bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative stress, DNA damage, inflammation and gene expression in occupationally exposed university hospital anesthesia providers
Authors: Souza Kátina Meneghetti , De Vivo Immaculata , Chen Chung‐Yen , Nogueira Flávia Ribeiro , Aun Aline Garcia , Arruda Nayara Micarelli , Lara Juliana Rodrigues , Silva Mariane Aparecida P. , Figueiredo Drielle Baptista S. , Corrêa Camila Renata , de Carvalho Lídia Raquel , Braz José Reinaldo C. , Braz Leandro Gobbo , Braz Mariana Gobbo
Published: December 2020

Considering the importance and lack of data of toxicogenomic approaches on occupational exposure to anesthetics, we evaluated possible associations between waste anesthetic gases (WAGs) exposure and biological effects including oxidative stress, DNA damage, inflammation, and transcriptional modulation. The exposed group was constituted by anesthesia providers who were mainly exposed to the anesthetics sevoflurane and isoflurane (10 ppm) and to a lesser degree to nitrous oxide (150 ppm), and the control group was constituted by physicians who had no exposure to WAGs. The oxidative stress markers included oxidized DNA bases (comet assay), malondialdehyde (high‐performance liquid chromatography [HPLC]), nitric oxide metabolites (ozone‐chemiluminescence), and antioxidative markers, including individual antioxidants (HPLC) and antioxidant defense marker (ferric reducing antioxidant power by spectrophotometry). The inflammatory markers included high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (chemiluminescent immunoassay) and the proinflammatory interleukins IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐17A (flow cytometry). Telomere length and gene expression related to DNA repair (hOGG1 and XRCC1), antioxidant defense (NRF2) and inflammation (IL6, IL8 and IL17A) were evaluated by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. No significant differences (p > .0025) between the groups were observed for any parameter evaluated. Thus, under the conditions of the study, the findings suggest that occupational exposure to WAGs is not associated with oxidative stress or inflammation when evaluated in serum/plasma, with DNA damage evaluated in lymphocytes and leucocytes or with molecular modulation assessed in peripheral blood cells in university anesthesia providers. However, it is prudent to reduce WAGs exposure and to increase biomonitoring of all occupationally exposed professionals.
Relationships between the response of the sweet taste receptor, salivation toward sweeteners, and sweetness intensity
Authors: Kusakabe Yuko , Shindo Yumiko , Kawai Takayuki , Maeda‐Yamamoto Mari , Wada Yuji
Published: December 2020

Sweeteners are widely used in food products, and their sweetness potency is usually evaluated by comparing it with that of sucrose. This, however, has led to confusion as some sweeteners are evaluated based on their maximum value of sweet taste response, while others are evaluated by their threshold value. Here, we aimed to develop a novel nonverbal sweetness evaluation system through the sweet taste signal transduction by comparing the responses of the sweet taste receptor, salivation, taste intensity, and preference among six sweeteners. The hT1r2/hT1r3 sweet taste receptor responses represented the input signal of the sweet taste signal transduction, while salivation, sweet taste intensity, and participants' preferences represented the output signals by the gustatory–salivary reflex, primary gustatory cortex area, and the secondary gustatory cortex, respectively. Our results showed that the sweet taste receptor, sweet intensity, and salivary secretion responses were concentration‐dependent and expressed exponentially. Moreover, the results comparing coefficients showed 15–35 times more sensitivity between the response of hT1r2/hT1r3 and the salivation or the sweet taste intensity in non‐nutrient sweeteners. The preference graph curve was not exponential, suggesting that the sweetener preference was not related to the sweet taste receptor, salivation, or sweet taste intensity. These results may suggest that the sweet taste signal of the non‐nutritive sweeteners might be maintained by taste reception by hT1r2/hT1r3 to taste recognition in the primary gustatory area and that receptor responses and salivation could be used as indicators of sweetness intensity.
Unique deficit in embodied simulation in autism: An fMRI study comparing autism and developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Kilroy Emily , Harrison Laura , Butera Christiana , Jayashankar Aditya , Cermak Sharon , Kaplan Jonas , Williams Marian , Haranin Emily , Bookheimer Susan , Dapretto Mirella , Aziz‐Zadeh Lisa
Published: December 2020

A deficit in pre‐cognitively mirroring other people's actions and experiences may be related to the social impairments observed in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, it is unclear whether such embodied simulation deficits are unique to ASD or instead are related to motor impairment, which is commonly comorbid with ASD. Here we aim to disentangle how, neurologically, motor impairments contribute to simulation deficits and identify unique neural signatures of ASD. We compare children with ASD (N = 30) to children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD; N = 23) as well as a typically developing group (N = 33) during fMRI tasks in which children observe, imitate, and mentalize about other people's actions. Results indicate a unique neural signature in ASD: during action observation, only the ASD group shows hypoactivity in a region important for simulation (inferior frontal gyrus, pars opercularis, IFGop). However, during a motor production task (imitation), the IFGop is hypoactive for both ASD and DCD groups. For all tasks, we find correlations across groups with motor ability, even after controlling for age, IQ, and social impairment. Conversely, across groups, mentalizing ability is correlated with activity in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex when controlling for motor ability. These findings help identify the unique neurobiological basis of ASD for aspects of social processing. Furthermore, as no previous fMRI studies correlated brain activity with motor impairment in ASD, these findings help explain prior conflicting reports in these simulation networks.
Hippocampal neurogenesis and memory in adolescence following intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Gilchrist Courtney P. , Cumberland Angela L. , Kondos‐Devcic Delphi , Hill Rachel A. , Khore Madhavi , Quezada Sebastian , Reichelt Amy C. , Tolcos Mary
Published: December 2020

