bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microvesicles from Human Immortalized Cell Lines of Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells of Adipose Tissue Origin as Carriers of Bioactive Factors Facilitating Angiogenesis
Authors: Krawczenko Agnieszka , Bielawska-Pohl Aleksandra , Paprocka Maria , Kraskiewicz Honorata , Szyposzynska Agnieszka , Wojdat Elżbieta , Klimczak Aleksandra
Published: June 2020

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are associated with maintaining tissue homeostasis and tissue repair. Both types of cells contribute to tissue regeneration through the secretion of trophic factors (alone or in the form of microvesicles). This study investigated the isolation and biological properties of microvesicles (MVs) derived from human immortalized MSC line HATMSC1 of adipose tissue origin and EPC line. The human immortalized cell line derived from the adipose tissue of a patient with venous stasis was established in our laboratory using the hTERT and pSV402 plasmids. The human EPC line originating from cord blood (HEPC-CB.1) was established in our previous studies. Microvesicles were isolated through a sequence of centrifugations. Analysis of the protein content of both populations of microvesicles, using the Membrane-Based Antibody Array and Milliplex ELISA showed that isolated microvesicles transported growth factors and pro- and antiangiogenic factors. Analysis of the miRNA content of isolated microvesicles revealed the presence of proangiogenic miRNA (miR-126, miR-296, miR-378, and miR-210) and low expression of antiangiogenic miRNA (miR-221, miR-222, and miR-92a) using real-time RT-PCR with the TaqMan technique. The isolated microvesicles were assessed for their effect on the proliferation and proangiogenic properties of cells involved in tissue repair. It was shown that both HEPC-CB.1- and HATMSC1-derived microvesicles increased the proliferation of human endothelial cells of dermal origin and that this effect was dose-dependent. In contrast, microvesicles had a limited impact on the proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Both types of microvesicles improved the proangiogenic properties of human dermal endothelial cells, and this effect was also dose-dependent, as shown in the Matrigel assay. These results confirm the hypothesis that microvesicles of HEPC-CB.1 and HATMSC1 origin carry proteins and miRNAs that support and facilitate angiogenic processes that are important for cutaneous tissue regeneration.
The Prevalence of Nondiabetic Renal Diseases in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus in the University Hospital of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo
Authors: Souza Diego Agra , Silva Gyl Eanes Barros , Fernandes Igor Lima , de Brito Dyego José Araújo , Muniz Monique Pereira Rêgo , Neto Osvaldo Merege Vieira , Costa Roberto Silva , Dantas Márcio , Neto Miguel Moyses
Published: June 2020

Objective. To evaluate the prevalence of nondiabetic renal diseases (NDRDs) in renal biopsies of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) in the University Hospital of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo. Research Design and Methods. We conducted a retrospective study including kidney biopsies performed in diabetic patients between 1987 and 2013. We evaluated 79 biopsies during this period. The primary variable was the prevalence of NDRD in patients with DM. The secondary variables were the presence of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), hematuria, time since diagnosis of DM, serum creatinine, and proteinuria levels. The cases were divided into the following groups: isolated diabetic nephropathy (DN—group I), isolated nondiabetic renal diseases (NDRD—group II), associated NDRD/DN (group III), and associated NDRD+NDRD/DN (group IV). Results. Most of the patients (58.22%) presented only alterations arising from DN. NDRDs were present in 41.77% of the patients. Membranous glomerulonephritis (30.3%) and IgA nephropathy (24.24%) were the most prevalent NDRDs. We found no differences between female and male patients with NDRD when assessing the secondary variables. A time since diagnosis of five years or less revealed a statistical difference (p=0.0005) in the comparison between the isolated DN (group I) and the NDRD+NDRD/DN (group IV). The other secondary variables were not significant in the comparison of the groups. Conclusions. We concluded that the prevalence of NDRD is 41.77%. Membranous glomerulonephritis was the most prevalent NDRD in our study. We also conclude that the probability of the presence of NDRD with or without concomitant DN is greater for patients who had biopsies with a time since diagnosis of five years or less. A time since diagnosis of ten years or more does not allow the exclusion of the presence of NDRD.
Management of a Difficult-to-Treat Diabetic Foot Wound Complicated by Osteomyelitis: A Case Study
Authors: Alkhatieb Maram , Mortada Hatan , Aljaaly Hattan
Published: June 2020

