bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bronchial arterial embolization may reduce the risk of severe bleeding in central airway obstruction due to renal cell carcinomas during bronchoscopic procedures
Authors: Tao Meimei , Zhang Nan , Wang Hongwu , Ma Hongming , Gao Hong , Wang Zhina
Published: December 2020

Background:

Hemorrhage is a life-threatening complication during bronchoscopic intervention in patients with central airway obstruction (CAO) due to metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Whether pre-bronchoscopic bronchial arterial embolization (BAE) can reduce the risk of severe bleeding in CAO patients due to metastatic RCC remains unclear.

Methods:

A total of 31 CAO patients due to metastatic RCC were included retrospectively and divided into a BAE group (receiving pre-bronchoscopic BAE) and non-BAE group in this study. Based on computed tomography (CT) and bronchoscopic findings, tumor debulking was used to reconstruct the airway during interventional bronchoscopy. The primary outcome was the incidence of severe bleeding during bronchoscopic procedures. Bleeding-related complications, Karnofsky performance score (KPS) and dyspnea score were also analyzed over a 1-month observation period.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the two groups in baseline characteristics, including patients’ features, tumor morphology under CT scannings, tumor site, and obstruction degree under bronchoscopic examination. Procedure-related bleeding occurred in all 31 patients. Pre-bronchoscopic BAE significantly reduced the incidence of moderate and major bleeding when compared with that in the non-BAE group. The incidence of poor visualization and hypoxia was also reduced significantly in the BAE group. There was no significant difference in KPS and dyspnea score between the BAE and non-BAE groups at 1 month follow up.

Conclusion:

Pre-bronchoscopic BAE might be a feasible option to reduce the risk of severe bleeding for CAO patients due to metastatic RCC during bronchoscopic intervention. Interventional bronchoscopy was a safe and effective procedure for CAO due to metastatic RCC. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
A Niebuhrian pacifism for an imperfect world
Authors: Moses Jeremy
Published: December 2020

This article considers the role that might be played by the political thought of Reinhold Niebuhr in contemporary debates over pacifism. It begins with an overview of Niebuhr’s changing position on pacifism, showing how his early commitment to anti-war principles gradually faded over time and was replaced with a pragmatic approach to just war thinking in his later life. The article then considers whether this drift away from pacifism necessarily means that there is nothing in Niebuhrian Christian realism for contemporary pacifist thought. Drawing on Niebuhr’s critique of perfectionist liberalism, it argues that an imperfect and non-absolute pacifism that accepts the permanent possibility of political violence but refuses to offer moral endorsement to such violence can offer a viable political position in current debates on war and peace, particularly in opposition to just war approaches.
Cancelloplasty for Treatment of Osteomyelitis of the Calcaneus: A Novel Technique and Case Report
Authors: Huchital Michael J. , Saleh Ali , Patel Rajan , Subik Michael
Published: December 2020

Calcaneal osteomyelitis has the potential to cause limb- and life-threatening complications. The anatomic and biomechanical attributes of the heel make limb salvage in the setting of bone infection complex. Current treatment options include surgical resection of part or all of the calcaneus, lower extremity amputation, or prolonged intravenous antibiotic usage. Each modality has its own inherent disadvantages. We present a novel surgical technique using antibiotic-impregnated calcium phosphate as an alternative treatment option coupled with ultrasonic bone dissection as a method for enhancing delivery of antibiotics, while mitigating tissue damage and maintaining osseous integrity. The details of the surgical technique are discussed along with a single case example.
Partial Recanalization of a Large Vessel Acute Ischemic Stroke With Intravenous Tissue Plasminogen Activator, Followed by Systemic Anticoagulation, in the Setting of COVID-19-Induced Hypercoagulability: A Case Report
Authors: LaBarbera Vincent A. , Azher Aidan , Jayaraman Mahesh V. , Wendell Linda C. , Sacchetti Daniel C. , Thompson Bradford
Published: December 2020

We report on the use of systemic heparinization following thrombolysis with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) for acute ischemic large vessel stroke, in the setting of COVID-19-induced hypercoagulability, with partial recanalization of the internal carotid artery. Off-label systemic heparinization was used within 12 hours of t-PA administration, after extensive multidisciplinary collaboration and family discussion, given evidence of severe hypercoagulability. We conclude that thrombolysis should be considered for all eligible patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and acute ischemic stroke, and systemic anticoagulation, although with inherent risks, may be a useful adjunct treatment modality in selected patients who have received intravenous thrombolysis.
An Empirical Analysis of the Factors Influencing the Development of Insurance Industry in China
Authors: Li Ting , Li Menggang
Published: December 2020