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with hippocampal alterations that can increase the risk of short‐term memory impairments later in life. Despite the role of hippocampal neurogenesis in learning and memory, research into the long‐lasting impact of IUGR on these processes is limited. We aimed to determine the effects of IUGR on neuronal proliferation, differentiation and morphology, and on memory function at adolescent equivalent age. At embryonic day (E) 18 (term ∼E22), placental insufficiency was induced in pregnant Wistar rats via bilateral uterine vessel ligation to generate IUGR offspring (n = 10); control offspring (n = 11) were generated via sham surgery. From postnatal day (P) 36–44, spontaneous location recognition (SLR), novel object location and recognition (NOL, NOR), and open field tests were performed. Brains were collected at P45 to assess neurogenesis (immunohistochemistry), dendritic morphology (Golgi staining), and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression (BDNF; Western blot analysis). In IUGR versus control rats there was no difference in object preference in the NOL or NOR, the similar and dissimilar condition of the SLR task, or in locomotion and anxiety‐like behavior in the open field. There was a significant increase in the linear density of immature neurons (DCX+) in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the dentate gyrus (DG), but no difference in the linear density of proliferating cells (Ki67+) in the SGZ, nor in areal density of mature neurons (NeuN+) or microglia (Iba‐1+) in the DG in IUGR rats compared to controls. Dendritic morphology of dentate granule cells did not differ between groups. Protein expression of the BDNF precursor (pro‐BDNF), but not mature BDNF, was increased in the hippocampus of IUGR compared with control rats. These findings highlight that while the long‐lasting prenatal hypoxic environment may impact brain development, it may not impact hippocampal‐dependent learning and memory in adolescence.
Impacts of couple stress with magnetic field and heat absorption on peristaltic flow of a power‐law fluid containing nanoparticles
Authors: Eldabe Nabil T. , Kamel Kawther A. , Ramadan Shaimaa F. , Saad Rabab A.
Published: December 2020

This paper deals with the mathematical examination of the arrangement of incomplete differential conditions which depict the peristaltic movement of a non‐Newtonian nanofluid with couple stress through a symmetric channel with flexible walls. The fluid used obeys a power‐law model. The system of the nondimensional form of momentum, heat, and concentration of the fluid flow is solved numerically by using a Rung–Kutta–Merson method with the appropriate boundary conditions after using the approximations of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. The obtained arrangements are elements of the physical boundaries of the problem. In this manner, the impacts of these boundaries on the velocity, temperature, and nanoconcentration distributions are concentrated mathematically and shown graphically through many figures. It is discovered that the physical boundaries play a significant role in controlling the arrangements, where the speed field diminishes with expansion of the attractive boundary, while it increments with expanding couple pressure and the non‐Newtonian parameter of the non‐Newtonian liquid. Additionally, the temperature and nanoconcentration changes with the Brownian parameter and thermophoresis. Moreover, the temperature distribution increases with increase of the magnetic parameter, Prandtl number, Eckert number, and heat source.
Oncometabolite L‐2‐hydroxyglurate directly induces vasculogenic mimicry through PHLDB2 in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Huan , Wang Liya , Zheng Qiming , Lu Zeyi , Chen Yuanlei , Shen Danyang , Xue Dingwei , Jiang Minxiao , Ding Lifeng , Zhang Jie , Wu Haiyang , Xia Liqun , Qian Jun , Li Gonghui , Lu Jieyang
Published: December 2020

Metabolism reprograming is a hallmark of cancer and plays an important role in tumor progression. The aberrant metabolism in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) leads to accumulation of the oncometabolite L‐2‐hydroxyglurate (L‐2HG). L‐2HG has been reported to inhibit the activity of some α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenases such as TET enzymes, which mediate epigenetic alteration, including DNA and histone demethylation. However, the detailed functions of L‐2HG in renal cell carcinoma have not been investigated thoroughly. In our study, we found that L‐2HG was significantly elevated in tumor tissues compared to adjacent tissues. Furthermore, we demonstrated that L‐2HG promoted vasculogenic mimicry (VM) in renal cancer cell lines through reducing the expression of PHLDB2. A mechanism study revealed that activation of the ERK1/2 pathway was involved in L‐2HG‐induced VM formation. In conclusion, these findings highlighted the pathogenic link between L‐2HG and VM and suggested a novel therapeutic target for RCC.
Evaluation of the lifetime brain/central nervous system cancer risk associated with childhood head CT scanning in Japan
Authors: Kadowaki Yuko , Hamada Nobuyuki , Kai Michiaki , Furukawa Kyoji
Published: December 2020