Introduction. Diabetic ulcers are a major health issue worldwide, causing significant economic burdens and affecting both the patient and the society as a whole. Predisposing factors in diabetic patients, known as the pathogenic triad, comprise trauma, ischemia, and neuropathy. Regardless of the cause, correct diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential in the management of leg ulcers. Case History. We report a case of a 51-year-old male patient, with a known history of type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented to our hospital with a history of two ulcers, one that he was mainly complaining of, which was actively infected and located at the posterior part of the distal left leg, and the second, dry ulcer caused by unrecognized trauma, located on the heel of the same limb. Magnetic resonance imaging showed osteomyelitis and degenerative changes in the calcaneonavicular and tarsal joints. The patient underwent multiple sessions of excisional debridement. He was started on negative pressure wound therapy with some improvements. However, after skin graft failure, Nanoflex powder was used, leading to complete wound closure within one month of treatment. Conclusion. A multidisciplinary holistic approach must be used when treating diabetic foot ulcers. Different modalities and sessions of debridement should be performed after optimizing the general condition of the patient.
A Nonlocal in Time Problem for Evolutionary Singular Equations in Generalized Spaces of Type S∘
Authors: Verezhak Hanna , Gorodetskyi Vasyl
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we establish the correct solvability of a nonlocal multipoint in time problem for the evolutionary equation of a parabolic type with the Bessel operator of infinite order in the case where the initial function is an element of the space of generalized functions of type S∘′.
Mixture Design Study of Fiber‐Reinforced Self‐Compacting Concrete for Prefabricated Street Light Post Structures
Authors: Zatar Wael , Nguyen Tu
Published: June 2020

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand to produce strong precast street light posts that are aesthetically pleasing. This study presents experimental results of a considerable number of mixture designs for fabricating precast street light posts where fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete (FRSCC) was employed. The performance of many FRSCC mixtures was evaluated in terms of their structural properties and aesthetic characteristics. A trial‐and‐error procedure was performed for a series of FRSCC mixtures where silica fume, fly ash, and fibers were used. Slump flow and air content tests were conducted to determine the fresh FRSCC properties, and specimens were cast to evaluate their aesthetic. Three‐day and seven‐day compression tests were performed to examine the FRSCC hardened properties. The amount of cement in all batches was kept constant, whereas the distributions of fine and coarse aggregates, water, and other admixtures were adjusted. The largest slump flow of 73.7 cm (29 in) was recorded, and the maximum three‐day compressive strength was 43 MPa (6209 psi). Further refinement of the mixtures, which displayed the best strength and aesthetic attributes, was performed. Test results of the selected FRSCC mixtures indicated an excellent slump flow, air content, and compression values while achieving advantageous aesthetic qualities. Seven‐day compressive strength of 39 MPa (5686 psi) with the air content of 4.8 percent and the slump flow of 66 cm (26 in) was recorded. The study results and the developed FRSCC mixes can be used for mass production of precast concrete street light posts in precast plants.
Iron Overload in a Patient with Non-Transfusion-Dependent Hemoglobin H Disease and Borderline Serum Ferritin: Can We Rely on Serum Ferritin for Monitoring in This Group of Patients?
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Yassin Mohamed A. , Aldeeb Maya
Published: June 2020

Secondary iron overload is a common complication in the context of hematological diseases, as iron accumulates due to different mechanisms including chronic transfusion, increased gastrointestinal absorption, chronic hemolysis and underlying genetic defects leading to an increase in gastrointestinal absorption of iron. Since the body does not have a mechanism to excrete excess iron, it gets deposited in the heart, endocrine organs, and the liver with the latest being affected less commonly than in primary iron overload disorders like hemochromatosis. Patients with hemoglobin H disease, which is a type of α-thalassemia, are usually transfusion independent, except in occasions where an external stressful factor leads to a drop in hemoglobin and necessitates blood transfusion. Despite this, secondary iron overload is commonly encountered in these patients due to increased gastrointestinal absorption of iron. To avoid the complications associated with iron overload, these patients are usually monitored with serum ferritin, which is an inexpensive widely available method to monitor iron overload. MRI of the liver (Ferriscan) is a more sensitive and specific method to monitor these patients and avoid the long-lasting and sometimes irreversible effect of secondary iron overload. Here we present an interesting case of a patient with hemoglobin H disease, who was monitored with serum ferritin. She had a serum ferritin level considered as a borderline risk for morbidities secondary to iron overload, and an MRI of her liver (Ferriscan) showed significant iron deposition in the liver associated with increased risk of complications secondary to iron overload.
Prognostic Value of Maternal Cardiovascular Hemodynamics in Women With Gestational Hypertension and Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy
Authors: Kalafat Erkan , Perry Helen , Bowe Sophie , Thilaganathan Basky , Khalil Asma
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to assess the prognostic value of cardiovascular assessment in women with gestational hypertension or chronic hypertension for the risk of preeclampsia and need for closer antenatal surveillance. This was a prospective study of pregnancies complicated by gestational hypertension or chronic hypertension presenting to St George’s Hospital, between January 2015 and May 2018. A noninvasive ultrasonic cardiac output monitor was used to obtain cardiovascular variables of cardiac output (CO) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and weight-adjusted indices. The primary outcome was the time to development of preeclampsia in women with gestational hypertension or chronic hypertension. In women with gestational hypertension or chronic hypertension (n=149), cox-proportional hazards analysis showed that mean arterial pressure (
P
=0.006), Afro-Caribbean ethnicity (
P
=0.045), and gestational age at the time of diagnosis above 34 weeks (
P
<0.001) were significantly associated with increased risk of earlier preeclampsia. Women with high SVR and normal CO (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.32 [95% CI, 1.06–5.08];
P
=0.035) and high SVR and low CO (adjusted hazard ratio, 7.79 [95% CI, 1.94–31.24];
P
=0.003) cardiovascular profiles had significantly higher risk of earlier preeclampsia compared with women with normal SVR and normal CO. The findings of this study demonstrate that hypertensive women with increased SVR and low CO had a higher risk of developing preeclampsia sooner.
Financial Integration in Asia: A Systemic View on Currency Markets
Authors: Zhang Dayong , Zhao Wanli , Wu Fei , Ji Qiang
Published: June 2020