This article analyzes the relationship between inflation, increase of investment in fixed assets, monetary policy, financial openness, national savings, macro-economic climate index, deposit rate, and the development of insurance industry in China. We set the incremental indicators as the variables and constructed an analysis integrating a multiple linear regression, stepwise regression, and robustness analysis, and used historical monthly data sample during the period of January 2004 to December 2017 for empirical analysis. The result indicates that (a) the national savings and macro-economic climate index are the major factors that influence the development of insurance industry in China by now; (b) to improve the development of insurance industry, both the economic growth and people’s income should continue to advance; and (c) financial openness should be paid more attention to, which is insufficient, and there is lack of competitive vitality in the whole insurance market.
Srinivas and His Sociological Imagination*I dedicate this article to Mrs Rukmini Srinivas who was my surrogate mother during a difficult and awkward phase of my teenage and early adulthood years.
Authors: Panini M.N.
Published: December 2020

This essay searches for the models of society and social change that emerge from Srinivas’ extensive contributions to sociology. This task also inevitably leads to his notions of theory and method. Srinivas’s academic studies of social change in India also shaped the course of social change because the concepts that he coined entered the vocabulary of politics and social life in India.
Developmental Social Work and the Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Muleya Emmison
Published: December 2020

The main thrust of this article concerns the potential for the social work profession to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which overlap with developmental social work, specifically with respect to poverty and inequalities in South Africa. Although developmental social work practice may attempt to tackle the structural causes of poverty and inequality, relatively few studies appear to have been conducted to evaluate the contribution of this approach to attaining SDGs. The article draws from contemporary available literature and documents and the author’s observations pertaining to developmental social work and the role which it can play in attaining SDGs in the context of present-day South Africa. The review revealed the potential for developmental social work to make a meaningful contribution to attaining SDGs and the factors which could continue to hinder developmental social work practice, thereby making it difficult for SDGs.
Targeting the eCIRP/TREM-1 interaction with a small molecule inhibitor improves cardiac dysfunction in neonatal sepsis
Authors: Denning Naomi-Liza , Aziz Monowar , Diao Li , Prince Jose M. , Wang Ping
Published: December 2020

Background

Neonatal sepsis and the associated myocardial dysfunction remain a leading cause of infant mortality. Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (eCIRP) acts as a ligand of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1). M3 is a small CIRP-derived peptide that inhibits the eCIRP/TREM-1 interaction. We hypothesize that the eCIRP/TREM-1 interaction in cardiomyocytes contributes to sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction in neonatal sepsis, while M3 is cardioprotective.

Methods

Serum was collected from neonates in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). 5–7-day old C57BL/6 mouse pups were used in this study. Primary murine neonatal cardiomyocytes were stimulated with recombinant murine (rm) CIRP with M3. TREM-1 mRNA and supernatant cytokine levels were assayed. Mitochondrial oxidative stress, ROS, and membrane potential were assayed. Neonatal mice were injected with rmCIRP and speckle-tracking echocardiography was conducted to measure cardiac strain. Sepsis was induced byi.p.cecal slurry. Mouse pups were treated with M3 or vehicle. After 16 h, echocardiography was performed followed by euthanasia for tissue analysis. A 7-day survival study was conducted.

Results

Serum eCIRP levels were elevated in septic human neonates. rmCIRP stimulation of cardiomyocytes increased TREM-1 gene expression. Stimulation of cardiomyocytes with rmCIRP upregulated TNF-α and IL-6 in the supernatants, while this upregulation was inhibited by M3. Stimulation of cardiomyocytes with rmCIRP resulted in a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) while M3 treatment returned MMP to near baseline. rmCIRP caused mitochondrial calcium overload; this was inhibited by M3. rmCIRP injection impaired longitudinal and radial cardiac strain. Sepsis resulted in cardiac dysfunction with a reduction in cardiac output and left ventricular end diastolic diameter. Both were improved by M3 treatment. Treatment with M3 attenuated serum, cardiac, and pulmonary levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to vehicle-treated septic neonates. M3 dramatically increased sepsis survival.

Conclusions

Inhibition of eCIRP/TREM-1 interaction with M3 is cardioprotective, decreases inflammation, and improves survival in neonatal sepsis.

Trial registrationRetrospectively registered.
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 regulates synaptic plasticity in a chronic migraine rat model through the PKC/NR2B signal
Authors: Niu Yingying , Zeng Xiaoxu , Zhao Lilin , Zhou Yang , Qin Guangcheng , Zhang Dunke , Fu Qingqing , Zhou Jiying , Chen Lixue
Published: December 2020

Background

The mechanism of chronic migraine (CM) is complex, central sensitization is considered as one of the pathological mechanism. Synaptic plasticity is the basis of central sensitization. Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) plays a vital role in the synaptic plasticity of the central nervous system. However, whether mGluR5 can promote the central sensitization by regulating synaptic plasticity in CM is unknown.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were used to establish a CM rat model, and the expression of mGluR5 mRNA and protein were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. The allodynia was assessed by mechanical and thermal thresholds, and central sensitization was assessed by expression of the phosphorylation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element-binding protein (CREB) at Serine 133(pCREB-S133) and c-Fos. The synaptic-associated protein postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD), synaptophysin (Syp), and synaptophysin-1(Syt-1), synaptic ultrastructure, and dendritic spines were detected to explore synaptic plasticity. The expression of PKC, total NR2B(tNR2B), and phosphorylation of NR2B at Tyr1472(pNR2B-Y1472) were detected by western blot.

