bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lysine-Specific Demethylase 1 Mediates AKT Activity and Promotes Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in PIK3CA-Mutant Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Miller Samuel A. , Policastro Robert A. , Savant Sudha S. , Sriramkumar Shruthi , Ding Ning , Lu Xiaoyu , Mohammad Helai P. , Cao Sha , Kalin Jay H. , Cole Philip A. , Zentner Gabriel E. , O'Hagan Heather M.
Published: November 2019

Activation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) program is a critical mechanism for initiating cancer progression and migration. Colorectal cancers contain many genetic and epigenetic alterations that can contribute to EMT. Mutations activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway are observed in >40% of patients with colorectal cancer contributing to increased invasion and metastasis. Little is known about how oncogenic signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT synergize with chromatin modifiers to activate the EMT program. Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is a chromatin-modifying enzyme that is overexpressed in colorectal cancer and enhances cell migration. In this study, we determine that LSD1 expression is significantly elevated in patients with colorectal cancer with mutation of the catalytic subunit of PI3K, PIK3CA, compared with patients with colorectal cancer with WT PIK3CA. LSD1 enhances activation of the AKT kinase in colorectal cancer cells through a noncatalytic mechanism, acting as a scaffolding protein for the transcription-repressing CoREST complex. In addition, growth of PIK3CA-mutant colorectal cancer cells is uniquely dependent on LSD1. Knockdown or CRISPR knockout of LSD1 blocks AKT-mediated stabilization of the EMT-promoting transcription factor Snail and effectively blocks AKT-mediated EMT and migration. Overall, we uniquely demonstrate that LSD1 mediates AKT activation in response to growth factors and oxidative stress, and LSD1-regulated AKT activity promotes EMT-like characteristics in a subset of PIK3CA-mutant cells.

Implications:

Our data support the hypothesis that inhibitors targeting the CoREST complex may be clinically effective in patients with colorectal cancer harboring PIK3CA mutations.
Bisphosphonates Zometa and Fosamax Synergize with Metformin to Prevent AOM-Induced Colon Cancer in F344 Rat Model
Authors: Madka Venkateshwar , Kumar Gaurav , Pathuri Gopal , Zhang Yuting , Lightfoot Stanley , Asch Adam S. , Mohammed Altaf , Steele Vernon E. , Rao Chinthalapally V.
Published: November 2019

