. What is more, like that in rat lung tissue, the phenomenon also existed in AECs, that is, when the expression of miR‐92a was inhibited, the expression of TLR2 and AP‐1 was inhibited, and silencing TLR2 can reduce the expression level of AP‐1. Conclusion. MiR‐92a/TLR2/AP‐1 is highly expressed in ALI, and its inhibition can improve oxidative stress and inflammatory response and reduce apoptosis of AECs.
Reproducibility and Interobserver Agreement of Different Thyroid Imaging and Reporting Data Systems (TIRADS)
Authors: Sych Yulia P. , Fadeev Valentin V. , Fisenko Elena P. , Kalashnikova Marina
Published: September 2020

Introduction: A number of classification systems (TIRADS) have been developed to estimate the likelihood of malignancy in thyroid nodules, but their reproducibility is yet to be assessed. We evaluated the interobserver variability and diagnostic performance of the TIRADS in Kwak’s modification (Kw-TIRADS) and European TIRADS (EU-TIRADS). Methods: Two independent specialists, blinded concerning the morphology of the nodules, evaluated ultrasound images of 153 thyroid nodules identified in 149 patients at multiple time points. Results: The interobserver agreement (Cohen’s κ) was 0.52 and 0.67 for Kw-TIRADS and EU-TIRADS, respectively, and rated as substantial. There were strong correlations between Kw-TIRADS and EU-TIRADS for the two observers with Spearman’s coefficients of 0.731 (p = 0.00025) and 0.661 (p = 0.0012), respectively. Sensitivity of Kw-TIRADS for the diagnosis of thyroid cancer was 95–92.31% and that of EU-TIRADS was 92.31–89.74%, with specificity of about 60% for both TIRADS. Conclusion: Despite the wide variability in the description of single ultrasonographic features, both Kw-TIRADS and EU-TIRADS may be a useful diagnostic tool in clinical practice.
Phenotypes and Pathophysiology of Syndromic Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Different Faces of the Same Disease? A Systematic Review
Authors: Nikolakis Georgios , Kaleta Katarzyna P. , Vaiopoulos Aristeidis G. , Wolter Katja , Baroud Sumer , Wojas-Pelc Anna , Zouboulis Christos C.
Published: September 2020

Background: There is growing evidence that (certain) hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) comorbidities comprise syndromes including HS as a key cutaneous manifestation. These apparently autoinflammatory syndromes and their diagnostic delay might have detrimental effects on affected patients. Methods: A systematic review was performed on the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL utilizing a standardized extraction form according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: Sixty-four eligible articles on syndromic HS were retrieved. The identified syndromes included already described ones (pyoderma gangrenosum-acne-suppurative hidradenitis, pyogenic arthritis-pyoderma gangrenosum-acne-suppurative hidradenitis, psoriatic arthritis-pyoderma gangrenosum-acne-suppurative hidradenitis, pyoderma gangrenosum-acne vulgaris-hidradenitis suppurativa-ankylosing spondylitis, synovitis-acne-pustulosis-hyperostosis-osteitis) and further novel symptom constellations. Cutaneous signs, including HS lesions, usually precede signs from other organs. The cutaneous signs of a considerable proportion of patients appear refractory to conventional treatment, and monotherapy with biologics does not suffice to sustain remission. Conclusion: The results are subsequently discussed with focus on the pathophysiology and treatment of the detected syndromes. The dermatologist’s role in the precise diagnosis and early treatment administration of HS is pivotal. The purpose of the treatment should be the effective prevention or delay of the autoinflammatory march and its irreversible consequences.
Value of Component Resolved Diagnostics to Aspergillus fumigatus in Patients with Upper Airway Complaints
Authors: Volgger Veronika , Louza Julia , Gellrich Donata , Eder Katharina , Gröger Moritz
Published: September 2020

Introduction: Sensitization to Aspergillus fumigatus is a risk factor for severe asthma. However, little is known about its presence, appearance, and impact on allergic rhinitis. Herein, we investigated the usefulness of component resolved diagnostics in patients sensitized to Aspergillus fumigatus protein extract. Methods: Seventy-eight patients with suspected allergic rhinitis and elevated IgE levels toward Aspergillus fumigatus protein extract were retrospectively evaluated regarding their total and Aspergillus-specific IgE levels and their skin prick test. Furthermore, they were tested for specific IgE antibodies against Asp f 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6. Results: Skin prick test missed 6 patients (7.7%) with elevated IgE toward Aspergillus fumigatus protein extract. Fifty percent of patients (n = 39) were sensitized to at least one component. Even though monosensitization affected all components, all patients with positivity toward more than one component were sensitized to Asp f 1. There was a statistically significant increase of Aspergillus-specific IgE with increasing number of components affected by sensitization. Many patients were oligo- (34.6%) or polysensitized (51.3%). There was a high prevalence of sinusitis (61.8%). Conclusions: Component resolved diagnostic testing toward the major allergen Asp f 1 was less sensitive than skin prick test and serology to Aspergillus fumigatus protein extract. However, sensitivity of component resolved diagnostics might be underestimated. Diagnostics of the species-specific allergens Asp f 1, 2, and 4 might allow to differentiate between genuine and cross-reactive sensitization. In the clinical routine, skin prick test and serology to crude extract remain the methods of choice.
Autopsy Findings in 32 Patients with COVID-19: A Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Elsoukkary Sarah S. , Mostyka Maria , Dillard Alicia , Berman Diana R. , Ma Lucy X. , Chadburn Amy , Yantiss Rhonda K. , Jessurun Jose , Seshan Surya V. , Borczuk Alain C. , Salvatore Steven P.
Published: September 2020

Background: A novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, was identified in Wuhan, China in late 2019. This virus rapidly spread around the world causing disease ranging from minimal symptoms to severe pneumonia, which was termed coronavirus disease (i.e., COVID). Postmortem examination is a valuable tool for studying the pathobiology of this new infection. Methods: We report the clinicopathologic findings from 32 autopsy studies conducted on patients who died of COVID-19 including routine gross and microscopic examination with applicable special and immunohistochemical staining techniques. Results: SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by nasopharyngeal RT-PCR in 31 cases (97%) and by immunohistochemical staining for SARS-CoV-2 spike-protein in the lung in the remaining 1 case (3%). The ethnically diverse cohort consisted of 22 males and 10 females with a mean age of 68 years (range: 30–100). Patients most commonly presented with cough (17 [55%]), shortness of breath (26 [81%]), and a low-grade fever (17 [55%]). Thirty-one (97%) of the patients had at least 1 comorbidity (mean = 4). Twenty-eight patients (88%) had widespread thromboembolic disease, as well as diffuse alveolar damage (30 [94%]), diabetic nephropathy (17 [57%]) and acute tubular injury. Patterns of liver injury were heterogeneous, featuring 10 (36%) with frequent large basophilic structures in sinusoidal endothelium, and increased immunoblast-like cells in lymph nodes. Conclusion: This series of autopsies from patients with COVID-19 confirms the observation that the majority of severely affected patients have significant pulmonary pathology. However, many patients also have widespread microscopic thromboses, as well as characteristic findings in the liver and lymph nodes.