Using a systemic approach, this study investigates the time-varying linkages among currency markets of Japan, the People's Republic of China, the Republic of Korea, and the five core ASEAN economies to understand financial integration in Asia. We first construct a vector autoregressive model and use the Diebold and Yilmaz ( 2014 ) approach to quantitatively identify the connectedness within the system, accompanied by a rolling-window approach to allow for time-varying dynamics and pairwise Granger causality tests to check the robustness of our main results. We find that though systemic interconnectedness varies over time, the Singapore dollar is constantly a top net contributor, explaining most of the variation in East Asian currency markets.
Recency predicts bursts in the evolution of author citations
Authors: Silva Filipi Nascimento , Tandon Aditya , Amancio Diego Raphael , Flammini Alessandro , Menczer Filippo , Milojević Staša , Fortunato Santo
Published: June 2020

The citations process for scientific papers has been studied extensively. But while the citations accrued by authors are the sum of the citations of their papers, translating the dynamics of citation accumulation from the paper to the author level is not trivial. Here we conduct a systematic study of the evolution of author citations, and in particular their bursty dynamics. We find empirical evidence of a correlation between the number of citations most recently accrued by an author and the number of citations they receive in the future. Using a simple model where the probability for an author to receive new citations depends only on the number of citations collected in the previous 12–24 months, we are able to reproduce both the citation and burst size distributions of authors across multiple decades.
Pandemic publishing: Medical journals strongly speed up their publication process for COVID-19
Authors: Horbach Serge P. J. M.
Published: June 2020

In times of public crises, including the current COVID-19 pandemic, rapid dissemination of relevant scientific knowledge is of paramount importance. The duration of scholarly journals’ publication process is one of the main factors that may hinder quick delivery of new information. Following initiatives of medical journals to accelerate their publication process, this study assesses whether medical journals have managed to speed up their publication process for coronavirus-related articles. It studies the duration of 14 medical journals’ publication processes both during and prior to the current pandemic. Assessing 669 articles, the study concludes that medical journals have indeed strongly accelerated their publication process for coronavirus-related articles since the outbreak of the pandemic: The time between submission and publication has decreased on average by 49%. The largest decrease in number of days between submission and publication of articles was due to a decrease in time required for peer review. For articles not related to COVID-19, no acceleration of the publication process is found. While the acceleration of the publication process is laudable from the perspective of quick information dissemination, it also may raise concerns relating to the quality of the peer review process and of the resulting publications.
Ahead of Schedule: A History of Early College High Schools
Authors: Walk Meghann
Published: June 2020

This history examines the relationship between 21st century early college high schools and a longer tradition of adolescents attending college, uncovering powerful roots, distinctive breaks, and reforged alliances. Why did these schools, designed so students earn up to an associate’s degree before graduation, come into being when and where they did? How have they—and the movement behind them—developed over the course of two decades? The essay closes with a consideration of the contemporary funding landscape and where early college high schools currently fit in the U.S. educational terrain.
Microfictions and Microaggressions: Counselors’ Work With Transracial Adoptees in Schools
Authors: Park-Taylor Jennie , Wing Hannah M.
Published: June 2020

In the United States, transracial adoptions make up 85% of international adoptions and 40% of all domestic adoptions, and most consist of White parents and adoptees of color. This article describes transracial adoptee population trends, provides a transracial adoptee student case illustration, and outlines suggestions for school counselors working with transracial adoptees, whose unique experiences include microfictions and microaggressions (transracial, racial, and adoption-related).
Longer-term recurrence rate after low versus high dose radioiodine ablation for differentiated thyroid Cancer in low and intermediate risk patients: a meta-analysis
Authors: Vardarli I. , Weidemann F. , Aboukoura M. , Herrmann K. , Binse I. , Görges R.
Published: June 2020

Background

Regarding the longer-term recurrence rate the optimal activity for the remnant thyroid ablation in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is discussed controversially. For the short-term ablation success rate up to 12 months there are already several meta-analyses. In this study we performed the first meta-analysis regarding the longer-term recurrence rate after radioactive 131-I administration.

Methods

We conducted an electronic search using PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessed the recurrence rate after radioactive iodine ablation in patients with DTC, with a follow-up of at least two years were selected. Statistics were performed by using Review Manager version 5.3 and Stata software.

Results

Four RCTs were included in the study, involving 1501 patients. There was no indication for heterogeneity (I2 = 0%) and publication bias. The recurrence rate among patients who had a low dose 131-iodine ablation was not higher than for a high dose activity (odds ratio (OR) 0.93 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53–1.63]; P = 0.79). The mean follow-up time was between 4.25 and 10 years. The subgroup analysis regarding the TSH stimulated thyroglobulin values (< 10 ng/mL versus < 2 ng/mL versus ≤1 ng/mL) showed no influence on recurrence rate.