Results

We found that the expression of mGluR5 was upregulated in CM rats. Downregulated the mGluR5 with MPEP alleviated the allodynia and reduced the expression of CGRP, pCREB-S133, c-Fos, PSD, Syp and Syt-1 and synaptic transmission. Moreover, the administration of MPEP inhibited the upregulation of PKC and pNR2B-Y1472.

Conclusions

These results indicate that mGluR5 contributes to central sensitization by regulating synaptic plasticity in CM through the PKC/NR2B signal, which suggests that mGluR5 may be a potential therapeutic candidate for CM.
Differential transcriptomics in sarcoidosis lung and lymph node granulomas with comparisons to pathogen-specific granulomas
Authors: Casanova Nancy G. , Gonzalez-Garay Manuel L. , Sun Belinda , Bime Christian , Sun Xiaoguang , Knox Kenneth S. , Crouser Elliott D. , Sammani Nora , Gonzales Taylor , Natt Bhupinder , Chaudhary Sachin , Lussier Yves , Garcia Joe G. N.
Published: December 2020

Rationale

Despite the availability of multi-“omics” strategies, insights into the etiology and pathogenesis of sarcoidosis have been elusive. This is partly due to the lack of reliable preclinical models and a paucity of validated biomarkers. As granulomas are a key feature of sarcoidosis, we speculate that direct genomic interrogation of sarcoid tissues, may lead to identification of dysregulated gene pathways or biomarker signatures.

Objective

To facilitate the development sarcoidosis genomic biomarkers by gene expression profiling of sarcoidosis granulomas in lung and lymph node tissues (most commonly affected organs) and comparison to infectious granulomas (coccidiodomycosis and tuberculosis).

Methods

Transcriptomic profiles of immune-related gene from micro-dissected sarcoidosis granulomas within lung and mediastinal lymph node tissues and compared to infectious granulomas from paraffin-embedded blocks. Differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) were profiled, compared among the three granulomatous diseases and analyzed for functional enrichment pathways.

Results

Despite histologic similarities, DEGs and pathway enrichment markedly differed in sarcoidosis granulomas from lymph nodes and lung. Lymph nodes showed a clear immunological response, whereas a structural regenerative response was observed in lung. Sarcoidosis granuloma gene expression data corroborated previously reported genomic biomarkers (STAB1, HBEGF, and NOTCH4), excluded others and identified new genomic markers present in lung and lymph nodes, ADAMTS1, NPR1 and CXCL2. Comparisons between sarcoidosis and pathogen granulomas identified pathway divergences and commonalities at gene expression level.

Conclusion

These findings suggest the importance of tissue and disease-specificity evaluation when exploring sarcoidosis genomic markers. This relevant translational information in sarcoidosis and other two histopathological similar infections provides meaningful specific genomic-derived biomarkers for sarcoidosis diagnosis and prognosis.
Proline-rich protein 11 overexpression is associated with a more aggressive phenotype and poor overall survival in ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Zhan Yu , Wu Xueyuan , Zheng Gang , Jin Jingjing , Li Chaofu , Yu Guanzhen , Li Wenfeng
Published: December 2020

Background

The proline-rich protein 11 (PRR11) is a newly identified oncogene associated with a poor prognosis in several human cancers. Nonetheless, research on its role in ovarian cancer (OC) remains largely understudied. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the expression levels of PRR11 protein and its role in human ovarian cancer.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry analysis was used to evaluate the expression levels of PRR11 protein in human samples obtained from 49 patients diagnosed with OC and subjected to curative surgery in the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between 2007 and 2015.

Results

In total, 57.1% of the primary OC tumor tissue evaluated demonstrated overexpression of PRR11. Meanwhile, the survival analysis showed that the overall survival (OS) of patients presenting overexpression of PRR11 was significantly lower than the OS of the patients with negative PRR11. In subsequent experiments, it was found that silencing the expression of PRR11 expression inhibited the proliferation of tumor cells and the migration of cells in vitro. Further, cells subjected to PRR11 knockdown exhibited a decrease in tumor growth in vivo. The downregulation of PRR11 was coupled with a decrease in N-cadherin and downregulation in the expression of early growth response protein 1 (EGR1).

Conclusions

The findings suggest that PRR11 might be considered as a potential target for prognostic assessment and gene therapy strategies for patients diagnosed with OC.
Chiropractic conservatism among chiropractic students in Denmark: prevalence and consequences
Authors: Nim Casper Glissmann , Lauridsen Henrik Hein , O’Neill Søren , Goncalves Guillaume , Jensen Rikke K. , Leboeuf-Yde Charlotte
Published: December 2020

Background

The chiropractic profession is split between those practicing evidence-based and those whose practice is honed by vitalism. The latter has been coined ‘chiropractic conservatism’. In Denmark, the chiropractic education program is university-based in close collaboration with a medical faculty. We wanted to investigate if such conservative attitudes were present in this environment.