Recent observational studies suggest that bisphosphonates (BP) and antidiabetic drugs are associated with colorectal cancer risk reduction. Hence, we evaluated the colorectal cancer preventive effects of BPs (zometa and fosamax), individually and when combined with metformin, in azoxymethane-induced rat colon cancer model. Rat (30/group) were randomized and treated subcutaneously with azoxymethane to induce colorectal cancer. Dietary intervention with zometa or fosamax (0, 20, or 100 ppm) or metformin (1,000 ppm) or the combinations (zometa/fosamax 20 ppm plus metformin 1,000 ppm) began 4 weeks after azoxymethane treatment, at premalignant lesions stage. Rats were killed 40 weeks post drug intervention to assess colorectal cancer preventive efficacy. Dietary zometa (20 ppm) inhibited noninvasive adenocarcinomas multiplicity by 37% (P < 0.03) when compared with control diet fed group. Fosamax at 20 ppm and 100 ppm significantly reduced adenocarcinoma incidence (P < 0.005) and inhibited the noninvasive adenocarcinoma multiplicities by 43.8% (P < 0.009) and 60.8% (P < 0.004), respectively, compared with the group fed control diet. At 1,000 ppm dose, metformin failed to suppress colon adenocarcinoma formation. However, the lower dose combinations of zometa or fosamax with metformin resulted in significant inhibition of noninvasive adenocarcinoma by 48% (P < 0.006) and 64% (P < 0.0002), and invasive adenocarcinoma by 49% (P < 0.0005) and 38% (P < 0.006), respectively. Biomarker analysis of combination drug–treated tumors showed a decrease in cell proliferation with increased apoptosis when compared with untreated tumors. Overall, our results suggest that the combination of low doses of zometa or fosamax with metformin showed synergistic effect and significantly inhibited colon adenocarcinoma incidence and multiplicity.
Hybrid Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation after Failed Percutaneous Endocardial and Epicardial Ablation
Authors: Haanschoten Danielle M. , Adiyaman Ahmet , Smit Jaap Jan J. , Delnoy Peter Paul H.M. , Ramdat Misier Anand R. , Porta Fabiano , Storm van Leeuwen Robert P.H. , Elvan Arif
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Recurrent ventricular tachycardia (VT) after percutaneous ablation is associated with a high morbidity and mortality. We assessed the feasibility of open chest extracorporeal circulation (ECC)-supported 3D multielectrode mapping and targeted VT substrate ablation in patients with previously failed percutaneous endocardial and epicardial VT ablations. Methods: In patients with previously failed percutaneous endocardial and epicardial VT ablations and a high risk of hemodynamic collapse during the procedure, open chest ECC-supported mapping and ablation were performed in a hybrid EP lab setting. Electro-anatomic maps (3D) were acquired during sinus rhythm and VT using a multielectrode mapping catheter (HD grid; Abbott or Pentaray, Biosense Webster). Irrigated radiofrequency ablations of all inducible VT were performed with a contact force ablation catheter. Results: Hybrid VT ablation was performed in 5 patients with structural heart disease (i.e., 3 with previous old myocardial infarction and 2 with nonischemic cardiomy­opathy) and recurrent VT. Acute procedural success was achieved in all patients. Four patients were successfully weaned off the ECC. In 1 patient with a severely reduced LVEF (16%), damage to the venous graft occurred after sternotomy and that patient died after 1 month. Four patients (80%) remained VT free after a median follow-up of 6 (IQR 4–10) months. Conclusion: In high-risk patients with previously failed percutaneous endocardial and epicardial VT ablations, open chest ECC-supported multielectrode epicardial mapping revealed a VT substrate in all of the patients, and targeted epicardial ablation abolished VT substrate in these patients.
Emergence of Carbapenem-Hydrolyzing Oxacillinases in Acinetobacter baumannii in Children from Croatia
Authors: Lukić-Grlić Amarela , Kos Matea , Žižek Marta , Luxner Josefa , Grisold Andrea , Zarfel Gernot , Bedenić Branka
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Carbapenem resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii can be mediated by carbapenemases of class A, class B metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), and class D carbapenem-hydrolyzing oxacillinases (CHDL). The aim of the study was to investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility and β-lactamase production of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii isolates (CRAB) from the Children’s Hospital Zagreb, Croatia. Methods: A total of 12 A. baumannii isolates collected between August 2016 and March 2018 were analyzed. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined by the broth microdilution method. The presence of MBLs was explored by combined disk test with EDTA. The presence of carbapenemases of class A, B, and D was explored by PCR. The occurrence of the ISAba1 upstream of the blaOXA-51-like or blaOXA-23-like was determined by PCR mapping. Epidemiological typing was performed by determination of sequence groups (SG). Genotyping was performed by SG determination, rep-PCR, and MLST. Results: All CRAB were resistant to piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, imipenem, meropenem, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin. Moderate resistance rates were observed for ampicillin/sulbactam (67%) and tigecycline (42%). The isolates were uniformly susceptible to colistin. PCR revealed the presence of genes encoding OXA-24-like CHDL in nine and OXA-23-like CHDL in three isolates. blaOXA-51 genes were preceded by ISAba1. PCR for the common MBLs in Acinetobacter was negative. All isolates belonged to SG 1 corresponding to ICL (International Clonal Lineage) II. Rep-PCR identified four major clones. Conclusions: The study found OXA-24-like β-lactamase to be the dominant CHDL among children’sCRAB. The predominant spread of OXA-24-like is in contrast with the recent global dissemination of OXA-23 reported all over the world. In contrast to the previous studies in which emergency of OXA-24-like positive isolates was monoclonal, we found considerable genetic diversity of the isolates.
Use of Diffusion‐Weighted Imaging‐Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (DWI‐ASPECTS) and Ischemic Core Volume to Determine the Malignant Profile in Acute Stroke
Authors: Yoshimoto Takeshi , Inoue Manabu , Yamagami Hiroshi , Fujita Kyohei , Tanaka Kanta , Ando Daisuke , Sonoda Kazutaka , Kamogawa Naruhiko , Koga Masatoshi , Ihara Masafumi , Toyoda Kazunori
Published: November 2019

Background

Malignant profiles were identified by imaging profiles and unfavorable outcomes that have poor response to reperfusion therapy. Many trials have used this profile in their inclusion criteria including large‐vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke trials. We aimed to redefine the cutoff values for malignant profile in acute ischemic stroke patients with large‐vessel occlusion regardless of reperfusion therapy.

Methods and Results

Consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients with anterior large‐vessel occlusion were prospectively extracted from the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Stroke Registry between March 2014 and December 2017. Diffusion‐Weighted Imaging‐Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (DWI‐ASPECTS) and diffusion‐weighted imaging lesion ischemic core volume (Vol

DWI

) were measured in acute ischemic stroke patients with large‐vessel occlusion with or without treatment. Unfavorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score 5 to 6 at 3 months, and optimal
DWI
‐
ASPECTS
and Vol

DWI

for unfavorable outcome were assessed. In total, 198 patients (111 men, 77±13 years old) were enrolled. Median
DWI
‐
ASPECTS
was 7 (5‐9), and median Vol

DWI

was 55 (6‐134)
mL
. Among the patients, 72 (36%) patients underwent reperfusion therapy, and 83 (42%) had unfavorable outcomes. The threshold values for a malignant profile on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for
DWI
‐
ASPECTS
and Vol

DWI

were 4 (area under the curve 0.78,
P
<0.01; sensitivity 0.71, specificity 0.75) and 71 mL (area under the curve 0.80,
P
<0.01; sensitivity 0.76, specificity 0.77), respectively.

Conclusions

The cutoff values for our redefined malignant profile were
DWI
‐
ASPECTS
4 and Vol

DWI

71 mL with no selection bias for reperfusion therapy in the real‐world clinical practice.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
Unique identifier:
NCT
02251665
Risk of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events and Major Hemorrhage Among White and Black Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Cai Anping , Dillon Chrisly , Hillegass William B. , Beasley Mark , Brott Brigitta C. , Bittner Vera A. , Perry Gilbert J. , Halade Ganesh V. , Prabhu Sumanth D. , Limdi Nita A.
Published: November 2019

Background

Data on racial disparities in major adverse cardiovascular events (
MACE
) and major hemorrhage (
HEM
) after percutaneous coronary intervention are limited. Factors contributing to these disparities are unknown.