Conclusions

For the first time we showed that the longer-term, at least 2-year follow-up, recurrence rate among patients who had 131-iodine ablation with 1.1 GBq was not higher than with 3.7 GBq.
Injury related adult deaths in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: analysis of data from verbal autopsy
Authors: Anteneh Aderaw , Endris Bilal Shikur
Published: June 2020

Background

Injury related deaths are causing huge impact on families and communities throughout the world. Reports show that developing countries are highly affected by injury deaths. Ethiopia is among the countries that are highly affected by injury deaths especially road traffic accident. Previous studies in Ethiopia concerning injury deaths were mostly based on hospital records. However, in the context of Ethiopia, where majority of the deaths are happening outside health facilities, hospital-based studies cannot give the exact proportion of injury deaths. This study aimed to assess the proportion and types of injury deaths in Addis Ababa and the distribution with different socio-demographic characteristics using data from verbal autopsy.

Methods

We used verbal autopsy data of Addis Ababa Mortality Surveillance Program. The basic source of data for Addis Ababa Mortality Surveillance is burial surveillance from all cemeteries of Addis Ababa. We analyzed causes of injury mortality by different characteristics and tried to show the trends.

Results

Over the 8 years period of time injury has contributed about 7 % of the total deaths. Majority of injury related deaths were among males. Traffic accidents were the major injury related deaths for both sexes; intentional self-harm was highly observed among males compared with females. The findings of this study showed that the proportion of injury related deaths decreased with increasing age.

Conclusions

This study witnessed that deaths resulting from injuries are substantial health challenges in Addis Ababa. Road traffic accident is the most common cause of injury related deaths in the study area. The findings also indicated that males and the productive age groups are highly affected by injury deaths.
Two lucky survivors of thoracic impalement in childhood: case report and literature review
Authors: Negash Samuel , Mammo Tihitena Negussie
Published: June 2020

Background

Penetrating thoracic injuries are uncommon in childhood. Massive penetrating injury due to impalement is even more rare and has scarcely been reported. It has a dramatic clinical presentation and is often fatal, depending on the organs injured.

Case presentation

Two boys presented with an unusual mechanism of injury. They fell from a height to be impaled by a large stick. Appropriate emergency medical service was not available and surgery was delayed by more than 24 h after the accident. Both children were labelled “lucky” as they survived the injury without any significant sequelae.

Conclusion

We discuss two new cases of pediatric thoracic impalement and perform the first literature review on the subject. Emphasis should be given to the initial care which comprises avoiding premature removal, rapid transport, resuscitation, anti-tetanus and antibiotics. All reported cases had a favorable outcome, even those managed within the constraints of low-income countries.
Age-associated genes in human mammary gland drive human breast cancer progression
Authors: Gu Xiang , Wang Bingzhi , Zhu Haiyan , Zhou You , Horning Aaron M. , Huang Tim H-M , Chen Yidong , Houghton Peter , Lai Zhao , Michalek Joel E. , Sun Lu-Zhe
Published: June 2020

Background

Aging is a comorbidity of breast cancer suggesting that aging-associated transcriptome changes may promote breast cancer progression. However, the mechanism underlying the age effect on breast cancer remains poorly understood.

Method

We analyzed transcriptomics of the matched normal breast tissues from the 82 breast cancer patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset with linear regression for genes with age-associated expression that are not associated with menopause. We also analyzed differentially expressed genes between the paired tumor and non-tumor breast tissues in TCGA for the identification of age and breast cancer (ABC)-associated genes. A few of these genes were selected for further investigation of their malignancy-regulating activities with in vitro and in vivo assays.

Results

We identified 148 upregulated and 189 downregulated genes during aging. Overlapping of tumor-associated genes between normal and tumor tissues with age-dependent genes resulted in 14 upregulated and 24 downregulated genes that were both age and breast cancer associated. These genes are predictive in relapse-free survival, indicative of their potential tumor promoting or suppressive functions, respectively. Knockdown of two upregulated genes (DYNLT3 and P4HA3) or overexpression of the downregulated ALX4 significantly reduced breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and clonogenicity. Moreover, knockdown of P4HA3 reduced growth and metastasis whereas overexpression of ALX4 inhibited the growth of xenografted breast cancer cells in mice.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that transcriptome alterations during aging may contribute to breast tumorigenesis. DYNLT3, P4HA3, and ALX4 play significant roles in breast cancer progression.
First report of Wolbachia in Damaeus onustus (Acari: Oribatida)
Authors: Konecka Edyta , Olszanowski Ziemowit , Jagiełło Aleksandra
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Little is known about the distribution and phylogeny of bacterial endosymbionts in oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatida). Thus, we undertook the issue of occurrence of these microbial symbionts in this arthropod group.