Our objectives were to i) determine the level of chiropractic conservatism, ii) investigate if this was linked to academic year of study, iii) determine the level of clinical appropriateness, and iv) to investigate if this was affected by the level of conservatism among students in a chiropractic program, where the students are taught alongside medical students at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU).

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 146 (response-rate 76%) 3rd to 5th year pre-graduate students and 1st year postgraduate clinical interns from the chiropractic degree course at the University of Southern Denmark was conducted during autumn of 2019. The students’ levels of conservatism were dichotomized into appropriate/inappropriate, summed up, and used in a linear regression model to determine the association with academic year of study. Thereafter, the conservatism score was categorized into four groups (from low -1- to high -4-). Conservatism groups were cross-tabulated with the ability to answer appropriately on nine cases concerning i) contra-indications, ii) non-indications, and iii) indications for spinal manipulation and analyzed using logistic regression.

Results

Generally, the Danish chiropractic students had low conservatism scores, decreasing with increasing academic year of study. Seventy percent of the students were placed in the two lowest conservative groups. The level of conservatism (categories 1–3) was moderately (but not statistically significantly) associated with an inability to recognize non-indications to treatment. Three outliers (category 4), however, revealed a highly inappropriate handling of the clinical cases.

Conclusions

Chiropractic students enrolled at a university-based course closely integrated with a medical teaching environment are not immune to chiropractic conservatism. However, the course appears to attenuate it and limit its effect on clinical decision-making compared to other educational institutions.
A systematic review of the “promising zone” design
Authors: Edwards Julia M. , Walters Stephen J. , Kunz Cornelia , Julious Steven A.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Sample size calculations require assumptions regarding treatment response and variability. Incorrect assumptions can result in under- or overpowered trials, posing ethical concerns. Sample size re-estimation (SSR) methods investigate the validity of these assumptions and increase the sample size if necessary. The “promising zone” (Mehta and Pocock, Stat Med 30:3267–3284, 2011) concept is appealing to researchers for its design simplicity. However, it is still relatively new in the application and has been a source of controversy.

Objectives

This research aims to synthesise current approaches and practical implementation of the promising zone design.

Methods

This systematic review comprehensively identifies the reporting of methodological research and of clinical trials using promising zone. Databases were searched according to a pre-specified search strategy, and pearl growing techniques implemented.

Results

The combined search methods resulted in 270 unique records identified; 171 were included in the review, of which 30 were trials. The median time to the interim analysis was 60% of the original target sample size (IQR 41–73%). Of the 15 completed trials, 7 increased their sample size. Only 21 studies reported the maximum sample size that would be considered, for which the median increase was 50% (IQR 35–100%).

Conclusions

Promising zone is being implemented in a range of trials worldwide, albeit in low numbers. Identifying trials using promising zone was difficult due to the lack of reporting of SSR methodology. Even when SSR methodology was reported, some had key interim analysis details missing, and only eight papers provided promising zone ranges.
Derivation and internal validation of a multi-biomarker-based cardiovascular disease risk prediction score for rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R. , Xie Fenglong , Crowson Cynthia S. , Sasso Eric H. , Hitraya Elena , Chin Cheryl L. , Bamford Richard D. , Ben-Shachar Rotem , Gutin Alexander , Flake Darl D. , Mabey Brent , Lanchbury Jerry S.
Published: December 2020

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Accurate CVD risk prediction could improve care for RA patients. Our goal is to develop and validate a biomarker-based model for predicting CVD risk in RA patients.

Methods

Medicare claims data were linked to multi-biomarker disease activity (MBDA) test results to create an RA patient cohort with age ≥ 40 years that was split 2:1 for training and internal validation. Clinical and RA-related variables, MBDA score, and its 12 biomarkers were evaluated as predictors of a composite CVD outcome: myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or fatal CVD within 3 years. Model building used Cox proportional hazard regression with backward elimination. The final MBDA-based CVD risk score was internally validated and compared to four clinical CVD risk prediction models.

Results

30,751 RA patients (904 CVD events) were analyzed. Covariates in the final MBDA-based CVD risk score were age, diabetes, hypertension, tobacco use, history of CVD (excluding MI/stroke), MBDA score, leptin, MMP-3 and TNF-R1. In internal validation, the MBDA-based CVD risk score was a strong predictor of 3-year risk for a CVD event, with hazard ratio (95% CI) of 2.89 (2.46–3.41). The predicted 3-year CVD risk was low for 9.4% of patients, borderline for 10.2%, intermediate for 52.2%, and high for 28.2%.

Model fit was good, with mean predicted versus observed 3-year CVD risks of 4.5% versus 4.4%. The MBDA-based CVD risk score significantly improved risk discrimination by the likelihood ratio test, compared to four clinical models. The risk score also improved prediction, reclassifying 42% of patients versus the simplest clinical model (age + sex), with a net reclassification index (NRI) (95% CI) of 0.19 (0.10–0.27); and 28% of patients versus the most comprehensive clinical model (age + sex + diabetes + hypertension + tobacco use + history of CVD + CRP), with an NRI of 0.07 (0.001–0.13). C-index was 0.715 versus 0.661 to 0.696 for the four clinical models.