Methods and Results

PR
i
ME
‐GGAT (Pharmacogenomic Resource to Improve Medication Effectiveness–Genotype‐Guided Antiplatelet Therapy) is a prospective cohort. Patients aged ≥18 years undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled and followed for up to 1 year. Racial disparities in risk of
MACE
and
HEM
were assessed using an incident rate ratio. Sequential cumulative adjustment analyses were performed to identify factors contributing to these disparities. Data from 919 patients were included in the analysis. Compared with white patients, black patients (n=203; 22.1% of the cohort) were younger and were more likely to be female, to be a smoker, and to have higher body mass index, lower socioeconomic status, higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus and moderate to severe chronic kidney disease, and presentation with acute coronary syndrome and to undergo urgent percutaneous coronary intervention. The incident rates of
MACE
(34.1% versus 18.2% per 100 person‐years,
P
<0.001) and
HEM
(17.7% versus 10.3% per 100 person‐years,
P
=0.02) were higher in black patients. The incident rate ratio was 1.9 (95% CI, 1.3–2.6;
P
<0.001) for
MACE
and 1.7 (95%
CI
, 1.1–2. 7;
P
=0.02) for
HEM
. After adjustment for nonclinical and clinical factors, black race was not significantly associated with outcomes. Rather, differences in socioeconomic status, comorbidities, and coronary heart disease severity were attributed to racial disparities in outcomes.

Conclusions

Despite receiving similar treatment, racial disparities in
MACE
and
HEM
still exist. Opportunities exist to narrow these disparities by mitigating the identified contributors.
Predictors and Clinical Outcomes of Vasoplegia in Patients Bridged to Heart Transplantation With Continuous‐Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Asleh Rabea , Alnsasra Hilmi , Daly Richard C. , Schettle Sarah D. , Briasoulis Alexandros , Taher Riad , Dunlay Shannon M. , Stulak John M. , Behfar Atta , Pereira Naveen L. , Frantz Robert P. , Edwards Brooks S. , Clavell Alfredo L. , Kushwaha Sudhir S.
Published: November 2019

Background

The presence of a durable left ventricular assist device (
LVAD
) is associated with increased risk of vasoplegia in the early postoperative period following heart transplantation (
HT
). However, preoperative predictors of vasoplegia and its impact on survival after
HT
are unknown. We sought to examine predictors and outcomes of patients who develop vasoplegia after
HT
following bridging therapy with an
LVAD
.

Methods and Results

We identified 94 patients who underwent
HT
after bridging with continuous‐flow
LVAD
from 2008 to 2018 at a single institution. Vasoplegia was defined as persistent low vascular resistance requiring ≥2 intravenous vasopressors within 48 hours after
HT
for >24 hours to maintain mean arterial pressure >70 mm Hg. Overall, 44 patients (46.8%) developed vasoplegia after
HT
. Patients with and without vasoplegia had similar preoperative
LVAD
, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic parameters. Patients with vasoplegia were significantly older; had longer
LVAD
support, higher preoperative creatinine, longer cardiopulmonary bypass time, and higher Charlson comorbidity index; and more often underwent combined organ transplantation. In a multivariate logistic regression model, older age (odds ratio: 1.08 per year;
P
=0.010), longer
LVAD
support (odds ratio: 1.06 per month;
P
=0.007), higher creatinine (odds ratio: 3.9 per 1 mg/dL;
P
=0.039), and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (odds ratio: 1.83 per hour;
P
=0.044) were independent predictors of vasoplegia. After mean follow‐up of 4.0 years after
HT
, vasoplegia was associated with increased risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio: 5.20; 95% CI, 1.71–19.28;
P
=0.003).

Conclusions

Older age, longer
LVAD
support, impaired renal function, and prolonged intraoperative
CPB
time are independent predictors of vasoplegia in patients undergoing
HT
after
LVAD
bridging. Vasoplegia is associated with worse prognosis; therefore, detailed assessment of these predictors can be clinically important.
Left Ventricular Unloading Increases the Coronary Collateral Flow Index Before Reperfusion and Reduces Infarct Size in a Swine Model of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Briceno Natalia , Annamalai Shiva K. , Reyelt Lara , Crowley Paige , Qiao Xiaoying , Swain Lija , Pedicini Robert , Foroutanjazi Sina , Jorde Lena , Yesodharan Gemini , Perera Divaka , Kapur Navin K.
Published: November 2019

Background

Unloading the left ventricle and delaying reperfusion reduces infarct size in preclinical models of acute myocardial infarction. We hypothesized that a potential explanation for this effect is that left ventricular (
LV
) unloading before reperfusion increases collateral blood flow to ischemic myocardium.

Methods and Results

Acute myocardial infarction was induced by balloon occlusion of the left anterior descending artery for 120 minutes in adult swine, followed by reperfusion for 180 minutes. After 90 minutes of occlusion, animals were assigned to 30 minutes of continued occlusion (n=6) or to 30 minutes of support with either an Impella
CP
(n=4) or venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (n=5) with persistent occlusion. The primary end point was measures of microcirculatory blood flow including the collateral flow index (
CFI
) during left anterior descending artery occlusion as (P
w
−
RA
)/(P
a
−
RA
), where P
a
, P
w
, and
RA
are aortic, coronary wedge, and right atrial pressure, respectively. Infarct size was quantified using triphenyltetrazolium chloride. Compared with continued occlusion, Impella, not venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, reduced infarct size relative to the area at risk. Before reperfusion, Impella reduced
LV
stroke work by 25% and increased the
CFI
by 75%, but venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation did not. Among all groups, the change in
CFI
between 90 and 120 minutes correlated inversely with the change in LV stroke work (
r
2
=0.44,
P
=0.01) and infarct size (
r
2
=0.41,
P
=0.02).