Methods

We used PCR technique for detection of Wolbachia in Damaeus onustus. Phylogenetic analysis of the bacterium was conducted based on the 16S rDNA sequence.

Results

To the best of our knowledge, we present a novel finding of Wolbachia infection in the sexually reproducing oribatid mite, D. onustus. The presence of uninfected individuals (ca. 93%) suggests that the bacteria do not function as primary symbionts. A comparison of the bacterial 710-bp 16S rDNA sequence detected in the oribatid mite with the sequences deposited in GenBank revealed its 92–93% similarity to the 16S rDNA sequences of Wolbachia identified in some springtails (Collembola) and Bryobia sp. mite. Bacteria from D. onustus showed phylogenetic relationships with Wolbachia from springtails, Megalothorax minimus and Neelus murinus, which were included by other authors into a separate Wolbachia clade.

Conclusion

Our finding suggests that the strains of Wolbachia from D. onustus may form a new Wolbachia supergroup.
Both short and long distance migrants use energy-minimizing migration strategies in North American herring gulls
Authors: Anderson Christine M. , Gilchrist H. Grant , Ronconi Robert A. , Shlepr Katherine R. , Clark Daniel E. , Fifield David A. , Robertson Gregory J. , Mallory Mark L.
Published: June 2020

Background

Recent studies have proposed that birds migrating short distances migrate at an overall slower pace, minimizing energy expenditure, while birds migrating long distances minimize time spent on migration to cope with seasonal changes in environmental conditions.

Methods

We evaluated variability in the migration strategies of Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus), a generalist species with flexible foraging and flight behaviour. We tracked one population of long distance migrants and three populations of short distance migrants, and compared the directness of their migration routes, their overall migration speed, their travel speed, and their use of stopovers.

Results

Our research revealed that Herring Gulls breeding in the eastern Arctic migrate long distances to spend the winter in the Gulf of Mexico, traveling more than four times farther than gulls from Atlantic Canada during autumn migration. While all populations used indirect routes, the long distance migrants were the least direct. We found that regardless of the distance the population traveled, Herring Gulls migrated at a slower overall migration speed than predicted by Optimal Migration Theory, but the long distance migrants had higher speeds on travel days. While long distance migrants used more stopover days overall, relative to the distance travelled all four populations used a similar number of stopover days.

Conclusions

When taken in context with other studies, we expect that the migration strategies of flexible generalist species like Herring Gulls may be more influenced by habitat and food resources than migration distance.
The potential of coupled carbon storage and geothermal extraction in a CO2-enhanced geothermal system: a review
Authors: Wu Yu , Li Pan
Published: June 2020

The increasing demand for energy makes it difficult to replace fossil fuels with low-carbon energy sources in the short term, and the large amount of CO2 emitted by fossil fuel combustion increases global warming. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies for reducing CO2 emissions in power plants and industrial processes have been developed. High costs and security issues limit industrial applications of these technologies, so an alternative for carbon reduction is needed, i.e., CO2 as a working fluid for coupled carbon storage and geothermal extraction in an Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS). We describe the status of global carbon emissions, CCS technologies, and their challenges. The characteristics of CO2 as a working fluid are compared from thermophysical and thermodynamic perspectives, and the solubility of CO2 in reservoir fluids with different ionic strengths, pressures, and temperatures is analyzed. The influence of artificial stimulation on the permeability of an EGS reservoir is described. Through heat extraction experiment of water alternating supercritical CO2 (SCCO2) cycle injection, the effects of CO2–fluid–rock interactions on the reservoir’s structure and of mineral dissolution and precipitation on geological CO2 storage are analyzed. We summarize the application prospects for this alternative and the challenges of future application.
Use of the CytoSorb adsorption device in MDMA intoxication: a first-in-man application and in vitro study
Authors: Lang Corinna N. , Sommer Michaela J. , Neukamm Merja A. , Staudacher Dawid L. , Supady Alexander , Bode Christoph , Duerschmied Daniel , Lother Achim
Published: June 2020

Background

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “ecstasy”) abuse is frequent, and overdosing might cause severe and eventually lethal multi-organ failure. To date, there is no causal therapy of MDMA intoxication and removal of MDMA from the circulation might be a reasonable measure to prevent adverse courses after overdosing. We present here first-in-man experience and in vitro data supporting a potential role of an adsorber device in severe MDMA overdosing.

Results

We applied a CytoSorb adsorber device in a 21-year-old male presenting with severe MDMA intoxication and multi-organ failure, including neurological impairment, hyperpyrexia, rhabdomyolysis, oliguric renal failure, liver failure, and coagulopathy with disseminated gastrointestinal and intramuscular bleeding. Use of the adsorber device was associated with a decline in MDMA concentrations in serum from 540 to 140 ng/ml within the first 24 h, a decrease of interleukin 6 and myoglobin levels, and subsequent clinical improvement. The patient was discharged from hospital after restoration of organ function and full neurological recovery. Effective elimination of MDMA by the adsorber device could be confirmed in vitro, when the device lowered MDMA concentrations to non-detectable levels.