Conclusion

A prognostic score has been developed to predict 3-year CVD risk for RA patients by using clinical data, three serum biomarkers and the MBDA score. In internal validation, it had good accuracy and outperformed clinical models with and without CRP. The MBDA-based CVD risk prediction score may improve RA patient care by offering a risk stratification tool that incorporates the effect of RA inflammation.
Treatment of pseudobulbar affect (PBA) in a patient with a history of traumatic brain injury, partial brain resection, and brainstem stroke: a case report
Authors: Young Fletcher Graham , Nguyen Diep
Published: December 2020

Background

Pseudobulbar affect is a very distressing and underdiagnosed neuropsychiatric disorder that causes contextually inappropriate episodes of laughing and crying and general emotional incontinence. Although many proposed etiologies exist, the most widely accepted theory espouses the disruption of a corticopontine–cerebellar circuit that governs the modulation of emotional response. Pseudobulbar affect is commonly diagnosed secondary to primary neurological disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injury. Traditional pharmacological treatment of pseudobulbar affect is largely comprised of antidepressant therapy, including tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as fluvoxamine. However, neither of these medication classes has been studied for the treatment of pseudobulbar affect in controlled trials, and their utility remains questionable.

Case presentation

We describe a case of a 62-year-old Caucasian man with history of traumatic brain injury, ischemic brainstem stroke, and depression who developed intractable pseudobulbar affect. This patient’s intensely distressing symptoms were not alleviated by amitriptyline. However, after being placed on fixed-dose 20 mg/10 mg dextromethorphan/quinidine (Nuedexta), our patient experienced complete resolution of his symptoms. He has experienced no deleterious side effects.

Conclusions

This case provides anecdotal evidence for the efficacy of dextromethorphan/quinidine in the treatment of pseudobulbar affect with remarkably swift and complete cessation of symptoms. As a secondary point, it is worth noting that our patient had experienced two devastating neurological traumas, both in anatomical areas that have been implicated in the corticopontine–cerebellar circuit thought to be responsible for pseudobulbar affect. However, only the second trauma, an acute left pontine infarction, produced symptoms of emotional disinhibition. The authors hope that reporting this case will provide both context for physicians managing this condition and hope for patients with this socially and psychiatrically damaging disease.
The ‘migratory connectivity’ concept, and its applicability to insect migrants
Authors: Gao Boya , Hedlund Johanna , Reynolds Don R. , Zhai Baoping , Hu Gao , Chapman Jason W.
Published: December 2020

Migratory connectivity describes the degree of linkage between different parts of an animal’s migratory range due to the movement trajectories of individuals. High connectivity occurs when individuals from one particular part of the migratory range move almost exclusively to another localized part of the migratory range with little mixing with individuals from other regions. Conversely, low migratory connectivity describes the situation where individuals spread over a wide area during migration and experience a large degree of mixing with individuals from elsewhere. The migratory connectivity concept is frequently applied to vertebrate migrants (especially birds), and it is highly relevant to conservation and management of populations. However, it is rarely employed in the insect migration literature, largely because much less is known about the migration circuits of most migratory insects than is known about birds. In this review, we discuss the applicability of the migratory connectivity concept to long-range insect migrations. In contrast to birds, insect migration circuits typically comprise multigenerational movements of geographically unstructured (non-discrete) populations between broad latitudinal zones. Also, compared to the faster-flying birds, the lower degree of control over movement directions would also tend to reduce connectivity in many insect migrants. Nonetheless, after taking account of these differences, we argue that the migratory connectivity framework can still be applied to insects, and we go on to consider postulated levels of connectivity in some of the most intensively studied insect migrants. We conclude that a greater understanding of insect migratory connectivity would be of value for conserving threatened species and managing pests.
An unusual homing behavior found in the Sichuan Partridge during the early brooding period
Authors: Fu Yiqiang , Wang Shufang , Chen Benping , Dowell Simon , Zhang Zhengwang
Published: December 2020

In this study, we report an unusual homing behavior of the Sichuan Partridge (Arborophila rufipectus) at the Laojunshan National Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province, China. Hen Sichuan Partridges led the chicks back to the nests where they hatched in the evening and roosted there over night. This behavior lasted 6.7 ± 4.3 nights (range = 1–15; n = 13) after the chicks hatched. At this stage, the hens became very vigilant to predators and human disturbance. If disturbed, they often abandoned the nests immediately and no longer returned thereafter. The ambient temperature at night during the early brooding period of Sichuan Partridge at our study site was ~ 12.4 °C. Our findings suggest that hen Sichuan Partridges may make trade-offs between nest predation risks versus the thermoregulatory needs of their young.
Nanoparticle technology and its implications in endodontics: a review
Authors: Raura Natasha , Garg Anirudh , Arora Arpit , Roma M.
Published: December 2020

Background

The era of Nanomaterials has had a long lasting impression in the field of medical science. It’s excellent use in medicine has led to its application in dental science. Serious concerns regarding the eradication of microbial biofilms from the root canal system still exists in the field of endodontics. Nanoparticles have proven to be much more efficient with good bonding capabilities and surface chemistry as compared to the conventional materials. The practical applications of nanotechnology in endodontics has led to future prospects in research in this field.