The use of computed tomography (CT) scanning has increased worldwide over the decades, and Japan is one of the leading countries in annual frequency of diagnostic CT. Although benefits of CT scan are undisputable, concerns have been raised about potential health effects of ionizing radiation exposure from CT, particularly among children who are likely more susceptible to radiation than adults. Our study aims to evaluate the cumulated lifetime risk of the brain/central nervous system (CNS) cancer due to head CT examinations performed on Japanese children at age 0 to 10 years in 2012, 2015 and 2018. The frequency and dose distribution of head CT examinations were estimated based on information from recent national statistics and nationwide surveys. The lifetime risk attributable to exposure was calculated by applying risk models based on the study of Japanese atomic‐bomb survivors. In contrast to the overall increasing trend, the frequency of childhood CT, especially at age < 5, was decreasing, reflecting a growing awareness for efforts to reduce childhood CT exposure over the past decade. In 2018, 138 532 head CT examinations were performed at age 0 to 10, which would consequently induce a lifetime excess of 22 cases (1 per 6300 scans) of brain/CNS cancers, accounting for 5% of the total cases. More excess cases were estimated among men than among women, and excess cases could emerge at relatively young ages. These results would have useful implications as scientific basis for future large‐scale epidemiological studies and also as quantitative evidence to justify the benefits of CT vs risks in Japan.
Effects of screening for colorectal cancer: Development, documentation and validation of a multistate Markov model
Authors: Heisser Thomas , Hoffmeister Michael , Brenner Hermann
Published: December 2020

Simulation models are a powerful tool to overcome gaps of evidence needed to inform medical decision‐making. Here, we present development and application of COSIMO, a Markov‐based Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Multi‐state Simulation Model to simulate effects of CRC screening, along with a thorough assessment of the model's ability to reproduce real‐life outcomes. Firstly, we provide a comprehensive documentation of COSIMO’s development, structure and assumptions. Secondly, to assess the model's external validity, we compared model‐derived cumulative incidence and prevalences of colorectal neoplasms to (a) results from KolosSal, a study in German screening colonoscopy participants, (b) registry‐based estimates of CRC incidence in Germany, and (c) outcome patterns of randomized sigmoidoscopy screening studies. We found that (a) more than 90% of observed prevalences in the KolosSal study were within the 95% confidence intervals of the model‐predicted neoplasm prevalences; (b) the 15‐year cumulative CRC incidences estimated by simulations for the German population deviated by 0.0% to 0.2% units in men and 0.0% to 0.3% units in women when compared to corresponding registry‐derived estimates; and (c) the time course of cumulative CRC incidence and mortality in the modeled intervention group and control group closely resembles the time course reported from sigmoidoscopy screening trials. Overall, COSIMO adequately predicted colorectal neoplasm prevalences and incidences in a German population for up to 25 years, with estimated patterns of the effect of screening colonoscopy resembling those seen in registry data and real‐world studies. This suggests that the model may represent a valid tool to assess the comparative effectiveness of CRC screening strategies.
Upfront treatment with mTOR inhibitor everolimus in pediatric low‐grade gliomas: A single‐center experience
Authors: Cacchione Antonella , Lodi Mariachiara , Carai Andrea , Miele Evelina , Tartaglia Marco , Megaro Giacomina , Del Baldo Giada , Alessi Iside , Colafati Giovanna Stefania , Carboni Alessia , Boccuto Luigi , Diomedi Camassei Francesca , Catanzaro Giuseppina , Po Agnese , Ferretti Elisabetta , Pedace Lucia , Pizzi Simone , Folgiero Valentina , Pezzullo Marco , Corsetti Tiziana , Secco Domitilla Elena , Cefalo Maria Giuseppina , Locatelli Franco , Mastronuzzi Angela
Published: December 2020

Pediatric low‐grade gliomas (pLGGs) are the most frequent brain tumor in children. Adjuvant treatment, consisting in chemotherapy and radiotherapy, is often necessary if a complete surgical resection cannot be obtained. Traditional treatment approaches result in a significant long‐term morbidity, with a detrimental impact on quality of life. Dysregulation of the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is the molecular hallmark of pLGGs and hyperactivation of the downstream mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is frequently observed. We report clinical and radiological results of front‐line treatment with everolimus in 10 consecutive patients diagnosed with m‐TOR positive pLGGs at the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital in Rome, Italy. Median duration of treatment was 19 months (range from 13‐60). Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed stable disease in 7 patients, partial response in 1 and disease progression in 2. Therapy‐related adverse events were always reversible after dose reduction or temporary treatment interruption. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of everolimus treatment for chemo‐ and radiotherapy‐naïve children with pLGG. Our results provide preliminary support, despite low sample size, for the use of everolimus as target therapy in pLGG showing lack of progression with a manageable toxicity profile.
From fragmented levels of care to integrated health care: Framework toward improved maternal and newborn health
Authors: Barnea Eytan R. , Nicholson Wanda , Theron Gerhard , Ramasauskaite Diana , Stark Michael , Albini S. Mark , Nassar Anwar H. ,   FIGO Safe Motherhood and Newborn Health Committee
Published: December 2020

Worldwide, health systems and care approaches vary widely due to local reality, distance to facilities, cultural norms, resources, staff availability, geography, and politics. Consequently, globally maternal–newborn dyad care and outcomes are highly variable, leading to approximately 800 maternal deaths daily with a 100‐fold difference among high‐ and low‐resource countries. Irrespective of where care is received, maternal safety and wellbeing should be preserved. Despite ongoing efforts, however, this is not the case. Large gaps exist between spending and clinical outcomes. Segmented health care, coupled with poor planning and inadequate resource distribution, results in failure to provide essential life‐saving treatment. The proposed solution is a regional integrated care model from midwife to advanced level III/IV care and the newborn unit, achieved through effective coordination by site, staff, and clinicians. This model has been successfully implemented in high‐ to low‐resource countries in the past 20 years. In the large diverse population of the United States, constructive steps have been implemented to reduce high maternal mortality in black and rural communities. The COVID‐19 pandemic demonstrates the feasibility of rapid resources coordination to provide effective advanced care. The proposed integration of resources will have a major positive impact on the maternal–newborn dyad.
Cervical cancer in women under 25 years of age and outside the screening age: Diagnosis profile and long‐term outcomes
Authors: Teixeira Julio Cesar , Santos Daniel Zaidan , Campos Cirbia Silva , Vale Diama Bhadra , Bragança Joana Froes , Zeferino Luiz Carlos
Published: December 2020

Objective

To evaluate the pattern of cervical cancer (CC) diagnosis and outcomes in women under 25.