Conclusions

We report here first-in-man experience and in vitro data showing the capacity of a CytoSorb adsorber device for MDMA removal. Early integration of CytoSorb use may enhance the management of severe MDMA intoxication, though we cannot prove whether clinical improvement was directly related to elimination of MDMA or beneficial effects on rhabdomyolysis, hyperinflammation, or liver failure. Our findings encourage further investigation of the CytoSorb adsorber device in a prospective study and to evaluate its use for other intoxications.
Study protocol for POSITIF, a randomised multicentre feasibility trial of a brief cognitive-behavioural intervention plus information versus information alone for the treatment of post-stroke fatigue
Authors: Gillespie David C. , Barber Mark , Brady Marian C. , Carson Alan , Chalder Trudie , Chun Yvonne , Cvoro Vera , Dennis Martin , Hackett Maree , Haig Euan , House Allan , Lewis Steff , Parker Richard , Wee Fiona , Wu Simiao , Mead Gillian
Published: June 2020

Background

Approximately, half of stroke survivors experience fatigue. Fatigue may persist for many months and interferes with participation in everyday activities and has a negative impact on social and family relationships, return to work, and quality of life. Fatigue is among the top 10 priorities for ‘Life after Stroke’ research for stroke survivors, carers, and clinicians. We previously developed and tested in a small uncontrolled pilot study a manualised, clinical psychologist-delivered, face-to-face intervention, informed by cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). We then adapted it for delivery by trained therapists via telephone. We now aim to test the feasibility of this approach in a parallel group, randomised controlled feasibility trial (PostStrokeInterventionTrialInFatigue, POSITIF).

Methods/design

POSITIF aims to recruit 75 stroke survivors between 3 months and 2 years post-stroke who would like treatment for their fatigue. Eligible consenting stroke survivors will be randomised to either a 7-session manualised telephone-delivered intervention based on CBT principles plus information about fatigue, or information only. The aims of the intervention are to (i) provide an explanation for post-stroke fatigue, in particular that it is potentially reversible (an educational approach), (ii) encourage participants to overcome the fear of taking physical activity and challenge negative thinking (a cognitive approach) and (iii) promote a balance between daily activities, rest and sleep and then gradually increase levels of physical activity (a behavioural approach). Fatigue, mood, quality of life, return to work and putative mediators will be assessed at baseline (just before randomisation), at the end of treatment and 6 months after randomisation. POSITIF will determine the feasibility of recruitment, adherence to the intervention and the resources required to deliver the intervention in a larger trial.

Discussion

The POSITIF feasibility trial will recruit until 31 January 2020. Data will inform the utility and design of a future adequately powered randomised controlled trial.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT03551327. Registered on 11 June 2018.
(Dis)connecting migration: transnationalism and nationalism beyond connectivity
Authors: Nowicka Magdalena
Published: June 2020

Transnationalism as a perspective that scrutinizes localities in more than one nation-state has helped to illuminate those aspects of lives of migrants that remain hidden when migration is seen through the lens of conventional migration theory. Social connectivity provides a context in which effects of migration can be studied. Yet reducing transnationalism to connectivity is unproductive for understanding current-day sociality as possibly distinct from a national one. This paper proposes to consider how nationalism is embedded in migrants’ ‘deep stories’, and how these stories are altered in migration. It exemplarily analyses narrations from interviews with Polish migrants in England. The paper argues that connectivity and social context are equally important for transnationalism, but transnationalism cannot be reduced either to one or the other. In turn, we must define transnationalism as outcome of multiple belongings, practise and dispositions coming together.
Personalized accessible wayfinding for people with disabilities through standards and open geospatial platforms in smart cities
Authors: Wheeler Bradley , Syzdykbayev Meirman , Karimi Hassan A. , Gurewitsch Raanan , Wang Yanbo
Published: June 2020

Of the many features that smart cities offer, safe and comfortable mobility of pedestrians within the built environment is of particular importance. Safe and comfortable mobility requires that the built environments of smart cities be accessible to all pedestrians, mobility abled and mobility impaired, given their various mobility needs and preferences. This, coupled with advanced technologies such as wayfinding applications, pedestrians can get assistance in finding the best pathways at different locations and times. Wayfinding applications comprise two components, a database component containing accessibility data, and appropriate algorithms that can utilize accessibility data to meet the mobility needs and preferences of all individuals. While wayfinding applications that provide accessibility on both permanent (e.g., steps) and temporary (e.g., snow) pathways are becoming available, there is a gap in current solutions. There are two elements in the gap, one is that the accessibility data used for finding accessible pathways for people with disabilities are not compliant to the widely agreed upon and available standards, another is that the accessibility data are not available in free and open platforms so that they can be used by developers to develop personalized wayfinding applications and services. To fill this gap, in this paper, we propose a new extension in CityGML with accessibility data. We demonstrate the benefits of the new extension by testing various route options within a city. These route options clearly show the differences between commonly (shortest and fastest) requested and produced pathways and accessible pathways that are feasible and preferred by people who are mobility impaired, such as wheelchair users.
In vitro hypoxia responsiveness of [18F] FDG and [18F] FAZA retention: influence of shaking versus stagnant conditions, glass versus polystyrene substrata and cell number down-scaling
Authors: Busk Morten , Horsman Michael R. , Overgaard Jens , Jakobsen Steen
Published: June 2020