Main body

Nanoparticles in endodontics have shown promising results. The various nanoaprticles like graphene, silver nanoparticles, chitosan, hydroxyapaptite nanoparticles, Iron compound, zirconia, Poly (lactic) co-glycolic acid, bioactive glass, mesoporous calcium silicate, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, Magnesium, Calcium oxide and Copper oxide have been discussed. These nanoparticles have fetched and shown great results in various application in endodontics like incorporation of nanoparticles in selaers, obturating materials, irrigation, and intracanal medicament.

Conclusion

The application of nanoparticles from natural and synthetic materials is rapidly evolving in dentistry. These biomaterials have helped in treatment of oral diseases, in eradication of smear layer and biofilms, have been incorporated in various dental materials for their antimicrobial effects. Combining all their beneficial aspects, these nanoparticles will provide new paradigm shift in dentistry. This review on nanoparticles will provide the reader with the latest knowledge of these materials, their mechanism of action and its implications in endodontics.
Development of a simple method for the analysis of phenylalanine in dried blood spot using tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Gouda Amr S. , Nazim Walaa S.
Published: December 2020

Background

Phenylketonuria (PKU), inborn error of metabolism, results from phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency. PKU leads to neurological manifestations, intellectual disability, and mental disorders. Treatment depends on phenylalanine-restricted diet.

Diagnosis and follow-up of PKU depends on blood phenylalanine level. The development of bacterial inhibition assay was the first routine screening test for PKU. ELISA and amino acids analyzers methods were then developed.

Tandem mass spectrometry was introduced for newborn screening from dried blood spot in the late 1990s. Since then, several methods were developed, starting from using HPLC column followed by direct injection in mass spectrometer by analyte derivatization and use of external and internal standards. Kits are available for neonatal screening without derivatization using internal standards for quantitation.

Due to high PKU incidence in Egypt, it is important to continuously ameliorate the methods for neonatal diagnosis and follow-up.

Results

External standards as dried blood spots were prepared according to the previously described procedures. These standards were evaluated for phenylalanine concentration using ELISA kit. Analysis of samples was done with a single-step elution from dried blood spot followed by 1-min mass spectrometry analysis. Validation was done according to US FDA and other related guidelines. Fifty samples were analyzed by ELISA and another 126 samples were analyzed by mass spectrometer kit. All these samples were analyzed by the developed method and no statistically significant difference was observed.

Conclusion

New simple method is developed for phenylalanine quantitation in dried blood spot using tandem mass spectrometry. This method is cost and time effective.
Impact of hemodialysis on the wellbeing of chronic kidney diseases patients: a pre-post analysis
Authors: Um-e-Kalsoom  , Khan Sabiha , Ahmad Israr
Published: December 2020

Background

Hemodialysis may have serious psychological impact upon patients suffering from chronic kidney diseases. The aim of the present study is to investigate the impact of hemodialysis on the wellbeing of individuals with chronic kidney diseases (CKD).

Result

A sample consists of (N = 100) CKD patients referred from neurology ward of Leady Reading Hospital Peshawar. Data was collected from both male (50%) and female (50%) in 2017. Participants were divided into two groups on the basis of pre-set criteria. In group I, individuals with 4–5 stage of CKD referred first time for dialysis treatment were recruited. Group II comprised of CKD patients with 1–3 stage. Demographic data sheet, Pakistan Anxiety and Depression, WHO Quality of Life scale, and Perceived Social support scale (PSS) were used to test the hypotheses. Paired sample t test was use to see the difference between pre- and post-analysis of depression, anxiety, QOL, and PSS in group I (experimental group). Results suggests significant difference on depression (p > .001), anxiety (p > .001), and QOL (p > .001), while no significant difference was reported on perceived social support (p <.673). Findings also indicate no significant difference between group I and group II on QOL depression, anxiety, and PSS.

Conclusion

The findings concluded that patients under hemodialysis treatment suffered from depression, anxiety, and poor quality of life.
Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo anthelmintic efficacy of Cyperus compressus Linn., a traditionally used anthelmintic plant in parasite-animal models
Authors: Soren Amar Deep , Yadav Arun Kumar
Published: December 2020

Background

The decoction of the roots ofCyperus compressus(Cyperaceae) is used to treat helminth infection by the Santhal tribe of Assam. The study evaluated the anthelmintic efficacy claims of the plantC. compressusthrough pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo studies employing available parasite-animal models such asHymenolepis diminuta-Wistar rat (cestode) andSyphacia obvelata-Swiss mice (nematode) models.