Conclusions

We report for the first time that 30 minutes of
LV
unloading during coronary occlusion increases the
CFI
, which correlates inversely with
LV stroke work
and infarct size. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation failed to increase the
CFI
and did not reduce infarct size.
Prognostic Impact of Baseline Hemoglobin Levels on Long‐Term Thrombotic and Bleeding Events After Percutaneous Coronary Interventions
Authors: Nagao Kazuya , Watanabe Hirotoshi , Morimoto Takeshi , Inada Tsukasa , Hayashi Fujio , Nakagawa Yoshihisa , Furukawa Yutaka , Kadota Kazushige , Akasaka Takashi , Natsuaki Masahiro , Kozuma Ken , Tanabe Kengo , Morino Yoshihiro , Shiomi Hiroki , Kimura Takeshi ,   the CREDO‐Kyoto PCI/CABG Registry Cohort‐2, RESET, and NEXT Investigators
Published: November 2019

Background

Association of baseline hemoglobin levels with long‐term adverse events after percutaneous coronary interventions has not been yet thoroughly defined. We aimed to assess the clinical impact of baseline hemoglobin on long‐term ischemic and bleeding risk after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

Using the pooled individual patient‐level data from the 3 percutaneous coronary intervention studies, we categorized 19 288 patients into 4 groups: high‐normal hemoglobin (≥14.0 g/dL; n=7555), low‐normal hemoglobin (13.0–13.9 g/dL in men and 12.0–13.9 g/dL in women; n=5303), mild anemia (11.0–12.9 g/dL in men and 11.0–11.9 g/dL in women; n=4117), and moderate/severe anemia (<11.0 g/dL; n=2313). Median follow‐up duration was 3 years. Low‐normal hemoglobin, mild anemia, and moderate/severe anemia correlated with significant excess risk relative to high‐normal hemoglobin for
GUSTO
(Global Utilization of Streptokinase and Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Occluded Arteries Trial) moderate/severe bleeding, with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.22 (95% CI, 1.04–1.44), 1.73 (95% CI, 1.47–2.04), and 2.31 (95% CI, 1.92–2.78), respectively. Moderate/severe anemia also correlated with significant excess risk relative to high‐normal hemoglobin for the ischemic composite end point of myocardial infarction/ischemic stroke (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.11–1.60), whereas low‐normal hemoglobin and mild anemia did not. However, the excess risk of low‐normal hemoglobin, mild anemia, and moderate/severe anemia relative to high‐normal hemoglobin remained significant for ischemic stroke and for mortality.

Conclusions

Decreasing baseline hemoglobin correlated with incrementally higher long‐term risk for major bleeding, ischemic stroke, and mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention. Even within normal range, lower baseline hemoglobin level correlated with higher ischemic and bleeding risk.
Use of Statins After Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults and Its Association With Long-Term Outcome
Authors: van Dongen Myrna Marita Elisabeth , Aarnio Karoliina , Martinez-Majander Nicolas , Pirinen Jani , Sinisalo Juha , Lehto Mika , Kaste Markku , Tatlisumak Turgut , de Leeuw Frank-Erik , Putaala Jukka
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose—

Knowledge of the use of secondary preventive medication in young adults is limited. We studied the use of statins and its association with subsequent vascular events in young adults with ischemic stroke—a patient group with a known low burden of atherosclerosis.

Methods—

The study population included 935 first-ever 30-day ischemic stroke survivors aged 15 to 49 years from the Helsinki Young Stroke Registry, 1994 to 2007. Follow-up data until 2012 were obtained from the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Drug Prescription Register), the Finnish Care Register, and Statistics Finland. The association of the use of statins (defined as at least 2 purchases) with all-cause mortality, recurrent stroke, and other recurrent vascular events was assessed through adjusted Cox regression analyses. We further compared propensity score–matched statin users with nonusers.

Results—

Of our 935 patients, 46.8% used statins at some point during follow-up. Higher age, dyslipidemia, heavy alcohol use, and hypertension were significantly associated with purchasing statins. Statin users exhibited lower risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.25–0.58]) and recurrent stroke (hazard ratio, 0.29 [95% CI, 0.19–0.44]) than nonusers, after adjustment for dyslipidemia, stroke subtype, and other confounders. These results remained unchanged after propensity score–matched comparison.