Methods

Thirty‐two women younger than 25 years of age treated between 2001 and 2016 were studied and the year, symptom or cytology before diagnosis, time since sexual debut, age group, histology, and stage were considered. Data were compared with older age groups, and survival analysis was performed using a subset of them.

Results

Thirty‐two CC diagnoses (1.5% of all cases) exhibited a positive linear trend (P = 0.075). Driven by cytology, 18 were asymptomatic and 14 were symptomatic (with vaginal bleeding in 11). The mean time since sexual debut was 6.9 years. Advanced stage (44% vs 29%) and adenosquamous histology (12.5% vs 1.7%–5.0%) were higher in younger women. Five‐year overall survival rate was 76%, better for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (86% vs 43% for other histologies; P = 0.018). There were seven deaths, all within 15 months of diagnosis. Age groups of less than 25 years (53%) and 25–29 years (48.5%) had similar proportions of Stage IA1.

Conclusion

The rate of CC‐diagnosed women under 25 years was 1.5% of all cases, exhibiting more advanced stage and non‐SCC histology. For asymptomatic women, cytology allowed the diagnosis at an early stage. Being symptomatic and non‐SCC was associated with a higher proportion of advanced stages and poor survival.
This is what I need a clinical feedback system to do for me: A qualitative inquiry into perspectives of adolescents and their therapists
Authors: Lavik Kristina O. , Veseth Marius , Frøysa Helga , Stefansen Jon , Nøtnes Jan C. , Moltu Christian
Published: December 2020

Objective

Routine outcome monitoring and clinical feedback systems might be beneficial for adolescent psychotherapy processes.

Methods

Clinicians (n = 34) and adolescent clients (n = 22) aged 14–19 from seven different outpatient clinics located in Norway participated in the study. Adolescents were interviewed in individual in‐depth interviews (n = 7) or in four adolescent‐only focus groups (n = 15), clinicians participated in seven clinician‐only focus groups.

Results

We report two core domains, (1) feedback about the therapeutic relationship and (2) feedback about the therapeutic work. Seven subthemes specify the functionality that participants need in a feedback system.

Conclusion

Adolescents and therapists requested a feedback system that was relationally oriented, supported collaborative action, and was personalized to the needs of the individual adolescent. The research indicates that a clinical feedback system should have idiographic, as well as nomothetic, components. A clinical feedback system for adolescents should monitor experiences of personal autonomy and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.
Senescent cells exacerbate chronic inflammation and contribute to periodontal disease progression in old mice
Authors: Aquino‐Martinez Ruben , Eckhardt Brittany A. , Rowsey Jennifer L. , Fraser Daniel G. , Khosla Sundeep , Farr Joshua N. , Monroe David G.
Published: December 2020

Background

Coinciding with other chronic comorbidities, the prevalence of periodontal disease increases with aging. Mounting evidence has established that senescent cells accumulate at sites of age‐related pathologies, where they promote “non‐microbial” inflammation. We hypothesized that alveolar bone osteocytes develop senescence characteristics in old age.

Methods

Alveolar bone samples were obtained from young (6 months) and old (20 to 22 months) mice to evaluate the expression of senescence biomarkers by immunofluorescent staining. Osteocyte‐enriched fractions were used to characterize the age‐related senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) gene expression profile. Primary alveolar bone cells were exposed to the SASP via in vitro senescent conditioned media (SCM) administration. A multiplex assay confirmed protein levels of specific cytokines. Interactions with bacterial components were evaluated by stimulating cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Results

Increased senescence‐associated distension of satellites (SADS) and p16Ink4a mRNA expression were identified in alveolar bone osteocytes with aging. These findings were associated with increased levels of DNA damage, and activated p38 MAPK, both inducers of senescence. Furthermore, interleukin‐6 (IL6), IL17, IGFBP4, and MMP13 were significantly upregulated with aging in osteocyte‐enriched samples. Interestingly, SCM potentiated the LPS‐induced expression of IL1α, IL1β, and IL6. Cell migration and differentiation were also impeded by SCM. These in vitro effects were ameliorated by the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190.

Conclusions

Accumulation of senescent osteocytes contributes to deterioration of the periodontal environment by exacerbating chronic inflammation and reducing regeneration in old age. Cellular senescence is a cell‐intrinsic response to DNA damage, and a host‐related mechanism associated with aging that could potentiate inflammation induced by bacterial components.
The impact of pharmacist‐led strategies implemented to reduce errors related to cancer therapies: a systematic review
Authors: Coutsouvelis John , Siderov Jim , Tey Amanda Y. , Bortz Hadley D. , O’Connor Shaun R. , Rowan Gail D. , Vasileff Hayley M. , Page Amy T. , Percival Mia A.
Published: December 2020

Background

Patients with cancer are managed across the whole healthcare spectrum. This complex system of interdependencies has high potential for errors to occur. This is a focus area for pharmacists, who possess the skillset to optimise cancer care across the health care system, identifying errors and other medication‐related problems (MRP).