Results

Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, reducing sugars, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, and steroids. In vitro studies were conducted employingH. diminutaandS. obvelata. In vitro studies againstH. diminutarevealed mortality of parasites at 8.3 ± 0.05 h at the highest concentration ofC. compressusmethanolic root extract (30 mg/ml), whereas reference drug praziquantel (PZQ), showed mortality at 5.84 ± 0.01 h. AgainstS. obvelata, in the same concentration of the extract, mortality of parasites occurred in a much later time of 24.13 ± 0.03 h, whereas in the reference drug albendazole (ABZ), the parasites showed mortality at 7.24 ± 0.08 h. In vivo studies againstH. diminutarevealed 61.74% reduction in the eggs per gram (EPG) counts and 24% reduction in worm counts at the highest dose of 700 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) of plant extract. AgainstS. obvelata, at 700 mg/kg b.w., 28.92% and 33.85% reduction in EPG and worm counts were recorded respectively.

Conclusion

Although the reference drugs showed better in vitro and in vivo efficacy, the plant extract showed a better in vitro efficacy against cestode parasite compared to its nematode counterpart indicating that it possesses a better cestocidal efficacy. EPG reductions were higher againstH. diminuta, whereas worm count reduction was higher againstS. obvelata. The findings justify the use ofC. compressusas an anthelmintic in the traditional medicine of the Santhals of India.
Apolipoprotein CIII and Angiopoietin-like Protein 8 are Elevated in Lipodystrophy and Decrease after Metreleptin
Authors: Lightbourne Marissa , Wolska Anna , Abel Brent S , Rother Kristina I , Walter Mary , Kushchayeva Yevgeniya , Auh Sungyoung , Shamburek Robert D , Remaley Alan T , Muniyappa Ranganath , Brown Rebecca J
Published: December 2020

Context

Lipodystrophy syndromes cause hypertriglyceridemia that improves with leptin treatment using metreleptin. Mechanisms causing hypertriglyceridemia and improvements after metreleptin are incompletely understood.

Objective

Determine relationship of circulating lipoprotein lipase (LPL) modulators with hypertriglyceridemia in healthy controls and in patients with lipodystrophy before and after metreleptin.

Methods

Cross-sectional comparison of patients with lipodystrophy (generalized lipodystrophy n = 3; partial lipodystrophy n = 11) vs age/sex-matched healthy controls (n = 28), and longitudinal analyses in patients before and after 2 weeks and 6 months of metreleptin. The study was carried out at the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland. Outcomes were LPL stimulators apolipoprotein (apo) C-II and apoA-V and inhibitors apoC-III and angiopoietin-like proteins (ANGPTLs) 3, 4, and 8; ex vivo activation of LPL by plasma.

Results

Patients with lipodystrophy were hypertriglyceridemic and had higher levels of all LPL stimulators and inhibitors vs controls except for ANGPTL4, with >300-fold higher ANGPTL8, 4-fold higher apoC-III, 3.5-fold higher apoC-II, 1.9-fold higher apoA-V, 1.6-fold higher ANGPTL3 (P < .05 for all). At baseline, all LPL modulators except ANGPLT4 positively correlated with triglycerides. Metreleptin decreased apoC-II and apoC-III after 2 weeks and 6 months, and decreased ANGPTL8 after 6 months (P < 0.05 for all). Plasma from patients with lipodystrophy caused higher ex vivo LPL activation vs hypertriglyceridemic control plasma (P < .0001), which did not change after metreleptin.

Conclusion

Elevations in LPL inhibitors apoC-III and ANGPTL8 may contribute to hypertriglyceridemia in lipodystrophy, and may mediate reductions in circulating and hepatic triglycerides after metreleptin. These therefore are strong candidates for therapies to lower triglycerides in these patients.
Right Ventricular Epicardial Pacing Postcardiac Surgery Can Cause Dynamic Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction: A Case Report
Authors: Aldred Matthew P. , Elhaj Bilel , Zeng Yu Hao , Couture Etienne J. , Rivard Lena , Lamarche Yoan , Denault André Y.
Published: December 2020

Dynamic right ventricular outflow tract obstruction is rare in the cardiac surgical population. Significant obstruction developing in the perioperative period can contribute to systemic hemodynamic instability. We describe 2 cases of dynamic right ventricular outflow tract obstruction that developed immediately after separation from cardiopulmonary bypass, due to temporary right ventricular epicardial pacing. Both patients had systemic hypotension which improved once ventricular pacing was discontinued. We discuss the recognition of right ventricular outflow tract obstruction as a contributing factor to hemodynamic instability, as well as the importance of identifying the underlying cause such as to institute appropriate management in these patients.
Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Awake Breast Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Pedrosa Filipa P. , Cravo Hugo
Published: December 2020

Thoracic fascial blocks have been included in multimodal analgesia for breast surgery. Fewer studies demonstrate its use as a regional anesthesia technique. The serratus anterior plane (SAP) block provides anesthesia to the lateral thoracic wall and the axilla, the surgical area of some breast surgeries, with a single injection.