Background

In vitro experiments using radiolabeled molecules is fundamental for Positron emission tomography (PET) or single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) tracer development and various metabolic assays, but no consensus on appropriate incubation conditions exists. Specifically, the use of shaking versus non-shaking conditions, cell number to medium volume and the choice of cell plating material may unintentionally influence cellular oxygenation and medium composition. This is problematic when testing the oxygen-dependence of tracers including 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) and hypoxia-selective 2-nitroimidazoles (e.g., 18F-fluoroazomycin-arabinoside, [18F]FAZA) or when doing prolonged experiments. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of various experimental conditions on tracer retention.

Methods

Tumor cells were seeded in a) Glass or standard Polystyrene Petri dishes or as b) discrete droplets in polystyrene Petri dishes or on 9 mm glass coverslips positioned in glass Petri dishes. When confluent, cells were pre-equilibrated for 2 h to 21%, 0.5% or 0% O2 and [18F] FDG or [18F] FAZA was added, followed by cell harvest and analysis of radioactivity 1 h ([18F]FDG) or 3 h ([18F]FAZA) after. Experiments were conducted with/without orbital shaking.

Results

The influence of hypoxia on tracer retention varied widely among cell lines, but shaking-induced convection did not influence uptake. In contrast, hypoxia-driven [18F] FAZA, and to some extent [18F] FDG, retention was much lower in cells grown on polyethylene than glass. Scaling-down the number of cells did not compromise accuracy.

Conclusions

Tracer retention was similar under stagnant and forced convection conditions suggesting that the former approach may be appropriate even when accurate control of oxygen and tracer availability is required. In contrast, conventional plasticware should be used with caution when studying tracers and drugs that are metabolized and retained or activated at low O2 levels. Downscaling of cell number, by reducing the effective growth area, was feasible, without compromising accuracy.
ABC4 Consensus: First Latin American Meeting—Assessment, Comments, and Application of Its Recommendations
Authors: Gomez Henry L. , Castañeda Carlos , Valencia Fernando , Muñoz-Bermeo Rene , Torrico Maria del Carmen , Neciosup Silvia
Published: June 2020

Breast cancer accounts for a high burden among all the neoplasms in Latin America, with more-advanced stages at presentation, which could result in high mortality rates. The 4th International Consensus Conference for Advanced Breast Cancer (ABC4) is focused on standardizing therapy for advanced breast cancer (ABC) and has held 5 meetings so far. ABC4 took place in Lisbon, Portugal, from November 2 to 4, 2017; however, the first Latin American ABC conference was held in Lima, Peru, from 18 to 19 May, 2018, chaired by Fatima Cardoso, MD, PhD. During these 2 days, the ABC4 consensus recommendations for advanced and locally advanced breast cancer were presented. Local treatment and systemic therapy were discussed with local experts, mainly focusing on anti–human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 therapy and newly approved drugs for hormone receptor–positive breast cancer, such as as CDK4/6, mammalian target of rapamycin, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors for triple-negative breast cancer. The discussion focused additionally on access to drugs and ABC4 consensus recommendations as regards Latin American patients.
What Do Patients With Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer Experience? Content Domain for the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory for Lung Cancer
Authors: Whisenant Meagan S. , Williams Loretta A. , Garcia Gonzalez Araceli , Mendoza Tito , Shi Qiuling , Cleeland Charles , Zhang Jianjun , Heymach John , Simon George
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE:

Symptom monitoring has demonstrated improved outcomes in patients with cancer, including quality of life, resource utilization, ability to continue treatment, and survival. The use of disease-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures facilitates symptom monitoring. While the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory–Lung Cancer (MDASI-LC), a PRO measure of symptom burden in lung cancer, is psychometrically validated for use in patients with NSCLC, its content validity has not been verified through direct patient input. Our purpose is to describe the symptom experience of patients with NSCLC and to confirm that the MDASI-LC contains the key symptoms specific to NSCLC from the patient perspective.

METHODS:

Patients with NSCLC described their symptom experience in single qualitative interviews. Content analysis was used to define the content domain for a PRO measure of NSCLC symptom burden.

RESULTS:

Participants (N = 40) had a mean age of 66.1 years (standard deviation, 10.9 years); 60.0% were male, 77.5% were White, and 56.4% had stage IV disease. Thirty-two symptoms were described, with 6 reported by ≥ 20% of participants. Symptom variations were noted by treatment modality but not by stage of disease. Patients with NSCLC commonly reported shortness of breath, cough, distress, fatigue, pain, and constipation. In patients receiving chemotherapy, treatment-related symptoms, including neuropathy and sore mouth, were commonly noted. The presence of these symptoms resulted in interference with daily activities, relationships, life plans, treatment adherence, and mood.