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify and describe the impact of the pharmacist’s contribution in reducing cancer therapy‐related errors.

Methods

A search of English‐language publications in Embase, Medline and CINAHL was conducted. Databases were searched from 1 January 2010 until 29 September 2020 to identify all quantitative studies of a descriptive, observational or experimental design. Articles describing pharmacist‐led interventions in adults receiving one or more cancer therapies including oral chemotherapy, intravenous chemotherapy or immunotherapy compared to no intervention, usual care or a service delivered by another healthcare professional were included. Researchers screened articles to identify eligible studies, and then data were extracted using a standardised data collection sheet. Quality assessment was undertaken using the modified Cochrane and the Newcastle Ottawa risk of bias tools. Data were reported as number or percentage.

Results

Of 2292 papers identified, nine studies were eligible for inclusion in this review. Pharmacist interventions consistently showed an increased identification of medication errors and medication‐related problems. Pharmacist contributions in many of the included studies comprised medication reviews and monitoring, laboratory monitoring, adverse drug reaction and drug–drug interaction management, adherence monitoring and medication counselling. All studies showed pharmacist intervention in cancer care resulted in fewer errors compared to control arms. Error minimisation was described for parenteral and oral cancer therapies and also for supportive medications such as antiemetics.

Conclusion

Pharmacists reduce errors and potential patient harm in practice settings where cancer patients are treated. Pharmacists are an integral component of cancer care teams.
Growth Rate of Ovarian Serous Cystadenomas and Cystadenofibromas
Authors: Frederick Ross P. , Patel Anika G. , Young Scott W. , Dahiya Nirvikar , Patel Maitray D.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

We analyzed growth rates of benign ovarian serous cystadenomas and cystadenofibromas to understand what percentage would show a volume doubling time (DT) of less than 3 years, between 3 and 5 years, or greater than 5 years.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed pathology records (January 1, 2014, to June 30, 2019) to find all surgically excised ovarian serous cystadenomas and cystadenofibromas. Imaging records were then reviewed to identify those that had been confidently identified with ultrasound imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, or computed tomography at least twice before surgical removal, with at least a 60‐day interval between studies. Three orthogonal measurements were recorded on the first and last imaging studies on which the mass was detected, with volume calculations by the prolate formula (product of 3 measurements multiplied by 0.52). The volume DT was calculated and grouped into 1 of 5 categories: (1) DT of less than 1 year; (2) DT of 1 to 3 years; (3) DT of 3 to 5 years; (4) DT of 5 to 10 years; and (5) no growth (any mass with a DT >10 years or showing a decrease in volume).

Results

A total of 102 of 536 cystadenomas and 44 of 227 cystadenofibromas met inclusion criteria. Of the 146 tumors, 40 (27.4%) had a DT of less than 1 year; 38 (26.0%) had a DT of 1 to 3 years; 22 (15.1%) had a DT of 3 to 5 years; 10 (6.8%) had a DT of 5 to 10 years; and 36 (24.7%) showed no growth.

Conclusions

A total of 53.4% of ovarian serous cystadenomas/cystadenofibromas have a DT of less than 3 years; 15.1% have a DT between 3 and 5 years; and 31.5% have a DT of greater than 5 years or show no growth.
Temporal Artery Posterior Auricular Skin Free Flap for Secondary Oral Cavity Reconstruction
Authors: Sahovaler Axel , Berania Ilyes , Ferrari Marco , Ziai Hedyeh , Jethwa Ashok , Goldstein David P. , de Almeida John R. , Gilbert Ralph
Published: December 2020

View Video S1
Autonomous vehicle surveys indicate that flow reversals retain juvenile fishes in a highly advective high‐latitude ecosystem
Authors: Levine Robert M. , De Robertis Alex , Grünbaum Daniel , Woodgate Rebecca , Mordy Calvin W. , Mueter Franz , Cokelet Edward , Lawrence‐Slavas Noah , Tabisola Heather
Published: December 2020

Summer surveys of the Chukchi Sea indicate that high densities of age‐0 gadid fishes, historically Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) but recently also walleye pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus), dominate the pelagic fish community. Adults are comparatively scarce, suggesting that either overwinter survivorship of age‐0 gadids is low, or that they emigrate to other areas of the Pacific Arctic. To examine population movement, we conducted repeat acoustic surveys with saildrone autonomous surface vehicles equipped with echosounders throughout summer 2018. The saildrones' range and endurance enabled two large‐scale surveys of the U.S. Chukchi shelf. Acoustic backscatter, a proxy for fish density, was highest in regions with sea surface temperatures of 6–8°C, and lowest in areas influenced by recent ice melt. A subarea of the central Chukchi was surveyed a total of four times; backscatter in this subarea increased by > 85% from late‐July to mid‐September. As summer progressed, fish developed more extensive diel vertical migrations and backscatter from individuals doubled. Both changes suggest increases in backscatter were driven primarily by increasing body size. Particle tracking simulations indicated age‐0 gadids were likely retained over the Chukchi shelf by extended periods of wind‐driven southward flow during the survey period before strong northward flow in late fall transported them to the north. These findings suggest that in summer 2018, age‐0 gadids were advected northward to the Chukchi shelf from the northern Bering Sea, where they were retained during a period of growth until late fall before being advected farther north toward the Chukchi and Beaufort shelf breaks.
The Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplant Is Associated With Outcomes Before and After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Deutsch‐Link Sasha , Weinberg Ethan M. , Bittermann Therese , McDougal Mackenzie , Dhariwal Aniket , Jones Lauren S. , Weinrieb Robert M. , Banerjee Arpita G. , Addis Senayish , Serper Marina
Published: December 2020