This article reports the use of the SAP block as an anesthetic technique for breast lumpectomy with axillary dissection ensuring good surgical conditions and patient safety.
Intraoperative Hemostatic Management of a Cardiohepatic Transplant With Rotational Thromboelastometry: A Case Report
Authors: Kataife Ezequiel D. , Adrover Alejo , Viso Hugo D. , Mileo Federico G.
Published: December 2020

Cardiohepatic transplantation represents a double hemostatic challenge. Given the absence of specific guidelines and current evidence, we designed a 5-step approach based on rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM). A 60-year-old male patient with cirrhosis and myocarditis underwent a 9-hour transplantation. Bleeding occurred after weaning from extracorporeal circulation. Evidence of reduced clot strength triggered fibrinogen and platelet replacement therapy. During liver transplant, only hemoglobin optimization was necessary. In conclusion, hemostatic management protocols for cardiohepatic transplants should consider the specific coagulopathy mechanisms underlying each surgical phase. Because whole blood testing is essential for their diagnosis, we recommend using ROTEM for optimal coagulation management.
The basal release of endothelium-derived catecholamines regulates the contractions of Chelonoidis carbonaria aorta caused by electrical-field stimulation
Authors: Britto-Júnior José , Jacintho Felipe Fernandes , Campos Rafael , Pinheiro David Halen Araújo , Murari Guilherme M. Figueiredo , de Souza Valéria B. , Schenka André A. , Mónica Fabíola Z. , Moreno Ronilson Agnaldo , Antunes Edson , De Nucci Gilberto
Published: December 2020

The contractions of Chelonoidis carbonaria aortic rings induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS) are not inhibited by blockade of the voltage-gated sodium channels by tetrodotoxin but almost abolished by the α1/α2-adrenoceptor antagonist phentolamine. The objective of this study was to identify the mediator(s) responsible for the EFS-induced contractions of Chelonoidis carbonaria aortic rings. Each ring was suspended between two wire hooks and mounted in isolated 10 mL organ chambers filled with oxygenated and heated Krebs-Henseleit's solution. Dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline concentrations were analysed by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. The contractions caused by dopamine and EFS were done in absence and presence of the nitric oxide (NO) synthesis inhibitor L-NAME, the NO-sensitive guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ, the D1-like receptor antagonist SCH-23390, the D2-like receptor antagonists risperidone, quetiapine, haloperidol, and the tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitors salsolinol and 3-iodo-L-tyrosine. Basal concentrations of dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline were detected in Krebs-Henseleit solution containing the aortic rings. The catecholamine concentrations were significantly reduced in endothelium-denuded aortic rings. L-NAME and ODQ significantly potentiated the dopamine-induced contractions. The D2-like receptor antagonists inhibited the EFS-induced contractions of the aortic rings treated with L-NAME, whereas SCH 23390 had no effect. Similar results were observed in the contractions induced by dopamine in L-NAME treated aortic rings. These results indicate that catecholamines released by endothelium regulate the EFS-induced contractions. This may constitute a suitable mechanism by which reptilia modulate specific organ blood flow distribution.
Recent Advances in Enantioselective Direct C–H Addition to Carbonyls and Michael Acceptors
Authors: Gu Qing , Wu Zhi-Jie , You Shu-Li
Published: December 2020

Enantioselective C-H addition is one of the most straightforward and efficient approaches towards the synthesis of optically active molecules from readily available arenes. The most significant feature of these reactions is that the nucleophilic aryl metal species is generated catalytically in situvia C–H bond activation. These reactions typically proceed without requirement of either strongly basic or acidic conditions, thus with good functional group compatibility. In this review, recent progress on transition-metal-catalyzed enantioselective direct C-H addition to polar unsaturated bonds is summarized. The intramolecular C-H additions to carbonyls enabled by Ir(I) or Rh(III) catalyst provided an access to chiral alcohol scaffolds with high efficiency. Planar chiral 1,2-substituted ferrocenes were afforded by C-H addition of ferrocenes to acrylates by an Ir/chiral diene catalyst. In addition, the asymmetric hydroarylation reactions of Michael acceptors including acrylates, α, β-unsaturated esters and nitroolefins were also described. Moreover, the enantioselective conjugate additions of aromatic and benzylic C-H bonds to α, β-unsaturated ketones catalyzed by Cp*M(III)/chiral acid hybrid catalyst (M = Rh, Co) were presented. These enantioselective C-H additions provided a straightforward access to structurally diverse and valuable chiral fragments. Meanwhile, the reaction mechanisms are also introduced.
Tourette syndrome research highlights from 2019
Authors: Hartmann Andreas , Worbe Yulia , Black Kevin J.
Published: December 2020

This is the sixth yearly article in the Tourette Syndrome Research Highlights series, summarizing research from 2019 relevant to Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. The highlights from 2020 is being drafted on the Authorea online authoring platform; readers are encouraged to add references or give feedback on our selections comments feature on this page. After the calendar year ends, this article is submitted as the annual update for the Tics collection F1000Research.