Conclusions—

Less than half of young ischemic stroke patients used statins; use was affected by age and risk factor profile. Statin use was independently associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality and recurrent stroke.
Whitewash as Affective Platform: Art and Politics of Surface in the Work of Yto Barrada and Hassan Darsi
Authors: Pieprzak Katarzyna
Published: November 2019

Whitewash when read through affect is a site of fleeting documentation, a temporary archive of becoming, an ephemeral glimpse into what might become, different. By reading slowly and carefully the work of contemporary artists Yto Barrada and Hassan Darsi, this article hopes to show how their attention to whitewash in urban Morocco is about registering and producing a moment of as-yet-unrealized possibility and potential ontological transformation. From the creation of potemkin worlds for passing dignitaries to the presentation of a worker's body slowly whitewashing a decaying building in a neoliberal authoritarian city, Barrada and Darsi document whitewash as the space where, and the moment when, intended and unintended affects gather in regime-produced conditions of being. Barrada and Darsi harness these affects to produce a platform for the imagination of another type of emergent futurity. Through a discussion of these two artists' attention to whitewashed architectural surface in photography, film and architectural models, I hope to bring together surface reading and affect to show not only that through surface and affect, we can understand the working of regimes of power in a postcolonial state, but also, and perhaps most importantly, that under authoritarianism and censorship, attending to affect through surface may be one of the most poignant ways to create space and mount critique.
Assessment of the most suitable nematode inoculum density and plant growth period to screen coffee genotypes for their reaction to Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Silva Santino A. , Bicalho Anderson C.G. , Santiago Débora C. , Cunha Lucas S. , Machado Andressa C.Z.
Published: November 2019

One of the concerns for nematological research is the absence of information on standard nematode population densities to be used when screening to assess resistance/susceptibility levels of a genotype. In addition, the length of the growth period, especially for perennial crops such as coffee, must also be known. The objective of this work was to evaluate the ideal evaluation periods and population densities of the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, for phenotyping Coffea arabica genotypes. Seedlings of coffee ‘Mundo Novo’ with five leaf pairs cropped in 700 cm3 plastic pots were inoculated with population densities of 700, 1400, 2800, 5600 and 11 200 eggs of M. incognita per plant and evaluated at 90, 120, 150 and 180 days after inoculation (DAI) to determine the nematode reproduction factor (RF). The use of population densities of M. incognita from 700-2000 nematodes with evaluations between 90 and 180 DAI was the most suitable to obtain higher RF values and allows earlier and more accurate evaluations, which reduces the time for phenotyping in genetic screening programmes.
Correlation of the Expression of IGF-1, TGF-β1 and BMP12 with Tendon Degeneration Caused by Overused Tendon of the Long Head of Biceps Brachii
Authors: Fang Chongbin , Yan Haibin , Guo Xinhui , Wang Liming
Published: November 2019

Objective: To assess the association of the expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) and bone morphogenetic protein-12 (BMP-12) with tendon degeneration in rats caused by overuse of biceps brachii long head tendon.
Methods: Sixteen Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into normal group (n = 8) and overuse group (n = 8). Rats were fed routinely in normal group and were treated by small animal treadmills for continuous 6 weeks of exercise at 1 h/day in overuse group followed
by analysis of histological morphology of the tendon of the long head of biceps brachii by Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, the expression levels of IGF-1, TGF-β1 and BMP-12 by Western blotting. Correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation of the protein expression
with the pathological score. Results: HE staining showed normal morphology of biceps brachii long head tendon in normal group (with dense structure, uniform arrangement and no fiber damage) and abnormal morphology in overuse group (with disordered structure, uneven arrangement and some
of breakage fibers). The pathological score in overuse group was significantly higher than that in normal group (p < 0.05). Compared with those in normal group, the protein levels of IGF-1, TGF-β1 and BMP-12 were significantly elevated in overuse group (p <
0.05). Conclusion: The expression of IGF-1, TGF-β1 and BMP-12 in overused tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii are elevated, and positively correlated with tendon degeneration.
Expressions of CD3 and CD4 T Cells in Peripheral Blood of Patients with Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy and Their Clinical Significance
Authors: Zhang Xuecheng , Su Ning , Chen Dong
Published: November 2019

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is a primary glomerulonephritis characterized by abnormal immune response-mediated deposition of polymeric IgA (pIgA) in mesangium. As a type of important immune cells, the relationship of CD3 or CD4 with the pathogenesis of IgAN remains poorly understood.
In this study, 38 patients with IgAN, 7 patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (MN) and 46 healthy adults without history of kidney disease were enrolled. Peripheral blood was collected for further evaluation of the expressions of CD3 and CD4 and IgA by flow cytometry, quantitative
polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot. Meanwhile, the expression of IgA was detected by ELISA. The result showed that expression of CD3 T cells was down-regulated in patients with IgAN, while amounts of CD4 T cells and IgA level were significantly increased compared to normal control
(P < 0.05). However, no signficant changes in CD3, CD4 T cells were found in patients with MN. Our study demonstrates that CD3 and CD4 T cells as well as IgA are involved in the pathogenesis of IgAN and these targets might be beneficial for the treatment of IgAN.
Porous Hydroxyapatite/Strontium Oxide Composite Ceramic Preparation and Properties of Biomaterials
Authors: Meng Zeng-Dong , Wang Cheng-Jian , Zhang Yu-Qin , Luo Chong , Wang Ze-Yu , Li Wei-Chao
Published: November 2019