The Stanford Integrated Psychosocial Assessment for Transplant (SIPAT) is a standardized psychosocial evaluation tool used in liver transplantation (LT) evaluation. We assessed the impact of the SIPAT score and subdomains on transplant waitlisting decisions and post‐LT outcomes including immunosuppression (IS) nonadherence, biopsy‐proven rejection, andmortality/graft failure. We conducted a single‐center observational cohort study of 1430 patients evaluated for LT. Patients were divided in 2 groups based on a SIPAT cutoff score of <21 or ≥21 (higher SIPAT scores indicate higher psychosocial risk). Regression models assessed relationships between total SIPAT score and domain scores and waitlisting decisions, IS nonadherence, allograft rejection, and death/graft failure. Elevated total SIPAT and SIPAT domain scores were associated not being added to the waitlist (total SIPAT core ≥21 adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.78 [95% confidence interval, CI, 1.36‐2.33]; readiness score ≥5 aOR, 2.01 [95% CI, 1.36‐2.76]; social support score ≥4aOR, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.15‐1.94]; psychopathology score ≥7 aOR, 1.45 [95% CI, 1.07‐1.94]; lifestyle/substance abuse score ≥12 aOR, 1.72 [95%CI, 1.23‐2.39]) and were more likely to experience IS nonadherence as measured by the tacrolimus coefficient of variation (CoV) (total SIPAT score ≥21 aOR, 2.92 [95% CI, 1.69‐5.03]; readiness score ≥5 aOR, 3.26 [95% CI, 1.63‐6.52]; psychopathology score ≥7 aOR, 1.88 [95% CI, 1.00‐3.50]; lifestyle substance abuse score ≥12 aOR, 3.03 [95% CI, 1.56‐5.86]). SIPAT readinessscore ≥5 was associated with biopsy‐proven allograft rejection (aOR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.20‐5.91). The SIPAT score was independently associated with LT listing decisions and IS nonadherence, and the readiness domain was associated with the risk of allograft rejection. These findings offer insights into higher risk recipients who require additional support before and aftertransplantation.
Missense variants in CTNNB1 can be associated with vitreoretinopathy—Seven new cases of CTNNB1‐associated neurodevelopmental disorder including a previously unreported retinal phenotype
Authors: Rossetti Linda Z. , Bekheirnia Mir Reza , Lewis Andrea M. , Mefford Heather C. , Golden‐Grant Katie , Tarczy‐Hornoch Kristina , Briere Lauren C. , Sweetser David A. , Walker Melissa A. , Kravets Elijah , Stevenson David A. , Bruenner Georgette , Sebastian Jessica , Knapo Julia , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Marcogliese Paul C. ,   Undiagnosed Diseases Network, Wangler Michael F.
Published: December 2020

Background

CTNNB1 (MIM 116806) encodes beta‐catenin, an adherens junction protein that supports the integrity between layers of epithelial tissue and mediates intercellular signaling. Recently, various heterozygous germline variants in CTNNB1 have been associated with human disease, including neurodevelopmental disorder with spastic diplegia and visual defects (MIM 615075) as well as isolated familial exudative vitreoretinopathy without developmental delays or other organ system involvement (MIM 617572). From over 40 previously reported patients with CTNNB1‐related neurodevelopmental disorder, many have had ocular anomalies including strabismus, hyperopia, and astigmatism. More recently, multiple reports indicate that these abnormalities are associated with the presence of vitreoretinopathy.

Methods

We gathered a cohort of three patients with CTNNB1‐related neurodevelopmental disorder, recruited from both our own clinic and referred from outside providers. We then searched for a clinical database comprised of over 12,000 exome sequencing studies to identify and recruit four additional patients.

Results

Here, we report seven new cases of CTNNB1‐related neurodevelopmental disorder, all harboring de novo variants, six of which were previously unreported. All patients but one presented with a spectrum of ocular abnormalities and one patient, who was found to carry a missense variant in CTNNB1, had notable vitreoretinopathy.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest ophthalmologic screening should be performed in all patients with CTNNB1 variants.
PET/CT acceptance testing and quality assurance: Executive summary of AAPM Task Group 126 Report
Authors: Lopez Benjamin P. , Jordan David W. , Kemp Brad J. , Kinahan Paul E. , Schmidtlein Charles R. , Mawlawi Osama R.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

A Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography quality assurance program is necessary to ensure that patients receive optimal imaging and care. We summarize the AAPM Task Group (TG) 126 report on acceptance and quality assurance (QA) testing of PET/CT systems.

Methods

TG 126 was charged with developing PET/CT acceptance testing and QA procedures. The TG aimed to develop procedures that would allow for standardized evaluation of existing short‐axis cylindrical‐bore PET/CT systems in the spirit of NEMA NU 2 standards without requiring specialized phantoms or proprietary software tools.