CONCLUSION:

The symptoms included in the MDASI-LC are important components of the content domain of an NSCLC symptom burden measure. The presence of these symptoms affect daily life and, therefore, is of clinical consequence.
Providing Oncology Pharmacy Services During the Coronavirus Pandemic: French Society for Oncology Pharmacy (Société Francaise de Pharmacie Oncologique [SFPO]) Guidelines
Authors: Pourroy Bertrand , Tournamille Jean Francois , Bardin Christophe , Slimano Florian , Chevrier Régine , Rioufol Catherine , Madelaine Isabelle
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE:

Patients with cancer are at higher risk for contracting the COVID-19 infection and are more likely to have higher morbidity and mortality. This is a big challenge for oncology teams that have to treat patients to avoid contamination by SARS-CoV-2. The aim of the current work is to present oncology pharmacy practice guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic to secure the pharmaceutical care of patients with cancer.

METHODS:

The bureau of the French Society for Oncology Pharmacy proposed these recommendations according to the French High Authority of Health following the Guidelines of Good Practice, slightly modified according to the pandemic crisis situation. These guidelines were developed by a working group of 7 experts in oncology pharmacy practice. Furthermore, the guidelines were assessed by 31 independent reviewers.

RESULTS:

One hundred percent of reviewers approved the guidelines and 90% of them suggested some improvements. The final version incorporates the best comments and consists of 26 recommendations organized in 8 different sections.

CONCLUSION:

These guidelines allow secure pharmaceutical management of patients with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Implications of Clonal Hematopoiesis for Precision Oncology
Authors: Miller Peter G. , Steensma David P.
Published: June 2020

Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) is common in middle-aged and elderly populations and confers a risk of hematological malignancy and also death due to cardiovascular disease. Prior therapy with cytotoxic chemotherapy or radiation increases the risk of CH, especially that associated with TP53 or PPM1D mutations. CH can complicate interpretation of cell-free or circulating tumor DNA assays, since most blood DNA is derived from hematopoietic cells. The specific determinants of clonal progression are unclear, but the gene carrying the mutation, size of the mutant clone, and presence of multiple mutations appear to increase risk of evolution to myeloid leukemia. While CH is not yet modifiable, specific mutations such as TET2 or IDH1/IDH2 confer vulnerabilities to established drugs or developmental compounds, and investigators are developing clinical trials to try to exploit these vulnerabilities.
First things first: A late robotic approach to anamnesis, in a patient with a thymus hematoma
Authors: Manco Maria Grazia R. , Francavilla Alessia , Ferretti Gian Maria , Guglielmi Giuseppe , Taurchini Marco
Published: June 2020

Anterior mediastinal masses are generally asymptomatic until they grow and compress surrounding structures. Chest X-rays only suggest a mediastinal abnormality and contrast-enhanced CT scan and MRI are necessary for a better definition of the lesion. The classification of the anterior mediastinal masses is based on their etiology and it is sometimes a challenge to have an accurate differential diagnosis based only on radiological examinations: therefore, only the histopathological examination makes the correct diagnosis. Surgeons generally agree that symptomatic masses or those with progressive growth should undergo surgical resection. We report a case of an accidental finding of an organized thymic hematoma in a 46-year-old female. At first totally asymptomatic, the hematoma was misdiagnosed for a thymic cyst and resected when it increased in size and compressed surrounding mediastinal structures. A detailed anamnesis highlighted a minor thoracic trauma which turned out to be the cause. Retrosternal hematoma generally grows several months after trauma and initial stabilization; therefore, it is mandatory to include an organized hematoma in the differential diagnosis of the retrosternal neoformations.
First report of 68Ga-PRGD2 PET/MRI molecular imaging of vaso-occlusion in a patient with sickle cell disease
Authors: Novelli Enrico M , Moon Chan Hong , Pham Tiffany A , Perkins Lydia A , Little-Ihrig Lynda , Tavakoli Sina , Mason N. Scott , Lang Lixin , Chen Xiaoyuan , Laymon Charles M , Gladwin Mark T , Anderson Carolyn J
Published: June 2020

Increased vascular cell adhesion (hyperadhesion) to the endothelium is responsible for the hallmark acute pain episodes, or vaso-occlusive crises (VOC), of sickle cell disease. The integrin αvβ3 plays an important role in VOC since it mediates sickle red blood cell adhesion to the endothelium, a process that leads to ischemia and painful bone infarction. In the pilot study presented herein, we hypothesized that real-time imaging of hyperadhesion could quantify VOC severity and identify the most vulnerable anatomical sites. We also hypothesized that harnessing hyperadhesion as a proximate event in VOC would provide sensitive, objective evidence of VOC before pain has developed. Specifically, we tested whether positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of integrin αvβ3 using the PET tracer 68Ga-PRGD2 would successfully image hyperadhesion associated with VOC in a patient with sickle cell disease. We observed persistently higher tracer uptake in the femurs during VOC compared to baseline. In the vessel, after an initial and transient increase during VOC, blood pool activity was similar between baseline and VOC. These findings suggest that PET imaging of integrin αvβ3 may be a valuable strategy for imaging of VOC.