Objective: This study aims to added strontium to hydroxyapatite (HA) through physical means and prepare porous composite ceramic materials with good mechanical properties to further improve the osteogenesis-inducing effect of bone repairing materials. Methods: The composite
powders of strontium oxide/hydroxyapatite (SrO/HA) was obtained by mechanical milling. Then, porous SrO/HA composite ceramics were prepared by spark plasma sintering. The composition, structure and morphology of these porous composite ceramic materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction
and scanning electron microscope, and the porosity and mechanical properties were tested. Results: Porous composite ceramic materials with clear composition were prepared, and obvious porous structures were observed. Conclusion: After ball milling, a replacement reaction occurred
in the prepared porous SrO/HA composite powder with different SrO contents, part of Ca2+ in HA (Ca10[PO4]6[OH]2was replaced by Sr2+, and merely a small amount of powder underwent decomposition during sintering at 1,100 °C.
Under an electron microscope, the pore characteristics of the composite ceramic materials were obvious, the distribution was uniform, and the connectivity was good. The compressive strengths of these materials ranged within 2–8 MPa. This shows that the strontium element can also be doped
by physical means, and that the obtained porous SrO/HA composite ceramic material has good pore characteristics and good application potential in bone repair.
The Total Solar Eclipse of 2017: Meteorological Observations from a Statewide Mesonet and Atmospheric Profiling Systems
Authors: Mahmood Rezaul , Schargorodski Megan , Rappin Eric , Griffin Melissa , Collins Patrick , Knupp Kevin , Quilligan Andrew , Wade Ryan , Cary Kevin
Published: November 2019

A total solar eclipse traversed the continental United States on 21 August 2017. It was the first such event in 99 years and provided a rare opportunity to observe the atmospheric response from a variety of instrumented observational platforms. This paper discusses the high-quality observations collected by the Kentucky Mesonet (www.kymesonet.org), a research-grade meteorological and climatological observation network consisting of 72 stations and measuring air temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, solar radiation, wind speed, and wind direction. The network samples the atmosphere, for most variables, every 3 s and then calculates and records observations every 5 min. During the total solar eclipse, these observations were complemented by observations collected from three atmospheric profiling systems positioned in the path of the eclipse and operated by the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). Observational data demonstrate that solar radiation at the surface dropped from >800 to 0 W m‒2, the air temperature decreased by about 4.5°C, and, most interestingly, a land-breeze–sea-breeze-type wind developed. In addition, due to the high density of observations, the network recorded a detailed representation of the spatial variation of surface meteorology. The UAH profiling system captured collapse and reformation of the planetary boundary layer and related changes during the total solar eclipse.
Critical Issues in Dental and Medical Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Lavigne G.J. , Herrero Babiloni A. , Beetz G. , Dal Fabbro C. , Sutherland K. , Huynh N. , Cistulli P.A.
Published: November 2019

This critical review focuses on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and its management from a dental medicine perspective. OSA is characterized by ≥10-s cessation of breathing (apnea) or reduction in airflow (hypopnea) ≥5 times per hour with a drop in oxygen and/or rise in carbon dioxide. It can be associated with sleepiness and fatigue, impaired mood and cognition, cardiometabolic complications, and risk for transportation and work accidents. Although sleep apnea is diagnosed by a sleep physician, its management is interdisciplinary. The dentist’s role includes 1) screening patients for OSA risk factors (e.g., retrognathia, high arched palate, enlarged tonsils or tongue, enlarged tori, high Mallampati score, poor sleep, supine sleep position, obesity, hypertension, morning headache or orofacial pain, bruxism); 2) referring to an appropriate health professional as indicated; and 3) providing oral appliance therapy followed by regular dental and sleep medical follow-up. In addition to the device features and provider expertise, anatomic, behavioral, demographic, and neurophysiologic characteristics can influence oral appliance effectiveness in managing OSA. Therefore, OSA treatment should be tailored to each patient individually. This review highlights some of the putative action mechanisms related to oral appliance effectiveness and proposes future research directions.
Book review: Denzil Saldanha (Ed.), Identity within Hegemonic Process: Adivasi Ethnicity-Class
Authors: Mohanty Rabindra K.
Published: November 2019

Denzil Saldanha (Ed.). Identity within Hegemonic Process: Adivasi Ethnicity-Class.New Delhi: Aakar Books, 2019, viii + 268 pp., ₹895 (hardback). ISBN: 978-93-500-2574-1.
The Ambivalence of Adoption: Adoptive Families’ Stories
Authors: Lambert Cath
Published: November 2019

The making of family through adoption is an emotionally and politically charged legal and social process. Both its historical and contemporary manifestations are characterised by ambivalence. Contemporary domestic adoption in the UK is at a point of profound reflection, as many of its ambivalent features are articulated at the levels of national policy making as well as within the micro political sphere of family life. Drawing on an online archive of adoption stories, in particular blogs written by adoptive parents, this article attends to the affective ways in which this ambivalence manifests within adoptive families. Queer theoretical resources are used to engage with themes of haunting, absence and loss, the strange temporalities of adoptive kinship and the complex politics of undoing at the heart of adoption.
Bio-adhesives from unfolded soy protein reinforced by nano-chitosan for sustainable textile industry
Authors: Xu Xiaoyun , Hu Wenfeng , Ke Qinfei , Liu Honggang , Li Juan , Zhao Yi
Published: November 2019