Results

We outline eight performance evaluations using common phantoms and freely available software whereby the clinical physicist monitors each PET/CT system by comparing periodic Follow‐Up Measurements to Baseline Measurements acquired during acceptance testing. For each of the eight evaluations, we also summarize the expected testing time and materials necessary and the recommended pass/fail criteria.

Conclusion

Our report provides a guideline for periodic evaluations of most clinical PET/CT systems that simplifies procedures and requirements outlined by other agencies and will facilitate performance comparisons across vendors, models, and institutions.
12‐Month progression of motor and functional outcomes in congenital myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Quigg Kellen H. , Berggren Kiera N. , McIntyre Melissa , Bates Kameron , Salmin Francesca , Casiraghi Jacopo L. , DʼAmico Adele , Astrea Guja , Ricci Federica , McKay Marnee J. , Baldwin Jennifer N. , Burns Joshua , Campbell Craig , Sansone Valeria A. , Johnson Nicholas E.
Published: December 2020

Background

We aim to describe 12‐mo functional and motor outcome performance in a cohort of participants with congenital myotonic dystrophy (CDM).

Methods

CDM participants performed the 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT), 10 Meter Run, 4 Stair Climb, Grip Strength, and Lip Force at baseline and 12‐mo visits. Parents completed the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale.

Results

Forty‐seven participants, aged 0 to 13 y old, with CDM were enrolled. 6MWT, 10 Meter Run, and 4 Stair Climb were completed in >85% of eligible participants. The only significant difference between mean baseline and 12‐mo performance was an improvement in 6MWT in children 3‐6 y old (P = .008). This age group also had the largest mean % improvement in performance in all other timed functional testing. In children >7 y, the slope of change on timed functional tests decreased or plateaued, with further reductions in performance in children ≥10 y. Participants with CTG repeat lengths <500 did not perform differently than those with repeat lengths >1000.

Conclusions

The 6MWT, 10 Meter Run, and 4 Stair Climb were the most feasible measures. Our findings are consistent with the clinical profile and prior cross‐sectional data, helping to establish reasonable expectations of functional trajectories in this population as well as identifying points in which therapeutic interventions may be best studied. Further study of outcomes in children >10 y old and <3 y is warranted, but this new information will assist planning of clinical trials in the CDM population.
Effect of Cryopreservation and Packaging System on Sperm Motility and Fertility of Striped Catfish
Authors: Medina-Robles Víctor M. , Pahí-Rosero Ana M. , Sandoval-Vargas Leydy Y. , Cruz-Casallas Pablo E.
Published: December 2020

The Orinoco Striped Catfish Pseudoplatystoma orinocoense is a highly valued commercial-capture species in Colombia. Although this species was considered endangered and is now in a recovery situation, there are still no cryopreservation studies for its milt. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different cryopreservation media and two packaging systems on the sperm motility and fertilization capacity of Striped Catfish. A first experiment was conducted to test the effects of two permeating cryoprotectants (10% dimethyl sulfoxide and 12% methanol) combined with glucose at two concentrations (5.5% and 10%) and with two membrane stabilizers (12% egg yolk and 5% whole milk powder) on the post-thaw motility of milt samples that were packed into 0.5-mL straws. The cryopreservation media with the best results in the first experiment were selected for a second experiment in which we evaluated 5-mL macrotubes as a packaging system. In this case, the response variables were sperm motility and fertility rate. In both experiments, milt with sperm motility that exceeded 90% was diluted at a 1:6 (volume basis) ratio in each of the two cryopreservation media. The diluted samples were packed, equilibrated (for 10 min), then frozen in a nitrogen-vapor dry shipper for 30 min, and finally stored in liquid nitrogen until they were evaluated. Each factor and its interactions showed a significant effect (P < 0.001) on post-thaw sperm motility in experiment 1. The best protection during cryopreservation was obtained when 12% methanol supplemented with 5.5% glucose was used as a permeating cryoprotectant, yielding an average motility of 33.3 ± 5.1% (mean ± SD) and 64 ± 5.4% in the 0.5- and 5-mL packaging systems, respectively. Similarly, the highest fertility rate (85%) was recorded under this treatment, with no significant difference (P > 0.05) from the fresh milt. Therefore, Striped Catfish milt can be cryopreserved in 5-mL macrotubes by using 12% methanol and 5.5% glucose, without the addition of membrane stabilizers.
Prediction and numerical simulation of the face‐slab extrusion damage of Dashixia concrete faced rock‐fill dam
Authors: Zhu Sheng , Ning Zhiyuan , Wang Jing
Published: December 2020

One of the core issues affecting the safety of high concrete faced rock‐fill dams (CFRDs) is the extrusion damage of the concrete face slabs. In this paper, the causes of the face‐slab extrusion damage under long‐term operational conditions are studied. It is found that not only the creep behavior of the dam materials but also the circulating water load in the reservoir is responsible for the uneven deformation of the dam that induces the extrusion damage of the face slabs. The possibility of the potential extrusion damage of the face slab of the Dashixia dam, which is now under construction in Xinjiang, China, is further predicted by means of a three‐dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). In the FEA, a unified generalized plasticity model that can reflect the volumetric contraction property during the unloading phase of coarse‐grained materials is adopted to overcome the shortcomings of previous studies where the effects of the circulating water load are neglected because of model limitations. Then, combined with an incremental creep model, the long‐term operational characteristics of the Dashixia dam are predicted and thoroughly discussed. Moreover, a submodel of the face slab is developed and introduced in the analysis to simulate the compressive stress along the thickness of the face slab. According to the results, it can be concluded that extrusion damage of the face slab of the Dashixia dam may occur under the current design conditions, and it is recommended to take some engineering measures to strengthen the slab.
A coupled SPFEM/DEM approach for multiscale modeling of large‐deformation geomechanical problems
Authors: Guo Ning , Yang Zhongxuan , Yuan Weihai , Zhao Jidong
Published: December 2020