Biodegradable adhesives from nano-chitosan-reinforced unfolded soy protein have been fabricated to potentially reduce environmental pollution and drive a sustainable textile industry. The weak adhesion strength and poor water stability of soy protein films limit their use in the textile industry. In this work, the influence of sodium-dodecyl-sulfonate on unfolding of soy protein, and the reinforcement effects of nano-chitosan on the tensile properties of unfolded soy protein adhesives were investigated. The results demonstrate that the bio-adhesives developed had 157% and 85% increments on tensile strength and water stability compared with unmodified soy protein. Also, dry and wet strength of the pulp/viscose wet-laid nonwovens were increased 43% and over 100% after adhesion, indicating that modified soy protein shows promise for use as a textile bio-adhesive for sustainable industry.
Who Counts as Family? Gamete donation and the construction of family forms in medical markets
Authors: Halcomb Laura
Published: November 2019

This paper examines how gender beliefs are embedded in the organizational practices of the reproductive market. Third party reproduction blurs boundaries between familial and non-familial members, making gamete banks and donation agencies important sites for studying the construction of family. Cultural beliefs about gender are implicated in the discourses and practices of these organizations, which shape and constrain the experiences and options for both gamete donors and recipient families. To evaluate this process, I conducted qualitative analyses on the recruitment materials of all of sperm banks, egg banks, and egg donation agencies in the United States. My analysis demonstrates that the reproductive market still relies on heteronormative assumptions of family. However, the extent to which these organizations facilitate participation in new, non-normative family forms breaks down along gendered lines, where sperm donors have more freedom, status, and potential to create relationships with recipient families than egg donors.
Exploring the characteristics of 3D printing global industry chain and value chain innovation network
Authors: Bai Xu , Wu Jinxi , Liu Yun , Xu Yihan , Yang Defang
Published: November 2019

In this study, we attempted to fill an important gap that literature has yet to investigate: the characteristics of the 3D printing global industry chain and value chain innovation network. The network characteristics analysis is based on patents and the patent data download from the European Patent Office (EPO) database covering the period from January 1, 1989 to December 31, 2017. The concept of the 3D printing global industry chain and value chain network is defined, then the network model is divided by employing case analysis, and finally the network characteristics are analyzed by using social network analysis. This research enriches the relevant theories of global innovation networks in emerging industries and provides theoretical support for the development of global innovation strategies and policies for the 3D printing industry.
Biomechanical dynamic comparison of biodegradable pins and titanium screws for operative stabilization of displaced radial head fractures
Authors: Wagner Ferdinand C , Feucht Matthias J , Konstantinidis Lukas , Hohloch Lisa , Yilmaz Tayfun , Bernstein Anke , Südkamp Norbert P , Reising Kilian
Published: November 2019

For radial head osteosynthesis, biodegradable implants are gaining in importance to minimize cartilage destruction and implant impingement and to supersede implant removal. Since loss of reduction and pseudarthrosis remain challenging complications, new implants should at least provide comparable biomechanical properties as commonly used metal implants. The objective of this study was to compare the treatment by polylactide pins to titanium screws and to quantify the produced cartilage defects. Eight pairs of human cadaver radii with a standardized Mason type II fracture were stabilized either by two 2.0-mm polylactide pins or titanium screws. The produced cartilage defects were quantified using an image analyzing software. Quasi-static loading was performed axially and transversally for 10 cycles each between 10 and 50 N. Afterward, implant loosening was tested by axial loading up to 10,000 cycles, followed by load to failure testing. Polylactide pins showed less construct stiffness under axial (p = 0.017) and transversal (p = 0.012) loading, and one polylactide pins construct failed after two cycles of transversal loading. At axial loading, a high correlation between bone mineral density and construct stiffness was observed among polylactide pins (R = 0.667; p = 0.071), which was not seen among titanium screws (R = 0.262; p = 0.531). No difference in implant loosening was recorded after 10,000 cycles (p = 0.237); however, one polylactide pins construct failed after 30 cycles and failure loads were higher for titanium screws (p=0.017). Polylactide pin produced smaller cartilage defects (p=0.012). In conclusion, simple radial head fractures treated by polylactide pins show less biomechanical stability than treated by titanium screws, particularly in osteoporotic bone which might lead to secondary loss of reduction. Due to smaller cartilage defects and equal properties under continuous loading, polylactide pins might represent a gentle alternative in patients with good bone quality making subsequent implant removal redundant.
Designing a First Responders’ Emergency Response Kit for Motor-Vehicle Collisions
Authors: Bitan Yuval , Shreiber Amit , Zafon Gili , Jaffe Eli
Published: November 2019

Fast, effective, and accurate emergency medical treatment can save lives. Quick access to the specific equipment that emergency medical personnel need facilitates more efficacious treatment during emergencies. This project focuses on designing an improved emergency response kit for medical first responders. The kit currently in use has no organizational standard for the way the medical items it contains are placed inside. With a user-centered method, we designed a kit that better fits first responders’ requirements and found that the kit – a backpack and a vest – is both easier to use and carry, based on emergency care priorities.
Role of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures on Predicting Outcome of Bunion Surgery
Authors: MacDonald Ashlee , Houck Jeff , Baumhauer Judith F.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Prior studies have suggested preoperative patient-reported outcome scores could predict patients who would achieve a clinically meaningful improvement with hallux valgus surgery. Our goal was to determine bunionectomy-specific thresholds using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) values to predict patients who would or would not benefit from bunion surgery.

Methods:

PROMIS physical function (PF), pain interference (PI), and depression assessments were prospectively collected. Forty-two patients were included in the study. Using preoperative and final follow-up visit scores, minimally clinically important differences (MCID), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and area under the curve (AUC) analyses were performed to determine if preoperative PROMIS scores predicted achieving MCID with 95% specificity or failing to achieve an MCID with 95% sensitivity.

Results:

PROMIS PF demonstrated a significant AUC and likelihood ratio. The preoperative threshold score for failing to achieve MCID for PF was 49.6 with 95% sensitivity. The likelihood ratio was 0.14 (confidence interval, 0.02-0.94). The posttest probability of failure to achieve an MCID for PF was 94.1%. PI and depression AUCs were not significant, and thus thresholds were not determined.

Conclusion:

We identified a PF threshold of 49.6, which was nearly 1 standard deviation higher than previously published. If a patient is hoping to improve PF, a patient with a preoperative t score >49.6 may not benefit from surgery. This study also suggests the need for additional research to delineate procedure-specific thresholds.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
Croon’s Bias-Corrected Factor Score Path Analysis for Small- to Moderate-Sample Multilevel Structural Equation Models
Authors: Kelcey Benjamin , Cox Kyle , Dong Nianbo
Published: November 2019

Maximum likelihood estimation of multilevel structural equation model (MLSEM) parameters is a preferred approach to probe theories involving latent variables in multilevel settings. Although maximum likelihood has many desirable properties, a major limitation is that it often fails to converge and can incur significant bias when implemented in studies with a small to moderate multilevel sample (e.g., fewer than 100 organizations with 10 or less individuals/organization). To address similar limitations in single-level SEM, literature has developed Croon’s bias-corrected factor score path analysis estimator that converges more regularly than maximum likelihood and delivers less biased parameter estimates with small to moderate sample sizes. We derive extensions to this framework for MLSEMs and probe the degree to which the estimator retains these advantages with small to moderate multilevel samples. The estimator emerges as a useful alternative or complement to maximum likelihood because it often outperforms maximum likelihood in small to moderate multilevel samples in terms of convergence, bias, error variance, and power. The proposed estimator is implemented as a function in R using lavaan and is illustrated using a multilevel mediation example.
Enhancing the accuracy of revenue management system forecasts: The impact of machine and human learning on the effectiveness of hotel occupancy forecast combinations across multiple forecasting horizons
Authors: Schwartz Zvi , Webb Timothy , van der Rest Jean-Pierre I , Koupriouchina Larissa
Published: November 2019

Reporting on three separate studies in the context of hotel revenue management systems, this article explores the interaction between two established methods of accuracy enhancement—forecast combinations and learning. In line with theoretical considerations, our empirical investigation suggests that as learning occurs, the capacity of combinations to improve forecast accuracy diminishes in scenarios where the combined elements are independent of each other. Conversely, in the more realistic typical scenario of user overrides of system forecasts, where the elements of the combinations are dependent, the learning-driven efficacy of forecast combinations appears to vary across forecasting horizons. We find no impact of learning on combination effectiveness in the shorter forecasting horizons of 21 days or less and a surprisingly positive impact in the longer horizons. This counterintuitive finding has important practical implications for hotel revenue management practices.
Effect of a nurse-led individualized self-management program for Chinese patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Jiang Wenhui , Feng Mei , Gao Chunyan , Li Juanli , Gao Rui , Wang Wenru
Published: November 2019

Background:

The study of the development and evaluation of self-management intervention among patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is lacking, especially in China.

Aim:

To examine the effects of a nurse-led individualized self-management program (NISMP) on health behaviors, control of cardiac risk factors, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with AMI undergoing PCI.

Methods:

The quasi-experimental design included a convenience sample of 112 participants recruited from a tertiary hospital in China. The participants were assigned to the control group ( n = 56) or the intervention group ( n = 56). The intervention group underwent the NISMP, which includes six group-based education sessions, a face-to-face individual consultation, and 12-month telephone follow-ups. Data were collected at baseline and at the end of the 12-month program using the Health Promotion Lifestyle Profile, the Risk Factors Assessment Form, and the Short Form 36-item Health Survey.

Results:

The baseline sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the two groups were comparable ( p > 0.05). After the 12-month intervention, the health behaviors and HRQoL of the participants in the intervention group had significantly improved ( p < 0.05 for both) compared to those of the control group. Compared to the control group, the participants in the intervention group also reported significantly better control of cardiac risk factors including smoking (χ2 = 4.709, p = 0.030), low-density lipoprotein (χ2 = 4.160, p = 0.041), body mass index (χ2 = 3.886, p = 0.049) and exercise (χ2 = 10.096, p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

The NISMP demonstrated positive effects on health behaviors, control of cardiac risk factors, and HRQoL among Chinese patients with AMI undergoing PCI.
Inverted founding: Emperor organ theory, constitutionalism, and koku-min
Authors: Lee Chungjae , Liou Stacey
Published: November 2019

This article presents Minobe Tatsukichi’s emperor organ theory as a novel understanding of the temporality of founding. In contrast to a conventional framework of founding which legitimizes the constitution by postulating the pre-constitutional power of “the people,” emperor organ theory invents “the people” out of the Meiji Constitution as a democratically empowered subject to-come. In so doing, emperor organ theory calls upon the transformation of shin-min (臣民), the presumed subject of the emperor, into koku-min (国民), the people of this constitutional state. However, emperor organ theory also highlights the contingency of founding moments: though koku-min emerged through the Diet as a conceptually new political actor in Japan’s nascent constitutional state, it never solidified its sovereign status as “the people.”