Computational modeling in geotechnical engineering frequently needs sophisticated constitutive models to describe prismatic behavior of geomaterials subjected to complex loading conditions, and meanwhile faces challenges to tackle large deformation in many geotechnical problems. The study presents a multiscale approach to address both challenges based on a hierarchical coupling of the smoothed particle finite element method (SPFEM) and the discrete element method (DEM) (coined SPFEM/DEM). In the approach, SPFEM serves as a solver for the global boundary value problem, in which the material constitutive responses are derived from the DEM solution of representative volume elements (RVEs) attached to the SPFEM nodes to avoid phenomenological constitutive assumptions. The approach is capable of modeling large deformation because of use of SPFEM, which discretizes the domain with a set of Lagrangian nodes and employs Delaunay triangulation for efficient remeshing on the nodes. In addition, as the RVEs are associated with the nodes due to the nodal integration technique in SPFEM, the interpolation of RVEs from the old mesh to the new one is bypassed, which is otherwise infeasible. The smoothing operation in nodal integration further offers a remedy for regularizing mesh dependency in simulation of strain localization problems. Two examples, namely, general failure of a footing and flow of an unstable slope, are used to demonstrate the potential of the proposed method in solving large deformation and providing reliable predictions on collapse and failure of geotechnical problems.
Talabostat Alleviates Obesity and Associated Metabolic Dysfunction via Suppression of Macrophage‐Driven Adipose Inflammation
Authors: Wu Yunyun , Shi Tiancong , Wang Jiqiu , He Rui
Published: December 2020

Objective

Adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) play critical roles in obesity‐associated inflammation that contributes to metabolic dysfunction. Talabostat (TB) exerts some therapeutic effects on tumors and obesity. However, it remains unknown whether the metabolic benefits of TB on obesity is dependent on ATM‐mediated adipose inflammation.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal chow diet (NCD) or a high‐fat diet for 12 weeks, and mice were orally administered TB daily at a low dose (0.5 mg/kg).

Results

Administration of TB to mice fed a high‐fat diet significantly improved adiposity and obesity‐associated metabolic dysfunction, including glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis, which were accompanied by increased whole‐body energy expenditure. RNA sequencing analysis revealed extensive alterations in the transcriptome profiles associated with lipid metabolism and immune responses in adipose tissue of obese mice. Notably, TB treatment led to a significant reduction in ATM accumulation and a shift of the activation state of ATMs from the proinflammatory M1‐like to the anti‐inflammatory M2‐like phenotype. Moreover, depletion of ATMs significantly abolished the TB‐induced metabolic benefits.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that TB at a low dose could increase energy expenditure and control ATM‐mediated adipose inflammation in obese mice, thereby alleviating obesity and its associated metabolic dysfunction.

image
A comparison of real‐time and delayed visual performance feedback on teacher praise
Authors: Lown Elizabeth L. , Radley Keith C. , Dart Evan H. , Dufrene Brad A. , Tingstrom Daniel H. , Hayes Lynda , Tannehill Jennifer
Published: December 2020

A number of researchers have found behavior‐specific praise (BSP) to be an effective strategy for increasing student academic engagement. Performance feedback is often used to promote teacher BSP; however, variations in how performance feedback is provided have been proposed and it is unknown whether one strategy may be more effective than others. The current study compared two types of performance feedback, delayed performance feedback and real‐time visual performance feedback, on the use of BSP by Head Start teachers. The primary outcome of the study was teacher use of BSP, with student academic engagement behavior being evaluated as a secondary dependent variable. Results from the study indicated that both procedures resulted in increases in teacher use of BSP, with little differentiation between performance feedback strategies. Similarly, both strategies received high ratings of social validity from participating teachers.
Omics in Systems Biology: Current Progress and Future Outlook
Authors: Veenstra Timothy D.
Published: December 2020

Biological research has undergone tremendous changes over the past three decades. Research used to almost exclusively focus on a single aspect of a single molecule per experiment. Modern technologies have enabled thousands of molecules to be simultaneously analyzed and the way that these molecules influence each other to be discerned. The change is so dramatic that it has given rise to a whole new descriptive suffix (i.e., omics) to describe these fields of study. While genomics was arguably the initial driver of this new trend, it quickly spread to other biological entities resulting in the creation of transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, etc. The development of these “big four omics” created a wave of other omic fields, such as epigenomics, glycomics, lipidomics, microbiomics, and even foodomics; all with the purpose of comprehensively studying all the molecular entities or processes within their respective domain. The large number of omic fields that are invented even led to the term “panomics” as a way to classify them all under one category. Ultimately, all of these omic fields are setting the foundation for developing systems biology; in which the focus will be on determining the complex interactions that occur within biological systems.